Nowhere inspires wanderlust quite like India. A nation bursting with colour, epic landscapes and architecture so impossibly beautiful it has to be seen to be believed, we never need an excuse to wing ways east. From Delhi to Udaipur via some of the finest hotels in Asia, Black Tomato has turned its eyes to India for a ten night luxury experience that will leave you speechless.

.

jewel of jaipur

a delhi of delights

Touch down in Delhi, the gateway to India and a heaving cosmopolitan metropolis buzzing with action and excitement. Take in the sights and sounds of a truly exceptional capital city – home to over 1,000 years of continuous culture, myriad monuments, vibrant spice markets and some of the most glorious Hindu temples on the planet. Kick back for a night to remember before being whisked off to the ‘pink city’ of Jaipur, capital of the central state of Rajasthan.

jaipur, the hills and polo with an elephant

Nestled in the Aravalli hills, the palatial Samode Haveli will be your base for the next three nights. From your hotel, expert guides will walk you through the ancient royal city, generally considered to be one of the most beautiful and ingeniously conceived urban areas in the world.

polo at dera amer

Stroll through the Vedic streets and take in the vibrant bazaars before heading to the Royal Palace and Jantar Mantar observatory. Indians love their sport and few are more spectacular than elephant polo – not the easiest thing to train for at your city gym. A mallet and ball war of not-so-nimble giants, head to Dera Amer for a match, or explore the area on a more traditional elephant safari.

epic jodhpur

Next, it’s west to Jodhpur, where you’ll rest your head in the cool, calm and luxurious trappings of The Raas. The only luxury hotel in old town, The Raas lies at the foot of the mighty Meherangarh Fort, in the heart of Jodhpur’s Walled City. Wander round the majestic Mehrangarh Fort and continue exploring Jodhpur by tuk tukking through the back streets of the Old City.

the desert mirage of mihir garh

the blue city

From Jodhpur, your driver will take you 45 minutes south to Rohet, one of our favourite villages in India. You’ll stay at the magnificent Mihir Garh Fort, a luxury hotel imperiously crowning a desert sand mound like some magically misplaced medieval citadel. Aptly enough, Mihir Garh translates as ‘Sun Fortress’, passing its days as it does basking in the desert sun with unbroken 360 degree views of the surrounding desert. The village of Rohet provides the perfect backdrop from which to experience untouched India, either by jeep or on horse safari before a picnic lunch on the lakeside.

udaipur by sky

Next up, head to magical Udaipur and one of India’s most sublime boutique hotels, Devi Garh. Here at Black Tomato we take the world’s most incredible locations and give them a twist – a different angle on an unshakeable image.

see the sights from the skies

We think seeing somewhere from a new height means seeing it in a new light, so we’ve organised a hot air balloon tour over Udaipur – the ultimate culmination to a truly memorable Indian adventure.

have a look at...

1. india: from city to safari
2. beach and backwaters in kerala
3. rajasthan old and new

Fancy a safari holiday with a bit of a twist and all the perks? Whilst offering all the phenomenal experiences of a classic safari, this trip also offers an excursion to our secret aquamarine lake complete with cascading waterfalls, as well as treks into the jungle to explore the private world of the cheeky chimpanzees.

On this trip look forward to:

• Witnessing hundreds of elephants slowly crossing the Chada plain as the sun sinks below the horizon.

• Hiking into the magical forests of the Mahale Mountains in search of friendly primates.

• Awe-inspiring scenes of one of the earth’s largest migrations

Spend your first night acclimatising to your surroundings whilst holed up at the Arusha Coffee Lodge, set amongst the largest coffee crop plantation in Tanzania, before being whisked away to Arusha Airport and transported to the glorious Chada Katavi in the Katavi National Park.

incredible views from the privacy of your room

room with a view

Miles from anywhere, and with binoculars in hand, get ready to experience one of the greatest wildlife shows in Africa; sure to make you feel like one of the last great pioneers. Spend your first few nights shaded amongst trees in a spacious, romantic tent, complete with classic colonial furniture, crisp Egyptian cottons and lush hand-woven rugs. Perched on the edge of the great Chada plain, the canopy of acacias and tamarinds surrounding the camp provide both shade and food for a plethora of wildlife, meaning great viewing spots from the comfort of your own veranda. With a greater density of mammals than any other Tanzanian reserve; you will not be able to turn your head without spotting vast herds of buffalo, crocs, hippos, elephants, lions and leopards. And as the sun sets, unwind with a cool glass of wine before heading to your elegant candle lit dinner.

