Cox & Kings Tailormade Journeys

TAILORMADE JOURNEYS 2026–2027

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 3884 or speak to your travel agent

SHAPED BY EXPERIENCE, INSPIRED BY YOU The most rewarding journeys are those crafted uniquely for you.

At Cox & Kings, we believe that tailor-made holidays allow you to immerse yourself fully in experiences that resonate with your interests and curiosity.

With our long-standing expertise, you can embark on adventures that feel personal, all while being supported by a dedicated team ready to understand what matters most to you.

As a heritage company founded in 1758, we’ve honed the art of designing journeys that celebrate culture and the natural world, while catering to your preferred pace and level of comfort. The sample itineraries featured here serve merely as inspiration; each can be tailored or completely reimagined.

Alongside journeys to guest favourites such as India, Italy, Egypt and Peru, you’ll find destinations returning to our portfolio, including Canada, with its beautiful, bear-prowled wilds, and the USA, home to monumental national parks and iconic coastal drives.

Our expertise extends beyond this brochure, covering over 100 countries.

Wherever you choose to go, you are guaranteed the same level of meticulous planning and in-destination support that makes Cox & Kings one of the most trusted names in travel.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto, Japan

We look forward to arranging your bespoke adventure.

Geoffrey Kent

Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio

Founder & Chairman Emeritus Abercrombie & Kent

Executive Chairman A&K Travel Group

For our latest news, special offers and travel inspiration, subscribe to our weekly newsletter, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Browse our full portfolio of inspiring holidays at COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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CONTENTS

LATIN AMERICA

NORTH AMERICA

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PERU

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Classic Peru

62 Signature Vancouver to the Rockies by Rail & Road

74 The Golden Triangle & Rajasthan

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Wild Wonders of British Columbia

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Golden Triangle & Ranthambore

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Gems of Atlantic Canada

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Heritage Rajasthan

Eastern Canada by Rail

80 The Indian Himalaya 82 The Central Plains

19 A Belmond Andean Explorer Rail Journey

CANADA

INDIAN SUBCONTINENT

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BOLIVIA

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Bolivia Explorer

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ECUADOR & THE GALÁPAGOS

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USA

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Classic Ecuador

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Signature California In Style

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CHILE

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Quintessential New England

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Essence of Chile

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Historic Heartland

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ARGENTINA

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Flavours & Sounds of the South

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Highlights of Argentina

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BRAZIL

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Rhythms of Brazil

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COLOMBIA

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Colombia Explorer

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MULTI-COUNTRY JOURNEYS

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A Journey through the Andes

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South America Explorer

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CUBA

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Spirit of Cuba

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MEXICO

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Treasures of Mexico

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COSTA RICA

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Costa Rica Adventure

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CENTRAL AMERICA

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Mayan Triangle

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Central America Revealed

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INDIA

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Walk through Himalayan A Foothills

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The Jungle Book: Wildlife of India

86 Southern India 88

Highlights of Kerala

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Tamil Nadu: Temples & Traditions

90 Eastern India 92

Western India

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Eastern Himalayan Trails

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Colours of Gujarat

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RAIL & CRUISE

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Cruising the Lower Ganges

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SRI LANKA

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Treasures of Sri Lanka

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Hidden Sri Lanka

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NEPAL & BHUTAN

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epal & Bhutan: N Journey to the Dragon Kingdom

FRONT COVER: Eagle Hunter, Kyrgyzstan | IMAGES TOP LEFT-RIGHT: Carnival dancers, Puno, Peru; Brown bears, Canada; Houseboat, Kerala, India; The Dolomites, Italy; The Treasury, Petra, Jordan; Kinkakuji Temple, Kyoto, Japan

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 3884 or speak to your travel agent

EUROPE

MIDDLE EAST & NORTH AFRICA

FAR EAST

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ITALY

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EGYPT

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JAPAN

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Coastal Lazio: Roads beyond Rome

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gyptian Grand Tour: E Nile Cruise & Lake Nasser

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Essential Japan

Northeast Italy: Friuli to the Dolomites

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North Japan: Hokkaido Discovery

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MOROCCO

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istoric Cities & H Culinary Delights

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CHINA

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Luxury China

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China’s Ancient Heartlands

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TAIWAN

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Taiwan Explorer

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VIETNAM

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LAOS & CAMBODIA

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Vietnam in Style

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L aos & Cambodia: Kingdoms of Wonder

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FAR EAST RIVER CRUISING

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A River Journey on the Mekong

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SOUTH EAST ASIA

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SPAIN & PORTUGAL

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Andalucía by Rail

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Porto to Lisbon by Rail

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EUROPE BY RAIL

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ienna, Munich & V Zurich by Rail

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TURKEY & THE CAUCASUS

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Hidden Treasures of Eastern Turkey

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eorgia & Armenia: G Crossroads of the Caucasus

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GREECE & THE BALKANS

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T he Secret Cyclades: Serifos, Syros & Tinos

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Across Albania & Kosovo

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SCANDINAVIA

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T he Heart of Scandinavia: Stockholm to Trondheim

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Iceland: The Golden Circle & The South

