Enjoy the views of the Himalayan skyline from your flight. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will spend the day preparing for your adventure ahead. This will include organizing permits, meeting your guides, and getting any last-minute supplies.
Big Cats Tour in Nepal and Africa: A Wildlife Safari Across Continents
A combined Nepalese and African big cats tour allows you to witness a variety of species, including lions, leopards, and tigers, in their native habitats.
Embark on an extraordinary journey through two continents. Witness the world’s most elusive and powerful predators in their natural habitats. This Big Cats Tour combines the remote beauty of Nepal’s jungles and high Himalayas with the raw wilderness of Africa’s savannas.
To begin, your journey takes you to Nepal for its big cats. Delve deep into the jungles of Bardia National Park in search of the Bengal tiger and leopard. Followed by an adventurous trek into the high-altitude terrain of Manang. Get a rare glimpse of the mysterious snow leopard – the ghost of the Himalayas.
Then, travel to Africa and track the legendary Big Cats – the lion, leopard, and cheetah. Here, you will explore the iconic landscapes of the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park. There, experience the raw thrill of a lion’s roar at dawn or the silent grace of a leopard hidden in the treetops.
Moreover, this journey offers rich cultural immersion. Beyond its landscapes and wildlife, both Nepal and Africa shine with cultural richness. With over 120 ethnic groups, the country’s warm traditions, music, and welcoming spirit make every journey feel personal and unforgettable.
Firstly, in Nepal, connect with the vibrant traditions of the Tharu people, renowned for their resilience and deep connection to the jungle. Then, in Africa, meet the Maasai, the guardians of the plains whose customs and stories bring the land to life.
Enjoy the views of the Himalayan skyline from your flight. Upon your arrival in Kathmandu, you will spend the day preparing for your adventure ahead. This will include organizing permits, meeting your guides, and getting any last-minute supplies.
You will embark on a scenic drive from Kathmandu to Besisahar, a gateway town to the Annapurna region. The journey offers beautiful views of the countryside and terraced fields along the way
From Besisahar, you will continue your journey by road to Manang. This drive takes you through dramatic mountain landscapes and along winding roads as you ascend into higher elevations.
For six full days, you will engage in snow leopard tracking expeditions in the Manang region. Each day involves guided treks into the rugged high-altitude terrain where snow leopards are known to roam, alongside stunning Himalayan scenery and opportunities to spot other wildlife.
After your snow leopard tracking experience, you will drive back from Manang to Besisahar, retracing the scenic route through mountain valleys and small villages.
From Besisahar, you will drive back to Kathmandu. At Thamel, you can relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Thamel with the music of your choice at the bar sipping your best beverage.
Early morning, fly to Nepalgunj, then drive 2–3 hours to Bardia National Park. Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome drink and briefing before lunch. In the afternoon, take a half-day game drive in Dalla Community Forest and visit Geruwa River for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Return to the resort for dinner and rest.
Over the next four days, you will participate in full-day tiger and leopard tracking safaris in Bardia National Park. These safaris will be on a private jeep, a jungle walk, and rafting. Guided by expert trackers, you will explore the dense jungle and grasslands to catch glimpses of these elusive big cats as well as other wildlife.
After your thrilling wildlife experience, you will fly from Nepalgunj back to Kathmandu, giving you a chance to rest or explore the city one last time.
On this day, you will depart from Kathmandu, concluding your unforgettable big cat tracking journey across Nepal, and fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport for Africa's Big cats. Upon arrival at the Kilimanjaro International Airport, transfer to your hotel in Arusha. Relax and enjoy views of Mount Meru or Kilimanjaro in the distance.
Take a scenic morning flight to the heart of Serengeti National Park. On your way to the lodge, enjoy a game drive spotting elephants, giraffes, and big cats.
Spend two full days on thrilling game drives in Serengeti, chasing the Big Five, watching cheetahs sprint, and possibly witnessing a Great Migration river crossing (seasonal). Enjoy magical sunsets on the plains.
Embark on a game drive to Ngorongoro National Park, passing Maasai villages and scenic highlands. Arrive at the crater rim for breathtaking panoramic views.
Enjoy a full-day game drive inside Ngorongoro Crater, home to abundant wildlife including lions, black rhinos, and flamingos on the soda lake.
Enjoy a morning game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, known for its diverse birdlife, tree-climbing lions, and lush groundwater forest. In the evening, drive back to Arusha for your overnight stay.
After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport for your final departure. Depart with unforgettable memories of your African safari adventure.

This is a pre-booking form for the lead traveler. We would send you the actual booking form after the confirmation
Begin your journey in Nepal, where our dedicated team will greet you upon arrival in Kathmandu and handle every detail for your snow leopard experience in Manang and your royal Bengal tiger safari in Bardia National Park.
After exploring the Himalayan wilderness, fly to Tanzania (via Qatar Airways) for an unforgettable African adventure. Discover the legendary Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, with our local team ensuring every moment of your safari is perfectly arranged.
