If you have always dreamed of roaming with exotic animals, seeing dramatic vistas and going on adventures, but aren’t keen on the idea of roughing it, you are in luck. Luxury wildlife safaris are the perfect blend of experience and extraordinary comfort. And while Africa has always been a popular destination for luxury safaris, even North Pole destinations are possibilities for the intrepid traveler. What is the best way to pick a wildlife safari? Start by exploring some of the world’s most exciting adventures.
Svalbard Photography/Wildlife Polar Bear Safari by Natural World Safaris
It’s true, you don’t normally think of going into the tundra for a safari, but Natural World Safaris may just change your mind. Svalbard is considered the most northern settlement with a permanent population. A safari to this region reveals a world of arctic animals, including the magnificent polar bear. Travel + Leisure Magazine lists it among the top 10 safaris for “unforgettable experiences,” and notes that adventurers have the opportunity to venture out on Zodiac excursions and shore landings, hear informative lectures from guides and fine with the Captain on the final night.”
Kenya’s Scenic Air Safaris
If your dream is to experience the wonders of Kenya, consider going on one of the Scenic Air Safaris. Not only do you see the extraordinary landscapes and roaming wildlife from a truly unique perspective but you’ll be able to cover far more of the country than you would with a standard trek. If you can arrange it, plan to combine this with a stay at the world-famous Giraffe Manor in Nairobi. Here, the luxury accommodations are coupled with a once-in-a-lifetime experience as the endangered giraffe population makes its way to the Manor for their early morning feedings. As you eat breakfast, be ready to have a friendly giraffe join you through the window. Guides are also on hand to take you out to see more of the sanctuary.
Northern Tanzania and Zanzibar Safari by Scott Dunn
This tour through Scott Dunn reveals some of the most incredible wildlife experiences in the world, including the famous wildebeest migration. This trek takes you through the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater and ends on a stunning white beach in Zanzibar. The entire experience lasts 12 days and includes nights at Zanzibar’s opulent Breeze Beach Club & Spa.
Madagascar’s Tropical Safari by Rainbow Tours
“Blue Safaris” reveal the wonders of the oceans to visitors, and on the Madagascar Tropical Safari, you get to visit both the creatures of the ocean and the island’s forest. You begin by arriving at your luxury retreat by helicopter and then setting off by boat on a whale watching adventure. From there, be ready to take to the forest to spot lemurs and other exotic denizens.
Classic Botswana Trek by Abercrombie & Kent
Take a delta retreat to Botswana that combines pampering and wildlife spotting. Lions, giraffes, and leopards are common as you roam the Moremi Game Reserve with your guide. After a long day, retire to one of the 12 luxury pavilions at the Sanctuary Chief’s Camp. Each boasts its own outside sitting area and a private pool. Larger suites have kitchens, waiters, and personal guides.
Silverback Gorillas in Rwanda through Bisate Lodge
The endangered Silverback Gorillas are slowly seeing their numbers climb as protections for them have increased. For those who want to see these magnificent animals, along with elephants, golden monkeys and buffalo, a stay at Bisate Lodge in Rwanda is a must. This intimate resort offers six forest villas that sit atop an eroded volcanic cone. The villas are opulent, but sustainably developed and maintained, and your access to the wildlife is unparalleled.
Zambia through The Luxury Safari Company
Zambia is on everyone’s list for the best safari experiences in the world. The guides have strict training regimens, and depending on the tour company, visitors can get a glimpse of wildlife from Victoria Falls to Lower Zambezi National Park. The Luxury Safari Company offers a popular walking tour that allows you to see big game from an unusual perspective. Their Zambia & Mauritius tour is a particularly luxurious safari adventure which includes lodgings at the Royal Zambezi Lodge, with ample opportunities to elephant spot, and stays on white sandy beaches in Maritius.
Galapagos Marine Safari by Bushtracks South America Safari
While many think of safaris in terms of open jeeps driving through the desert, a safari in the Galapagos starts with a journey aboard a 47-berth private ship. This particular safari offers kayaking with sea lions, snorkeling with penguins, hiking highlands while spotting giant tortoises and some extraordinary lava walks. While this journey may involve less opulent lodgings, the berths are comfortable and the experience offers a rare look into a world you have only dreamed existed.
Costa Rica Wildlife Holiday by Natural World Safaris
Picture pristine beaches visited by monkeys and your wildlife encounters only limited by how many activities you want to do. That is the experience of a wildlife safari in Costa Rica. You can raft the rivers, zipline through the forests and explore the volcanoes, as you spot the birds, tapirs, monkeys, and other exotic animals along the way. Natural World Safaris pairs with multiple options for lodging, from boutique hotels to eco-lodges in the trees.
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