Extraordinary Journeys

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Extraordinary Journeys

Luxury travel for the wild at heart. Voted World's Best Safari Outfitters by Travel and Leisure.

Extraordinary Journeys was founded by Marcia & Elizabeth Gordon, a mother-daughter team with decades of experience living and working in Africa and around the world. Read more about their journey here: https://extraordinaryjourneys.com/about-us/ourstory/.

12/24/2024

For some, the thought of traveling over Christmas means leaving behind the cozy comforts of home.

But what if your journey could bring you all the warmth and cheer you love most about this time of year?

Think crackling fireplaces, hearty home-cooked meals, communal dining that feels like family gatherings, and welcoming staff who feel like old friends from the moment you check in.

Swipe to explore our collection of stays that embody comfort, tradition, and holiday magic.

12/21/2024

Heard of the midnight sun?

In Antarctica's summer, the sun doesn't set. And today on the solstice, this phenomenon reaches its peak.

It's a surreal experience that offers endless opportunities to explore this otherworldly landscape.

Here's how you can make the most of 24 hours of sunlight in the world's most remote wilderness:

➡️ Go on a zodiac adventure. The polar equivalent of an African game drive, these small boats take you up close to towering icebergs or onto the ice itself, where you can walk or hike and watch curious penguins waddle by.

➡️ Get a kick from kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, snowshoeing, mountaineering, or cross-country skiing.

➡️ Fly above the mesmerizing bergs or land in the untouched alpine wilderness for an exclusive heli-hiking adventure.

➡️ Embody your inner Wim Hof and take a "polar plunge."

➡️ Use the time to learn and connect with on-board lectures on marine biology, glaciology, Antarctic history, and more.

The travel season in Antarctica runs from November to early April. It's a short window, so journeys tend to be booked one or more years in advance.

Connect with our team now to experience this extraordinarily wild place.

📷 Quark Expeditions

12/20/2024

Clinging to the side of a cliff, thousands of feet above the valley floor, one of Bhutan’s most spectacular sights comes into view.

The hike to the iconic Tiger's Nest Monastery is nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Inside, monks are already chanting, sonorous voices filling every chamber, peaceful and hypnotic. The early wake-up is always worth it.

Even well-known locations can be experienced in life-altering ways. That’s why we never opt for the ordinary.

Awaken your next travel dream at https://extraordinaryjourneys.com/destination/bhutan/.

12/17/2024

Hide and seek in the ultimate sleepout. 🌙

This underground hide, purposefully positioned on the edge of a watering hole in Botswana's Mashatu Game Reserve, is the ultimate sanctuary for photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and dreamers.

After dark, nature starts revealing its secrets. With your camera at the ready, watch as a cautious herd of elephants approaches the water's edge, treading silently despite their size. Keep your eyes peeled for skittish bushbuck, their ears twitching at the slightest sound.

But it's not only what you see—it's also what you hear. After an evening of capturing nature's comings and goings, drift off to sleep with a chorus of frogs croaking in the background, the haunting calls of hyenas in the distance, and every now and then, a lion's low roar reverberating through the air.

From the safety of your hide, you're not just an observer—you become part of this primal gathering.

*Equipped with lighting, camera supports, and nighttime activity sensors—the hide ensures you don't miss a single moment of activity.

📷 Mashatu Game Reserve C4 Photo Safaris

12/15/2024

Not everyone ventures deep into the mountain forests of western Tanzania.

But those who do are never sorry they did.

Greystoke Mahale is ringed by mile after mile of raw wilderness. Just getting here is an adventure.

Habituated chimpanzees reside deep within the forest, and finding them can take anywhere from 30 minutes to hours of trekking. But when you finally lock eyes with them, surrounded by the forest canopy, it’s a humbling experience that stays with you forever.

Is this a moment you've been dreaming of?

Let your travel dream find you at https://extraordinaryjourneys.com/destination/tanzania/.

📷 Nomad Tanzania

12/11/2024

Unlike traditional safaris on mainland Africa, you won't find big game here.

But you will discover a rare biodiversity that exists nowhere else on Earth. 🌴

Sitting 300 miles off the coast of Mozambique, Madagascar is an atypical honeymoon destination for those who crave experiences that go beyond the ordinary—exactly what we love about travel.

We curated a truly special journey for Aylin and Joshua—days filled with guided walks through rainforests where bird calls fill the air and wide-eyed lemurs make surprise appearances.

They explored the other-worldly limestone pinnacles of Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park, where 50-meter-high razor-sharp peaks stretch into the sky.

And they stood in awe beneath ancient, towering Baobab trees.

