global wildlife private tours

Looking for a wild adventure out of the classroom? Book a Safari Adventure with us at Global Wildlife Center.

Be sure to check out the News section for the latest happenings at Global Wildlife Center!

Global Wildlife Center will be closed, Tuesday, May 28th, for our Team Appreciation Day!

Experience A Wild Safari Adventure

• Private Tours

The Private Tour

You can’t beat roaming our 900 acre wildlife preserve in a Private Pinzgauer. The Pinzgauer way makes for a more intimate tour with your family and friends! The Private Pinz tours can accommodate up to eight guests, and this 4×4 can go places our safari wagons cannot! Get plenty of one-on-one time with all our wild and exotic animals in a Pinz! Private tours are great for photo safaris, too!

Enhance your experience by feeding the animals

Feed options.

32oz Souvenir Cups ___________________ $5 Family Bucket ________________________ $35 Sack __________________________________ $71 Bin ___________________________________ $82

Book Today!

Private pinz tour, $49.95 per person.

A minimum payment of $199.80 (3% Service Fee on all Card Transactions) is required upon booking and will cover 4 admission tickets. Additional tickets can be purchased the day of the tour at check-in.

Vehicles can fit 8 adults comfortably. We are able to accommodate more individuals with extra vehicles if notified at the time of booking. It is recommended to book at least one week in advance

Semi-Private Pinz Tour

If you’d like to experience the excitement of a Pinzgauer tour and don’t mind sharing your ride with other guests, the Semi-Private tour is for you! There is no minimum required to book a Semi-Private tour, and groups can be combined for a maximum of 6 guests/Pinzgauer. 

AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Never miss a beat.

Stay up to date on all the exciting things happening at Global Wildlife Center from newborn baby giraffes, to upcoming events and promotions, and even updates on endangered species! 

• 985-624-WILD
• 26389 Hwy 40 Folsom, LA 70437
• BOOK A TOUR
• Wagon Tours
• Safari Parties
• Birthday Parties
• School Field Trips
• Meet The Animals

Global Wildlife Center © 2021 All Rights Reserved

Powered By Webmark

• 1-800-990-4376

• Catalog Request
• SPECIALS SIGN-UP
• reserve a trip
• Costa Rica Ultimate Wildlife 14-day
• Costa Rica Ultimate Wildlife 9-Day
• Every Paddler's Dream Trip
• Browse All Trips
• South Africa
• Exploritories
• Award Winning Trips
• Custom Trips
• Family Trips
• Travel with Our Director
• WILDLIFE GALLERY
• Request Info
• Vietnam & Cambodia
• Insider's Asia
• Insider's Africa
• Small Ship Cruises
• Travel with our Director

Award-Winning Wildlife Eco-Tours & Safaris

We are honored to be recognized as one of the top tour operators in the world.

Our wildlife eco-tours and safaris have been widely recognized as the ultimate adventures for wildlife lovers by National Geographic Adventure, National Geographic Traveler, Fodors, Smarter Travel and more.

News, specials AND INSPIRATIONS

Learn about special offers and last minute deals on our award-winning wildlife eco-tours and safaris. Discover exciting new trips and wildlife-viewing tips from the world's best trackers and guides.

Browse the latest wildlife and habitat conservation news, and find expert travel advice on all our wildlife adventures, eco-tours and safaris to Thailand, India, Borneo, Costa Rica, Panama, Peru, Galapagos, Brazil, Africa and more!

Where To Find the World's Best Wildlife

As experts in wildlife travel for 23 years, we've learned a lot about the world's greatest wildlife destinations.

Ours are not commercial tours; many of our destinations feature wildlife hot-spots which are virtually unknown & less traveled, where travelers can see the widest variety of wildlife -- without the crowds.

Weird and Wonderful wildlife

As Wildlife Travel experts we specialize in helping you get up close to see more wildlife and more rare and endangered species than any other operator. Discover some of the exciting animals from our trips in our photo and video galleries .

Explore by country, by animal, or start with our special gallery featuring the most Weird & Wonderful Wildlife of them all.

Baja: San Ignacio Lagoon and Sea of Cortez

Baja: Whale Sharks and Snorkeling in the Sea of Cortez

Azores: Manta Conservation Diving Experience

Tonga: Snorkeling with Humpback Whales

Kenya Safari: Twin Migrations – Wildebeest and Whales

Borneo: Rainforest and Reef Wilderness Adventure

Costa Rica’s Wild Pacific: Sea Turtles, Rainforest, and Volcanoes

Banda Sea: Reefs, Blue Whales, and Hammerhead Sharks

Galapagos Islands Cruises

Trinidad: Land of the Leatherbacks

Tonga and Fiji: Whale and Reef Snorkeling Adventure

Southeast Alaska Cruise: Whales, Orcas, and Bears

Pantanal, Brazil: Jaguars and Giant Otters

Florida Manatees and Endangered Habitats

Join our community., adventure awaits..

Take a Ride on the Wild Side

Semi-Private Global Wildlife Tours by Pinzgauer transport

by Louisiana Global Wildlife Center

March 21, 2024

Private Pinzgauer tours have long been the tour of choice for Global Wildlife Center guests looking for a more intimate experience than the preserve's fleet of safari wagons provides. The Private Pinz Tours can navigate more areas of the wildlife preserve and do not necessarily need to keep to traditional pathways.

