Extraordinary Journeys

09/27/2024

Did you know that your trip makes a difference? 🫶 We don't just mean on the surface, but an actual, meaningful change.

When you travel with us, you make a positive impact, not only on your own life—but also on the places you visit and the people you meet.

That's why we believe in sustainable journeys enriched with authentic cultural experiences and responsible wildlife encounters. Where age-old cultural traditions are preserved, biodiversity is restored, Indigenous communities are uplifted, and each dollar spent goes further than the hand receiving it.

This World Tourism Day, we encourage you to take journeys that matter.

📷 Natural Selection

09/25/2024

This is no ordinary trip.

As your lungs fill with crisp air, hands tucked into your coat pockets, and you stand on the ship's deck in deafening silence, it hits you just how extraordinary this journey is going to be.

𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲'𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝘂𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗵 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗻𝘁:

🛳 From former research vessels to luxury expedition cruises, you'll stay in accommodations rivaling three-to-five-star hotels.

🐳 Forget the typical spa treatments—our Antarctic voyages deepen your connection with nature, from lectures on marine biology to kayaking as a whale blows nearby.

❄ Mother nature is in control. Seasoned captains and expedition leaders may change activities and landings based on weather. It keeps every day a surprise, which we love.

🐧 Because we take sustainability seriously, we partner with the most eco-friendly operators, many of which are carbon-neutral and leaders in citizen science programs. Every step you take respects and protects Antarctica's delicate ecosystem.

Remember that the travel season in Antarctica is short (November to early April). Connect with us now to start planning your voyage to this spellbinding part of the world.

📷 Albatros Expeditions

09/24/2024

As you trek through towering bamboo forests, perspiration dripping from your forehead and your legs burning from the climb—your guide suddenly stops.

A family of gorillas—and a life-changing moment—are just a few feet away.

🦍 On , we're revealing where to find these precious primates in the wild.

The best places in the world to see gorillas are Congo, DRC, Uganda, & Rwanda. Find out which is perfect for your travel plans.

09/23/2024

Forget crowded airports. Bush planes are all about adventure right from takeoff.

From remote runways to packing the right luggage and knowing what to expect in the skies, here's everything you need to know before boarding a bush flight on your luxury safari.

📌 Remember to save this for your next trip.

📷 1, 4, 5) 2, 8) Mack Air 3) Georgina Wood 6) Federal Airlines

09/22/2024

After nearly two decades, white rhinos are back in Zimbabwe's Hwange ecosystem.

🦏 On World Rhino Day, we're celebrating the successful reintroduction of white rhinos to Hwange National Park.

Once home to 100 white rhinos, the park saw their numbers dwindle to zero due to poaching by 2007.

But thanks to Imvelo Safari Lodges and their Community Rhino Conservation Initiative, another two white rhinos have recently been relocated, marking the second successful translocation.

This community-based approach not only helps protect these majestic animals but also empowers local people. By designating part of their communal grazing land for conservation, locals become custodians of the wildlife, with the funds generated supporting their communities.

Here's to new beginnings and a brighter future for Hwange's white rhinos.

09/20/2024

"𝐵ℎ𝑢𝑡𝑎𝑛 𝑖𝑠 𝑢𝑛𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑦 𝑜𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑛𝑡𝑟𝑦 𝐼'𝑣𝑒 𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟 𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑑 𝑡𝑜."

Our destination specialist, Amelia, has just returned from her trip to this remote Kingdom.

At the link, she walks us through her day-by-day itinerary, a perfect blend of spirituality, adventure, and jaw-dropping Himalayan scenery.

Plan your perfect trip to Bhutan with our expert Amelia’s immersive itinerary. Read more about these diverse destinations.

09/17/2024

Do any of these resonate with you?

We've always steered clear of mass tourism, preferring journeys that truly matter.

Commoditized experiences and tourist traps are just not our style. And anything that shelters us from experiencing the true essence of a place? Pass.

Here's what we do stand for, though:

🌿Tailor-made luxury journeys that enrich your mind and nourish your soul
🌿Exceptional experiences that foster genuine connections with people and places
🌿Authentic cultural encounters you won't find in any travel brochure
🌿Travel that has the power to make a positive impact on communities and the environment

If you’re nodding along, let’s create your next Extraordinary Journey together.

📷 Time + Tide Africa

09/16/2024

Already been to Africa? 🌍 Curious about where to explore next?

