Some of the most widely recognizable wildlife on the planet are the animals found in the savannas, grasslands and woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa. They provide the safari experience that tourists yearn for, whether fierce predators or kind giants.

The Big Five which was a hunting term used to describe the most difficult animals to hunt no longer have to be chased by hunters because they are now a marvel for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers due to their beauty and significance in nature.

It is not only a sight to behold, but getting to know nature, watching the animals in their natural habitat, and enjoying activities like sunrise game drives and sunsets on the open plains.

African Safari Animals: The Big Five

The most popular animals during African safari are the Big Five. These are: the lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros and African buffalo. They are all different in behavior, looks and habitat.

Lion

• Lions are referred to as the king of the jungle and they are one of the most thrilling animals to see while on safari.
• Male lions tend to die earlier than the female counterparts since they mostly engage in fights to claim territory.
• Most of the hunting is done by female lions who hunt in pairs.
• They are strong carnivores feeding on animals  like the  zebras, impalas, wildebeests, buffalo and warthogs.

Leopard

• Like the lion, the african leopard is also a great cat.
• Its elongated body structure is supported by short legs and strong shoulders enabling it to climb trees and swim with ease.
• Leopards are characterized by rosette-like spots on their bodies.
• Leopards are mainly animals of the night i.e., they are active during the night.
• Leopards unlike lions are opportunistic predators and will feed on just about anything that comes in their path.

Elephant

• Elephants are the heaviest animals on land. 
• Although they are gigantic, elephants only feed on plants. They are known to spend numerous hours daily feeding on leaves, tree bark, grass and fruits.
• They are called browsers since they like feeding on trees and shrubs and not only on grass.
• Adult elephants have limited enemies but the young and weak calves often fall prey to lions.

Rhinoceros

• Both the white and black rhino species are found in Africa and easily seen while on safari however rhinos are critically endangered due to the intense poaching for their horns and habitat loss.
• The black rhino has been listed as critically endangered and the white rhino labelled as near threatened.

Quick Rhino Facts:

• Can weigh over 1,000 kg
• Live up to 40–50 years
• Have skin up to 5 cm thick

African Cape Buffalo

• The African buffalo is one of the Big Five and is reputed to be strong, unpredictable and dangerous in nature. It possesses huge, curved horns which render it to appear very strong. You’ll often see them moving together in big herds across the savanna.
• They are powerful and tend to unite to defend themselves even when they are attacked by predators like the lions. 

Other Iconic Safari Species

Other than the Big Five safari animals, numerous other render safaris very exciting. These species introduce diversity and bring about dynamic wildlife views.

Giraffe

• Giraffes are the tallest land animals,  characterized with very long necks and legs.
• Their height enables them to reach leaves of tall trees which other animals could not consume.
• They are peaceful and tend to walk slowly in open savannas.

Zebra

• With the black and white striped bodies, zebras can be easily identified.
• They are found in groups, and this aids in defending against predators.
• They tend to graze with other animals such as wildebeest in order to be safe.

Cheetah

• Cheetahs are the fastest land mammals  and are designed to be fast and hunters.
• Primarily found in grasslands & savannahs of Africa. They prefer open,flat areas which aids high-speed hunting.
• Females except when raising cubs are mostly solitary. Male cheetahs stay in small groups usually made up of  2-5 siblings from the same family defending their territory and hunting together. 
• They communicate with chirps, hisses & purrs and not roars like most people think.

Wildebeest

• Wildebeests are a large African Antelope  known to have a huge annual across the Serengeti in Tanzania to Masai Mara in Kenya.
• They migrate in big numbers in search of new grass & they also stay in large numbers for safety reasons.
• They give birth to calves that can stand and run within minutes which is seen as an adaptation to nature.
• Predators such as lions and cheetahs are attracted to their movement.
• They have a significant contribution to the maintenance of grassland ecosystems.

Hippopotamus

• Hippos spend the majority of their time in water in order to be cooled by the scorching sun.
• They are herbivores that graze on land at night and spend days submerged in water. 

• They are able to move fast when in danger, even though their bodies are heavy.
• They are highly territorial and highly aggressive. They are considered the most dangerous mammal in Africa causing more deaths than lions do because of their unpredictable nature.

