We have dined at Boma many times without staying there and always go out to see the animals. we usually first will wander out to the viewing areas near the pools to see the flamingoes and maybe some giraffe or zebra. Once we are done in that area, we go back in the building and make our way over to Arusha Rock and wander out there to see what we can find (typically the pink backed pelicans, zebras, giraffes, and other hoofstock type creatures. Depending on the reservation time, you may want to go before dinner when it is still light. Although after dark, you may be able to use the night vision goggles to see them.