River’s Edge Safari
Johannesburg, South Africa
1 Night
Johannesburg is one of Africa’s biggest and most vibrant cities. It is the economic capital of Africa and the gateway to Southern Africa. Although not as famous as other South African destinations, there is plenty to do in Johannesburg and nearby Pretoria. The old city is a multi-cultural mixture of traditional medicine shops, Chinese restaurants, taxi ranks and ultra-modern skyscrapers. There are excellent museums, art galleries and organized tours of historical and political interest. The shopping is Southern Africa’s best and the many restaurants cater to all tastes. The nearby township of Soweto is Johannesburg’s most popular tourist attraction.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
2 Nights
Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls. It is set on the magnificent Zambezi River which creates the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. These spectacular falls can be easily visited and viewed from the Zimbabwean side. Considered to be the world’s widest waterfalls, Victoria Falls measures an impressive 1708 metres in width. The small town of Victoria Falls, which lies adjacent to the waterfalls, serves as a great base from which to explore the many attractions this area of Zimbabwe has to offer. The surrounding area provides a wide range of adrenalin-filled activities for adventure lovers. Visitors can look forward to an array of wonderful activities including: scenic flights, micro lighting, white water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, and once-in-a-lifetime expeditions into the incredible Chobe National Park.
Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
2 Days
Located in northern Zimbabwe, the life-giving power of the Zambezi River makes Mana Pools National Park one of Zimbabwe’s most lush and flourishing regions. Characterised by a diversity of landscapes including floodplains, forests, and baobab trees, the park has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its natural beauty; providing a fantastic destination for photographers. It is an Important Bird Area and is also one of the continent’s premier game-viewing locations, known for its good chances of seeing elephants, wild dogs, lions, and leopards. Visitors can look forward to an array of activities such as canoe trips, guided walks, game drives, river cruises, nature walks, bird watching, and catch-and-release fishing.
Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe
2 Days
The planet’s most voluminous man-made lake, Kariba is a popular tourist destination that was created in the 1950s when the mighty Zambezi was dammed. It stretches for more than 200 kilometres along the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, forming a natural boundary between the two countries. The lake’s waters are home to abundant wildlife including: crocodiles, hippos, fish and aquatic birds, while its shoreline and islands are rich with terrestrial game such as elephant and buffalo. It has become one of Zimbabwe’s main tourist attractions offering houseboat holidays, fishing safaris and wonderful game viewing experiences.
Southern Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
3 Days
Located in western Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park (formerly Wankie Game Reserve) is the largest natural reserve in the country and is famous for its rich diversity of wildlife. Home to one of the biggest elephant populations in the world, as well as around 100 mammal species, the park is popular among animal lovers. Several protected species inhabit the awe-inspiring open landscapes, including the endangered wild dog, critically endangered black rhino, and rare roan and sable – along with lion, cheetah, and around 500 bird species. Adventurers can look forward to guided bush hikes, game drives, and horse riding safaris, all of which offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Johannesburg, South Africa
1 Night
Johannesburg is one of Africa’s biggest and most vibrant cities. It is the economic capital of Africa and the gateway to Southern Africa. Although not as famous as other South African destinations, there is plenty to do in Johannesburg and nearby Pretoria. The old city is a multi-cultural mixture of traditional medicine shops, Chinese restaurants, taxi ranks and ultra-modern skyscrapers. There are excellent museums, art galleries and organized tours of historical and political interest. The shopping is Southern Africa’s best and the many restaurants cater to all tastes. The nearby township of Soweto is Johannesburg’s most popular tourist attraction.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
2 Nights
Victoria Falls is one of the world’s most impressive waterfalls. It is set on the magnificent Zambezi River which creates the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. These spectacular falls can be easily visited and viewed from the Zimbabwean side. Considered to be the world’s widest waterfalls, Victoria Falls measures an impressive 1708 metres in width. The small town of Victoria Falls, which lies adjacent to the waterfalls, serves as a great base from which to explore the many attractions this area of Zimbabwe has to offer. The surrounding area provides a wide range of adrenalin-filled activities for adventure lovers. Visitors can look forward to an array of wonderful activities including: scenic flights, micro lighting, white water rafting, bungee jumping, kayaking, and once-in-a-lifetime expeditions into the incredible Chobe National Park.
Mana Pools National Park, Zimbabwe
2 Days
Located in northern Zimbabwe, the life-giving power of the Zambezi River makes Mana Pools National Park one of Zimbabwe’s most lush and flourishing regions. Characterised by a diversity of landscapes including floodplains, forests, and baobab trees, the park has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its natural beauty; providing a fantastic destination for photographers. It is an Important Bird Area and is also one of the continent’s premier game-viewing locations, known for its good chances of seeing elephants, wild dogs, lions, and leopards. Visitors can look forward to an array of activities such as canoe trips, guided walks, game drives, river cruises, nature walks, bird watching, and catch-and-release fishing.
