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&Beyond’s Unique Blend of Luxury Travel and Conservation, A Review of Two Safari Resorts in Tanzania

Africa · Blog · Charity · Recent Posts · Responsible Resorts

The following is a sponsored post in partnership with andBeyond . All opinions are 100% my own.

When it comes to international travel, &Beyond is one of the most lauded travel brands around the globe! Its unique blend of luxury accommodations and guided local experiences has drawn heaps of acclaim, but booking &Beyond’s services means so much more than embarking on an excursion or exploring new territory.

&Beyond represents the intersection of travel, philanthropy, and environmental activism in their core  values and operates in 29 luxury safari camps and lodges across East Africa (Tanzania, Kenya), Botswana, South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique, and also runs high-end, personalized tours throughout the African continent and in India, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Chile, Argentina, Ecuador, and Peru.

Table of Contents

What Sets &Beyond Apart: 3C Impact Model

&Beyond is a luxury travel company that launched in 1991 with a focus on caring equally for land, wildlife, and people in Africa.  Proceeds from each travel experience go toward &Beyond’s 3C Impact Model – Care of the Land, Care of the Wildlife, and Care of the People .  The Impact Model was designed to create travel that makes the world a better place instead of misusing, wasting, and destroying natural resources. &Beyond is committed to the utmost high standards of sustainability, philanthropy, and conservation.

The company’s guiding ethos is its aforementioned, and groundbreaking, 3C Impact Model:

• Care of the Land means that &Beyond has a strategy of minimizing its impact on the environment in all of its locations, which comprise nine million hectares in Africa.  &Beyond seeks to minimize its physical footprint and the impact of its business operations.
• Care of the Wildlife is a mission to preserve endangered species through conservation, translocations and breeding programs. The company has major conservation efforts underway for rhinos, cheetah, several species of African antelopes, lions, and turtles, among other animals. In addition, they work to protect endangered species by actively managing wildlife populations where it has full control of the land. The company also facilitates conservation education.
• Through its Care of the People, initiative &Beyond has partnered with the Africa Foundation to create programs that have a positive impact on community development in each of its locations. They aim to empower local people and ensure local communities benefit from the tourism and business in surrounding areas. As &Beyond says in its Impact Report, “By ensuring that benefits flow to local communities from our business, the success of which depends on conservation, we make these conservation initiatives relevant to the people.”

&Beyond has been bestowed with many accolades, including recognition from the Responsible Tourism Tanzania Awards, the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, and Harper’s Bazaar’s The 100 Greatest Hotels in the World.

One of the key ways &Beyond practices Care of the Wildlife is through its work with Africa Foundation and the Lionscape Coalition.

About the Africa Foundation

Africa Foundation is an independent, nonprofit organization with offices in South Africa, the U.S. and the UK.  It facilitates the socioeconomic development of rural communities living in or close to Africa’s conservation areas.  The foundation’s overall goal is to give local people more of a voice, more autonomy, and more opportunity to reap the benefits of tourism.  This breaks down to four focus areas: education, healthcare and clean water, small business development, and environment and conservation.

Africa Foundation works to identify the needs of rural communities.  It then communicates those needs to potential donors, allocates and manages the secured funds, works with community leaders to enact projects, and reports the results of those projects back to the donors.  With &Beyond, the two organizations work hand in hand.

&Beyond provides numerous resources for Africa Foundation’s communities, such as staff, vehicles, and project champions, in addition to funding. Community projects are situated in close proximity to &Beyond lodges to encourage visits from staff and maintain open communication between community leaders and &Beyond project champions.

About Lionscape Coalition

&Beyond is also a founding member of Lionscape Coalition, an initiative from the Lion Recovery Fund, created to ensure a secure future for Africa’s lions and the landscapes in which they live.  In partnership with the Lion Recovery Fund and three other ecotourism operators, &Beyond has promised to donate money annually, plus educate guests, clients, and staff about the plight of lions, and to expand the conservation footprint in lion homelands in Africa.

The Ngorongoro Crater Lodge (one of the places I stayed in during my visit to Tanzania) is situated in one of the best places on Earth to see lions in their natural habitat, so this &Beyond property has a special commitment to the goals of The Lion Recovery Fund. The Lion Recovery Fund was created by the Wildlife Conservation Network in partnership with the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation, with a goal of doubling the number of lions in Africa by 2050.

This ambitious goal will be accomplished in three ways:

• Expansion of conservation coverage – Management of “lionscapes” will be improved for effectiveness and to cover a wider scope of responsibilities.
• The building of public, political, and philanthropic will – Lionscape Coalition will increase awareness of its cause through education.
• Scaling of funding – The initiative will boost funds raised for the conservation of lions and their landscapes.

This is of critical importance because the lion population in Africa has fallen by half in the last 25 years, and some sub-species are now considered critically endangered. The LRF sends 100% of donations directly to projects that conserve lions, investing in the best ideas for lion recovery, and Ngorongoro Crater Lodge’s parent company &Beyond has made a major commitment to this effort.

So why should you care about declining lions? Lions are what scientists call “umbrella” species, which means if we have a thriving lion population, the entire ecosystem around it will be functioning properly and effectively. If we concentrate on addressing the key issues to the declining lions, we have the opportunity to turn things around and sustain the lion population.

I was honoured and grateful to be able to sit down to meet with some the KOPELion team Ingela Jansson, William Oleseki and Adam Pekor to discuss the crisis of the dramatic decline of the Ngorongoro lions. Guests at the lodge have many opportunities to interact with KOPELion , a local organization that works to mitigate Ngorongoro’s human-lion conflict, including through implementation of the Lion Guardians model.

As outlined on their website, here are some important takeaways and information that you should know about the organization :

KOPELion’s Vision and Mission Vision: Successful and locally driven human-lion coexistence in Ngorongoro. Mission: Inspire and enable local action, using science and traditional knowledge, for managing and monitoring sustainable human-lion coexistence in a multi-use landscape.

How They Do It

• Protect lions: On-the-ground team prevents and stops lion killings.
• Increase lion tolerance: Reduce conflicts by finding and retrieving lost livestock, help reinforce bomas, warn herders of lions’ presence, and offer wound treatment on injured livestock.
• Study lions: Find lions and record observations for the long-term demography study. They recognize each lion and follow them throughout their lives. Study how they adapt to living among people, tracking their movements and activity, using GPS collars.
• Engage with the communities: The team are mainly locals – provides employment, embracing traditional practices, working directly with the communities.
• Study human-predator interactions: Survey where, when and why attacks on livestock happen and by what predator. Knowing livestock vulnerability to attack helps to design better mitigation strategies.
• Combine and build skills: Maximise the impact and understanding of this human-lion interaction by combining modern techniques, science, and traditional ecological knowledge.
• Share our knowledge: Compile, analyse and share expanding knowledge in reports to authorities, peer-reviewed publications, and public presentations.

Guests can actually accompany the Lion Guardians as they make their rounds in the bush, doing their job to protect lions from poachers and working with tribespeople to preserve the habitat of the big cats. This is one way the lodge fulfills the Care of the Wildlife part of &Beyond’s 3C model.

Visiting Tanzania

• Invest in travel insurance – It may seem like a frivolous add-on, but it can help with everything from unexpected hospitalizations to lost baggage. Don’t leave your house without it!
• Take precautions against malaria and Yellow Fever – Tanzania requires all visitors to have a certificate of proof that shows vaccination against Yellow Fever (they will ask for this as soon as you land in the airport). Additionally, you should work with your physician to identify the best antimalarial drug for you.
• Visas and passports – Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your trip and keep at least two blank visa pages. You can apply for your Tanzanian visa beforehand or just get it upon landing at the airport. I found the visa process to be better at the airport (even though it was slightly hectic), than when I applied for my e-visa online. It took so much longer online and required so many more additional documentation than getting it upon landing at the airport. I ended up having to pay for my visa twice because I ended up getting it when I landed in Tanzania, since my online application didn’t approve in time for my travels!
• What to pack – In general, you want to bring lightweight clothing that’s comfortable (e.g. t-shirts, shorts, swimwear, waterproof jackets, etc.). But it’s also important to bring long sleeves (to protect from sun exposure, mosquitoes, and Tsetse flies) and to bring neutral colours. Also remember to pack comfortable walking shoes, sunblock, bug repellant, lip balm, moisturizer, hats, and other outdoor essentials.
• No plastic bags – Avoid the urge to wrap items in your suitcase in plastic bags, as these are illegal in Tanzania.
• Bring your own first aid kit – Your lodge or resort will likely have a first aid kit, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Load your kit with items like antiseptic cream, pain relief medication, eye drops, and any treatments for asthma, allergies, or insect stings.
• Money – You can use Visa and/or Mastercard, but it’s recommended that you also bring some cash and exchange it before you depart for your lodge. Most places do accept American currency. I used it to tip the staff (*TIP: in order to help the staff, either tip a larger amount at the end of your trip with a larger currency amount ie.$50, $100 dollars rather than say $5 at a time – it actually costs them more money to exchange the money into Tanzanian Shillings if the USD dollar amount is lower).

A luxury experience with meaning…

Ngorongoro crater lodge and serengeti under canvas offer two distinct luxurious ways to explore tanzania, a review.

The &Beyond lodges do not skimp on luxury, and many of its activities are guided by local experts who are passionate about their native land and proud supporters of &Beyond’s 3C Impact Model .

One of the jewels in the crown of the andBeyond lodges is the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge. Situated on the rim of the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater in the highlands of Tanzania, this lodge features brocade sofas, Persian rugs, gilt mirrors, beaded chandeliers, panelled walls and a domed dining room. Guests have private butlers to attend to their every need.

Outside, there are the majestic views of the landscape and the Great Migration, the annual migration of thousands of animals through the crater. There are a variety of tours, safaris, and other activities guests can sign up for, including visits with the local Hadzabe Bushmen.

In everything that the company does, from its resorts to its game drives, three core principles take priority – care of the land, care of the wildlife, and care of the people.  In Tanzania, at the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge and Serengeti Under Canvas, &Beyond’s commitment to luxury and conservation collide in the most exciting ways!

The breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

Photo: The beautiful lounge & dining area, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge.

