great barrier reef tours helicopter

Great Barrier Reef Tours - Helicopter Ride & Reef Combo

You really need to see the Great Barrier Reef from above and below the waters surface to really appreciate the majesty of this World Heritage listed location and the best way to do that is on a helicopter ride and a Great Barrier Reef combo dive & snorkel tour. Barrier Reef Australia has the biggest range of Helicopter Scenic Flights & Great Barrier Reef Combo package tour deals that enable visitors to explore the reef in so many more ways. One of the most popular Helicopter & reef combo flights are our Fly/Cruise & Cruise/Fly packages where guests are flown out to an interactive pontoon in the middle of the Great Barrrier Reef where they can spend the day in semi-submarines, glass bottom boats, underwater observatories, diving and snorkelling. Guests can choose to return to port via helicopter or on the boat cruise. Some of the best scenic flights are to remote sand cays in the middle of the reef where you can land to swim and enjoy bubbles & nibbles. The choices of flights are endless and you can choose to fly from Hamilton Island or Airlie Beach in the Whitsundays, Townsville & Magnetic Island or from Cairns and Port Douglas. Just don't leave your helicopter & reef combo booking to the last minute as seat capacity is limited in all Great Barrier Reef locations.

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Great barrier reef tours.

• Helicopter & Reef Combo

You really need to see the Great Barrier Reef from above and below the waters surface to really appreciate the majesty of this World Heritage listed location and the best way to do that is on a helicopter ride and a Great Barrier Reef combo dive & snorkel tour. Barrier Reef Australia has the biggest range of Helicopter Scenic Flights & Great Barrier Reef Combo package tour deals that enable visitors to explore the reef in so many more ways. One of the most popular Helicopter & reef combo flights are our Fly/Cruise & Cruise/Fly packages where guests are flown out to an interactive pontoon in the middle of the Great Barrrier Reef where they can spend the day in semi-submarines, glass bottom boats, underwater observatories, diving and snorkelling. Guests can choose to return to port via helicopter or on the boat cruise. Some of the best scenic flights are to remote sand cays in the middle of the reef where you can land to swim and enjoy bubbles & nibbles. The choices of flights are endless and you can choose to fly from Hamilton Island or Airlie Beach in the Whitsundays, Townsville & Magnetic Island or from Cairns and Port Douglas. Just don't leave your helicopter & reef combo booking to the last minute as seat capacity is limited in all Great Barrier Reef locations.

Showing Results 1 - 24 of 24

Helicopter Flights Cairns - 30 Min Flight - Land 30 Min Vlasoff Sand Cay | ZM

Cairns helicopter scenic flights are available to a remote sand cay in the middle of the majestic Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

Departing: Cairns

Cairns Helicopter Flight & Great Barrier Reef Tour To Pontoon | by Nautilus & Great Adventures

Cairns helicopter flight and Great Barrier Reef combo package deal. A low level scenic flight of only 500 feet in a helicopter from Cairns is the ultimate way to experience the Great Barrier Reef.

Port Douglas Helicopter Flights - Sand Cay

Exclusive Port Douglas helicopter scenic flight to a remote sand cay in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef

Departing: Port Douglas

Pickup: Port Douglas

Helicopter Scenic Flights Townsville - Havannah Island Getaway

Exclusive Townsville Helicopter Scenic Flight and Great Barrier Reef Island Getaway, Havannah Island

Departing: Townsville city

Cairns Snorkelling & Diving Tours | Incl 10 Min Heli Flight

Cairns snorkelling and diving tour includes a scenic helicopter flight, optional semi-submersible submarine boat tour - discover the Great Barrier Reef.

Pickup: Cairns, Cairns Northern Beaches, Palm Cove

Helicopter Flights – Heart Reef - Whitsundays Snorkel Tour

Heart Reef indulgence helicopter flight and snorkel tour of Langford Reef departing from Airlie Beach.

Departing: Airlie Beach

Cairns Helicopter Ride to Vlasoff Sand Cay

Enjoy the ultimate Cairns and Great Barrier Reef experience with a scenic helicopter flight to your own private sand cay where you will snorkel the fringing reefs, enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch and relax on the white sandy shores of paradise.

Airlie Beach Helicopter Flights - Hamilton Island - Heart Reef - Reefworld

Airlie Beach tour boat cruise to Hamilton Island, Whitsundays Helicopter Flight, Great Barrier Reef snorkel tour all in 1 day.

Helicopter Ride & Reef Tour | Nautilus & Quicksilver

Fly Cruise - Cruise Fly or Fly Fly to the Great Barrier Reef, Scenic Helicopter flight coupled with a day trip to Ribbon Reef platform.

Pickup: Cairns, Cairns Northern Beaches, Palm Cove, Port Douglas

Helicopter Airlie Beach - Fly/Fly to Reefworld - Heart Reef - Whitehaven

Take a helicopter from Airlie Beach out to Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach and Reefworld pontoon to snorkel.

Helicopter Flights Airlie Beach - Snorkel Tour to Langford Reef

Take a luxury helicopter flight and snorkelling tour from Airlie Beach out to see the coral and fish at Langford Reef.

Scenic Flights Heart Reef - Whitehaven & Snorkelling

3 experiences in 1 day helicopter flights from Airlie Beach to Heart Reef, Snorkel Hardy Reef and land Whitehaven Beach.

Airlie Beach Helicopter Flights - Snorkelling - Heart Reef - Whitehaven Beach | Cruise Fly

Airlie Beach tour with Whitsundays Helicopter Flight, Great Barrier Reef Tour & Hamilton Island tour in 1 day.

Heart Reef Tours –Exclusive Helicopter Landing - Heart Reef – Snorkel

The ultimate Heart Reef and Great Barrier Reef tour in the Whitsunday Islands. 3 Hour helicopter tour to Heart Reef.

Departing: Hamilton Island

Pickup: Hamilton Island

Hamilton Island Helicopter & Reef Combo | Heart Reef | Whitehaven| Reefworld

Experience the ultimate 2 in 1 Great Barrier Reef tour deal. Helicopter flights, snorkeling and coral viewing, Whitehaven Beach.

Cairns Helicopter & Reef Flight | Green Island & Pontoon | Nautilus & Great Adventures

Great $$$ value Great Barrier Reef Combo Package Deal. Scenic helicopter flight, Green Island & Outer Reef pontoon. Great for non-swimmers.

Helicopter Flight Whitsundays | Hamilton Island Cruise & Fly Great Barrier Reef Tour

Whitsunday Cruise & Fly Great Barrier Reef Tour & Helicopter Flight Package to Cruise Whitsundays Pontoon Platform called Reefworld.

Hamilton Island Helicopter Flight - Whitsunday Fly-Cruise Great Barrier Reef Tour

Whitsunday Fly & Cruise, Helicopter Flight Package & Great Barrier Reef Tour to Cruise Whitsundays Pontoon Platform called Reef world.

Hamilton Island Helicopter Fly/Fly Reef Snorkelling & Pontoon

Indulge in the ultimate Great Barrier Reef tour experience with return helicopter flights to Cruise Whitsundays Reef world from Hamilton Island

Cairns Helicopter Flight & Great Barrier Reef Tour | DUCD | Cruise Fly

Great Barrier Reef Cruise & Fly Package from Cairns. 5 hours exploring 2 reefs, return to Cairns on a low level helicopter flight

Pickup: Cairns, Cairns Northern Beaches

Cairns Helicopter Ride & Great Barrier Reef Tour with Slide | by Nautilus & Sunlover

Helicopter & pontoon combo. Fly above the Great Barrier Reef, enjoy time on activity pontoon and cruise. Departs Cairns.

Cairns Helicopter Flight & Reef Tour | Nautilus & Reef Magic Cruises

Great Barrier Reef fly cruise scenic helicopter flight, boat cruise to Marine World, a two story pontoon Moore Reef, outer Great Barrier Reef

Helicopter Flight & Green Island Tour | Fly/Cruise

20 Minute Scenic Helicopter Flight, snorkeling, swimming, rainforest walks on Green Island

Heart Reef Helicopter Flights | Whitehaven Beach Helicopter Landing 2 Hours

Heart Reef Helicopter flight and Whitehaven Beach Helicopter Landing 2 Hours of brilliant scenery.

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An unrivalled aerial journey boasting majestic views & intimate encounters.

Fly to the iconic Heart Reef over the dazzling blues and greens of the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsundays and revel in its pristine beauty. Exclusive, extraordinary and truly unforgettable, our premium helicopter tours are experiences in the sublime.

Fly over the resplendent blues, greens and whites of the Whitsundays in the glorious Great Barrier Reef from the greatest viewpoint on Earth. Absorb the unparalleled views of the iconic Heart Reef and then land (optional) on a private luxe pontoon moored in the crystalline waters below to swim and snorkel in the lagoon that surrounds the heart-shaped reef.

EXPERIENCE THE WONDER

Soar over the colourful aquatic world of the Earth’s largest living organism, visit the iconic Heart Reef, and experience a once-in-a-lifetime premium helicopter tour of this dazzling region of Australia with us.

THE WHITSUNDAYS

Welcome to the Whitsundays, where superlatives and reality meet in a tropical embrace. The Whitsunday Islands are a remote group of 74 subtropical islands bathing in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef National Park just off the northeast coast of Queensland — approximately halfway between Brisbane and Cairns.

All our helicopters at Heart Reef Helicopters are maintained to the highest levels by a team of engineers at Helibiz and are fitted with emergency pop-out floats and emergency locator transmitters. We also provide headsets for all passengers, allowing for internal communication and noise protection.

+61 (0)7 4034 9000

GREAT BARRIER REEF HELICOPTER FLIGHTS

Scenic flights, charters & tours of the great barrier reef.

