Wildlife in Tanzania: A Wonderful Safari Tale

As one of the stations inviting to the East African community, Tanzania is well appreciated for its incredible biological density and fabulous wildlife. Tanzania boasts some of the most famous national parks, including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, which open a window to the African wild. 

Through the great migration of wildebeests and the presence of the big five, Tanzania has rich wildlife, which makes lovers of nature and adrenalin descriptions visit the country.

In this blog, Tanzania, the home of diverse wildlife, will be described in detail. We will discuss the differences between the given habitats, explain the programs protecting those valuable natural assets, and provide helpful advice for people eager to make an incredible safari journey. Tanzania—East Africa’s true wilderness—is waiting to be discovered through the story you will begin with us.

Interesting Facts About Wildlife in Tanzania

Do you know?

The Central Serengeti ecosystem in Tanzania has the highest animal density in the world per square kilometer and by the number of animals per square mile. It is an East African nation that boasts an impressive animal density and an impressive range of species over the ground.

The natural environment of a country is filled with various fields, wetlands, and forests that host numerous species of wildlife. 

Tanzania is home to:

• 430 mammal species: Contained within these are Sixty thousand savannah elephants of Africa and approximately two hundred black Rhinos. It also houses cheetahs, leopards, lions, and the rare golden cat species. Large quantities of herbivorous animals like buffaloes, elands, gazelles, wildebeests, and zebras feed on the grasslands.
• 1,112 bird species: Large birds include albatrosses, black eagles, bustards, cranes, flamingos, grebes, jacanas, ostriches, oystercatchers, plovers- sandpipers- and secretary birds.
• The country is also home to 60,000 insect species, 100 snake species, fish, reptiles, and numerous amphibians.

The Big Five in Tanzania

Tanzania is a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering the unique opportunity to encounter the legendary Big Five. These royal animals can be spotted in the country’s numerous National Parks and Conservation areas; thus, Tanzania remains an ideal historic destination for a Savannah Safari.

Lions

Tanzania is among the countries blessed with lions, especially in the Serengeti National Park. Lions in the Serengeti are well known for their social structure, and they often come from large prides, which can be up to 15-60 in number. 

These large cats can be viewed resting underneath a tree during the cooler and early hours of the day or going into action hunting across the savannah. Large herds of lions can always be found in the Serengeti, where the open plains of short grass help provide stalking cover.

Elephants

Tanzania is a significant elephant habitat; the Tarangire National Park is one of them. The big tuskers in herds are common in the park, and the number outdoes that of the tourists in times of low season. 

These gentle giants are identified by their large body sizes and complicated societies. The other areas where one can observe elephants include the Serengeti plains, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and the Selous Game Reserve. Such extraordinary numbers prove that Tanzania has been very effective in conservation.

Buffalo

Another animal frequently seen in Tanzania is the buffalo. These powerful and massive cattle mingle in big groups within the country’s diverse biomes. Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire National Park are well-known game reserves for buffalo. 

Being one of the giant animals characterized by curved horns, buffalo remains one of the precious assets that Tanzania is proud to have in its list of animal wildlife treasures. This way, people can catch the dynamics of African savannah habitats while observing the animals in their natural environment.

Rhinos

Sightings of the black rhino are rare since it is the least abundant of the Big Five animals in Tanzania. They have become endangered since their conservation has been central to their survival. Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places to view black rhinos because of the protective measures adopted for them. 

Another relatively small population of rhinos is seen in the Serengeti and Selous Game Reserve zones. The rhino population is still declining, and these animals are somewhat tricky to observe in the wild, so efforts in rhino conservation should be continued.

Leopards

Leopards are less social animals and are primarily solitary and relatively rare to encounter out of the five big animals of Tanzania. However, they are rarely reported; some can still be seen at Arusha National Park and other natural parks. 

One can barely notice their presence because they spend most of their time coiled on a branch or slowly crawling on the foliage. Seeing a leopard in the wild is always an exciting and unforgettable experience that indicates the variety of Tanzania’s protected territories.

