Africa is a place of immense natural beauty. As the cradle of civilisation, it is home to some of the most ancient and interesting cultures in the world and there is nowhere on earth where wildlife puts on a greater show.
When it comes to experiencing the great outdoors, our neck of the woods holds its own and then some! The wildlife here is weird and wonderful, the landscapes dramatic and the remoteness breathtaking. There are very few places on Earth you can find yourself quite so far from civilization.
The Indian subcontinent is known for its deep-rooted cultural traditions, mouth-watering cuisine and vibrant festivals. For centuries, India has enticed merchants and mercenaries to its mystical lands with the promise of untold riches and when it comes to opulent splendour, no one puts on a better show.
Stretching over a huge latitudinal range, Latin America boasts everything from soaring mountains to steamy jungles and searing deserts to ice fields. Ancient civilisations rub shoulders with pulsating modern cities and the avant garde food scene is to die for. This continent has it all - viva Latin America!
Through our insatiable curiosity and continual travel to the world’s wildest places, we have unearthed an array of incredible experiences that don’t necessarily fit the mould but simply must be shared.
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Owned by no one, visited by a few, Antarctica is the world’s coldest, windiest and wildest continent and truly the world’s ultimate travel frontier. Magnificent icebergs, carved from the elements into natural ice sculptures float serenely whilst seals bask on their icy shelves. Humpback whales with barnacled heads breach the glassy surface of the ocean and busybody penguins chatter in their thousands.
The Arctic Circle is the 'kingdom of the polar bear' - a spectacular wilderness of glaciers, mountains, fjords and breathtaking icebergs. The Arctic is also home to the rich and unique culture of the Inuit people, who have survived in this harsh landscape for over 9,000 years.
Stretching nearly 3,500-kilometres to the very southern tip of South America, Argentina is the land of the tango, gauchos, polo, malbec, glacier-topped mountains and perfectly grilled steaks. Argentina’s cultural heritage is the perfect partner to its natural beauty which ranges from tropical rainforests to open ‘pampas’ grasslands, icy glaciers and scorched deserts.
We can’t help but rave about our own continent-sized country. From hiking the Flinders Ranges to beach glamping on the edge of Ningaloo Reef and fan boating through the wild wetlands of the Northern Territory, some of the best wilderness experiences can be found in our very own back yard.
Enigmatic, unspoilt and deeply spiritual, the Kingdom of Bhutan is regarded as one of the world's last ‘Shangri‐La's’. It measures its wealth not by GDP but by ‘Gross National Happiness’, and is carbon negative by absorbing more carbon than it emits. For a limited number of visitors, this means peaceful forests, authentic cultural heritage and a sense of spiritual purity.
Safe, peaceful & democratic, with a Smart Traveller green stamp of approval, Botswana stands as a pillar of the African community, leading the way with visionary politics, sustainability and conservation. These factors, combined with some of the most pristine wilderness and highest game densities in the world, make it the destination of choice for any aspirational safari-goer.
Brazil makes up almost 50% of the continent and borders every South American nation except for Ecuador and Chile – it is vast! From the thundering falls of Iguaçu to the Amazon and the Atlantic, it buzzes with festival spirit. Known for its beautiful, fun-loving people, this immense country knows how to celebrate life!
Stretched out longitudinally along the Pacific coast, Chile is packed with phenomenal scenery, niche biospheres and geological idiosyncrasies. Together, the world’s highest volcano, the driest desert, rainforests and hanging glaciers have all created striking landscapes, each inspiring unforgettable adventures.
It is often said that in Colombia you get five destinations for the price of one: the Pacific Coast, the Andes, the Amazon, the eastern plains and the Caribbean. Across the country this diversity has given rise to one of the most impressive and innovative gastronomic scenes of the world as modern chefs turn natural abundance and rare ingredients upside down.
Amazonian rainforests, Andean peaks, foggy cloud forests, the Galápagos Islands and a rich indigenous heritage – all can be found in Ecuador. Split down the middle by a chain of snow-capped volcanoes, the mighty Amazon lies to the east while cloud forests, an untouched coastline and, of course, the awe-inspiring Galápagos Islands lie to the west.
For thousands of years Egypt has been the playground of emperors and kings. Great civilisations have risen from its sandy interiors and the Nile continues to bring life to an otherwise barren land. Much of the scenery has barely changed since biblical times and the entire nation is wrapped in an ancient mysticism which has beguiled writers and romantics for centuries.
