Where to See Lions in Tanzania

Where to See Lions in Tanzania

Tanzania is one of the best places in the world to see lions in the wild. Known as “Simba” in Swahili, lions are among the most sought-after animals for travelers on safari. The country is home to several national parks and reserves where you can witness these majestic big cats in their natural habitat.

Best National Parks to See Lions in Tanzania

If you’re planning a safari in Tanzania, visiting the right national parks increases your chances of seeing lions up close. Here are the top locations to include in your itinerary.

Serengeti National Park – Best for Lion Sightings and the Great Migration

The Serengeti National Park is one of the best places to see lions in Tanzania. With vast open plains and abundant prey, lions thrive here. If you visit between July and October, you may witness these powerful predators hunting during the Great Wildebeest Migration.

Other wildlife found in the Serengeti includes leopards, cheetahs, zebras, elephants, hyenas, buffalo, giraffes, rhinos, and more.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area – High Lion Density in the Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is home to one of the highest densities of lions in Africa, making it an excellent location for sightings. This UNESCO-listed site is a natural enclosure, making it easier to spot big cats and other wildlife such as black rhinos, hippos, wildebeest, zebras, elephants, and spotted hyenas.

Lake Manyara National Park – Famous for Tree-Climbing Lions

Lake Manyara National Park is well known for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior among these big cats. Other predators in the park include black-backed jackals, bat-eared foxes, servals, African wild cats, and hyenas. The park is also home to large herds of elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and thousands of flamingos.

Ruaha National Park – Remote and Untouched Wilderness

Ruaha National Park offers a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience with fewer crowds and excellent chances of seeing large lion prides. Other wildlife includes wild dogs, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, sable and roan antelopes.

Other National Parks Where You Can See Lions in Tanzania

Beyond the famous parks, lions can also be seen in:

• Selous Game Reserve, known for its large predator population

• Mikumi National Park, often called a smaller version of the Serengeti

• Katavi National Park, one of Tanzania’s most remote wildlife areas

• Saadani National Park, the only coastal national park in Tanzania

Best Time to See Lions in Tanzania

Lions can be seen throughout the year in Tanzania, but the best time for a lion safari is during the dry seasons.

• The short dry season from December to February is ideal for sightings, as lions are more active.

• The long dry season from June to October offers the best wildlife viewing conditions, with sparse vegetation and animals gathering around water sources.

The wet seasons from March to May and in November can make wildlife viewing more challenging due to thick vegetation and muddy roads.

Tanzania Visa and Travel Information

Travelers visiting Tanzania need a tourist visa, which can be obtained in advance from a Tanzanian embassy or on arrival at any entry point for $100 USD.

Depending on the latest travel regulations, visitors may also need proof of yellow fever vaccination. It is advisable to check with the nearest Tanzanian embassy or contact us for updated travel requirements.

Tanzania Safari Vehicle Hire Services

Trek Africa Expeditions provides transport services in Tanzania based on your travel preferences, budget, and the nature of roads in your selected destinations.

• Customized 4×4 Land Cruisers are available from $200 to $250 per vehicle per day with a driver.

• 4×4 Safari Vans are available from $200 per van per day with a driver.

To estimate fuel costs, we will assess your itinerary based on mileage and distance. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Why Book Your Tanzania Lion Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions?

Trek Africa Expeditions organizes wildlife experiences in Tanzania, ensuring an unforgettable safari adventure. Travelers trust us because of our experience, attention to detail, and highly-rated service.

• Experienced and professional guides

• Highly rated on TripAdvisor and Trustpilot

• Eco-friendly safaris that support conservation

• Customized itineraries to suit your budget and preferences

We also offer combined safari experiences, including gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda, chimpanzee trekking, Big Five safaris, mountain hiking, cultural encounters, and more.

Plan your Tanzania lion safari with us and experience Africa’s incredible wildlife up close. Contact us today for bookings and inquiries.