Only from the air can you truly appreciate the beauty, variety and sheer scale of Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef. This is the only place on earth where two UNESCO World Heritage Listed sites exist side by side, being Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropical Rainforest.

Change Location Cairns Great Barrier Reef Port Douglas Townsville Darwin & The Top End Horn Island

Helicopter Flights, Charters & Tours

Discover the great barrier reef.

Witness a vast panorama of sprawling coral reefs, tropical islands and sand cays merging seamlessly into lush rainforest covered mountains housing vast river systems and spectacular seasonal waterfalls with breathtaking views as far as the eye can see.

See it from our perspective! 

SELECT SPECIALITY

Experience the difference, experiences.

Explore the reef from above

GREAT BARRIER REEF HELICOPTER TOURS

Private charters, commercial services, emergency & rescue, how to find us.

Hangar 9, Bush Pilots Ave, General Aviation Aeroglen QLD 4870 Telephone +61 (0)7 4034 9000

Marina Point, 2 Pier Point Rd, Cairns City QLD 4870 Telephone +61 (0)7 4034 9000

WHERE WE FLY

Nautilus Aviation operates from 10 bases across Northern Australia, including Cairns ,  Port Douglas ,  Townsville ,  Horn Island in Queensland and Darwin , Kakadu (Jabiru) & Nhulunbuy (Gove) in the Northern Territory.

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Great Barrier Reef helicopter tours – tickets, prices, what to expect

Gracing the coast of Queensland, Australia, is the Great Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system on the planet.

As one of the world’s most ethereal natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Owing to its grandiosity and the vibrant marine life, the attraction is on the bucket list of most travelers and tourists.

While diving remains the all-time popular way of exploring the underwater paradise, helicopter tours are the go-to choice for people who want a unique, larger-than-life perspective of the reef system.

Moreover, let’s face it- diving doesn’t come easy to everyone.

Great Barrier Reef helicopter tours strike the right balance between adventure and playing it safe.

This article covers everything you need to know before booking a Great Barrier Reef helicopter tour.

Top Great Barrier Reef helicopter rides

# Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight from Cairns # Whitsunday Islands and Heart Reef Scenic Flight

# Outer Reef Odyssey Reef Scenic Flight

Table of contents

Best heli tours over great barrier reef.

Numerous helicopters fly over the grand reef, ensuring that there’s a perfect option for every type of traveler.

The tours include a variety of choices in terms of itinerary, duration, and much more.

Here are some of the best helicopter rides over the Great Barrier Reef:

Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight from Cairns

Embark on this 40-minute helicopter tour for a perspective of the Great Barrier Reef that few get to experience.

Set off on this scenic flight from Cairns.

Hovers above the vibrant coral formations and crystal-clear turquoise waters of the reef.

The unparalleled views of this natural wonder are sure to overwhelm you with its beauty.

Witness sights such as Green Island, Upolu Cay, Vlassof Cay, and Michaelmas Reef.

Take in the unforgettable views of Oyster, Arlington, Vlassof, Cape Grafton, False Cape, Double Island, and the Northern Beaches of Cairns, including Palm Cove.

The tour promises every passenger a window seat.

Cost of the tour (2+ years): A$219 per person

Ultimate Great Barrier Reef and Rainforest helicopter tour

Soar above the lush rainforest and thundering waterfalls of the Barron Gorge and the vast Great Barrier Reef on this 45-minute helicopter flight.

Soak in the exhilarating sights of Stoney Creek Falls, Green Island and Arlington Reef, Northern Beaches, and Palm Cove.

Beholding the aquatic masterpiece from the sky is a hard-to-come-by moment for the tourists who take this tour.

Cost of the tour (3+ years):  A$506 per person

This tour also comes in the 30-minute option for guests who are short on time.

Whitehaven and Great Barrier Reef heli tour

If you want to see both the Great Barrier Reef and the idyllic Whitehaven Beach on your trip but don’t have enough time, this tour is for you.

In a span of 60 minutes, you will see both attractions (and much more!) from the luxury of a helicopter.

As you approach Whitsunday Island, Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet will come into full view to take your breath away.

Buckle up for the next destination bound to stun you, The Great Barrier Reef, where you see some of its most famous reefs, including Hook Reef, Bait Reef, Hardy Reef, and the Heart Reef.

Make way to the Shute Harbour, where you will fly past Hayman Island, Hook Island, and Molle Island Group, with Whitsunday Island and Long Island adorning the horizon.

Fly over Mount Rooper as you see some ferries and smaller reefs and islands along the coast.

A hotel pickup facility is available for this tour.

Cost of the tour (2+ years): From A$725

Inner Reef Explorer helicopter flight

Gear up for the most exciting 30 minutes of your life on this private helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef.

Marvel at the aerial views of Green Island, its forest canopy, Mount Yarrabah, and False Cape.

Keep an eye out for marine life, like rays and sharks from above.

Your pilot will point you to the Arlington Reef, the Queensland coastline, and the Great Dividing Range.

You can also purchase an in-flight video of your trip after landing.

Cost of the tour (2+ years): A$399 per person

This tour also comes in the 45-minute and 60-minute option .

Outer Reef Odyssey Reef Scenic Flight

Take it to the skies with the 40-minute helicopter flight over the edge of the Great Barrier Reef.

On your way to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed attraction, gaze upon the Vlasoff Cay, Green Island, and Arlington Reef.

You can purchase the personalized in-flight video after landing.

Cost of the tour (3+ years): A$499 per person

If you want to combine the experiences of cruising and flying over the Great Barrier Reef, you can get the best of both worlds in the Outer Reef cruise plus heli flight .

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Airplane tours of Great Barrier Reef

You have other aerial tour options if your choice of aircraft is an airplane instead of a helicopter.

These tours span 60 minutes.

The Great Barrier Reef plane tours offer a hotel pickup facility and, alternatively, allow you to reach the meeting point.

These tours take off from the Whitsunday Airport.

Address: 12 Air Whitsunday Rd, Airlie Beach QLD 4802, Australia. Get directions

Here are some of the best plane tours over the Great Barrier Reef:

>> Whitsunday Islands and Heart Reef Scenic Flight

>> Great Barrier Reef, Heart Reef, Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet air tour

What to expect

Departure point 

Depending on the tour you have selected, Great Barrier Reef heli tours can depart from the following locations:

Address: Tom McDonald Dr, Aeroglen QLD 4870, Australia. Get directions

Address: 2 Pier Point Rd, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia. Get directions

Address: 12 Air Whitsunday Rd, Flametree QLD 4802, Australia. Get directions

Address: 21 Bush Pilot’s Avenue, Cairns Airport, Aeroglen QLD 4870, Australia. Get directions

The heliports are near public transportation.

The tours end back at the meeting point.

There are multiple take-offs daily, so book early to get your preferred time slot.

Timings of the air tours

Most Great Barrier Reef heli rides are operational throughout the week.

The Great Barrier Reef Scenic Flight from Cairns does not run on Sundays.

The first batch of these tours may take off as early as 8 am.

The tours may continue departures in slots up to 6 pm.

Ticket Exclusions

Gratuities and food and drinks are not included in your Great Barrier Reef heli flight tickets.

These tours also exclude any personal expenses you incur during the trip.

Restrictions strictly followed

Weight limits apply for safe and comfortable Helicopter rides over the Great Barrier Reef. A minimum and a maximum of passengers are required on these tours, failing which, they will be canceled.

The tours are not wheelchair accessible.

These tours are not recommended for people with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.

No other animals except service animals are allowed onboard.

Infants must be seated in the caregivers’ laps throughout the flight.

You must arrive at least 45 minutes prior to your scheduled time.

A valid passport or ID card is required.

Flight times are approximate subject to weather conditions.

Seating arrangements may often be in the hands of the tour organizers for a safe and stable flight.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your tour date. 

If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, a 100% percent cancellation fee is applicable.

No changes are allowed within 24 hours of the experience’s start time.

Helicopter tours require good weather. 

If the tour is canceled due to poor weather or non-fulfillment of the minimum number of passengers, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.

Related Reading

#  Sydney helicopter tours #  Melbourne helicopter tours #  Port Douglas helicopter tours #  Cairns Helicopter Tours #  Kakadu helicopter tours #  Uluru Helicopter Tours #  Townsville helicopter tours #  Darwin helicopter tours #  Brisbane helicopter tour # Hunter Valley helicopter tours

Recommended Reading

#  How to prepare for first helicopter flight #  What to wear for helicopter tour? #  How to overcome fear of flying? #  Why helicopter tours are fun #  FAQs about Helicopter tours #  Helicopter tour – how long to wait after scuba diving?

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Cairns City Tours

Cairns area, cairns river tours, reef day cruises, island day cruises.

Great Barrier Reef Helicopter Tours

Fly/Cruise Great Barrier Reef Half Day Tour

$489 per person Depart daily  12.10pm - return 4.30pm Ideal for cruise ship passengers or those with limited time who still want to experience the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy a 25-minute scenic helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef to meet the Superyacht Evolution. Spend 1.5 hours at Hastings Reef snorkelling before cruising back to Cairns whilst enjoying a late lunch and a complimentary glass of wine.

Great Barrier Reef 'Highlights' Tour. This tour is perfect for those with limited time and who still want to experience the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef. Departing Cairns at 12.40pm, enjoy a 25-minute scenic helicopter flight over the reef to meet superyacht, Evolution. Enjoy a late lunch with 1.5 hours at Hastings Reef snorkelling before returning to Cairns at 4.30pm

Fly/Cruise Great Barrier Reef • Sunlover Cruises

Adult $665 | Child 4-15yrs $545 Family 2A+2C $2255 Departs daily 12pm - 5.30pm 3.5 hours at the Great Barrier Reef Experience the ultimate adventure with a breathtaking 25 minute helicopter flight from Cairns to the Sunlover Pontoon at Moore Reef, located 54 kms offshore. Soar above the tropical rainforest coastline, glide over the sparkling azure waters of the Coral Sea, and marvel at the heart of Australia’s iconic Great Barrier Reef.

