Spectacular, intimate and unforgettable. To see some of the world’s most majestic animals in their natural environment is both a privilege and the opportunity of a lifetime. Whether you’re seeking an African safari vacation or an enthralling voyage through India’s rich wildlife, make it an exceptional journey with Luxury Gold.

In search of the Big 5 in Africa

One of the world’s most renowned safari destinations, Kruger National Park in South Africa spans nearly 2 million hectares and is home to a high density of native wildlife. This means there are many chances to spot the Big 5 topping every nature enthusiast’s bucket list: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalo. The vast natural reserve is also a protected sanctuary to a many other mammals and birdlife, including zebra, giraffe, vultures and eagles.

To visit a place such as Kruger is a special moment in time, and to do so with Luxury Gold makes your experience even more exceptional. From the moment you’re personally welcomed into your luxurious safari retreat, your first private game drive through to a spectacular celebration dinner under the stars, your African safari vacation will go above and beyond all expectations.

Discover this on: Spectacular South Africa

Private game drives

A highlight on our Spectacular South Africa tour, embark on an immersive three-day safari deep within Kruger Park. Private game drives aboard an open-air safari vehicle are the thrilling focal point of each day. Through your expert guide, you’ll gain an intimate and personal insight into the wildlife of the bushland, and the rhythm of life across the park.

Tailored for you, these private game drives will seek out elephants, crocodiles, hippos, lions, buffalo, rhinos and various bird species. With their vast expertise and knowledge of how the animals live, your guides will ensure each day is a feast of new discoveries.

You might be interested to read: Why a Luxury Gold Tour is Perfect for Families with Grown-up Children

Personalize your day

Whilst every day of our limited-edition tours is thoughtfully and expertly curated, we also know that you like to choose your own path. So, on selected days, a choice of two carefully chosen experiences allow you to further tailor your tour.

Whilst on safari in Kruger Park, on the second day of your safari, you can select the opportunity to extend your exploration of the park with an intimate bush walk. Accompanied by an expert ranger experience the thrill of tracking different wildlife and focus in on the small details of life in the bush. Alternatively, if you wish to sit back and relax on your African safari vacation you can choose to savor a decadent high tea, with only birdsong for company.

You may also enjoy reading: How to Safari in Style: The Ultimate Packing Guide

Exquisite retreats

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Depending on when you travel, you’ll treated to an unforgettable stay in one of two exquisite safari retreats. Whether at the Lion Sands Game Reserve or the Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge, you’ll enjoy luxury villas, glistening pools, fireside dining and the most exceptional service.

A highlight of your African safari vacation, dining at your retreats is a gastronomic adventure in itself. Return from an exhilarating game drive to a feast of expertly created dishes, showcasing local cuisine and international fusions.

Lounges, atriums and bar areas provide ample space to relax. Share stories of your day, or simply drink in the nature air as the lion’s roars can be heard across the evening skies. The ultimate in indulgence, top your invigorating days wildlife watching with a relaxing and sensual massage.

At Lion Sands, guests can relish breathtaking views of the reserve and its wildlife from private terraces featuring plunge pools. The enchanting treehouses create a truly romantic atmosphere, enhanced by lanterns, candles, stars and moonlight.

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Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge is set overlooking a waterhole where animals come regularly to drink. Light-filled open courtyards and classic African décor throughout the lodge exude luxury and a deep-rooted love for Africa, its people, art and culture.

Read more: Where the wilderness and luxury combine: Step inside the Lion Sands Game Reserve

Chasing the Tiger in India

One of the most famous and grandiose former hunting grounds of the maharajas of Jaipur,  Ranthambore National Park is now a major wildlife park and sanctuary. Spanning some 1300 square kilometers, the Tiger Reserve provides a safe home for the elegant and endangered Royal Bengal Tiger, amongst other wildlife. Taking its name from the magnificent fort inside, Ranthambore offers a rare chance to see these majestic beasts, walking, stalking and playing in their natural habitat.

The national park now has 86 tigers living in the area spanning 515 square miles and has proudly achieved a 45% growth in the population in the last eight years.

A true voyage in the footsteps of Indian royalty, every moment of your time in Ranthambore will feel truly special. In a country renowned for its exceptional service, this two-night immersion in nature is an outstanding luxury safari experience.

