Post Last updated on February 28, 2024
…Elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo & rhino! It is actually pretty hard to promise all of the “Big 5” on safari – and probably every safari guide would be hesitant to do so… And whilst many private game reserves offer the Big 5 on a silver platter, they can often lack the feeling of wilderness, remoteness and exclusivity that we try to provide for our clients on safari. The following three areas are our favourite big 5 safari hotspots, when it comes to incredible wildlife-sightings (with a good possibility for the Big 5) AND still maintaining that sense of wilderness.
1. The Serengeti – the number one of big 5 safari hotspots.
The Serengeti is one of the most famous National Parks in the world, known for the famed wildebeest migration that takes place here annually. However, it also offers much more! The name is derived from the Maasai language and means ‘the land of endless plains’ and is certainly one of the most scenic safari destinations in Africa and one of the most sought after. Your biggest challenge when it comes to the Big 5 in the Serengeti would be the rhinoceros. As in many other areas in Africa, the Black Rhino was almost poached to extinction in Serengeti in the 1990s. Because rigid protection measures were put in place, the population of this endangered species is starting to grow again.
Have a look at our two favourite camps in the Serengeti: Wayo Serengeti Walking Camp / Serengeti Safari Camp
2. The Greater Kruger Area – big 5 safari hotspots in South Africa.
Both the Timbavati and the Klaserie are part of the Greater Kruger Nationalpark Ecosystem, so animals can roam freely from the Kruger into both of these pristine wilderness areas, where tourists numbers are small compared to other places and the wildlife rarely disappoints! If you ask us, this is one of the best spots to see white rhinos. And even if you cannot tick off the whole Big 5 during your stay, you have great chances for a pack of wild dogs here, which is always such a treat as well!
Where to stay in the Klaserie & the Timbavati: Bateleur Safari Camp / Tulela
3. The Okavango Delta.
The Okavango needs no introduction, of course. But not everybody knows that you actually have a fair chance here of viewing the whole Big 5 on your game drive! The most elusive one of the 5 – the rhino – can be a bit tricky here, but it is definitely possible to spot one, if you stay in the right area! And even if you don’t – the game viewing here is so diverse and colourful, add countless hippos to your safari experience, and you won’t miss a thing!
Our favourite camps for the Big 5 in the Delta: Moremi Mobile Camp / Kanana Camp
