Cheetahs abroad and while traveling: are they dangerous, where do you encounter them, where can you see them?

What are cheetahs?

• Cheetahs are spotted felines capable of reaching speeds of over 100 km/h in a short burst.
• Along with lions, cheetahs are the only large felines that can live in groups. In these all-male groups, they hunt large prey. Females generally live alone, except when they are raising cubs.

Where can you see cheetahs?

• Your best chance of spotting cheetahs while traveling is on the savannas of Southern and East Africa.
• Examples include Etosha National Park in Namibia or Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe.

Are cheetahs dangerous if you encounter them in the wild?

• Cheetahs are naturally shy and are unlikely to attack humans.
• If you encounter a cheetah in the wild, it will likely just glance at you before running away.
• If you happen to come across a group of cheetahs while on foot—for instance, during a walking safari—and they haven’t eaten for a while, it is wise to keep as much distance as possible and seek cover if you can.

What should you do to prevent a cheetah attack?

• Do not run.
• Back away slowly.
• Maintain eye contact.
• Make yourself look as large as possible and wave your arms above your head.
• Make as much noise as you can by clapping, shouting, and whistling.

What should you do if you are attacked by a cheetah?

• Above all, try to fight back
• Kick them in the chest, punch them in the nose, or poke your fingers into their eyes
• Use (pepper) spray
• If you can no longer fight back, crawl on the ground and play dead. This gives the cheetah the impression that it has won, which may lead it to leave you alone sooner

What should you do if you are volunteering with cheetahs abroad?

• The number of documented cases of cheetahs attacking humans is very limited.
• However, cheetahs in captivity can be quite temperamental, regardless of whether they are considered "tame" or not.
• To account for unpredictable or aggressive behavior, it is best to give them plenty of space and remain vigilant for warning signs.
• Some caretakers play recordings of lions or hyenas to keep cheetahs at a distance; these animals are the natural predators of cheetah cubs.