Big Five Safari Adventures in Africa and Nepal: Big Five in Two Wild Worlds
15 Days
14 Nights
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventure that bridges continents — from the sweeping savannahs of Africa’s Serengeti to the untamed jungles of Nepal’s Bardia National Park.
Big Five Safari Adventures in Africa and Nepal: Big Five in Two Wild Worlds From the sunlit savannahs of the Serengeti to the shadowy jungles of Bardia, witness the thrill of tracking the Big Five in two of the world’s most iconic wild landscapes—each untamed, unforgettable, and wildly unique.
In the vast Serengeti of Africa, the legendary African Big Fiveare lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo. They roam freely across golden plains where predator-prey drama plays out beneath vast African skies. Besides the Big Five, the Serengeti teems with giraffes, zebras, hyenas, wildebeest, jackals, and wild dogs. Additionally, herds of Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles roam freely across the African savannah. Moreover, don’t miss the chance to witness nature’s fastest sprinter—the cheetah—in full flight. Meanwhile, along the riverbanks, hippos wallow and crocodiles bask under the sun, adding to the region’s wild charm.
The Serengeti is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 500 recorded bird species. Ranging from giant ground birds to colorful songbirds and impressive raptors. Among them, some of the highlighted birds are:
Ostriches-the world’s largest bird, roaming the open plains, will surely draw your attention. Vultures, the key scavenger, can be seen on the carcasses. Secretary Bird all-raptor with long legs, is known for hunting snakes. Kori Bustard -one of the heaviest flying birds; often seen walking in grasslands. Martial Eagle – one of Africa’s largest eagles; powerful and rare. Flamingos are one of the most elegant and photogenic birds in East Africa.
In contrast, Bardia offers a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path safari. Bardia’s wild heart beats with big cats, crocs, and clouds of birds—a true paradise for wildlife lovers.
Here, Nepal Bardia’s version of the Big Five awaits: Bengal tiger, One-horned rhinoceros, Asian elephant, Leopard, and Sambar deer. With its dense sal forests and tranquil riverbanks, Bardia’s magic lies in its raw wilderness, expert local trackers, and the quiet thrill of jungle exploration. Apart from the Big Five, visitors can spot sloth bears, gaurs, wild boars, and jackals in the park. Furthermore, the park shelters a variety of deer, including spotted deer, 12-horned swamp deer, barking deer, and hog deer. Rare otters, Mugger Crocodiles, Gharials, and Gangetic Dolphins thrive in the flowing waters of the Karnali and Geruwa Rivers in Bardia.
From the treetops to the riverbanks, Bardia sings with the colors of over 400 bird species, including the striking critically endangered Bengal florican and vibrant kingfishers.
Ultimately, whether it’s a lion’s roar echoing across the plains or a tiger’s stealthy step through the jungle trail, both destinations deliver unforgettable encounters — powerful contrasts, united by the call of the wild.
Itinerary of Big Five Safari Adventures in Africa and Nepal: Big Five in Two Wild Worlds
1
Arrival in Tanzania – Welcome to Arusha
Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, you’ll be met by our team and transferred to your hotel in Arusha. Enjoy a relaxing evening with scenic views of Mount Meru or distant Kilimanjaro. Our team will provide a short briefing about your upcoming safari and inform you of your flight schedule for the next morning. Rest well tonight—your unforgettable wilderness adventure in Tanzania begins tomorrow.
2
Into the Wild - Fly to Serengeti
Start your day with a scenic morning flight into the heart of Serengeti National Park. As you land, you’ll spot our private safari jeep waiting nearby, along with your dedicated guide and driver. Begin your first thrilling game drive across the iconic plains, searching for big cats and other incredible wildlife. In the evening, unwind at your luxury safari resort in the heart of the wilderness.
3 - 4
Two Full Days of Serengeti Safari – North & South
Spend two unforgettable days exploring both the northern and southern regions of Serengeti National Park. Enjoy thrilling game drives as you track the Big Five, watch cheetahs in action, and—if the season is right—witness the dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration. Each day ends with breathtaking sunsets over the plains, capturing the true magic of the Serengeti.
5
Game Drive to Ngorongoro National Park
Embark on a game drive toward Ngorongoro, passing through Maasai villages and scenic highlands. Reach at the rim of the crater for stunning panoramic views.
6
Game drive at Ngorongoro
Enjoy the full day game drive in the park. It is home to a high concentration of wildlife including black rhinos, lions, and flamingos on the soda lake.
7
Game Drive to Lake Manyara, evening drive to Arusha
Morning game drive at Lake Manyara, a birder’s paradise with over 400 species, including flamingos, pelicans, hornbills, and migratory birds. Later, drive back to Arusha.
8
Fly to Kathmandu, Nepal
Fly out of Tanzania and arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy the views of the Himalayan skyline.
9
Rest Day and Sightseeing at Kathmandu
Take a relaxed day exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, and Kathmandu Durbar Square. Prepare for your jungle adventure.
10
Fly to Nepalgunj and drive to Bardia
Fly to Nepalgunj and drive into the heart of the Bardia National Park. Settle in at your jungle lodge surrounded by lush forest and distant calls of the wild.
11
Jeep game drive
Head out on a full-day jeep safari through the Sal forests and river plains, tracking the Royal Bengal tigers, elephants, rhinos, and more.
12
Jungle walk
Explore the jungle on foot with an expert naturalist, tracking animal footprints and learning about the hidden life of the forest.
13
Second Jeep Safari and Sleep in the Wild
Another exciting jeep safari, followed by a night in the heart of the national park, under Bardia’s clear night starlit sky in the tented camp. Stargazing far from city lights — magical under Day 14: River Rafting and Sundown Celebration.
14
River Rafting and Sundown Celebration
Early morning game drive, followed by breakfast and rafting down the Karnali River. Spot gharials, crocodiles, and even dolphins. In the evening, enjoy a festive sundowner with unlimited food and drinks.
15
Final Departure
Transfer to Nepalgunj for your flight back to Kathmandu or onward journey to your home country. Farewell to two continents, countless animals, and unforgettable memories.
Cost Detail
Trip Includes
All meals (Veg/Non-Veg) with unlimited tea & coffee during the entire safari
Private jeep safaris in both Tanzania and Nepal
All international and domestic airport transfers by private vehicle
Private jeep transport throughout the African safari
2 nights in Arusha at a 4/5-star hotel with breakfast
3 nights in Serengeti and 2 nights in Ngorongoro with full board
2 nights in Kathmandu at a 4/5-star hotel with breakfast
Begin your journey with an unforgettable safari in Tanzania, exploring the iconic Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Your adventure starts with arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, where our local team will handle everything as per the itinerary.
After your African safari, fly to Kathmandu, Nepal (via Qatar Airways). Upon arrival, our Nepal-based team will warmly welcome you and manage all logistics for your wildlife experience in Bardia National Park.
Tiger Encounter ensures a seamless journey across two continents, from the heart of East Africa to the wild lowlands of Nepal.
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!
Just Fill and Book
This is a pre-booking form for the lead traveler. We would send you the actual booking form after the confirmation
What your client say about us.
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 !!!!
Nicola & MariaItaly
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”!
Alessandra FarinaItaly
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.
Alberto CerioniReppubblica Italiana
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.
Florian KriechbaumerDubai
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.
Ly DangUSA
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.
Ryan ShirleyUSA
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.
Ria & PeterNew Zealand
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.
Jessica & JamesUnited Kingdom
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.
Susan Joy BrownUnited Kingdom
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!!!???
Alison Michell HancockUSA
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. ?
Chithra SashiBahrain
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.
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