Okay, so when you think “safari,” you probably picture Africa, right? Lions, elephants, the whole Lion King vibe. And yeah, Africa is amazing, but it’s def not the only place to have an epic wildlife adventure. We’re talking incredible animals, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences all over the globe. Get ready to expand your horizons and discover the Best Wildlife Safaris outside of Africa. Let’s explore the best of wildlife travel!

Asian Adventures: Top Safari Parks in Asia

Asia is packed with incredible wildlife, from tigers and rhinos to orangutans and elephants. These parks offer a totally different safari vibe than Africa, but they’re just as mind-blowing.

• Ranthambore National Park, India: This is the place to see tigers in the wild. Picture ancient ruins, lush forests, and majestic Bengal tigers roaming free. It’s seriously like stepping into The Jungle Book.
• Yala National Park, Sri Lanka: Leopards, elephants, sloth bears, oh my! Yala has an incredibly high density of leopards, making it one of the best places in the world to spot these elusive cats.
• Bandhavgarh National Park, India: Another amazing park for tiger spotting, with a high concentration of these magnificent creatures.
• Kaziranga National Park, India: This park is home to the world’s largest population of one-horned rhinoceroses. It’s also a haven for elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species.
• Gunung Leuser National Park, Indonesia: Get ready for some serious jungle vibes. This park is one of the last places on Earth where you can see orangutans in the wild. You might also spot Sumatran tigers, elephants, and rhinos.
• Taman Negara National Park, Malaysia: Explore one of the oldest rainforests in the world, home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, tapirs, and monkeys.
• Chitwan National Park, Nepal: Go on a rhino safari, explore the jungle on elephant back (ethically, of course!), and spot a variety of other wildlife, including tigers, sloth bears, and crocodiles.

South American Encounters: Best Wildlife Tours in South America

South America is a continent of insane biodiversity. From the Amazon rainforest to the Galapagos Islands, the wildlife viewing opportunities are out of this world. Get ready for the best of wildlife travel and nature vacations.

• The Pantanal, Brazil: This is the world’s largest tropical wetland, and it’s teeming with wildlife. Think jaguars, capybaras (basically giant guinea pigs!), giant anteaters, caiman (like alligators), and more birds than you can shake a stick at.
• Amazon Rainforest: Okay, the Amazon is HUGE, so you’ve got options. You can explore it from Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, or other countries. Think river cruises, jungle lodges, and the chance to spot monkeys, sloths, macaws, and maybe even a jaguar.
• Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: This is where Darwin got his inspiration, and it’s easy to see why. The Galapagos are home to unique and fearless animals that you won’t find anywhere else on Earth. Think giant tortoises, marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and penguins (yes, penguins in the tropics!).
• Iguazu Falls National Park, Argentina/Brazil: Okay, the waterfalls are the main attraction, but the surrounding rainforest is also home to a variety of wildlife, including toucans, monkeys, and coatis.
• Torres del Paine National Park, Chile: This park in Patagonia is known for its stunning mountain scenery, but it’s also a great place to spot pumas, guanacos (like llamas), and Andean condors.

Tiger Territory: Where to See Tigers in the ‌Best Wildlife Safaris Outside of Africa

Tigers are one of the most majestic and endangered animals on Earth, and seeing one in the wild is an unforgettable experience. These Best Wildlife Safaris are all about them!

India is the place to be: India has the largest population of wild tigers, and several national parks offer excellent viewing opportunities.

• Top Parks:
  • Ranthambore National Park 
  • Bandhavgarh National Park 
  • Kanha National Park: Another great option for tiger spotting in India.
  • Pench National Park: The inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book.
  • Corbett National Park: India’s oldest national park, with a good tiger population.

Reminder: Support the places that consider ethical safari experiences.

Luxurious Lodges: Must-Visit Safari Lodges

Forget roughing it – these safari lodges offer the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. Get ready for some serious nature vacations.