The 25-minute scenic flight between Cairns and Moore Reef delivers stunning panoramic views extending from the tropical rainforest-clad coastline, across the azure waters of the Coral Sea and into the very heart of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Your highly skilled pilot will share their local knowledge of the region while on the lookout for Turtles, Dolphins, Manta Rays, large schools of pelagic fish and even majestic Humpback Whales (Jul to Sep).

Perfect for all ages, the Sunlover Pontoon offers a fantastic day out for the whole family. Enjoy snorkelling, semi-submersible coral viewing tour, glass bottom boat and the newly added sun deck and the exhilarating Sunlover Sun water slide, ensuring endless fun and relaxation in the stunning marine environment.

Cruise/Fly with Sunlover Cruises

Cruise - Fly Great Barrier Reef Adult $665 | Child 4-15yrs $545 Family 2A+2C $2255 Departs daily 10am - 3.55pm 3.5 hours at the Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Cairns to Sunlover's Pontoon at Moore Reef, 54km away. Ideal for all ages, this ocean base boasts a new sun deck and the Sunlover Sunslide for family fun. The 25 minute scenic flight from Moore Reef delivers stunning panoramic views extending from the tropical rainforest clad coastline, across the azure waters of the Coral Sea and into the very heart of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

This great upgrade to cruise to or from the reef  on a  scenic helicopter flight providing reduced travel time and a unique aerial perspective that showcases the vibrant hues and sheer expanse of the reefs thriving coral gardens – an opportunity not to be missed! The 25-minute scenic flight between Cairns and Moore Reef delivers stunning panoramic views extending from the tropical rainforest-clad coastline, across the azure waters of the Coral Sea and into the very heart of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Your highly skilled pilot will share their local knowledge of the region while on the lookout for Turtles, Dolphins, Manta Rays, large schools of pelagic fish and even majestic Humpback Whales (Jul to Sep).

Cruise Fly Great Barrier Reef

$550.00 per person  3yrs+ Departs daily 8am - 3.30pm 4.5 hours at the Great Barrier Reef Experience the ultimate and best value day on the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy 2 reef locations, BBQ lunch and snorkelling equipment. At Hastings Reef, you will board a Nautilus Aviation Helicopter for a 25-minute scenic flight to see the magical colours of the reef & sand cays from the air while travelling back to Cairns.

Experience a full-day tour to the Great Barrier Reef, including 2 Reef locations where you will snorkel, enjoy lunch, and sunbathing, or you can choose one of our optional activities, such as an Introductory, Certified Dive or Semi submersible coral viewing tour. At Hastings Reef, you will board a luxury Nautilus Aviation Helicopter for a 25-minute scenic flight to see the magical colours of the reef & sand cays from the air while travelling back to Cairns.

Great Value Reef Day with Scenic Helicopter Flight

Adult $369|Child $289 4-16 years Great Value !! Save $79

Departs daily 8.00am - 4.30pm Experience the ultimate adventure value package on the Great Barrier Reef with views from above and below the Reef. Includes an awesome 10-minute scenic Helicopter flight to see the colours of the Great Barrier Reef from the air! Full day with two locations on the Outer Barrier Reef on board the luxury vessel "Evolution" including snorkelling, lunch and sunbathing.

Experience the ultimate adventure package and best value day on the Great Barrier Reef with amazing views from above and below. Enjoy a full day to two locations on the Outer Barrier Reef on board the luxury vessel "Evolution" including snorkelling, lunch, sunbathing and in the afternoon; you will board a Nautilus Aviation Helicopter for an incredible 10-minute scenic flight to see the magical colours of the Great Barrier Reef from the air! Departs 8.00 am Return 4.30 pm. 7.30 am Check-in at Reef Fleet Terminal, 1 Spence St Cairns

Evolution also caters to both dive beginners and certified divers. Scuba diving packages include a full dive & safety briefing, specialised top-rated dive gear, and a fully qualified dive instructor. Note some medical conditions and medication can exclude you from diving.

30 or 40 minute Scenic Reef Flight

30 minutes  $415 per person 40 minutes $520 per person Departs daily from 9am through to 4.00pm Experience a breathtaking 30 or 40-minute Cairns scenic helicopter flight to the outer Great Barrier Reef. Marvel at stunning coral formations and vibrant marine life with insightful commentary from our knowledgeable local pilots enhancing your understanding and appreciation for this natural wonder.

30 minute Reef Explore r $415.00 per person(minimum 2)

40 minute Outer Reef Odyssey $520.00 per person (minimum 2) Helicopter takes maximum 3 persons

Solo travellers welcome - subject to minimum numbers

Flights depart from Cairns General Aviation Airport - 15 minutes north of Cairns

30-minute  Great Barrier Reef scenic flight takes in the highlights of the inner reef. There is simply no better way to appreciate the sheer size and scale of the Great Barrier Reef than from the air. Expect picture-postcard views of the reef and an abundance of wildlife - sharks, turtles, rays and even whales (July to Nov).

A spectacular  40-minute  scenic Cairns helicopter flight will take you beyond the inner reef to the outer regions of the Great Barrier Reef, where the frequency of coral structures is outstanding. Explore more widely, watching out for the incredible reef wildlife flourishing in this World Heritage-listed icon. You will pass sandy Vlasoff Cay and on to the outer reaches of the Great Barrier Reef to provide you with the ultimate reef experience. The colours and textures of the reef and clear blue waters framed by the massive North Queensland skies provide unforgettable backdrops for the keen photographer to capture once-in-a-lifetime images. Our local pilots/guides provide informative commentary and insights into the history of the reef and its abundance of marine inhabitants.

From Outback to Island: Choose Your Queensland Escape Style

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Two very different stays, one state. Whether you embrace rainforest or reef, luxury is the constant.

Covering more than 1.8 million square kilometres, Queensland is a state of many stories. It’s the only place in the world where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites meet – the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest – but is also home to desert landscapes and contemporary cities.

With so much ground to cover, it’s impossible to experience the sheer diversity of Queensland in one trip. So, your next journey to the Sunshine State brings with it a choice: will you embrace the red sands of the Queensland outback, or dive into five-star island luxury in the Whitsundays?

Discover more about Queensland on the new season of  Luxury Escapes: The World’s Best Holidays, airing Thursdays 8:30pm AEST* on Foxtel Lifestyle.

Outback: Mt. Mulligan Lodge

Only accessible via helicopter or 4WD, Mt. Mulligan Lodge offers a true off-grid, back-to-nature experience, set on 69,000 acres of a working cattle station. Sitting in the shadow of North Queensland’s spectacular Mount Mulligan (Ngarrabullgan), this boutique lodge is all about secluded five-star escapism, with accommodation for just 28 guests at a time.

The exclusivity of Mt. Mulligan means service is super-personalised, with staff getting to know you – and your drinks order – by name. Revel in the expansiveness of it all as you zip across the station in your electric buggy to the eucalyptus-fringed weir, where you can launch off a paddleboard or kayak for a day on the water. Just make sure you’re back for sundown – an ice-cold glass of sparkling wine awaits at Sunset Bar, which sits on the water’s edge.

Delve deeper into the territory with a sunrise hike to Ngarrabullgan Gorge, where you can cool off in the waterhole, or spend an afternoon on the banks of the Hodgkinson River at Ah Bowers, floating around on tubes and keeping an eye out for local birds. End an evening with a private seven-course degustation under the stars or embark on a guided ATV tour through the valleys, arriving at Geraldine Falls lookout for a gourmet cheeseboard and sundowner.

Whether glamping in an Outback Tent or living it up in a luxurious Outback Pavilion, all accommodation includes LaGaia toiletries, three gourmet meals a day and access to facilities including the golf buggies, kayaks, paddleboards and fishing gear. How’s that for barefoot luxury?

Mt. Mulligan Lodge

Ultra-luxurious queensland outback lodge serenity with mt. mulligan views, island: intercontinental hayman island.

If ‘girt by sea’ is more your style, look no further than the island paradise at InterContinental Hayman Island Resort . Sitting at the northernmost point of the Whitsundays archipelago and the closest island to the Great Barrier Reef’s outer edges, it offers a prime position from which to uncover the natural beauty of the region. Choose your mode of reef discovery – dive, snorkel, sail or sea kayak – to get up close and personal with one of the natural wonders of the world.

When not looking for Nemo among the vibrant coral, the resort’s five-star facilities will leave you wanting for nothing. Take a dip in one of Australia’s largest swimming pools or curl up with a good book in a private cabana overlooking the lagoon. Seclusion doesn’t mean exclusion – five restaurants and bars cater for all your culinary whims from dawn to dusk, with contemporary Australian classics at Pacific, Mediterranean sharing plates at Amici and Pan-Asian with a twist at Bam Bam. Coffee connoisseurs need not be worried either: Grove Boutique and Cafe caters for all your barista-made needs, with a range of delicious grab-and-go options should the pool or ocean be calling.

Four distinct accommodation wings with rooms, villas and suites form the backbone of the resort, artfully intertwined with gardens, pools and of course, stunning ocean views.

The opulence doesn’t end there – tranquil treatments at Hayman Spa & Salon are designed to nurture and restore, while the curated private dining experiences, ranging from picnics on secluded islands through to chef’s table events, will create new core memories.

