Safari & Bush Retreats
Loading…
Mammal Vulnerable

Cheetah

Acinonyx jubatus

About Cheetah

Fastest land mammal, adapted to open plains for high-speed chases of gazelles and other small ungulates.

Physical Characteristics

Slim build, spotted coat, distinctive tear streaks, speeds up to 100 km/h.

Habitat

Open grassland and savanna.

Diet

Carnivorous — gazelles, young ungulates and hares.

Behavior

Diurnal hunters; females solitary or with cubs, males may form coalitions.

Quick Facts

Category: Mammal
Conservation Status: Vulnerable

Best Viewing Times

Early morning and late afternoon during dry season.

Best Viewing Locations

Serengeti open plains (during migration windows), Tarangire grasslands.

Where to Find Cheetah

Katavi National Park

Katavi National Park

Katavi, Tanzania, Rukwa

Remote wilderness with spectacular seasonal wildlife concentrations.

Visit Park
Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park

Serengeti, Tanzania, Mara / Simiyu / Arusha

Iconic savanna park known for the Great Migration and abundant wildlife.

Visit Park
Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire, Tanzania, Manyara / Arusha

Baobab-studded plains and large elephant herds.

Visit Park

Related Wildlife

African Buffalo

African Buffalo

Mammal

Large, sturdy bovine often seen in herds near water; one …

Learn More
African Elephant

African Elephant

Mammal

The largest land mammal, with tusks and a trunk; important …

Learn More
African Wild Cat

African Wild Cat

Mammal

Small wildcat; ancestor of domestic cats, seen in savanna edges.

Learn More
African Wild Dog

African Wild Dog

Mammal

Highly social carnivore with mottled coat and large rounded ears; …

Learn More