TRAVEL BROCHURE 2020–2021

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EATNATGEOEXPEDIT

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2 0 2 0– 2 0 2 1T R A V E L B R O C H U R E

2 0800 221 8257 | TRAVELWITHNATGEO.CO.UK

N O RT H A M E R I C A

11 Alaska: Denali to Kenai Fjords

12 Canadian Rockies by Rail and Trail

13 Winter Wildlife in Yellowstone

14 Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks

15 Grand Canyon, Bryce, and Zion National Parks

16 Belize and Tikal Private Expedition

S O U T H A M E R I C A

17 Peru Private Expedition

18 Ecuador Private Expedition

19 Exploring Patagonia

21 Patagonia Private Expedition

A U S T R A L I A A N D T H E PAC I F I C

22 Australia Private Expedition

A F R I C A

23 The Great Apes of Uganda and Rwanda

24 Tanzania Private Expedition

25 On Safari: Tanzania’s Great Migration

27 Southern Africa Safari by Private Air

29 Madagascar Private Expedition

30 Morocco: Legendary Cities and the Sahara

31 Morocco Private Expedition

M I D D L E E A S T

32 The Holy Land: Past, Present, and Future

E U R A S I A

34 Trans-Siberian Rail Expedition

36 Georgia and Armenia: Crossroads of Continents

E U R O P E

38 Norway’s Trains and Fjords

39 Iceland: Volcanoes, Glaciers, and Whales

40 Ireland: Tales and Treasures of the Emerald Isle

41 Italy: Renaissance Cities and Tuscan Life

42 Swiss Trains and the Italian Lake District

44 Human Origins: Southwest France and Northern Spain

45 Greece: Wonders of an Ancient Empire

46 Greek Isles Private Expedition

A S I A

R E S O U R C E S A N D M O R E

3 Discover the National Geographic Difference 8 All the Ways to Travel with National Geographic

57 Terms and Conditions

N A T I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C E X P E D I T I O N S

47 Japan Private Expedition

48 Inside Japan

50 China: Imperial Treasures and Natural Wonders

52 China Private Expedition

53 Bhutan: Kingdom in the Clouds

55 Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia: Treasures of Indochina

TRAVELWITHNATGEO.CO.UK | 0800 221 8257 3

For more than 130 years, we’ve sent our

explorers across continents and into

remote cultures, down to the oceans’

depths, and up the highest mountains,

in an effort to better understand the

world and our relationship to it. National

Geographic Expeditions grew from this

legacy as a way to invite others to

explore—to encounter the wonders of the

world up-close and in-depth, and to be

transformed by the experience.

Through National Geographic Expeditions,

you gain access to people and places.

You’re enriched by the knowledge of our

experts and guides, and by the local

experts you meet along the way. And you

give back. When you travel with us, you

support the work of our explorers.

That is the National Geographic difference.


National Geographic photographer Thomas Peschakframes a selfie with fish in the waters of Baja.


S T E V E B O Y E S

Steve Boyes is a conservationist, biologist and National Geographic Emerging Explorer. He’s travelled across Africa, studying wildlife rehabilitation and biodiver-sity, and will lead the Southern Africa by Private Air expedition on 11 September 2020.

C A R R O L L D U N H A M

Medical Anthropologist and filmmaker, Carroll Dunham has worked on over a dozen films for National Geographic. Carroll has become an expert in the Himalayas, having lived there for 25 years, and will lead the 7 November 2020 departure of Bhutan: Kingdom in the Clouds.

L A L Y L I C H T E N F E L D

Laly Lichtenfeld is a conservationist and National Geographic Explorer who works with National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative to preserve Tanzania’s lions, leopards and cheetahs. Laly will join the 10 August 2020 departure of On Safari: Tanzania’s Great Migration.

E X P L O R E W I T H O U R E X P E R T S

| K N O W L E D G E |

You deepen your understanding of the world when you travel with us.From the scientists, photographers, and explorers who lead our trips to the

local guides and experts we meet in the field, you'll be surrounded by people who are steeped in knowledge and insights about the places we visit.


T R A V E L A N D S U P P O R T E X P L O R A T I O N

| G I V E B A C K |

When you travel with us, you help further the work of our scientists, explorers, and educators around the world. Every year, we distribute a portion of our

proceeds to the National Geographic Society, creating more opportunities to work toward a planet in balance. To learn more, visit natgeo.com/giveback.

In Iceland, National Geographic grantees are examining how expanding meltwater lakes are impacting the rate of glacial retreat.

The Society is funding a geological survey of Egypt's Theban Mountains that will inform the archaeological preservation of ancient tombs and temples.

National Geographic photographer and grantee Ami Vitale is documenting the efforts of Kenya’s tribal communities to conserve resident megafauna, including the black rhinoceros.


Elephants crossing the Savanna at sunset in Kenya.

| A C C E S S |C L O S E R T H A N Y O U ' V E E V E R I M A G I N E D

We open doors around the globe, so that you can go behind the scenes to get a close-up view of the world's treasures and the work

National Geographic is doing to help protect them.

On our expedition to Georgia and Armenia, examine early Homo erectus skulls alongside a National Geographic researcher who excavated them.

Visit a wildlife rescue centre in Vietnam's Cuc Phuong National Park, home to a National Geographic–supported project that is tackling the illegal pangolin trade.

Meet experts at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund's Rariseke Research Centre and track mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, where NG grantee Dian Fossey conducted research on

gorillas for 18 years.


A C T I V E

P R I VA T E P H O T O G R A P H Y

Strenuous MaximumModerate/StrenuousModerateLight/ModerateLight

ActiveFamily Photo

Land Small Ship Train Private Jet Private

River Cruise StudentJourneys

Light or Moderate(Lindblad and Scenic Expeditions Only)


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Light or Moderate(Lindblad and Scenic Expeditions Only) Strenuous MaximumModerate/StrenuousModerateLight/ModerateLight

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Immerse youself in fascinating destinations through

enriching experiences, whether you’re exploring an

archaeological site or a national park. Led by a National

Geographic expert, these trips celebrate the history,

culture, and natural heritage of a destination.

Improve your photography skills with the guidance of

a National Geographic photographer - whether you're

travelling through Japan or framing wildlife in Tanzania.

Travel independently—on unique itineraries curated by

National Geographic with travelling companions of your

choice. Explore with private guides and stay in top

accommodation.

Explore by foot, by kayak, or even by dogsled on an ac-

tive expedition. Led by dynamic adventure guides, these

trips combine spectacular places, physical

challenge, and cultural interaction.

T O U R S W I T H A N E X P E R T


T R A I N


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Step back in time on a rail journey, experiencing fabled

landscapes from the intimate perspective of a classic train.

With a National Geographic expert on board, the places

you pass through take on a whole new depth and meaning.

L I G H TTravellers should be in good health and comfortable walking or standing for extended periods of time. Daily activities may include city walking tours, visits to sites, game drives on bumpy roads, or easy hikes.

L I G H T/ M O D E R A T ETravellers should be in good health and comfortable walking or standing for extended periods of time. Daily activities may include city walking tours, visits to sites, game drives, or easy hikes, with options for more physical activities such as hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and biking. Note: All cruises are rated Light or Moderate; travellers can choose between light or moderate activities according to their capabilities.

M O D E R A T ETravellers should be physically fit and prepared for multiple hours of activity (e.g. hiking, kayaking, biking) each day.

M O D E R A T E / S T R E N U O U STravellers should be physically fit and prepared for multiple hours of activity (e.g. hiking, kayaking, biking) each day. Certain days may have more challenging physical activity, such as ascents/descents on steep mountainous terrain.

S T R E N U O U SDesigned for experienced active travellers in excellent physical condition, these itineraries may include full-day hikes (sometimes at high altitude) or full-day kayaking excursions. Trails often include steep ascents/descents on mountainous terrain, with some exposed sections.

M A X I M U MThe ultimate challenge for serious hikers who are very fit and have experience hiking or trekking at high elevations. These itineraries include numerous challenging, full-day hikes.


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Light or Moderate(Lindblad and Scenic Expeditions Only)Strenuous MaximumModerate/StrenuousModerateLight/ModerateLight

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A C T I V I T Y L E V E L S

J O U R N E Y S


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National Geographic Journeys, in partnership with

G Adventures, blends hands-on exploration, meaning-

ful encounters with people and cultures, and more free

time and choices - with the structure and security of

travelling in a small group. You can find these tours in

our dedicated Journeys brochure.


A ranger at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Kenyashares a special moment with a black rhinoceros.


• Take in Alaska's epic wilderness through the glass-domed cars of the Denali Star train.• Explore Denali’s backcountry from our adventure lodge deep in the heart of the park.• Spot marine life and tidewater glaciers on a cruise in Kenai Fjords National Park.

8 D A Y S F R O M £ 5 , 6 9 0

Expert Led Light/Moderate

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany you on this trip. For example, Nat Geo Emerging Explorer and TED Fellow M Jackson is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.

Call or visit our website for full itineraries, inclusions, and more.

INFORMATION

2021 Dates: June 9–16 | June 16–23 | June 30–July 7 July 14–21 | July 28–Aug. 4 | Aug. 11–18 | Aug. 8–25 Aug. 25–Sept. 1 | Sept. 8–15

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is available on request. International airfare is not included in the price.

Please call us for 2020 departures.

Above: A bull moose makes its way across a colourful patch of tundra in Denali.

A L A S K A : D E N A L I T O K E N A I F J O R D S

DAYS 1–2 I FAIRBANKS, ALASKA/DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE

Hear Iditarod tales from trail veteran Mary Shields—the first woman to complete the race—and interact with sled dogs at her cabin outside Fairbanks. Ride the Denali Star, taking in the scenery from the train’s upper deck. Later, drive to our lodge deep in the heart of Denali, spotting moose, caribou, grizzly bears, and more along our route. Springhill Suites Fairbanks; DenaliBackcountry Lodge | Meals: Day 1: D; Day 2: B/L/D

DAYS 3–5 I DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE/ANCHORAGE

Spend two full days exploring Denali's mag-nificent interior by foot or mountain bike from Denali Backcountry Lodge, one of National Geographic's Top 10 Adventure Lodges of the World. Continue to Anchorage for an evening at leisure. Denali Backcountry Lodge; Hotel Captain Cook | Meals: Days 3–4: B/L/D Daily; Day 5: B/L

DAY 6 I SEWARD HIGHWAY/KENAI PENINSULATravel the stunningly scenic Seward Highway on one of National Geographic’s Drives of a Lifetime. Ride the tram to the top of Mount Alyeska, and get up close to Alaska’s wild residents at the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Centre. Seward Windsong Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 7–8 I KENAI FJORDS NATIONAL PARK/ANCHORAGE

Cruise the coast of Kenai Fjords National Park, spotting all manner of marine life, including orcas, humpbacks, sea otters, and harbour seals; and see an advancing tidewater glacier calve chunks of ice into the water. Hike to the terminus of Exit Glacier. Seward Windsong Lodge | Meals: Day 7: B/L/D; Day 8: B


• Take in views of Canada's Rockies from the glass-domed Rocky Mountaineer train.• Trek atop the powerful Athabasca Glacier with an expert guide.• Settle into iconic hotels, including the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

8 D A Y S F R O M £ 8 ,940

Train Light

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, geologist and naturalist Kirt Kempter is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

2021 Dates: July 5–12 | Aug. 9–16 | Sept. 6–13 Sept. 20–27



Above: The Rocky Mountaineer, as captured by National Geographic photographer Susan Seubert while on assignment.

C A N A D I A N R O C K I E S B Y R A I L A N D T R A I L

DAY 1 I VANCOUVER, CANADAWalk Stanley Park’s famous seawall for incredible views of the Vancouver skyline. Wedgewood Hotel and Spa | Meals: D

DAYS 2–3 I ROCKY MOUNTAINEERClimb aboard the celebrated Rocky Mountaineer train and take in jaw-dropping views of the Canadian Rockies from luxurious glass-domed coaches. Ride past dramatic gorges and waterfalls, and cross the Continental Divide at

Yellowhead Pass. Our train voyage culminates as we glide by Mount Robson, the tallest summit in the Canadian Rockies. Hotel 540 or Sandman Signature Kamloops Hotel; Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | Meals: Day 2: B/L; Day 3: B/L/D

DAYS 4–5 I JASPER NATIONAL PARKDiscover the pristine beauty and iconic creatures of Jasper National Park. Cruise across Maligne Lake, and soar into the mountains via the Jasper SkyTram for stunning views of glacier-sculpted valleys splashed with turquoise lakes. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | Meals: Day 4: B/L; Day 5: B/L/D

DAY 6 I ICEFIELDS PARKWAYTravel along the scenic Icefields Parkway toward Banff National Park, stopping en route for a trekking excursion atop Athabasca Glacier. Later, settle into our historic lake-front hotel. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Meals: B/L

DAYS 7–8 I BANFF NATIONAL PARK/ YOHO NATIONAL PARK/CALGARYHike through spectacular Banff National Park to discover the mirror-like waters of Moraine Lake. Enjoy a picnic lunch, then view the Spiral Tunnels of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Browse the Yoho National Park Visitor Centre and its impressive fossil exhibits. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Meals: Day 7: B/L/D; Day 8: B

INFORMATION


• Explore Yellowstone by heated snow coach, and see Old Faithful without the crowds. • Meet a wildlife cinematographer and hear about his career shooting for National Geographic.• Search for bison and elusive wolves while on safari in the sweeping Lamar Valley.

6 D A Y S F R O M £ 4 ,06 5

Expert Led Light

A National Geographic Expert and Expedition Leader will accompany this trip. For example, author and biologist Jeremy Schmidt is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

2021 Dates: Jan. 10–15 | Jan. 31–Feb. 5 | Feb. 21–26



We also offer this trip as a dedicated photo expedition, escorted by a National Geographic photographer. Please call us for departure dates and details.

Above: A herd of bison forage for grasses and sedges beneath the snow.

W I N T E R W I L D L I F E I N Y E L L O W S T O N E

DAY 1 I BOZEMAN, MONTANA/GARDINERTravel to our hotel just outside Yellowstone National Park. Best Western Plus by Mammoth Hot Springs | Meals: D

DAY 2 I MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, WYOMING/LAMAR VALLEY

At Mammoth Hot Springs, stroll colourful mineral-spring terraces outlined in snow. Then head to the Lamar Valley, where grey wolves were first reintroduced to Yellowstone in 1995,

and use a spotting scope to search for these elusive creatures. Later, a renowned wildlife cinematographer joins us (his schedule permit-ting) to share his experiences shooting for National Geographic. Best Western Plus by Mammoth Hot Springs | Meals: Days 2–5; B/L/D Daily

DAYS 3–4 I GRAND CANYON OF THE YELLOWSTONE/OLD FAITHFUL

Walk to the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to see its thundering waterfall and the ice arch that forms from the spray. Continue to Old Faithful to explore a dramatic landscape of erupting geysers, frozen waterfalls, and gem-coloured mineral pools. Keep an eye out for wildlife—bison, encrusted in ice, often stand among the pools for warmth. After dark, step out-side to admire the incredible canopy of stars in one of the world's best constellation-viewing spots. Old Faithful Snow Lodge

DAY 5 I YELLOWSTONE/BIG SKY, MONTANAAfter visiting the whimsical Fountain Paint Pot, travel to Big Sky, Montana and settle into a comfortable log cabin lodge. Celebrate our adventure at a farewell dinner. Rainbow Ranch Lodge or Lone Mountain Ranch

DAY 6 I BOZEMANReturn to Bozeman for your flight home. Meals: B


• Join a National Geographic expert to seek out grizzlies, bison, and wolves in the Lamar Valley. • Meet a renowned wildlife photographer at his home studio. • Raft the scenic Snake River beneath towering Teton Peaks.

