2016 has come and gone … so now it’s time to get wild in 2017! We’ve gathered a couple of places that share the names of our beautiful Big 5. You won’t necessarily encounter these amazing animals there, but you can channel their spirit during a stay at these namesake destinations. Get clicking and tick them all off your list!

Lion

Lions Valley Lodge, KZN

This lodge is nestled in the Nambiti Private Conservancy in Ladysmith where you might actually spot a lion and even the rest of his Big-5 buddies.

Lion’s Head Cottage, CT

While chances are really slim that you might spot the king of the jungle in the Mother City, you can admire Lion’s Head from your balcony in Tamboerskloof.

Liongate B&B, JHB

Be the king of the concrete jungle at this B&B in Essexwold close to the airport, shopping centres, cinemas and restaurants.

Elephant

Elephant Plains, MP

Escape to the Sabi Sands Game Reserve and enjoy the comfort and style of this privately owned lodge.

Elephant Leisure Resort, WC

This resort is nestled between the Olifants River Mountains on a secluded citrus farm in the Citrusdal Valley.

Elephants Footprint Lodge, EC

Want to be close to the Addo Elephant Park? Look no further! This cosy lodge is just 2 km from the park’s southern gate.

Buffalo

Buffalo Thorn Lodge, NW

Get up close and personal with Mother Nature when you stay in these stunning units in the Pilanesberg National Park in North West.

Buffalo Drift, WC

You’ll have access to your own stretch of the riverbank when you stay in a luxurious tent on the banks of the Berg River in Gouda!

Kapama Buffalo Camp – Kapama Private Game Reserve, LP

This is the ultimate tented accommodation experience situated within the expansive Kapama Private Game Reserve.

Leopard

Leopard’s Rest, WC

Rest your head at the foot of the rugged Kogelberg Mountains next to the Indian Ocean in Betty’s Bay.

Leopard Mountain, KZN

This award-winning, Big-5 lodge is located high up in the wild hills of the Zululand Rhino Reserve and boasts spectacular views of the bush.

Leopards and Lace, FS

Experience the nostalgia, romance and tranquility that the Free State is famous for.

Rhino

Rhino River Lodge, KZN

On the banks of the Msunduze River you will experience an intimate and comfortable safari experience with excellent game-viewing opportunities.

Rhino Walking Safaris, MP

Sleep in a luxury explorer-style tent in the heart of the wilderness overlooking plains and waterholes.

Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge, KZN

Rhino Ridge is set in a huge park just a few kilometres from Hluhluwe and offers amazing Big-5 viewing.

Well, there you have it! Book a stay at one of these namesakes and channel your inner lazy leopard in 2017!