These days, we can travel pretty much anywhere. For some people, Europe is a continent worth exploring. For others, Asia is the place to explore. There are also different types of holidays we all typically embark on, with some holidaymakers opting for a relaxing beach-based getaway, and others preferring to immerse themselves in the great outdoors with some hiking and water-based activities. For wildlife lovers, going on safari is the go-to option, too.
In fact, in the modern world, safari holidays have become increasingly popular. Although safari adventures used to be associated with the wealthy, there are now plenty of more affordable animal-themed escapes to enjoy. Not only will you be able to see a variety of much-loved animals in their natural habitats, but many safari experiences also serve up some delicious food to sample during your stay, alongside having the opportunity to enjoy some special treatments, immerse yourself in the local culture, and even have a magical evening camping under the stars in open plains. Whatever it is that draws you to a safari holiday, there are plenty of destinations well worth considering. So, with that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the ultimate safari destinations on earth.
Ranthambore National Park – India
In the past, India hasn’t always been seen as a prime safari location. Now, though, thanks to options like the Ranthambore National Park, more and more people are combining a holiday to India with a safari adventure in the park. The wild jungle environment is home to plenty of animals, but tiger lovers, in particular, will be inundated with opportunities to capture photos and videos of these amazing big cats. There are also crocodile-filled lakes and a variety of birds, all accompanied by glorious scenery that is populated by ancient temples and mosques.
Kruger National Park – South Africa
Thanks to documentaries by much-loved broadcasters like David Attenborough, movies like Jumanji, and games like Jungle Giant that feature huge animals like hippos, gorillas and elephants, an increasing amount of people are now keen on venturing to a place that houses them all. A destination that fits the bill in that respect is Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s largest game reserves that is home to a massive selection of beautiful creatures. With your chances of seeing the Big Five also being high there, this South African game reserve is a fantastic option for many safari-goers. In fact, it’s easily one of the best safari destinations around.
Yala Park – Sri Lanka
Located right next to the Indian Ocean, Yala Park is Sri Lanka’s main safari spot that boasts a massive selection of animals to witness in the flesh. From leopards and monkeys to elephants and hundreds of bird species, Yala Park is the perfect safari location for many holidaymakers. There are a range of pilgrimage sites to explore and local people to meet, too.
Masai Mara Reserve – Kenya
(Image via https://twitter.com/luxuryinafrica)
Kenya is a country that has long been associated with providing memorable safari packages for people, and the Masai Mara Reserve is certainly one of the best options around. Not only is the picturesque wilderness of the Masai Mara stunning, but the habitat on show provides a perfect home for an enormous collection of animals. Lions, cheetahs, elephants, hippos and zebras are all commonly seen there, alongside a whole host of other amazing animals. Get your timing right and you might even see thousands of wildebeest as they pass through for their annual migration, too.
Other destinations worth considering include Etosha National Park (Namibia), Okavango Delta (Botswana), Ngorongoro Conservation Area (Tanzania), Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe), and South Luangwa National Park (Zambia).