South America will reignite your excitement for spotting wildlife in the wild, connecting with ancient cultures, savoring flavors your palate hasn't tasted before, and sleeping in cozy yet luxurious lodges that place you right in the heart of the most remarkable settings.

Whether you're watching magellanic penguin waddle along Patagonia's southern coast, on a gastronomic journey through Lima, horseback riding with a gaucho through Uruguay's sweeping plains, or exploring the lunar landscape of the Atacama Desert, South America gives you new ways to travel deeper.

👉 Connect with Olivia and Emma, our South America experts, and see how their own soul-stirring travels can inspire your next trip.

📷 1) 2, 6, 7) 4)

09/13/2024

We're still feeling on top of the world after Travel + Leisure voted us one of the world's leading safari operators, but we're not the only ones with something to celebrate. ✨ A few of our friends in the safari world are also beaming with pride.

Today, we're sharing the spotlight with some of our favorite stays that were recognized in the safari lodges category.

Get in touch with our destination specialists to book your stay at any one of these award-winning properties.

📍Namiri Plains, Tanzania
📍Mount Gahinga Lodge, Uganda
📍Mfuwe Lodge, Zambia
📍Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Uganda
📍Lion Sands Game Reserve, South Africa
📍Singita Grumeti, Tanzania
📍Thornybush Game Lodge, South Africa
📍Angama Mara, Kenya

09/10/2024

The adventures they've read about in storybooks were brought to life for the Heuer kids.

As a mom who’s taken her kids on safari from when they were young, it was only natural for Lara, our senior destination specialist, to craft this unforgettable Kenyan safari for the Heuers.

From meeting their sponsored elephant, Latika, and baby rhino, Raha, at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust to taking archery lessons and guided bush walks with a Maasai guide, the boys experienced wildlife and culture in a way that only Africa can offer.

They even had the chance to meet the anti-poaching unit at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, learning firsthand about the incredible efforts to protect wildlife.

For the kids, it wasn’t just about seeing animals up close—it was about understanding the importance of conservation from a young age, appreciating the beauty of different cultures, and creating family memories that will last a lifetime.

Share this trip idea with a parent you'd like to inspire.

09/09/2024

📍Save this post for our collection of handpicked rural stays that blend luxury with down-to-earth charm.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗸𝗮𝘂𝗵𝗮𝘂 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗘𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲, 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗭𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱
Experience life on a working sheep farm, honoring New Zealand's legendary farming heritage. Watch how sheep are sheared, see sheepdogs in action, and take part in the daily farm routine.

𝗚𝗶𝗯𝗯'𝘀 𝗙𝗮𝗿𝗺, 𝗧𝗮𝗻𝘇𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗮
Gibb's Farm is founded on the rich traditions of East African life. Join the farm staff in milking cows, harvesting organic vegetables, or roasting coffee beans.

𝗘𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝗿𝗼 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗼, 𝗖𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗲
At this working Patagonian ranch, you can ride alongside gauchos, herd sheep, and explore the vast, untamed landscapes of Chilean Patagonia.

𝗕𝗮𝗯𝘆𝗹𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗻, 𝗦𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮
This is a 17th-century farm-turned-luxury retreat. Wander the organic gardens, pick fruit, and learn about winemaking. The farm-to-table dining experience is a feast for the senses.

𝗠𝘁. 𝗠𝘂𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗮𝗻 𝗟𝗼𝗱𝗴𝗲, 𝗔𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗮
This working cattle station offers a taste of the Aussie outback with the comforts of luxury. Meet the Brahman cattle and explore the property’s pastoral history and daily operations.

𝗛𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮 𝗟𝗮 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗮, 𝗘𝗰𝘂𝗮𝗱𝗼𝗿
The family-owned hacienda offers a glimpse into Ecuador's rich agricultural traditions. Tour the cacao plantation, harvest honey, or ride horseback through cattle fields.

𝗢𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝗹𝗼, 𝗞𝗲𝗻𝘆𝗮
This family-run ranch connects you with Kenya and its people on a personal level. Track wildlife on foot with Samburu guides, let the little ones milk cows, and learn about sustainable practices in a warm, homely setting.

𝗘𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮 𝗡𝗶𝗯𝗲𝗽𝗼 𝗔𝗶𝗸𝗲, 𝗔𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗮
Experience the life of an Argentine gaucho at this traditional Patagonian ranch. Herd cattle, explore the rugged landscapes on horseback, and enjoy hearty asado feasts.

