Why wrap up another sweater when you could gift an adventure to remember instead? From private jet journeys to dining under the stars, these experiences will have your loved ones collecting memories instead of dusting off knick-knacks. Perfect for those who prefer stories over stuff, this is Elite Traveler’s round-up of the best experience gifts to give the luxury of unforgettable moments.
[Visit the Elite Traveler Holiday Gift Guide here]
The very best luxury gift experiences
Few & Far, Unknown Adventure
Imagine jetting off on a luxury adventure with only a suitcase – while Few & Far’s Unknown Adventure handles the rest. Designed for the boldest of travelers, each bespoke journey delivers not only breathtaking scenery and immersive wildlife experiences but also the finest in five-star accommodations, so you’re guaranteed comfort wherever the mystery takes you. With every detail meticulously planned, all that’s left is to trust the journey, embrace the unexpected, and savor a trip where surprises are the main attraction. Just pick a continent, and let Few & Far transform the unknown into unforgettable.
From $15,000, fewandfarcollection.com
Pelorus x OceanSky, Airship Cruise to the North Pole
Give the gifts of the North Pole in true luxury: Pelorus and OceanSky Cruises invite you on a once-in-a-lifetime airship experience to the top of the world. Start in Svalbard, then drift north in style, watching polar bears roam below through glass floors while savoring Michelin-starred meals. And yes, you’ll actually land at the North Pole – perfect for spotting arctic animals, or perhaps Santa himself. After a gourmet lunch on the ice, the journey back offers cocktails and unforgettable Arctic views. A five-star adventure that turns “been there, done that” into a thing of the past.
Price upon request, pelorusaviation.com
[See also: Pelorus and OceanSky Cruises Launch Collaboration]
The Mark, Penthouse Christmas Spectacular Package: A Fantasy Come to Life
A festive holiday escape that outshines every Christmas wish list, The Mark Penthouse’s festive package is pure magic. From a private skating rink on the Penthouse’s terrace to after-hours shopping at Bergdorf Goodman, this experience is as exclusive as it gets. Unwind with a guided after-hours tour at the Met, indulge in a four-course feast by Michelin-starred Chef Jean-Georges, and toast to the season at Caviar Kaspia with up to 10 guests. Add daily personal training, massages, and Frederic Fekkai blowouts to keep the holiday glow – it’s New York’s most extravagant holiday.
Three-night minimum from $250,000, themarkhotel.com
[See also: The Mark Hotel: The Check-in of Choice for the Met Gala]
Abercrombie & Kent, Private Dining at the Pyramids
Swap your usual dinner reservations for a once-in-a-lifetime feast at the Pyramids of Giza. This one-of-a-kind luxury gift experience from Abercrombie & Kent transports your loved one to an enchanting experience under the stars, with Egypt’s last ancient wonder as the backdrop. Begin the evening with a torch-lit walk across the Giza Plateau, as the pyramids light up under the night sky. A luxurious sultan’s tent awaits, draped in gold and blue, where they’ll enjoy a five-star feast served on brass trays, accompanied by live harp music. With a full bar, folkloric performances and even whirling dervishes, this unforgettable night brings the magic of Egypt to life.
From £80,000 [$105,000], abercrombiekent.co.uk
Black Tomato, Take Me on a Story, Hercules
Gift your little adventurers the chance to step into the sandals of Hercules himself with Black Tomato’s Take Me On a Story: Hercules. This immersive, nine-day journey whisks families across Greece, where young heroes-in-training can test their courage with challenges inspired by the figure’s famed 12 labors. From racing in the shadow of Olympia to navigating the Minotaur’s maze in Crete, it’s a mythic adventure that brings ancient legends and young imaginations to life. A trip that’s part history lesson, part epic quest and all unforgettable, it’s designed to make any kid feel like a true Greek hero.
From $49,000 for a family of four, blacktomato.com
Sensei Porcupine Creek, Coachella Hiking Retreat
For the outdoor enthusiast who treats wellness as a year-round pursuit – and not just a New Year’s resolution – Sensei Porcupine Creek’s Hiking Retreat is the perfect antidote to winter hibernation. This four-night journey, held January 16–20, 2025, pairs world-class wellness with the awe-inspiring beauty of Palm Springs and the surrounding California desert.
