Luxury India Holidays
Wildlife enthusiasts too will relish an adventure through the wilds of India, with opportunities for tracking snow leopard, tiger and birds of prey. And there’s no better way to unwind than aboard one of India’s scenic – and luxurious – riverboat cruises through the Ganges Basin. Let Journeysmiths introduce you to the magnificence and diversity of India.
- Incredibly diverse landscapes and regions throughout the country.
- Historic riverboat tours.
- Breathtaking railway journeys.
- Track rare wildlife including tiger and snow leopard.
- Discover a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Enjoy exclusive accommodations for privacy and comfort.
West Bengal was the first home of the East India Company and for decades the British made Kolkata their capital. A strong colonial influence remains, but the Bengali heritage is undeniable.
Assam and Nagaland are two states in India’s northeast, separated from the bulk of the country by Bangladesh. The region is comparatively wild and sparsely populated, so it’s excellent for spotting rare wildlife.
Rajasthan means “Land of Kings” and the palaces, fortresses and temples of this desert state back up the claim. Once ruled by Maharajas of unimaginable wealth, the opulent legacies remain.
The famed Golden Triangle begins in Delhi, the Indian capital. It’s a captivating, expansive city that lends itself to journeying south to see Agra’s Taj Mahal and the Pink City of Jaipur.
The landscapes in South India are green and the pace of life is slower. This is an ideal region for relaxing into the local way of life as you float down Kerala's waterways aboard a houseboat.
Western India is flanked by the Thar Desert and the Arabian Sea. It’s a diverse region, with the industry and large urban populations in Mumbai contrasting with the lush, tranquil beaches of Goa.
The Himalayas are undisputedly the most impressive mountain range in the world. Their snow-capped peaks hold not only life-giving fresh water, but important national parks and cultural touchpoints.
Central India doesn’t top most traveller’s itineraries, but we think this is an oversight. The region has a wealth of important cultural sites including temples and caves, as well as superb national parks and reserves.
The young poet and playwright Kiran Millwood Hargrave said "India is a place where colour is doubly bright. Pinks that scald your eyes, blues you could drown in." It's a quote that captures the marvellous intensity of experiencing India. You’ll flit like a butterfly from a gilded palace to a sun baked fortress, to a bustling bazaar, to an encounter with a big cat, all the while drinking in the colours, sounds, aromas and the relentless energy of Indian life. That collage of glimpses will be there to savour years after you return. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite experiences to inspire your imagination.The young poet and playwright Kiran Millwood Hargrave said "India is a place where colour is doubly bright. Pinks that scald your eyes, blues you could drown in." It's a quote that captures the marvellous intensity of experiencing India. You’ll flit like a butterfly from a gilded palace to a sun baked fortress, to a bustling bazaar, to an encounter with a big cat, all the while drinking in the colours, sounds, aromas and the relentless energy of Indian life. That collage of glimpses will be there to savour years after you return.
We’ve compiled a list of our favourite experiences to inspire your imagination.
Nowhere beats India for the sheer variety of cultural experiences: it is a country with more than 4,500 years of recorded history, is the birthplace of multiple world religions, and some 780 languages are spoken here. Our team of Journeysmiths will help you to experience the authentic flavours of India, from heritage hotels converted from former palaces and fortresses, along with lodges and camps which have integral links with local communities. Nothing beats dining with the grandson of a maharaja, praying with the Buddhist monks in a gompa, or dancing into the early hours of the morning with the members of a Naga tribe. To be immersed in the midst of the Pushkar Camel Fair, a gathering of thousands of camels, horses and cattle – along with their owners – is an un-orchestrated and genuine cultural experience that bombards the senses.
To encounter a tiger, the world’s largest feline species, is a heart-stopping moment. A tiger’s majestic athleticism, its hypnotic eyes, its magnificent beauty and its unchallenged dominance of its environment will leave you rooted to the spot as you contemplate your inferiority. The tiger is, without doubt, the monarch of all Asian cat species, though there are others to entice any big cat lover to search India’s 500 wildlife sanctuaries and 103 national parks. Shy, agile snow leopards roam the screes and snow fields of the Himalayas, whilst the fierce Asiatic lion prowls the scrublands of the Gir Forest, their only remaining habitat. All Asian big cats require greater patience and tracking skills than their African cousins, but all things of meaning and significance in life require more effort.
Varanasi was once described by Mark Twain as older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend, and looking twice as old as all of them put together. This is the ultimate pilgrimage place for Hindus who believe that to die in the land of Varanasi is to attain salvation from the cycle of birth and rebirth and thus an end to suffering. It’s the abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, it’s where Brahma lost his head, and it’s a place to wash in the mighty and cleansing Ganges. The rituals of the pooja ceremony, the curling smoke of incense, the lights of thousands of oil lights, the floating floral tributes, the cremations and the seething devoted crowds of humanity on the ghats are best seen from the water itself. Then we suggest seeing just a handful of the 23,000 possible temples in magnificent, throbbing Varanasi.
Designed to compete with the splendour of the Orient Express, the Maharaja Express is India’s most famous and luxurious private train, and it’s an unforgettable way to travel between India’s top cultural sites. It’s an opulent palace-on-wheels experience complete with rich tapestries, fine linens, and antique furniture: no wonder it was awarded the status of the World’s Leading Luxury Train for six consecutive years.
