6 Best Pet Tortoise Breeds for Beginners

It’s easy to forget that tortoises are exotic pets. You don’t need to walk them every day or change a litter box, but you’re still committing to daily care for—hopefully—many, many decades to come.

Here’s the thing: while every tortoise requires research and careful planning, some are definitely easier to raise than others. The best pet tortoise for beginners is one that’s highly adaptable, reasonably active, and (as a general rule) relatively small.

But figuring out which species actually fits that description? That’s where things get confusing. Pet stores will tell you one thing, online forums say something completely different, and breeders each have their own opinions. Some species that seem perfect for beginners actually have challenging care requirements that catch new owners off guard.

This guide cuts through the confusion. You’ll learn about the most popular tortoises for new owners, understand what makes each one beginner-friendly (or not), and pick up practical tips for choosing the right species based on your experience level and living situation.

What You Need to Know Before Getting Your First Tortoise

There are plenty of reasons to want a tortoise as a pet. They’re quiet and keep to themselves—no barking or scratching up the furniture. They can be a great option for animal lovers who are allergic to fur and dander. They’re fascinating to watch and surprisingly interactive once they get comfortable with you.

But here’s what you need to understand: a tortoise shouldn’t be a replacement for another type of pet. These reptiles are engaging and fascinating in their own right and deserve to be loved and cared for just as thoughtfully as you would a cat or dog.

Before you decide which tortoise would make the best pet, you need to be absolutely certain that a tortoise is the right companion for you in the first place. This section covers the most important factors to think about before taking the next step.

Time Commitment

Tortoises live for a very, very long time. The average domestic tortoise can easily live 50 years or longer, depending on the species and the age when you first get it. It’s entirely possible that your tortoise will outlive you, or at minimum, be with you through multiple decades and many different life phases.

But it’s not just about the years you’re committing to. A tortoise requires daily care and maintenance that takes up more time than many people expect. You need to stock and prepare fresh produce regularly. You need to maintain appropriate temperatures and humidity. You need to clean the enclosure and monitor for health issues.

If you’re considering the best pet tortoise for beginners, make sure you’re ready for this level of ongoing commitment.

Space Requirement

A happy, healthy tortoise needs a surprising amount of space. This is exactly why smaller tortoise species typically make the best pets for beginners—their space needs are more manageable.

Here are some general rules of thumb:

A tortoise needs an enclosure that’s at least 6 times longer and wider than the tortoise itself. Adult tortoises generally need a 40 to 50 gallon enclosure minimum. More space is always better, and honestly, a lot of pet tortoises out there don’t have the space they really need to thrive.

When in doubt, err on the side of more space rather than less.

Indoor or Outdoor Housing?

Will your new pet tortoise live indoors or in an outdoor enclosure? The answer largely depends on your local climate and how much space you have available.

Only a few tortoise species truly thrive indoors year-round. Fortunately, most beginner-friendly tortoises fall into this category, which makes them practical choices for people without suitable outdoor space.

You might decide your tortoise would do best living outdoors for part of the year—say, during the warmer summer months. This is a great plan, but keep in mind it means you’ll need to invest in and maintain two separate enclosures. That’s double the work and double the cost.

Health and Veterinary Care

Accidents happen, and your tortoise won’t always be perfectly healthy. Before you get your first tortoise, look up what veterinary resources are available in your area. Not all vets work on reptiles, and even fewer specialize in tortoises. You may need to locate a specialist who’s an hour or more away.

Don’t wait to research this until your tortoise actually needs medical attention. Planning ahead gives you peace of mind and ensures your tortoise can get proper care when problems arise.

Cost Considerations

A pet tortoise can be expensive—and that’s before you factor in the enclosure, heating equipment, lighting, and ongoing food costs.

Some tortoise species are illegal to import from their native regions (an important conservation measure), which means they can only be sourced from existing captive breeders. Limited supply means breeders can charge hundreds or even thousands of dollars for certain species.

Remember: it’s always better to spend more on a tortoise from a reputable breeder. Avoid unethical breeders or importers who don’t care about conservation efforts. Cheap tortoises often come with health problems or questionable backgrounds that end up costing you far more in the long run.

Understanding Different Tortoise Types

Before diving into specific species recommendations, it helps to understand the main categories of tortoises. This knowledge makes it easier to understand why certain species work better as pets than others.

Desert Tortoises

Many tortoise species live in dry, sandy environments. True desert tortoises are burrowing species belonging to the genus Gopherus, native to southwestern North America where they play a vital role in desert ecosystems.

