What Animals Can You See on a Tanzania Safari?
Tanzania offers some of the best wildlife experiences in the world. From the iconic Big Five to rare species, this guide highlights the animals you are most likely to encounter on your safari.
Tanzania’s national parks and reserves are home to an incredible variety of wildlife. Depending on the park and season, you can spot lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. Understanding where and when to see these animals will help you plan the ultimate safari adventure.
Table of Contents
The Big Five
- Lion: Tanzania has large lion populations, particularly in Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
- Elephant: You can see elephants in Tarangire, Serengeti, and Amboseli regions.
- Buffalo: Common in Serengeti and Selous, often in large herds.
- Leopard: More elusive, best spotted early morning or late evening.
- Rhinoceros: Black rhinos in Ngorongoro Crater and Selous, white rhinos in protected areas.
Other Common Mammals
- Zebra: Widespread across Serengeti and other grasslands.
- Giraffe: Common in Tarangire, Serengeti, and Manyara.
- Hippo: Best seen in rivers and lakes, especially in Lake Manyara and Selous.
- Crocodile: Nile crocodiles in rivers, lakes, and wetlands.
- Wildebeest: Central to the Great Migration in Serengeti.
- Gazelles & Antelopes: Thompson's gazelles, impalas, elands, and more.
Birdwatching Highlights
Tanzania is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 1,100 species, including flamingos in Lake Manyara, pelicans in wetlands, and raptors in Serengeti.
Rare & Unique Species
- Cheetah: Seen in Serengeti and Ndutu regions.
- Wild Dogs: Best chance in Selous and northern parks.
- Colobus Monkeys: Seen in forests and riverine areas.
- Hippos and Crocodiles in lesser-known rivers for a unique experience.
Where to See Them
- Serengeti National Park: Big Five, wildebeest migration, cheetahs, and lions.
- Ngorongoro Crater: High density of wildlife including rhinos and elephants.
- Tarangire National Park: Elephants, baobabs, giraffes, and large herds.
- Lake Manyara: Flamingos, hippos, and tree-climbing lions.
- Selous & Ruaha: Wild dogs, elephants, and less crowded wildlife.
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