Tanzania is an unmissable destination for a safari in East Africa. In addition to having several national parks (some of which are UNESCO-listed sites), the country is also home to the famous Big Five—the five greatest animals of the savanna! Unlike other African countries that welcome only some of these emblematic species, Tanzania guarantees the presence of all five mammals across several of its parks… Follow us for an unforgettable immersion into the heart of majestic wildlife!

Big Five: Majestic African Animals

The Elephant: An Imposing Yet Highly Sensitive Animal

The African elephant ranks as the world's largest herbivore. Despite their unhurried demeanor, elephants can be formidable and dangerous when they feel threatened. Yet they present many unsuspected vulnerabilities. First, did you know that their skin, although very thick, is fragile and sensitive? An elephant can easily sense a tiny insect crawling across its body. It is also sensitive to UV rays and can easily get sunburned. This is why it is common to observe the animal throwing sand, dirt, or mud onto its skin using its trunk for protection.

Additionally, the elephant loves water. It enjoys bathing not only to hydrate its sensitive skin but also to relax after long journeys. It is also an excellent swimmer capable of covering long distances. To do this, it uses its trunk as a snorkel.

The elephant is also emotionally sensitive. Like humans, it becomes sad when it loses one of its kind. As evidence, it has been demonstrated that elephants often bury their dead, and members of their clan gather at their graves for several days.

The Buffalo: A True Predator Killer

Despite its position as prey in the food chain, the buffalo is a true danger to its predators. It is known for being very vindictive and unpredictable. This is because when one of its peers is killed by a predator, it comes with its herd to seek revenge.

Equipped with an excellent memory, the buffalo is also capable of remembering the hunter (or predator) that failed to kill it. Thus, if it were to encounter that predator again, it is capable of setting a trap to get rid of it for good. Never has the expression "what doesn't kill you makes you stronger" been so well illustrated!

Being a touchy creature with high survival instinct, the buffalo does not hesitate to use attack as a means of defense. This perhaps explains why the buffalo is one of the only livestock animals that has never been successfully domesticated by humans.

On a less "bloody" note, the buffalo drinks up to 40 liters of water daily. It's not that surprising when you think about it, as the African sun is truly exhausting.

The Black Rhinoceros: The Most Vulnerable of the Big Five

Yes, you read that correctly! The black rhinoceros is the most vulnerable animal of the Big Five despite its strength and imposing stature. First, were you aware that it has poor eyesight? It can charge straight into a tree, mistaking it for a predator. Fortunately, its highly developed sense of smell and hearing compensate for its weak vision.

The rhinoceros is one of the most endangered animals, particularly because of the numerous poachers who covet its horn. This horn is highly sought after in Asia for traditional medicine. Yet, like our hair and nails, rhinoceros horn is composed only of keratin. A truly sad exploitation that continues to contribute to the species' extinction.

Another less poignant but more amusing and unusual fact: the rhinoceros communicates with its peers through its droppings. Each rhino has a unique scent when it defecates. By simply smelling the dung, another rhinoceros can tell whether it came from a male or female, whether it is young or old, or whether it is a formidable enemy that should not be disturbed in its territory. As it turns out, with these beasts, it's possible to "recognize your friends in their droppings."

The Leopard: A Discreet and Easy-to-Feed Animal

The leopard is the most discreet animal of the Big Five. During safaris, it is very difficult to spot. This is because it hides in the shade throughout the day, perched on a branch. It is only at night that it comes down from its tree to hunt. An excellent climber, it carries its prey to the top of a tree to prevent lions or hyenas from stealing it.

The leopard is not a picky eater, as it is content with almost anything: insects, birds, reptiles, small mammals, and it can even feed on giraffes. Also comfortable in water, the leopard is capable of catching fish and crabs when it desires.

Unusual facts: the leopard has a less imposing roar compared to the lion. In fact, we don't say it roars but rather meows, hisses, or growls. Despite its status as a great predator, the leopard retains a cute side—like a cat, it purrs when it feels content.