Whether it is on the Heritage of India Itinerary or on one of its six other routes, you will have a personal valet on hand even if you don’t opt for the four-room presidential suite.
India is a country like no other – it is wondrous, intriguing, romantic and beguiling – and a trip around the Golden Triangle gives a taste of the exotic beauty, diversity, history and complexity of a country that defies a simplistic description. Most start their adventure amidst the incredible smells, breathtaking temples, colours, crowds, crumbling buildings and general chaos of Delhi. For the last 3,000 years, the inhabitants of Delhi have been weaving a labyrinth of streets, punctuated by serene oases such as the Jama Masjid mosque. The next corner of the triangle is the “pink city” of Jaipur, which will introduce you to the desert state of Rajasthan, a place of countless forts, palaces, temples and gardens. Then it’s on to Agra and the destination that defines India and the power of love; the Taj Mahal. Here at Journeysmiths, we recommend arriving for the glorious blushing pink and peace of dawn.
In India, every river is a god or a goddess, the most mighty of which is Ganga herself. In her valley, it is her fertile soils, seasonal flooding, and purifying presence that are the benevolence upon which more than half a billion people base their lives. From the detached and refined vantage point of a luxury cruise, you will see an ever-changing diorama of rural life, ancient temples, glimpses of unspoilt wilderness, and plenty of bustling humanity. We also recommend taking a traditional ketuvallam houseboat from Alappuzha, the Venice of Kerala, to float gently through the labyrinth of canals, inlets, and lakes where the rivers meet the Arabian Sea.
The number of forts, palaces, and temples in India is uncountable. Even the tiniest town or village once had its own princely ruler, with a magnificent palace abode, as well as a fortress from which to defend his territory against covetous neighbours. Amongst these thousands of historic monuments, however, a few stand head and shoulders above the rest. The monuments at Hampi, for example, present the traveller with a dazzling array of some 1,600 medieval structures in a single place. The erotic carvings at Khajuraho will beguile you, and you cannot fail but to be impressed by the immense size and intense colours of the Meenakhsi Amman Temple in Madurai. In Jaipur, the City Palace, Hava Mahal, and Amer Fort dazzle in the scale and beauty of their architecture, but none come close to the romance of Udaipur’s Lake Palace or the opulence of Umaid Bhawan in Jodhpur. This is truly a fairytale land.
Stealing through the highest reaches of the mountains like a shadow, an elusive snow leopard is notoriously hard to track; their camouflage is such that they can slip by unseen, sometimes only metres away. But with the right guides and expertise, we make it possible to get a glimpse of these stunning big cats as they navigate the treacherous rocky slopes, their expert balancing act aided by the wielding of a magnificent thick fluffy tail. A realistic chance of encountering a snow leopard is something that has developed only in the last decade thanks to the work of ecologists both working to increase their numbers and also to understand their habits. You’ll stand the best chance of seeing one when you stay at the aptly named Snow Leopard Lodge in the high altitude desert of Ladakh.
Huge tea plantations, dripping jungle, stately trains, snow-capped peaks, raging rivers, swirling mists and respite from the heat and humidity of lowland cities; these are just a few of the myriad of impressions of the seven major mountain ranges of India. The mightiest of them all, the Himalayas, have always defined the very boundary of the subcontinent, ranging from the arid plateaus of Ladakh in the west, to the former summer capital of Shimla, to the terraces of Darjeeling in the east. There are other highlands too, such as those supporting the spice plantations and tea estates in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Many are explored in style and comfort aboard the trains of India’s rail network. For the most adventurous of travellers, we recommend the unsurpassed experience of the Tibetan-style landscape and culture of Ladakh.
Any Indian will tell you that their diverse country is united by a pride in their culinary traditions. Most international travellers start with no idea of how vast the realm of Indian food is, which is why food is an ideal theme to taste (literally and metaphorically) the variety of the whole sub-continent. You’ll love the coconuts and local spices used in Kerala, and the intriguing desert vegetables of Rajasthan, but to list all the regional, local, and hyper-local themes would be an endless task.
We recommend taking a cookery class to pick up skills and ideas, such as those offered at Raas Chhatrasagar. There’s no better or more useful way to take a break from the bustle of cities and the exhaustion of safaris.
"We have been lucky enough to have enjoyed several amazing holidays through Paul and the team at Journeysmiths over a 12 year period. What makes it so special is that you are dealing with people who have detailed knowledge of where you are going, always take the time to find out what is going to work for you, always seem to be able to find interesting and different places to stay, always respond in a very friendly, helpful and timely manner and who seem to be able to make the most complicated logistics work perfectly - every time. We have so much confidence in Paul and the team, they are a dream to deal with and we would not dream of going anywhere else for this kind of really special holiday"
This grand palace was built in the 1880s and has hosted countless influential leaders and celebrities throughout its rich history.
Wake up to Nagaland’s gorgeous mountain vistas and the sound of a nearby mountain brook.
Samode was featured by the Daily Telegraph as one of The World’s Best 50 Honeymoon hotel destinations, and it’s easy to see why.
Mihir Garh is the kind of hotel that Hollywood location scouts dream of: an imposing fortress looking out across a landscape that exemplifies Rajasthan’s wild, rugged beauty.
The Oberoi Amarvilas is a five-star hotel offering luxury, world-class service, and decadent Mughal decor.
The Taj Bengal Kolkata is one of the best situated hotels in the City of Joy, within walking distance of the key city sites.
