Big 5 safari Kenya | see the Big Five Animals in Kenya

The Big Five Safari in Kenya

Kenya is ranked as one of the most popular safari destinations for excellent big five safaris, here you are able to be thrilled with these animals which are located in different destinations of the country.

Kenya Big five safaris surely offer the most mind blowing experiences of the country as these are involved with numerous other safari engagement and in here are some of the things to take note of about the big five.

What Are the Big Five Animals in Kenya?

When you are having the most exciting safaris in the republic of Kenya, the term “Big Five” is one of the common words you will get to hear all over and this term was originally coined by big-game hunters to describe the five most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot. And today, it represents the most sought-after wildlife sightings on any African safari.

Here are the big five that you are yet to be thrilled of as you engage on a big five safari in the republic of Kenya.

Lion – The Powerful and Social “King of the Jungle” mostly refered to as Panthera leo in a scientific term, lions inhabit open savannas, grasslands, and woodlands they are also known to have a Social Structure of the big cats, living in prides that usually consist of related females, their cubs, and a coalition of males. Their roar can be heard up to 8 kilometers (5 miles) away.

Leopard – these are known to be Elusive, Stealthy, and Arboreal and scientifically called Panthera pardus. Leopards usually inhabit Extreme forests, savannas, mountains, and even deserts. They are also known to be Solitary and nocturnal; expert climbers known for dragging prey into trees to protect it from scavengers, Exceptionally strong for their size, capable of carrying animals heavier than themselves. Leopards are also Opportunistic and will eat anything from antelope to birds, reptiles, and even insects.

Elephant – Intelligent Giants of Africa is what elephants are usually called by sightseers, these great animals are scientifically called Loxodonta Africana. Elephants inhabit Savannas, forests, and deserts across sub-Saharan Africa, these animals are known to be the largest land animal on Earth; males can weigh up to 6,000 kg (13,000 lbs). Elephants live in matriarchal herds, led by the oldest female; males often live solitary or in small bachelor groups.

Buffalo – buffalos are termed as the Unpredictable and Formidable Fighters of the forest, scientifically known as Syncerus caffer and just like the rest of the big five these as well inhabit the Savannas, woodlands, and floodplains across sub-Saharan Africa. Buffalos live in large, cohesive herds; extremely protective of their young and injured.

They are also known for defensive cooperation as they form protective circles and even rescue members from predators.

Buffalos Possess massive horns that fuse at the base, forming a bony shield called a “boss.” And they are considered as one of the most dangerous African animals due to their strength and unpredictability.

Rhinoceros – Rhinoceros are known to be the Ancient, Powerful, and Endangered Species in Africa, these are grouped in two, the black rhinos which are scientifically known as Diceros bicornis they are smaller, hook-lipped, browsers. Then the White Rhino scientifically known as Ceratotherium simum these are larger, square-lipped, grazers.

Rhinoceros inhabit the Kenya Grasslands and savannas, particularly in protected parks and reserves, these endangered species are known to have Poor eyesight, but acute hearing and smell.

Rhinoceros have thick skin (1.5–5 cm) but sensitive to sun and insect bites hence frequent mud wallowing for their protection, their horns are made of keratin (like fingernails) and are the main reason for poaching.

Note; Black rhinos are critically endangered, with just over 5,000 individuals left. And the White rhinos are nearly threatened, though the northern subspecies is functionally extinct.

Top Destinations for a Big Five Safari in Kenya

When considering big five safaris in the republic of Kenya, here are the top safari destinations for this kind of experience and these include;

Masai Mara National Reserve

This is known as the most famous safari destination in Kenya, the Masai Mara offers thrilling game viewing experiences, masai mara is part of the larger Mara-Serengeti ecosystem and is best known for the Great Migration a spectacle involving millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles.

