Top 21 African Safari Animals and Where to See Them
Africa is one of the world’s greatest wildlife destinations. From powerful lions and enormous elephants to mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, cheetahs and graceful giraffes, an African safari offers unforgettable opportunities to see wild animals in their natural habitats.
If you are planning your first safari, knowing the top 21 African safari animals can help you choose the right destination and itinerary.
Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania are among the most exciting destinations for wildlife lovers. Kenya’s Maasai Mara is famous for big cats and the Great Migration, while Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro region offer exceptional wildlife viewing. Uganda is particularly special because you can combine traditional savannah wildlife with gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking.
Official tourism information highlights the Maasai Mara and other Kenyan destinations for Big Five wildlife, while Tanzania’s northern safari circuit includes Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire, with Tarangire especially noted for its elephant herds.
So, what are the top 21 African safari animals you should look for?
Let’s explore them one by one.
1. African Lion
The African lion is one of the most iconic animals on the continent.
Known as the king of the African savannah, lions usually live in prides and can often be found resting under trees during the heat of the day. Early morning and late afternoon game drives offer some of the best opportunities to see them active.
Where to see African lions
Excellent destinations include:
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
- Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
- Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
Queen Elizabeth National Park is particularly famous for its tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector.
2. African Elephant
The African elephant is the largest land animal on Earth and one of the most impressive top 21 African safari animals to encounter.
Seeing a large herd moving across the savannah is an unforgettable safari experience. Elephants are highly social animals and may be seen feeding, drinking or interacting with one another.
Where to see elephants
Some excellent destinations include:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
- Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
- Amboseli National Park, Kenya
- Tsavo National Park, Kenya
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
- Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
Tarangire is particularly well known for its elephant herds and baobab landscapes.
3. African Leopard
The leopard is one of Africa’s most beautiful and elusive predators.
Leopards are excellent climbers and often rest in trees after feeding. Their spotted coats provide excellent camouflage, making them difficult to find.
A skilled safari guide can make a major difference when searching for leopards.
Where to see leopards
Consider:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
- Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Samburu, Kenya
- Serengeti, Tanzania
- Ngorongoro, Tanzania
Because leopards are solitary and elusive, sightings can never be guaranteed.
4. African Buffalo
The African buffalo is another member of Africa’s famous Big Five.
Buffaloes often move in large herds and can be seen grazing across grasslands and woodland areas. They are powerful animals and an important part of the African ecosystem.
Where to see buffalo
Good safari destinations include:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
- Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
- Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Serengeti, Tanzania
- Ngorongoro, Tanzania
For travellers interested in the top 21 African safari animals, seeing a huge buffalo herd is an experience worth adding to a safari itinerary.
5. Rhinoceros
The rhinoceros is one of Africa’s most endangered and fascinating large mammals.
In Uganda, visitors can see rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, which makes an excellent addition to a longer Uganda safari.
Rhinos are also found in selected reserves and parks in Kenya and Tanzania.
Where to see rhinos
Popular destinations include:
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda
- Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya
- Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
If seeing the Big Five is one of your goals, including a rhino experience can make your safari even more memorable.
6. Cheetah
The cheetah is Africa’s fastest land animal.
Unlike lions and leopards, cheetahs often prefer open grasslands where they can use their incredible speed to chase prey.
Their slender bodies, distinctive black facial markings and incredible acceleration make them one of the most exciting top 21 African safari animals to photograph.
Where to see cheetahs
Try:
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
- Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda
Cheetah sightings are never guaranteed, but open savannah landscapes can provide excellent opportunities.
7. Giraffe
Few animals are easier to recognize than the African giraffe.
With their extraordinary height, long necks and beautiful patterns, giraffes are among the most photogenic animals on safari.
Where to see giraffes
Excellent destinations include:
- Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
- Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda
- Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Samburu, Kenya
- Serengeti, Tanzania
Uganda is particularly rewarding for travellers who want to combine giraffe viewing with gorilla and chimpanzee experiences.
8. Zebra
Zebras are among the most recognizable African safari animals.
Their black-and-white stripes create spectacular photographic scenes, especially when large herds gather on open plains.
Where to see zebras
You can find zebras in:
- Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda
- Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Amboseli National Park, Kenya
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
Zebras are also an important part of the Great Migration ecosystem in East Africa.
9. Hippopotamus
The hippopotamus spends much of the day in water to keep cool.
Although they look slow and peaceful, hippos are powerful wild animals and should always be viewed from a safe distance.
Boat safaris can provide excellent opportunities to see hippos in rivers and lakes.
Where to see hippos
Consider:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
- Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
- Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda
- Serengeti, Tanzania
- Ngorongoro, Tanzania
A boat safari along the Nile in Murchison Falls can be a fantastic addition to a Uganda wildlife itinerary.
10. Wildebeest
Wildebeest are famous throughout the world because of their role in the Great Migration.
Every year, enormous herds move across the ecosystems of Tanzania and Kenya in search of fresh grazing and water.
