The Big 5 is the epitome of African wildlife. The African elephant, Cape buffalo, African lion, leopard, and African rhino add colour to every explorer’s journey through Africa.
“Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of the living.”
When American historian Miriam Beard wrote this, she referred to the most important thing about travel: journeys are as much about inner transformation as they are about the space in which we travel. But these landscapes—their creatures, mountains, lakes, and plains—they all matter, too, as they are the very things that stir this change within us in unforeseen ways.
Enter the big 5
Enter five of the most beautiful and elusive land mammals on Earth, animals found only in Africa and only in select regions of the continent. Enter the big five game animals that will forever change your life when you look them in the eyes.
I know. “The Big 5” sounds like a board game. Still, its origins came from early African colonial hunting parties that travelled onto the African savannah in search of these trophy animals, which were the following: The African Elephant, Buffalo, Leopard, Rhino, and Lion.
The Big Five were sought after because they were elusive, few in number, and the most difficult to hunt. Nowadays, most of these Big Five are critically endangered or threatened as a result of poaching and human overreach.
Here’s a look at these five creatures:
Big 5 #1. African elephant
Behold the African elephant—nature’s colossal masterpiece and the planet’s most enormous land-dwelling creature. Out in the open on a safari, you’ll likely spot clusters of these magnificent giants roaming freely across the sprawling landscapes of Southern Africa.
There are two kinds of these gentle beasts—the African savanna elephant and the African forest elephant. Whichever you encounter, they command respect with their towering presence, with some giants weighing up to a staggering seven tons!
Elephants are renowned for their longevity, often living 60-70 years. Be it males or females, both boast impressive tusks, adding to their awe-inspiring demeanour.
Predators? They have few, apart from humans. These titans have an appetite to match their size—consuming a mind-boggling 300 pounds of food in just a day! Indeed, the African elephant is a mesmerising spectacle of nature’s grandeur.
ou’ll definitely see herds of these gentle giants on safari. Both male and female elephants have tusks, and, with few known predators outside of humans, elephants live an average of 60-70 years. Also, they’ve been known to eat up to 300 pounds of food in a single day!
Big 5 #2. Cape buffalo
Fortunately, these robust ruminants, known for their might among dangerous animals, now grace the Tanzanian terrain freely. So, your safari rendezvous will feature this bovine superstar!
The male and female African buffalo are heavy, almost cow-like creatures that prefer to be near water bodies – a typical landscape in our national parks. A generous serving of grass is what keeps them thriving.
However, their dietary needs and territorial range often lead them to cross paths with human settlements. As a result, these Big Five members are likely to upset fences and even spread diseases among domesticated livestock – a reminder of the tricky coexistence between wild species and human communities.
Big 5 #3. African lion
One glance at an African lion, and you’ll be captivated. Their mighty teeth, imposing head, majestic mane, robust paws, and towering tail – everything screams of raw power.
These iconic creatures define the essence of an authentic safari in East Africa; the sight of a lion lazing across the savannah, weaving through grasslands and acacia, is truly symbolic. For big game hunters, the lion represents a thrilling challenge.
Yet, it’s worth noting that lions are also the only social big cats; their bonds with pride are another testament to their unique allure. This blend of raw power and social behaviour makes the lion an unforgettable staple of the African wilderness.
Big 5 #4. Leopard
Encapsulating the essence of uncanny beauty in the wild, the leopard, with its distinctive dark spots, symbolises fierce agility and elusive mystery. Being one of Africa’s Big 5, encountering this graceful predator is a noteworthy highlight of any wildlife journey.
These formidable forest and savanna dwellers, known for their blistering speed, can dash up to 60 kilometres per hour (37 mph). They may not match the velocity of a cheetah, but their stealth and prowess are exceptional and unquestionable.
Equipped with powerful teeth capable of penetrating through bone, leopards affirm their rank in the predator hierarchy. These solitary and nocturnal creatures seek refuge from the torrid day in the shade of trees and fantastic caves.
Understanding their elusive nature only adds to the thrill of seeing them in the wild.
Big 5 #5 . African rhino
Witnessing either the Northern Rhino, Southern White Rhino or the Southern Central Black Rhino in their majestic essence is miraculous and precious. Sadly, this sentiment is magnified because these grand creatures have been hunted perilously close to extinction by humans.
