15 Must-See Destinations Every Animal Lover Should Visit

There is a huge love of animals and every animal lover knows that the bond between humans and animals is simply special. Whether you’re ogling majestic creatures in their natural habitat or getting hands-on with rescued wildlife, there’s plenty to remember here. Whether you prefer animals on African safaris or underwater, there’s a world of wonder for those who love them.

Going to these amazing places isn’t just for your camera roll, it’s for your soul. Whether you have an affinity for exotic mammals or marine life you will find unforgettable encounters. At the end of the day, you’ll have a greater respect for nature, its wild inhabitants, and lots of tales to tell.

African Safari, Maasai Mara, Kenya

Over 1.5 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles migrate through the plains annually at Maasai Mara in Kenya. It’s considered one of the most awe-inspiring natural spectacles on Earth. Local guides are often willing to share their love for this ecosystem and educate you on what you can do to help protect this fragile balance.

Whale Sharks, Isla Holbox, Mexico

Whale sharks are the gentle giants of the ocean and swimming with them is a humbling experience. They can be found on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula in Isla Holbox. They can be seen from May to September when they glide through the clear waters eating plankton. Snorkel with them and see they are humbling in size and grace. Here conservationists are committed to sustainable tourism which does not harm marine life.

Giant Pandas, Chengdu Research Base, China

The Giant Panda is a comical creature considered cute as it gnaws away at bamboo and tumbles around. These endangered animals are observed at Chengdu, where they are bred, researched, and cared for. The center educates visitors and focuses its efforts on conservation. Giant pandas spend about 12 hours a day eating!

Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroo Island is also known as Australia’s “zoo without fences”. It’s a dream destination for any animal enthusiast and shares its space with koalas, wallabies, kangaroos, and sea lions. The community has rallied to restore habitats after bushfires ruined much of the island in 2020.

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador’s Coast

This archipelago off Ecuador’s coast is nothing short of extraordinary. Its isolation makes it a living museum of unique species. The Galápagos houses unique wildlife like blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas. Over 80% of land birds and reptiles here are endemic, making the islands ecologically significant, according to the Galapagos Conservancy.

Rescued Elephants, Chiang Mai, Thailand

The sanctuary located at Elephant Nature Park pulls on your heartstrings in Chiang Mai. It is an ethical rescue center for abused and retired elephants. Riding is strictly prohibited there, unlike traditional elephant parks. Unlike other sanctuaries, rather than confining these gentle giants to a cage, visitors feed, bathe, and walk alongside them, learning their stories and struggles. Thailand has been making headway in animal welfare law reform and places like this are proof of that, according to the World Animal Protection Index.

Sea Turtles Snorkeling in Akumal, Mexico

A slice of paradise on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Akumal (meaning place of the turtles in the Mayan language) is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Green and loggerhead turtles live in these calm waters. The clear turquoise sea is the best place to watch these ancient mariners swimming by.

Mountain Gorillas, Bwindi, Uganda

There is nothing quite like looking at a mountain gorilla eye to eye in its native homeland. Nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas live in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Trekking through this dense jungle is quite a challenge and is worth it.

Boulders Beach Penguins, South Africa

What’s not to love about waddling penguins? African penguins are thriving in a colony on Boulders Beach near Cape Town. Get up close by taking the wooden walkways for incredible views of these adorable birds. Their population is affected by climate change and overfishing, but local organizations are working day and night to ensure their future.

Polar Bears, Churchill, Canada

A town they call the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” Churchill is one of the best places in the world to see the great polar bears. The polar bear alert system is used to protect bears and people alike in the town. If you travel in October or November, your chances of seeing them as they migrate across the icy tundra are higher.

Assateague Island’s Wild Horses, USA

A scene out of a fairy tale, the beaches of Assateague Island in Maryland and Virginia are home to wild horses. They have been thriving on these beaches for centuries. A guided tour or, a kayak, along the shoreline, might bring you closer to these majestic creatures.

While the Maldives is a draw for couples on their honeymoon, it’s also a haven for animal lovers. A famous diving site, Manta Point is where you can swim with graceful manta rays. Watching these giant 20-foot wingspan creatures is mesmerizing and will inspire you to protect their habitats.

Wolf Sanctuaries, Colorado, USA

The Colorado Wolf and Wildlife Center is for those curious about the enigmatic howl of wolves. The sanctuary is dedicated to public education and advocacy of wolf conservation and offers guided tours so you can meet these amazing animals up close. Research has proven in places like Yellowstone National Park, that wolves are a critical component in a healthy ecosystem according to the Wolf Conservation Centre.

Komodo Dragons, Indonesia

Venture to Komodo National Park to meet the planet’s largest lizards: Komodo dragons. These pre-historic-looking reptiles are fascinating and intimidating. Guided tours are available to help you safely explore their habitats, they also teach you about ongoing efforts to preserve their populations. These encounters are truly rare with only a few thousand left in the wild.

The Amazon Rainforest Wildlife, Brazil

The Amazon is a must-go for any animal lover. It is home to over 10% of the world’s known species and is a living treasure trove according to Panda.org. Explore this iconic rainforest and see local wildlife such as pink river dolphins, jaguars, and countless bird species.

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