Ethiopia is an awe-inspiring and intriguing forgotten land. Its story begins with the emergence of early human-ape homins including the famous ‘Lucy’ and its history is laden with the treasures of great empires and faiths. The rich tribal culture is testament to the pride of a country that has never been officially colonised.
As one of the most diverse countries in the world, India offers incomparable variety. Walk the streets of any Indian city and find a dizzying array of religions, languages, food and culture that few countries can boast. Explore secretive jungles, spice-laden markets, places of pilgrimage and fairy-tale castles lost in time.
Kenya is the home of the original safari (the word ‘safari’ means journey in KiSwahili) and is still, quite deservedly, Africa’s most iconic wildlife destination. One-tenth of all land in Kenya is designated as national parks and reserves, the most famous being the Maasai Mara, which plays host to the annual migration of thousands of wildebeest and zebra.
Madagascar’s plants and animals include some of the most peculiar life forms on the planet. The wild National Parks are teeming with dancing lemurs, aye-ayes, fossas (a cat-like predator), rare birds, colourful chameleons, frogs, lizards, butterflies and a host of weird and wonderful insects and plants – a staggering 80% of which are only found on this island.
Malawi boasts undiscovered scenery, wildlife strongholds and adventurous activities to rival any of those of her better known neighbours. The Great Rift Valley has gauged an immense chasm down her eastern flank which now, brimming with crystal clear water, forms Africa’s third-largest lake: Lake Malawi.
A brief overview describing Morocco's highlights would outweigh War and Peace and still only skim the surface. The exotic colours, history and culture that have attracted travellers from time immemorial are still vibrantly visible and unlike anything else Africa has to offer.
Mozambique’s beaches are the main pull for most travellers. Endless swathes of white sand sweep dreamily along the coastline, palm-fringed freshwater beaches hug Lake Malawi and the Quirimbas Archipelago is a remote paradise of azure waters, mangrove forests and community-based conservation projects.
Straddling two great deserts, Namibia is a country of sweeping sands and eerie landscapes. Dramatic environments host spectacular desert-adapted wildlife & fascinating tribal communities, whilst the cities are a contradictory muddle of modern African vivacity and old world German influence.
Known affectionately as the land of the long white cloud, our nearest neighbour is our go-to for cool climate explorations amidst epic landscapes. The trails are uncrowded, the ecology fascinating, the thermal pools inviting and the food and wine scene delectable...although jury’s still out on who invented the pavlova!
High Andean peaks where majestic condors soar, steamy rainforests of the Amazon basin, nearly limitless coastal destinations, vast deep-blue lakes and the almost mythical Machu Picchu, all this and more can be found in Peru.
Walk in the footsteps of the great explorers as you journey to the ends of our planet and encounter spectacles that few have ever witnessed. Expeditionary cruises to the two polar regions share certain similarities but the two experiences are also, quite literally, poles apart.
The Congo is an unspoilt conservation hotspot and exotic safari destination. The safari experience here combines river ecosystems and savannahs with wildlife rich bais (clearings) and steamy jungles teeming with forest elephants, chimpanzees, butterflies, colourful funghi, brilliant birdlife and plenty of primates including the critically endangered western lowland gorilla.
Known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills’ thanks to its swathes of mist-shrouded mountains, Rwanda lies in the heart of Africa as the emerald jewel of the continent’s crown. Home to one third of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, Rwanda offers one of the greatest wildlife experiences on earth.
São Tomé and Príncipe is one nation consisting of two remote volcanic islands marooned 140 miles off the coast of Gabon. The landscape is a lost world of dense jungle, spires of primordial rock and deserted beaches. Activities centre around the natural world with plenty of snorkelling, wreck diving, turtle watching and hiking to keep you occupied.
South Africa is one of the world’s top travel destinations offering a unique blend of scenery, culture, wildlife and activities for all ages and interests. The cities are dynamic and cosmopolitan, wild landscapes span mountains, savannahs and deserts, and the combination of sub-tropical waters and colder Atlantic currents provide a rich diversity of marine wildlife.
Few islands in the world offer the diversity that exists in Sri Lanka: ancient cities, rich religious festivals, colonial memories, rolling tea plantations, an astonishing variety of bird and animal wildlife and some of the best beaches in the Indian ocean. It showcases a bustling and chaotic way of life yet enchants visitors with a potpourri of cultures, religions, races, customs and its sheer natural beauty.
