Wellness travel has taken off in a big way. And why shouldn’t it?

The world has become more fast-paced and connected, leaving very little time to focus on balance and rejuvenation. So it’s no surprise that travellers are looking for more chances to focus on mindfulness and resetting themselves.

Enter the luxury travel experts at Abercrombie & Kent who have launched a collection of wellness-inspired luxury small group journeys to India, Southeast Asia, Kenya and Peru.

Linked by a commitment to caring for oneself, and one’s loved ones, these journeys are highly experiential with wellness components incorporated throughout and a slower pace that allows guests full immersion in, and appreciation of the destination.

“These new wellness-inspired luxury small group journeys to some of our favourite destinations are designed to enrich mind, body and spirit”, says Abercrombie & Kent Regional Managing Director Australasia Asia Pacific, Sujata Raman.

“A balance of cultural appreciation, time for reflection and rejuvenation interspersed with active elements and local insider interaction set these journeys apart and all underpinned by A&K’s signature style and service.”

Wellness India: Ancient Traditions & Inspiring Icons

A&K’s unhurried journey through Rajasthan and Varanasi allows time to pause and admire monuments that reflect India’s rich spiritual heritage, from temples dedicated to Shiva and Lord Vishnu to the glittering Taj Mahal.

There are three rejuvenating nights in Udaipur complete with guided meditation, a bike ride through the countryside and a restful sunset cruise. There is a private consultation with an Ayurvedic doctor during a leisurely stay at intimate Amanbagh plus opportunities to explore the Rajasthani countryside with options that include visiting local artisans or photogenic village tours at dusk.

The A&K Philanthropy-supported residential school for young girls is a feature plus two awe-inspiring nights in the spiritual heart of India, Varanasi, where guests bed down in a former palace on the banks of the sacred Ganges, partake in an evening aarti ceremony, and take an evening boat ride to experience the pitru tarpana, a moving ceremony that honours the memory of a loved one.

2019 travel dates: 5-17 October; 9-21 November 2019

Twin share per person: $15,720

Single supplement: $7,345

Wellness Southeast Asia: Timeless Rituals of Indochina

The enduring traditions of Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam form the backbone of this journey where guests take part in inspirational ceremonies that make a deep connection with the local culture.

There is a baci ceremony in Luang Prabang and the morning ritual of alms offering to local monks. Angkor Thom is explored on a tuk tuk or bike and sunrise at Angkor Wat is unforgettable.

The spiced up flavours of Southeast Asia are showcased on a progressive dining tour of Siem Reap and there’s time to luxuriate on a private tropical island with a three-night stay at the new Six Senses Krabey Island.

Design Your Day choices include a Khmer cooking class, a spa treatment or sunset cruise. Discover the difference that clean water makes during a visit to a remote village, where A&K Philanthropy is building wells.

2019 travel dates: 9-21 October; 30 October-11 November.

Twin share per person: $14,920

Single supplement: $7,050

Wellness Kenya: Cultures & Wildlife

Kenya’s rich tribal traditions and important conservation efforts are revealed on this active safari in the Masai Mara Game Reserve and Tsavo National Park. Guests hike through the cloud forests of the lush Chyulu Hills and learn about traditional warrior training from the Maasai.

Morning and afternoon game drives offer awe-inspiring adventures and close-up observation of incredible wildlife. There is time to refresh and replenish with a restorative spa treatment as well as sunrise and sunset yoga.

Travellers will also gain a new perspective on giving back at an A&K Philanthropy- supported school and see how sustainable tourism is providing safe drinking water.

2019 travel dates: 20-28 October; 29 October-6 November.

Twin share per person: $17,485

Single supplement: $2,050

Wellness Peru: Spirit of the Incas

Ancient practices and spiritual influence flourish in the Sacred Valley and Cusco. Guests on this journey discover local traditions in a remote mountainside village and working farm, followed by a farm-to-table lunch.

The secrets of ayahuasca, a traditional medicine from the Amazon, are shared and hand-feeding llamas and alpacas at a dedicated breeding centre is a special encounter. Active adventures include kayaking in a secluded lagoon 3,800 metres above sea level and hiking up towering Huayna Picchu for a birds-eye view of world famous Machu Picchu. Bedding down at the only property adjoining the ancient Incan site, means guests can rise with the sun and explore the sanctuary before the crowds arrive.

Design Your Day options in Cusco include browsing in the picturesque San Blas neighbourhood, a haven for local artisans; a relaxing spa treatment or a personal coca-leaf fortune reading conducted by a shaman.

2019 travel dates: 4-13 November; 3-12 December.

Twin share per person: $11,605

Single supplement: $3,815