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All wildlife safaris in MP are set to resume from September. Isn’t that great news? Madhya Pradesh has numerous national parks and reserves, that beckon the wild at heart. Bandhavgarh, Kanha, and Pench, are a few of the most prominent places worth mention. It is great news for the tourism sector, too. All safaris can be accessed for booking on the Wildlife Safari Reservation portal. The authorities have opened bookings from 21^st September 2021. Listen to wild roars and the chirping of birds, in the silence of the jungles.

Madhya Pradesh is one of the top go-to places for wildlife enthusiasts. Nature lovers and photographers head there on various occasions. Moreover, it is one of the biodiversity hotspots. There are plateaus, ravines, ridges, valleys, and flat plains as well. The state has the largest concentration of flora and fauna. It is also quite famous as the ‘Land of Tigers’. Don’t forget to carry your camera there. Before, you start making plans, do read the revised permit fee structure.

From Monday to Friday, the permit fee is now Rs 2,400. Premium permits cost Rs 3,000. Saturdays, Sundays and five days of the new year are considered premium days. If you want to enquire, then you should always call on the helpline numbers. It will help you to make that perfect plan. There is a word of caution here. You should note that all national parks and reserves are closed during monsoons. Stay in some of the best wildlife resorts in MP. Pre-booking is a must. Additionally, you should also note, that night safaris have also started. Check the timings for various parks. The safaris start from 5.30 pm onwards. Get the opportunity to see the animals in the nocturnal habitat.  If you are a nature lover, or a wildlife enthusiast, a visit to MP is a must today.

When one thinks about wildlife, the 1st country that comes to one’s mind is Africa. India is usually an afterthought. But few who have witnessed the wildlife of Africa and of India have contrast views to the much-established belief. Honestly comparing Indian Wildlife Vs African Wildlife is like comparing apples & oranges in a way. But when one goes deep into it with research data then what comes out is very interesting. Our many guests talked about this subject and it was only then I thought of doing some study and documenting my thoughts.

What undoubtedly goes in favour of Africa is the sheer number of wild animals. Now Africa is 10 times bigger than India, therefore the food, habitat, and water, is abundant in Africa, which justifies the numbers. The human population in Africa is around 200/ sq km, compared to 460 in India. So the figures are stacked against wildlife in India. Hence, it is apparent that the wildlife animal density will be affected in India, and it is. Because of the sheer numbers, African wildlife is spotted much easily compared to the Indian wildlife which has to be searched deeply. Search is intense to some extent due to the fact that the vegetation is thick and undulating as well.

Birding

While India has more than 1200 species, Africa has 2300. But if we compare the size of the two landmasses, I think India is much richer. In a 10-12-day tour, you can end up spotting far more species in India compared to Africa. Keoladeo Bird Sanctuary has been called the best birding area on the planet by Peter Scott, the founder of the World Wildlife Fund. A visit to this bird sanctuary in winters will present the real beauty of the avi-fauna world. Birds in thousands enjoying the environments of this world heritage site.

It is however ironical the Wildlife around the world is facing similar adversity. Be it in India or Africa, the habitation is shrinking. In India, some good efforts have been taken by the Forest department in protecting our wildlife. Poaching of the endangered species is absolutely under control. One odd case does surface rarely, but primarily the wildlife is being given a top priority in protection. Many species in some areas of India which had gone nearly missing have been reinstated. Be it the Tigers in Panna & Sariska, Barasingha in central India, Gaur in Bandhavgarh, there is a lot of good news also for Indian Wildlife.

Wild Animals

India and Africa both countries have their Elephants. While Africa has a Hippopotamus, we have a Rhino which is much more superior than his African relative. Our wild buffaloes are as wild as African, but with more predominant horns to the cape species. We also have 4 other species of wild bovines to which there is nothing comparable in Africa. The Gaur, Gayal, Yaks, and the Nilgai are big bovines spotted in India.