If you’re on the hunt for a little adventure, refer to the resort’s jam-packed activity schedule – nature walks, nocturnal tours, golf simulators, water sports and live music are just some of the options throughout the week. Fishing escapades, yoga classes and even helicopter tours can also be arranged with a little notice, giving you every opportunity to connect with the land and your inner Zen.

InterContinental Hayman Island

Iconic intercontinental hayman island resort with one of australia's largest swimming pools.

Discover more about Queensland on the new season of  Luxury Escapes: The World’s Best Holidays , airing Thursdays 8:30pm AEST* on Foxtel Lifestyle.

This season of Luxury Escapes: The World's Best Holidays is brought to you by Citi Credit Cards. This product is provided by National Australia Bank Limited, using certain trademarks temporarily under licence from Citigroup Inc.

Looking for more Queensland inspiration? Check out The Best Beachfront Resorts in Queensland .

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The 50 Greatest Luxury Hotels on Earth

We have compiled a select list of luxury properties that have ascended to a rarefied pantheon: classic hotels around the world that transcend trends to achieve genuine—and sustained—greatness..

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For the first time last year, Robb Report scoured the world to unearth the 50 best luxury hotels. The list we created became the ultimate cheat sheet for those who demand nothing but the very best in travel. 

In 2024, we’ve done it again—with fascinating results.

As always, the hotels we selected vary wildly: They might be centuries old, or they may have only just opened within the last year. Some are city-center hideaways, while others are country estates. They are exemplars of bleeding-edge, contemporary design and reassuringly retro. Nevertheless, they share one thing in common: a commitment to the best in luxury hospitality. 

This year’s methodology was the same: We tapped the brain trust of the travel industry’s five-star elite— RR’s 22 Travel Masters, who service the world’s highest caliber clientele. We asked each of them to vouch for up to 10 properties that they regularly recommend to clients. We asked them to explain in detail what makes that hotel, resort or ranch a true standout. This ensures that every hotel, safari camp or resort on our list has been tried, tested and endorsed, again and again, by the world’s pickiest travelers.

Unsurprisingly, there were many overlaps, with multiple properties receiving endorsements from several operators—these are the hotels which earned a spot in the top 10. The rest we have organized by geography for ease of reference. 

This year, you may notice some similarities to our previous list in the top 10 (as well as quite a few shake-ups). Most notably, the No. 1 spot was once again claimed by London’s finest: Claridge’s. Kudos to them. 

But there are plenty of upsets, too. Last year, we noted the absence of a few of the world’s major tourism hubs from our list—notably Hawaii and New York. We hoped that would serve as a call to action for hoteliers—and we flatter ourselves that it has. This year’s list includes two new standout hotels in both of those locales. 

From the wilds of remote Mustang to the familiar names in the capitals of Europe, we present our guide to the World’s Greatest Hotels.

1. Claridge’s | London, U.K.

If Judi Dench were a hotel, she’d be Claridge’s . This grande dame of the London hotel scene is a beloved, determinedly British institution that’s been part of English life for decades, yet it retains a youthful vigor. The hotel, which opened in 1812, outpaces even the almost-90-year-old acting legend; in fact, it just added a subterranean wellness center kitted out in signature zen wood and limestone by designer André Fu. What other hotel can count both the late Queen Elizabeth II, a regular, protocol-stretching lunch guest, and Mick Jagger as devotees? The Maybourne-operated property is a sister to sites in Beverly Hills and the French Riviera, as well as another London spot, including the Connaught, but it outstrips them all—book in at the Mews Terrace for a charming only-in-London experience on a discreet back alley. Unique Properties and Events co-owner Cédric Reversade calls the entire place “perfection” and recommends truffle French fries in the foyer washed down with a dry martini, and the service of the “divine concierges, Nigel or Martin” whenever you leave its walls. Ashley Isaacs Ganz from Artisans of Leisure puts it more simply: “It’s my home away from home in London.”

Doubles from $1,493

2. La Mamounia | Marrakesh, Morocco

Think of La Mamounia as a Moroccan fantasy made real, a too-much-is-never-enough maximalist fever dream that just underwent another refresh during the pandemic. Come here to idle in the gardens while nibbling on a Pierre Hermé macaron or sashay round the sceney pool in a couture kaftan; make sure to book a room that overlooks the gardens and that pool and sip a glass of Champagne or two on the balcony. It’s been a boldfaced bolthole for decades, whether acting as the de facto winter home of Winston Churchill or as a shorthand for tasteful luxury for celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and, more infamously, Anna Delvey. “It’s iconic and legendary, but it still stays current,” says Isaacs Ganz. “I love the Moroccan design throughout, the colorful tiles, the gardens where Churchill painted, the hidden courtyards and the traditional hammam.” Bonus points for its location, a few minutes’ walk from the souk.

Doubles from $570

3. Flockhill Lodge | South Island, New Zealand

One of the most lauded openings of 2022, this authentic working sheep station sits on 36,000 acres of pristine South Island wilderness. While the first guests arrived last September, the homestead property actually dates back to 1857. Today, it can accommodate just one group of one to eight people at a time. It comes with a private chef (who will fully customize your menus), glass-wall views of the Southern Alps, and an action-packed itinerary of activities—including hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, caving, and stargazing. You’ll probably want to board a helicopter, too. And when they say working farm, they mean it: There are 11,600 sheep and 450 head of cattle here. You can even play farmer for yourself, should you choose. “The clincher: It’s right next door to Castle Hill—Kura Tawhiti in Maori—also known as the birthplace of the gods to the pioneering voyagers from Easter Island, the Rapa Nui,” says Sandy Cummingham. “It was described by the Dalai Lama as the spiritual center of the universe.”

From $7,300 per night, with a two-night minimum

4. Le Bristol | Paris, France

The Oetker-operated Bristol sits in one of the best spots in the City of Light, per Red Savannah ’s Edward Granville. “It’s the ultimate location in the city boasting amazing views across the skyline, including Sacré Coeur and the Eiffel Tower,“ he says, of the property on the Rue de Faubourg Saint-Honoré. The hotel has its own appeal, too: Don’t miss the trompe l’oeil–decorated swimming pool on the sixth floor, and make sure to pause to pet Socrate, Le Bristol’s most important permanent resident: its in-house cat. Book dinner, too, at Epicure, its gourmet restaurant overseen by chef Arnaud Faye; try the macaroni stuffed with black truffle, artichoke, and foie gras or the on-site chocolate factory, which focuses on grand cru cocoas from around the world.

Doubles from roughly $2,054

5. Southern Ocean Lodge | Kangaroo Island, Australia

It was never any secret in Australia that Kangaroo Island was home to one of the world’s best resorts. It’s just taken a devastating fire and dramatic rebirth for the rest of the world to take notice. In 2020, the wildfires that incinerated nearly half of the island took the Southern Ocean Lodge , too. Four years later, it reopened in December. Max Pritchard, the property’s original architect, has created a near replica of the original. With 25 suites projecting from a central lodge—with the exception of a new four-bedroom suite looking over the entire property down toward the dramatic oceanfront—the mood here is serenely residential. The restaurant is ultra-refined, serving hyper-local ingredients, and the central bar is self service (as is the entire wine cellar, just grab what you want). Most come here for island excursions focused on stunning formations, rugged views, and unique wildlife, from penguins to koalas. “It’s the epitome of Australian contemporary coastal style and a luxurious gateway to uniquely Australian nature and wildlife experiences,” says Stuart Rigg of Southern Crossings. “Not only are there spectacular Southern Ocean views from every room but exclusive signature experiences included in every stay—like guided cliff top walks, stargazing, sundowners, and canapes served with the local kangaroos.”

From about $2,200

6. Shinta Mani Mustang | Jomsom, Nepal

The latest remote resort by exuberant designer Bill Bensley and Cambodia’s Shinta Mani brand, Shinta Mani Mustang opened not quite a year ago as the first luxury hotel located outside Nepal’s Kathmandu. Its 29 suites are located at 9,186 feet in the remote region of Jomsom, the gateway to the legendary Forbidden Kingdom. “Mustang’s short season and unpredictable weather has always deterred the luxury end of the market,” says Christopher Wilmot-Sitwell of  Cazenove & Loyd . “Bill Bensley’s dramatic hotel design gives the necessary comforts and finish for a harsh, high-altitude location while recognizing the cultural sensitivities of this ancient kingdom.” Expect floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the Nilgiri range and personalized private excursions to monasteries and mountains of the Himalaya, as well as horseback riding, rock climbing, cycling, archery, and helicopter tours. The resort is all inclusive and features a 60-seat restaurant, a bar, and a wellness center with two treatment suites. 

From $1,800 per couple per night, with a five-night minimum

7. NIHI Sumba | Sumba, Indonesia

Knocking Bali down a peg or two as the go-to tropical island in Indonesia, Sumba is finally getting all of the attention (and investment) it deserves. But that all started with NIHI Sumba . It consists of just 27 thatched villas (with private swimming pools and traditional Indonesian architecture) spread across 667 acres of minimally developed island splendor. While it was once best known for its world-class surfing, the resort now offers so much more, from chocolate making to beach rides on (and therapy with) Sumba stallions. Owned by investor Chris Burch (ex to famed fashion designer Tory Burch), the resort also “connects guests with purposeful experiences through the Sumba Foundation ,” said John Clifford of International Travel Management. “It’s the leader in eco-conscious luxury. It walks-the-walk of giving back.”

