Highlights of the Big Five Safari Adventures in Africa and Nepal: Big Five in Two Wild Worlds
Serengeti (Tanzania-Africa) to Bardia (Terai-Nepal): A Cross-Continental Safari Adventure
Tracking the Big Five Beyond the Borders Across the Continents.
Big Five Encounters in the wild of the Terai of the Himalayan Nation and the Heart of Africa.
UNESCO-listed Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest inactive, intact, and unfilled volcanic caldera.
Witness the Great Migration, nature’s most dramatic wildlife parade across endless golden plains.
Catch the Big Five in action- lions roaring, elephants roaming, and leopards lurking in the acacia trees.
Feel the thrill as cheetahs sprint across the savannah in high-speed hunts.
Soar above the Serengeti in a hot air balloon, watching wildlife from the sky at sunrise.
Be dazzled by over 500 bird species, from graceful eagles to colorful rollers.
Track the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger through deep jungle trails.
Spot wild elephants and one-horned rhinos in peaceful riverine forests.
Glide down the Karnali River beside gharials, crocodiles, and playful dolphins.
Discover a birdwatcher’s paradise, with vibrant kingfishers, hornbills, and rare floricans.
Experience authentic Maasai andTharu culture and jungle life far from the crowds.
Overview of Big Five Safari Adventures in Africa and Nepal: Big Five in Two Wild Worlds
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.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vakSVb-g214
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.
Big Five Safari Adventures in Africa and Nepal: Big Five in Two Wild Worlds
AccommodationBest available hotel
TransportationFlight and 4WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude1,400 m/ 4,600 ft.
MealsB,L,D
Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport. Transfer to your hotel in Arusha and relax after your journey with views of Mount Meru or Kilimanjaro in the distance.
AccommodationBest Safari Lodge
TransportationFlight and 4WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude920 to 1,850 meters(3,018 to 6,070 feet)
Trek duration1 hour flight and 2 hours drive
Trek distanceApprox. 70 km drive
MealsB,L,D
Take a scenic morning flight into the heart of Serengeti National Park. On the way to your lodge, enjoy a game drive through the vast plains, looking for elephants, giraffes, and big cats.
AccommodationBest Safari Lodge
Transportation4WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude920 to 1,850 meters(3,018 to 6,070 feet)
Trek duration12 hours including lunch and waiting breaks
MealsB,L,D
Enjoy a full day of thrilling game drives across the vast Serengeti plains, searching for Africa’s iconic Big Five and other incredible wildlife. Watch lions, elephants, buffalo, and elusive leopards in their natural habitat, while cheetahs sprint across the open grasslands in pursuit of prey. Depending on the season, you may also witness the dramatic spectacle of a Great Migration river crossing.
AccommodationBest Safari Lodge
Transportation4WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude920 to 1,850 meters(3,018 to 6,070 feet)
Trek duration12 hours including lunch and waiting breaks
MealsB,L,D
Continue your Serengeti adventure with another full day of wildlife exploration. Discover new areas of the park and capture unforgettable moments as animals roam freely across the endless savannah. As the sun begins to set, enjoy the pure magic of a Serengeti sunset, with golden light spreading across the plains and creating a breathtaking backdrop for photography and unforgettable memories.
AccommodationBest Safari Lodge
Transportation4WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude2,286 to 2,400 meters (7,500 to 7,870 feet)
Trek duration12 hours including lunch and waiting breaks
MealsB,L,D
Embark on a scenic game drive toward the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, passing through traditional Maasai villages and beautiful highlands along the way. Enjoy the changing landscapes, from rolling hills to open grasslands, while experiencing glimpses of local culture and daily life.
Continue toward the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater rim, where stunning panoramic views of the vast volcanic caldera await. Take in the breathtaking scenery of the crater, with its lush forests, grasslands, and wildlife-rich plains, before heading to your lodge or camp.
AccommodationBest Safari Lodge
Transportation4WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude2,286 to 2,400 meters (7,500 to 7,870 feet)
Trek duration12 hours including lunch and waiting breaks
MealsB,L,D
Enjoy a full-day game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater, one of Tanzania’s most spectacular wildlife destinations. Explore its diverse landscapes in search of black rhinos, lions, elephants, and other wildlife, while the soda lake attracts large flocks of beautiful flamingos. The crater’s stunning scenery and rich concentration of wildlife make it an unforgettable safari experience.
AccommodationBest Hotel
Transportation4 WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude960 meters (3,150 feet)
Trek duration12 hours including lunch and waiting breaks
MealsB,L,
Enjoy a morning game drive in Lake Manyara National Park, a true birder’s paradise home to more than 400 bird species. Keep an eye out for colorful flamingos, pelicans, majestic hornbills, and seasonal migratory birds, along with the park’s diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Later, continue your journey with a scenic drive back to Arusha, concluding your unforgettable safari adventure.
AccommodationBest available hotel
TransportationFlight and 4WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude1,350 m/ 4,429 ft.