In wild cats, besides the Lions, and Leopards which are common to both countries, we also have the Snow Leopard & the Tiger. Yes, we lost the Asiatic Cheetah due to poaching & loss of habitat. But in cats, we have practically 50% more species compared to Africa.

The Blackbuck exceeds all antelopes of Africa when it comes to speed & absolute beauty. Buck apart we have 14 additional species of Antelopes besides the sheep & wild goats in the hills. Let’s not ignore the beauty of the Bara Singha (the 12 tined antelope) which has been rated as the most handsome deer on the planet. We have 3 species of Bears, Brown, Himalayan and Sloth, while Africa has none.

We can only pray that Wildlife around the world remains forever, and people to realize at some point in time that this world is for everyone, it does not only belong to us. Everyone is here for a reason and we must all value the same. 

“Fabulous” is the perfect word to describe the wildlife of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, a large part of African savanna including the northern part of the Serengeti Plains.

Well known for its great wildebeest migration, plenty of lions and the rich culture of the native Maasai people, traditional pastoral herders who have grazed cattle here for hundreds of years, southwest Kenya’s Maasai Mara is a treat for all travelers.

Here are 5 interesting facts you might not know about this 580-square-mile reserve which is home to nearly a hundred mammal species and offers impressive wildlife sighting all year.

1. The reserve’s first name represents the Maasai people. The second word, Mara–“spotted” in Maa (the Maasai language) –  glorifies how they described the area when they saw it from afar. The dark shadows from the clouds and the circles of trees, savannah & scrub gave the land a speckled appearance.
2. The Maasai people don’t consider themselves as only residents of the region. The land is a vital part of their lives, but they strongly believe that they are also an integral part of the life of the land. For this reason, they hardly hunt and do their best to live in harmony with wild animals.
3. When actually recognized as a wildlife sanctuary in 1961, the Maasai Mara encompassed only 200 square miles of the present area.
4. Scientists have detected more than 570 species of wild birds in the park, many of them are migrants. More than 50 birds of prey, including, storks, eagles, and vultures, comprise Mara’s rich birdlife.
5. Proof of early human settlements, including arrowheads & pottery left behind form the Neolithic era, have been found within the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

The Maasai Mara game reserve is situated in Narok County Kenya. Named after the Maasai tribe and their description of the beautiful land, Maasai Mara is an extremely famous place for tourists visiting Africa. The ‘spotted’ landscape is truly enchanting and full of countless wild animals, all of which you can discover on your own. The national reserve is basically only a small part of a huge ecosystem that comprises of various other regions including Lemek , Kimintet, and Koiyaki ranches.

The nature reserve was recognized as a sanctuary for wildlife in 1961. Part of the area was granted with national reserve status in 1974. By 2001, the reserve was being operated by the non-profit organisation, Mara Conservancy.

The reserve now encompasses a tremendous 1, 510 square kilometres with the complete area available for exploration. With plenty of incredible nature reserves around Africa, you might be wondering why you should visit this lovely destination and mark it as your primary choice. There are various reasons why you shouldn’t miss a Maasai Mara safari tour.

It Holds the Eighth Wonder of the World

Are you interested to see all the wonders of the world in your lifetime? Then you need to ensure that you do book a trip to Maasai Mara for a safari tour. Every year, over one million wildebeest migrate from the Serengeti into the nature reserve by crossing the Mara River. While this in itself may not be that incredible, the Mara River is packed with predators making it a dangerous journey. Nile crocodiles and other predators are always waiting to make the wildebeest their victim.

If you wish to see this wonder of the world, you’ll need to ensure that you arrive at the right time. The majority of people go a few weeks before the migration is scheduled to begin to ensure they don’t miss it. While you hang around, you can use your time enjoying the other wildlife that exist in the park. People come from all over the globe to see this extraordinary feat of nature.