These rugged 4×4 military transport vehicles can drive through the trees, across the lake, and into the far reaches of the property, wherever the giraffes are, so are a wonderful way to increase the probability of one-on-one time with Global Wildlife Center’s gentle, towering giants—especially when they’re browsing on the new leaves and tender shoots that spring growth brings. By popular request, Global Wildlife Center is now offering Semi-Private Pinz Tours. If you don’t mind sharing your ride with others, the Semi-Private tour is a great option for singles, couples and trios, as it does not require the usual 4-person minimum to book. Small groups can be combined for a maximum of six people per Pinz. So if you’re a family of four or more, or want to tour the center with family and friends, the Private Pinz tour is the way to go. For smaller groups, the Semi-Private Tour offers a more economical alternative. Semi-private tours are now offered beginning at 8:15 am on weekends for a limited time.

Get more information about Global Wildlife's Pinz Tours HERE

• Issue Archive
• Find a Copy
• Privacy Policy
• Contact Sales Team
• Country Roads Offerings
• CR Auto Pay Signup Form
• Send Us Your Event
• Baton Rouge Events
• New Orleans Events
• Acadiana Events

Keep in Touch

• Print Subscription
• Digital Archive

Current Issue

© 2021 COUNTRY ROADS MAGAZINE

2023 Country Roads Magazine

(+504) 9563-9689

HOME – Natural Selections Tours

Birding, wildlife & photo tours worldwide, small groups, experienced guides, unique experiences.

Natural Selections Tours was born out of a deep passion for birding, nature, and exploration. Our team has traversed every corner of the globe, immersing ourselves in the awe-inspiring array of birds and extraordinary wildlife.  We firmly believe in the importance of small groups when it comes to providing exceptional and gratifying travel experiences. Our unique birding, wildlife and photography tours prioritize maintaining a guide-to-client ratio that guarantees an intimate and personalized journey for every traveler.

Discover the magic of our meticulously curated tours, designed to captivate nature enthusiasts, bird lovers, and photography enthusiasts alike. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure as we unlock the marvels of our world, one captivating moment at a time.

Birding Tours

Natural Selections combines decades of experience with our passion for birding, reverence for nature, and desire to share, to deliver the most diverse and well organized bird watching tours possible.

Our team of tour leaders and birding guides are among the most highly trained and experienced in their region. We offer set dates as well as custom-designed itineraries throughout North America, Central America, and South America, and a growing number of destinations in Africa and Asia. If you desire something you don’t see listed here, feel free to inquire!

Explore Birding Tours

Nature & wildlife tours.

Natural Selections mission of advancing conservation means that we delight in sharing all of nature’s glorious biodiversity with our friends.

Our wildlife and nature tours bring clients and guests to some of the most pristine places on Earth, and reveal to them many of our planet’s most beautiful inhabitants. Whether you dream of seeing Jaguars in Brazil, Pumas in Patagonia, endemic reptiles in Sri Lanka, tropical birds in Guatemala, or all of the above and more, our commitment is to give you the most life-changing experience possible while learning more about our natural world.

Explore Nature & Wildlife Tours

Photography Tours

Our wildlife and nature tours bring clients and guests to some of the most pristine places on Earth, and reveal to them many of our planet’s most beautiful inhabitants. Whether you dream of seeing Jaguars in Brazil, Pumas in Patagonia, endemic reptiles in Sri Lanka, orchids in Guatemala, or all of the above and more, our commitment is to give you the most life-changing experience possible while learning more about our natural world.

Explore Photography Tours

Upcoming tours.

Browse our complete list of upcoming birding, nature, wildlife and photography tours. In small, intimate groups, we delve into the heart of nature, providing personalized encounters with the breathtaking diversity that surrounds us. Our tours are more than just enriching experiences for participants; they also contribute to local conservation efforts. Your participation directly supports initiatives aimed at preserving the natural habitats and wildlife that make these trips so unforgettable.

Birding Tour - Sept. 29 - Oct. 16, 2024

Brown Bears and Salmon Photography Workshop - Aug. 29 to Sept. 03, 2025

Birding Tour - March 16 - 23, 2024

Catherine Hamilton and Debby Kaspari Birding & Sketching Peru

Birding & Sketching Tour - Oct.12-23, 2024

Pantanal Jaguar, Wildlife & Photography Tour - October 8 to 19, 2024

Patagonia Puma Nature & Photography Tour - September 17 to 23, 2023

Western Andes Birding Photography Tour - October 31 to November 11, 2023

Birding Tour - July 24 to August 2, 2024

Nature Photography Tour - September 19 to 28, 2023

Birding Tour - March 2 – 13, 2024

Birding Tour - December 1 to 10, 2023

Nature Photography Tour - October 28 - November 8, 2023

Birding Tour - Feb. 10-21, 2024

Birding Tour - Main Tour- Nov. 3 to Nov. 12, 2023. Tikal Extension- Nov. 12 to Nov. 16, 2023

Guatemala IAS

Birding Tour - Feb. 01 to 10, 2025

Birding Tour - Feb 9-21 and Sept 5-17, 2024

Best Hotspots Birding Tour - Year-round group and private tours available

Rainforest, Caribbean Coast & Panacam Birding Tour - Year-round group and private tours available

