Highlands of Central India Wildlife
- Why choose Highlands of Central India Wildlife Tour?
Journey Highlights & Overview
This wildlife safari adventure takes you through the pristine landscapes of Satpura, Pench, Kanha, and Bandhavgarh tiger reserves, offering a unique opportunity to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the wild.
Prepare to be enthralled as you come face to face with the majestic Bengal tigers, roam alongside leopards, wild dogs, and sloth bears, and marvel at the vibrant avian life that inhabits these lush forests. Our safaris include thrilling jeep safaris with the most experienced naturalists, ensuring you experience the diverse ecosystems of Central India up close.
As we explore this natural wonderland, our expert naturalist guides will share their knowledge, adding depth and meaning to your tiger safari adventure.
Join us on this eco-conscious wildlife safari tour of India, staying in sustainable lodges that harmoniously blend with the environment. The “Highlands of Central India Tour” promises a life-changing expedition into the heart of India’s wildlife.
- Witness the elusive Bengal tigers in their natural habitat at Satpura, Pench, Kanha, and Bandhavgarh tiger reserves.
- Explore the rich biodiversity of Central India, from tigers, leopards and wild dogs to sloth bears and countless bird species.
- Immerse yourself in local traditions and heritage, visiting indigenous villages and experiencing traditional cuisine.
- Stay in eco-conscious accommodations that blend seamlessly with the environment, offering comfort and sustainability.
- Learn from seasoned naturalist guides who provide in-depth insights into the region's flora and fauna, enhancing your safari experience.
- Plan this journey
Get a quote for this journey
A senior naturalist reviews every enquiry and responds within 6 hours. You’ll receive a tailored itinerary, not a generic brochure.
- Destinations covered on this tour
Sneak a peak into the trail
At Nature Safari India, we believe your only job should be to immerse yourself in the magic of India on your tour.
From booking internal flights and securing train reservations to arranging private road transfers and handling any unique, special requests along the way, we take care of every logistical detail.
Leave the planning to us so you can simply focus on enjoying your unforgettable journey.
Itinerary for Highlands of Central India Wildlife Tour
- Day 1
Arrive in New Delhi (By Flight)
- Day 2
New Delhi – Bhopal – Satpura
Early check out from the hotel. Transferred to the Airport to board a flight to Bhopal. Met on arrival at the Bhopal airport and transferred to Satpura National Park. Lunch at the resort and proceed for an afternoon safari in the jungle. Come back from the safari at sunset. Hot dinner is served. Overnight at the lodge.
- Day 3 & 4
In Satpura National Park
Morning and afternoon jeep safaris in the park. All meals and overnight at the resort.
Satpura National Park is very rich in bio-diversity. Its fauna comprises of Spotted Dear, Indian Bison(Gaur), Tigers, Leopards, Wild boar, Wild dog (locally called Dholes), Sloth bear, Black buck (unique attraction), Porcupine, Sambhar, four Horned antelopes (Chowsingha), Smooth otter, Pangolin, Marsh crocodile, Languars etc.
Indian Giant squirrel is the special feature of Satpura National Park as it is rare in India now. Sighting of Leopards, Gaurs, Wild Dog, Sloth Bear is good in comparison to other national parks of Central India. Bird-watching in Satpura National Park is great. Here very frequently we can see variety of birds during stay and safari.
Tiger sighting of this national park is not so impressive as compared to nearby Bandhavgarh, Kanha or Pench national parks. So it is required when we go for jungle safari in national park, we should not go with single mindset of tiger-sighting but enjoy sighting all members of national park as they are equally share the jungle with tigers and are extremely beautiful creatures of nature.
- Day 5
Satpura – Pench
Morning jeep safari to the national park and later drive to Pench national park. On arrival check into lodge and take the evening at leisure. Dinner and overnight at the resort.
- Day 6 & 7
In Pench National Park
Morning and afternoon jeep safaris to the National park. Meals and overnight at the resort.
A total of 758 Sq. kms of this Southern Indian tropical moist deciduous forest has its extent mingling with the tropical dry deciduous teak. The area is crisscrossed by a number of streams and ‘nallahs’ most of which are seasonal. Though the Pench River dries up in April end, a number of water pools locally known as ‘dohs’ are found which serve as water holes for the wild animals. The Pench Reservoir at the center of the park is the only major water source during the pinch period.
