Top 10 Animals to Spot on a Tanzanian Safari (+ Best Parks to See Them)
A Tanzanian safari offers the chance to see Africa’s most iconic wildlife in their natural habitat. From the Big Five to rare predators and colorful birds, the diversity of animals you’ll encounter is one of the reasons Tanzania is considered a top safari destination.
Here are the top 10 animals to look out for—and where you’re most likely to find them.
1. Lion – King of the Savannah
Lions are found throughout the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, where they hunt in prides. You’ll often spot them resting on kopjes (rocky outcrops) or near watering holes.
2. Leopard – The Elusive Hunter
Leopards prefer solitude and are masters of camouflage. Your best chance of spotting one is in the Seronera Valley in central Serengeti, often draped over a tree branch.
3. Elephant – The Gentle Giant
Tarangire National Park is famous for its large elephant herds, especially during the dry season. Elephants are also found in Serengeti and Ruaha.
4. Rhinoceros – Rare and Majestic
The endangered black rhino can be spotted in the Ngorongoro Crater, where they’re protected and relatively easier to see than in other parks.
5. Buffalo – The Strong and Stubborn
African buffalo are found in all major parks, often in large herds. Despite their bulk, they’re surprisingly agile and one of the most dangerous animals on foot.
6. Cheetah – Speed and Grace
Cheetahs thrive in open plains, making the southern Serengeti and Ndutu region ideal for sightings, especially during the calving season.
7. Giraffe – Tanzania’s National Animal
Giraffes are common in most parks, especially in Tarangire, where they elegantly roam the acacia-dotted landscape. Their towering stature and gentle demeanor make them a safari favorite.
8. Hippo – Water’s Heavyweight
Often seen lounging in pools or rivers, hippos are most active at night. Serengeti and Lake Manyara are great spots for hippo sightings, especially near permanent water sources.
9. Zebra & Wildebeest – Migration Movers
These two species are the stars of the Great Migration. See them in massive herds across Serengeti National Park as they move in search of greener pastures.
10. Hyena – The Underrated Predator
Though often misunderstood, hyenas are intelligent and social. You’ll find them throughout the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, scavenging or hunting in packs.
Bonus Wildlife
Tanzania is also home to warthogs, jackals, crocodiles, antelopes, flamingos, ostriches, and over 1,000 bird species. Every game drive is a surprise!
Wildlife by Park
| Animal | Best Parks to See Them |
|---|---|
|
Lion |
Serengeti, Ngorongoro |
|
Leopard |
Central Serengeti |
|
Elephant |
Tarangire, Ruaha, Serengeti |
|
Rhino |
Ngorongoro Crater |
|
Cheetah |
Ndutu, Serengeti Plains |
|
Giraffe |
Tarangire, Arusha NP |
|
Hippo |
Lake Manyara, Serengeti |
|
Zebra & Wildebeest |
Serengeti (Great Migration) |
|
Hyena |
Serengeti, Ngorongoro |
A well-planned itinerary with Social Adventure Safari gives you the best chance to see all of these animals in one epic adventure.
