black tomato travel cost

South America Chevron

Chile Chevron

Patagonia Chevron

On a Scouting Trip With Travel Company Black Tomato, I Got to See How a New Itinerary Takes Shape

By Rebecca Misner

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Tack tack tack tack tack tack tack! TACK TACK!  

I turn, confused, to our guide Claudio and ask whether that aggressive drilling is coming from a jackhammer. He realizes that I’m serious and cracks up before telling our hiking party of three that there’s a tiny endemic woodpecker in a tree nearby. I’m not such a city slicker that I don’t know a bird from a power tool, but the percussive pecking is just so loud. Apparently, when you’re somewhere truly remote and all of those barely perceptible vestiges of human existence—the muffled backbeat of highway traffic, the puffy parallel lines of fading contrail, that sun-bleached candy wrapper—disappear, nature comes into sharp relief.

Indeed, we are somewhere truly remote. We’re about 15 minutes into an eight-mile hike around Lago Chico located in Patagonia National Park in southern Chile’s Chacabuco Valley. It’s one of the country’s newest national parks, part of an enormous tract of land that American conservationists and rewilding philanthropists Kris and Doug Tompkins donated to the Chilean government to turn into protected parkland sustained by ecotourism. I’ve come to Chile with Tom Marchant , co-founder of the travel company Black Tomato , and five members of his team. They’re here on a research and development trip to determine whether, and how, this sweep of Patagonia—home to sprawling grasslands and snow-capped Andean peaks, seaglass-aqua rivers and a returning puma population—should be turned into a Black Tomato adventure. I’m tagging along for this leg of the trip, and for a whirlwind 24 hours in Santiago where we'll check out the sleek new Mandarin Oriental hotel and taste some wine at Viña El Principal, a local winery, before the team heads north to Chile’s starkly beautiful Atacama Desert for round two of research.

Hiking the Lagunas Altas trail in Patagonia National Park

To be honest, I don’t really know what to expect from this trip. Over a pisco sour on our first night at the lovely 10-room Explora lodge, the only lodge in the newly formed national park and our home base for four nights, I admit as much to Marchant. As a travel magazine editor, I frequently work with specialists to send writers to destinations around the globe. As a travel writer, I’ve been on a number of specialist-organized trips. I have perhaps a better handle on what they do than most civilians and I know how crucial they are to planning and executing successful trips, especially during these unpredictable travel times. But I’ve never witnessed the nascency of an itinerary, seen the holes poked and the kinks ironed out. And there’s Black Tomato’s long-standing reputation swirling around in my mind. 

It’s easy to forget from the vantage point of today, but when Black Tomato launched in 2005, it shook up the travel industry. It pioneered a new brand of trip planning, one that merged real intrepid adventure with luxury travel, taking a new generation of explorers to then off-grid parts of Iceland and deep into the Moroccan desert, in style no less. With slick marketing and a discerning cool-kid aesthetic, Black Tomato was definitely not your grandma Marge’s travel agency. And it’s continued to innovate and move the industry needle over the years. Did I want to see the proverbial sausage being made or—why stop with one idiom?—would there be a Toto-pulling-back-the-curtain moment?

Along the snowy Lagunas Altas trail in Patagonia National Park

Rebecca Misner on the lookout for the Big Five

Marchant admits to me that he, too, isn’t sure what it will be like having a journalist embedded with the team during the R&D stage when he and his colleagues are test driving and candidly working through a potential itinerary. After the second pisco sour, which comes on the heels of rushing out of the lodge in time to see two puma slink into the shadows, no one is worried about anything, least of all my presence on this trip. We clink glasses and decide that we’re a charmed bunch to have seen the elusive puma within hours of arriving (some guests never see one their whole stay) and head off to get some rest before tomorrow’s early trek.

Late October, high spring in Patagonia, is a real weather buffet. Over the course of a 13-mile hike, marked by stripping down to t-shirts only to layer back on puffers and hats when the sun tucks behind rain clouds, I have plenty of time to chat with Marchant and his team as we walk past herds of grazing guanacos and around Laguna Seca where pale pinky-orange flamingos balance on impossibly spindly legs. “The research phase is crucial, especially if you’re scouting a place that is still a little off-piste for most travelers,” he tells me as we scan the horizon for puma (we’re all obsessed, and a little competitive, after last night’s sighting). “A place may seem perfect from 3,000 miles away, but you have to go and experience it with an eye to your client. Maybe the infrastructure isn’t there yet or it’s absolutely brutal to get from point A to point B.” 

Hikers, including Tom Marchant (far left) and editor Rebecca Misner (far right), and guides enjoy a round of post-trek beers at Explora Patagonia National Park. 

By Jessica Puckett

By Olivia Morelli

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

By Devra Ferst

With this trip, however, Marchant felt confident going in that it would be a fit for Black Tomato. For starters, they’ll be working with Explora, a hospitality company that has three decades of experience in South America and has set the benchmark for adventure lodges and guiding in the region. “Explora is such a cool company and I like that we have a shared ethos,” he says when describing the conservation and rewilding efforts happening in the park in partnership with Explora and Black Tomato’s own recent efforts to become a B Corporation. 

The fact that Patagonia National Park is shiny-new is also a hook. “Travelers haven’t really explored this park the way they have other places in Patagonia, like Torres del Paine. There aren't tons of tour operators here yet—it’s kind of a blank canvas and I find that tremendously appealing,” Marchant explains. He goes on to note that while Explora is already doing something great in the area, he and his crew are here in part to look for ways to layer in extras and tailor the trip for future Black Tomato clients. “This could mean,” he notes, stopping and gesturing to a pretty valley that comes into view as we crest a rocky outcropping, “that you get to this point in the hike and you look down and there’s a perfect little camp set up where you’ll stay the night in a tent and have an amazing stargazing experience.” With a laugh he adds, “I’m always looking for ways to surprise and delight. And to create moments; it’s all about having moments.”

He’s half joking with the marketing lingo, but he’s absolutely sincere in terms of the sentiment. By this point in the trip, I’d already experienced a delightful surprise when the six-hour van ride to Explora, which was supposed to follow my 12-hour flight from Los Angeles to Santiago and hour-long jumper flight to Balmaceda, was suddenly replaced by a private plane and a quick flight to a small airport a short drive from the entrance to the park. 

Meal prep at Explora Patagonia National Park

Viña El Principal, a winery in Pirque, just outside of Santiago

Of course the less lofty but very important business of selling the itinerary to clients back home is also driving this trip. Marchant wants Black Tomato’s travel experts like Carly Moss and Ian Jordan who are with him in Chile to experience everything so they can authentically speak about the itinerary as well as understand how to tweak it for specific clients. He also wants their feedback. Most evenings while we're here, he has one-on-ones with team members and asks each for their take on the day. Remarks range from observations about how much time a potential client will realistically need to do this trip (more than a week given how remote it is) to the need for a few more vegetarian options, especially at dinner. Marchant also has Esteban Llauradó (the team’s photographer and videographer, who we dub the “mountain goat” for his ability to scramble up anything to get the shot), film them talking about a favorite thing they saw or did that day. 

Making original content has always been a part of Black Tomato’s DNA and Marchant is a born storyteller (the inked Kerouac and Hemingway passages that scroll up his forearms are a hint). He tells me that crafting a narrative to take back to clients is an important part of any Black Tomato R&D trip. “When we were starting out, I thought it was strange that few travel companies were really showing travel in all its glory. Like, you’re trying to get people pumped about visiting all these amazing places but none of the places looked all that spectacular,” he tells me after spending a few hours with Llauradó getting drone footage of the nearby Baker River. “I want to show clients what a place looks and feels like and get them excited about a trip before they’ve boarded the plane.” 

