Tanzania holds one of the largest lion populations in Africa, possibly the largest, spread across the Serengeti, Ruaha, Nyerere and many other parks. On a week in the northern circuit, most guests see lions several times.
How a pride works
- A pride is a group of related females, their cubs and one or more adult males.
- Females do most of the hunting, often together.
- Males defend the territory and the pride. Coalitions of brothers can hold a territory for several years.
- Young males leave at two to three years old and live as nomads until they can take over a pride.
Daily life
Lions rest for up to 20 hours a day. They are most active at dawn, dusk and night, which is why early and late game drives give the best sightings. Prey includes wildebeest, zebra, buffalo and warthog.
Tree-climbing lions
Lions in Lake Manyara are famous for resting in trees, and the habit is also seen in the Serengeti and elsewhere. Possible reasons include escaping biting flies, catching a breeze and getting a view. Sightings in Manyara have become less predictable. Read about Lake Manyara.
Where to see lions
| Park | Notes |
|---|---|
| Serengeti | High density; lions on the kopjes of the central and southern plains |
| Ngorongoro Crater | Lions easy to find on the open floor |
| Ruaha | Large prides, sometimes over 20 |
| Nyerere | Good numbers along the rivers |
| Katavi | Lions following big buffalo herds |
Threats
Lions have lost most of their historic range in Africa. Conflict with herders, habitat loss and fewer prey are the main threats. Protected areas in Tanzania are vital for their future.
Read about the Big Five and animals in the Serengeti, or see Serengeti and the crater.
Frequently asked questions
The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater in the north, and Ruaha in the south.
Possibly to escape biting flies, catch a breeze or get a better view. It is best known in Lake Manyara.
Estimates vary, but Tanzania holds one of the largest lion populations in Africa.
