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The Big Five (or Six...)You will hear about the Big Five often in South Africa. The big five are the five largest types of animals that most anyone would love to see appear in front of the lens of their camera: the elephant, the lion, the buffalo, the leopard and the rhino. South Africans may also refer to the Big Six or even the Big Seven. The sixth animal is the whale that can be seen swimming (in season) at Hermanus or Plettenberg Bay. In any case the whale is an unforgettable sight and and can be spotted while on a boat trip in one of these areas. The seventh animal is the Great White Shark and it is common on all coastal areas of South Africa. Great white cage diving is available at several locations around Cape Town and along the Garden Route and is only recommended for the brave travellers! |
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The South African elephant Larger, perhaps even prouder than their fellow Asian species and with broader and flatter ears, the African male can grow up to 6,5 tonnes. You'll find them in Kruger, KwaZulu Natal, Addo and in several private parks. Both male and females have husks, however the female husks are smaller than those of the male. They live in groups of approximately 10-20 elephants consisting of an adult male, several bulls, females and calves. Groups of elephants are very loud, elephants communicate through use of sounds. They graze both during the day and at night and eat as much as 250 kg of food each day. Elephants also have an appetite for salt and use their husks to dig in the ground for it. An elephant can become 60-70 years old, but some become even older. |
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Prides and CubsThe lion is probably the most popular animal on safaris. Large groups of lions have lived in Kruger and Kalahari Park for ages and have also been moved to other parks. The African lion is especially active at the end of the afternoon. They are very territorial animals and mark off their territory well. A family of lions, also known as a pride, consists of 1-3 males and 10-15 females and cubs. A pride can easily control approximately 40 - 400 square kilometres. Although you might not have guessed it, 4 out of 5 of their attacks do not lead to kills. We do however suggest that you do not leave your car or safari vehicle while in the park; it's strictly prohibited. |
Buffalo herdsThe African buffalos are often underestimated; however they are impressive and powerful. Their weight (up to 800 kg), their sharp horns and their aggressive nature (especially when they are protecting their females) can make them extremely dangerous. Males may go out on their own from time to time, but usually they roam in herds of up to one hundred animals. Buffalos also mark off their territory and will mostly be found near water, especially in the dry season. Most buffalo herds can be found in Kruger and in the Kwa Zulu Natal province. |
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Leopards and CheetahsLeopards are small and heavy with a broader face. They live alone, when not mating, and usually hunt at night. They can climb like cats and can often be found sleeping in trees. The leopard is the most feared meat eater in South Africa. It can be found in the North province, Mpumalanga, Swaziland, Lesotho, in the eastern mountains, at the west Cape and in KwaZulu Natal. |
Black and White RhinosAlthough rhinos are actually grey, there are two types of rhinos, known as Black and White rhinos. The White Rhino is larger, lighter grey and has broader lips (this rhino is more wide than white). The Black Rhino is also grey and is the most common type of rhino in South Africa; especially in Kruger, Kwa Zulu Natal and Swaziland. The Black Rhino is one of the most endangered species on earth, and many Asians believe that its horn is a powerful medicine and aphrodisiac. Rhinos have poor sight, however their sense of smell is exquisite and they can smell the scent of animals (or people) in the wind. They live on their own, except during the mating season, and can be quite dangerous due to their weight of more than 1000kg. It will be almost impossible to get close to these rhinos and they are hard to pick out against the backdrop of the bush due to their grey colour. A good telelens will be necessary to get them on film. |
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Whale SpottingWhales are enormous, even when most their bodies are under water and you can only see part of them (which is common). If you want to see the spray from the blow-hole, feel the adrenaline rush from seeing this amazing creature from close by, then we strongly recommend a whale watching cruise. The best time to spot whales is between June and November. You can get closer to the whales by boat, however you can also see them (and dolphins) swimming from the coast at Hermanus and along the entire coastline between Cape Town and Plettenberg Bay. Click here for more information about dolphins and whales. |
Didn't see all five?Naturally the biggest thrill is to see every one of the big five during your safari in South Africa. However, keep in mind that you're dealing with nature and that nature makes no promises. Only zoos offer guarantees and luckily the breathtaking wildlife in South Africa is far from a zoo. Even if you don't see the Big Five, there is plenty to enjoy and to make your trip unforgettable. Going on a game drive or game walk, spending time in nature, gaining knowledge from a guide, searching for tracks, naming animals and birds, seeing the morning mist or the falling dusk, hearing the sounds of the bush; use your eyes, ears, nose and to truly experience South Africa and to come home with spectacular memories (even if you do not see the Big Five). |
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