The “Big 5” refers to: Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant and the Cape Buffalo. Why not the hippo, gorilla or giraffe you may ask? Are they not large as well? How about the cheetah -- that would be an animal you would probably like to see as much? Well, the term "big five" was coined by big game hunters, referring to the difficulty in hunting these large animals, mostly due to their immense strength and ferocity.

The African Elephant

The African elephant (Loxodonta africana) is the largest land mammal in the world. Elephants live in woodlands, forests, deserts and the savannah. They can live up to 70 years.

Rhinocerous

There are two species of rhino in Africa, the Black rhino (Diceros bicornis) and the White rhino (Ceratotherium simum). Rhinos can live between 30-50 years.

Leopard

The African leopard (Panthera pardus) is more numerous than the African rhino. Leopards live throughout sub-Saharan Africa, covering a wide range of habitats from thick forests to highlands.

Lion

The African lion (Panthera leo) king of the sub-Saharan savanna, has been admired by man for its beauty and strength for thousands of years.

Cape Buffalo

Buffalo are commonly found throughout sub-Saharan Africa in wildlife areas that have plenty of water because they need to drink every day.