Explore Madagascar's treasures at https://extraordinaryjourneys.com/destination/madagascar/.

12/07/2024

Hear us out: a game drive in Hwange National Park... but on a railcar.

The Elephant Express is a one-of-a-kind safari experience in Zimbabwe’s largest and oldest national park.

Instead of moving from one camp to another by road, swap the classic Land Cruiser for a railcar adventure.

As you chug along, there's a chance wildlife may show up right by the tracks. And since there's no set timetable, your conductor, come guide, will stop, reverse, and inch forward, so you can get that perfect photo, just like a traditional game drive.

We love Hwange for its huge population of wildlife, including cheetahs, lions, wild dogs, and a super-herd of around 450 elephants.

Pair this with Zimbabwe's high caliber of guiding and you have a ticket to an unforgettable luxury safari.

📷 Imvelo Safari Lodges

12/05/2024

This holiday season, we're sharing an inspiring collection of dreamy moments in new, extraordinary destinations to help you manifest your next adventure.

Think of these slides as the starting point for an unfiltered and life-affirming journey.

Ready to dream big and travel far? https://extraordinaryjourneys.com/region/pantanal/

12/03/2024

Long before protein shakes, fitness trackers, and mindfulness apps, Australian Aboriginal healers cared for their communities using practices passed down over generations.

With a deep connection to the land, they looked to nature to heal the spirit, believing that when the spirit was well, the body followed.

From bush tucker that's considered medicine—like Kakadu plums bursting with vitamin C—to cleansing smoke ceremonies, traditional Aboriginal healing is a reminder that true wellness comes from honoring the earth and those who walk it.

Learn to connect with the world around you on your next journey.

📷 Tourism Australia

11/30/2024

The Sydney Opera House might draw you to New South Wales, and the Great Barrier Reef could be what pulls you toward Queensland. But you might not yet know about the understated allure of 𝙎𝙤𝙪𝙩𝙝 𝘼𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙖.

True luxury lies in traveling deeper, far beyond the usual paths and cookie-cutter itineraries. So we empower you to connect with the world in meaningful ways, where each moment is an opportunity to be inspired.

Here are six extraordinary ways to explore South Australia:

1️⃣ Wander Adelaide, the cosmopolitan coastal capital. Sample multicultural cuisine at the Adelaide Central Market and admire an impressive collection of Aboriginal artifacts at the South Australian Museum.

2️⃣ Savor its world-class Shiraz and gourmet food experiences in the Barossa and Clare Valleys, Australia's premier wine regions.

3️⃣ Stay at The Louise, an exclusive gastronomic retreat that puts you in the heart of the Barossa Valley's winemaking legacy.

4️⃣ Trek or quad bike through the Flinders Ranges, getting a closer look at ancient geological marvels and Aboriginal rock art.

5️⃣ Experience Kangaroo Island, Australia's own Galápagos. Join a guided hike, picnic among grazing kangaroos, and appreciate the island's native wildlife.

6️⃣ Settle into a deck chair and take in the jaw-dropping views at the Southern Ocean Lodge. Rebuilt after the 2020 bushfires, this cliffside sanctuary on Kangaroo Island is the perfect base for your adventures.

Ready to travel differently? Chat with our destination specialists.

📷 Tourism Australia, The Louise, Southern Ocean Lodge, Kangaroo Island

11/27/2024

Recognized in the 2024 Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards as the World's Best Food City, Cape Town has been celebrated for its well-respected chefs and restauranteurs, trendy food scene, and a backstory that blends African, Dutch, Malay, and Indian culinary influences.

From vibey cafes offering all-day breakfast to sophisticated spots aiming for plated perfection and trendy neighborhood hangouts, our team's favorite spots will take you on your own unforgettable food journey through Cape Town.

11/25/2024

Whether it's blissful peace or the thrill of doing something truly epic, every couple wants a honeymoon that feels uniquely their own.

For Morgan and Jeff, their journey through Chile was nothing short of extraordinary.

They were wowed by the lunar-like landscape of the Valley of the Moon. They explored the breathtaking Altiplanic Lagoons cradled high between Andean peaks and watched flocks of flamingos grace the Salar de Atacama, Chile's largest salt flat.

From the arid beauty of the north, we took them south to the wilds of Patagonia. Surrounded by the towering peaks of Torres del Paine National Park, they hiked rugged trails, soaking in one of the world’s last great wildernesses.

Celebrate your love in 2025 and connect with us at [email protected].

