Wildlife Tourism is Thriving, and Here's Where the Ultra HNIs are Travelling

Considered a niche segment, wildlife tourism has had a certain appeal with India’s UHNIs for various reasons. Wildlife tourism is a powerful way to preserve biodiversity, and it has a certain immersive quality about it. This is why it attracts UHNIs and celebrities looking for private and bespoke experiences. But who is curating these experiences, how are they being designed, and where are the UHNIs travelling across India and abroad? We ask leading travel industry experts in wildlife tourism.

Shrouded in Privacy

Given the privacy the sanctuaries offer, wildlife travel destinations are being preferred by the affluent in India. Aparna Manghnani, of East West Travel, a five-decade-old luxury travel company, handles the crème de la crème of the Bollywood fraternity, and says that Sujan Jawai in Rajasthan has become a favourite with many of her clients. “Since these guests value seclusion, all the Sujan properties are preferred, though in Ranthambore our top choice is Aman-i-khas,” confides Aparna.

“Picnics in the wilderness, tented camp stays, or even complete buyouts; Sujan Jawai offers one-of-a-kind experiences, along with the privacy that is so cherished by some of my top Bollywood clients.” 

Wellness and Wilderness

The report, 'Top of the Pyramid’ by Kotak Private Banking’s publication covering lifestyle patterns of ultra-high net worth individuals, indicates that there has been a shift in health and wellness, along with wildlife tourism. Leveraging this quest for wellness, wildlife, and nature, Aramness offers curated holistic packages. Situated on the edge of the Sasan Gir National Park in Gujarat, home to the last remaining Asiatic lions in the world, this is a luxurious Indian safari boutique lodge.

“At Aramness, our philosophy is simple yet profound: ‘Let nature nurture.’ We believe that true wellness comes from reconnecting with the natural world, and here in the Gir forest, we offer an oasis where the wilderness around you plays an important role in your healing journey,” mentions Jimmy Patel, wildlife conservationist and founder of Aramness. Guests can choose from Wilderness Awakening, Purification, or an Ayurvedic Renaissance, which offer a complete system reset with lush nature as the backdrop.

Wildlife Across Borders

Ultra-HNIs dedicate 7% of their expenses to foreign travel for leisure, as per the report, ‘Top of the Pyramid’. A lot of them also love the adventure of wildlife tourism, which is why Kenya remains a top destination.  Close sightings of the Big 5, namely, lions, leopards, black rhinoceros, African bush elephants, and African buffalo in Kenya, serve to be a big draw.

The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara, which has just opened, is the perfect getaway for multi-generational families. Not only do the expansive tented suites blend seamlessly into the lush surroundings, but every suite includes a dedicated 'Encholiek'—a Masai term meaning 'one who walks with you'—providing guests with a personalised butler service throughout their stay.

 “The Indian market is incredibly important to us at The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp. Indian travellers bring a deep appreciation for nature, culture, and elevated hospitality; values that align beautifully with our brand and the immersive experiences we offer in the Mara,” says Barnabas Wamoto, Group General Manager, The Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara Safari Camp.

Exclusive is Chic

Octola in Finland has also lately emerged as a premier destination. Wealthy Indians have been embracing the unique luxury experiences in this enchanting, private wilderness lodge, especially to see the Northern Lights and experience Lapland's pristine nature. It has hosted several Indian celebrities, like the Ambani family’s exclusive retreats, as well as Virat and Anushka's honeymoon.

“Octola Private Wilderness in Finland has become a favourite haunt with high-end travellers from India. The appeal of the place is its wilderness-first approach and curated experiences like reindeer feeding, snowmobiling, and Northern Lights viewing,” says Loveleen Multani Arun, Founder-Director of Panache World, a travel experience company curating unique luxury experiences for affluent travellers.

“For the longest time, it was Mahali Mzuri, the luxury safari camp of Sir Richard Branson, that had the Indian who’s who flocking to Kenya. Nestled in the wilderness, the 12 swanky tents offer all the comforts one would look for, and sightings of zebras, gazelles, or giraffes looming large were a big attraction,” shares Loveleen.

Embracing the Outdoors

Life in the great outdoors is all about slowing down and pressing the reset button. With wilderness experiences, the affluent are embracing the glory of nature. In 2023, the eco‑tourism market in India generated approximately USD 8.4 billion, projected to touch USD 26.85 billion by 2030, reflecting a CAGR of 18.1% from 2024 to 2030.