Tanzania may offer your best chance at spotting the formidable Black Rhino, particularly within the expanse of the Ngorongoro Crater. These ancient beasts command a staggering weight of up to 2,700 kilograms (6,000 pounds), so it’s no wonder they’re listed among Africa’s Big 5.
Their primary hallmark, the invaluable rhino horn, weighs a hefty 2-3 kilograms (6-8 pounds). The plight of the White Rhino alongside the Southern Central Black Rhino serves as a poignant reminder of urgent conservation needs in the face of their endangered status.
Getting you there?
Easy Travel offers many options for you to plan your journey of a lifetime and to witness the Big Five in Northern Tanzania. Our guides all have decades of experience and know where to go when to go, and how best to see these animals (and many more!). Click here for more info.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who are the Big Five animals in Africa?
The Big Five refer to Africa’s most iconic wildlife species: the African Elephant, African Lion, African Leopard, African Buffalo, and the Rhino (Black Rhino or White Rhino). These animals were termed the “Big 5” by big-game hunters due to the difficulty and danger of hunting them.
Today, the term is used more in eco-tourism and wildlife conservation efforts. These majestic animals are crucial to Africa’s diverse ecosystem and represent a significant allure for tourists worldwide.
Spotting any of these animals in their natural habitat is often the highlight of an African safari. Hence, the African Big 5 are integral to nature tourism and conservation.
2. Where can I best see the Big Five animals in Africa?
The Big Five are prevalent across several African countries, but some regions are known for their high concentration of these species. In Tanzania, for instance, national parks like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park offer ideal conditions for spotting the Big Five.
Kenya’s Maasai Mara Reserve is a big draw for wildlife enthusiasts. Kruger National Park is a notable destination in South Africa. Other countries like Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia also offer robust opportunities for Big Five spotting.
3. What efforts are being taken to conserve the African Big Five?
Conservation efforts for the Big Five primarily focus on anti-poaching measures, habitat conservation, human-wildlife conflict management, and species-specific interventions. This includes increasing penalties for poaching, implementing tracking and surveillance systems, and creating conservation-focused legislation.
Non-profit organisations and governments are working together, often guided by international conservation standards like those set by IUCN. Education plays a vital role, with local communities learning more about preserving these animals and their habitats. In addition, fostering a thriving eco-tourism industry provides a financial incentive to protect these species.
4. Why are they called the "Big Five"?
The term “Big Five” originates from big-game hunters, who named these animals the most dangerous to hunt because of their unpredictable behaviour when cornered. The Big Five includes the African elephant, lion, rhinoceros, leopard, and buffalo.
Today, safari tour operators commonly use this term to describe the five must-see animals when embarking on an African safari. The Big Five have now become a symbol for wildlife conservation efforts across Africa, symbolising the richness and diversity of the continent’s fauna.
5. Which of the Big Five is the most endangered?
The rhinoceros is currently the most endangered of Africa’s Big Five. The Black and White rhinos face considerable threats due to habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching for their horns, which are highly sought after on the black market.
The Black Rhino is critically endangered, with limited numbers in the wild. Despite conservation efforts, the threat to these magnificent creatures remains high, and their global population still needs to grow compared to the rest of the Big Five.
6. How can I contribute to the conservation of the Big Five?
Contributing to the conservation of the Big Five is possible through various avenues. Donations to reputable wildlife conservation organisations that preserve these species and their habitats can be beneficial.
Additionally, ethical tourism practices, such as choosing eco-friendly safari operators and respecting local guidelines during safaris, can also help. Advocacy and raising awareness about the threatened status of these animals, the illegal wildlife trade, and habitat loss also contribute to safeguarding the Big Five.
7. What are the threats faced by Africa's Big Five species?
The primary threats to Africa’s Big Five include habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. Rapid urbanisation and land conversion for agriculture have shrunk and fragmented their natural habitats.
The human-wildlife conflict occurs when animals invade human territories, causing damage or threatening human lives. Poaching, driven primarily by the illegal wildlife trade, is a significant threat, particularly for rhinos and elephants, whose horns and ivory, respectively, command high prices on the black market.
8. What are the distinctive features of each of Africa's Big Five?
Each member of the Big Five possesses unique traits — the African elephant, the world’s largest land mammal, known for its significant tusks; the African lion, often called the ‘King of the Jungle’, recognisable by its man; African buffalo, a robust, cow-like creature that can be highly unpredictable and dangerous when threatened; the elusive and stealthy leopard with its distinctive dark spots; and finally, the rhinoceroses, identifiable by their impressive horns and thick-skinned bodies.