There’s no shortage of content fodder or amazing experiences to be had over the next few days. One morning, we kayak down the gin bottle-blue Cochrane River and then hike back while trying to spot Patagonia’s big five. We’ve already ticked off puma, Andean condor, guanaca, and the team swears they saw a rhea, a South American ostrich, the few hours I wasn’t with them. The endangered huemul, or South Andean deer, must remain a mystery. We have tasty meals and excellent wine at Explora’s restaurant and stay up way too late laughing. It’s fun, personally, to be with this team, others who nerd out on travel the way I do. And professionally, it’s elucidating to get this behind-the-scenes look at how an itinerary comes together and how another part of the travel industry operates. I’m genuinely sad when my leg of the trip ends and I have to leave this group behind as they go on to the Atacama.

Kayaking the Rio Cochrane, one of Explora Patagonia National Park's excursions

On my long flight home, I scroll repeatedly through the photos on my phone, the way I always do after any trip. Absorbing the images and trying to commit the accompanying feelings to memory, like emotional flashcards. I keep coming back to the photos of that hike around Lago Chico that began with the aggressively loud woodpecker. Toward the very end of it, after trekking for four hours through the spectacular landscape and not seeing another soul, we'd headed up one last hill and arrived at a small wood and stone lookout point with a view of the snowpeak-framed lake below. It was so unbelievably empty and beautiful—the kind of scene that breaks your heart a little. There had been lunch waiting for us–hot soup and cold beers. Simple and perfect. I was surprised and yes, delighted, by this unexpected picnic. Marchant, Llauradó, and I ate in easy silence, taking in our surroundings. Before getting up to leave, the photographer said what we'd all been feeling: “It’s an honor and a blessing to be here with both of you right now.” We'd most definitely just had a moment.

The trip I took has been fashioned into Black Tomato's newest itinerary, Into the Chilean Wilds . This nine-night adventure starts at $13,325 per person (excluding international flights) and includes: guided treks, kayaking, and, of course, unlimited attempts to spot the park's big five while staying at Explora Patagonia National Park; a private tour of Santiago, as well as a visit to the nearby wine region of Pirque, and two nights in the city at the Mandarin Oriental, Santiago , or the charming Hotel Magnolia ; and desert excursions like hiking and stargazing in Atacama, using Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa as a base. All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Recommended

Hotel Lago Grey

Our Habitas Atacama

South America Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

You are browsing the UK site. Visit our US site .

You are browsing the US site. Visit our UK site .

You are browsing the US site. Visit our Rest of World site .

• Destinations
• Experiences

• The Seychelles
• South Africa
• Tanzania & Zanzibar
• Browse all Africa

• Browse all Arctic & Antarctica

• The Maldives
• Papua New Guinea
• The Philippines
• South Korea
• The United Arab Emirates
• Browse all Asia

• The Cook Islands
• French Polynesia
• New Zealand
• Browse all Australasia & Oceania

• The British Virgin Islands
• The Cayman Islands
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Turks and Caicos
• Browse all Caribbean

• Czech Republic
• Ireland & Northern Ireland
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• UK & Ireland
• Browse all Europe

• Réunion Island
• Browse all Indian Ocean

• Browse all Indian Subcontinent

• Ecuador & the Galapagos
• Browse all Latin America

• Browse all Middle East

• Browse all North America

• Browse all South East Asia

• Browse all South Pacific

• A-Z destinations
• Our purpose
• 5 reasons to book with us
• Why not just do it yourself?
• How it all works
• Client testimonials
• In the press

Or filter further

Explore our inspiring experiences based on when you want to travel and how you want to feel.

Please, select at least one option.

Giving you the world

Uncover new horizons with black tomato.

“Black Tomato devises distinct, upscale adventures” – WSJ

Over the years, we’ve built an award-winning reputation as curators of immersive, tailor-made travel experiences . Founded in 2005 by Tom, James, and Matt – three friends and travel companions – we’ve always felt that what matters most isn’t ‘simply’ the destination, but how you want to feel when you get there. Feelings come first.

Put another way, we don’t ‘do’ box-ticking, tourist traps, or FOMO. It’s about something a whole lot deeper.

When you plan a tailor-made journey with Black Tomato x The Journal Collection – to (almost) anywhere in the world – we’ll include a complimentary experience or excursion as part of your trip. This is your exclusive as a subscriber to The Wall Street Journal, Barron’s, MarketWatch, Financial News or Private Equity News.

Browse all destinations     Inquire today

That’s nice. But what do these trips actually look like?

Good question. The journeys we’ve curated below are some of our most popular . But remember, everything we do is tailor-made – so you can think of the m as b lueprints. Shuffle the deck; add a little more of column B; throw in a picnic in the chamber of a dormant volcano. You can go anywhere . It’s entirely up to you.

1. The best of Japan

When to travel: Mar-May and Oct-Nov

For the country that gave us both Mario and Hokusai, it’s obvious that Japan is a breathless and energetic mix. Cutting-edge hyper-modernity blended with ancient, spiritually revivifying tradition. On this trip, you’ll have the very best of both.

Your subscriber benefit: enjoy a private tea ceremony held at one of Kyoto’s finest traditional tea houses.

2. Iceland, from tip to tail

When to travel: April to September 

At times, Iceland can seem almost too perfect; this outrageously dramatic, jaw-droppingly cinematic island in the middle of the Atlantic. This journey offers an electrifying, powerhouse odyssey through the ‘classics’ – from the black beaches of Reynisfjara to the glaciers of Sólheimajökull.

Your subscriber benefit:  an indulgent visit to the oceanside geothermal of Sky Lagoon

3. Into the Chilean wilds

When to travel: November to March

For Pablo Neruda, to know the wilds of Chile is “to know the planet”. And for good reason, for this incomparable country boasts some of the most untameable landscapes on earth. This trip has it all: hiking the Lagunas Atlas; wining and dining in Santiago; kayaking the Cochrane River; and ‘ascending’ to the Atacama Desert, the driest place on earth. It’s thirsty stuff.

Your subscriber benefit:  a private wine tasting at one of Santiago’s chicest bars

4. The ultimate Kenyan safari

When to travel: Jun-October and Dec-Jan 

If it’s good enough for David Attenborough, then it’s good enough for us. This mega Kenyan safari will get you closer to the animal kingdom than you ever thought possible – blending hands-on conservation projects, tented camps in the Maasai Mara, and horseback riding in the shadow of Mount Kenya. Bliss.

Your subscriber benefit: enjoy a complimentary Maasai beading lesson from skilled local artisans.

5. The highlights of Portugal

When to travel: March to October 

In the land of Fernando Pessoa (“to be whole, it is enough to exist”), we’ve stirred together a completely enchanting mixture of culture, gastronomy, cities, and coastlines. Porto and Lison, of course. But also, exquisite Sintra and the outrageous Duoro Valley. Wine, dine, unwind, repeat.

Your subscriber benefit:  a gourmet sunset picnic at Miradouro de Santa Catarina, a sublime Lisbon viewpoint

6. Taj, tigers and temples in India

When to travel: October to April 

This is a big one. Imperious Delhi, the sublime Taj Mahal. We’ve got tiger trekking in Ranthambore and the unbelievably lovely Aravalli hills. Jaipur, Jodhpur, and – of course – the unforgettable sights of Udaipur. We realize this is really a list of place names. But they speak so strongly for themselves.

