Animals in Mozambique
Wildlife
Mozambique’s biodiversity thrives in its savannas, wetlands, and expansive Indian Ocean coastline. From elephants and leopards in inland reserves to dugongs and whales offshore, the country offers a striking mix of terrestrial and marine ecosystems rich in life.
African Elephant

Largest land mammal with big ears and tusks, found across sub-Saharan Africa.
See animal detailsGreater Kudu

Elegant antelope with spiral horns, common in African woodlands and bush.
See animal detailsHippopotamus

Large aquatic mammal with huge jaws, spends most time in rivers and lakes.
See animal detailsSpotted Hyena

Scavenger and predator with a strong bite, known for its eerie laugh.
See animal detailsTransvaal Lion

Subspecies of lion found in southern Africa, large with light-colored mane.
See animal detailsCrocodile

Powerful aquatic reptile with long jaws, found in tropical rivers and swamps.
See animal detailsLanner Falcon

Medium-sized falcon from Africa and southern Europe, fast and agile hunter.
See animal detailsAfrican Fish Eagle

Iconic raptor with white head, feeds mainly on fish in African lakes.
See animal detailsBlack-browed Albatross

Seabird with dark eye-stripe and long wings, glides over southern oceans with ease.
See animal detailsCape Petrel

Spotted seabird from the Southern Ocean, follows ships and feeds at sea.
See animal detailsBottlenose Dolphin

Smart and social dolphin with curved mouth, common in warm seas.
See animal detailsCommon Dolphin

Fast-swimming dolphin with a yellowish side patch, lives in oceans worldwide.
See animal detailsSouthern Right Whale

Large baleen whale with calluses on its head, found in southern oceans.
See animal detailsNational Animal of Mozambique
The impala, a graceful and social antelope, is widely seen in Mozambique’s national parks. Its agility and calm presence embody the country’s open grasslands and contribute to ecological balance by serving as prey for large predators in the food chain.
Most Dangerous Animals in Mozambique
Some of Mozambique’s wildlife can be dangerous in the wild. Encounters with elephants, crocodiles, big cats or venomous snakes, particularly in remote areas or riverbanks, require caution. Marine zones may also host sharks and orcas near the coastlines.
African Elephant

Largest land mammal with big ears and tusks, found across sub-Saharan Africa.
See animal detailsHippopotamus

Large aquatic mammal with huge jaws, spends most time in rivers and lakes.
See animal detailsSpotted Hyena

Scavenger and predator with a strong bite, known for its eerie laugh.
See animal detailsTransvaal Lion

Subspecies of lion found in southern Africa, large with light-colored mane.
See animal detailsCrocodile

Powerful aquatic reptile with long jaws, found in tropical rivers and swamps.
See animal detailsTop 10 Iconic Animals in Mozambique
Among Mozambique’s most emblematic animals are iconic savanna species and powerful marine creatures. The country’s ecological identity blends inland giants like elephants and cats with ocean life, making it a compelling destination for wildlife tourism and study.
African Elephant

Largest land mammal with big ears and tusks, found across sub-Saharan Africa.
See animal detailsHippopotamus

Large aquatic mammal with huge jaws, spends most time in rivers and lakes.
See animal detailsCrocodile

Powerful aquatic reptile with long jaws, found in tropical rivers and swamps.
See animal details