Posted on by mytouristmaps.com

The Big Five, South Africa

elephant
photo © mytouristmaps (Pilanesberg Nat. Park)

Known all over the African continent, the “big five” expression refers to the five most dangerous animals at the time of hunting safari: LION, ELEPHANT, RHINO, LEOPARD and BUFFALO.

They all can be found in many African parks and reserves (particularly in South Africa, Botswana, Tanzania, Kenya, …) or, more simply, on the South African bills (with 380 Rand you will have them all).

South African Rand

Best Places to See the Big Five

1. Kruger National Park, South Africa

  • Why Visit: One of Africa’s most famous reserves, Kruger offers excellent infrastructure, diverse wildlife, and year-round Big Five sightings.
  • Highlights: Self-drive safaris, guided tours, and luxury lodges make Kruger accessible to all types of travelers.
  • Best Time: May to September (dry season). Vegetation is sparse, and animals gather around waterholes, making them easier to spot.

2. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

  • Why Visit: Renowned for the Great Migration, the Serengeti is also a prime location for Big Five sightings.
  • Highlights: Witness lions hunting during the migration and spot leopards in the acacia trees.
  • Best Time: June to October (dry season) and January to February (calving season).

3. Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

  • Why Visit: Known for its dense lion population and the dramatic crossings of wildebeest during the Great Migration.
  • Highlights: Game drives, cultural visits to Maasai villages, and hot air balloon safaris.
  • Best Time: July to October (Great Migration) and January to February (dry season).

4. Etosha National Park, Namibia

  • Why Visit: Etosha’s salt pans attract an array of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, and lions.
  • Highlights: Excellent for photography, especially around waterholes, where multiple species gather.
  • Best Time: June to October (dry season).

5. Okavango Delta, Botswana

  • Why Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the delta is a unique ecosystem with opportunities for both land and water-based safaris.
  • Highlights: Spot leopards and lions in the lush delta and enjoy mokoro (canoe) rides.
  • Best Time: June to October (dry season and peak flood season).

6. South Luangwa National Park, Zambia

  • Why Visit: Famous for its walking safaris, South Luangwa is a more off-the-beaten-path option for Big Five enthusiasts.
  • Highlights: Spot leopards at night and enjoy intimate wildlife encounters.
  • Best Time: May to October (dry season).

7. Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

  • Why Visit: This ancient volcanic caldera is home to all Big Five species, including a healthy population of black rhinos.
  • Highlights: The compact area makes it easier to see the Big Five in a single day.
  • Best Time: June to October (dry season).

8. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, South Africa

  • Why Visit: Known for its successful rhino conservation efforts, this park offers great opportunities to see the Big Five.
  • Highlights: Guided safaris and the chance to see both white and black rhinos.
  • Best Time: May to September (dry season).