As a prey concentration is high along the Pench River, tiger usually inhabits and frequents this belt. Leopards though generally operate in the peripheral areas but are occasionally seen in the deep forest also. Jungle cats are commonly seen. Leopard cats, small Indian civets and palm civets are seen rarely. In Pench, Cheetal, Sambar, are commonly seen grazing on the open sites on roadsides and banks of river & reservoir. Jackals can be seen in search of food anywhere in the Park. Packs of upto 15 or more wild dog can be seen near Chhedia, Jamtara, Bodanala and Pyorthadi areas of the Reserve. Herds of gaur can be spotted near streams and bamboo patches commonly in summer months. Sloth beer occupy the rocky areas and favour mahul bel infested forest. Chinkara is present in very small numbers and is found in open areas around Turia, Telia and Dudhgaon villages.
- Day 8
Pench – Kanha
Morning safari in the park. Come back from the safari, freshen up and eat a quick lunch. Post lunch, head to Kanha national park. On arrival check into the Lodge. Dinner and overnight at the lodge in Kanha.
- Day 9 & 10
In Kanha National Park
Morning and afternoon jeep safaris in the national park. All meals and overnight at the lodge.
Kanha is tribal country, and a perfect example of man-animal co-existence. This was the first park from when a village was moved out from the core area of the forest and relocated outside. Subsequently, many other villages were shifted out to give more inviolate space to the tigers. The graceful tribals accepted the generous compensation packages thus creating a haven for tigers in Kanha and it became a win-win situation for tribal and tigers both. Dinner and overnight stay at the resort.
Kanha is a flagship national park of India when it comes to successful conservation stories. Hard Ground Barasingha was brought back from the brink of extinction in this very park. The number in 80s were just 60, today they are over 800 roaming freely in the park. Kanha has also assisted in repopulating the Indian Gaur population in Bandhavgarh where they were last seen in 1997. Today over 300 Indian Gaur are present in Bandhavgarh.
- Day 11
Kanha – Bandhavgarh
Morning safari in the park. Come back from the safari and eat lunch. Post lunch, transferred to Bandhavgarh National Park. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
- Day 12 & 13
In Bandhavgarh National Park
Morning and afternoon jeep safari in the national park. All meals and overnight at the lodge.
Bandhavgarh national park is mainly known for the density of its tiger population. This is the place where famous White Tigers of Rewa were discovered. The other wild attractions in the park include Leopards, Blue Bulls, Indian Gaur (Bison) Chausingha (Four Horned Antelopes), Spotted Deers, Sambar Deer, Wild Boar, Sloth Bears Fox, Jackals, Wild Dogs, etc. There are at least 22 mammal species and about 250 bird species in the Park. The other animals found in Bandhavgarh are Ratel, Porcupine, Small Indian Civet, Palm Squirrel, Lesser Bandicoot rat, the Jungle Cat, and the shy Hyenas. The reptile population in the park includes Cobras, Kraits, Vipers, Ratsnakes, Pythons, Monitor Lizards and turtles. The two-primate species – the rhesus macaque and the Hanuman langur – inhabit Bandhavgarh. Overnight at the Resort.
Bandhavgarh has been a center of human activity and settlement for over 2000 years, and there are references to it in the ancient books, the Narad-Panch Ratra and the Shiva Purana. The oldest sign of habitation in the park are caves dug into the sandstone to the north of the fort. Several contain Brahmi inscriptions dating from the 1st century B.C. Various dynasties have ruled the fort, for example, the Maghas from the 1st century A.D., the Vakatakas from the 3rd century A.D., From that time onwards Bandhavgarh was ruled by a succession of dynasties including the Chandela Kings. Bandhavgarh became more and more deserted until forest overran the area band it became the royal hunting reserve. This helped to preserve the forest and its wildlife, although the Maharajas made full use of their rights.
- Day 14
Bandhavgarh – Jabalpur – New Delhi
Morning safari in the park. Come back from the safari and eat lunch. Post lunch, transferred to Bandhavgarh National Park. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
- Day 15
New Delhi Fly Back
- Trip Inclusions
- Accommodation in New Delhi on bed and breakfast basis
- Accommodation in Satpura, Pench, Kanha and Bandhavgarh on room, all meals and safari basis
- Entrance and guide charges in Satpura, Pench, Kanha and Bandhavgarh
- 6 exclusive jeep safaris will be provided in Satpura
- 5 exclusive jeep safaris will be provided in Pench
- 5 exclusive jeep safaris will be provided in Kanha
- 5 exclusive jeep safaris will be provided in Bandhavgarh
- Assistance at airport and hotels
- All land transfers in air-conditioned Toyota innova/Crysta
- All currently applicable taxes
- Trip Exclusions
- International and domestic airfare
- Still / video camera fee in the monuments and national parks.
