5 Destinations for Incredible Wildlife Adventures Around the World

The rapidly growing segment of global travel, wildlife tourism, is a fascinating opportunity for tourists to experience never-before-seen wildlife that’s so unique to specific parts of the world. For travelers also interested in eco-tourism, the promotion of heading to some of the world’s most naturally phenomenal and best-protected destinations helps boost local economies to continue such essential protection. Whether it’s to get up close with marine life or those on land, wildlife tourism can allow international travelers to see some of the most endangered species in the world. 

Here are some of the best destinations, for the most unforgettable wildlife adventure. 

1. Tanzania

One of the African continent’s top destinations for wildlife enthusiasts, Tanzania is home to a wealth of rich biodiversity living within some of the best-kept natural landscapes. It’s a paradise for travelers wanting to discover some of the most traditionally represented (across film and media) but hardly seen mammals.

Uncover the wonder of Serengeti National Park. Sitting to the north of the island bordering Kenya, the preserved area is home to the big five of lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinoceroses. A phenomenon worth planning around here is what’s known as the “Great Migration,” which is the movement of over one and a half million wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle species. This is a circular journey that tends to happen once a year through the park and Kenya’s Maasai Mara, occurring as the animals go in search of water sources and graze for the change of season.

It’s a spectacle worth seeing if you get lucky enough! 

Part of the larger Serengeti ecosystem is the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This is not only home to the world’s largest inactive volcanic caldera, but it also houses over 25,000 large animals. Including endangered black rhinoceros, tourists can get close to more lions and elephants, as well as a variety of bird species. While the generally warm climate of Tanzania makes it a year-round destination, June to October is known for having the best chances of wildlife spotting at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here’s a guide on how to prepare a safari packing list for Africa.

2. Rwanda

Often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills” is the small landlocked country of Rwanda, in East Africa. Embrace remarkable wildlife tourism here, including the view of iconic mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. The tropical climate reacts differently to the wealth of altitudes in the country, and there are distinct rainy and dry seasons for travelers to plan trips around. 

For nature enthusiasts, there is a wealth of spectacular safaris in Rwanda to uncover some of the most naturally dense environments in the world.

Engage in gorilla encounters in the Volcanoes National Park through gorilla trekking with an expert to guide tourists to the wealth of families of the monkey species in their natural habitat. If chimpanzees sound more enticing, the Nyungwe Forest National Park in the southwest is home to 13 primate species, including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys. Take on the elevated canopy walk across the terrain while seeking out the array of monkeys and capturing panoramic views across the rainforest. 

3. The Galapagos Islands

Six hundred miles off the mainland of Ecuador sits the remote archipelago of the Galapagos Islands. With unparalleled masses of wildlife finding home in this part of the Pacific, the 21 islands are fast becoming one of the most popular tourist spots for getting closer to marine and land wildlife. The islands’ climate features distinct wet seasons in the calendar year, which is the time when the landscape is the most lush and the weather tends to stay warmer. Many endemic species find home here, meaning they cannot be found anywhere else in the world, hence the rise in tourism interest on the islands. 

Uncover Galapagos tortoises, which can weigh over 400 kg and live over 100 years. Their saddleback shells are distinctive to see, and the animals are found across a range of islands within the collection. Go scuba diving and get up close with marine iguanas, which are the only marine lizards in the world capable of foraging in the ocean and are known for their efficient diving skills. See sea lions and look up to the apex predators of Galapagos Hawks.

There is so much worth marveling over on the islands. While tourism will continue to be encouraged, there are a wide range of invasive species control efforts and marine conservation. With such a collection of ecosystems within the islands and surrounding waters, it’s vital to keep them protected first and foremost. Before a trip, it’s a good idea to research the best Galapagos Islands to visit and ensure you’re working with the natural world there to keep its delicacy conserved. 

4. Antarctica

The southernmost continent of Antarctica is a place of extreme conditions intertwined with globally renowned beauty. It’s known as the coldest, windiest, yet driest continent on earth, and a visit there can enable travelers to see a unique perspective of ecosystems that inhabit masses of wildlife.

It’s worth considering an Antarctica luxury cruise to get the closest to marine life in their natural habitat — from the world’s largest colonies of penguins like emperors and gentoos to Weddell seals finding hoes on ice and coastal areas. Ensure you can keep warm living in indulgent cabins looking out on the purest wilderness on earth; Antarctica’s unique disposition will make a truly memorable trip for wildlife lovers.

5. Indonesia

The archipelago of over 6000 inhabited islands, Indonesia is another of the world’s most diverse countries, with wildlife spanning across lush rainforests, volcanic craters, and vibrant coral reefs below the sea surface. Over 2000 endemic species find home on the islands, and the country has a huge portfolio of protected national park areas to protect against the animals and the impacts of deforestation on their habitats.

Head to the world’s largest island of Borneo and see orangutans in their masses, or Komodo Island to see the infamous dragons. The opportunities across the collection of islands are endless, and Indonesia is not to be missed for wildlife wonders!

Wildlife tourism both protects the world’s natural resources and gives travellers unforgettable memories. Play a role in protecting some of the more delicate species on the planet and take on a wildlife adventure.