Regarding wildlife conservation, Tanzania is one of the few countries with many national parks and reserves for the Big Five and other wildlife species. This commitment saves the country’s natural resources and offers tourists tantalizing prospects of observing some of God’s most beautiful creations in their density.

Big Cats & Predators in Tanzania

Tanzania’s wild has many groups of big cats and predators that are interesting for fans of wild nature. Besides the most popular big cats, other exciting cats and carnivores inhabit the country.. Visiting Tanzania’s national parks allows one to search for these shy and incredible creatures in their natural setting.

Serval, Caracal, and Golden Cat

Besides the lions and leopards, Tanzania has several other exciting cats, including the following: Serval is another feline with large ears and long limbs found mainly in the savannah or grasslands. 

Caracals are medium-sized members of the cat family with tufted ears and are very efficient hunters of small animals. They can be found in different parts of the world. The golden cat, mainly known for being somewhat shy, lives in the forests of the Ngorongoro Crater and is one of the least discovered felines in Tanzania.

Cheetahs

Cheetahs are found in almost all the northern parks in Tanzania except in Manyara. The best chance of sighting these, the world’s fastest-running land animals, is at Serengeti National Park. As cold-blooded runners, cheetahs, in particular, may be observed dashing over the vast plane with speed in chasing their prey, thus fascinating the safari clients.

Other Carnivores

It is important to note that other than big cats, Tanzania’s carnivore population consists of the following. The jackal being deceptive in its actions is found frequently in many parks. The honey badger is a macho creature found in the savannahs and woodlands. 

The rock hyrax, a small rodent-like animal that feeds on vegetation and is related to the elephant and the manatee, is often seen resting on rocks. The bat-eared fox is a more elusive animal distinguished from others by having large ears; thus, spotting one is considered a highlight. 

The two related species of hyenas are the spotted and striped hyenas, both of which are found in Tanzania. The hyenas are known for their unique sounds and diet, which involves feeding from other animals. 

Last but not least, Africa’s critically endangered wild dogs, identified for their strong social behavioral patterns and good hunting prowess, are found in Ruaha National Park and occasionally in Serengeti National Park. Their packs help glimpse into the social structures and how they hunt.

Safari Game in Tanzania

Tanzania presents endless opportunities for wildlife lovers regarding the types of games to see in the different parks and reserves. From the tallest mammal in the world—the Giraffe—to the shy Roan Antelope, the geographical diversity lets one view many species in their natural environment.

Antelope and Herbivores

On a Tanzanian safari, you will encounter several species of antelopes and herbivores. Roan antelope and sable are attractive animals characterized by elegance and smooth gait. Impala and kudu increase diversity. While impalas can be sighted in big groups, kudu has rather large spiraled horns. 

Eland, kongonies, and hartebeests frequently feed on the open grasslands, especially in the Tarangire National Park. Eland, bushbuck, and oryx are also classifications of herbivores. Kirk’s dik-dik, a small and elusive antelope, is another discovery the users will likely find on the site.

Giraffe

Giraffes are amongst the most common animals spotted during the typical safari. However, the Ngorongoro Conservation area does not have any giraffes. This is because the slopes of the crater are steep, thus forcing giraffes to struggle when moving around the area. 

To have the best chance of seeing these giants, you should go to Serengeti or Tarangire National Park. These parks provide enormous spaces where one can easily see large groups of giraffes feeding and migrating across the parkland.

Hippos and Crocodiles

Due to the monsoons, Tanzania receives fairly proper water resources, so hippos and crocodiles thrive in the country. These animals are relatively widespread in many parks, and one of the best places to snoop on them is the Katavi National Park. The strategic water bodies in this park offer a natural dwelling place for these mighty opponents, enabling a study of their actions.

