Big 5 Safaris | African Big Five Safari Packages

Book a tailor-made Big Five Africa safari package from our top picks. A Big 5 safari is the ultimate African adventure, where every moment brings you closer to the wild heart of the continent.

Spotting the Big 5 on your African safari adventure is one of the continent’s premier wildlife experiences. It is a highlight for any safari in Africa, especially for first timers. Coming to see these iconic creatures is one of your greatest choices.

The Big 5 animals are the elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion, and leopard. Africa is the only place in the world where you can see these iconic creatures in their natural habitat. They are a must-see for any traveler and can be found in various wildlife parks and reserves. Popular destinations include Kruger National Park in South Africa, Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, and Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.

Traditionally, the Big Five were the animals that posed the greatest threat to their hunters, and as a result, they were most prized for trophy hunting in the 1800s. Today, however, travelers still love seeing them, not for trophy hunting, but to enjoy a worthwhile adventure experience.

These creatures are mainly spread throughout South, Southern, and East Africa, and their collective presence in a national park or game reserve adds an exciting edge to your safari experience.

Safari first timers would do well to choose Kenya’s Masai Mara or Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, which deliver virtually faultless Big 5 safari experiences where you’re more than likely to tick off each of the Big Five after a couple of game drives.

We know how important it is to see Africa’s signature animals. That is why our recommended Big Five safari packages provide excellent chances of seeing all of them even on a single escapade.

We also know where and when to find them. Legendary wildlife parks such as Serengeti and Masai Mara allow you to pair the Big Five and the famed wildebeest migration, making them some of the world’s premier spots for a combined experience.

In Uganda, you can spot the Big Five by combining rhino tracking in Ziwa Sanctuary with a trip to Murchison Falls or Kidepo Valley National Park to see the rest of the members. Our Big 5 safari destinations range widely, and we advise careful planning with your safari expert to ensure your expectations are met.

Best time to see the Big Five animals is during the dry season, from July to October, when wildlife congregates around the remaining water sources, and the vegetation is thinner, making them easier to spot.

Browse our range of Big Five safari itineraries crafted with the best accommodation options or contact your Africa Safari Expert to help you tailor-make your personal Big 5 African adventure.