Woods at Sasan is a stunning, luxury lodge set in an orchard of mango trees on the fringe of the forest.
The Wildflower Hall in Shimla is one of Oberoi’s premier natural retreats, and one of the most luxurious escapes in this breathtaking mountain region.
Our Varanasi choice is the Taj Nadesar Palace, where 40 acres of lush private gardens surround the hotel.
Set sail for adventure across the plains of Assam as you take in the sights of the northeast Indian state from the comfort of a luxurious riverboat, the MV Rudra Singha.
30 acres of forest run parallel to the Satpura Tiger Reserve and National Park, and its here that you will find the Reni Pani Jungle Lodge.
Sujan Jawai - a Relais & Chateaux property in a leopard rich wilderness - takes luxury to an entirely new level.
Samode Haveli offers a perfect place to unwind in lush surroundings in the heart of Jaipur, but it is also ideal for guests seeking accommodation within striking distance of the city’s fascinating historical sites.
The Brunton Boatyard is the pride of Fort Cochin, Kerala’s most historic city.
The Oberoi Mumbai is the most luxurious hotel at the heart of India’s largest city.
Ulley is the best place on the planet for snow leopard spotting, and Snow Leopard Lodge is the only specialist accommodation option.
If you’re looking for a way to appreciate India’s rich wildlife without compromising on comfort, Diphlu River Lodge is the perfect place to stay.
The Mahua Kothi takes its name from the mahua tree, which is revered as the tree of life by local people.
Aman-i-Khas is the most exquisite basecamp for your Rajasthani safari.
The Trident, Agra is a few minutes’ walk from the Taj Mahal and presents an ideal base and relaxed ambience from which to explore the world heritage site.
Carnoustie is a tranquil place to recharge and rejuvenate, surrounded by the beauty of Kerala.
The ITC Maratha is luxury hotel which takes its design inspiration from the Maratha dynasty which historically ruled the area around Mumbai.
The Thiksey Monastery looms large over the Indus Valley, both physically and culturally speaking. At its foot is the remarkable Chamba Camp.
The Leela Palace Udaipur is a modern, slick hotel with jaw dropping views of Lake Pichola.
Wake up to birdsong in an untouched corner of Rajasthan’s Ranthambore National Park. Sher Bagh is an ecologically friendly camp offering unmatched luxury in a unique location; it’s a safari camp which harks back to the glamour of a bygone era.
Snow leopard in Ladakh, India
The Taj Mahal at sunrise, Agra, India
Rabari herdsmen, Rajasthan, India
Tiger Safari, India
Himalayas in northern India
Family of Asian elephant, India
Thar Desert, India
Golden Temple, Amritsar, India
Camel Safari, Nubra Valley, India
Spice Market, Delhi, India
One-horned rhino in the Kaziranga National Park, India
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.
We highlight the top ten must-do activities for your to enjoy in Costa Rica.
We’ve created a list of our favourite activities to give you an idea of what you can expect from a trip to Chile.
Botswana is Africa’s most exclusive safari destination. Each enormous private reserve has just one or two luxury lodges guaranteeing a series of private experiences as you travel from one exquisite location to the next. Expert guides will take your family on safari among big cats and vast elephant herds in beautiful deltas and deserts.
Imagine gliding silently along an Okavango waterway in a mokoro canoe as zebra and impala graze the grasslands. Or cantering on horseback with your guide alongside giraffe. In the Kalahari, take an early morning walk with a San Bushman as he explains the ancestral secrets of survival.
Here’s something you might not expect. The people looking after you on safari might create some of your happiest safari memories. You’ll remember laughter and those after dinner stories and jokes around the campfire. During a three-night stay in a luxury camp, you’ll get to make friends with your guide, the chef, the vegetable gardener and the other people who love their work.
Botswana is a great choice for an exclusive family safari. Roaming the spectacular deserts, deltas and savannahs are literally millions of animals. The fertility and abundant water of the Okavango and Linyanti Deltas supports an incredible 200 different mammal species. The Government’s high value, low volume tourism policy helps conservation and enables you to enjoy a top quality private safari.
Between safaris there is plenty for children to do in camp while the adults relax. Safari lodges may be small and in remote locations, but they have excellent facilities and your hosts’ purpose is to give you the best possible time. In this section we also suggest a couple of places that combine easily to complement your Botswana safari.
In this article we’ve put together a list of our top ten recommended highlights to whet your appetite and show you what’s possible in Egypt.
With opportunities to see the Big Five of both land and sea, along with incredible scenery, enormous national parks, world-class vineyards, a fascinating history and vibrant, friendly people, South Africa frequently tops the lists of the world’s best holiday destinations. Even so, less than 1% of the world's travellers make it here, so it’s a place where you’ll find yourself with a few select, like-minded and discerning adventurers who have discovered this gem of a country. It’s a place you could return to for the whole of your life and never tire of it.
We’ve compiled a list of our favourite experiences to inspire your imagination.
From mysterious baobab groves, to the arid sands of Hwange, the balancing rocks of Matobo, and the awesome Zambezi River as it rages over Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe is a country that serves up all that could be hoped for in an African holiday destination.
We’ve compiled a list of our favourite experiences to inspire your imagination.
We’ve compiled a list of our favourite experiences to inspire your imagination.
We’ve compiled a list of our favourite experiences to inspire your imagination.
