Bernie Van Der Linde“Take only memories, leave only footprints—but make sure they are light on the Earth.”
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Bernie Van Der Linde
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Popular tourist destinations such as Cape Town, Paris, Santorini, Mykonos, the Okavango Delta, and the Masai Mara are increasingly facing the consequences of overtourism—overcrowding, diluted cultural experiences, and the exploitation of natural and local resources. As travellers become more conscious of their impact, a new movement is gaining momentum: green luxury travel.
Green luxury travel is about more than beautiful destinations. It’s a mindset. It includes eco-conscious accommodation, low-impact transportation, locally sourced sustainable cuisine, cultural integrity, community support, wildlife and nature conservation, minimalist, nature-integrated design, digital detox opportunities, and an emphasis on mindful exploration.
Hidden gems for sustainable, off-the-beaten-path adventurers
For many travellers over 50, the goal is no longer to check off an endless list of landmarks. It’s about connection, comfort, and authenticity. That’s the heart of the Travel Buddy Lifestyle, and the very reason we launched our blog. We want to highlight places where you can truly pause, breathe, and immerse yourself in the culture and rhythm of a destination.
Why these hidden gems are perfect for 50+ travellers
- Less crowds, more character: These destinations allow you to slow down and savour authentic experiences.
- Regenerative travel: Conscious travellers are seeking journeys that leave a positive impact and offer low-impact safaris.
- Luxury redefined: It’s not just about thread counts anymore—it’s about intention, access, and authenticity. Each destination has been curated by women, for women, with enriching experiences in mind.
Eco-luxury escapes worth booking now:
Are you ready to travel differently—more mindfully, and with purpose? Each destination in our curated list has been personally explored by us—Bernie and Petra, your Travel Buddies. These eight locations blend eco-consciousness with genuine cultural experiences, ideal for discerning travellers over 50.
Why Ichingo Chobe River Lodge is a hidden gem: Tucked away on Impalila Island, where Namibia, Botswana, and Zambia meet. This lodge offers a peaceful and immersive river safari experience.
Highlights of Ichingo Chobe River Lodge:
- Raised Meru-style tents that protect the land and minimise the environmental impact
- Natural ventilation in communal areas
- The lodge is constructed from reclaimed wood.
- Guided boat safaris
- Bicycle tours on the Impalila Island. Routes between 6km and 20 km long.
- Tiger fishing (strictly catch and release)
- Cultural village tours. Meet the Subiya tribe village’s elders and locals.
- Birdwatching (450+ bird species)
- Farm-to-table dining that supports local farmers, minimising food miles and highlights seasonal ingredients.
Eco Element: Meru tents, solar-powered lodge, water-based activities, low-footprint tourism.
Click here to view the rates for Ichingo Chobe River Lodge 2025/2026.
Review of Ichingo Chobe River Lodge. Click here to read our review of Ichingo Chobe River Lodge
Why Amber River Lodge is a hidden gem: A peaceful micro-camp on the south-eastern floodplain of the Okavango Delta. Located on an island in the Sandididebe Channel, south of the well-known Moremi Game Reserve, away from the crowded (read touristy) Chobe Game Reserve. This off-the-grid camp prioritises intimacy and authenticity.
Highlights of Amber River Camp:
- Community-supported lodge
- Mokoro trips
- Boma dinners
- Walking safaris
- Cultural village visits
- Hands-on authentic cooking experiences that involve foraging for water lilies or baking traditional breads.
- Non-intrusive wildlife encounters.
Eco Element: Only six eco-conscious luxury tents, solar systems, and conservation-focused experiences.
Click here to view the rates for Amber River Camp 2025/2026
Review of Amber River Lodge. Click here to read our review of Amber River Lodge.
Why Sediba Luxury Safari Lodge is a hidden gem: The lodge is located in a 36,000ha private game reserve within the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere Reserve. This malaria-free game reserve is one of South Africa’s best-kept Big 5 secrets..
