Safari in Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Compare Parks in Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Weather & Climate in Andaman & Nicobar Islands

The warmest temperatures in Andaman & Nicobar Islands occur in April, averaging 28.5°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 26.2°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in February with average rainfall of 41.4mm. Average humidity: 75.8%.

Monthly Temperatures

• January: 26.2°C (rainfall: 51.0mm)
• February: 26.4°C (rainfall: 41.4mm)
• March: 27.5°C (rainfall: 45.2mm)
• April: 28.5°C (rainfall: 61.3mm)
• May: 28.3°C (rainfall: 257.2mm)
• June: 27.3°C (rainfall: 283.7mm)
• July: 27.1°C (rainfall: 311.6mm)
• August: 27.1°C (rainfall: 261.5mm)
• September: 26.7°C (rainfall: 367.6mm)
• October: 26.4°C (rainfall: 318.6mm)
• November: 26.9°C (rainfall: 175.2mm)
• December: 26.6°C (rainfall: 104.2mm)

Best Time to Visit Andaman & Nicobar Islands

The best months to visit Andaman & Nicobar Islands are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

• January: Great, temperature 26.2°C, rainfall 51mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 76.5%
• February: Great, temperature 26.4°C, rainfall 41.4mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 75.8%
• March: Great, temperature 27.5°C, rainfall 45.2mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 76.4%
• April: Great, temperature 28.5°C, rainfall 61.3mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 77.1%
• May: Good, temperature 28.3°C, rainfall 257.2mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 81.8%
• June: Good, temperature 27.3°C, rainfall 283.7mm, sunshine 8.2 hrs, humidity 84.7%
• July: Good, temperature 27.1°C, rainfall 311.6mm, sunshine 7.6 hrs, humidity 85.5%
• August: Good, temperature 27.1°C, rainfall 261.5mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 84.9%
• September: Good, temperature 26.7°C, rainfall 367.6mm, sunshine 7.6 hrs, humidity 86.2%
• October: Good, temperature 26.4°C, rainfall 318.6mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 87%
• November: Good, temperature 26.9°C, rainfall 175.2mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 83%
• December: Good, temperature 26.6°C, rainfall 104.2mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 79.1%

Recommended Packing List for Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Based on average temperature of 27.1°C, typical conditions, humidity 82%.

• Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 27°C weather calls for light fabrics
• Binoculars - essential for every game drive
• Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
• Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
• Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
• Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
• First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
• Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
• Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Wildlife in Andaman & Nicobar Islands

Home to 80 recorded species including 37 waterbirds, 16 birds of prey, 16 iconic birds, 6 tropical birds, 2 reptiles, 2 marine & freshwater.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for India

Travel advisory for India

Andaman & Nicobar Islands FAQs

What unique marine life and endemic species can I expect to encounter on an Andaman safari?

The Andaman & Nicobar Islands are renowned for their vibrant coral reefs, home to diverse fish species, sea turtles (Green, Hawksbill, Olive Ridley), and the elusive dugong, the state animal. On land, you might spot endemic birds like the Andaman Wood Pigeon or Andaman Serpent Eagle, along with unique reptiles and amphibians within the national parks.

What is the ideal time of year for marine safaris and island exploration in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, considering weather and visibility?

The best time to visit is generally from October to May, when the weather is pleasant, seas are calm, and underwater visibility is excellent for snorkeling and diving. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall and rough seas, making marine activities challenging and some islands inaccessible.

Beyond snorkeling and diving, what unique island-based activities or 'safari' experiences are available in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands?

In addition to exploring vibrant coral reefs, visitors can enjoy mangrove kayaking, birdwatching expeditions in national parks like Mount Harriet, and exploring limestone caves in Baratang. Some islands offer unique bioluminescence tours at night, and glass-bottom boat rides provide a dry alternative to witness the underwater world.

Are there specific permits or restricted areas visitors need to be aware of when planning a multi-island safari in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands?

Foreign nationals typically require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit the islands, though this is often issued on arrival at Port Blair airport or handled by tour operators. Certain tribal reserve areas are strictly off-limits to visitors for conservation and protection of indigenous communities, and entry into some national parks may require separate permits.

What is the typical budget range for a multi-day marine safari and island-hopping trip in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands, including activities and accommodation?

A moderate 5-7 day trip, including inter-island ferries, mid-range accommodation, and a mix of snorkeling/diving excursions, can range from INR 40,000 to INR 80,000 per person (approx. $500-$1000 USD), excluding flights to Port Blair. Luxury options or extensive diving packages will naturally be higher, while budget travelers can find options starting around INR 25,000.

Recommended Books

• The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
• Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
• Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
• National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
• The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
• Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
• Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
• The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
• The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
• Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
• African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
• Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
• Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
• The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
• The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
• Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
• When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
• Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
• Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
• Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
• Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
• Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
• Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
• Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
• Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.