The Big 5 refers to the lion, leopard, elephant, Cape buffalo, and rhinoceros. Planning an African safari is simply incomplete without considering the Big 5 of Southern Africa. These magnificent animals, rule the African plains, some more abundant than others. These magnificent animals rule the African plains, some more abundantly than others. You will find these species in abundance, especially in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia.

THE LION

The African lion rules the African plains. These majestic beasts are the apex predators of the bush and arguably the most recognized member of the Big 5.

DID YOU KNOW?

The only cat species known to roar together is the lion.

THE LEOPARD

The African leopard is a large, elusive cat. Leopards are widespread, mostly in Africa, but also in the Middle East. Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Similar to the lion, leopards also adapt well to different environments.

DID YOU KNOW?

The leopard avoids interacting with one another, except for mating and raising cubs.

THE RHINO

There are only two types of rhinoceros found in Southern Africa. 40% of which live in South Africa, where they are critically endangered. In fact, all rhinos are critically endangered.

DID YOU KNOW?

The horn of a rhino is not attached to its skull. It will arow back if it is broken off.

THE ELEPHANT

The African elephant, or “ellies” as we call them, is truly unique. They are, without a doubt, the largest and heaviest animals on earth. They are also one of the iconic members of the Big 5. There are currently two types of ellies found in Africa, the savanna elephants, located in southern Africa, and the forest elephants, located in west and central Africa.

DID YOU KNOW?

African elephants communicate at a low frequency, so humans cannot hear them even though they are far away.

THE BUFFALO

African buffalo roam by the thousands in Southern Africa. These hardy animals are very adaptable and can survive in almost any habitat, from semi-arid bush to coastal plains, wetlands, marshes and forests.

DID YOU KNOW?

Buffalo are very short tempered and vicious. Buffalo have killed more African hunters than an other animal.

Inspired by African Bush Camps.