Highlights of Sediba Luxury Safari Lodge:
- The lodge supports conservation programmes (it is a partner in the Wild Earth documentaries) and is one of the few places where Rhinos are tracked to protect them against poaching. Thus, there are many Rhino sightings.
- Breathtaking mountain scenery and diverse terrains
- Eco-conscious suites that blend naturally with the landscape due to the use of natural resources found in the area, like stone and wood, to create a barefoot luxury feel.
- Emphasis on mental wellness, privacy and unrushed experiences.
- Ample time to connect with nature and self.
- Limited game vehicle access per sighting.
- African-inspired meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
- Enjoy locally sourced South African wines.
Eco Element: no off-roading, no private vehicles, solar power, conservation-led tourism, and eco-sensitive, sustainable architecture.
Click here to view the rates for Sediba Luxury Safari Lodge 2025/2026.
Review of Sediba Luxury Safari Lodge. Click here to read our review of Sediba Lodge
Why Oudsthoorn is a hidden gem: Oudsthoorn is South Africa’s ostrich capital turned boutique eco-destination, nestled in the heart of the Little Karoo’s Swartberg Mountain Range.
Highlights of Wildehondekloof:
- Learn about the vegetation of the Little Karoo (succulents, Cape Thicket and fynbos)
- A family owned, eco-conscious accommodation
- Star gazing (pre-bookings essential)
- Nature sensitive game drives with no external vehicles.
- Swimming in natural rivers and waterfalls.
- Guided or self-guided hiking trails
- Mountain biking (own bikes)
- Self-catering option available.
- African meals prepared from fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Enjoy locally sourced food and wines.
Eco Element: Solar powered, fully off-the-grid, regenerative farming, wildlife protection, and community-led experiences.
Click here to view the rates of Wildehondekloof for 2025/2026.
Review of Wildehondekloof, Oudsthoorn. Click here to read our review of Wildehondekloof.
Why Rovos Rail is a hidden gem experience: Rovos Rail is synonymous with vintage carriages rebuilt by the South African Railway tycoon, Rohan Vos. Expect a combination of history and sustainability.
Highlights of Rovos Rail Journeys:
- Slow-meaningful travel.
- Vintage carriages restored to perfection.
- Panoramic viewing cart
- Enjoy a sense of timelessness.
- Experience a digital detox.
- Station and platform tour with the museum in Pretoria.
- African-inspired meals prepared from locally sourced ingredients.
- Enjoy locally produced wines.
Eco Element: Plant-based bottles, water-saving toilets, earth-friendly onboard amenities like Msulwa Life and Katavi, restored locomotives, rail travel over flights, and a low-impact luxury travel experience.
Click here to view the rates of the Rovos Rail Journey for 2025/2026.
Why Syros is a hidden gem: Syros is a perfect example of how to preserve a destination’s authentic charm by focusing on cultural depth instead of commercial tourism. Here, travellers can still enjoy authentic Greek experiences.
Highlights of our stay on Syros:
- The island is home to many aromatic herbs like thyme, sage and oregano.
- Beautiful marble town squares.
- Syros has many undeveloped and quiet beaches.
- Lesser overrun tourist hotspots.
- Local crafts are available in souvenir shops.
- Many historical buildings and authentic experiences, like the tour of the deserted textile factory in Hermoupolis.
- Boat excursions to the unspoiled northern beaches.
- Geological magnificence. Volcanic and sedimentary rock formations are evident in a large uninhabited part of the island.
- The best Greek island to experience local cultures and their daily lifestyle.
- The island has many traditional Greek taverns serving authentic Greek food.
- The island is along migratory routes of species like dolphins and sea turtles.
Eco Element: Local organic farming and traditional agriculture (vineyards and olive groves). Harvesting of rainwater and desalination systems. Many hotels have implemented waste reduction strategies and energy-saving practices. Family-run boutique hotels like Pino Di Loto (where we stayed). Minimal tourism infrastructure.
Click here to view the rates of Pino Di Loto for 2025/2026.
Review: Click here to read about our stay at Pino Di Loto and our experiences on Syros Island. Terezdina and her team take their guests’ well-being seriously by offering wellness corners and Yoga or Pilates sessions.
