Leopard Encounter At Kruger National Park Sparks Intense Debate On Safari Ethics

In an incident that has provoked heated discussions about wildlife ethics, a tour operator and safari lodge found themselves under fire on social media after posting images of a close encounter between a leopard and a safari guide.

Safari.com shared the stunning yet contentious pictures on Instagram, showcasing the wild cat perched on the bonnet of a safari vehicle at the popular Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga.

The moment was described as an exceptionally rare encounter that exceeded the average safari experience but also raised significant safety concerns.

The tour operator acknowledged the potential dangers of such an encounter, stating: While we are uncertain how the situation arose, the guides calm response prevented any further escalation, ensuring everyones safety.

'Nonetheless, its not a scenario we would ever wish to see repeated, given the inherent danger involved.