India
Wildlife Safari
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with MaiaWildlife, where the wild heart of India beats in every moment. From the lush jungles of Bandhavgarh National Park and Panna National Park, our safaris are more than just a journey—they’re an immersion into the raw, untamed beauty of India’s most iconic landscapes.
With MaiaWildlife, you’re not just a tourist; you’re a traveler led by passionate naturalists and conservation experts who know the forest like their own home. Whether it’s tracking the elusive Bengal tiger, watching a herd of elephants bathe in the river, or listening to the haunting call of a distant leopard at dusk, we ensure your experience is authentic, ethical, and unforgettable.
Our small-group safaris blend luxury and sustainability, offering hand-picked accommodations, personalized attention, and deep connections with local communities and ecosystems. Every moment is crafted to inspire awe, respect, and a deeper love for the natural world.
Come with MaiaWildlife—not just to see India’s wildlife, but to feel it. To breathe in its forests, listen to its calls, and be changed by the wild in ways you never imagined.
Where are we going?
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​Bandhavgarh National Park is spread over the Vindhya hills in Madhya Pradesh. The national park consists of a core area of 105 sq km and a buffer area of approximately 400 sq km. The topography of the whole area varies between steep ridges, undulating forest and open meadows. Bandhavgarh National Park is known for the Royal Bengal Tigers. The density of the tiger population at Bandhavgarh is the highest known in India as well as in the world. The national park was the former hunting preserve of the Maharaja of Rewa and at present is a famous natural hub for White Tigers. White Tigers, now a major attraction around the world’s zoos, were first discovered in Rewa, not far from here. It is also believed that all the white tigers across the globe trace their roots to Bandhavgarh. The terrain is broken, with rocky hill ranges, running roughly east and west, interspersed with grassy swamps and forested valleys.
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A flawless place to take a walk into the home to some of the biggest predators and cascading waterfalls for a remarkable experience.
Nestled in Central India, Panna Tiger Reserve (PTR) lies in the districts of Panna and Chhatarpur of Madhya Pradesh. Managed and best maintained by the Ministry of Tourism of India, the popular Tiger Reserve in MP won the Award of Excellence in the year 2007. Today, the national park has been successful in grabbing the attention of oodles of wildlife buffs and nature lovers travelling from across the globe. When visiting the park tourists can take a walk in the deciduous forest while spotting the species including Sloth Bear Pangolin, Indian Wolf, Four-Horned Antelope, Leopard, Rusty Spotted Cat, Gharial, Chousingha, Indian Fox, Porcupine and a lot more.
The park is gradually growing in popularity among tourists, and the best way to enter this national park is through Khajuraho. Just 25 km away from well-connected roads and rails, tourists can also take taxis and buses easily to reach the park. Additionally, for visitors arriving by air, Khajuraho Airport is the closest airport to this wildlife heaven.
Covering an area of approx 542.67 sq km, the Panna National Park not only lets the tourists come across the rich wildlife and nature but also numerous sites that hold historical importance. In the sense of visiting the park, tourists get the opportunity to witness the stone paintings that date back to the Neolithic era. Declared as a wildlife sanctuary in the year 1981, the national park offers the tourists a number of things to do that makes holidays in the Panna National Park a memorable one. The best time to visit this Panna Tiger Reserve (PTR) to see the wildlife and explore these stone paintings is during the winter season from November to March.
Tourists will get the opportunity to indulge in the Jungle Safari that lets one experience the dense ambience and encounter the wildest ranges of mammals, reptiles, birds, flora, fauna and avifauna. Other than this, tourists will even be able to get the chance to take the Tiger Safari which will let one spot the tiger species at close quarters.
While visiting this pristine land, tourists must adhere to all the guidelines set by the Ministry of Tourism and refrain from any actions that could harm the flora and fauna there.