8 D A Y S F R O M £ 4 ,470


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, geologist Kirt Kempter is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

2021 Dates: May 15–22 | May 29–June 5 June 19–26 | July 24–31 | Aug. 7–14 | Aug. 21–28 Sept. 4–11 | Sept. 11–18 | Sept. 18–25



Y E L L O W S T O N E A N DG R A N D T E T O N N AT I O N A L P A R K S

DAYS 1–2 I BOZEMAN, MONTANA/ MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, WYOMING Arrive in Bozeman. The next morning, take a scenic drive to Mammoth Hot Springs, just inside Yellowstone National Park. Stroll along travertine terraces sculpted by the hot springs before a welcome dinner. Hilton Garden Inn Bozeman; Best Western by Mammoth Hot Springs | Meals: Day 2–5: B/L/D Daily

DAY 3 I LAMAR VALLEY Rise early for a safari in the Lamar Valley and search for bison, bears, elk, and the elusive grey wolf—reintroduced here in 1995. Meet with arenowned wildlife photographer, and enjoy hikes and more wildlife sightings this afternoon. Best Western by Mammoth Hot Springs

DAYS 4–5 I GRAND CANYON OF THE YELLOWSTONE/UPPER GEYSER BASIN At the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, take a short walk to view towering waterfalls set against a dazzling red and gold palette. Con-tinue to the Upper Geyser Basin and witness the clockwork eruption of Old Faithful. Then explore this stunning geothermal landscape with our expert. Old Faithful Inn or Old Faithful Snow Lodge

DAYS 6–8 I GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK/JACKSON

Journey south to the saw-toothed Teton Range. Visit the historic Murie Ranch, and en-joy a float trip on the Snake River. Explore the National Museum of Wildlife Art or downtown Jackson. Ride a tram to the top of Rendezvous Peak before transferring to the airport for your flight home. Jackson Lake Lodge | Meals: Day 6: B/L; Day 7: B/L/D; Day 8: B

INFORMATION

Above: A traveller captures a picture-perfect reflection of the Tetons.


• Hear an expert describe the geological events that shaped America’s canyonlands.• Delve into Zion's magnificent sandstone slot canyons and Bryce Canyon’s maze of red spires.• Stay in historic national park lodges, and learn about area's wildlife from rangers.

8 D A Y S F R O M £ 4 ,065


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, author and biologist Jeremy Schmidt is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

2021 Dates: May 22–29 | June 5–12 | June 19–26 July 24–31 | Sept. 11–18 | Sept. 25–Oct. 2 | Oct. 2–9



Above: Bizarre rock formations pierce the horizon in Bryce Canyon National Park.

G R A N D C A N Y O N , B R Y C E ,A N D Z I O N N A T I O N A L P A R K S

DAYS 1–2 I ST. GEORGE, UTAH/ GRAND CANYON, ARIZONA

From St. George, venture into canyon country, stopping at Pipe Springs National Monument. Settle into our historic lodge overlooking the Grand Canyon. Best Western Plus Abbey Inn; Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim | Meals: Day 1: D; Days 2–7: B/L/D Daily

DAY 3 I GRAND CANYON NORTH RIMExplore the canyon’s rim, peering into the

multi-hued chasm carved by the Colorado River over millions of years. Choose from a variety of hikes and learn about the park’s unique ecosystems. Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim

DAYS 4–5 I ZION NATIONAL PARK, UTAHJourney along the spectacular Mount Carmel Scenic Byway to Zion National Park. Hear from our expert about the geological events that shaped the pink-toned Grand Staircase. Spend the next day exploring Zion, a wonderland of sandstone slot canyons, hanging gardens, and cascading waterfalls. Flanigan's Inn

DAYS 6–7 I BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARKTravel to Bryce Canyon and take in breathtak-ing views from Fairyland Canyon. Join a park ranger for a telescope viewing of the starlit sky. Discover Bryce's Canyon's famous hoodoos, whimsical rock formations that have been eroded into surreal spires. Bryce Canyon Lodge or Best Western Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel

DAY 8 I ZION NATIONAL PARK/ ST. GEORGE

Wind through Red Canyon and continue to Kolob Canyons—Zion National Park’s hidden gem—before returning to St. George. Meals: B

INFORMATION


• Visit a family in a Kek’chi Maya village, and help prepare traditional dishes beforesitting down to lunch with your hosts.

• Enjoy a private tour of the ancient Maya ruins of Tikal. • Snorkel among myriad marine life on the world’s second largest coral reef system.

Private Light/Moderate


INFORMATION

Dates: This is a private expedition that is offered year-round, except in September and October, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.Prices are per person based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination or internal flights during the expedition. Please enquire for prices based on a smaller group travelling together. Single traveller prices are available upon request. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals.

Above: A snorkeller follows close on the fins of a sea turtle.

Copal Tree Lodge

Knowledgeable local guides will accompany you on your trip, and you will meet other local experts as described in the itinerary.

EXPEDITION TEAM

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC UNIQUE LODGE

9 D A Y S F R O M £ 4 , 5 7 5based on 6 people travelling together

B E L I Z E A N D T I K A L P R I VAT E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–3 I BELIZE CITY/ PUNTA GORDA, BELIZE

Travel to Copal Tree Lodge—a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World nestled in the lush coastal jungles of southern Belize. Upon arrival, National Geographic guests are invited to participate in an exclusive chocolate- making class and a coffee tasting. During your stay, snorkel pristine cayes, seek out the endangered West Indian manatee, and meet

park rangers at the Port of Honduras Marine Reserve. Visit a family in a Kek’chi Maya village, and help prepare traditional dishes before sitting down to lunch with your hosts. Copal Tree Lodge | Meals: Days 2–3: B/L Daily

DAYS 4–5 I BELIZE CITY/CAYO DISTRICT/ TIKAL, GUATEMALA

Fly back to Belize City and visit the Belize Zoo—an animal rehabilitation sanctuary— before continuing to the Cayo District. Cross the border into Guatemala for a private tour of the ancient Maya ruins at Tikal. Chaa Creek | Meals: B/L Daily

DAYS 6–9 I CAYO DISTRICT, BELIZE/ AMBERGRIS CAYE

Visit the Barton Creek Cave and canoe through the passageways of this Maya underworld. Then fly to stunning Ambergris Caye, border-ing the Belize Barrier Reef. Swim and snorkel among sharks, stingrays, and coral gardens at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, and opt to dive into the sapphire depths of Belize’s Great Blue Hole if you wish. Fly home via Belize City. Victoria House Resort & Spa Meals: Day 6: B/L; Days 7–9: B Daily


• Stay in three spectacular National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World.• Unlock the secrets of Machu Picchu while exploring with a private guide.• Attend a private demonstration of traditional Andean wool-dying and weaving.




INFORMATION

EXPEDITION TEAM

Dates: This is a private expedition that is offered year-round, so you may request any dates that are convenient to you.Prices are per person based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination or internal flights during the expedition. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals.

Above: Women in traditional dress stroll through Cusco.

This trip includes stays at three National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World: Inkaterra La Casona, Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba (pictured above), and Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel.

P E R U P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–2 I CUSCO, PERUFly to Cusco and settle into Inkaterra La Casona— a member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection—and enjoy an exclusive architectural tour of this 16th-century manor, once home to Simón Bolívar. The next day, take a private tour of Cusco. Inkaterra La Casona | Meals: Day 2: B

DAYS 3–5 I SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCASpend three days exploring the Sacred Valley

from your base at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, a National Geographic Unique Lodge perched dramatically among emerald slopes. Get immersed in traditional Andean culture as you stroll Pisac’s famous market, learn about llamas in Awanacancha, visit the mountain village of Patacancha, and attend a private demonstration of traditional Andean wool-dying and weaving —practices recently revived in the region by National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa Alvarez. See ancient Inca agriculture systems at Chinchero and Moray, visit the mountainside salt mines of Maras, and explore Ollantaytambo. Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba | Meals: B/L Daily

DAYS 6–9 I MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO/LIMA Take the scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, or disembark early for a guided trek on the Inca Trail. Settle into Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, a National Geographic Unique Lodge nestled within its own private rain forest reserve. Take a guided nature walk through the property’s lush grounds, and visit the on-site spectacled bear rehabilitation program. Tour Machu Picchu at sunrise with a private guide. Enjoy a free night in Cusco before flying home via Lima. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel; Inkaterra La Casona | Meals: Days 6–7: B/D Daily; Days 8–9: B Daily


NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC UNIQUE LODGES


• Sail between the isles of the Galápagos by yacht, enjoying up-close encounters with wildlife.• Ride an aerial bike through the treetops of the Chocó rain forest.• As a National Geographic guest, you're exclusively invited to a private ceviche-making

class with a lodge chef.Private Light/Moderate


INFORMATION

Dates: This is a private expedition that is offered year-round, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.Prices are per person based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination or internal flights during the expedition. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals.

Above: A pair of sea lions frolick in the waters off the Galápagos Islands.

This trip includes stays at two National Geographic Unique Lodges: Mashpi Lodge (pictured above) and Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel.

E C U A D O R P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–5 I QUITO, ECUADOR/GALÁPAGOSFrom Quito, travel to the Galápagos Islands and settle into Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World tucked into one of Isla Santa Cruz’s secluded bays. As a National Geographic guest, you’re exclusively invited to a private ceviche-making class with a lodge chef. Enjoy three days to explore the wild wonders of this famed archipelago with lodge naturalists. Sail aboard an intimate yacht, disembarking to

seek out blue-footed boobies and frigate birds on North Seymour Island, spot Sally Lightfoot crabs and land iguanas on Isla Plaza Sur, snorkel with sea lions and penguins, and much more.Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel; Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel | Meals: Days 2–5: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6–7 I QUITOTake a private tour of Quito’s old town, which earned the city distinction as the first UNESCO- designated world capital. Discover grand colonial buildings and plazas, and step through the doors of some of Quito’s most beautiful churches. Casa Gangotena | Meals: Day 6: B; Day 7: B/L

DAYS 8–11 I MASHPI RESERVEVisit the archaeological site of Tulipe en route to Mashpi Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World set in a cloud forest reserve. Set out on interpretive day and nighttime walks through the forest, seeking out howler monkeys, kaleidoscopic birds, neon frogs, and more. Join a biologist at the Life Centre—the lodge’s research station—for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour. Visit the Equatorial Monument on your return trip to the Quito airport. Mashpi Lodge | Meals: Days 8–10: B/L/D Daily; Day 11: B

1 1 D A Y S F R O M £ 6 , 4 2 0based on 4+ people travelling together


EXPEDITION TEAM



• Explore Patagonia’s incredible wonders by land and sea.• Settle into Tierra Patagonia, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.• Take a walk across Magdalena Island, home to more than 100,000 Magellanic penguins.

1 2 D AY S F R O M £ 1 1 , 705


Clockwise from above: A photographer captures the scenery surrounding the famed Paine massif; Magellanic penguins nesting in Patagonia;travellers survey a massive glacier in Patagonia; tango dancers strike a pose in Buenos Aires's La Boca neighbourhood.

E X P L O R I N G P A T A G O N I A

DAY 1 I BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINAArrive this morning in the Argentine capital of Buenos Aires. Transfer to our hotel in the heart of the stylish Recoleta neighbourhood and explore the nearby galleries, museums, and cafés at your leisure. Enjoy a tango performance, followed by a welcome dinner. Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta | Meals: D

DAY 2 I BUENOS AIRESSpend the day discovering this cosmopolitan capital, known as the Paris of South America. On a city tour, see the Recoleta Cemetery, final resting place for Eva “Evita” Perón and other notable Argentinians. Continue to the historic presidential palace, La Casa Rosada, and the cathedral in Plaza de Mayo. After lunch, ex-plore the cobblestoned lanes of San Telmo and the colourful artists’ quarter of La Boca. Sofitel Buenos Aires Recoleta | Meals: B/L

DAY 3 I USHUAIA/TIERRA DEL FUEGO NATIONAL PARK

Fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, and visit Tierra del Fuego National Park. Embark our ship and sail toward the famed Beagle Channel. M.V. Stella Australis or M.V. Ventus Australis | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4 I CAPE HORN, CHILE/WULAIA BAYWeather permitting, take Zodiacs to Cape Horn for panoramic views from the southernmost tip of South America. Later, explore Wulaia Bay, where Charles Darwin landed during his voyage on the H.M.S. Beagle. Choose one of two walks to experience the spectacular beauty of the sur-rounding Magellanic forest. M.V. Stella Australis or M.V. Ventus Australis | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 5–6 I MAGDALENA CHANNEL/ AGOSTINI SOUND

As we navigate the Magdalena Channel, spot penguins, dolphins, albatrosses, and other seabirds. After entering the Pia Fjord, board Zodiacs and head out on a shore excursion on Pia Glacier. Continue along the Beagle Channel to the Garibaldi Glacier. Embark on a challeng-ing hike through the Magellanic forest if you choose. The next day, cruise majestic Agostini Sound, and disembark for a closer look at Águila Glacier. During an easy walk, take in spectacular views of the brilliant blue-and-white ice set off by black mountains, and learn about the geo-logical forces that shaped this dramatic land.M.V. Stella Australis or M.V. Ventus Australis Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 7 I MAGDALENA ISLAND/ PUNTA ARENAS

Take a morning walk on Magdalena Island, home to a colony of more than 100,000 Magellanic penguins. Disembark in Punta Arenas and con-tinue across the southern Pampas, looking for herds of guanacos as well as rheas, grey foxes, and black-necked swans. Settle into our spec-tacular hotel—Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa, a member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection.Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa | Meals: B/L/D


• Explore Patagonia’s incredible wonders by land and sea.• Settle into Tierra Patagonia, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.• Take a walk across Magdalena Island, home to more than 100,000 Magellanic penguins.

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, naturalist Eduardo Shaw is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION


OPTIONAL EXTENSION

AND M.V. STELLA AUSTRALIS

Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa

DAYS 8–10 I TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK

During the next three days, tailor your explo-ration to your interests, choosing from among a variety of hiking and horseback-riding excur-sions in the park. Discover Lago de Grey and its incredibly blue sculpted ice; hike through beech forests along the shore of Laguna Azul; and marvel at rock paintings left by the indig-enous Aonikenk people, some of the earliest inhabitants of the region. Photograph wildlife near the northern limits of the park; or relax at the hotel, taking advantage of its wonderful amenities. Enjoy evening lectures, and cap off your stay with a festive barbecue in the com-pany of local gauchos, getting a glimpse into traditional Patagonian cowboy culture. Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 11 I PUNTA ARENAS/SANTIAGOToday, drive to the Punta Arenas airport for the flight to Santiago. Arrive this evening and check in to our hotel.The Singular Santiago | Meals: B/L

DAY 12 I SANTIAGOSpend a full day exploring Santiago. On a walking tour of the city centre, see the elegant Plaza de Armas, the Palacio de la Moneda, and the 18th-century Metropolitan Cathedral. View

the impressive collection at Santiago’s Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, and enjoy a farewell celebration at a Chilean winery. This evening, transfer to the airport for your flight home. Meals: B/L

2021 Dates: Jan. 13–24 | Jan. 25–Feb. 5 | Feb. 6–17Feb. 22–Mar. 5 | Mar. 6–17

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is available on request. International airfare is not included in the price. Prices based on Category A Cabin.


The M.V. Ventus Australis (built in 2017) and M.V. Stella Australis (built in 2010) are sister ships designed specif-ically to cruise the spectacular Patagonian waterways. Each ship has a hundred outside-facing cabins that feature a large window, an en suite bathroom, a satellite phone, and individual temperature controls. Cabins are available on three levels: Category A on the second level, Category AA on the third level, and Category AAA on the fourth level. Facilities include an open deck, three lounges, a library, a game room, and a single-seating dining room. All cabins in our allotment are the same size.

Add a five-day post-trip extension to Easter Island or extend your trip to Chile’s Atacama Desert with a stay at Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa, another member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection. Please contact us for details.

THE M.V. VENTUS AUSTRALIS


• Join a private guide for a hike beneath Argentina’s iconic Fitz Roy massif.• Witness the powerful calving of the Perito Moreno Glacier.• National Geographic guests will be treated to an exclusive architecture tour of the

award-winning Tierra Patagonia property.



INFORMATION

Above: A guest takes in the view of the Torres del Paine peaks from the pool at Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa.

P A T A G O N I A P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAY 1 I BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINAEnjoy a day at leisure in Buenos Aires’ stylish Recoleta district, or take an optional private city tour. Mio Buenos Aires

DAYS 2–3 I LOS GLACIARES NATIONAL PARKJourney to El Chaltén, gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. Join a private guide for a trek beneath the dramatic ice-clad spires of the Fitz Roy massif. Your destination is Laguna de los Tres, a turquoise lake framed by the iconic

Monte Fitz Roy, and the perfect spot for your picnic lunch. Hosteria Senderos | Meals: B/L Daily

DAYS 4–5 I PERITO MORENO GLACIERSet out from El Calafate to discover the magnif-icent natural displays of the advancing Perito Moreno Glacier. View the glacier’s rugged, calving face from nearby walkways, and then join a boat cruise on the surrounding waters for a different perspective. Hotel Posada Los Alamos | Meals: B/L Daily

DAYS 6–10 I TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK, CHILE

Drive to Torres del Paine National Park, where you’ll settle into Tierra Patagonia, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World perched at the edge of Lake Sarmiento. National Geographic guests will be treated to an exclu-sive architecture tour of this award-winning property. Spend three full days exploring the wilds of Torres del Paine by foot, horseback, or 4x4 vehicle. Encounter sapphire lakes and rushing waterfalls, rugged peaks and karst cor-nices. Ride horseback alongside local gauchos across sweeping glacial valleys, or visit a working estancia, or ranch. Transfer to Punta Arenas for your flight home. Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa Meals: Days 6–9: B/L/D Daily; Day 10: B

Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa


YOUR EXPEDITION TEAM


Dates: This is a private expedition offered from October through March, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.

