14 Wild Animals You Must See on an East African Safari (and Where to Find Them)
An East African safari is a dream for many travelers — a chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat, against some of the most iconic landscapes in the world. From endless savannas to misty forests, the region offers extraordinary biodiversity. If you’re planning your journey, here are fourteen wild animals you must see on an East African safari — along with the best locations to spot them.
1. African Elephant
The gentle giants of the savanna are a symbol of Africa itself. Watching a herd gather at a waterhole or march across the plains is unforgettable.
Best locations: Amboseli National Park (Kenya), Tarangire National Park (Tanzania), Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda).
2. Lion
Known as the “king of the jungle,” lions are iconic safari animals. Seeing a pride lounging in the grass or stalking prey is one of the highlights of any safari.
Best locations: Serengeti National Park (Tanzania), Maasai Mara National Reserve (Kenya), Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda).
3. Leopard
Stealthy and elusive, leopards are masters of camouflage. Often spotted draped across acacia branches, they are thrilling to photograph.
Best locations: Serengeti (Tanzania), Maasai Mara (Kenya), Lake Mburo National Park (Uganda).
4. Cheetah
The fastest land animal in the world is also one of the most graceful. Watching a cheetah sprint across the plains is an extraordinary experience.
Best locations: Serengeti (Tanzania), Maasai Mara (Kenya), Amboseli (Kenya).
5. African Buffalo
Part of the Big Five, buffalos are formidable animals often seen in large herds. They are known for their strength and unpredictable nature.
Best locations: Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania), Maasai Mara (Kenya), Murchison Falls National Park (Uganda).
6. Rhinoceros
Both black and white rhinos can be seen in East Africa, though sightings are rare due to their endangered status. Spotting one is a safari treasure.
Best locations: Lake Nakuru National Park (Kenya), Ol Pejeta Conservancy (Kenya), Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (Uganda).
7. Giraffe
Tall and elegant, giraffes are some of the most photographed safari animals. Subspecies such as the Rothschild’s giraffe are unique to certain regions.
Best locations: Lake Naivasha (Kenya), Serengeti (Tanzania), Murchison Falls National Park (Uganda).
8. Hippopotamus
Often seen wallowing in rivers and lakes, hippos are fascinating and surprisingly territorial. Their grunts and splashes are part of the safari soundtrack.
Best locations: Mara River (Kenya), Serengeti rivers (Tanzania), Kazinga Channel (Uganda).
9. Nile Crocodile
These ancient predators are often spotted basking on riverbanks or lurking near crossing points during the Great Migration.
Best locations: Mara River (Kenya), Grumeti River (Tanzania), Nile River in Murchison Falls (Uganda).
10. Wildebeest
The stars of the Great Migration, wildebeest move in vast herds across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, creating one of nature’s greatest spectacles.
Best locations: Serengeti (Tanzania), Maasai Mara (Kenya).
11. Zebra
Always seen alongside wildebeest, zebras add striking contrast to the savanna. Each animal’s striped pattern is unique.
Best locations: Amboseli (Kenya), Serengeti (Tanzania), Lake Mburo (Uganda).
12. Gorilla
Mountain gorillas are among the rarest animals on earth, making encounters in East Africa profoundly moving.
Best locations: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda), Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda).
13. Chimpanzee
Sharing about 98% of our DNA, chimpanzees offer one of the most fascinating primate experiences. Trekking to find them in lush forests is unforgettable.
Best locations: Kibale Forest (Uganda), Mahale Mountains (Tanzania), Gombe Stream National Park (Tanzania).
14. Flamingo
Though not a mammal, flamingos are a dazzling sight. Their pink flocks create breathtaking patterns on alkaline lakes.
Best locations: Lake Nakuru (Kenya), Lake Bogoria (Kenya), Lake Manyara (Tanzania).