Where to see wildebeest
The best-known locations include:
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
The Maasai Mara ecosystem is particularly famous for the annual migration, while Tanzania’s Serengeti forms a major part of the wider ecosystem.
11. Gorilla
Mountain gorillas are among the most extraordinary animals on Earth.
A gorilla trekking experience is very different from a traditional game drive. Visitors walk through mountain forests with trained guides and trackers to find habituated gorilla families.
Where to see mountain gorillas
The main destinations are:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda
- Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Uganda is an excellent choice for travellers who want to combine gorilla trekking with a broader wildlife safari.
For many visitors, meeting mountain gorillas becomes the highlight of their entire African adventure.
12. Chimpanzee
Chimpanzees are among our closest living relatives and are fascinating to observe in the wild.
Uganda is one of Africa’s leading destinations for chimpanzee experiences.
Where to see chimpanzees
The best-known destinations include:
- Kibale National Park, Uganda
- Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
- Budongo Forest, Uganda
- Nyungwe, Rwanda
- Mahale Mountains, Tanzania
Kibale National Park is particularly famous for chimpanzee tracking and offers an excellent addition to a Uganda safari.
13. Nile Crocodile
The Nile crocodile is one of Africa’s most impressive reptiles.
These ancient-looking predators can often be found along rivers, lakes and wetlands.
Where to see Nile crocodiles
Excellent locations include:
- Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
- Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
- Serengeti, Tanzania
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
A boat trip can provide a fascinating way to observe crocodiles from a safe distance.
14. Spotted Hyena
The spotted hyena is one of Africa’s most misunderstood predators.
Highly intelligent and social, spotted hyenas live in complex clans and are skilled hunters as well as opportunistic scavengers.
Where to see spotted hyenas
Good destinations include:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
- Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
- Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Serengeti, Tanzania
- Ngorongoro, Tanzania
They are particularly interesting to watch around dawn and dusk.
15. Hippopotamus
Hippos deserve special attention because they are among the most iconic animals found around Africa’s waterways.
They spend much of their day submerged and emerge to graze, usually after sunset.
For travellers searching for the top 21 African safari animals, a river or lake safari can provide some of the best hippo encounters.
Where to see them
Try:
- Murchison Falls National Park
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Lake Mburo National Park
- Serengeti
- Ngorongoro
16. Impala
The impala is one of the most common and graceful antelopes encountered on East African safaris.
Their speed and ability to leap make them exciting to watch, especially when predators are nearby.
Where to see impalas
Impala can be found in several safari destinations, including:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Murchison Falls National Park
- Lake Mburo National Park
- Maasai Mara
- Serengeti
Watching impalas interact with predators is part of what makes a traditional savannah safari so exciting.
17. Topi
Topi are distinctive antelopes that are closely associated with East African grasslands.
They are particularly well known in the Maasai Mara and Serengeti ecosystems.
Where to see topi
Excellent destinations include:
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Serengeti, Tanzania
They are often seen standing on termite mounds or elevated ground, providing beautiful photographic opportunities.
18. Eland
The eland is one of Africa’s largest antelopes.
These impressive animals are known for their size and powerful appearance.
Where to see eland
Good destinations include:
- Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Serengeti, Tanzania
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania
Uganda’s Kidepo Valley is particularly attractive for travellers looking for less crowded and more remote wildlife experiences.
19. Waterbuck
The waterbuck is a large antelope commonly associated with areas close to water.
Its distinctive appearance makes it easy for experienced guides to identify during game drives.
Where to see waterbuck
Look for them in:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
- Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
- Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Serengeti, Tanzania
Waterbuck are a great example of the diversity beyond Africa’s famous Big Five.
20. Warthog
The warthog is one of the most entertaining animals to watch on an African safari.
They can often be seen feeding on open grasslands or moving quickly through the bush.
Where to see warthogs
Good destinations include:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
- Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
- Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda
- Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda
- Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Serengeti, Tanzania
Their unusual appearance and funny running style make them a favourite with many safari travellers.
21. Golden Monkey
The golden monkey is a beautiful primate found in the high-altitude forests of the Virunga region.
For travellers visiting Uganda, golden monkey tracking can be combined with gorilla trekking for a remarkable primate-focused adventure.
Where to see golden monkeys
The main destinations include:
- Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda
- Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Golden monkey tracking provides a very different experience from a traditional savannah game drive.
Where Is the Best Place to See African Safari Animals?
There is no single destination that is best for every animal.
Your ideal destination depends on the species you want to see.
Uganda
Uganda is an excellent choice if you want a combination of:
- Gorillas
- Chimpanzees
- Lions
- Elephants
- Leopards
- Buffalo
- Giraffes
- Hippos
- Rhinos
- Golden monkeys
- Zebras
- Warthogs
A Uganda safari can combine savannah wildlife, primate tracking, gorilla trekking, boat cruises and cultural experiences in one trip.
Kenya
Kenya is famous for destinations such as:
- Maasai Mara
- Amboseli
- Tsavo
- Samburu
- Lake Nakuru
The Maasai Mara is particularly renowned for Big Five wildlife and the Great Migration. Kenya’s official tourism information also highlights Maasai Mara, Amboseli and Tsavo among its major safari destinations.