Cheeky monkeys

Having sampled your first fantastic taste of the Tanzanian way of life, a short plane hoptakes you to Greystoke Mahale; set on a far-flung beach along the eastern shore of crystal clear Lake Tanganyika. With the world’s largest known population of chimpanzees; approximately 1000 inhabiting the national park, Greystoke is the ultimate destination to observe and connect with these primates in their natural habitat. For those looking for a little more, we can think of nothing better than a gentle hike in the forest up to one of the many waterfalls – with a dip in one of the ice-cold rock pools to top it all off.

heaven on the sands

We loved spending our days kayaking along the shore, doing a little impromptu fishing and takinga dhow trip at sunset for some hippo spotting. Yet the magic doesn’t stop there, at the end of the day, dinners are prepared on the beach under the stars, so kick off your shoes and let yourself be completely swept away by the romantic atmosphere. When you’ve soaked up all the delights of the day, you can retreat to one of the 6 private beach bandas, designed for down to earth luxury and a perfect night’s sleep.

have a look at...

1. tiger safari in rajasthan, india
2. the perfect african honeymoon
3. safari in the mighty okavango delta

Stunning landscapes, majestic wildlife and a beach paradise – Africa has it all, making it the perfect luxury honeymoon destination for the ultimate romantic escape. See the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town, get seriously close to some of the greatest animals on earth then jet off to Mauritius to sink your toes into pristine white sand. All in total luxury, of course.

city buzz

First, we’ll drop you in a luxury boutique hotel right in front Table Mountain, the Kensington Place Hotel, with spectacular views over Cape Town and the Atlantic Coast. From spectacular views to discerning style, this luxurious and intimate hotel has the lot. We love heading to Cape Point where you share the beach with native African penguins: not your average day at the seaside.

kensington place is set right by table mountain

tented safari luxury

Next we’ll fly you out to the Garonga Safari Camp, the perfect place to chill out after your wedding. The days when ‘safari’ meant dusty lean-to tents and the faint outline of a lion far in the distance are long gone. We know where authentic African luxury is top priority and animal encounters are as close as it gets. Lie back in breathtaking rooms, bathe under the stars in your outdoor shower, or swing away in your deck hammock amongst ebony trees by the banks of the watercourse. Garonga describe their way of life as ‘safari for the soul,’ and we are inclined to agree. It’s total bliss.

Take bush drives to track lions, elephants and perhaps the odd leopard. Or, for a day you won’t soon forget, go on a walking bush tour where there’ll be nothing between you and the king of beasts except a well armed guide. Back at camp, it’s time to relax. For a touch of romance, head to the amazing spa for a massage each to help you unwind before indulging in some seriously good food at a romantic candlelit dinner – think traditional bush cuisine with a Mediterranean influence. Delicious.

your luxury tent at garonga

romantic island bliss

After a few days in the bush, what’s next? The beach, naturally. You’ll fly direct in to Mauritius to enjoy stunning caster sugar sand, cobalt blue waters, beautiful mountains and bustling towns. Sound good?  This is what an African island escape should be. Hole up in charming, intimate luxury at 20 Degrees South. Hidden away in a coconut grove by the ocean, your beachfront room, metres from the water, is the perfect place to reflect while sitting on your private terrace, or of course you can simply lie back on the private beach with a good book. Whether it’s being pampered at the in-house spa or trying your hand at diving, this is the perfect place to be, and ideal end to your African honeymoon.

20 degrees south in mauritius

your bedroom at 20 degrees south

your amazing tented bedroom in garonga safari camp

have a look at...