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JORDAN

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Natural Jordan

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OMAN

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Oman Discovery

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SAUDI ARABIA

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Saudi Arabia Discovery

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TUNISIA

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Tunisian Highlights

CENTRAL ASIA 156

UZBEKISTAN

AFRICA 190

MADAGASCAR

158 Uzbekistan: Treasures of the Silk Road

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adagascar: Lemurs, Forests, M Tsingy & Islands

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CENTRAL ASIA

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T he Legendary Silk Road by Rail: Almaty to Tashkent

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SOUTH AFRICA

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Silk Road Adventure

194 South Africa: Cape Town, the Garden Route & Safari 196

NAMIBIA

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Namibia Classic Self-Drive

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SOUTHERN AFRICA

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EAST AFRICA

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WEST AFRICA

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Coastal Kingdoms of West Africa

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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WHY TRAVEL WITH COX & KINGS? Established in 1758, Cox & Kings has been creating journeys of distinction for more than two-and-a-half centuries. Our guests benefit from this heritage of craftsmanship, care and expertise – and the freedom to explore the world entirely on their own terms.

PERSONALISED ITINERARIES

MULTI-COUNTRY & MULTI-INTEREST OPTIONS

Every Cox & Kings holiday begins with you. Our specialists design journeys that reflect your distinct tastes, combining insight and imagination to create experiences that feel authentic and truly personal.

Each itinerary is crafted exclusively around your interests and style.

Some adventures cross borders or combine passions.

Our specialists excel at weaving regions, themes and experiences into one harmonious itinerary – pairing, for example, safaris with island retreats, or art and architecture with cuisine – for a holiday as multi-layered as your interests.

FREEDOM & FLEXIBILITY

CELEBRATIONS & SPECIAL OCCASIONS

Travel exactly as you wish – choosing your destinations, duration and pace. Enjoy the freedom to linger, explore off the beaten path and uncover lesser-known treasures, supported throughout by our expertise and seamless arrangements that help make every journey magical.

Mark life’s milestones with a journey designed to match the moment. Whether an anniversary, reunion or family celebration, we can arrange experiences that are as joyful or understated as you wish, creating memories to be shared for years to come.

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL

Each tailor-made journey includes moments that bring a destination vividly to life, from private tastings and hands-on workshops to encounters with local artists and storytellers. These exclusive experiences are designed to immerse you in the culture, character and rhythm of a place.

We believe the most meaningful journeys leave a positive impact. Cox & Kings partners with local communities, conservation initiatives and heritage projects, ensuring your travels help preserve the landscapes and cultures that make each destination so special.

GLOBAL EXPERTISE & SUPPORT

PEACE OF MIND

With offices and partners across more than 100 countries, Cox & Kings offers reassurance wherever you travel. From expert local guides to 24/7 assistance and on-the-ground support, our worldwide network ensures every journey unfolds seamlessly, securely and without compromise.

Travelling with Cox & Kings means absolute confidence.

As an ABTA-bonded and ATOL-protected company with award-winning service, we combine flexibility, reliability and meticulous care to ensure every journey – from first conversation to homecoming – is expertly and attentively managed.

IMAGES CLOCKWISE: Women carrying water from stepwell near Jaipur, India; Floating market, Mekong Delta, Vietnam ; Alpacas grazing in the Andes, Peru; Abu Simbel Temple, Egypt

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 3884 or speak to your travel agent

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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“We would like to tell you about our wonderful holiday to Egypt organised by Cox & Kings.

We had the highest level of service we have ever encountered on locally organised tours and were hugely impressed by the enthusiasm and professionalism of the C&K team. It was a VIP service. This, plus the levels of quality and service in the hotels and magnificence of the monuments of Ancient Egypt and modern developments like the Grand Egyptian Museum and Alexandria library, exceeded any expectations.

We will never forget the sights we saw.”

- Ian and Denise -

THE CRAFT BEHIND YOUR JOURNEY From the very first spark of inspiration, each Cox & Kings tailor-made journey starts with you. Drawing on more than two centuries of travel expertise, our specialists listen carefully, advise thoughtfully and shape each itinerary with precision, imagination and genuine care for what you wish to see, feel and discover. Supported by our expert teams both in the UK and across the globe, you’ll experience a level of personal attention that transforms travel planning into a pleasure in itself.

Step 1 | Getting to Know You The first step is a simple exchange of ideas. Through thoughtful conversation and genuine curiosity, our travel consultants take the time to understand who you are – your interests, your motivations and the experiences that inspire you to travel – as well as how you like to journey and what you hope to discover.

This forms the foundation for a holiday designed entirely around you.

Step 2 | Designing Your Journey Our destination specialists use their first-hand knowledge and local insight to craft your itinerary. Every element – from hotels and activities to pacing and logistics – is refined in close collaboration with you, carefully adjusted and enhanced until the journey reflects your personality and feels distinctively, unmistakably yours.

Step 3 | Confirming the Details When every detail is perfected, we confirm your booking with the utmost care and transparency. With the financial protection we offer, together with our reputation for exceptional service and vast experience, Cox & Kings ensures you can book with complete confidence and look forward to the memorable adventure that lies ahead.

Step 4 | Travel with Confidence Your dedicated consultant remains in touch from planning to post-trip, ready to assist with any detail or request. While you travel, our network of local partners and 24-hour support teams ensure everything runs smoothly.

