101+ Lion King Tattoo Designs You Need To See!

Reviewed & fact checked: July 18, 2023 by Jamie Wilson (BA)

Alright, my fellow ink enthusiasts, buckle up! We’re about to go on a nostalgic journey back to the savannah of our childhood, a place where we learned to live worry-free with a simple mantra – Hakuna Matata. Yes, you heard me right. We’re talking about that timeless masterpiece, the crown jewel of Disney’s Renaissance era – The Lion King.

Who can forget that heart-wrenching moment when Mufasa falls, or the goosebumps-inducing scene when Rafiki lifts young Simba high above Pride Rock? If you’re humming ‘Circle of Life’ under your breath now, don’t shoot the messenger! And if the love for this cinematic classic wasn’t enough, Disney decided to reignite our childhood memories with a remarkable remake in 2019.

So, why am I getting all nostalgic about small lion king tattoo, you ask? Well, when it comes to inking a tribute to your childhood favorite, what could be better than a symbol from the film that taught us about life, love, and legacy? I hear you – with a cornucopia of characters and unforgettable moments, zeroing in on that perfect Lion King tattoo could be as tricky as outsmarting Scar. But hey, I’ve got you covered. Let’s take a grand tour through our top 15 picks for the most awe-inspiring Lion King tattoos.

Now, in my experience, choosing a tattoo is as much about the design as it is about the sentiment the tattoo represents. Maybe you fancy Timon and Pumbaa’s carefree charisma, or perhaps the wise, stoic Mufasa speaks to you. From Rafiki’s mystique to Simba’s courage, each character presents a unique tapestry of qualities that you could consider immortalizing on your skin.

Here’s my first piece of advice. Take a moment, let those childhood memories flood back, and think about what The Lion King really means to you. Is it a symbol of bravery, a tribute to the circle of life, or simply a nostalgic piece of your past?

Once you’ve zeroed in on your tattoo’s ‘soul’, let’s talk design. Now, there’s nothing wrong with a good ol’ black ink piece – a silhouetted Pride Rock or a detailed portrait of Mufasa can be visually striking. But don’t forget, we’re dealing with a story that’s rich in color and life. Why not use that to your advantage? A splash of color can bring a vibrancy that truly captures the spirit of The Lion King.

Simba “Remember who you are” tattoo

Let’s talk about a movie that has been a tearjerker and a joy ride, all rolled into one. Yes, I’m talking about that animated opus that has tugged at our heartstrings and taught us a thing or two about life – The Lion King. Now, there are few occasions that warrant shedding a tear, especially for us grown-ups, but who among us didn’t well up at that tragic scene?

But, hey, let’s not dwell on the sadness. Let’s talk about what this majestic film brought to our lives. The Lion King was more than a movie; it was a classroom where we learned about bravery, love, loss, and finding our path. It’s these life lessons that make it a worthy choice for inspiration for your next piece of ink.

Think about it – what moment from this timeless tale resonates with you the most? Perhaps it’s Simba, the king lion grappling with his identity and purpose, lost in the wilderness. Or maybe it’s Mufasa’s voice echoing from the stars, reminding his son of his true lineage. What about the humorous yet profound wisdom of Timon and Pumbaa, teaching us the true meaning of Hakuna Matata?

Sketchy SImba, Timon and Pumbaa Tattoo

@bk_tattooer via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Alright, folks! If you don’t hold a soft spot for the lovable trio – Simba, Timon, and Pumbaa, well, we might need to reassess our friendship! I’m only messing with you. But seriously, their free-spirited camaraderie speaks volumes about the essence of friendship, regardless of size or species. To honor this special bond, why not get a sketchy tattoo of the trio? The aesthetic works perfectly on a forearm or near the collar bone. Remember, love is all that matters!

Rafiki Meditating Tattoo

@tattooist_pooh via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Next up, we’ve got Rafiki, our favorite shaman of the Pride Lands. Don’t be fooled by his eccentric demeanor, this guy is the heart and soul of The Lion King. If you’re known as the ‘Rafiki’ of your friend group, this meditative pose tattoo on upper arm is an ideal pick. It’s a testament to your wisdom and your dedication to your tribe.

The Disney Lion King Tattoo

@batgirl_tattoo via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Craving a classic? How about a tattoo of our beloved Simba – the true Lion King and an icon of our childhood? He’s faced trials and tribulations, emerging victorious as a king. If his journey inspires you, why not capture his adorable, smug lion face in a black and gray tattoo?

Pride Rock Tattoo

via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Let’s veer off the traditional path for a moment. Remember Pride Rock? That unforgettable cliff that sends shivers down your spine? Well, imagine it as a vibrant tattoo design, with cartoonish cliff and sunset hues. The splash of bright reds and yellows can add a striking contrast on any skin tone.

Lion King Simba Symbol Tattoo

@owlyellie3 via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Here’s an image that every Disney fan would recognize – the Simba symbol from The Lion King. A small circular design works wonders for versatility, making it a great fit for any tattoo spot. Go for the bright blue background or opt for the captivating colors of a savannah sunset. The choice is yours!

Disney Mufasa Tattoo

@justlustbabe via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Mufasa – a character that’s etched in our hearts forever. If this wise and noble king is your favorite character, consider getting this sentimental Lion King tattoo. The intricate lines and shading technique makes it a standout piece.

Simba and Nala Couple Tattoo

@cheshirecat_tattoos via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Who says Disney can’t teach us about love? Look no further than the charming duo, Simba and Nala. Honor their love (and yours) with a beautiful couple tattoo. Although a simple black line design is beautiful, consider adding a pop of color for a vibrant touch.

