These days, it’s easier than ever to travel to far-flung destinations, with growing global transport links and modern technology making it possible to reach every corner of the globe with relative ease.
Back in 2020, the global Covid-19 pandemic forced us to pump the breaks on our travel aspirations, with flights grounded, borders closed and lockdowns seeing us obliged to stay at home – but since then, it seems that our appetite for adventure has bounced back full force, with the demand for luxury travel in particular now higher than ever before,
However, this boom in travel brought about issues that are now directly affecting our ability to do so – even those for whom money is no object. It’s not just the fact that travel and accommodation has never been more expensive, but that the crowds around notable sights and landmarks have become, at times, unbearable – and that’s before we even get onto the negative environmental impact of over-tourism, which is becoming harder and harder to ignore.
As a result, we’re seeing a surge in the number of travellers opting to turn their backs on the usual trips and experiences in favour of private expeditions in a bid to regain the sense of adventure and explore lesser-known parts of the world far from the crowds. Let’s see what the appeal is and what you can expect.
What sets apart private expeditions
If you’re wondering whether booking a private expedition is the right fit for you, the chances are that you have some questions that need answering about what they entail. So let’s start with the most important one: what is the appeal of private expeditions?
There are many advantages, but the flexibility and personalised experience they offer are some of the biggest. Private expeditions are a godsend for seasoned travellers who have spent a lot of time waiting in line to get tickets to landmarks on past trips and are now craving a complete change of pace because they allow you to see sights on your own schedule, enjoy exclusive private access an get up close and personal with the less-explored, wilder side of our planet that will both inspire you and leave you in awe.
Going on a private expedition offers a new level of luxury because it provides you with everything you need to immerse yourself in the experience and resurface afterwards slightly changed for the better – with bespoke and highly personalised itineraries ensuring that every aspect of the journey aligns with your preferences and leaves you feeling thoroughly fulfilled. It also means travelling in small groups with like-minded individuals, making the trip all the more enjoyable – because a shared experience that you can reminisce about together for years to come is so much more wonderful than going it alone.
From exploring the untouched wilderness of the Amazon to going gorilla trekking in Uganda or visiting the remote landscapes of Antarctica, there are no limits to what’s possible on a private expedition and if you can dream it, you can likely do it. The freedom to explore the world at your own pace in a way that allows you to indulge your curiosity, all whilst staying safe and comfortable along the way, now represents the pinnacle of luxury in the travel industry, and private expeditions tick all of the right boxes and more.
Where to go on a private expedition
If you know you’d like to try a private expedition in 2025 but aren’t sure where to go and what to do, then there are two ways you can seek out some inspiration.
Reaching out to a travel agency to organise a completely personalised private expedition for you and your family or group of friends is one of them – or, you can sign up for one of the many existing options that fit your preferences.
From Bhutan to Mongolia, from Antarctica to the Galapagos Islands, the whole world is at your fingertips. Here are some of the most popular destinations and expeditions to consider:
The frozen wilderness of Antarctica
It wasn’t so long ago that Antarctica was a relatively unexplored destination, but over recent years it has become a popular choice for private expeditions thanks to its surreal landscapes and plethora of extraordinary wildlife.
Standout experiences like the EYOS exclusive expedition to Antarctica are great examples of combining adventurous exploration with top-notch travel and accommodation standards. Not a lot of people can boast about having journeyed to the end of the Earth, and while getting to the South Pole will take time, it will be well worth it.
You can do it via plane or private ice-class yacht – the latter of which will allow you to take in the breathtaking icebergs from the water and admire pods of whales from up close along the way. On land, you can trek to the remote research stations, delight in waddling penguins on their way to hunt, and top it all off with a delicious dinner under the Southern Lights (aurora australis).
The Galapagos Islands aka Evolution’s Playground
The Galapagos Islands need no introduction, as this volcanic archipelago has gone down in history as evolution’s playground. While it was Charles Darwin who put them on the map back in the 19th century, these islands remain a haven of biodiversity that only a select few get to witness each year to this day.
Booking a private expedition here usually entails boarding a private yacht charter that will give you all the flexibility you need to discover different parts of the islands. Feel like island-hopping? No problem, just say the world. Want to go snorkeling with sea lions or see in person a few of the 56 species that only live on the islands? It’s included in the schedule.
An expert guide will take you to the very best hidden snorkelling spots and ensure that you get to see everything you’ve ever dreamed of and more. Coming back to nature and feeling reconnected with it and yourself through unique experiences is one of the many reasons why private tours to the Galapagos Islands are a hit.
Venture into the Arctic aka The North Pole
If you live for an adrenaline rush and want to level up your sense of adventure amidst some of the world’s stunning icy landscapes – and you’ve already done Antarctica – then the good news is that the Arctic has just as much to offer. When you decide to book a private expedition here, you’ll almost certainly find yourself travelling on board a luxury yacht that is especially equipped for navigating icy waters, and for exploring secluded fjords, you’ll venture out in smaller, more agile vessels that will allow you to get as close to the action as possible.
The Arctic is one of the most remote parts of the world, and with expert guides by your side every step of the way along with secure and comfortable accommodations for relaxing after a day of various activities, there’s truly no better way to enjoy it to the fullest. You control the schedule, and whether whale watching and basking in the Northern Lights or glacier hiking and polar bear watching are on the agenda, you’ll have everything you need at hand for an experience of a lifetime!
