The Big 5 Wild Animals of Tanzania, and Where to Spot Them

Of course, Africa is well known for lions, rhinos, and elephants. These mammals are the epitome of African wildlife and are three of what is known as the Big Five animals.

Travelling to Tanzania allows you the amazing opportunity to see these fantastic creatures in their natural habitat—and even more so when you journey with a company that works hard to protect them.

Unfortunately, the Big 5 are endangered species, and they may not be around for future generations to see. Zara Tanzania Adventures works hard to generate revenue in order to help protect them from becoming extinct. Indeed, we are experts when it comes to viewing and experiencing them in their natural homes.

1. The African lion

The majestic kings of the jungle and their lionesses are often found roaming the African plains. Feeling their might and power as soon as you enter their presence is truly an amazing experience. With a roar that can be heard up to five kilometres away, there is no denying that the lion is certainly one of the largest in the cat species.

When they are not hunting, they can be found, just like regular cats, relaxing in the sun, playing with their pack members, and rolling around in the dust or stretching out. 

While the lionesses are truly the rulers, and the males are often followers in the hunt, they can be found in many places. However, Northern Tanzania is where you will discover an exceptionally rare treat.

Here, in Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park, you can see tree-climbing lions in their natural habitat. They are some of the rarer species of lion that call this wonderland their home.

You can also find the lions in great numbers roaming the Serengeti, Ruaha National Park, Nyerere National Park, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. 

2. The African bush elephant

These beautiful pachyderms are the largest of the three elephant species. They stand at an awe-inspiring 13 feet, can measure up to 24 feet in length, and weigh between 5 to 7 tonnes on average.

Since they are herbivores, they spend their days wandering around and eating leaves and other foliage off trees, bushes, and even grasses. 

In Tanzania, there are many places to view their wonder. The national parks, which are rich in foliage, are a great place to start, so visiting places such as the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater (Africa’s Eden), and Ruaha National Park is a must.

Here, you will see them roaming in herds. While it is advisable to not get in their way, especially during calving season (which happens every two years), they can be marvelled at safely from a safari vehicle or helicopter. 

By travelling with specialised tours in Tanzania, you can experience these amazing elephants from a safe distance.

3. The leopard

For those of us who want an exhilarating challenge, seeking out the leopard is essential. This elusive and secretive cat tends to have a solitary life, while hunting prey on its own. The leopard runs at impressive speeds and can reach 58 km/h. 

They also easily and expertly blend into their natural surroundings. Their unique markings make it nearly impossible to see them if they don’t want to be seen, making them exceptional hunters, and difficult to find for the average safari vacationer.

Your best chance to see this beautiful and powerful animal is by visiting the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area (including the Ngorongoro Crater), Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara National Park. These regions are stunning places in their own right, but are also rich in prey for the leopard.

4. The rhinoceros

Following the African elephant, the rhino is the second largest land mammal that roams the earth. Traversing the great African Serengeti National Park, Nyerere National Park, and Mkomazi National Park, these giants fear no other predator.

They may not have the greatest eyesight, but their hearing and sense of smell are unrivalled. Generally, they travel in small herds and will often ignore the curious visitor if observed from afar. However, if they are wandering with a newborn calf or sick herd member, then they can become more aggressive.

They are protective of their herd members, and the newborn and sick are vulnerable to hunters such as wild dogs, crocodiles, and even lions. Thus, in such situations, they are more likely to become unpredictable in their actions.

Due to being hunted for their horns, their numbers are dwindling; therefore, conservation is essential to their survival.

5. The African buffalo

The buffalo is often thought of as the mighty creature that roams the North American plains, but they are also found across the world.

While the numbers of these great beasts are also declining, they can still be discovered in large herds in Africa’s various national parks. The beauty of these parks combined with the majesty of the buffalo is a sight to behold. 

You can view the buffalo at Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area (including the Ngorongoro Crater), Tarangire National Park, Arusha National Park, the Selous Game Reserve, and Lake Manyara National Park.

Experience the Big 5 With Zara Tanzania Adventures 

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, you must visit Tanzania during the Great Migration and see all the Big 5 in their vast numbers, all converging in one location, and living in their natural environment.

If you want to break up the trip and see as much of the beauty and wonder that Tanzania has to offer, then you can be sure to see most of the Big 5 animals across Africa’s different national parks. 

By touring with Zara Tanzania Adventures, you will not only have the time of your life, but you can also give back to the community. We work hard to embrace our local communities, as well as produce anti-poaching campaigns, and conserve the wildlife and environment.

You can call our tour experts at 1-866-551-2970 or visit us online and see the range of packages available. The natural wonder and majesty of Tanzania are just waiting for you to explore.