Prices are per person based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination or internal flights during the expedition. Single traveller prices are available upon request. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals.

1 0 D AY S F R O M £ 7 , 3 1 5based on 6 people travelling together


INFORMATION



• Stay in three spectacular National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World.• Watch the sunrise over Uluru, and examine its ancient rock paintings with a guide.• Sip cocktails alongside grazing kangaroos and wallabies on Kangaroo Island.



Above: Travellers sit down to dinner with a view of Uluru at Longitude 131°—a National Geographic Unique Lodge.

A U S T R A L I A P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–2 I SYDNEY, AUSTRALIATour the Sydney Opera House with a private guide, and join a cruise across Sydney Harbour.Shangri-La Hotel Sydney | Meals: Day 2: B/L

DAYS 3–5 I LIZARD ISLANDSettle into Lizard Island Resort, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World bordering the Great Barrier Reef. Delve into the reef’s bril-liant underwater world, exploring by snorkel, catamaran, motorised dinghy, and stand-up

paddleboard. National Geographic travellers are invited to embark on a private sunset cruise. Lizard Island Resort | Meals: Day 3: B/D; Days 4–5: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6–8 I CAIRNS/ULURUTravel via Cairns to Longitude 131°, a NationalGeographic Unique Lodge with views of sacredUluru. In Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, examineUluru’s ancient rock paintings, and walk between the rock domes of Walpa Gorge. NationalGeographic guests enjoy an exclusive introduc-tion to outback cuisine in the lodge kitchen. Shangri-La Hotel Sydney; The Marina, Cairns; Longitude 131° Meals: Day 6: B; Days 7–8: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 9–13 I KANGAROO ISLAND/SYDNEYSpend three nights at the elegant Southern Ocean Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge perched atop coastal cliffs. Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the property, as well as a five-course "taste of Kangroo Island" dining experience. Join lodge naturalists to walk coast-al trails, observe sea lions, and discover unique geology; and sip sundowners alongside grazing kangaroos and wallabies. Fly home via Sydney. Southern Ocean Lodge; Shangri-La Hotel Sydney Meals: Day 9: B/D; Days 10–11: B/L/D Daily; Days 12–13: B Daily

INFORMATION

This trip includes stays at three National Geographic Unique Lodges: Southern Ocean Lodge (pictured above), Lizard Island Resort, and Longitude 131°.


EXPEDITION TEAM


Dates: This is a private expedition that is offered year-round, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.Prices are per person based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination or internal flights during the expedition. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals.

1 3 D AY S F R O M £ 1 1 ,380based on 4+ people travelling together


• Go on treks in search of chimpanzees, gorillas, and golden monkeys.• Visit a chimpanzee sanctuary established in association with the Jane Goodall Institute.• Meet with scientists at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund’s Karisoke Research Centre.

1 1 D A Y S F R O M £ 1 1 ,705

Expert Led Moderate

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, wildlife biologist, author, and educator Lucy Spelman is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

2021 Dates: Jan. 18-28 | Feb. 2-12 | June 3-13 June 30 - July 3 | Aug. 12-22 | Sept. 14 - 24 Dec. 28, 2021–Jan. 7 2022

Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is available on request. All primate-tracking permits are included. International airfare is not included in the price.


Above: These endangered moutain gorillas are two of the roughly one thousand that remain in the wilds of Central Africa.

T H E G R E A T A P E SO F U G A N D A A N D R WA N D A

DAYS 1–2 I ENTEBBE, UGANDA/ NGAMBA ISLAND

Visit the Chimpanzee Sanctuary on Ngamba Island, established in association with the Jane Goodall Institute. Later, explore the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. Lake Victoria Serena Resort | Meals: Days 2–8: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 3–5 I KIBALE NATIONAL PARK/ QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARKIn Kibale National Park, meet with National

Geographic grantee Emily Otali and search for chimpanzees; black-and-white colobus, red-tailed, and blue monkeys; and the rare l’Hoest’s monkey. Explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. Continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park, and go on safari to look for elephants, lions, and Ugandan kobs before an afternoon wildlife cruise. Kyaninga Lodge; Kyambura Gorge Lodge

DAYS 7–8 I BWINDI IMPENETRABLE NATIONAL PARK

Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to roughly half the world’s remaining moun-tain gorillas. Head into the forest to see these gentle giants, observing one of the planet’s most endangered creatures up close. Bwindi Lodge

DAYS 9–11 I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK, RWANDA/KIGALI

Meet experts at the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund’s Karisoke Research Centre to learn about ongoing conservation efforts. Track mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, where National Geographic grantee Dian Fossey conducted research on gorillas for 18 years. Spend a morning searching for endangered golden monkeys with National Geographic grantee Deogratias Tuyisingize. Virunga Lodge | Meals: Day 9–10: B/L/D Daily; Day 11: B/L


• Encounter a profusion of wildlife while on safari in three conservation areas.• Visit the Noloholo Environmental Centre, directed by a National Geographic Explorer.*• Picnic on the floor of the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater.

Private Light


Above: An elephant takes the beaten path in Tarangire National Park.

T A N Z A N I A P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

EXPEDITION TEAM

DAYS 1–3 I ARUSHA, TANZANIA/ TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK

Arrive in Arusha and travel to Tarangire National Park. If your trip is between June and September, stop at the Noloholo Environmental Centre*, headed by National Geographic Explorer Laly Lichtenfeld and run in partnership with the local Maasai people. Then settle into your camp in the heart of Tarangire National Park. Encounter herds of elephants, zebras, giraffes, and wildebeests on game drives—and keep

your eyes out for prowling cheetahs and leopards. Arusha Coffee Lodge; Oliver’s Camp Meals: Days 2–3: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 4–5 I NGORONGORO CRATEREnjoy a picnic breakfast on the floor of World Heritage–listed Ngorongoro Crater, the largest non-flooded caldera in the world. Embark on a safari through this green-walled wildlife paradise, home to some 25,000 animals. Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6–9 I SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK/ ARUSHA

Fly to the vast plains of the Serengeti and check into your tented suite. Spend the next three days exploring Serengeti National Park on game drives, and search for crocodiles and hippos on the banks of the Mara River. Or see the majesty of the savanna from the sky on an optional hot-air balloon ride. Return to Arusha to catch your flight home. Sayari Camp; Rivertrees Country Inn | Meals: Days 6–8: B/L/D Daily; Day 9: B/L

9 D A Y S F R O M £6,9 1 0based on 4+ people travelling together


INFORMATION

Dates: This is a private expedition that is offered year-round except in April and May, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.

Prices are per person based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination or internal flights during the expedition. Please enquire for prices based on a smaller group travelling together. Single traveller prices are available upon request. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals.

*The visit to the Noloholo Environmental Centre is offered from June to September. Travellers in other months will travel directly to Tarangire National Park and enjoy an additional game drive.


• Meet Louise Leakey or Fidelis Masao for a tour of the fossil-rich Olduvai Gorge.• A wildlife biologist accompanies each trip to interpret the flora and fauna we encounter.• Learn firsthand about Maasai culture during a private visit.

9 D A Y S F R O M £ 9,350

Expert Led Light

Clockwise from above: Travellers on safari marvel at a cheetah family at rest; wildebeests cross Tanzanian grasslands on their annual migration;a Maasai warrior springs into the air during a traditional dance; a suite at Sayari Camp.

O N S A F A R I : TA N Z A N I A ' S G R E AT M I G R AT I O N

DAY 1 I ARUSHA, TANZANIAArrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to our hotel. Rivertrees Country Inn

DAY 2 I LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARKDrive to Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its elephants, hippos, giraffes, flamingos, and tree-climbing lions. Set out on our first safari to discover East Africa’s legendary wild-life amid the stunning Rift Valley landscape.Plantation Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3 I LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARKOn a morning game drive, observe the wildlife that congregates on the shores of Lake Manyara.Enjoy a guided walk around the lodge’s grounds and gardens before hiking to a nearby coffee plantation.Plantation Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4 I NGORONGORO CRATERAfter breakfast, travel to the Ngorongoro Highlands, where we will meet with Maasai community members. Far from the tourist circuit, enjoy a rare opportunity to view traditional singing and dancing, witness an initiation ritual, and learn about this fascinating culture from the village chief and his wives. After lunch, descend 2,000 feet to the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, where volcanic slopes shelter more than 25,000 animals. Observe the interactions between predator and prey; spot colourful birdlife, from superb starlings to crowned cranes; and track elephants, rare black rhinos, cheetahs, and more. Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5 I NGORONGORO CRATERReturn to the crater floor for breakfast and a morning safari. Enjoy an afternoon to relax and watch the sun set over the crater from

the lodge. Tonight, National Geographic Explorer-at-Large Louise Leakey or Dr. Fidelis Masao, co-director of the Olduvai Landscape Paleoarchaeology Project, joins us for dinner and a discussion about the groundbreaking paleontological finds in the region. Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 I OLDUVAI GORGE/SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

Drive to the Olduvai Gorge, where, on a National Geographic–sponsored expedition in 1960, Louis and Mary Leakey discovered Homo habilis—one of the earliest members of the hu-man genus. This morning, Louise (the Leakeys’ granddaughter) or Dr. Masao will discuss the family’s legacy and ongoing work at Olduvai Gorge. Then take a private tour of the site, or accompany Dr. Masao on a walk through the area where much of his life’s research has been conducted. This afternoon, drive to our lodge in the southern Serengeti, looking for lions, giraffes, and leopards along the way. Serengeti Sopa Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 7–8 I SERENGETI NATIONAL PARKRise early for an optional hot-air balloon safari or a morning game drive before flying to the northern Serengeti. With luck, we will witness


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, conservationist and National Geographic Explorer Laly Lichtenfeld is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

Add a six-day post-trip extension to track gorillas in Rwanda or a four-day post-trip safa-ri in Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park. Please call us for details.

the dramatic river crossings of the wildebeest migration. Great herds of wildebeests and zebras eye predators warily as crocodile snouts break the surface of the Mara River. Take in the region’s spectacular array of wildlife on morn-ing and afternoon game drives. On our last evening, gather for a candlelit farewell dinner in the bush. Sayari Camp | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 9 I SERENGETI/ARUSHAAfter a final early-morning safari, fly back to Arusha. Relax at our hotel before connecting with your flight home. Rivertrees Country Inn | Meals: B/L

In order to provide travellers with the best opportunity to witness the wildebeest migration, the Serengeti portion of the itinerary differs by season. The itinerary shown describes the July through October departures, when the wildebeests are in the northern Serengeti.

On the December through March departures, when the migration moves south, we’ll set out for the southeastern border of the Serengeti on Day 7. For the evenings of Days 6, 7, and 8, we’ll stay at Lake Masek Tented Camp. Here, we will go on morning and afternoon game drives and take an off-track safari in the Ndutu area. See our website for details.

MIGRATION SEASONSIN THE SERENGETI

2021 Dates: Jan. 19–27 | Feb. 18–26 | July 23–31 Aug. 2–10 | Sept. 2–10 | Sept. 24–Oct. 2 | Oct. 8–16



We also offer this trip as a dedicated photo safari, escorted by a National Geographic photographer. Please call us for departure dates and details.


• Enjoy safaris far from the crowds, soaring between game reserves in our own charter aircraft.• Visit the Motloutse Ruins to examine ancient artifacts with an archaeologist.• Settle into Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.

1 0 D AY S F R O M £ 1 5 , 4 4 5

Expert Led Light

Clockwise from above: A leopard and her cub remain vigilant at rest; a safari vehicle clears the road at an elephant crossing; a hippo shows its formidable teeth;light shows abound at Victoria Falls.

DAY 1 I JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA/ SABI SABI GAME RESERVE

Arrive in Johannesburg and board our aircraft for a scenic flight to Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, a private reserve in greater Kruger National Park. The Lowveld region is full of big game, includ-ing lions, leopards, and white rhinos. Settle into our luxury safari lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, and take your first game drive before meeting for a welcome dinner. Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge | Meals: D

DAY 2 I SABI SABI GAME RESERVESet off on an early-morning safari in open vehicles, and observe wildlife at one of its most active times with naturalist guides. Enjoy time to relax and take advantage of the camp’s ame-nities before lunch. During our late afternoon game drive, stop for sundowners in the bush. Continue exploring as night falls, searching for nocturnal predators on the prowl. Gath-er for dinner around a large campfire in a reed-enclosed boma. Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 3–5 I MASHATU GAME RESERVE, BOTSWANA

Fly directly to Mashatu Game Reserve, an enor-mous private reserve located in the remote eastern corner of Botswana that comprises a diverse wilderness of savanna, riverine forests, marshlands, open plains, and sandstone out-crops. Apart from morning and evening game drives accompanied by expert guides, choose two of the following activities: a bush walk, a visit to a photography hide to capture close-ups of wildlife, or a mountain bike ride along elephant trails. Visit the Motloutse Ruins, a significant archaeological site, in the company of South African archaeologist Grant Hall. Mashatu Lodge | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6–7 I MOREMI GAME RESERVE, OKAVANGO DELTA

Soar over the magnificent wetlands of the Okavango Delta to a tented camp in Moremi Game Reserve. Explore this untamed habitat by open safari vehicle, and take a trip to Gadikwe Island by flat-bottom boat to seehippos and breeding colonies of herons, egrets, pelicans, storks, and cormorants. Xakanaxa Camp | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 8–9 I CHOBE NATIONAL PARK/ VICTORIA FALLS AND LIVINGSTONE, ZAMBIABoard our aircraft for a flight to Chobe National Park, known for its many elephant families. On a wildlife river cruise, watch for elephants frolicking at the water’s edge and using their trunks like snorkels as they swim. Then fly along the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers to Livingstone, and check in to the luxurious Royal Livingstone Hotel, just steps from Victoria Falls. Visit a local village or the Livingstone Museum, or head into the Maramba market. Take a canoe safari, or experience the falls from a thrilling perspective on an optional flight-seeing excursion. Later, explore the falls with a local guide, venturing into the mists along suspended walkways. On our final

S O U T H E R N A F R I C A S A F A R IB Y P R I VA T E A I R


THE ULTIMATE SAFARI EXPERIENCE A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, conservationist and National Geographic Fellow Steve Boyes is the type of expert you could expect this trip.


INFORMATION


2021 Dates: June 28-July 7 | July 19–28 Aug. 20–29 | Sept. 17–26 | Dec. 28, 2021–Jan.6, 2022



evening, enjoy a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River, followed by an al fresco farewell dinner at our hotel. Royal Livingstone Hotel | Meals: Day 8: B/L; Day 9: B/D

DAY 10 I JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA Fly to Johannesburg (commercial flight) and connect with your return flight home. Meals: B

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

Add a four-day pre- or post-trip extension in Cape Town - please call us for details.

On board our private Caravan aircraft, we’re whisked from one game reserve to the next. We fly at low altitude, allowing for rare aerial views of spectacular landscapes and wildlife. On several days, you can tailor the trip to your interests and choose from a variety of activities—including walking safaris, excursions by boat or mountain bike, and a wildlife photo shoot with a professional photographer (select departures).

Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge


• As a National Geographic guest, receive an exclusive invitation to meet the chief and community members of a nearby village.

• Discover otherworldly tsingy landscapes on a private excursion to Ankarana Special Reserve.• Delve into Malagasy culture on private tours of traditional farms and French colonial cities.



INFORMATION

Above: A chameleon sports a rainbow of colours.

M A D A G A S C A R P R I VAT E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–3 I ANTANANARIVO, MADAGASCAR/ANTSIRANANA

Enjoy an evening at leisure in Antananarivo, then fly to Antsiranana on the northern coast and take a private tour of the town’s colonial centre. Delve into Madagascar’s mind-blowing biodiversity while hiking with a private guide in Amber Mountain National Park, home to leaping lemurs and camouflaged chameleons. Relais des Plateaux; The Litchi TreeMeals: Days 2–10: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 4–6 I ANTSARAVIBEIn Ankarana Special Reserve, discover an oth-erworldly landscape of limestone karst spikes called tsingy, and seek out 11 lemur species. Over the next two days, walk through sacred Mandresy Cave, tackle a challenging trek among the tsingy, or take a guided bike ride to nearby villages. Iharana Bush Camp

DAYS 7–10 I NOSY KOMBAArrive at Tsara Komba Luxury Beach & Forest Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge on Nosy Komba (Lemur Island). Set out from your thatched oceanfront bungalow to explore the tropical treasures of the Nosy Be archipelago. Snorkel waters harbouring humpbacks and dolphins, hike coastal rain forests, and relax on Nosy Komba’s golden sands. As a National Geographic guest, you’ll receive an exclusive invitation to spend time with the chief and community members of a nearby village.Tsara Komba Luxury Beach & Forest Lodge

DAYS 11–12 I ANTANANARIVO/DEPARTReturn to Antananarivo for a private tour of the city, including the 15th-century Royal Hill of Ambohimanga. Palissandre Hôtel & Spa; Relais des Plateaux | Meals: Day 11: B/L/D; Day 12: B/L

INFORMATION

Tsara Komba Luxury Beach & Forest Lodge


EXPEDITION TEAM


Dates: This is a private expedition offered from April to early December, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.


