1. Nyamasheke, Rwanda - One&Only Nyungwe House

1. Nyamasheke, Rwanda - One&Only Nyungwe House

During my visit to the One&Only Nyungwe House, nestled on the edge of Nyungwe National Park, Africa's largest tropical rainforest, I was immediately struck by the harmonious blend of nature and humanity in this biodiverse ecosystem.

The tiny treehouse-style rooms offered me the chance to spot monkeys right outside my window. In the mornings, I joined group treks to search for chimpanzees, feeling as if I had stepped into the wild, breathing in the fresh air of the deep forest.

As I wandered along the winding forest trails, I stumbled upon old gold mines, climbed hills for breathtaking views of Lake Kivu, and participated in a tea harvesting experience at one of Rwanda's renowned tea plantations.

2. Sabah, Malaysia - Borneo Rainforest Lodge

If you want to encounter orangutans in their natural habitat, the Borneo Rainforest Lodge in Sabah is a must-visit. I was amazed to learn that 65 orangutans live nearby.

Walking along the treetop paths, I felt immersed in a rainforest that is over 140 million years old. Guided jungle walks provided insight into the presence of orangutans and the diverse wildlife surrounding us.

In the evenings, I attended talks, slidshows, and films about conservation. For the adventurous, nighttime safaris offered a thrilling way to explore the forest under a different light.

3. Tennessee, USA - Blackberry Mountain

When the Beall family purchased land on the slopes of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the 1970s, they started farming. Visitors loved the area, and soon the family officially opened their doors to guests.

Today, Blackberry Mountain has transformed into a luxurious resort featuring cozy cabins and cottages. From my accommodation, I was treated to stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and couldn’t resist exploring the park’s scenic hiking trails.

4. Limpopo, South Africa - Lepogo Lodges Noka Camp

At Noka Camp, luxurious eco-friendly villas perched on cliffs overlooking the Palala River provided me with a deep connection to nature.

When I wasn’t out on wildlife viewing excursions, I often relaxed on the villa's terrace, complete with a daybed where I could listen to the soothing sounds of the surrounding wilderness.

5. Okavango Delta, Botswana - Atzaró Okavango Camp

Upon arriving at Atzaró Okavango Camp, I was lucky enough to spot some of Africa’s largest animals even before entering the camp. This luxurious campsite is accessible only by helicopter.

With walking safaris and kayaking adventures, I enjoyed incredible experiences, getting up close with nature and discovering the local wildlife.

Baros Island, Maldives - Baros Maldives

Baros Maldives is one of the first resorts in the Maldives, boasting stunning beaches and luxurious overwater bungalows. I took part in scuba diving tours and learned about the local culture.

Just 20 meters from the shore lies a beautiful coral reef, where I had the chance to explore underwater life and encounter marine creatures like sharks, turtles, and colorful fish.

Banff National Park, Canada - Fairmont Banff Springs

The Fairmont Banff Springs hotel stands out amidst the majestic Rockies, where I could fully appreciate the beauty of untouched nature. Although it was hard to leave this enchanting hotel, I made sure to explore the meadows, natural springs, and fantastic hiking trails nearby.

Papagayo, Costa Rica - Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo

This resort is set between dry tropical forests and pristine white sandy beaches. I had the opportunity to hike through the rainforest, filled with various tropical trees and wildlife.

Whether walking or kayaking along the coast, the experiences were utterly relaxing and unforgettable.

Queensland, Australia - Gilberton Outback Retreat

Once a gold mining area in the 1860s, Gilberton transformed into a cattle ranch after the mines closed, and it now serves as a nature reserve.

I was fortunate to see Indigenous art and the unique white kangaroos that call this place home.

Kibale National Park, Uganda - Kibale Lodge

Kibale Lodge, located next to the national park known for its chimpanzee trekking, is the perfect stop for nature lovers. I was truly impressed by the scenic beauty and the exciting wildlife viewing opportunities available.

Don’t forget to spend some time exploring the Bigodi wetlands, managed by the community, to learn more about the local environment and the lives of the people here.