Doubles from $1,795 in the high season

8. The Fifth Avenue Hotel | New York, New York

A spot on Fifth Ave. isn’t just an address, it’s a legacy to live up to—and that goes double for a hotel and triple for a new, independent hotel (like this one) with something to prove. If you then go the extra step of naming your hotel something as generic and provocative as the Fifth Avenue Hotel , you damn well better deliver even more. Luckily, owner Alex Ohebshalom and designer Martin Brudnizki have delivered in the form of a reborn McKim, Mead & White building attached to a new 24-story glass tower on 28th St. Nodding to all that history is an eclectic, at moments psychedelic, design with 43 suites, including a Flaneur penthouse tricked out with an outdoor soaking tub and a Japanese garden that overlooks the city skyline. “Aside from extraordinary design, the Fifth Avenue has an independent spirit that sets it apart from the pack in one of the greatest cities in the world,” says Black Tomato ‘s Sunil Metcalfe. “Walking through the hotel, you feel the inspiration drawn from the founder’s travels through Europe and Asia, but done in a way that feels singular to the hotel.” And you don’t need to be a guest to get in on the madness. Just swing by the Portrait Bar for Osetra caviar and a hot dog au poivre or stop in Café Carmellini for dinner and drink from the roaming martini trolley.

9. Janu Tokyo | Tokyo, Japan

Located in a new city-within-a-city development dubbed Azabudai Hills in the heart of Tokyo, Janu is a sister property to Aman. Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy—with 122 rooms and suites on floors six to 13 of its host tower—Aman junkies will recognize the minimalist Asian-inspired interiors with contemporary European detailing. The best room is the Janu Suite, with 3,056 square feet and a residential atmosphere. “It appeals to repeat and first time visitors to Tokyo who do not want to be based in a business district,” says Isaacs Ganz. The Aman Tokyo next to Tokyo Station is salary-man central. “It offers modern Japanese style and a great shopping, dining, wellness and art scene,” she adds. Azabudai Hills, near Tokyo Tower, is a compact cluster of three vertically integrated high-rise and low-rise buildings erected at a cost of $4 billion. Luxury shopping, art, and high-end restaurants fill the lower floors. Naturally, that attracts a younger, hipper guest, and it doesn’t hurt that the price point is around 30 percent less than Aman Tokyo, explains Remote Lands’s Catherine Heald. “It’s for those seeking a livelier and more social atmosphere in a more vibrant neighborhood with more restaurants and nightlife in walking distance,” she says.

10. Amanbagh | Rajasthan, India  

One of the earlier sites for this luxe chain opened in the Aravalli Hills outside Jaipur when the group was still under the esthetic iron grip of founder Adrian Zecha; it remains one of the standouts. The rooms here are Mughal inspired—think elaborate latticework and domed roofs on individual villas—and the best, the Pool Pavilions, have their own private swimming spot (though don’t be surprised to see curious monkeys scampering around it, too) Jaclyn Sienna India of Sienna Charles loves the wellness programs offered here with customized programming and superb Ayurvedic cuisine, while Wix Squared’s Alex Wix raves about its location, where you’ll easily access often overlooked ancient Rajasthani ruins with few other tourists nearby. One true standout, per Wix, is the private dining options offered by Amanbagh. “They will serve dinner for clients not just in the hotel grounds, but also in and amongst nearby ruins,” she says.

The Greatest Luxury Hotels in Europe

Whether you’re putting on the Ritz or sucking up the sun in Italy, Europe’s time-honored hotels practically invented the white-glove service we’ve come to expect. The brands and ownership may have changed over the years, but nearly all our guides’ favorite stays are grand dames fit for royalty.

Åmot | Bygstad, Norway 

“It redefines luxury, but with a soul, a completely restored farmhouse done in impeccable taste,” says Gray & Co’s Cari Gray of this Fjord-region exclusive-use property , which sleeps up to 14. This is the ultimate outdoorsy getaway, whether you want to go stand-up paddleboarding to see spectacular waterfalls or boat the fjords to visit old farms that are unreachable by road and hike above the treeline. Steinar Sørli and Yngve Brakstad have painstakingly restored this homestead, which was built in 1885 by Sørli’s great-grandfather, earning accolades for their work in regenerative luxury tourism, including a Norwegian Heritage Award. Underfloor and water heating, for example, comes from ground-source heat pumps, while head chef Tomas forages daily for the fixings to create all the meals on-site. Indeed, nature at Åmot has been so unsullied by mankind that it’s almost unnerving, adds Gray: “You can drink the water right from the streams.”

From about $16,800 per night for six people, with a three-night minimum, all inclusive

Bulgari Hotel Rome | Rome, Italy

It was a true homecoming when Rome-born jeweler Bulgari—which started right in the Golden Triangle here, on Via Condotti—opened one of its five-star hotels last summer, its entrant among the numerous new luxe spots crowding into the Eternal City. It‘s a decidedly different offering, though, than the palazzo-style hotels that are commonplace here; instead, it co-opted a Fascist Era-building, in the Realist style Mussolini championed, close to the Ara Pacis. The bombastic structure has been reborn as an exquisite hotel, courtesy of Milan-based architect Antonio Citterio and his team. Scott Dunn Private’s Jules Maury recommends it to clients because “everyone seems to log your preferences and idiosyncrasies after a few hours of being on the property.” Don’t miss the supersized roof terrace, either, she says. It’s the ideal place for a sunset aperitivo where you can always find a seat.

From about $1,900

Gleneagles | Perthshire, Scotland

Sure, this five-star, 232-room resort in Perthshire an hour or so outside Edinburgh might be considered golf’s spiritual home: It has three landmarks, 18-hole courses, and a storied history as the site of the first playoff between Brits and Americans that’s now better known as the Ryder Cup. But you don’t have to be a putt-prone golf devotee to stay here, according to Isaacs Ganz, who calls it a “destination in and of itself for anyone who wants a luxurious getaway in the beautiful Scottish countryside.” Come to hike—the 11-mile Blackford route is a bracing way to explore the rolling landscape nearby—and to enjoy a snifter or two of whisky; Perthshire’s roster of distilleries may not include many household names, but some of Scotland’s oldest distillers are a short drive away, including Glenturret , which claims to be the oldest still-working site dating back to 1775.

Country rooms from about $800

Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc | Antibes, France

This is less a hotel than a mythical place made real, a Second Empire villa turned five-star pile wreathed in glamorous mystique: F. Scott Fitzgerald used it as the basis for the Hôtel des Etrangers in his Cote d’Azur–set novel Tender is the Night, while Taylor and Burton had one of their honeymoons here. When the French Riviera became a summertime playground for the fast set in the 1920s (via pioneers such as Coco Chanel), this hotel was one of its de facto clubhouses. It retains that role today, albeit for a more globe-trotting clientele. The star wattage remains undimmed, especially when it hosts the annual AmFAR gala each spring, a legacy of its close connections to Elizabeth Taylor; this year, Demi Moore chaired the fundraiser. Don’t miss a martini made from the hotel’s house gin, a custom recipe cooked up using botanicals from its grounds by the nearby Distillerie de Monaco, and it’s okay to marvel when you sidle up to a lounger on the first day after check-in. “It has the most iconic pool, one that continues to shine year after year,” says Stacy Fischer-Rosenthal of Fischer Travel.

From $1,150

One&Only Aesthesis | Athens, Greece

After decades of struggle, Athens is once again the place to be. Famed for soaking up yesteryear VIPs from Brigitte Bardot to Richard Nixon, its famed riviera is also very much back and perhaps even more glamorous than ever before. Last year, One&Only Aesthesis opened here on a 21-hectare beach and forest reserve, just 30 minutes from the city’s ancient marble marvels. The new resort features 95 bungalows and 18 residences that come with terraces, private pools, and outdoor showers. It’s also home to two sprawling multi-bedroom villas dubbed Villa One and Villa Nostos. “This new opening is a jewel in Athens’s crown,” says Metcalfe, who adores the resort’s modish 70s design. “What’s exceptional and standout is how they balance families and couples, discretion, and privacy, with a planned adults-only beach on the way and an exceptional kids club.” The resort is also home to the first Guerlain Spa in Greece. Its Mediterranean restaurant, Ora, is by Michelin-starred chef Ettore Botrini. Add all that together and Athens finally has a resort that can give the buzzy Greek isles a run for their money.

From about $770 from November to January; high-summer season rate from about $2,000.

Passalacqua | Lake Como, Italy

Few hotels manage to become instant icons, but the newest property from Grand Hotel Tremezzo owner Valentina De Santis has pulled it off just a year after she rebooted a private villa from the 1780s on the shores of Lake Como as this 24-room hotel. “It goes above and beyond any other place in Italy,” says India—and she warns visitors not to oversleep and miss the exceptional maritozzi or whipped cream-filled donuts served up every morning at breakfast. It has the largest suite on the lake, too, in the 2,700-square-foot Bellini, named after the composer who once played the piano here, as well as delightfully playful touches, such as a series of tunnels that lead to the new spa, which is accessed by a secret staircase.

Doubles from about $2,660

The Beau-Rivage Palace | Lausanne, Switzerland

Come here for “old-world elegance and incredible, lake-view rooms, not to mention close proximity to the Lavaux wine region” says Isaacs Ganz. Lausanne might be a minnow compared to Geneva on the same lake—it’s barely half its size—but as a destination, it’s far more appealing than that cash-and-cachet-powered city, with an emphasis on good living and luxury that’s epitomized by this hotel (and many of its past regulars, who included the Duchess of Windsor). None of the 95 rooms at this palatial property , which first opened in the 1860s, is the same, and the decor is an eccentric mishmash that combines every era since then, from Victorian fripperies to sinuously streamlined Art Nouveau. The modern spa is a major plus, with its own full hammam and indoor and outdoor pools—though why not just take a swim in the lake, where the water’s disconcertingly clean?

