African Red-Billed Hornbill

Red-Billed Hornbill

Zazu from the Lion King in real life


Information about Red-billed Hornbill

The African red-billed hornbill is best known for its appearance as Zazu in the legendary Lion King movies. It is a large bird, with grey upper parts and mostly white underparts. A black strip runs down the back of the neck. Their bill is long, curved and red.

You can spot the African red-billed hornbill during our trips in South Africa, Namibia and Botswana!

Interesting facts about Red-billed Hornbill

These birds are omnivores, feeding mostly on insects, but will also feed on fruits and seeds.

They can live up to 15 years.

Hornbills will defend their territory against members of their own species.

Pictures of Red-billed Hornbill

African Red-Billed Hornbill
Hornbill Red-billed
Hornbill Red-billed

Highlights where the Red-billed Hornbill can be seen

Addo Elephant National Park
Addo Safari

Experience the thrill of a safari in Addo Elephant National Park, one of South Africa’s most remarkable wildlife reserves. Home to an incredible diversity of animals, the park offers the chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat, from large herds of elephants moving gracefully across the landscape to buffalo, zebras, and antelope grazing on the open plains. Keep your eyes open for predators such as lions and hyenas, as well as smaller species that add richness to the ecosystem. Birdlife is also abundant, with a variety of species filling the air with sound and colour. Every moment on safari brings something new, as the animals go about their daily rhythms of feeding, resting, and interacting, creating an unforgettable glimpse into the wild heart of Africa.

nDzuti Safari Camp, Maseke Game Reserve
Greater Kruger Safari

There are numerous of private concessions surrounding the Kruger National Park, which give a more private experience compared to the sometimes crowded National Park. We are especially charmed by Maseke Game Reserve, as it is situated within a vast block of wilderness, where wildlife can roam freely from the different reserves surrounding it.

White Rhino
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Safari

The Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park is one of South Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations, offering unforgettable encounters with some of Africa’s most iconic animals. Spanning rolling hills, open grasslands, dense forests, and river valleys, the park is home to the legendary Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino — along with cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, crocodiles, and countless bird species. Visitors can experience the thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat while exploring one of the oldest and most scenic game reserves in Africa. Famous for its outstanding rhino conservation efforts and rich biodiversity, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi offers a true safari adventure in the heart of Zululand.

Zululand HluHluwe-Imfolozi
Zululand Safari

A one of a kind experience: safari in Zululand! The province of KwaZulu-Natal is known for its rolling hills, filled with bright green fever trees. In the valleys you can find rivers meandering through the rural areas. This scenery is even more spectacular within the boundaries of the game reserves, where you can spot the Big 5 while on gamedrive.

Kori Bustard
Visit Nata Bird Sanctuary

Nata Bird Sanctuary is a community-managed project and home to about 165 bird species. A birdwatchers' paradise! Animals like wildebeest, black-backed jackals and zebra can also be spotted here. Enjoy the natural surroundings and feel free to stretch your legs out in the park, as there are no dangerous predators here.

Our trips to spot the Red-billed Hornbill