East Africa is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife. Here are the top 10 animals you are almost guaranteed to see.
1. Lion
The king of the savannah. Best spotted in Masai Mara (Kenya) and Serengeti (Tanzania). Look for them on rocky outcrops or resting under acacia trees.
2. African Elephant
Watch for massive herds in Tarangire National Park and Amboseli. Elephants are highly social and you will often see babies walking between adults.
3. Giraffe
East Africa is home to the Masai giraffe and Reticulated giraffe. They are everywhere in the savannah parks. Lake Nakuru is particularly good for sightings.
4. Zebra
Zebras are everywhere. During the Great Migration you will see thousands crossing rivers alongside wildebeest.
5. Hippopotamus
Best seen during boat safaris — the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth NP and the Mara River are top spots. They are most active at dusk.
6. Cheetah
Look for cheetahs on open grasslands. The Serengeti and Masai Mara offer the best sightings. They are often spotted hunting in the late afternoon.
7. Leopard
The most elusive of the Big Five. Best seen in Serengeti's Seronera area and Masai Mara. Look up in trees — they often rest on branches.
8. Buffalo
Large herds are common in Queen Elizabeth NP, Serengeti, and Masai Mara. They are considered one of the most dangerous animals in Africa.
9. Rhino
Black rhinos are rare but can be seen in Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Nakuru. White rhinos are more common in Uganda's Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
10. Wildebeest
The star of the Great Migration. Over 1.5 million wildebeest move between Serengeti and Masai Mara in a continuous cycle. River crossing season (July-October) is spectacular.