Common Trees You Might See On Your Safari in Tanzania

Tanzania is not only home to breathtaking wildlife but also to stunning and diverse flora. If you love nature and wildlife, I Artist Adventure highly recommends a safari to experience the beauty of Tanzania’s unique trees. Here, we’ve listed some of the most well-known trees you’ll encounter during your adventure.

Yellow Fever Tree

If your safari takes you near water sources such as rivers, swamps, or floodplains, you will likely see the Yellow Fever Tree. It is easily recognizable by its distinctive yellow bark. Despite its name, the tree does not cause yellow fever—this was a common misconception due to its proximity to mosquito-infested waters. The Yellow Fever Tree is a stunning sight and a must-see on your safari.

Baobab Tree

The Baobab Tree is one of Tanzania’s most iconic trees. Often referred to as the “upside-down tree” because of its root-like branches, the baobab is found in dry woodland areas. It is the largest of the nine baobab species worldwide and can store vast amounts of water within its trunk, allowing it to thrive in arid conditions. You’re sure to encounter this magnificent tree during your safari with I Artist Adventure.

Euphorbia Candelabra

A striking tree with a unique structure, the Euphorbia Candelabra is a type of giant succulent that stands out in Tanzania’s landscapes. It can grow up to 20 meters in height, with upward-extending branches resembling a candelabra. However, beware of its toxic latex sap, which can cause skin irritation. Appreciate this tree from a distance as you explore Tanzania’s wild terrain.

Wild Date Palm

The Wild Date Palm (Phoenix Reclinata) grows in a variety of habitats across Tanzania. This tree often appears in clusters, with intertwining branches that give it a bush-like appearance from afar. While its fruit is edible, it is not particularly tasty, but the tree’s sap is used to make palm wine. Keep an eye out for these trees in diverse landscapes throughout your journey.

Acacia: The Most Common Tree in Tanzania

The Acacia Tree is perhaps the most iconic tree in Tanzania and across Africa. It is a crucial part of the savanna ecosystem, providing food for giraffes and other herbivores. Its umbrella-like canopy is often seen silhouetted against the African sunset in many famous wildlife photographs. When you think of Tanzania’s landscape, the acacia tree is likely the first tree that comes to mind.

Sausage Tree

The Sausage Tree is another fascinating tree you will likely encounter. Named after its sausage-shaped fruits, this tree grows up to 20 meters tall. Though its fruit is toxic when raw, it is used in traditional medicine and skincare products. The tree’s strong smell attracts fruit bats, which help pollinate it. You’ll find the Sausage Tree thriving in wetter regions of Tanzania.

Strangler Fig

The Strangler Fig is a unique tree that thrives in Tanzania’s woodlands. It begins life as a hemiepiphyte, growing on a host tree before eventually overtaking it. This fascinating survival strategy demonstrates nature’s cycle of life. The Strangler Fig is commonly found near rivers, particularly in the Serengeti, making it a frequent sight on I Artist Adventure safaris.

Toothbrush Tree

Unlike towering trees, the Toothbrush Tree is a small yet significant plant in Tanzania’s ecosystem. Traditionally, its twigs were used as natural toothbrushes, hence its name. It is also valued for its medicinal properties. This evergreen shrub, standing at 4-6 meters, is a distinct feature in Tanzania’s drier landscapes.

Tanzania Trees: A Summary

Tanzania’s rich biodiversity extends beyond its wildlife, offering a diverse range of trees that contribute to its natural beauty. Whether you’re marveling at a Baobab, walking past an Acacia, or admiring the unusual Sausage Tree, your safari with I Artist Adventure will be an unforgettable experience. Be sure to keep an eye out for these magnificent trees during your journey! Thank you for reading!