Your subscriber benefit: a private sunset dinner on your balcony at Amarvilas , overlooking the Taj Mahal

Looking for something else?

The trips above are just a taste of what we can do. When you come with us, the world is truly your oyster – from the wilds of Argentine Patagonia to Mexico’s blissed-out Yucatan peninsula. And for any trip you book, you’ll get a free The Journal Collection benefit. Ready to begin?

'We are clients for life'

It is worth every penny to have an expert plan a trip like this. We are clients for life. Thanks for everything!

LEARN MORE ABOUT BLACK TOMATO

5 REASONS TO BOOK WITH US

Trusting someone to take care of your travel plans isn’t a light decision. This is why you can feel rest assured with us.

WE ARE HUMAN

There are no automated programmes here, we believe it’s all about the human connection when it comes to what we do.

From the name to the journey that got us here today. This is our story and the individuals that make up who we are today.

Take the risk out of travelling

When planning your trip, we always look to secure the most flexible terms available. Wherever possible, this will include 100% refunds and fee-free postponements should any Covid complications arise between booking and travel.

Join The Conversation

As a subscriber to a The Journal Collection publication, you’ll receive exclusive access to The Conversation – a publication that puts some of the world’s most interesting characters under the spotlight.

Suggested companies

Kensington tours, audley travel.

Black Tomato   Reviews

In the Tour Operator category

Visit this website

Company activity See all

Write a review

Reviews 4.8.

Most relevant

Great Experience with Trip Planning for Western US

I was planning a trip to the western U.S. (Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Glacier) for a large group to celebrate my son's graduation from college. I worked with Christie Eardley, and she did an outstanding job of planning our trip, offering ideas that we would never have come up on our own, and working to help keep the costs manageable. Christie and her team great at offering options and moving things ahead quickly. It was a pleasure to work with Christie and the team at Black Tomatoes

Date of experience : February 17, 2022

Reply from Black Tomato

Hi Albie, Thank you so much for your kind words. It has been an absolute pleasure working with you and I can't wait for you and your family to head off on this adventure later this year. All the best, Christie

Black Tomato and Tom Harding....the best!!!

Black Tomato and Tom Harding were absolutely brilliant. I can’t say enough positive things about my experience with them and Tom. The process and info provided made everything seamless for our honeymoon. Then the little touches like the gifts before and on returning show the class nature of this business. Will 100% use them again. Well done guys, simply brilliant service!!

Date of experience : October 07, 2018

Hi Nick Thank you so much for your great review! It's wonderful to hear your feedback and that you enjoyed your trip to Kenya and the Seychelles. We look forward to hearing from you about your next adventure! All the best Harry Client Relations - Black Tomato

Black Tomato Honeymoon

We booked our honeymoon through Black Tomato and had a brilliant time. The team were especially amazing as we had to re-organise the trip 3 times across two continents due to Covid and they were really supportive throughout the whole process and made it seem a breeze. The final trip was close to home in Scotland, but was completely bespoke and we got to do so many amazing and unusual activities that we would never have been able to do otherwise. We were looked after so well and there were some lovely surprises along the way too. We would really recommend Black Tomato and can't wait to organise our next trip through them!

Date of experience : September 04, 2021

Hi Lara, Thank you for your kind words. We're delighted to hear that your honeymoon in Scotland was such a success! Thank you for choosing Black Tomato to help plan this special trip and we look forward to working with you on future adventures! All the best, Grace - Client Relations

Luxury travel perfection!

Our Italy vacation exceeded my expectations. The hotels were the best in the cities. The tours were top notch. The transportation was luxurious. Our travel advisor, Tom Harding, was very helpful and responsive to anything we needed prior and during our trip. I highly recommend Black Tomato for planning the perfect luxury vacation! I can’t wait to use their services again.

Date of experience : December 16, 2018

Hi Jenni Thank you so much for the kind review, I'm so glad you had a great time in Italy! Look forward to hearing from you soon. All the best Harry Client Relations - Black Tomato

Tragically disappointed with our advice…

Tragically disappointed with our advice from Black Tomato for our honeymoon. What was meant to be a special holiday, and a much needed break, it no where near met the brief we gave them. One of the main requisites was good weather, and we were sent to a part of Asia where it is widely known that their dry season and sunshine doesn't start for another two months. Whilst at the resort, we were told by several members of staff that we should have come between March - August. Highly frustrated and angry with the amount of money we have spent for this to be the experience. A complete lack of knowledge when knowledge is what you pay for with a company like this.

Date of experience : January 21, 2019

Hello Henry, Thank you for your honest feedback. We really do pride ourselves on our expert knowledge and delivering the best service to our clients so it is a shame to hear you don’t feel we have delivered on this occasion. I am sorry to hear that that weather has not been favorable so far during your Honeymoon as I understand how this can impact your time away. We do send a number of clients to the region at this time of year and largely find the weather does not disappoint as it is typically the dry season. We do also take advice from our partners on the ground in Vietnam who monitor this and advise us of the best time to travel to specific destinations. However, weather is the one thing that we cannot control and we have seen changing weather patterns in Asia that are just so unpredictable. I understand you are in contact with Rob, who is doing everything he can to personally ensure that the rest of your trip is as enjoyable as possible. However If there is anything further I can help you with, or should you like to discuss this directly upon your return, please do not hesitate to reach out. All the best, Oliver Head of Leisure – Black Tomato

Great Experience

A would like to say a big thank you to David, Chetan and Micky for an excellent trip to Thailand at the being of June. It was a six day trip which of full of activities from the minute go. Nothing was to much trouble for the team. The managed to sort out any problems (which were only weather related) so we never missed out on one of our planned trips. The whole experience was fantastic looking toward ward to travelling with them all again in the future 😀

Date of experience : June 27, 2019

Dear Angie, You are so good – and true to your word!! Believe it or not we absolutely loved the trip ourselves and genuinely loved the group (Mazda always have the best guests). All our very best to you and David and hope the ribs have healed. Warmest, David Black Tomato Agency

It was our first trip with Black Tomato…

It was our first trip with Black Tomato and certainly will not be our last. Camilla and her teams on the ground were more than excellent in anticipating our every need. We had a spectacular trip with so many mini adventures while being in the hands of true professionals. Cannot wait for our next trip with Black Tomato!

Date of experience : April 07, 2019

Hi Sharon, Thank you so much, its always lovely to hear that we have impressed our clients! It sounds like you had an amazing time in Vietnam and Cambodia and we can't wait to help you plan your next trip. Best wishes, Amy Client Relations - Black Tomato

This was our third trip with Black…

This was our third trip with Black Tomato, and we could not recommend them more! They take every trip to the next level, by sourcing the best hotels, the best local guides, and the most trusted advice! We trust their advice implicitly. Their knowledge and network of local guides across the world is unparalleled. We actually got a quote from another similar travel agency for this trip, but Black Tomato's pricing and itinerary blew the other agency away. We are in the process of planning our fourth trip with Black Tomato now, and can't wait to experience their amazing service again!

