It’s the phrase you’ll see alongside most safari adverts and in their itineraries. You may have guessed its a collection of animals found on safari but which ones are they and why are they included and others not?

All your questions about Africa’s Big 5 are answered below….

What are the Big 5?

The Big 5 is made up of some of the most iconic big animals in Africa. The official list is the Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant and Buffalo.

If we’re getting picky it is specifically the black rhino but as they are increasingly becoming more and more endangered you’re forgiven for ticking off the list after spotting the white rhino instead.

Why are cheetah or giraffe not in the Big 5?

It’s commonly thought that the Big 5 is made up from Africa’s most symbolic animals or the most impressive. However, although the animals in the list are both those things the term was actually coined in hunting as the 5 most dangerous animals to hunt.

So why aren’t hippo’s in the Big 5?

Although known as one of Africa’s most dangerous animals. Hippo’s are rarely hunted as they have neither the horns nor tusks which are what the elephant, rhino and buffalo are hunted for nor is the meat any good for eating.

Where can you see the Big 5?

Although the Big 5 can be spotted in one area, it is usually very difficult as some species prefer different terrain. The leopard for instance lives in thicker, forested areas preferring to sleep up trees whereas the lions can often be found out on the open plains.

Here’s a few combinations of parks which gives you a good chance of seeing them. But remember… it’s never guaranteed.

Kenya: Lewa Conservancy & Maasai Mara National Park

South Africa: Kruger National Park

Tanzania: Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater

Namibia: Etosha National Park & Waterberg Plateau Park

Botswana: Moremi Game Reserve & Chobe National Park

Whats the Small 5?

In more recent times a small 5 list has been created and far harder for you to see..

The Small 5 are made up of the;

• Elephant Shrew

• Rhino Beetle

• Leopard Tortoise

• Lion Ant

• Buffalo Weaver