Are you wondering “What animals will I see on a Tanzania safari?” If so, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions among first-time safari-goers, and with good reason—Tanzania is one of the most spectacular wildlife destinations on Earth.
From the iconic Big Five to lesser-known species that are just as fascinating, Tanzania’s national parks and conservation areas offer an extraordinary opportunity to witness animals in their natural habitat. At Ubuntu Safari and Tours, we specialize in creating unforgettable safari experiences that showcase the best of Tanzania’s wildlife.
In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the animal kingdom of Tanzania and show you exactly what you can expect to see on your safari adventure.
.
🐘 The Big Five: Tanzania’s Most Sought-After Animals
The Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—are the crown jewels of any Tanzanian safari.
1. Lions
Known as the “King of the Jungle,” lions are a common sight in Tanzania, especially in the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. Witnessing a pride of lions basking in the sun or hunting on the plains is a memory that lasts a lifetime.
2. Leopards
Elusive and solitary, leopards are harder to spot but can often be seen lounging on tree branches in Tarangire National Park or during early morning game drives in the Serengeti.
3. African Elephants
Tanzania is home to some of the largest elephant populations in East Africa. You’ll encounter these gentle giants in Tarangire, known for its large herds and ancient baobab trees.
4. African Buffalo
Often seen in large herds near water sources, buffalos are both powerful and unpredictable. They’re commonly spotted in Lake Manyara and the Ngorongoro Crater.
5. Black Rhinoceros
Though endangered and rare, black rhinos can still be found in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, protected by intensive conservation efforts.
🦓 Other Must-See Animals on Your Tanzania Safari
6. Zebras
No safari is complete without seeing the stunning stripes of zebras grazing in open grasslands. The Great Migration sees over 200,000 zebras moving alongside wildebeest across the Serengeti.
7. Wildebeest
Perhaps Tanzania’s most iconic migration spectacle involves over 1.5 million wildebeest journeying from the Serengeti to Kenya’s Maasai Mara and back—one of nature’s grandest displays.
8. Giraffes
The Masai giraffe, Tanzania’s national animal, can be found in almost all the major parks. Their long necks and graceful movements make them a favorite for photographers.
9. Hippos
You’ll find pods of hippos cooling off in rivers and lakes, especially in Selous Game Reserve and Katavi National Park. Watching them yawn is a surprisingly thrilling experience!
10. Crocodiles
Rivers in the Serengeti, Ruaha, and Selous are home to large Nile crocodiles. These stealthy reptiles often lie still for hours before launching into action when prey approaches.
🐾 Unique and Lesser-Known Wildlife
11. Cheetahs
Speed demons of the savannah, cheetahs are mainly found in the Serengeti. Their sleek build and hunting technique make for a fascinating watch during game drives.
12. Hyenas
Often misunderstood, hyenas play a vital role in the ecosystem as scavengers. You’ll hear their eerie calls echoing through the night in areas like Lake Manyara and the Serengeti.
13. Warthogs
Easily recognized by their tusks and comical running style, warthogs are everywhere—from dusty trails to watering holes.
14. Baboons and Monkeys
Primates like olive baboons, vervet monkeys, and blue monkeys are commonly spotted, particularly in Lake Manyara National Park and the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro.
🐦 Birdwatcher’s Paradise: 1,100+ Bird Species
If you’re a bird lover, Tanzania will be your paradise. With over 1,100 bird species, you’ll be amazed by the colorful variety, including:
- Lilac-breasted roller
- Crowned crane
- Secretary bird
- Flamingos (especially in Lake Natron and Lake Manyara)
- Ostriches (frequently seen in the Serengeti)
🏞 Where Will You See These Animals?
Different animals favor different ecosystems, so here’s a quick guide:
| National Park | Animals Commonly Spotted |
|---|---|
| Serengeti | Lions, wildebeest, zebras, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes |
| Ngorongoro Crater | Rhinos, elephants, lions, buffalos, flamingos |
| Tarangire | Elephants, giraffes, baboons, leopards |
| Lake Manyara | Tree-climbing lions, flamingos, monkeys, hippos |
| Selous & Ruaha | Crocodiles, hippos, wild dogs, lions |
For more destination inspiration, explore our detailed Tanzania Safari guide.
🧭 Combine Safari with Other Adventures
Your safari doesn’t have to end with game viewing. With Ubuntu Safari and Tours, you can also combine your wildlife adventure with:
- Mount Kilimanjaro Trekking – Climb Africa’s highest peak.
- Cultural Tours – Visit Maasai villages and local markets.
- Zanzibar Beach Extensions – Relax on white sand beaches after your safari.
Need help planning? Submit your dream itinerary via our Request Travel Proposal form and we’ll take care of the rest.
✅ Final Thoughts: What Animals Will I See on a Tanzania Safari?
To answer the question “What animals will I see on a Tanzania safari?”—you’ll see more than you can imagine. From roaring lions to galloping wildebeests, and colorful birds to massive elephants, Tanzania offers one of the most diverse and exciting wildlife experiences on the planet.
Whether you’re looking to witness the Great Migration, spot the Big Five, or simply experience nature at its rawest, Ubuntu Safari and Tours is here to guide your journey.
👉 Explore all our safari options and let your adventure begin at ubuntusafaristour.com
Related Links
Experience the wild. Explore Tanzania. Choose Ubuntu Safari and Tours.