With expertise and personalised attention at every stage, you’re free to enjoy the journey completely.

TOP: Abu Simbel Temples, Egypt; BOTTOM: Felucas on the Nile in Luxor, Egypt

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THE WORLD OF COX & KINGS NORTH AMERICA 1 Canada 2 USA CENTRAL AMERICA 3 Belize 4 Costa Rica 5 Cuba 6 El Salvador 7 Guatemala 8 Honduras 9 Mexico 10 Nicaragua 11 Panama SOUTH AMERICA 12 Argentina 13 Bolivia 14 Brazil 15 Chile 16 Colombia 17 Ecuador & Galápagos 18 French Guiana 19 Guyana 20 Paraguay 21 Peru 22 Suriname 23 Uruguay MIDDLE EAST & NORTH AFRICA 24 Egypt 25 Jordan 26 Morocco 27 Oman 28 Saudi Arabia 29 Tunisia 30 United Arab Emirates AFRICA 31 Benin 32 Botswana 33 Eswatini 34 Ethiopia 35 Kenya 36 Ghana 37 Lesotho 38 Madagascar 39 Malawi 40 Mozambique 41 Namibia 42 Rwanda 43 South Africa 44 Tanzania 45 Togo 46 Uganda 47 Zambia 48 Zimbabwe INDIAN SUBCONTINENT 49 Bhutan 50 India 51 Nepal 52 Pakistan 53 Sri Lanka INDIAN OCEAN 54 Maldives 55 Mauritius 56 Seychelles

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EUROPE 57 Albania 58 Armenia 59 Austria 60 Azerbaijan 61 Belgium 62 Bosnia and Herzegovina 63 Bulgaria 64 Croatia 65 Czech Republic 66 Denmark 67 Estonia 68 Faroe Islands 69 Finland 70 France 71 Georgia 72 Germany 73 Greece 74 Greenland 75 Hungary 76 Iceland 77 Italy 78 Kosovo 79 Latvia 80 Lithuania 81 Luxembourg 82 Malta 83 Moldova 84 Montenegro 85 Netherlands 86 North Macedonia 87 Norway 88 Poland 89 Portugal 90 Romania 91 Serbia 92 Slovakia 93 Slovenia 94 Spain 95 Sweden 96 Switzerland 97 Turkey CENTRAL ASIA 98 Kazakhstan 99 Kyrgyzstan 100 Tajikistan 101 Turkmenistan 102 Uzbekistan

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FAR EAST 103 Borneo 104 Cambodia 105 China 106 Japan 107 Laos 108 Malaysia 109 Singapore 110 South Korea 111 Taiwan 112 Thailand 113 Vietnam POLAR 114 Arctic 115 Antarctica

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 3884 or speak to your travel agent

Cox & Kings invites you to explore the world in your own way. With expert planning and personal service, we create journeys that reflect your passions – from celebrated capitals to places few have ventured – across every corner of the globe.

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This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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L AT I N AM E R I C A Latin America is a land of coffee, colour and carnival, where nature is on another scale and locals dance to a different rhythm.

Stretching from Mexico’s ancient temples to Chile’s windswept southern tip, the region offers a kaleidoscope of landscapes and cultures. Among its many wonders are Peru’s mist-cloaked citadel of Machu Picchu, Patagonia’s glaciers and granite peaks, the wildlife-rich Amazon Rainforest and the enchanting Galápagos Islands.

Tailor-made journeys invite you to experience Latin America entirely on your own terms. Our experts craft each itinerary with care and creativity, blending iconic highlights with lesser-known discoveries. Whether you dream of tracing the Andes by rail, sailing the Amazon, or waking to Pacific sunsets, every detail is designed exclusively for you.

View our full collection online The destinations and tours featured in this brochure represent a small sample of what we offer. Our website contains a wealth of additional itineraries, detailed country guides and accommodation options.

CO X AND KI N GST RAVEL .COM

Uyuni Salt Flat, Bolivia

Discover Peru Machu Picchu

Peru offers a heady mix of dramatic landscapes, culture and history. From elegant colonial cities and pre-Columbian ruins to soaring Andean peaks, vast canyons, sapphire lakes and the untamed Amazon basin, its beauty is both varied and profound.

The legacy of the Inca endures in the ancient citadels scattered across the highlands, in the rhythm of the Quechua language and in the intricate textiles woven by Andean artisans. Yet Peru is far from a land frozen in time - it’s a country alive with creative energy, where traditional heritage meets contemporary flair, and where an ever-evolving culinary scene has earned it a reputation as one of the world’s most exciting gastronomic destinations.

C&K RECOMMENDS Peru rewards curiosity with rich layers of tradition. In the Sacred Valley, Incan descendants continue time-honoured weaving and trading practices in villages such as Huilloc, Pisac and Chinchero, where markets brim with colour and craft. In Lima, join a local chef to explore Peru’s acclaimed gastronomy – from coastal ceviche to Andean produce – and master classic dishes over a pisco sour. For an unforgettable spectacle, time your journey with Cuzco’s Inti Raymi festival, when hundreds of performers in radiant costume honour the Sun god with processions, music and ritual at the sacred site of Sacsayhuamán.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

P E RU • L ATI N A ME R I CA

MACHU PICCHU, CUZCO & THE SACRED VALLEY IMPRESSIVE INCA RUINS • COLONIAL ARCHITECTURE • TRADITIONAL MARKETS A true wonder of the world, the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu boasts perfectly preserved terraces, temples and dwellings set amid breathtaking mountain scenery. Reached by train from Cuzco or the Sacred Valley, or on foot via guided trek, it rewards travellers with spectacular viewpoints and nearby trails offering sweeping Andean vistas.

Once the heart of the Inca empire, Cuzco enchants with colonial houses, fine museums and novoandina restaurants. Its highlights include the main square, the cathedral with valuable masterpieces from the renowned Cuzco school of art, the artisan district of San Blas, Koricancha – the ‘Temple of the Sun’ – and Sacsayhuamán, a former ceremonial centre with enormous stones carved and fitted to incredible precision. Beyond lies the Sacred Valley of the Incas, an area of outstanding natural beauty set against the backdrop of the Andes Mountains. Its many sites include Moray’s circular terraces, the dazzling Maras saltpans and Ollantaytambo’s fortress.

Sacsayhuamán Inca ruins

Floating reed islands, Lake Titicaca

Arequipa and El Misti volcano

Candelabra Lines, Paracas

LAKE TITICACA

AREQUIPA & COLCA CANYON

LIMA & THE COAST

STRIKING ALTIPLANO SCENERY • FLOATING ISLANDS

COLONIAL CHURCHES & CONVENTS • ANDEAN CONDOR SPOTTING

EXCELLENT MUSEUMS • MYSTERIOUS NAZCA LINES

One of the world’s highest navigable lakes, serene Lake Titicaca shimmers between the borders of Peru and Bolivia, its darkblue waters steeped in myth and tradition.

Scattered across its vast surface are islands inhabited by local communities, including the remarkable floating Uros, crafted entirely from totora reeds. A boat journey reveals sweeping panoramas, golden-brown reed houses and rafts, and locals in vivid traditional dress. Nearby, the mysterious stone burial towers of Sillustani bear witness to pre-Incan civilisation, while on Taquile Island, fishermen and weavers continue ageold traditions, their artistry and resilience echoing across the lake’s still waters.

Set beneath the snow-capped volcano of El Misti, Arequipa – the ‘White City’ – is distinguished by its colonial architecture, much of it built from sillar, a luminous white volcanic stone. Among its treasures are the Santa Catalina Convent, a walled monastic complex of courtyards and vivid facades, and a museum displaying the remarkably preserved remains of Inca sacrifices found high in the Andes. Colca Canyon, reached on a scenic detour before continuing to Lake Titicaca, reveals vast pre-Inca terraces, traditional villages and far-reaching mountain views. Bathe in natural thermal springs and watch the magnificent Andean condors glide on thermals from breathtaking viewpoints along the canyon rim.

Modern Lima combines contemporary energy with a wealth of colonial heritage, from the baroque San Francisco Monastery – famed for its catacombs – to Casa de Aliaga, one of the oldest mansions in the Americas still occupied by the same family.

Its outstanding museums, including the superb Larco, house artefacts from Peru’s many pre-Hispanic civilisations, while world-renowned restaurants celebrate the country’s innovative cuisine. South along the coast, Paracas offers further marvels: take a flight over the enigmatic Nazca Lines, carved into the desert sands, or cruise to the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands to spot Peruvian boobies, cormorants and Humboldt penguins.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Belmond Andean Explorer train

Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Chan Chan, Trujillo

EXPERIENCE PERU LUXURY RAIL JOURNEYS

INCA TRAIL

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK PERU

Trains are among the great pleasures of travel in Peru, offering a memorable way to experience the country’s varied landscapes.

For a once-in-a-lifetime journey, spend 1 or 2 nights crossing the high Andes aboard the Belmond Andean Explorer, South America’s only luxury sleeper train travelling between Cuzco, Lake Titicaca and Arequipa.

Alternatively, enjoy a scenic 10-hour daylight voyage between Cuzco and Lake Titicaca on the elegant Titicaca Train. The Belmond Hiram Bingham, meanwhile, captures the romance of 1920s Pullman travel, carrying guests to Machu Picchu in lavish style.

Trace the footsteps of the Incas on a four-day, three-night trek that combines breathtaking Andean scenery with extraordinary archaeological sites.

Accompanied by expert guides and porters, follow ancient stone pathways through mountain passes and mist-shrouded cloud forests, spending each night in well-equipped tented camps beneath a canopy of stars. For a shorter option, the one-day express trek from KM 104 offers a taste of the full route, while the Salkantay Trail provides a longer, lesser-trodden alternative, with overnight stays in comfortable mountain lodges along a more remote and dramatic path.

Northern Peru shelters the remnants of remarkable pre-Inca civilisations, including the Moche and Chimu cultures. Explore ancient adobe pyramids near Chiclayo and Trujillo, admire the vivid murals of El Brujo and visit the dramatic funerary sites of Revash and Karajia. Take a cable car to the magnificent walled city of Kuelap, often called the Machu Picchu of the north, and uncover the hidden beauty of little-known Gocta falls, one of the world’s tallest waterfalls. End your journey on the sun-drenched coast of Máncora, famed for golden beaches, laid-back Pacific retreats and seasonal whale migrations (Aug–Oct).