Photo: View of the Ngorongoro Crater from the dining area.

Photo: My view while enjoying my meal.

The Ngorongoro Crater Lodge sits on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater , which is the world’s largest intact caldera and was formerly a gigantic volcano believed to rival Mount Kilimanjaro.  Every room offers a magnificent view, which changes by the day with rising mists and different cloud formations.  The lodge has the distinct feel of “old world” Africa and the aesthetic recalls the grandiose elegance of Versailles but still honours African culture through stilted thatch architecture and bold uses of colour.

The lodge is split into three camps, each with its own sitting and dining areas and private butlers who specialize in warm and personal top-notch service.  Across the camps are 30 stilted suites with grass roofs and banana leaf ceilings, offering an elegant and intimate experience that’s still authentic.

What sets this lodge apart

Five-star service doesn’t begin to describe your stay at the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge.  A private butler draws a hot bubble bath for you and a fresh bouquet of flowers after a long day of safari activities.  You have the option to sip sundowner cocktails while watching a drum performance, eat a picnic lunch on the floor of the Crater while zebras and giraffes roam freely around you.  You’re simultaneously surrounded by elegance and nature!

Photo: View of the Ngorongoro Crater from my stunning room.

Photo: View from the patio of my room. This room comes with two balconies.

In addition to its glamorous décor and decadent guest experience, the Ngorongoro Lodge is revered for its access to the local Maasai people and the cattle that live amongst the wildlife, the fresh springs, the soda lake, and seasonal sightings of flamingos. Below are photos of my visit!

Photo: Women of the Maasai Village, Ngorongoro Crater

Photo: WIth the leader of the Maasai Village, Ngorongoro Crater

Accommodations and amenities

Photo: The dining and lounge area.

Photo: Lounge area to enjoy some drinks.

Photo: Dining Area.

This luxurious stay comes at a price – smaller suites cost upwards of $1,775 per night while family suites can run between $3,905 and $6,215 per night for up to four people.  But every part of your stay justifies the money spent. You’ll have a private butler , an in-room fireplace, spectacular views from every window, in-room massage, and complimentary laundry service, as well as the peace and serenity that comes from the secluded camps.  The premises also feature a library, a central dining area and lounge to enjoy you all-inclusive exquisite meals, and a craft and curio shop.

Game drives and activities

Daily game drives take place from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.  From the Lodge, it takes roughly 20 minutes to reach the Crater. You will be assigned with a very knowledgeable ranger, who will be your private driver and provide in-depth information about the behaviour of animals during the drives. You will ride in an open-top 4×4 so you can see early morning kills up close and personal and get better access to take amazing photos of the wild animals!  For the morning drives, you can pre-order your breakfast so that you can take it along with you into the Crater.

The Lodge also hosts a slew of other activities, like the KopeLion lion conservation experience in which you’ll spend a half day learning about local lion conservation efforts, or a cultural visit to see the traditional way of life of the Hadzabe bushmen , or even a full-day hike in the Empakai Crater , where you can catch a glimpse of Tanzania’s most active volcano, Ol Doinyo Lengai.

The 3C Impact Model in action

The Lodge provides accommodations for wildlife researchers as they study the species inhabiting the crater, which drives home &Beyond’s commitment to wildlife.  And one of the butlers, an expert in local botany, has spearheaded a partnership with park authorities to help manage invasive plants and cultivate more than 55,000 trees.

This too is a testament to &Beyond’s care of the wildlife and the people.  Staff like the aforementioned butler remain friendly and passionate, contributing to longevity that speaks to &Beyond’s effective work environment.

How to get there

To reach the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge , you’ll need to fly to the Arusha airport.  From there, you can take one of two daily flights to the Lake Manyara Airstrip.  Lodge personnel will pick you up from the airstrip in closed game viewing vehicles.  The drive takes roughly 1.5 hours.

The glamour of Serengeti Under Canvas

Staying in a lodge, even a luxurious one like the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is not the only option &Beyond offers its guests. A popular choice is Serengeti Under Canvas , the ultimate in luxury camping, complete with a private butler service and comfortable beds with fluffy duvets.

This is a camping experience of a lifetime, where you stay in canvas tents positioned close to the Great Migration wildlife herds so that there are stunning views of the animals in their natural environment. Not to mention falling asleep and waking up to the sounds of the wild!

The camp moves five times a year, to anticipate the movements of the animals on their migrations. Each camp has only nine tents, to ensure a mix of indulgence and authenticity.  

Serengeti Under Canvas is unique in that it brings the elegance of the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge to the outdoors.   There are still private butlers, friendly and attentive safari rangers and staff, plush beds with fluffy duvets, and ensuites.  It also includes boots and umbrellas in case it rains, insect repellants, and a mini-bar stocked with all your favourite drinks. The tents are the largest mobile walk-in tents in all of Tanzania . Plus, there’s a delicate balance of both colonial and Maasai traditions . But there’s a lot of rustic charm, too.

During evenings and nights, you can look up at magnificent stars in the skies, while enjoying dinner outdoors near a campfire in the middle of the Serengeti! During bedtime, the staff even leave two hot water pouches on your bed to keep you warm at night! They really do think of everything!

Accommodations and Amenities

These private campsites have his and her hot bucket showers and flush toilets, in-tent Wi-Fi, decadent bush dinners, and crystal glassware.  The camps also feature dedicated sitting tents with deep sofas, custom Indian rugs, and polished brass samovars. You are given two types of water (one for washing and another for drinking) and each tent comes with a microphone and horn, in case of an emergency you have staff 24/7 on standby.

Individual tents run from $810-$1,240 per night while family tents fall between $2,835 and $4,340 per night.

The big draw at Serengeti Under Canvas is the Guided Great Migration experience , in which you can see big cats, game species, and unique seasonal species during one of two shorter daily drives or a full-day game drive.  The advantage of the campsites is that you won’t have to travel far to see the Great Migration.  However, since these drives take place in the Serengeti National Park, there are no night drives or off-roading expeditions.

In addition, you can take part in a number of other experiences like a hot air balloon safari or a historic tour of Olduvai Gorge and Shifting Sands .

Photo: With one of the children from the Maasai Village

The 3C Impact Model is at play here as well.  For example, in Tanzania, rangers have taken groups of Maasai children on Serengeti game drives to teach them about nature, environmental awareness, and the ways ecotourism can impact their communities.  These efforts are aided by &Beyond’s booming business.

To reach Serengeti Under Canvas , you’ll take a charter flight to a Serengeti airstrip nearest the camp’s current position.  From there, camp personnel will drive you to the camp.  Again, how you reach the Serengeti airstrip will depend on where you’re departing from but also on where the camp is currently located.

Photo: With the staff from Serengeti Under Canvas, felt like part of the &Beyond family!

Whether you want a resort stay or you want to spend your nights underneath the stars, both the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge and Serengeti Under Canvas provide authentic experiences in the lap of luxury that also benefit local communities.

It’s a formula that resonates with a new generation of environmentally aware tourists. Indeed, statistics show that “eco-conscious” consumers travel more than the average consumer. According to Fiscal Today , the CMIGreen Traveler Report 2010 found that 75.9% of environmentally aware individuals took at least two vacations away from home each year, and 22% of them took anywhere from five to eight vacations during that same time. The takeaway from surveys like that is travel and tourism companies that focus on sustainability can actually do more business than those who don’t.

The &Beyond business model definitely has a bright future — and that’s a good thing for our planet. For further information on &Beyond visit www.andbeyond.com.

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Luxury safari

For all you travelers wanting adventure without sacrificing any comforts of a 5* hotel, look no further. At Extraordinary Journeys, we believe in creating luxury safari travel for the wild at heart. You can have your cake and eat it too: a healthy dose of adventure side by side with elegant accommodations that will leave you feeling rejuvenated. Savor the best of both worlds.

Enjoy your muddy walking safari knowing that you will be able to wash away the dirt in your gorgeous indoor/outdoor shower or brass clawfoot tub. Wake early to watch the sun rise over the mountains of Patagonia knowing that later you can crawl back into your silky sheets and nap until afternoon tea. Embark on a day packed with activities from horseback riding to fishing , knowing your hungry belly will soon be filled with an incredible meal and a glass of New Zealand ‘s finest sauvignon blanc. Ultra luxury is its own category; luxury offers polish without spending very top dollar.

Combine these gorgeous accommodations with remote and coveted locations, attentive service, incredible guiding, unique experiences, and fabulous chefs & sommeliers and you’ll have the makings of an Extraordinary Journey!

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Luxury andBeyond Safari: South Africa

Embark on the safari adventure of a lifetime in South Africa! Enjoy the height of luxury at 2 fabulous andBeyond safari lodges, both in prime locations for exclusive and thrilling game viewing. Immerse yourself in seemingly untouched wilderness and catch exceptional sightings of Africa’s Big 5.

We crafted this Luxury andBeyond Safari: South Africa package for a high-powered couple from Washington, D.C. who wanted to cross a Kruger safari off their bucket list and had just over a week to travel. Based on their travel style, we decided to send them to 2 andBeyond safari lodges, because we knew they would be well taken care of and enjoy excellent wildlife safaris throughout their trip.

First for their Luxury andBeyond Safari: South Africa package, they spent 4 nights at andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge. This gorgeous lodge is located on the exclusive Phinda Private Game Reserve, hidden amongst the trees. Their spacious suite was a beautiful blend of nature and modern luxury, almost like a fairytale. They spent their days on thrilling game drives to see the Big 5, as well as the abundant cheetah that call the Phinda reserve home.

Next, it was on to the world-famous Sabi Sand region bordering Kruger National Park, where they stayed at andBeyond Kirkman’s Kamp. This fabulous private concession is one of the most exclusive and sought-after safari destinations in all of Africa, and it did not disappoint! Our couple had thrilling sightings of lions, leopards, wild dogs, elephants, and so much more. Back at the luxurious, 1920s-style lodge, they soaked up the colonial charm and the expansive views over the Sand River. They also decided to add some unique adventures in the Sabi Sands: a guided walking safari and a sleep-out under the stars, completely surrounded by nature. These were some of the highlights of their trip!