Date of experience : August 26, 2020

Black Tomato has been a wonderful…

Black Tomato has been a wonderful resource helping to create my wife and I's honeymoon. With next to no help during the initial screening (as my wife and I wanted to do it all), Black Tomato was able to narrow the scope and craft a really awesome itinerary that we could then tweak and modify as much as we wanted. Throughout the process, they were very helpful answering questions and never made us feel bad about asking "the dumb questions". Special shout-out to Tom for putting up with us. :)

Date of experience : May 25, 2022

Hi Ben, Thank you so much for your kind words. It has been an absolute pleasure working with you and helping to create the perfect honeymoon. There is no such thing as dumb questions when it comes to honeymoon planning as we need to make sure it is perfect! All the best, Tom

I am very disappointed in my experience…

I am very disappointed in my experience with Black Tomato. I had done all of my research and wanted to set up a call with them to plan my honeymoon. It took them two weeks to respond to me via email, and then they claimed their responses went to my junk mail (which they didn't). Then, when a travel agent, Mikaella, finally got back to me, they scheduled a call with me for that afternoon and then never showed up to the call. If I'm going to spend that much on a luxury vacation, I need someone who is responsive.

Date of experience : January 23, 2023

Dear Ali, I hope that you are well. I am incredibly sorry to hear that you have been disappointed with your experience, and sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused you. Planning your honeymoon should be an exciting and stress-free process, and I am saddened to hear that we have fallen short of our usual standards on this occasion. We really do pride ourselves on the level of service that we offer our clients and are so sorry that this has not been reflected in the communication that you have received. I am extremely grateful for your response to my initial email and for your understanding. I would love the opportunity to discuss this further and put things right so please do let me know if you would like me to call you directly.  Many thanks, Misha

Sunil at Black tomato helped us get an unforgettable experience in Italy!!!

Sunil at Black tomato helped us get a wonderful vacation to Italy in very short notice! We had excellent tours in Milan, Florence, and Rome! The locations of our hotels were absolutely amazing! We would step out and immediately find ourselves in the middle of famous/historic streets with plenty to see and do! This was my first time to Italy, Found excellent service everywhere we went (including transportation). We traveled up inside the coliseum and the Vatican! This was a fabulous and fantastic adventure and afterwards they sent us a thoughtful gift at home! I recommend Black Tomato! It makes travel stress free! Sunil did an excellent job, he really knew his stuff!

Date of experience : April 18, 2019

Hi Becky, Thank you so much for this lovely review. We're so glad that Sunil was able to help plan such a fantastic trip to Italy! We hope we can help you plan many more memorable trips in the future. Best wishes, Amy Client Relations - Black Tomato

Black Tomato helped us plan the most…

Black Tomato helped us plan the most memorable trip. Everything was organized so flawlessly that we could truly relax on our vacation. They booked us amazing and unique activities, hotels and local guides- making the week extra special.

Date of experience : April 06, 2018

Our Trip to French Polynesia in the Time of COVID

This was our fourth trip with Black Tomato, which, once again, delivered. We were originally scheduled to travel in April but needed to postpone due to the pandemic. Based on wishful thinking, we rescheduled for September, hoping that life would return to normal by then. Not quite. Nonetheless, Rob helped reschedule the entire trip for our new dates, stayed in constant touch while fielding our numerous questions, and suggested a perfect additional island to visit when we elected to double-down and extend the trip. He did a truly masterful job in all respects. In the end, we are grateful that we decided to proceed with the trip to French Polynesia, which is a spectacular country that provided the perfect getaway during this abnormal time. Thank you Black Tomato! - Steve and Ashleigh

Date of experience : September 25, 2020

Hello Steve and Ashleigh, Thank you for your kind words! It was wonderful to hear all about your trip yesterday, in particular your diving experience with the large Manta Rays whilst the whales were calling in the background! How magical! We look forward to helping you plan something special to look forward to in 2021! Speak soon, Rosie Head of Client Relations

Great experience

Great experience. Jihane put together a great honeymoon in Greece in a short amount of time and took the stress out of traveling during COVID. All of the tour guides and experiences set up were perfect! A big thanks to Jihane and the Black Tomato team!

Date of experience : September 22, 2021

Hi Amanda, Thank you so much for sharing kind words about Jihane and our team - it really means the world when people take the time to do this, so thank you. It was brilliant to chat and hear all about your special honeymoon to Greece too - souned amazing. Wishing you the best of luck for your new arrival to the family. We very much look forward to arranging your 5th Wedding Anniversary to Egypt! All the best, Kerris- Client Relations Manager

Fantastic service, amazing trips

Black Tomato has planned two vacations for us now. One was for our family of six (four children under the ages of 11) and one trip for my husband and I. One trip was before the pandemic and one was after. Communication was quick and helpful and every detail of the trips were so well thought out. Can’t wait to plan another vacation with them!

Date of experience : July 12, 2021

Our sent Tom Harding was fantastic

Our agent Tom Harding was fantastic. He was extremely responsive and made our experience truly magical. His recommendations were on point and was suitable for what we told him in regards to what we wanted for the trip. Tom tailor made the trip to meet our high expectations and beyond.

Date of experience : October 25, 2018

Hi Heather It's lovely to hear your feedback about Tom and your trip, thank you for leaving a review. Glad you had such a great time! Look forward to hearing from you again soon. All the best Harry Client Relations - Black Tomato

Italy Honeymoon - Excellent Result

Thoughtful review and recommendation of activities and hotel stays based upon my desired trip. Very responsive both during the planning stage while also on the trip itself. BT App was very useful in aggregating trip documents and related tickets. Extremely attentive to level of safety while also providing updates with respect to COVID-19. Cannot stress enough the flexible return policy and the level of comfort we had while traveling internationally. Felt very well prepared.

Date of experience : August 24, 2021

Hi Henry, Thank you for your kind words - it was great to speak with you and hear all about your wonderful time in Italy on your honeymoon. Thank you again for putting your trust in Black Tomato, we look forward to helping you plan future adventures soon! All the best, Grace - Client Relations

We had an amazing experience with black…

We had an amazing experience with black Tomatoe They made our trip memorable from beguining to end. We would highly recommend them. Matilde sorensen Dale sorensen real estate Vero beach, Florida

Date of experience : November 04, 2018

Hi Matilde It's great to hear you had such an amazing experience with us and we look forward to hearing from you again soon! All the best Harry Client Relations - Black Tomato

A friend recommended Black Tomato to me…

A friend recommended Black Tomato to me when I told her we were planning on going to France. She has used BT for many years and raved about the trips that they went on. Jihane, our France expert, has been nothing but accommodating and helpful in everything that we have booked so far. She offered us 2 different itineraries, asked us to review it and then we spoke again and firmed up our choices......We are leaving in 5 weeks and can't wait to experience all that Jihane has booked for us. We continue to be in touch to fine tune all of our dinner reservations and Jihane continues to be really helpful and responsive. We will definitely use them again for other travels.

Date of experience : March 02, 2022

Hi Jodi, Thank you so much for your kind words. It has been an absolute pleasure working with you and understanding how much you enjoy cycling and beautiful scenery I can't wait for you to experience some of my favourite regions of France on two wheels. All the best, Jihane

Married in Morocco!

It was magical! Jihane was a pleasure to work with and made everything easy. Our guides, activities, accomodations and transfers were unbelievable. We didn’t have to worry about anything. Jihane also helped us plan a wedding ceremony and it was stunning. It was way more than we were expecting, we were completely blown away. Our guide Rachid with Atlas Morocco was fantastic. By the end of the trip we were in his house meeting his family. His wife made us a huge spread and a cake to celebrate our marriage (one of the highlights of our trip). Morocco is a beautiful place with an amazing culture. It will forever be in our hearts. I can’t wait to plan the next adventure with Black Tomato!!