09/04/2024

Wildlife conservation is simply second nature to us. So, on National Wildlife Day, we're spotlighting the incredible people dedicating their lives to protecting the planet's most vulnerable animals in places close to our hearts.

🐆 The Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) is working hard to keep these iconic cats sprinting across the savannah for generations. From reducing human-wildlife conflict with their Livestock Guarding Dog program to rescuing cheetahs from the illegal pet trade, the team is doing vital work.

🐘 At Reteti Elephant Sanctuary Community United for Elephants, orphaned and abandoned elephants are nursed back to health and returned to the wild where they belong. (And yes, you can visit—watch them rush back from their walk for bottle-feeding and mud hole playtime. It's as adorable as it sounds!)

🐒 At Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, orphaned and rescued chimps find a safe haven, reminding us of the resilience of our closest animal relatives.

🦏 Care for Wild is on a mission to protect one of Africa's most iconic species—the rhino. Every life saved here is a triumph for conservation and a step closer to securing their future.

🦋 The Wired Amazon Program by Rainforest Expeditions blends scientific research with nature in a groundbreaking effort to protect the Amazon's rich biodiversity. You can even join the Citizen Science Project and help discover new species of insects.

🌱 Finally, Tompkins Conservation is rewriting the story of conservation in Chile and Argentina, restoring wildlands, rewilding species, and showing the world what happens when we put nature first.

These organizations remind us that every effort, big or small, makes a difference. So, let your journey be a force for good, too.

09/01/2024

Meet Bea, a free spirit who explores the world with an open heart.

Working hand-in-hand with our Design team, Bea channels her love for art and adventure into sourcing and illustrating the most beautiful visuals for our print and digital material.

Whether she's catching waves in Cape Town, or dedicating time to charitable causes, Bea's creativity helps bring our journeys to life.

Learn about her greatest adventures so far at https://extraordinaryjourneys.com/team/beatriz-taveira/.

08/30/2024

Wait, not so fast.

While it may be tempting to arrive off the red-eye and head straight for Peru's iconic sites, we encourage you to take time to explore the capital first.

Here's how to savor what Lima has to offer:

📌 Watch the changing of the guard at the Government Palace, a ceremonial display by the Húsares de Junín that you won't want to miss.

📌 As South America's (unofficial) gastronomic capital, Lima is a foodie's paradise. Treat your taste buds to world-class dining experiences at any of its three restaurants in the 2024 World's 50 Best Restaurants list—Maido, Kjolle, and Mayta.

📌 Spend a leisurely afternoon in Barranco, Lima's artsy district. Wander through streets lined with vibrant murals, explore galleries, and sit at cafes with stunning views of the Pacific.

📌 For art and history lovers, the Larco Museum is a must-visit. It offers fascinating insights into Peru's ancient civilizations

📌 Take a tour of Lima's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Plaza Mayor, the Cathedral of Lima, and the ornate San Francisco Monastery.

📌 Base yourself in the district Miraflores (we love Belmond Miraflores Park) for breathtaking ocean views. Start your day by walking along the Malecón, a clifftop promenade perfect for watching surfers below.

📌 Learn to craft the perfect Pisco Sour from an expert mixologist—because no trip to Lima is complete without it.

Lima may be the gateway to Peru's most famous attractions, but it has an adventure of its own waiting for you.

Save this post for your next trip.

📷 3) Kjolle, 5 and 6) Belmond Miraflores Park

08/27/2024

There's something magical about sleeping under canvas, with just a layer of fabric between you and the wild.

But with en-suite bathrooms, cuisine cooked over an open fire, and a full-service complement, these aren't your average tents.

From classic, expedition-style tents to luxury yurts, swipe right to explore our handpicked tented stays, which bring you even closer to the wild—without sacrificing an ounce of comfort.

📷 1 & 5) Asilia Africa 2) Patagonia Camp 3) Wilderness 4) Kicheche Camps 6) PUQIO by Andean 7) Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef 8) Ker & Downey Botswana

08/26/2024

They're women. What's your superpower? ⚡️

On Women's Equality Day, we're celebrating just a few of the incredible women who are making a positive impact in conservation.

𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗹𝗶 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗹𝗼𝗼 Hanli Prinsloo Marshall | 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 I Am Water Ocean Conservation
Freediver and ocean conservationist Hanli is a real-life mermaid. She brings transformative underwater experiences to youth in under-resourced communities. Hanli believes that spending time in nature is key to healthy emotional development in children and creating advocates for our oceans.

