10 Endangered Animals You Might See on Safari: 2025-2026 Guide. Africa is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, but many of its iconic species face serious threats due to habitat loss, poaching, and climate change. Seeing endangered animals on safari is a unique experience, offering travelers the chance to witness these incredible creatures while also supporting conservation efforts. In this 2025-2026 guide, we highlight 10 endangered animals you might see on safari, and the best places to find them.
1. Black Rhino
The black rhino is one of Africa’s most critically endangered species, with poaching drastically reducing its population over the past few decades. Conservation efforts have helped protect these majestic animals, making it possible to see them in select national parks.
Where to See Black Rhinos:
- Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania: A safe haven for black rhinos, the crater offers excellent sightings.
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: A few black rhinos roam the Serengeti, often spotted in remote areas.
Learn more about black rhino conservation efforts.
2. African Wild Dog
African wild dogs, known for their colorful coats and strong social structures, are among the most endangered predators in Africa. Despite their declining numbers, these dogs can still be seen in specific regions where conservation programs are in place.
10 Endangered Animals You Might See on Safari: 2025-2026 Guide Best Places to See African Wild Dogs:
- Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania: Home to one of the largest populations of African wild dogs.
- Okavango Delta, Botswana: Known for sightings of wild dogs during game drives and boat safaris.
Discover more about African wild dogs and their habitat.
3. Mountain Gorilla
The mountain gorilla is an endangered species found in the misty highlands of East Africa. Trekking to see mountain gorillas is one of the most sought-after wildlife experiences, offering a rare glimpse into their family groups.
Where to See Mountain Gorillas:
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda: Famous for guided gorilla trekking tours.
- Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda: A premier destination for those seeking close encounters with mountain gorillas.
Read more about mountain gorilla trekking.
4. Cheetah
Cheetahs are the fastest land animals but are now vulnerable due to habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict. Their sleek, spotted bodies and graceful movements make them a favorite among safari-goers.
10 Endangered Animals You Might See on Safari / Best Locations for Cheetah Sightings:
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Known for its wide-open plains, ideal for cheetah hunting grounds.
- Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa and Botswana: A great spot for observing cheetahs in their natural habitat.
Find out more about cheetah conservation.
5. Grevy’s Zebra
Grevy’s zebras differ from the common plains zebra with their larger size and narrower stripes. They are listed as endangered, with their populations confined to parts of East Africa.
Where to Spot Grevy’s Zebra:
- Samburu National Reserve, Kenya: The best place to see these rare zebras.
- Laikipia Plateau, Kenya: Known for its conservancies dedicated to Grevy’s zebra conservation.
Learn about the difference between Grevy’s and plains zebras.
6. Ethiopian Wolf
The Ethiopian wolf is Africa’s most endangered carnivore, with only a few hundred remaining in the wild. Found in Ethiopia’s highlands, these wolves are known for their reddish coats and slender builds.
Best Places to See Ethiopian Wolves:
- Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia: Offers the best chance of seeing these rare wolves.
- Simien Mountains, Ethiopia: A stunning location for those hoping to catch a glimpse of this species.
Read more about Ethiopian wolf conservation efforts.
7. Pangolin
The pangolin is one of the most trafficked animals in the world, facing severe threats from illegal wildlife trade. These shy, nocturnal creatures are covered in scales and are known for their unique ability to roll into a ball when threatened.
Where to Find Pangolins:
- Kruger National Park, South Africa: Pangolins are occasionally spotted during night drives.
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Sightings are rare, but possible with the help of experienced guides.
Learn about the plight of the pangolin.
8. African Elephant
While African elephants are a common sight in many national parks, they are still considered vulnerable due to ongoing threats like poaching and habitat loss. Seeing these gentle giants in the wild is always a breathtaking experience.
Best Places to See African Elephants:
- Tarangire National Park, Tanzania: Famous for its large elephant herds.
- Chobe National Park, Botswana: Known for one of the largest elephant populations in Africa.
Discover more about African elephant conservation.
9. Giraffe
Giraffes are iconic symbols of Africa’s savanna, but certain subspecies, like the Masai giraffe, are listed as endangered. Conservation efforts have been put in place to protect these gentle giants and their habitats.
Where to See Endangered Giraffes:
- Serengeti National Park, Tanzania: Home to Masai giraffes, a key subspecies.
- Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda: Known for its thriving population of Rothschild’s giraffes.
Find out more about giraffe conservation initiatives.
10. Bonobo
Bonobos are endangered great apes found only in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They share more than 98% of their DNA with humans, making their behavior fascinating to observe.
Best Places to See Bonobos:
- Lomako-Yokokala Nature Reserve, DRC: A protected area where guided tours offer opportunities to see bonobos in the wild.
- Salonga National Park, DRC: A UNESCO World Heritage site and home to a significant bonobo population.
Learn about bonobo behavior and their conservation.
10 Endangered Animals You Might See on Safari / Plan Your Safari with Experts
Choosing the right safari package ensures a well-organized and impactful experience. Eddy Tours & Safaris offers expertly guided tours across Tanzania, providing opportunities to see many of these endangered species. From game drives in the Serengeti to exploring the Ngorongoro Crater, Eddy Tours tailors the experience to suit your needs.
For those also seeking to combine a safari with a Kilimanjaro trek, Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist offers packages that include both wildlife experiences and mountain climbing adventures, ensuring a balanced trip.
Start planning your safari with local experts.
10 Endangered Animals You Might See on Safari: 2025-2026 Guide : Conclusion
Seeing endangered animals on safari is not only a memorable experience but also an opportunity to support conservation efforts that help protect these species. By choosing the right destinations and working with responsible tour operators, you can enjoy a meaningful safari that contributes to the protection of Africa’s unique wildlife.
For tailor-made safari packages, contact Eddy Tours & Safaris. If you’re looking to include a Kilimanjaro trek as part of your adventure, check out Kilimanjaro Climb Specialist for customized itineraries.