Dr. Van has traveled with Africa Adventure Consultants (AAC) to Namibia, Madagascar, Tanzania, Botswana and Morocco. And like many of our alumni, he now uses AAC to plan and organize trips around the globe, most recently to India.
India is a canvas of spectacle and color. A visit to the country offers the chance to experience incredible cultural highlights, wonderful cuisine, sublime architecture and an array of wildlife found few other places on earth.
“I always wanted to see a tiger in the wild. Besides them, there were also other wildlife that were of interest like gaurs (Indian bison), barasinghas (swamp deer), sloth bears and the dholes (Indian wild dog).”
Dr. Van found spending time with tigers to be the most memorable part of his Indian safari. AAC arranged an all-day permit, allowing him to remain in the park when morning and afternoon-only permit holders are required to leave. During that mid-day time, he enjoyed a tiger sighting with no other visitors – a rare treat in India’s parks, but one that is made more likely with an all-day permit.
Other highlights included witnessing a hunt and chase of a chital (spotted deer) by a leopard and seeing India’s amazing array of bird species, especially raptors and owls.
As with every safari, great guiding makes for a great experience. At AAC, we work with the best guides in the industry. Dr. Van was impressed by the patience and in-depth knowledge shown by Kathi, his guide in Bandhavgarh National Park, and Raj, his guide in Kanha National Park. “Both Kathi and Raj were fabulous. I must also give my Jaipur guide, Ansu, a special mention. She was caring, knowledgeable and a joy to be with.”
Dr. Van was also very happy with his accommodations throughout his India safari.
“The accommodations at the reserves were comfortable while the ones in the cities were mind-blowingly luxurious.”
Among his favorite accommodations was Shergarh Tented Camp in Kanha. He loved the cozy family feeling of the camp and that the staff “made you feel as though you were a guest of the owners,” especially Christie. The camp’s eight tents offer air conditioning and heat, ensuite bathrooms and private verandas. Activities include open-vehicle safaris, forest walks, cycling in the countryside and visits to the village market.
Samode Haveli was another favorite of Dr. Van’s for its opulence. Nestled in a serene corner of old Jaipur, Samode Haveli is a 225-year-old architectural marvel. It offers a tranquil escape from Jaipur’s bustling streets and features intricately hand-painted murals and lush courtyards. Rooms are unique and luxurious, and the spa is a wonderful place to wind down after a busy day exploring.
Dr. Van had a very memorable meal at the Michelin-starred Johri in Jaipur. Known for its seasonal, organic, vegetarian fare, Johri delights AAC travelers. From field-to-plate salads and tasty chaats (fried dough snacks) to rich butter paneer and a tantalizing array of breads, the restaurant takes vegetarian cuisine to new heights.
Dr. Van has advice for travelers to India:
“Be prepared that an Indian safari is very different from an African safari. Tracking a tiger through a dense thicket requires a great deal of patience. It is highly recommended to spend the extra money and obtain a whole-day permit to enter the parks.”
He had an excellent experience planning his trip with AAC and noted that his adventure was “all in all, a wonderful trip.”
“(I was) very well looked after from the moment I landed at Indira Gandhi Airport in New Delhi, India. Thank you so much for arranging another wonderful wildlife experience in India. The adventure met all my expectations and, in some cases, exceeded them.“
Next up on Dr. Van’s travel wishlist is Zimbabwe. We are excited to help him plan his next adventure!
Remember to ask your Journey Specialist about all-day safari permits and be sure to make your safari plans early – all permits are released four months in advance and sell out quickly. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter below for more travel inspiration!
Photos courtesy of AAC traveler Dr. Van, Shergarh Tented Camp, Samode Haveli and Johri