11/20/2024

Picture yourself gathering with loved ones in the African bushveld...sitting side-by-side with family as the land cruiser navigates the plains, watching your little one light up as they see their first elephant in the wild, and reminiscing while sipping a glass of merlot next to the fire pit.

In the spirit of togetherness, we're spotlighting our favorite safari stays, designed specifically with families in mind.

From private chefs to curated kiddies' activities and elevated experiences for the whole family, our collection of exclusive-use villas and camps provides the comfort of home, and then some.

Save this post to inspire your next journey, together.

📷 Perivoli Lagoon House, Tswalu, Cheetah Plains, Reteti House, Kalepo Camp, Ker & Downey Botswana, Nomad Tanzania, Singita

11/18/2024

When you think of Brazil, you'll likely picture a dense rainforest and curving rivers.

But hidden on the remote northeast coast is a secret world of its own—Lençóis Maranhenses.

This UNESCO-designated national park is a jarring contrast to the lush Amazon.

During the rainy season, the valleys and troughs of the coastal dunes transform into lagoons that stretch across the stark landscape as far as the eye can see.

Sandboard down the sandy slopes and swim in its warm, gin-clear waters. Hop on a quad bike and explore the dunescape, or for the best views, climb the spine of a dune and be mesmerized by this surreal terrain.

When you travel with us, we'll take you beyond the expected for an experience that deepens your connection to every place you visit.

11/13/2024

Whether it's a firm handshake, a gentle Namaste, or a polite kiss on the cheek, how we greet each other is our way of saying, "I see you," without words—the first step in making strangers feel welcome.

Take the 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘪, for example. In Māori culture, this traditional greeting involves gently pressing noses and foreheads together, symbolizing our shared life force—a reminder that we're all connected.

Kindness starts with a simple act of recognizing another's presence. So whether you pause to smile at someone passing by, offer a gentle nod, or just a shared glance, take a moment to connect with someone today.

It's these small gestures that have the biggest impact.

📷

11/11/2024

Choosing to travel is gifting yourself moments that shape you and stories that stay with you long after your special day.

For her 30th birthday, Addi gifted herself a luxury safari to Kenya.

With her mom by her side, she explored Lewa wilderness on horseback—an area with one of the highest wildlife densities in Africa — drifted over the Masai Mara in a hot air balloon, spent time with the Samburu community, and visited the precious residents of Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.

Gift yourself a journey that inspires you for life's next big chapter.

📷 Addison Pugh

11/08/2024

With an elevation gain of nearly 3,000 feet and a 14-mile round trip, Mackenzie describes her journey to the base of the towers in Torres del Paine National Park as one of her most unforgettable adventures.

If trekking across Patagonian ice fields or paddling through the winding lagoons of the Pantanal is the kind of adventure your heart craves, our South America team has done it.

Connect with us to plan your journey.

11/06/2024

November in Phobjikha Valley means the return of the majestic, black-necked cranes.

These elegant birds grace the misty wetlands of Gangtey every fall before heading back to the Tibetan Plateau in early spring.

The best part is you don't have to be a birder to appreciate them.

Their arrival is seen as a blessing, with deep cultural and spiritual significance.

And while they are considered vulnerable, Phobjikha Valley has remained a sanctuary for them. Stop by the Black-Necked Crane Information Center to learn more about their ecological importance, migration patterns, and the efforts to protect them.

The cranes are more than just a seasonal sight though—they're a symbol of Bhutan's profound connection to nature, spirituality, and conservation.

So whether you're a birdwatcher or looking for a deeper connection on your travels, Gangtey offers a truly special experience.

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Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca might be the headliners that first draw you to Peru, but don’t overlook the vibrant charm of Lima. If you have just 24 hours in this historic city, here's how to make the most of it: ①. Begin your morning at a local roastery, savoring a cup of organic, hand-picked Peruvian coffee that embodies the rich flavors of the region. ②. Wander the colonial streets of Barranco, Lima's bohemian heart ③ Visit the renowned Larco Museum, exploring over 5,000 years of ancient Peruvian history, artifacts, and the stories that shaped this captivating land. ④ Sample exotic fruits and local delicacies at a market in Miraflores. See firsthand how the perfect fish is selected for ceviche and try a freshly prepared plate from a food stall for an authentic experience. ⑤ Deepen your connection to Peru's culinary culture by learning to craft ceviche and mixing the perfect pisco sour at a casual eatery or local home. ⑥ Savor lunch at La Huaca Pucllana, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of pre-Inca ruins and an ancient pyramid just steps away. ⑦ Enjoy dinner at one of Lima's top seafood restaurants (we recommend Central, Maido, Astrid y Gastón, La Picantería, Isolina, El Bodegón, Las Reyes, La Antigua Taberna Queirolo, or Cordano) Save this post for your trip to Peru. #ExtraordinaryJourneys #LuxuryTravel #AdventureTravel #Lima #TravelPeru

