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    What animals will I see on safari in Tanzania?

    12 minutes read
    what will i see on safari in tanzania

    On Tanzania safaris, it’s a regular sight to behold diverse animals slinking at each other and see who will attack first. In this place, everything is all about survival.

    But what animals can you expect to see on safari in Tanzania? In this part of the world, you’ll encounter the BIG 5: African Buffalo, Black Rhinoceros, Elephant, Leopard and Lion. You’ll also see the Gazelle, Giraffe, Hyena, Wildebeest, Warthogs, and more in Tanzania’s national parks, like the Serengeti National Park.

    These are only some of the creatures sought out by most people on their African safari trips. This experience is so beautiful because they’re in their natural habitat, where you can see them at a safe distance.

    Going on a safari trip in Tanzania is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity you wouldn’t want to miss!

    The beautiful animals that can be seen in Tanzania

    The big 5

    Before, the term ‘Big 5’ referred to the hunting difficulty of the deemed dangerous and elusive animals: African buffalo, rhino, elephant, leopard, and lion. However, today, the term ‘Big 5’ takes on a gentler form, referring to observing and appreciating these wild animals, including some of the most fascinating endangered species, in their natural habitats.

    The new emphasis on viewing rather than hunting the Big 5 showcases a shift towards celebrating their existence and an increased awareness of the need for conservation. This change also highlights the importance of protecting national animals and their habitats and encourages people to learn more about these magnificent creatures and ongoing efforts to preserve endangered wildlife.

    As we grow more concerned about the environmental impact, we focus on promoting responsible tourism that contributes to the thriving ecosystem, supporting the magnificent wild animals and the local communities that depend on their sustained presence.

    African buffalo

    Animals

    The African Buffalo, known as the Cape buffalo, is one of the most formidable species you can encounter when visiting Tanzania. Its robust stature is awe-inspiring—body length ranges from 5.6 to 11.2 ft, complemented with a tail of 28 to 43 inches long and an average body weight of about 590 kg.

    These African animals are revered for their incredible sense of smell, a critical tool for survival in the wild. They have the unique ability to navigate through water, a tactic they often employ to evade lions lying in wait to ambush them.

    Despite their large size and relatively slow movement, Cape buffalos are reputed for their unpredictably menacing aggression when threatened, contributing to their status as one of the Big 5. Regrettably, these iconic African animals have been categorised as critically endangered by the IUCN or International Union for Conservation of Nature.

    Black rhinoceros

    Tanzania - black rhinoceros - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    The Black rhinoceros, the third-largest rhinoceros species, typically weigh between 700 and 1,300 kg. Both genders maintain a similar size, approximately 5 feet high and 11.5 feet long. These majestic creatures are known to be among the African continent’s most endangered wildlife.

    They inhabit various habitats, from dry forests, thickets, savannas, open plains and sparse thorn scrub. Renowned for their distinctive temperament, Black rhinoceroses can be ill-tempered and unpredictable, possibly attacking anything unfamiliar.

    Tanzania is home to several incredible wildlife destinations, such as the Ngorongoro Crater, Selous Game Reserve, and Ruaha National Park, where the chance to encounter the Black rhinoceros is higher. These protected areas and national parks play a pivotal role in preserving these endangered animals and their habitats, safeguarding them against the adverse effects of habitat loss, poaching, and climate change.

    Elephant

    Tanzania - elephant - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    African Elephants, the largest of all land mammals, are one of the ultimate wildlife highlights in Tanzania. These giants are known for their prodigious eating habits, as they can spend up to 16 hours daily consuming 300 to 500 pounds of food.

    Despite their poor eyesight, they possess the most giant brains among land animals, giving them impressive cognitive abilities. Due to their colossal size, these animals can pose dangers, especially when threatened. 

    They can set up to 30 miles per hour, making them particularly intimidating when wounded. Tanzania’s one-of-a-kind landscapes, like the Tarangire National Park, provide a magnificent backdrop for observing these incredible animals in their natural habitats. 

    This park, among many other conservation areas in Tanzania, is part of an essential ecosystem supporting various wildlife. This contributes to what makes a Tanzania safari such an unforgettable experience.

    African leopard

    Safari in tanzania

    African Leopards are among the Wildlife Highlights Tanzania offers, showcasing Tanzanian wildlife’s fascinating diversity and richness. These remarkable big cats are primarily nocturnal and prefer a solitary lifestyle rather than being social, making them elusive and a splendid sight to behold during your safari tour in the country’s national parks.

