Lions are a big draw to Africa for almost everyone, but are sadly seriously endangered. Simply by travelling to Africa on safari you are helping these huge, beautiful creatures; 90% of the conservation work in Africa is done by tourism groups through the money raised by a percentage of your bed night fee.

Tourism is the only thing that can save these incredible big cats and we hope we'll be seeing them on safari for many years to come. Lions are not as easy to see as one might think so we've outlined top 5 places to see lions in Africa which virtually guarantee you'll catch sight of these amazing beasts.

 1         Masai Mara, Kenya

The Masai Mara in Kenya is world famous for having the highest concentration of predators anywhere in the world, lions here are plentiful and you will see them. Try and stay on a conservancy, not in the Reserve as you are likely to be hounded by other tourist vehicles in the Reserve itself. In the conservancies you can spend some quiet time with the cats and not see another vehicle.

 2         Northern Serengeti, Tanzania

The Northern Serengeti in Tanzania is more commonly known for being a hot spot for the Wildebeest Migration between July and October but the truth is it's one of the best places to see lions in Africa, all year. The rocky outcrops here provide the perfect place for them to relax and hide; often you'll see their fluffy ears poking out as they peer at you from above.

3          Sabi Sands, Kruger, South Africa

This area is a little managed, but very well so. The wildlife at Sabi Sands near the Kruger National Park, is positively thriving and the guides know a lot about the lions here, so you are likely to know their life story and relations, something that always adds to lion viewing!

4          Duba Plains, Okavango, Botswana

This luxury safari camp in Botswana has built a solid name for itself as being the best place in Africa to potentially see lions hunt buffalo. The lions at Duba Plains have adapted to  hunting in deep water and as result are bigger than lions in the rest of Africa. This camp is well worth a visit.

5          South Luangwa, Zambia

The South Luangwa Park has received a lot of publicity recently and we're not surprised. The game viewing here is spectacular and offers action and drama every day. Lions are present everywhere here and you should see no shortage of them – they will also serenade you at night with those thrilling roars, which epitomize Zambia and Africa.

This article is brought to you by The Luxury Safari Company.  They love Africa and provide access to the best rates, off the beaten track unknown and exclusive luxury experiences and top safari camps throughout the Africa.