Published on 10th January, 2023
The "big five" animals, which include the lion, elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo, and leopard, were originally selected by big game hunters as the most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot. These animals were considered to be the ultimate challenge for hunters and were highly sought after as trophies. The term "big five" is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, and has since been adopted by safari operators and wildlife enthusiasts as a way to refer to the most iconic and sought-after wildlife species in Africa.
The factors that used to select the big five animals were primarily based on the physical characteristics and behavior of the animals, as well as the difficulty and danger associated with hunting them. The lion, elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo, and leopard were considered to be the largest, strongest, and most dangerous animals to hunt on foot, requiring skill, bravery and hunting prowess from the hunters.
Nowadays, the big five animals are considered to be the most iconic and sought-after wildlife species in Africa, and are often the main draw for safari-goers. These animals are known for their size, power, and beauty, and are considered to be the ultimate safari experience. Other factors that might be considered are the presence of the animal in the region, the animal's behavior and population density,
However, with so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which of the big five animals to see on your safari adventure. To help you plan your trip, we've compiled a detailed list of the best big five animals in Africa.