Africa’s snakes range from tiny thread snakes to pythons longer than a safari vehicle. The largest are impressive but shy, and most visitors never see one. This guide covers Africa’s biggest snakes, which live in Tanzania and how to recognise them.
Africa’s largest snakes at a glance
| Snake | Typical length | Venomous? | In Tanzania? |
|---|---|---|---|
| African rock python | 3–5 m, occasionally more | No | Yes |
| Black mamba | 2–3 m | Yes, highly | Yes |
| Forest cobra | 1.5–2.5 m | Yes | Yes, forest areas |
| Egyptian cobra | 1.5–2.5 m | Yes | Yes |
| Gaboon viper | 1.2–1.8 m, very heavy | Yes | Yes, forests |
| Green mamba | 1.5–2 m | Yes | Yes, coastal forest |
| Puff adder | 0.8–1.2 m, thick-bodied | Yes | Yes |
African rock python
Africa’s largest snake, and one of the largest in the world. It kills by constriction and eats animals such as hares, monkeys and small antelopes. It likes water and is often found near rivers, swamps and rocky areas. Guides sometimes spot pythons in Tarangire, along the Serengeti’s rivers and in the southern parks.
Black mamba
The longest venomous snake in Africa. It is grey to olive brown; the name comes from the inky black inside of its mouth. Black mambas are fast but usually avoid people. They live in savanna, rocky hills and woodland.
Gaboon viper
Not the longest, but one of the heaviest venomous snakes in the world, with the longest fangs of any snake. Its patterned skin blends perfectly into leaf litter on the forest floor. It is slow and generally calm.
Cobras
Tanzania has several cobras, including the Egyptian cobra, the forest cobra and spitting cobras. They raise a hood when threatened. Spitting cobras can spray venom towards the eyes.
Myths about big snakes in Africa
- Anacondas live in South America, not Africa.
- King cobras live in Asia.
- “Mamba” in Swahili means crocodile, not snake. Read Swahili animal names.
Will you see a big snake on safari?
Probably not, but it is possible. Snakes are shy and well camouflaged. A python on a riverbank or a mamba crossing a track is a lucky sighting. Guides will keep you at a safe distance. Read snakes in Tanzania and what to do if bitten by a snake.
Staying safe
- Stay in the vehicle on game drives.
- Wear closed shoes and use a torch at night.
- Stay on paths and follow your guide on walks.
- Never approach a snake for a photo.
Where pythons are most often seen
Riverine areas in Tarangire and Ruaha are good places to scan for pythons resting in the sun. Try Ruaha Fly-In, or read about the most dangerous animals in Africa.
Frequently asked questions
The African rock python. Large individuals commonly reach 4–5 metres, and exceptional ones have been reported longer.
The black mamba, which can reach around 2.5–3 metres or more.
No. Anacondas live in South America and king cobras in Asia.
