Enraged hippo chases tourist boat during Botswana safari trip
A tourist boat travelling between camps in Botswana was suddenly chased by a large, enraged hippo, causing terrifying moments for everyone aboard. A witness's video shows the animal repeatedly leaping out of the water as the guide tried to widen the distance.
A group of tourists in Botswana experienced frightening moments when a large, enraged hippo suddenly began chasing their motorboat while travelling between two camps.
The incident was filmed by one of the travellers, who was on the boat with her three children and a friend. Her footage shows the massive animal moving through the water with astonishing power and speed, repeatedly leaping fully out of the water as the boat's guide tried to increase the distance between the vessel and the hippo.
Guide had tried to avoid a confrontation
According to the woman, the guide had spotted the hippo earlier and slowed the boat down so as not to disturb it. Despite this, the animal decided to attack anyway.
She said it was one of the most terrifying moments of her life — once the animal began chasing the boat, she was overwhelmed by a rush of adrenaline. Afterwards, everyone on board was visibly shaken, and the guides' nervous smiles reflected not amusement but relief that the danger had passed.
One of Africa's most dangerous animals
Hippos rank among the largest land animals on Earth, surpassed in size only by elephants and white rhinos, with some individuals weighing as much as 3.6 tonnes. Despite their enormous bulk, they can reach speeds of up to 30 kilometres per hour both in water and on land.
Although hippos are herbivores, they are considered among the most aggressive animals in Africa. Estimates suggest hippos kill around 500 people worldwide each year, making them one of the most dangerous large mammals people can encounter in the wild.
