UNCHARTED® · Magazine · Autumn 2026

Global Safari
Field Notes · Travel · Africa

The Worldwide Big Five

From the lions of Botswana to the tortoises of the Galapagos, what we call ‘the worldwide big five’ is luxury adventure travel personified! See what’s on offer.

October 8, 2024

By The UNCHARTED® editors · 3 min read
The Worldwide Big Five
The Worldwide Big Five

Lions and Tigers and…Penguins, oh my! We have gathered our top five experiences to witness what we call ‘the worldwide big five’. From the lions of Botswana to the tortoises of the Galapagos, these five experiences are sure to leave you in awe of the world's most magnificent inhabitants.

Discover Lions Running the Okavango Delta

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Johannesburg | Victoria Falls | Selinda Reserve & Duba Plains Private Reserve

Embark on the ultimate luxury Africa safari adventure through Southern Africa, where your journey begins at the breathtaking Victoria Falls before moving on to the vibrant wilderness of the Okavango Delta. Known for its rare lion prides, this destination is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. With every luxurious base camp, you will experience unparalleled access to exclusive safari experiences immersed in the African landscape. Heart-pounding wildlife adventures are par for the course, all within the stunning backdrop of the Okavango waterways and floodplains.

SEE THE TRIP

Close-up of a lion cub looking to the side, in the Okavango Delta.
Close-up of a lion cub looking to the side, in the Okavango Delta.
A pair of lion cubs playfully interacting in the Okavango Delta.
A pair of lion cubs playfully interacting in the Okavango Delta.

Venture Into India’s Jungles for an Exquisite Tiger Safari

Delhi | Kanha National Park | Pench National Park | Jaisalmer | Jodhpur

This 13-day journey seamlessly combines India's vibrant culture with its incredible wildlife. Roam the streets of bustling Delhi, soak in the ancient history of Jodhpur, and venture into the dense jungles of Kanha and Pench National Parks, where your luxury adventure travel experience will reach new heights as you track the elusive Bengal tiger in its natural habitat. End your journey with a serene escape to the Thar Desert, where ancient traditions meet luxury within the most spectacular setting.

Luxurious safari tent setup with a bed, located in the wilderness.
Luxurious safari tent setup with a bed, located in the wilderness.
Luxurious safari tent setup with a bed, located in the wilderness.
Luxurious safari tent setup with a bed, located in the wilderness.

Walk Among Giants in the Galápagos

Santa Cruz Island, Galápagos, Ecuador

The Galápagos Islands offer a wildlife experience like no other. From your luxurious stay at the Galápagos Safari Camp, you will set out to explore the giant tortoise reserve, where you'll walk alongside these iconic creatures as they go about their daily routines. This is a truly exclusive safari experience for those who seek an intimate connection with the wonders of nature. These islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer a rare glimpse into evolutionary history.

SEE THE OUTPOST

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Trek for Gorillas and Chimps in Uganda’s Enchanted Forests

Entebbe | Southern Bwindi | Murchison Falls, Nile Delta

Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Trek through the dense forests of Bwindi to come face to face with our closest relatives in the animal kingdom. Along these intimate encounters, you will see the famed tree-climbing lions and endangered golden monkeys. This experience blends luxury safari travel with the awe of encountering some of the planet's most endangered species in their natural habitat. World-class lodges and luxury camps provide a suitable sanctuary every night after getting up close and personal with mountain gorillas and chimpanzees.

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Mountainous, lush landscape near eco-lodges in Uganda.
Mountainous, lush landscape near eco-lodges in Uganda.

Journey to the Ends of the Earth With Antarctica's Penguins

Punta Arenas | Antarctic Peninsula

You can embark on an exclusive safari experience like no other in Antarctica, where penguins reign supreme. After a rejuvenating stay in Punta Arenas, you can sail to the frozen frontier aboard one of our boutique expedition ships. Whether you choose the Magellan Explorer or the Ocean Nova, both vessels provide a luxury adventure travel experience unlike any other. As you cruise past icebergs and snow-capped mountains, you will venture deeper into the polar circle, discovering emperor and gentoo penguins, with each encounter more awe-inspiring than the last. Luxurious and thrilling, your journey through Antarctica is the very pinnacle of luxury adventure travel.

Man trekking through snowy terrain with gear, journeying to discover penguins in Antarctica.
Man trekking through snowy terrain with gear, journeying to discover penguins in Antarctica.
Penguins standing on ice in Antarctica with a bright, sunny sky above.
Penguins standing on ice in Antarctica with a bright, sunny sky above.

Fifteen minutes with Sandy?

About The Worldwide Big Five — on the phone, no pitch.

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