In 2022, we took on an epic fundraising challenge to celebrate our 30th anniversary.
We will ensure you can enjoy the best of Africa in the exclusivity of Kenya’s private conservancies where walking, riding and other expertly guided activities enable the richest safari experience.
Go behind the scenes of modern conservation on this Small Group, Big Impact journey through Kenya's wild places.
Here’s our list of ten wonderful experiences to consider including in your Namibia safari:
The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are truly spectacular settings filled with great herds and big cats. We take you far from the crowds and minibuses with your own private guide, staying in exclusive accommodation. Families with older teenagers will love the wildly remote Selous, Ruaha and Mahale, where you can walk, canoe and even track chimpanzees. Round it off on exotic Zanzibar.
Young children delight to see wild animals in their natural environment. With Journeysmiths your safari will be expertly designed to match your family’s needs and interests. We use the best guides and arrange superb accommodation in the wilds of Africa.
We’ve collated a list of our ten favourite Tanzanian experiences to show you what’s possible in this incredible country.
Here’s our list of ten wonderful experiences that you might consider having whilst you are in Uganda:
The best way to give your family the facilities it seeks may be to book out an entire camp or lodge. Perhaps you are planning a multi-generation safari. Or you may want to fulfil a dream of walking, mokoroing and camping out in the Okavango. You may simply crave an extra degree of privacy. Most lodges we use take fewer than 16 guests, some take only eight, so booking a whole lodge is a viable option.
Kenya has the ingredients for an amazing family safari. Your children will love seeing vast numbers of animals in iconic African settings. Stay in amazing and exclusive accommodation on private reserves. Enjoy adventures on foot, horseback and by open vehicle with Africa’s finest guides. Your children can see pioneering conservation work in action and meet remote tribal communities. Maybe end with a few days by the coast.
If your young explorers are hungry for an adventure, look no further than Peru. The diverse landscapes range from the vibrant jungles of the Amazon Rainforest to the jagged peaks of the Andes Mountains. Needless to say, you’ll have the chance to experience the unique mountain top setting of mysterious Machu Picchu.
Treat your family to an extraordinary wildlife adventure holiday in the Galapagos and Ecuador. It’s a place you’ll likely visit just once so be sure to do it well. We have access to the finest yachts, lodges and expert guides. This way your family can visit remote islands in comfort and privacy encountering amazing wildlife.
If you’re looking for a country that’s got everything, choose South Africa. Renowned for the spectacular views of the Garden Route, vibrant Cape Town, malaria free safaris, fascinating history and outstanding wildlife, the whole family will fall under the alluring spell of this diverse country.
Are you feeling inspired to travel after watching Planet Earth Three?
Coasts offer the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife both at sea and on shore and are excellent destinations for wildlife enthusiasts. Follow in the footsteps of the Planet Earth crew and journey along the picturesque Garden Route coast to see Cape fur seals gathered in their thousands in South Africa. Head to the eerie Skeleton Coast of Namibia to find the desert-adapted lions that laze on its sand dunes. Or hop on a boat in Chile and watch the enormous barnacled body of southern right whales emerge from the water as they breach a matter of metres from your eyes.
Many of Africa’s best safari regions are low to very low risk of malaria, particularly if you travel during the summer holidays.
Without freshwater, life on land wouldn't exist.
Freshwater is the most precious resource on our planet, but it's finite. Vital to life, only 2.5% of all Earth’s water is fresh and less than 1% of that is accessible. Planet Earth Three’s episode on freshwater documents its importance for selection of species.
Mountain gorilla can be found in Rwanda and Uganda, both superb destinations but each offering something slightly different. Read on to find out which is best for you.
The school holiday cycle is full of opportunity; there is a safari for every season, whether it’s during the Christmas, Easter or Summer holiday period.
Namibia has a diverse cultural heritage and is home to one of the most distinct African tribes — the Himba — a group of semi-nomads who live in the Kunene region.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu was the first person to call South Africa “the rainbow nation”. It’s a reflection on the fascinating diversity of this country, not only in the identities of its people but in the landscapes, wildlife, cultures, and activities it offers. South Africa is a country which, because of its variety, can be all things to all people, truly a rainbow of varied opportunities and experiences.
in South Africa
Without a shadow of a doubt, South Africa is one of the very best places to watch wildlife in the world. The Kruger National Park — a protected area the size of Wales — is certainly the most famous and popular safari destination, but with Journeysmiths you’ll escape the crowds to explore vast, wildlife-filled private reserves, in the company of the best guides.
Cape Town is one of the world’s great cities with a unique setting beneath Table Mountain.
To experience a little bit of everything that South Africa has to offer, you can hardly do better than to drive along the coastal road of the Garden Route between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. It’s an extraordinary journey, and there’s wildlife on both land and shore, endless beaches, historic battlefields, and the vineyards are never far away. One day you might be whale spotting at Hermanus — renowned as one of the best whale watching locations in the world — and the next you could be learning about the Battle of Rorke’s Drift, handling antique weapons and scrambling over the British and Zulu positions.
Formerly the Zulu Kingdom, the province of KwaZulu Natal runs along South Africa’s dramatic Indian Ocean coastline. The Drakensberg Mountains create a natural border between Lesotho and the Eastern Cape, and offer some excellent hiking routes.