1 2 D AY S F R O M £5 ,850 based on 4+ people travelling together


• Ride a camel across Saharan dunes at sunset, and overnight in a comfortable tented camp. • Delve into Berber culture at Kasbah du Toubkal, a National Geographic Unique Lodge.• Enjoy dinner and a Sufi musical performance at a traditional Moroccan home.

1 2 D AY S F R O M £ 6 ,910


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, archaeologist Chloé Capel is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

2021 Dates: Mar. 13–24 | Mar. 27–Apr. 7 | Apr. 3–14 Sept. 18–29 | Oct. 2–13 | Oct. 16–27 | Oct. 30–Nov. 10




Above: The adobe village of Aït Ben Haddou glows during the golden hour.

M O R O C C O :L E G E N D A R Y C I T I E S A N D T H E S A H A R A

DAYS 1–3 I CASABLANCA, MOROCCO/ MARRAKECH

Stroll elegant Casablanca before heading to Marrakech, Morocco’s “pearl of the south”. Explore the city’s splendid mosques, palaces, and gardens, and delve into the labyrinthine medina. Kenzi Tower Hotel; Es Saadi Marrakech Resort | Meals: Day 1: L/D; Day 2: B/L/D; Day 3: B/L

DAYS 4–6 I HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS/ AÏT BEN HADDOU

Experience Berber hospitality at Kasbah du Toubkal, a National Geographic Unique Lodge perched in the High Atlas Mountains. Go hiking amid the surrounding peaks, sip mint tea in a family home, and soak in the lodge’s tradition-al hammam. Later, tour the ancient fortified village of Aït Benhaddou. Kasbah du Toubkal; Ksar Ighnda | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 7–8 I DADES GORGE/SAHARA DESERTSet out on the fabled Road of 1,000 Kasbahs, passing spectacular rock formations, oases, and rose plantations, and stopping at small villages. Walk the dramatic Dades Gorge, and ride camelback into the Sahara to watch the sun set, then settle into our comfortable tented camp.Xaluca Dades; Bivouac Tented Berber Camp Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 9–12 I FEZ/VOLUBILIS AND MEKNÈSDiscover the magnificent imperial city of Fez, and take an optional excursion to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, and to Morocco’s 17th-century capital, Meknès. Enjoy a special farewell dinner at a traditional Moroccan home, accompanied by Sufi musical entertainment.Riad Maison Bleue and Spa | Meals: Day 9: B/L/D; Day 10: B/L; Day 11: B/D; Day 12: B

Kasbah du Toubkal



• Visit six UNESCO World Heritage sites with a private guide.• Sip traditional mint tea in the home of a Berber family.• Stay in the Kasbah du Toubkal, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.



INFORMATION

Above: A traveller pauses under the elaborate arch of an old madrasa in Marrakech.

M O R O C C O P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–2 I CASABLANCA, MOROCCO/FEZFrom Casablanca, travel to Fez and discover the charms of old and new Fez on a full-day city tour with a private guide. Riad Maison Bleue Meals: Day 2: B/D

DAY 3 I MEKNÈS/VOLUBILIS/RABATJoin your private guide to explore two UNESCO World Heritage sites: medieval Meknès and the Roman ruins of Volubilis. In Rabat, see the ocean-

front Kasbah of Ouadaya and the Mausoleum of Mohamed V. Villa Mandarine | Meals: B/L

DAYS 4–5 I HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINSJourney into the High Atlas Mountains to Kasbah du Toubkal—a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World built from the ruins of a medieval kasbah—and set out on a range of hikes and donkey rides. National Geographic guests are exclusively invited on a village walk with a local staff member, followed by a tradi-tional mint tea in his or her home. Kasbah du Toubkal | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 6 I AÏT BEN HADDOUDiscover the opulent interiors or Kasbah Telouet, a deserted fortification on an age-old caravan route. Wander the enchanting adobe village of Aït Ben Haddou at your own pace.Riad Ksar Ighnda | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 7–9 I MARRAKECHIn legendary Marrakech, listen to storytellers, warm up to fire-eaters, and delight in the beguiling music of snake charmers in Djemaa el Fna, the city’s main square. See the high-lights of the city on a full-day tour. La Villa des Orangers Hôtel | Meals: Day 7: B/L; Days 8–9: B

INFORMATION

Kasbah du Toubkal


EXPEDITION TEAM


Dates: This expedition is available year round, except for the months of July and August, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.

Prices are per person based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination or internal flights during the expedition. Surcharges may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals.

9 D A Y S F R O M £ 3 , 7 40based on 6 people travelling together



• Hear a unique dual narrative from our Israeli and Palestinian guides.• Meet Israeli and Palestinian politicans for an insider’s view of the Israel-Palestine conflict.• Explore ancient Caesarea Maritima with National Geographic Explorer Beverly Goodman.

1 1 D A Y S F R O M £ 5 ,690

Expert Led Light

Clockwise from above: The imposing facade of the Tower of David in Jerusalem; a woman effortlessly floats in the hypersaline waters of the Dead Sea;the iconic Dome of the Rock on Temple Mount in Jerusalem; Hasidic Jewish men gather in prayer at the Western Wall in Jerusalem.

T H E H O LY L A N D : P A S T, P R E S E N T, A N D F U T U R E

DAY 1 I TEL AVIV, ISRAEL/JERUSALEMArrive in Tel Aviv and transfer to Jerusalem. Relax at the hotel before our reception and welcome dinner tonight. American Colony Hotel | Meals: D

DAY 2 I JERUSALEMBegin the day on the Temple Mount, capped by the shining cupola of the Dome of the Rock. Speak with an imam from the Al-Aqsa Mosque, then meet a rabbi at the Western Wall. Later,

join a local pastor at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, home to the tomb of Jesus, according to tradition. Ascend the Mount of Olives, and take in a panoramic view of the domes, spires, and golden stones of Jerusalem’s old city. American Colony Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3 I JERUSALEMVenture into the ruins of the City of David and speak with its Israeli administrators, then meet residents of the nearby Palestinian neighbour-hood who oppose the excavations. Get an insider’s perspective on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict from an Israeli politician, and travel to Ramallah for the rare opportunity of hearing from a high-ranking Palestinian Authority official. American Colony Hotel | Meals: B/L

DAY 4 I JERUSALEMTrace the turbulent history of the birth of the state of Israel. Meet with a Holocaust survivor at the moving Holocaust memorial of Yad Vashem, then travel to Ein Kerem, where Christian tra-dition says John the Baptist was born. Hear our Israeli and Palestinian guides tell their divergent narratives of the village’s role in Israel’s 1948 War of Independence. Tonight, gather for a discus-sion with Israeli and Palestinian peace activists from the Bereaved Families Forum. American Colony Hotel | Meals: B/D

DAY 5 I BETHLEHEM AND THE WEST BANKTravel to the Gush Etzion settlement bloc to hear the viewpoints of Israeli settlers. Continue to Bethlehem and visit Manger Square; then, at the Church of the Nativity, descend into the cave revered by many as the birthplace ofJesus. Walk through a nearby Palestinian refugee camp, and learn how murals and graffiti have been used to depict the refugees’ struggles. Stop at Herodion, a volcano-shaped hill and fortress built by Herod the Great. Over dinner, take in a musical performance by a group of Israeli and Palestinian musicians.American Colony Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 I JERUSALEM/JERICHO/DEAD SEAMeet with an environmentalist from Friends of the Earth Middle East, whose efforts to foster Arab-Jewish cooperation through environmental stewardship were featured in the special April 2010 “Water” issue of National Geographic magazine. View the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Israel Museum, and then drive down through the Judean Desert to Jericho to visit the archaeological site of Tel Jericho. Settle into our hotel, located in the Ein Gedi kibbutz on the shores of the Dead Sea, and learn about the kibbutz movement. Enjoy time on your own to


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, educator and National Geographic Explorer Aziz Abu Sarah is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.

Author Yuval Ben-Ami writes for the Hebrew edition of National Geographic magazine and is also the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

2021 Dates: Mar. 13–23 | Apr. 17–27 | Apr. 24–May 4 May 8–18 | Sep. 4–14 | Oct. 2–12 | Oct. 16–26 Nov. 6-16 | Dec. 11-21



Add a four-day extension to Petra, Jordan. Please call us for details.

float in the Dead Sea, stroll the hotel’s botani-cal garden, or enjoy an optional spa treatment. Ein Gedi Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7 I JORDAN RIVER VALLEY/TIBERIASSoar up the flank of Masada in a gondola and explore King Herod’s 2,000-year-old moun-taintop refuge. Follow the Jordan Valley north to the Roman city of Bet She’an to see its remarkably preserved amphitheater, baths, and column-lined streets. Along the way, stop to dip your feet in the Jordan River, where Christian pilgrims come to be baptised. The Scots Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8 I GALILEEVisit Caesarea Philippi, a center of worship from the Hellenic age to the early Christian era. Follow a scenic trail to the Banias waterfall, or enjoy a short hike through Tel Dan National Park. Take a boat ride across the Sea of Galilee from Tiberias to Capernaum, where Jesus and many Apostles lived and preached. The Scots Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9 I NAZARETH/JAFFA/TEL AVIVHear the perspective of an Israeli Arab Chris-tian on the way to Nazareth, and visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, one of the largest

churches in the Middle East. On an excursion to the mountaintop village of Beit Jann, discover the secretive traditions of the Druze people, and enjoy lunch with a Druze family in their home. Travel toward the Mediterranean coast and explore picturesque Jaffa, a strategic port town dating back to the Bronze Age. Get acquainted with the bustling city of Tel Aviv in the evening.Dan Tel Aviv Hotel | Meals: B/L

DAYS 10–11 I CAESAREA MARITIMA/ TEL AVIV

Follow the coast north to Caesarea Maritima, Herod’s harbour city, and visit the ruins with geo-archaeologist and National Geographic Emerging Explorer Beverly Goodman. Transfer to the airport the next morning for your flight home.Dan Tel Aviv Hotel | Meals: Day 10: B/D; Day 11: B


• Journey across Russia on one of the world’s most legendary railways.• Sip tea at a family home in the village of Listvyanka, perched along the shores of Lake Baikal.• Learn about the history of Russian space exploration during a talk by a cosmonaut.

1 6 D AY S F R O M £ 1 7 , 0 7 0

Train Light

Clockwise from above: The Kremlin and St. Basil's Cathedral act as colourful bookends to Moscow's Red Square; the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Expressskirts a lake shoreline; young Mongolians don traditional 13th-century garb in Ulaanbaatar; the sun casts reflections onto the glassy surface of Lake Baikal.

T R A N S - S I B E R I A N R A I L E X P E D I T I O N

DAY 1 I VLADIVOSTOK, RUSSIAArrive in Vladivostok and check in to our hotel. Meet fellow travellers at a welcome dinner this evening. Lotte Hotel Vladivostok | Meals: D

DAY 2 I VLADIVOSTOKAs a strategic naval outpost, Vladivostok was closed to most of the world from World War II until the end of the Cold War. Get acquainted with this modern city on a tour that includes the brightly painted railway station and Our

Lady Grieving Orthodox Church. See the Pacific Navy War Memorial and the steamboat Krasny Vympel, take in views of the city and its bay from the Eagle’s Nest observation platform, and stroll the historic Vladivostok Naval Cemetery. This evening, climb aboard our luxury train and set off on our journey across Russia. Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express through Day 13 | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3 I KHABAROVSKExplore the lively squares of Khabarovsk and visit the Natural History Museum by the Amur River. Learn about the flora and fauna of the region, and see artifacts from the indigenous tribes of the Goldi and the Gilyak. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 4–5 I ON TRAIN/SIBERIAAs the train slips past rolling hills and Siberian villages of log houses, relax with a book, attend a talk by our expert, or simply watch the remote and ever-changing countryside pass by. On our second day on board, we enter the sweeping Mongolian steppe. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 I ULAANBAATAR, MONGOLIADepart Mongolia’s capital city this morning for nearby Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. Enjoy the alpine scenery, watch a demonstration of

Mongolian horseback riding, and visit a tradi-tional ger (felt tent). This evening, enjoy dinner and a performance of Mongolian throat sing-ing and traditional dance before we reboard our train and continue on our way back into Russia. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7 I ULAN-UDE, RUSSIAThe train rolls through the valley of the Selenge River, which flows into Lake Baikal. Stop in Ulan-Ude, the capital of the Buryat Republic and once a major trading post between China and Irkutsk. Pay a visit to a village of Old Believers, a group descended from 17th-century religious exiles whose fascinating culture has changed little over the centuries. Watch a performance of their unique choral music. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8 I LAKE BAIKALArrive at beautiful Lake Baikal, called the sacred sea by locals and named a World Heritage site by UNESCO. The lake basin holds about 20 percent of the world’s unfrozen fresh water. A sacred site for Buryat shamans, Lake Baikal’s Shaman Rock is steeped in legend. Our train route hugs the rocky shores and passes through 33 tunnels. Take in spectacular views from the train, and stop for a barbecue lunch on the shore. In the afternoon, explore the


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, historian George Munro is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

village of Listvyanka and join a family for tea in their home. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9 I IRKUTSKSpend today in Irkutsk. In the early 19th century, many Russian artists, officers, and nobles were exiled here for their involvement in the Decembrist revolt. Visit the city’s historic sights, and wander through a delightful col-lection of classic Russian and Siberian cottages at the Museum of Wooden Architecture. Stop for a private bell-ringing performance, and then enjoy a private concert and champagne reception at the Decembrist House Museum. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 10–11 I ON TRAIN/NOVOSIBIRSKEnjoy a day to relax on board, taking in stunning scenery as the vast Siberian taiga unfurls. The following day, stop in Novosibirsk, Siberia’s larg-est city, to see the opera house and Lenin Square. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 12 I YEKATERINBURGArrive in Yekaterinburg, where Russia’s last tsar, Nicholas II, and his family were executed by the Bolsheviks in 1918. Visit the Romanovs’ ex-ecution site—now a church dedicated to their memory—and view the city’s ornately decorat-ed wooden houses. Meals: B/L/D

DAY 13 I KAZANToday, explore Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, perched on the banks of the Volga River. Tour the city’s Kremlin, the turquoise-topped Qol Sharif Mosque, and the Peter and Paul Cathedral. Pay a visit to the Kazan Conservatory and enjoy a concert performed by its students. Then set off on a private cruise around the walls of the city’s kremlin before returning to our train to depart on the final leg of our journey. Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 14–16 I MOSCOWDisembark in Moscow and take a guided stroll through Red Square at night. The following morning, explore the legendary Kremlin. Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral, and view court regalia from the Romanov dynasty at the Armory Museum. After lunch, head to the Monument to the Conquerors of Space, which sweeps some 360 feet into the sky. Delve into the history of space exploration at the recently updated Memorial Museum of Astronautics, and enjoy a specially arranged talk by a Russian cosmonaut. After breakfast the following day, transfer to the airport for your flight home. Ararat Hyatt Park Moscow | Meals: Days 14–15: B/L/D Daily, Day 16: B

2021 Dates: Jun. 12–27 | Aug. 7–22 | Sep. 4–19 Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is available on request. International airfare is not included in the price. Price based on 'Silver Class'.

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

Add a three-day post-trip extension toSt. Petersburg. Please call us for details.

Please call for 2020 departures.


• Examine early Homo erectus skulls with a National Geographic grantee.• Step into the spectacular rock-hewn cave monastery at Vardzia.• Learn about Georgia’s ancient wine-making methods from a local vintner.

1 1 D A Y S F R O M £ 4 , 875


Clockwise from above: The monastery of Khor Virap, framed by biblical Mount Ararat; exploring the mountain roads in the highlands of Armenia;two travellers wander the cobbled streets of Old Tbilisi; the remarkable Vardzia cave monastery.

