The India safari tourism industry is projected to experience significant growth, with the market size expected to rise from USD 2.8 billion in 2025 to USD 5.3 billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 6.6% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by the increasing interest in wildlife safaris within India’s renowned national parks, growing domestic tourism, and an expanding international market eager to explore India’s unique biodiversity.
Market Overview
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Estimated India Industry Size (2025E) | USD 2.8 billion |
| Projected India Value (2035F) | USD 5.3 billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 6.6% |
The Indian safari tourism boom is driven by a rising demand for wildlife holidays, supported by the geographical diversity of the country and the resultant rich wildlife heritage. Most notable among these are Kaziranga National Park in Assam, Ranthambhore National Park in Rajasthan, and Jim Corbett National Park in Uttarakhand. The growing middle class population of India and global awareness of these places are likely to substantially increase tourism in the next decade.
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This section compares CAGR projections for the 2024 base year with the market outlook for 2025.
CAGR Values for India Safari Tourism Industry (2024 to 2025)
In the first half of 2024, the market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.9%, reaching 6.1% in the second half. This positive trend is expected to continue into 2025, with growth projected at 6.4% in the first half, and possibly accelerating to 6.7% in the second half, driven by increasing awareness of India’s lesser-known wildlife destinations and the rise of eco-friendly safari packages.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Market Value | The India safari tourism industry is expected to generate approximately USD 3.8 billion in 2024, contributing 25% to the total Indian tourism market. |
| Domestic Market Share | Domestic tourists represent 60% of the market, with top safari destinations like Rajasthan’s Ranthambore and Madhya Pradesh’s Kanha National Park drawing large crowds. |
| International Market Share | International travelers, mainly from the USA, UK, and Australia, make up 40% of the market, with popular destinations including Kerala’s Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Maharashtra’s Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. |
| Key Destinations | Famous safari spots include Ranthambhore National Park, Jim Corbett National Park, Kaziranga National Park, and Bandhavgarh National Park. |
| Economic Impact | The industry generates millions annually through guided tours, accommodation, and specialty safari experiences such as tiger sightings in Bandhavgarh or elephant safaris in Kerala. |
| Key Trends | Growing interest in luxury safaris, eco-tourism, and conservation-oriented travel, with a rise in private safaris offering exclusivity and personalized experiences. |
| Top Travel Seasons | The peak season for safari tourism in India is from November to March, as the cooler temperatures allow for more comfortable wildlife viewing. |
The Indian safari tourism industry is growing fast, with both domestic and international tourists swarming to famous destinations like Ranthambore and Jim Corbett. While domestic tourism is strong, international tourists are more and more attracted to India's rich biodiversity and conservation initiatives. For instance, the Western Ghats are turning into an emerging safari destination, with tourists from across the globe clamoring to discover India's unspoiled ecosystems.
Some of the key trends are increasing interest in sustainable tourism, with Sasan Gir in Gujarat, for instance, featuring eco-friendly safaris that feature conservation efforts among the Asiatic lions. Increasing popularity in high-end safari adventures is another trend, where visitors have access to tailor-made experiences complete with personal guides, gourmet dining, and secluded lodges.
| Date | Development & Details |
|---|---|
| Jan 2025 | Launch of “Royal Bengal Tiger Safari”: A premium package by Taj Safaris offering personalized game drives and private lodges in the Sundarbans, focusing on tiger conservation. |
| Dec 2024 | Opening of Eco-Safari Camp in Maharashtra: A new sustainable camp was established in Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, offering a nature-centered experience with solar-powered accommodations. |
| Nov 2024 | Wildlife Conservation Safari Program: A new initiative by Wildlife Safaris India, combining safari tours with hands-on conservation work, including habitat restoration efforts in Kaziranga. |
| Oct 2024 | Family-Friendly Safari Packages in Rajasthan: The Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation launched family-centric safari tours, including educational programs focused on wildlife conservation for children. |
| Sept 2024 | Luxury Safari & Wellness Retreat Package in Kerala: Kerala’s Jungle Retreat launched an exclusive package combining spa treatments, yoga, and wildlife exploration in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. |
Online Direct Leads Safari Tourism Bookings
By 2025, 60% of India's safari tourism reservations are expected to be booked online, a major change from the conventional ways of booking in person or over the phone. The rise in online direct bookings can be attributed to the growing ease and convenience that digital platforms provide, transforming how tourists plan and reserve their safari experiences.
