What Kinds of Wildlife Will I See on Safari in Tanzania?
What Kinds of Wildlife Will I See on Safari in Tanzania?
Tanzania is a dream destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering some of the most diverse and abundant wildlife experiences in the world. Whether you’re exploring the iconic Serengeti, the vast Ngorongoro Crater, or the remote wilderness of Selous, Tanzania’s national parks and reserves promise unforgettable wildlife encounters. Here’s a detailed guide to the wildlife you can expect to see on your safari in Tanzania.
The Big Five
Tanzania is home to the renowned “Big Five”:
- Lion – Known as the “King of the Jungle,” lions are commonly seen in parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Witness prides basking under acacia trees or stalking prey on the open plains.
- Elephant – Spot large herds of elephants in Tarangire National Park, known for its majestic baobab trees and year-round elephant population.
- Leopard – These elusive cats are often found in the Serengeti and Ruaha National Park. Keep your eyes on the trees where they like to lounge.
- Buffalo – Massive herds of African buffalo roam across the plains of Serengeti and other parks. They are a formidable sight to behold.
- Rhinoceros – The critically endangered black rhino can be seen in Ngorongoro Crater, one of the few places where they are protected.
Other Iconic Wildlife
Beyond the Big Five, Tanzania offers an incredible variety of wildlife, including:
- Cheetah – Fast and graceful, cheetahs are frequently spotted in the Serengeti’s open grasslands.
- Giraffe – As the national animal of Tanzania, giraffes are commonly seen in almost every park, browsing on acacia trees.
- Zebra – Vast herds of zebra migrate alongside wildebeest during the Great Migration, an iconic spectacle in the Serengeti.
- Hippo – Large pods of hippos can be found in rivers and waterholes, particularly in Katavi and Selous Game Reserves.
- Crocodile – These ancient reptiles are often seen basking on riverbanks in Selous or snapping up prey in the Mara River.
Birds of Tanzania
Tanzania is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 1,100 species recorded. Highlights include:
- Flamingos – Flocks of flamingos create breathtaking pink hues on the alkaline lakes of Manyara and Natron.
- Crowned Crane – This elegant bird is frequently seen in grassy wetlands.
- Fish Eagle – Known for its iconic call, the fish eagle is common around lakes and rivers.
- Lilac-breasted Roller – A burst of color, this bird is a favorite for photographers.
The Great Migration
One of the most extraordinary wildlife events on Earth, the Great Migration involves millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving across the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing. Witness dramatic river crossings, where predators like crocodiles and lions await their prey. This event is best observed from December to July, depending on the migration’s location.
Primates
Tanzania is also home to a variety of primates:
- Olive Baboon – Found in many parks, these social primates are fascinating to watch.
- Colobus Monkey – Known for their striking black-and-white coats, they are often seen in forested areas like Arusha National Park.
- Chimpanzee – Visit Gombe Stream or Mahale Mountains to see wild chimpanzees, a truly special experience.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Tanzania’s wetlands and forests are teeming with:
- Chameleons – Known for their color-changing abilities.
- Frogs – Found in wetlands, particularly during the rainy season.
- Snakes – While rarely encountered, Tanzania hosts species like pythons and cobras.