G E O R G I A A N D A R M E N I A : C R O S S R O A D S O F C O N T I N E N T S

DAYS 1–2 I YEREVAN, ARMENIATake a walking tour of Yerevan, Armenia’s capital and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the word. Wind your way through the charming old town; admire the monumental architecture of Republic Square; and climb up the Cascade, a grand stairway adorned by manicured gardens. Visit a wind instrument studio and hear demonstrations of traditional instruments, then pay your respects

to victims of the Armenian Genocide at the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex.Grand Hotel Yerevan | Meals: Day 2: B/L/D

DAY 3 I KHOR VIRAPVenture south to the verdant pastures of the Ararat Valley, arriving at Khor Virap—an early Christian monastery dedicated to Armenia’s patron, Saint Gregory the Illuminator. Visit the dungeon where the pious Gregory was held prisoner for 13 years by Armenian King Tiridates III until, as the legend goes, Gregory cured the pagan king of illness and converted him to Christianity. Tiridates then imposed the religion on his people, and Armenia became the world’s first Christian nation. Back in the city, enjoy a performance by the Nubar Folk Ensemble and spend some time with the traditional song and dance troupe.Grand Hotel Yerevan | Meals: B/L

DAYS 4–5 I VARDZIA, GEORGIADrive towards Georgia, stopping in the town of Gyumri for a lunch of freshly caught fish and Armenian flatbread called lavash. Explore the Vardzia cave monastery, a dramatic rock-cut fortress built in the 12th century as a strong-hold against the Mongols. Join a local historian for a tour of the ancient wine-producing village

of Chachkari, where the imprints of centuries-old wine presses can still be seen in the chalky cliffs. Enjoy a meal at the farmhouse of a local chef, and wander through the megalithic, lichen-covered ruins of Saro village. Visit a darbazi, a subterranean home typical of the region. Vardzia Resort | Meals: Day 4: B/L/D; Day 5: B/L

DAY 6 I BORJOMIStop at the Silk Road city of Akhaltsikhe en route to Borjomi. Tour the fairy-tale-like old town with a local historian, then enjoy a wine tasting and talk with a vintner about ancient natural wine-making methods. In Borjomi, a beautiful resort town nestled into the folds of the lush Borjomi Gorge, taste Georgian mineral waters and learn about the unique qualities of this sought-after tonic, one of the country’s major exports.Hotel Borjomi Likani | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7 I BORJOMI/STEP’ANTSMINDA Explore the tranquil gardens of the regal Romanov Palace, a summer retreat for Russian royalty; and visit the Borjomi Mineral Water Park, where mineral springs were discovered over one thousand years ago. Head towards Step’antsminda (formerly known as Kazbegi) in the Greater Caucasus Mountains, stopping at


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, archaeologist and editor Kristin Romey is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.

Call or visit our website for the full itineraries, inclusions, and more.

INFORMATION

2021 Dates: May 14–24 | June 11–24 | Sept. 3–13 Sept. 17–27



a contemporary arts centre to have lunch with local artists. Continue along the spectacular Georgian Military Highway, a centuries-old road that winds through mountainous land-scapes dotted with feudal fortresses and the occasional herd of sheep.Rooms Hotel Kazbegi | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8 I STEP’ANTSMINDAFrom the stunning valley town of Step’antsminda, set out to explore the environs of Gergeti Glacier. Drive to Gergeti village and ride a 4x4 vehicle to the 14th-century Holy Trinity Church, or hike up to the mountain-framed church with a guide. Visit a local family in the tiny village of Tsdo and learn to cook up khinkali, a savory dumpling filled with meat and spices. Later, head to Sno Valley to meet an artisan carpenter at his studio.Rooms Hotel Kazbegi | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9 I TBILISITravel south to Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. At the Georgian National Museum, marvel at some of the earliest known hominin remains found outside of Africa and meet a member of the team who discovered them, led by museum director and National Geographic grantee David Lordkipanidze. Take a walking tour of

the art nouveau Sololaki district with a local architect, and enjoy dinner at the charming Cafe Littera at the Writers’ House of Georgia, an early 20th-century mansion turned cultural centre.Tbilisi Marriott Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 10–11 I DMANISI/TBILISIJoin an expert archaeologist at the site of Dmanisi, where the 1.8-million-year-old Homo erectus skulls on display at the Georgian National Museum were unearthed. Back in Tbilisi, explore its enchanting old town, a labyrinth of narrow streets housing Arabic and European influenced buildings. Round off the trip with a special farewell dinner: a six-course Georgian feast with regional wine pairings, accompanied by a story-telling tamada, or toastmaster, and folk performances.Tbilisi Marriott Hotel | Meals: Day 10: B/L/D; Day 11: B


• Experience the Flåm Railway, one of Europe's most scenic train journeys. • Discover the spectacular west Norwegian fjords.• Hear about Thor Heyerdahl's seafaring expeditions from a family connection.

1 1 D A Y S F R O M £8,130

Train Light/Moderate

A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, geographer, geologist, and conservationist David Scott Silverberg is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

2021 Dates: June 6–16 | June 20–30 Aug. 22–Sept. 1 | Sept. 5–15



Above: The Flåm Railway passes through the verdant Norwegian countryside.

N O R WAY ' S T R A I N S A N D F J O R D S

DAYS 1–2 I OSLO, NORWAYExplore Oslo’s highlights, including the Holmenkollen Ski Jump, Vigeland Park, and the Viking Ship Museum. At the Kon-Tiki Museum, meet with a family member or biographer of Thor Heyerdahl and learn about the family's seafaring adventures, chronicled in the pages of National Geographic magazine. Grand Hotel Oslo | Meals: Day 1: D; Day 2: B/L

DAYS 3–6 I WESTERN FJORDSTravel aboard the world-famous Flåm Railway, descending a steep valley through 20 tun-nels to the fjord village of Flåm. Gaze out at Aurlandsfjorden from a viewing platform that floats 2,000 feet above the fjord. Visit the picturesque village of Undredal, and cruise spectacular Aurlandsfjorden, Nærøyfjorden, and Geirangerfjorden. Enjoy a special visit to the Norwegian Fjord Centre before it opens to the public. Fretheim Hotel; Hotel Union | Meals: Day 3: B/L/D; Day 4; B/L; Days 5–6: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 7–8 I TRONDHEIMTransfer to Åndalsnes and ride on the scenic Rauma Railway. Cross the historic Kylling Bridge and marvel at the 3,300-foot Trollveggen, Europe's tallest vertical rock face. Enjoy lunch in Bakklan-det, a colourful neighbourhood of traditional wooden houses. Britannia Hotel | Meals: Day 7: B/L; Day 8: B/L/D

DAYS 9–11 I BERGEN Discover Bergen’s maritime history at Bryggen, the old wharf. Visit the former home of celebrated Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg, and step into Fantoft Stave Church. Hotel Havnekontoret Meals: Day 9: B/L; Day 10: B/L/D; Day 11: B


• Venture into the ice tunnels of Langjökull glacier with an expert guide.• Meet with a marine biologist and National Geographic grantee at a research center in Húsavik.• Stay at the Nordic chic Hotel Húsafell, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World

where local art, cuisine, and Nordic design converge.

1 0 D AY S F R O M £ 7 ,9 3 5


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, geographer, author, and National Geographic Explorer M Jackson is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

2021 Dates: July 6–15 | July 22–31 | Aug. 25–Sept. 3 Sept. 8-17



Hotel Húsafell

I C E L A N D : V O L C A N O E S , G L A C I E R S , A N D W H A L E S

DAYS 1–2 I REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND/ GOLDEN CIRCLE

Explore downtown Reykjavík. Set out on a trip around the legendary Golden Circle to visit the world’s oldest democratic parliament, the geo-thermal hotbed at Geysir, and the magnificent Gullfoss waterfall. Canopy by Hilton Reykjavík City Centre | Meals: Day 1: D; Day 2: B/L

DAYS 3–4 I LANGJÖKULL/SNÆFELLSNESSettle into Hotel Húsafell, a National Geographic

Unique Lodge where local art, cuisine, and Nordic design converge. Venture into the ice tunnels of Langjökull—Iceland’s second largest glacier—and explore the mythical Snæfellsnes Peninsula. Hotel Húsafell | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 5 I SIGLUFJÖRÐURJourney to Iceland’s northern reaches, stopping to descend into the vast Viðgelmir lava cave. Learn about traditional farm life at the Skagafjörður Heritage Museum, housed within authentic turf homes. Siglo Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 6–7 I HRÍSEY/MÝVATNGo birdwatching on the isle of Hrísey, thencontinue to majestic Goðafoss waterfall. In Mývatn, visit a geothermal power plant and encounter the powerful cascade of Dettifoss.Hotel Laxá | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 8–10 I MÝVATN/AKUREYRI/REYKJAVÍKSoak in hot springs, then wander through the geothermal terrain of Námaskarð and the lava towers of Dimmuborgir. Travel to Húsavik, Iceland’s “whale capital”, to meet with Charla Basran, a marine biologist and National Geographic grantee. Set out on a thrilling whale-watching cruise. Take a dip in the mineral- rich Blue Lagoon before flying home. Hotel Kea Meals: Day 8: B/D; Day 9: B/L/D; Day 10: B/L

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC UNIQUE LODGE INFORMATION

Above: Stykkishólmur’s coloyrful houses brighten the coastline of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula.


• Stay at regal Ashford Castle, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World andtake an exclusive tour of the property with the on-site historian.

• Visit ancient holy wells with a medieval historian.• Learn about conservation efforts at the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark.

1 0 D AY S F R O M £6 ,09 5


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, archaeologist and National Geographic grantee Killian Driscoll is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

2021 Dates: Apr. 23-May 2 | May 28–June 6 July 2-11 | Sept. 3–12 | Sept. 24-Oct. 3



Above: The spectacular Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s most visited natural attraction.

I R E L A N D : T A L E S A N D T R E A S U R E SO F T H E E M E R A L D I S L E

DAY 1 I DUBLIN, IRELANDExplore Dublin’s historic quarter, and join an archaeology expert at the National Museum of Ireland to examine prehistoric jewelry, weapons, and “bog bodies”. The Dylan Hotel | Meals: D

DAYS 2–3 I KILKENNYEnjoy a guided tour of medieval Kilkenny, with stops at the 12th-century Kilkenny Castle and the National Craft Gallery. Sip on a pint at a local brewery. Pembroke Kilkenny | Meals: B/L Daily

DAYS 4–5 I ROCK OF CASHEL/BLARNEY/ DINGLE PENINSULA

Visit the Rock of Cashel and kiss the stone at Blarney Castle. Learn from a local medievalist about a National Geographic–sponsored proj-ect to preserve Ireland’s holy wells. Killarney Park Hotel | Meals: Day 4: B/L/D; Day 5: B/ L

DAY 6 I CLIFFS OF MOHER/ BURREN NATIONAL PARK

See the Cliffs of Moher and drive through Burren National Park. Hear about the conserva-tion efforts that earned the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark a National Geographic World Legacy Award. Gregan’s Castle Hotel | Meals: B/D

DAYS 7–8 I THE BURREN/GALWAY/ CONNEMARA/COUNTY MAYO

Explore vibrant Galway, and get a feel for tradi-tional farm life in Connemara. Later, settle into medieval Ashford Castle, a National Geographic Unique Lodge– and take an exclusive tour of the property with the on-site historian. Ashford Castle | Meals: Day 7: B/D; Day 8: B/L/D

DAYS 9–10 I COUNTY MAYO/DUBLINExplore the gorgeous grounds of Ashford before returning to Dublin for a private whiskey tast-ing and farewell dinner. Depart the next day. The Dylan Hotel | Meals: Day 9: B/D; Day 10: B


Ashford Castle


• Tour the Uffizi Gallery with an art historian, and examine Roman ruins with an archaeologist.• Enjoy a private, after-hours visit to the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice.• Stay at an enchanting 13th-century castello in the Tuscan countryside.

1 0 D AY S F R O M £6 ,09 5


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, archaeologist Janet Duncan Jones is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

2021 Dates: Apr. 15–24 | May 13–22 | June 10–19Sept. 9–18 | Sept. 23–Oct. 2 | Oct. 21–30



Add a four-day extension to the stunning Amalfi Coast. Please call us for details.

Above: Traffic on Venice’s Grand Canal subsides at sunset.

I TA LY: R E N A I S S A N C E C I T I E S A N D T U S C A N L I F E

DAYS 1–2 I VENICE, ITALYTransfer by motorboat to our hotel overlook-ing Venice’s famous Grand Canal. Tour the “floating city”, stroll the Piazza San Marco, and cross the iconic Rialto Bridge. Enjoy a private, after-hours visit to the stunning St. Mark's Basilica.Venezia Palazzo Barocci | Meals: Day 1: D; Day 2: B/D

DAYS 3–4 I FLORENCE/LUCCA AND PISAExplore Florence on a private tour, and dine in

the home of a Florentine family. The following day, discover medieval Lucca and climb Pisa’s leaning tower; or join an art historian for a special visit to Florence’s Uffizi Gallery. Gallery Hotel Art | Meals: Day 3: B/L/D; Day 4: B

DAYS 5–6 I TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDESettle into the enchanting 13th-century castello of the Guicciardini family—our home for two nights. Enjoy lunch and a wine tasting at the renowned Badia a Coltibuono estate. Castello di Gargonza | Meals: Day 5: B/L/D; Day 6: B/D

DAYS 7–10 I SIENNA/ROMEDiscover timeless Siena before travelling south to Rome. Explore the ruins of the Colosseum, and the Roman Forum. Join archaeologist Valerie Higgins—recently featured in the National Geographic documentary series The Story of God—for a special visit to the Chiesa di San Lorenzo in Miranda. Peruse the Vatican’s famed museums and visit St. Peter's Square. Rose Garden Palace | Meals: Day 7: B/L/D;Day 8: B/L; Day 9: B/D; Day 10: B


• Journey along three of Switzerland’s most iconic railways.• Hear from an Alpine historian about the conquering of the Matterhorn.• Take a cooking lesson with an Italian chef on the shores of Lake Como.

1 0 D AY S F R O M £ 6 , 5 0 0

Train Light/Moderate

Clockwise from above: The Glacier Express rounds the curve of the Landwasser Viaduct, some 200 feet above the valley floor; pastel-hued villages and fishing skiffsline the shores of Lake Como; Swiss cows rest in an alpine meadow; a traveller captures the passing scenery.

S W I S S T R A I N S A N D T H E I T A L I A N L A K E D I S T R I C T

DAY 1 I ZÜRICH, SWITZERLAND/ZERMATTArrive in Zürich this morning and board a train to the charming Alpine village of Zermatt. Check in to our hotel and gather for a welcome dinner tonight. Hotel National Zermatt | Meals: D

DAY 2 I ZERMATT/ZMUTT VALLEYStart the day with a guided walk through Zer-matt. This afternoon, ride gondolas to Glacier Paradise for a fascinating walk through the in-

side of a glacier. Return to Zermatt by gondola, or opt to hike back into town. Hotel National Zermatt or Hotel Schweitzerhof Meals: B

DAY 3 I ZERMATT/GORNER GLACIERClimb aboard the Gornergrat Bahn cogwheel railway—the highest open-air train in Europe— and ascend to a summit far above Zermatt to experience one of the best viewpoints in the Alps. Admire a gorgeous vista that includes Mount Rosa, the Matterhorn, and the Gorner Glacier. Hike down past Alpine lakes toRiffelberg, where we will catch the train backto Zermatt. Pay a visit to the MatterhornMuseum, where a local mountaineer and Alpine historian will recount stories of early attempts to conquer the Matterhorn, as well as other climbing adventures. Hotel National Zermatt or Hotel SchweitzerhofMeals: B/D

DAY 4 I GLACIER EXPRESS/ST. MORITZTake your first-class seat on the world-famous Glacier Express and set off on a breathtaking journey across three high-mountain passes, over 291 bridges, and through 91 tunnels. Enjoy the elegant atmosphere of the train as we soak up magnificent vistas of skyscraping,

glacier-glazed peaks on our way to the Upper Engadin Valley. Disembark in St. Moritz and settle into our hotel for the evening. Crystal Hotel St. Moritz | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5 I ST. MORITZThis morning, take a funicular to the top of Muottas Muragl to admire breathtaking views of the valley below. After lunch on your own, venture outside the city to Atelier Segantini, a museum dedicated to Alpine artist Giovanni Segantini. Meet with a member of theSegantini family for a tour of the artist’s former home and workshop. Back in St. Moritz, visit a local patisserie to sample delectablechocolates during a private tasting.Crystal Hotel St. Moritz | Meals: B

DAY 6 I BERNINA PASS/POSCHIAVOToday, ride the legendary Bernina Express, the highest mountain railway in the Alps, into the heart of Italian-speaking Switzerland. Take in extraordinary views of the Morteratsch Glacier from the train’s panoramic windows as we climb to the highest point at Ospizio Bernina, 7,578 feet above sea level. Descend to the town of Poschiavo, where we meet a local guide for a tour of its charming historic centre. Return to


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, writer and broadcaster Tim Jepson is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

2021 Dates: Weekly departures in June, July and August - please check our website for details.



St. Moritz via the Bernina Express late this after-noon. Crystal Hotel St. Moritz | Meals: B/D

DAY 7 I ST. MORITZ/CERNOBBIOA spectacular drive through Alpine valleys brings us into the Italian Lake District. The countryside is dotted with villas in hues of terra-cotta, pink, ochre, and gold—strewn with tropical vegetation and lush gardens. Our destination is the lovely village of Cernobbio, perched on the western shore of the vast and beautiful Lake Como. Settle into a historic 19th-century villa overlooking the lake. Villa Flori | Meals: B/L

DAY 8 I LAKE COMOSpend the day exploring the treasures of Lake Como. Board a private ferry for a picturesque ride across the lake to Varenna. Behold a pan-orama of colourful waterside villages andelegant estates, fringed by palms and pines and backed by soaring mountains. Learn secrets of Italian cooking during a demonstra-tion by a local chef, followed by a lunch washed down with local wine.Villa Flori | Meals: B/L

DAY 9 I LAKE COMOSoak in the beauty of Lake Como’s lakeside towns. Visit Villa del Balbianello, first founded in the 13th century as a Cistercian monastery and later owned by Italian explorer Guido Monzino. Continue to the delightful town of Bellagio and explore at leisure. Discover Como's historic center, its sunny piazzas, and the Como Cathedral on a private tour. Later, relax on the hotel’s terrace, taking in the view before we gather to celebrate our journey with a farewell dinner in the home of a local family. Villa Flori | Meals: B/D

DAY 10 I MILANAfter breakfast, transfer to the Milan airport for your flight home.Meals: B


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, anthropologist and archaeologist Ana Pinto is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.

