What are Africa’s Big Five animals and where to find them?

Anyone who’s been on safari has probably heard the term “Africa’s Big Five”. Originally, this referred to the five most dangerous animals to hunt on foot, but today it’s more often used to describe the animals you’re likely to see on a wildlife safari – and only the luckiest travellers get to spot all five.

If you’re making your way to the African savanna, you’ll want to keep an eye out for the elusive Big Five African animals. Whether you’re headed to iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa or one of the incredible national parks in Kenya, there are a few things you can do to improve your chances of ticking the Big Five off your list. 

What are the Big Five animals in Africa?

The Big Five African animals include the lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and the Cape buffalo (also called the African buffalo). Each species has its own unique behaviour and habitat, making them easier to find at different times and in different places.

For example, the African elephant is the largest land mammal and can typically be found during the early morning or in the late afternoon. If you’re looking for the leopard, your best bet is to head out on a night safari, as they like to sleep during the day and do their hunting after dark.

Lions are natural predators, and can often be found hunting their prey in the grasslands during the day, while the powerful buffalo can typically be seen in herds congregating around rivers and water sources during the dry season. 

The Big Five includes both black and white rhino species, though decades of poaching has left them largely endangered, and they can be harder to find in the wild as a result.

Why are hippos not part of the Big Five?

You might be surprised to find that the hippopotamus is not included as one of the Big Five African animals. As hippos tend to spend most of their time in the water, they were not originally included on the list of most dangerous animals to hunt on foot – rather they were better suited to hunting by boat. While hippos are still considered extremely dangerous animals, in today’s context of wildlife viewing, the original Big Five list has remained unchanged – even after sport hunting has become more restricted – leaving hippos off the list. 

That said, you’re likely to see at least a few hippos on a typical African safari, which is sure to be a memorable experience. These remarkable creatures tend to hang out in pods, so there’s a good chance you’ll get to see some of the calves, who are deceptively cute!

What are the odds of seeing all five of the Big Five on safari?

Your odds of seeing all of the Big Five animals in Africa will depend on which national parks you visit, the length of your safari, the time of year you plan to visit, and of course, having a bit of luck. Fortunately, many Africa tours prioritise taking guests to locations that are best positioned for wildlife viewing, and conducting game drives during the most optimal times for spotting the animals. 

Additionally, taking a guided safari ensures you’ll experience the wildlife in a responsible and ethical way, so as not to disrupt their natural habitat when you do see them.

Tips for spotting the Big Five

There are several things you can do to increase your chances of seeing the Big Five on safari. For example, be sure to pack clothing in natural tones to mimic the colors of the bush. This will help you blend in with your surroundings and avoid scaring off the animals. 

Next, choose an experienced safari guide who’s familiar with the park and can bring you to the best locations for spotting these predators. 

Finally, bringing binoculars and a good camera can help you view wildlife from a greater distance and capture moments you might otherwise miss with the naked eye alone.

Is it safe to look for the Big Five on safari?

Yes, viewing Africa’s Big Five is completely safe as long as you do so with an expert guide, and preferably on an organised tour. Prioritise your safety by avoiding risky behaviour, giving the animals plenty of space, and listening carefully to your guide’s briefing on what to do in case of an unexpected encounter. Safari guides are professionals who understand animal behaviour and know how to keep your experience both exciting and secure. 

That said, keep in mind that the Big Five African animals were chosen for a reason – they’re some of the most dangerous animals on the continent, so when you see them remember to proceed with caution; follow instructions from your safari guide, stay inside your vehicle, and never approach or feed wild animals.