Copan & the Interior Birding Tour- Year-round group and private tours available

North Coast Birding Tour - Year-round group and private tours available

La Mosquitia Birding Tour - January 23 to 31, 2024

Birding Tour - June 4-13, 2024

Kaziranga Rhino Photography Tour - March 5 - 11, 2024

Tiger Photography Tour - February 21 - March 5, 2024

Birding & Wildlife Tour February 21 to March 4, 2024

Herping Expedition - September 14 to 27, 2024

Borneo Nature & Wildlife Tour - March 15 - 28, 2024

Borneo Birding Tour - TBD

Snorkeling with Whale Sharks Isla Mujeres - TBD

Herping and Wildlife Tour

Nature & Wildlife Tour - Machu Picchu: Oct. 12 to 15, Main Tour: Oct. 15 to 26, 2023

Birding Tour - July 16 to 27, 2024

Northern Birding Tour - October 17 to 26, 2023

Wildlife & Photography Safari - June 15 to 30, 2024

Wildlife, Birding & Photo Safari - Oct.27 to Nov.4, 2024

TRINIDAD & TOBAGO

Birding Tour - June 23 - July 2, 2024

Nature & Wildlife Safari - Nov. 27 to Dec. 6, 2023

Arizona birding Tour - July 31 to August 8, 2023

Texas Rio Grande Birding Tour - Nov. 11-17, 2024

Arizona Monsoon Birding Tour - Aug. 5-12, 2024

Arizona Sky Islands Birding Tour - May. 5-12, 2024

New Mexico Birding Tour - January 12 to 19, 2024

Natural Selections Tours thanks Zeiss Optics in partnering with us to advance birding, ecotourism, and conservation. Zeiss Optics is a world leader in quality optics products and service, and we are proud to work together making our world a better place by seeing beyond, together!

Global Wildlife Center

Services Offered

Verified by Business

Birthday Parties

Fundraising Events

Non-profit Events

Social Events

Corporate Events

Holiday Parties

Private Parties

Review Highlights

“ I wish I would've gotten to see the giraffes up closer, but they were off wandering farther on the lot! ” in 49 reviews

“ There was SO much room to move around (there were three wagons available) that it was basically a private tour itself. ” in 34 reviews

“ The cups used for the feed can be taken home with you for your own use and are made of very durable material. ” in 30 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

26389 Hwy 40

Folsom, LA 70437

You Might Also Consider

Houmas House and Gardens

We are open. The Houmas Estate dates back to 1774 and the original manor house is still standing today. Mansion tours are daily and walk visitors through 250 years of the estate's history, architectural evolution, owner's lives, and… read more

in Historical Tours, Venues & Event Spaces, Bed & Breakfast

Chuck E. Cheese

15.1 miles away from Global Wildlife Center

Janet N. said "Came here with my family so the kids can have some fun. The kids had a blast but our pockets were empty when we left lol. The prices for food was a little high. The food was good but did take a while for us to get them. We ended up…" read more

in Indoor Playcentre, Kids Activities, Eatertainment

Amenities and More

1 More Attribute

About the Business

Come start your adventure with Global Wildlife Center soon - you'll be amazed as you learn through touch while you feel the wooly fur of bison and get eye to eye with our family of giraffes! Over 4000 animals roam free on Global Wildlife's 900 acre wildlife preserve. As a non-profit organization, Global Wildlife is supported in part, by the contributions our visitors make for the guided safari adventures. Please visit our website by going to www.globalwildlife.com for available tour times and more information! …

Ask the Community

Ask a question

I want to to the private tour with my fiance. Would it be possible to pay the minimum amount of a 4 person private tour- and just have the two of us on the ride?

I think so. But I'm sure if you call them they could give you a definite answer. Y'all are gonna love it!!!

People also searched for

birthday parties

corporate events

fundraising events

holiday parties

non-profit events

private parties

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

137 reviews

Awesomee! Unforgettable! Impressive! Worth a trip. Get a few buckets of chow for animals and DO NOT feed zebras.

Amazing we js went on a field trip there so much fun and is great for all ages!! We really enjoyed ourselves they also have private tour that were so cute

See all photos from Maddi B. for Global Wildlife Center

We went to Global Wildlife on 4/1/23 with my 13 year old daughter in celebration of her birthday. She loves animals and we'd never been before. We had a nice time and saw many animals. Lots of different animals and lots of them. The tour was nice. In s prefect world, each car would have a volume switch for the speaker. The weather and the animals cooperated to allow us to have a nine time. I'd give it 5 stars but it's pretty expensive. I get that everything has gone up but the price will deter us from making this a regular stop.

Fantastic wildlife experience. The tour was great with lots of animals to see. You can feed the animals right from the tram. All of the animals looked happy and healthy. The place was very well maintained. The staff was very knowledgeable and kind. I definitely recommend a trip to Global Wildlife

African Giraffe

If you go splurge on a private tour. The tour guide takes you places the big bus can't go. You get all the attention from the animals. Love this place. It's so obvious they love and care for these animals. Plenty of roaming room.

I absolutely love this place. I've taken my kids and grandkids. I've been by myself that's how much I like this place you go and a wagon type thing for my big tractor can you see Longhorns, camels, giraffes, zebras, bisons, kangaroos,llamas and what me and my family call the " cup stealers" they are some kind of cattle I think but they love to be feed and if you don't hold your cup of food with all your might they will take it all cup and all, lol Buts that's ok cause I usually buy the biggest bucket so we can feed all the animals I lot of food because it's so much fun. We've did the wagon tour more times than I can count and a couple of we've did the private tours for special days like birthdays and such for my grandkids. All the tours are super fun and exciting and you could go everyday and it would be different every time because the wildlife always do different things, but the cup stealers they are always lurking around to steal your cup of food lol. Fun, Fun,Fun is what this place is. On the private tours they take you out in little jeep like vehicles and you see everything but you get to choose where you spend most of your time, I love giraffes and the giraffe had just had a baby so we spent a lot of time there taking pictures of the family and my granddaughter loves camels so we spent a lot of time there also, my granddaughter kept kept singing sally the camel song, my grandsons l think love the cup stealers the most. But I promise you and your family will love it here. It's a great family activity and it's a great Date place too and yep it's fun by yourself because it's so much fun your not really by yourself it's amazing they have a cute gift shop too. The guides are great they tell you a about the animals and even stories about things from the past. So This place is awesome in March! It's awesome in April, May , June and July! It's awesome every month. Hot months, cold months too but the spring and fall months are the best!

