Big 5 Safari – Africa’s iconic wildlife, up close
From first-time safari travellers to seasoned safari purists, a Classic Big 5 Safari brings you close to Africa’s most iconic wildlife. An unforgettable family adventure, romantic escape or first taste of Africa, the experience is made more rewarding by private guides, flexible days and access to private reserves — giving you the freedom to spend more time where your interests lead.
What to expect
A safari can be as adventurous, indulgent, active or unhurried as you want it to be.
Exceptional safari stays
Beautifully designed camps and lodges, private decks and plunge pools overlooking the wilderness, wellness spas, delicious cuisine and time to simply switch off.
Game drives
Track rhino and wild dogs to big cats and elephants, with expert guides who know how to read the bush — making even the smallest encounters meaningful.
Walking safari
Leave the vehicle behind and experience the wilderness on foot, learning to read tracks, plants and the smaller details of the landscape.
Sundowners
Experience the classic African sunset. Stop as the light softens, raise a glass and watch the sky change colour across the wilderness.
Dining under the stars
From bush breakfasts to atmospheric dinners beneath the night sky, food becomes part of the safari experience.
Conservation experiences
Go behind the scenes to discover the work protecting wildlife and wild places — and, where possible, meet the people making it happen.
Family adventures
Nature walks, junior ranger activities, wildlife tracking and experiences designed to get younger travellers genuinely engaged with the bush.
Wellness & relaxation
Balance time in the wilderness with spa treatments, yoga, swimming and unhurried afternoons surrounded by nature.
Adventure safari
For adventurous spirits, add horseback riding, quad biking, white-water rafting and mountain biking to your safari.
The best destinations for a Classic Big 5 Safari
South Africa
From accessible private reserves to expansive wilderness, South Africa offers exceptional Big 5 viewing alongside excellent guiding and easy combinations with Cape Town and the Winelands.
Botswana
Wild, remote and beautifully unhurried, with exceptional wildlife encounters across the Okavango Delta, Chobe and surrounding wilderness.
Zimbabwe
A more adventurous take on the classic safari, with superb guiding, walking opportunities and some of Africa’s most rewarding wildlife regions.
Zambia
Known for its wild landscapes, expert guiding and walking safaris, with the chance to experience the bush away from the crowds.
Make it part of a bigger African journey
A safari can be the heart of your trip – or one part of a much bigger African adventure.
Combine your time in the bush with:
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Victoria Falls
Add the drama of Victoria Falls, with river adventures, wildlife and time to explore one of Africa’s great natural wonders.
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Beach & Island Escape
Wind down after safari on the Indian Ocean, from Mozambique and Zanzibar to the islands and beaches of Kenya.
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Cape Town & The Winelands
Pair wildlife with great food, wine, scenery and city life in one of Africa’s most effortlessly enjoyable combinations.
LET US HELP YOU SHAPE YOUR SAFARI
Your safari, your way
There are countless ways to experience a Big 5 Safari. Our safari designers know the destinations, seasons and experiences that work best — and can help you find the right fit, with preferential rates, booking access and special offers across our trusted partners.
Tell us what you’re imagining, and we’ll help make it your own.