A group of Thomson’s gazelles (Tommies) with distinct black side stripes resting in the golden grass of the Serengeti.
The Serengeti Speedsters: Racing Stripes and 40 MPH Sprints
They have racing stripes for a reason.
Clocked at a blistering 40 mph, the Thomson’s gazelle (Eudorcas thomsonii) is officially the fourth fastest land animal on the planet. It’s no coincidence that these spry antelopes thrive in the same habitat as the cheetah—the world’s fastest animal, capable of bursts exceeding 65 mph.
In the open plains, speed is a survival requirement. For these "Tommies," a well-timed juke, a sudden jump, or a high-speed "stotting" leap can mean the difference between life and death. I spotted this particular group recharging their batteries in the heart of the Serengeti after a morning of high-stakes grazing.
Witness the Great Migration Sprints
Watching a Thomson’s gazelle evade a predator is one of the most electric sights on an African safari. If you want to cheer on these sprinters in person, the clock is ticking for our next expedition.
Final Call for Registration: Enrollment for our upcoming safari closes on December 5, 2025.
Limited Availability: Only a few seats remain for this 2026 journey into the wild.
Plan now for 2027. Email here to reserve your seat for the fastest show on earth.