by N. G. Maroa
Lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhinoceros are commonly referred to as the ‘Big Five.’ The term originated among the hunters of a bygone era to describe not the largest of the animals that they hunted, but the most dangerous. Every one of these animals has a reputation for pursuing its attacker with intent to kill. Perhaps the most persistent is the buffalo, which ceaselessly pursues his aggressor, making hunting a life-or-death experience for the hunted and the hunter!
All of these mammals are to be found in the African Savannah grassland, making this continent the most popular safari style holiday destinations.
Most countries in the continent have realized the importance of this natural heritage and now protect designated reserves for the animal kingdom. Kenya has embraced this rich wildlife heritage and welcomes visitors from all around the world who come to experience close encounters with the magnificent beasts. Most of the reserves are well served by game lodges that offer the most luxurious accommodation and facilities available for ‘bush’ holidays in the world.
The Tsavo Game Reserve, for example, is arguably one of the richest in terms of animal habitation in the continent. The reserve is spacious where the wildlife roams freely. Lions, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes and leopards are very common. In fact all of the Big Five can be viewed at Tsavo.
Other well-known and excellent reserves around the country where one can view the Big Five in Kenya include the world-renowned Maasai Mara, Samburu, Mt Kenya and Nairobi Game Park.
Nairobi Game Park is particularly interesting due to its proximity to the city centre. Very few cities in the world can boast of a natural game park that's within the city boundaries. It’s incredible how one is able to take a game drive and spot the Big Five just at a stone throw from the city centre. Get me right; this is not a zoo; it’s a natural habitat where all manner of wild animals roam free! Within the middle of Nairobi's urban sprawl we also have an indigenous ancient forest that covers over 600 hectares. The Ngong Forest Sanctuary is home to over 400 species of birds and other animals.
In this Game Park in the City, you are certain to see giraffe, leopard, lion and other animals at close range especially at the animal orphanage situated at the gate to the park.
Those who can travel as far as the Laikipia – a pleasant day’s drive along the beautiful Aberdares Range – can also view the Big Five and other species of game at the excellent Samburu and Laikipia Game Reserves – both well-worth the visit for game lovers.
A safari holiday to Kenya is often considered incomplete without sightings of the Big Five. Game hunting is however prohibited in the country but these days most people are content to take home photographs of the living animals rather than skins and hunting trophies.
About The Author
N. G. Maroa writes exclusively for Safari Wagon
