THE BIG FIVE

In Africa, the Big five game animals are the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo The term was coined by big-game hunters to refer to the five most difficult animals in Africa to hunt on foot but is now more widely used by game viewing tourists and safari tour operators.They are examples of charismatic megafauna, featuring prominently in popular culture, and are among the most famous of Africa's large animals.

The 1990 and later releases of South African rand banknotes feature a different big-five animal on each denomination. Countries where all can be found include Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Species

Elephant

African bush elephant

The African bush elephant and the African forest elephant are the largest extant land-based animals. Elephants are herbivores with thick, almost hairless skin; a long, flexible, prehensile trunk; upper incisors forming long, curved, ivory tusks; and large, fan-shaped ears. Elephants are difficult to hunt because, despite their large size, they are able to hide in thick bush and are more likely to charge than the other Big Five species. They become aggressive when their young are threatened.

Rhinoceros

Black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis)

The black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) and the white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) are large herbivores with two upright horns on their nasal bridge. The black rhino is classified as critically endangered and the white rhino as near threatened, and both are subject to extensive poaching. Among big-five game hunters, the black rhinoceros is more highly prized. The current existing rhinos throughout the savanna are southern white rhinoceros, eastern black rhinoceros, south-western black rhinoceros and south-central black rhinoceros.

African buffalo

African buffalo (Syncerus caffer)

The African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) is a large horned bovid. It is the only animal among the Big Five that is not on the "endangered" or "threatened" list. The Cape buffalo (Syncerus caffer caffer) is considered by many to be the most dangerous of any of the Big Five:[12] buffalos have reportedly been known to ambush and attack humans:

Lion

Lion (Panthera leo)

The lion (Panthera leo) is a large, carnivorous feline found in both Africa and northwestern India. It has a short, tawny coat; a tufted tail; and, in the male, a heavy mane around the neck and shoulders. As a large and charismatic apex predator with cultural significance, lions are among the most popular species to view on safari tours.

Leopard

African leopard (Panthera pardus)

The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a large, carnivorous feline. Its fur is generally tawny with dark rosette-shaped markings. The leopard is the most seldom seen of the Big Five because of its nocturnal habits (it is most active between sunset and sunrise, although it may hunt during the day in some areas), and because it is wary of humans and will take flight in the face of danger. Leopards can be located in the grasslands, dense brushes, deserts, and forested areas of African savannas.

Conservation status

Africa's Big Five have become major concerns for wildlife conservationists in recent years. The African lion and African leopard are both classified as vulnerable. The African savanna elephant is listed as endangered by the IUCN as of 2021. The southern white rhinoceros and African buffalo are classified as near threatened while the black rhinoceros is classified as critically endangered.

Lions are majestic creatures that are known for their strength and courage. They are the kings of the jungle and are admired by many for their beauty and power. Lions also social animals that live in groups called prides, they work together to hunt and protect their territory.

The African buffalo, also known as the Cape buffalo, is one of the Big Five game animals in Africa. They are known for their unpredictable nature and are considered one of the most animals in Africa. In Africa, the buffalo a significant role in the's history, particularly the colonial era. They were hunted extensively for their and hides, and population declined significantly. Today, the buffalo is protected species in South, and conservation efforts have to increase their numbers

The elephant is one of the most fascinating creatures on earth. These gentle giants have been around for millions of years and have played an important role in many cultures religions. From their impressive size to their unique physical features, there is no denying the awe-inspiring nature of the elephant Let's take a closer look at the history of these magnificent animals.

The rhinoceros has been an integral part of South Africa's wildlife centuries. These majestic creatures have roamed the savannas and grasslands of the country for thousands of years, and have played an important role in the country cultural and ecological heritage. However, in recent years, the rhino population has been threatened by poaching and habitat loss, making conservation efforts more important than ever. Despite these challenges, South Africa remains committed to protecting its rhino population and ensuring that these magnificent animals continue to thrive for generations to come.

