African Winter Safaris
True bush lovers know that winter is an ideal time for game viewing, with temperatures and terrain ideal for magnificent sightings. Traditionally dry, winters at South African game reserves see the vegetation become sparse, allowing for excellent game and bird viewing. The arid conditions also force many animals to look for water at open water holes, increasing the chances of being spotted by guests. A winter safari experience will be one that is remembered forever, with the warmth of true African hospitality making up for the chilly nights and mornings.
True bush lovers know that winter is an ideal time for game viewing, with temperatures and terrain ideal for magnificent sightings. Traditionally dry, winters at South African game reserves see the vegetation become sparse, allowing for excellent game and bird viewing. The arid conditions also force many animals to look for water at open water holes, increasing the chances of being spotted by guests. A winter safari experience will be one that is remembered forever, with the warmth of true African hospitality making up for the chilly nights and mornings.
The Big Five
Historically, safari-goers have hoped to see the 'Big Five' [http://sabisabi.com/safaris.php] - lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo - and your chances of having these extraordinary experiences are increased by going in winter. Historically a hunting term - in days gone by the Big Five were viewed by hunters as the most dangerous animals to stalk and hunt on foot - the term is now used by safari-goers hoping to glimpse these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.
Lion
You will see lions - the biggest of Africa's cats - hunting or resting in family groups called 'prides'. The pride will be made up predominantly of females - who also bring down the kills - with a few young males. Lions spend most of their time resting, gathering energy for the evening hunt. One of the most spectacular ways to see lions is byfollowing a kill - first the search for prey, then the quiet stalking (sometimes for hours) and then the chase. While most attacks see the prey getting away, those that result in a kill make spectacular viewing.
Leopard
It is a thrilling sight to see the spotted coat of a leopard resolve itself into the shape of a cat. But it is not only their camouflage that makes them hard to see - they are also more retiring than lions. Leopards live and hunt alone - only getting together to breed - and they tend to avoid people. All the more reason to give yourself the best chance of sighting these elegant and elusive animals.
Elephant
The majestic elephant is perhaps the best known symbol of the African safari. African elephants are much bigger and squarer than their Indian counterparts, with huge ears to keep them cool and long trunks. Elephants areintensely social animals - if you see one, it means there will be others close by. The females in particular form life-long family bonds - even if a herd becomes too big and some females form their own herd, they will remain aware of which other herds they are related to. Young calves have many 'aunts' and are looked after by the whole herd, being weaned for up to two years. One of the most touching sights in the bush is the young calf struggling to get its trunk under control! Males are more solitary, though still part of a herd. They also form close bonds with one another One of the most unforgettable ways to experience elephants is to see how harmoniously they amble by together as a herd, appearing suddenly and silently from the bush.
Rhinoceros
Both white and black rhinos are found in South Africa - the black rhino is endangered, while the white rhino is more commonly seen in the wild. Black rhinos are notoriously aggressive and will charge when threatened; and white rhino are more likely to make a quick getaway when frightened. Rhinos have very poor eyesight and rely on smell and hearing to alert them to danger. Once hunted almost to extinction for their horns, strict anti-poaching policies and breeding programmes have restored their numbers across South Africa. Only when viewing a rhino close up from an open Land Rover are you aware of how big and powerful this species is.
Buffalo
The last member of the exclusive Big Five club is the buffalo, called bison in the USA. These deceptively placid-looking creatures are in fact some of the most dangerous to encounter in the bush. Their huge horns and enormous strength make them a match even for lions, who will often be chased off by a herd of buffalo. Moving together in herds that can number into the thousands, buffalos may not have the grace of a leopard of the majestic stature of an elephant; but they possess their own brand of uniqueness and mystery that earn them a well-deserved place on the Big Five list.
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