Neebar African Safari
List of Wildlife in Tanzania – Mammals
Tanzania is home to over 300 species of mammals, from majestic predators to gentle herbivores. Below are some of the iconic mammals you may encounter during your safari:
Lion (Simba)
Known as the king of the jungle, lions are found in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, living in prides and often seen hunting in groups.
African Elephant
The largest land mammal, elephants roam parks like Tarangire and Ruaha in herds, known for their intelligence and memory.
Leopard
Solitary and elusive, leopards are often spotted resting in trees. They’re powerful and fast predators, active mostly at night.
Masai Giraffe
Tanzania’s national animal, the giraffe, gracefully roams savannas and woodlands, feeding on acacia trees with its long neck.
Wildebeest
Central to the Great Migration, these antelope travel in massive herds across the Serengeti and Masai Mara ecosystems.
Black Rhino
Critically endangered, black rhinos are protected in areas like Ngorongoro. They are strong and solitary, with a hooked lip for browsing.
🐘 Tanzania’s Rich Wildlife
Tanzania is a world-renowned wildlife destination, home to some of the most iconic animals and national parks in Africa. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the lush swamps of Selous, the country offers breathtaking safaris and unforgettable encounters with nature.
Serengeti National Park
Famous for the Great Migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebras, the Serengeti offers dramatic predator-prey interactions and endless golden plains.
Ngorongoro Crater
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural wonder, home to Africa’s densest population of lions, rhinos, elephants, and flamingos in a collapsed volcanic caldera.
Nyerere (Selous) Reserve
One of the largest wildlife reserves in Africa, Selous is known for boat safaris, vast elephant herds, and a more off-the-beaten-path wilderness experience.
📅 Seasonal Wildlife Calendar
Plan your wildlife adventure with our guide to the best times for migration, birdwatching, and safaris in Tanzania.
| Month | Great Migration | Birdwatching | Dry Season (Best Game Viewing) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January – February | 🦓 Calving season in Ndutu (Serengeti South) | ✅ Good | ❌ Wet season |
| March – May | 🌧️ Migration spreads out (rainy season) | ✅ Excellent (many migratory birds) | ❌ Rainy and muddy |
| June – July | 🦬 Migration moving north – Grumeti River crossings | ✅ Good | ✅ Start of dry season |
| August – October | 🐊 Famous Mara River crossings (Northern Serengeti) | ✅ Good | ✅ Best wildlife visibility |
| November – December | 🦓 Migration returns to Serengeti South | ✅ Very Good | ❌ Start of short rains |