Discover this on: Essence of India

A royal residence

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Exquisite hotels are a feature on every Luxury Gold journey and the Nahargarh Ranthambhore is one of the most spectacular. With its traditional Rajasthani architecture, the palace recreates the myth, mystery, magnificent and pomp of the heyday of the maharajas of Royal Rajasthan.

The hotel has earned a reputation as one of the most indulgent properties in Rajasthan. A show-stopping entrance hall and a warm personal welcome sets the scene for things to come. The ‘Hathi Kund’ (open space area) is one of the hotel’s unique features. Each corner uniquely decorated, exquisite marble craftsmanship and hundreds of dimly lit lamps make evening cocktails a magical experience.

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Dine like royalty in the Grand Hall feasting on delicious continental, Indian and Rajasthani cuisine. And relive your invigorating days whilst floating in the ornate pools or with a soothing massage at the acclaimed spa.

You may also enjoy reading: Step inside the most unique luxury retreats in India

Private dawn and dusk safaris

Private dawn and dusk safaris within Ranthambhore National Park provide tailored opportunities to see the tigers when they are most easily spotted. Travelling by luxury jeep, your local expert guide will share their skills and knowledge of these beautiful and elusive creatures, as well as a wealth of other wildlife.

As well as the tiger, look out for a variety of birds including the  leopard, hyena, jackal, marsh crocodiles, bears and various species of deer.

Later you’ll be treated to an intimate exploration of the lakes and palace ruins of the park with an Expert Naturalist, including traditional Chhatri dome-shaped pavilions, old fortifications and a majestic 1,000-year-old fort.

Read more: Walking with the king of the big cats in India’s royal hunting grounds

The master of ceremonies – your Travel Concierge

At the heart of every exceptional Luxury Gold journey is your Travel Concierge. At your service every minute of the day and night, they ensure your vacation is both flawless and beyond expectations. Along with your expert safari guides, your Travel Concierge is by your side throughout your luxury safaris, elevating your experience even further. Personalize your experience, enjoy meals above and beyond and ensure every day is truly memorable.

You may enjoy reading: Cape expectations: how Travel Concierge Jameel makes South Africa sing

To enjoy a luxurious African safari vacation or to go in search of tigers in India, take a look at our collection of limited-edition luxury small group journeys.

In South Africa’s Western Cape, the enchanting Cape Winelands may just be the most coveted wine region in the world. With sublime scenery, world-class wines, and rich cultural history, this remarkable region is a sought-after destination for wine lovers and travelers alike. From soaring mountains and manicured gardens to lush vineyards and charming Cape Dutch architecture, we take you on a journey through some of the most beautiful South African wineries in the Cape Winelands.

Experience it: Spectacular South Africa

Vergelegen Estate

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Located in Somerset West in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Vergelegen Estate is one of the oldest and most prestigious South African wineries. Established in 1700, the estate has over 300 years of rich history and is home to historic Cape Dutch architecture, manicured gardens, and award-winning wines. 

Vergelegen, meaning “situated far away” in Dutch, covers around 3,000 extraordinary hectares, with 146 hectares dedicated to vineyards producing a wide variety of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.

As part of our Spectacular South Africa luxury tour, you’ll indulge in a wine tasting of the estate’s premium wines while soaking up the stunning views of the Hottentots Holland Mountains. You can also explore the historic homestead, the library, and the mill ruins. Or enjoy a stroll through the ancient camphor tree forest or the 18 unique gardens, including the lovely rose garden. 

Read more: An exclusive invitation from La Famiglia Mazzei, a Tuscan wine dynasty

Boschendal Wine Estate

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Boschendal Wine Estate is a picturesque winery nestled between the Groot Drakenstein and Simonsberg Mountains in the Franschhoek Valley. Established in 1685, it’s one of the oldest and most celebrated South African wineries, with a remarkable history, diverse wines, and breathtaking scenery. 

Spread over 2,400 hectares, the estate is a tranquil haven of flower beds, luscious lawns, shady okay trees, and fruit and vegetable gardens. As for the wines, Boschendal is known for its award-winning Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Méthode Cap Classique. 