After a week of jaw-dropping adventures in South Africa, their Luxury andBeyond Safari: South Africa package came to an end and it was time to begin the journey home.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1 Welcome to South Africa! Upon arrival into Johannesburg, you will be met at the door of your aircraft with your name on a paging board; assisted through immigration, baggage collection, and customs; and escorted to your onward flight, which will take you to Phinda Private Game Reserve. You’ll waste no time in starting your luxury African safari!

Your home for the next 4 nights is andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge. This gorgeous safari lodge is hidden within dense sand forests and looks out over pristine natural bush. Termed “Zulu Zen,” your spacious suite is built on raised stilts, the glass and wood construction blending with contemporary décor and minimalist design. The room invites the forest within, fusing nature and luxury, while the surrounding trees create a sense of privacy and romance. Time permitting, you can embark on your first game drive this evening, or simply relax after your long journey and absorb the tranquillity from your private deck. andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge

Day 2 – 4 Spend the next 3 days on safari in this rich corner of South Africa. Go on an African wildlife safari with twice daily game drives, and see if you can spot the Big 5! Big cats, particularly cheetahs, are abundant here thanks to successful conservation efforts. You can also track the elusive white and black rhinos on foot. In between game drives, relax back at the lodge, enjoy delicious complimentary meals, and cool off with a dip in the pool. The lodge’s central areas include attractive spaces for socializing in style, and a shaded deck with panoramic views over the plains. Enjoy meals in the boma, under the star-studded skies. Perhaps opt for a sleep out under the stars one night to get a true feel for the African wilderness. andBeyond Phinda Forest Lodge

Day 5 The safari adventure continues today as you fly from Phinda to the world-famous Sabi Sands region. Sabi Sands shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park, which allows for the same exceptional wildlife viewing with much more exclusivity. Here, you are practically guaranteed to see the Big 5, especially the elusive leopard.

Not only will you notice a lovely contrast in the landscape compared to Phinda, but also in the style of your next lodge, andBeyond Kirkman’s Kamp. This colonial-style safari lodge is set in 6,300 hectares of private concession in the southern Sabi Sand Reserve. Located high on a ridge, this historic 1920s homestead is surrounded by manicured lawns (where you may see wild warthogs grazing) and offers spectacular views of the unspoiled landscape surrounding the Sand River. The main areas evoke the charm of an era long since past, featuring an elegant sitting room and extensive verandas where breakfast and lunch is catered. Dinners are enjoyed in the romantic boma or a candlelit bush setting. andBeyond Kirkman’s Kamp

Day 6 – 8 Enjoy morning and late afternoon game drives in this bucket list safari destination. Quality safari guides will bring the drama of the African bush alive, from the Big 5 to the smaller creatures that begin to capture your imagination as you immerse yourself in this spectacular wilderness. In addition to game drives, guided bush walks provide an intimate nature experience, and optional in-room massages are the perfect way to relax in between safari adventures. andBeyond Kirkman’s Kamp

Day 9 It’s time to say goodbye to your luxurious home away from home today. As you fly to Johannesburg and board your connecting flight back home, you will feel an irresistible pull to return to Africa, where pristine nature meets utmost luxury.

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andBeyond’s safaris prove that luxury doesn’t have to come with a hefty environmental price tag

Nicole robinson, andbeyond’s chief marketing officer, shares how the luxury safari operator is accelerating its ground partnerships in a race against time to save the planet’s remaining wilderness..

Photo: andBeyond

Nicole Robinson, andBeyond’s chief marketing officer, has been with the luxury safari company for 24 years. Yes, twenty-four . One would almost expect a sense of jadedness by now, such is the typical profile of most who have been wearing the same shoes for over two decades.

But the enthusiasm in her voice hardly lets up throughout our hour-long chat about the 32-year-old company’s work with the communities in which their 29 properties are situated.

A day in the life of a traditional freediver in Jeju

She said: “At andbeyond, we look at financial and impact returns. It’s not just about making a profit but also caring for the land, wildlife, and people, which is very important to us and makes it a really awesome place to work for. We don’t leave because we feel a legacy will be left in our time that is more than making somebody else very, very wealthy.”

Change that lasts

When founder Dave Varty opened Phinda Private Game Reserve in 1991 — a profitable project only 20 years later — he saw the importance of engaging surrounding communities and harnessing international capital in a low-impact, high-yield tourism business model from the onset. 

In 1992, he partnered with the non-profit Africa Foundation to facilitate community-led initiatives to make wildlife conservation meaningful to the locals living within or near wildlife areas. Since then, it has added non-governmental organisations such as Oceans without Borders, the World Wildlife Fund, and the Ashia Cheetah Sanctuary to its list of partners. 

It may all sound like a marketing spiel, but Robinson doesn’t evade the difficult questions.

When asked how andbeyond measures their impact on a destination pre- and post-establishment, Robinson frankly answered: “We didn’t collect any data back when we started in 1991. When we first started, Varty just wanted to bring wildlife back to an old pineapple and cattle farm, and we didn’t collect baseline data.” 

In 2015, it created a framework and a five-year plan to achieve milestones such as protecting at least three endangered land or marine species and building social service infrastructure for the communities by 2020. Along the way, it released annual progress reports from 2017 to 2019 and refined the impact measurement metrics, such as the definition of local procurement.

“We can now give statistics on things like the number of classrooms, clinics, and bursaries given out. What we want to work towards now is finding data on the intangibles, like the quality of education and how livelihoods and the land have improved,” said Robinson.

Leaving no trace

How does one reconcile luxury tourism’s comfort-driven necessities and often ostentatious veneer with sustainability principles? Robinson said: “Sustainability is often thought to be basic, that your experience is going to be very rustic, that you need to lose things in order to be sustainable. Luxury doesn’t mean that it’s not sustainable. We believe it’s our job to find ways to ensure that our footprint of waste, water, and energy is looked after without compromising the guest experience.”

For example, andBeyond’s Sossusvlei Desert Lodge in the arid Namib desert supplies water to the main lodge pool and the private plunge pools in the 10 standalone suites through a recycling system that generates more than 100,000 litres of grey water (used water generated from sinks, showers, baths, washing machines, or dishwashers, but not wastewater from toilets) a month, which more than offsets evaporation from the pool surfaces. 

The lodge is completely off-grid. Creature comforts such as air-conditioning and the secret chiller box in each room are all powered by solar energy. These modern technologies were incorporated in a massive 2019 renovation to leave an even lighter carbon footprint 20 years after the original buildings were constructed.

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She said: “The sustainability journey starts with being aware. If everybody waits for everything to be perfect, nobody does anything. In the last 30 years, we’ve constantly learned that there are better ways of doing things.” 

The company now fully manages all its lodges, except for two, to ensure that they can enforce their standards in areas ranging from employee training and safari guiding to procurement and waste management. Its new properties will consist only of greenfield sites, such as the latest Punakha River Lodge in Bhutan, which is also andBeyond’s first fully owned Asia property.

No time to waste

It is now a race against time to achieve more over a shorter period in the next 30 years. Citing statistics from David Attenborough’s 2020 documentary A Life On Our Planet , Robinson pointed out that since the 1930s, the world’s wilderness areas have decreased from 66 per cent to 35 per cent in 2020.

She said: “We are investing to decrease our carbon footprint faster and how to make wild spaces relevant to the people who live next to them and work with them to preserve these places.” Developing small businesses is especially key for the latter. To encourage support for conservation, these communities have to see that the economic benefits outweigh the safety and food security risks of living in these areas.

andBeyond is also ramping up its ground partnerships to accelerate conservation efforts. “We can’t do stuff in the national parks without their approval, but we can partner with them through fundraising or get involved in what they are already doing,” said Robinson.  

It was a poignant milestone when andBeyond Phinda Private Game Reserve, which had no animals when it first opened, supported African Parks in two translocations of lions and white rhinos, respectively, to Rwanda’s Akagera National Park, where these species were virtually extinct.

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The latest translocation was in June 2023, when 16 southern rhinos were moved to Garamba National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Condo in collaboration with the Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature (ICCN). 

With pride in her voice, Robinson said: “This is a story of a place that had nothing, and now it is giving back. What is 30 years in the context of eternity? When you give nature a chance, it heals.”

Robertson Lodges takes you on a journey of luxury hospitality and thoughtful conservation in New Zealand

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• Luxury Safari Lodge
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Safari and Beyond

Private, custom safaris.

Luxury Safari

Golden Era Luxury Safari (17 Days)

This luxury safari was inspired by one of our great clients, Heather D’Andrade, who planned her honeymoon safari with an extraordinary amount of research and enthusiasm. She wanted the best for her trip of a lifetime and she got it! Thank you Heather. Day 1: Depart United States Day 2: Arrive Kilimanjaro Airport                                                                                                          Kigongoni Lodge  

Our representative will meet and transfer you to the Kigongoni Lodge for overnight and breakfast. Kigongoni Lodge is located on an historic 70-acre coffee farm near Arusha, amid natural forest. Sitting on a hilltop with lush gardens, the lodge offers breathtaking views of Mt Kilimanjaro and Mt Meru. Tucked between the trees are eighteen cottages, built in traditional African styles and materials. Day 3:                                                        Serengeti                                                         Klein's Camp         

You will take the scheduled flight to the Serengeti Airstrip as we begin our quest to see the magnificent animals of Africa. The Serengeti covers 5700 square miles of endless rolling plains, which reach up to the Kenyan border and extends almost to Lake Victoria. The park is teaming with stunning wildlife - it is thought that over 3 million large mammals roam the plains. You can witness the annual migration of millions of zebra and wildebeest in search of water and forage as the seasons change. This migration has been occurring for untold thousands of millennia. Residing in the Serengeti are large herds of antelope of all sorts including: Patterson's eland, klipspringer, dikdik, impala, zebra, gazelles, water, bush and reed buck, topi, kongoni, cotton's oribi, grey bush duiker, roan antelope buffalo, and wildebeest plus lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena, bat eared fox, hunting dog and jackal. Smaller mammals: spring hare, porcupine, warthog, hyraxes, baboon, vervet monkey, colobus monkey, patas monkey, and mongooses. Larger mammals: giraffe, rhino, elephant, and hippopotamus plus nearly 500 species of bird, including vultures, storks, flamingoes, martial and fish eagles, ostrich. Reptiles: crocodiles, a number of species of snakes and lizards. Klein’s Camp found mostly on a luxury safari, is situated deep in the heart of the game-rich northern Serengeti in Tanzania – right off the beaten tourist track. Its 24,800-acre private wildlife concession – leased from Maasai landlords – is allotted for the exclusive use of the camp’s 20 guests, offering you the ultimate personal Tanzanian safari.