The leopard is one of the most fascinating animals in South Africa. It is known for its beautiful coat and elusive nature. Leopards have been a part of South African history for centuries, with many stories and legends surrounding them. From ancient rock art to modern-day conservation efforts, the leopard continues to capture the imagination of people all over the world.

THE BIG FIVE

Why are the Big Five animals on South Africa’s Banknotes — Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Buffalo and Elephant?

For many tourists and travellers, South Africa’s banknotes are a colourful and beautiful surprise when visiting the country for the first time. And, in 2023, the South African Reserve Bank released new banknotes and coins, showcasing the country’s ‘family bonds’ and ‘deep ecology’. Although some design changes were made (with the big five getting a “family-makeover”), South Africa’s banknotes continue to proudly feature each of the big five animals on the back and former president, Nelson Mandela, on the front — earning the paper currency the locally-coined ‘Randela‘ nickname.

“The upgraded banknotes continue to pay homage to South Africa’s first democratically elected president, Nelson Mandela, with his portrait featured on the front of all five denominations while the Big 5 animals are depicted as a family.”
The South African Reserve Bank, 2023

South Africa’s new banknotes, released on 3 May 2023. Picture Supplied: The Reserve Bank

The Big Five on South Africa’s Banknotes

But Why are the Big 5 Animals on South Africa’s Banknotes?

The the Big Five animals are easily recognised on the back of South Africa’s paper currency. Their first appearance on the South African Rand (ZAR) banknotes in the early 1990s, between 1992 and 1993 with the introduction of the fourth issue of the Rand currency, marked a significant redesign following the end of apartheid. But why are the big five animals on South Africa’s money? Well, the Big Five animals (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) are featured on South Africas banknotes for a few reasons:

1. Tourism

The Big Five are a major draw for tourists visiting South Africa. Their presence on the currency highlights the importance and contribution of safaris parks and game reserves to the country’s economy. In Africa, wildlife tourism employs more than 25 million people. Tourism also drives 8.6% of South Africa’s economy, and continues to grow. The Big 5 animals contribute so much to the country’s economy, it’s no surprise to see them featured on South Africa’s paper currency.

2. National Pride

The big five animals are a source of national pride for South Africa. Having them on the currency showcases a part of what makes the country unique. The Big Five animals are something nearly every South African knows — with even children learn about them in school. The big five have become entwined with South Africa’s national identity and its people are proud to be a nation blessed with such incredible wildlife.

3. Cultural History

South Africa has a rich and diverse wildlife heritage, and the Big Five on the country’s banknotes pay homage to the importance of the nation’s wildlife throughout the history of our country and its people. Many iconic African animals, for example, like the leopard and lion, are prized for their status and symbolism in traditional African dress and ceremony.

The Rhinoceros (Featured on South Africa’s R10 Banknote)

The White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) is featured on South Africa’s R10.00 (ten rand) banknotes. The ‘green note’ features two rhinos, a mother and its calf, signifying the strength and unity of familial bonds in South Africa. This is only fitting as these large and sturdy animals represent strength and resilience and are a prominent member of South Africa’s Big Five animals.

Sadly, rhinos are critically endangered due to poaching for their horns. Despite various anti-poaching efforts, these sturdy creatures are surprisingly vulnerable. During 2023, 499 rhinos were poached across South Africa. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these magnificent creatures, and their depiction on the R10.00 banknote serves as a solemn reminder to protect South Africa’s wildlife.

The Elephant (Featured on South Africa’s R20 Banknote)

The African Elephant is the largest land animal in the world. Featured on South Africa’s R20 (twenty rand) banknote, the African Bush Elephant (a sub-species of the African Elephant) is a highly social and intelligent creature. Growing over 4 metres tall (13 feet) and weighing between 3 to 6 tonnes (5000 to 13,000 pounds), these impressive animals really put the ‘big’ in the big five.

Most famous for their long trunks and ivory tusks, African elephants are a proud and prominent figure in South Africa’s wildlife heritage. Did you know that South Africa’s National Coat of Arms, first introduced on Freedom Day, 27 April 2000, features two pairs of elephant tusks curving inwards — forming the sides of the shield or “coat of arms”. Elephants are known for their matriarchal social structures and complex emotional behaviours, making them a symbol of love, wisdom and strength.

The Lion (Featured on South Africa’s R50 Banknote)

The African Lion (Panthera leo) is featured on South Africa’s R50 (fifty rand) banknote. The ‘King of the Jungle” is the apex predator in South Africa’s wild and represents courage, strength and loyalty. Lions are usually at the top of everyone’s safari bucket list and are a major draw for tourism and Big Five safaris tours in Southern Africa.

These majestic animals live in prides and are best known for their impressive manes (hair) and powerful roars that can be heard up to 8 kilometres away. Their presence on South Africa’s banknotes is a testament to their importance and national symbolism of power, family bonds and leadership.

The Buffalo (Featured on South Africa’s R100 Banknote)

The African Buffalo, a formidable-looking herbivore, is featured on the R100 (one-hundred rand) banknote. The Southern Savanna Buffalo and Cape Buffalo, which are both sub-species of the African Buffalo, are found in South Africa. Hardy and able to survive in the country’s harshest terrains, these grazing-machines live in large herds of up to 1000 or more buffalo.

Did you know that buffalos are the most feared of all the Big Five animals? They are said to have killed more hunters in Africa than any other animal. Known for their unpredictable nature and impressive horns, buffalo are symbols of tenacity and survival in the wild. Their inclusion on South Africa’s R100 paper currency highlights their role in the natural ecosystem and the respect they command within the Big Five.

The Leopard (Featured on South Africa’s R200 Banknote)

The African Leopard is a stealthy and nocturnal big cat, featured on the R200 (two-hundred rand) banknote. Easily recognised for their incredible ‘rosette’ spotted coats, leopards possess incredible strength and can drag large prey (weighing up to three times their own body weight) up trees over 6 metres (20 feet) tall.

Although leopards are agile tree climbers, capable of hunting and napping in trees, they do not live in trees. Leopards are solitary and elusive animals with expansive territories, making them one of the most challenging Big Five animals to see in the wild. Their depiction on the highest denomination banknote pays homage to their elegance, symbolism and high value in traditional South African cultures.

See South Africa’s Big Five Animals Up Close and In Person

Wildlife travel seekers, tourists and local South Africa’s have the incredible opportunity to see South Africa’s Big Five animals not only on the country’s banknotes, but within national parks and game reserves all over the country. As Cape Town’s closest Big Five safari destination, Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa is proud to be on the frontlines of conservation and wildlife rehabilitation in the Western Cape.

For the ultimate Big Five day trip safari or overnight safari adventure that fits perfectly in your Cape Town city itinerary, book now or browse our seven different day tour options — from early morning safaris, horseback trails, quad bike safaris and sunset game drives through Aquila’s wild and stunning 10 000 hectare reserve.

What are the Big 5 animals

What are the Big 5 animals of Africa and where to find them?

What are the Big 5 of Africa?

The Big Five animals of Africa

Fall in love with Africa\'s Wildlife, savannah plains, Baobab Trees, magical African sunsets, and find the Best Safari Destinations in Africa + tips to plan your Best Safari Tour!

, in short, 'The Big 5' include the African elephant, rhinoceros, lion, leopard, and Cape buffalo. These five big game animal species are found on the African continent in the Southern and Eastern parts of Africa. As the name suggests, they are not the heaviest or the 5 biggest safari

Embark on a transformative journey with a safari in Africa. Witness iconic wildlife, explore diverse landscapes, and immerse yourself in the rich cultures of the continent. From the majestic Serengeti to the renowned..

animals.

If it was about the size or weight of the African animal

Interesting facts about African animal species you can find on safari in Africa including the possibility to book a wildlife course to learn everything about animal behavior in the African bush. Read everything you..

, a gorilla or hippo could also easily fit in. A hippo is for example three times heavier than a Cape buffalo and a male gorilla and male lion can both weigh up to 225kg.

Why are they called the Big Five animals?

