The term "Big Five" was originally coined by big-game hunters to refer to the five most difficult animals to hunt on foot. Today, it has been adopted by wildlife enthusiasts and safari-goers to describe Africa's most iconic animals. Here's everything you need to know about each one.
African Lion
The undisputed king of the savannah, lions are the most social of all wild cats. They live in prides of up to 30 individuals and are most active at dawn and dusk.
Best places to see: Maasai Mara, Serengeti, South Luangwa
Best time: Early morning or late afternoon
Fun fact: A lion's roar can be heard from 8 kilometers away
African Elephant
The largest land animal on Earth, African elephants are highly intelligent and social. They live in family groups led by a matriarch and have excellent memories.
Best places to see: Amboseli, Chobe, Tarangire
Best time: Throughout the day, often near water in dry season
Fun fact: Elephants can recognize themselves in mirrors
African Leopard
The most elusive of the Big Five, leopards are solitary, nocturnal hunters. They're known for their strength - they can carry prey twice their weight up a tree.
Best places to see: South Luangwa, Sabi Sands, Serengeti
Best time: Night drives or early morning
Fun fact: Each leopard has a unique spot pattern, like a fingerprint
African Buffalo
Often underestimated, the African buffalo is considered one of the most dangerous animals in Africa. They live in herds that can number in the thousands and have never been successfully domesticated.
Best places to see: Maasai Mara, Kruger, Serengeti
Best time: Throughout the day, often near water
Fun fact: A herd will defend any member attacked by predators
Black and White Rhinoceros
Both species of African rhino are critically endangered due to poaching. Despite their names, both are gray - "white" comes from the Dutch word "wijd" (wide), referring to the white rhino's wide mouth.
Best places to see: Ol Pejeta, Lake Nakuru, Ngorongoro
Best time: Early morning
Fun fact: A rhino's horn is made of keratin, the same protein as human fingernails
Seeing the Big Five
While seeing all five animals on a single safari is possible, it's not guaranteed. The leopard and rhino are the most challenging to spot. A well-planned safari of 4-7 days in the right locations gives you the best chance of completing your Big Five checklist.
Contact Tazama Africa Holidays to plan a Big Five safari tailored to your interests.
