Of course, everyone is primarily interested in the Big Five: elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion, and leopard. But be warned that seeing the leopard and rhino is not easy.
You're sure to see giraffes, zebras, and many species of antelope, from tiny dik-diks to waterbucks and kudu. In the parks, it's easy to see warthogs, sometimes called “Pumbaas” because of the Lion King character, and hornbills, sometimes called “Zazus” for the same reason.
Among other birds, you’re very likely to see ostriches, secretary birds, vultures, marabous, and many small birdies of various vibrant colors.
Paths that go near rivers promise encounters with crocodiles and hippos. Look carefully at the trees - in addition to birds they are home to monkeys. Lions and large spotted cats often lie imposingly on the branches as well. Smaller felines like servals are not rare, so look out for them too. Small damans can be spotted on the rocks below.
Jackals often follow the hunting lions, pink flamingos nest on the lakes, and impala antelopes are literally everywhere. But the most desirable for observers is the cheetah and the pretty caracal. Ask your guide questions, look around and try to use your binoculars more often. See all the animals to be found in Tanzania’s national parks on this page .