It is not only the Galapagos which has giant tortoise! You can find them in the Seychelles too. These extraordinary reptiles grow up to four feet long, weigh as much as 770 lbs, and some of them are more than 100 years old. They’ve survived here because their populations were isolated, protecting them against predators. Spotting them is a rare treat, as they are found in so few other places.
Three of Africa’s great rivers set the scene for your Zambia safari. The Zambezi, the Luangwa and the Kafue rivers are all of different character and have national parks named for them.
Astro-tourism is travel with a star gazing theme, and it’ll take you to some of the last great wildernesses in Africa.
Everyone has heard of the Rio Carnival, which takes place each year just before Lent, but such festivities are by no means a Brazilian speciality. At Journeysmiths we have a particular sweet spot for the fiestas in Chile.
What kind of creatures actually live in the Amazon Basin, Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, and in the Sacred Valley of the Incas?
Our team has been compiling a list of incredible travel destinations around the world to consider for the year ahead.
The birdlife in Brazil is especially impressive, with feathers reflecting every single colour of the rainbow. Whether you’re an amateur enthusiast or a serious birder, the Amazon Jungle is breathtaking in the variety of the species which live there. You’ll find the richest birding hotspots along with the very best birding guides in Latin America.
If you’re seeking an active family holiday of natural wonders and vanilla sand beaches we recommend Costa Rica. Choose between Pacific and Caribbean beaches where turtles nest and the reefs abound with colourful fish. Rainforests cascade down mountainsides to the ocean.
Not sure where to start? We have answered frequently asked questions we’ve received over the past decades about our bespoke safaris. Here we discuss everything from pre-planning information to responsible travel. We hope you will find this useful, but if you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Nothing compares to a close encounter with a wild animal in their natural habitat. Getting up close to a centuries old Galapagos tortoise, feeling the rumble of the thundering hooves of a million wildebeest as they migrate across the Serengeti or coming face to face with a mountain gorilla are all truly magical experiences you don’t want to miss.
We round up the world's most incredible wildlife experiences to help inspire your next adventure.
A safari is a family holiday that your children will cherish forever. Over the last three decades we have received hundreds of questions from both parents and children alike. We have answered some of the most frequently asked question about family safaris to Africa below.
Slowing down and staying longer is the new way of travelling and there are huge benefits to this approach. People, wildlife and the environment directly benefit from you staying a little longer; but in equal measures, so do you.
‘Preservation of wild spaces, supporting local communities and the conservation of wildlife are commitments that have been ingrained in the Journeysmiths business model for over thirty years. The Zambezi Expedition is an embodiment of these commitments whilst embracing the true adventure of delving into the unknown!’
Rory Wood, Head of Sustainability, Africa Exclusive
Journeysmiths clients Tony and Heather Allen were two of the people who joined the entirety of our Zambezi Expedition, a journey designed to celebrate our 30th anniversary and give back.
For families of all ages there is so much to see and do in South Africa, making it an excellent and diverse travel destination. We’ve chosen 20 of the best experiences to immerse you in the culture, wildlife and beautiful places of this remarkable country.
Shared adventures in beautiful scenery, the thrill of discovery. A sense of freedom in the great outdoors. Amazing accommodation amidst our world’s most inspiring, fragile landscapes.
A safari is also highly educative — experienced among unfamiliar cultures where great issues like climate change are a critical reality for wildlife and people.
7 Secret Places to Spot Leopards in Southern and East Africa
We’ve compiled a list of our favourite leopard viewing destinations for the best chances of guaranteed sightings.
We highlight some of the places filmed in Planet Earth Three’s Deserts and Grasslands episode; view elephants in Zakouma National Park and Arabian camels roaming the Ennedi plateau in Chad, ostriches and chacma baboons in Namibia.
If you’re looking for a place where you can embrace adventure, learn more about our planet’s incredible wildlife and truly connect to nature, Ecuador has it all.
We highlight the top ten must-do activities for your family to enjoy in Costa Rica.
At Journeysmiths we take you out into the wilds to enjoy all kinds of activities with expert, personable guides. Read our top ten Tanzania family safari experiences.
What To Do In Kenya With Children? We’ve chosen our best experiences for a luxury family safari to Kenya.
Booking your family safari to Botswana opens a door to a world of exciting adventure. From the minute your Cessna touches the bush strip, your family will be in the wilds with expert guides. We curated the top 10 family experiences in Botswana to whet your appetite.
Are you feeling inspired to explore the oceans after watching Planet Earth Three?
From exclusive lodge accommodation, to comfortable wilderness camps and sumptuous hotel suites - these properties will take you beyond the path well trodden.
Come away with us to northern Norway, ‘Gateway to the Arctic’. A land on the edge, framed by mountains and greeted by sea. Suspend your cares and embrace Friluftsliv — free air life — the Norwegian philosophy of living harmoniously with nature. Let us show you the wilds of Scandinavia as you’ve only imagined.
When one of TV’s best-known wildlife enthusiast, Steve Backshall, tasked us with crafting an unforgettable father-son safari in celebration of his son’s 5th birthday, we knew exactly how to create a trip that would excite and inspire both in equal measures.
To show you what’s possible, our Latin America travel experts have put together a list of their favourite Peruvian activities.
There are few other safari destinations that offer the sheer diversity of landscapes that Zimbabwe does. The cascading waters of Victoria Falls and forested banks of the Zambezi River contrast with the arid open plains of Hwange and the rugged mountain terrain of Matusadona. Together, they create a completely unique safari experience.