Desert tortoises are generally protected and not commonly kept as pets, though it’s still legal in some places. Most of what people call “desert tortoises” in the pet trade are actually Mediterranean species adapted to arid conditions.

Forest Tortoises

Most pet tortoises live in warm, arid places, right? Actually, several tortoise species inhabit temperate and semi-tropical rainforests. These tortoises are mostly found in Southeast Asia and South America.

Forest tortoises are rarely kept as pets. They have specific needs—especially high humidity—that are genuinely hard to replicate at home. Many forest species also grow quite large.

There’s one key exception: the red-footed tortoise native to South America. Photos of these beautiful reptiles don’t do them justice. Take it from me, they’re even more incredible in person.

Mediterranean Tortoises

Nearly all pet tortoises belong to this group. Mediterranean tortoises—which belong to the genus Testudo—live in parts of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. While some inhabit desert-like conditions, their native habitat also includes grasslands, dry forests, and rocky hillsides.

This group includes most of the species considered the best pet tortoise for beginners, which is why we’ll focus heavily on them in the next section.

6 Best Pet Tortoise Species for Beginners

All tortoises require decent care and attention to live long, happy lives. But some are definitely easier to care for than others. These are the species we recommend to new owners looking for their first tortoise companion.

1) Russian Tortoise (Testudo horsfieldii)

Other names: Afghanistan tortoise, steppe tortoise, Horsfield’s tortoise, four-toed tortoise
Conservation status: Vulnerable

The Russian tortoise is incredibly popular—and for good reason. Its native range extends the furthest east of any Mediterranean tortoise, covering parts of Russia, China, and the Middle East.

Russian tortoises inhabit arid hills and steppes throughout this region. These environments are largely rocky or sandy, and the bulk of their diet comes from grasses and other rough foliage. Russians are exclusively herbivorous, which makes feeding relatively straightforward.

Here’s something interesting: in the wild, these tortoises can go over a week without drinking water. They typically drink from puddles that form after rainstorms—not exactly a consistent water source. Of course, captive tortoises should always have access to fresh, clean water.

Part of what makes this species so popular is its small, manageable size. The average Russian tortoise grows to about 8-10 inches long and weighs at most 2 to 3 pounds. A Russian can easily thrive in a large indoor enclosure, making them practical for apartment living.

There’s another reason Russians make such great pets: they’re known for having some of the most active, friendliest personalities of all tortoise species. They’re curious, responsive to their owners, and genuinely fun to watch.

Wild Russian tortoises hibernate up to 5 months out of the year. In captivity, hibernation is still recommended for optimal health but typically only lasts a couple of months.

For young Russians especially, proper nutrition is critical during their growth phase. TheBaby Sulcata Superfood Powder actually works great for Russian tortoises too, providing balanced nutrition that supports healthy development without the risks of overfeeding.

2) Hermann’s Tortoise (Testudo hermanni)

Other names: Dalmatian tortoise
Conservation status: Near threatened

The Hermann’s tortoise is a wonderful choice for beginners, though it’s often overlooked in favor of the more popular Russian tortoise. This species is native to southern Europe and inhabits rocky forests and hillsides.

There are a few known subspecies of Hermann’s tortoise, including the Dalmatian tortoise. While Dalmatians are no longer officially recognized as a distinct subspecies (likely because wild populations have dwindled), some captive breeders still offer them.

The average adult Hermann’s measures up to 7 inches long, though large females can grow to 10 inches. While not as flashy as some species, Hermann’s tortoises have attractive yellow and brown shells with subtle spotted patterns.

This tortoise makes a great pet partly because of its mild personality. Hermann’s tortoises are friendly and enjoy interacting with their owners, though they don’t particularly like being handled—which is true of most tortoises.

Despite their manageable size, Hermann’s tortoises don’t love living indoors. The best home for one of these tortoises is an outdoor enclosure that closely mimics the Mediterranean climate. If you live somewhere with cold winters, you’ll need solid indoor housing for the off-season.

3) Greek Tortoise (Testudo graeca)

Other names: Moorish tortoise, spur-thighed tortoise
Conservation status: Vulnerable

Greek tortoises are small, docile, and fairly adaptable to a range of climates. These traits make them a solid option for many first-time owners who want something a bit different than a Russian or Hermann’s.

The biggest reason these tortoises are recommended as pets is their small size. Greeks typically only grow to 6-10 inches in length, with females being several inches bigger than males. Greek tortoises work well in both indoor and outdoor enclosures.

Greek tortoises are gentle and friendly. However, like most tortoises, they’d much rather stay on the ground than be picked up and handled by their owners. Respect this preference and you’ll have a happier, less stressed pet.