Other Notable Species

Other large animals include the waterbuck, a stocky antelope found around water sources in Tanzania, and the sitatunga, an antelope with broad hooves that allow it to move quickly in marshy habitats. Another popular game animal found easily during safaris in Tanzania is the common warthog, easily identified by its sharp tusks and snout.

The Great Migration

The Great Migration is one of the most significant movements of animals on earth, an image of experiencing an alive circle of life. This circumaural spectacle occurs in the Serengeti, where hundreds of thousands of wildebeests, zebras, and Grant’s and Thomson’s gazelles move in search of water and pastures. This movement is not only eye candy but a significant ecological process that sustains the socio-ecological system in the Serengeti.

The Journey

Every year, millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles migrate sequentially in the Serengeti in a circular movement, searching for resources. 

It spans roughly 2,000 miles, and though these animals hike these nominally desolate regions, they are always in pursuit of fresh pastures from the grassland regions of Serengeti to the farmland terrains associated with the Maasai Mara in Kenya. This great migration is thus a result of instinct and determination in the animals’ interiors.

Births and Predators

An added advantage is that migration occurs when the young require sustenance for survival, depending on the environment and organizational factors. After the rainy season, there is calving season, and wildebeests produce over 8,000 calves per day, which means they produce close to 500,000 calves in a single week.

This increases the number of newborns, attracting predators, especially the cheetah, lion, and leopard, as they follow the herds in anticipation of easy prey: the young or sickly. This presence complicates the migration further because these killers are an essential part of the equilibrium of the environment.

Ecosystem Impact

Speaking of the Great Serengeti migration, this movement is of great importance for the region’s ecosystem. The great numbers of wildebeest and their hangers-on are the main meal for many predators and carrion eaters, such as large cats and birds of prey. 

This migration cycle ensures that the area of Serengeti continues to provide acceptable living conditions for the numerous herds of animals, and each phase of the ecosystem is largely dependent on the migration and existence of these herds.

BirdLife in Tanzania

Tanzania is extremely rich in avifauna, and bird spotters, especially bird watchers, will be delighted to know that there are over 1000 recorded bird species of Tanzania, of which 125 are endemic to the country. 

Tanzania’s geographical structure embraces dense forests and the open continent of Africa, which provides homes for several bird species. If you are keen on bright plumage, particular behaviors, or the rarest birds, then Tanzania’s bird life will be considered spectacular.

Endemic and Notable Species

There are many bird species in Tanzania, some of which cannot be found anywhere in the world. These include the Udzungwa woodland partridge, the Pemba green pigeon, the Usambara weaver, and the Udzungwa eagle owl. These endemics are important in illustrating the avian diversity in Tanzania and are of special interest to bird-watching tourists.

Common and Varied Birds

This makes the country’s birdlife diverse and is spread through many of the country’s regions in diverse environments. On the savannahs and wetlands, avocets, bitterns, shags, herons, ibises, jacanas, kingfishers, plovers, sandpipers and snipes may be sighted. 

Tanzania also has many raptorial birds and even passerines, including babblers, bee-eaters, bulbuls, canaries, crows, francolins, and falcons. This variety ensures the capturing of several varieties and bird populations nationwide.

Special Locations

• Arusha National Park: Known for its vibrant birdlife, Arusha National Park is a great place to see the colorful turaco and trogon. These species add a splash of color and are a delight for birdwatchers.
• Gombe National Park: This park is home to over 200 bird species, including the striking fish eagle and the red-throated twinspot. Gombe’s varied habitats support a rich array of avian life, making it a significant birdwatching destination.
• Kitulo National Park: Often referred to as the “Garden of God,” Kitulo is known for its unique bird species, such as the Kipengere seedeater, the mountain marsh widow, the endangered blue swallow, Denham’s bustard, and the Njombe cisticola.
• Lake Manyara: This lake is a popular spot for birdwatchers. Over 400 species, including cormorants, storks, and pelicans, have been recorded. The lake’s diverse habitats support various waterfowl and other birds.
• Mikumi National Park: Here, you can find the lilac-breasted roller, the yellow-throated strong claw, and the bateleur eagle. Mikumi’s landscapes provide a rich environment for these and other bird species.
• Ruaha National Park: Home to over 150 bird species, including the yellow-collared lovebird and the ashy starling, Ruaha’s diverse ecosystems offer excellent birdwatching opportunities.
• Alkaline Lakes: Flamingos are a notable attraction at Tanzania’s alkaline lakes, including those in Arusha National Park, and Lake Manyara. These lakes provide crucial habitat for flamingos and offer stunning views of these elegant birds in large flocks.

