A safari is a largely passive experience. You watch, wait and wonder. After hours of traveling through snowbound forest or steamy jungle, you may be rewarded with the briefest glimpse. A tiger crossing the road a few metres from your jeep, a jaguar sunning itself on the riverbank, or just a short, dismissive glance from a leopard as it stalks between trees – chances are you’ll find you’ve been holding your breath throughout.
It’s better to think of these trips as ‘wildlife safaris’ where hopefully the big-ticket attraction will feel like making an appearance.
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The thing with big cat safaris is you can never guarantee you’re actually going to see the animal you’re actually searching for. They are wary of humans, and for good reason, so you are dependent on the skill of your guides, traveling at the right time, and of course a slice of luck. Find out more in our big cat safaris travel guide.