how fast can a hippo run? Hippopotamuses, despite their large and bulky appearance, are surprisingly fast runners, especially for their size. On land, a hippo can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour (32 kilometres per hour) in short bursts. However, they are not built for prolonged running and tire quickly, as their massive bodies are better adapted to life in water. Hippos are known for their agility and speed when charging out of water to defend their territory or protect their young. These formidable creatures may seem slow, but their bursts of speed make them one of the most dangerous animals in Africa.