As the skies open up, so will the pent up demand. With countless trips having been put on hold in recent months, now is the best time to plan for something exciting for the remainder of the year already upon us. For adventurous souls, there could be nothing better than embarking on Safari holidays with Naturetrek wildlife experts. So if you are looking for some inspiration, take a look at these best safari destinations for travel in 2022 that will frame memorable experiences and unfold the beauty and diversity of the natural world around us.
Mexico (March) For Butterflies
Every year, from February onwards, millions of outwintering Monarch butterflies begin migrating from Canada and Northern USA to the jungles of central Mexico. Here at the 560 sq km Monarch Butterfly Reserve, one can witness one of the greatest wildlife spectacles unfolding before your eyes as millions and millions of these winged beauties settle on every branch and leaf they can find. This blaze of orange is only a short drive away from Mexico City and a good guide can make your wildlife holiday something special
South Africa (April) For Black Rhinos
The game reserves of the South African coastal province of KwaZulu-Natal are one of the few remaining strongholds of the highly endangered African black rhino. April onwards is a good time to see these animals as it marks the advent of the dry season. Animals are drawn towards the waterholes in large numbers, including the black rhino, which has simply been decimated for its prized horns. Rhino numbers are down by as much as 98% since 1960. A sad state of affairs for the survival of this magnificent beast.
Spain (April-May) For Birds
The density of breeding birds in the stunning Extremadura region of Spain has to be seen to be believed, especially the wintering common cranes that assemble here in vast numbers than anywhere else in Europe. Therefore making Spain one of the best safari destinations to visit in 2022. During these months Extremadura is literally overflowing with different species of birds, which makes this the prime birding destination on the continent. This is also the time to witness the spectacular breeding plumage of the Great Bustard, in their quest for a mate.
USA (May) For Bats
In May each year, one of the largest gatherings of mammals, in the form of Mexican free-tailed bats, takes place at Bracken cave in Texas, USA. Over 20 million bats roost here till the end of October, and the cave is the single location where bat mother’s come here to give birth to their pups. When they fly en masse at dusk on their nightly insect hunt, their flight offers an unforgettable visual sight. This is, however, a protected site and can only be accessed on a guided tour.
England (June) For Sharks
The Basking Shark is a seasonal visitor to the UK and migrates here during the summer months. At 12m in length, they are said to be the second-largest fish in the world and make very impressive viewing when they come to feed on zooplankton on the coastline of Cornwall. On sunny days, especially, they can be clearly seen on conducted boat trips catered to bring close-up views of these friendly giants.
Tanzania (July) For The Great Migration
If ever there is a wildlife spectacle that should be on the bucket list of any naturalist, it has to be the annual great animal migration in the plains of the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania. At any given time, more than two million wildebeest, followed by vast herds of zebra, antelope etc march across the Serengeti to cross into Kenya in search of greener pastures. In doing so, they have to cross the Mara River, which is at its lowest depth in the month of July. This crossing is dramatic as crocodiles and lions lie in wait to prey upon these animals as they struggle to get across. Seeing the wildebeest dodging these predators is the most incredible part of the migration and showcases the struggle animals have to make in order to survive. This grand fiesta can be booked on reputed sites like www.safarigo.com.
Botswana (August) For Elephants
Home to over 50,000 individuals, the Chobe National Park in Botswana is said to hold the largest concentration of elephants in the whole of Africa. The month of August is the driest season of the year, as a result, these magnificent creatures congregate in their hundreds on the few remaining sources of water in Chobe. Apart from elephants, mostly all park animals like lions, giraffes, zebras and antelope rely heavily on these water bodies to quench their thirst.
Romania (September) For Bears
The Carpathian mountain range stretches for over 1500 km between Central and Eastern Europe. The pristine forests found on the slopes serve as the ideal habitat for the endangered European Brown Bear. Romania has a number of reserves for the protection of these animals, where local guides take visitors to safe observation points to see these furry giants in their natural homes. The volcanic Lake Saint Anna has some wonderful spots from where nature enthusiasts can watch bears from a safe hide.
Madagascar (October) For Lemurs
The lush green forests of Madagascar are worth visiting all the year-round, but October is the month when the endemic lemurs raise their young. This offers wildlife lovers a golden opportunity to see these charismatic animals and the struggles they go through to rear the babies and protect their territory. Most of the animals found here are endemic to Madagascar, which means there is no chance of getting disappointed when on a safari to this country. From the notable ring-tailed lemur to the nocturnal aye-aye, Madagascar is a natural haven for animals and animal lovers alike.
USA (November) For Bald Eagles
Seeing a bald eagle in its natural habitat is on the priority list of almost every ardent birder. These majestic raptors, with a wingspan of 2.3m, congregate in the Alaska Chilkat Bald Eagle Reserve in large numbers to feast on the salmon which come here to spawn in November. This large gathering of bald eagles, soaring up and down in their quest for food is an amazing natural experience.
India (December) For Snow Leopards
The snow leopard is considered to be the most elusive of the big cats to spot in the wild, so let alone see one, just following the trail of this predator is a thrilling experience. The main prey of the snow leopard is the bharal, a goat species that descend to warmer climes in search of food at the height of the snow season in December. A lot of patience, endurance and help from skilled local guides goes into spotting this perfectly camouflaged animal when looking for its prey. Other exotic wildlife you can stumble upon is the Tibetan wolf or even a bearded vulture soaring high up in the sky.
We hope this list of best safari destinations to visit in 2022 helps when planning your next adventure!
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