The Big Five game refers to the 5 African animals

that big game hunters in the late 1800s, during Africa's colonial period, considered the most dangerous and difficult wild animals to track and hunt on foot. Hunting these African game animals got them the biggest prices and trophies. Dangerous, because of their behavior when they feel threatened or get injured. Sadly, this wildlife is still hunted today but luckily there are also a lot of conservation initiatives to protect these threatened species that are decreasing in population and struggling because of habitat loss.

Nowadays, the term 'Big Five' is more a commercial term used by safari companies to sell their 'African Big 5 Safari trips' and to describe the Top 5 safari animals

to see on a game drive

The definition of a game drive on safari is: ‘a guided excursion or self-drive by (preferably 4 wheel drive) open-sided safari vehicle in a National Park, reserve, or conservancy to spot and observe African..

. This made them also the most famous large African animals to look for on a safari trip to Africa. Ticking off the Big 5 is therefore on many travelers’ bucket lists. However, there's much more wildlife worth seeing roam freely in their natural habitat, like the cheetah, a tall elegant giraffe, a spotted Hyena, or a pack of African wild dogs. Even smaller creatures, like Dung Beetles or all the colorful birdlife, play an important role in the ecosystems.

So, with this article, I also want to raise awareness about the fact that there's more to Africa than spotting the Big Five, which is a hunting term after all.

That is also the main reason for setting up the New Big Five project, an international initiative to create a new Big Five of wildlife: the Big Five of wildlife photography

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on wildlife photography , where we delve into the art, techniques, and equipment required to capture stunning images of wildlife in their natural habitats. Whether you're an..

where it's about shooting with a camera instead of hunting with a gun. The aim of this project is to raise awareness about the crisis facing the world's wildlife from threats, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, poaching, illegal wildlife trade, and climate change.

Big Five animal facts

1. African Elephant: a gentle giant

The African savanna elephant is the largest land mammal in the world and can reach up to 3 meters in height and can weigh up to 7 tons. The African forest elephant is 3 feet shorter. Elephants communicate across a large distance at a very low frequency through their feet and the soil that cannot be heard by humans. Elephants live in a herd that is led by the 'matriarch' female. The elephant is threatened by ivory poachers for their tusks.

2. Rhino: most endangered species of the Big 5

The Rhinoceros is the most endangered species of the Big Five due to rhino poaching and illegal trade in rhino horns. There are two species of rhino in Africa: the White Rhino and the Black Rhino and five subspecies.

The names of the rhino don't have anything to do with color as both species are grey. The name of the 'white' rhino is a corruption of the Dutch word 'wijd' (wide), which refers to the wide mouth or square lip of the white rhino. A rhino can weigh up to 5000 pounds and its horns can grow up to 5 feet long. Rhinos have poor eyesight but excellent hearing and sense of smell.

3. African Lion: courageous King of the jungle

An African lion is the largest predator on land. Preys of the lion include zebra, impala, giraffes, and other herbivores like wildebeest. A group of lions is called a pride and males are easily distinguished from females because of their large manes. The darker the lion's manes, the older he is.

A male lion is sometimes referred to as the king, but in reality, lions don't have a permanent social hierarchy. The dominant male in a lion pride can change at any time. The females hold the territory and stay with the pride in which they were born. They also do most of the hunting and take care of the cubs. Lions use their roar as a form of communication and can be heard up to 5 miles away.

4. Leopard: sneaky and excellent tree climber

The African leopard is the most solitary and elusive animal of the big 5, staying hidden during the day. They are the least seen of the Big 5 and on most occasions found alone. The leopard is nocturnal and mainly hunts at night. Their kills include zebra and antelopes like Thompson Gazelle. The elusive leopards hide their prey in a tree to prevent lions and hyenas from stealing it. A lion and a leopard both belong to the African big cats, but they can't get along. A lion will kill a leopard if it has the chance. A leopard is also a good swimmer and occasionally eats fish.

5. Cape Buffalo: most dangerous to humans

The African buffalo is very territorial and protective and is probably the most dangerous animal of the big five to humans. If this cow-like animal feels threatened it can become very aggressive and charge with astonishing speed. Buffaloes are mostly found in groups and large herds and spend a lot of their time grazing. Both male and female buffaloes have horns, but the males' horns curve and come together in the center, forming a big bony plate called a boss.