Safety Guaranteed

Lots of people who are eager to visit a nature reserve like the Maasai Mara are worried about their safety. It’s right that some nature reserves can attract criminals & hunters. The skin and bones of some wild animals can be extremely valuable in the black market. Despite hunting being banned in many areas, this does not prevent hunters from breaking the law. When this takes place, it’s not just the animals that are in danger. Travelers can get caught in the crossfire. Fortunately, at this specific reserve, you’ll find that there is a lot of security on foot and in jeeps to keep you secure. You can’t travel more than just a few kilometers without coming across an officer on patrol, ready to save both you and the animals.

The Kenya Wildlife Services provides the reserve with officers to ensure that the area is secured tightly. Rest assured, if there is a problem you will be informed promptly. The protection of you and other visitors on the site will always be the number one priority for the officers. Fortunately, people who visited say that at Maasai Mara, they have never found themselves in the position where they felt anything other than perfectly safe.

Animals Galore

We’ve already discussed the Wildebeest, but there are lots of other wild animals that you surely to encounter during your Maasai Mara safari.  Actually, the land is home to literally countless different species. All of the big five you’re excited to see could be found here including rhinos, buffaloes, leopard, lions, and yes even elephants. Tourists usually agree that the Maasai Mara safari is the best chance to see the rarest wild animals on the planet.  In fact, you might be eager in seeing the Big Rhinos left in Africa. Well, they’re all here.

It’s not the only wildebeest that migrate into the Mara reserve. Zebra, Topi, & Thomson’s gazelle migrate from the Serengeti to the Loita Plains. If you’re interested to witness this, ensure to visit between July and October.

The Maasai Mara safari is also one of the primary reasons why the population of Black Rhinos is gradually increasing. By 1980 the population was only 15 but with the help of the reserve, it is slowly but surely bouncing back.

Head towards the rivers, and you might just find a hippopotamus & crocodiles. All over the reserve, you are most likely to see cheetahs, jackals, hyenas & bat-eared foxes. If you’re interested to see the rarest and most majestic of wild animals including cheetahs & lions, the Esoit Escarpment is the perfect place to you

There Are Birds Too!

If you’re a fan of bird watching and wish to spot some rare birds, Maasai Mara is definitely the right safari for you. There more than 470 species of birds that have been detected throughout the park, and 60 of these are raptors

Awesome Adventures and Activities

You might be keen to get more from a Mara safari than just animal sightings, and Maasai Mara certainly won’t disappoint you. Have you ever thought what it’s like to board a hot air balloon and glide over the planes of Africa, perhaps while seeing the animals running below? Well, you can discover the magic of this particular experience only here. If you wish the perfect view of the wildlife, then this is best the way to get it.

Obviously, the Mara safari itself is quite impressive too. It’s there that you’ll manage to venture into the wild, getting up close to these wonderful beasts. With game viewing, it’s possible to get an electrifying experience as a professional guide leads you closer than you had ever imagined to lions and leopards. 

Totally Accessible

There are a whole variety of routes to reach the Masai Mara. Some nature reserves are in the remote place and practically impossible to reach except on a risky muddy road. That’s not the problem here, and you’ll find that there are lots of flights available that can take you directly to Mara.

Once in A Lifetime Experience

You might be thinking whether the experience that you get here could be replicated anywhere else in Africa or indeed, the world. Well, we can assure you that nowhere else around the planet can offer the same thrills that you get here.

Imagine waking up not to the tone of an alarm clock but to animal roars outside your window. Well, that’s exactly what can take place here with resorts that place you right at the center of the action. You’ll hear the stomping hooves of the wildebeest, roar of the lion or the snort of a hippo. It’s not only the sound, the scents are here too with the refreshing tropical smell of the Serengeti and plains all around you.