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

P E RU • L ATI N A ME R I CA

EXPERIENCE & STAY

ANDEAN LUXURY TENTED EXPLORATIONS

PERUVIAN AMAZON EXPERIENCE

CUZCO COLONIAL HOTELS

Rediscover the essence of exploration with an Andean tented stay. These remote camps combine comfort, craftsmanship and a deep connection to the land. In the Colca Valley, Puqio’s canvas lodges echo their surroundings of canyon walls and ancient terraces, while open-flame meals evoke Andean tradition. Further south, Tinajani’s six elegant campamentos lie within a private reserve between Cuzco, Puno and Colca, offering hot tubs, artisan encounters and stargazing under crystalline skies.

Journeys such as these can be seamlessly arranged by us, ensuring every detail feels unparalleled.

Some of the most biodiverse corners of the Amazon basin lie within Peru, where an endless canopy of emerald green is threaded by winding, coffee-coloured rivers. Towering ceiba trees rise above the forest, while a dazzling array of wildlife thrives below. Stay in comfort at Inkaterra’s Reserva Amazónica or Hacienda Concepción near Puerto Maldonado, and explore on guided walks and river excursions in search of howler monkeys, caimans and giant river otters.

Alternatively, sail from Iquitos on a three-, four- or seven-night cruise such as Pure Amazon, Aria or Delfin and drift past remote villages and rainforest bursting with life.

Cuzco lays claim to some truly atmospheric hotels, blending colonial grandeur with contemporary elegance. Meticulously restored mansions once occupied by conquistadores now open onto tranquil courtyards, offering peaceful retreats just steps from the city’s lively main square.

Each retains an air of understated exclusivity, with period architecture, graceful colonnades and impeccable service that reflects the city’s storied past.

We recommend Inkaterra La Casona, Aranwa Cuzco Boutique Hotel, Palacio del Inka and Monasterio – a Belmond property set within a 16th-century monastery.

Puqio’s tented accommodation

Aria riverboat, Amazon

Monasterio, a Belmond Hotel

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Classic Peru Duration • 11 days & 9 nights Price • From £2,495 / £3,595* (incl. flights) Category • Superior / Luxury* Enjoy an enticing introduction to Peru on this journey through some of the country’s most celebrated sights. Discover the colonial splendour of Lima and Cuzco, where Spanish architecture meets enduring Incan heritage. Explore the Sacred Valley, spend the night beside the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu, then travel high into the Andes to glide across the serene waters of Lake Titicaca. Stay in characterful superior hotels or upgrade to enjoy the journey at its most comfortable and beautifully curated.

Days 1 & 2: Fly to Lima Fly to Lima, once a key city of the Spanish conquest, and stay for 2 nights at Casa Andina Premium Miraflores / InterContinental Real Lima Miraflores*. Take a half-day city tour of the colonial centre and Casa de Aliaga, the oldest mansion in the Americas. You may wish to add an optional visit to the Larco Museum or a culinary tour.

Day 3: Fly to Cuzco • Sacred Valley Fly to Cuzco, the former Inca capital, and transfer to the Sacred Valley, stopping en route at the colourful Pisac market or for a weaving demonstration at Chinchero. Stay for 2 nights at La Casona de Yucay / Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba*.

Day 4: Sacred Valley Day at leisure or optional visit to the Inca

fortress of Ollantaytambo, the Maras salt pans, or the circular terraces of Moray.

Day 5: Machu Picchu Transfer to Ollanta station for the train to Machu Picchu, among the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites. Enjoy a guided tour of the ruins before an overnight stay at El MaPi Hotel / Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo* or Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel*.

Day 6: To Cuzco Day at leisure or further explore Machu Picchu with optional hikes to various viewing points (purchase at the time of booking).

In the evening, return by train to Cuzco and stay for 2 nights at Casa Andina Premium Cuzco / Inkaterra La Casona*, or Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel*.

Machu Picchu

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Day 7: Cuzco Morning tour of the ancient Inca capital and explore its Spanish churches and colonial mansions, which sit alongside Inca remains.

Afternoon at leisure or optional visit to Sacsayhuamán.

Days 8 & 9: Lake Titicaca Cross the altiplano by road or train* to Puno and stay for 2 nights at GHL Hotel Lago Titicaca. Visit Taquile Island and the floating Uros islands on Lake Titicaca, one of the world’s highest navigable lakes.

Days 10 & 11: Fly home Fly home via Lima, arriving the following day.

Included meals: 9 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 1 dinner

Pisac market, Sacred Valley

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

P E RU • L ATI N A ME R I CA

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

A Belmond Andean Explorer Rail Journey Duration • 14 days & 12 nights

RAIL JOURNEY

Price • From £6,595 (incl. flights) Category • Luxury Explore Peru’s wonders in supreme comfort, travelling in style aboard South America’s only luxury sleeper train. Begin in Lima before discovering Arequipa, the graceful ‘White City’, and the Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest.

Then board the Belmond Andean Explorer for an unforgettable journey through the Andes to the gleaming shores of Lake Titicaca and onward to Cuzco, the ancient Inca capital. Conclude with a visit to the awe-inspiring Sacred Valley and the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu.