Tiger Encounter delivers a seamless journey across two continents, from the rugged highlands of Nepal to the vast savannas of East Africa.
Africa and Nepal Safari – Key Differences
|
Feature |
Africa |
Nepal |
|
Geography |
Savannas, grasslands, deserts |
Terai plains, forests, wetlands |
|
Types of Elephants |
African Elephant |
Asian Elephant |
|
Rhino Species |
Black and White Rhino |
One-Horned Rhino |
|
Top Predator |
Lion |
Royal Bengal Tiger |
|
Safari Style |
Open-vehicle drives |
Jeep safaris, walking safaris, rafting |
Yellow Fever Vaccination Requirement for Visiting Tanzania
Just a quick note regarding health requirements for Tanzania—if you're arriving from or transiting through a country with a Yellow Fever risk (including long layovers over 12 hours), you’ll need to get the Yellow Fever vaccination at least 10 days before your trip. The certificate is valid for life, and immigration may ask to see it when you land, so please keep it with your travel documents.
Also, don't worry—we’ll be sending you all the necessary details in your package, including visa info, hotel confirmations, and your guide’s profile once the trip confirmed!
Track the roar, chase the shadow - journey into the wild with Nepal’s big cats
Manang lies in the northern part of Nepal in the Annapurna region at an altitude of 3,500 meters / 11,500 feet. Bardia National Park is in the Terai lowlands of western Nepal, near the border with India. Much lower altitude (about 200–300 meters / 650–1,000 feet), with dense forests and grasslands.
Step deep into the untamed jungles and soaring mountains of Nepal, where Asia’s most secretive big cats still roam free. It is the chance to witness three of the world’s most elusive and iconic big cats in Nepal’s wilderness.
From searching for Snow Leopards in the remote Himalayan highlands of Manang to tracking Royal Bengal Tigers and leopards through the dense Sal forests of Bardia, this is more than a safari.
It’s a raw, immersive expedition into Nepal’s wildest and most breathtaking frontiers. Begin your journey in the rugged trails of Manang to spot the elusive snow leopard — the true ghost of the Himalayas. Followed by the safari in the jungles of Bardia National Park, where tiger and leopard sightings fuel every step.
Roam Africa’s wild, where every roar tells a story- your big cat adventure starts here.
Tanzania’s Serengeti, nestled in the heart of East Africa, is a land of breathtaking contrasts and natural wonders. From the sweeping savannahs of the Serengeti and Arusha to the snow-capped summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, it's a dream destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
The big cats of Africa are typically the lion, leopard, and cheetah — the continent’s most powerful and recognizable wild cats. In addition, this safari journey offers the opportunity to encounter Africa’s Big Five: the elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo, all roaming freely in their natural habitat.
This is a pre-booking form for the lead traveler. We would send you the actual booking form after the confirmation
Wonderful and unforgettable trip!
My wife and I wanted to visit Nepal at its best, living, feeling and enjoying this beatiful country and people, in the most possible comfort, safety and relax..but, at the same time, we were not looking for a trip of unnecessary and impersonal luxury, living all the time in an unreal “bubble”. After some research, Tiger encounters was our choice for a 2 weeks trip to Nepal, one week between Karhmandu and Pokhara, and one week safari in Bardia National park.
Mr. Ghanshyam, owner and director of Tiger Encounters, organized for us the best possible tours and experiences. He suggested and booked the proper premium hotels and lodges, visited the best places with top guides, fantastic choices! From the moment of booking the trip, until the very last minute before boarding our plane to come home, we always had a full and great support. Everything was seamless, spotless and perfect. We lived the best of the Himalaya and the wilderness of Bardia beeing always treated like royals, unbelievable !
Thank you very much for all the special moments we lived and enjoyed, we will come again for sure !
Dear Reader, if you are still here, means that you really wish to go to Nepal… in that case, do not hesitate any longer, contact Tiger Encounters right now, you will not regreat it !!!!
Snow Leopard Expedition in Nepal
I have to congratulate Ghanshyam on the great organization, from email communications, logistics and all the attention during the tour. Everything was organized in an excellent way and what I really appreciated was the availability and flexibility. I have travelled a lot, but few times have I met an agency so helpful to plan changes on site. Great drivers, careful driving.
Aashish, our guide, did everything to satisfy every request, always available and kind throughout the trip and very competent even during trekking in search of the Leopard. What about Tashi R. Ghale, a special person, tireless, did everything so that we could realize the dream of sighting the Leopard. It was an honor to meet him and be able to be with him, for me it was one of the best experiences of life. I would have hoped to see the Leopard more closely, but I realize how difficult it is and still being able to hear it during the calls of the mating season was exciting.
Thank you for everything and I can only recommend this agency “Tiger Encounter”!
The most exciting journey of Snow Leopard and the most perfect service!
