Spot the Big Five at Kapama | Safari Wildlife Guide

A safari in South Africa is incomplete without witnessing the Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. These magnificent creatures earned their name from early hunters, not due to their size but because they were considered the most challenging and dangerous animals to hunt on foot. Today, they are the highlight of any safari experience, especially at Kapama Private Game Reserve, where guests have an excellent chance of spotting all five during a three night or more safari stay. In this guide, we’ll explore where and when to find these iconic animals during your Kapama safari.

Where to Spot Each of the Big Five in Kapama

1. Lions – The Kings of the Bush

Lions are social animals, often found in prides, making them easier to locate than some of the other Big Five. At Kapama, they are commonly seen in open savannah areas and near waterholes where prey gathers. During the day, lions rest under trees or in the shade, but they become more active at dusk and dawn.

Best Locations: Open plains and near water sources.
Best Time to See Them: Early mornings and late afternoons when they are hunting or moving.

2. Leopards – The Elusive Hunters

Leopards are the most secretive of the Big Five, often hiding in dense bush or lounging in trees. They are territorial and prefer areas with thick vegetation and rocky outcrops. Night safaris increase your chances of spotting a leopard, as they are more active after dark.

Best Locations: Riverbanks, dense bush areas, and trees.
Best Time to See Them: At night or early morning before they retreat to rest.

3. Elephants – Gentle Giants of Kapama

Elephants are among the easiest of the Big Five to spot due to their size and herd behaviour. They frequent waterholes daily, as they need large amounts of water. You’ll often see them in large family groups led by a matriarch, while solitary bulls may also roam the reserve.

Best Locations: Waterholes and open woodlands.
Best Time to See Them: Throughout the day, but best in the mornings and afternoons.

Elephant and two white rhinos grazing on green grassland under a cloudy sky in Kapama Private Game Reserve, surrounded by acacia trees and bushveld

4. Rhinos – The Ancient Behemoths

White rhinos call Kapama home, they are grazers by nature, peacefully feeding on the abundant grasses that carpet the reserve. Due to their thick skin and strong sense of smell, they tend to be cautious of approaching threats, making sightings particularly rewarding.

Best Locations: Open plains (white rhinos).
Best Time to See Them: Early mornings and late afternoons when they are most active.

5. Buffalos – The Unpredictable Herds

Buffalos are often found in large herds, though lone bulls (referred to as “dagga boys”) are also common. They spend much of their day grazing but must stay close to water. Despite their docile appearance, they are known for their unpredictable nature, making them one of the most dangerous animals in Africa.

Best Locations: Grasslands and near rivers or waterholes.
Best Time to See Them: Throughout the day, but mornings are best when herds move to water sources.

Safari guests observing a lioness resting on a dirt road from a 4x4 game vehicle during a guided drive in Kapama Private Game Reserve.

Best Times for Big Five Sightings

Timing is key when it comes to spotting the Big Five. Kapama game drives are scheduled at optimal times to give guests the best opportunity for excellent wildlife sightings: :

Morning Game Drives (5:30 – 9:00 AM):

Excellent for predator activity, as lions and leopards are often finishing nighttime hunts.
Cooler temperatures encourage animals to be more active.

Afternoon Game Drives (3:30 – 6:30 PM):

Great for observing wildlife as they move towards water sources.
Predators begin to stir as they prepare for nighttime hunting.

We don’t do night safaris but our late afternoon safari runs after dark. Guests will experience about 1 hour after dark safari, which is best for spotting nocturnal animals, particularly leopards.

Tips for Spotting the Big Five at Kapama

To make the most of your safari experience, follow these expert tips:

Go with an experienced guide – Kapama is the perfect choice as we offer two daily safaris with an expert guide and assistant guide. Their experience and understanding of animal behaviour play a vital role in finding the best location for excellent wildlife sightings.
Stay patient and observant – The Big Five may not always appear instantly, so patience is key, that is why Kapama’s guiding team plays such an important role on safari..
Use binoculars – Some animals, like leopards, may be resting in distant trees, so we recommend to bring along a pair of binoculars to enhance your safari experience
Remain silent and respect the animals – Loud noises can disturb wildlife and reduce your chances of a sighting. A pre-safari briefing from your guide will outline the protocol to follow during your safari for guests to have the best experience

Conclusion

A safari at Kapama Game Reserve offers one of the best opportunities to see the Big Five in their natural habitat. With expert guides, breathtaking landscapes, and an abundance of wildlife, every game drive is a thrilling adventure. Whether it’s the commanding presence of a lion, the grace of a leopard, or the sheer power of an elephant, experiencing these creatures up close is an unforgettable moment. Book your Kapama safari today and embark on the ultimate Big Five adventure!

Story and photos by: Trichia Jacobs, Community Liaison