Days 1 & 2: Fly to Lima Fly from London to Lima and transfer to the Country Club Lima Hotel for 2 nights. Explore the city’s colonial centre on a half-day tour and stop at the historic Cordano’s Tavern.

to board the Belmond Andean Explorer, South America’s only luxury sleeper train, for a 2-night journey to Cuzco via Lake Titicaca.

Spot vicuñas and soak up spectacular views of volcanoes and altiplano scenery.

Days 3 & 4: Fly to Arequipa Fly to Arequipa and stay 2 nights at the Wyndham Costa del Sol Arequipa (or upgrade to the boutique Cirqa). Discover the ‘White City’ and its fine colonial architecture.

Day 7: Lake Titicaca • Luxury train to Cuzco Watch the sunrise over Lake Titicaca before visiting the floating Uros reed islands and Taquile Island. Later, enjoy canapés and drinks in the piano bar as the train continues through the Andes.

Day 5: Colca Canyon Journey to the Colca Valley and stay overnight at the Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs. The afternoon is free to unwind in the hotel’s thermal pools beside the river.

Day 6: Luxury train to Lake Titicaca Early morning visit to the rim of the canyon to watch Andean condors in flight. Continue

Taquile Island, Lake Titicaca

Days 8 & 9: Luxury Train • Sacred Valley After breakfast, visit the pre-Incan site of Raqchi and travel past high Andean peaks and cultivated terraces before disembarking the train in Cuzco. Continue to the Sacred Valley and stay for 2 nights at the Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba. Following day, visit the Inca fortress of Ollantaytambo and enjoy an

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A: Maximum average temperature (°C) B: Minimum average temperature (°C) C: Average rainfall (mm)

afternoon at leisure.

Day 10: Machu Picchu Take the Vistadome train (or upgrade to the Belmond Hiram Bingham) to Machu Picchu for a guided exploration. Overnight at the Inkaterra Machu Picchu or Sumaq Machu Picchu Hotel.

Days 11 & 12: Cuzco Morning at leisure or further explore the site. Return to Cuzco and stay 2 nights at the Aranwa Cusco Boutique, or upgrade to Palacio del Inka or Belmond Hotel Monasterio. Take a half-day city tour, including the cathedral and the Inca temple of Koricancha.

Days 13 & 14: Fly to London via Lima Fly to Lima and connect to London.

Included meals: 12 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 3 dinners

Belmond Andean Explorer bar car

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Bolivia Lake Titicaca

Bolivia captivates with its striking contrasts, from the snow-tipped peaks of the Andes to vast salt flats and lush rainforest. In the highlands, bowler-hatted cholitas walk past whitewashed colonial facades, and local markets display colourful textiles with the scent of coca leaves in the air. The Salar de Uyuni stretches to the horizon in dazzling white, while on Lake Titicaca, islands rich in legend rise from calm blue waters.

In Sucre and Potosí, colonial times echo through the cobbled streets and plazas, while La Paz spills across its bowl-shaped valley beneath the gaze of Mount Illimani. Beyond the mountains, the lowlands hum with life and Jesuit missions recall a quieter past. Remote and beautiful in equal measure, Bolivia invites slow discovery – and pairs beautifully with visits to neighbouring Chile or Peru.

C&K RECOMMENDS Sail across the tranquil waters of Lake Titicaca by hydrofoil, pausing at the sacred Sun and Moon Islands to trace ancient Andean beliefs.

Venture into the surreal beauty of the Uyuni Salt Flats, where the land radiates under dry skies or transforms into a vast mirror during the rains. Journey deep into the southern Altiplano by 4x4 to discover crimson lagoons, mineral-rich lakes and steaming geysers.

In Tarabuco, explore one of South America’s most authentic markets, teeming with vivid textiles, traditional attire and timeless highland customs.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

BOL IV IA • L ATI N A ME R I CA

SALAR DE UYUNI SALT FLATS • STAY IN A SALT HOTEL The world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni is a truly unique landscape, where sky and earth seem to merge into one vast, dreamlike plane. After rains, its surface dissolves the horizon, leaving cactus-topped islands adrift in endless white. We can arrange your stay in an extraordinary saltbuilt hotel, for an experience as memorable as the setting itself.

Uyuni Salt Flats

LAKE TITICACA

EXPERIENCE & STAY LA PAZ WITCHES’ MARKET & CABLE CAR Set against the snow-dusted peaks of Mount Illimani, La Paz cascades through a vast Andean valley, where colonial streets brim with modern bustle.

Wander markets awash with colour and folklore, from the spell-laden stalls of the Witches’ Market to the heights of the panoramic Teleférico cable car – said to be the world’s longest. Nearby, the Valley of the Moon reveals wind-carved pinnacles in an otherworldly desert landscape.

DELUXE AIRSTREAM CAMPER, UYUNI

TRADITIONAL COMMUNITIES & FLOATING ISLANDS • SACRED SUN & MOON ISLANDS

This unique travel concept offers a fully tailored way to explore one of the world’s most remote and mesmerising landscapes. Experience the ethereal beauty of the salt flats from the comfort of a private retro-style Airstream camper, complete with driver-guide and chef. As the sun sinks over the endless white expanse, dine in utmost silence and solitude beneath a starlit sky.