We’ve created an enticing list of the most memorable things to do in Ecuador.
We’ve created an exciting list of the most memorable things to do in the Galapagos Islands.
A fortress-like insistence on maintaining their cultural heritage despite the pressures of the modern world makes Bhutan a fascinating place.
The young poet and playwright Kiran Millwood Hargrave said "India is a place where colour is doubly bright. Pinks that scald your eyes, blues you could drown in." It's a quote that captures the marvellous intensity of experiencing India. You’ll flit like a butterfly from a gilded palace to a sun baked fortress, to a bustling bazaar, to an encounter with a big cat, all the while drinking in the colours, sounds, aromas and the relentless energy of Indian life. That collage of glimpses will be there to savour years after you return. Here we share 10 unmissable experiences while travelling in India.
Escape into the wilds of Botswana, where the pristine landscape and varied wildlife abound. On a luxury safari in Botswana, you can expect to share your safari with only a handful of other guests, as our travel insider Philippa Page discovered.
At Journeysmiths we are constantly searching for exciting new travel experiences. Here we highlight some of our top trends and destinations for 2024.
Big Cats on One Trip
Keen to spot an imposing athletic tiger move stealthily through the jungle? Or a shy, yet agile snow leopard in the heights of the Himalayas? Asian leopard prowl the rocky mountains of Rajasthan whilst fierce Asiatic lion roam the scrublands of the Gir Forest. Wildlife lovers will relish seeing these magnificent creatures in some of Asia’s most striking landscapes. And best of all? You can see all four in one trip.
Watching elephants on a safari is pure joy. We’ve compiled nine of our favourite elephant spotting locations from the savannahs, deserts and great rivers of Africa.
Encounters in India
The vast majority of people think about India primarily as a cultural destination. Yes, the Taj Mahal is a must-see, and the country boasts dozens of UNESCO-listed ruins and monuments, not to mention dazzling festivals and other events. But the landscapes and wildlife were here long before the people, and the subcontinent still has extraordinary wild places you can explore, from the sands of the Thar Desert to the backwaters of Kerala; the high Himalayas to the jungles of Northeast India.
Rewilding Patagonia
Kristine and Doug Tompkins' passion project to create national parks in Chile and Argentina
Botswana is one of the best places for a family holiday of a lifetime! There are millions of animals across plains, deserts and deltas.
South Africa is an excellent choice for family travel with children of all ages. Its wildlife is abundant, with a great diversity of species, including the Big Five: rhino, leopard, lion, elephant and buffalo. There are vast malaria-free reserves and it’s easy to get from safari regions to Cape Town and the beach.
Nothing can really prepare you for an expedition in the white continent. It really is a destination quite unlike any other. It’s not just the cold of the poles, or the brightness of the sun reflecting off the snow and ice. Perhaps it’s the unexpected silence, the apparent emptiness, and the curious feeling of being so far from signs of human habitation. Finding such peace is rare.
Bengal tiger, jaguar of the Brazilian Pantanal, snow leopard of the Himalayas and the lion of the African plains are amongst creatures that we all long to see, and nothing can prepare you for seeing them up close in their natural habitat. We share the best places for a big cat safari in Africa, Asia and South America.
Our world is extraordinarily diverse.
Deserts, wetlands, forests and islands in different parts of the world may have similar rainfall statistics or comparable geographic features.
Look closer though and we find that every place has its distinctive character, wildlife and human culture.
Christmas is a special time to celebrate with family and friends, but who says it has to be at home? Take a break from the planning this year and let Journeysmiths handle all the logistics.
Easter and spring breaks are the perfect time to welcome the season with a refreshing getaway. Whether you’re after a beach escape or an adventure in nature, spring offers endless opportunities for exploration.
When travelling with children, we know there's no comfort like having your own space, with plenty of activities for everyone. These incredible island hideaways and beach retreats strike a perfect balance between luxury and fun. We asked our safari design team for their personal recommendations of Africa’s most family-friendly beach properties.
Planning your Egypt journey? Our Egypt Travel FAQs provide essential insights and answers to all your questions, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable experience.
Namibia is a spectacularly unusual place for a family holiday. You can see enormous numbers of elephant, rhinoceros, big cats and plains game, yet the main attraction is the incredible variety of desert landscapes.
A sighting of any one of the Big Five is a cause for great excitement. But spotting a rhino in the wild? It is one of those things that dreams are made of. At around a tonne in weight, and generally considered to be the second largest land mammal, they shouldn’t be hard to see, but poaching has devastated population numbers. Park authorities have to be very cautious with any information they share about rhino numbers and regarding their whereabouts. An encounter, therefore, truly is a privilege.
A safari in the wilds of Africa allows you space to pause and wonder – to gaze and reflect. Epic landscapes, the balanced beauty of creation, the absence of hurry. You would imagine that the day’s adventures end with the setting sun. But as one star disappears and the heavens turn indigo to black, millions more appear, filling the unpolluted skies. We’ve chosen a few of our favourite spots for safari stargazing.
A safari holiday gives your family a wonderful chance to meet local communities and experience their culture. This is especially true in Tanzania and Kenya where the colourful Maasai and Samburu live. These encounters are arranged privately for your family in a natural way. There are no tour groups and no-one pressing you to buy things or give money.
