Hunting was banned long ago in many countries, including Kenya, and so the term ‘big five’ was subsequently adopted by safari tour operators, and is now the ‘benchmark’ for a successful safari. Whether or not you see the big five will depend on your destination, how skilled your guide is, and most of all – your luck on the day.
The most popular parks where the ‘Big Five’ can be sighted in East Africa are the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lewa Conservancy, Tsavo East & West National Parks, Serengeti National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater. Some other parks might not have all of the big five, but it is possible to have an itinerary to multiple destinations where these animals are resident.