Greek tortoises live a very long time—even for a tortoise. It’s common for this species to reach 75 years or longer, with some reports of Greeks living to 125 years. When we say the best pet tortoise for beginners is a long-term commitment, we mean it.

4) Red-Footed Tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonaria)

Other names: Red-legged tortoise, cherry head tortoise
Conservation status: Vulnerable

The red-footed tortoise is the only species on this list that doesn’t belong to the Mediterranean group. Its name comes from the distinctive red markings along its limbs and head—they’re absolutely stunning in person.

Caring for a red-footed tortoise isn’t drastically different from other species. However, these tortoises are more sensitive to humidity levels, and putting together a suitable enclosure takes more effort. Red-foots need consistently high humidity (70-80%), which is challenging to maintain in most homes. They’re also particularly fond of routine soaking.

Red-footed tortoises are known for being more active and even friendlier than other species. As a first-time owner, remember that it takes time for any tortoise to bond and learn to trust you. Once your new red-foot learns that you’re the food source, it’ll likely perk up whenever you approach its enclosure.

These tortoises grow larger than the Mediterranean species—typically 11-14 inches as adults. Make sure you can accommodate this size before committing to a red-foot.

5) Egyptian Tortoise (Testudo kleinmanni)

Other names: Kleinmann’s tortoise, Leith’s tortoise, Negev tortoise
Conservation status: Critically endangered

As the Maryland Zoo so eloquently puts it, Egyptian tortoises are “no bigger than baked potatoes.” The Egyptian tortoise is the smallest Mediterranean tortoise species. It typically measures less than 5 inches long and weighs less than a pound.

Egyptian tortoises have high, domed shells and are usually a light tan color all over. This pale coloring reflects sunlight, helping the tortoise survive in extreme desert heat.

Egyptians live in dry habitats characterized by frequent morning fog. Many owners find their tortoises enjoy a mister or fog machine set on a daily timer. Just make sure the enclosure gets warm enough during the day to dry out completely—chronic dampness causes health problems.

Even in captivity, these tortoises tend to be most active at dawn and dusk. Egyptian tortoises like taking shelter in small burrows or under rocks, so provide an enclosure that allows your pet to feel safe and secure.

One important note: because Egyptian tortoises are critically endangered, they’re heavily regulated. Make absolutely sure you’re buying from a legitimate breeder with proper documentation. This species requires more research than most on this list.

6) Leopard Tortoise (Stigmochelys pardalis)

Conservation status: Least concern

The leopard tortoise is famous for its decorative, spotted shell. Each shell pattern is unique—like snowflakes. It’s the only member of its genus.

Leopard tortoises are native to the African savanna, where they wander and graze on various grasses. This species doesn’t burrow on its own (except when laying eggs) but will sometimes shelter in holes left by other savanna wildlife.

As one of the larger living tortoise species, leopards can grow up to 30 inches long and weigh over 80 pounds. The typical pet leopard tortoise is more like 15-20 inches and around 30 pounds—still substantial but more manageable.

While beautiful, leopard tortoises shouldn’t be kept indoors year-round. These tortoises thrive in outdoor enclosures in warm, arid climates. Their lack of burrowing means they rarely damage landscaping around their enclosures, unlike many other species.

Adult leopard tortoises should never be left out in temperatures below about 60°F. Plan to bring your pet indoors when temperatures drop, or invest in heated outdoor housing for protection from cold spells.

TheVitamin and Mineral Topper is particularly useful for larger species like leopards, ensuring they get balanced nutrition even when dietary variety is limited by season or availability.

Choosing the Best Pet Tortoise for Your Situation

Now that you know the top beginner-friendly species, how do you actually choose? Here’s what to consider based on your specific circumstances.

If You Live in an Apartment or Small House

Russian tortoises or Egyptian tortoises work best. Both stay relatively small and can thrive in large indoor enclosures. Russians are more readily available and slightly easier to find proper care information for.

If You Have Outdoor Space in a Warm Climate

Hermann’s tortoises, Greek tortoises, or leopard tortoises all do well outdoors. Leopards need the most space but are incredibly rewarding to keep. Greeks are the most adaptable to different climates.

If You Want Maximum Interaction

Russian tortoises have the most outgoing, interactive personalities. Red-footed tortoises are also quite social once they settle in. Hermann’s and Greeks are friendly but more reserved.

If You’re Concerned About Cost

Russian tortoises tend to be the most affordable and readily available. Egyptian tortoises are expensive and heavily regulated. Leopard tortoises fall in the middle but require more expensive outdoor housing.

