Top 10 Wilderness Destinations for 2023, Part 2

Make 2023 the year of family wilderness travel with a trip to one of these unique outdoor destinations from Craft Travel.

A Thatched Cottage Clinging to a Hill Overlooking the Kenyan Valleys

You might not find a more unique stay than one in a thatched cottage built into the hillside of one of Kenya’s most beautiful valleys. Located in Lewa’s Eastern Marania Valley, these sanctuaries offer the utmost in comfort and incredible views of the wild surrounding landscapes.

During your stay, venture out on a safari at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy to catch a glimpse of some of the most iconic wildlife species in the world. Only three vehicles are permitted at a time for wildlife sightings, so rest assured each excursion will be enjoyed privately and in peace.

Surrounded by Nothing but Lakes in the Only Luxury Camp in the Last Continent

Whichaway Camp offers a touch of luxury in the world’s most uninhabitable landscape with six heated solar pods. Each pod provides a cozy, private escape amidst the harsh temperatures of the wild Antarctic landscape. These pods are the perfect bases to return to after a day of ice climbing, hiking over ice waves and visiting with the 28,000 emperor penguins and their chicks living in the area. Travelers are more than welcome to warm up in the sauna, offering stunning views of the glaciers. Guests can then enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by a private chef.

Spend Secluded Time in a Privately Protected Wildlife Reserve

Wake up to uninterrupted views of the Korannaberg Mountains, open savannah and dunes of the southern Kalahari Desert during your stay at Tswalu Kalahari camp. Suites offer a rustic aesthetic, with earth tones and shapes consistent with the landscape around you.

At South Africa’s biggest privately protected wildlife reserve, travelers can witness one of the largest populations of black and white rhinos, endangered pangolins and meerkats. Guests can also explore the remote areas of the land at their own pace in a private safari vehicle, take a leisurely nature walk or explore on horseback. After a day full of fun, sit back and take in the night sky.

The Wildlife Capital of the Arctic

The Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard offers an authentic and unique Arctic experience right at the edge of the inhabitable world.

Explore deep into the Arctic Circle on a cruise, taking you through the most breathtaking sites and creatures in the area. Embark on an unforgettable hiking trip across the tundra to see everything from polar bears to reindeer, walruses to beluga whales. While keeping your eyes open for these rare sightings, make sure to listen to the unique history, facts and geology of the area from your tour guide.

Sleep with the Fish in One of the Seven Wonders of the World

Located in the middle of the Great Barrier Reef and known as the world’s largest coral reef system, Lizard Island is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world. The island features 24 white-sand beaches, national parks and luxury suites scattered throughout the area.

Choose from accommodation options like a lavish villa perched on the island’s clifftops or beachfront suites to rest in after spending days exploring the area’s flourishing waters. During your stay, head to the beach for diving and snorkeling.