Lake Kariba, Zimbabwe
2 Days
The planet’s most voluminous man-made lake, Kariba is a popular tourist destination that was created in the 1950s when the mighty Zambezi was dammed. It stretches for more than 200 kilometres along the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, forming a natural boundary between the two countries. The lake’s waters are home to abundant wildlife including: crocodiles, hippos, fish and aquatic birds, while its shoreline and islands are rich with terrestrial game such as elephant and buffalo. It has become one of Zimbabwe’s main tourist attractions offering houseboat holidays, fishing safaris and wonderful game viewing experiences.
Southern Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
3 Days
Located in western Zimbabwe, Hwange National Park (formerly Wankie Game Reserve) is the largest natural reserve in the country and is famous for its rich diversity of wildlife. Home to one of the biggest elephant populations in the world, as well as around 100 mammal species, the park is popular among animal lovers. Several protected species inhabit the awe-inspiring open landscapes, including the endangered wild dog, critically endangered black rhino, and rare roan and sable – along with lion, cheetah, and around 500 bird species. Adventurers can look forward to guided bush hikes, game drives, and horse riding safaris, all of which offer excellent photographic opportunities.
River’s Edge Safari
From the 17th to the early 19th century, long before the days of mass tourism, young European aristocrats embarked on what was then known as The Grand Tour, a coming-of-age educational journey of world discovery. Inspired by this remarkable rite of passage, we created the “Maasai, Maharajas, Big Cats, and Blue Oceans” itinerary, a life-changing, mind-broadening experience in the utmost comfort and style.
Travel on a privately chartered, custom-configured aircraft through India, Africa, and the Middle East. We plan the most efficient routing possible to ensure the flights average four hours or less, that take you directly to your destination.
Highlights
- Set out in search of the elusive Bengal tiger in Ranthambore National Park.
- Discover India’s rich cultural heritage in lavish palaces, ornate temples, and bustling bazaars.
- Spot plains game like impalas, gazelles, topis, and warthogs, as well as lions, leopards, and cheetahs on the hunt in Kenya’s famed Masai Mara.
- Explore the mangrove forests and water channels of Kenya’s Lamu Archipelago aboard a historic dhow.
Itinerary at a Glance
River’s Edge Safari
Dubai, UAE
Dubai offers a convenient stopping point to rest after international flights. Restore and unwind at our beautiful resort in the Arabian desert. Engage in the Bedouin traditions of archery and falconry during interactive demonstrations, stretch your legs on guided nature walks among the dunes in search of desert wildlife, or choose to simply enjoy views across the stunning landscape from your villa’s private terrace and pool.
The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert 
Hajar Mountains, Oman
A short morning flight takes you to the vibrant port city of Muscat. Visit the National Museum for an introduction to the country’s heritage before embarking on a scenic drive to Oman’s epic “Grand Canyon” and the fabled Green Mountain. Dine on the canyon’s edge and relish dramatic views. Over the next two days, explore this stunning mountainous region and its richly storied past: the abandoned Birkat Al Mouz, a traditional mud brick village; tombs dating back to the Iron Age; Nizwa’s grand souq; and the date palm oasis of Misfat Al Abriyeen.
Anantara Al Jabal Al Akhdar Resort 
Jaipur, India
Return to Muscat to board your jet for Jaipur, Rajasthan’s Royal City. Enter a fabulous realm of maharajas, majestic forts and extravagant palaces, interspersed with the bustle of bazaars and passing rickshaws. Delight your palate with Rajasthani dishes at one of the hotel’s fabulous restaurants.
Taj Rambagh Palace 
Ranthambore, India
Travel overland from Jaipur to Ranthambore National Park: a wilderness tucked between the rugged Aravalli and Vindhya hills, spanning 500 square miles of dense jungle, golden savanna, dramatic cliffs, and lotus-filled lakes with ancient ruins of palaces and temples. Once the hunting ground of royalty, the park was the first of nine to be designated a Tiger Reserve in the early 1970s. Today the park is considered the best spot to catch a glimpse of elusive Bengal tigers in the wild. It also provides a sanctuary for other wildlife including leopards, striped hyenas, sambar deer, chitals, nilgais, macaques, jackals, caracals, sloth bears, and hundreds of bird species. Explore this park on three game drives.
The Oberoi Vanyavilas Wildlife Resort 
Udaipur, India
Return to Jaipur and board your jet for the short flight to the picturesque city of Udaipur, nestled along the shores of Lake Pichola and framed by splendid views of the surrounding Aravalli Range. Long the capital of the royal family of Mewar, the Old City abounds with lavish palaces and lakeside temples. Wander the twisting streets and uncover the city’s heart and heritage in its ornate architecture and intricate art. Enjoy an exclusive lake cruise at sunset or a private evening tour of the exquisite and imposing City Palace, constructed over a period of nearly four decades and comprising the largest palace complex in Rajasthan. Further afield, visit the Adinatha Temple at Ranakpur and hear insights into the Dharmic religion of Jain that originated on the Indian subcontinent.