The primary predator of the buffalo is the lion. A buffalo will try to protect and rescue another member of the herd and they have even been seen killing a lion after the lion had killed a member of the group. Although the African buffalo and water buffalo resemble each other, they are not closely related.

Where to find the Big Five in Africa?

The Big 5 animals live on the African continent. You can find all of the Big 5 in Southern Africa and East Africa. The African countries where you can see the Big Five are:

Angola
Botswana

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Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
Kenya

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Malawi

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Mozambique
Namibia

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Rwanda

Rwanda Travel Guide featuring ✓ Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes NP ✓ Nyungwe Forest ✓ Big Five Safari Akagera National Park ✓ Kigali Genocide Memorial ✓ Best time to visit Rwanda
South Africa

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Tanzania

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Uganda

Uganda Travel Guide featuring ✓ Gorilla trekking Bwindi ✓ Kibale Chimpanzees ✓ Safari in Murchison Falls ✓ Tree-lions in Ishasha ✓ Kampala ✓Sipi Falls and ✓ Kidepo National Park
Zambia

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Zimbabwe

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Not all of the above countries where the Big 5 live are ideal for a safari trip in terms of safety and existing numbers of the Big Five species.

What are the best Big Five safari destinations?

The best countries to see all the big five on safari are South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Uganda, and Namibia.

However, in Namibia, you can't find all of the Big 5 in one place. In Etosha National Park you can only see 4 of the African Big Five. You can't find the buffalo there, but it's the best place in Africa to see the black rhino. They often concentrate around a water hole where tourists can sit to observe these critically endangered animals.

In Uganda, you can't see rhinos in the wild, but you have a chance of seeing all the Big 5 when you visit them up close at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary where they roam freely but are protected by rangers

A game ranger , or simply ranger, is responsible for a wide range of duties related to the management and conservation of wildlife. This includes veterinary care, population control and breeding, as well as more..

24/7. In Uganda, you can also see the endangered mountain Gorilla and our closest relative on a chimpanzee trekking

Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda is one of the exciting activities that will turn your Uganda safari into an experience of a lifetime. Did you know that Chimpanzees are our closest genetic relatives, sharing over..

or chimpanzee habituation.

South Africa is one of the most reliable Big Five safari destinations to spot all the Big 5. South Africa even honored the importance of the Big 5 animals by putting each of the 5 animals on their bills.

What are the best places to see all of the Big 5?

The best chance of seeing the Big Five on a single safari or even on a single game drive is at the following places:

Kruger National Park and the surrounding Kruger Game Reserves

The Kruger Game Reserves neighboring Kruger National Park in South Africa are renowned for hosting Africa's most iconic wildlife species. Greater Kruger Park is a prime destination for African safaris, where..

. Kruger is one of the best places to go for a safari in South Africa

Travel to South Africa and fall in love with its free-roaming wildlife, stunning landscapes, warm-hearted people, the City of Cape Town, and stunning views. Explore South Africa with my helpful Ultimate South Africa..

for both beginner safari travelers and seasoned wildlife viewers. Jock Concession within Kruger NP or Sabi Sands Game Reserve and Thornybush, host luxurious safari lodges with an abundance of wildlife roaming around freely. Sabi Sands and Thornybush are also known for its high number of leopard sightings, but they are not the only reserve famous for that. Read more about the best Private Game Reserves and Concessions in Kruger to spot the Big Five Safari animals.
Shamwari Private Game Reserve

When planning a safari in Africa, especially for first-timers, it's good to know the difference between a private game reserve and a national park. This article will give an answer to the question ' what is a..

is a great place to find the Big 5 in South Africa. A beautiful high-end reserve with luxurious lodges and an exclusive feeling. You're often the only safari vehicle at an animal sighting. Shamwari is also well-known for its wildlife conservation initiatives, like the born-free Foundation.
Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania is a perfect place to find all of the Big Five in one day! You can combine your trip to the Ngorongoro Crater with for example the Serengeti

Without a doubt, Serengeti National Park is the best place to visit for a safari in Tanzania. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is unique for many reasons, but especially because of the Great Migration, the incredible..

