So, it’s not a hotel – they’re emphatic about that – but this is certainly a place where you’ll relax and unwind entirely, while reconnecting to nature and food so fresh that it could have been harvested just minutes before you tuck in. Sterrekopje is a remote farm nestling in the foothills of the Franschhoek mountains, where over many years the natural balance of the land has been restored and cherished to make it as fertile and sustainable as possible. The biodiverse abundance means 100 different items of fresh produce are grown on-site, miles away from anywhere. You’ll be staying in an elegantly comfortable farmhouse or one of the cottages enfolded by lush nature, and while you enjoy the sanctuary you’ll be reconnecting with your soul – and looking forward to another leisurely dinner under the stars.

There are few places to match the Okavango Delta wetlands to experience a magical and satisfying safari. It’s at its very best from May to September – so think about your trip next year, maybe – when you can glide silently through the natural water channels in a traditional-style canoe, with hippos wallowing either side of you and sea eagles soaring above. This Belmond lodge, is, as you might expect, on its own private island, and the dozen beautiful tented rooms have high ceilings, huge beds and their own plunge pools. They have privacy and wonderful outlooks in equal measure. By staying here you’ll be helping projects to harmlessly separate local livestock from endangered local predators, and to save Africa’s wild dogs.

Virtuoso travelers receive:

It’s not just animals that are rare, fascinating and in need of traveller support; it’s people too. Namibia’a Himba are some of this stunning country’s last semi-nomads. This is their wide-ranging home, an untouched wilderness of silent deserts and rushing rivers where they have learned to adapt to life alongside everything from oryx and tiny chameleons to crocodiles and zebra. Staying here helps to maintain and protect the delicate balance between all of Serra Cafema’s inhabitants. In exchange, you’ll return each day from all kinds of guided safaris – boat, walking, even quad-biking – to sultry luxury in one of eight suites built from wood, canvas and thatch, with elevated decks to watch the orangeness of the sinking sun intensify… having put away a hearty and local supper.

Reflecting the ambience of 1920s and 1930s classic Kenyan safaris, andBeyond Bateleur Camp boasts luxurious safari tents complete with private butler service, ceiling fans and spacious ensuite bathrooms. In close proximity to where the famous final scene of ‘Out of Africa’ was filmed, this magnificent camp is set on a private concession allowing one to explore by day or night, on foot or in a vehicle in the company of your expert safari guide. In the late afternoon, head out in open safari vehicles, and in the evenings have an exclusive experience, a night safari which offers an opportunity to seek out nocturnal wildlife.

Virtuoso travelers receive:

So close to the Victoria Falls that you can see the mist thrown up by that tumbling crescendo of water, you’ll be staying on Khandahar Island with epic views of the Zambesi river… and you can only get there by boat. Nature teems around you both in the water and on land, where wild elephants spend their days semi-oblivious to the admirers close by. Accommodation is in a series of specially-built treehouse suites, connected by wooden walkways to the lounge, dining area and sunset bar, and the levels of luxury are splendid. The ultimate stay is in one of the two Starbed Treehouses, built spectacularly over two levels above the tree-tops. Not one for the under-16s, mind.

Virtuoso travelers receive:

Home to some of the richest subtropical ecosystems, Kisawa Sanctuary’s mission is to bring wilderness and well-being together. Feel the healing energies of the island with a complimentary welcome treatment or therapeutic massage ritual. Savor fresh ingredients sourced from farmers and fishermen within the Inhambane province. And stay in one of the 11 secluded residences, each with a private beach, infinity pool, and open-air deck overlooking the resort’s dreamy 300-hectare property.

Virtuoso travelers receive: