Top 5 Animals You’ll See on a Kenya-Tanzania Safari (With Photos & Where to Spot Them)
Kenya and Tanzania are home to some of the most diverse and abundant wildlife on Earth, making them top destinations for safari lovers worldwide. Whether you’re visiting the Masai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or Amboseli, you’re guaranteed close-up encounters with iconic animals that define the African safari experience.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 5 animals you’ll see on a Kenya-Tanzania safari, where to spot them, and the best times to go for unforgettable wildlife sightings.
Lion – The King of the Savannah
Where to See:
- Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)
- Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)
- Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania)
Known as the “King of the Jungle,” lions are among the most thrilling sights on safari. These big cats live in prides and are often seen lounging under acacia trees or stalking prey on the plains.
Best Time to Spot Lions:
- June to October (dry season): Tall grass thins out, making lions easier to see.
- During the Great Migration, lions follow herds for hunting opportunities.
Bring a zoom lens — lions are active early in the morning and at dusk.
African Elephant – The Gentle Giant
Where to See:
- Amboseli National Park (Kenya) — famous for elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop
- Tarangire National Park (Tanzania)
- Serengeti & Masai Mara (seasonally)
Elephants are the largest land animals in the world and a favorite among safari-goers. You’ll often see herds crossing rivers, bathing, or grazing in groups.
Best Time to Spot Elephants:
- June to October (dry season) when water sources are limited, and elephants gather in large numbers
🐾 Fun Fact: Amboseli is one of the best places in Africa to observe elephant family behavior.
Leopard – The Elusive Beauty
Where to See:
- Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)
- Lake Nakuru National Park (Kenya)
- Masai Mara (especially near rivers)
Leopards are solitary, stealthy, and often seen lounging on tree branches. They are harder to spot than lions or elephants but offer one of the most rewarding sightings.
Best Time to Spot Leopards:
- Early morning or dusk — they’re most active at night and during cooler hours
- Year-round sightings in tree-lined riverbanks and rocky outcrops
Safari Tip: Ask your guide to focus on leopard sightings if you’re a photographer or a Big Cat enthusiast.
Wildebeest – The Great Migrators
Where to See:
- Masai Mara (Kenya): July to October
- Serengeti (Tanzania): December to June
No Kenya-Tanzania safari is complete without witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration — the largest overland migration of mammals on the planet. Over 1.5 million wildebeest, accompanied by zebras and gazelles, make a circular journey in search of greener pastures.
Best Time to See the Migration:
- June–July: River crossings in Grumeti and Mara Rivers
- December–March: Calving season in the Southern Serengeti
Explore our Great Migration safari packages
African Buffalo – The Tough Survivor
Where to See:
- Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania)
- Masai Mara & Tsavo National Park (Kenya)
- Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)
The African buffalo is one of the “Big Five” and known for its strength and resilience. They often travel in herds of up to 500 and are surprisingly aggressive when threatened.
Best Time to Spot Buffalo:
- Year-round, especially near waterholes during dry months
- Easily found in open savannahs and crater floors
Did you know? Buffaloes are responsible for more lion-related injuries than any other animal.
Honorable Mentions: More Amazing Animals You Might See
- Cheetah: Speedy predators best seen in the Serengeti and Masai Mara
- Rhino: Black rhinos in Ngorongoro and white rhinos in Lake Nakuru
- Hippo: Found in Mara and Grumeti Rivers
- Giraffe: Common in all parks, especially Tarangire
- Zebra: Travel alongside wildebeest during the migration
Best Safari Parks to See These Animals
| Park | Known For |
|---|---|
| Masai Mara (Kenya) | Lions, Migration, Cheetahs |
| Serengeti (Tanzania) | All Big Five, Wildebeest, Leopards |
| Amboseli (Kenya) | Elephants, Mount Kilimanjaro views |
| Ngorongoro Crater | Rhinos, Buffalo, Large game density |
| Tarangire (Tanzania) | Elephants, Tree-climbing lions |
Plan your dream safari with our Kenya-Tanzania tour packages
When Is the Best Time to Go on Safari in Kenya and Tanzania?
| Season | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Dry (Jun–Oct) | Best wildlife visibility, Great Migration |
| Green (Nov–May) | Calving season, fewer crowds, lush landscapes |
Check out our guide to Best Times to Visit Kenya and Tanzania
Experience These Animals on Your Own Kenya-Tanzania Safari
There’s nothing like hearing a lion’s roar at dawn or watching elephants gather at a watering hole. With a Kenya and Tanzania combined safari, you’ll experience the raw, untamed beauty of Africa — and witness these incredible animals in their natural habitats.
👉 Get a Free Custom Safari Quote
👉 Browse Our Kenya-Tanzania Safari Packages
FAQs: Wildlife on Safari
Yes, especially if you include Ngorongoro Crater and Masai Mara. Your chances are excellent with a well-planned itinerary.
In some conservancies and private reserves, yes! Ask about night game drives for a chance to see nocturnal animals like aardvarks and hyenas.
Yes. With a certified guide and proper distance, wildlife viewing is safe and respectful.