• Join National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa for a hands-on demonstration of traditional Peruvian weaving techniques. • Spend a day exploring the mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu.

H U M A N O R I G I N S : S O U T H W E S T F R A N C E A N D N O R T H E R N S P A I N

• Explore Atapuerca, where Europe’s oldest known hominin fossils were unearthed.• Enjoy a specially arranged visit to the International Centre for Cave Art.• Discover Castel-Merle's prehistoric stone shelters with an archaeologist.

1 0 D AY S F R O M £ 5 ,690



INFORMATION

2021 Dates: Apr. 8-17 | Apr. 22-May 1 | May 13-22 June 3-12 | Aug. 19-28 | Sep. 9-18 | Sep. 23-Oct. 2



Above: Visitors get an up-close view of the breathtaking images found at the Cave of Altamira.

DAY 1 I MADRID, SPAINArrive in Madrid and take a walking tour of the city. Gran Melia Fenix Hotel | Meals: D

DAYS 2–4 I CANTABRIA CAVES/ SAN SEBASTIAN

In the Cantabria region, examine the Atapuerca archaeological site. Then encounter some of the oldest artistic representations in human history at Puente Viesgo. Explore Las Monedas Cave, the Altamira Museum, and Hornos de la

Peña Cave. Spend a night in beautiful San Sebastián. Parador de Gil Blas; Silken Amara Plaza | Meals: Days 2–3: B/L/D Daily; Day 4: B

DAYS 5–6 I SAINT ÉMILION/VÉZÈRE VALLEYTour Saint-Émilion, then continue to the Dordogne region and join Christine Desdemaines-Hugon—an expert on Paleolithic art—to tour the National Museum of Prehistory. Later, exam-ine the sculpted frieze at Cap Blanc and the polychrome paintings of Font-de-Gaume. Hostellerie La Roseraie | Meals: B/D Daily

DAYS 7–8 I PECH MERLE/LASCAUX IV/ CASTEL-MERLE

Venture into Pech Merle, a cave system filled with prehistoric art and artifacts. Enjoy a spe-cially arranged visit to Lascaux IV, the world’s most complete recreation of the original Lascaux Caves. Join archaeologist Isabelle Castanet at Castel-Merle, a complex of prehistoric stone shelters, then gather for a “prehistoric” meal. Hostellerie La Roseraie | Meals: Day 7: B/D;Day 8: B/L/D

DAYS 9–10 I VÉZÈRE VALLEY/BORDEAUXExplore Rouffignac Cave, known as the “cave of a hundred mammoths”. Continue to Bordeaux for a city tour. Hotel de Normandie | Meals: Day 9: B/L/D; Day 10: B


G R E E C E : W O N D E R S O F A N A N C I E N T E M P I R E

• This expedition was inspired by the National Geographic television series The Greeks.• Discuss Greece’s contemporary political and economic landscape with a local expert. • Enjoy dinner at a family home on Aegina island.

1 1 D A Y S F R O M £ 5 ,69 0


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, archaeologist and National Geographic Explorer William Saturno is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

2021 Dates: May 10–20 | June 14–24 | Sept. 13–23 Sept. 27–Oct. 7 | Oct. 18–28Price is per person, double occupancy, and subject to change. Single supplement is available on request. International airfare is not included in the price.


Above: Perched atop sandstone pinnacles, the monasteries of Meteora rise with the surrounding mountain peaks.

DAYS 1–3 I ATHENS, GREECE/NÁFPLIO Arrive in Athens and explore the city’s trea-sures, including the Acropolis; the ancient Agora; and the National Archeological Museum, home to countless treasures. Then travel south to see the Temple of Apollo and the Forum. Continue to charming Náfplio. Electra Palace Hotel; Amalia Hotel Nauplia | Meals: Day 1: D; Day 2: B/L; Day 3: B/L/D

DAYS 4–5 I MYCENAE/OLYMPIAAt the fortified city of Mycenae, encounter an ancient grave circle, the royal palace, and the Tomb of Agamemnon. Later, enjoy an olive oil tasting and a visit to the theater of Epidaurus. Discover picturesque mountain villages on our way to Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games. Amalia Hotel Nauplia; Olympion Asty Hotel | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 6–7 I DELPHI Explore Delphi's awe-inspiring ruins; then enjoy a weaving demonstration and visit the 11th-century monastery of Hosios Loukas. Amalia Hotel Delphi | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 8–9 I METEORA/ATHENS Discover the extraordinary monasteries of Meteora, built atop sandstone megaliths. Return to Athens and meet with a local expert to discuss the political and economic landscape of contemporary Greece. Dellas Boutique Hotel; Electra Palace Athens | Meals: Day 8: B/D; Day 9: B/L

DAYS 10–11 I AEGINA/ATHENS Take a ferry to Aegina island. Return to Athens, where we’ll enjoy dinner in a local family home, and depart the next day. Electra Palace Athens Meals: Day 10: B/L/D; Day 11: B

• Join National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa for a hands-on demonstration of traditional Peruvian weaving techniques. • Spend a day exploring the mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu.


Above: Fishing boats anchor off the southern coast of Crete.

• Explore Athenian ruins and the Minoan Palace of Knossos with private guides.• Set sail on the Aegean and see Santorini’s famous sunset from the water.• Stay at Kapari Natural Resort, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.



G R E E K I S L E S P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–2 I ATHENS, GREECETake a private tour of timeless Athens, and see some of the 4,000 ancient works on display in the Acropolis Museum. Join your private guide for a scenic drive along the coast to Cape Sóunion, where the Temple of Poseidon presides over the sparkling Aegean Sea.Electra Palace Athens | Meals: Day 2: B

Kapari Natural Resort

INFORMATION

Dates: This is a private expedition, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.This expedition is offered May through October.






DAYS 3–5 I CRETEAlongside a private guide, visit the Palace of Knossos, the ancient capital of Minoan Crete; and peruse the Minoan art on display at Heraklion’s Archaeological Museum. Sail in a traditional fishing vessel to the isle of Spinalonga,once a stronghold of the Venetians, and later the Ottomans. Prepare Cretan specialties during an optional cooking class in a local village. St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas Meals: B Daily

DAYS 6–9 I SANTORINISettle into Kapari Natural Resort—part of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection—where beautiful white-washed cave rooms offer unobstructed views of Santorini’s indigo caldera. Trace the ridgeline of the island on a guided tour from the south-ern to the northern tip of the crescent. Join a sailing excursion on the Aegean, stopping to snorkel and swim in inviting waters. Kapari Natural Resort | Meals: Day 6: B; Day 7: B/L; Day 8: B/D; Day 9: B


• Bike around old Kyoto, and take part in an exclusive Japanese tea ceremony.• Learn to roll sushi like a master chef at a Tokyo fish market.• Take in majestic Mount-Fuji on a private tour of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

1 0 D AY S F R O M £ 9 , 3 5 0



Above: Cherry blossoms frame snowcapped Mount Fuji.

J A P A N P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–3 I TOKYO, JAPAN/ NIKKO NATIONAL PARK

Join your guide for a private tour of old Tokyo’s narrow lanes and traditional houses, and discover Nikko National Park in the sacred hills north of Tokyo. You’ll also have the opportunity to wield a samurai sword during a private lesson with the Japanese fight performer who choreographed Uma Thurman in Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill (additional cost). Park Hotel Tokyo | Meals: Days 2–3: B

DAYS 4–5 I TOKYO/FUJI-HAKONE-IZU NATIONAL PARK

Pick out fresh tuna and wasabi and learn to roll sushi like a master chef at a Tokyo fish market. Settle into a traditional Japanese inn, or ryokan, in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park; and set out with a private guide to explore this sprawling natural wonderland, home to majes-tic Mount Fuji. Cap off your experience at the Hakone Open-Air Museum and its impressive modern sculpture garden. Aura Tachibana Meals: Day 4: B/L/D; Day 5: B/D

DAYS 6–8 I KYOTO/NARAHop on a bullet train for the ride to Kyoto, and discover this former imperial capital by bicycle. Participate in an exclusive Japanese tea ceremony at Korin-in temple and learn about its connection to Zen Buddhism. Join a private guide on an all-day exploration of ancient Nara, which reigned as Japan’s capital in the eighth century. Hotel Granvia Kyoto | Meals: Days 6–8: B; Day 7: B/L

DAYS 9–10 I OSAKAEat your way through Osaka on a guided gas-tronomy tour, tasting regional specialties such as takoyaki, or octopus snack, and okonomiyaki— savory pancakes. Swissotel Nankai Osaka Meals: B Daily


INFORMATION

Dates: This is a private expedition that is offered year-round, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.



based on 6 people travelling together

INFORMATION


• Explore the timeless Iya Valley, dotted with thatched cottages, shrines, and vine bridges.• By special permission, visit the moss-draped temple of Saihoji.• Stay at the futuristic Benesse House on Noashima, Japan’s island of art.

1 1 D A Y S F R O M £ 8,130


Clockwise from above: The Zen temple of Kinkakuji is also known as the "golden pavilion"; the wooden gateway to the Itsukushima Shrine seemingly floats over the water;a modern-day geisha breaks for a snack; the rustle and creak of the Arashiyama's bamboo grove is designated an official Japanese soundscape.

I N S I D E J A P A N

DAY 1 I OSAKA, JAPAN/KYOTO Arrive in Osaka at any time. Transfer to Kyoto and check in to our hotel. Kyoto Hotel Okura

DAY 2 I KYOTOKyoto served as an imperial capital for more than a thousand years, and many of the wood-en temples and gardens from that era have been collectively designated a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Stroll through the elegant Zen rock garden at Ryoanji and the iconic Kinkakuji,

or “golden pavilion”. Enjoy a specially arranged visit to Saihoji, also known as Kokedera or the “moss temple”, for the more than 120 species of moss that carpet its beautiful gardens. At to-night’s welcome dinner, meet a former geisha to learn about the geisha lifestyle, and enjoy a short performance. Kyoto Hotel Okura | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3 I KYOTOWander through Arashiyama’s atmospheric bamboo grove. Continue to Nijo Castle, built in 1603 and designated a national treasure. Explore the castle’s Ninomaru Palace, known for its beautiful wall paintings and its “nightin-gale” floors, designed to squeak when stepped upon to warn of intruders. This afternoon, visit an artisanal ceramics workshop. Kyoto Hotel Okura | Meals: B/L

DAY 4 I MOUNT KOYATravel to Mount Koya, headquarters of the Shingon Buddhist sect. Meet a temple priest and wander through the evocative Okuno-in cemetery, where the tombs of more than 200,000 samurai warriors and other dignitaries fill a grove of ancient cedar trees. Venture into Kongobuji, the chief temple of the Mount Koya Monastery, and see work by artists of the Kano

school of painting. Settle into our simple lodg-ings and enjoy a traditional Buddhist vegetari-an dinner. Eko-In Monastery | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5 I MOUNT KOYA/IYA VALLEYAfter attending an optional morning prayer ceremony, descend to the shores of the Inland Sea and take the ferry across to Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s main islands. In Tokushima, see costumes and floats from the city’s 400-year-old dance festival at the Awa Odori Kaikan museum. Our home for the next two nights in the Iya Val-ley is a ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn, where inviting, on-site hot spring baths offer a chance to relax and rejuvenate. Hotel Hikyonoyu | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 I IYA VALLEYTravel along the steep slopes of the Iya ravine to a 300-year-old thatched farmhouse, home to the Chiiori Trust, a unique project that seeks to preserve age-old rural traditions in the val-ley. Continue to the Okuiya Niju Kazurabashi, twin suspension bridges made of intertwined vines, and hear the legends of their creation. Witness timeless scenes of village life in Ochiai, a community of traditional dwellings, some of which date from the Edo period (circa 1600–1870). Hotel Hikyonoyu | Meals: B/L/D


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, travel writer and editor-at-large for National Geographic Traveller magazine Don George is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.

INFORMATION

OPTIONAL EXTENSION


2021 Dates: Mar. 11–21 | Mar. 25–Apr. 4 May 13–23 | Sept. 2–12 | Sept. 30–Oct. 10




Add a four-day extension to Tokyo - please call us for details.

DAY 7 I IYA VALLEY/NAOSHIMATravel north to Zentsuji, revered as the birth-place of the Buddhist priest Kobo Daishi and one of the important stops along Shikoku’s 750-mile and 88-temple pilgrimage route. In Takamatsu, stroll through the tranquil gardens of 17th-century Ritsurin Park. A ferry then brings us to the small island of Naoshima, which has recently emerged as a mecca of contemporary art and architecture. Get a new perspective on nature through inventive art installations at the Benesse House Museum this afternoon, and stay in the adjacent hotel, designed by acclaimed architect Tadao Ando. Benesse House | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8 I NAOSHIMAWander past the works of Claude Monet and James Turrell at the innovative Chichu Art Museum, built underground but designed to capture natural light and shadow. Also visit homes that are part of the Art House Project, which has transformed some of the island’s older structures into imaginative works of art. Benesse House | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9 I NAOSHIMA/HIROSHIMATake the ferry back to Honshu and take the high-speed train to Hiroshima. Pay a visit to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and the Peace

Memorial Museum, which documents the atomic explosion that ravaged the city. Go on an optional guided visit to Shukkei-en garden, or explore this thriving modern metropolis—a testament to Japanese resilience—on your own. Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima or Sheraton Grand Hotel | Meals: B/L

DAY 10 I MIYAJIMASet off by ferry for a full-day excursion on Itsukushima Island, popularly called Miyajima. Venture into the 12th-century Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, a World Heritage site built over the water, where a vermilion torii (wooden gateway) appears to float at high tide. Partic-ipate in a traditional tea ceremony, then take advantage of free time to go on a hike, visit temples, and stroll through the picturesque town. Gather for a farewell dinner back in Hiroshima this evening. Rihga Royal Hotel Hiroshima or Sheraton Grand Hotel | Meals: B/D

DAY 11 I HIROSHIMA/OSAKATake the high-speed train back to Osaka and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Meals: B/L


• Meet National Geographic grantees working on conservation and environmental projects.• Help feed and care for giant pandas at a conservation centre in Chengdu.• Get an insider’s look at recent finds at the terra-cotta warrior site in Xi’an.

1 6 D AY S F R O M £ 6 , 500


Clockwise from above: Against a misty backdrop of karst mountains, a farmer in Guilin directs his livestock; a traveller passes through the gates to the Temple of Heaven in Beijing; a giant panda clings to a tree at the Dujiangyan Giant Panda Base; life-size terra-cotta warriors on display at a museum near Xi'an.