With National Parks and game reserves covering 28% of the country, Tanzania has more land devoted to wildlife than anywhere else in the world and the game viewing in Tanzania is unparalleled. The high point of the year is the spectacular wildebeest migration when great herds cross the northern plains and plunge through the rivers of the Serengeti.
With National Parks and game reserves covering 28% of the country, Tanzania has more land devoted to wildlife than anywhere else in the world and the game viewing in Tanzania is unparalleled. The high point of the year is the spectacular wildebeest migration when great herds cross the northern plains and plunge through the rivers of the Serengeti.
Uganda lays claim to an astonishing number of primate species, some of the richest birding in Africa, plenty of plains game and some elusive and unusual big cats. No other country in Africa ticks all these boxes.
Zambia offers impressive wildlife diversity as well as some of the wildest and most remote game areas on the continent. It is also the land of the legendary African walking safari and the concept of exploring the bush on foot over multiple days was first pioneered in the South Luangwa.
Zimbabwe is rich in natural wonders, cultural and historical highlights. Zimbabwe’s eco-operators and conservationists have fought tirelessly to see its wild area flourish once more and the passionate guides are among the best in Africa. Today it proudly resumes its rightful position as Africa’s pink-diamond and the safari destination of choice for those in the know.
Up, up and away! What better way to appreciate the vast emptiness of a desert, the broccoli abundance of a jungle or the sweeping lagoons of a coastal wilderness than by air? See what would take weeks or even months by road in just a few days, while embracing the thrill of adventure as you take to the skies.
Travel is the best teacher if you want to broaden the mind. In journeying to foreign lands, children experience the world in all its natural wonder, develop cultural awareness, learn new languages, calculate currency and so much more.
A collection of ladies only escorted group journeys designed specifically by women, for women. We venture to some of the most inspirational and adventurous destinations on the planet with the companionship and security of a small group, and the knowledge and expertise of specialist guides.
Being on horseback allows you to explore the terrain that vehicles can't and provides a fully immersive experience with virtually no impact on the environment.
The best way to experience nature is to get right amongst it for several days at a time. These expeditionary style adventures will take you deep into the wilderness, often on two feet, four legs or by paddle power.
Enjoy the company of an intimate group of like-minded safari enthusiasts with Classic Safari Company’s privately guided tours. Small group African safari tours are an outstanding experience for families and close friends.They are also ideally suited to special-interest groups, such as photographers or birders.
Some of the world’s most unique natural environments are only accessible by boat, so we have handpicked a collection of expeditionary cruises to take you there.
Do you prefer to travel with a tribe? Our group departures could be perfect for you. Each is a one off, bespoke journey and we never run the same trip twice. Every itinerary is meticulously designed around an interest or theme and each is led by an expert in their field. Join us!
The wild world isn't just defined by destination but also by the abundance and wonder of nature to be found hiding within its biospheres. Here we present a collection of the finest wildlife experiences on the planet.
Those in the wilderness will always be drawn to the flicker of the flame and our holidays cater perfectly for campfire stargazers. A gin and tonic by the fire is a rite of passage for any safari goer!
Having the time of your life doesn’t mean breaking the bank. If you’re clever about where, when and how you travel, even the loftiest of champagne tastes can be satisfied with a holiday that punches well above its weight in the style stakes.
You’re a seasoned safari goer who’s itching for more. Deepest, darkest Africa holds no fear for you and you’re looking for out-of-experiences and off-the-map destinations. Luckily we know a thing or two about Africa. Come with us and we’ll gladly show you the way…
Culture and cuisine have gone hand in hand - nothing says more about people than how they eat! Here we present a small collection of journeys and experiences in some of the world’s most tantalising gastronomic destinations.
Whether it’s watching a moustache curling competition in India, weaving with a women’s collective in the Andes, trance-dancing with an African tribe or browsing a private art collection in Lima, these cultural experiences will leave you bemused and beguiled, with plenty of stories to tell.
Travel is exhilarating, and just the experience of being somewhere exotic tantalises the senses and makes you feel alive. But for the active adventurers among us, that isn't enough. You will be itching to run, climb, pedal and paddle your way into the wilderness...and so you shall!