- Expenses of personal nature like Tips, smokes, liquor, laundry and telephone calls.
- Travel insurance
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Experience of Excellence in Indian Wildlife Tourism
Celebrated 25 years in Jan 2025, marking decades of happy guests, 13,000+ trees planted, and impactful conservation efforts. We thank our expert Naturalists, trackers, hotel, and transport partners for their dedication. Committed to sustainable tourism, we will continue delivering exceptional wildlife experiences with the highest service standards.
- Journey extension
Your Journey, Your Choise
- The Experience, Through Their Eyes
Our Testimonials
Natalie Kata
Elizabeth K
Overall, the trip was the best experience of my life. The tiger sightings we had, particularly at Jim Corbett, were just out of this world, more than we could have ever hoped for. Of course NSI couldn’t arrange that for us, but maybe their choice of guides helped us to see so much. I know some other jeeps we spoke to hadn’t seen anywhere near what we did…
Janet Mead
VIP treatment from begining to end. Transport by comfortable cars between the parks with what must be the only careful drivers in India!
The Naturalists chosen by Nature Safaris are real professionals and you get to see not only tigers close to but many other animals and birds. Hotels were excellent. This was my third trip with Nature Safari India…
Why choose Nature Safari India?
- Journeys Curated by Experts
We at Nature Safari India focuses on creating bespoke wildlife safari tours tailored to your needs so that you will enjoy your dream vacation.
- India-wide naturalist depth
Our in-house naturalists are not just guides, they are storytellers of the jungle who will enhance your tiger safari experience in India.
- Seamless private planning
From touchdown to takeoff, your journey will be seamless. No surprises, no chaos, just peace of mind.
- Conservation with credibility
With our motto, “conservation through tourism” we focus on providing back to nature by supporting communities, protects tigers and more.
- Not just a trip, a dream come true
We believe in providing the best experience to our guests because this is not just a trip, but once in a lifetime journey.
- Beyond wildlife, tribal tales
Not just exploring wildlife, but you will get a chance to dive deep into India’s tribal culture, ancient traditions & heartfelt connection with villagers.
- Plan this journey
Customize the Highlands of Central India for your dates
A senior naturalist reviews every enquiry and responds within 6 hours. Unlike automated booking platforms, every itinerary we send is handcrafted around your dates, parks and interests.
- 25+ years of arranging tiger safaris in central India
- Exclusive jeeps and in-house naturalists on every safari
- Guaranteed sighting - India holds 75% of the world's wild tigers - we put you in the right park and zone to see them
- Prefer to talk it through?
Sharad Vats — +91 98112 00094
[email protected]
Customize this journey for you.
Please send a message, and we’ll get back to you shortly with a tailor made journey just for you.
Customize this journey for you.
Please send a message, and we’ll get back to you shortly with a tailor-made journey just for your convinience dates.
- What to Expect, Clearly Explained
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I go to India for Wildlife Safari in 2026?
India boasts unparalleled biodiversity across over 100 national parks, featuring iconic species like Bengal tigers, Asiatic lions, one-horned rhinos, elephants, sloth bears, and Indian leopards. In 2026, enhanced conservation, sustainable initiatives, and improved infrastructure make safaris much more accessible, affordable, and eco-friendly. Blend thrilling jeep tours in Kanha, Corbett, Pench, Ranthambore or Kaziranga with cultural tours for an unforgettable adventure. Choose solo, group, or private options, extendable to special interests like snow leopard expeditions, red panda quests, and birding tours.
Why should I take a tiger Safari India tour but not in other country?
There are 7 other countries besides India where the Tigers roam free. But India with a population of 4000+ tigers has about three-fourth of world’s wild tigers roaming in 50 tiger reserves. The sheer number of tigers in India increases the chances of sighting them substantially. Out of the 50 tiger reserves you have excellent chances of sighting tigers in at least 15 of them.
Which are the top 03 national parks for a tiger safari in India?
The top 3 national parks for tiger safari in India are Corbett National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park and Ranthambore National Park. To read a detailed review of the three, please read our blog on the Top 3 National Parks for Tiger Safaris in India. These we mention keeping in mind the consistency of tiger sightings over last 30 years.
Is an open jeep safe for a tiger safari India tour?
Yes, jeeps are safe for a tiger safari in India. The only point of understanding is that the jeep and its occupants must at all times maintain a safe distance from the wildlife around. If you hinder their space or peace, they might not like it and in turn leave the area. Always remember that you are in their territory and it is only basic courtesy to not disturb them. Do not get off your safari vehicle to click photos, do not feed them, and do not ask the driver/guide/naturalist to speed up to chase wildlife around. These are basic rules and any form of disobedience is strictly punishable.