1. the ultimate safari experience
2. city buzz and vineyards in south africa
3. eastern promises

For a summer adventure in our mid-winter, this is an action- packed holiday starting as soon as you land in NZ. Deep sea dive to the centre of earth, race across Waitemata Harbour on an America’s Cup yacht, hit the North Island surf, and shoot clay pigeons in the back country. And that’s just for starters.
tutukaka coast
Arriving in New Zealand, jump into your hire car and head north to Tutukaka Coast. The perfect antidote to your daily commute, you’ll be driving past some of the most picturesque stonewall countryside, native bush, streams, orchards, farmland, beaches and small pockets of people.

deep sea diving at poor knights islands

After catching up on much needed sleep in the luxurious Riverland Villas you’ll soon notice that Tutukaka is not your average sleepy beach town. Begin your tailor-made adventure holiday by trying your hand at game fishing in the open sea and galloping along sandy beaches: we can arrange a huge number of activities for you in this area.
For you hard-core diving buffs, we’ll arrange for you a deep-sea dive expedition. Only a half hour cruise off Tutukaka coast you’ll reach New Zealand’s own jewel in the crown: Poor Knights Islands. Swim past shipwrecks and spectacular drop offs, walls, caves, arches and tunnels created by historic volcanic eruptions, swarming with exotic tropical fish and eerie sea creatures. This is a dream for dive fans.
sails and surf: auckland
Drive back south to Auckland for some cosmopolitan fun and hole up in the extravagant Hotel DeBrett. We have something up our sleeves that will get your heart beating to the Polynesian rhythm that underlies this fascinating city. We can arrange a race of a lifetime on board an America’s Cup yacht where you’ll join in on the fast paced day of a crew member.

americas cup sailing

Get up-close to whales and chase dolphins as they leap out in front of your catamaran. Want to take it easy? We’ll arrange for excursions out to Devonport, a charming historic seaside village with fine art and craft boutiques, or Waiheke island for an escapade around famous vineyards and olive groves. But for you adrenalin junkies, why not hit the surf? North Island has some great surf spots. We can arrange for you to head out to iconic Muriwai and Piha beaches, but be warned, these surf spots aren’t for the fainthearted.
wanaka
Next, fly down to South Island for some outback fun. With its overgrown valleys, unspoiled rivers and tumbling glacier, Wanaka provides the most idyllic surroundings for a summer adventure, and staying at Release Private Retreat you won’t be short of extreme activities.
We all know the best part about mountain biking is the rush of going downhill and that’s why we’ll arrange for you to be taken up the mountain by helicopter so you can enjoy the 6,000 vertical feet decent. Get back in the water and try your hand at catching crayfish whilst diving to the depths.

speeding in a jet boat

Wrestle these critters along the seabed and head back to shore where your private chef at Release will show you how to handle these delicious delicacies. And no New Zealand experience would be complete without an exhilarating jet boat ride. On the Matukituki River we can arrange for a skilful driver to twist and turn you in a jet boat, missing the shore by only a millimetre.
backcountry adrenalin
For your grand finale, you’ll be driven in a 4×4 to high country station The Branches in the backcountry of central Otago. Imagine rolling hills, grassy paddocks and shimmering lake – if they look familiar, you have probably seen these very mountains in Lord of the Rings.

riding in the branches

During your three-night stay, enjoy endless activities all available to you, including horse riding, mountain biking, kayaking and clay pigeon shooting. The ideal scenic end to the ultimate Kiwi adventure.
Take me back for more New Zealand experiences
“New Zealand is just the most amazing country and so easy to get about because they drive on the same side as the UK and the roads are quiet – no hardship at all. You have to come to New Zealand.”

have a look at...

