The story of Africa’s “Big Five” carries a complex and layered history, deeply intertwined with colonialism, cultural traditions, and modern conservation efforts. Coined during the colonial era—particularly from the 17th to 19th centuries—the term “Big Five” (also “Big 5”) initially referred to the challenge and level of difficulty hunting five of Africa’s largest and most formidable mammals: lions, elephants, buffaloes, rhinos, and leopards.
These animals were particularly renowned for their immense size, strength, intelligence, unpredictable nature and considerable threat to hunters — especially on foot. However, despite their “Big” classification, it wasn’t merely their size that made lions, elephants, buffalos, rhinos, and leopards formidable targets.
For wildlife trophy hunters of the time, the challenge of bringing down these beasts became a symbol of status and achievement, effectively making the “Big Five” a famous and coveted trophy of bravery and marksmanship across Europe and North America.
Also read: Africa’s Big Five Wildlife – meet the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo
A Colonial Obsession
Colonial hunters and explorers saw Africa as an untapped wilderness teeming with dangerous game. The introduction of firearms allowed them to hunt species that were previously only taken down by experienced indigenous hunters with spears or bows. Shooting a member of the Big Five—often under dangerous conditions—quickly became a way for foreign adventurers to gain respect.
As hunting trophies such as elephant tusks, lion skins, and rhino horns grew popular in European markets, these animals became both cultural symbols of triumph and victims of a growing trade in exotic goods.
By the early 20th century, the demand for ivory, skins, and horns, along with expanding colonial settlements, caused severe declines in wildlife populations. Ironically, this was also the period when Africa’s first game reserves were established—often to ensure hunters would still have game to pursue.
Cultural Significance of the Big Five
Long before colonial hunters arrived, the animals now known as the Big Five already held deep meaning in African cultures, with many Native African communities holding a deep respect for the Big 5 animals, intertwining them with their spiritual, cultural and religious beliefs.
Today, the Big Five are still symbols of power, courage, honour, and nobility in Africa, a trend observed around the world with the widely known phrase “King of the Jungle”. But these wild animals weren’t merely game for hunting—they were woven into the stories, ceremonies, and identities of the communities that lived alongside them.
Lions, for example, were often connected with divine or ancestral protection. In Pedi culture, chiefs adorned themselves with lion pelts to show strength, reinforcing their authority over both people and nature. In Pedi culture the chief traditionally wears Leopard and Lion pelts to show leadership and strength, reinforcing their authority over both people and nature.
In Kwa-Zulu Natal, Leopard skins are worn by Zulu royalty and high-ranking leaders to show wisdom and strength, a practice still seen today in ceremonial events. Zulu warriors would also wear leopard skins as a reward for their courage and bravery in battle. The teeth and claws of leopards were also used to make beads used for necklaces, and were a sign of the power and achievements of the wearer.
From Trophies to National Treasures: The Conservation Shift
As attitudes shifted in the 20th century, the narrative around the Big Five evolved from conquest to conservation. Alarmed by plummeting animal numbers, African governments and conservationists began setting up protected areas, with early game reserves like Kruger National Park and Hluwhluwe-Imfolozi playing a key role. Over time, these initiatives shifted from limiting hunting to promoting wildlife tourism, transforming the “Big Five” from hunted trophies into sought-after photographic subjects.
Today, the Big Five are a cornerstone of African safari tourism, drawing millions of visitors eager to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitats. Local game reserves, rehabilitation projects, and wildlife conservation initiatives help ensure the future of the Big Five wild and free in their natural habitat.
Over the past century, the Big Five animals have become integral to South Africa’s tourism industry and economy—so much so that each one is proudly featured on the country’s banknotes. The ten-rand note (R10.00) showcases the rhinoceros, the twenty-rand note features the elephant, the lion appears on the fifty-rand note, the buffalo on the one-hundred-rand note, and the leopard graces the two-hundred-rand note.
Experience the Big Five in the Wild
For those seeking to connect with Africa’s iconic wildlife, visiting one of the country’s Big Five game reserves offers a glimpse into the continent’s living heritage. Whether on a game drive in the Serengeti, a walking safari in South Africa’s Timbavati Reserve, or on a sunset drive through Aquila Private Game Reserve, encountering these animals in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity you will never forget.
By participating in responsible wildlife tourism, travellers can contribute directly to conservation efforts, ensuring that future generations can experience the Big Five roaming free—just as they have for centuries. The journey from colonial hunting fields to conservation icons reflects a powerful shift in values, reminding us of the need to protect and cherish Africa’s wild heart.
