A large male Grant's gazelle (Nanger granti) showcasing its long, ridged, lyre-shaped horns in the East African savannah.
The Elegant Lyre: Identifying the Grant’s Gazelle
Here is another look at the Grant’s gazelle (Nanger granti), a largish and graceful antelope frequently encountered across the vast landscapes of Kenya and Tanzania.
While often confused with their smaller cousins, this shot perfectly highlights their most distinctive feature: a remarkable horn set. The horns of a Grant's gazelle are a work of natural art:
The Shape: They taper gently from the base to the point, curving elegantly back and outward before tipping slightly inward at the top—a classic lyre-shape.
The Texture: Distinct rings, or ridges, are visible along the entire length, providing a rugged contrast to their sleek coats.
The Gender: Uniquely, both males and females of the species grow these impressive horns, using them for both territorial combat and social display.
Spotting the "Large Gazelle" on Safari
The Grant’s gazelle is better adapted to arid regions than most, allowing them to thrive even when water is scarce. Watching a herd move across the horizon is a quintessential part of any Serengeti or Maasai Mara experience.
Wander Over to Africa in 2026 & 2027
Are you ready to see the “lyres of the plains” for yourself? We are currently finalizing our upcoming rosters:
2026 Safari Status: Full. Registration closed.
2027 Return: We are now accepting early inquiries for our return to Tanzania. Consult our trip offerings here or email us here.
For more on Grant’s gazelle, see our post here.