Embark on a journey of discovery and indulgence in Africa and the Middle East, regions renowned for their timeless landscapes, ancient monuments, and unparalleled hospitality.
Both Africa and The Middle East have slowly established themselves as the new, go-to luxury health retreat destinations for discerning travellers in search of something cutting-edge and unique. Regions so sweeping and diverse, it’s possible to find almost everything you desire as long as you know where to look: safaris that’ll have you holding your breath in wonder, bustling cities, unspoilt desert lands and towering skyscrapers are just some of the incredible wonders to discover when you book a trip.
When to go to Africa and The Middle East
Africa has a largely inviting climate all year round. Southern Africa is best enjoyed in the cooler, dryer months of May to September where wildlife watching is at its peak and the temperatures at their most comfortable. The big five are less ubiquitous from November to March, although you are still likely to see a healthy presence of younger animals. Further north, spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) offer a cooler and more temperate climate with the added benefit of fewer tourists, but if you position yourself on the stunning coastline the sea breezes and proximity to the ocean make a summer visit more than enjoyable. If you’re headed to the desert, it’s certainly best to avoid travel from February to April, where dust storms are an unwelcome fixture, or in the height of the summer where the heat is almost unbearable.
The Middle East is a hugely popular destination for sunseekers all year round. Those that aren’t put off by the scorching temperatures will be happy there all year round, but most people prefer to journey between December and March, when sightseeing, swimming and sunbathing is more enjoyable, and the welcome relief of air-conditioning is not quite so necessary. Spring and autumn (March-May and September-November) are also popular thanks to the lower temperatures and drier weather.
What to do in Africa and The Middle East
Africa and The Middle East are two destinations guaranteed to delight and surprise. Perfect for a special trip, where making memories and experiencing the unique are firmly on the agenda, a trip to either will take you out of your comfort zone, show you sights that have to be seen to be believed, and leave you wondering why you waited so long to book a trip.
It would be impossible to mention Africa without starting with the incredible wildlife that exists up and down the continent. Safari here is a must, and luxury experiences led by knowledgeable guides promise breathtaking moments that’ll stay with you forever. Particular highlights have to include experiences in the Serengeti or Kruger National Park, where you’ll be able to choose from an abundance of exclusive lodges, luxury facilities and bespoke tours to make your trip even more enjoyable.
In The Middle East, more and more people are enjoying the wonder of desert safaris. Led by local people who know the unforgiving terrain like the back of their hands, these experiences could include anything and everything from traversing the dunes in buggies, or taking to the skies in a hot air balloon, to camping Bedouin style or simply enjoying a freshly-prepared dinner under the stars.
If city breaks are more your thing, neither Africa nor The Middle East will disappoint. In The Middle East, Dubai and Abu Dhabi do opulence like nowhere else in the world. Famed for their air-conditioned malls, glittering hotel complexes and theme parks, the cities compete for a range of impressive superlatives — biggest, tallest, fastest. Yet amidst this almost futuristic way of life, does exist a small window into the past. Particularly in Dubai, where you can experience an entirely different offering by heading to Dubai Creek, Bur Dubai and Deira — here all the sights, sounds and smells heighten the experience of the bustling local souks and an entirely different way of living. Over in Africa, you’ll also find cities that are vast and varied. Cape Town is a holidaymakers paradise, where stunning scenery and an exciting foodie scene converge with beautiful beaches and world-class wineries. Marrakech will delight bargain hunters with its mazes of souks, while Cairo is paradise for those who love a healthy dose of history and culture on their getaways.
Why you’ll love Africa and The Middle East
A trip to Africa or The Middle East is always a trip to remember. These two vast areas of the globe offer everything a luxury holiday maker could want, and then some; breathtaking scenery, adrenaline-pumping experiences, wildlife, buzzing metropolises and settlements that seem barely to have been touched by modernity. They really are destinations that have something for everyone, especially luxury travellers. Whether you opt to stay in a bustling city or want to head somewhere less populated, we can help you find world-class hotels that fuse local charm and modern luxury. From opulent resorts in the United Arab Emirates, to intimate safari camps in Botswana, every accommodation option we select is chosen for its excellence in service, location, and character so that you can experience a personalised holiday that caters to your every need. And outside your chosen bolthole there will be plenty to delight the senses whether you opt for an African or Middle Eastern stay. Take time to delve into the local culture and customs; enjoy the rich array of food and drink on offer, say yes to tours and experiences led by experienced locals, and go out of your way to see the natural wonders that exist at every twist and turn of these two incredible regions.
Wellness in Africa and The Middle East
Africa and The Middle East are home to several top-tier wellness hotels, where traditional healing practices meet modern wellness techniques. These hotels offer everything from spa treatments that prioritise local ingredients, to wellness programmes designed to harmonise body, mind, and spirit. A particular highlight has to be Royal Mansour Marrakech; one of the most luxurious wellness hotels in Africa, it’s owned by the King of Morocco, and is the perfect place to kick back and recuperate. We also love Zulal by Chiva-Som, which only opened in 2022 but is already regarded as one of the best wellness hotels in the Middle East.
With Health Travel, you can partake in wellness retreats that are as diverse as the landscapes themselves. Whether it’s a yoga retreat in the Saudi desert or a peaceful health haven somehow hidden amidst the bustling city of Marrakech, the wellness retreats to be found in Africa and The Middle East can really take your health and wellbeing journey to the next level.
A luxury holiday in Africa and the Middle East is an extraordinary journey through rural landscapes filled with wonders and cities brimming with marvels. And with Health Travel, your holiday will be meticulously planned to ensure a seamless experience that delights and inspires.
Fancy a trip somewhere in Africa or The Middle East? Contact our wellness specialists on WhatsApp or fill out our online enquiry form to start planning your next wellness adventure.