Date of experience : April 30, 2018

Black Tomato

Global operator

Service level

Travelers age

Trip prices

Tour languages

Quick Links:

Trips other travelers liked

Discover Albania

4-Days Cuyabeno

Ice to Sun 2023: Argentina & Brazil

Iceland Discovery

“Where the mountains meet the sea”- Kotor Bay, Lovcen & Skadar Lake National Park

Family Fun In Cambodia

Highlights of Turkey 10 Day - Istanbul - Cappadocia - Ephesus and Pamukkale

Brazil (North): See & Experience it ALL in 13 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

Member savings.

Sign in  to see which companies give additional savings to Travelstride Members (it’s free)

• Private Guided Trips
• Custom Itineraries
• North America
• Central America & Caribbean
• Australia & Pacific
• Middle East & North Africa

Compare with Black Tomato

View all tour company comparisons

How well do you know the world?

Black tomato reviews & ratings, not a luxury trip, not a luxury customer experience, not worth the money - go with someone else or do it yourself.

My wife and I booked a trip to South America (Peru / Chile) with Black Tomato from December 20th 2021 - January 9th 2022. Unfortunately my wife came down with COVID ...

Thanks Black Tomato!

We had an excellent experience working with everyone at Black Tomato - especially Rob - in planning our trip to Cuba. They put together an outstanding itinerary for ...

Black Tomato experiences

I have used Black Tomato for all my major holidays in South and Latin America, South and South East Asia, the Middle East and Africa over a number of years. They hav...

Excellent experience

Working with James at Black Tomato was truly one of the best experiences. He made sure I had a the trip of a lifetime in India and especially since I was traveling a...

Worry free travel

B.T. made our trip to Asia completely stress free and comfortable. All the accommodations and guides which they selected were excellent. The trip planning was made e...

See all Black Tomato reviews

Editoral Review of Black Tomato

Tom Marchant, James Merrett, and Matt Smith met in the late 1990s and wanted to create a travel business that was unlike any other on the market. Rather than asking you where you want to go, they ask “how do you want to feel?” Whether it’s inspiration, a digital detox, or relaxation that you seek, Black Tomato experiences are unlike any other ordinary vacation.

What Makes Black Tomato Stand Out?

• Unique and tailored travel tours
• Attention to detail and high quality service
• Travel beyond the classics
• Fully customizable tours and itineraries

Black Tomato has every experience possible - going far beyond what you could ever imagine. Disconnect from everything (and perhaps everyone) as you get dropped off into the middle of nowhere, or get business inspiration from Viking descendants on a Black Tomato Iceland trip.

Who Will Enjoy Traveling With Black Tomato?

• Standard to luxury travelers
• All physical levels

Travelers who are looking for something special, or simply want their vacation to be the absolute best, will seriously love traveling with Black Tomato. There is something for every age, every group size, family, and couple to enjoy. They cater to your budget, with $2,000USD being the starting price, however, in order to enjoy their most unique packages, it certainly won’t come cheap.

However, if you prefer a more traditional tour with the classic activities and sights, or you’re working with a shoestring budget, Black Tomato probably isn’t the best fit for you.

Top Destinations

• All around the world

Black Tomato travels all around the world - to every country imaginable. Even if a place isn’t on the list, they’ll take you there. You can travel to some of the most remote corners of the world, or experience the absolute best that a destination has to offer.

Black Tomato Travel Style

They may be a luxury tour company, but they still believe that it’s about connecting with the people and places more than Michelin-starred restaurants. No matter why you’re traveling - to relax, to be inspired, to eat… - they will find something just for you.

Accommodations and meals all vary widely, depending on your budget, idea, and destination. One thing is for sure though - accommodations are far from ordinary. Disconnect from everything and sleep in a tent in the middle of the desert, or stay with a local nomadic family in Mongolia.

Black Tomato is also incredibly accommodating towards requests for privacy - private hotels, private flights, remote islands, exclusive access - you name it, they’ll make it happen!

To book a trip with them, you tell them where you want to go and how you want to feel - Inspired? Energized? Creative? Disconnected? - once the destination is decided, you are wired to their local contacts and they build an initial proposal. You are welcome to tweak it as much and as many times as you like until you are 110% satisfied with the plan.

Why Choose a Tour With Black Tomato?

• No two trips are the same
• Full of creative travel ideas
• Accommodate last minute requests and changes
• Phone app to organize all travel documents

Unlock Community Benefits

Travel better together.

• Save favorite trips and itineraries
• Get insider insights
• Receive personalized recommendations
• ... and much more

More Details

Solo friendly.

• No single supplement

Travelstride featured in

About the company.

Black Tomato is the award-winning travel company that specialises in creating exceptional tailor-made experiences for its clients.The business started as the brainchild of three friends in their late twenties who left the corporate world to spend their days working on what they loved – travel.These three friends, Tom Marchant, James Merrett and Matt Smith, had spent many years travelling in previous jobs, living in Moscow, Johannesburg and everywhere in-between. Out of these experiences and a love for travel, the idea for Black Tomato was born.Nearly a decade later, Black Tomato has grown into a renowned travel brand with offices in London and New York and clients based all over the world.

Black Tomato Trips & Specials

No Specials at this time. Please check back later!

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Black Tomato Company Ranking by Category

Similar companies, about travelstride, find your perfect trip, travel confidently.

• TRAVEL BLOG
• TravelSites
• Luxury Travel Sites

Black Tomato

blacktomato.com

How does blacktomato.com travel work, and what is the main point of their travels.

Black Tomato is a luxury travel company that provides tailor-made holidays and experiences to travelers worldwide. The company was founded in 2005 by Tom Marchant and Matt Smith, who shared a passion for travel and a desire to create unique and memorable travel experiences for their clients. Since then, Black Tomato has grown to become one of the leading luxury travel companies in the world, with a team of over 120 travel experts and offices in London, New York, and Los Angeles.

What are the strengths of the Blacktomato.com travel site?

1. Tailor-made experiences: One of the biggest advantages of booking with Black Tomato is the ability to create a completely tailor-made travel experience. The company’s travel experts work closely with clients to understand their preferences and interests, and then design a trip that is customized to their specific needs. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family vacation , or a solo adventure, Black Tomato can create a personalized itinerary that meets your travel goals.

2. Luxury accommodations: Black Tomato works with some of the world’s top luxury hotels and resorts, ensuring that clients have access to the finest accommodations during their travels. The company has partnerships with a wide range of hotels and resorts, from boutique properties to iconic five-star hotels, so clients can choose the level of luxury that suits their tastes and budget.

3. Expert guides: Black Tomato’s travel experiences are led by expert guides who have in-depth knowledge of the destination and can provide valuable insights and recommendations to clients. The company’s guides are handpicked for their expertise, professionalism, and passion for travel, and they are committed to ensuring that clients have an unforgettable experience.

4. Personalized service: Black Tomato prides itself on providing personalized service to every client. From the initial consultation to the end of the trip, clients have access to a dedicated travel expert who is available to answer questions, make recommendations, and ensure that every aspect of the trip runs smoothly. This level of personalized service sets Black Tomato apart from other travel companies and is a major reason why clients return to the company for their travel needs.

5. Sustainability: Black Tomato is committed to promoting sustainable travel and supporting local communities. The company works with local partners and suppliers to create travel experiences that minimize the impact on the environment and support local communities. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in the company’s philosophy and is a major selling point for clients who are looking for socially responsible travel options.

What are the weaknesses of the Blacktomato.com travel site?