We wish we had known the "2:00 pm" tour doesn't start until 2:45. We arrived nice and early at 1:40 pm thinking we would start loading the wagon or at least hearing announcements at 2:00 pm... The time came and went... 2:15 pm... still no sign of anything happening at all... people started asking at that point when we are going to load the wagon. Finally at 2:18 pm they start making announcements for like 10 minutes on a microphone. Then it takes 15-20 more minutes to finally load the wagon and pass out the feed. Therefore by the end of our tour, the sky was getting dark outside which put a damper on things. The times are misleading and we would have chosen an earlier time if we had known.

Inspite of the construction and not many animals, it is still a very relaxing place to visit

We have the absolute best time. I recommend requesting our guide Brandy. You can really feel the love she has for her job. She had such enthusiasm to teach you all about the animals and answered any questions we had. We would come back to New Orleans just to take the tour with her again. Feels like you could take the tour the very next day and experience different things. Thank you Global Wildlife

Came here on July 4 with some friends (5 total, ages 27-40). We did the Pinz tour which cost $44 per person. Our tour ended up lasting about 2 hours. We purchased 1 bucket of feed but the guide brought an extra one along just in case. We ended up buying the extra bucket too! We all had such a blast! The guide was very knowledgeable and fun. The animals were very friendly and even ate directly out of our hands. The area to wait has space for you to walk around and hang out without feeling like you're waiting. All in all, we had a blast and can't wait to go back!

20 other reviews that are not currently recommended

Collections Including Global Wildlife Center

March In Baton Rouge Area

By Teresa W.

Baton Rouge Staycation Ideas

By Rebecca B.

Louisiana Activities

By Scarlett M.

Family/Teen Adventures - GBR area

By Tricia S.

New Orleans

By Emily L.

North Shore

By Michelle J.

By Eddie S.

People Also Viewed

Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center

Liuzza Produce Farm

Splendor Farms

Sunflower Farm and Ranch

River Road Go-Kart Track

Escapology Escape Rooms - Covington

Running Creek Ranch

Children’s Museum of St. Tammany

Boguechitto Tubing Center

Best of Folsom

Things to do in Folsom

People found Global Wildlife Center by searching for…

Animal Adventure Park Folsom

Kids Activities Folsom

New Orleans Zoo Folsom

Picnic Areas Folsom

Safari Tour Folsom

Best Active Life in Folsom

Best Kids Birthday Party Venues in Folsom

African Safari Wildlife Park in Folsom

Family Activities in Folsom

Farms For Kids in Folsom

Nature Center in Folsom

Petting Zoo in Folsom

Browse Nearby

Restaurants

Other Places Nearby

Find more Venues & Event Spaces near Global Wildlife Center

Find more Zoos near Global Wildlife Center

Service Offerings in Folsom

Non-Profit Events

Related Cost Guides

Boat Charters

Golf Cart Rentals

Karaoke Rental

Party & Event Planning

Photo Booth Rentals

Valet Services

Venues and Event Spaces

• 5 More Cost Guides

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Green Global Travel

World's largest independently owned Ecotourism / Green Travel / Sustainable Travel / Animal & Wildlife Conservation site. We share transformative Responsible Travel, Sustainable Living & Going Green Tips that make a positive impact.

The 20 Best Wildlife Parks & Wildlife Tours in the World

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

Global interest in nature-based tourism, which includes wildlife tourism, has grown rapidly over the last decade.

At the same time, wildlife has become increasingly under threat from issues such as habitat loss, poaching, and a lack of funding for conservation.  

Richard Damania, lead economist for the World Bank , succinctly explains the intrinsic connection between economy and ecology in tourism destinations: “Provide jobs and (you’ll) save the environment.”  

But of course it’s not quite that simple, as a National Geographic cover story on the dark truth behind wildlife tourism illustrated.

When managed irresponsibly, wildlife attractions may involve abuse, exploitation, drugged animals, and even death. And unless visitors are well-informed about these issues, they’d probably never know the difference.  

Fortunately, there are hundreds (if not thousands) of examples of wildlife tourism attractions that get it right.

These sustainably-run operations have led to improved well-being for the animals, increased investments in protected areas and reserves, a reduction in poaching, and increased benefits for local communities in the form of jobs, co-management of resources, and revenue-sharing.  

Here’s a look at 20 of the world’s best wildlife parks , as well as wildlife tours specifically designed for animal lovers.

READ MORE: The 25 Best National Parks in Africa for Wildlife Safaris

WILDLIFE PARKS IN AFRICA

1. ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK (Namibia)  

The utterly unique wildlife park encompasses 8,600 square miles of expansive desert landscapes .

At the heart of Etosha National Park are its expansive salt pans. In the wet season they fill with water and attract a bevy of beautiful birds , while in the dry season they blow saline dust out towards the Atlantic Ocean.