Day 4:                                                     Serengeti                                                                         Klein's Camp  

It will be a full day on safari with picnic lunches provided. You should see the Big 5 today!

Day 5:                                                    Ngorongoro Crater                                                          Crater Lodge  

You will be crossing the Serengeti on game drive as you head for the Crater. Our first stop will be the famous Olduvai Gorge where the Leakey family discovered early hominid man. There is a small museum you will visit during your short stay. The famous volcanic Ngorongoro Crater is the largest unbroken caldera in the world. The crater (2000 feet deep and 100 square miles) is a microcosm of East African scenery and game. Scenic grandeur and stunning views are the hallmark of this wonder of the world. All the lodges are built high on the crater rim and afford amazing views over and into the crater - the perfect setting for a well-deserved sundowner. There are 25,000 larger animals within the crater itself, mostly Zebra and wildebeest. However, this is undoubtedly the best place to see black rhino in Tanzania as well as prides of lion that include the magnificent black-maned males.

Klein's Camp

          Private Balcony

The Lodge consists of three adjacent, glamorous camps with 30 Masai-inspired suites perched on stilts on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. From the outside, this unobtrusive lodge resembles a magical Masai village, and was described by travel magazine, Discover Africa, as "Versailles meets Masai in the game lodge at the edge of the world". Set in classic crescents, each stone and thatch suite has spectacular views of the crater from large glass windows in the bathroom, lounge and bedroom, yet is almost invisible from the crater.  

Day 6:                                                     The Crater                                                               Crater Lodge  

This morning it is down to the floor of the Crater. You will spend the maximum 6 hours allowed at the base and picnic lunch may be provided if you prefer. The Crater bottom creates an unusual feeling as you are on safari on a plain that is completely surrounded by walls or cliffs 2000 feet high. When you return to the top and a brief rest, then a relaxing shower, sit on the veranda with a cool sundowner and watch the shadows creep over the Crater floor as you prepare for dinner.   

                 Bedroom                                                                                 Parlor

Day 7:                                                      Arusha                                                                  Arusha Coffee Lodge  

After a hearty breakfast you will visit the town of Karatu and the Irawq tribe that is reported as having lived in Mesopotamia 9000 years ago. Over the centuries they migrated through Ethiopia and Somalia to Kenya seeking fertile land.  Arusha Coffee Lodge lies cradled in the endless acres of Tanzania’s largest coffee plantation and very close to the Arusha airport. This exclusive boutique lodge consists of 18 plantation houses lavishly furnished with a split- level living room area. Luxurious accommodations, fine cuisine and roaring fires beckon the most seasoned traveler.

Arusha Coffee Lodge

Day 8:                                                     Tsavo West                                                                       Finch Hatton's  

After breakfast it is off to the Kenya border at Taveta where you meet your Kenyan guide and change vehicles continuing on to Tsavo West. This great Park covers 2700 sq. miles, approximately 30% of Kenya's area under parks, and contains a diversity of habitats, wildlife and a mountainous scenic landscape. The park's habitats include open plains alternating with Savannah bush and semi desert scrub, acacia woodlands; rocky ridges and outcrops and more extensive ranges and isolated hills; belts of riverine vegetation; palm thickets and, on the Chyulu hills, mountain forest. Tsavo West National Park is home to the marvel of Mzima Springs, replenished with two hundred and twenty million liters of crystal-clear water, every day, from the underground streams stemming from the lava massif known as the Chyulu Hills, 40-50 kilometers away. Mzima forms a haven for a rich wildlife pageant with Elephant soaking half immersed in the waters; light- footed but ponderous looking Hippo, apparently weightless, tip-toeing across the bottom; Crocodiles basking on the bank or swirling through the water; Gazelles, Zebra and Giraffe wandering around the banks through the thick acacias and raffia palms together with hundreds of chattering Monkeys and birds. Mzima is also the main source of Mombasa's water supply. Tsavo West National Park's reports of ringed birds have been received from as far north as Saint Petersburg, and from countries as widely separated as Oman. Apart from the elephant population there are many lions - some undoubtedly the descendants of the famous Man-eaters of Tsavo. Among the less common animals to be found are the fringed-eared Oryx, the gerenuk and lesser kudu. The carnivores in addition to lion include serval cat, hyena, leopard, cheetah and caracal. You will be on a game drive as you head for Finch Hattons. Denys Finch Hatton, who was portrayed by Robert Redford in Out of Africa, was one of Kenya's great adventurers. He devoted his life exploring the wild in style (aka luxury safari). In his camp, dinner was served on fine china with silver and crystal, while the gentle strains of Mozart played in the background. Here in Tsavo, where he lived and died, this tradition lives on. Enjoy your dinner tonight and bask in the strains of Eine Kleine Nacht Music.

Finch Hatton's

Day 9:                                                      Tsavo West                                                                      Finch Hatton's  

Today will include an early morning and late afternoon game drive. During the day we will have an exciting visit to Mzima Springs. Back to camp for another exotic dinner!

Day 10:                                                    Laikipia                                                                Loisaba Lodge   

This morning you will fly to Nairobi with a connecting flight to the Laikipia region and Loisaba for three unforgettable nights including one in the unique Star Bed plus all the wonderful activities during the day! 

Loisaba Starbed

Laikipia District is a vast plateau to the north west of snow-capped Mount Kenya, straddling the equator at the heart of Kenya’s Rift Valley Province. It spans an area of over 3700 square miles. The Laikipia plains stretch from the Great Rift Valley to magnificent escarpments that descend into the Northern Frontier District. These plains are physically diverse and scenically spectacular, covered by open grasslands, basalt hills, lonely kopjes and dense cedar forests, fed by the Ewaso Nyiro and Ewaso Narok rivers.  Cattle rearing on large commercial ranches and community owned rangelands has for many years been the life-blood of the community. As so much of Laikipia has traditionally been used for low intensity grazing it has become a cherished haven for big game. The full cross-section of landowners is intimately involved in conservation, and the combination of abundant wildlife and exceptional scenic beauty provides the basis to many new developments in high quality ecotourism.  The key to Laikipia’s allure is its diversity – its wildlife, landscape, people and climate. The accommodation here mirrors that diversity. Guests can frequent the exclusive haunts of film stars, royalty and artists or camp under the stars in a Maasai boma. On Mount Kenya lie beautiful log cabins, and only a few miles away but 6000 feet lower there are small intimate lodges with cooling rock-hewn swimming pools – its all here in Laikipia. Laikipia is the ideal for a luxury safari that is also an active safari - on horse back, with camels or on foot – and along with traditional activities, many of Laikipia’s lodges and camps offer adventure activities like rock climbing, river rafting, fishing and mountain biking.  Over the past ten years the LWF has placed Laikipia District firmly at the forefront of Kenyan wildlife conservation, and it is increasingly acknowledged as one of the most important areas for biodiversity in Kenya. Wildlife population densities in the Laikipia region now rank second to the internationally renowned Maasai Mara ecosystem, whilst the diversity of large mammals is higher than in any other part of Kenya. Laikipia and the Ewaso ecosystem are home to the second largest population of elephant in Kenya (6,000+) and Laikipia hosts the highest populations of endangered species in the country. 

Laikipia supports eight heavily protected rhino sanctuaries, which together hold over half of Kenya’s black rhino population. The Ewaso also provides a safe haven for endangered Grevy’s zebra (70% of the world’s population), reticulated giraffe, and the only viable population of Lelwel hartebeest in the country, as well as Africa’s only expanding population of wild dog and significant numbers of other large predators. Set in 61,000 acres on the escarpment with panoramic views, facilities at the lodge include the Spa, swimming pool and tennis court. Additional activities include horse riding, bush walking, cultural visits day and night game drives, rafting and camel trekking. Days 11-12:                                            Laikipia                                                                           Loisaba Lodge   

Enjoy two of the most wonderful days you can spend in Africa. Ride horses and camels, go on night drives or bush walks. Visit a native village or relax around the pool. Take game drives into the wilderness area. Spend your last night in the famous Starbed where the only thing between you and the unbelievably star-filled sky is the netting. Marvelous! Day 13:                                                  Masai Mara                                                             Cottars Camp    

You will be on the early morning flight to the Masai Mara as you continue your incredible journey. The Masai Mara is widely considered to be Africa’s greatest wildlife reserve. With 200 sq miles of open plains, woodlands and forest the Mara is an awesome natural wonder, a place where Maasai warriors share the plains with hunting lions, a place of mighty herds and timeless cycles of life, death and regeneration. This is truly big country with massive animals and cruel predators. There is an ominous, overpowering quality of this place that evokes a primitive feeling of fear and wonder. You will never forget the Mara. You will be met by the camp’s representatives and transferred to the magnificent Cottars Camp. The Cottar’s 1920’s Mara Safari Camp experience returns to the original spirit and essence of a luxury safari, reminiscent of a golden bygone era, and era of romance, adventure and elegance. Here one will experience the ultimate in personalized service and guiding.