Masai mara national reserve is known for a certain percentage of the Big Five Sighting and it is as below;

• Lions: 90% – The maasai Mara is renowned for its high lion density and due to this fact sightseers have a high chance to marvel at these endangered species.
• Leopards: 60% –leopards areoften seen along riverine forests of the Masai Mara national Reserve and with this percentage sightseeing them while on the big five adventure is a must.
• Elephants: 75% – Frequently sighted, especially in wooded areas of the park, this percentage permits sightseers to marvel at elephants while on the big five adventure.
• Buffalo: 85% –with a percentage of 85 it is Common in large herds throughout the reserve and hence easily witnessed.
• Rhinos: 15% – Rare, mostly seen in the Mara Triangle or private conservancies.

Amboseli National Park

Amboseli is Located in southern Kenya near the Tanzanian border, Excellent for elephants, buffalo, and lions. Leopards Amboseli offers breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro and large herds of African elephants.

The Approximate Percentages of the Big Five Sightings in the Amboseli national park , Kenya is as this;

• Lions: 70% – Often spotted in open plains of Amboseli National Park, sightseers have a chance to witness these while on game drives in the destination in search of the big five.
• Leopards: 30% – Shy and elusive here, mainly seen near swamps, leopards are not so many in the park but still can be sighted while on your big five adventure.
• Elephants: 95% – Famous for large herds of elephants with iconic tusks with the percentage of 95, this is making them one of the most sought for endangered species in the park.
• Buffalo: 80% – buffalos are frequently found near marshes within the national park.
• Rhinos: 0% – Not present in Amboseli.

Lake Nakuru National Park

Famous for its flamingo-covered lake and unique landscapes, Lake Nakuru is a prime destination for spotting both black and white rhinos, lions, and leopards are often seen.

Here is the Big Five Sightings Approximate Percentages of lake Nakuru national park that you should be aware of.

• Lions: 65% – Often seen lounging in acacia trees lions are ranked as the most sought for endangered species in the national park.
• Leopards: 50% – leopards are occasionally spotted in wooded areas of the national park and having a percentage of 50 percent its best marveled at during morning hours.
• Elephants: 0% – when you are on a big five safari into the republic of Kenya you should note that there are no elephants found in this park.
• Buffalo: 85% – buffalos are commonly seen in open grasslands of Lake Nakuru national park hence while on your big five adventure this is a thrilling engagement.
• Rhinos: 90% – with this level of presence there is an excellent chance to see both black and white rhinos within the national park.

Tsavo National Parks (East & West)

Tsavo is known for its red-dusted elephants and vast wilderness and while on your Big Five Spotting you are to be thrilled with the presence of Elephants, lions, leopards, and buffalo.

Big Five Sightings Approximate Percentages in Tsavo are as below and this gives assurance of marveling at them.

• Lions: 75% – The infamous “man-eaters of Tsavo” are part of local lore these are some of the most sought for species in the national park.
• Leopards: 45% –leopards are mostly seen in rocky outcrops and dense vegetation areas of the national park, hence during game drives you are likely to marvel at these endangered animals.
• Elephants: 90% – Red-dusted elephants are a signature sight here and with a percentage of 90 it is common to witness these species as they roam within the national park.
• Buffalo: 85% – buffalos are Common in both East and West parks meaning any direction one selects it evident the witnessing of these endangered species is a must.
• Rhinos: 10% – these species are rare and mainly found in the protected rhino sanctuary in Tsavo West.

Laikipia Plateau

Located north of Mount Kenya, Laikipia is a lesser-known but incredibly rewarding safari destination, home to a number of conservancies.

The Big Five Sightings Approximate Percentages of laikipia is as below and hence having that level of percentage to witness them.

• Lions: 80% – lions can be witnessed especially in private conservancies of the destination hence topping to thrill of adventure.
• Leopards: 55% – viewing these animals it is always of Good chances in forested and hilly areas of the area.
• Elephants: 85% – elephants are often seen roaming across conservancy lands and with this kind of percentage its mind blowing.
• Buffalo: 80% – having this kind of percent it implies it is one of the commonly sighted big five in the destination.
• Rhinos: 95% – One of the best places in Kenya for black and white rhino conservation.