Today’s travelers increasingly prefer booking directly through safari operator websites, specialized travel agencies, or online travel agencies (OTAs) because these platforms offer instant confirmation and streamline the booking process. With a mere click, visitors are able to book their safari packages, dispelling the waiting periods or tedious process that accompanies traditional offline systems. This convenience makes it easy for customers to access several choices and make bookings without having to wait for an agent or office.
One of the main causes of the explosion in online reservations is price transparency. Online platforms provide tourists with the ability to compare safari packages, accommodations, and services side-by-side, and thus determine the most advantageous offers and make a well-informed choice. This clears up the confusion normally associated with conventional reservations, where the price may differ depending on agent commissions or ambiguous terms and conditions. Online platforms provide clearer, more competitive pricing, which appeals to budget-conscious travelers.
The growing popularity of mobile devices has also been a driving force behind this trend. With the use of smartphones and tablets as the main tool for planning trips, tourists can easily make safari bookings on the go, allowing it to be convenient for them to finalize bookings at any time-either during their lunch hours, while commuting, or even in transit. This flexibility and instant access have been major drivers in the quick transition towards online booking channels for India's safari tourism.
Hotel and Resort Bookings remain significant
Resort and hotel reservations provide high income of approximately 48% for India's safari tourism based on some main factors, with special emphasis being placed on the increased popularity of distinctive, immersive experiences, luxury stays, and ecotourism.
To begin with, upscale safari resorts located in close proximity to well-known wildlife reserves like Ranthambhore, Jim Corbett, and Kaziranga provide luxurious accommodations to serve high-spending tourists, both local and foreign. These resorts offer bespoke experiences like individual guiding safaris, wildlife photography tours, and specialized activities like birding or nature walks. For instance, resorts such as the Oberoi Vanyavilas in Ranthambhore provide luxurious tented stays with luxurious amenities and a direct jungle view, appealing to affluent travelers who want comfort and adventure at the same time. These high-end products have high room rates and contribute substantially to total revenue.
Further, the increasing popularity of eco-tourism has triggered demand for eco-resorts that focus on sustainability without compromising on services. Such resorts as the Vythiri Village Resort in Wayanad, which marries luxury with ecological sensitivity, are favored by travelers looking to promote sustainable operations while experiencing luxury. This segment pays a premium, as customers are willing to pay more for ecologically sustainable travel without any compromise on comfort.
The inclusive prices of most safari resort packages also enhance revenue. Most packages include transportation, dining, spa treatments, and safaris, making tourists receive a high-value offer. For example, The Wildflower Hall in Shimla provides an inclusive luxury package that attracts clients looking for an effortless combination of convenience, adventure, and relaxation. This bundling of services elevates the total value booked per visitor.
Overall, resort and hotel reservations create significant revenue for India's safari tourism through the convergence of luxury products, trends in eco-tourism, and packaged services that attract upmarket travelers interested in customized, comprehensive safari activities.
The Indian safari tourism market is dominated by a competitive but disintegrated industry. The Taj Safaris, Wild India Expeditions, and The Nature Safari Company are major players, and they provide luxury wildlife experiences with an emphasis on upscale safari stays, private game drives, and guided educational safaris. Along with this, there are an increasing number of regional operators marketing niche products such as conservation-based safaris or eco-tourism packages for environmentally aware travelers.
2025 Market Share of India Safari Tourism Players
Leading players include Taj Safaris (25%), Wild India Expeditions (18%), and The Nature Safari Company (15%), followed by other regional operators focusing on specific wildlife destinations.
The India Safari Tourism Industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.6% from 2025 to 2035.
The market is projected to reach USD 5.3 billion by 2035.
Key drivers include rising domestic tourism, increasing international awareness of India’s diverse wildlife, and the demand for luxury safari experiences combined with eco-tourism.
Key players include Taj Safaris, Wild India Expeditions, The Nature Safari Company, and other premium safari tour operators offering tailored wildlife experiences across India.
The industry is segmented into Airlines, Hotels and Resorts, Tour Operators, Travel Management, and Others.
The market is analyzed by age groups: Under 18 years, 18 - 25 years, 26 - 35 years, 36 - 45 years, 46 - 55 years, and Over 55 years.
The market is segmented into Domestic and International tourists.
The industry includes In-person Booking, Phone Booking, and Online Booking.
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India Safari Tourism Market
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