Where to see cheetahs in Tanzania
Cheetahs need open ground to hunt. The short-grass plains of the southern Serengeti are the best place to see them.
Southern Serengeti and Ndutu
During the calving season, from late January to March, the southern plains are full of prey and cheetahs hunt in daylight. Mothers with cubs are often seen, and hunts happen in the open.
Central Serengeti
Cheetahs are resident around the Seronera area and on the open plains nearby, particularly around the Gol and Simba kopjes.
Other areas
Cheetahs are seen occasionally in Tarangire, the Ngorongoro Crater and Ruaha, but the Serengeti is far more reliable.
Behaviour
Unlike lions and leopards, cheetahs hunt during the day, often mid-morning, to avoid competition. They use termite mounds and even vehicle bonnets as lookouts. They lose many kills to lions and hyenas, so they eat quickly.
Watching respectfully
A good guide keeps distance during a hunt and never blocks the cheetah’s line of sight. A car too close can end a hunt and cost a mother a meal.
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