Cottar's 1920's Safari Camp

Cottar’s 1920’s Safari Camp accommodates up to 16 guests in authentic, spacious white canvas tents. The camp has 8 tents, each with a canopied verandah and carefully arranged to ensure privacy. Each tent at this Kenya accommodation is luxuriously furnished with safari antiques from the 1920s, private en-suite dressing rooms/bathrooms with safari style tubs, showers and flush toilets. This Kenya accommodation is equipped with a tented library/reading room and the cuisine and silver service is of the highest standard to be found in the bush. Services and prices are all-inclusive encompassing personalized guiding and walking, fine silver service cuisine, free flowing alcohol, massages, picnics, library, fishing and swimming and dedicated butlers. There will be a game drive in the camp’s 4 x 4 vehicle and then a relaxing sundowner and a fabulous dinner. Days 14-15:                                                   Masai Mara                                                            Cottar's Camp Spend the last two days of your odyssey amongst the huge number of animal and bird species. Marvel at the Circle of Life that has been here since the beginning… Day 16:                                                       Nairobi Airport  

You will leave the wonderful Masai Mara this morning and arrive in Nairobi for lunch. We plan to take you to the Giraffe Center where you can feed the giraffes by hand from a platform and then to the Karen Blixen Museum. If you prefer shopping we can make that change. Your last meal on this Luxury Safari will be at the world famous Carnivore Restaurant where you can sample the meats of some of the animals seen on safari. Huge waiters come to your table with enormous pieces of meat and cut off a slice with very impressive carving knives. For those of you who may not be enthralled with this culinary opportunity, traditional meals are available. If anyone asks you at home what crocodile tastes like, the answer is chicken! After dinner it is off to the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport for your flight home. Day 17: Arrive Home

It is our fond hope that you will always remember Africa, the gentle people, the Circle of Life and our animals...our magnificent animals!

Asante Sana!

Contact us: 516.200.5016

Welcome to Journey Beyond

Every great journey begins with good advice…

At Journey Beyond, we have more than four decades’ experience in making people’s travel dreams come true. Our expertise is based on having been to all the destinations we recommend. The more we travel, the more passionate we become about creating tailor-made African experiences and luxury safaris.

By getting to know you and what’s important to you, we’ll be able to create your perfect African itinerary. Africa has an amazing amount to offer, and it’s our pleasure to introduce you to the very best of this intriguing, beautiful content.

Safari holidays Over the years, we’ve developed friendships with operators and suppliers across Africa. That lets us create the kind of luxury African safari tours and experiences that are not just a holiday, but a life-changing event you’ll never forget.

And if your ideal of the perfect African holiday is more seaside than safari, our sister company Private Ocean Islands know the Indian Ocean and its secret spots better than anyone.

Let’s Journey Beyond the ordinary…

Inspiration, destinations, travel truths, africa travel experts, hot right now, let’s talk, why let journey beyond plan your africa experience.

At Journey Beyond, we’ll always go the extra mile to help you experience the real Africa, from unspoiled wilderness to vibrant cities.

Africa will exceed your expectations: it’s more exciting and colourful than you could ever have imagined. Whatever your passion, you’ll be able to live it in Africa. Sharing a trip here with the people who mean the most to you will create lifelong memories of breath-taking beauty, dramatic scenery and incredible wildlife encounters.

Luxury African safari tours

Travel in Africa has come a long way. Luxury lodges, world-class hotels and expert guides await you. The only challenge that remains is choosing where to go and what to include on your itinerary.

That’s where we come in. To be sure that your African travel experience is everything you could have wanted – and more – talk to one of our Africa travel experts today and begin a journey beyond your wildest dreams.

EXPERT KNOWLEDGE We’ll only ever recommend destinations that we’ve visited ourselves. Across our team of travel experts, we’ve done extensive Africa tours and we have the up to date knowledge needed to suggest the best possible hotels, lodges, reserves, islands and experiences.

INDEPENDENT ADVICE We know everyone who’s anyone in African travel, but we’ve always fiercely maintained our independence. That lets us create custom itineraries designed to suit you. Our starting point will always be what you want to gain from your luxury African safari.

LOCAL IS LEKKER We’re proudly African in our outlook, and we’re passionate about sharing the continent we call home. We’ve remained curious about Africa, and we all travel regularly in search of new and exciting destinations and Africa experiences.

RELATIONSHIPS Even more than a travel company, we’re a people company. We leave no stone unturned in creating the very best Africa tour packages and we focus entirely on your needs – before and during your trip. That explains why so many of our clients return again and again.

PEACE OF MIND

Travel carefree knowing that we’re here for you. Our Africa travel experts can be reached at any time, and we’re always here to help in the unlikely event of you experiencing any difficulties during your trip. After all, you’re here to get away from stress.

We can provide a full arrival-to-departure service, from the minute you step off your flight. This can include assistance through airport immigration control all the way through to seeing you off again for your final departure.

GIVING BACK Travel can change lives here in Africa, as well as yours. We actively support destinations and suppliers that are genuinely committed to conservation and social upliftment, so that we can recommend luxury African safaris that will make a positive, lasting contribution.

Our Affiliates

Journey Beyond is proud to be associated with these fine airlines, trade associations and travel shows:

• Guest Reviews

“ It is always important to be in good hands when traveling, but I think that when you are going to travel to Africa, even more so. We traveled through Southern Africa combining four countries (Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa and Mozambique) at a time that due to the COVID is more complicated for all that it implies (Forms, PCR Test on each country, etc..) and everything has been wonderful. Working the trip with Journey Beyond has been an incredible experience, everything has been very simple, always to our liking and during the trip everything was perfect, we have felt safe throughout the trip and they were always attentive to how everything was going in case we had to change anything. If you are thinking of traveling to Africa, do not think twice, travel with the best. ” Javier Spain

“ Our experience with Journey Beyond has been extraordinary. Every detail of our adventure was thought out in a collaborative effort with expertise from the entire team from Journey Beyond. Due to COVID there were changes that were immediately shared with us and options for us to consider. At the end of the planning, the trip was the most memorable adventure and experience I have had in my lifetime. I am so grateful for the attention to detail and allowing our family to travel with everything sorted so we could maximize our time exploring and enjoying Botswana. It was an area that was on my “bucket list” of life and it exceeded all my expectations. Thank you to Phil Lategan and his team of experts. I hope that I can travel soon and use their services to explore the wonders of other areas of the world. They will be my ‘go to’. ” Mary United States of America

“ ALL was just fantastic, and we all are still having trouble verbalizing our trip!! It truly surpassed EVERYONE’s expectations and there is nothing that possibly was a bit off on their ends!! Although I have a group trip to New Zealand on the books already not quite sure HOW it can compare. YOU truly made me a HERO and a night didn’t go by that the group didn’t toast me…everyone was SO overwhelmed!!!! Thanks again for making me a hero!!! ” Teri United States of America

“ I have worked with Journey Beyond for years but only now have I had a chance to experience their product on the ground and it's safe to say I couldn't have had a better experience. All of our arrangements ran smoothly and on time with professional and engaging staff to answer any of our queries that we had along the way. I wouldn't hesitate in recommending Journey Beyond to anyone. ” Hanna Australia

“ You’re unbelievable, you’re off the cards. We went on this trip to South Africa, it was a safari. You worked relentlessly exactly around the parameters we had and made the trip extremely special. It was almost life-changing. We connected in a very special way with animals and nature… one of the top 5 highlights of my life. Great experience out there in the bush and it’s something that I’ll never forget. ” Torey United States of America

“ I wanted to say THANK YOU for coordinating an amazing adventure. Every moment of my trip was fantastic….from the minute Eric at Bidvest met me on the jetway when I landed in Jo’berg to my departing flight. As a person who does travel and logistics for TV shows for a living, I appreciate what goes into planning a complicated trip with a lot of moving parts. I also know the best-laid plans can sometimes go awry. As a tourist visiting these countries for the first time, I put my trust in you and I’m glad I did - there wasn’t a second during my trip when I wished I had done things differently. Give yourself a high 5, gold star and any other accolades. JOB WELL DONE !!!! I'm looking forward to my next African adventure… ” Stacey United States of America

“ I just wanted to thank you because I talked to my and he told me had the best experience at his trip organized with Journey Beyond. Your services and attention were beyond his expectations. Thank you for everything. ” Maria Chile

“ You did a GREAT job planning this trip for us. Everything was planned well, flowed very smoothly. We all had a fantastic time and I don't think there's anything significant I would change. Thank you SO MUCH for helping us. We truly had an incredible journey, and I hope to be back someday! ” Gary United States of America

“ I would like to share with you my client’s feedback. He loved his trip and said that the quality of services was “impeccable”. He loved all the hotels. So thank you for everything! ” Adriana Brazil

“ We can't begin to thank you enough for planning a PERFECT trip for us. You thought of every detail! We loved each of the lodges, we loved the sequence of our activities, and we greatly needed and appreciated all of the people you provided for pickups, airport support, etc. We look forward to singing your praises on social media and Trip Advisor. ” Lois United States of America

“ Thank you for all your help. We are grateful to you and all the Journey Beyond team for endeavouring to help. Such service and commitment is rare these days. I shall have no hesitation in recommending your company for African adventures. ” James United Kingdom

“ I just spoke with the client about her trip. She said the trip was absolutely flawless. They loved the combination of properties and had wonderful weather in Mozambique. ” Katie United States of America

“ We have returned for our African trip and we would like to thank you for arranging a great family holiday. All the internal flights, transfers and accommodation arrangements worked out beautifully. We all had the best time! We observed all the top five and more, the guides were very knowledgeable and super friendly. Overall it was the best family holiday, the activities were great but it was the people of South Africa and Zimbabwe that made the holiday. Thanks again for organising our holiday. ” Tom Australia

“ I would like to thank you for turning our trip to Africa into an incredible and unforgettable family adventure. We have loved every moment of our trip and every time we thought this place or lodge was the best it even got better on the next one. Well done! The logistic of our trip was flawless. All transport by car, boat or plane have been smooth and we were informed about our flight departure from each lodge the day before. Thank you for choosing these great lodges and the order of them as it has built a natural treasure hunt always trying to spot an animal in a previous camp and getting to see it in the next one. We would have never thought of seeing a lion or leopard on our African trip when we were in River Lodge in Zimbabwe! And we actually got to see 31 lions and 7 leopards in total!!! I enjoyed travelling in rainy season as we loved seeing the lush greenery, baby animals and the rain was rather welcoming cooling the temperatures down...Good piece of advice! So once more thank you for this amazing trip as it is one of our most adventurous family trips ever! Well done! ” Andrea France

“ The folks at Journey Beyond were extremely helpful and professional, dealing with many changes, special dietary need issues, and coordinating with another family's travel plans. They also made great recommendations and sent us a complete printed itinerary with everything documented. I don't know how we would have done it without them! ” Eric United States of America

