Top Game Reserves in Tanzania

Uwanda Game Reserve, also known as Uwanda Rukwa Game Reserve, is located in the Rukwa Valley in southwestern Tanzania. Covering 4100 square kilometers and established in 1971, it is an extension of Katavi National Park and includes almost half of Lake Rukwa. The reserve is a haven for bird enthusiasts, hosting over 400 species, and is famous for its large crocodile populations, particularly in the lake's waters, covering 80% of the reserve.

Established in 1951, Rungwa Game Reserve in Tanzania covers 9,000 square kilometers and is recognized as a Lion Conservation Unit since 2005. Renowned for large maned Lions, Buffalos, Leopards, Sable, Roan, Eland, and Greater Kudu, it's a top choice for trophy hunters. To preserve its excellence, the reserve limits annual safaris, ensuring both conservation and a high-quality hunting experience.

The Ugalla River Game Reserve in Tanzania's Tabora Region spans 3,865 square kilometers and is home to a variety of wildlife, including buffaloes, elephants, giraffes, leopards, and zebras. It is known for its beautiful landscapes and the presence of predators like wild dogs, lions, and elephants. The reserve is centered around the Ugalla River, providing a unique opportunity to observe a diverse range of wildlife in a natural setting.

Pande Game Reserve, Tanzania's smallest at 15.39 square kilometers, established in 1952, is entirely within Dar es Salaam, making it the largest protected area in the urbanized region. Recognized as an 'Important Bird Area' by Birdlife International, the reserve is home to various small mammals, including Baboons, Monkeys, Galagos, Hares, Rodents, Slender Mongoose, and African Civet, alongside other wildlife like bush pigs, bushbucks, and dik-diks.

Kijereshi Game Reserve, in the Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem, spans 66 square kilometers, serving as a crucial area for the Great Wildebeest Migration. Home to diverse big game, the reserve features streams and rivers, creating varied habitats. Visitors can enjoy game drives to witness predators in the Serengeti's plains and explore the rich biodiversity of the area.

Moyowosi Game Reserve, established in 1981 and covering 6,000 square kilometers in western Tanzania, is recognized as a RAMSAR Wetland. This reserve is a sanctuary for various wildlife, including crocodiles, hippos, and rare antelopes. During the dry season, it becomes a vital refuge, with Miombo woodlands and swamps supporting buffalo and water-birds.

Founded in 2019, Kigosi Game Reserve is a key part of East Africa's biggest wetlands, covering 8265 square kilometers. It's separated from Moyowosi Game Reserve by the Moyowosi River and houses Tanzania's largest wetland and floodplain. This reserve is essential for rare water-loving birds like the shoebill stork and wattled crane, emphasizing its importance in conserving diverse bird species and overall biodiversity in the area.

Established in 1993 near Serengeti National Park's northwest border, Grumeti Game Reserve covers 411 square kilometers. It's famous for its significant lion populations and functions as a migration route for herds of wildebeest and zebra. This highlights the natural balance in the Serengeti/Mara region, offering a unique opportunity to observe these herds in motion.

Maswa Game Reserve, neighboring Serengeti National Park, covers 2763.76 square kilometers. It features diverse terrain, including rolling hills and rocky outcrops, with seasonally dry rivers and permanent water holes. Noteworthy for the wildebeest migration and a high density of lions and leopards, Maswa is crucial for Serengeti wildlife, particularly during dry seasons.

Usangu Game Reserve is part of Ruaha National Park, covering 6,000 square kilometers of diverse landscapes and wildlife. The reserve, with mountains, valleys, grasslands, and Miombo woodlands, houses elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and more. The Ihefu Wetland acts as a natural reservoir for the Great Ruaha River, offering opportunities for boating and canoeing amidst abundant birdlife.