Doubles from about $577

The Ritz Paris | Paris, France

Sure, it’s a cliché, but for good reason: The Ritz has been synonymous with effortless Parisian glamour for decades, an insouciant ultra-luxe spot for the world’s most luxurious travelers since Cesar Ritz and chef Auguste Escoffier opened it in 1898. It was the backdrop to not one but three Audrey Hepburn moves in the 1950s and ’60s, yet still retained enough rock-star cachet to be the place where Johnny Depp and Kate Moss decided to fill a bathtub with Champagne. (The recently retired head bartender here, Colin Field, was in charge of cocktails at the model’s later wedding to Kills guitarist Jamie Hince.) Fischer-Rosenthal calls it a “crown-jewel hotel” and recommends the Coco Chanel suite, named after its most famous resident; the designer lived here for more than 30 years and often used the staff entrance to access her apartment for complete discretion.

Doubles from about $1,540

The Greatest Luxury Hotels in North America & Caribbean

New York? Los Angeles? Sorry, it’s all about the great outdoors for our travel masters and their discerning clientele. From five-star farms to ritzy ranches, you’ll want to pack your hiking boots for these escapes (or swap them for flip-flops if you are heading for a certain famed Caribbean society seat).

Amangiri | Utah, USA

The name to know here? Audrey Huttert. Kevin Jackson of EXP Journeys says the GM of this property is the reason he recommends it to so many clients. It was only the second Aman to open stateside, after Jackson Hole, and it took seven painstaking years of planning to workshop the footprint of the property, nestled in 600 acres of the southwestern desert like a series of concrete boxes half-concealed in the landscape. Come here for outdoors adventuring aplenty amid the national parks of Bryce Canyon, sunrise hot-air ballooning, and trails on horseback. Camp Sarika is the latest addition to the complex, with 10 one- and two-bedroom glamping tents (known as pavilions) scattered around 55 acres on-site as an alternative to the hotel proper. “The guests have a sense of luxury in a remote place with spectacular food and scenery,” Jackson raves.

Doubles from $4,200

Blackberry Farm, Tennessee, USA

The original luxury Relais & Chateau farm resort that lured private jets to East Tennessee, Blackberry Farm is still on top of its game after decades. Spread over 4,200 acres, this much-imitated, family-owned, working farm property offers just 68 five-star rooms. “Their local flare and over-the-top high-end service deliver the ultimate in luxury,” says Kevin Jackson. “The property has redefined farm-to-table food, and the wine cellar, attention to detail in every room and the grounds are amazing. But for us, it’s the sense of place, warmth of the staff and southern hospitality that sets it apart.”

King Historic Rooms from $1,345 and suites from $2,245 per night.

Clayoquot Wilderness | British Columbia, Canada

This high-end camp in the remote forest of Vancouver Island sets a benchmark in barefoot luxury, with tented camp rooms that don’t skimp on conveniences (think heated floors in the bathrooms) that act as the perfect perch for adventuring round the untouched landscape: Expect days filled with whale-watching, bear-spotting, biking. and rain-forest trekking. Its isolation is core to its appeal, the hard-to-reach resort worth the 45-minute plane ride from the city. “Arriving by float plane is always exciting,” says Maury, “And we saw bears, whales, eagles, and more as we took zodiacs around deserted beaches and sleepy backwaters in this extraordinary area.” Conservation is core to its mission, too: For more than 20 years, it has worked with the government and local Indigenous people to help bolster native salmon stocks in and around the waters here—the more of these fish found in the river, the better the overall health of the ecosystem.

Doubles from about $9,070 for three nights

Eden Rock St Barths | St Barthélemy

There’s a frisson of je ne sais quoi to this 34-room hotel in the Francophone Caribbean, a burst of witty subversiveness amid the po-faced pantheon of luxury. Look for its signature scarlet color everywhere—think bright-red rubber ducks and nail varnish in bathrooms—and decor that’s quirky and off-beat, with the latest wood paneled suites drawing direct inspiration from an old-school superyacht. Credit superstar GM Fabrice Moizan with striking such a distinctive note, which combines an insouciant geniality with an obsessive attention to detail that means nothing’s ever overlooked. Clifford calls it “the best of the best on the island” right on St. Jean Bay and recommends Villa Rockstar, the six-bedroom standalone penthouse suite , complete with its own full-sized private pool and recording studio.

Doubles from about $1,035

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel | Riviera Maya, Mexico 

“I was blown away by the indoor-outdoor spa,” says Metcalfe, who calls the service here “best in class.” And we’d agree—that’s why the reimagined Maroma earned one of the slots on Robb Report’ s coveted Best of the Best list this year. The 72-room spot, originally built as a private home, was much in need of an overhaul, and the gut-renovation conducted by LVMH, its deep-pocketed newish owners, was as much a reimagining as a renovation. The rooms have been deftly designed by rock-star British interior designer Tara Bernerd, who added her signature swagger to the decor, combining locally made details, such as custom tiles and turquoise barware, with a boho glamour—the floaty cotton caftans are a major upgrade from conventional robes and ideal to wear on the beach or in the room. It doesn’t hurt, either, that it sits on one of the best stretches of beach in the Riviera Maya, wide swathes of secluded golden sand that are postcard perfect.

From $1,095

Rosewood Kona Village | Hawaii, USA

The original Kona Village Resort opened on the Big Island of Hawaii back in the swinging ’60s. It drew an A-list crowd including Goldie Hawn, Kurt Russell, Kevin Bacon, George Clooney, Jeff Bridges, and Whitney Houston, to name a few. Then, in 2011, a tsunami shuttered the resort for more than a decade. In July 2023, it reopened once again under the Rosewood flag with the most expensive suite in Hawaii. Design powerhouse Nicole Hollis and her San Francisco–based team are behind the 150-room redesign, as well as that aforementioned suite, dubbed Maheawalu Kauhale. More of a gated compound than a single room, it has four standalone one-bedroom bungalows, plus a fifth one that acts as a living and dining room. There is also a sundeck with an infinity pool, a fire pit, a hot tub, and an outdoor kitchen. Another highlight: the first Asaya Spa in the U.S. It’s built directly into the lava flow to offer massively dramatic views should you open your eyes mid-massage for a pinch-me moment. “This new resort has large rooms and incredible views in the oceanfront rooms,” says Jackson. “The property is perfect for large family gatherings, corporate events, or celebrations.”

Suites rates range from $22,000 to $40,000 a night based on the season

The Post Ranch Inn | California, USA

Call it the Big Deal of Big Sur. The one-time motel sitting on the PCH was reimagined as an upscale, 30-room hotel 30 years ago and has become a mainstay of luxury hospitality in the three decades since (and it’s added 10 more rooms). Those are impressive, of course, slickly designed with their own private hot tubs, and the restaurant on-site serves up delicious, modern Californian food. But who comes to this region for the resort itself? The spectacular setting is its real draw, perched 1,200 feet above the crashing waves of the Pacific—think Big Little Lies meets Castaway . “Early one morning I breakfasted alone looking down the Pacific Coast blinded by the cobalt sea, aquamarine skies, and emerald-green and taupe shaggy coastline,” Maury says. “Sunset was arguably even more spectacular.” There’s no issue too big or too small for superstar GM Tim Lee to tackle, she adds.

Doubles from $2,200

Wildflower Farms, Auberge Resort Collection | Hudson Valley, New York

Upstate New York is a buzzy new luxe destination , with a plethora of high-end hotels in the pipeline, including Six Senses. One of the most impressive new arrivals is this Auberge-operated ranch-style hotel in Ulster County in the Catskills, set on its own 140-acre site with spa, outdoor pool, and 65 freestanding cabins. There are three miles of trails quilting the property, but the nearby Mohonk Preserve is a great option if you’d like to push your limits. Metcalfe raves about the in-room amenities, including foraging shears for you to use in the on-site farm; you can also help with the chickens, whether feeding them or collecting just-laid eggs for your breakfast. The convenience for New Yorkers is a major plus—just 90 minutes or so from Manhattan—and it’s also a great getaway if you want to bring your dog. “Auberge has made a name for many properties being above and beyond pet-friendly,” he adds, “And they have animal reiki sessions here.”

From $1,050

The Greatest Luxury Hotels in Central & South America (and Beyond)

Patagonia has emerged as a safari alternative for those who have been there and done that. But the varied hotels and experiences our western continental neighbors to the south (and the deep, deep south of Antartica) have to offer prove that there is a lifetime of stylish exploring to do in our own backyard.

Belmond Palacio Nazarenas | Cusco, Peru

This 11-year-old, centrally located hotel sits in its own gardens, with rooms ranged around the property, the decor a winning collision between Inca-referencing stone walls and gold-heavy details that nod to its colonial-era origins as a private home. The redeployment of this onetime convent emphasized some of its most endearing quirks, too, retaining many of the murals painted on the walls—look for one suite, with a coffered ceiling festooned with pink roses, that is believed to have been where the Mother Superior would have slept. And no detail has been overlooked: Don’t worry about fitful sleep at 12,000 feet above sea level in a suite at this hotel, since oxygen’s piped into the 55 rooms to improve the air quality. Jean Sanz Bernay of JSB Journeys sums it up this way: “beautiful city views, personal butlers, and pisco classes on the terrace.”

Doubles from $1,238

Ibitipoca | Lima Duarte, Brazil

Four hours’ drive from Rio de Janeiro, think of this sprawling property as part country-estate, part-safari camp, a chance to decompress from daily grinds and reconnect with nature. It’s the brainchild of Carioca businessman Renato Machado, who started buying land here more than two decades ago, attempting to preserve the landscape around Ibitipoca National Park. Now, his project also employs more than 200 people caretaking guests at a cluster of reconditioned properties ranged around his 16,000 acres. The standout is Fazenda, an eight-bedroom terracotta-roofed lodge from the 1700s. Wilmot-Sitwell calls out this property as a pioneer in true sustainable luxury. “The local community has been part of the planning here since the purchase of the Fazenda do Engenho in 1984,” he says, “Their welcome is part of any stay in Ibitipoca, from cooks to guides to villagers.”