Together with Tiger Encounter we went to Nepal in the Annapurna National Park on the trail of the Snow Leopard and it was a magical experience where everything went smoothly. Organizing the trip of a lifetime is a wonderful challenge, but doing it with passionate, competent, and meticulous people who paid attention to every detail and our every wish, ensuring this was truly the trip of a lifetime, was truly fantastic! We were three of us along with me Alessan & Sandara.
These people really exist: they are the Tìger Encounter team.
Professionalism at the highest level, friendliness and respect, always open to any idea and always attentive to our safety.
You couldn’t ask for more.
One of the best tour companies I ever worked with
I’ve travelled to 50+ countries with dozens of tour operators – Ghanshyam and his team absolutely stood out. This was a demanding photography trip and everything was organised perfectly and flexibly when needed, with a lot of personal attention and excellent guides.
Bardia and Chitwan Photography Trip
I have traveled to many places in pursuit of photographing endangered species, and surprisingly, I did not have any images of the Bengal tiger. Many of my friends visited India for tiger safaris, but the crowded and hectic national parks discouraged me. After watching a BBC Planet Earth documentary, I discovered that Bengal tigers also exist in Nepal. Following many email exchanges with different tour operators in Nepal, I chose Tiger Encounter — and I am very happy that I made the right decision.
Ghanshyam was extremely flexible with my itinerary. I had to change my plans at least twice, and he accommodated every adjustment without hesitation or even a hint of frustration. He personally came to the airport to receive me and introduced me to my guide, Manju, who accompanied me throughout the entire trip. During the journey, Ghanshyam stayed in constant communication with the guide to ensure I was always well taken care of.
When I book a trip, I highly value creativity, resourcefulness, and flexibility. Not every trip goes perfectly smoothly, so when unexpected situations arise, the way they are handled matters greatly. Ghanshyam earned my trust because he managed every challenge in a way that exceeded my expectations.
Although I had to cut my trip short, I fully intend to return to Nepal, and Ghanshyam will absolutely be my first choice again.
With that said, I have no hesitation in highly recommending Tiger Encounter to anyone planning a trip to Nepal.
Tiger Trip of a lifetime!
I spent 12 days exploring Nepal with Tiger Encounter and it was one of the most incredible trips in my life. They met us at the airport and didn’t leave our side the entire trip. Extremely organized and professional and I’m already planning on coming back. Best way to see tigers in the wild! Couldn’t recommend them enough.
Tiger Safari in Bardia & Red Panda Trekking
I really wanted to find a local company who could make a personalised itinerary for my husband and I to do red panda trekking and a safari in Bardia National Park to see tigers (among other things). I would highly recommend Tiger Encounter for any trip to Nepal, but especially if you’re looking to encounter wildlife.
Outstanding Service
We recently returned from a 2 week private wildlife trekking and safari tour with Tiger Encounter, and couldn’t recommend them highly enough. We found them through a Google search and we are so glad that we did – we were so impressed! Tiger Encounter really offer such a personalised service and clearly care about their travellers.
Great Experience with Tiger Encounter
Excellent safari in Chitwan and Bardia. Very professional company and we were looked after really well. Communication was easy and fast response. The guides on the safaris were brilliant and the accommodation was excellent. Can’t rate them highly enough.
The absolute best there is
I’ve been to 28 different countries and countless safaris over the world- let me tell you that this is the standard for every other safari I’ve been on since! The attention to detail, the absolute love and care of the guides, and the tour operator’s genuine wish for you to have the best experience possible made this one of the most amazing tours/safaris I’ve been on.
It was just as amazing to meet the locals and meet the Tharu people as it was to see the rhino and to be close up with an elephant!! (And That tiger that kept in front of our raft to cross the river!!) As an experienced traveler, take my word that you will have a genuinely wild and carefree adventure!!!???
First Luxuries Jungle Safari Trip to Nepal
Had the most wonderful and life changing experience with Tiger Encounter. I had the wonderful opportunity to meet Mr. Sharma (owner) who had accompanied me as my guide throughout my adventure. They had planned everything so well and truly make you feel like family. Be it every step of the way from jeep safari, jungle walk, canoe ride, trek through the jungle, mountain trek Mr. Sharma is truly amazing guide, photographer and wonderful motivator. It goes without saying that your guide is your doorway to experiencing everything about the beautiful country you visit. Be it food, shopping, adventure or pleasure. I truly loved every moment of my time…and hope to return to this beautiful country with Tiger Encounter to many more adventures and celebrating a wonderful friendship. Hop you all have as amazing adventures and journeys with them. ?
Fantastic from beginning to end
Thank you Tiger Encounter team for another great experience in beautiful Nepal. We had amazing memories in Mt. Everest & Chitwan! We did wildlife safari, jeep safari, bird watching, village tour & cultural program. You are super professional, knowledgeable. Strongly recommend.