Indian vs African Safari: When we talk about travel, most people call themselves either a “beach person” or a “mountain person”. But if I were to be asked, I would call myself a “jungle person”. I enjoy jungle safaris more than chilling by the sea or enjoying the views of mountains. My first jungle safari was in Madhya Pradesh and that experience had such an impact on my life that even today safari has become my favourite travel.
Safari in India is quite easy and affordable for Indians as almost every state in the country has some national park or wildlife sanctuary. If you look at the map, you will find that there is a safari zone near you. Despite this, I am surprised when people believe that safaris happen only in Africa.
Are Safaris Only in Africa?
Many people believe that if you want a “true safari experience”, you should go to Africa. But first, it is important to understand that Africa is not one country but a continent with many countries. So which country’s safari is the best?
I have personally done safaris in two African countries and have visited five national parks in India (and am preparing for the sixth). In my experience, Indian vs African Safari are completely different from each other, but none is better than the other. Both have their own specialties.
Africa: My Love
Just hearing the name of Africa brings a different kind of happiness in the heart. I love Africa and want to visit as many countries as I can. Places like Masai Mara just seem to settle in the heart.
Safari is different in every place, but to understand this experience, it is important to do safari in both the places – you cannot know the full beauty of safari by visiting only one place.
Tip:
If you are dreaming of a safari, then my advice would be to start with your country first and then gradually move forward.
Topography i.e. Difference in Landform
The first difference you will notice in Indian vs African Safari is the form of the land.
Forests in India:
- Most forests are deciduous and semi-deciduous
- Forests with dense, lush and tall trees
- Forests have uneven land
- During the safari, you have to pass through rough roads like mountains
Forests in Africa:
- Flat land in areas like Masai Mara
- Open fields with long grass
- There are fewer trees, which makes it easier to see animals from a distance
Difference in Animals
The variety of animals during Indian vs African Safari is also very different.
Animals of Africa:
- Big 5: lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo
- African elephant is larger than Asian elephant
- Animals like cheetah, gorilla and giraffe are not found in India
Animals of India:
- Royal Bengal tiger (best tiger viewing spot in the world)
- Elephants, bears, leopards, many types of deer
- Birds, crocodiles, snow leopard (in Ladakh)
Chances of Seeing Animals
- In Africa, animals are more numerous and found in the open on flat land
- In India, animals are often hidden in dense forests
- Safaris in India are exciting – hours of waiting and then a tiger suddenly appearing
Difference in Rules
India:
- Strict safari rules
- Jeep can be driven only on designated routes and zones
- Speed limits and getting off the vehicle is prohibited
- Fine or jail for breaking rules
Africa:
- More leeway in some parks (especially private reserves)
- Drivers can go on off-road safaris
- Easy to get very close to the animals
Border of the Tourism Zone
- In India, only a small part of the forest is open for tourism
- Animals like tigers may be outside the zone
- In Africa, safaris are possible in the entire reserve
Season and Safari Timings
India:
- Parks are closed from June to October (monsoon)
- In summers (April-May), animals come out in search of water
- Forests are worth visiting even in winter
Africa:
- Safaris are available throughout the year
- Kenya and Tanzania are especially crowded during the Great Migration (June-August)
Conclusion
Indian vs African Safari both offer great experiences. It would be wrong to say which safari is better. Both have their own beauty, adventure and experience.
If you haven’t done a safari yet, do it – be it in India or Africa.
Recommendations:
- For India: Taj Safaris are great
- For Africa: And Beyond offers a fantastic experience
Have you ever been on a safari?
If yes, do share your experience. And if not, head to the jungle on your next vacation – you will never forget the thrill of a safari.