Why is the African elephant the world’s largest land mammal? The African elephant is deemed the largest land mammal due to its massive size and weight. Adult males can weigh up to seven tons and reach up to 10 feet in height.
Besides its remarkable size, the African elephant is known for its long, large ears that cover its shoulders, a unique trunk that acts as an extended nose and arm, and large tusks made of ivory on either side of its trunk. These characteristics make the African elephant the largest and one of the most unique land mammals.
9. What are the differences between the African savanna elephants and African forest elephants?
African elephants are categorised into two subspecies: the African savanna (or bush) elephant and the African forest elephant. The African savanna elephant is much larger than the two species, typically found in the wide-open savannas across Sub-Saharan Africa.
This species has curved tusks and more prominent ears. Conversely, the African forest elephant is more miniature, with straighter tusks and smaller, rounder ears. As the name suggests, the forest elephants live mainly in the dense rainforests of West and Central Africa.
10. How dangerous is the African buffalo?
The African buffalo, or Cape Buffalo, is often deemed one of Africa’s most dangerous animals. Despite its cow-like appearance, it can be extremely aggressive and unpredictable when threatened or injured, making it highly dangerous to humans.
It is responsible for several human fatalities each year, usually in situations where it is cornered or wounded. The African buffalo is robust and powerful, with large, curved horns capable of causing severe injury.
11. Why is the African Lion considered an alluring safari attraction despite being dangerous?
Despite its reputation as an ultra-dangerous predator, the African lion remains one of the most sought-after sights on a safari due to its symbolic status as the ‘King of the Jungle’. Their fearsome appearance, incredible hunting skills, and social behaviour uniquely appeal to them.
Observing these highly majestic animals in their natural habitat, lounging, hunting or interacting with their prides offers an unparalleled wildlife viewing experience, making them an alluring attraction despite their formidable nature.
12. Why are leopards regarded as elusive amongst the Big Five?
Leopards are referred to as elusive because of their stealthy and solitary nature. Leopards are predominantly nocturnal and spend their days in trees or caves.
Their spotted camouflage enables them to mix seamlessly into their surroundings, making them hard to spot. Their elusive nature and adaptability to various habitats, from forests to mountains to deserts, contribute to their title as the most elusive among the Big Five.
13. What is the difference between Southern White Rhinos and Southern Central Black Rhinos?
Southern White Rhinos and Southern Central Black Rhinos are sub-species of white and black rhinoceroses, respectively. Although both are native to eastern and southern Africa, they differ in size and the shape of their mouths.
The White Rhino is bigger and has a broad, straight mouth adapted for grazing, while the Black Rhino is smaller, with a pointed, prehensile upper lip for browsing foliage. Despite their names, both rhinos are grey; their names originate from historical confusion and mistranslation.
14. Why is seeing one of the black or white rhinos considered a miracle and a gift?
Seeing a Black or a White Rhino in the wild is deemed a miracle and a gift due to their endangered status. Poaching and habitat loss have pushed rhinos to the brink of extinction.
Hence, spotting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a unique and unforgettable experience, symbolising the preciousness and fragility of life. It serves as a reminder of the urgent need for continued conservation efforts to ensure survival.
15. What behaviours make the African Elephant unique among the Big Five?
The behaviour of African elephants sets them apart from the rest of the Big Five. These animals demonstrate high intelligence and social complexity, living in large, matriarchal groups and exhibiting solid emotional bonds.
They communicate using a fascinating array of vocalisations and physical interactions. A remarkable and unique behaviour is their demonstrable mourning when a member dies, and they are known to revisit the bones or tusks of their deceased.
In addition, their use of their long trunks as a multi-purpose tool for feeding, drinking, and dust baths is unique among the Big Five.
16. What role do the Big Five play in the tourist industry and the economy of African countries?
The Big Five is crucial in many African countries’ tourism industry and economies. These animals are a significant tourist attraction on safaris, and the prospect of sighting these magnificent creatures contributes significantly to Africa’s tourism revenue.
Countries such as South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, and Namibia rely heavily on tourism income, much of which stems from wildlife safaris. This influx of tourists also creates jobs and stimulates economic growth in other sectors like hospitality.
For these reasons, the Big Five are not only a symbol of African wildlife but also play a pivotal role in the socioeconomic development of these countries.