Our lodges
Bandhavgarh Lodge is one of the most secluded and private lodges in the heart of Madhya Pradesh. Established in 2013, the resort has been an ideal choice among nature lovers, as it allows you to escape from the fast-paced life of the cities. Situated within 12 acres of land surrounded by densely spread Sal and Mouha trees we are accessible within a kilometre from the Tale Gate of the park. We are located in close proximity to Bandhavgarh National Park which allows our guests to experience the wilderness of this region from the comfort of our rooms.
Speaking of comfort, our lodge features a range of amenities from handcrafted interiors to ample living space and a spacious swimming pool. Our resort also features a watch tower, Nisarga which can be used by our guests to witness the diverse species of birds. Whether you want to relax amidst the serenity of nature or seek a romantic getaway, from warm hospitality to a premium celebration facility our resort is curated to offer you unmatched luxury and exclusivity.
​Experience the untamed beauty of Panna National Park with Eriline Resort, a premium eco-friendly resort designed for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to unwind in the lap of nature. Nestled within one of India’s premier tiger reserves, Eriline Resort offers a unique blend of luxury and wilderness, ensuring that your stay is both rejuvenating and thrilling. The resort’s tranquil surroundings provide an intimate connection with nature, featuring spacious rooms, private villas, and world-class amenities. Whether you are enjoying a safari through the park, relaxing in the resort’s serene gardens, or exploring nearby historical sites like Khajuraho, every moment spent at Eriline Resort will be unforgettable
Travelling to India
-We strongly advise that when you start planning your experience in India, you make a travel consultation with a doctor for information about vaccinations, etc. (The World Health Organisation recommends the following vaccines for India: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, Japanese encephalitis, measles, poliomyelitis, yellow fever, cholera, tetanus, typhoid, meningococcal, covid-19 and influenza.
-A link at the bottom of this page will show you how to apply for a visa for travel to India.
Ensure yourself that you comply with India immigration regulations to have at least one blank page in your passport. Passengers whose passports do not contain a blank page will be subject to a fine and will be refused entry into the country.
-Travelling with children: At immigration, you require an International Birth Certificate showing the details of both parents.
If the parent is travelling alone, then the birth certificate needs to be certified. Check the link at the bottom of the page for more information.
Voltage
​The standard mains voltage in India is 230V at a frequency of 50Hz. This is the voltage that most appliances and devices are designed to operate on. While the standard voltage is 230V, the actual voltage may fluctuate within a range, typically between 207V and 253V, according to the IS12360 standard.
Insurances
All participants are expected to take out comprehensive medical and travel insurances in the event of unforeseen circumstances leading to participants falling ill or having to cancel their trip in India.
What to Wear on an Indian Safari
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Neutral Colors Are Key
Stick to earthy tones like khaki, olive, beige, and brown. These help you blend into the environment and avoid startling wildlife.
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Lightweight, Breathable Fabrics
India can get hot, especially during the day. Choose cotton or moisture-wicking fabrics that are comfortable in the heat but still provide coverage.
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Long Sleeves and Trousers
Even when it’s warm, long sleeves and pants help protect against the sun, insects, and thorny vegetation.
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Layer Up for Mornings and Evenings
Safaris often start early or run late—temperatures can drop significantly. Bring a light jacket, fleece, or vest for chilly drives.
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Closed-Toe Shoes
Comfortable sneakers or hiking shoes are best. Sandals are not ideal, especially if you’re stepping out in rural or forested areas.
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Hat and Sunglasses
A wide-brimmed hat and UV-protection sunglasses help shield you from the intense Indian sun during open jeep rides.
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Avoid Bright Colors and Camouflage
Bright colors may scare animals. Military-style camouflage is discouraged and even prohibited in some parks due to its association with armed forces.
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Scarf or Buff
Useful for dust protection, sun coverage, or even a quick wrap in the wind.
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Rain Gear (Seasonal)
If you’re visiting during or near monsoon season (June–September), pack a lightweight raincoat or poncho.
