Wildlife tourism in India is entering a new era of responsible and respectful safari experiences. Beginning February 2026, forest authorities across several key tiger reserves have implemented a strict ban on the use of mobile phones during safari drives within core wildlife zones — a move that will reshape how travellers engage with India’s wilderness.
As per information shared by JungleSutra and Creative Travel, the regulation prohibits the use of mobile phones inside national parks during safaris, including mobile photography. The move follows concerns that excessive phone usage during tiger sightings has led to unsafe, disruptive behaviour and increased disturbance to wildlife.
The regulation is currently in effect at:
• Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan
• Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh
• Kanha Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh
• Pench Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh & Maharashtra)
• Satpura Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh
• Panna Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh
• Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra
• Umred Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary, Maharashtra
Officials at other parks are reportedly reviewing similar measures, with the broader objective of promoting more responsible and conservation-focused safari experiences.
Visitors may continue to carry cameras as per existing park norms, and photography through designated cameras remains permitted.
For the travel trade, this development calls for proactive guest briefing prior to arrival. Creative Travel has indicated that guests will be informed in advance and briefed again before each safari departure. The company is also exploring the possibility of arranging shared cameras for guests at select destinations.
As wildlife tourism increasingly moves toward stricter conservation protocols, travel planners are advised to keep guests informed to ensure smooth safari experiences.