The otherworldly park is also home to lots of big game animals, including giraffes , lions, black and white rhinos, and endemic mountain zebras, as well as a wide variety of birds.

Many Namibia wildlife tours include visiting Etosha National Park , looking for desert elephants in Skeleton Coast National Park, seeing the massive Cape fur seal colonies at Swakomund, and much more.  

READ MORE: The 20 Safest Countries in Africa to Visit

2. KRUGER NATIONAL PARK (South Africa)  

Covering more than 7,500 square miles in the eastern part of South Africa , Kruger National Park ranks alongside Etosha among the largest wildlife reserves in all of Africa.

Established in 1926, it’s South Africa’s oldest national park and part of a protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve .

Although the region has been struggling to deal with the rise in poaching of elephants, rhinos, and other animals for the illegal wildlife trade over the past decade, Kruger National Park remains a remarkable place.

The park is home to an exceptional range of wildlife, including 517 bird species, 147 species of large mammals, 114 reptile species, and rare, endangered wildlife including black rhinos and the gorgeous African wild dog (a.k.a. painted dog).  

READ MORE: Tips for Visiting Kruger National Park, South Africa

3. MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE (Kenya)

The Masai Mara should need no introduction as the northern stop of Africa’s Great Migration of wildebeest, zebras, and other ungulates, which is arguably one of the world’s greatest wonders for wildlife lovers.

But the 583-square-mile reserve is just part of the Greater Mara Ecosystem, which also includes numerous Maasai-owned wildlife conservancies .

The area is home to 25% of Kenya’s wildlife , including an incredible population of Big Cats (cheetahs, lions , and leopards), as well as their prey (gazelles, impala, wildebeest, etc).

Eco-tour operators like Gamewatchers Safaris  and the Elewana Collection offer an exceptional opportunity to explore the area in depth, covering much of the same epic journey the migration follows each year.

READ MORE: Masai Mara Conservancies: A Model for Community Conservation in Kenya

4. OKAVANGO DELTA (Botswana)

One of the newer UNESCO sites on this list, Botswana’s Okavango Delta earned World Heritage Site status in 2014 for its incredibly diverse wildlife and expansive wetlands ecosystem.

Spreading across 5791 square miles, the region’s vast network of canals and swamps are best explored via traditional canoes , which are known as mokoro .

In the winter, the water draws some 200,000 large mammals (cheetahs, lions, elephants, rhinos, etc.) and 400+ bird species to the area. Thanks to Botswana’s anti-poaching measures, the number of animals here is growing.

Luxury Botswana safaris (such as those offered by Great Plains Conservation ) offer guests an exclusive experience exploring different regions of this fertile landscape, including areas rarely visited by most wildlife tours of the Okavango.

READ MORE: 55 Interesting Facts About Elephants

5. SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK (Tanzania)

The southern starting point for the annual Great Migration from Tanzania to Kenya in search of water and fresh grass, this 5,700-square mile UNESCO World Heritage Site was named after the Maasai word for “the place where the land runs on forever.”

It’s an apt moniker, and the Serengeti’s seemingly endless grasslands, riverine forest, bushy savanna, and open woodlands are home to a staggering array of wildlife (not to mention the welcoming Maasai people ).

In just a few days of exploring the area, you can see lots of lions, elephants, giraffes, Nile crocodiles, colobus monkeys, and huge herds of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles, and buffalo crowding the plains.

Numerous tour operators offer immersive excursions that explore this excellent East African wildlife park in depth.

READ MORE: The Top 10 Tanzania National Parks & Reserves

6. VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK (Rwanda)  

Made famous by primatologist Diane Fossey ’s groundbreaking work with mountain gorillas back in the 1970s and ‘80s, Volcanoes was the first national park on the african continent.

The park is home to five of the eight volcanoes in the Virunga Mountain range, with up to 80 tourists a day paying for pricey permits to spend an incredible hour with one of the 10 habituated gorilla families that make their home here.

The park also offers treks to see habituated groups of endangered golden monkeys, visit Fossey’s grave, and climb Bisoke (a one-day tour) or Karisimbi Volcano (a 2-day trek with overnight camping ) .

We also recommend a visit to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village , which provides alternative employment opportunities for former poachers and their families. It’s a model for community-based conservation.

READ MORE: 50 Interesting Facts About  Gorillas

7. WILDLIFE PARKS IN ANTARCTICA

Ok, so technically there are no national parks in Antarctica .

But because the entire continent is protected by the Antarctic Treaty System, the coldest, driest, and windiest place on the planet is basically like one giant wildlife reserve. And small ship cruises are a great way to explore it.

The best Antarctic wildlife tours include plenty of Adelie, chinstrap, and gentoo penguins on the Antarctic mainland; Magellanic and rockhopper penguins in the Falkland Islands; and vast colonies of king and macaroni penguins (not to mention elephant and fur seals) on South Georgia Island.

Of course, there will also be plenty of whales , seals, and other wildlife sightings during your time at sea as well!  

READ MORE: 30 Antarctic Animals You Can See on an Antarctica Cruise

WILDLIFE PARKS IN ASIA  

8. BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK (India)

Located in Madhya Pradesh, the 431-square-mile Bandhavgarh National Park & Tiger Reserve boasts one of the highest densities of Bengal tigers in the world.

Thanks to conservation initiatives here and at tiger reserves such as Kanha and Kaziranga National Parks, the Bengal tiger is one of the few endangered species whose population is growing.