The Black Mambas
Meet the world's first all-female anti-poaching unit. These 36 brave women patrol nearly 20,000 acres of protected land in South Africa's Olifants West Nature Reserve. They check perimeter fences, recover wire snare traps, and report signs of poaching. Their efforts have led to a significant decrease in rhino poaching in one of Africa's most affected areas.
📷

𝗣𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗡𝗶𝗲𝘂𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗱𝘁 | 𝗖𝗘𝗢 & 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary
We can't get enough of Care for Wild's feed, but it's the powerhouse behind it all, Petronel, who truly inspires us. She founded Care for Wild at the height of the rhino poaching crisis in South Africa, providing a sanctuary for orphaned rhinos. Follow their account for heartwarming content and ways you can make a dif

𝗞𝗶𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗛𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗼𝗸 𝗦𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗵 | 𝗖𝗼-𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗔 𝗚𝗶𝗿𝗹 𝗧𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴
Periods are no fun, but in parts of Africa, lack of access to menstrual products makes life especially tough for young girls and women. Kimberly found a sustainable solution with reusable menstrual cups, providing cost-effective and eco-friendly options for women in Kenya.

Drop a ❤️ to show your appreciation for these fierce females.

08/23/2024

When people think of India, they conjure images of colorful festivals, tongue-tingling curry, and spiritual yoga retreats—and for good reason.

These things are all part of India’s allure, but there is so much more to this enchanting country.

Our destination specialist, Lisa, has just returned from India.

Get the lowdown on her favorite experiences, accommodations, and restaurants now.

Plan your perfect trip to India with our expert Lisa immersive itinerary. Read more about these diverse destinations.

08/22/2024

When you're just days away from your dream trip, you should be buzzing with excitement, not stress.

We get that this is not the time to feel overwhelmed. That's why we pride ourselves on setting you up for a worry-free trip.

🫶 Our pre-departure calls give you the chance to ask any last-minute questions.

🌍 Plus, our online itineraries and printed booklets cover all the details to keep you informed every step of the way.

Ready to book your custom journey? Connect with our destination specialists for a fresh perspective on luxury travel.

📷 Safaris

08/20/2024

Trust us—it's not what you might be thinking. 👀

Fly camping is barefoot luxury at its best.

Inspired by the old-school safari when explorers would go out into the wild for days sleeping under a simple "fly sheet”, your experience won't be anything close to this rustic.

But we don't want to ruin the surprise.

See exactly why you'll want to swap your room at the lodge for a sleepout beneath the stars on your next safari.

📷 Sarara Camp

Explore why fly camping on an African safari is an essential experience for those who crave adventure and a deep connection with nature. Read now.

08/19/2024

Hello everyone! 📸 Georgina Wood here, photographer and graphic designer, and I’m so excited to take over Extraordinary Journeys' socials today in celebration of World Photography Day!

I’ve just returned from an incredible adventure in Botswana, where I had the privilege of capturing the raw beauty of the Okavango Delta.

Today, I’m sharing some of my favorite moments from the trip—and a little about how I took them.

1️⃣ First time in a helicopter, and I loved it. Flying over the Delta I was amazed by how the landscape transformed before my eyes—from the lush delta wetlands and mopane forests to the vast, dry marshes of the Mababe Depression.

2️⃣ On our way to a true water-based camp in the heart of the delta, I couldn’t resist capturing the unique patterns of this winding channel.

3️⃣ Watching from our underground hide, the elephants’ dust bath at sunset was a perfect end to an unforgettable day surrounded by hundreds of these magnificent creatures.

4️⃣ Walking safaris are my favorite way to experience the bush, where you notice all the little details—from trees and bugs to birds and grasses. Plus, you get cool tidbits like how elephants help spread ilala palms across the delta.

5️⃣ On my last morning in Botswana, we stumbled upon a pride of lions on the move, with playful young adults climbing trees and stalking a herd of elephants. This lioness kept a watchful eye as the youngsters tried their luck with the elephants.

6️⃣ While on a mokoro safari, I was reminded to appreciate the smaller details, like this delicate waterlily. The natural landscape is full of beauty, so take a moment to enjoy it all.

7️⃣ Sometimes nature perfectly arranges itself, like these two birds on a branch, as if posing for the perfect shot.

