The culture of cuisine
From bushfire barbecues to Michelin starred morsels, nothing says more about a culture than its food.
Food often shines a light on a place’s social history. On a guided stroll through Cape Town, for example, you could sample the bunny chow of the Indian community, the milk tarts of the Cape Malay people and the artisanal coffee of modern day hipsters, illustrating the cultural diversity of the ever-evolving ‘Rainbow Nation’.
The environment too plays its part. The five distinct ecospheres of Colombia (the Pacific Coast, the Andes, the Amazon, the eastern plains and the Caribbean) provide an astonishing array of rare ingredients which young chefs are using to turn the modern food scene on its head. Meanwhile the agricultural laboratories of the Incas continue to inspire the fine dining establishments of Lima, placing Peru as one of the major gastronomic destinations of the world.
Throughout our years of designing bespoke holidays, we’ve discovered the world’s finest restaurants, bustling markets, producers and growers, and gained access to exclusive dining experiences, private vineyards and curated cooking classes with top chefs. If you want to eat and drink well on holiday, travel with us.
Food often shines a light on a place’s social history. On a guided stroll through Cape Town, for example, you could sample the bunny chow of the Indian community, the milk tarts of the Cape Malay people and the artisanal coffee of modern day hipsters, illustrating the cultural diversity of the ever-evolving ‘Rainbow Nation’.
The environment too plays its part. The five distinct ecospheres of Colombia (the Pacific Coast, the Andes, the Amazon, the eastern plains and the Caribbean) provide an astonishing array of rare ingredients which young chefs are using to turn the modern food scene on its head. Meanwhile the agricultural laboratories of the Incas continue to inspire the fine dining establishments of Lima, placing Peru as one of the major gastronomic destinations of the world.
Throughout our years of designing bespoke holidays, we’ve discovered the world’s finest restaurants, bustling markets, producers and growers, and gained access to exclusive dining experiences, private vineyards and curated cooking classes with top chefs. If you want to eat and drink well on holiday, travel with us.
You will love
- Social history through food
- Rare ingredients from unique ecosystems
- Cutting edge cuisine
- Behind the scenes access
Itineraries & set departures
Wine, Wildlife & Walking
Itinerary Inspiration | South Australia
This itinerary is for the food and wine buffs who love a spot of adventure. Start in Port Lincoln and immerse yourself in this incredible diversity of environments home to some of Australia's rare, endangered and vulnerable wildlife, then head to the Barossa Valley to sample some of Australia's finest wines before tackling the stunning Flinders Ranges on foot as you hike this 540-million year old landscape.
South Africa’s Cape Classic
Inspiration Itinerary | Cape Town & Winelands in style
From tabletop mountains to beaches with penguins, all the way through to divine mouth-watering cuisine and valleys full of vineyards, Cape Town is an exceptionally varied and vibrant city where the possibilities for enjoyment are almost endless. Exploring this cosmopolitan city and its surrounds can easily be done at your leisure by hire car, or though escorted or private tours where you will learn about the history and culture of the region. Stay in some of our favourite luxury properties, chosen because of their location and exquisite design, and enjoy the allure of a destination where there is truly something for everyone.
Tropical Fruits
Itinerary Inspiration | A Colombian Food Safari
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. This huge diversity and abundance gives rise to some of the finest gastronomic experiences in the world. Modern chefs are turning traditional culture, produce, colour and flavour upside down and the results are taking the world by storm.
Chile & Argentina from Top to Toe
Itinerary Inspiration | Atacama Patagonia Torres del Paine
Spend just under three weeks exploring some of the best of Chile and Argentina, starting in the desert-scape of the Atacama in Chile, traversing the beautiful Argentine Lakes District and exploring on foot, horse, water or land, Patagonian Chile and its mountains, glaciers and alpine scenery with a finish in Santiago, the hub for the nation and start/end point of a journey for many Australians to South America.
New Zealand Luxury & Adventure
Itinerary Inspiration
This example itinerary provides the perfect framework for a spectacular journey through New Zealand’s most startling landscapes with a specific focus on Maori spirituality underpinned by luxury lodges, expedition camping, remote places and hiking/biking…a wonderful introduction to this magical land.
Peru to Perfection
Itinerary Inspiration | Authentic luxury all the way...