Flamingo

• Flamingos are lovely birds, and often live in large flocks in alkaline lakes.
• The water would be observed as a pink-coloured sea together.
• Their food, which contains food algae, and small crustaceans, makes them pink.
• They can be active both day & night and are often observed standing, or feeding in shallow water.

Gorilla

• Gorillas are closely related to humans after chimpanzees and bonobos, sharing 96% – 98% of their DNA with humans.
• Live in social groups/ families led by an Alpha male / dominant silverback. They are intelligent, gentle and display emotions. 
• They walk on their knuckles to support their weight
• Primary herbivorous eating large portions of stems & leaves.
• Mountain gorillas cannot be found in captivity, only in the wild.
• They are classified as endangered due to poaching, disease and  habitant loss.

Top Wildlife Viewing Locations

The world is endowed with some of the best wildlife destinations in Africa. Every area has its own scenery, wildlife and safari. 

East Africa: Well-known Safari Parks

East Africa is particularly known for its expansive grasslands and large wildlife migrations. It is among the most favorable places in the globe where one can view animals in large numbers and action.

Top places in East Africa:

• Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya): Famous due to the great migration and big cats.
• Serengeti National Park (Tanzania): Infinite plains of lions, wildebeest and zebras.
• Amboseli National Park (Kenya): Amboseli herds of elephants are high with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background.
• Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania): An animal theater of nature that is full of animals.
• Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda): Tree climbing lions and other animals.
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Uganda) & Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda): Best places to see the endangered Mountain Gorillas.

Southern Africa: Rich Wildlife Reserves

Southern Africa is known to have well preserved parks, stable wildlife populations and all-year-round safari opportunities. It provides some of the most comfortable and organized safari.

Top places in Southern Africa:

• Kruger National Park (South Africa): This is one of the best and the most famous safari parks in Africa which contains all the big five animals.
• Chobe National Park (Botswana): Well-known with huge masses of elephants along the river.
• Okavango Delta (Botswana): Unrivalled water based wild animal safari.
• Etosha National Park (Namibia): It has salt pans which accommodate massive animals.
• Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe): Elephants, lions and buffaloes.

Rivers, Wetlands & Open Landscapes

• The safari travel is further made exciting and more varied because different animals are found in different habitats.
• Rivers bring hippos, crocodiles and thirsty herds.
• Wetlands suit birds and aquatic species.
• Zebras, wildebeest and predators are best suited to open plains.
• The borders of forests are commonly home to rare and elusive animals.

Best Time to Spot Safari Animals

Seasons are different when it comes to wildlife sightseeing. Safaris are best during the dry season as animals congregate around water holes .

The most active times are in the mornings and afternoons when the animals either are feeding or hunting. It is usually quiet during noon when they are resting under the shade.

Green scenery, birth of animals, and excellent bird watching is enjoyed in the rainy season when there are fewer tourists. Generally, wildlife may be observed throughout the year, however, time of year is significant.

Important Safari Tips

It is important to prepare and be aware to have the best safari.

• Be silent, do not move suddenly.
• Always follow instructions of the guide.
• Wear neutral-colored clothing
• Carry field glasses in case of long distance view.
• Bring a camera with zoom feature.
• Value wildlife and maintain a distance.
• Be patient, good sightings are time-consuming.
• Go on numerous game drives to increase opportunities.

Conclusion

One of the most memorable wildlife experiences in the world is being able to see the Safari Animals in their natural habitats. With its mighty Big Five and elegant herbivores and cunning predators, every species adds its beauty to the African wilderness. Safaris tours do not just offer a sight seeing experience but also knowledge, appreciation and respect to the nature. 

FAQs 

What are Safari Animals?

Wild animals such as the Big Five, grazers, predators and birds found in the savanna and grasslands are usually found in African safaris known as Safari animals.

What is the most appropriate time to watch wildlife in safari?

The best opportunities to see them are in early morning and late afternoon in the dry season.

Is it safe to visit a safari?

Yes, safaris are safe in the hands of professionals and visitors adhering to the instructions.