Led by expert guides, guests will explore three breathtaking trails through Palm Springs and the rugged Santa Rosa Mountains, immersing themselves in nature’s majesty. After the day’s adventures, the retreat’s 230-acre, adults-only sanctuary offers the ultimate in rejuvenation, featuring Nobu’s renowned cuisine and transformative treatments at the sanctuary-like spa.
sensei.com/coachella-hiking-retreat
Four Seasons Private Jet, International Intrigue 2026
Give the gift of the world (quite literally) with the Four Seasons Private Jet’s International Intrigue 2026 itinerary. Over 21 unforgettable days, the lucky recipient will touch down in eight iconic destinations, from the serenity of the Maldives to the wild beauty of the Serengeti. They’ll master samurai swordsmanship in Kyoto, soar over African savannahs in a hot air balloon, and sip cocktails on a sunset cruise in paradise. All while enjoying Four Seasons’ signature five-star service, ensuring every moment is as seamless as it is spectacular. The ultimate travel gift for the globetrotter in your life, because why settle for one vacation when they can have eight?
From $219,000 per person (based on double occupancy), fourseasons.com
Chivas Brothers, The Vault Experience
Take the guesswork out of gifting the perfect bottle for the whisky lover in your life by giving them the ultimate choice with Chivas Brothers’ Vault Experience. This rare and immersive journey into Speyside’s Strathisla Distillery begins with a private tour of Scotland’s oldest working distillery, followed by a guided walk through Chivas Brothers’ rich history. Inside The Vault, guests will explore 240 rare and high-aged whiskies, including treasures from now-closed distilleries. Guided by experts, they’ll taste and discover, before having the chance to purchase their very own cask – an unforgettable gift for any whisky connoisseur.
From £1,200 [approx. $1,545] per guest, chivasbrothersvault.com
[See also: The Glenlivet Reveals its Oldest Scotch Whisky Ever for 200th Year]
La Dolce Vita Orient Express
Skip the plane and treat someone special to the ultimate in luxury travel with the La Dolce Vita Orient Express experience. This iconic journey through Italy offers more than just breathtaking views, it’s a five-star adventure on rails. With elegant, Art Deco-inspired interiors and impeccable service, guests are transported back to the golden age of travel. The highlight? A Michelin-starred dining experience crafted by Heinz Beck, where every bite is as exquisite as the scenery. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sparkling coastlines, this journey is a celebration of Italy’s finest. The perfect gift for anyone craving a taste of la dolce vita.
One-night itinerary starts from €3,500 [$3,752] per person in a deluxe cabin and €4,700 [$5,040] per person in a suite. orient-express.com/la-dolce-vita
Tully Luxury Travel, Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
For nature lovers seeking an unforgettable adventure, Tully Luxury Travel offers bespoke gorilla trekking experiences in Rwanda. Expertly crafted by African Travel Designers with firsthand knowledge, these journeys provide rare encounters with endangered gorillas in their natural habitat. Stay at the exclusive Singita Kwitonda Lodge, located on the edge of Volcanoes National Park, where seven private suites and a single villa offer an intimate, eco-conscious safari experience. With limited daily permits for trekking, Tully’s carefully curated itineraries ensure responsible travel, giving back to local communities while immersing travelers in Rwanda’s wild beauty. It’s a life-changing journey, meticulously planned for a truly meaningful experience.
Price upon request, tullyluxurytravel.com
[See also: Mary Jean Tully on Why She’s Been on Safari 50 Times (and Counting)]
Wayfairer, 15-night trip to Japan and Raja Ampat
For the ultimate combination of culture and adventure, the Wayfairer 15-night trip to Japan and Raja Ampat is a journey like no other. Starting in the bustling streets of Tokyo, before exploring cultural gems like the Metropolis Photography Tour and the serene Hakone National Park, with a view of the iconic Mount Fuji. After soaking in the sights and relaxing in hot springs, it’s time to fly to Jakarta, where the real adventure begins. Set sail on a 10-day Sea Trek across the stunning islands of Raja Ampat, Indonesia. Spend the days snorkeling through caves, kayaking crystal-clear lagoons, and exploring remote islands, witnessing vibrant marine life on this exclusive sailing adventure, all while making memories on both land and sea.
From £12,745 ($16,393) per person, wayfairertravel.com
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