Britons are trading in their typical beach vacations for more adventurous safari trips, with almost half (45%) now preferring wildlife holidays over traditional package breaks.
A significant 83% of UK adults expressed a desire to have a wild animal encounter at least once in their lifetime. Among the top animals Brits dream of seeing in the wild, elephants lead the pack at 38%, followed closely by tigers at 35% and lions at 33%.
However, there is a sense of urgency as a third of parents and grandparents fear that their children may never have the opportunity to witness endangered animals in their natural habitat. This concern is driving more Brits towards wildlife experiences, with 58% expressing a desire to see marine mammals such as whales and dolphins in their natural environment.
Luxury holiday provider Scott Dunn conducted a survey that revealed 40% of Brits aspire to go on a safari holiday, making it the most sought-after wildlife experience. Additionally, 25% of respondents expressed interest in eco-safaris, which focus on protecting the environment during wildlife encounters.
The influence of renowned naturalist David Attenborough is evident, with a quarter of those interested in wildlife holidays attributing their inspiration to documentaries like Planet Earth. When asked about their preferred wildlife holiday destinations, 32% of respondents named Kenya, while 28% chose South Africa.
While popular destinations like Kenya and South Africa continue to attract wildlife enthusiasts, lesser-known locations are also gaining popularity. Booking data shows an 88% year-on-year growth in trips to Costa Rica and an 80% increase in bookings for Malaysia.
Ali Holman, Africa expert at Scott Dunn, commended Brits for prioritising wildlife experiences in their travel decisions. She highlighted the positive impact of this shift towards conservation efforts and noted a significant increase in bookings to South Africa for safari experiences.
With expert guidance from the Scott Dunn team, travellers can embark on unforgettable wildlife adventures, from whale watching in Antarctica to private guided safaris in South Africa. The opportunity to witness majestic creatures in their natural habitats is not only a dream come true for many Brits but also contributes to the preservation of wildlife around the world.
In addition to the top animals Brits hope to spot in the wild, such as elephants, tigers, and lions, the survey also revealed the top countries Brits want to visit for wildlife holidays. Beyond Kenya and South Africa, destinations like Madagascar, Antarctica, and Alaska are also on the radar for wildlife enthusiasts seeking unique and enriching experiences.
As more Brits embrace the call of the wild and seek out authentic wildlife encounters, the travel industry is witnessing a shift towards sustainable and eco-conscious tourism practices. By choosing wildlife holidays that support conservation efforts, travellers can make a positive impact while fulfilling their dreams of experiencing nature’s wonders up close.
