India Safari Tourism Market: Current Analysis and Forecast (2025-2033)

Safari tourism can be defined as a type of tourism that is organized to allow travellers to enter a national park or other protected wilderness so that tourists observe the wild animals and take photographs in natural environments. The main thrust of this type of tourism is to ensure the least amount of interference with animals, information on conservation, and adventure on a direct basis through different forms such as jungle safaris, birdwatching trips, as well as spending the night in eco lodges. India Safari tourism is highly integrated into conservation policies that enhance development in the local areas economically and create awareness among humanity about the protection of endangered species and biodiversity.

The India Safari Tourism market is set to show a growth rate of about 6.45% during the forecast period (2025-2033F). The key drivers of the growth of safari tourism in India are the growing disposable incomes and the growing insatiability of experiential tourism by Indians. Adding to this, infrastructural developments and access improvement have been enhanced through government projects to extend and enhance protection of the areas. The strength of the demand lies in the growing awareness of wildlife protection. In addition, the online booking and digital transformation appeal to younger travelers who are interested in a smart lifestyle.

Based on the type, the market is segmented into jeep safari, elephant safari, boat safari, camel safari, and others. Among these, the jeep safari market held the dominant share of the market in 2024, due to Jeep safaris being the most common pattern of wildlife excursion in India, because of their convenience and reach to articulate woodland domains and a greater probability of sighting iconic species such as tigers and leopards. This is a popular segment that forces tour operators to invest in a good 4x4 fleet and naturalists, which increases customer satisfaction. With the increased demand, firms are using jeep safaris to provide high-value packages to increase the occupancy rates and the per-trip earnings. For instance, on May 17, 2025, Uttar Pradesh launched India's first jungle safari via Vistadome train, connecting Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary and Dudhwa Tiger Reserve. The train offers panoramic forest views through glass windows and roofs, aiming to boost tourism and the local economy.

Based on the location, the market is segmented into national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, tiger reserves, desert safaris, and others. Among these, the national parks market held the dominant share of the market in 2024. Safari tourism in India is characterised by a strong base of national parks spread across the country and which offer secure resources to the various wildlife as well as organized tourism facilities. The ongoing increase in the area and potentiality of control of parks such as Ranthambore, Kanha, and Kaziranga motivates new visitors and repeat tourists. Companies are investing in park permits and establishing lodges in the neighborhood, exploiting their large footfall and long-term conservation-oriented tourism interest.

Based on the tourist type, the market is segmented into domestic and international. Among these, the international segment is expected to grow with a significant CAGR during the forecast period (2025-2033). The growth of international tourism is driven by the increased number of wildlife tourists inbound to the country to view the big cats in their natural environment and enjoy close encounters with the jungle. The ability of tour operators to meet the high expectations of service is through multi-lingual guides, luxurious accommodation, and pre-packaged tours. This flow of international tourists boosts the earnings of foreign exchange and attracts firms to promote India as a leading safari destination worldwide. According to the Ministry of Tourism, in December 2024, International Tourist Arrivals (ITAs) in India during 2023 were 18.89 Million. Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEEs) through tourism during 2023 were INR 231927 Crore (USD 27,951.45 million). Domestic Tourist Visits (DTVs) in India during 2023 were 2509 Million.

Based on the booking channel, the market is segmented into online and offline. Among these, the online segment is expected to grow with a significant CAGR during the forecast period (2025-2033). The changing trends of using online booking, online permits have transformed the safari tourism in terms of introducing greater transparency and accessibility for travelers. The digital channels can also allow real-time updates and custom offerings, which lead to increased conversion rates and repeated bookings.

For a better understanding of the market adoption of the India Safari Tourism market, it is analyzed based on its state-wise presence in India, such as North India, East India, West India, and South India. South India is expected to grow with a significant CAGR during the forecast period (2025-2033). The safari locations of South India, such as Kabini, Bandipur, and Nagarhole, are becoming popular because of the dense biodiversity, sustainable models of tourism, and high-quality eco-lodges. Moreover, in this region, companies have the support of the government and good business sustainability practices that attract environmentally friendly tourists. The combination of wildlife, hill stations, and heritage tours gives operators the capability to create distinct multi-experience packages that drive continued market growth. For instance, on June 27, 2024, India's largest and third leopard safari was thrown open to the public at Bannerughatta Biological Park (BBP), 30km south of Bengaluru. Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre inaugurated the safari that currently has eight leopards. The number is expected to go up in the coming days. Spread over 20 hectares, the leopard safari developed at a cost of INR 4.5 crore (USD 0.54 million) is secured with railway barricades all around.

Some major players running in the market include Nature Safari India, Taj Safaris (The Indian Hotels Company Limited), Madhya Pradesh Tourism, Jungle Lodges & Resorts Ltd. (Karnataka Forest Department), Pugdundee Safaris, Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC), WildTrails, WILD WORLD INDIA, Travel Operators For Tigers India Wildlife Association (TOFTigers), and Indian Panorama.