The Big Five Explained: What They Are and Where to See Them

The Big Five are the lion, leopard, elephant, Cape buffalo and rhinoceros. The name began with hunters, who considered them the most dangerous animals to pursue on foot. Today it is a photographic checklist, and seeing all five is a highlight of many first safaris.

Quick facts

• The five: Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino.
• Origin: A hunting term, now a wildlife-viewing goal.
• Best places: Private reserves near Kruger, Kenya's Mara and Laikipia, and parts of Tanzania.
• Tip: Don't chase a checklist.

What are the Big Five animals?

• Lion: Africa's apex predator, found in prides across savanna and woodland. Read Lions: Reading the Heartbeat of the Savanna.
• Leopard: Solitary and elusive, often seen resting in trees. See Leopards: Ghosts of the African Bush.
• African elephant: The largest land animal, found in large herds in many parks.
• Cape buffalo: Powerful herd animals, often seen in the hundreds.
• Rhinoceros: Both black and white rhinos are included. Learn where to see rhinos.

Where can you see all five?

Several regions can offer all five in one trip, including private reserves bordering Kruger, parts of Kenya and Tanzania, and a handful of reserves in Namibia and elsewhere. Rhinos are the hardest, because they are heavily protected and sightings vary by area. See Kruger and Sabi Sand.

What is the best way to improve your chances?

• Stay in a private reserve or concession where guides can track off-road.
• Allow at least three or four nights in a region.
• Travel in the dry season, when animals gather near water.
• Choose guides and trackers with deep local knowledge.

What about the Little Five and others?

There is more to the bush than five animals. Our guide to the Little Five introduces a smaller cast, and the Great Migration is a spectacle in its own right.

Is it ethical to chase a checklist?

We encourage a broader view. Rare sightings are never guaranteed, and the quiet moments often stay with guests longest. Responsible camps limit vehicle numbers and follow viewing rules.

Plan a Big Five safari

Tell us your must-see animals and we will choose the regions and camps that give you the best chance. Speak to a specialist.

Where did the Big Five come from?

The term began in the hunting era, referring to the animals considered hardest to hunt on foot. Today it is a wildlife-viewing and photography goal, and conservation has shifted its meaning.

Which animals are the Big Five?

• Lion: The social apex predator. See Lions.
• Leopard: The elusive, solitary climber. See Leopards.
• Elephant: The largest land animal. See Tsavo and Its Red Elephants.
• Buffalo: A powerful herd animal.
• Rhino: Black and white rhino, both vulnerable. See Rhino Safari.

Where can you see all five?

South Africa's private reserves near Kruger give the best odds, and parts of Kenya, Tanzania and Botswana can too. See Kruger and Sabi Sand.

How long does it take?

It depends on luck and location. A few days in a good reserve is common, but there are no guarantees.

What about the Little Five?

See The Little Five.

Beyond the Big Five

Cheetahs, wild dogs, giraffes, hippos and birds make a safari richer. See Cheetahs, Painted Wolves and Giraffes.

How do you spot more?

Ask your guide, be patient and look for tracks and alarm calls. See A Day on Safari.

How to photograph them

See Safari Photography Tips.

Plan to see the Big Five

Speak to a specialist about the best reserves and seasons.

Why are leopards and rhinos harder to find?

Leopards are solitary, nocturnal and masters of camouflage, so sightings depend on a guide's skill and patience. Rhinos are rarer because of poaching pressure and are protected in secure areas, often with strict viewing rules. Both are worth the wait. See Rhino Safari.

How do you tell the Big Five apart in the field?

Learn a few simple cues: elephants have large ears and tusks, buffalo have heavy curved horns, lions have tawny coats and males have manes, leopards have rosette spots and rhinos have a distinctive horn and grey hide. Your guide will teach you more. See Gentle Giants for the world beyond the Big Five.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are they called the Big Five?

The term began with hunters who ranked them the most dangerous to hunt on foot.

Which Big Five animal is hardest to see?

Leopards and rhinos, for different reasons: one is elusive, the other is rare and protected.

Can I see the Big Five in one day?

Occasionally, but most guests see them over several days.

Which country is best for the Big Five?

South Africa's private reserves are well known, and parts of East Africa and Namibia also deliver.

Are the Big Five guaranteed?

No. Wildlife is wild, and we are honest about that.

What are the Big Five?

Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino.

Where is the best place to see them?

South Africa's private reserves are excellent, as are parts of East Africa.

Which is hardest to see?

Leopard and rhino, depending on the area.

Are the Big Five guaranteed?

No. Wildlife is wild.

What are the Big Five lists called?

There are Little Five and Shy Five lists too.