Wild Safari Guide's top Big Five destinations in Africa
Seeing the Big Five has become synonymous with going on safari in Africa. The African Big Five—namely the lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—are among the most well-known animals on the planet, and they are most certainly on your bucket list if you’re a nature lover.
In the early days of game hunting, the name ‘Big Five’ was coined because the most dangerous creatures to hunt were the lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros, and thus the most prized trophies. These impressive mammals are arguably the most exciting encounter on a safari today, with most visitors armed with cameras at the ready. But where should you go? Continue reading to learn about the top Big Five destinations in Africa.
01. South Africa
Big Five Destinations in Africa
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Long a powerhouse of the Big Five, South Africa’s private reserves bordering the Kruger National Park and including South Africa’s flagship, offer some of Africa’s most frequent Big Five sightings. Kruger National Park is a fantastic place to visit for a Big Five safari, whether you’re on a guided tour or driving alone. The park is the size of a small nation, and the diverse fauna reflects the wide range of environments it protects. Apart from the Kruger, the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve is exceptional, as is Madikwe Private Wildlife Reserve, which provides easy Big Five game watching in a malaria-free, family-friendly setting.
02. Zimbabwe
Big Five Destinations in Africa
© All rights reserved | Image credit: Noel Zambezi
Zimbabwe is typically neglected as a safari destination, yet locals rave about its traditional lodging, helpful guides, and uncrowded national parks. Hwange is Zimbabwe’s largest reserve, home to over 30 000 elephants as well as lesser-known species such as bat-eared foxes, wild dogs, sable and roan antelopes, and endangered black rhino. More than 400 species of birds have been sighted during the Green Season. Another popular place is Mana Pools National Park. Because Mana Pools is located on the Zambezi River, water activities such as canoe safaris, where you can paddle past elephants standing in the river, as well as sunset boat cruises are popular. There are large four-pools (‘mana’ means four in the indigenous Shona language) and few visitors, making it a top destination for wildlife spotting.
03. Botswana
Big Five Destinations in Africa
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As a first-time safari-goer, a Botswana safari in Africa is a terrific place to start. The Big Five, Africa’s most iconic mammals, are nearly certain to be spotted in this premium wildlife location. The country is home to Africa’s greatest elephant herds, vast numbers of buffalo and lions, and robust leopard populations. The Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park are great places to see elephants, buffalo, and lions at any time of year, but the Chobe River is most dense with elephants from August to late October.
04. Kenya
Big Five Destinations in Africa
© All rights reserved | Image credit: Travel Sync (Maasai Mara)
The fact that the Maasai Mara is a Big Five location is often ignored, with all of the emphasis focused on the wildebeest migration. Private conservancies provide exclusive Big Five sightings, and if you travel during the August to November migration, you’ll have a good chance of spotting lions on the hunt. Rhinos can still be observed in the north of Kenya, particularly in Lake Nakuru, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, and the Lewa Wilderness Conservancy, allowing you to see all five of the Big Five. Because these areas are small in comparison to other parks, your chances of sighting these animals are better. However, leopards are notoriously elusive, so spotting one requires a bit of luck.
05. Tanzania
Big Five Destinations in Africa
© All rights reserved | Image credit: Life On White (Serengeti)
Tanzania is probably one of Africa’s best destinations for a Big Five safari, and it has something for everyone, whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned safari-goer. It is home to the world-famous Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the immense Selous Game Reserve, all of which are synonymous with some of Africa’s best safari experiences. The Serengeti’s vast open grasslands favour grazing wildebeest and zebra herds over elephants and rhinos, but the sheer abundance of wildlife will more than make up for missing out on a member of the Big Five. From November to July, the migration passes through the Serengeti, increasing your chances of viewing a lion kill, and the lack of trees makes leopards easier to spot than you may expect.