This supremely diverse example itinerary is a journey through Peru’s most spectacular landscapes, verdant ecosystems, fascinating cultures, ancient history and thriving cosmopolitan cities.
Wine, Wildlife & Walking
Itinerary Inspiration | South Australia
This itinerary is for the food and wine buffs who love a spot of adventure. Start in Port Lincoln and immerse yourself in this incredible diversity of environments home to some of Australia's rare, endangered and vulnerable wildlife, then head to the Barossa Valley to sample some of Australia's finest wines before tackling the stunning Flinders Ranges on foot as you hike this 540-million year old landscape.
South Africa’s Cape Classic
Inspiration Itinerary | Cape Town & Winelands in style
From tabletop mountains to beaches with penguins, all the way through to divine mouth-watering cuisine and valleys full of vineyards, Cape Town is an exceptionally varied and vibrant city where the possibilities for enjoyment are almost endless. Exploring this cosmopolitan city and its surrounds can easily be done at your leisure by hire car, or though escorted or private tours where you will learn about the history and culture of the region. Stay in some of our favourite luxury properties, chosen because of their location and exquisite design, and enjoy the allure of a destination where there is truly something for everyone.
Tropical Fruits
Itinerary Inspiration | A Colombian Food Safari
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. This huge diversity and abundance gives rise to some of the finest gastronomic experiences in the world. Modern chefs are turning traditional culture, produce, colour and flavour upside down and the results are taking the world by storm.
Chile & Argentina from Top to Toe
Itinerary Inspiration | Atacama Patagonia Torres del Paine
Spend just under three weeks exploring some of the best of Chile and Argentina, starting in the desert-scape of the Atacama in Chile, traversing the beautiful Argentine Lakes District and exploring on foot, horse, water or land, Patagonian Chile and its mountains, glaciers and alpine scenery with a finish in Santiago, the hub for the nation and start/end point of a journey for many Australians to South America.
New Zealand Luxury & Adventure
Itinerary Inspiration
This example itinerary provides the perfect framework for a spectacular journey through New Zealand’s most startling landscapes with a specific focus on Maori spirituality underpinned by luxury lodges, expedition camping, remote places and hiking/biking…a wonderful introduction to this magical land.
Peru to Perfection
Itinerary Inspiration | Authentic luxury all the way...
This supremely diverse example itinerary is a journey through Peru’s most spectacular landscapes, verdant ecosystems, fascinating cultures, ancient history and thriving cosmopolitan cities.
Foodie experiences
Taste Chile’s mouth-watering vino
Chile has become a powerhouse in the wine industry and now produces world class merlot, syrah, cabernet sauvignon, and carmenere, which is their signature. White wine drinkers will also enjoy Chile’s excellent sauvignon blanc and chardonnay. There are dozens of… Read more
Chile has become a powerhouse in the wine industry and now produces… Read more
Taste Lima’s finest cuisine
Lima is fast gaining a reputation as the culinary capital of South America. Discover a range of fascinating and often unfamiliar ingredients at the Surquillo Mercado, then join a chef for a practical masterclass to learn how to create some… Read more
Lima is fast gaining a reputation as the culinary capital of South… Read more
Head out on an exclusive wine tour in Marlborough
Spend a day in the beautiful Marlborough District of New Zealand, famous for its Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. Approximately 3/4 of New Zealand's wine is made in the area - the soils fertile and fantastic for harvesting good quality… Read more
Spend a day in the beautiful Marlborough District of New Zealand, famous… Read more
Cook Colombian cuisine in Cartagena
Spend time with one of the city’s most renowned chefs, learning their recipes and hearing the fascinating stories and secrets behind each dish. You’ll begin by visiting the largest market of Cartagena, Bazurto, with the chef to pick-up the freshest… Read more
Spend time with one of the city’s most renowned chefs, learning their… Read more
Engage tobacco tour: from seed to cigar
It’s no secret that Cuba produces the world’s finest cigars. These start out in the rolling green hills of Pinar de Río commence, which boast near-perfect conditions to cultivate tobacco throughout the year. Following the harvest, the crop is 'air… Read more
It’s no secret that Cuba produces the world’s finest cigars. These start… Read more
Enjoy a culinary & cultural feast in Oaxaca
With its extensive and expansive indigenous populations, Oaxaca offers a wealth of cultural experiences. Purchase crafts directly from local artisans, visit pre-Colombian ruins and historic churches, sample the coffee that thrives on the hillsides and visit the homes of local… Read more
