East African Safari: What animals to expect
Embarking on a safari in East Africa is like stepping into a live wildlife documentary where nature unfolds its raw beauty and diverse wildlife. This region, particularly Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania, offers some of the most spectacular wildlife experiences in the world. Of course, a common question before booking that safari of a lifetime is 'What animals can I see on safari in East Africa?" so let's take a look.
Nature deserve to be celebrated.
What animals can I see on safari in Uganda?
Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, offers a treasure trove of wildlife encounters unlike any other. From the majestic gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the savannah grasslands teeming with diverse creatures, a safari in Uganda promises unforgettable memories. Here's a glimpse into some of the incredible animals you might encounter on your Ugandan adventure:
A lion resting up on a tree.
Primates Galore:
• Mountain Gorillas:
Embark on a life-changing trek through the misty rainforests of Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park to encounter the gentle giants – the mountain gorillas. Witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an experience that will touch your soul.
• Chimpanzees:
Get up close and personal with our closest living relatives in Kibale National Park. Witness their playful antics and complex social interactions as you swing through the verdant canopy on a chimpanzee habituation experience.
• Golden Monkeys:
Mgahinga National Park is also home to a troop of the rare and endangered golden monkeys. Their dazzling golden fur and mischievous nature make them a true sight to behold.
Savanna Symphony:
• African Elephants:
Murchison Falls National Park, with its vast savannah plains and acacia woodlands, is a haven for African elephants. Observe these gentle giants as they graze, trumpet, and bathe in the Nile River, a sight that will leave you awestruck.
• Lions, Leopards, and Cheetahs:
Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts a healthy population of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Spot them basking in the golden sunlight or stalking their prey across the savanna, adding a touch of thrill to your safari.
• Ugandan Kobs:
Witness the breathtaking spectacle of the annual kob migration in Kidepo Valley National Park. Thousands of these graceful antelopes thunder across the plains, creating a scene of raw energy and beauty.
Beyond the Big Names:
• Forest Elephants:
Explore the lush rainforests of Semliki National Park to encounter the elusive forest elephants. Smaller and more agile than their savanna counterparts, these gentle giants are a vital part of the rainforest ecosystem.
• Bongo Antelopes:
The critically endangered bongo antelope, with its majestic spiral horns and striped coat, is a rare but breathtaking sight. Keep your eyes peeled for them in the dense forests of Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks.
What animals can I see on safari in Rwanda?
Rwanda, the "Land of a Thousand Hills," boasts stunning scenery and an equally captivating array of wildlife. While it may not have the vast plains of the Serengeti, Rwanda offers a unique and intimate safari experience, focusing on specialized encounters with incredible primates and a surprising diversity of species in its protected areas.
Here are some of the animal highlights you can expect to see on a Rwandan safari:
1. Mountain Gorillas:
The crown jewels of Rwanda, these gentle giants roam the misty bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. Witnessing a family of gorillas in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into their complex social lives and playful interactions.
2. Golden Monkeys:
Another primate gem, these playful monkeys with dazzling coats of golden fur inhabit the bamboo forests in Volcanoes National Park. Their acrobatic displays and curious nature make them a joy to watch.
3. Chimpanzees:
Head to Nyungwe Forest National Park, a lush green expanse, to encounter troops of chimpanzees swinging through the ancient trees. Their intelligence and close resemblance to humans make them fascinating primates to observe.
4. The Big Five (Except One):
Akagera National Park, Rwanda's savannah gem, is home to four of the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards (rhinos are still being reintroduced). Spotting these majestic creatures grazing on the plains or stalking their prey is a thrilling safari experience.
What animals can I see on safari in Kenya?
Kenya, known for its classNameic savannahs and quintessential safaris, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Kenya's most iconic safari destination is the Masai Mara National Reserve, famous for the Great Migration – the awe-inspiring annual spectacle of millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles traversing the plain in search of fresh grazing.
On a visit to Kenya, you might see:
• The Big 5:
A Kenyan safari offers a chance to see the famous Big 5 – lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros. The Masai Mara is excellent for spotting these magnificent animals, although rhino can be difficult to spot as they tend to prefer the cover of dense bush. However, the Ol Pejeta Conservancy offers unprecedented sightings of both black and white rhino, and is a must-see for those wanting to view the last remaining northern white rhinos on the planet.
• Big cats:
Once again, the Masai Mara delivers as a top spot to see big cats in Kenya, including cheetah, lion, leopard, and rare serval cats.
• Diverse birdlife:
Kenya is a paradise for bird watchers, with over 1000 species recorded. From the flamboyant flamingos of Lake Nakuru to the majestic eagles soaring high above the Masai Mara, you don’t need to be a bird lover to appreciate the variety.
• Unique species:
Some species are unique to the region; for example, the Samburu National Reserve is known for its own unique Big 5: the reticulated giraffe, the blue-skinned Somali ostrich, the beisa oryx, Grevy’s zebra, and the long-necked gerenuk antelope.
• conic scenes:
To the south of Nairobi, Amboseli National Park is home to some of the largest herds of elephant in Kenya, making for incredible photography opportunities against the spectacular backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro.
What animals can I see on safari in Tanzania?
Tanzania's wildlife safaris are equally thrilling, with the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater standing out as some of the top destinations. Of course, Tanzania is much bigger in size than Kenya and, therefore, offers more varied landscapes. In addition to seeing the Great Migration in Tanzania, these are some of the other animals you can see on safari in Tanzania:
• The Great Migration:
The Serengeti is synonymous with the Great Migration, where the vast herds of wildebeest and zebra move along their circular route across Tanzania and Kenya. Choose to experience the thrilling river crossing up north or the incredible calving season on the verdant plains as far south as the Ngorongoro Conservation Area (though not in the Crater itself).
• Predators galore:
The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are excellent for spotting lion, leopard, and cheetah. As a natural enclosure, the Crater offers a higher density of predators and more accessible viewing opportunities.
• Chimpanzee in the wild:
Rubondo Island, a small island on Lake Victoria, has been a haven for wild chimpanzee since the 1960s. In addition, the island is also home to the shy sitatunga antelope, elephant, and giraffe. Of course, birdlife on the island is also spectacular.
• Wild dog:
The wild dog is an endangered species, but the Ruaha and Nyerere national parks are a stronghold for wild dog, alongside `healthy populations of hyena and black-backed jackals.
• Elephant Haven:
Tarangire National Park should never be overlooked; it’s one of the best places in Tanzania to see large herds of elephant. The baobab-studded landscape provides a unique and iconic backdrop for your elephant viewing.
• Birdlife and reptiles:
Tanzania is blessed with a rich diversity of birdlife. Lake Manyara National Park is a highlight for bird enthusiasts. The park is also known for its famous tree-climbing lions and large populations of hippo and crocodiles.
• Endangered species:
Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places to spot the critically endangered black rhinoceros. It's one of the few places in East Africa where seeing a black rhino in the wild is relatively likely.