“ Memorable! Fascinating! Life changing! Thrilling! Perfection! I had the most positive experience with Mable, Lauren and Phillip of Journey Beyond! The itinerary they planned for me was flawless. This trip was everything we wanted and from the moment we arrived the entire journey including flights, transfers to the lodges and tours were well coordinated. The accommodations were luxurious, the food outstanding and the game viewing was indescribable. Our entire trip from Botswana to Zambia to South Africa was way beyond our expectations. ” Pamela United States of America

“ Excellency from start to finish! I travelled with Journey Beyond twice this year and could not have been more impressed with the service and team. Attention to detail, quick replies and extensive knowledge before travel, and incredible dedication and quality of services, from hotels to transfers to guides. Journey Beyond excels from travel planning to delivery, and I would not consider a visit to Africa without their guidance. ” TJ Brazil

“ Most amazing trip ever perfectly planned by Journey Beyond. My wife and I spent 2 weeks in South Africa in February and it was one of the most, if not THE most amazing trip we have ever taken and we can thank Journey Beyond for making it happen for us. From start to finish we experienced so many different adventures while we were in South Africa from Safari to Beaches to Wine Tastings. Journey Beyond made the trip so memorable for us and by FAR helped exceed our expectations. We are so thankful that we used them to plan our vacation and would highly recommend them to anyone who is looking to get the full South African experience. We hope to make it back and will certainly use them again! ” Pat Switzerland

“ Journey Beyond made all the arrangements for us (two couples) travelling through Botswana and South Africa – it was a trip of a lifetime. Every detail was looked after professionally. We couldn't imagine better service. The itinerary was created personally for us. Journey Beyond selected exactly the kind of hotels and resorts we were interested in. We have recommended them to several other travellers who all come back raving about their trip. ” Jean-Pierre Canada

“ Thanks for everything! The trip was perfectly organized and Zimbabwe is a great place once again!!!!! Maybe the best experiences I had in 21 years of going on safari. It was really worth going there and seeing the places. I will return to Hwange and Mana Pools. Thanks again for organizing this trip! ” Jochen Austria

“ The best experience ever! If there truly is a vacation of a lifetime, our Journey Beyond safari was it. Journey Beyond was the key difference that turned our adventure into the most exciting, beautiful and unforgettable experience ever. First off, we never once had to worry about any of the travel logistics. Journey Beyond took care of everything. There was a Journey Beyond representative at the airport gate literally walking us to the front of the customs line, picking up our bags, making sure our hotel rooms were ready. We even enjoyed a beautiful dinner at the owners home. With all the VIP attention we were getting, we had other travellers wondering why we were so special. Moving on to the safari itself, Journey Beyond made great accommodation recommendations. We chose the Singita Lodge. The lodge staff knew well in advance that we will be celebrating my wife's 50th birthday. She spent her birthday like no other. Turning 50 never felt so good. The entire lodge crew came out to sing her happy birthday. Our safari guide surprised my wife with a white linen-draped table with champagne and treats at sunset right out in the middle of the bush. Seriously, I almost thought I heard the theme song to "Out of Africa" at that moment. Returning from the afternoon trek, dinner was already set up for her in our room with decorative flowers, rose petal bubble bath...on and on. You just can't get better than that! We consider ourselves well-travelled, but Journey Beyond makes every effort to ensure your vacation goes beyond your expectations! For us, they succeeded beyond a doubt! ” Edward United States of America

“ I had a beautiful trip in South Africa. Journey Beyond took care of an amazing 10 days trip with friends going to a Safari Lodge (Royal Malewane), Cape Town (Ellerman House), in the wine region (La Residence) and in the shark coast of Hermanus (Birkenhead House). In every corner we felt their care in everything. City tour in Cape Town with wonderful local tips, wine degustation during sunset, shark diving tour with a conservation group of people, safari tour with one of the six best rangers in the world... What I can tell is that I am now on my way to South Africa again, with my daughter, with the 100% guarantee that it will the best version of another Africa experience. ” Elaine Brazil

“ We have used Journey Beyond for all of our 'African' Adventures. They are without a doubt 'The Best in the Market'. Superlative service, attention to detail and value for money are key. We have travelled to Namibia, Mozambique, Botswana, Desroches in the Seychelles as well as numerous long weekends to Game Reserves. They will not disappoint. ” Nikki South Africa

“ We did not have a single issue so you did an absolutely terrific job, thank you for everything. Also we do not have a single complaint and everyone in the party was absolutely gob-smacked. ” David Australia

“ I would like to thank YOU again for the organization!!!!! It is always a big pleasure to work with all of you at Journey Beyond. Always well organized, always friendly, always quick in responses and much more. ” Alex Austria

“ I have just had James and Valerie drop in and advised me what a wonderful trip they had. They were beaming big smiles and had such joy on their faces as they described their trip. They had some upgrades and changes in accommodation along the way, that also were a very positive experience. And I thank you for having them so looked after, and any influence you had in affecting any upgraded room types etc.. And they are looking forward to going back again to visit more of Africa, and as usual the highlight is all the wildlife and scenery they experienced – as well as the wonderful Guides and local people and excellent food. So another more than satisfied African traveller returns – with their expectations exceeded . Just the way we like it. ” Maria Australia

“ The feedback was amazing. They could not get over the wonderful treatment and service. Out of the 21 day of safari, they never missed a game drive….could not get enough of it. They are most definitely going back. They were so cute. ..like little children with their exuberance. They said they can’t think of anything that would have made the trip better…So, well done!!!! ” Karen Untied Staes of America

“ We certainly had an amazing holiday. Not sure where we can start! Botswana was everything we had hoped for and more. Both lodges were excellent in every way and sufficiently different from each other to give us a wide range of experiences. The guides and staff were first rate and we managed to see virtually everything on our list and plenty more besides. The only animal we have yet to see is the elusive leopard so we'll probably have to go back at some stage! I've even amazed myself by becoming a bit of a twitcher as the bird life is stunning. Victoria Falls was so much more than I had imagined and really ought to be a must for anyone interested in natural wonders. The only falls we have seen before are Angel Falls and Canaima and I doubted any others will live up to these, I was wrong. Tongabezi was beautiful and service excellent. I seem to have run out of superlatives! Thank you so much for doing a great job. ” Alison and Peter Untied Kingdom

“ Unfortunately, this fabulous trip came to an end (as all good things do)! It was fabulous and awesome and it all went extremely smooth - with all the connections and arrangements. South Africa is gorgeous, the people are friendly and pleasant and happy and eager to please their visitors. You did a terrific job for us and we Thank You - it was incredible. We called this trip a "once in a lifetime experience" and now we are thinking twice about that statement - we're hoping to go back to Africa again because there is so much to see and do!!!! ” Errol Untied Kingdom

“ You were so right that once I got to Africa all that stress was left behind. The trip was beyond any and all expectations. Everything went exactly as you designed it and we loved it. It was far and away the best trip of our lives. The hotels (all of them) were elegant and had the best service I have ever received. ” Christine Untied Kingdom

“ I have safely returned from South Africa and Botswana. We had a wonderful trip in Botswana. And even if it was not the first trip it was lovely and overwhelming and mind-blowing at some moments. All was very well organized as I expected. Thanks to Journey Beyond for the perfect organization ” Dona Belgium

“ We can't thank you enough for ALL you did to make our trip absolutely perfect! The itinerary couldn't be improved! Our dinners with you made South Africa come alive...nothing beats being with people in their beautiful home and seeing life in South Africa first-hand. Love to your wonderful family! ” DeDee Untied States of America

“ We have used Journey Beyond for all our travel arrangements in Africa and the Indian Ocean. Their attention to detail is superb and they have far exceeded our expectations with their service - from original enquiries to follow up on return. If you want excellent professional service, use Journey Beyond. ” Megan South Africa

“ OMG....this trip is beyond amazing! We have loved every single moment so far...you guys listened to everything I said and planned perfectly.. we were the only guests in Tongabezi and Duba Plains.. we were treated incredibly...Singita and Duba were perfect choices for a thousand reasons but just what I asked for.. completely different experiences in so many ways and loved both! Christin...we did both the helicopter and Angel’s Pool in Livingstone after all that angst...both were amazing. Off to Winelands and Cape Town... thanks again! ” Ferne United States of America

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Safaris in Southern and East Africa, Primate Safaris, Kilimanjaro Climbs

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Safari + Chimp Trekking + Hiking

13 Days in Tanzania

Experience Nomad Tanzania's unique camps, which pop up seasonally and disappear just as quick, minimizing ecological impact and maximizing game viewing. Immerse yourself in Africa's natural beauty by safari vehicle and by foot – from the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater to the forested slopes of the Mahale Mountains, where chimpanzees go about their daily lives.

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We would be honored to receive your vote for this distinguished award. As our mission states, “Travel Beyond is a company of travel specialists dedicated to designing custom journeys that responsibly immerse guests into some of the world’s most inspiring destinations.” We trust that you have experienced this with us and that you will support us with Read more…

Multi-Generational Travel in Africa

Going on safari with my children is always a magical experience. The world opens before their eyes, with days spent under the African skies and amidst animals that are typically only seen in zoos or on screens; sometimes so close you can feel them breathing. My children have developed a keen appreciation for the natural Read more…

Loved your trip to Asia? Why Africa should be next!

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Those of you who know me or have worked with me can attest to the fact that there is nothing that gives me greater joy than traveling to Asia – the sweet aroma of spices and incense that clings to the air, the clanging of pans cooking up rice and noodles on the side of Read more…

I went on a budget and a luxury safari in Africa. Here's how they compare — and the one thing you really need to look for when booking.

Posted: March 14, 2024 | Last updated: March 14, 2024

• I have been on two glamping safari trips in Africa on two very different budgets.
• My all-inclusive stay was great but my cheaper glamping experience was fine, too. 
• Private game reserves are actually the most important thing to splurge on, not accommodations. 

I've been on two African safari trips . Both involved glamping but on completely different budgets.

My first more affordable trip, a lodge in South Africa with separate safari excursions, cost me about $1,100. My second, an all-inclusive lodge in Tanzania, cost me about $4,000 after a 50% off deal.

Here's how the two compare and what I think you should look for before you plan an African safari .

My affordable safari experience was at Jackalberry Ridge, where some tents cost $80 a night.

