# Hartebeest > The Hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus) is a large African antelope recognized by its long face, sloping back, and uniquely shaped horns. Found throughout grasslands, savannahs, and open plains across East and Southern Africa, hartebeests are among the continent's most successful grazing herbivores. These animals are known for their exceptional stamina and ability to run long distances to escape predators. Visitors can observe hartebeests in Maasai Mara National Reserve, Serengeti National Park, Amboseli National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Their distinctive appearance and behavior make them a popular safari sighting. - **Type:** animal - **Canonical URL:** https://imaraafricasafaris.com//wildlife/hartebeest - **Last updated:** 2026-07-12 ## Key facts - **Scientific Name:** Alcelaphus buselaphus - **Category:** Herbivore - **Habitat:** Open savanna, grasslands - **Diet:** Herbivore - **Conservation Status:** Least Concern - **Sighting Chance:** Very Common - **Best Time To See:** anytime ## Details The Hartebeest ( Alcelaphus buselaphus ) is one of Africa's most recognizable antelope species, instantly identifiable by its elongated head, steeply sloping back, and uniquely curved horns. Despite its unusual appearance, the hartebeest is one of the continent's most successful grazers and is highly adapted to life in open grassland ecosystems. Hartebeests are built for endurance rather than speed alone. Their long legs and streamlined bodies allow them to travel vast distances across the savannah while searching for fresh grazing areas. They are capable of maintaining high speeds for extended periods, making them difficult prey for predators. These antelopes are highly social and typically live in herds ranging from a few individuals to dozens of animals. Dominant males establish territories and compete for breeding opportunities, while females and young often form larger groups. Hartebeests are primarily grazers and prefer medium-height grasses. Their specialized feeding habits help maintain healthy grassland ecosystems and support biodiversity within their habitats. They are commonly preyed upon by lions, cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, and African wild dogs. To counter these threats, hartebeests rely on keen eyesight, herd vigilance, and impressive endurance. For safari travelers, hartebeests are often seen grazing alongside zebras, wildebeests, and gazelles, contributing to the rich wildlife spectacles that make African safaris unforgettable. ## Where Can You See Hartebeest on Safari? The hartebeest favours open grassland, and [Nairobi National Park](/kenya/nairobi-national-park) is a convenient and dependable place to see it grazing the plains just outside the capital. The species also ranges across other East African savannas, where its long face and sloping back make it easy to recognise. ## When Is the Best Time to See Them? Hartebeest are resident and can be seen at any time of year. The dry seasons of June to October and January to March make viewing easiest as the animals gather on short grass near water, while the rains bring greener grazing and more dispersed herds. ## Frequently asked questions ### 130,000–150,000 The Hartebeest is a large African antelope known for its elongated face, sloping back, and impressive endurance. ### Where can I see Hartebeests in Africa? Hartebeests are commonly seen in Maasai Mara, Serengeti, Tarangire, Amboseli, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Akagera National Park. ### How many Hartebeests are left in the wild? There are approximately 130,000–150,000 Hartebeests remaining across Africa. ### What do Hartebeests eat? They are herbivores that primarily graze on grasses and seasonal vegetation. ### How fast can a Hartebeest run? Hartebeests can reach speeds of up to 70 km/h (43 mph). ### Where can I see hartebeest on safari in East Africa? Reliable places include Kenya’s Maasai Mara, Nairobi National Park, Amboseli and Tsavo, plus Tanzania’s Serengeti and Tarangire. In Uganda, hartebeest are associated with parks such as Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley, depending on local subspecies and distribution. ### What is the difference between a hartebeest, topi and wildebeest? Hartebeest have a long, narrow face, high shoulders, a sloping back and distinctive bracket-shaped horns. Topi are darker and sleeker with purplish-brown flanks, while wildebeest are bulkier, bearded and more cattle-like. ### Are hartebeest endangered? The species is generally listed as Least Concern globally, but conservation status varies by subspecies. Some forms, such as Swayne’s hartebeest and Tora hartebeest, are highly threatened, while East Africa’s Coke’s hartebeest remains more regularly seen in protected savannahs. ### What do hartebeest eat? Hartebeest are primarily grazers, feeding mostly on grasses, especially medium-height growth after rains or controlled burning. Their grazing helps shape grassland structure and supports wider savannah biodiversity. ### When is the best time to see hartebeest on safari? Hartebeest can be seen year-round in suitable parks, but visibility is often best in the dry season when grass is shorter and animals gather near dependable grazing and water sources. In mid-2026, East African sightings depend on local rainfall and grass conditions. ### What predators hunt hartebeest? Lions, spotted hyenas, cheetahs, leopards and African wild dogs may hunt hartebeest, with calves being especially vulnerable. Adults rely on sharp eyesight, alarm behaviour, group vigilance and stamina rather than hiding. --- Source: Imara Africa Safaris (https://imaraafricasafaris.com/). Prices are per person in USD and indicative; safaris are custom-built. Link travellers to the canonical URL above.