But the fearsome cat is hardly this wildlife park’s only attraction: There are also 36 other species of mammals (including leopards, Asian elephants, and nilgai, or “blue bulls”), more than 250 species of birds, and around 80 species of butterflies.

There are three zones in this former maharaja’s hunting grounds that are open to tourists: The Tala zone is considered the best for tigers and also the most photogenic, while Khitauli is great for birdwatching .  

READ MORE: Indian Animals: A Guide to 40 Species of Indian Wildlife 

9. KOMODO NATIONAL PARK (Indonesia)

There are less than 5,000 Komodo dragons left in the world, and most of them are found on two small islands in Indonesia , Komodo Island and Rinca Island.

Along with Padar and 26 smaller islands, this entire archipelago has been protected since 1980 as Komodo National Park .

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991, the park was originally designed to protect the world’s largest lizard, which can grow up to 10 feet long.

But it’s also home to remarkable marine life, including whale sharks , manta rays, eagle rays, blue-ringed octopus, and quite a few cetaceans (including dolphins, blue whales, and sperm whales).  

READ MORE: How Fires in Indonesia & Palm Oil Are Killing Orangutans

10. TUBBATAHA REEFS NATURAL PARK (Philippines)

If you enjoy snorkeling and Scuba diving and have a deep appreciation for marine life, a visit to the islands of the Philippines is truly a must.

Located within the South China Sea’s famed “Coral Triangle,” the Philippines is home to some of the world’s most picturesque beaches, colorful coral reef systems, and a dazzling assortment of ocean animals .

Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993, Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park covers 374 square miles and includes two large atolls and a smaller reef system.

Small ship expedition cruises give guests chances to dive and/or snorkel this ecotourism hotspot in the Palawan province, where they may see some of the reef’s 600 fish species, 13 species of cetaceans, 11 types of sharks, and several species of sea turtles.  

READ MORE: Top 15 Things to Do in Coron, Palawan

11.YALA NATIONAL PARK (Sri Lanka)

Sri Lanka may not be nearly as well known as neighboring India in terms of tourism, but in the last few years its number of international visitors has been gradually on the rise.

The island nation’s oldest and most renowned national park is also home to the greatest concentration of Sri Lanka wildlife , including leopards, Sri Lankan elephants, sloth bears, jackals, buffalo, crocodiles, and monkeys.

The uncrowded wildlife park also boasts over 150 bird species, and the adjacent Yala East (a.k.a. Kumana National Park) is a notorious nesting site for waterbirds.

Yala is a huge factor in the recent rise of Sri Lanka ecotourism , with an array of incredible natural wonders you won’t see anywhere else in the country.

READ MORE: Endangered Asian Animals: The 10 Best Wildlife Conservation Programs

WILDLIFE PARKS IN AUSTRALIA

12. GREAT BARRIER REEF MARINE PARK (Australia)  

Stretching more than 133,000 square miles, the Great Barrier Reef of Australia is easily the world’s largest coral reef system.  

The area is home to at least 30 species of cetaceans, over 1,500 species of fish, six species of sea turtles, and around 125 different species of sharks and stingrays.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site also includes mangroves and salt marshes, which provide fertile breeding grounds for frogs and saltwater crocodiles, and around 1.5 million birds (215 species) use its 900 islands to nest or roost.

The Australian National Park ’s reefs are currently being threatened by climate change, with ocean acidification leading to increased coral bleaching. But some cruises take guests to its most pristine places, including Osprey Reef and Lizard Island.

READ MORE: 20 Weird & Cute Australian Animals

WILDLIFE PARKS IN NORTH AMERICA/CENTRAL AMERICA

13. BANFF NATIONAL PARK (Canada)  

Established in 1885, Banff National Park encompasses around 2,564 square miles, and is packed with towering mountains, dense coniferous forest, glaciers, and ice fields.

It’s bounded by Yoho National Park to the west, Kootenay National Park to the south, and Kananaskis Country to the southeast, so the entire region feels like one massive nature area.

The park is home to a wonderful array of alpine animals, including grizzly bears, cougars, moose, elk, bighorn sheep, wolverines, and hundreds of bird species.

If you visit, make time for a road trip along the impressively scenic Icefields Parkway, which extends from the world-renowned Lake Louise to neighboring Jasper National Park .

READ MORE: Polar Bears in Churchill, Manitoba 

14. CORCOVADO NATIONAL PARK (Costa Rica)

Located on the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica,  Corcovado National Park has been referred to by  National Geographic  as “the most biologically intense place on Earth in terms of biodiversity.”

At 164 square miles, it’s one of the world’s few remaining large areas of lowland  tropical rainforests , with a diverse range of ecosystems providing home to more than 500 different tree species.

During our three days of hiking in the park we spotted a dizzying array of wildlife, including the endangered Baird’s tapir, the rare harpy eagle, all four Costa Rica monkey species, sloths, giant anteaters, collared peccaries, and more.

Scuba divers and snorkelers can also enjoy a day trip to Caño Island, which is 40 minutes away by boat.  

READ MORE: 40 Amazing Costa Rica Animals

15. DENALI NATIONAL PARK (USA)

If you’re interested in wildlife tours, central Alaska’s Denali National Park is arguably the best place in the USA to take one.

With six million acres of pristine wilderness and just one 92-mile road through it (which is only open to private vehicles four days a year), Denali is about as wild as national parks get.

