Where to see Eland in Tanzania
The eland is the largest antelope in Africa, and often found in sizable herds. While it is found throughout Tanzania, this shy antelope is easily spooked.
Quick facts about Eland
| Scientific name: | Taurotragus oryx | Habitat: | Open savanna & grasslands |
|---|---|---|---|
| IUCN status: | Least concern | Adult weight: | 340–940kg |
The eland is widespread throughout Tanzania – it is estimated there are around 36,000 individuals – although they are hunted for bushmeat in some regions. They are highly adaptable and can be found across a range of environments and altitudes, even visiting mineral licks on the upper slopes of Kilimanjaro. Their favoured habitat, however, is open grassy plains.
The main subspecies in Tanzania is the East African eland, Taurotragus oryx pattersonianus, characterised by white facial markings and a tan-coloured coat patterned by up to 12 white stripes. Some eland populations in southern Tanzania are the Livingstone’s subspecies (T. o. livingstonii) which has bigger horns and lacks the facial chevrons.
3.5m
BODY LENGTH
500
MAX. HERD SIZE
20 years
LONGEVITY
70cm
70cm
Tanzania's top camps for seeing elands
Based on 326 reports since May 2018, the camps below have the best chance of seeing elands. Simply follow the key below.
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Where to see elands in Tanzania
Elands are found throughout Tanzania’s safari regions, both in the north and south of the country, however they can often be skittish and difficult to approach.
Top tips for viewing elands in Tanzania
Despite their relative abundance, the shyness of elands can make them tricky to approach for good photos, and they are often seen at some distance.
The Serengeti is home to one of the biggest eland populations in Africa and sightings here are frequent. The green season, just after the heaviest of the rains, can be a particularly good time to see them in the southern Serengeti, as they gather in large herds on the short grass plains.
Elands are also commonly seen in Tanzania’s southern parks, either as individuals or in small herds. Use binoculars to spot them on Ruaha’s open plains or look for their movements behind trees and bushes.
Holiday ideas to see elands in Tanzania
These trip ideas include places that will give you a chance of seeing elands 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$16,050 - US$23,210 per person
Regal Sunbird Fly-in Safari
12 days • 5 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Experience the highlights of Tanzania with a safari in the country’s famous northern parks followed by historic Stone Town and the palm-fringed beaches of Zanzibar, staying in high-quality accommodation throughout.
US$9,320 - US$15,160 per person
Dik Dik Safari
12 days • 4 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Combine safari with peace and relaxation on Zanzibar’s white-sand shores during this exploration of Tanzania. Stay in three high-quality sister camps within Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Serengeti National Park before concluding with a stay on Michamvi Peninsula.
US$8,750 - US$14,010 per person
Gorillas and Serengeti Safari
11 days • 4 locations
KIGALI AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Combine three iconic experiences – mountain gorillas in Rwanda, and the Serengeti plains and awe-inspiring Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania.
US$12,620 - US$14,390 per person
Secretary Bird Fly-in Safari
8 days • 4 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
Chosen for comfort and relaxation as much as for its range of activities, this safari makes for a leisurely trip featuring stunning accommodation and swift access to many of northern Tanzania’s best wildlife regions.
US$12,110 - US$16,740 per person
Avocet Fly-in Safari
7 days • 3 locations
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT
This luxurious safari explores three iconic African reserves from exclusive lodges in unbeatable locations. A very high standard of food, care and guiding ensure that you can focus on this amazing experience.
US$9,280 - US$14,680 per person
Superb Starling Fly-In Safari
7 days • 2 locations
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Explore Nyerere and Ruaha national parks from two luxurious sister camps within wildlife-rich locations. Both offer a range of land- and water-based activities, a superb standard of guiding and access to beautifully contrasting landscapes.
US$8,300 - US$11,720 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$8,400 - US$12,520 per person
Our top destinations for elands
Read tips for spotting elands in these countries and the best camps and lodges for sightings