Why Andros is a hidden gem: Andros is the greenest of the Cyclades and is well-known for its 180km of walking trails. This Greek Island offers dramatic landscapes and fresh spring water. With a population of only 8300 people, it makes sense that Andros is still unspoiled by mass tourism and offers many secret locations off the beaten path.
Highlights of our stay on Syros:
- Coastal and inland hiking routes.
- Chora is home to a famous archaeological and art museum.
- Beautiful citrus orchards. The island is particularly known for its lemons, which are often used in their cuisine.
- Forests and four impressive mountain ranges.
- Waterfalls (Pythara and Gerolimni are our favourites) and Lakes
- Ancient monasteries
- Local tavernas in stone-built villages serve authentic Greek dishes.
Eco Element: Protected nature hiking trails (Andros Routes), local-run eco-lodges. The island strongly focuses on sustainable tourism. Each year, Andros presents an On Foot Festival, which invites visitors to participate in group hikes, meet locals, explore lesser-known villages, and learn about the island through landmark visits.
Click here to view the rates of Villa Thimari for 2025/2026.
Why Andros is a must-visit island. Click here to read about our stay at Villa Thimari and our experiences on Andros Island. Sandra welcomes guests with open arms to her holiday villa and ensures they are personally taken care of. She often spoils her guests with traditional home-cooked meals and fantastic baking.
Review of Villa Thimari: Click here to read our review of Villa Thimari and our stay on Andros Island.
8. Lamula Lodge, South Africa – Private Bush Escape Near Kruger
Why Lamula Lodge is a hidden gem: The Villa is a stylish, under-the-radar self-catering stay bordering Kruger National Park. The lodge blends natural textures with modern safari design. It is ideal for small group getaways or family bonding trips.
Highlights of Lamula Lodge:
- Exclusive-use villa for up to eight guests.
- Personalised game drives
- Private chef available to prepare traditional South African dishes.
- Elegant stay blending natural textures with safari chic.
Eco Element: Locally sourced materials, community employment, and a light-on-the-land approach to luxury. The lodge prioritises sustainable tourism by using energy-saving systems and implementing waste reduction initiatives.
Click here to visit Lamula Lodge’s website for 2025/2026.
Review of Lamula Lodge. Click here to read our review of Lamula Lodge near the Kruger National Park.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Green Luxury Travel
Here are some frequently asked questions in terms of Green Luxury Travel Experiences for travellers over 50.
What is green luxury travel?
Green luxury travel combines eco-friendly practices with high-end experiences, ensuring sustainability without compromising on comfort and style.
How can I travel sustainably after 50?
Opt for eco-friendly lodges, small-group tours that minimize environmental impact, and destinations committed to sustainable tourism practices.
What are the best eco-friendly travel destinations for seniors?
Small-group travel reduces environmental impact by minimizing the carbon footprint and lessening the strain on local communities and wildlife habitats. Choosing eco-conscious destinations like Namibia’s luxury lodges, Botswana’s exclusive safari camps, and private reserves in South Africa, such as Welgevonden Game Reserve, promotes responsible tourism. For coastal escapes, The Garden Route in South Africa, along with the serene islands of Syros and Andros in Greece, offer sustainable, immersive experiences.
If you prefer luxury with a touch of nostalgia, a journey aboard the Rovos Rail provides an eco-friendly way to explore Southern Africa’s stunning landscapes in style.
Why is small-group travel more sustainable?
Small-group travel reduces carbon footprints, minimises strain on local communities, and promotes responsible wildlife tourism.
Conclusion: Luxury that Resonates
Green travel is for travellers like us who want comfort without compromise. That means luxury that respects the planet, supports local communities and leaves a lighter footprint.
The best journeys don’t always come with guidebooks or crowds—they’re often found in quiet places with rich stories. If this is your kind of travel experience, follow our blog, book one of your small-group tours, or let us advice you on where to find your next meaningful escape.
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Your travel buddies, Bernie and Petra
