Two kinds of vehicle enter Ranthambore: the six-seat Gypsy and the twenty-seat Canter. Both carry a forest-department guide, both drive the fixed route of the zone printed on your permit, and both last about two and a half hours. The difference is in how the safari feels.
The Gypsy
A Gypsy is an open-top 4×4 with room for six guests. It is small, quiet and quick to turn around, so the driver can reach a sighting fast when alarm calls start. You sit low and close to the track, which photographers love.
- Best for photographers, couples and small families
- Quieter, with fewer people moving around you
- Usually books out first, so plan early
The Canter
A Canter is an open-sided bus with twenty seats. You sit higher, which helps you see over tall grass, and larger groups can travel together. Canter seats are often easier to find closer to the date.
- Best for families with children and larger groups
- Higher view and a gentler ride
- Good option for short-notice trips
Side by side
- Seats: Gypsy 6, Canter 20
- Drive: about 2 h 30 m each
- Zones: both follow the zone on the permit
- Guide: a forest guide on board in both
So which one?
If you want the most personal, photographic safari and can book ahead, choose a Gypsy. If you are a big group, travelling with children or booking late, a Canter is the easy choice. Many guests do one of each.
Read more about the Gypsy safari and the Canter safari, or send us your group size and we will suggest what is most likely to be available.