C H I N A : I M P E R I A L T R E A S U R E SA N D N AT U R A L W O N D E R S

DAY 1 I BEIJING, CHINAArrive in Beijing and transfer to our hotel in the heart of the capital. Meet your fellow travellers at a welcome reception this evening. The St. Regis Beijing

DAY 2 I BEIJINGStroll the vast and historic Tiananmen Square, and then navigate the 900 or so buildings and temples of the Forbidden City before heading to a traditional hutong neighbourhood for a

rickshaw tour. Delve into imperial Beijing at the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by gardens, and try tai chi with a master practitioner. Meet with National Geographic grantee Boju Zhang from Friends of Nature, China's oldest environmental organi-sation, to hear about his latest conservation efforts in the capital city. Tonight, feast on Peking duck with your fellow travellers. The St. Regis Beijing | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3 I GREAT WALL/BEIJINGStep back in time at the less visited Jinshanling section of the Great Wall, which retains the fortification’s original character. The St. Regis Beijing | Meals: B/L

DAYS 4–5 I XI’ANRide first-class on the high-speed train to Xi’an, once the eastern terminus of the Silk Road and the capital of China. On a special behind-the-scenes visit to the Institute of Archaeology— normally closed to the public—learn about the recent excavations and see artifacts up close. After breakfast the next day, view the legend-ary terra-cotta army, composed of thousands of soldiers, chariots, and horses that were buried around 210 B.C. at the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Later, walk or ride

a bike atop the massive city wall. During free time, browse the maze of markets and sites in the Muslim Quarter. Sofitel Xi’an on Renmin Square | Meals: Day 4: B/L/D; Day 5: B/L

DAY 6 I YICHANG/YANGTZE RIVER Fly to Yichang, and set out on an afternoon city tour before boarding a luxurious riverboat for a four-night voyage on the Yangtze through the breathtaking Three Gorges region. Yangzi Explorer | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 7–9 I YANGTZE RIVEROn daily excursions, visit the world's largest engineering project at the Three Gorges Dam; venture into narrow tributaries by local sampan boat, taking in gorgeous scenery; and visit Fuling and the 816 Underground Project, the world's largest artificial military cave. Back on the ship, learn about traditional healing and local crafts, enjoy morning tai chi, and gaze at the dramatic gorges. Yangzi Explorer | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 10–11 I CHONGQING/CHENGDUDisembark this morning in Chongqing and travel to Chengdu. Along the way, visit the Dazu Grottoes, a World Heritage site where centuries-old rock carvings depict Buddhist,


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, professor of Chinese cultural history Elvira Masson is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


ABOUT THE YANGZI EXPLORER

Confucian, and Taoist themes as well as scenes of ordinary life during the Tang Dynasty. Enjoy dinner in Chengdu tonight, savouring a hot pot—a Sichuan favorite. Spend the next day at the Dujiangyan Giant Panda Base, overseen by the China Conservation and Research Centre for the Giant Panda. We’ll have the chance to prepare meals and feed the pandas, help clean the enclosures, and hear about conservation efforts. Return to Chengdu for dinner. The St. Regis Chengdu | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAYS 12–13 I GUILIN AND YANGSHUOFly to Guilin and descend into the Reed Flute Cave, a subterranean spectacle of stalactites and stone pillars. Admire the stunning karst landscape on a hike through the countryside. The following day, embark on a cruise down the Li River. Glide beneath limestone pinna-cles and terraced rice fields that have inspired Chinese artists for generations, and stop to browse at a local market. Return to Guilin for an evening on your own. Shangri-La Hotel Guilin Meals: Day 12: B/L/D; Day 13: B/L

DAYS 14–16 I SHANGHAIFly to bustling Shanghai and settle into our hotel. Meet with conservationist and wildlife

photographer Jing Li, a National Geographic grantee working to conserve critically endan-gered birds in the greater Shanghai area. Then zoom up to the observation deck of China’s tallest building, Shanghai Tower, for a pan-oramic view of the skyline. This evening, stroll neon-lit Nanjing Road and the historic Bund waterfront. Meander among the pavilions, ponds, and zigzag bridges of Yu Garden—Shanghai’s celebrated classical Chinese garden, dating back to 1559. Peruse an intriguing range of antiques and goods at the Old Bazaar.Tonight, toast your Chinese adventure at a local restaurant. The following day, transfer to the airport for your return flight.Fairmont Peace Hotel | Meals: Day 14: B/L; Day 15: B/L/D; Day 16: B

The Yangzi Explorer, our home for the three-day Yangtze voyage, is one of the few five-star ships on the Yangtze. The ship has a capacity of 124 pas-sengers and features spacious cabins with private bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open to private balconies. There are a limited number of suites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Amenities include a panoramic-view restaurant, a bar, a theatre, two lounges, a library, a fitness centre, a business centre with Internet access, a clinic, a sundeck, a salon, and a spa.

INFORMATION

2021 Dates: Apr. 6–21 | Apr. 13–28 | May 11–26 Sept. 7–22 | Oct. 5–20 | Oct. 26–Nov. 10




• Climb the watchtowers on a less visited section of the Great Wall.• Observe giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.• Learn traditional Chinese cooking, tai chi, and calligraphy from local masters.

Private Light


Above: The millennia-old Great Wall was built to protect the Chinese empire against invaders from the north.

C H I N A P R I VA T E E X P E D I T I O N

DAYS 1–3 I BEIJING, CHINAExplore the cultural heart of Beijing on a private tour of the old city. Visit a family in a traditional hutong neighbourhood, and try kite-making alongside a local artisan. Conquer the legendary Great Wall as you trek across the less visited Mutianyu section. Enjoy an evening of acrobatics and kung fu at the Red Theatre.The St. Regis Beijing | Meals: Day 2: B/L/D; Day 3: B/L

1 0 D AY S F R O M £ 3 , 2 50based on 6 people travelling together


INFORMATION

Dates: This is a private expedition that is offered year round, so you may request any dates that are convenient for you.


YOUR EXPEDITION TEAM DAYS 4–5 I BEIJING/XI’ANGreet the day with a private tai chi lesson at the Temple of Heaven. In Xi’an, encounter the legendary terra-cotta warriors; then wander among calligraphy-etched tablets in the Forest of Steles and practice this ancient art form with a calligraphy expert. Prepare Chinese dump-lings in the home of a local family. Sofitel Xi'an on Renmin Square | Meals: Days 4–5: B/D Daily

DAYS 6–7 I XI’AN/CHENGDUSurvey Xi’an from atop its ancient walls, then ride the high-speed train to Chengdu. Meet the city’s most famous residents: the giant pandas that roam the bamboo-covered grounds of the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.Learn the age-old game of mah-jongg in lush Wangjianglou Park. The St. Regis Chengdu Meals: Day 6: B/D; Day 7: B

DAYS 8–10 I SHANGHAIDelve into Shanghai on private tours of itsvibrant neighbourhoods and intriguing muse-ums. Ride the exhilarating Maglev (magneticlevitation) train to the airport on your final day.The Peninsula Shanghai | Meals: Day 8: B; Day 9: B/L; Day 10: B


• Stay at Zhiwa Ling Heritage, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.• Hike to Bhutan's iconic pilgrimage site, the Tiger's Nest Temple.• Experience a traditional festival, and visit a family farmhouse.

1 1 D A Y S F R O M £ 6 , 9 1 0

Expert Led Moderate

Clockwise from above: The magnificent Taktsang Lhakhang, or Tiger's Nest Temple, sits high above the lush Paro Valley; a young Buddhist monk peeks through an ornate gateway; prayer flags inscribed with sacred symbols and mantras are ubiquitous in Bhutan; traditional masked dancers perform outside Zhiwa Ling Heritage—a National Geographic Unique Lodge.

Prayer flags make for a colourful crossing of the Paro River.

B H U T A N : K I N G D O M I N T H E C L O U D S

DAY 1 I BANGKOK, THAILANDArrive in Bangkok this evening and check in to our hotel. Novotel Suvarnabhumi Hotel

DAY 2 I PARO, BHUTANFly to Bhutan's Paro Valley (7,300 feet), and visit Ta Dzong, a 17th-century fortress overlooking the Paro Valley. Explore our stunning hotel—a member of the National Geographic Unique

Lodges of the World collection—before a welcome dinner.Zhiwa Ling Heritage | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 3 I PUNAKHAAfter a special Buddhist blessing ceremony, journey to Punakha, the ancient capital of Bhutan. This afternoon, visit Chimi Lhakhang, a small but famous temple in the centre of the golden Punakha Valley. Settle into our hotel and enjoy dinner together. RKPO Green Resort | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 4 I PUNAKHAAfter an invigorating hike to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten, a spectacularly situated temple, be rewarded for your efforts with in-credible views of the valley below. Then visit the Punakha Dzong, an impressive fortress guarding the southern end of the valley at the confluence of the Pho (male) and Mo (female) Rivers. RKPO Green Resort | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 5 I PHOBJIKHATravel to the beautiful alpine valley of Phobjikha (10,000 feet), the largest wintering site for the endangered black-necked crane. Along the way, the environment changes from semi-tropical

to pine forest, and then to an alpine zone that is home to several species of rhododendron, dwarf bamboo, and Grey Langur monkeys. Dewachen Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 6 I PHOBJIKHAAgainst a backdrop of forest-clad mountains, Gangtey Goemba temple complex rises dra-matically from a cluster of hilltop cottages. One of the oldest Nyingma monasteries in Bhutan, Gangtey Goemba has recently been renovated,


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, anthropologist, author, and filmmaker Carroll Dunham is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

2021 Dates: Mar. 26–Apr. 5 | Apr. 25–May. 5 Sept. 19–29 | Nov. 6-16




Zhiwa Ling Heritage


OPTIONAL EXTENSION

allowing us to examine the fine workmanship of Bhutan’s best woodcarvers, sculptors, and painters. Then set off on a half-day hike, stopping to visit a village family along the way. Dewachen Lodge | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 7 I THIMPHUTravel to Thimphu (7,900 feet), the capital of Bhutan. Cross the Dochu La pass (10,000 feet) en route and gaze at a 200-mile panorama of Himalayan peaks (weather permitting). Tonight, get a behind-the-scenes perspective on con-temporary Bhutan during a lively Bhutanese banquet with members of the government, local dignitaries, and respected professionals. Taj Tashi Hotel | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 8 I THIMPHU/PAROSpend the morning exploring the country’s more modern side in Thimphu. Visit the National Textile Museum, where Bhutan’s finest weavings and brocades are on display. Return to Paro in the afternoon and settle back in at Zhiwa Ling. Zhiwa Ling Heritage | Meals: B/L/D

DAY 9 I PAROOur journey in the kingdom culminates with a hike to the most famous pilgrimage site in Bhutan: Taktsang Lhakhang, or the Tiger’s

Add a four-day pre- or post-trip extension to Angkor Wat in Cambodia - please call us for details.

Nest Temple (9,300 feet). Visible from afar, this stunning monastery clings to a vertical granite cliff 2,000 feet above the valley floor. This evening, celebrate your Bhutanese adventure at a festive farewell dinner. Zhiwa Ling Heritage | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 10–11 I PARO/BANGKOK, THAILAND

Fly to Bangkok and check in to our hotel. The following morning, transfer to the airport for your return flight home.Novotel Suvarnabhumi Hotel | Meals: B Daily


• Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour at the Angkor Conservation Center.• Have lunch with two former Viet Cong soldiers at their home.• Encounter some of the region’s most endangered species, and hear from conservationists.

1 5 D AY S F R O M £ 7 , 8 70


Clockwise from above: Traditional wooden junks float beneath the towering karst peaks of Vietnam's Ha Long Bay; Wat Xieng Thong, or Temple of the Golden City, is one of the most important monasteries in Luang Prabang; a woman contemplates a temple in Angkor; pangolins are the world's most trafficked animal.

V I E T N A M , L A O S , A N D C A M B O D I A : T R E A S U R E S O F I N D O C H I N A

DAYS 1–3 I HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAMExplore Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) on a guided tour. Visit the War Remnants Museum and the stately Reunification Palace; admire the French colonial architecture of the Central Post Office and City Hall; and delve into bustling Ben Thanh market, one of the oldest and largest markets in the country. Descend into the famous Cu Chi tunnels, a network of underground passageways used by the Viet

Cong during the Vietnam War, and spend time with two Viet Cong veterans in their home. Hôtel Des Art Saigon | Meals: Day 2: B/L/D: Day 3: B/L

DAYS 4–5 I HANOIStroll Hanoi’s tree-lined boulevards, past serene lakes and charming pagodas. Stop at Ho Chi Minh’s imposing mausoleum and take a walk around Ngoc Son Temple, set in the middle of an emerald-green lake. Soak up the lively old quarter, where the sizzle of roadside woks mingles with the beeping of motorbikes, and duck past a moving train on the unusual “train street”. Visit the colonial-era prison known by American POWs as the Hanoi Hilton. See Vietnam’s first university, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, and the sprawling Imperial Citadel—a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi | Meals: Day 4: B/D; Day 5: B/L

DAYS 6–7 I NINH BINHVenture south from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, a rustic region in the Red River Delta nicknamed “Ha Long Bay on land”. Here we’ll be joined by National Geographic grantee Le Khac Quyet, a leading Vietnamese wildlife biologist and avid photographer who will share updates on his latest research. Explore the Van Long Nature

Reserve by bamboo boat, searching for the endangered Delacour’s langur. Venture to Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s oldest and largest natural reserve, and join the director of the Endangered Primate Rescue Centre for a behind-the-scenes tour. Then visit Save Viet-nam’s Wildlife rescue centre to learn about a project spearheaded by National Geographic grantee Nguyen Van Thai aimed at reducing the demand for pangolins, the world’s most trafficked animal. Emeralda Resort Ninh Binh | Meals: B/L/D Daily

DAY 8 I HA LONG BAYHead north to Ha Long Bay and explorethis mystical World Heritage site on a

Ninh Binh is often called "Ha Long Bay on land".


A National Geographic expert and expedition leader will accompany this trip. For example, art Historian Paula Swart is the type of expert you could expect on this trip.


INFORMATION

2021 Dates: Jan. 16-30 | Feb. 20-Mar. 6 | Mar. 7–21



traditional-style wooden junk. Cruise serene, turquoise waters scattered with tiny forested islands and fantastic karst formations, and go off the beaten path at secluded Lan Ha Bay. Discover the magical Toi and Sang caves by canoe, and rise early for a relaxing tai chi session on deck. Azalea | Meals: B/L/D

DAYS 9–11 I LUANG PRABANG, LAOS Experience Luang Prabang, nestled amid jungle-shrouded hills at the confluence of the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers. Visit the area’s most revered Buddhist temple and see the golden Prabang Buddha statue after which the town is said to be named. Immerse yourself in the uniquely Laotian baci ceremony, where cotton cords are tied around the participants’ wrists to wish them good fortune, health, and prosperity. At dawn, witness the tradition of Tak Bat, the daily almsgiving to Buddhist monks.Venture into rural Laos to visit the mountain villages of the Hmong and Khmu ethnic groups, and hike to the ethereal Kuang Si Waterfall. See endangered Asiatic black bears at the Tat Kuang Si Bear Rescue Centre, and speak with a conservationist about National Geographic funded research assessing the threats they face. The Luang Say Residence | Meals: Days 9–10: B/L/D; Day 11: B/L

DAYS 12–15 I SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA/ ANGKOR

Delve into the magnificent World Heritage site of Angkor with an archaeologist guide. Built in the first half of the 12th century in the depths of the Cambodian jungle, the mysterious capi-tal of the Khmer Empire is replete with massive towers, carved murals, and enchanting crum-bling courtyards. Wander the Bayon temple and the Terrace of the Elephants, and explore haunting Ta Prohm, tangled in thick banyan roots. Tour the Angkor Conservation Center with the centre’s director and, by special access, view thousands of priceless statues. Watch the sunset at the mesmerizing Angkor Wat temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. Visit Banteay Srei, an exquisite 10th-century Hindu temple north of Angkor Wat, and stop at the Golden Silk Pheach Preservation Centre, a Cambodian NGO working to preserve ancient Khmer silk production techniques. Drift down in a wooden boat to the great Tonle Sap lake, and discover a boisterous floating city com-plete with markets, schools, and even karaoke bars. Gather for our farewell reception, and take in a traditional Cambodian dance and music performance over dinner.Jaya House River Park | Meals: Day 12: B/D; Days 13–14: B/L/D Daily; Day 15: B/L