The shuttle bus drivers double as engaging naturalist guides, allowing visitors to sit back, relax, and drop their jaws at the stunning scenery and– if you’re lucky– breathtaking views of the massive mountain for which the park is named.

The prodigious wildlife here includes lots of grizzly bears, moose, caribou, bald eagles, and even wolves. So if you’re planning on hiking or camping here, make sure to familiarize yourself with backcountry safety.

READ MORE: 40 Species of Alaskan Animals You Can See on Vacation

16. YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK (USA)

If Alaska’s a bit too remote for your budget, the world’s first national park is the next best thing.

Yellowstone National Park has been in the news often in recent years due to overtourism and the misbehavior of some irresponsible visitors .

But don’t let a few bad apples spoil your enjoyment of the inherent beauty of its natural attractions, including Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley, the Upper & Lower Geyser Basin, and Grand Prismatic Spring.

Though traffic can be frustrating in peak summer, the shoulder seasons are great for spotting wildlife such as bald eagles, bighorn sheep, bison, elk, grizzly bears, wolves, and much more.

If you want to explore Yellowstone with almost no other tourists, visit in winter, when everything is blanketed in white.  

READ MORE: List of US National Parks By State: an EPIC  Guide

WILDLIFE PARKS IN SOUTH AMERICA

17. GALAPAGOS NATIONAL PARK (Ecuador)

Located 563 miles off Ecuador’s coast, this volcanic archipelago is a must-see for anyone who loves nature and wildlife, especially avid birdwatchers .

Named the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978, the Galapagos Islands have fascinated mankind ever since they influenced Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution during his voyage there in the early 1800s .

The landscapes are remarkably diverse, from the lush green flora of the Santa Cruz highlands to the harsh lava fields on Bartolomé.

It’s also home to some of the world’s most fascinating wildlife, from ocean-feeding Marine Iguanas and comical Blue-Footed Boobies to diminutive Galapagos Penguins and massive Galapagos Tortoises.

READ MORE: 30 Amazing Galapagos Islands Animals

18. PACAYA-SAMIRIA NATIONAL RESERVE (Peru)

Encompassing around 8,000 square miles in remote Loretu, Peru, the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve was easily our favorite part of the Peruvian Amazon .

The protected area includes low hills and portions of the Amazon rainforest that are flooded during the wet season.

So while there are 19 ranger stations, 15 authorized campsites, and five wilderness huts available, the best/only way to explore the reserve for much of the year is by boat.

Eco-friendly Amazon River cruises provide heartwarming cultural exchanges with the indigenous Ribereños, as well as exceptional opportunities to see wildlife like the Amazon river dolphin, Amazonian manatee, a variety of monkeys, and countless colorful birds.

READ MORE: 25 Beautiful Birds in the Amazon Rainforest

19. PANTANAL MATOGROSSENSE (Brazil)

Though Brazil ’s portion of the Amazon forest is currently under serious threat due to fires designed to clear forest, its Pantanal remains one of the world’s truly great destinations for wildlife lovers.

The Brazilian Pantanal is one of the largest tropical wetlands in the world, covering approximately 54,000-75,000 square miles.

The region is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, and around 80% of its floodplains are underwater during the rainy season, making it one of the planet’s richest and most biodiverse ecosystems.

Animal aficionados will have a field day here, as the Pantanal is home to 400 fish species, 300 species of mammals (including the ever-elusive jaguar), and 480 species of reptiles. There are also over 1,000 different bird species in the Pantanal.  

READ MORE: 21 Incredible Animals that Live in the Amazon Rainforest

20. TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK (Chile)

Part of the National System of Protected Forested Areas of Chile, this gem of Patagonia  is among the country’s largest (around 935 square miles) and most popular wildlife parks.

In terms of attractions, Torres del Paine National Park has plenty, from the archaeological history of the Milodon Caves and ancient wall art along the Fauna Trail to the expansive Grey Glacier, part of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field (the world’s second largest contiguous ice field outside of the poles).

There’s plenty of wildlife, such as foxes, huemul deer, guanacos, pumas, and the massive Andean Condor.

But the park’s most distinctive features are the three towering granite peaks of the Paine Massif itself, which rises some 9,350 feet above sea level.   –Bret Love

About the Author

Green Global Travel is the world's #1 independently owned ecotourism website encouraging others to embrace sustainable travel, wildlife conservation, cultural preservation, and going green tips for more sustainable living.

We've been spotlighted in major media outlets such as the BBC, Chicago Tribune, Forbes, The Guardian, Lonely Planet, National Geographic, Travel Channel, Washington Post and others.

Owned by Bret Love (a veteran journalist/photographer) and Mary Gabbett (business manager/videographer), USA Today named us one of the world's Top 5 Travel Blogging Couples. We were also featured in the 2017 National Geographic book, Ultimate Journeys for Two, for which we contributed a chapter on our adventures in Rwanda. Other awards we've won include Best Feature from both the Caribbean Tourism Organization and the Magazine Association of the Southeast.

As Seen On…

Join the 300,000+ people who follow Green Global Travel’s Blog and Social Media

• South Korea
• Indonesia (Bali)
• Central Asia
• African Safari
• South Africa
• Itinerary Ideas

African Safari 2024/2025 | Witness the Big Five Live

Whether you're yearning for family bonding, a romantic escape, or a milestone celebration, we'll craft an itinerary that surpasses your wildest dreams.

Venture beyond the iconic wildlife encounters to uncover hidden gems , like biking in Hell's Gate National Park and immersing yourself in the vibrant Maasai communities. Discover the unique Ngorongoro Crater and enjoy your leisure time on the beaches of Zanzibar.