If You Want Something Unique

Egyptian tortoises are absolutely tiny and fascinating to keep. Red-footed tortoises have stunning coloration that sets them apart from Mediterranean species. Leopard tortoises have those incredible shell patterns.

Next Steps Before Bringing Your Tortoise Home

You’re not done yet. Choosing a species is just one of the first steps toward becoming a successful tortoise owner. Here’s what else you need to do.

Connect with Ethical Breeders

A tortoise isn’t a pet you should just pick up at the local pet store. After narrowing down which species seems like the best pet tortoise for beginners in your situation, find and connect with trusted breeders of that species.

Reputable breeders can answer questions, provide health histories, and often offer ongoing support. Some might have waitlists—be patient. It’s worth waiting for a healthy tortoise from a good source rather than rushing into a purchase.

Join Tortoise Communities

There may be other tortoise owners in your area. Search for local enthusiasts who can recommend ethical breeders and answer questions as they come up. Your local reptile supply store is a great place to start asking around.

In-person groups are wonderful but not always available. You can also connect with tortoise owners online through Facebook groups, Reddit communities, or specialized forums. These communities are incredibly helpful for troubleshooting problems and getting species-specific advice.

Find a Trusted Veterinarian

You don’t want to end up with a sick or injured tortoise and no one who can help. Reptiles are harder to treat than many other pets—most vets simply don’t see them often enough to have extensive experience.

There might not be a reptile specialist in your immediate area. If that’s the case, learn basic tortoise first aid and stock up on necessary supplies. Keep contact information for the closest specialist on hand for emergencies.

Set Up Housing Before Bringing Your Tortoise Home

Don’t wait until you have the tortoise to figure out housing. Set up the enclosure at least a week before your tortoise arrives. This gives you time to make sure temperatures are stable, identify any problems, and make adjustments.

Running the setup for several days before adding a tortoise helps you catch issues like inadequate heating, poor humidity control, or ventilation problems. It’s much easier to fix these things before you have an animal depending on you.

Keep Learning

You don’t need to know everything about tortoises before getting your first pet. With any luck, you’ll have many years—maybe decades—to continue learning about your specific tortoise and how to give it the best life possible.

The best pet tortoise for beginners is one you’re committed to learning about and caring for properly. That commitment to ongoing education matters more than having every answer on day one.

The Bottom Line on Beginner Tortoises

Tortoises make fascinating, rewarding pets for people willing to commit to their long-term care. The best pet tortoise for beginners combines manageable size, adaptability to captive conditions, and relatively straightforward care requirements.

Russian tortoises top most lists for good reason—they’re hardy, personable, and stay a manageable size. Hermann’s and Greek tortoises offer similar benefits with slightly different personalities and care needs. Red-footed tortoises bring unique beauty but require more attention to humidity. Egyptian tortoises appeal to those wanting the smallest possible species. Leopard tortoises suit owners with outdoor space who want something impressive.

No matter which species you choose, remember that “beginner-friendly” doesn’t mean “easy” or “low-maintenance.” All tortoises require daily care, proper housing, appropriate diet, and long-term commitment. But with the right preparation and realistic expectations, your first tortoise can thrive for decades under your care.

Get Everything You Need to Start Your Tortoise Journey Right

Ready to welcome your first tortoise home? Don’t go it alone. Get access to the tools and resources that help new tortoise owners succeed from day one.

When you join our community, you’ll receive:

Instant Savings on Essential Supplies – Get a discount code for premium tortoise food, supplements, and care products you’ll actually use

Free Ebook: “The Ultimate Guide to Tortoise Nutrition” – Species-specific feeding guidance including safe food lists, meal planning, and nutrition tips that prevent common beginner mistakes

The Ultimate Sulcata Care Webinar – Expert guidance on habitat setup, environmental control, and daily care routines that apply across multiple tortoise species

Private Community Access – Join our Tortoise Resource Center Facebook group where new owners ask questions, share experiences, and get real-time support from people who’ve been exactly where you are

Beginner’s Setup Checklist – Download our complete checklist covering everything you need before bringing your tortoise home, so you don’t forget critical equipment or supplies

Starting off with the right resources makes a huge difference in your success as a new tortoise owner. Our community gives you everything you need to avoid common beginner mistakes and give your tortoise the best possible start.

Get your beginner resources and join the community →

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Citations

• All Pets Veterinary Hospital Tortoise care sheet
• California Turtle & Tortoise Club Russian Tortoise
• Maryland Zoo Egyptian tortoise
• Egyptian Tortoise – Prof Dr Norman Ali Khalaf by cc 4.0