Whether on foot, canoe or open vehicle - Zambia is the perfect place for a real family safari adventure. You can track elephants and giraffe walking with an expert guide. You can paddle a stable Canadian canoe down the Zambezi watching zebra and antelope drinking at the water’s edge.
The only travel company to have access to a huge moment in conservation history, our Kenya Conservation safari group got to watch a rhino release!
I have spent the last 18 years travelling to some of the planet’s most incredible places under the guise of ‘work’. For 11 of those, I have been waiting for my young family to be old enough to join me. In October 2022, that time finally came. Our first family safari in Kenya was perhaps even more special as, like many holidays, it had been postponed twice due to the COVID pandemic but, wow, was it worth the wait!
Over our three decades of creating tailor-made safari itineraries for families, we’ve learned about the kind of experiences which get teenagers excited. We understand that your family has a unique mix of personalities and aspirations, so we will create a unique safari just for you. We use only the finest camps, the best guides and create unforgettable adventures in the wild places of Africa.
It’s Laura’s deeply-rooted enthusiasm for exploration, combined with her desire to protect the world’s wild places through meaningful connections with local communities, that is the driving force of Journeysmiths’ vision.
Coming face to face with a quarter ton silverback is something you just have to do sometime in your life. This is one of the single most emotional animal encounters that you can have and is something you’ll never forget.
The Kalahari is a fascinating place for a family safari. The children can sit by a meerkat den watching these curious little creatures foraging and playing as one stands guard on its hind legs looking out for eagles. They can watch enthralled as a San Bushman reveals hidden secrets that have enabled them to survive here for thousands of years.
Are you celebrating a big birthday, a retirement or special anniversary? Maybe you have a plan to take your whole family, children and grandchildren on a trip that will delight and inspire them. Any reason will do!
Laura is an encyclopedia of all things Journeysmiths travel, so who better to quiz on her hidden gems and most memorable wildlife encounters.
In celebration of International Women’s Day, we wanted to spotlight travel experiences that empower women in the world’s wild places. When we create journeys, supporting local communities is of paramount importance - this is especially true of women and girls who across the globe face many gender-related obstacles.
We may use the term ‘travel trends’ but these destinations won't be crowded. Here we're showcasing the most stunning experiences to ignite your next Latin America holiday.
Each offers a unique blend of adventure and indulgence, so whether you're seeking a multi generational trip, a romantic couples getaway or a unique solo adventure, we have something special in store for everyone.
Perfect your photography skills with Emmy award-nominee and Big Cat Diaries cameraman and naturalist guide, Warren Samuels.
A simply enormous country, Brazil truly does have it all: vibrant wildlife, cosmopolitan cities and pristine wild landscapes. The Amazon Rainforest is Brazil’s most famous destination, and whilst this is undoubtedly an incredible place, there really is a lot more to see.
Think canoeing through mangrove forests, luxuriating on immaculate coastlines, exploring wetlands buzzing with wildlife, and visiting cities that burst with energy during carnival time. Here we collate our 10 favourite experiences.
Brazil is vast, known for its lively cities, heavenly beaches and glorious wildlife areas. We’ve put together a set of FAQs that cover the basic need-to-know tips when starting to plan your holiday. If you’d like more tailored advice, contact our Journeysmiths today and we’ll be happy to help.
Antarctica is so far removed from our everyday landscapes it feels as though you could be on another planet entirely - the epitome of wild. Read on for our top tips to help you develop a deep connection to the white wilderness.
Famed for its beautiful coastline and, of course, the Amazon Rainforest, Brazil is the Earth’s most biologically diverse country. Over 100,000 animal species are currently known, and with around 700 new ones discovered each year, this diversity is ever-increasing.
A trio of glorious wilderness areas - the lively, bustling Amazon Rainforest, The Pantanal’s labyrinth of pristine waterways and wetlands, and the vast, rolling savannah of the Cerrado - come together to make Brazil a hugely important conservation destination.
From the classic walking safaris, spotting wildlife on Africa’s iconic plains, to hiking dense forests in search of gorilla families or meeting people who call these wild landscapes home, a walking safari is the best way to experience the call of the wild. Explore our top 10 walking experiences in Africa.
Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary
Working in partnership with globally recognised conservation organisation; Care for Wild, the world’s largest rhino orphanage, we have curated a truly unique and exclusive experience giving a privileged few behind-the-scenes access to this otherwise incredibly private sanctuary.
The best time to visit Tanzania will depend on the activities you are interested in and the wildlife you'd like to spot. Read our month-by-month seasonal guide, and responses to your most popular Tanzania safari questions
Be part of rhino conservation history this September. Journeysmiths have been permitted a limited number of spaces to witness a trailblazing rhino release onto community-owned land in the Hwange National Park region.
Welcome to our digital hub of September's travel inspiration. Uncover our vibrant, new destination; tap into insider knowledge on travelling to the Galapagos and discover some of our favourite ways to explore the restorative power of nature—something especially fitting as we transition into Autumn.
Looking for the perfect family adventure? This guide highlights the top family activities from around the world, offering a mix of thrilling wildlife encounters, cultural explorations, and outdoor fun. Discover the best experiences that will bring your family closer to nature and each other, no matter where your travels take you.
Colombia is a diverse country renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. We’ve put together a set of FAQs that cover the basic need-to-know tips when starting to plan your holiday. If you’d like more tailored advice, contact our Journeysmiths today and we’ll be happy to help.