1. world-class wine and indulgent cuisine
2. back to nature in new zealand
3. the ultimate kiwi road trip

From the southern snow-capped mountains, to the stunning northern islands, there’s no doubt that New Zealand is packed with incredible natural beauty. A photographer’s dream, this trip takes place in some of the world’s most dramatic wilderness, while you stay in luxury boutique properties smart enough for the most discerning travellers.

a giant tree in kauri forest

views from takatu lodge

You’ll begin in a forest, Kauri forest to be exact, home to giant Kauri trees traditionally considered by Maori to be kings. Sleeping at the stylish Takatu Lodge in the midst of dramatic wilderness, you’ll relax on walks through native bushland and go snorkelling off Goat Island (a stunning marine reserve with shallow waters and a high concentration of fish) before heading home for a glass of good quality local vino.

dolphins in the bay of islands

beachside bliss
And now for an all-time favourite destination of ours: the Bay of Islands. Based at Cavalli Beach House Retreat for three days, you’re perched right over the bay with your own private terrace and beach: utter waterside luxury. Admire the islands majestically rising from the Pacific Ocean, and take a cruise out to see dolphins flipping out of the sea. A must-do trip is by small plane over Cape Reinga, the northern-most tip of New Zealand. Seeing the Bay of Islands, Doubtless Bay and Ninety Mile beach from the air is simply breathtaking. Don’t forget your camera
having a heli good time

a geyser in rotorua

Back inland, it’s time for some trekking in the thermal valley of Rotorua. Staying at the legendary Treetops Lodge, we can arrange Maori Food experiences within the grounds (find your dinner literally growing in the gardens), and heli trips out to some of the most jaw-dropping scenery you’ll ever lay eyes on. Ask us about being flown over to White Island to admire the natural lunar landscapes on foot, and you can also see the (bubbling activity) of steaming volcanic vents, and watch roaring natural rock crevaces explode. This is raw nature at it’s best.
Back in the chopper, you’ll pinch yourself as you hover over more craters and emerald lakes, and land once more to take a dip in the warm waters of Frying Pan Lake: the world’s largest hot water spring, where temperatures reach 200°C at the bottom (and a more bearable 45°C at the top).

bubbling mud pools

Rotorua is bursting with Maori culture too. Take an excursion to Mokoia island for a traditional Maori welcome to this wildlife sanctuary. See kiwi and other indigenous birds before a gourmet picnic on the shores of the picturesque Blue and Green lakes and a visit to explosive geyser and bubbling mud pools.
glow worms and luxury camping
And finally, as you near the end of your New Zealand adventure experience, you’ll head into the depths of the Taharua Valley for luxury wilderness camping at Poronui’s luxury safari Camp. Ride horses and take hikes through the dramatic countryside: here you feel far, far away from the bustling world with no electronic beeps and gadgets in sight.

Waitomo glow worms

Visit incredible labyrinthine caves and subterranean waterfalls covered in glow worms at Waitomo, and glimpse black water rafters braving the gushing falls below. You can even have a go if you like. Riding a tube through rapids in dark caves is an adrenalin-pumping experience like nothing else on earth. End up walking on the black sand of Auckland’s West Coast and breathe your last of New Zealand’s fresh air before hopping on your flight home, refreshed and with photos to wow for a lifetime.
Take me back for more New Zealand experiences

have a look at...

1. world-class wine and indulgent cuisine
2. an action-packed adventure
3. the ultimate kiwi road trip

Combine soft-sand beaches with hip cities, wild islands and soft adventure in New Zealand’s wilderness. Perfect for the southern hemisphere’s summer months (for a real escape from winter here up north), this trip will take you to see New Zealand at it’s best.
north island nights
Land in Auckland and head straight for the beach. Waiheke island is a quiet tropical spot in the Hauraki Gulf where you’ll spend three days relaxing on white sand, walking in natural dunes and experiencing unbelievable pink and orange sunsets.

oneroa beach

Staying in a luxury beach cottage with panoramic views, The Boatshed is the ideal bolthole in which to unwind and soak up the atmosphere of the coastal area of Oneroa.
After some total beach chill-out it’s time to hit the road. A short flight will land you in Taupo, where there will be a rental car (with insurance and maps) waiting for you. Nip to Acacia Cliffs Lodge in just 20 minutes, and settle in for two nights overlooking Lake Taupo and it’s surrounding mountains.