All prices featured within this brochure are guide prices only and are based on low season departure dates at selected 2* to 5* hotels. Prices include flights and/or rail unless otherwise indicated, are per person based on two people sharing a room unless otherwise indicated, and are subject to availability and change.These Booking Conditions, together with any other written information we bring to your attention before confirming your booking, form the basis of your contract with Fred.\ Holidays a trading name of Fred. Olsen Travel Ltd whose address is Olym-pus House, 2 Olympus Close, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 5LN. In these Booking Conditions, references to “we” and “us” mean Fred.\Holidays, and “you” and “your” include the lead-named person on the confirmation invoice and all persons on whose behalf a booking is made. Please read them carefully as they set out our respective rights and obligations.These Booking Conditions apply generally whether you have booked one of our Packages (Inclusive Price Combinations) or our single component items, e.g.accommodation or transport only. Please note however that where you have purchased a single component, there is a differ-ent condition as to liability.Please see ‘Our Responsibilities’ clause below.By making a booking, the lead named person on the booking agrees on behalf of all persons detailed on the booking that:a) He/she has read these terms and conditions and has the authority to and agrees to be bound by them;b) He/she consents to our use of information in accordance with our Privacy Policy;c) He/she is over 18 years of age and resident in the United KingdomBOOKING AND PAYING FOR YOUR ARRANGEMENTSA booking is made with Fred.\ Holidays when a) you tell us that you would like to accept our written or verbal quotation and b) you pay us a deposit of £150 per person unless advised differently at the time of booking. For cruise holidays including expeditions and airline bookings you will be advised of the deposit amount at the time of booking. When we issue you with a confirmation invoice, a binding contract will come into existence. Upon receipt, if you believe that any details on the confirmation or any other documents are wrong you must advise us immediately as changes may not be possible later. The balance of the cost of your arrangements (including any ap-plicable surcharge) is due 10 weeks prior to scheduled departure but on some products we require payment 90 days prior. If we do not receive this balance in full and on time, we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled by you in which case the cancellation charges set out below will become payable.YOUR FINANCIAL PROTECTIONWe provide full financial protection for our package holidays. If you buy a single travel service then this might not apply. For flight-based holidays this is through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence number (0944), issued by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email [email protected]. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where we aren’t able to do so for the unlikely reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances, the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder.However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable).If we are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable al-

ternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for the unlikely reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme.You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the non-provision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent (or your credit card issuer where applicable). You also agree that any such claims may be re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme. When you buy a package holiday that does not include a flight, protection is provided by way of a bond held by ABTA - The Travel Association 30 Park Street London SE1 9EQ www.abta.co.uk.PRICINGWe reserve the right to amend the price of unsold holidays at any time and correct errors in the prices of confirmed holidays within 7 days of the booking.The price of your holiday is subject to change after you have booked only in certain circumstances.These include changes in the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from changes to the cost of fuel or other power sourc-es, the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports, or exchange rates, any or all of which may mean a variation in the price of your holiday after you have booked. However, there will be no change within 20 days of your departure.We will absorb, and you will not be charged for, any increase equivalent to 2% of the price of your travel arrangements, which excludes insurance premiums and any amendment charges and/or additional services or travel arrangements. You will be charged for the amount over and above that. If this means that you have to pay an increase of more than 8% of the price of your travel arrangements (excluding any amendment charges and/ or additional services or travel arrangements), you will have the option of accepting a change to another holiday if we are able to offer one (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancelling and receiving a full refund of all monies paid to us, except for any amendment charges. Should you decide to cancel for this reason, you must exercise your right to do so within 14 days from the issue date printed on your final invoice, and we will provide a refund of any insurance premiums paid to us if you can show that you are unable to transfer or reuse your policy. Should the price of your holiday go down due to the cost changes mentioned above, then any refund due will be paid to you. We will deduct from this refund our administrative expenses incurred. Please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your travel due to contractual and other protection in place.When you buy a flight-based holiday, all monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on behalf and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust at all times. This is subject to the agent’s obligation to pay it to us for so long as we do not fail. If we fail, any money held at that time by the agent, or subse-quently accepted from you by him, is and continues to be held on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation to pay that money to us. When you buy a holiday not including a flight, all monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on our behalf at all times.TRAVEL INSURANCEWe reserve the right to refuse or cancel a booking if you do not have personal travel insurance. We will treat any cancellation for this reason as a cancellation by you and the cancellation charges will be payable as set out below.

Please read your policy details carefully and take them with you on holiday.It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance you purchase is adequate and appropriate for your particular needs, and covers all travel, cancellation, medical and repatriation liabilities for the holiday. We reserve the right to request full details of your insurance policy however please note that we do not check insurance policies for suitability. You are responsible for indemnifying us in full in the event that we incur any losses or expenses arising out of your failure to take out adequate insurance cover.

© 2019 National Geographic Partners, LLCNATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPEDITIONS and the Yellow Border Design are trademarks of the National Geographic Society, used under license.

The applicable Terms and Conditions may vary based upon the specific Expedition selected by the participant. A copy of the final Terms and Conditions applicable to each participant will be sent in pre-Expedition communications. All sets of Terms and Conditions for each Expedition type can be found at https://www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.co.uk/terms-and-conditions/. All tours in this brochure will be booked by Fred.\ Holidays, a trading name of Fred. Olsen Travel Ltd. (ATOL 0944). Terms and Conditions Fred.\ Holidays, a trading name of Fred. Olsen Travel Ltd

T E R M S & C O N D I T I O N S

We strongly recommend you take out suitable insurance to cover you for possible eventualities that would require you to cancel your holiday. Holiday insurance premiums not paid to us are not refundable in the event of cancellation.You can cancel your booking without paying cancellation charges if the performance of your package, or the carriage of passengers to your destination, is significantly affected by unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances. In such circum-stances, we will arrange for your booking to be terminated and for you to receive a full refund. We will observe advice provided by the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office.CHANGES BY YOUIf, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change any part of your booking you must inform us in writing. Whilst we will do our utmost to assist, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to meet your requested change. All changes will be subject to any applicable rate changes or extra costs incurred, as well as any costs we incur in making this alteration and any costs or charges incurred or imposed by any of our suppliers. You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Please note that certain travel arrangements may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements. Where we are unable to assist you and you do not wish to proceed with the original booking we will treat this as a cancellation by you and a cancellation fee may be payable. Please note also that it is im-portant at the time of booking to advise the names of travellers that match the name given on their passport. Failure to do so will usually result in a name change charge by the airline.CHANGES OR CANCELLATION BY USAs we plan your holiday arrangements many months in ad-vance, we may occasionally have to make changes to or cancel your booking and we reserve the right to do so at any time. If we make a significant change to your holiday, we will inform you or your travel agent as soon as reasonably possible if there is time before your departure. You will have the choice of either accepting the change of arrangements, accepting an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value), or cancellingyour holiday and receiving a full refund of all monies paid. Except where the significant change is due to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances (where unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances means a situation beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken), if you choose to cancel we will also pay compensation. These options do not apply for insignificant changes. Examples of insignificant changes include alteration of your outward/ return travel by less than 12 hours, changes to aircraft type, change of accommodation to another of the same or higher standard, and changes of carriers. Please note that carriers such as airlines used in the brochure may be subject to change. Alteration of the holiday may be made of necessity or because it appears to us or any other party acting as operator responsible for the holiday or part of the holiday desirable for the safety, comfort or enjoyment of passengers or the operational efficiency of the holiday. Where possible and appropriate, we will make reasonable efforts toen-sure that any changes are as limited as practical. Such alteration will not amount to significant alteration of the holiday contract.We will not cancel your travel arrangements less than 10 weeks

90 Days or more Loss of deposit & non-refundable items

89 – 57 days 60%

56 – 43 days 75%

42 – 15 days 85%

14 – 00 days 100%


P H OTO C R E D I T S :

KEY: T=TOP, C=CENTER, B=BOTTOM, L=LEFT, R=RIGHT

Jacqueline Barney (65BL); Molly Danner (43TL); Tim Greenleaf (8BL); Jonathan Irish (25TR, 31TR); Scott Kish (31TL); Susan Seubert (13))

tour and not with us. We are not responsible for the provision of the excursion ortour or for anything that happens during the course of its provi-sion by the operator.Passport, Visa and Immigration Requirements and Health FormalitiesIt is your responsibility to check and fulfil the passport, visa, health and immigration requirements applicable to your itinerary. You must check requirements for your own specific circumstances with the relevant Embassies and/ or Consulates and your own doctor as applicable. Most countries now require passports to be valid for at least 6 months after your return date. If your passport is in its final year, you should check with the Embassy of the country you are visiting. For further information please contact the Passport Office on 0870 5210410 or visit www. passport.gov.uk. Special conditions apply for travel to the USA and all passengers must have individual machine readable passports. Please check www.usembassy.org. uk. For European holidays you should obtain a completed and iss ed form EHIC prior to departure. Up to date travel advice can be obtained from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, visit www.fco. gov.uk. We do not accept any responsibility if you cannot travel because you have not complied with any passport, visa or immigration requirements.DELAYS AND OTHER TRAVEL INFORMATIONIn some destinations, a compulsory city tax may be applicable and will be charged to you locally.We regret we are unable to offer you any assistance should a de-lay disrupt your itinerary. Any airline or other transport provider concerned may however provide refreshments and/or appropri-ate accommodation. We cannot accept liability for any delay that is due to re- scheduling times by the airline or airline authorities or caused by unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances. The latest flight timings will be shown on your tickets, which will be dispatched to you approximately two weeks before departure. You should check your tickets very carefully immediately upon receipt to ensure you have the correct flight times. If flight times change after tickets have been dispatched, we will contact you as soon as we can to let you know. Your rights under EU law are included under “Our Responsibilities”.JURISDICTIONWhen you make a booking you guarantee that you have the authority to accept and do accept on behalf of your party the terms of these booking conditions. A contract will exist as soon as we issue our confirmation invoice. This contract is made on the terms of these booking conditions, which are governed by English Law, and the jurisdiction of the English Courts. You may however, choose the law and jurisdiction of Scotland or Northern Ireland if you wish to do so.DATA PROTECTIONPersonal details will be held and processed by us to enable fulfil-ment of the holiday contract. You hereby agree to this informa-tion being passed to any third parties in order for the supply of the holiday. Personal details supplied to us may also be used for marketing purposes but only with your clear, active consent. We will not disclose personal details to third parties for marketing purposes without express permission. Our Privacy Notice can be viewed at www.fredholidays. co.uk/privacy. (updated Nov 2018) www.fredholidays.co.uk/terms

and care if they comply with any local regulationsthat apply, or, if there are no applicable local regulations, if they are reasonable when compared to the local standards in practice.Our liability, except in cases involving death, injury or illness, shall be limited to a maximum of three times the cost of your travel arrangements. Our liability will also be limited in accor-dance with and/or in an identical manner to:(a) the contractual terms of the companies that provide the travel services that make up your package. These terms are incorporated into this booking; and(b) any relevant international convention, for example the Warsaw/Montreal Convention in respect of travel by air, the Athens Convention in respect of travel by sea, the Berne/Cotif Convention in respect of travel by rail, the Paris Convention in respect of the provision of accommodation, and the Strasbourg Convention (CNLI) in respect of travel on inland waterways, which limit the amount of and conditions under which com-pensation can be claimed for death, injury, delay to passengers and loss, damage and delay to luggage. We are to be regardedas having all benefit of any limitation of the extent of or the conditions under which compensation is to be paid under these or any conventions. We limit the amount of compensation we may have to pay you if we are found liable under this clause for loss of and/ or damage to any luggage or personal possessions and money to a maximum amount of £25 per person in total because you are assumed to have adequate insurance in place tocover any losses of this kind.You can ask for copies of the travel service contractual terms, or the international conventions from our offices. Under EU law (Regulation 261/2004) you have rights in some circumstances to refunds and/ or compensation from your airline in cases of denied boarding, cancellation or delay to flights. Full details will be publicised at EU airports and available from airlines. However, reimbursement in such cases will not automatically entitle you to a refund of your holiday cost from us. Your right to a refund and/or compensation from us is set out in these booking conditions. If any payments to you are due from us, any payment made to you by the airline or any other service provider will be deducted.If it is impossible to ensure your return as scheduled due to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, we will bear the cost of necessary accommodation, if possible of equivalent category, for a maximum of three nights. The limit does not apply to persons with reduced mobility and any person accom-panying them, pregnant women and unaccompanied minors, or persons in need of specific medical assistance, provided thatyou notified us of these needs at least 48 hours before the start of your holiday.COMPLAINTSIf a problem occurs whilst you are on holiday, you must inform the relevant supplier immediately so that the matter can be put right. If the supplier cannot resolve the problem to your satisfac-tion at the time, you must also contact us immediately by tele-phoning our offices on 00 44 808 231 3744 so that we are given the opportunity to help. In the event that a complaint cannot be resolved at the time, you must write to us within 28 days of re-turn to the UK quoting the original booking reference and giving all relevant information. PLEASE NOTE: If you fail to follow the requirement to report your complaint whilst on holiday, we will have been deprived of the opportunity to investigate and rectify it and this may affect your rights under this booking.SPECIAL REQUESTSAny special requests must be advised to us at the time of booking. You should then confirm your requests in writing. Whilst every effort will be made by us to try and arrange your reasonable special requests, we cannot guarantee that they will be fulfilled. Failure to meet any special request will not be a breach of contract on our part unless the request has been specifically confirmed.DISABILITIES AND MEDICAL PROBLEMSWe are not a specialist disabled holiday company, but we will do our utmost to cater for any special requirements you may have. If you or any member of your party has any medical problem or disability which may affect your stay, please provide us with full details by writing or emailing us, before we confirm your book-ing so that we can advise as to the suitability of your chosen arrangements if possible.EXCURSIONSExcursions or other tours that you may choose to book or pay for whilst you are on holiday are not part of your package holiday provided by us. For any excursion or other tour that you book, your contract will be with the operator of the excursion or

before your departure date (90 days for a cruise holiday), except for reasons of unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances or failure by you to pay the final balance. We may cancel your holiday before this date if, for example, the minimum number of clients required for a particular travel arrangement is not reached. If your holiday is cancelled, you can either have a refund of all monies paid or accept an offer of alternative travel arrangements of comparable standard from us if available (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). In some cases, except where the cancellation is due to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, we will pay compensation as detailed below but this does not exclude you from claiming more if you are entitled to do so.

We reserve the right in our absolute discretion to terminate without notice the holiday arrangements of any customer whose behaviour is such that it is in our opinion likely to cause distress, damage, danger, or annoyance to our customers, our/supplier employees, or to any third party, or to property. If you are pre-vented from travelling because, in our or our suppliers’ opinion, you appear to be unfit to travel or likely to cause discomfort or disturbance to others, our responsibility for your holiday ceases and we shall be under no obligation to pay any refund, compensation or costs to you. Please note that we have no control over the behaviour of other persons staying at or visiting your holiday accommodation and we are not responsible for any withdrawal or impairment of facilities or other loss or damage caused by them. Under no circumstances are you entitled to share or sub-let your accommodation with anyone other than those individuals shown on your booking.OUR RESPONSIBILITIESWe are a Member of ABTA, membership number Y0128. We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. We can also offeryou ABTA’s scheme for the resolution of disputes arising out of this contract, which is approved by the Chartered Trading Stan-dards Institute. If we cannot resolve your complaint, go to www.abta.com to use ABTA’s simple procedure. Further information on the Code andABTA’s assistance in resolving disputes can be found on www.abta.com. You can also access the EuropeanCommission Online Dispute (ODR) Resolution platform at http://ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr/. This ODR platform is a means of notifying us of your complaint; it will not determine how your complaint should be resolved.1) Single ComponentsIf you have purchased a ‘single component’ i.e. accommodation or transportation only, then your booking is not a package as defined by the Package Travel and Linked Travel ArrangementsRegulations, but we have a duty to select the accommodation/ transport providers with reasonable skill and care. We have no liability to you for the actual provision of the accommodation/transport, except in cases where it is proved that we have breached that duty and damage to you has been caused. There-fore, providing we have selected the provider with reasonable care and skill, we will have no liability to you for anything thathappens at the accommodation or during the transportation or any acts or omissions of the provider or others.2) Package HolidaysSubject to these booking conditions, your holiday arrangements will be made or performed using reasonable skill and care. We will be responsible if our employees, servants or agents fail to make or perform your holiday arrangements using reasonable skill and care as long as they were acting within the course of their employment or carrying out work that we had asked them to do.We will not be responsible or pay compensation for any injury, illness, death, loss, damage, expense, cost or other claim of any description, which results from: the act(s) and/or omission(s) of you or another member of your party; the act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party not connected with the provision of the services contracted for and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable; or unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances, which means a situation beyond our control, the consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken. The services and facilities included in your holiday will be deemed to be provided with reasonable skill

Period before departure in which we notify you

Amount you will receive from us

43 – 90 days £20 per person

27– 42 days £30 per person



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TRAVEL BROCHURE 2020–2021