The term “Big Five” is undeniably catchy. It was adopted by the safari business to excite visitors about the most iconic and fearsome quintet of mammals found in Africa: the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and Cape buffalo. And it is also undeniably effective; millions come to the continent every year to catch a glimpse of these awe-inspiring animals.

But of course there are dozens of other remarkable creatures to be found in Africa that should not be overlooked. We’d like you to meet four species that comprise the extended family of the Big Five: the cheetah, hippo, zebra and giraffe. All together they constitute the “Big Nine,” a catchphrase that perhaps better captures what you should look out for while on safari.

The Cheetah

Though it is also spotted like the leopard, the cheetah should not be confused with its larger, more powerful cousin. These sleek, slim and exceptionally beautiful endangered creatures are the fastest land mammals on Earth, and can run up to 70 miles per hour. They can be found in many parts of southern and Eastern Africa, including the Maasai Mara, but because their numbers are small and their range so wide, sighting one is a rare but very rewarding experience. Though they are typically solitary animals, if you do happen to see a group of them, you’ll impress your friends by calling it a “coalition” of cheetahs.

The Hippopotamus

Hippos are a far more common sight on safari than cheetahs, but most visitors only see their eyes and nostrils as they lurk just below the surface of the rivers and lakes that they love. Though hippos may look placid, they can be aggressive and territorial when provoked -- bet you didn’t know that they are actually the most dangerous land mammal in the world! So keep your distance, and if you’re patient you’ll see a “pod” of these giants as they emerge from the river in the evening to munch on grass and leaves.

The Zebra

Zebras are perhaps the most visually striking mammal in Africa. Though they all boast bold black and white stripes, each zebra has its own unique pattern, the same way you and I have unique fingerprints. They can be seen roaming the plains of southern and eastern Africa in social groups called a “harem” or “dazzle,” often nibbling each other’s necks, “horsing” around, or more importantly, protecting each other from predators such as lions and hyenas.

The Giraffe

The tallest of African mammals is not hard to spot, and considering their height it’s not surprising that a group of giraffes is called a “tower.” They spend their days with their heads high in the treetops, foraging for leaves, which they pull off branches with their 20-inch long prehensile tongues. When they’re not eating, they’re roaming the savanna looking for their next meal, and keeping an eye out for lions. Yes, lions have been known to attack giraffes, even though they are 10 times their size, but giraffes are usually able to defend themselves by running away – they can reach speeds up to 35 miles per hour – or by delivering a swift, powerful kick.

Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda - An Unforgettable Experience

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is an experience unlike any other. These gentle creatures are breathtaking to witness, and I felt truly privileged to see them in their natural habitat. As an experienced traveler in Africa, I have encountered many of the continent’s wonders, from the thundering Victoria Falls to the extraordinary wildlife—elephants, lions, leopards, and more. Yet, nothing quite prepared me for the magic of coming face to face with Rwanda’s mountain gorillas. There’s something truly awe-inspiring about meeting mountain gorillas in the wild. When they look at you, their deep, knowing eyes create an unspoken connection that feels almost human. These magnificent animals, whose DNA shares 98% similarity with ours, live in tight-knit family groups led by a dominant silverback male. It’s a humbling experience that stays with you long after you’ve left their presence.

Prepping for the Gorilla Trek

Before setting off for our trek, we were introduced to our expert guide, Bosco, who would lead us through the dense forests of Volcanoes National Park to meet the Hirwa gorilla clan. The Hirwa family is known for its size, having grown to 20 members, including a rare set of twins. These family groups are essential to the survival of the mountain gorillas. The silverback leads the group, overseeing the safety and cohesion of the family. Females, including mothers and young, make up the rest of the clan. Juveniles are often the most playful, engaging in games and mimicking adult behaviors, while infants rely heavily on their mothers for care and protection.

One of the most iconic sights on safari is the striking black-and-white stripes of a zebra grazing on the open plains. Whether standing in small family groups or moving in massive herds, these fascinating animals are a delight to observe in the wild. Most safari destinations in Africa have plenty of zebras, making them a common but always captivating sight. 

Zebras belong to the horse family and are native to Africa, with three different species found across the continent: the plains zebra, Grevy’s zebra, and mountain zebra. The plains zebra is the most common, roaming the grasslands and woodlands of eastern and southern Africa. Grevy’s zebras inhabit the dry, semi-desert regions of Kenya and Ethiopia, while the mountain zebra is adapted to the rugged terrain of Namibia, Angola, and South Africa. 

1. Every Zebra Has a Unique Stripe Pattern – and It Helps with Camouflage 

   Just like human fingerprints, no two zebras have the same stripe pattern. Scientists believe this helps with individual recognition within their herds. Their stripes also serve as a form of camouflage—while a single zebra may stand out, a moving herd creates an optical illusion that confuses predators. The bold contrast makes it harder for lions and other predators to single out an individual, increasing their chances of survival. 

2. Zebras Are Highly Social Animals 

   Zebras live in family groups called harems, consisting of a dominant stallion, several mares, and their young. These groups often come together to form larger herds for safety. Their strong social bonds help protect them from predators, and they even communicate using sounds, facial expressions, and ear movements. 

3. They Can Sleep Standing Up 

   Like their relatives, horses, zebras can sleep while standing, locking their knees to rest without collapsing. This ability helps them stay alert to danger, as they can quickly flee from predators if needed. However, zebras still lie down for deeper sleep when they feel safe in a group. 

4. Zebras Are Tougher Than They Look 

   While they may seem peaceful, zebras are strong and can be aggressive when threatened. Stallions defend their harems using powerful kicks and sharp bites. When facing predators like lions or hyenas, zebras will stand their ground in a defensive semi-circle and even try to protect injured members of their group. 

5. Zebras Embark on Epic Migrations

   Zebras are found across Africa, but some undertake remarkable seasonal migrations. In East Africa, they play a key role in the Great Migration, traveling alongside wildebeest and gazelles across the Serengeti and Maasai Mara in search of fresh grazing. In Botswana, two zebra migrations take place. The Chobe-Nxai Pan migration, one of Africa's longest mammal migrations, spans over 1,000 km, with tens of thousands of zebras moving between the Chobe River and Nxai Pan. The Okavango-Makgadikgadi zebra migration, though smaller in scale, is equally impressive. Zebras are drawn to the Okavango Delta’s floodwaters during the dry season, and when the rains arrive in the Makgadikgadi area, they head there to find lush, nutritious grasses. 

Where to See Zebras 

Zebras can be found in nearly every major safari destination in Africa, from Kenya and Tanzania to Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. If you want to witness large herds on the move, the Serengeti is one of the best places to go. Our Tanzania Explorer itinerary covers the country’s most iconic national parks on a small-group, locally hosted safari. With three nights in the Serengeti, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see zebras alongside other incredible wildlife, from lions and elephants to wildebeest and giraffes. 

To see the unique Grevy’s zebra, found only north of the equator, our Kenya Wildlife Safari takes you to the Samburu region, where you’ll encounter the Samburu Five—Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, Beisa oryx, and gerenuk. This immersive itinerary also explores Lake Nakuru and the iconic Maasai Mara. Travel in a small group with a local guide, with everything covered, including international airfare from JFK.