kayak by maori rock carvings

maori rock carvings

From here, we can arrange for you to take a helicopter tour over volcanoes to visit hot pools, kayak to see sacred Maori rock carvings, or spend a day trekking over the Tongariro Alpine Crossing to see glacial valleys with an expert guide. Make sure you’re home by dusk to watch the Southern Cross constellation rise over the horizon as you tuck into your al fresco barbeque on the deck.
the sizzling south

abel tasman national park

Next, hop over to South Island by plane and collect your hire car in Nelson. Known as the city of sunshine, this arty region is packed with galleries, fabulous shops and beautiful lakes, as well as wineries, orchards and lush landscapes. Your base will be Edenhouse, set inside 48 acres of private gardens. Climb rocks at Takaka limestone cliffs, rev up a quad bike at Golden Bay, try your hand at Hang Gliding for unforgettable views of the curved white sand of the coastal bays, and cruise, kayak or hike in Abel Tasman National Park.
Ready for some real road-trip action? Head south through the winelands to Claremont House: the homestead for a working 1600 acre sheep farm perched over a dramatic gorge. We can arrange for the owners to take you on a private tour to really experience a working New Zealand farm. See limestone rocks more than 50 million years old, try your hand at fly fishing, and make the most of our private guides who can give you in depth insight into the history, birds, art and (our favourite) the wine of the area.

views from akaroa

colonial past and extreme action
Time for some history? Head south to Akaroa via Christchurch on a scenic two and half hour drive. The French town of Akaroa (where even the road signs are in French) is a gem of a relaxed fishing town with spectacular coastlines and a snowy mountain backdrop. Perfect for watching seals and dolphins play, and exploring the peninsula by boat, we recommend Maison de la Mer for stylish boutique rooms.

milford sound

And finally, back to the city. You’ll spend your final three nights in the Spire hotel, in the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown. From hot air ballooning to white water rafting, we can arrange adrenalin-pumping experiences for you, but for something less extreme, visiting Doubtful Sound is a must. Here, the sheer cliff faces plunge into unusual waters: the top layer is fresh water, and beneath is lies heavier saltwater. Home to bottlenose dolphins, fur seals and penguins: an incredible end to your luxury New Zealand experience. A sublime trip which, we think, would make the perfect honeymoon.
Take me back for more New Zealand experiences

have a look at...

1. world-class wine and indulgent cuisine
2. vivid outback & secret islands
3. alternative reefs & world-class wine

Wine lovers: you’re in for a treat. This trip takes you to some of New Zealand’s most exclusive wineries in stunning destinations. Meet the experts, taste rare vintages and admire dramatic landscapes before ending up on curved white sand beaches for a final finale. Bottoms up…
waiheke island of wine

waiheke beach

Stepping off the plane at Auckland Airport, you’ll be whisked away by helicopter to Waiheke Island (pronounced Y-heckie). Here, you’ll soon find yourself being warped into the slow-paced island life, and quickly transforming into the ultimate beachcomber while nestling in the luxury surroundings of the Boatshed. The Island lies on the same relative latitude as the southern tip of Italy, not only making it the perfect getaway for those escaping the winter chill, but it also means Waiheke benefits from ideal conditions to produce fantastic wine.
Never heard of, or tasted, the mouth-watering reds of Waiheke? That’s because most of Waiheke’s wine is only available for purchase on the island or at selected fine dining restaurants around the world. Quelle treat. Our expert wine guide will escort you to the most reputable vineyards and restaurants of Stoney Ridge (fine Cabernet blends, anyone?), internationally renowned Gold Water Estate and many more. Better pack light and leave room in the suitcase for a couple of bottles to bring home.
world-famous hawke’s bay
Next up, fly into Hawke’s Bay. Made up of acres of farmland, surf beaches, mountainous ranges and wild forests, Hawkes Bay is home to more of New Zealand’s delectable wines. And to help you with your tasting excursion we’ll team you up with an experienced wine connoisseur who’ll make sure you’ll only taste the best from Elephant Hill, Blackbarn and Clearview Vineyard.