Tanzania
Tanzania is one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations.
The northern safari circuit includes:
- Serengeti National Park
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area
- Tarangire National Park
Tanzania’s tourism board describes the northern circuit as a signature safari region, with Serengeti wildlife experiences, Ngorongoro’s remarkable landscape and Tarangire’s elephant herds.
Uganda vs Kenya vs Tanzania for African Safari Animals
If your main goal is to see classic savannah wildlife, all three countries can offer excellent experiences.
However, each destination has different strengths.
Choose Uganda if: you want gorillas, chimpanzees and savannah wildlife in one itinerary.
Choose Kenya if: you are especially interested in the Maasai Mara, Big Five and Great Migration.
Choose Tanzania if: you want the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire safari circuit.
For travellers interested in the top 21 African safari animals, Uganda can be especially attractive because a single itinerary can combine traditional game drives with some of Africa’s most famous primate experiences.
Best Time to See African Safari Animals
African wildlife can be viewed throughout the year, but the experience changes with the seasons.
The dry seasons are often popular because animals may gather around remaining water sources, making them easier to locate.
The wet seasons can provide lush landscapes, fewer visitors and excellent photographic conditions.
The best time ultimately depends on your target animals and destination.
If your priority is gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking and savannah wildlife, a professional safari operator can help you choose the most suitable travel period.
How Many Days Do You Need for an African Wildlife Safari?
The ideal safari length depends on your interests.
3–4 Days
Suitable for a short wildlife experience.
5–7 Days
Excellent for combining two or three wildlife destinations.
8–10 Days
Ideal for travellers who want a more comprehensive safari.
10–14 Days
Excellent for combining Uganda’s gorillas and chimpanzees with multiple national parks.
14+ Days
Best for travellers who want an extended East African adventure, potentially combining Uganda, Kenya or Tanzania.
How to Plan a Safari to See the Top 21 African Safari Animals
The best safari is not simply about visiting as many parks as possible.
It is about choosing the right parks for the animals you want to see.
Before booking, consider:
- Your target animals
- Your travel dates
- Number of safari days
- Budget
- Accommodation level
- Private or group safari
- Gorilla or chimpanzee trekking
- Game drives
- Boat safaris
- Domestic flights or road transfers
A local safari operator can help you build an itinerary around your priorities rather than selling you a standard package.
Why Book Your African Safari With a Local Tour Operator?
Booking directly with a local safari company can make planning easier.
A professional operator can help arrange:
- Gorilla permits
- Chimpanzee permits
- Park permits and activities
- Accommodation
- 4×4 safari vehicles
- Professional driver-guides
- Airport transfers
- Game drives
- Boat cruises
- Cross-border itineraries
- Customized safari packages
Most importantly, your itinerary can be designed around the animals and experiences you actually want to see.
If your dream is to experience the top 21 African safari animals, tell us your travel dates, number of travellers, budget and preferred destinations. We can recommend an itinerary that fits your interests.
Frequently Asked Questions About African Safari Animals
What are the Big Five African safari animals?
The Big Five are the lion, leopard, elephant, African buffalo and rhinoceros.
They are among the most famous animals to see on an African safari.
Which African country has the best wildlife?
There is no single best country for every traveller. Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania all offer outstanding wildlife experiences, but their landscapes and animal experiences differ.
Where can I see gorillas in Africa?
Mountain gorillas can be seen in Uganda and Rwanda, with Uganda offering gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Where can I see chimpanzees in Africa?
Uganda is one of the leading destinations for chimpanzee experiences, particularly Kibale National Park.
Can I see the Big Five in Uganda?
Yes. Uganda offers opportunities to see lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos, although wildlife sightings are naturally not guaranteed.
What is the best African safari for first-time visitors?
A first safari should be designed around your interests. Uganda is particularly appealing if you want to combine classic wildlife with gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking.
What is the best African safari animal to see?
That depends on the traveller. Some people dream of seeing lions and elephants, while others consider gorillas, chimpanzees or leopards their priority.
The important thing is choosing a destination and itinerary that matches your interests.
Plan Your African Safari With Us
Africa’s wildlife is waiting.
From the roar of a lion on the savannah to the gentle presence of a mountain gorilla in the forest, every safari offers a different story.
If you want to experience the top 21 African safari animals, we can help you design a private or customized safari based on your travel dates, budget and wildlife interests.
Whether you want a Uganda gorilla and wildlife safari, chimpanzee tracking adventure, Big Five safari, Kenya safari, Tanzania safari or an East African combination, we can help plan the journey from start to finish.
Ready to see Africa’s incredible wildlife?
Contact us today for a customized safari itinerary and quotation.
Tell us:
- Your preferred travel dates
- Number of travellers
- Nationality
- Number of safari days
- Your preferred accommodation level
- Animals you most want to see
- Your approximate budget
Let’s plan your African wildlife adventure and turn your safari dream into reality.
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