Located in the heart of Tanzania’s Tarangire National Park, Sanctuary Swala (above) provides a sweeping view of the nature reserve’s wildest residents. Sit at the Baobab dining deck, which is elevated on stilts and enjoy an early morning breakfast, well before the morning’s game drive gets underway.

Located within the nature-rich Okavango Delta, the Sanctuary Chief’s Camp (above) can organise a floating picnic in the floodwaters (large water basin formed by the seasonal flooding in the delta), which is frequented by the resident wildlife from the nearby Moremi Game Reserve. Commune with some of the finest animal species that are indigenous to the region such as the African bush elephant, African buffalo, sable antelope and Angolan giraffe.

A dumpling-making class aboard a luxury river cruise (above) along the fabled Yangzi River in China will delight any gourmand. Learn how to make dumplings with an expert Chinese chef, in the same traditional way that has been in use for the past 400 years. Along the way, soak up the majestic views of the surrounding hills and the gorges.

See: 11 beautiful islands in Asia to check off your travel bucket list

Queen Elizabeth II holidayed here in 1979. Now, you too can stay at Sanctuary Chichele Presidential Lodge (above), the former personal retreat of Zambia’s first president, Kenneth Kaunda. Enjoy sunset drinks on the banks of the Luangwa River while admiring the wallowing hippos – the largest concentration in the world – and other resident fauna in their natural habitat, who come to the river to quench their thirst.

The legendary Irrawaddy River is a must see site for anyone visiting the South-east Asian country. Sample fragrant Burmese delicacies made with freshest local ingredients aboard the luxury Sanctuary Ananda river cruise (above), which takes visitors through the jungles in the northern part as well as small villages set against the backdrop of gleaming pagodas.

An adapted version first appeared in Silverkris.

Like this? Check out 7 incredible tea experiences around the world.