tee off at cape kidnappers

Stay at a 6,000 acre working sheep and cattle farm at Cape Kidnappers, where revving around on a quad bike is just one activity to try out (when you’re off the vino, of course). Golfers can tee off on the Farm’s challenging golf course designed by the legendary golf architect Tom Doak. Why not let us arrange for a wilderness fly fishing experience where you will literally fly in by helicopter to the most remote and inaccessible rivers populated with schools of trout, too?

blenheim and the marlborough wine region

And now to the South Island, and the mecca of wine regions: Marlborough. The best base for your wine tasting extravaganza is at Blenheim (pronounced ‘Blenum’), the commercial hub of Marlborough, but also the focal point of the Marlborough Wine Region with more than 65 wineries close by.

marlborough vineyards

Surrounded by lush gardens, tranquil lakes and breathtaking scenery, Timara lodge (your temporary home) is ideally positioned so you’re only a hop, skip and jump away from your next vineyard, Spy Valley Winery. Enjoy a private guided tour of some of the more famous labels such as Cloudy Bay and Daniel le Brun before tantalising your taste buds at the award winning Herzog Restaurant.

sip the good stuff in nelson
Last but not least, make your way to Nelson. This vibrant city is famous for its alternative-lifestyle, strong artistic culture. Check into the elegant Edenhouse, meet up with your local guide and head off on a scenic Coastal highway drive, past rolling farmland of vineyards, olive groves and orchards and stopping off at the small quaint townships of Mapua and Motueka sprinkled with great art studios, galleries and cafes before reaching Neudorf Vineyards.

the blue azure waters of abel tasman national park

After nearly two weeks tasting wine and eating New Zealand’s finest food, take it easy on your last day on a cruise of the picturesque Abel Tasman National Park. The park is a truly breathtaking place, so it’s a good thing you’ll be seated when you’re admiring the blue azure waters, white powdery beaches and abundance of rainforests… with a glass of wine, naturally.
Take me back for more New Zealand experiences

have a look at...

1. the ultimate kiwi road trip
2. alternative reefs & world-class wine
3. city chic and luxury swags in sydney

When we say ‘Africa’ you think ‘safari’, right? How about decadent five-star trains, luxurious bush lodges and completely pampered escapism? We’ve got an African experience that gets you an audience with the king (of beasts, that is) and a lot more to boot. On our ultimate safari experience look forward to:

• seeing South Africa’s stunning landscapes in utter luxury on board the Blue Train, a five star service on tracks

• a private chartered flight to Kruger National Park where Africa’s magnificent wildlife awaits – this is the place to see the famous five

• being whisked away to the perfect retreat in Mozambique to unwind from your safari experience. Beaches, sunset dhow cruises and horse rides across the dunes are only a glimpse of what awaits

Read more about this trip…
explore south africa at your own pace
Arrive in South Africa’s most cosmopolitan city, Cape Town, where you’ll hole up in luxury at The Kensington Place Hotel for three nights. Nestled by the side of the stunning Table Mountain, this will be your base for exploring the thriving city and the stunning beaches (be on the lookout for a few native African penguins).

take the blue train for amazing south african landscapes

Next you’ll hop on The Blue Train – a five star luxury hotel on tracks. And the great thing about a moving hotel room? The scenery comes to you. No trekking or hiking is required to see some of South Africa’s most stunning landscapes. Plus you’ll be able to savour the surrounding countryside at your own pace. Perfect.
The butler will (of course) show you to your suite where you can make yourself comfortable before being shown to brunch. You’ll stop in Matjiesfontein, where you will get the strange feeling of stepping back in time to 19th century London. Sip on a glass of sherry before wandering the streets past old London lampposts and Victorian style buildings. Then grab a ride back to the train on a red double-decker bus. We promise – you are still in Africa. Back on the train, it’s high tea in the afternoon and a seriously sophisticated dinner in the evening. Ostrich fillet accompanied by local Cape wine? How divine.
safari in ultimate luxury

