Les voyageurs recherchent de plus en plus des expériences qui vont au-delà du safari classique.

Tourists are increasingly seeking wildlife experiences beyond traditional safaris, with animals such as pandas, wallabies, whales, and koalas gaining popularity over classic African big game sightings. A recent study conducted by travel operator Explore reveals a shift in traveler preferences, showing that more than half of respondents consider wildlife encounters a key factor in choosing their destination. The research surveyed 2,400 individuals across 12 countries and analyzed Google search trends over the past year, highlighting a growing interest in observing animals in their natural habitats. The data indicates that searches for “wildlife holidays” have risen by 211 percent, reflecting a broader trend toward immersive nature-based tourism. Among global travelers, 72 percent stated that the animal world plays at least some role in their choice of destination. Australia emerged as the top destination for wildlife enthusiasts, with 38 percent of participants citing it as their preferred location. This was followed by South Africa’s Republic with 11 percent, Kenya with nine percent, Canada with seven percent, and China with six percent. Among the most sought-after species, giant pandas took the lead, with 41 percent of respondents expressing a desire to see them in the wild. Native to mountainous regions of China, these black-and-white creatures inhabit dense bamboo forests in provinces such as Gansu, Shaanxi, and Sichuan. Known for their elusive nature, encounters with pandas are considered rare and special. Although they are no longer classified as endangered, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) still lists them as vulnerable due to habitat loss and low reproductive rates. Visitors can observe pandas either at the Chengdu Research Base, a leading Chinese center for panda breeding, or in the Wolong National Nature Reserve, home to the largest population of wild pandas. Elephants, one of the original “Big Five” animals, have also found a place on this new list of desired wildlife experiences, with 32 percent of respondents interested in seeing them in the wild. These massive mammals, native to both Africa and Asia, continue to captivate travelers with their presence in natural environments. One of the best opportunities to witness elephants in the wild is in the Chobe National Park in Botswana, which hosts approximately 120,000 elephants, by far the highest concentration globally. In Asia, the Udawalawe National Park in Sri Lanka offers another excellent option, serving as a sanctuary for orphaned elephants before their release back into the wild. Wallabies, often associated with Australia, were also highly favored, with 32 percent of survey participants considering a meeting with them in the wild among their most desirable experiences. These marsupials thrive in diverse landscapes, ranging from grasslands to coastal areas. For a reliable encounter, visitors are recommended to visit Kangaroo Island near Adelaide, South Australia, or the Murramarang National Park in New South Wales, where eastern grey wallabies can be spotted along beaches. Koalas, another iconic Australian species, were also widely desired, with 30 percent of respondents wanting to see them in the wild. Though known for their relaxed lifestyle and long sleep hours, koalas are difficult to spot due to their arboreal habits. They live high up in eucalyptus trees, making observation challenging. To increase chances of spotting them, Kangaroo Island and the coastal town of Port Stephens in New South Wales are recommended destinations. Whales, too, have become a popular attraction, with 29 percent of respondents expressing interest in viewing them in the wild. Viewing locations vary, from Australia and Canada to Madeira in the Atlantic Ocean. Due to seasonal migration patterns, whale watching is considered one of the more accessible wildlife experiences on the list. Popular spots include Hermanus in South Africa, recognized as a global hub for whale watching, and Mirissa in Sri Lanka, renowned for its excellent opportunities to observe humpback whales.