Lion King Paw Print Tattoo

@saimi_meraki via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Is there anything more heartwarming than the bond between a father and son? The journey Simba had to endure to reach his throne is symbolized in the paw print. If The Lion King movie has inspired something precious in your life, consider this colorful paw print tattoo.

Hakuna Matata Tattoo

@kobultattoo via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

How about a meaningful script tattoo? Hakuna Matata, the fun song with a powerful message of living a worry-free life, is a popular choice. Choose a stylish font and consider warping the script to resemble an infinity symbol. After all, who wouldn’t want to be carefree forever? Go ahead, get this tattoo and live the Hakuna Matata philosophy!

The Lion King Tattoos All Characters

@mina.ilic.tattoo via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Can’t quite pick your favorite critter from The Lion King? I feel you. The film’s jam-packed with an array of lovable creatures. Here’s an idea: why not get all of them etched on your skin? A comprehensive sketch with the savannah backdrop as a frame. Each character’s unique size and shape gives you the freedom to experiment with placements. Trust me, you’ll end up with a colorful tattoo, that’s a real crowd-pleaser.

Live Action Lion King Tattoo Ideas

@ricardotattoo13 via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Are you an old-school fan of the original Lion King animation, or have you fallen for the recent live-action rendition? Either way, check out this black and gray masterpiece. It’s crazy how lifelike these tattoos can look without a splash of color. If you carry a streak of the proud lion or lioness within you, this tattoo could be your next ink venture.

Ed The Hyena Tattoo

@cyncityink via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Ever thought about the crazy male hyenas in the matriarchal Pride Lands? Meet Ed, the most laughable of the trio. If you find a bit of your personality mirrored in Ed’s wild antics, this tattoo is a must-have. Opt for a smaller design that could snugly fit on your wrist or shoulder.

Tiny Simba Outline Tattoo

@oi_tattooer via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Are you hunting for a Disney-themed tattoo that’s easy on the wallet? Well, look no further! Feast your eyes on this charming Simba outline tattoo. A small dotted outline of our beloved lion cub is a budget-friendly yet instantly recognizable choice for Disney enthusiasts. Pick a color that resonates with you for the outline, and voila!

Timon and Pumbaa Tattoo

@betzylootattoos via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Who doesn’t adore the dynamic duo of Timon and Pumbaa? Their free-spirited nature and cute and humorous antics are a sheer delight. If these two stole the show for you, why not immortalize them in ink? The color detailing in this design is simply spectacular, akin to a snapshot from the original 1994 movie. Dedicate a patch on your thigh or biceps for this fantastic Lion King tattoo and live the ‘Hakuna Matata’ life!

Sleeve Bad Lion Tattoo

@inkdrops_tattoo_malta via Pinterest – Tattoo Design Ideas

Scar might be the villain, but his character taught us valuable life lessons, making him a fascinating antagonist. If Scar’s complexities captivated you, this is an incredible tattoo to consider. It serves as a constant reminder of his mistakes, steering you away from similar missteps. So, if you have a soft spot for this formidable feline, why not go all out with a sleeve tattoo dedicated to him? Remember, even in darkness, there’s beauty to be found.

More on Lion King Tattoo

A Lion King tattoo is much more than just a nod to an iconic Disney classic. It’s a symbol imbued with rich layers of meaning. The central character, Simba, signifies the journey of a rightful king, grappling with his destiny and identity after the loss of his dear father, Mufasa. This narrative represents growth, courage, and the cyclic nature of life itself. Incorporating the black color in these tattoos, often in the outlines or shading, adds depth and intensity, highlighting the story’s darker elements. Together, all these elements weave together to give a Lion King tattoo its powerful resonance, making it a cherished piece of body art.

Having Said All That

Well, there you have it, folks! We’ve journeyed through the Pride Lands and back, exploring the most breathtaking Lion King tattoos. Bet you can’t wait to get your paws on one, am I right?

Before you sprint off to your tattoo artist, let’s mull over a few things. The beauty of these tattoos is their versatility. From very small tattoo of, simple outlines to elaborate full-sleeve designs, you’ve got a smorgasbord of options. Whether you’re a newbie to the world of ink or a seasoned collector, there’s a Lion King tattoo that’ll fit right in with your body art collection.

But remember, the grandeur comes with a price. While the tiny Simba outline might only nibble at your wallet, a full-color, full-sleeve Scar extravaganza is likely to take a heftier bite. But hey, in my experience, the look on people’s faces when they see your incredible ink? Priceless.

Still, no matter the cost, there’s something truly magical about carrying a piece of your favorite childhood movie with you, literally under your skin. It’s a constant reminder of the important lessons you learned, of laughter, of tears, and of the simple joy of singing ‘Hakuna Matata’ at the top of your lungs.

Now, let’s wrap this up. Whichever Lion King tattoo has caught your fancy, remember, a good tattoo is worth waiting for. So, book your appointment well in advance at the best shop in town. Let’s do justice to these iconic characters and give them the canvas they deserve: your skin. Trust me, you’ll have a roaring good time!

Drop a line in the comments if any of these ideas have stirred the Simba or Nala in you. Can’t wait to see which one you’ll choose. Remember, in the world of body art, it’s the circle of life, and it moves us all—right to the tattoo parlor! Cheers, and may your Lion King tattoo journey be a memorable one.

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Feature image and all other images from Pinterest