When you travel on our Spectacular South Africa luxury tour, you’ll savour a farm-to-table lunch at Boschendal Wine Estate. Chef Allistaire Lawrence presents a seasonal menu with local and ethically sourced produce harvested from the Werf Food Garden. After your meal, you can explore the restored Cape Dutch Manor House, original wine cellar, and dreamy rose garden. You can also admire the impressive collection of Cape Dutch furniture and artwork, before returning to Cape Town in a chauffeured vintage car.

Read more: What to look for in a top-quality Pinot Noir, by wine expert Courtney Kingston

Babylonstoren

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Set in the heart of the Drakenstein Valley between Franschhoek and Paarl, Babylonstoren is famed for its immaculate gardens, award-winning wines, and luxurious spa. This farm and wine estate is not only beautiful but historic, dating back to 1692. 

The impressive gardens span over eight acres and are designed in the style of a traditional Cape Dutch farm. The gardens have over 300 varieties of plants, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. You can explore the gardens, learn about sustainable farming practices, and even take part in the harvesting.

One of the highlights of this wine estate is the Greenhouse restaurant. Walk through the tall oaks and arrive at the gorgeous Greenhouse, where you can enjoy picnic-style lunches and teas in the dappled sunlight of the greenhouse.

Read more: Cape expectations: how Travel Concierge Jameel makes South Africa sing

Waterford Estate

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Located in the scenic Blaauwklippen Valley in Stellenbosch, South Africa’s most famous wine-producing region, Waterford Estate is renowned for its spectacular views and exceptional wine-tasting experiences.

Established in 1998, Waterford Estate cultivates a variety of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Shiraz. Their flagship wine, “The Jem”, is a blend of several grape varieties showcasing the diversity of the Stellenbosch terroir. Indulge in a wine-tasting of all their award-winning wines, or take part in the more unique wine and chocolate tasting. 

Waterford Estate’s stunning setting adds to its allure. Surrounded by lush vineyards, fragrant citrus orchards, and breathtaking views of Helderberg Mountain, the estate creates an idyllic atmosphere. The Mediterranean-style architecture, including the terracotta-tiled buildings and courtyard, adds a touch of European elegance to the South African landscape.

Read more: This is what it’s actually like to travel on South Africa’s Rovos Rail

La Motte Wine Estate

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The esteemed La Motte winery is located in the magnificent Franschhoek Valley, one of the premier wine-producing regions in South Africa’s Cape Winelands. La Motte has a rich history dating back to 1695, with over three centuries spent refining its delectable wines reflecting the unique terroir of the Franschhoek Valley. Their notable wines include the La Motte Sauvignon Blanc, La Motte Chardonnay, and the La Motte Pierneef Shiraz Viognier.

The most striking features of La Motte are its gorgeous gardens and superbly restored Cape Dutch-style manor house, dating back to the 18th century. The manor house sits among the gardens, with its traditional whitewashed walls, thatched roof, and intricate gables. After exploring the charming building, you’ll find it’s a pleasure to get lost in the gardens. You can wander through the peaceful lily pond and the rose garden with over 1,000 rose bushes. There’s also the remarkable herb and vegetable garden that supplies the estate’s restaurant.

La Motte is also home to an impressive collection of Pierneef artworks, one of South Africa’s most celebrated artists. The Pierneef à La Motte Museum showcases a permanent exhibition of his works, alongside other rotating art exhibitions.

Read more: The perfect Australian grape by wine expert, Nick Williams of Hungerford Hill

Delaire Graff Estate

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Perched on the Helshoogte Pass between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, Delaire Graff Estate is one of the most exclusive South African wineries, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and unparalleled luxury. 

The first thing you notice is how the design of the estate’s architecture intentionally maximizes the views. With floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces, you can fully immerse yourself in the scenes of the Stellenbosch mountains. The immaculate gardens showcase indigenous plants, vibrant flowers and manicured lawns. Meanwhile, the exquisite vineyards produce a range of award-winning wines, including Bordeaux-style red blends, Chardonnay, and Chenin Blanc.

You’ll also find an impressive collection of contemporary South African art. The estate houses sculptures, paintings, and installations by acclaimed artists such as Lionel Smit, Deborah Bell, and Dylan Lewis. Thoughtfully displayed throughout the estate, including the fine dining restaurants, the art collection adds to the sophisticated atmosphere. It’s no wonder the estate is known as the Jewel of the Cape Winelands.