Embark on an exhilarating adventure to encounter Africa's most legendary wildlife—the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. These safaris take you through East Africa’s most prestigious national parks, where expert guides reveal fascinating insights into the behavior, habitats, and conservation efforts of these majestic creatures. Whether you’re navigating the vast plains of the Serengeti or the dramatic landscapes of the Ngorongoro Crater, prepare to witness some of the planet’s most awe-inspiring wildlife moments.

Top Destinations to see Big Five Members

1. Serengeti National Park -Tanzania

Serengeti is the crown jewel of Tanzania’s safari destinations. Known for its dramatic landscapes and incredible diversity of wildlife, the Serengeti offers some of the best opportunities to see the Big Five. Imagine witnessing lions hunting, leopards resting in the trees, or herds of elephants passing through the grasslands.

2. Ngorongoro Crater-Tanzania

The Ngorongoro Crater, often referred to as the "Garden of Eden," is a unique location where wildlife thrives in a natural caldera. It’s one of the best places to spot the Big Five, including rhinos. With its rich ecosystem, you’ll see buffaloes, elephants, lions, and leopards, along with a wide range of other animals and birds.

3. Mkomazi National Park -Tanzania

Mkomazi is a less crowded park where you can spot the Big Five, including elephants and lions, though rhinos are not typically found here. The park is also known for its conservation efforts, especially the successful reintroduction of endangered species like African wild dogs and black rhinos.

4. Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve)-Tanzania

Nyerere offers an exclusive safari experience, with its rich diversity of wildlife. Expect to see elephants, lions, buffaloes, and leopards. The park’s river systems also add a unique element to your safari, as you’ll often spot wildlife while cruising along the Rufiji River.

5. Masai Mara National Reserve -Kenya

One of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations, Masai Mara is home to the Big Five, as well as an abundance of other wildlife. Lions are frequently spotted, and the reserve also hosts the Great Migration from July to October, making it one of the best places to witness nature’s most dramatic spectacle.

6. Amboseli National Park -Kenya

Known for its vast elephant herds and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro, Amboseli is an excellent location for spotting the Big Five. The park’s open plains make it easier to spot predators like lions and cheetahs, and the park is renowned for its excellent birdwatching opportunities.

7. Tsavo National Park-Kenya

Tsavo is one of the largest national parks in Kenya, and it is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, and leopards. The park is less visited than Maasai Mara, providing a more secluded and intimate safari experience.

Other Parks Where You Can See the Big Five (No Rhino)

8. Tarangire National Park-Tanzania

Known for its massive elephant herds, Tarangire is a must-visit for those interested in elephants. While rhinos are absent, the park is home to a variety of other species, including lions, leopards, and buffaloes.

9. Mikumi National Park-Tanzania

Mikumi offers an opportunity to see a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and buffaloes. Though rhinos are not present, the park’s location on the southern circuit makes it an excellent spot for wildlife photography.

10. Ruaha National Park -Tanzania

Known for its stunning landscapes and large populations of elephants, Ruaha offers amazing Big Five sightings, including lions, leopards, and buffaloes. While rhinos are rare, the park’s remote location ensures a more tranquil, less commercialized safari experience.

Best Time to Go

• January to March  -The dry season is excellent for spotting wildlife, as animals congregate around water sources.
• June to September  -Ideal for the Great Migration and overall excellent game viewing, especially in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara.
• October to December -This time offers a less crowded safari experience, with great opportunities for wildlife photography and sightings.

5 Recommended Tours

5-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Big Five Safari

Explore the iconic Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, two of Africa’s premier safari destinations. Spot the Big Five and more, with ample time for wildlife photography and guided walks.

6-Day Maasai Mara & Amboseli Big Five Safari

A perfect blend of game drives and cultural experiences, this tour takes you through the Maasai Mara and Amboseli, where you’ll witness the Big Five and stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

7-Day Tarangire & Ngorongoro & Serengeti Big Five Safaris

A deeper exploration of Tanzania’s wildlife, combining Serengeti National Park with the wonders of Tarangire. Encounter elephants, lions, leopards, and more, with expert guides providing invaluable insight into the region’s wildlife.

10-Day Ruaha, Nyerere & Mikumi Big Five Safari

Embark on a thrilling 10-day adventure through three of Tanzania’s prime wildlife destinations: Ruaha, Nyerere, and Mikumi National Park. These untouched, pristine parks offer you a rare chance to experience Africa's Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos—while exploring diverse habitats, from rugged terrains to lush savannahs.

12-Day Kenya & Tanzania Big Five Safari

Exploring the iconic Masai Mara and Amboseli National Park in Kenya, followed by the world-famous Serengeti, Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania. This tour gives you the perfect combination of breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife, with an added chance to see Africa's Big Five in their natural habitats.

Big Five safaris are a bucket-list adventure, offering the chance to see some of the most iconic species on the planet in their natural habitat. Whether you’re in Tanzania’s Serengeti or Kenya’s Masai Mara, these safaris promise thrilling encounters with lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. With the expert guidance of local rangers, you'll come away with an unparalleled understanding of Africa’s wildlife and ecosystems, and unforgettable memories to last a lifetime.