- +254 722 510 431 | +254 733 556 555
- info@safarisandbeyond.com
- Gigiri Drive, Off UN Avenue, Kenya
- +254 722 510 431 | +254 733 556 555
- info@safarisandbeyond.com
- Gigiri Drive, Off UN Avenue, Kenya
We have selected our Big 5 safari destinations based on the fact that each one has populations of lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. It’s important to note that there are no guarantees when it comes to actually seeing all members of the Big 5 while on safari — leopards, for example, are notoriously elusive, and rhino numbers are dwindling across Africa.
We have selected lodges and tented camps are set in East Africa’s top National parks and national/game reserves. Choose between child-friendly accommodation, honeymoon suites and malaria-free Big 5 destinations.
The Serengeti’s vast open grasslands favor grazing wildebeest and zebra herds more than elephants and rhinos, but the sheer abundance of wildlife more than makes up for missing out on a member of the Big 5. With the migration rolling through the Serengeti from November to July, your chances of witnessing a lion kill are high, and the lack of dense trees makes leopards easier to spot than you might expect.
East Africa’s migration safari destinations also offer countless other breathtaking views. Arrive via fly-in safari and transfer between various parks as you experience the Migration, enjoying a mix of comfortable accommodations and activity-rich itineraries in places like Ngorongoro, Samburu, the Masai Mara, and other conservancies across East Africa.
One of East Africa’s greatest tourism attractions lies in its incredible wildlife and national parks. Members of the Big 5 — elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo, and leopard — are commonly found throughout the region, with a strong collective presence in national parks and reserves, adding a magical dimension to your safari experience.
Safari first-timers would do well to choose Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, which offers virtually guaranteed sightings — you’re more than likely to tick off all members of the Big 5 after just a couple of game drives.
Get in touch with our safari planner to design your Big 5 adventure in this iconic region.
Make sure you’re well-prepared for your encounters with East Africa’s very dangerous animals if mishandled by reading through our Big 5 safari travel advice. Additionally, we have given information and advice on specific destinations in East Africa where you may want to take a Big 5 safari.
East Africa’s seasons have a big impact on the movement, behavior and concentrations of wild animals – including the Big 5. It pays to know where to go and at what time of year. The most guaranteed game sightings are traditionally during the destination’s dry season when the vegetation has thinned out and many animals are concentrated around permanent water sources. It’s the most comfortable time to travel – dry weather, cool nights and warm days – but it’s also the period that sees the highest visitor numbers and correspondingly high prices; out-of-season Big 5 safaris can be just as rewarding in terms of sightings not to mention the saving you’ll make – and you may have the place much to yourself.
Talk to us about the best time to go on a Big 5 safari – we’ll match a destination to your date range to ensure you get the maximum reward.
The Big 5 are traditionally regarded as most dangerous animals in East Africa but that’s from a hunter’s perspective – as a visitor armed with nothing more dangerous than a camera and seated in a sturdy 4X4 with a professional guide and tracker as company, the risk posed by encounters with the Big 5 is absolutely minimal.
While at your accommodation, you can make use of a lodge guard or indeed your guide to escort you safely to and from your room or tent, something you may want to consider at night.
If little beats the thrill of game drives in Big 5 country, imagine what a walking safari in such a destination is like. With the prospect of an encounter with any number of large and potentially dangerous animals literally around every corner, a Big 5 walking safari is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating experiences you’re likely to have. You’ll be under the professional care of an armed guide who, backed up by rangers and trackers, will ensure your safety is paramount. Standards of accommodation, food and comfort are surprisingly high on our selected Big 5 walking safaris. This is common outside of East Africa. In East Africa, learn from your guide about any bush walks.
Talk to us on matching the right Big 5 safari destination to your itinerary. Some destinations deliver better and more guaranteed sightings than others and we can also advise you on where to go for the best chances to see a specific animal, such as leopard, or for the most dramatic Big 5 sightings like huge herds of elephant or buffalo-hunting prides of lion.
