The term "Big Five" — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino — dates back to the hunting era but today describes the most sought-after sightings on any safari.

Where to find them

Kenya is one of the few countries where you can realistically see all five. The Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru are especially rewarding.

Beyond the Big Five

Don't overlook Kenya's remarkable "Special Five" of the north — Grevy's zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, gerenuk and beisa oryx — found in Samburu and nowhere else on your average safari.