Primates

For a more profound primate experience than on the savannah, visit Gombe National Park in the Mahale Mountains. Jane Goodall studied chimps for over fifty years and put a lot of effort into researching the ways of evolution of early humans. 

At Gombe, the site for the Kanyantu chimpanzee project, tourists can go around the rainforest and watch chimpanzees and their social interactions for a whole hour. Other denominations of the primate family that can also be found in the park include bush babies, patas monkeys, and vervet monkeys.

Also, chimpanzee habituation can be done at Rubondo Island in Lake Victoria, which provides an easy chance to have a close view of the chimpanzees. Two other primate species, the baboons and the blue monkeys, live in different parts of Tanzania, including the Mahale Mountains. 

Out on the Serengeti plains, about 2.5 km northeast of the Grumeti River, you will likely encounter the colobus monkey. The other destinations worth visiting in the area are highly touristic due to the park’s unique features, such as the Sanje Mangabey and the Udzungwa red colobus, some of the rarest primates in Tanzania.

Marine Life

Tanzania boasts a variety of marine and freshwater species and offers a look at various marine and freshwater environments along the coast and in large lakes. The Tanzanian water habitats range from beautiful coral reefs and big fish to clear-water aquatics and rich inland water bodies.

Marine Life Around Tanzania and Zanzibar

• Dolphins and Whale Sharks: Commonly seen in the seas around Tanzania and the Zanzibar archipelago.
• Humpback Whales: Occasionally spotted during migration periods.
• Green Turtles: Breed at Saadani National Park, Mnemba Island, and Pemba Island.
• Scuba Diving: Zanzibar is renowned for its world-class scuba diving, offering clear waters, diverse marine life, and healthy coral reefs.

Freshwater Life in Tanzania

• Lake Tanganyika: Due to its age and isolation, it is home to over 1,000 fish species, including cichlids.
• Rubondo Island National Park: A protected area for tilapia and Nile Perch, supporting vibrant fish populations.

The Best Time to Visit Tanzania with Regards to Wildlife Sightings

If you want to get the most out of your Tanzania wildlife viewing experience, you are advised to travel from June to October. During these months, grasses are short, making it easier to see animals in their natural environment.

The rainy season is from November to May, during which the site is green and accommodations are low-priced. However, it is essential not to expect many wild animals during the tour; there may be limited activities due to the unexpected and, more so, many downpours of rain. The wet season is divided into two periods: Intermediate climate is experienced from October to December and March to May.

Be part of the Tanzania Magic with Bobby Tours.

Wildlife lovers will be spoilt for choice because Tanzania’s safari destinations boast extraordinary wildlife and spectacular geography. They range from the spectacular great migration to birding and other primates found only in Tanzania. 

Welcome to Bobby Tours, the home of professionally planned and executed customized African overland vacations. This is attributed to our expert guides, who also narrate personal experiences and provide professional expertise in the places that will make the adventure more unique and fulfilling.

Make Good Memories with Us

Think about visiting parks, watching the tremendous Big 5 in action, and spotting other African species in their natural environment, all accompanied by Bobby Tours. 

This is a beautiful way of depicting how our highly valued guests often express powerful conversion and closely tell stories from their respective safaris, not forgetting the incredible encounters and meetings they have. 

Select Bobby Tours for your next vacation and learn why Tanzanian wildlife can hold a soul captive. Contact us for more details.