The Lion: A King Under Great Threat…

The lion is undoubtedly the most emblematic of the Big Five animals. It is the most majestic, but also one of the most threatened. If in the mid-1970s there were 250,000 lions in Africa, by 2011, only 20,000 individuals remained. A truly sad figure, especially when one knows that humans are the primary cause of their progressive disappearance, through hunting and destruction of their natural habitat.

The decline in lion numbers is also caused by diseases that slowly decimate them. Fortunately, various national parks have been established throughout Africa to protect them.

Other facts to know about the lion:

• "Simba," the name of Mufasa's son in The Lion King, means lion in Swahili;

• The darker a lion's mane, the older it is;

• Lions live in prides, unlike other felines;

• Females can remain within a pride for their entire lives, while males must prove themselves to stay or find another pride to dominate once they reach adulthood.

Now that you know more about the Big Five, all that remains is to set off on their trail and attempt to observe them during a fabulous safari in one of Tanzania's most beautiful national parks!

The Big 5: Great Mammals Under Threat…

Hemingway's story begins with a big game hunt (south of Kenya), then continues to a second hunting safari in northern Tanzania. During these "big game safari hunting" expeditions, the Big Five killed during the expedition are considered exceptional trophies…

While this controversial practice is tending to disappear, it remains legal in some African countries, including Tanzania. But hunting safari is not the only threat to the survival of the Big Five. Indeed, other causes are also responsible, including poaching, climatic conditions (desertification), and loss of natural habitats (deforestation, etc.).

Where to See the Big Five in Tanzania: The Best Locations

Going on a safari in Tanzania allows you to admire the Big Five in their natural habitat. To observe them, discover the best locations and safaris.

Different Types of Safaris

Private 4x4 Circuit

This type of circuit, private or in a very small group, has been designed to meet visitors' wishes by offering a circuit tailored to the animals they wish (hope) to see and at their own pace. Private circuits are conducted with an English-speaking guide-driver.

The Flying Safari

The aerial safari provides an overview of the savanna and a global view of wildlife. This alternative (quite expensive) is conducted aboard a light aircraft and, generally, above Tanzania's main parks. The duration of this type of excursion varies depending on the service providers.

Night Safari

Less known, the night safari is also an excellent option for observing Tanzanian wildlife—and distinctly hearing the cries of animals in the silence of the night! This unique experience can be enjoyed in:

• Serengeti National Park,

• Katavi National Park,

• Lake Manyara National Park,

• Tarangire National Park.

Share your safari dreams with our team to finally realize the dream of observing the Big Five:

Exceptional Sites and UNESCO-Listed Parks

Tanzania is a vast territory of 947,300 km², renowned for the diversity and beauty of its landscapes. In addition to the Big Five, the country is home to many other animals and over 400 bird species… Here are the best places to observe them.

1. Ngorongoro Crater

In northern Tanzania, the Ngorongoro Crater is a massive caldera 20 km in diameter. It is home to lions, rhinoceroses, elephants, and wildebeest in a spectacular setting.

2. Udzungwa National Park

This southern Tanzanian park is a reputed spot for observing monkeys and birds. It unveils lush nature, particularly vibrant after the brief rains from December to February. Ideal for safari photography.

3. Katavi National Park

Rich in forests and bodies of water, Katavi Park harbors crocodiles, wildebeest, antelopes, civets, and numerous birds, within the preserved setting of the Great Rift Valley…

4. Serengeti National Park

The stage of the great migration, the Serengeti sees thousands of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross its expanse each year! Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park combines savanna, forests, rivers, and mountains. You can also see elephants, giraffes, rhinoceroses, and crocodiles.

5. Tarangire National Park

Known for hosting the largest elephant community, Tarangire Park is also home to lions, buffalo, and giraffes.

6. Arusha National Park

Near Mount Kilimanjaro, this national park is home to Mount Meru, pink flamingos, buffalo, sing-sing antelopes, and black and white Colobus monkeys (considered the mascots of the place).