Southern Africa is home to roughly 170 snake species, yet only about 11% are considered medically significant. From the legendary Black Mamba to the harmless and helpful Brown House Snake, each plays a vital role in our ecosystems. Browse the cards below alphabetically, tap any snake to reveal its scientific name, key identifying features and venom profile, and learn how to safely share the wild with these often misunderstood reptiles.
Want to see them in the wild?
Join Mat Van Geo on a guided herpetofauna expedition or day tour and meet South Africa's snakes safely, in the field, with an expert.
Book Your TourSources
- Marais, J. (1992; 2022 ed.) A Complete Guide to the Snakes of Southern Africa. Struik Nature / Blandford Press. africansnakebiteinstitute.com
- African Snakebite Institute: snake identification & species profiles. africansnakebiteinstitute.com
- African Snakebite Institute: Snakebite in Southern Africa. africansnakebiteinstitute.com/snakebite-in-southern-africa
- African Snakebite Institute: How to Identify Snakes. africansnakebiteinstitute.com/articles/how_to_identify_snakes
- Tyrone Ping: Snakes of South Africa. tyroneping.co.za/snakes-south-africa
- Rentokil South Africa: snake species guide. rentokil.co.za/snakes/species
- Sun Safaris: Types of Venomous Snakes in Southern Africa. blog.sunsafaris.com