Do you know which animals make up the famous “Big Five” in the African safari world? Many safari fans are familiar with these magnificent creatures, and the opportunity to see at least one of them in action is often the highlight of their safari. Some collect all five for the first time, while others return to safaris again and again to fulfill the dream of seeing all these animals in the wild.

So, which animals are in the Big Five in Africa, and how can you increase your chances of meeting them in the wild? We’ll give you some valuable tips to help you maximize your safari experience and increase your chances of seeing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Animals of the Big Five

To begin with, let us explain the origin of the concept of the Big Five. This concept dates back to when hunting wild animals in the savannah was a common practice. So hunters identified the five most dangerous African animals, which at the same time were the most desired trophy. Today, traditional hunting in parks is forbidden, but for photographers, the big five are still of great value. The number of these animals on earth has decreased enormously, so seeing them all on the savannah is a bit of real luck. 

Elephant 

Undoubtedly, the African elephant holds the title of being the largest terrestrial mammal, and it is undeniably a beloved member of Africa’s esteemed Big Five. Elephants fantastically combine great strength and sensitivity. Watching them in the wild is a pleasure, especially when you see a family of elephants: parents and their tiny cubs. 

Sadly, elephants have often fallen prey to poachers, because their tusks are so valuable. That has caused the number of elephants in Africa to drop significantly. 

Lion

Lions are undoubtedly some of the most dangerous predators on the planet. However, if you meet them in the savanna, you are unlikely to feel fear. Lions here are in their territory, so they will quietly go about their usual business without paying attention to tourists. 

If you go on safari in the morning, you may be lucky to meet the whole pride, which basks in the sun after the morning hunt. These are usually a few females playing with their cubs and the puffed-up lions that are always much away. Their task is to protect their family, so they always take a position to be close enough and at the same time to be on the defense in time. 

Leopard

It is deservedly called the most elusive and the most mysterious savanna animal. Leopards hunt alone and are typically found in single numbers. Their coloration allows the animal to become invisible to the human eye. But an experienced guide can cleverly find the predator and it will draw your attention. During the safari, remember to keep your head up and inspect the branches of trees, because this is a favorite place for leopards to eat their food. You might be lucky enough to see the predator gnawing at the body of a newly caught antelope. 

Buffalo 

If luck is on your side during your safari, you might come across an endless herd of buffalo. Watching these animals peacefully grazing in a meadow, you may wonder how this animal got on the list of dangerous predators. In fact, of all the Big Five animals, the buffalo is considered to be the toughest. Its horns have enormous strength and allow it to fight off predators. In addition, young buffalo do not like strangers in their territory and even compete with each other. Once you see the strength with which a buffalo can throw aside a hungry lioness, you will immediately understand everything. 

Rhino 

The black rhino was once such a widespread species that it was a valid symbol of the savannah. Unfortunately, as with the African elephant, poaching has played a significant role in the destruction of entire savannah populations. Today, many national parks have lost their “Big Five” status precisely because of the absence of ponies. And in most of those parks where rhinos still live, their population is so small that it takes a real lucky man to witness a rhino just for a few seconds peeking out from behind thickets of savannah. 

The best places to see the Big Five

The animals of the Big Five can be in various parts of Africa, mostly in national parks and nature reserves, which provide suitable habitats for these legendary species. Here are some popular places where the Big Five can be found:

South Africa: Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, is famous for its variety of wildlife, including all of the Big Five.

Kenya: Masai Mara National Park is famous for its abundant wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and sometimes rhinos. 

Tanzania: Serengeti National Park is famous for its vast savannah and is home to a significant population of lions, elephants, leopards, and buffalo. The Ngorongoro Crater is a unique protected area where all the Big Five species are found in a compact and stunning landscape.

Botswana: Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park offer exceptional Big Five sightings, including large herds of elephants, lions, and buffalo, in the heart of the Okavango Delta and Chobe River.

Zimbabwe: Hwange National Park is one of Africa’s largest wildlife sanctuaries where elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos can be seen.

Namibia: Etosha National Park is a fantastic place to watch the Big Five, especially around its famous reservoirs that attract a variety of wildlife.

Useful tips that will increase your chances of getting lucky in the search for the big five

Here are some tips to help you increase your chances of meeting the Big Five on an African safari:

1. Seek help from experienced guides. Knowledgeable safari guides can enhance your safari experience. They know the habits of the animals and the best places to watch. Follow their advice, ask questions, and talk about your expectations to maximize your chances of seeing the Big Five.

2. Choose the right place for your safari. Knowing your desire to see the big five, we will suggest safaris in national parks or reserves known for their big five populations. For example, these could be: Kruger National Park in South Africa, Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, and Chobe National Park in Botswana.

3. Plan your safari during the dry season. During the dry season, wildlife concentrates around water sources, making it easier to spot them, including the Big Five. We will advise you of a certain period when your chances of encountering all these predators will be higher than ever. 

4. Go on safari at the right time. You can spend the whole day in the savannah, but early morning and evening are the most productive times for safari. The animals are most active during the cooler hours of the day.  

5. Be patient and attentive. Wildlife species can be unpredictable, and it can take time to see the big five. Be patient, keep your eyes and ears open, and pay attention to signs such as tracks, cries of other animals, or bird behavior, as they may lead you to the presence of larger animals. 

6. Keep quiet and minimize sudden movements. Loud noises and sudden movements can scare animals into retreating or hiding. Maintain a calm and quiet demeanor and avoid excessive noise and sudden gestures that can frighten wildlife.
   
7. Use binoculars and a good camera. Binoculars will help you survey the landscape and spot distant wildlife, and a good camera allows you to capture special moments. Remember to respect animal space and not use flash photography, especially on night trips.

By following these tips and maintaining a respectful and patient approach, you will increase your chances of meeting the magnificent Big Five on an African safari and creating unforgettable memories.

Book Your Unforgettable Big Five Safari!

We’ve told you which parks in East and South Africa offer the best chance of seeing all the Big Five. We invite you to check out the tour programs at these destinations and contact us to coordinate all the details!