Then, when you do take a Masai Mara safari, this won’t be your normal trip. You’ll see predators haunting and feasting on their prey, cubs playing together and much more. Every moment on a safari here will likely be a memory that you will wish to remember forever. With lovely weather guaranteed to give you a breathtaking and undisturbed view each day

Meet The People

Masai Mara isn’t like your ordinary nature reserve. It’s totally different because unlike other areas this location is inhabited. We’re not speaking about the animals but the Maasais themselves. Yes, there are tribes that live close to the Mara, and while you may have heard tales about these people, nothing can match the astonishing reality. It’s right that these people are brave and they are the only ones who you will see walking freely through the Mara around the wild animals. They can possibly do this because they have lived in harmony with these wild animals for centuries. They know their ways, how to stay safe and they know what it takes to share the land with these animals.

While the wild animals themselves may be the true reason for visiting, tourists are often mesmerized when they counter the Maasai People. These people are more than delighted to greet, welcome and communicate with tourists and simply anyone who decides to visit the reserve. Why do tourists find the people here so fascinating? It’s likely because of the fact that they have a unique culture and a way of living that has lasted for many years. The people here are wonderful and can tell you what it’s like to live around the Mara lands. If you wish to return home with a few stories to tell after your trip to Africa, you definitely need to ensure that you have at least one encounter with the Maasai people. Lots of people find that it entirely changes their perspective on life.

Every year, a fair number of nature lovers visit the national parks of India to experience an adventurous wildlife safari. You can find number of wildlife resorts that offer a pleasant stay for guests.
Spending night in the middle of jungle is surely an amazing experience. These wildlife resorts are a perfect blend of luxurious lifestyle & a rustic wilderness. Checkout the list of top 10 wildlife safari camps in India:
1. Aman-i-Khas, Ranthambore

Aman-I-Khas is a luxurious jungle safari camp, set on the outskirts of the Ranthambore National Park close to Sawai Madhopur in Rajasthan. This camp comprises of well-equipped 10 elegant spacious tents reflecting Mughal style of architecture and décor.
Opened in the month of November, 2003, this jungle resort has well-equipped housing tents comprising of spaces for dressing, cleansing and eating.
Just about 10 km from the Ranthambore National Park, it is a perfect accommodation alternative for those who seek to experience lavish living with a drop of wilderness. Provisions for safari within the park can also be made.
When to visit: October to March

2. Tree House Hideaway Resort, Bandhavgarh

Situated across the 21 acres of land within the Bandhavgarh National Park, Tree House Hideaway Resort has an overall of five tree houses for the relaxation of the guests. These well-laden tree houses are full with all the contemporary facilities such as private bathroom, small bar, split AC and living area with a beautiful balcony from where you can delight your eyes to the lush greenery everywhere and may also spot the wild beasts wandering freely.
Moreover, the resort also has a dining hall, established in 2 levels round a gigantic Mahua tree. Whereas on the ground level, you will find a dining hall serving both Continental and Indian Cuisines. The first floor is Watering Hole- the bar where people can take pleasure in drinks. You can easily opt from range of safaris in jeeps, escorted by an English-speaking naturalist to Bandhavgarh National Park.
When to visit: October to April

3. Sher Bagh, Ranthambore

Taking hint from the deluxe lifestyle of the former Indian princes, each of the 12 tents at Sher Bagh encompass of unique ‘Campaign style’ furniture. This wildlife campsite is positioned at a clos——e distance of around 3 km from the entry of the Ranthambore National Park. All the well-equipped tents have a private verandah and present amazing views of the well-manicured plush gardens.
Highlighting an exotic African-style safari atmosphere, the Sher Bagh camp also endows with an opportunity of collective drinks during the sunset round the bonfire. Further, distinctive arrangement for wildlife jeep safaris, wildlife horse safaris and a picnic lunch, on the highest point of the Ranthambhore Fort can be made.
When to visit: October to March

4. Banjaar Tola, Kanha

Located on the banks of River Banjaar, Taj Safaris’ third luxury jungle safari lodge “Banjaar Tola” provides some great views of the Kanha National Park. This lodge consists of a total of 2 stylish camps wherein there are 9 suites in all, offering a comfortable stay to the guests.
With a large common swimming pool, both the camps have their own tented relaxing area. The resort has a joint kitchen, having an organic and exotic touch which makes the dining experience even more enhanced. The tents are a delightful mix of fresh décor combined with bamboo floor tiles, locally-made fittings and bamboo wall panels. Further, arrangements for safari can also be done.
When to visit: October to June