, famous for its wildlife sightings including the great migration

The Great Migration in Africa is an annual event that sees millions of wildebeest, zebra, and other ungulates migrate across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem in East Africa. This migration involves the movement of large..

of wildebeest and zebra. Want to plan a safari to Tanzania? Read the best places to visit in Northern Tanzania.
Maasai Mara

The Masai Mara National Reserve is one of the most popular safari destinations in East Africa. Without a doubt, a Masai Mara safari in Kenya guarantees a memorable experience with spectacular game drives and..

National Park and the Mara Conservancies are also one of the best places to find the Big 5, although seeing rhinos roaming freely is a challenge. Some conservancies have a rhino sanctuary, but these rhinos are protected by rangers 24/7. An example is the Enonkishu Conservancy

A conservancy is a protected area of land that is set aside for the conservation of natural resources, such as plants, animals, and ecosystems. The purpose of a conservancy is to preserve and protect the natural..

on the northern boundary of the Maasai Mara Conservancies. Another great place in Kenya to see rhinos is at Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Read everything you need to know about safari in the Masai Mara.

Of course, there are much more places and national parks to see the Big Five. Not all national parks have all of the Big Five and when they do have them, it can be harder to spot all of them on a single safari in Africa.

When is the best time to see the Big Five in Africa?

The high season for a safari in Africa is from July to October. It's the cooler dry winter which makes a Big 5 sighting easier because of the thin and dried-up vegetation. The lack of rain also means animals congregate around flowing rivers or larger lakes to drink. However, the shoulder seasons are also perfect to find the big 5 in Africa and it's less touristy.

The African Big Five and wildlife conservation status

Africa's Big Five are of great concern for wildlife conservationists due to trophy hunting, poaching, and habitat loss. Most of the Big 5 animals are listed as vulnerable or (critically) endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Hunting is sadly still allowed to some degree, but Africa now also has strict laws to protect and conserve many African animal species.

The black rhinoceros is classified as critically endangered and the southern white rhinoceros is near threatened. Mostly due to poaching because of the rhino horn. Two species of the African Big Cats, the African lion, and the African leopard are classified as vulnerable. The African savanna elephant is an endangered species, mainly because of the poaching crisis and habitat loss. The African buffalo is of the least concern of all the Big Five animals.

Learn about the Big 5 on safari in Africa

Did you know I'm a qualified Field Guide

A field guide or nature guide is a trained and experienced professional who leads tours and provides education and interpretation about the local flora, fauna, and natural heritage, history, folklore and beauty of an..

(also known as a nature guide

or safari guide

Join my Africa Safari Tours and experience the real African Wilderness in an ethical and authentic way, while learning more about wildlife, culture, and safari photography.

to Africa with me where you will learn even more about the Big Five and all other flora and fauna. As a photographic tour leader and Dutch/English/German-speaking tour guide, I work closely together with local African tour operators and local drivers/guides. Get in touch to enquire about the possibilities.

Guide to the Big 5 Animals of Africa

I hope this article was helpful to learn more facts about the African Big 5 animals, including why they are called the Big Five, in what countries these Big 5 safari animals are found, and the best time of spotting them with a side note that there's more to Africa than spotting the Big Five.

Smaller creatures play an important role in the ecosystems as well. People who are going on a safari in Africa shouldn't be disappointed when they don't tick off the Big Five. Try to appreciate every single animal, big or small. Even trees, plants, and flowers. Every sighting is a gift of nature. Everything is connected and we should appreciate this more.

You would help me a lot by sharing this guide to the Big 5 in Africa on your social media or pinning it on Pinterest for later use.

Want to keep up to date with my travels? . If you are inspired to go on a safari to Africa, you can find all of my writing about Africa and its countries in my Africa Travel Guide.

SAFARI TOURS

THE BIG FIVE