• Luxury Tented Camp, Ranthambore National Park, India. Imagine glamping in style, with luxurious tents, gourmet meals, and expert guides to take you on tiger safaris.
• Eco-Lodge, Yala National Park, Sri Lanka. Stay in a sustainable lodge that’s committed to conservation and community development, while enjoying close proximity to Yala’s incredible wildlife.
• Floating Lodge, Pantanal, Brazil. Experience the Pantanal from a unique perspective, staying in a lodge that floats on the water.
• Jungle Lodge, Amazon Rainforest, Peru. Immerse yourself in the Amazon rainforest with a stay at a remote lodge, offering guided hikes, river trips, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

You can book hotels, motels, and any other accommodation type from the list of over 800K stays of PlaninGo, on the website, or on your Android or IOS mobile phone.

Adventure on a Budget: Best Budget Safaris

You don’t have to be a millionaire to have an amazing wildlife safari. Here’s how to do it on the cheap with the Best Wildlife Safaris.

• Shoulder Season: Travel just before or after the peak season for lower prices and fewer crowds.
• Less-Expensive Destinations: Some parks in India and Southeast Asia offer more affordable safari options than, say, the Galapagos Islands.
• Budget Accommodation: Stay in guesthouses, campsites, or basic lodges instead of luxury resorts.
• Group Tours: Joining a group safari can be significantly cheaper than arranging a private tour.
• Package Deals: Look for packages that include accommodation, meals, and park fees – you can often snag a great deal.
• Self-Drive Safaris: In some parks (check regulations!), you can rent a car and explore on your own, which can save you money on guide fees. Be careful to pick ethical safari experiences.

Be Prepared: How to Prepare for a Safari Trip

A safari is a bit different than your average beach vacay. Here’s how to prepare for the wildlife travel experience:

• Visas: Check if you need a visa for the country you’re visiting.
• Vaccinations: Talk to your doctor about any necessary vaccinations or medications.
• Clothing: Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (think khaki, beige, olive green). Layers are key, as temperatures can fluctuate.
• Binoculars and Camera: You definitely want to be able to see the animals up close, and you’ll want to capture those amazing moments. A camera with a good zoom lens is essential.
• Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other bugs can be a nuisance, so pack a strong repellent.
• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun, even on cloudy days.
• Learn: Do some research on the local wildlife and customs.
• Travel Insurance: It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance, just in case.

Respect the Wild: Ethical Wildlife Tourism Tips

This is super important. We want to enjoy these amazing animals and their habitats without harming them. These tips make for the best safari experiences and nature vacations.

• Choose Ethical Operators: Do your research and choose tour operators that are committed to wildlife conservation and sustainable practices.
• Keep Your Distance: Don’t get too close to the animals – it stresses them out and can be dangerous.
• No Feeding: Never feed wild animals. It can make them dependent on humans and alter their natural behavior.
• Avoid Exploitation: Say NO to activities that exploit or harm animals, like elephant riding in certain locations or posing for photos with captive animals.
• Support Local Communities: Buy souvenirs from local artisans and support businesses that benefit the local community.
• Minimize Your Impact: Reduce your waste, conserve water, and be mindful of your environmental footprint.
• Educate Yourself: Learn about the challenges facing wildlife and how you can help support conservation efforts.

Conclusion

A wildlife safari outside of Africa is an adventure you won’t forget. From the tigers of India to the jaguars of Brazil, the world is full of incredible animals waiting to be discovered. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for the Best Wildlife Safaris!

FAQ

What is the best safari outside of Africa?

It depends on what you want to see! India is amazing for tigers, Sri Lanka for leopards, and the Pantanal in Brazil for a huge variety of wildlife.

Where is the best wildlife viewing in the world?

Africa is still a top contender, but other amazing options include India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Borneo, and the Galapagos Islands.

Is it worth going on a safari?

Absolutely! It’s a truly unforgettable experience, and a chance to connect with nature and see incredible animals in their natural habitats.

How do I choose a safari?

Consider your budget, the animals you want to see, the time of year you want to travel, and the type of experience you’re looking for (luxury, budget, adventure, etc.).