    With agility and strength, African Leopards can leap up to 6 metres and run up to 57 km per hour. These impressive abilities have enabled them to survive and adapt to various geographical areas, contributing to their unique presence among Tanzania’s wildlife.

    Observing them in their natural habitat during a Tanzanian safari showcases these fantastic creatures’ captivating beauty and power and reflects the importance of protecting their ecosystems. This rare and memorable experience creates a deeper appreciation for conservation efforts and an unforgettable encounter with the majestic African Leopards in their awe-inspiring surroundings.

    Lion

    Tanzania - lion - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    The African Lion, a social creature, typically thrives in groups. These glorious animals, whose majestic roar can reverberate as far as 8 km, are the second-largest cat species worldwide, with only the Tiger surmounting them in stature.

    Lions, boasting a distinct mane only they among the big cats possess, roam expenses that can cover up to 260 square kilometres. Intriguingly, the division of labour amongst the species is clear: female lions are entrusted with hunting for sustenance and tending to their young, whereas the males primarily safeguard their expansive territory.

    You can witness these majestic creatures in several national parks across Africa. A standout destination for this is Mkomazi National Park, an underrated gem that provides a unique habitat for these predators. 

    Another park where you could encounter these kings of the animal kingdom is Lake Manyara, famously known for its tree-climbing lions, a spectacle that attracts wildlife enthusiasts worldwide.

    Aside from the Big 5, you can also see the following types of animals:

    • The Main Players in Safari Tanzania
    • The Winged Ones in Tanzania Safari
    • The Water-Lovers Animals in Safari Tanzania

    The main players on a safari in Tanzania

    Gazelles

    Tanzania - gazelle - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    Gazelles are among the most frequently seen animals during your Tanzanian safari tour. These swift species dot the expansive landscape of the country, notably in areas like Arusha National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity. 

    Their agile forms can be viewed darting across the African planes at velocities, reaching a rather impressive 100 km per hour. Using such breathtaking speed, they effortlessly outrun and evade their predators, increasing their survival chances.

    While Gazelles dominate the Tanzanian landscape, the stark contrast with Southeast Asia is worth noting. Unlike Tanzania’s sprawling savannahs, the Southeast Asian terrain is much more varied, welcoming entirely different wildlife ecosystems. 

    Here, gazelles are replaced by a different range of fauna more adapted to the region’s unique tropical climate, thick rainforests, and rugged mountains. However, both regions – Tanzania and Southeast Asia – hold a common feature: abundant wildlife. 

    The diverse animals and lush landscapes create a breathtaking spectacle, capturing the spell-binding beauty of nature in each locale. Ultimately, these animals, whether Gazelles in Tanzania or the distinct species of Southeast Asia, allow us to observe remarkable wildlife behaviour up close, forming an integral part of each visitor’s exploration experience.

    Zebra

    Tanzania - zebra - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    Further creatures you’re likely to encounter on your safari are the unmistakable Zebras. These animals race in herds across the glorious expanse of the savanna, their distinctive black and white stripes blending into a mesmerizing pattern, somewhat akin to an optical illusion in motion across the golden landscape.

    Many of these zebras can be observed in various regional wildlife reserves. With their careful management and conservation efforts, these reserves provide a safe haven for these creatures and other wildlife to thrive and flourish.

    One notable reserve is the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This area is a unique and diverse haven for wildlife, offering a captivating environment to spot zebras and other wild inhabitants. Known for its large, healthy population of Zebras, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area provides incredible sightings of these creatures against a backdrop of exquisite natural beauty.

    The dry season, in particular, presents an optimal time to visit these reserves. With the sparse vegetation and scarcity of water, Zebras and other animals frequent watering holes, providing a grand spectacle for safari-goers. The dry season offers a prime opportunity for wildlife viewing, enhancing the chance of spotting Zebras and other wild game in abundance.

    Giraffes

    Giraffes

    Giraffes are invariably among the most enchanting animals to spot on an African safari. Their astounding heights, reaching up to a towering 19 feet, endow them with a certain majesty that sets them apart in Tanzania’s fascinating repertoire of animals.

    Encased in the safety of your safari vehicles, you can marvel at the Maasai Giraffe’s peculiar physique. You can witness them stretching their long necks to graze on treetop leaves, an amusing and astonishing exercise in equal measure.

