PUBLISHER: Grand View Research | PRODUCT CODE: 2018362
PUBLISHER: Grand View Research | PRODUCT CODE: 2018362
The global safari tourism market size was estimated at USD 37.75 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 66.90 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.7% from 2026 to 2033. The market growth is driven by the rising demand for unique, experiential travel experiences, as many travelers increasingly prefer activities that offer deeper connections with nature rather than traditional sightseeing.
Safari trips allowed tourists to observe wildlife in their natural habitats, participate in guided game drives, and experience ecosystems up close, which made them highly appealing to adventure and nature enthusiasts. Additionally, the expansion of the broader wildlife tourism sector supported the growth of the safari tourism industry, as rising global interest in nature-based tourism encouraged more travelers to visit national parks and wildlife reserves for safari experiences.
The safari tourism market saw increasing demand for luxury safari experiences as affluent travelers sought exclusive, high-comfort wildlife trips. Luxury lodges, private game reserves, and premium safari packages offered personalized services, high-end accommodations, and private guided tours, allowing tourists to experience wildlife while enjoying comfort and privacy.
Another key trend was the growing preference for customized safari itineraries tailored to individual traveler interests. Tour operators offered specialized experiences, such as photography safaris, family-friendly wildlife tours, honeymoon packages, and private game drives, enabling visitors to design trips tailored to their preferences, duration, and budget.
In January 2025, African Travel, Inc. introduced a new tour concept, "Concierge Safaris," designed to provide travelers with a more personalized, seamless safari experience. The small-group tours are limited to 14 guests and include luxury accommodations, most meals, exclusive wildlife game viewing, sightseeing activities, and all gratuities. Each group is accompanied by a dedicated traveling concierge and local guides who manage trip logistics, address guest requests, and provide insights into the region's wildlife, landscapes, and culture.
Safari tourism also expanded beyond traditional jeep game drives as travelers increasingly sought immersive, adventurous experiences. Activities such as walking, hot-air balloon, and boat safaris, as well as cultural interactions with local communities, became popular, allowing tourists to engage more closely with nature and local ecosystems.
According to a United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) report titled 'Towards Measuring the Economic Value of Wildlife Watching Tourism in Africa,' wildlife tourism constitutes 7% of global tourism and experiences an annual growth rate of approximately 3%. The report further highlights that 14 African countries collectively generate around USD 142 million through entrance fees for protected sites and areas. This number is expected to grow in the coming years as more travelers, especially millennials, seek tourism activities that allow them to immerse themselves in pristine natural environments and witness wildlife in their natural habitats.
Global Safari Tourism Market Report Segmentation
This report forecasts revenue growth at the global, regional & country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends and opportunities in each of the sub-segments from 2021 to 2033. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global safari tourism market report based on type, accommodation type, group, booking mode, and region: