African Safari Coming to Nagpur’s Gorewada Zoo – A Major Boost for Wildlife Tourism

Nagpur, July 02, 2025: In a significant move to enhance wildlife tourism, Maharashtra’s Gorewada Zoo is set to introduce an African Safari, bringing an exotic wildlife experience to Nagpur. The project, part of the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park, was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Maharashtra Forest Development Corporation (FDCM), Gorewada Zoo Limited, and the National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC).

Key Highlights of the African Safari Project

1. A Diverse African Wildlife Experience

Spanning 63 hectares, the African Safari will house 22 African species, offering visitors a chance to witness both island-dwelling and free-roaming animals. The exhibits will include:

• Mounted Island Animals: African lions, cheetahs, spotted hyenas, chimpanzees, red river hogs, Hamadryas baboons, white rhinoceroses, and patas monkeys.
• Free-Roaming Safari Animals: Ostriches, giraffes, zebras, blue wildebeests, kudus, impalas, common elands, gemsboks, and hippopotamuses.

2. ₹285 Crore Investment with 18-Month Deadline

The project, with an estimated budget of ₹285 crores, is expected to be completed within 18 months. Once operational, it will position Nagpur as a premier wildlife tourism destination in India.

3. Boosting Biodiversity & Eco-Tourism

The African Safari aligns with Maharashtra’s vision of conserving biodiversity while promoting eco-tourism. It follows the successful completion of the Indian Safari, inaugurated on January 26, 2021.

4. Leadership & Collaboration

The MoU was signed in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Forest Minister Ganesh Naik. NBCC, a central government enterprise, will oversee the construction under Phase-2 of the Gorewada Zoo expansion.

Why This Matters

• Tourism Growth: Expected to attract wildlife enthusiasts from across India and abroad.
• Economic Impact: Will generate employment and boost local businesses.
• Conservation Efforts: Promotes awareness about African wildlife and habitat preservation.

What’s Next?

With construction set to begin soon, Nagpur’s Gorewada Zoo is on its way to becoming India’s largest international zoological park, offering a world-class safari experience.