# Hippopotamus > Discover the Hippopotamus, one of Africa's largest and most fascinating mammals. Famous for its enormous size, semi-aquatic lifestyle, and powerful jaws, the hippopotamus spends much of its day submerged in rivers and lakes before emerging at night to graze. Despite being herbivores, hippos are among Africa's most territorial and dangerous animals. Found throughout East and Southern Africa, these remarkable giants are a highlight of boat safaris, game drives, and wildlife photography across the continent. - **Type:** animal - **Canonical URL:** https://imaraafricasafaris.com//wildlife/hippopotamus - **Last updated:** 2026-06-26 ## Key facts - **Scientific Name:** Hippopotamus amphibius - **Category:** Predator - **Habitat:** Open savanna, grasslands - **Diet:** Herbivore - **Conservation Status:** Least Concern - **Sighting Chance:** Very Common - **Best Time To See:** all season ## Details The Hippopotamus ( Hippopotamus amphibius ), commonly known as the hippo, is one of Africa's most iconic wildlife species and the third-largest land mammal after the elephant and rhinoceros. Despite its bulky appearance, the hippopotamus is highly adapted to life in rivers, lakes, swamps, and wetlands. Hippos spend most of the day submerged in water to protect their sensitive skin from the intense African sun. They can remain underwater for up to five minutes and automatically surface to breathe even while sleeping. Although herbivorous, hippopotamuses are among Africa's most territorial and dangerous animals. Adult males aggressively defend stretches of river and can charge at remarkable speed when threatened. On land, hippos can run up to 30 km/h (19 mph) over short distances despite weighing several tonnes. At dusk, hippos leave the water and travel several kilometers to feed, consuming up to 40 kilograms of grass each night. Unlike many large herbivores, they feed almost exclusively on short grasses and rarely browse on shrubs or trees. Hippos play a vital ecological role by transporting nutrients between land and water ecosystems. Their grazing habits help shape grasslands, while their waste provides nutrients that support aquatic food webs. Socially, hippos live in groups called pods, schools, or bloats, which may consist of 10 to over 100 individuals depending on habitat conditions. For safari travelers, watching hippos wallowing in rivers, opening their enormous mouths in territorial displays, or observing them during a boat safari is one of Africa's most unforgettable wildlife experiences. ## Frequently asked questions ### Where can I see hippos on safari in East Africa? Hippos are common in permanent rivers, lakes and wetlands across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda. Good places to see them include the Mara and Talek rivers in the Masai Mara, the Serengeti’s Retina Hippo Pool, Lake Naivasha, Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Akagera National Park. ### What is the best time of day to see hippos? Hippos spend most daylight hours in water, so late morning to afternoon is often good for seeing them wallowing, yawning and interacting in pools. At dusk they leave the water to graze, but night viewing is usually limited for safety reasons and park regulations. ### Are hippos dangerous to safari travellers? Yes, hippos are among Africa’s most dangerous large animals because they are highly territorial in water and can move surprisingly fast on land. Travellers should never walk close to a riverbank with hippos, block their route back to water, or approach them outside a vehicle or guided boat. ### Can you see hippos on a boat safari? Yes, boat safaris are one of the best ways to watch hippos safely, especially in places such as Lake Naivasha, the Kazinga Channel, Murchison Falls and Akagera. A qualified guide or boat captain keeps a safe distance because hippos can be aggressive if a boat gets too close. ### Are hippos included in a typical Big Five safari itinerary? Hippos are not part of the traditional Big Five, but they are frequently seen on East African safaris that include rivers, lakes or wetland areas. Tailor-made itineraries can include specific hippo-viewing locations alongside Big Five areas such as the Masai Mara, Serengeti or Ngorongoro. ### Are hippo sightings suitable for families with children? Yes, hippo viewing can be excellent for families when done from a safari vehicle, lodge viewing deck or properly guided boat. Children should be closely supervised near water, and families should follow all guide instructions because hippos can be dangerous at close range. --- 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.