With its extensive and expansive indigenous populations, Oaxaca offers a wealth of… Read more
Indulge in Cape Town’s phenomenal cuisine
Cape Town is fast becoming a must visit destination for any foodie. Walking tours of this gastronomic city will take you on a journey through the creative side of Cape Town and its artisanal trends. Visit the colourful Bo Kaap,… Read more
Cape Town is fast becoming a must visit destination for any foodie.… Read more
Learn to cook - Moroccan style
Fragrantly spiced, tactile and scented with rosewater, Moroccan cuisine is a sensory delight. Start with a trip to the souk to purchase locally‐grown produce, learn how to find the best ingredients by looking, feeling smelling and tasting, then haggle for… Read more
Fragrantly spiced, tactile and scented with rosewater, Moroccan cuisine is a sensory… Read more
Accommodation for foodies and wine buffs
Ellerman House – Cape Town
Prestigious luxury in the Mother City
Ellerman House enjoys the finest views of the Atlantic seaboard from its commanding position, just 10 minutes away from Cape Town’s waterfront. With total privacy, Ellerman House feels like a family home and it is a peaceful hideaway to experience wonderful hospitality, natural splendour and Cape Town’s cultural treasures. Read More
Babylonstoren – Drakenstein Valley
Stunning 17th century organic farm
Guest suites at Babylonstoren echo the Cape Dutch farm buildings of the 17th and 18th century with whitewashed walls, ornate gables and thatched roofs. Evoking a sense of well-being, enjoy superb cuisine owing to Babylonstoren's farm-to-fork philosophy led by the ever-changing tapestry and botanical diversity of the garden. Read More
RAAS Jodhpur – Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Jodhpur Style
In the north-east quarter of Jodhpur's old walled city lies Raas, a boutique luxury hotel with spectacular views of the fort. It is a combination of old and new, the only luxury boutique hotel within the walled-city and embodies the region's heritage with class and understated elegance. A perfect place to centre yourself before exploring the region on your north India tour. Read More
Gibb’s Farm – Ngorongoro Foothills
Coffee estate guesthouse
First constructed by a German farmer in the 1930's to be the homestead of a large coffee plantation, Gibb's Farm is now a warm and inviting safari lodge that imparts a sense of well-being and tranquillity as you take in the beauty of nature, relax into the rhythm of farm life and experience the warm hospitality of the local community. Read More
Singita Boulders – Sabi Sands Reserve
Luxury organic-style lodge
Singita Boulders is located in an area that offers prime game viewing and is recognised globally for its formidable predator concentrations and frequent leopard sightings. Stunning design, stylish suites, phenomenal cuisine and faultless service all combine for an indisputable 6 star bush luxury experience. Read More
Vines Resort & Spa – Mendoza
Vineyard Luxury
The Vines is set on more than 1,500 acres of pristine private vineyards, located in Mendoza’s renowned Uco Valley, at the foot of the Andes. Gallop through vineyards into the rugged countryside on horseback, then relax in the sun, take a dip in the infinity pool, unwind in the hot tub or rejuvenate at the spa. Read More
Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.
Elizabeth MackintoshJulia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.
Milford familyWe are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.
Kim & Brad BalanceThe trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.
Rowntree familyClassic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.
Melanie McMillan & Iain JonesWe loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!
Laurence & Remi CunninghamAn amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!
Sheryl & Robert TaylorThank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.
Paul CozziVery knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!
Jane & Robert HappellEverything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.
Tim BradleyYou can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!
Buckingham FamilyThe trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.
Emma JeffcoatAbsolutely everything was first class & so well organised.
Simon & Jackie AdamsClassic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!
Ros WheelerTheir experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.
Andrew & Pip StevensIf you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.
Miriam & Joseph HarrisonClassic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.
Ron & Alison GuthrieClassic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10
Di & Kingsley YatesThe Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.
Annette WhileyIt certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing. We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.
Jo-anne & Dean MifsudWould do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!
The McGowan TribeAn absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.
Judith & Roger Williams
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