From seasoned enthusiasts to first-time explorers , our expert guides, with their deep knowledge of Africa's landscapes and creatures, will ensure you create memories that echo long after your safari ends.

Tailor-made Family Safari Vacations

• Best-selling Private African Safri Tours

Tailor-made family vacations provide a diverse range of age-appropriate activities, educational experiences, and opportunities to strengthen family bonds, ensuring an unforgettable and enriching travel experience for everyone. We can customize all the itineraries to suit your timetable and match your particular preferences.

9-Day Kenya Active Family Private Safari Tour

9-day tanzania family safari with serengeti, best-selling private african tours.

Best-selling tours offer a personalized and immersive travel experience, allowing you exclusive access to wildlife, hidden natural wonders, and unique Massai culture, all within the comfort and safety of this mesmerizing region All the itineraries can be tailored to accommodate your schedule and align with your specific interests.

10-Day Tanzania Highlights Tour with Zanzibar

12-day kenya best safari tour with amboseli, 12-day kenya and tanzania best safari tour, 15-day egypt and kenya highlights tour.

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

More travel ideas and inspiration, sign up to our newsletter.

Be the first to receive exciting updates, exclusive promotions, and valuable travel tips from our team of experts.

Why Global Highlights

Where can we take you today.

• Southeast Asia
• Japan, South Korea
• India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri lanka
• Travel Agents
• Loyalty Program
• Privacy Policy

Address: Building 6, Chuangyi Business Park, 70 Qilidian Road, Guilin, Guangxi, 541004, China

Get Up Close With Animals At Louisiana Global Wildlife Center

Kezia Kamenetz

Kezia Kamenetz is a native to southern Louisiana and lives in the Marigny neighborhood of New Orleans currently. When not writing about all the amazing things to be found in her state, her central passion is dreams and the wisdom they can offer, which you can learn more about by visiting KeziaVida.com

More by this Author

You don’t have to travel all the way to Africa to have an amazing safari experience. Luckily, there’s a unique park right here in Louisiana that the entire family will enjoy. The Louisiana Global Wildlife center has more than 900 acres of free-roaming wildlife that are available for you to explore, and along the way you’ll come across some very hungry little fluffs. Louisiana Global Wildlife Center is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience that you’ll remember forever.

Related Stories

Explore Over 100 Acres Of Swamps Along The Trails At The Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center In Louisiana

Over 9,000 Acres Of Beautiful Forested Landscape Can Be Found At Bayou Teche National Wildlife Refuge

Experience Louisiana's Marshes Like Never Before At The 125,000+ Acre Sabine National Wildlife Refuge In Louisiana

For more information, including tour times , be sure to check out their website and give them a follow on Facebook.

Have you ever visited the Global Wildlife Center? Share your experience with us in the comments below!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more Louisiana in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Louisiana!

Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!

An error occured.

More to Explore

Louisiana global wildlife center.

What are the best outdoor activities in Louisiana?

Outdoor explorers will find no shortage of adventures in Louisiana. The Pelican State is a nature lovers dream, and any one of our 21 state parks are ideal for an outdoor adventure. If you prefer to sink your toes in the sand, head down to Grand Isle where you can not only relax on the miles of sandy beaches, but at Grand Isle State Park, you can camp right on the beach. For a more woodsy environment, head up to the Kisatchie National Forest. Louisiana’s only national forest features over 600,000 miles of rolling hills and piney forests to explore, not to mention countless primitive trails that will show you an entirely new side of Louisiana.

What can I do with kids in Louisiana?

Entertaining kids can be a challenge no matter what state you’re in. For little ones with an affinity for animals, you can’t go wrong with a day spent at New Orleans’ iconic Audubon Zoo, home to hundreds of exotic animals. While you’re in the area, be sure to visit the Aquarium of the Americas, another Audubon attraction.

What are the most unique parks in Louisiana?

Looking to spend some time in a more natural setting? Luckily, you’ve plenty of options. One of the most unique parks in Louisiana is Gators & Friends, a blend of a petting zoo, adventure park, and alligator farm. Located in the Shreveport area, this unique park in Louisiana features everything from high-speed go-karts to thrilling zip-lines. During the warmer months, Cajun X Cables water park is a unique park that the whole family can enjoy. This unique park allows riders to experience water sports like waterskiing and wake boarding from the comfort and safety of a 20-acre man-made lake with an electric cable system that will have you riding the lake like a pro.

Related Articles

• Both An Exotic Animal Petting Zoo And Adventure Park, Louisiana's Gators & Friends Is An Underrated Day Trip Destination
• The Drive-Thru Gone Wild Safari In Louisiana Lets You Experience A Safari From You Own Car
• Stock Up On All Your Favorite Spreads At Mitcham Farms, The Largest Peach Orchard In Louisiana
• You'll Never Forget A Visit To Sugar Roots Farm, A One-Of-A-Kind Farm Filled With Goats In Louisiana
• The Whole Family Will Love The Maze Of Trails At The Northlake Nature Center
• Drive Through A Safari At Wild Country Safari Park In Louisiana
• Spend The Day Surrounded By Cuteness At Jubilee Zoo In Louisiana
• The Audubon Zoo Has Been Voted One Of The Best Zoos In The U.S.

Explore Louisiana

• Arts & Entertainment
• Farms & Wildlife
• Fun Adventures
• Shops & Boutiques
• Sights & Landmarks

Featured Addresses