What kind of clothes should I carry on a tiger safari India tour?
The temperature in Indian jungles experiences fluctuations throughout the day. During the scorching summer months of April and May, it can climb to a peak of 45 degrees Celsius, but it cools down to a pleasant 25 degrees Celsius in the evenings. In the winter season, from December to February, the mornings can be quite chilly, with temperatures dropping to as low as 0-5 degrees Celsius, but the days become comfortably warmer, ranging between 15-20 degrees Celsius. If you’re interested in learning more about tiger safaris in India and how these temperature changes can impact your experience, click here to read further.
For detailed blog post on the best time to visit national parks in India for tiger safaris.
What is the difference between a jeep and a canter on a tiger safari India tour?
A jeep is an open roofed car which is the most agile form of tiger safari within an Indian national park. It has the capacity to seat a naturalist (also your driver), a guide (as provided by the forest department) and 06 guests while on safari. A canter on the other hand is an open roofed mini bus which has the seating capacity of a driver, guide and 16-20 guests.
Which all documents are required by an NRI for experiencing tiger safari in India?
You will need 2 documents to have an experience of tiger safari in India and those are your passport and safari permits. Permits can be booked online through goverment websites. While booking your tiger safari permits, NRI’s must have their passports ready as you need to update the same on the website and don’t forget to carry your passport while going for the safari as the park officials check the same at the entry gates.
Its optional but important to carry a local identity proof like drivers licence with you as sometimes it is required to cross check your passport.
What is the average cost of a tiger safari tour in India?
The cost of a Tiger Safari in India varies significantly based on several factors, including the national parks you visit, the duration of your trip, the size of your travel group, your choice of accommodation (whether it’s 3-star or 4-5 star), and whether you opt for exclusive or shared jeep safaris, among other considerations.
How do I book a tiger safari in India?
You can book a tiger safari in India through a reputed wildlife travel company that arranges park permits, expert guides, and accommodations. Here is a quick comparison between the top 5 best tiger safari tour operators in India. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially for popular parks like Bandhavgarh, Corbett, Kanha, Pench & Ranthambhore.
Which company offers the best tiger safari in India?
The best tiger safari in India is often curated by companies with decades of wildlife expertise, in-depth park knowledge, and a network of naturalists. Look for companies offering tailor-made itineraries and consistently high guest ratings. At Nature Safari India we hold 30 years of experience organizing experiential tiger safari tours in the best national parks of India. read our testimonials or TripAdvisor page to know how our guests rate our services.
What is included when I book a tiger safari in India?
When you book a tiger safari in India, the package often includes park entry permits, jeep safaris, guide fees, accommodation, and meals. Some premium operators like Nature Safar India & Tiger Safari India also offer transfers, expert naturalists, and personalized services.
What makes the best tiger safari in India truly special?
The best tiger safari in India combines high tiger density parks, expert trackers, quality accommodations, and well-timed safaris. Personalised attention, responsible tourism, and seamless logistics set top experiences apart from generic ones.
With Nature Safari India, you get a special curated tour for your needs and schedule because we believe that your journey should be designed to cater your needs.
How many safaris should I plan to maximize my chances of seeing the tigers?
No one can predict a confirmed tiger sighting, but with the right combinations of naturalists, Jeep drivers, and park guides, the chances are better. To answer the question of how many safaris you should do to maximize tiger sightings, I can say a minimum of four tiger safaris is required at a national park. It will maximize your chances by giving you more time to explore more areas.
Are children allowed on tiger safaris, and if allowed how old should they be?
The safari hours are long, children of younger age get bored and may create noise, which is not good for safety as well as safari experience for the fellow safari goers, so only children above the age of five are allowed to go on a tiger safari.
Can we get a refund if we cancel a tiger safari in advance?
It depends on how many days before you cancel your safari. If you cancel it one month before, you will get a full refund except for the booking charges.
How fit do I have to be for a tiger safari?
A tiger safari is always conducted in a 4X4 vehicle, and there is no walking involved. If you are a person who can sit comfortably in an open vehicle for long hours, then you are perfect for the tiger safari.
However some national parks gives the experience of walking safaris for which you have to cover 4 – 5 miles (approx.)
Can I stay inside a national park during my tiger safari in India?
Yes, several national parks offer forest rest house and premium stays inside or near the core zones. Staying close enhances your chances of early morning and evening sightings during your tiger safari in India. Examples Corbett, Namdapha National Parks.
