Private Bannerghatta National Park Day Excursion

If you’ve ever dreamt of spotting tigers, lions, and deer all in one day while enjoying a comfortable, private tour from Bangalore, this Private Bannerghatta National Park Day Excursion might be just what you need. Based on countless reviews, this experience offers a mix of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and convenient transportation — but, like any tour, it has its nuances that guests have highlighted.

What we really like about this trip is the opportunity to see big cats and bears up close in their naturalistic habitats, the chance to stroll through the butterfly park filled with vibrant fluttering wings, and the comfort of private transport and a small group setting. The price point is also attractive when you consider the included safaris and park entry. However, some travelers have expressed concerns about the timing and the overall value, especially given the length and how much they felt was left unexplored.

This tour is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts who want a convenient, guided day out without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s ideal for visitors who value seeing animals in a protected environment and don’t mind a busy schedule. If you’re after a relaxed, in-depth experience, this might be less suitable — but if quick, accessible wildlife viewing is your goal, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Convenient Private Transport: Comfortably-paced travel from Bangalore with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Wildlife & Nature: Includes safaris to see tigers, lions, bears, deer, and other animals.
• Additional Attractions: Butterfly Park and a zoo add variety.
• Tour Duration & Timing: About 7 hours, with specific start times; expect some waiting.
• Guide & Group Size: Small group experience with English-speaking guides.
• Value & Price: Approximately $125 per person, with honest insights from reviews on whether it’s worth it.

This tour typically begins around 7:30 am with hotel pickup in Bangalore. The drive to Bannerghatta National Park takes roughly 1.5 hours, covering about 24 km. You’ll arrive around 8:45 am, with park tickets and the safari arranged for you — a real plus for those unfamiliar with the area or who prefer hassle-free entry.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Safari Experience

The core of this tour is the safari — a highlight for many guests. Once seated in the safari truck, you’ll venture into different zones: Herbivore Safari, Bear Safari, Tiger Safari, and Lion Safari. Each offers a chance to see distinct animals in environments designed to mimic their natural habitats.

Guests have noted that the safari ride typically lasts around 45-60 minutes, with frequent stops at various animal enclosures. During the Tiger Safari, there’s a chance, though not guaranteed, to see white tigers, which are kept in a dedicated area. The Lion Safari provides views of lions resting or bathing, which many visitors find exciting.

From reviews, it’s clear that the safari is the main draw — some mention that they appreciated the opportunity to see animals like tigers and bears close-up, which is often difficult in many zoos worldwide. However, a recurring theme is that the time allocated for the safari is relatively short, and some felt they didn’t get enough time to explore more on their own afterward.

The Butterfly Park and Zoo

After the safari, you’ll visit the Butterfly Park, a vibrant space filled with thousands of colorful butterflies, plus monkeys. Many reviewers have appreciated the peaceful walk through this area, noting the stunning visuals and the chance to see butterflies in flight.

Guests also have the option to visit the zoo or enjoy lunch in nearby local restaurants or the Dosa Camp Area (own expense). The zoo, created in 1972, is designed to educate visitors about flora and fauna conservation and offers additional animal viewing opportunities.

Timing & Logistics

The tour wraps up with a drop-off around 4:00 pm at your Bangalore hotel. The entire experience is roughly 7 hours, but some reviews mention that the actual time spent within the park and safari may be less — around 4-6 hours, factoring in waiting times and transportation.

Guests should be aware that the park is plastic-free, and camera fees are INR 25 for digital and INR 200 for video cameras, which adds some extra costs.

Transport & Group Size

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles, and pickup/drop-off is from any hotel in Bangalore. The group size is limited to 8 participants, making the experience more intimate than large group tours. This small-group setting allows for more personalized attention and easier communication with guides.

Reviews suggest that the driver and guide are friendly and accommodating, though language skills vary. Some guests wish for guides with more fluent English to better explain the animals and park features.

While many reviews highlight the stunning views and good value for money, some point out significant drawbacks. For instance, guests have felt that the safari ride was too short or that they didn’t get enough time to explore beyond the safari.

One reviewer from India commented that they arrived 1.5 hours early, waiting for the park to open, which was appreciated, but felt the overall experience was overpriced given the limited time and activities. Conversely, a traveler from New Zealand called the safari experience “amazing” and felt it was totally worth it.

Others pointed out logistical issues, such as poor communication from drivers who didn’t speak much English, leading to wasted time and some confusion about directions. The vehicle’s lack of air conditioning was also noted, especially for those sensitive to heat.

At around $125 per person, considering the included safaris, park entry, and transportation, the price is competitive but not cheap. Some reviews suggest that the safari and zoo are value-rich experiences, but others felt the duration was too limited for the cost, especially if they couldn’t explore the zoo afterward or felt rushed.

The tour’s emphasis on guided safaris and the small group size** adds to the experience’s appeal, especially for those who prefer a more personalized visit. Still, travelers should go in with realistic expectations about how much time they’ll spend in the park and how much of the experience is self-guided.

This tour suits wildlife lovers eager to see big cats and bears in a semi-natural setting without the hassle of self-organizing transportation or park tickets. It’s also a good fit for travelers looking for a comfortable, guided day trip from Bangalore.

Those who prioritize timing efficiency and small group intimacy will find this appealing. However, if you’re after a slow, in-depth exploration or want more time beyond the safaris, you might find this tour a bit rushed.

In essence, the Private Bannerghatta National Park Day Excursion offers a decent snapshot of India’s wildlife in a convenient package. The safaris are the main highlight, giving you a chance to see tigers, lions, and bears in a relatively accessible setting. The small group size and private transport make the day comfortable and manageable, especially for first-time visitors.

While the experience is generally well-regarded for its value and guide support, some travelers feel that the short duration and high price don’t quite match their expectations. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast who values a guided, hassle-free adventure with stunning animal sightings, this tour could be a solid choice. But if you want a more leisurely or extensive exploration, consider how you might supplement this experience.

Overall, it’s a practical, engaging day trip—perfect for those who want a taste of India’s wildlife without a big fuss.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the safari last?
The safari typically lasts around 45-60 minutes, with multiple stops at different animal zones within the park.

Is the transport air-conditioned?
Yes, the transfer vehicle is air-conditioned, making the journey comfortable in the Indian heat.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off in Bangalore, park entry tickets, safaris, and a guide. Food and additional activities like the zoo or lunch are at your own expense.

Can I explore the zoo after the safari?
Yes, after the safari, you have the option to visit the zoo or have lunch in local eateries.

Are guides fluent in English?
Guides are generally English-speaking, but some reviews mention that language skills may vary, which could affect explanations during the tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, camera, and some cash for camera fees or snacks. The park is plastic-free, so avoid waste.

What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.

What time does the tour start?
Typically around 7.30 am, with exact times depending on availability. It’s best to confirm when booking.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind the long day and moving vehicles; ensure children are comfortable with the schedule and activity level.

Are there any hidden costs?
Camera fees (INR 25 for digital, INR 200 for video) are additional. Food and extra activities are also at your expense.

In brief, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Bannerghatta’s wildlife with comfortable logistics and a small-group vibe. Perfect for wildlife fans looking for an easy, guided day out, but be prepared for a busy schedule and some limitations on exploration time.

You can check availability for your dates here: