Lesser flamingos feed on algae in salty lakes, sometimes in huge numbers. Where they gather changes year to year with rainfall.
Best places to see it
TanzaniaNgorongoro Crater
A vast volcanic caldera packed with wildlife, one of the best places to see black rhino.
Jun to Feb 1 to 2 nights
BotswanaMakgadikgadi Pans
Endless salt flats, meerkats and a zebra migration after the rains.
May to Mar 2 nights
Where to see it
- Ngorongoro’s Lake Magadi
- Makgadikgadi Pans after rains
- Kenya’s Rift Valley lakes
Our destination guides: Ngorongoro Crater · Makgadikgadi Pans
Best time
Varies with water levels.
Tips
- Ask locally where flocks are this season.
Did you know?
- Flamingos get their pink colour from pigments in their food.
Conservation status: Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. Check iucnredlist.org for the latest assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to see the lesser flamingo in Africa?
Ngorongoro’s Lake Magadi; Makgadikgadi Pans after rains; Kenya’s Rift Valley lakes.
Is the lesser flamingo endangered?
It is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List.
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