Taj Lake Palace 
Mahé, Seychelles
Fly directly to Mahé, the largest of the 115 Seychelles islands, a remote archipelago suspended in the sparkling blue Indian Ocean. The island’s quiet, white powdered beaches and striking granite rock formations give way to a mountainous interior, largely covered with dense cloud forest. Your stay here can be as full or as unstructured as you desire. Snorkeling and diving are exceptional, amid sculpted granite rocks ablaze with colorful corals and an array of marine life. Stroll along the resort’s secluded beach and among tropical gardens, rejuvenate at the luxury spa, or simply indulge in downtime at your private villa with infinity pool, panoramic vistas, and dedicated host service.
Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas 
MASAI MARA, KENYA
Like traders of old, we follow the trade winds across the Indian Ocean to East Africa. Upon landing in Nairobi, a scenic flight by bush plane transports us to Africa’s famed savanna, where a Maasai guide will join you for cocktails and describe the traditional practices of the Maasai people and their enduring relationship with the land and its wild inhabitants. For the following two days, relax into a schedule of morning and afternoon game drives in an area unrivaled for its constant flow of wildlife. Spot plains game like impalas, gazelles, topis, and warthogs, as well as lions, leopards, and cheetahs on the hunt. View the landscape from aloft on an optional hot air balloon ride or stretch your legs with an optional Maasai-guided walking safari for an insightful and close look at this complex ecosystem.
Little Governors’ Camp 
Manda Island, Kenya
Journey to the much-storied Swahili Coast and your beach hideaway on a private island in the Lamu Archipelago. Visit Lamu Old Town, the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa (and a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and browse the art galleries and boho boutiques of Shela, a chic contemporary hamlet. Spend a day exploring the archipelago on the majestic Tusitiri dhow, a traditional sailing vessel that once plied the trade routes between Mombasa and the Middle East. At your resort, enjoy water sports such as kayaking and snorkeling.
Manda Bay 
Dubai, UAE
A short scenic flight along the coast takes you to Mombasa, where your private jet awaits. Return to Dubai for an overnight stay in the heart of the city, and enjoy a leisurely evening before your international flight home the next day.
Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates 
River’s Edge Safari
Included in your custom tour
- Accommodations, breakfasts (and select lunches and dinners), private air travel, ground transportation, curated activities and excursions – as indicated in the detailed itinerary
- Expert local guides
Price
AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST
River’s Edge Safari
The pace of this 20-day itinerary is moderate, with some early morning departures and longer days, and a few time zone changes. However, as this is a bespoke journey created just for you, the itinerary is completely customizable and can be modified to suit your preferred pace and travel style.
Overall, travelers should be in generally good health and must be able to:
- climb into and out of light aircraft, safari vehicles, and boats un-aided.
- navigate stairs without a railing.
- walk moderate distances at an easy pace.
- withstand four-wheel-drive vehicles that travel over rough, uneven dirt roads.
We will provide you with an expedition planner featuring detailed health information including a list of current requirements and recommendations for all countries visited on your expedition. Here is a summary of mandatory vaccines and key recommended medications:
- Some of the countries on this itinerary require proof of yellow fever vaccination. For contraindication, you may present an exemption letter from a doctor explaining the medical reason for not administering the vaccine.
- Malaria prophylaxis is recommended for this expedition.
Complete, up-to-date information by country can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
The best time to undertake this journey is between October to March, offering generally pleasant weather and lush landscapes across the destinations.
For this expedition, you will require 3 advance visas. U.S. citizens will be able to obtain these visas in electronic form and do not have to surrender their passports during the visa application process. Detailed visa information will be sent to you approximately five months before departure to simplify the process.
To protect your travel investment, we recommend that you purchase trip cancellation insurance through a provider of your choice. Most policies include a waiver of Pre-existing Medical Condition Exclusion if insurance is purchased within 21 days of the initial trip payment.
RANTHAMBORE
ARABIAN DESERTS
MASAI MARA
SEYCHELLES
RANTHAMBORE
ARABIAN DESERTS
MASAI MARA
SEYCHELLES
Private Custom Travel
If you can dream it, we can create it.
You are an experience seeker, curious about the world, yearning to learn more about the planet and yourself. Our private custom tours allow you and your guests to travel the globe by private jet to the far reaches of the earth—remote places that are otherwise inaccessible.
Scheduled Jet Tours
Leave your map and compass at home.
Calling all explorers, global citizens, and bons vivants: Join a group of like-minded travelers to embark on an HRH World Discovery Tour. The beauty of group travel is that we provide done-for-you itineraries to make your trip seamless and meaningful—all you have to do is show up.
