Most people have a soft spot in their hearts for baby animals, and having the opportunity to see them in the wild, especially lion cubs, is extra special. It was during a safari in Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in South Africa that we were fortunate to witness this adorable moment between a lion cub and its father.

The lion sighting began right after the gates opened at sunrise in the Kgalagadi. We first came upon two female lions with three lion cubs walking down the middle of the road. After following them for about ten minutes, we realized that they were looking to reunite with the rest of the lion pride. When they stopped to roar, we knew we were getting close. Just as we thought, a little further down the road was this huge male lion and another lioness lying there waiting for them.

After the lions quickly greeted one another, they all settled on the road next to our car in the soft Kalahari sand. The adult lions mostly slept, while the lion clubs played with one another right next to us. When the others were finally tuckered out, this cute little lion cub went straight to its father for a cuddle. It was one of the most adorable things we have ever seen, and such a beautiful bonding moment between father and son.

Beyond it being a beautiful moment between father and son, it was also amazing to see the size difference between an adorable lion cub and a fully grown black-maned lion of the Kgalagadi.

We've been fortunate to have experienced many different lion sightings in the Kgalagadi and in Kruger National Park over the years, but this was definitely above and beyond the rest. Kind of a lion king moment in real life.

If you love big cats, and are also into wildlife photography, the Kgalagadi is definitely worth checking out. The lion and cheetah populations are healthy enough to almost guarantee lion and cheetah sightings daily, and the unobstructed views are great if you have a camera in your hand.

Music:
Planet Legacy by Roman P
* All music licensed through Artist

Location:
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa
* between Twee Rivieren Rest Camp and Mata Mata Rest Camp

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