Even though we're now well into December, you don't need to have a full-blown panic attack if you're behind on picking up holiday gifts this year—especially if you're looking for a particularly special present that they won't soon forget. Physical items are nice and all, but do you know what's even better than a material good? A truly extraordinary experience, because at the end of the day, they already have enough trinkets around the house right now—what they don't have is a ticket to a once-in-a-lifetime Tanzanian safari, or a detoxification retreat curated by Novak Djokovic.

These are the most unique and downright lavish experiences for the most discerning person in your life—the one who's always yearning to try something new, whether it's signing up for a cooking class or flying off to a private island in the middle of the Indian Ocean. For that special person, only the best will do, which is why we've curated a selection of the most extravagant and special experiences that go beyond that pottery class you've seen down the block.

Check out all of Observer’s luxury gift guides for the best present ideas for every person out there. 

Sure, you could gift the amateur mixologist in your life an at-home cocktail kit, but why not get a bit more hands-on in the new year and book them a cocktail-making class at one of their favorite haunts? For those near New York City, it's hard to beat Dante, and in 2026, the cocktail bar is introducing Accademia Dante as part of a collab with Campari, with an immersive look inside Italy's aperitivo culture. The two-hour classes (currently with spots on January 5 and 26, as well as February 2 and 9) are taught by Dante's head bartenders, Eloy Pacheco and Roberto Bracco, and guide guests through the stories and technique behind the Negroni and Spritzes Dante is known for, and by the time you leave, you'll be an expert in crafting these two beverages.

From $165, Dante New York

If you have a family member, partner or close pal who has been dropping not-so-subtle hints about how much they're simply desperate to experience an African safari, then why not go on this journey together? It's not hyperbole to say that spending time in the African bush is truly life-changing—once you've been lucky enough to see it for the first time, you'll do anything to be able to return to the magic. No two safaris are alike, and what you'll see and experience will differ depending on the country and region you travel to, but no matter where you go, it's sure to be remarkable. And if you want to indulge in some relaxation after days of 5 a.m. game drives, add on a second leg of your trip—you'll already be in Africa, after all, so might we suggest the Seychelles?

Admittedly, it's usually somewhat inconvenient to get from Tanzania to the Seychelles—it can take over 24 hours when you total all the layovers and stops, especially since many of these airports are tiny air strips with specific timing availabilities. Now, though, you can make the trip as........

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