The Masai Mara often brings to mind thoughts of wide open grasslands, and the apex predators that roam them terrorising the herds of herbivores. Unfortunately these days the most common predators on the plains of the Mara are humans, with thousands of tourists descending on the plains during the great migration, leaving behind a trail of ecological impact. So then where does one go for a life altering safari, with total seclusion from civilization, diverse game and absolute luxury. We do have a few favourites that fit the bill, from landscapes as diverse as the tundra, to vast deserts and stunning marshes. 

Okavango Delta | Botswana | Best for Big Game, Luxury Camping, Birdwatching

The world's largest inland delta, the Okavango is a true phenomenon, which has to be experienced to be believed. Encompassing over 10,000 square miles, the delta is formed when the Okavango River flows into the sands of the Kalahari, in a vain effort to reach the sea creating a vast swamp populated by herds of buffalo, elephants, lions and a huge number of species. 

One major part of what makes the okavango so amazing is the model followed by the botswana government, which relies of large private conservations to keep the ecological impact to a minimum. On a day of game driving here it will be very rare to see another vehicle, let alone the throngs that impact other parks. The exclusivity of this model has led to the development of some of the world's best luxury camps, which feature stunning accommodations and award winning cuisine. 

Our Picks - The Duba Plains Camp - Run by the great plains conservation group, the Duba Plains camp in northern Okavango is one of the best places in the world to see lion hunts. Pair this with the stunning accommodations and Chef Herman's food, and it's the perfect luxury safari destination. Note - There is a high chance of seeing a live kill, which some people may be sensitive to. 

Zafara Camp - Another of Joubert's masterpiece camp's the Zafara Camp is one of the best safari camps in the world, not just Africa. Botswana's only Relais and Chateaux property, the views from this camp are simply stunning. Bounded by the Selinda Spillway, all the tents overlook a vast floodplain, frequented by elephants, hippos and the resident wild dog pack. Our recommendation, visit both these camps and take a helicopter between them to get a stunning view of the delta from a low flight. 

Kalahari Desert | South Africa | Best for Rare Animals, Big Cats, Desert Safaris

Most people think of a desert as vast and desolate, but the Kalahari is teeming with life. A rare green desert, the Kalahari is a mixture of rolling dunes, grasslands and mountains. This creates a stunning setting from where to explore this desert and it's wildlife. Some of the rare animal's that can be spotted here are the pangolin and aadvark, which are notoriously difficult to spot in other habitats. Desert Lions abound as well, with magnificent black manes distinguishing them from their grassland cousins. 

Our Pick - Tswalu Kalahari Private Game Reserve - South Africa's largest private game reserve, Tswalu kalahari covers more than 110,000 hectares, shared by no more than 30 guests at any point in time. Game drives here tend to be more focussed on tracking one particular animal or herd, to make the most of the more spread out game, and observe the animal's natural behaviour. 

Members get special benefits including complimentary massage treatments and a bush picnic.

Churchill | Manitoba Canada | Best for Polar Bear and Beluga Spotting

The frozen reached of the Arctic Tundra are a far cry from what most people would associate with a safari. But Churchill is one of the best places in the world to get up close and personal with one of the world's most fearsome predators, and one of the ocean's most playful mammals. This highly seasonal safari remains closed in winter to all but the most adventurous of travellers, but come summer, with the Tundra in full bloom, the wildlife comes out in force. Seeing the striking white polar bears against a sea of bright flowers is truly unforgettable. And if you're lucky the northern lights also make frequent apprearances in churchill. 

Our Pick - Churchill Wild - Most operators conduct tours in large vehicles. disrupting the natural patterns of the wildlife, and using bait to attract bears. Churchill wild conducts tours through the tundra on foot, giving guests the one in a lifetime experience of coming face to face with a polar bear without any barriers in between. As always the amazing guides are on hand to make sure everything is conducted in a safe and eco friendly way. The 2 lodges operated by churchill wild are also a luxurious oasis in the tundra, with great food and wine. 

Call your travel manager to know more. 

Arkaba | Southern Australia | Best for Native Australian Wildlife, Walking Safaris, Stunning Vistas

Arkaba is a place that is very difficult to sum up with words. A private conservancy of 60,000 acres, shared by only 10 guests at any one time, Arkaba combines the best of the Australian outback with luxurious lodging and unforgettable experiences. Some of the most common wildlife in Arkaba includes the 3 largest Kangaroo species, emus and even the rare yellow footed rock wallaby. 

Our Pick- The best way to experience Arkaba is on the Arkaba walk, a 4 day odyssey through the reserve with private camps set up in remote areas. Sleep under the stars in traditional  swag bedding, and spend the days exploring the reaches of the flinders Australian range. For the less adventurous traditonal driving safaris can be conducted from the main homestead.