Top 10 Animals to See in the Serengeti

The Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous wildlife destinations on Earth — and for good reason.

This vast ecosystem is home to an incredible diversity of animals, from powerful predators to vast migrating herds.

Here are ten of the most iconic animals travellers hope to encounter when visiting the Serengeti.

1. Lion

The Serengeti holds one of the largest lion populations in Africa.

2. Elephant

These gentle giants move through the plains and woodlands in family groups.

3. Leopard

Elusive and beautiful, often found resting in trees.

4. Cheetah

The fastest land animal on Earth, commonly seen hunting across open plains.

5. Wildebeest

The stars of the Great Migration.

6. Zebra

Often travelling alongside wildebeest during migration.

7. Giraffe

Graceful browsers moving across the savannah.

8. Buffalo

One of Africa’s most powerful animals.

9. Hyena

Highly intelligent predators and scavengers.

10. Hippo

Large pods gather in rivers throughout the Serengeti.

Safari With Expert Guides

Seeing these animals in the wild is never guaranteed — which is why the experience and skill of your guide matters so much.

At African Environments, our guides have spent years learning the landscapes of northern Tanzania.

They know how to read tracks, interpret animal behaviour, and position vehicles for respectful and rewarding wildlife viewing.

Our private safaris also mean you spend more time exploring and less time competing with crowds.