A Big 5 Safari: The best place to view each of the Big 5

What are the Big 5 ? What makes them so special ? Where can you find them?

1. Lions: Serengeti National Park, Tanzania - A Big 5 Safari essential

Serengeti National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tanzania, is an emblem of African wildlife and pristine wilderness. Spanning over 14,763 square kilometers, it's famed for its vast, open grasslands, which provide an ideal habitat for lions. The park is home to one of the largest lion populations on the continent, offering exceptional lion viewing opportunities. The best time of year for lion sightings in the Serengeti is during the dry season, from late June to October, when lions are more visible and active around water sources. For daily sightings, early mornings and late afternoons are ideal, as lions are typically more active during the cooler hours, providing a quintessential Big 5 Safari experience.

Namiri Plains



Namiri Plains, situated in the remote eastern region of Tanzania's Serengeti National Park, offers an unparalleled safari experience, especially for lion enthusiasts. This area, once closed for two decades to create a safe haven for cheetahs, has now emerged as a brilliant spot for observing the majestic lions, a key member of Africa's Big 5.

The uniqueness of Namiri Plains lies in its relative isolation, providing an undisturbed habitat for wildlife. This seclusion has fostered a rich lion population, undisturbed by heavy tourist traffic common in other parts of the Serengeti. The sparse human presence has allowed lions to thrive in their natural environment, offering visitors a more authentic and intimate wildlife experience.

The terrain of Namiri Plains, characterized by vast, open grasslands dotted with occasional kopjes, is ideal for lion spotting. These open spaces not only offer clear visibility for visitors but also are perfect hunting grounds for lions. The kopjes, large rock formations, serve as vantage points for lions to survey their territory and are often the setting for dramatic wildlife interactions.

Moreover, the concentration of prey animals, like wildebeest and zebras, especially during the Great Migration, ensures that lion sightings are frequent and often involve thrilling hunting scenes. This abundance of prey coupled with the high density of lions makes Namiri Plains a hotspot for witnessing the fascinating dynamics of lion prides, including hunting, mating, and social interactions.

Namiri Plains stands out as a premier destination for lion spotting on a Big 5 safari. Its remote location, abundant wildlife, and dramatic landscapes offer a unique and memorable experience for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike, making it a must-visit for those seeking to witness the majestic lions of Africa in their natural glory.

2. Leopards: Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa

Sabi Sands Game Reserve, adjacent to South Africa's Kruger National Park, is a premier destination for a Big 5 Safari, particularly renowned for its exceptional leopard sightings. This private reserve, covering about 65,000 hectares, is characterized by its lush savannah and riverine forest, creating a perfect habitat for leopards. The best time of year to view leopards in Sabi Sands is during the dry season, from May to September, when these elusive cats are often easier to spot as they hunt and frequent waterholes. For the best daily sightings, early mornings and evenings are ideal, as leopards are more active during these cooler periods, enhancing the Big 5 Safari experience.

Leopard Hills Game Reserve

Leopard Hills Game Reserve, located in the renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve adjacent to South Africa's Kruger National Park, is a gem for wildlife enthusiasts, particularly for those keen on encountering leopards, a pivotal member of the Big 5. This private reserve is celebrated for its high density of leopards, offering exceptional opportunities to observe these elusive cats in their natural habitat.

Spanning over 10,000 hectares, Leopard Hills boasts a varied landscape of savannah, riverine forests, and rocky outcrops, creating an ideal environment for leopards. This diverse terrain not only provides ample hiding spots and hunting grounds for leopards but also offers breathtaking views for visitors. The reserve's location in the Sabi Sand region is crucial as it lies in a territory with one of the highest concentrations of leopards in the world.

What sets Leopard Hills apart is its commitment to conservation and responsible tourism. The game drives are conducted in a manner that respects the natural behavior of wildlife, ensuring authentic and ethical wildlife encounters. Experienced guides enhance the safari experience, offering insights into the behavior and ecology of leopards.

Additionally, the reserve's luxury lodges offer an intimate and immersive safari experience. The design and positioning of the lodges, often overlooking waterholes or riverbeds, maximize the chances of spotting leopards even from the comfort of one's accommodation. Guests can witness leopards and other wildlife from their private decks, making the experience exclusive and memorable.



Leopard Hills Game Reserve is not just a destination; it's a gateway to understanding the elusive leopard. Its unique combination of prime location, expert guidance, and commitment to conservation makes it an ideal choice for those seeking to encounter leopards on a Big 5 Safari. The reserve promises not only sightings but also an understanding and appreciation of these magnificent creatures in their natural world.

3. Rhinoceros: Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania - A haven for any Big 5 Safari



Ngorongoro Crater, a centerpiece of Tanzania's conservation area and a pivotal destination for a Big 5 Safari, is a vast, ancient volcanic caldera forming a natural enclosure for diverse wildlife, including the elusive rhinoceros. This unique ecosystem, spanning approximately 260 square kilometers, provides a sanctuary for both black and white rhinos. The best time of year to observe rhinoceros in Ngorongoro is during the dry season, from June to October, when they are more likely to be spotted near water sources. For daily sightings, early mornings are ideal, as rhinos are more active in the cooler temperatures, offering a more dynamic Big 5 Safari experience.

AndBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, perched on the edge of the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, is an exceptional destination for those seeking to encounter rhinos, one of the most sought-after members of the Big 5. The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its high concentration of wildlife, including a significant population of the endangered black rhino, making it one of the few places in Africa where one can reliably see these majestic animals.

The lodge itself is a masterpiece of architectural design, blending elements of Maasai and colonial-era style, offering guests an unparalleled luxury safari experience. Each suite offers stunning views of the crater, ensuring that the breathtaking landscape and its inhabitants are always within sight. The lodge's exclusive location means that guests have easy access to the crater floor at optimal times for wildlife viewing, increasing the likelihood of encountering rhinos.

Moreover, the expert guides at andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge are highly knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna, particularly the habits and habitats of the rhino. These guides enhance the safari experience, offering guests the best chances to spot and learn about rhinos in their natural environment.

The combination of luxury, exclusivity, and conservation commitment makes andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge a premier choice for those wishing to see rhinos. The lodge not only offers a chance to witness these rare creatures but also provides an immersive experience in one of the most picturesque and wildlife-rich locations on the planet. This unique blend of comfort, elegance, and wildlife expertise ensures a memorable and fulfilling stay for those dedicated to seeing the magnificent rhino in the wild.

4. Elephants: Chobe National Park, Botswana

Chobe National Park in Botswana, renowned for its extraordinary elephant population, is a highlight on any Big 5 Safari itinerary. Covering about 11,700 square kilometers, Chobe is celebrated for having one of the highest concentrations of elephants in the world. These majestic animals are often seen in large herds, especially near the Chobe River. The best time of year to view elephants in Chobe is during the dry season, from April to October, when they frequently gather around water sources. The most opportune times of day for elephant sightings are early mornings and late afternoons, when the temperatures are cooler and the elephants are more active, making for a remarkable Big 5 Safari experience.

Ngoma Safari Lodge

Ngoma Safari Lodge, in the Chobe Forest Reserve, adjacent to Botswana's Chobe National Park, is an exceptional destination for elephant enthusiasts. This area is renowned for hosting one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Africa, making it an ideal spot for observing these majestic creatures.

The lodge's strategic location offers unparalleled access to Chobe National Park, famous for its vast herds of elephants. Guests at Ngoma Safari Lodge can witness these gentle giants roaming freely in their natural habitat, often in large family groups. The lodge’s elevated position on a ridge provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Chobe River, a magnet for elephant herds, especially during the dry season when they congregate in large numbers along the riverbanks.

Ngoma Safari Lodge is committed to sustainable tourism and offers intimate wildlife experiences with minimal environmental impact. The guided game drives and river cruises conducted by knowledgeable guides enhance the chances of up-close elephant encounters, allowing guests to observe and learn about their behavior and social structures.



Moreover, the lodge offers a luxurious and tranquil retreat in the heart of the bush. The design of the lodge and its accommodations ensures that guests can often view elephants and other wildlife from the comfort of their private decks. This combination of luxury, sustainability, and prime wildlife viewing opportunities makes Ngoma Safari Lodge a top choice for those seeking to experience the majesty of Africa's elephants in a serene and exclusive setting. The lodge not only provides an opportunity to see these magnificent animals but also contributes to their conservation, offering a fulfilling and responsible wildlife experience.

5. Cape Buffalo: Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana

Moremi Game Reserve, a gem in the heart of Botswana's Okavango Delta, is a spectacular destination for a Big 5 Safari, offering exceptional sightings of Cape Buffalo. This diverse reserve blends dry land and delta, creating a rich habitat for wildlife. Cape Buffalo thrive here, often seen in large herds. The best time of year to see these majestic creatures in Moremi is during the dry season, from July to October, when they gather around the Delta's water sources. For daily sightings, early mornings and late afternoons are ideal, as buffalos are more active in the cooler hours, enhancing the Big 5 Safari experience.

Xigera Safari Lodge

Xigera Safari Lodge, situated in the heart of the Okavango Delta in Botswana, is an extraordinary destination for those seeking to encounter the Big 5 - lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo. This unique ecosystem, known for its vast and varied landscapes, ranging from deep channels to lush islands, creates an ideal habitat for a diverse array of wildlife, including the elusive Big 5.

Xigera stands out for its exclusive location within the Moremi Game Reserve, renowned for its high concentration of wildlife. This area offers an unparalleled game-viewing experience. The water-rich environment of the Delta is particularly conducive to sighting buffalo and elephants, while the dense foliage provides perfect cover for lions and leopards. The recent reintroduction of rhinoceros to the region further enhances the chances of spotting all members of the Big 5.

The lodge's commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism practices ensures that guests can enjoy a truly immersive and responsible safari experience. Expert guides at Xigera are well-versed in the habits of the Big 5, providing guests with insightful information and maximizing wildlife viewing opportunities.



Moreover, Xigera Safari Lodge offers luxury accommodation that blends seamlessly with the natural environment, allowing guests to experience the wilderness in comfort. With its unique water-based and land activities, such as mokoro (traditional canoe) excursions and guided walks, Xigera offers a diverse and comprehensive safari experience. This combination of luxury, environmental consciousness, and exceptional wildlife viewing makes Xigera Safari Lodge a perfect destination for those seeking to experience the ultimate Big 5 Safari.