When we hear the word “safari,” our minds often go straight to the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceros, and buffalo. But today’s safaris have evolved beyond these traditional stereotypes. This article explores the best, unusual safaris you didn’t know existed. We’ve even thrown in prices and difficulty.
1. Canada’s Polar Bear Experience
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ondrej Prosicky
Take photographs of polar bears up close from the Polar Bear Cabin with the Arctic Kingdom. The cabin sits directly in the path of these majestic creatures as they roam. Days are spent spotting bears, hiking with Inuit guides, and taking Arctic helicopter tours. And when night falls, stargazing and Northern Lights hunting await.
The safari is not physically demanding but does require patience and resilience to cold weather. Prices start at CAD 19,085 for a six-day package per person.
2. Gorillas in Congo
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Eric Isselee
This intimate experience in the Congo jungle allows you to observe gorillas in their natural habitat. This type of safari is only suitable for those with a high fitness level, as you’ll spend up to 8 hours trekking through the jungle! Here, in the heart of Bai Hokou, you’ll find western lowland gorillas. Prices start at USD 400 per person for one trek in the high season.
3. Beluga Whales in the Hudson Bay
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Eleanor Scriven
Swap the savannah for Canada’s icy waters. Kayak alongside curious beluga whales in the Hudson Bay with Swoop Arctic. These creatures are famous for their clever brains and playful behavior, making them fascinating to watch.
As you paddle your kayak, you become part of their world, showing that safaris don’t have to be hot and sweaty! Prices are around CAD 675 per person for a 7-day experience.
4. Jaguar Research in the Pantanal
Image Credit: Shutterstock / FotoRequest
Contribute to jaguar conservation by joining researchers in the Pantanal, South America. Track them through forests and learn about their behavior with help from the field biologists guiding you, setting camera traps, and analyzing paw prints. Not for the faint-hearted! Prices for this may vary, so contact the booking agent for an inquiry.
5. Komodo Dragons in Indonesia
Image Credit: Shutterstock / GUDKOV ANDREY
Komodo National Park in Indonesia is home to the world’s largest lizard—the Komodo dragon. Trek through rugged terrain as rangers guide you; this one requires much discipline to keep your cool around the dragons. For a 4-day experience with a snorkeling tour, prices start at $645 per person.
6. Tigers in India
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Sourabh Bharti
The Tiger Safari in Ranthambore, India, is an experience that’s full of adrenaline. Ranthambore has a thriving population of tigers, providing the best opportunity for sighting these rare creatures in the wild.
The safari isn’t physically challenging, so you can enjoy these sights even if you’re a beginner. This is one of the least expensive safaris in this article, starting at just $32 per person!
The Bottom Line
Image Credit: Shutterstock / PeopleImages.com – Yuri A
Now, you, too, can venture into the unknown. Just check when the best time of year is for each trip so you can see your favorite creatures!
Note: Prices and availability are subject to change. Always check with the safari providers for the most up-to-date information.
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The post Top 6 Extraordinary Safaris That You Must Add to Your Bucket List republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Alexander_Magnum.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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