Pendjari is one of the most important places for wildlife in the whole of West Africa. Scientists and nature lovers travel here from many countries to spot animals that are very rare elsewhere in the region. The park is named after the Pendjari River, which winds through the landscape and provides fresh water for all the animals.
The scenery changes as you travel through the park. Near the river, tall grasses and trees with enormous roots grow thick and cool. Further away the land opens up into wide golden savannah — flat grasslands dotted with baobab trees and rocky outcrops where lizards sunbathe in the warm sun.
Rangers look after the park and make sure the animals are safe. They track lions with special radio collars so scientists can learn how far lions roam and what they eat. Community villages around the park also help by watching for animals and sharing information with the rangers.
One of the most exciting things visitors report is seeing a herd of elephants moving slowly across the savannah at dusk, with the orange sky behind them. It is one of those sights that people never forget.