The population of tigers, the largest of the big cat species, is sadly in a precarious state. Land encroachment and the obscenity of poaching to meet the ludicrous demands of ancient medicine have left an indelible mark on the future of this magnificent beast. However, due to the herculean efforts of conservationists, charities and tourism, it is still possible to see tigers in the wild. Seeing a tiger in the wild is by no means guaranteed, but when – if – you do see that flash of fiery orange in the undergrowth, it’s a truly wondrous moment. Nothing compares to the visceral thrill of seeing a real tiger up close. The first encounter, that magical moment when you lock eyes with one of these precious big cats, stays with you for life. Due to a huge effort by conservationalists, some of whom we’ve been involved with for many years, there are even reports that tiger populations have increased for the first time in over a century.
The best places to watch tigers are Bandhavgarh, Kanha and Ranthambore. Tiger safaris in India are done by vehicle and although not offering the profusion of game you may find in Africa, our wildlife trips to India offer plenty of other flora and fauna to enjoy, as well as a good chance of a sighting of this elusive and endangered predator.
Tiger Safari in India
16 Daysfrom3 898 €
3 710 €
Guided Group (Excl. Flights)
A comprehensive wildlife tour of India's best tiger parks
Wildlife
14 Daysfrom3 600 €
Guided Group (Excl. Flights)
Search for the elusive Snow Leopard with trekking guide Valerie Parkinson
India is home to more than half of the world’s wild tigers, and a key component in plans to grow the population. So it’s arguably the best place to see tigers in the wild. Of course, there’s no such thing as a guaranteed tiger sighting, but here are a few of the best national parks in India for tiger safaris:
Bandhavgarh National Park: This wildlife sanctuary in the state of Madhya Pradesh boasts the highest density of tigers in Asia, with more than 50 animals spread out over 100 square kilometers. The Park also offers wildlife lovers a chance to spot a host of other species, including chital deer, wild boar, nilgai antelope, Indian bison, wild dog, leopard, blue bull, Indian fox and bear.
Kahna National Park: Another Madhya Pradesh park, Kanha famously provided inspiration for The Jungle Book. Established in 1955 and covering 750 square miles, the picturesque park’s wide open meadows offer scenic sightings of a diverse array of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, common langurs, striped hyenas, pangolins, and an endangered deer species called the hard-ground barasingha, another great conservation story that you won’t find anywhere else.
Ranthambore National Park: One of India’s largest national parks (828 square miles), Ranthambore is a favourite among photographers due to the fact that you can find tigers, leopards, and ancient ruins of a fort where the animals are often spotted. The Park also has three lakes where copious wildlife congregates, including sloth bears, hyenas, Indian foxes, jackals and crocodiles.
This proved to be a memorable trip, for all the right reasons! The wildlife is extraordinary. Point a camera in any direction and you will capture something wonderful, including sloths, toucans, quetzals, crocodiles and frogs. The itinerary gives a true taste Costa Rica’s varied terrain, weather and eco-systems. The accommodations are excellent, not because they are luxurious, but because they are clean, safe, comfortable and most importantly, in excellent locations. We were also very well looked after by our exceptional guide, Johnny and bus driver, Randall, both of whom had a smile on their face and a twinkle in their eye.
The trip was packed full of wonderful and exciting experiences. The itinerary was terrific and we saw so much that was incredible and beautiful, with masses of photograph opportunities.