Cheetahs in Tanzania
The fastest mammal in the world, the cheetah is one of Tanzania’s iconic big cats, and increasingly threatened by habitat loss. Seeing one on safari is a memorable experience.
Quick facts about Cheetah
| Scientific name: | Acinonyx jubatus | Habitat: | Grassland & woodland |
|---|---|---|---|
| IUCN status: | Vulnerable | Adult weight: | 50–70kg |
Of the four subspecies of cheetah, the southeast African cheetah, Acinonyx jubatus jubatus, is found in Tanzania. This cat ranges across Tanzania, however their numbers are low and in practice they are only likely to be seen in specific parts the country. Cheetahs are phenomenal hunters and the open plains of the Serengeti are an ideal habitat.
A number of research projects have been set up to monitor and conserve the species. The Serengeti Cheetah Project, run by the Wildlife Conservation Society, maps the cheetah’s range and monitors local populations, helping to generate conservation strategies for the long-term survival of these beautiful cats in Tanzania.
200-300m
AV. CHASE DISTANCE
65–80 cm
TAIL LENGTH
3 seconds
ACCELERATION, 0-100km/h
90 days
GESTATION PERIOD
Tanzania's top camps for seeing cheetahs
Based on 153 reports since May 2018, the camps below have the best chance of seeing cheetahs. Simply follow the key below.
Best chances to see
Good chances to see
Some sightings
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Where to see cheetahs in Tanzania
While cheetahs are found in several parts of Tanzania, the region where you are most likely to see them is northern Tanzania, especially in the Serengeti and Tarangire national parks.
Top tips for viewing cheetahs in Tanzania
Cheetahs are distributed thinly across Tanzania, and they are more prevalent in some areas than others. The Serengeti is the best location for cheetah sightings (7 out of 10 Expert Africa travellers see them here) and they can often be seen hunting on the open plains.
Namiri Plains Camp in the eastern Serengeti is particularly rewarding: this district was previously used for big cat research and there are several breeding females in the area.
Likewise, Tarangire is relatively good for cheetahs, and sightings here are quite frequent. A fairly small population of cheetahs is also found in Ruaha National Park in southern Tanzania, however the chance of seeing them here is slim.
Holiday ideas to see cheetahs in Tanzania
These trip ideas include places that will give you a chance of seeing cheetahs in Tanzania
Marabou Stork Fly-in Safari
13 days • 5 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Four luxurious camps enable exploration of Tanzania’s north and southern regions. With a range of land- and water-based activities available throughout, decidedly comfortable accommodation and applicable long-stay discounts, this adventurous safari is excellent value.
US$17,640 - US$25,560 per person
Martial Eagle Fly-in Safari
9 days • 3 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
This stylish fly-in safari visits two of Africa’s most iconic parks, the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya and Tanzania's Serengeti National Park.
US$11,570 - US$17,740 per person
Lovebird Fly-in Safari
5 days • 2 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Visit two consistently impressive wildlife destinations during this excellent-value safari in northern Tanzania. Enjoy a range of walks and cultural visits from sister camps at the Ngorongoro Crater and in the heart of the Serengeti.
US$3,350 - US$4,900 per person
Hadeda Ibis Guided Safari
7 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
This great-value safari, in a private 4WD with your own driver-guide, journeys through the stunning landscapes of northern Tanzania’s Great Rift Valley, focusing on its three top national parks.
US$5,140 - US$6,070 per person
Firefinch Drive-Fly Safari
9 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Enjoy a combination of privately guided and shared game drives during this good-value exploration of northern Tanzania. Explore game-dense regions from three comfortable bases which offer a variety of activities.
US$8,840 - US$10,760 per person
Flufftail Guided Safari
10 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Stay in three unique camps as you safari across the Ngorongoro Crater and the iconic Serengeti Plains with your private guide and 4WD vehicle: a trip of comfort and autonomy, with excellent wildlife.
US$13,020 - US$18,460 per person
Tinkerbird Fly-in Safari
8 days • 4 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Explore Tanzania’s famous northern circuit in Tarangire National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the Serengeti National Park. Four smart sister camps offer a high level of care, first-class guiding and a wide range of activities.
US$9,640 - US$14,140 per person
Fringe-eared Oryx Fly-in Safari
7 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Stay in three superbly positioned camps during this exploration of Tanzania’s famous northern circuit. Excellent views over the surrounding areas, relatively remote locations and game-rich habitat make for an exciting and varied safari experience.
US$7,300 - US$14,860 per person
Gorillas and Migration Safari
9 days • 3 locations
KIGALI AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
This luxury safari combines two iconic wildlife experiences: trekking to see the mountain gorillas in Rwanda, then flying to the northern Serengeti in search of the wildebeest migration and spectacular river crossings.
US$17,930 - US$25,280 per person
Our top destinations for cheetahs
Read tips for spotting cheetahs in these countries and the best camps and lodges for sightings
