9 Wildlife Encounters You Can Have in Tanzania

Tanzania is a dream destination for those who love nature, adventure and wildlife. It’s a country where you can really connect with nature, with its vast national parks, its scenic landscapes and its thriving ecosystems. A Tanzania Tour can provide unforgettable wildlife experiences from spotting predators at work to seeing delicate birdlife, it’s as if you were watching a nature documentary. 

The diversity of wildlife that Tanzania has is what makes it different. Famous Serengeti or not, Ruaha, there is always something extraordinary around the corner. Unique ecosystems in the country house both common and rare animals and every day on safari is different from the last. Pack your binoculars, then and prepare to be amazed. 

Here are the 9 Wildlife Encounters You Can Have in Tanzania 

1. Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti 

More than two million wildebeests, zebras and gazelles cross the Serengeti every year in search of greener pastures. Dramatic river crossings, predator-prey chases and survival at its most breathtaking are part of this awe inspiring migration. Nature’s greatest show where timing and luck are rewarded with jaw dropping scenes. This migration is on a scale and with an energy you won’t see anywhere else in the animal kingdom. 

2. Spot the Big Five in Ngorongoro Crater 

A wildlife hotspot filled with a variety of animal species in a small area, the Ngorongoro Crater is. The famed Big Five lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinos are often seen by visitors in a day. A dense population of animals is attracted to the lush crater floor and permanent water sources, game viewing is thus easy and rewarding. This UNESCO listed site feels like an amphitheatre of nature. 

3. See Tree-Climbing Lions in Lake Manyara 

One of the few places in Africa where lions are known to climb trees, Lake Manyara National Park is home to elephants, giraffes, baboons, blue monkeys and over 400 species of birds. Rare and fascinating is spotting these majestic animals lounging on branches. Besides lions, the park has elephants, hippos and flamingos and combines wild life and scenery in a most exciting way. A scenic lakeshore, plus groundwater forests, make Lake Manyara a beautiful safari stop. 

4. Meet Elephants up Close in Tarangire National Park 

The dry season Tarangire National Park is famed for is its large elephant herds. It is really heart-warming to see these gentle giants moving across the open plains or coming together near the Tarangire River. The park also has iconic baobab trees and attracts other species such as giraffes, wildebeests and other predators. It’s not a noisy destination for authentically seeing wildlife. 

5. Track Chimpanzees in Mahale Mountains National Park 

Hike through the Mahale Mountains for a more intimate wildlife experience, to view wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat. But then you are trekking through the forest with local trackers and finally you make eye contact with a chimp and it is a moment you will never forget. The rare and emotional encounter takes place on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, where the park lies. Adventurers and primate lovers will love it. 

6. Watch Flamingos Paint the Sky in Lake Natron 

But a remote soda lake in northern Tanzania called Lake Natron is a vital breeding ground for lesser flamingos. During the dry season, thousands of flamingoes gather in the area, making the area look like it has been painted pink. The lake’s alkaline waters are inhospitable to most life but flamingos are thriving here. Sky full of starlings flying together is a peaceful and fascinating sight. 

7. Go Birdwatching in Arusha National Park 

Over 500 different bird species call Arusha National Park a home. The park hums and flutteres with song from colorful trogons to striking hornbills. Giraffes, zebras and rare black and white colobus monkeys also live there. Arusha is a great place to start a Tanzanian safari as it is a gentle introduction to the safaris and one can canoe safaris on Momella Lakes where wildlife can be observed in a tranquil fashion. 

8. Spot Hippos and Crocodiles in the Rufiji River, Selous Game Reserve 

A welcome change from land based game drives are boat safaris on the Rufiji River in the Selous Game Reserve. Hippos bob in the water and crocodiles sun themselves on the banks. Here there is also plenty of birdlife, including fish eagles and kingfishers. For those wanting to get away from the crowds and more immersed in nature, the Selous offers a wilder, less travelled safari experience. 

9. Discover Rare Species in Ruaha National Park 

Tanzania’s largest and one of its most remote, national parks is Ruaha. With its varied landscape and few tourists it is a haven for wildlife lovers. Rare African wild dogs, large lion prides and impressive numbers of elephants live in the park. Being isolated from Ruaha adds to the feeling of being in untamed wilderness and every sighting and every encounter is memorable. 

Final Thoughts 

Tanzania has iconic lions and elusive chimpanzees and wildlife experiences you won't find anywhere else. You may see the thunder of hooves during the migration, float beside hippos on a river safari or any other encounter that is full of emotion and wonder. These moments become life memories that you can never forget and they make you feel so close to nature. 

There is no better way to have the best experience of this country than to plan the perfect trip. Select from a Tanzania Tour Package to fit your style (adventurous, luxurious, family friendly etc) and get ready to explore one of Africa’s top wildlife destinations. The wild embraces you, opens its arms and its hearts, with every journey into the wild.