Our vast world is teeming with curious and diverse wildlife waiting to be discovered. From lush rainforests and icy landscapes to volcanic islands and vast savannahs, travelers can experience incredible encounters with animals in their natural habitats. Below are ten of the best wildlife destinations—each offering unique adventures and some of the best places to see wildlife on Earth.
1. Africa
Africa has long been considered the ultimate adventure frontier. Travelers can embark on safaris to witness a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat. The continent is home to the “Big Five”—rhinoceros, elephants, lions, Cape buffalo, and leopards—best observed in South Africa’s Kruger National Park. Botswana’s Chobe National Park is known for its vast elephant herds, while Namibia’s Etosha National Park allows sightings of flamingos and endangered black rhinoceroses. In Tanzania’s Serengeti, the Great Wildebeest Migration remains one of the most spectacular natural events on the planet.
Lioness relaxing in an African sunset
2. Alaska
Alaska’s untamed wilderness offers endless opportunities for wildlife viewing. Brown and black bears, moose, otters, wolves, and bald eagles inhabit the rugged landscapes. On the water, humpback whales, orcas, and porpoises delight travelers on small ship cruises, which provide intimate access to fjords, rivers, and remote inlets. National Parks such as Denali, Glacier Bay, and Katmai add even more chances for unforgettable encounters in one of the best places to see wildlife in North America.
A bald eagle rests off the shore (Adventure Life)
3. Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands remain one of the most iconic best wildlife destinations in the world. From giant tortoises and marine iguanas to Galapagos penguins and blue-footed boobies, the diversity of endemic species is astonishing. Snorkeling alongside sea lions, sea turtles, and reef sharks provides up-close encounters rarely found elsewhere. For birdwatchers, the islands host dozens of unique species, including Darwin’s finches and the waved albatross.
Snorkel on the Endeavor with the sea lions. (Michael S. Nolan)
4. Costa Rica
With lush rainforests, cloud forests, and pristine beaches, Costa Rica is alive with biodiversity. Jaguars, howler monkeys, crocodiles, and colorful birds thrive in this tropical paradise. Tortuguero National Park is a nesting site for green sea turtles, while Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve provides opportunities to spot the elusive resplendent quetzal. Night walks reveal spiders, kinkajous, and bats, making Costa Rica one of the best places to see wildlife in Central America.
Howler Monkey in the rainforest canopy
5. Antarctica
The White Continent offers dramatic scenery and equally dramatic wildlife encounters. Penguin rookeries, elephant seals, and Antarctic fur seals thrive along the South Shetland Islands. The Falkland Islands are home to impressive king penguins, while orcas, humpback whales, and leopard seals can be spotted near the Antarctic Peninsula. For adventurous travelers, kayaking among icebergs while surrounded by penguins and whales is an unforgettable highlight.
Sitting with a penguin (Beth Conway)
6. India
India is renowned for its rich biodiversity, making it one of Asia’s best wildlife destinations. Ranthambore National Park is a premier spot for tiger sightings, while Kaziranga National Park shelters the rare one-horned rhinoceros. In Gir National Park, visitors may glimpse the endangered Asiatic lion. India’s varied landscapes—from dense jungles to riverbanks—offer thrilling chances to observe elephants, leopards, and exotic bird species.
Bengal tiger deep in the forest
7. Borneo
Borneo’s rainforests are a sanctuary for some of the world’s most endangered species. Orangutans swing gracefully through the treetops, while pygmy elephants and proboscis monkeys add to the island’s charm. The Kinabatangan River provides opportunities for river safaris where travelers can spot crocodiles and rare birdlife. The unique ecosystem makes Borneo one of the best places to see wildlife in Southeast Asia.
My first sighting of Bornean pygmy elephants! (Sullivan Peraino)
8. Australia
Australia’s diverse habitats—from the Outback to the Great Barrier Reef—create an incredible mix of wildlife experiences. Kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and echidnas roam its landscapes, while marine life like sea turtles, reef sharks, and manta rays thrive in its waters. Kangaroo Island and the Daintree Rainforest are particularly prized for close encounters with native species.
Australian koala bear with baby joey in eucalyptus tree
9. Brazil (Pantanal & Amazon)
Brazil’s Pantanal is the world’s largest tropical wetland and one of the best places to see jaguars in the wild. Capybaras, giant river otters, and hyacinth macaws also thrive in this rich ecosystem. Meanwhile, the Amazon Rainforest offers unparalleled biodiversity, with pink river dolphins, sloths, and countless bird species inhabiting the dense jungle. Together, these regions secure Brazil’s place among the best wildlife destinations in South America.
A poisonous frog in the rainforest
10. Madagascar
Madagascar’s isolation has created a truly unique wildlife haven. Over 90% of its species are found nowhere else on Earth. Lemurs, chameleons, and colorful frogs inhabit its rainforests, while the famous baobab trees create a striking backdrop. The Avenue of the Baobabs and Andasibe-Mantadia National Park are highlights for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see rare species in their natural environment.
Look for chameleons in the rainforests of Madagascar
From the icy shores of Antarctica to the tropical forests of Madagascar, these destinations showcase the incredible diversity of the natural world. For travelers seeking the best wildlife destinations and the best places to see wildlife, these ten locations provide unmatched opportunities for close encounters with fascinating animals across the globe.