1. High prices: Black Tomato’s luxury travel experiences come at a premium price, which may not be affordable for all travelers. The company’s customized itineraries and high-end accommodations can be expensive, and some clients may be priced out of the market. However, for those who can afford it, Black Tomato provides a level of luxury and personalized service that is hard to find elsewhere.

2. Limited destinations: Black Tomato specializes in luxury travel to a limited number of destinations, primarily in Europe, Asia, and North America . While the company’s expertise in these regions is impressive, clients who are looking to travel to other parts of the world may need to look elsewhere for travel services.

3. Limited availability : Black Tomato’s customized travel experiences are in high demand, and the company may not be able to accommodate all clients’ travel needs. Clients who are looking to book a trip on short notice or during peak travel seasons may find that availability is limited, which can be frustrating for those who have their hearts set on a specific destination or experience.

4. Lack of transparency: Black Tomato’s pricing and booking process can be opaque, which may make some clients hesitant to book with the company. While the company does provide pricing estimates and sample itineraries, clients may not know the exact cost of their trip until they have completed the consultation process, which can be time-consuming and frustrating for those who want to know the total cost upfront.

8+ Alternative Sites to Black Tomato

Black Tomato Adds Luxury Group Travel Line

Selene Brophy , Skift

October 12th, 2023 at 12:29 PM EDT

Group travel is a mixed bag — some love it, others not so much. One luxury tour operator wants to design group travel itineraries suited to individual needs but intended to create a lasting impact within the group.

Selene Brophy

Luxury tour operator  Black Tomato  has unveiled a new small-group tour travel product, “See You In The Moment.” Black Tomato has seen a 35% increase in demand for group-oriented itineraries since 2019, especially for multi-gen families or large groups of friends, according to Tom Marchant, co-founder of Black Tomato.

He said groups of eight or more accounted for 30% of all bookings in 2023. And he noted that a key trend has been adventure, with nearly half of bookings reflecting what he called an “adventurous desire for intrepid luxury.”

Some of the biggest pain points of group travel include a need for more flexibility with timing or experiences.

“More off-the-shelf group trip offerings follow fixed departures and rigid shared itineraries, where all parties meet at the same time each day and follow the same schedule and tours, regardless of nuanced personal preferences and interests,” said Marchant.

Black Tomato uses travel experts who work with each individual to arrange tailored, flexible programming, said Marchant: “All logistics from flights to hotels to guided experiences.” 

Seminal Shared Experience

Black Tomato recently worked with a group of nine friends traveling to Iceland. The group had a broad selection of interests, with some wanting active outdoor adventures like horseback riding and seeing the Northern Lights, while others wanted to explore the city of Reykjavik and taste Icelandic cuisine.

“They wanted to see the best of the country in four nights, but most importantly, spend meaningful time together that allowed flexibility for programming and experiences,” said Marchant. 

The itinerary allowed each of them to do their preferred activities before coming together for “See You In The Moment” group experience, said Marchant, “For their seminal shared experience on the third day, we timed scenic helicopter flights to the far north of the Troll Peninsula, arriving together at a stunningly remote hidden hot spring and then the next two nights [were] spent at Deplar Farm, for a tailored combination of adventure and relaxation.”

Six-Figure Costs

The time frame is completely flexible, though 2023 bookings to date show average trip lengths have been five nights. Given the bespoke nature of ‘See You in the Moment,’ Marchant said costs range from the low-five figures to six figures, with numerous variables impacting the overall price, including destination, group size, duration, accommodations, and overall programming – from a single day experience to multi-day treks.  

The development of the new group travel product also led to one of his own memorable moments, scouting the Apurimac Rive with his co-founder, James Merrett.

“I’m completely blown away by both the remoteness and the access we’ve developed here, and camping out on the shores of this extraordinarily powerful river felt poignant and one we want our travelers to share with those who matter most. Experiencing these untouched parts of Peru felt both pioneering and deeply humbling.” 

The Daily Newsletter

Our daily coverage of the global travel industry. Written by editors and analysts from across Skift’s brands.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: black tomato , experiences , group booking , luxury , multi-day tours , tours and activities , travel advisors

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

Would You Pay a Travel Service to Get You Lost?

By Michaela Trimble

For travelers seeking the ultimate challenge, luxury travel company Black Tomato has launched Get Lost, a new service that aims to get its clients back to the roots of discovery. It’s a little like Hunger Games with the athleticism of Point Break, harking back to a time when travel required connection to people and places—you can’t Google Translate or Apple Maps your way out of this adventure. Designed to go beyond a digital detox or wellness experience, Get Lost is a therapeutic, back-to-basics mental and physical challenge, with an award waiting beyond the finish line.

By starting with the sensation of being genuinely lost, under the distant watch of a dedicated support team, travelers set out along a route outlined by Black Tomato ’s travel experts, testing their inner steel and limits before they reach journey’s end. “The travel landscape is flush with commoditized, cookie-cutter itineraries, and this is the exact opposite,” says Black Tomato cofounder Tom Marchant. “Get Lost represents a return to the roots of what it’s like to travel authentically, restoring an important sense of self-discovery.”

To plan a trip, travelers must first commit to the Get Lost experience, requiring them to travel without knowing their destination. Next, they’re paired with a Get Lost travel expert for a consultation: What are their goals, how do they want to feel, and why do they want to get lost? This process begins at least six months before a trip, allowing ample time to train for the mental and physical challenges ahead. If needed, Black Tomato will arrange personalized training sessions or survival skills lessons to prepare travelers for their time in the wilderness. Participants are encouraged to travel without a smartphone and will have the option of either being completely unaware of their final destination or selecting a terrain of choice—polar, jungle, desert, coastal, or mountains. The cost of an expedition begins at $30,000 and is sure to be in the most remote corners of the globe: Mongolia, Arctic Svalbard, and the dense jungle of Guyana, to name a few. All that is left to do next is show up at the airport; Black Tomato will take care of the rest.

By Marie Bladt

By Hannah Jackson

By Hannah Clugston

“Relaxation in our connected world isn’t found on a deserted beach where there is most likely Wi-Fi,” Marchant says. “Today’s luxury allows travelers to completely disconnect from life at home, while fully engaging in the moment. Here, the luxury is the experience, and the only distraction is a renewed focus on where you are, what you are doing, and where you need to go.”

During a Get Lost trip, Black Tomato provides satellite phones for emergencies; travelers can contact an around-the-clock team of guides who provide a safety net for participants to push their boundaries to explore on their own without ever being truly alone. When the journey starts, travelers will board a commercial flight to their destination, before being transferred by private jet or helicopter to the wilderness; necessary kits and equipment for the adventure are included. From the moment they embark, Black Tomato’s team of guides will track participants, ensuring check-in points are hit. Once a traveler successfully completes an expedition, they will be whisked away to a joyous reward: truly indulgent and—most important—earned.

“Luxury travel is constantly evolving, yet it’s clear people are seeking transformative breaks that mentally and physically challenge them, releasing them from their daily grind,” says Marchant. “We hope this will change how people envision travel in their free time.”

Today's Digital Daily

site categories

Parent item expand the sub menu, behind the scenes at the french open with morgan riddle, balenciaga spring 2025: high, tall and oversize, exclusive: andam fashion awards finalists revealed, looking for luxury try these 5 less expected locales.

Consider these spots travel’s answer to quiet luxury.

Executive Editor

• Share this article on Facebook
• Share this article on X
• Share this article on Flipboard
• Share this article on Pin It
• Share this article on Tumblr
• Share this article on Reddit
• Share this article on LinkedIn
• Share this article on WhatsApp
• Share this article on Email
• Print this article
• Share this article on Talk

Jet-setting this season?

The cost and chaos of travel have been ascending as post-pandemic revenge traveling flourishes and inflation lurks — all while airlines are both aircraft- and staff-strapped.

For the discerning traveler, climbing airfare may not translate to a staycation, but those looking to get greater value for their money may want to think past the beaten path.

Related Articles

23 of the world's most expensive watches: princess diana's cartier ticker, john f. kennedy's timepieces and more worth millions, exclusive: rakuten launches invite-only membership program for luxury shopping.

It may not be the height of splendor or a splashy stay, but there are other ways and places to indulge. Think of it as travel’s answer to fashion’s quiet luxury .

Here, a sampling of Black Tomato’s recommendations for the season, with mini itineraries to consider.

“Traditionally, a lot of people are heading for the summer in France, which makes a lot of sense, but places like Portugal are so desirable…the quality of food and drink there is so good wherever you go that you could have fantastic meals in places like Lisbon and Porto and Comporta that aren’t quite as expensive as other European counterparts, and it’s really just a really, really beautiful country with great wineries and places to explore,” Marchant says. “Although it is known, it’s a little less known…and that’s more what we’re directing people to.”

For the Person Who Wants the Barefoot Luxury Vibes of Nantucket : A Black Tomato Itinerary for Portugal

First off, travel during the “shoulder season” or May to June and August to September.

Start things off in buzzy Lisbon, where food and wine are a great value and there are a plethora of great local spots to check out. Splurge on sundowners at Bairro Alto Hotel’s rooftop for a spectacular view over cocktails. We would recommend then doing a self-drive (a short one) in a rental car to Ericiera to stay at Immerso Hotel, which is right outside of the village. The town has very surf-y vibes, like Montauk without the fancy stores, so what it was like 20 years ago, medieval set-up. Immerso is a splendid spot and a great value. If you go in the shoulder season you will also avoid the throngs of tourists. We would then recommend driving onward to Comporta, which gives serious barefoot luxury vibes and is considered by many to be the Nantucket for well-heeled Lisboans, and stay at Sublime Comporta, which is best in class. Very laid-back, chic, a perfect way to round out a trip. Three nights in Lisbon, two nights at Immerso and two nights Sublime Comporta.

For the Person Who Loves Adventure: Black Tomato Itinerary for Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a “stunning and wonderfully intimate country,” according to the company. “The sublime landscape is dotted with temples and Ceylon silver tipped mountains, and visiting this country, that has been through a lot the past decade, also feels especially poignant right now and tourism provides enormous support to local economies. We would advise an itinerary to take in the following properties: Ulagalla, Anasa Wellness Resort, Wild Coast Tented Lodge, Cape Weligama and for a splurge, Amanwella.”

“We would organize a range of special experiences, from cycling in a rustic village in Sigiriya akin to this: Weave along hidden paths to ancient jungle-enveloped structures, neighboring local villages whilst overlooking the breathtaking view of Pidurangala rock, which has been occupied on and off for more than 2,500 years by monks and hold a number of historical legends. Glide by unfrequented village life, local temples, burning incense, rice farmers and smiling children. There is no better way to experience the local landscape than by bike, an opportunity to really explore its meandering paths and lanes.…Cycle your way to the nearby market to pick up your vegetables and fruits. After, cook and enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan meal with a local family. And of course, a Sri Lankan safari, with a Nachchaduwa sunset scenic jeep drive .  In the afternoon you will be met at your hotel and explore the local area by four-wheel drive on a journey in search of cultural, natural and historical highs. The route takes in ancient reservoirs, lakes, farmland and local villages, and provides a visual introduction to rural village life. Witness the seasonalities of rice cultivation, travel through areas of indigenous forest, and observe local fisherman. Drawn to water, patches of forest and farmland, elephants are ever-present, yet champions at blending in.”

For the Foodie: A Sample Black Tomato Itinerary for Slovenia

“While often overshadowed by its more well-known neighbors in Italy, Slovenia is a hot bed of culinary talent and a fascinating diaspora of different cultural confluences. Even some of the most astute foodies say that the food in Slovenia can rival that of both Italy and Spain. Slovenia also offers a great value and the proximity to Venice (two hours by car) make it easy to get to, and also accessible via Air France (Paris stopover then onward to Ljubljana) or via Turkey. Given the proximity to Croatia, and the fact you don’t even need a passport to cross over between countries, you can spend a day truffle hunting in Istria before making your way back to Slovenia. In the winter it gives serious “Narnia” vibes with fresh snow, but regardless of season, Hotel Milka that is a new addition to the Julian Alps is a must for where to stay. Would also stay at the Intercontinental in Ljublana, or for a more boutique take, Otočec Castle in the countryside. There are a number of ways to experience the culinary delights here, from hole in the wall local favorites to impressively Michelin-ed bigger players.”

“Somewhere like Guatemala, speaking of value, is quite nice…airfares aren’t too taxing down there, you’ve got all these amazing jungles and it’s still quite under the radar and it’s beautiful to explore,” Marchant says.

For the Nature Lover: A Black Tomato Itinerary for Guatemala

Coming out of the pandemic, Marchant says parts of Asia, particularly the Indochina region and places like Laos, have “great offers and opportunities to stay in special places where the value is superb, and we’ve really seen a big resurgence of interest among trip seekers to go there.”

For the Person Who Wants to Relax: A Black Tomato Itinerary for Laos

“Meditation and spirituality underpin everything in Laos, and this special and oft overlooked corner of the world is one of the most spectacular and well worth the journey. We would recommend 10 nights in Laos to take in some of the very best of the country. Experiences would include, on arrival, a traditional Baci ceremony, a Laotian tradition that predates Buddhism: the Baci, a traditional welcoming ceremony before dining on Luang Prabang and Laotian specialties, and of course, a morning yoga/meditation at Ban Sing (Boat cruise) where after breakfast at your hotel, we board a boat cruise from town to Ban Sing village, with scenic views of mountains and forests. Upon arrival, your private yoga/meditation trainer will set up a platform either under a giant Bhuddi Tree by the Mekong River or in the temple for your session. You should definitely explore the 4,000 Islands by kayak and hiking, which is why you would go on to Pakse after Luang Prabang. You should stay at Satri House Luang Prabang, La Folie in Pakse, and Amantaka as the finale — and splurge.”

Sign up for WWD news straight to your inbox every day

WWD Recommends

Msgm pre-fall 2024 ready-to-wear collection.

• Fashion Show Reviews
• By Sandra Salibian

Hillary Clinton Embraces Statement Suiting With Vibrant Purple Blazer and Accessories at Vital Voices Global Festival 2024

• Celebrity News
• By Julia Teti

Behind-the-Scenes with Runway Phenom Colin Jones

WWD and Women's Wear Daily are part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Fairchild Publishing, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Fashion Expand fashion menu

• Fashion Trends
• Fashion Features
• Fashion Scoops
• Designer & Luxury
• Ready-To-Wear
• Accessories

Business Expand business menu

• Government & Trade
• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Marketing & Promotion
• Human Resources
• Business Features
• Real Estate

Beauty Expand beauty menu

• Beauty Features

Men's Expand mens menu

• Mens Accessories
• Mens Clothing Furnishings
• Mens Designer Luxury
• Mens Lifestyle
• Mens Retail Business
• Mens Sportswear
• Mens Fashion

Runway Expand runway menu

• Men’s Fall 2024
• Pre-Fall 2024
• Spring Ready-to-Wear 2024
• Fall Couture 2023
• Resort 2024

Denim Expand denim menu

Sustainability expand sustainability menu.

