On this page 8 sections
A tiger safari at Ranthambore is as much about the forest as the cat. You set out in the cold of an early winter morning, with mist on the lakes and langurs calling from the trees, and every bend in the track promises something. The reserve is large and varied, and even on days without a tiger the experience stays with you.
How a safari works
You travel in a safari vehicle with a driver and a guide, and the route is fixed by the forest department. A gypsy seats six and offers more flexibility and a better view. A canter seats around twenty and is cheaper but more crowded. Both enter the park through designated gates, and entry is limited each day to protect the reserve.
Safaris are scheduled twice daily. The morning safari starts at dawn, and the afternoon safari begins in the early afternoon. Each lasts around three hours. In winter, the morning is cold and misty; in summer, it is warm and the afternoon is hot.
Zones
The park is divided into numbered zones, with core zones and buffer zones. The zone is allotted when you book. Some zones are known for more tiger sightings, and others for lakes, birds or the fort. A good naturalist can tell you what to expect, but do not choose purely on rumours, as tiger movements change.
Booking
Book through the official Rajasthan forest department portal, usually several weeks or months ahead, particularly for November to March. Your ticket specifies the date, time, zone and vehicle. Carry the ID that you booked with. Hotels and tour operators can book on your behalf for a fee, and some packages include safaris. Avoid unofficial sellers who promise guaranteed zones.
What to wear
- Winter: Layers, a windproof jacket, a woollen cap, gloves and a scarf, since open jeeps are cold at dawn.
- Summer: Light cotton, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Colours: Earth tones such as brown, green and khaki are preferable to bright colours.
- Footwear: Closed shoes.
- Extras: Binoculars, a camera with a zoom lens and a water bottle.
Safari etiquette
Keep your voice low, do not stand in a moving vehicle, never feed or call to animals and stay in the vehicle at all times. Do not litter. Respect your guide's instructions, and let them choose the best spots. Be patient: waiting quietly is often how you get a good sighting.
Increasing your chances
- Book more than one safari, ideally in different zones.
- Travel between November and April.
- Choose a lodge with a naturalist on staff.
- Start with a morning safari when animals are more active.
- Accept that luck plays a role.
After the safari
Visit Ranthambore Fort and the Trinetra Ganesh Temple, explore the lakes by boat in some seasons and watch the birds. Many lodges offer evening talks about tigers and conservation.
Plan it with us
We can include safaris in a Ranthambore stay and in our Rajasthan family holiday. Ask us about availability for your dates.