    Equally captivating are these creatures galloping across the open lands with their long, gangly legs, creating an amusingly graceful spectacle that never ceases to delight onlookers. A journey through Tanzania’s Southern Serengeti, in particular, offers promising opportunities to observe these towering marvels.

    The landscape, spacious and teeming with vibrant green acacia trees, provides the ideal habitat for giraffes, making it a must-visit location for anyone looking to watch these magnificent creatures in their natural element.

    Hyena

    Tanzania - hyena - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    Navigating the characteristic dusty trails of your safari journey across East Africa, you might be captivated by a pack of hyenas moving in harmonious coordination, their distinct gait marking an unforgettable sight in the wild. These fascinating animals, often found in the vibrant ecosystems of regions like North Serengeti, contribute to a diverse display of animal sightings that make your expedition genuinely unique.

    If fortune favours you, you might even get to hear the hyenas’ iconic laugh. This distinctive sound, downright eerie to some yet captivating, cascades across the safari landscape, bouncing off rocks and trees and echoing in the wide-open plains.

    In many ways, this auditory experience sets the tone for the safari adventure, injecting it with a profound wildness that underlies this world of untamed nature. East Africa, and particularly regions like the Northern Serengeti, offers an incredible array of animal sightings that can be marvelled at during your journey.

    From packs of comedy-tinged hyenas to regally striding giraffes and gracefully prowling lions, every single encounter with these animals in their natural habitat promises an unforgettable spectacle that breathes life into the undulating plains and towering acacia trees that characterize the East African landscape.

    Wildebeest

    Serengeti

    With its expansive savannas and abundant wildlife, East Africa hosts over a million lively Wildebeests. Regardless of whether you’re there specifically for the spectacle of the Great Migration, you’ll undoubtedly be treated to sights of Wildebeests in staggering numbers, more than your eyes can absorb.

    During your visit, you might find these robust animals sprawled across the vast plains, grazing the fresh savanna grass or surveying their surroundings alertly for potential predator threats. It’s a raw and often intense encounter that adds depth and intrigue to the safari experience.

    One remarkable natural phenomenon that stands out is the Wildebeest migration. During the migration season, hordes of these creatures traverse large expanses in search of water and fresh grazing lands, creating a spectacle of nature like no other.

    Known as the most significant migration of mammals on Earth, it offers awe-inspiring scenes as the animals cross rivers and plains in unison; indeed, it is a sight to behold.

    Cheetah

    Tanzania - cheetah - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    Cheetahs, renowned as the fastest land animals globally, can sprint at astounding speeds of up to 70 miles per hour! Catching them in motion is a fleeting experience that one could easily miss.

    Nonetheless, when visiting Tanzania, especially the mesmerizing Nyerere National Park, you can easily capture the breathtaking sight of these magnificent cheetahs basking under the sun on the vast safari plains. As the national animal of Tanzania, cheetahs symbolise the country’s rich wildlife and natural beauty that beckons you to explore the wonders of its landscapes.

    The winged ones in Tanzania safari

    Pink flamingo

    Tanzania - pink flamingo - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    The sight of flocks of pink flamingos gracefully fluttering over the shimmering surface of the safari in Tanzania is nothing short of thrilling and breathtaking. They primarily inhabit the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Natron, and the fascinating Lake Manyara National Park.

    Home to various bird species, Lake Manyara National Park brims with avian splendour, creating a feast for the eyes and an unforgettable experience for all nature enthusiasts.

    Kingfisher

    Tanzania - kingfisher - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    The African safari is home to a multitude of avian wonders, one of which is the stunning Kingfisher. Adorned with bold, striking colours, the Kingfisher offers a spectacular view that is bound to leave you spellbound.

    Its vibrant plumage, ranging from bright blues to vivid reds, stands out beautifully against the serene backdrop of the African landscape. Watching this magnificent bird in action, diving headfirst into the water for a catch, will undoubtedly be one of the most unforgettable moments of your safari experience.

    Bateleur

    Tanzania - bateleur - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    Witnessing the Bateleur, a medium-sized eagle, in its natural habitat is quite a spectacle. This unique bird, unmistakable with its bushy head and remarkably short tail, presents an intriguing sight that piques the interest of birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.