see wildlife right from the decks at singita sweni

The next day, you’ll arrive in Pretoria ready for your private charter flight to Kruger National Park. The lodges in the park wind their way along the Sweni River, and perfectly blend the textures and colours of the bush in ultimate luxury. You’ll be staying at the most sought after safari spot in Africa, The Singita Sweni Lodge. Sit on your private game viewing deck or curl up by your fire inside the gorgeous luxury suite. You can soak in a bathtub with breathtaking views over the river from your floor to ceiling windows, or take your shower outside under the stars.
You barely have to leave your deck to view Africa’s most magnificent wildlife. It doesn’t get any better than at sunrise and sunset, when you’ve got the best opportunity to see a few big cats wandering past. If you do venture out on a guided drive (unmissable if you ask us), the place is packed with wildlife – elephants, lions, rhino, buffalo and leopard. Kruger National Park is, hands down, the best place to see the ‘Big Five’ in Africa. Take a night drive and you’ll get a look at some rare, nocturnal and camera shy creatures, you’d otherwise miss. Watch packs of hyenas and black backed jackals appear as they go on the hunt while an African Scops Owl glides silently overhead. This is the ultimate safari experience.

relax in luxury at the azura retreat

unspoilt white sand paradise
After a couple of days in the bush, it’s time for a bit of ocean side luxury, and we know the perfect place: Azura Retreat, Mozambique. Soak in your own private plunge pool or walk the few steps to the beach for some time on the sand. Go on a sunset dhow cruise, don a snorkel and mask and explore the waters, or take a horseride across the dunes. And at night curl up under Egyptian cotton sheets beneath a thatched roof. Be sure to save some time for a massage or two at the amazing spa. We’re confident you won’t find a better way of exploring this amazing side of Africa.

have a look at...

1. the perfect african honeymoon
2. eastern promises
3. city buzz and vineyards in south africa

For an alternative Australian beach experience without the crowds, head to Kangaroo Island. A little-known sandy paradise off the southern mainland, Kangaroo is a rarely-visited gem in the wild waters of the Southern Ocean.
This incredible beach spot is bursting with wildlife, and when you team it with the dramatic Flinders Ranges, you’ll experience two of the most authentic Australian wilderness experiences possible.

southern ocean lodge

And what’s better, both areas are home to new hip hotels which blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This privately guided 10-day luxury wilderness experience will really give added oomph to your postcards home.
baby koalas and seals on kangaroo island
Our South Australian trip comes with a bit of twist. Fly in via Adelaide, where we’ll arrange tram rides and tours of the colonial architecture for you, and hop over to pristinely conserved Kangaroo Island (excuse the pun): the perfect spot for cutting-edge luxury nestled into dramatic coastal wilderness. We’ll book you a luxurious cliff-top suite at the in-demand Southern Ocean Lodge, where you will wake up to hear kangaroos and wallabies softly thumping through the nearby dunes.

seals on kangaroo island

From December to February, see the watery eyes of baby sea lions, and admire tiny newborn koalas: your neighbours on ‘KI’ (as the locals say).
Walking for miles on the 155kms of soft white sand beaches is an absolute must, as is swimming in the clear turquoise waters, mountain biking over the dunes and kayaking out to sea. Expect total indulgence in your fresh, minimalistic suite, cutting-edge treatments in the enormous spa and uninterrupted views of the pink and purple sunsets from your curved sunken lounge. Bliss.

kangaroo island from the air

switch off and explore the flinders ranges

a tree in the desert near the flinders ranges

And now for wilderness of another kind: total switch-off in the mountains. For craggy sandstone bluffs and dry creeks lined with river gums, we’ll fly you over to the ancient Flinders Ranges: an explosion of red in thousands of miles of mainland desert. In the 60,000 acres of dusty sheep station, stay at converted 1850’s homestead Arkaba, now a super-luxe five bedroom homestead offering classic Australian outback hospitality. With no telephones, computers or TVs, you’ll love the unbroken sounds of nature here.
Don your hiking boots and explore the highest mountain range in the district with our expert guides. If anywhere in the world was designed for panoramic photos, this is it.

