Every country has its national animals, from birds to fish, which represent either the country’s history, climate or political stance. Think, for example, of the iconic Bald Eagle that represents America’s freedom. However, some countries are home to those special, unique animals that we’d go to the ends of the earth to see, let alone feed or interact with!
That’s why, in honour of World Animal Day, celebrated on 4 October, Expat Explore has rounded up those must-see animals that make it worth travelling the world for. All of these destinations have many other charms and reasons to visit. But, even if you only see these animals in their natural habitat on your trip, we’d consider you lucky!
Related: Bird lovers, check out the world’s national birds by destination.
Take a look at animals around the world that make their home countries worth a visit:
Spot the famed Big Five on safari in South Africa
South Africa is rich in history and packed with incredible native wildlife, from the mighty Great White Shark to the humpback whale. However, if you plan to visit South Africa, you would be remiss if you returned home without seeing as many of the Big Five as possible! See if you can spot African lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and Cape buffalo on a Kruger Park safari!
Related: Prepare for your trip with our packing tips for a safari.
Tick off koala-bear-holding in Australia
Another country already known for its diverse and must-see wildlife is Australia. From kangaroos to wallabies, this country has a number of famous animals to behold. However, it’s best to hope you don’t encounter either of these anywhere other than a zoo! Koalas, however, are not only docile enough that you’d likely be able to get away from one in the wild but you can also hold them in zoos and conservation parks! Imagine coming back from Australia without a koala selfie now…
Pet Capybaras in Argentina
If you don’t love capybaras, it’s likely because you’ve never seen one or don’t know about its adorable temperament! These cute, unique-looking creatures from South America grow to roughly the size of a golden retriever, except they might be even more loveable! The capybara is perhaps not the world’s prettiest selfie partner, but they are undeniably cute, and the animal kingdom agrees.
As herbivores, they have no prey, so no other animal feels threatened by them. Plus, being so friendly and docile, one can get away with doing almost anything around (or even on) them! This makes them a treat for smaller animals who can ride, swing and play on top of them without backlash. The best place in Argentina to see them is the Iberá Wetlands, also known as the Great Argentine Safari.
Related: Tick Argentina, Atacama Desert & Chile Delights off your bucket list.
Get a glimpse of the giant panda bear in China
Most people will already have this one on their bucket lists! Seeing a panda bear is one of the must-do experiences when you travel to China. However, note that the country has doubled down on its protection efforts for the panda population, so you might not be able to hold one. However, many zoos, especially in the city of Chengdu, have pandas to witness and even take some photos with!
Laze around with sloths in Brazil and Costa Rica
While sloths might not be the coolest thing to print on cups anymore (sadly), they’re definitely a must-see animal! These long-limbed, lazy creatures hail from the South American rainforest and today can be seen in many sanctuaries across Brazil and Costa Rica. But be warned, you probably won’t have the Instagram experience of posing and cuddling with one.
Not only is the sloth-cuddling culture bad for them, but it also takes away from the incredible experience of seeing them wild in nature. So, think twice about cuddling that cute but wild creature in Brazil or Costa Rica. A photo of it in action might be just as good, if not better!
Related: Visit a sloth sanctuary when you embark on our Costa Rica Escape tour!
Lay your eyes on llamas in Peru
Peru is a wondrous travel destination with many top travel attractions, from Machu Picchu to the vibrant capital of Lima! Within these places, you will also find animals synonymous with the country, making visiting much more worthwhile. The llamas at Machu Picchu are social creatures and have become accustomed to tourists, but still, take care when interacting with them. Alpacas walk the streets of the Sacred Valley, so you can spot them there, or you may encounter a group of women affectionately referred to as the Alpaca Ladies in Cusco. They’ll happily pose for pictures along with their Alpacas for a small donation.
Related: Get the lowdown on South American travel before your trip.
Behold the bald eagle in the USA
Last but certainly not least on our list is an animal that’s both a reason to visit the country and one of its national animals. The bald eagle is the national bird of the USA but is also synonymous with its title as the land of the free. Since it’s the national bird, it can be seen in quite a few statues, such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa and Michigan. However, these birds may be tough to spot and capture in the wild, so many photographers choose to photograph them in some of the country’s top national parks. And for poetic reasons, why not see the national bird in Washington state at the Olympic National Park?
Related: Discover some of the USA’s best national parks and natural sights.
That wraps up our list of the top animals around the world that make their home countries worth visiting! Now, all that’s left is to spread your wings and visit these must-see destinations in person.
Expat Explore offers affordable group tours to many of the destinations on our list. So, book a tour, charge your cameras, buff your binoculars, and get ready to spot some incredible animals worth travelling for.