After looking into lots of data collected over the company, there’s definitely an increase in bookings to countries such as Tanzania, which has seen a 57% growth in demand year-on-year.
And let’s not forget about Malaysia whose massive spike in year-on-year bookings totals 80%… Most impressively Costa Rica has seen an 88% increase year-on-year in bookings.
So, with a sudden boom in demand for wildlife holidays, what might be influencing this.
Introducing a travel trends report…
What’s inspiring the rise in demand for wildlife holidays?
A study of 2,000 UK adults, revealing that a whopping 83% would like to experience a wild animal encounter in their lifetime.
It’s clear there has been a boom in the demand for wildlife holidays, however, we wanted to find out why.
When thinking of some of the top motivators for booking a wildlife holiday, and (spoiler alert) the most common reason has got to be to tick off a bucket list experience.
Top 5 motivators for booking a wildlife holiday:
- To tick off a bucket list or once-in-a-lifetime experience (50%)
- It’s more interesting than your average package holiday (45%)
- Because they’re animal obsessed and want to see them in real life (29%)
- They’re inspired by documentaries such as Attenborough’s Planet Earth (25%)
- Because they’ve ‘done’ Europe and want to travel somewhere further afield (23%)
The Attenborough effect
I think the nation remains inspired by national treasure David Attenborough. Of those who want to go on a wildlife holiday, 25% say it’s because they have watched documentaries such as Planet Earth, and now they want to see some of the incredible animals with their own eyes.
Which wildlife experiences appeal the most?
Our study revealed that most people desire to go on a safari, as 40% said this was their preferred wildlife experience.
While many chose land, plenty are keen to flock to the sea! The survey shows whale watching as the second most popular wildlife experience, with 32% of people saying this would be their dream animal encounter.
As the world’s largest land mammal, it’s no surprise that visiting an Elephant sanctuary is high on many people’s bucket list. In fact, this experience made third place with 27% of people they’d want to do this in their lifetime.
Top five wildlife experiences Brits want to do:
- Safari (40%)
- Whale watching (32%)
- Elephant sanctuary visit (27%)
- Eco safari, using electric vehicles (24%)
- Wildlife conservation and research (22%)
Our research shows not only are safaris the most desired animal experience, but they’re also particularly popular with 18–34-year-olds. This comes as 83% of this age group say a safari experience would be their top choice for a wildlife holiday.
On the other hand, 27% of those aged over 65 years say whale watching appeals to them the most.
And for the most adventurous generation? This prize goes to Gen Z adults. Even the cold doesn’t seem to put this generation off, with 22% willing to travel to Antarctica for the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
However, not all wildlife holidays are rough and ready. In fact, we’re here to tell you there is something for everyone…
A recommendation for the perfect wildlife holiday, for all ages
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is establishing a name for itself as the new ‘it destination’ for wildlife holidays. With a whopping 88% year-on-year growth in tourism, we can safely say Costa Rica is predicted to be an up-and-coming holiday hotspot.
Expect to see an abundance of tropical settings, where you’ll get the chance to spot turtles, sloths, troupes of Howler Monkeys and even a Strawberry Poison Dart Frog – if you’re lucky. If this is your first time visiting Costa Rica, we’d say Tortuguero National Park is a must-see!
This destination is recommended for all ages, suitable for families and couples alike.
South Africa
Popular for a reason, South Africa provides the ultimate safari experience. Travel to this country show no sign of slowing down.
With South Africa, you’re truly spoilt for choice. Choose between whale watching on the Western Cape, a safari with a private guide or Leopard spotting in Sabi Sands. Tourists in this country can even enjoy a glass of wine (or two) knowing you’re in the most capable hands in South Africa’s wine region.
There is truly something for everyone, trips to this destination are suitable for all ages, making it perfect for multigenerational families.
Antarctica
Arrive via a cruise ship, however, expect anything other than your stereotypical cruise experience. Think alpine Heli-trekking, submarine driving and more – Antarctica is limitless.
If you plan to visit in February, expect whale spotting and penguins aplenty as Antarctica’s high summer means the wildlife will be in its most active state.
Due to its remote location, trips to Antarctica pair perfectly with a visit to Punta Arenas in Chile or even Ushuaia in Argentina, providing the opportunity to tick off two once-in-a-lifetime locations in one trip.
Recommended for adults and those willing to brave harsh conditions, Antarctica is for the most adventurous types of people.
The conclusion
Travel trends show that we can expect to see more people ticking off their bucket list adventures to see their favourite animals, whether that be on land, or by sea.
By forecasting the next up-and-coming travel trends, tourists are able to get ahead of the curve and plan the most exciting and fulfilling holidays, specifically for them.
Whether you’re inspired by Sir David Attenborough, or simply had enough of your average package holiday, wildlife holidays provide the chance to see some of the planet’s most unique and amazing animals.
Looking for more information on booking a wildlife holiday? Get in touch here and I can help guide you to your perfect itinerary.
Already made your mind up? I’ll help you plan the perfect wildlife holiday, tailored to you! Get in contact with me here.
Rebecca Mottram Travel Agent 
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