    Interestingly, its wings extend noticeably further than its tail, lending it a distinct silhouette that sets it apart in the avian world. This graceful anomaly in its structure amplifies its aesthetic appeal and contributes to the bird’s ability to perform acrobatics in flight, making it a captivating spectacle.

    The water-lovers animals in safari Tanzania

    Crocodiles

    Tanzania - crocodiles - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    In Tanzania, it’s not uncommon to observe Nile crocodiles basking under the sun at the edges of different bodies of water, from tranquil lakes to serene pools. Their hulking, murky figures lying motionless are quite a spectacle, especially for those who’ve never had such encounters up close.

    Nile crocodiles and river banks are complementary elements of Tanzania’s vibrant ecosystem. Sometimes, if fortune smiles at you, you might chance upon startling scenes amidst the shallows: these crocodiles showcasing their hunting prowess.

    Swift and precise, they prey on animals, quenching their thirst or wading through the waters, wildebeests being a common target. Yes, the sight is thrilling, even daunting, but it is a living testament to nature’s raw, unfiltered power.

    Hippos

    Tanzania - hippos - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    The sheer size of hippos, one of nature’s largest mammals, belies an endearing charm that makes them one of the most adored animals globally. Their behaviours, like playfully swatting away pesky flies, help humanize these fascinating creatures and give them a hint of relatability, which everyone finds irresistible.

    During the heat of the day, they can indulge in a refreshing retreat in watering holes or lakes to keep their massive bodies cool. Such intimate interactions with their surroundings highlight any safari tour, revealing a tender side to these otherwise intimidating behemoths.

    Wildebeest migration

    Tanzania - wildebest migration - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    An African adventure is only considered complete with experiencing the awe-inspiring Wildebeest Migration, an unparalleled natural phenomenon. This monumental event holds the title of the largest animal migration on Earth, as it sees over 2 million animals embark on epic journeys.

    The determined herds follow a clockwise path that spans two renowned ecosystems: Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and Kenya’s Masai Mara. Witnessing this migration’s extraordinary scale and raw spectacle is an unrivalled experience that forever etches itself in the memories of nature lovers and adventurers alike.

    Wildlife highlights

    Tanzania - wildlife highlight - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    Tanzania is home to diverse natural wildlife, from the African ‘big 5’ to colourful birds and marine species. Incredible big-game viewing is possible in some areas and private reserves, such as the following:

    • Serengeti National Park
    • Tarangire National Park
    • Lake Manyara National Park
    • Ngorongoro Conservation Area

    Animals are used to vehicles, allowing you to take great pictures of the African safari animals. You can also see white lions in the wild and many more!

    Best time for animal sightings

    Tanzania - best time for anima sighting - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    The best time to visit for animals sightings on safari Tanzania is during the dry season, from late June to October. If you’re after the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti, you may visit around June to December.

    Furthermore, for the wildebeest calving, it’s best to visit in the late January to February.

    Which national parks to visit in Tanzania

    Tanzania - national park to visit in tanzania - what animals will i see on safari in tanzania?

    There are several National Parks to visit in Tanzania, which you can surely adore and love. See the following lists below for the National Parks that you wouldn’t want to miss!

    • Serengeti National Park
    • Tarangire National Park
    • Lake Manyara National Park
    • Ngorongoro Conservation Area
    • Arusha National Park
    • Mikumi National Park
    • Mount Kilimanjaro National Park
    • Mahale Mountain National Park
    • Ngorongoro Crater
    • Gombe National Park
    • Nyerere National Park
    • Ruaha National park

    These are only some of the best parks you can visit during your trip to Tanzania. As you see, the charm of this country is endless. So, book your African trip today and experience the boundless beauty of this country!

    To wrap it up

    When you’re in Tanzania for a safari, you will be immersed in wildlife from every corner. From the kingfisher birds flying across the horizon line to the wildebeests that roam around Serengeti National Park, you won’t believe your eyes when you see how much magic Tanzania has to offer. Contact Easy Travel today to find out what safaris are available, or start planning your dream safari with us now.

    Musaddiq Gulamhussein - Owner - Easy Travel Tanzania

    About the author: Musaddiq

    Meet Musaddiq Gulamhussein, owner of Easy Travel Tanzania, a tour company creating life-changing safari experiences for over 35 years. Musaddiq has explored Tanzania, developing a deep understanding of the local cultures and traditions. Follow his journey and gain insights into the African Safari experience through Easy Travel's social media and blog.

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