• Environment
• Social Impact

Home/Design Expand home-design menu

• Interior Design
• Architecture

WWD Weekend Expand wwd-weekend menu

Events expand events menu, eye expand eye menu.

• Celebrity Real Estate

Shop Expand shop menu

More expand more menu.

• Fairchild Live
• RetailRx Community

Verify it's you

Please log in.

• Experiences

Black Tomato Launches New Global James Bond Itineraries

Thirteen all-new global experiences have been added to the Black Tomato roster.

By Kim Ayling

Following the success of the inaugural 2023 launch, experiential travel company Black Tomato has once again partnered with EON Productions – the company behind the entire James Bond film franchise – to launch a series of 007-inspired itineraries.

Joining the existing five trips, 13 new experiences have been unveiled, this time expanding beyond the confines of Europe to visit global destinations linked to the fictional British spy.

For example, The Secret Sights and Sites of Japan takes cues from  You Only Live Twice  (1967) with a visit to Himeji Castle, as well as a boat ride to the industrial Gunkanjima island, which featured as Raoul Silva’s lair in  Skyfall  (2013).

[See also: Discover the Real Croatia on this Bespoke Private Tour]

Other new Black Tomato James Bond itineraries include an immersive trip to Jamaica, where Ian Fleming famously penned all 12 novels; an Indian odyssey inspired by  Octopussy ’s (1983) notorious jewel smuggler; and a Bond bonanza through Thailand. Naturally, in true Bond style, accommodations in each location are the height of luxury.

Each trip will also feature exclusive insights and access, from tours with EON Production’s location scout to firsthand tales from original crew members. Guests will also receive original call sheets, bespoke filming location documents and exclusive Globe – Trotter luggage – the same brand that 007 himself used.

Exploring the Remote Flores Archipelago with Silolona Sojourns

Hammetts Hotel Launch Newport Bermuda Race Package

TCS World Travel Unveils Private Jet Expeditions for 2025

[See also: Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Presents One-of-a-kind Sleeper]

And, in line with Black Tomato’s famously bespoke take on luxury travel, the new itineraries are designed with utmost flexibility, and can be tagged on to other pre-made Black Tomato journeys or even conjoined to create one mega, around-the-world James Bond-themed trip. 

For example, Mexico City, London , Italy, Solden in Austria and Morocco can all be visited in one meticulously planned itinerary to follow the same path that Daniel Craig’s Bond traveled in  Spectre  (2015).

Content from our partners

Shura Links the Red Sea’s New Premier Golfing Destination

Grand Wailea: Experience Heaven, Earth and Sea

“With the global set-jetting trend at its peak and acting on this growing desire for Bond trips beyond Europe, now feels apt to expand our library of extraordinary 007-inspired journeys,” says Black Tomato co-founder, Tom Marchant. “We receive inquiries every week from travelers seeking to plan a trip specifically inspired by locations they’ve seen on screen and a desire to travel in this way accounts for around 10% of client inquiries.” 

blacktomato.com

[See also: Black Tomato Reimagines Agatha Christie’s Grand Tour ]

Latest in Luxury

The explorer.

Thank you for subscribing to Elite Traveler.

clock This article was published more than  2 years ago

Some people are actually paying to get ‘lost’ on vacation

Get Lost trips offer mystery adventures for clients who crave a personalized ‘Survivor’ experience

Many people travel to get away from it all. A few travel to get away — and then walk their way back.

That’s the idea of Get Lost , an “ultimate adventure challenge” that spirits travelers away to a mystery destination and then leaves them alone in the middle of a remote landscape. Depending on the location and duration of the (distantly supervised) trek, the cost can start around $10,000 and veer into six-figure territory.

Luxury travel company Black Tomato introduced the concept — a kind of a blind date for vacations with “Survivor” elements — in 2017. But with its focus on isolation, Get Lost seems tailor-made for covid-era travel.

“During the various lockdowns, unable to travel, I had longed for adventure,” New Yorker writer Ed Caesar wrote in a first-person piece about the experience. “Here it was.”

Black Tomato co-founder Tom Marchant said that while the company produced a few such trips last year, it was mostly a time when people in lockdown got in touch to plan their post-pandemic adventures.

“It just happened to have struck a chord over the last 18 months,” he said.

Bucket-list trips are out for 2021. Living lists are in.

Marchant, who came up with the idea of getting clients “lost,” thought of it as he considered ways to help people truly relax in an age of digital distractions.

“Could we create an experience that requires total mental and physical focus?” he said. “By being totally distracted, it’s almost impossible for them to think about the day-to-day, everything at home.”

There are plenty of expedition — and even survivalist — options for travelers who want to push themselves. And more companies have started offering “blind” trips in recent years, such as Magical Mystery Tours and the “surprise travel” agency Pack Up + Go .

“This combination of not knowing where you’re going but it being a challenge and an earned experience, I think that still is unique to us,” Marchant said.

With Black Tomato’s experience, travelers can choose how lost they want to feel, and how surprised they want to be by their destination. The company’s website offers an array of environments (polar, jungle, coastal, desert or mountain). Extremely laid-back clients can let someone else choose for them.

How to protect your travel plans from covid chaos

Destinations have included Iceland, Namibia, Morocco and even the United States. In most cases, travelers don’t know where they’re going until they receive flight information; if they fly private, Marchant said, they might step off a plane with no clue where they are.

For Esther Spengler, 33, a stay-at-home-mom in a military family, the only requirements she had were going somewhere warm and far away from the United States.

Spengler, who calls Austin home but is temporarily stationed in Biloxi, Miss., discovered the service while she searched for an outside-the-box anniversary activity. When her husband offered to stay with their two children so she could go on her own, she realized it was a chance to rekindle a long-dormant adventurous streak.

Over about 18 months, Spengler saved up for the 10-day trip to Morocco, which she said cost roughly $13,000, and made the outdoor outfitter REI her best friend.

She flew to Marrakesh in October and continued by car into the mountains. In the New Yorker article, Caesar described a similar journey as “like a very pleasant kidnapping, with coffee breaks.” After a couple of days of training — learning navigation, fire-starting and how to put up her own shelter — Spengler was on her own for three days; at least, she was as “on her own” as someone being tracked by an ex-military guide could be.

“There was a point where he actually did lose me and I was pretty proud of that,” she said, after following the wrong trail and actually getting lost. “He said I almost gave him a bloody heart attack.”

What to do if coronavirus variants leave you stranded overseas

Despite bloodied toenails and a tricky time setting up her tarp shelter, Spengler was thrilled with the experience.

“It turned out really, really incredible and so much more than I could imagine,” she said.

Back in Mississippi, Spengler has put her newfound fire-starting skills to work in the backyard, showing her daughters the steps. She is hoping to turn her affinity for navigating into a career: She is joining the Army National Guard, with plans to focus on imagery intelligence.

Ultimately, she said, she would love to do the kind of work her own guide did during the trip.

“You’re going to have the curious rich people who are like, ‘Oh I’ll do this for fun. I want to see what this is like. I want to have bragging rights,’ ” she said. “I want to be the real deal.”

Marchant said many of the travelers who book these trips are looking for that sense of accomplishment.

“What we’re looking for is that people feel challenged,” he said. “There’s always an angle that we want people to feel like they’ve achieved something, have that feeling of reward at the end of it.”

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .