Tanzania is one of the most iconic safari destinations in Africa, offering some of the richest and most diverse wildlife experiences on the continent. Whether you’re dreaming of the Big Five or searching for rare and unique species, Tanzania delivers unforgettable wildlife encounters at every turn.
At Seronera Safaris, we specialize in creating immersive journeys through Tanzania’s top national parks and reserves. Here’s our list of the Top 10 Animals to Spot on a Tanzania Safari – plus the best places to see them.
1. Lion (Panthera leo)
Where to See Them: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater
Lions rule the savannah, and Tanzania is one of the best places in Africa to see them. Witness prides lounging under acacia trees or stalking prey across the grasslands. The Serengeti is known for its large lion population, especially during the wildebeest migration.
2. Elephant (Loxodonta africana)
Where to See Them: Tarangire National Park, Serengeti, Ruaha National Park
With their majestic tusks and gentle presence, elephants are a safari favorite. Tarangire is especially known for its dense elephant populations and ancient baobab trees.
3. Leopard (Panthera pardus)
Where to See Them: Serengeti National Park, Ruaha, Lake Manyara
Elusive and solitary, leopards are the most difficult of the Big Five to spot — but well worth the effort. Seronera Valley in central Serengeti is one of the top spots to find these shy predators lounging in trees.
4. Buffalo (Syncerus caffer)
Where to See Them: Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, Selous Game Reserve
Buffalo are powerful and social animals, often seen in large herds. They’re a key member of the Big Five and commonly spotted around water sources in the Ngorongoro Crater.
5. Rhino (Diceros bicornis / Ceratotherium simum)
Where to See Them: Ngorongoro Crater
Rhinos are critically endangered, making them a rare sight. Your best chance is in Ngorongoro, where a small but protected population of black rhino resides in the crater floor.
6. Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis tippelskirchi)
Where to See Them: Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Arusha National Park
Tall and elegant, giraffes are easy to spot. Tanzania is home to the Masai giraffe, known for its jagged and irregular coat patterns. They are frequently seen browsing tree tops throughout the country.
7. Wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus)
Where to See Them: Serengeti, Ndutu (Southern Serengeti), Grumeti
Famous for the Great Migration, wildebeest move in massive herds through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, followed by predators. Witness the migration from Ndutu during calving season (Jan–March), or Northern Serengeti during the river crossings (July–October).
8. Zebra (Equus quagga)
Where to See Them: Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara
Often seen alongside wildebeest, zebras are one of the most photogenic animals on safari. Their bold stripes make for striking photos on the Serengeti plains.
9. Hippo (Hippopotamus amphibius)
Where to See Them: Serengeti (Hippo Pools), Katavi, Lake Manyara
Hippos spend most of their time submerged in water. At Serengeti’s Retina Hippo Pool, dozens gather in muddy waters – grunting, jostling, and occasionally fighting for space.
10. Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus)
Where to See Them: Serengeti, Ndutu, Ruaha
The fastest land animal, the cheetah is a thrilling sight. Southern Serengeti and Ndutu are among the best areas to see them, especially during the dry season when prey is easier to spot.
Ready to Spot Tanzania’s Iconic Wildlife?
At Seronera Safaris, we design tailor-made itineraries to help you encounter these amazing animals in their natural habitats. From family safaris to photography expeditions, we make every journey personal and unforgettable.
👉 Contact Us Today to start planning your once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventure in Tanzania.
