See the Big Five — the Luxury Way
Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino — in style
Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino — the Big Five are the reason many people come to Africa, and seeing all five is a genuine thrill. Do it from a superb private reserve, with an expert guide and a beautiful lodge to return to, and it becomes unforgettable.
We know exactly where to send you for the best chance of the full set.
What the Big Five are — and where to see them
The term dates back to the animals that were hardest to hunt on foot; today it’s a bucket list, not a hunt. The private reserves of the Greater Kruger — especially the Sabi Sand and Timbavati — offer some of the most reliable Big Five viewing anywhere, thanks to dense wildlife and off-road access.
“The safari in Mala Mala was the highlight where our guide, Nick, did his best to assure we would see all the possible animals in this game reserve.”
— Ranger Buck guest, Mala Mala
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I guaranteed to see all Big Five?
No ethical operator can guarantee wild animals, but the top private reserves offer very high chances — and a few days in the Sabi Sand or Timbavati gives you an excellent shot at the full set.
What’s the best reserve for the Big Five?
The Sabi Sand and Timbavati are perennial favourites for reliable, close sightings with off-road access.
How many days do I need?
Three to four nights in a top reserve gives a strong chance of all five, with time to enjoy the lodge too.
Why Sabi Sand and Timbavati
These private reserves are famous for their relaxed leopards and excellent lion and rhino sightings, and their guides can go off-road to follow the action — something not permitted in the national parks. It’s the difference between glimpsing wildlife and truly experiencing it.
The luxury side
Pair superb game viewing with lodges like Mala Mala, Kings Camp and Kapama, add a private vehicle and guide, and you have a Big Five safari that wants for nothing.
Example of a Luxury Safari ITINERARY
DAY 1
SAXON HOTEL VILLAS & SPA
Bed and Breakfast
1 Night
DAYS 2-6
CHEETAH PLAINS PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
Full Board Plus – Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
4 Nights
DAYS 6-8
DELAIRE GRAFF LODGES & SPA
Bed and Breakfast
2 Nights
DAYS 8-11
THE SILO HOTEL
Bed and Breakfast
3 Nights
Real sightings
Our guests come home with the stories — elephants, lions, giraffes and more, found by guides who know exactly where to look.
Explore More Ways to Travel
Curate Your Own
Personalised Travel Itinerary
Curate Your Own Personalised Travel Itinerary
We specialise in creating completely personalised travel itineraries tailored to your personal needs and expectations. Simply click on the button below to chat to one of our ecosafari specialists and lets start planning your very best African safari to your very favourite destination.
+27 83 653 5776
+27 83 653 5776 (WhatsApp)
info@rangerbucksafaris.com
16 Lourie Close, Meyersdal Eco Estate,
Alberton, Gauteng
16 Lourie Close, Meyersdal Eco Estate, Alberton, Gauteng
Website by Keeden Marketing | 2024