If you have seen 'Out of Africa' then you already know: Africa is the most romantic place on earth. Here you can escape life’s clutter and just be together, at peace with nature and each other. Our luxurious bush camps, lodges and hotels are ideal for honeymoons and romantic getaways.
What experiences are on your bucket list? Would you like to cruise among the icebergs of the Arctic or snorkel with the sealions in the Galapagos? Perhaps saddle up on a horseback adventure in Africa or immerse yourself in the Buddhist spirituality of the Himalayas? Tell us your dreams we'll turn them into reality.
You’ve watched every documentary going and now its time to live the experience. Feel the hum of a million monarch butterflies in Mexico, help to protect the pumas of Patagonia or walk with great tusker elephants in Kenya. This is nature in the raw.
E-NEWS | APR 18 | TRAVEL TO INDIA & CELEBRATE IN THE STYLE OF THE RAJ!
Celebrate in the most decadent destination!
A PARTY IN A PALACE OR A PRIVATE TENTED GETAWAY
For centuries, India has enticed merchants, mercenaries and monks to its mystical lands with the promise of untold riches. This penchant for decadence has styled the travel and party scene – so light the torches, bring on the Bollywood dancers and shake your shoulders because India knows how to celebrate in style!
Whether you’re fabulous at fifty, revelling in retirement, or sweeping your partner off their feet for a surprise anniversary celebration, India will lavish you in garlands and glamour for your special day, either with just a few, or a few hundredof your favourite friends!
Journeying back in time, modern travellers can still experience the glories of days gone by. Elizabeth Hurley’s Jodhpur wedding wowed the world with painted elephants, dancers, fireworks and showers of flower petals, while the Royal Salute British Polo in Jaipur is the place rub shoulders with the Indian elite. Forts and palaces provide glamorous locations for outrageous parties while pioneer-style tented camps complete with four poster beds, leather bound trunks and personal butlers can be exclusively yours for a private get together of your nearest and dearest. Luxury trains wend their way through timeless landscapes and remote hill stations lie high in the Himalayas – the perfect retreat for a romantic escape.
However your choose to travel, a journey to India is a fitting way to celebrate any milestone!
RAJMAHAL PALACE
PARTY IN THE PINK PALACE
If you’re looking for an outrageous party palace, this one’s for you! One of the oldest and most treasured palaces in the ‘Pink City’ of Jaipur, it screams celebration with magenta walls, garlands of flowers and gilded ballrooms.
LOOKING FOR OTT?
THE ROYAL TREATMENT
A big celebration warrants a blow out! India offers an exquisite array of remote Himalayan hideaways, glamorous explorer style camps and ultra-modern design hotels. Here’s our top pick for those times when only luxury will do.
WHY SO BLUE?
LIFT YOUR SPIRITS AT RAAS
If a milestone birthday conjures mixed emotions, follow in the footsteps of Liz Hurley and head to Jodhpur to revel in the ‘Blue City’. RAAS is a design-led luxury hotel nestled at the base of an ancient fort and its sense of age-old romance will leave you tickled pink!
A sumptuous tented camp nestled in the timeless Aravali mountain range which combines spectacular leopard sightings with the charismatic Rabari herdsmen, vintage vehicles and classic old-world glamour. How better to toast your celebration?
SHER BAGH
TENTS & TIGERS
1920’s nostaliga perfectly captured in a super stylish tented camp, complete with furniture used during King Edward VIII’s celebrated tour of India in 1921. Set in the world famous Ranthambore NP, tiger sightings are unrivalled and the camp is wonderfully exclusive – perfect for small family gatherings.
THE DECCAN ODYSSEY
THE ROMANCE OF RAIL
Nothing marks a significant event like a once-in-a-lifetime voyage across the Empire! The Deccan Odyssey train offers six unique routes through India taking in world heritage sites, forts and palaces, tribal cultures & remote wildlife areas. The romance of rail travel relived.
Travel through India with ‘Queen of Macramé’ Natalie Miller for this fabulous textile-focused itinerary taking in Jodhpur, Jaipur and Delhi plus remote villages, skilled artisans, elephant conservation and of course the ever awe-inspiring Taj Mahal. Departs September 2018.
Now travelled – please enquire for upcoming journeys
An example itinerary to inspire your travels! This journey combines India’s jostling cities and hypnotic spiritual ceremonies with the paused quiet of Ranthambore’s jungles and the shifting sands of the Thar desert.