Close-up of an Olive Baboon (Papio anubis) with a "dog-faced" muzzle, highlighting its grey-green fur and intense gaze.
The Face of the Underworld: Meeting the Olive Baboon
I’ve always found the "dog face" of the Olive Baboon to be a little threatening. Their sheer size and those formidable teeth make them one of the most respected primates on the African savanna.
Why "Olive"?
This species is named for its unique coat color. The Olive Baboon (Papio anubis) features a blend of grey-greenish fur that provides excellent camouflage in the African scrub and savanna landscapes.
The Mythological Connection
The official scientific name carries a dark and fascinating history:
Papio: The genus marker for all baboons.
Anubis: The Greek name for the Egyptian god of the underworld.
When French naturalist Jean-Baptiste Audebert named this primate in 1797, he was struck by the muzzle's resemblance to the jackal-headed deity. Much like the god who weighed the hearts of the dead, the Olive Baboon has a piercing, "dog faced" gaze that feels like it’s looking right through you.
The “dog-face” of the god Anubis from the Tomb of Horemheb (KV57).
Experience Serengeti Wildlife
From the "dog-faced" baboons to the elusive leopards, the Serengeti is a land of living legends.
Expedition Update:
February 2026: Sold Out. All seats are taken!
June 2027: We are heading back! Email us (here’s the link) to join the 2027 Waitlist and be the first to receive details on our next Tanzanian adventure.