The first time I went on a safari, I went to Kruger National Park in South Africa. I didn't book a tour package, instead opting to stay at affordable lodging and book safari day trips to the park.

I stayed five nights near Kruger and one night in Johannesburg before my flight home. I spent around $1,100 for lodging, safari tours, a rental car, and food (not including flights).

After landing in Johannesburg, I rented a car ($130 for five days) to drive to my lodging in Marloth Park, a town bordering the edge of Kruger National Park.

I was staying at Jackalberry Ridge , a self-catering accommodation with no on-site restaurant, no room service, and limited housekeeping.

The one-bedroom tents at Jackalberry Ridge go for as low as $80 a night, and two-bedroom tents go for $135.

When I checked in late, there was no one at the reception desk — just an envelope with my name on it containing my keys and a map.

My main tent felt pretty spacious, with a king bed and a living-room area.

I had booked a two-bedroom unit (two tents), but my friend couldn't come at the last minute. Since I couldn't change the reservation, I still stayed in the two-bedroom unit and my friend paid her share.

The campsite came with a small pool to dip in, but it was covered as the weather was pretty cold.

Each unit had a private bathroom and kitchen in a building separate from the tents, so I needed to leave my tent to use the bathroom at night.

The bathroom was standard, with a tub, shower, and toilet.

This is glamping, so I had access to running water and a flushing toilet. I had hot water, but I found it went from scalding hot to cold in a few seconds.

I ended up taking quick showers and just washing my hair with cold water, which wasn't ideal since it was a little chilly in the morning.

It's also worth noting that Jackalberry Ridge was renovated recently, so the issue I had with hot water may have been fixed now.

I also had access to a kitchen in the same building as the bathroom.

The kitchen was well-equipped with things like pots, a microwave, and a sink, so I could cook meals or heat up leftovers.

I signed up for a couple of day safaris and did one at night.

Although I had a rental car and could've done a self-drive safari around Kruger, I didn't trust myself to spot animals while focusing on the roads.

Instead, I signed up for a couple of day safaris and one night safari. The safari tour prices often don't include the park entrance fee (about $25 per person per day), which I paid when I got to the entrance.

My three safari trips and park fees came to around $280.

I got to see zebras, giraffes, and more.

I saw a lot on the safari, including zebras, impalas, kudus, and giraffes. I saw lions and a leopard, although only from afar with binoculars. I even got a glimpse of the elusive rhinoceros.

I also spent one day taking another popular day trip in the area, the Panorama Route. This scenic road goes past Lisbon Falls and the beautiful Blyde River Canyon. The guided tour was $110.

As far as my very first safari trip goes, it was great. I got to see the Big Five , even though some of them were pretty far away.

For my next safari trip, I leveled up.

I saw a Travelzoo deal for an all-inclusive safari at Taasa Lodge , a five-star luxury safari in Tanzania.

The deal was $6,000 for two people for a whole week — the lodge is usually $12,950 for two for seven nights. It was still a splurge, but I'd be saving more than 50% on a bucket-list experience.

The package came with seven nights of lodging, two safari activities a day, three daily meals, and drinks.

Still, we spent more than the original advertised price. There are obligatory "daily government park fees" and "daily concession fees" that added about $893 per person to our bill.

We also had to take a regional flight to get to Taasa, which was more expensive than my rental car in South Africa.

To redeem the Travelzoo deal, we had to complete our booking through a specific travel agency.

We ended up opting for an all-inclusive add-on package which includes the $893 fees above, domestic airfares from Arusha to Taasa (which would already cost around $600), and our agency arranging our Tanzanian tourist visa and airport transfers. The add-on also included extra activities at the resort (more on that later).

Overall, we paid $1,715 per person on top of the $3,000 each for the lodge stay.

I hadn't anticipated paying so many extras, but it was nice to have someone take care of the logistics of getting to the resort.

My tent was luxurious and equipped with a comfortable king bed and a large living room.

When I arrived at the lodge, the staff greeted me with a glass of juice and a wet towel to refresh myself.

My tent was quite spacious. I especially liked that it had a desk and plenty of outlets I could use to charge my electronics. Our bathroom was behind our bed, and I was glad it was inside the tent this time.

We also got a butler who kept track of our schedules and made sure we had what we needed.

The bathroom felt spacious, with two sinks and a shower.

The shower's hot water was great and we had double sinks we could get ready at.

Another perk of the lodge is that we could have staff do our laundry every day, which meant we could pack less clothing.

There's a main lodge with a communal living room, dining area, and bar.

We got breakfast at the buffet in the main lodge unless we were going on a morning safari.

Most people ate dinner in the dining room, but we could've requested to have food brought to our tent.

We also passed a small pool next to the main lodge.

The pool was on the small side, but certainly had great views.

I didn't end up using it as my afternoons were filled with safari, and the mornings and evenings were chilly.

On the mornings with an early safari, we had a simple breakfast next to our Land Cruiser.

Safari breakfasts consisted of hard-boiled eggs, yogurt, doughnuts, bacon and sausage, fruits, and orange juice. Staff also made French-press coffee, which we could spike with cream liqueur.

Our Land Cruiser had a cooler of beers and sodas in the back, too.

At the private game reserve, we got pretty close to wildlife.

Taasa is located inside a private game reserve, which means staff can pretty much drive anywhere within it. This was a huge leg up from my day trips in Kruger National Park on my last safari.

Inside national parks like Kruger or Serengeti, you're only allowed to drive on designated roads for safety reasons (both for the tourists and the animals).

But in a private reserve, guides can drive offroad. Plus, the guides communicate with each other when they find something special.

We saw a bunch of animals in the private reserve and Serengeti.

We also left the reserve to spend a couple of days going into Serengeti National Park, as there were things you could only find there instead of within the private reserve.

For example, I'd planned my trip to take place during the Great Migration, and I wanted to see wildebeests crossing the Mara River.

We also went to Serengeti to find rhinoceros and hippopotamus.

Every dinner at the resort consisted of three courses: soup, an entrée, and a dessert.

The main course was usually some type of Western food, and there was always a vegetarian option.

It would've been nice to be offered more typical Tanzanian dishes, though. For me, part of the fun of traveling is learning about different countries' cuisines.

I also had access to an open bar in the main lodge. Staff could make simple cocktails, and there was lots of beer and wine. The drinks were all included with the price of the stay (except for fancy Champagnes and select wines).

One morning, we had a special breakfast on the plains.

On one day of the trip, we had a special bush breakfast. It was one of the extra activities we got with that special add-on package.

Instead of our usual safari breakfast, we had freshly prepared omelets in the wild.

We also got another special treat in the bush that morning — a toilet!

When you're offroading looking for wild animals, you can end up pretty far from a proper toilet.

On most safari days, the car stops (when guides think it's safe), and people go behind the car to do their business.

This was the only time we had this portable toilet while out on a safari. On my budget safari day trips at Kruger, we'd have to wait until we reached a rest-stop facility.

Again, we spent a lot of time watching lions.

After breakfast, we were back in safari mode.

We found a family of lions, and as we were in the private reserve, we were able to stay and watch the cubs play for quite a while.

At Kruger, when lions are spotted, traffic starts backing up on the road as all the safari cruisers stop to look, so you can't stay too long.

Here, we knew no one else would be coming.

On a different morning, our guide got a tip that another car had found a leopard sleeping.

The communication between guides in the private reserve paid off when one spotted a sleeping leopard.

When our group arrived, the leopard was napping on the tree next to his catch. Eventually, it came down, and we got a better look.

Our trip ended with a great happy hour and outdoor dinner.

Other activities that were part of our add-on package included a visit to a Maasai village in Kenya and a special happy hour and barbecue dinner.

And, for our journey home, the travel agency took care of everything, including transfers, until we boarded our international flight.

My big takeaway is that it's really worth paying to be inside a private reserve.

In my opinion, the difference between these two safari trips that's the most worth paying for is being in a private reserve.

After all, the main reason I fly to Africa is for the safari, not the glamping.

I much preferred my lodging at Taasa, mostly because of the bathroom. But if I hadn't had the 50% off deal, I'm not sure the full price would've been worth it.

Still, it was a wonderful experience, and if I had more money, I may feel differently. Even so, the budget glamping was pretty comfortable and just fine for a week.

But again, as far as the safari experience goes, the private reserve is hard to beat. Being able to go offroading and get closer to the animals is quite the experience.

And if luxurious lodges are out of the question, private reserves can also be visited more affordably. Some lodges inside private reserves, like Shindzela or Rhino River Lodge, can cost around $250 per person per night.

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Discover Kenya’s iconic destinations

The most revered of Africa’s safari destinations, Kenya is located in East Africa and boasts the Masai Mara National Park, renowned for its abundant wildlife and annual Great Migration.

It is a country brimming with romance, thrill and adventure – nothing says “classic safari” quite like a Kenyan safari.

A Kenyan safari not only boasts spectacular natural beauty in one of the most unspoiled places on earth, but it also brings you up close and personal with Africa’s most sought-after wildlife.

&Beyond ensures that you experience a luxury Kenyan Safari & Tour like no other – no matter what your preference, be it a family-friendly holiday, romantic honeymoon or photographic safari that draws you to the African continent.

Our favourite reasons to travel

From exceptional offers to not-to-be missed tours and experiences, here are our favourite reasons to explore kenya that matched your preferences, tailormake your stay.

Talk to one of our travel specialists to tailormake you stay to any of our destinations

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Stories to inspire, our selection of kenya stories from the bateleur magazine, our travel specialists, we're on hand to make your tailor-made adventures come true, i dream of travel that leaves our world a better place.

You’re just 5 easy (and fun) steps away from creating your ideal Travel Dream Board.

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Discover the impact legacy that your travel with &beyond is driving. just as the un’s sustainable development goals have been a touchstone for our vision 2020 group-operation sustainability audits, so they continue to guide and underpin our ambitiously scaled vision 2030 goals., we're sorry but this site doesn't work properly without javascript enabled., please enable it to continue., privacy overview.

Moscow Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 63 most popular moscow trips. compare tour itineraries from 45 tour companies. 308 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating., popular moscow tours.