Remember to share your travel photos with us by tagging —we can't wait to see your adventures.

08/16/2024

Experience the best of New Zealand with this thoughtfully curated travel itinerary.

From lakeside settings and picturesque wine regions to soothing geothermal hot pools and rich Maori culture, you can explore at a pace that lets you dig in and relish your surroundings.

Share this with someone you'd love to explore New Zealand with.

📷 Solitaire Lodge Fiordland Lodge Eichardt's Private Hotel and Bar

08/14/2024

Sharing moments like these with friends is what truly connects us.

We crafted a hiking adventure like no other for Lauren, Catherine, Jon, and Greg—a group of friends who truly love life.

Over seven days, they explored ancient archaeological sites, trekked alongside waterfalls cascading from glaciers above, and climbed paths with original Incan steps.

Soaking in the hot tubs of refined Peruvian lodges meant they left feeling rejuvenated before each day's hike. Their journey culminated at the mountaintop citadel of Machu Picchu, followed by a blissful few days of R&R on the banks of Lake Titicaca.

Tag your adventure-loving friends you’d want to take on a trip like this.

📷 Lauren Hull and Mountain Lodges of Peru

08/12/2024

Being close to elephants in the wild is one of those extraordinary moments that borders on spiritual.

It's hearing their slow, deep rumble, the almost silent sound of their measured footsteps, the gentle flap of their ears, and a mother's tender touch guiding her calf with her trunk.

On World Elephant Day, we're spotlighting the most unique settings in Africa where you can appreciate their intelligence and grace.

𝟭. 𝗢𝗱𝘇𝗮𝗹𝗮-𝗞𝗼𝗸𝗼𝘂𝗮 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸, 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗼
The tropical rainforest in the Congo Basic is home to a smaller and more elusive elephant than their savanna counterparts. Forest elephants face threats from poaching and habitat loss, but their elusive nature and dense habitat make them particularly difficult to protect.
📷 Kamba Africa

𝟮. 𝗦𝗸𝗲𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝘀𝘁, 𝗡𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗯𝗶𝗮
These desert-adapted elephants have evolved to thrive in one of the harshest environments on Earth. With longer legs and larger feet to navigate sandy terrains and a knack for finding water in dry riverbeds, these elephants are a testament to nature's adaptability.
📷 Dr Flip Stander

𝟯. 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮 𝗣𝗼𝗼𝗹𝘀 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸, 𝗭𝗶𝗺𝗯𝗮𝗯𝘄𝗲
Zimbabwe's first UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site offers a unique spectacle: elephants standing on their hind legs to reach the high fruits of the Ana Trees.
📷 Wilderness Safaris

𝟰. 𝗢𝗸𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗼 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝘁𝗮, 𝗕𝗼𝘁𝘀𝘄𝗮𝗻𝗮
Water-based safaris are one of the most serene ways to see elephants in the delta. Glide silently through the channels in a mokoro and get up close to elephants as they drink, play, and forage along the water's edge.
📷 Natural Selection Travel

𝟱. 𝗟𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗭𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗲𝘇𝗶 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗸, 𝗭𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗶𝗮
Best known for walking safaris, the Lower Zambezi offers a unique way to observe elephants on foot from a respectful distance. It's a humbling way to connect with nature.
📷 Chiawa Safaris, Teagan Cunniffe

08/11/2024

No matter how many safaris our team has been on (and trust us, it's a lot), every journey to Africa brings a fresh sense of wonder and joy.

Our spot on the Travel + Leisure World's Best list is all thanks to these incredible women who know Africa's hidden gems like the back of their hands.

Swipe right to meet the creators behind your dream safaris.

📷 1) Volcanoes Safaris - Luxury Lodges in Uganda and Rwanda

08/10/2024

It's unusual to see a lion lazing around in a tree. 👀 But not in Uganda's Queen Elizabeth National Park.

The legendary tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha sector have perfected the art of napping on branches.

Thanks to the Kyambura (pronounced 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘮—𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘳—𝘢𝘩) Lion Monitoring Project, led by Safaris and Dr. Alexander Braczkowski, these lions are protected for future generations.

And you can even get involved. 👉 Stay at Kyambura Gorge Lodge and help guides collect survey data during your game drive. Record GPS locations, snap photos to identify lions' whisker spot patterns, and retrieve images from camera traps set up in the park.

On , share this with someone who'd put their hand up for this adventure.