What to Expect
“Big 5” refers to Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino and Cape Buffalo. This term was historically used to denote the five most dangerous animals to hunt in Africa. Today it refers to some of the most exciting wildlife most of you will want to see – particularly if this is your first African Safari. Of course there are many other magnificent, beautiful and frequently elusive animals, including the cheetah, giraffe, hippo, gorilla, chimpanzee and African wild dog, but not all African animals can be found at all safari destinations. And not all safari destinations are the same! Habitats, number of tourists, wildlife concentrations, ease of access are all things you should consider when deciding where to go for your Big 5 Safari. The time of year you will be travelling, and whether you have children in your group will also determine the best Big 5 Safari destination for you.
Safari aficionados may find they no longer feel the need to see or experience the same things, and will want to choose safari destinations known for specific species, or events. If there are particular animals you would like to see on your next safari, please be sure to discuss this with us to avoid disappointment.
Some wildlife events are location and time specific, for example the Great Migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara. Please refer to Migration Safaris. For those of you with very specific safari interests, please see Special Interest Safaris for bat migration safaris, whale watching safaris, turtle safaris. Or contact us to create a bespoke safari to suit your needs.
If you are looking for a Big 5 Safari, some of our favourite destinations are listed below.
For the best chance of seeing the Big Five, go on safari in South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania or Zimbabwe. The Sabi Sand private reserve, bordering South Africa’s Kruger Park, has a high density of leopards, and is the region where you have the greatest chance of spotting all of the Big Five.
Where to Go for a Big 5 Safari
South Africa: Sabi Sand, Timbavati, Thornybush Private Reserves
Part of South Africa’s Greater Kruger Region, and bordering the Kruger National Park, these private reserves have good numbers of all of the Big 5, with excellent game viewing in 4×4 open vehicles. Sabi Sand in particular is known for its high density of leopards. Accommodation is in fully inclusive safari camps and lodges. Many are family-friendly. Easy access by road or air.
Botswana: Okavango Delta, Chobe, Savuti, Linyanti, Moremi
A Botswana Safari can combine an extraordinary diversity of game viewing experiences – mokoros on the pristine Okavango Delta, 4×4 game viewing and boat cruises on the Chobe River. High densities of game including Big 5 and much more!
Kenya: Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru
A great country for Big 5 Safaris! Combine the iconic Maasai Mara with Lake Nakuru (for black and white rhino), and round it off with an Indian Ocean beach holiday! What could be nicer?
Tanzania : Northern Safari Circuit
You’ll find the Big 5 in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. Combine this with other classic safari destinations in a Northern Safari circuit – Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and Lake Manyara for an unforgettable safari vacation.
Namibia: Etosha National Park
You’ll find 4 of the Big 5 in Namibia’s flagship reserve, Etosha National Park, and it’s an excellent safari destination for black rhinos in particular. Combine this with the Waterberg Plateau, or meander through the Zambezi region, to see Cape Buffalo. A superb self-drive destination, Namibia is a great choice for adventurers and families.