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Winter

• Explore the majestic St Petersburg & Moscow on private city tours
• Admire the rich Russian history, art and architecture
• Travel to Moscow on a highspeed train
• Enjoy the local cuisine in stylish restaurants

Golden Ring of Russia

Lower Volga Voyage

• Visit magnificent Red Square and Kremlin and examine the collection at theKremlin’s State Armory.
• Experience Russia’s diverse musical traditions at lively folk music performances
• Explore Volgograd, the site of the decisive battle of World War II’s eastern front

Best of Russia

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

Highlights of Russia

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Summer

White Russian - 7 days

• Discover Moscow's UNESCO-listed Red Square, home to spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum and the historic GUM Department store
• Explore the grounds of Moscow's mighty Kremlin, with its numerous governmentbuildings, gold-domed cathedrals and the giant tsar bell
• Celebrate New Year's Eve in Moscow!
• Take in the highlights of St Petersburg including a guided tour of the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the remarkable Hermitage Museum at the Winter Palace

All Moscow , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Moscow

Small Group Moscow Tours

Vodka Shot - 6 days

• Explore the beautiful city of St Petersburg, including the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt
• Marvel at the dazzling array of art and exhibits in the world-famous Hermitage Museum, at the Winter Palace in St Petersburg
• Discover a lavish residence of the tsars on a day trip to Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo (winter: mid-October to April) or Peterhof Palace and gardens (summer: May to mid-October)
• Take in the highlights of the capital on a walking tour, visiting Moscow's famous Red Square, home to the historic GUM Department Store, Lenin’s Mausoleum and spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the Moscow Kremlin, Russia’s political power house. Stroll around the grounds of this fortified complex, visit the Kremlin's cathedrals and see the mighty Tsar Bell

Route of the Romanovs - 10 days

• Learn about the last days of the Romanovs in Yekaterinburg, visiting the sites where Tsar Nicolas II and his family were assassinated and buried
• Straddle two continents at the famous obelisk Europe/Asia border marker in Yekaterinburg
• Experience the Trans-Siberian railway on an overnight train journey from Moscow to Yekaterinburg

New Year's in Moscow - 9 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo on Christmas Day and marvel at the incredible Amber Room
• Spend a night in Novgorod, an ancient city by the Volkhov River - explore the kremlin, cathedral and other sights and enjoy a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

Back in the USSR - 7 days

Russian Revolution - 9 days

• Visit historic Novgorod, an ancient city which straddles the Volkhov River. Explore the attractive riverside kremlin and experience a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

The Snowball - 6 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo and marvel at the incredible Amber Room

Mood for Moscow - 4 days

• Head underground to visit a Stalinist-era Soviet Bunker on an optional excursion
• Stroll to the vibrant Izmailovo Market, which lies behind the walls of an ancient Kremlin, and shop for an array of souvenirs

Best Moscow Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

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Moscow reviews & ratings, capitals of the north.

some hotels could have been better

It was jam packed with every place I wanted to go and see. I especially love my photo of us setting out on the night time river cruise in St Petersburg and the Peter...

I really did not buy much and what I did buy was small gifts for others .

Johanna-Marie

Good hotels, some better than others. Interesting itinerary

Too rushed. Optional tour rather too short

See all Moscow reviews

Moscow Tours FAQ

1. Does Travelstride have all the tour operators?

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3. Can I trust the tour operator and trip reviews on Travelstride?

4. What does ‘Stride Preferred’ mean?

The Red Square and beyond: a guide to Moscow’s neighbourhoods

Apr 23, 2019 • 6 min read

The Red Square, Kremlin and St Basil's Cathedral in Moscow at night © Mordolff / Getty Images

One of the world’s largest cities, Moscow is a true metropolis whose ancient neighbourhoods are interspersed with newly built high-rises, inhabited by people from all over the former Soviet Union.

It’s also the city of rings: the innermost is the Kremlin itself; further away are the former defensive rings, Boulevard Ring and Garden Ring; still further are the Third Ring Road and the MKAD, which delineates the city’s borders. There’s an ongoing joke that Moscow Mayor is the Lord of the Rings. Most sights are contained within the Garden Ring, although for some more authentic neighbourhoods one has to venture further out. To help you explore Moscow’s diversity, we picked our favourite ’hoods – but this list is by no means exhaustive.

The Red Square and around

It can be argued that Moscow, or even the whole of Russia, starts at the  Red Square  – it’s an absolute must-see for any visitor. After standing in line to check out Lenin’s granite  mausoleum , go to GUM , Moscow's oldest department store. Full of luxury shops, it’s famous for the glass roof designed by one of Russia’s most celebrated architects, Vladimir Shukhov. Apart from architectural wonders, GUM has several places to eat including the Soviet-style cafeteria Stolovaya No 57 where you can sample mysterious-sounding delicacies such as the ‘herring in a fur coat’.

On the opposite side of GUM, Kremlin ’s walls and towers rise above the Red Square. Walk through the Alexander Garden  and past the grotto to the Kremlin’s entrance. It’s a treasure trove for any art and history lover: ancient gold-domed churches, icons galore and the resting place of Moscow tsars.

On the other side of the Red Square is Moscow's symbol,  St Basil's Cathedral with its multi-colored domes. Right behind it is the newly built Zaryadye Park , which showcases flora from all over Russia; another attraction is the floating bridge jutting out above the embankment and the Moscow river. A glass pavilion nearby hosts Voskhod , a space-themed restaurant with dishes from all 15 former Soviet Union republics. It’s a perfect spot for a classy evening meal and there’s often live music.

Patriarch’s Ponds

The Patriarch’s Ponds (aka Patriki) is a historical neighbourhood, celebrated in Mikhail Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita . Located right off Tverskaya street, Moscow’s main thoroughfare, Patriki recently became the city’s most happening quarter. It has some of the most elegant architecture, including several buildings by art-nouveau genius Fyodor Shekhtel. Narrow streets here have a cozy feel, with recently widened sidewalks and bike lanes. In the summer it becomes party central.

Start by checking out free exhibitions or one of the cutting-edge performances at the experimental theatre Praktika . But make no mistake, the neighbourhood’s main attraction are its bars and restaurants. Patriki’s residents are well-off Russians and expats, so it’s no wonder that  Moscow’s recent culinary revolution started here. Uilliam’s , one of the pioneers of this foodie movement, still rules over the scene with its floor-to-ceiling windows. Also try AQ Chicken  for everything chicken-related, Patara  for a taste of Georgian cuisine, and Cutfish for some great sushi. Finish your gastronomic tour with original cocktails at Pinch or the Moscow outpost of NYC restaurant Saxon+Parole .

Around Kursky train station

For a long time, Kursky train station was surrounded by semi-abandoned factories and the area was best avoided. It all changed in the late 2000s, when a dilapidated wine factory was turned into Winzavod , a mecca for fans of contemporary art. Today these red-brick buildings are occupied by some of Moscow’s leading galleries. After taking in all the art, pop in the small wine bar Barrell  for a glass from burgeoning wineries of Russia’s south or grab a bite at Khitrye Lyudi  cafe.

Right next to Winzavod is Artplay , another refurbished factory full of design and furniture shops and large exhibition spaces.  It’s also home to  Pluton , one of the latest additions to Moscow’s dance scene. Other Pluton residents are the multimedia art gallery Proun  and another lunch option,  Shanhaika , with authentic Chinese cuisine.

A short walk away is Arma, where a cluster of circular gas holders has been turned into offices, restaurants and clubs including Gazgolder  (it belongs to one of Russia’s most famous rappers, Basta). Apart from hip-hop concerts, Gazgolder organises regular techno parties that sometimes go non-stop from Friday to Monday.

If you’re interested in religious architecture, Taganka is the place to go. First of all, see the old Moscow at Krutitskoye Podvorye – one of those places where nothing seems to have changed in centuries. The monastery was founded in the 13th century, but in the 16th century it became the home of Moscow metropolitans and most of the surviving buildings are from that epoch. Take a tour of the grounds, and don’t miss the interior and icons of the Assumption Cathedral.

Your next stop is the Rogozhskoe settlement of ‘old believers’, a branch that split from Russian Orthodoxy in the 17th century. The settlement is dominated by an 80m-tall bell tower. The yellow-coloured Intercession Church, built in neoclassical style with baroque elements, has an important collection of icons. Next to the church grounds is the popular Trapeznaya cafeteria, with Russian food cooked using traditional recipes – a perfect spot for lunch.

A short ride away is Andronikov Monastery, which today houses the Rublyov Museum  in the old monks’ quarters. There’s a great collection of ancient Orthodox icons although none by Andrei Rublyov, who was a monk here in the 15th century. The main attraction at the monastery is the small Saviour’s Cathedral, considered the oldest surviving church in Moscow.

Finish the day at the craft-beer cluster around Taganskaya metro station. Varka offers both Russian and imported labels, with the Burger Heroes stand serving arguably the best burgers in town. Craft & Draft looks more like a respectable old-fashioned pub, with decent food, 20 beers on tap and a hundred types of bottled brews.

Khamovniki is Moscow’s ancient textile district, named after the word kham  (a type of cloth). Two main thoroughfares, Ostozhenka and Prechistenka, cut through the neighbourhood parallel to each other. The former turned into the so-called ‘Golden Mile’ of Moscow in the 1990s, with the highest real-estate prices and some of the best examples of new Russian architecture, while the latter is still mostly lined up with impressive 19th-century mansions.

Khamovniki is somewhat of a literary quarter, as several museums devoted to Russia’s best-known writers – among them  Leo Tolstoy , Alexander Pushkin  and Ivan Turgenev – popped up here during the last century. There’s also plenty to see for an art lover. The  Multimedia Art Museum regularly hosts exhibitions by some of the best photographers from all over the world, as well as contemporary art. Several galleries, including RuArts  and Kournikova Gallery , have also found home in Khamovniki.

When you’ve had your fill of literature and art, stop by Gorod Sad on Ostozhenka, an outpost of a local health-food chain, and order dishes such as pumpkin soup or grilled vegetables salads. Afterwards, head to Dom 12 , which is located just off Ostozhenka street. This restaurant and wine bar is frequented by the city’s intellectuals and its schedule includes lectures, book presentations and film screenings, while in the summer guests migrate to a lovely courtyard.

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