Itinerary
Day 1:
Upon arrival in Delhi, we board a flight to Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (10.10 - 11.35am). We then drive to our resort at Bandhavgarh (3 hours drive) and check in to the wildlife resort. We spend the evening at leisure and rest for the day.
(As there is only one direct flight to Jabalpur from Delhi, the arrival of international flights are advised to arrive before 7am or on the day before.)
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Days 2 - 3:
We kickstart our day with an early morning wake-up call for the morning safari which is an exhilarating experience that offers visitors an opportunity to witness the majestic tigers and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The park's stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Bandhavgarh is an excellent place to try our luck with leopards and sloth bears too, for these creatures of the night do inhabit the woods in good numbers. After the evening safari, we have an interactive session over wildlife in India and our sightings for the day. Post dinner, we disperse and rest for the day.
Day 4:
Today we have our last safari in the park. We try to look out for the best sightings, which might have been missed out in the previous rounds. We also try for the best frames in the early morning light. After the safari, we check out and now its time take a leave of
Bandhavgarh National Park and head towards Panna. We drive to Panna (~5 hour drive) and check into the resort. We spend the evening at leisure and rest for the day.
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Days 5 - 7:
After an early wake-up call, we leave for our morning safari. We enjoy our breakfast alongside the beautiful Ken river in the forest. We spend all our time exploring the best wilderness in the park tracking some big cats like tigers, leopards, wild dogs, etc across the varied landscapes of rocks, ponds and dense vegetation in the forest of Panna. After the safari, we have lunch and rest for some time. Then we leave for the evening safari. Its a beautiful ride through these grand landscaped areas, where the river Ken flows through the
jungle. A forest where the tiger population was on the verge of extinction is now successfully flourishing with a healthy number of big cats!
(The visit to UNESCO World Heritage Site of Khajuraho Temple Complex can be swapped with one of the safaris)
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Day 8:
Its time to bid adieu to land of successful rehabilitation of the tiger population. We check out after breakfast and drive to Khajuraho airport (~30-45 minutes drive). With our minds still lingering in the Central Indian forests, we board the flight to Delhi (1.50 - 3.00 pm) for the onward international flight journey. Tour ends with some amazing moments from the wilderness of central Indian jungles.
Pricing and Terms
The cost of your Indian Safari Experience is €2'500 per adult (single supplement: 300€) and €1,550 per child (up to 15 years old), based on shared accommodation.
Included in the event fee:
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Domestic air travel in Economy class (Delhi - Jabalpur and Khajuraho - Delhi).
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All local transfers in an AC vehicle.
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7 nights accommodations in a AC wildlife resort with deluxe rooms on double sharing basis.
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All meal, from lunch on day 1 to breakfast on day 8.
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Purified water in the resorts (no plastic policy) and water bottles in the transfers throughout the tour.
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Total of 10 wildlife safaris in the best possible areas in an exclusive private safari vehicle.
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Professional and experienced driver/guide, exclusively selected for our group.
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Tour Leader/Photographer from MaiaWildlife and English speaking tour mentor throughout the tour, from day 1 to day 8.
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24 x 7 assistance.
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All applicable taxes.
Not included:
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International flights.
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Visa and travel insurance.
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Any personal expenses, like laundry, telephone bills, etc.
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Any tips to guides, resort stall, etc.
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Camera fees, wherever required.
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Soft and alcoholic drinks.
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Medication.
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Hospital treatments.
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Any other item which is not specified under "included in the event fee).
A 30% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your reservation. The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than 60 days prior to the start of the event. For bookings made within 60 days of the event start date, full payment is required at the time of registration.
MaiaWildlife reserves the right to cancel any reservation that does not comply with the payment terms outlined above.
Please note: Spaces are limited to 6 guests. Early booking is strongly recommended.
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Don't forget to pack
Adaptor for Indian wall plugs, if needed; sun cream; insects spray; hat/cap; sunglasses; swimming suit; pool towel; binoculars; photo camera; basic medication;
And the most important, an open mind and lots of fun.