Dive into Colombia’s vibrant culture with our guide to the country’s most unique and unforgettable activities. From exploring hidden coffee plantations to dancing the night away in salsa-filled streets, discover experiences that capture the essence of Colombia.
Colombia is a true hidden gem! Although it may be a little less renowned than some of its Latin American counterparts, this remarkable destination has it all: the pristine wilderness of the Amazon, stunning beaches, fascinating wildlife encounters, and a vibrant, eclectic culture.
Discover Journeysmiths’ Top 10 destinations to reconnect with nature in the world's most untamed places. Each journey promises an authentic connection with the natural world and extraordinary wildlife encounters. From strolling alongside ancient white rhinos in Zimbabwe to spotting elusive snow leopards in the Himalayas of Ladakh, these journeys immerse you in some of the planet’s most stunning landscapes.
Located 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering something for everyone.The crystal-clear waters and dramatic volcanic landscapes provide breathtaking backdrops for exploration as you go in search of endemic species, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, charming blue-footed boobies, and unique Galápagos penguins. Whether you opt for private charters, luxury land accommodations, or intimate cruise vessels, the Galápagos truly is an archipelago that caters to all.
Botswana, a land of contrasts, captivates travelers with its seasonal transformations. The Okavango Delta floods draw abundant wildlife, while rains blanket the Makgadikgadi and Nxai salt pans in green. Chobe National Park hosts vast elephant herds, and the north's lush landscapes contrast with the Kalahari's stark beauty in the south. This unforgettable journey offers Africa’s most exclusive safari in complete luxury.
Whether you're planning your first African safari or returning for another unforgettable adventure, our private, custom-tailored journeys ensure exclusive experiences with the most knowledgeable and charismatic guides.These African icons are must-see destinations. Our safari designers will craft an itinerary that blends these wonders seamlessly into your personalised trip. Your incredible journey begins here.
In over 30 years arranging exclusive safaris we know the best places to stay and we’ll create an unforgettable sequence of camps and lodges to suit your tastes. A good level of comfort and beautiful remote settings are “givens”! Whether you prefer simpler canvas construction, a thatched cottage or an extravagant suite with a private pool is up to you.
Africa is home to some of the world's most stunning beaches, from the tropical islands of Seychelles to the serene shores of Mozambique, offering diverse landscapes and unique experiences for travellers.
Every part of Africa is spectacular, always, for different reasons. Do you want a time when you can see the most animals? Or a time when the landscapes are clothed in glorious colour? A time when it’s great value for money? Or a time when it’s especially good for photography? This is why you need specialist advice, and where we can really help.
Latin America offers some of the most unique and breathtaking accommodations, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in its diverse landscapes and cultures. These handpicked lodges and eco-retreats not only provide comfort but also embrace sustainability and local culture, offering an unforgettable escape.
Hwange is vast—so sprawling that it rivals the size of Wales in the UK. Its immense scale allows you to explore a diverse mosaic of habitats, from the dense woodlands of the north to the semi-arid terrain of the south, each supporting a remarkable variety of wildlife. Lucy from the team explains why Hwange is an unmissable safari destination.
“God had done all of the other countries in the world and he got to the end of the alphabet. He got to Zimbabwe, and he thought, ‘This is going to be my best work, this is going to be my greatest hits.’ ”
– Jeremy Clarkson
Working in partnership with Chilean wildlife conservation experts; Cerro Guido Conservation Foundation, we have curated a truly unique and exclusive puma tracking experience giving behind-the-scenes insight into their work to protect Chile's apex predator.
The Burton family recently shared with us their experience going on safari in South Africa's malaria free Madikwe. With two young boys, Shari and her husband wanted an incredible experience that would fascinate the entire family. We sent them to three incredible properties where they could encounter diverse wildlife, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Whether you’re a seasoned safari-traveller, or you’re thinking of planning your first, Uganda won’t disappoint. A trip full to the brim with unique wildlife encounters and a plethora of breathtaking landscapes awaits you.
New Zealand offers the perfect blend of stunning landscapes, rich culture, wildlife, and great food. Experience a traditional Maori welcome, explore geothermal wonders, soar over whale-filled waters and volcanoes by helicopter, sail to lush islands for a hike, and join a Maori cooking class in the wild. Whether seeking cultural immersion, adventure, or tranquility, New Zealand delivers it all.
At Journeysmiths we are constantly searching for exciting new travel experiences. Here we highlight some of our top trends and destinations for 2025 & 2026.
New Zealand is a land of breathtaking dramatic landscapes, outdoor adventures, unique wildlife encounters, rich cultural heritage, and world-class wine regions - offering a wealth of exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. We share five reasons why New Zealand should be on your bucket list.
Travel between May and October and experience three stunning seasons in a single, unforgettable adventure. Explore the rugged ice-scapes of South Island, soak up the warmth of North Island with scenic hikes and relaxing hot springs, then wrap up your trip island-hopping in a lush, tropical paradise.
for 2025 & 2026
Selecting the perfect destination is always a challenge with so many extraordinary places waiting to be explored. Our travel experts have carefully curated a selection of must-visit destinations for 2025 and 2026. Imagine soaring above dramatic glaciers on a private helicopter in New Zealand or connecting with local communities in the remote, otherworldly landscapes of Northern Kenya - each destination promising unforgettable moments crafted just for you.