Not far from La Paz, Lake Titicaca stretches across the altiplano, its shores dotted with traditional Aymara communities.

Day trips from La Paz are possible, but we recommend a two-day visit to fully absorb its beauty. Explore the sacred Sun Island, birthplace of the Inca empire, and the lakeside town of Copacabana, as we craft a journey shaped by you.

Floating reed islands, Lake Titicaca

TIWANAKU RUINS

SUCRE & POTOSÍ COLONIAL ARCHITECTURE • SILVER WORKSHOPS & COLOURFUL TEXTILES Sucre, the birthplace of Bolivia’s independence and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is distinctive for its whitewashed colonial architecture, flower-filled courtyards and 16th-century churches. Nearby, explore Tarabuco’s vibrant market or Potolo’s weaving traditions. In contrast, Potosí tells a grander story – once the richest city in the Americas, its legacy gleams in ornate churches and the fabled Cerro Rico Mountain.

Just two hours from La Paz, the ancient ruins of Tiwanaku provide an evocative glimpse into a civilisation that flourished for more than a thousand years. Little is known of its origins or decline, yet its legacy endures in immense stone blocks, enigmatic carved faces and the majestic Sun Gate – a monolithic stone doorway etched with intricate celestial symbols.

Potosi

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Bolivia Explorer 12 days & 9 nights Standard from £3,995 (incl. flights)

Discover Bolivia’s spellbinding diversity on a tailor-made journey from elevated La Paz to the ceaseless expanse of the Uyuni salt flats. Cross the deep-blue waters of Lake Titicaca, explore Sucre’s colonial grace and chart the silvered legacy of Potosí – an indelible journey through landscapes and cultures shaped by altitude and time.

Day 1: Fly to La Paz Overnight flight from London to La Paz via Bogotá (a stopover may be required).

Days 2 & 3: La Paz Arrive in Bolivia’s extraordinary high-altitude capital and transfer to Mitru Sur Hotel for 2 nights. Explore the city’s lively Witches’ Market, where traditional remedies fill colourful stalls, and the surreal landscape of the Moon Valley.

Days 4 & 5: Lake Titicaca Journey across the altiplano to the deep-blue shores of Lake Titicaca. Visit the Andean Roots Eco-Village in Huatajata before taking a hydrofoil across the lake to the Island of the Moon. Continue to the Island of the Sun for 2 nights at Posada del Inca, where sweeping views of the Cordillera Real frame the horizon.

Days 6–8: Sucre Cruise to Copacabana, returning to La Paz

with an optional visit to the ancient ruins of Tiwanaku en route. Fly to Sucre and stay for 3 nights in a characterful hotel. Discover whitewashed streets and elegant colonial architecture, and visit Tarabuco’s colourful market, famed for its textiles.

Days 9 & 10: Salar de Uyuni Drive to Potosí, once one of the wealthiest cities in the Americas, and visit the Royal Mint before crossing the vast altiplano to the dazzling Salar de Uyuni. Stay 2 nights at Luna Salada Hotel, constructed entirely from salt, and explore the glittering flats in a 4x4.

Days 11 & 12: Fly home via La Paz Return to La Paz for your onward flight to London via Bogotá, arriving the following day.

Included meals: 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Ecuador & the Galápagos Marine iguana, Galápagos Islands

Ecuador offers a dazzling amount of variety, from the Andean highlands with their colonial cities, snow-specked volcanoes, historic haciendas and atmospheric markets, to the tropical Amazon rainforest and cloud forests bursting to the brim with wildlife.

Along the Pacific coast, long golden beaches, migrating humpback whales and laidback fishing villages add further charm to this compact yet astonishingly diverse country, where rich traditions and natural wonders coexist in blissful harmony.

Beyond the mainland, the Galápagos Islands – Darwin’s living laboratory – invite close encounters with extraordinary wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. Whether exploring volcanic highlands or sailing among the enchanted isles, we can craft a tailor-made journey that reveals Ecuador and the Galápagos in all their wonder.

C&K RECOMMENDS Together, Ecuador and the Galápagos deliver one of the world’s most rewarding wildlife and nature experiences. On the mainland, lush cloud forests, soaring volcanoes and colourful markets sit in stark contrast to the remote Galápagos archipelago, where nature reigns supreme. Families can explore by cruise or from land, with activities to suit every age – from kayaking, snorkelling and cycling to spotting sea lions, penguins and giant tortoises up close. Strict visitor limits ensure intimate encounters, while year-round wildlife activity makes every season special.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

E C U AD OR & T H E G AL ÁP AG OS • L AT I N A ME R I CA

THE GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS UNIQUE & RARE SPECIES • CLOSE ENCOUNTERS WITH WILDLIFE • YEAR-ROUND DESTINATION A journey to the Galápagos Islands is one of the world’s great travel experiences.

Straddling the equator, this remote volcanic archipelago is a cradle of evolutionary discovery, where wildlife has adapted in extraordinary ways to its lava fields, cactus forests and verdant highlands.

Untouched by mainland predators, the islands’ creatures show little fear of humans, allowing remarkably close encounters and exceptional photographic opportunities.

