Alternative Safari Destinations (Outside Africa) That You Should Consider Trying
When you think of a safari trip, it’s normal to think of Africa’s top safari destinations.
I’ve been lucky enough to experience some breathtaking and memorable safaris in Africa, with the abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes, and I’d urge anyone to consider going, but we’re not limited to great safaris in only Africa.
There’s unique and memorable safari experiences to be had in some of the world’s other far-flung corners. It doesn’t just have to be about the ‘Big Five’ or the vast African landscapes; There’s other magnificent wildlife and wilderness out there to discover.
So, here are 8 alternative safari destinations (outside of Africa) to consider for your next journey.
Borneo
As the world’s third-largest island, Borneo is renowned for its lush rainforests and diverse ecosystems.
It is one of the few places to see critically endangered orangutans in the wild, primarily in the Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak.
The island is also home to gibbons, proboscis monkeys, and around 300 bird species. For those interested in orangutan conservation, the Sepilok Nature Rehabilitation Centre in Sandakan offers an opportunity to meet rescued orangutans.
Night safaris in open-top 4×4 vehicles from the Borneo Rainforest Lodge provide thrilling sightings of proboscis monkeys, sambar deer, and giant squirrels, with the region also serving as a habitat for orangutans, sun bears, and the clouded leopard.
Costa Rica
The Central American gem that is Costa Rica is filled with mystical cloud forests, lush jungles, sunny beaches, and towering volcanoes.
Costa Rica is a destination I fell in love with, it’s perfect for observing diverse wildlife both on land and in water.
In Manuel Antonio National Park, the smallest yet one of the most biodiverse parks in the country, you can encounter sloths (!!), anteaters, iguanas, and white-faced monkeys up close.
The rugged Osa Peninsula in the southwest is home to capuchin monkeys, ocelots, jaguars, and even humpback whales.
Brazil
Around 60% of the vast Amazon basin is situated in Brazil.
It’s a biodiverse region, and home to millions of wild creatures, many of which can be spotted on an Amazon River safari, making for an excellent wildlife safari option.
Beyond the river, Brazil boasts the world’s largest wetlands and flooded grasslands: the Pantanal. Located in Mato Grosso do Sul, it’s a vibrant ecosystem rich in wildlife, including jaguars and pumas, along with macaws, toucans, tapirs, maned wolves, and capybaras, all of which can be observed on jeep safaris, canoe excursions, or trekking adventures.
Galápagos Islands
Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galápagos archipelago is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
These remote volcanic islands are home to unique species like the endemic Galápagos giant tortoise, marine iguana, and the flightless cormorant.
On both land and sea, the islands are brimming with wonders, from colourful iguanas and crabs to sea lions and hammerhead sharks. During hikes along the rocky shores, you can witness the quirky courtship rituals of blue-footed boobies and giant albatrosses.
The best way to explore the islands properly is via a cruise.
India
If seeing a tiger is on your bucket list, then India is for you. Seeing one in the wild is a rare privilege, especially as these majestic animals are endangered.
Those hoping to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures can visit various reserves and national parks in India.
The Kanha Tiger Reserve and Panna National Park are some of the top destinations for an Indian safari, offering the chance to spot tigers as well as deer, sloth bears, leopards, and hyenas.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a stunning destination, rich in diverse cultures and offering perfect conditions for a peaceful safari.
A visit to Yala National Park provides the chance to spot the country’s top predator, the leopard, with one of the densest populations of the graceful cat worldwide.
For a more secluded experience, Gal Oya National Park is an excellent alternative. Its remote location ensures a more private safari, where you can witness Asian elephants swimming between the lake’s islands, alongside wildlife such as langurs, sloth bears, wild boar, buffalo, and crocodiles.
Nepal
Nepal shouldn’t just be known as the home of Mount Everest, it’s also a sanctuary for endangered species, like Asian elephants and Royal Bengal tigers.
Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located at the foothills of the Himalayas. You can go on a safari to observe the one-horned rhino, a species that has recovered thanks to conservation efforts.
Bardia National Park is also a choice worth considering, showcasing pristine wilderness where you have a good chance of encountering Royal Bengal tigers, as well as elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and even dolphins.
Australia
Like the Galápagos, Australia’s wildlife has evolved in unique ways, resulting in a variety of distinct species, including kangaroos, koalas, dingoes, and the endangered Tasmanian devil.
I think it’s a great location for a safari, with vast landscapes, breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park offers chances to see hopping red kangaroos and the elusive thorny devil.
The Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in the world, is another must-visit natural wonder. A boat tour from Cairns offers opportunities to experience the reef’s stunning biodiversity, including a variety of fish, sharks, rays, and turtles.