Doubles from about $459

Islas Secas | Panama

This Panamanian archipelago property is a destination in and of itself, in the Gulf of Chiriquí off the country’s Pacific Coast. “It offers a smorgasbord of activities: e-foiling, diving, deep-sea fishing, and extreme picnicking,” says Henry Cookson. A world-record holder and lifetime adventurer, he admits that even he was dazzled by the assortment in the hotel’s kit room, including the Laird Hamilton paddleboards. Make sure to book a marine safari by catamaran, Cookson adds, as Beny Wilson, the conservation manager, is a world-class guide. The best overnighting option is the newly opened owner’s villa, designed for resort owner Louis Bacon, which opened earlier this year. It sits on a more private corner of the island and has spectacular sunset views, though the other dozen thatched-roof chalets are impressive, too. One other must-try: a cocktail by Carla, the bartender, whose signature drink is a smoky, herby specialty.

From $2,500 per night, with a three-night minimum

Tierra Patagonia | Patagonia, Chile

The modern 40-room horseshoe-shaped property sits right on the edge of Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, and it makes the most of its unique perch: floor-to-ceiling windows in every room overlooking the Paine Massif provide an all-natural alternative to screens (there are no TVs or Wi-Fi in rooms). Activities here are understandably outdoorsy: hikes, horse-riding, birdwatching, and boating aplenty. No wonder that for Jackson, it’s a regular booking. “The indoor pool here looks out over the Torres, and from the opposite side of the lake you could barely tell the property is even there—it blends in so well with the landscape,“ he says of the decade-old spot. The plot is so large it’s easy to transfer by helicopter, which Jackson recommends. (The drive from Punta Arenas is a bone-aching four hours.) And bring a satellite phone, as all connectivity to the outside world here can be patchy.

Doubles from $1,950, with a three-night minimum

White Desert Echo Camp | Antarctica

White Desert’s pioneering South Pole properties are a truly unique offering: dashing adventurer turned hotelier Patrick Woodhead has earned widespread plaudits for his impressive attempts to provide overnighting on the uninhabited tundra there. Clifford’s particularly fond of its third complex, Echo Camp , calling it “a space age, ultra-luxe, chic boutique eco-pod collective. Who says you have to rough it at the end of the world?” It only launched last season, but the fiberglass pop-up structures offer floor-to-ceiling views of the all-white world beyond; the camp’s amenities, including shower pods, lounge, and dining room, are in a separate communal area. Every guest commutes here via private jet from Cape Town; toast the experience upon landing with a martini, chilled to perfection with 10,000-year-old ice.

From $65,000 per person for a five-day stay including transport and all activities

The Greatest Luxury Hotels in Oceania

New Zealand’s Southern Alps are as hot with high-end travelers as they are cold. That’s thanks to the growing demand for eco-friendly excursions, which also benefits the greenest of Polynesian escapes.

Capella Lord Howe Island | Australia

A volcanic, reef-circled spec in the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand, Lord Howe Island is famous for its hair-raising 2,900-foot-long runway (just a fraction longer than St. Barts’s 2,100-foot shorty). Australians have long coveted this under-the-radar holiday hideaway, and its top stay is Capella Lodge , part of the five-star Luxury Lodges of Australia group (not to be confused with the Capella Hotel brand). “There is no mobile phone reception, bicycles are the preferred mode of transport, and visitor numbers are strictly limited,” says Rigg. “There is so much to love about this place, including the thoughtful, friendly, first-name service with welcoming hosts, Libby and Mark, that allows you to truly unwind in sophisticated yet relaxed surrounds.”

Villas from about $1,290 per night

Minaret Station | South Island, New Zealand

A unique lodge situated deep within the Southern Alps with just four guest chalets and accessible only via helicopter, Minaret Station mixes luxury service and accommodations with rugged adventure. Each day you’ll take in this iconic slice of the great outdoors while mountain biking, backcountry fishing, setting out on guided hunts, eating up chef-prepared picnics on a mountaintop, or even heli-skiing. Speaking of helicopters, they’re an important part of the experience here: Namely flying through Milford Sound, a spectacular, world-renowned fjordland. “It’s a gateway to a collection of exclusive adventure experiences enjoyed in total privacy within some of the most remote locations in New Zealand (if not the planet),” says Rigg.

Doubles from about $2,000, plus about $1,650 per person for helicopter transfer from Queenstown

Pelorus Private Island | Australia

Rising from the clear coral seas near the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Townsville, the newly opened Pelorus Private Island is accessible only by helicopter charter or private yacht. It gets better from there. It’s home to a single residence made up of five luxurious suites. While the white-washed exterior sports a modern coastal aesthetic (by Melbourne-based firm Dubois), inside the suites are filled with handmade designer furniture and textiles, French linen, duck down pillows, and LaGaia amenities. If bragging rights are of top concern—of course they are—check this out: It’s the only luxury private island home in the region. Your stay includes meals created by your private chef, Veuve Clicquot Champagne (as well as everything else), and a slew of activities, including snorkeling, Jet Ski tours, fishing, and, of course, reef excursions. “You enjoy a brand-new, purpose-built private villa and exclusive-use of a whole island,” says Rigg. “This is the ultimate way to enjoy privacy, privilege, and personalization on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.”

From about $13,357 per night, with a three-night minimum

The Brando | Tetiꞌaroa, French Polynesia

In the era of reef smashing, litter, and Tiki Bars—long before “sustainability” became a marketing buzz word—the one-and-only original Hollywood activist Marlon Brando made it his mission to preserve the atoll of Tetiꞌaroa with a 99-year lease. Brando is no longer with us, but his mission lives on today in the form of a LEED-platinum-certified, all-inclusive, 36-villa resort , opened in 2014. Each of those villas—beyond sustainable construction—is built for quiet, so that when the windows are closed, you’re in your own private sanctuary. In fact, thanks to the space and privacy, it’s easy to feel like you’ve rented out a private island. “This is where the epitome of indulgence and sustainability come together seamlessly,” says Rigg. “You can enjoy the ultimate extravagances here with a conscience as clear as the waters that surround you.”

Villas from $4,694 per night

The Greatest Luxury Hotels in Asia

Naturally, on a continent the size of Asia, the flavors of its ultra-exclusive stays are as varied as its cuisines. From the palaces of Rajasthan to the modern miracles of central Tokyo, there’s a little something for everyone here.

Banwa Private Island | Palawan, Philippines

While you may be able to rent one of the six beachfront villas à la carte, Banwa is also a true private island rental capable of housing up to 48 friends of one billionaire. Situated in the Philippines’s eastern Palawan province, the island is surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Sulu Sea—ideal for diving or a casual snorkel. The villas, which are smart, modern, white structures with pools, sleep two to eight. Dinning here is alfresco, and the chef’s menus of world cuisine and Filipino classics change daily. “This is one of the world’s most exclusive private islands,” says Cookson. “It’s set in a marine-protected sanctuary and we love it for its incredible diving—it’s possible to scuba alongside whale sharks as well as encounter the rare Hawksbill turtle and black tip reef shark.”

Villas from $2,650 per night, with a three-night minimum. Full island rental rate upon request . 

Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle | Chiang Ra, Thailand

Southeast Asia’s Golden Triangle—where Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet at the confluence of the Ruak and the Mekong Rivers—may have yesteryear connotations of opium production, but that’s a shame: It should be synonymous with natural beauty. The best way to take it in, according to the experts at Fischer Travel , is from the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle . “ It offers a unique, immersive experience, blending nature and luxury,” said Max Rosenthal of Fischer Travel. The resort’s 15 fully air-conditioned tents and Explorer’s Lodge are designed to create the atmosphere of a 19th-century tropical expedition. 

From $2,500

La Résidence Phou Vao | Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang is Southeast Asia’s “secret treasure,” says Jonathan Alder of Jonathan’s Travels . “By far its best hotel is the Belmond .” Set on a hilltop looking toward the historic city where crowds gather to watch the monks parade each morning, the resort contains just 32 junior suites and two suites within colonial-style buildings blended with traditional Lao touches. A stunning view from the swimming pool may be the property’s real showstopper. “With service that excels with ease, it’s located in the perfect spot over the Mekong to explore this most amazing city,” Alder adds

Junior suites from $350

Pemako Punakha | Punakha, Bhutan

Bhutan has recently welcomed a handful of excellent new five-star lodges, including Six Senses and &Beyond. But Pemako Punakha is the only Bhutanese-owned and operated. Located on 75 acres in the  Punakha Valley, east of the capital city of Thimphu, this 21-tent resort is the brand’s second opening (its first is in Thimphu). Designed by Bill Bensley, each tent features a private heated pool, a deck, Serge Ferrari fabrics, copper futures and oodles of traditional Bhutanese design. “We have always liked working with independent hotels in Bhutan, and it is great to have this new kid on the block in Punakha,” says Wilmot-Sitwell. “Whilst the likes of Aman and Como have put the country on the map in terms of service standards and design, the likes of Gangtey Lodge and now Pemako Punakha give that extra level of personalization and originality.” What sets Pemako Punakha, he says, is the way that the villas, dotted across the valley, settle unobtrusively into “the fragile and beautiful landscape.” Its restaurant Soma serves global cuisine with an emphasis on regional specialties, while its Lotus Realm spa incorporates the traditional Bhutanese medicine known as Sowa-Rigpa. “Having worked in Bhutan for over 25 years, this is a perfect combination of light-touch, low-impact authenticity,” Wilmot-Sitwell adds.  

