Where to see Buffalo in Tanzania
One of the celebrated so-called Big Five, the buffalo’s fearsome reputation derives largely from hunters’ tales. Visitors will usually find this big, sociable bovid to be a largely placid animal – although courageous in defence against predators.
Quick facts about Buffalo
Scientific name: | Syncerus caffer | Habitat: | Floodplains, mixed bush & moist grasslands |
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IUCN status: | Near-threatened | Adult weight: | 500–950kg |
Tanzania is home to a substantial population of the Cape subspecies of African buffalo (Syncerus caffer caffer), with research by the IUCN suggesting nearly 200,000 individuals across the country, about half of the continent’s total population.
These animals, members of the ‘Big Five’, play a crucial role in Tanzania's ecosystems as bulk grazers and are particularly abundant in the Serengeti ecosystem where their annual migration forms part of the world-renowned ‘Great Migration’.
Known for their protective behaviour towards herd members, their predation by lions and other large carnivores can prompt interesting herd dynamics – with the herd usually mounting a coordinated defense against any attack.
1.7m
Max. shoulder height (male)
164cm
Record horn span (tip to tip)
±400,000
Today’s population
11 months
gestation period
The top camps for seeing buffalo in Tanzania
Based on 538 reports by our travellers since May 2018, visitors at these camps in Tanzania have the best chances of sighting buffalo.
Best chances to see
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Our insights for buffalo sightings in Tanzania
Whilst buffalo populations are good throughout Tanzania, certain parks and protected areas are likely provide unique and unforgettable sightings. See here for our recommended destinations.
Where to enjoy the best buffalo sightings in Tanzania
To enjoy impressive buffalo sightings in Tanzania, focus on the country’s vast national parks including the Serengeti, Nyerere (formerly Selous), and Ruaha National Park, where population sizes range from around 53,000 in the Serengeti to 120,000 in Nyerere.
In the Serengeti, buffaloes migrate annually alongside millions of animals including wildebeest, zebra and gazelles, when the world-famous river crossings are attempted between July and October.
Peak viewing opportunities in Nyerere National Park fall during the dry months of July to November whilst early morning game drives by Ruaha’s river can be fruitful. Whilst smaller in size, Lake Manyara National Park also offers reliable buffalo encounters, especially in the park’s groundwater forest. Head to the remote Katavi National Park to witness thousands of buffalo congregating around the shrinking water sources during the dry season.
Our best Tanzania holidays for buffalo sightings
Based on our travellers' reports, these ideas for Tanzania safaris are likely to give the best buffalo sightings
Where else to safari with buffaloes
Click here for detailed information about buffalo in other countries, including the places for sighting buffalo.