Safari Activities in Kenya’s to include while on a Big Five safari

Visitors who opt for the big five safari in the republic of Tanzania can engage in a range of thrilling safari activities tailored to maximize wildlife encounters and some of these include;

• Game Drives

The most popular way to explore the parks, game drives are conducted in 4×4 vehicles and led by experienced guides. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best chances to see predators on the move.

• Walking Safaris

Guided walking safaris in conservancies and private reserves offer an up-close perspective of Kenya’s flora and smaller fauna and sometimes, a thrilling Big Five encounter on foot.

• Night Game Drives

Available in private conservancies like Ol Pejeta and Lewa, night drives reveal nocturnal animals such as leopards, hyenas, and servals.

• Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Soar above the savannah at sunrise in the Masai Mara or Amboseli, spotting herds of elephants and lions from the sky an unforgettable way to observe the Big Five from a new perspective.

• Cultural Visits

Spend time with Maasai, Samburu, or Turkana communities to enrich your safari with insights into traditional life, conservation, and coexistence with wildlife.

Costs of a Big Five Safari in Kenya

Safari prices for big five safaris vary significantly depending on travel season, accommodation type, and itinerary. Here’s a general breakdown to look up to and also it should be noted that these are not consitant and can change any time of the year.

• Park Entry Fees: $50–$80 per person/day for most national parks.
• Game Drives (included in packages): Private or shared, often included in daily lodge rates.
• Luxury Safari Packages: $600–$1,500+ per person/day.
• Mid-Range Packages: $300–$600 per person/day.
• Budget Camping Safaris: From $150 per person/day.

Where to Stay During Your Safari

As you are on your big five adventure in the republic of Kenya, it is best to consider where to book for your accommodation. Kenya caters for all kinds of travelers as it has different kinds of accommodation levels including; budget backpackers to luxury seekers.

Luxury Lodges and Camps

These are some of the luxury lodges and camps to consider when selecting from a luxury level of budget as these offer great services and these include; Angama Mara (Masai Mara), Elewana Tortilis Camp (Amboseli), Finch Hattons (Tsavo West)

Mid-Range Options

For all those opting for mid-range budget below are some of the options to select from as you are getting thrilled by the services they provide and these involve; Sopa Lodges (available in many parks), Sarova Mara Game Camp, Serena Lodges.

Budget Camps

For budget level options the best camps to select from include; Manyatta Camp (Masai Mara), Kibo Safari Camp (Amboseli), Public campsites in Tsavo and other parks

Best and Worst Times to Visit for Big Five Sightings

While in Nairobi for the big five safari it should be best to be aware of the best and worst time to have this experience, here are the best and worst time to consider visiting Kenya for big five sighting.

• Best Time: when you are on your big five safari adventure in the republic of Tanzania the best time for this adventure is during June to October and this is the dry season. In the dry it is easier for sightseers to marvel at animal near waterholes and open terrain.
• Good Time: January to February these months are known to be short dry season and fewer crowds. Hence for sightseers who are not interested in crowds this is the best time to visit the national parks.
• Green Season: when considering the green seasons of the year this is from the months of March to May known for fewer tourists and lush scenery, but some areas may be inaccessible due to rains.
• Migration Highlight: when considering the migration highlights, these run from the months of July to October and here you are able to witness the dramatic river crossings in the Mara.

How to Get to the Parks

There are various ways to get to the national parks for this thrilling big five adventure in the republic of Tanzania and these below are the ways to consider.

• By Air

Sightseers who opt for the big five safari adventures in the republic of Tanzania can get to have daily scheduled flights from Nairobi (Wilson Airport) to major parks via Air Kenya, Safari Link, or Mombasa Air Safari. This is considered to be the quickest way to get to the destinations and also less tiring way.

• By Road

This is known to be the cheapest way to getting to national parks as sightseers can get to connect to the parks and also be able to witness other attractions along the ways, as most of the parks have different time durations to be reached as you use road transport such as;

• Nairobi to Masai Mara: ~5–6 hours.
• Nairobi to Amboseli: ~4 hours.
• Nairobi to Lake Nakuru: ~3 hours.