We want to show you what lies beyond the iconic pyramids and tombs. Our luxury trips take you beyond the tourist trail and reveal the side of Cairo only locals know—a city full of life, flavor, and unexpected wonders. So, if you have a curious heart and a zest for life, follow Jamie, our Head of Sales, and see why exploring Cairo like a local will captivate your senses. #ExtraordinaryJourneys #LuxuryTravel #AdventureTravel #EgyptTravel

Long layovers can suck the joy out of any trip before it's even begun. That's why we've handpicked ten epic Extraordinary Journeys destinations you can reach on a direct flight from the U.S. Minimize your travel time and maximize your adventure. Save this post for when you're ready to book your next trip. #ExtraordinaryJourneys #LuxuryTravel #AdventureTravel #TravelInspiration #BeautifulDestinations

Johannesburg isn't just for passing through. When you go on a luxury safari in South Africa, Joburg will likely be your entry and exit point. But we recommend giving the City of Gold a chance to impress beyond the international arrivals terminal. Here are six ways you can kill some time in Johannesburg: 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝘄𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝘀𝗲𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝗖𝗿𝗮𝗳𝘁 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁 Absorb the energy of an African marketplace and find traditional art, jewelry, and one-of-a-kind keepsakes. 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗮𝗿 Get creative and make a custom piece of African streetwear with Caraci Experience. Join designer Sebo and pick out a unique African print from a fabric store in the city's fashion district. Learn basic sewing techniques before letting a seamstress perfect your item. 𝗘𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆 𝗮𝗻 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻-𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗹𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵 Head to Marble Restaurant for delicious open-fire cuisine with South African flair. The wraparound views of the city are incredible, too. 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗦𝗼𝘄𝗲𝘁𝗼 Step into history with a visit to Nelson Mandela’s home and the Hector Pieterson Memorial, and get a glimpse into life in one of South Africa’s largest townships. 𝗚𝗼 𝗴𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 Discover the best of African contemporary art at Gallery MOMO, Everard Read, Goodman Gallery, and SMAC Gallery. 𝗗𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗱 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝘆 Enjoy small plates and signature cocktails at this trendy spot that’s perfect for winding down your day. Save this for your next stopover in "Jozi". #ExtraordinaryJourneys #LuxuryTravel #LuxurySafari #SouthAfrica #Johannesburg

A safari is far more than just a trip—it’s a journey that connects you with nature at its purest. But there are unwritten rules to guide us, rooted in respect for the wild and its fragile ecosystems. Here are eight things to avoid: 1️⃣ 𝗗𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝗯𝗲 𝗹𝗼𝘂𝗱 The magic of the bush lies in its quiet whispers—distant roars, birdsong, and the sound of silence. Use your quiet voice and keep your phone on silent to preserve the peace for both animals and other travelers. 2️⃣ 𝗡𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗮𝗻 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝘀𝗮𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗶 𝘃𝗲𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗹𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲'𝘀 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 Keep a low profile, quite literally, to avoid scaring away any wildlife. 3️⃣ 𝗡𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗹𝘀 Don't whistle or bang on the vehicle to get an animal's attention. This is the wild after all—not a zoo. 4️⃣ 𝗗𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗼𝗿 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻 𝘄𝗵𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗹𝘀 Although the temptation is strong to tell an ellie how beautiful she is, they don't like to hear voices at all. It will only frighten them away. 5️⃣ 𝗗𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝘀𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗿 𝗰𝗹𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗻 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗴𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝗱𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲 Avoid wearing bright colors to blend in with your surroundings. You want to avoid wildlife spotting you before you spot them. Also, avoid black or navy blue colors as they attract tsetse flies. 6️⃣ 𝗗𝗼𝗻'𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹𝘀 You'll need bug spray, sunglasses, and a lightweight jacket or sweater for early morning game drives. 7️⃣ 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘂

📣 𝘉𝘦𝘮-𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘰 𝘢𝘰 𝘉𝘳𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘭. Welcome to Brazil—the latest addition to our portfolio of extraordinary destinations. From the glitz of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo's vibrant street art, the tight-knit jungle of the Amazon, and the beaches of Florianópolis, we're excited to design bespoke journeys to this colorful country. We'll unlock experiences that connect you to culture and community and inspire you to explore with childlike wonder. Head to our link in bio to be the first to experience it with us. 🔗 #ExtraordinaryJourneys #LuxuryTravel #AdventureTravel #Brazil #SouthAmerica