Trek duration2 hours drive and 14 to 18 hours flight
Trek distance50 km/ 31 miles drive
MealsB,L,D
Fly out of Tanzania and arrive in Kathmandu, Nepal, enjoying the views of the Himalayan skyline. Transfer to your hotel at the hotel and relax.
Accommodation5 star hotel at Thamel
Transportation4WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude1,350 m/ 4,429 ft.
Trek duration8 hours tour
MealsB,L,D
Take a relaxed day exploring Kathmandu’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the sacred Boudhanath Stupa, the hilltop Swayambhunath Temple, and the historic Kathmandu Durbar Square. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture, ancient architecture, and vibrant heritage before preparing for your exciting jungle adventure ahead.
AccommodationTiger Track Eco Resort
TransportationFlight and 4WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude150 m to 300 m (492 ft to 984 ft)
Trek duration50 minutes flight and 2 hours drive
MealsB,L,D
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.
AccommodationTiger Track Eco Resort
Transportation4 WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude150 m to 300 m (492 ft to 984 ft)
Trek duration12 hrs with lunch and frequent breaks for scanning and waiting
Trek distance80-90 km game drive
MealsB,L,D
Head out on a full-day jeep safari through the Sal forests and river plains—tracking the Royal Bengal tigers, elephants, rhinos, and more.
AccommodationTiger Track Eco Resort
TransportationWalk
Maximum altitude150 m to 300 m (492 ft to 984 ft)
Trek duration12 hrs with lunch and frequent breaks for scanning and waiting
Trek distance10 km walk
MealsB.L,D
Explore the jungle on foot with an expert naturalist, tracking animal footprints and learning about the hidden life of the forest.
AccommodationTented Camp
Transportation4 WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude150 m to 300 m (492 ft to 984 ft)
Trek duration12 hrs with lunch and frequent breaks for scanning and waiting
Trek distance80-90 km game drive
MealsB,L,D
Enjoy another exciting jeep safari in Bardia National Park, followed by a peaceful night in a tented camp beneath the clear, starlit sky. Far from city lights, relax and enjoy the magical experience of sleeping under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.
AccommodationTiger Track Eco Resort
Transportation4 WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude150 m to 300 m (492 ft to 984 ft)
Trek duration12 hrs with lunch and frequent breaks for scanning and waiting
MealsB,L,D
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.
TransportationFlight and 4 WD Private Jeep
Maximum altitude1,350m / 4,429 ft.
Trek duration2 hours drive and 50 minutes flight
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.
Includes of the Big Five Safari Adventures in Africa and Nepal: Big Five in Two Wild Worlds
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
Any Kind of Personal Expenses or Optional Tours / Extra Meals Ordered/ Tips, Insurance, Laundry, etc.
Visa & International travel airfare.
Anything not specifically mentioned under the head “Prices included”.
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
Additional information
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 is confirmed!
FAQs of the Big Five Safari Adventures in Africa and Nepal: Big Five in Two Wild Worlds
The Big Five of Africa are the lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo. The term “Big Five” was first introduced in the late 19th century by colonial-era hunters in Africa to describe the five most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot. While these species were once heavily hunted, they are now a major draw for wildlife tourism around the world.
Among Africa’s Big Five, black rhinos are critically endangered, African elephants are vulnerable, lions and leopards are near-threatened, while the Cape buffalo remains the least at risk.
You can spot Africa’s Big Five in famous national parks such as the Serengeti in Tanzania, Kruger in South Africa, Maasai Mara in Kenya, Okavango Delta in Botswana, and Hwange in Zimbabwe. Being the oldest and most famous national park on the continent, Tanzania’s Serengeti and Ngorongoro National Park are the most renowned wildlife destinations in Africa.
The ideal time to view the Big Five in Africa is during the dry months from June to October, when wildlife tends to congregate near waterholes and spotting them becomes much easier due to clearer visibility and sparse vegetation.
Leopards are the hardest of the Big Five to spot, as they are mostly active at night and are naturally shy, often retreating when they sense human presence.
Nepal’s Bardia Big Five are the Royal Bengal tiger, One- horned rhino, Asian elephant, elusive clouded leopard, and Sambar deer.
Nepal’s Big Five can mainly be seen in the Terai region’s protected areas, mainly Bardia and Chitwan, Shuklaphanta, and Parsa national parks and reserves.
In Nepal, tigers, elephants, and one-horned rhinos are classified as endangered or vulnerable; leopards are near-threatened, and sambar deer are also listed as vulnerable.
These species live together in dense sal forests, open grasslands, and fertile floodplains—forming a rich and compact biodiversity zone that highlights Nepal as a remarkable conservation success.
The perfect time to see them in Nepal is during the dry spring months from March to May, when the weather is pleasant and mornings and evenings offer clear, scenic views. During this time of year, natural water sources become scarce, making it easier for nature guides to predict where animals will gather to drink and bathe. They come out of the dense Sal forest near the rivers and water holes to quench their thirst.
Come across the magnificent Royal Bengal Tigers, and watch them live their untamed lives. Experience this immense quest in the wilderness of the most undisturbed protected area in Nepal.
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.
