Immerse yourself in some of the world's most biodiverse and vibrant ecosystems. Embarking on a jungle and rainforest safari is an unparalleled adventure; the planet’s most spectacular jungles are home to an extraordinary wealth of flora that supports some of the most eye-popping fauna of every shape, shade and size imaginable.
Take your pick of a variety of jungle safaris, from driving through the undulating wilds of India in search of tigers and sloth bears; taking to the great snaking rivers of Borneo to spy orangutans and proboscis monkeys; picking your way through the orchid-dotted jungles of Madagascar while keeping your eyes peeled for lemurs; to trekking into the mountains of Volcanoes National Park on the trail of gorillas.
One of the flagship endangered species of global wildlife, the Royal Bengal tiger still patrols the forests of the Indian subcontinent. With its habitat quickly disappearing, it is more essential than ever to visit the terrain of the tigers in show of support of their never-ending battle.
India stands as a premier haven for tiger enthusiasts, promising the enchanting opportunity to witness these majestic cats in their untamed habitats. Unveiling exclusive insights, we guide you through the National Parks where the prospect of encountering these extraordinary animals is most promising.
Borneo is one of the best places in the world to experience ancient rainforest and endangered wildlife. From the primary forest of Danum Valley to the waterways of the Kinabatangan River, this is a destination where every day brings the chance of an extraordinary encounter.
Track orangutans in the wild, listen for gibbons at dawn, watch proboscis monkeys along the riverbanks and explore rainforest trails with expert local guides.
Danum Valley
Tabin Wildlife Reserve
Kinabatangan River
Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is one of the world’s most celebrated gorilla trekking destinations. Dense bamboo forest, volcanic slopes and expert trackers combine to create one of the most moving wildlife encounters on Earth. This is the ideal choice for travellers looking for a short, high-impact rainforest safari with exceptional guiding and luxury lodge options.
A ‘true island in the sky’, the Volcanoes National Park is home to some of the world’s few remaining mountain gorilla, which were first studied here in 1959 by George Schaller.
Madagascar’s rainforests are home to some of the most unusual wildlife on the planet. In Andasibe-Mantadia, visitors can search for indri lemurs, chameleons, frogs and rare birdlife in lush eastern rainforest. This is a brilliant choice for travellers who want wildlife that cannot be seen anywhere else.
Probably one of the best lemur experiences in the world, Andasibe National Park is the best place to spot the Indri, the largest living lemur! The park is separated into two distinct areas, Speciale d’Analamazaotra (usually known as Perinet - the old name of a French nearby town and rail station) to the south, and Park National de Mantidia to the north. Created in 1989, it encompasses the same humid lush forest throughout, covered with moss and trees, peppered with over 100 extraordinary orchid species and dotted with lakes.
Uganda offers a wilder and more varied rainforest safari, with gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest. Its forests are rich in primates, birds and dramatic scenery, making it a superb choice for travellers wanting a deeper primate-focused journey.
Supporting nearly half of the world’s estimated 820 mountain gorilla population, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is situated along the Great Rift Valley. As the name suggests, it is an area of almost impassibly dense rainforest spread over a network of valleys and ridges, carving a silhouette of undulating peaks into the skyline. Dating back over 25,000 years, this is one of Africa’s oldest and most captivating parklands; its bamboo and swamp forests provide the ideal environment for the gorilla population that call it home.
Packing well is essential for jungle and rainforest travel. Conditions can be humid, wet and changeable, so lightweight, practical clothing is key.
Recommended packing list:
After a day spent tracking wildlife through rainforest trails, travelling by river or listening to the forest come alive at dusk, your lodge becomes an essential part of the experience. These hand-picked jungle lodges place you close to the wildlife while offering comfort, atmosphere and expert guiding.
Cristalino Lodge is built to emphasise engagement with the natural environment. Cristalino lodge keeps its guests in stylish comfort, offering comfortable rooms and a good range of facilities. Offering three choices of accommodation, all built with environmental sustainability in mind. For relaxation, the lodge features a floating deck where you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the pristine waters of the Cristalino River.
This unique, luxury eco-hotel is situated on the banks of one of the world’s most scenic, white-water wonders, the Pacuare River. Named as one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, at Pacuare Lodge even your journey is an adventure, as you arrive via white water rafting. 20 suites surrounded by tropical rainforest, where exotic birds sing and colourful butterflies flit between the trees.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge is set in the fauna and flora rich Danum Valley; this rustic lodge is the perfect place to stay on a selection of bespoke Borneo holidays. The spacious main building offers an open veranda where the traveller can sit back and enjoy the incredible diversity of this forest environment whilst wooden chalets and bungalows provide comfortable lodgings for guests. The mist shrouded treetops and babbling river lull one to sleep after a day's wildlife spotting.
Virunga Lodge is a comfortable eco-lodge located on a hillside overlooking the Virunga Volcanoes and Lakes Ruhondo and Bulera. 360 degree breathtaking views make this one of the top lodge destinations in Africa. The lodge boasts eight charming bandas, each adorned with a private veranda that frames views of the picturesque lakes and majestic volcanoes. After a day of exhilarating mountain gorilla tracking, guests can find respite in the warm embrace of open fireplaces in the lounge and dining room.
Mantadia Lodge, located in the stunning surroundings of Andasibe and Mantadia National Parks, is a gateway to Madagascar's natural nature. With its modern facilities and 25 well-appointed rooms, including WiFi and cosy wood fires, visitors may relax while immersed in the surrounding rainforest. The lodge's elevated position allows for panoramic vistas, adding to the charm of the experience.
Embrace the heart of the Amazon Rainforest in a mosquito-free haven at Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge. The exclusive lodge offers 16 suites and 4 luxury bungalows, ensuring a comfortable and immersive rainforest experience. Nestled within the Estação Ecológica de Anavilhanas, the largest river archipelago in the world, the lodge is surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of approximately 400 islands, lakes, and rivers, stretching over 90 kilometers.