the flinders ranges at sunset

We’ll book you private walking safaris, treks to the peak of Mount Remarkable, and rugged 4×4 drives across the red earth. Learn about the indigenous carvings deep inside caves and gorges, and sights such as the natural 17km-long amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound. After all this excitement, you’ll need a glass of good quality wine. No problem, when you have a cellar of South Australia’s finest to choose from.
Take me back for more Australia experiences

the red sand of the flinders ranges

arkaba cottage in the flinders ranges

explore the flinders ranges in a 4x4

have a look at...

1. alternative reefs & world-class wine
2. the ultimate kiwi road trip
3. island hop the whitsundays

Ever wanted to herd cattle in the outback, with red dust flying around you as you take control from your horseback saddle? How about going walkabout with real indigenous Aboriginal tribes? Well, now’s your chance: this is the real deal.
On this trip, experience these and more as you head from the city to the red outback and end up in luxury on a private island.
become a drover
Whether you loved or hated Baz Luhrmann’s movie Australia, we bet you drooled over the incredible spaces and vast openness of the Kimberleys, and a part of you wanted to go there. Well, now it’s time to do it. We love Bullo River Station, a working homestead and home to over 7000 Brahman-cross cattle, wallabies, dingoes, wild buffalo and more.

become a real drover

Surrounded by the Victoria River and rugged hills inscribed with Aboriginal Rock Art, here you’ll spend time fishing for Barramundi and dining on world-class steaks. Spot crocs on the Bullo River, horse ride through the dramatic scenery or even try your hand at cattle mustering for a true ‘drover’ experience. Damsel in distress not always included.
tribal gathering
Getting under the skin of a place is all about meeting the locals, and trust us, an experience with the Aboriginal people in Arnhem land (the real bush) is truly once-in-a-lifetime.

meet the tribes

You feel the heat of the blazing sun: they live in it. Only a handful of people are welcomed by the indigenous Aboriginal people; through mutual understanding and long-standing respect, we can gain you access to them. Learn how they live in the barren surroundings, see some of the world’s most ancient rock art, cruise lily-covered billabongs, watch saltwater crocodiles propel their bodies out of water and, after waving goodbye to the Aboriginal people, finish off the day with a cold beer in a true Aussie Roadhouse.
darwin evenings
Sitting on a harbour twice the size of Sydney’s, a stop in Darwin provides the perfect chic city break for some pampering between dusty outback experiences. Once a rough-and-ready frontier town, Darwin’s now a bustling mecca of art, beach markets and tropical coastal life.
From your base at Mantra on the Esplanade, where your room will overlook the harbour, you’re a stone’s throw from buzzing Mindil Beach, where you can see live music, and shop for anything from clothes to snacks and local artwork. Visit the contemporary Karen Brown gallery and top off the day with a sunset dinner on the boardwalk of Cullen Bay. Delicious.

luxury on lizard island

lizard island
Now its time for some idyllic turquoise waters and caster sugar beaches. We know just the place, and it’s only a quick flight east in Queensland.
Perched above the Coral Sea on Sunset Ridge, Lizard Island doesn’t just sound like paradise, it is paradise. 24 white powdery beaches (yes, we said 24), sensational scuba diving and snorkeling over the famous Cod Hole are just three of the many amazing reasons to make this journey via Cairns. This sublime destination is the perfect luxury honeymoon escape.
Whatever you do, make sure you bring your underwater camera. The snorkeling is indescribable: see technicolour coral gardens and tropical fish, and come face-to-face with massive, curious Potato Cod. Take a motorised dinghy out to a secluded beach for a private picnic or sail a glass-bottomed boat… and top it off with a massage at the Azure spa overlooking the calm seas. Utter luxury
Take me back for more Australia experiences

have a look at...

1. vivid outback & secret islands
2. city chic and luxury swags in sydney
3. world-class wine and indulgent cuisine