Low-season rates from $1,440 for a Luxury Tented Pool Villa, all inclusive; high-season rates from $1,740.

Six Senses Vana | Dehradun, India

Originally opened a decade ago in Dehradun, in the foothills of the Himalayas in India’s far northeast, Vana was reborn last year. Now a Six Senses, the wellness resort is still doing what it does best: healing with Ayurveda, yoga, Tibetan Medicine, and natural therapies. Set on 21 acres with 66 rooms, 16 suites, and four “casas,” it draws seekers looking to heighten, well . . . their sixth sense. Programs run from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily and include various traditions of yoga, meditation, Raag therapy, fitness sessions chanting, and music offerings—to name just a few. The resort also offers five-to-21-night retreats with personalized goal management. “Whatever your goals are, you will leave lighter, brighter and with a sense of serenity—even if just from the separation from your phone,” says Tanya Dalton of Greaves UK . “They tailor your journey no matter how soft or severe your approach. The Ayurvedic therapies, beautiful rooms, pools, and delicious, yet somehow healthy, cuisine, are all exceptional. Making ancient Indian treatments and therapies accessible to all is not an easy feat.”

Soneva Secret | Haa Dhaalu Atoll, the Maldives

Sonu Shivdasani has helped make wellness a central tenet of hospitality, via both Six Senses, the chain he cofounded and sold, and Soneva, the tiny cluster of hotels he continues to operate. (He earned a legendary accolade in this year’s Best of the Best thanks to that vision.) This 14-villa site , on the remote Haa Dhaalu Atoll, is the ultimate expression of his ethos, combining unstinting luxury with an emphasis on sustainability and connection with the natural world; each of those rooms, for example, has a retractable roof so you can look up at the stars each night. There’s a dedicated chef for each accommodation, as well as endless activities on offer, from sunset dolphin cruises to a picnic on a deserted island to even a castaway dining tower and observatory in the lagoon, reachable by zipline, a nod to the playfulness that’s a Soneva signature—each villa has its own water slide, too. Wix loves that it surpasses even its ultra-luxe sister properties in the Maldives and Thailand and that the focus on never signing a check. “We can book an all-inclusive Soneva Unlimited rate, so everything is paid for upfront,” she says.

From $3,200

Taj Lake Palace | Udaipur, India

Constant motion isn’t always a good thing. This majestic floating antique in the center of Lake Pichola in Udaipur (as seen in Bond flick Octopussy ) was constructed in the 1740s as a summer palace for Mewar royalty, and it still boasts the same white marble and magnificent gardens that it always did. While it has seen changes—including the creation of 65 rooms and 18 grand suites—its last update was way back in 2000. According to Dalton, there’s nothing to fix. “I find it hard to resist the charms of an antique palace hotel floating on a mirrored lake, surrounded by the romantic white city of Udaipur,” she says.

Doubles from about $900

The Greatest Luxury Hotels in the Middle East

Saudi Arabia has more five-star hotels in the pipeline than probably anywhere else on planet Earth. But it’s not on this list (yet). Instead, perfect hotels in milder locales made the grade.

Alila Jabal Akhdar | Jabal Al Akhdar, Oman

The mountain getaway in the Middle East’s most welcoming nation, Alila Jabal Akhdar , is famous for its vistas and minimalist architecture. The property offers incredible views from every room. But while its location high in the Al Hajar Mountains, a two-and-a-half hour drive from Muscat, might sound intimidating for those who like their feet on horizontal ground, this 84-suite, two-villa resort also offers literally grounded wellness programs. “It has fantastically challenging hikes, and a via Ferrata [climbing section] just in front of your room,” Wix says.

Doubles from $800 per night 

Bulgari Hotel | Dubai, U.A.E.

Widely recognized as Dubai’s swishest stay since opening in December 2017 on the manmade, seahorse-shaped Jumeirah Bay Island, Bulgari’s property managed to up the ante in this already ridiculously ritzy emirate. Designed by Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel as an “urban oasis” resort, the hotel has 20 Bulgari villas and 101 rooms and suites, as well as the brand’s first Marina and Yacht Club, capable of housing 50 boats. Everything here is on a grand scale, including the spa, which weighs in at over 18,000 square feet. “It has the best rooms, linen, spa design, and facilities,” says Deborah Calmeyer of ROAR Africa. It also has the best Italian food in Dubai, with Michelin-starred chef Niko Romito under the toque. 

Doubles from about $530 per night 

The Greatest Luxury Hotels in Africa

There’s no where else like it, so go ahead and turn on the Toto. Southern Africa stole the show this time around, but we dare anyone to snoot at the Kenyan setting for Out of Africa .

Angama Mara | Oloololo Escarpment, Kenya

Angama ’s perch on a clifftop almost 1,000 feet up overlooking the Mara makes it one the best safari lodges in the world; make sure to spend time idling in the fire-pit-like sofa at this prime spot for unforgettable sunsets. “The views are untouchable,” Alder says. There are 15 standalone tented suites, each with wide, floor-to-ceiling windows to maximize those views. The decor is a departure from what has become the safari default, all leather and colonial khaki. Instead, think of the scarlet-accented interiors here as African Art Deco, bursting with joie de vivre. But don’t worry, you can still indulge some throwbackish fantasies here—many scenes from Out of Africa were filmed right here, and the hotel will set up lunch, on request, at the exact spot where the movie’s poster image was shot.

From $1,490 per person per night

Loapi Tented Camp | Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, South Africa

Tswalu in the Kalahari Desert is the largest privately protected wildlife reserve in South Africa (with the lowest ratio of guests to the wilderness and owned by the billionaire Oppenheimer family). Its newest and most luxurious slice is Loapi . Meaning “the space below the clouds” in the Setswana language, Loapi is less of a camp and more of a homestead. It’s composed of six individual one- and two-bedroom tented safari homes—spaced so generously that each seems to disappear into the environment. Because these are individual homes rather than villas surrounding a central lodge, you won’t be asked to share anything. The accommodations come with dedicated staff, a private chef, private guides for your game drives, and plunge pools. “It’s designed for anyone desiring complete privacy while exploring the vast Tswalu Kalahari Reserve,” says Premier Tours’s Julian Harrison. It’s a camp that caters especially well to those with a little safari experience. You won’t see the big five here (there are no elephants in this desert), but what you will see are Africa’s most precious and elusive animals—not to mention friendly meerkats galore.

Rates from roughly $2,530 for two people in a one-bedroom tenant home to $9,100 for four adults in a two-bedroom.

Miavana by Time + Tide | Madagascar

The 14-villa property on its own private island off the northeast coast of Madagascar is a Brigadoon -like vision, shimmering into view on the helicopter transfer from nearby Diego Suarez as if out of nowhere. Villas are contemporary in style, with plunge pools, outdoors showers, and sleek, aqua-accented furniture that’s more Saint-Tropez than Out of Africa. Roam around the island on quad bikes, or take a boat trip to another in the archipelago for tern-spotting and alfresco picnic; the water sports center is fully equipped, and the wind pattern here makes it especially appealing for surfers of all kinds. Don’t be deterred by the logistics of getting here: The hotel now runs its own private-jet service from Johannesburg, an approximately four-hour jaunt on a Learjet 45. “A paradise on the edge of a world caught up in time from the original Portuguese explorers until now,” says Maury.

From $3,400 per person per night

North Island | Okavango Delta, Botswana 

We told you that the trend of buyout-primed micro camps was a major force in ultra-luxe safari and predicted that North Island would be a must-book new option as soon as it opened last summer. Clifford agrees. “It’s the perfect setting for full buyouts,” he says. “It’s an intimate, modern gem in a pristine location along the Okavango Delta’s neck, where guests have the luxury of fewer humans and far more options like traversing the waterways in the hotels own makoro or motorboats.” It’s the latest site from Natural Selection , which has particular expertise in Botswana, and is perched on a prime plot on the southwestern arm of the Great Rift Valley, with every major game species readily nearby, including leopards and cheetahs. There are more than 450 bird species, too, for any safari-seeking twitchers.

From $1,395 per person per night

Selinda, Botswana

“It’s an architectural trifecta of three cultures: European, Mokololo and Bayei,” says Sandy Cunningham of Selinda . A hotel in the second largest game concession in Botswana, this camp is a passion project for photographers and conservationists Beverly and Dereck Joubert. The pair owns a dozen or so camps around sub-Saharan Africa but this four-year-old property is a standout, located in the northern reaches of the country which pioneered a focus on high-end low-density tourism which is now being aped around the continent. Stay in the two-bedroom Selinda Suite for the best experience, says Cunningham: “It’s themed to resemble the thatched villages of Sangwali, who loaned the great explorer David Livingstone 200 men during his travels. It’s reachable via boat along the Selinda Spillway—the ultimate 007 arrival!”

Doubles from $11,088 in the midseason.

Singita Pamushana | Malilangwe Reserve, Zimbabwe

This hotel sits at the heart of 320,000-acre private Malilangwe Reserve in southeastern Zimbabwe, an already-dreamy locale bolstered by its specific perch. “Its setting is right on a hill, surrounded by boulders, a dam, yellow and gold masa trees and 1000-year-old baobabs,” says Calmeyer, who counts it among her favorites in the continent. The reserve teems with wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, hippos, and several rhinos—both white and black, thanks to determined anti-poaching efforts, and it’s a particular highlight to track them on foot with the hotel’s guides. There are just eight suites, each with its own private infinity pool, and one five-bedroom villa here, so there’s little risk of any wildlife spotting being ruined by a raft of Jeeps clustered together.

From $2,075 per person per night

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