5. Corbett Woods Resort, Ramnagar

If you are in search for a comfy stay amidst contemporary indulgences while you are interacting with the big wild cats during your visit at the Corbett National park, choose for a stay at Corbett Woods Resort. Freshly constructed, this wildlife camp resort is one of the ideal options where the guests can have an enjoyable stay while appreciate flawless personalized services. Situated about 4 km from Jhirna Gate of Corbett National Park, Corbett Woods Resort has a striking designing and architecture.
As the Corbett Woods Resort is positioned on the banks of Dhela River, it provides prodigious views of the jungle’s green area. There are a total of 4 premium and 12 luxury Swiss air-conditioned lodges, which are very well-furnished and well-appointed. The list of amenities also comprises of children’s play area, fitness club, swimming pool and a multi-cuisine banqueting venue.
When to visit: November to March

6. Lion Safari Camp, Gir National Park

Well-maintained and ecological, Lion Safari Camp is a perfect accommodation for people who are visiting Gir National Park. There are a whole of 20 air-conditioned tents that are very well-appointed with all the contemporary facilities. Lion Safari Camps have sophisticated furnishings and hygienic private bathrooms. The main highlight is that the decor of these tents is eco-friendly.
Treat your eyes to the plush greenery from the top deck area of the camp. The site of the safari camp, amid mango orchard is purely marvelous and looks filmy. Guests can conveniently dine-in at the camp’s outdoor restaurants where you can relish delicacies of Indian and Chinese Cusines.
When to visit: October to mid-June

7. Bundela Safari Lodge, Kanha

Spread across an area 8 acres of plush land, Bundela Safari Lodge is positioned near Khatia entrance gate of the Kanha National Park. A wonderful mix of wilderness and relaxation, this wildlife camp lodge provides 3 best accommodation alternatives- Machan Vilas and Luxury housings. All these air-conditioned rooms have a superior interior, are spacious and have all the extravagances including attached bathrooms.
Enjoy your morning and evening tea while you are chilling in the balcony area, treating your eyes to the plush greenery, spread all around. The safari lodge also has a multi-cuisine bistro to provide lip-smacking food and a well-stocked bar, serving an extensive variety of beverages. Further, there is a spa and a swimming pool to indulge in relaxation activities.
When to visit: October to June

8. Eco Camp, Nameri National Park

Situated just 1 km away from the banks of River Jia-Bhoroli, Nameri Eco Camp is quite near to the Nameri National Park in Assam. Sited amid plush green surroundings, this wildlife camp is just 45 km from Tezpur. As far as meal is concerned, people can relish tasty dishes at the communal dining hall in the Eco Camp.
Best time to Visit-November to March

9. The Bison Kabini Wildlife Resort

A finest combination of adventure and luxury; this is just the perfect term for the Bison Kabini Resort, positioned right at the meeting juncture of Nagarhole and Bandipur National Parks. While the wildlife resort looks attention-grabbing during the night, it seems to be tranquil during the day. The creators of the resort have taken muse from old hunting stratums of former Indian Maharajas and an East African camp.
Clubbing a luxury experience with the rocky wilds is the major highlight of this resort. Admire flabbergasting views of the Kabini National Park from your window. Ancient antiques, stunning decorative pieces, pure white linen and woody floor make the camp all the more exciting. Every cottage is quite well-maintained.
When to visit-October to May

10. Hornbill Camp, Thattekkad

Hornbill Camp, situated amidst coconut plantations on the banks of River Periyar, comprises of cottage tents filled with all up-to-the-minute comforts. Enjoy the landscape of the lowland area of Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary in Thattekkad. The huge camps are a blend of contemporary living styles and rural elegance.
When to visit: October to March

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