During your time on Safari in Tanzania you will have the chance to see the Big Five, the lion, the African elephant, the African buffalo, the leopard and the rhinoceros. There are a some other African countries where you can see the Big Five. The most beautiful of these is certainly the United Republic of Tanzania, especially because of its large animal populations and ideal environment. The best spot to see the Big Five in Tanzania is within the famous crater of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
In the past, the selection was not primarily based on the body size of the animals, but mainly on the difficulties and dangers of hunting them. These five large African mammal species were popular with hunters as trophies and achievements. Therefore they were associated with much prestige. Fortunately most visitors nowadays are content with a great photo, but sadly hunting the big five as a recreational sport is still not prohibited in all African countries (including in certain parts of Tanzania).
Lion
Lions are markedly social creatures and Africa’s largest predators. Lions live together in herds of ca. three males and about 6 to 12 female lions plus offspring. Usually it is the females that go hunting and feed the young. Male lions occupy and mark their own territory after they have defeated or driven away the alpha animals living in the region.
Elephant
The African elephant, the most powerful land mammal in the world, is much larger than its Asian relatives and also has larger ears, making them easy to distinguish. Females and their offspring are usually spotted in herds led by a matriarch. Male elephants are usually found in small bachelor herds or as individual bulls. Tarangire national park is one of the best areas in Tanzania to view these majestic animals.
Rhino
Although the black rhino is one of the original Big Five ensemble, other rhino species are now also included. White and black rhinoceroses differ in size and the shape of their lips. As the name suggests, white rhinoceroses have a square lip, while black rhinoceroses have a pointed upper lip. Unfortunately the rhino is highly endangered by intensive poaching, the horn is considered a potency enhancer in Asia.
Buffalo
The African buffalo (also known as Cape buffalo, Black buffalo or Steppe buffalo) can be regularly observed in very large herds. The animals resemble cattle, but one should not be fooled by their appearance. These buffaloes are incredibly strong and aggressive when provoked. Many Safari guides think of them as the most dangerous of the Big Five in Tanzania – even more dangerous than the giant hippos! Buffalo are the only members of the Big Five in Tanzania that are not classified as “endangered” or “threatened with extinction” on the IUCN Red List.
Leopard
The leopard is an elegant but shy big cat, which makes a sighting more difficult. After a successful hunt (preferably at night) the loners move their prey into the safety of trees to keep scavengers and thieves away. They usually hunt smaller antelopes, but are opportunistic hunters and do not shy away from attacking even larger animals. These beautiful spotted cats are usually found alone or with their young.
