Wildlife sanctuaries across the globe offer the ideal opportunity to observe incredible animals in their natural habitats while supporting crucial conservation efforts. From South America’s lush rainforests to Africa’s vast savannahs, these protected areas provide unforgettable encounters with rare and endangered species. Spot a snow leopard in India, mountain gorillas in Rwanda, or a Komodo dragon in Indonesia. For nature lovers, these sanctuaries promise adventure, discovery, and a lasting connection with the wild!
Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries In The World
These incredible wildlife sanctuaries in the world are home to some of the planet’s rarest animals, offering visitors a chance to experience nature up close:
1. Sundarbans National Park, India
Photo: Arindam Karmakar / Wikimedia Commons
Sundarbans National Park is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in the world, known for its dense mangrove forests and the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. The sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a complex network of tidal waterways, mudflats, and small islands. Visitors can explore the area via boat safaris, catching glimpses of saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, and Gangetic dolphins while navigating through the mystical landscape.
Location: South 24 Parganas district, West Bengal
Timing: 7 AM – 4 PM
Entry Fees: ₹60 for Indian Adults; ₹200 for foreigners
2. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
Photo: Thomas Fuhrmann / Wikimedia Commons
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in the world for gorilla trekking. This dense rainforest is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Trekking through the thick jungle to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you cannot miss. The sanctuary also shelters over 350 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Location: Southwestern Uganda, bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo
Timing: Gorilla tracking begins at 8:30 AM
Entry Fees: $40 / ₹3,475
3. Galápagos National Park, Ecuador
Photo: Francesco Bandarin / Wikimedia Commons
The Galápagos Islands are among the most unique wildlife sanctuaries in the world, hosting species found nowhere else. From giant tortoises to blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas, the archipelago’s isolated ecosystem offers an unparalleled wildlife experience. Guided boat tours take visitors to different islands, where they can snorkel with sea lions, walk alongside nesting birds, and observe hammerhead sharks in crystal-clear waters.
Location: Galapagos Island, Ecuador
Timing: Open 24 hours
Entry Fees: $200 / ₹17,376 for International Visitors; $30 / ₹2,600 for Ecuadorian Nationals
4. Yellowstone National Park, USA
Photo: Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons
Yellowstone National Park is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries in the world for spotting North America’s most iconic animals. Spanning Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, the park is famous for its geysers, hot springs, and vast wilderness. Visitors can see bison herds grazing in Lamar Valley, witness wolves in action, or catch sight of elusive grizzly bears. The diverse landscape also supports elk, moose, and bald eagles.
Location: PO Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190-0168
Timing: Open 24 hours
Entry Fees: $20 / ₹1,737
5. Kruger National Park, South Africa
Photo: Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons
Kruger National Park is one of the most renowned wildlife sanctuaries in the world, offering close encounters with Africa’s Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos. The vast Savannah landscape is perfect for game drives, where visitors can also spot cheetahs, hippos, and wild dogs roaming in their natural habitat. Luxury lodges and budget-friendly camps make it accessible for all types of travellers.
Location: Private Bag X402, Skukuza, 1350, South Africa
Timing: 6 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fees: $6.78 / ₹563 for South African Citizens; $28.36 / ₹2,354 for International Visitors
6. Komodo National Park, Indonesia
Photo: Triayusept / Wikimedia Commons
Komodo National Park is the only place in the world where you can see the legendary Komodo dragon in the wild. These prehistoric reptiles, the largest living lizards, can grow up to 10 feet long. The sanctuary also boasts stunning coral reefs, making it a top spot for diving and snorkelling. Trekking through rugged terrain to see these creatures in their natural habitat is an unforgettable adventure.
Location: Komodo Island, Komodo, West Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
Timing: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: $9.09 / ₹789
7. Ranthambore National Park, India
Photo: Pahul mahajan / Wikimedia Commons
Ranthambore National Park is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in the world for tiger sightings. The park’s dramatic landscape, dotted with ancient ruins and dry deciduous forests, makes it a picturesque destination. Apart from tigers, the sanctuary is home to leopards, sloth bears, and various bird species. The jeep safaris here offer thrilling opportunities to spot wildlife in action.
Location: Sawai Madhopur district, southeastern Rajasthan, India
Timing: Morning Safari takes place between 6:30 AM – 10 AM; Afternoon Safari takes place between 2:30 PM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: ₹1,900 – ₹2,000 per person
8. Kinabalu National Park, Malaysia
Photo: Jason Thien / Wikimedia Commons
Kinabalu National Park is one of the most biodiverse wildlife sanctuaries in the world, home to unique species like the Bornean orangutan, pygmy elephants, and the world’s largest flower, Rafflesia. The park’s dense rainforests and high-altitude ecosystems create a paradise for visitors who love nature and adventure. The thrilling hiking trails lead visitors through stunning landscapes while offering glimpses of rare flora and fauna.
Location: Sabah, Malaysian Borneo
Timing: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: $2.20 / ₹191 for Malaysian Citizens; $11 / ₹955 for International Visitors
9. Tsingy de Bemaraha, Madagascar
Photo: Cactus0625 / Wikimedia Commons
Tsingy de Bemaraha is one of the most unique wildlife sanctuaries in the world, known for its dramatic limestone formations and diverse wildlife. This wildlife sanctuary is home to rare species like the Decken’s sifaka lemur, fossa, and various chameleons. The rugged terrain offers thrilling hikes through hanging bridges and sharp rock formations, making it a must-visit destination for adventurous travellers and adrenaline junkies.
Location: Melaky Region of Madagascar
Timing: Open 24 hours
Entry Fees: $12 / ₹1,042
10. Khao Sok National Park, Thailand
Photo: Chaiyathat / Wikimedia Commons
Khao Sok National Park is one of the most stunning wildlife sanctuaries in the world, featuring rainforests, limestone cliffs, and emerald lakes. This national park is home to rare wildlife like Malayan tapirs, clouded leopards, and gibbons. Visitors can explore the area by boat, go jungle trekking, or stay in floating bungalows on Cheow Lan Lake. Khao Sok National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Location: Surat Thani Province, Thailand
Timing: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: $9 / ₹781 for foreign adults; $4.5 / ₹390 for foreign children
Wildlife sanctuaries worldwide offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature and encounter remarkable creatures. From spotting tigers in India to trekking for gorillas in Africa or exploring vibrant coral reefs, each destination promises unforgettable experiences. Embrace the adventure and book your journey with TripXL for a well-organised, thrilling escape into the wild.
Cover Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons