Big Five Animals in Tanzania

Five iconic animals

Tanzania is home to Africa's most iconic wildlife - the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.

Different habitats, different wildlife

Serengeti National Park

Wildebeest and zebra share this landscape with predators, elephants and varied birdlife. Patient observation reveals the relationships between habitat, water and animal movement.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Lions, buffalo, zebra and other grazers inhabit the crater landscape. Black rhino are present, but individual sightings cannot be assumed. Water habitats add another dimension for birdwatchers.

Tarangire National Park

Elephants are a defining wildlife interest in Tarangire. Antelope, predators and birds also occupy its river and woodland habitats, making a slower look at the landscape worthwhile.

Lake Manyara National Park

Baboons and other monkeys inhabit the forest, while elephants and birds use the wider park. Flamingo presence depends on conditions; tree-climbing lions are an interest, rather than an assured encounter.

Looking beyond a checklist

Explore different habitats and allow time for wildlife behaviour, rather than only a species checklist.

Explore further

• Ngorongoro wildlife and landscapes
• Tarangire river habitats
• Wildlife safari programmes