Watch giant tortoises lumber through misty uplands and marine iguanas bask on blackened rock, while blue-footed, red-footed and Nazca boobies perform elaborate courtship dances nearby. Frigate birds soar overhead, waved albatrosses nest on coastal cliffs and playful sea lions tumble through crystalline waters – a jaw-dropping showcase of life at its most unspoiled.

The Galápagos Islands are accessed from mainland Ecuador via the local airports on Baltra and San Cristobal and can be explored from an expedition cruise at sea, or from a land-based hotel or lodge.

Blue-footed boobies

Quito

QUITO & OTAVALO COLONIAL HERITAGE • MIDDLE OF THE WORLD • INDIGENOUS MARKET Quito, Ecuador’s capital, rests in a high Andean valley beneath the watchful Pichincha Volcano. Its beautifully preserved old town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – reveals the country’s colonial past through ornate churches, shaded plazas and cobbled streets. Explore artisan workshops, meet traditional hat makers, or sample Ecuador’s world-renowned chocolate. Beyond the city, the equatorial monument marks the “Middle of the World,” while Papallacta’s thermal springs steam amid misty mountain scenery.

Two hours north, Otavalo bursts with colour and character: its famed market brims with vivid handwoven textiles and intricate crafts, a living expression of Ecuador’s enduring indigenous traditions.

Broad Billed Motmot, Mindo Cloud Forest

ECUADOR AMAZON & CLOUD FOREST AMAZONIAN COMMUNITIES • EXOTIC FLORA & FAUNA The Ecuadorian Amazon offers an unforgettable immersion into one of the planet’s richest ecosystems. Explore its winding waterways aboard a comfortable river cruise or stay deep within the forest at secluded lodges, many reached only by light aircraft or canoe. Here, life teems in every direction – from chattering monkeys to caimans, pink river dolphins and flocks of brilliant macaws. Local excursions, led by expert guides, reveal the forest’s hidden wonders through jungle walks and visits to remote communities. Closer to Quito, the cloud forests of Mashpi and Mindo-Nambillo shelter dazzling orchids and one of the world’s greatest concentrations of birdlife.

Quilotoa crater lake

AVENUE OF THE VOLCANOES COTOPAXI NATIONAL PARK • LOCAL MARKETS & HACIENDAS South of Quito, the Avenue of the Volcanoes unfolds in a panorama of fertile valleys, terraced fields and snow-capped peaks.

This sublime region showcases Ecuador’s natural beauty, from the perfectly conical Cotopaxi – the world’s highest active volcano – to the emerald waters of the Quilotoa crater lake. Traditional Andean villages host weekly markets, where locals in bright ponchos barter amid a medley of colour and sound. Further south the lively trading town of Riobamba is a gateway to one of South America’s most scenic rail journeys: the thrilling switchbacks of the Devil’s Nose train, carved through sheer mountain slopes.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Mashpi Lodge

New Cathedral of Cuenca

Hacienda Zuleta

EXPERIENCE & STAY MASHPI’S SUSTAINABLE LUXURY

CUENCA’S COLONIAL HERITAGE

TRADITIONAL HACIENDAS

Luxurious Mashpi Lodge, cocooned within its own private cloud forest reserve, brings you face to face with the astonishing diversity of the cloud forest. Its striking glass-and-steel design dissolves the boundary between indoors and out, surrounding guests with mist-draped trees and birdsong. From its floor-to-ceiling windows, observe iridescent hummingbirds and delicate orchids, while guided walks reveal vibrant bromeliads, jewel-toned butterflies and hidden waterfalls.

For a thrilling perspective, glide silently above the emerald canopy on the innovative Sky Bike – an unrivalled way to experience the forest’s extraordinary beauty.

Widely regarded as Ecuador’s most beautiful city, Cuenca enchants with its cobbled streets, flower-filled plazas and red-roofed colonial houses adorned with elegant wrought-iron balconies. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, its landmarks include the redbrick New Cathedral crowned with striking blue domes and a wealth of religious art.

Many of its 19th-century mansions have been transformed into exquisite boutique hotels. Among the finest are the lovingly restored Santa Lucia Hotel, rich with dark wood and antiques, and Cruz del Vado, whose pink-marble façade and rooftop bar overlook the city’s graceful skyline.

Scattered across Ecuador’s scenic countryside, historic haciendas provide an authentic glimpse into the nation’s colonial past and highland heritage. These elegant estates – from family-run retreats to grand working farms – combine old-world charm with warm Ecuadorian hospitality. Wander through manicured gardens, dine on timehonoured recipes and unwind amid the idyllic surroundings. We recommend the 17th-century Hacienda La Ciénega, once host to explorers and dignitaries, and Hacienda Zuleta, a beautifully restored family estate that has welcomed guests for over a century.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

E C U AD OR & T H E G AL ÁP AG OS • L AT I N A ME R I CA

GALAPAGOS BOATS & STAYS

Monique

Isabela II

Finch Bay Eco Hotel

SMALL BOATS & CATAMARANS

MEDIUM-SIZED & LARGE CRUISERS

GALÁPAGOS LAND STAYS

Carrying no more than 16 passengers, the boutique yachts and catamarans of the Galápagos promise an intimate and immersive cruising experience. These elegant vessels feature beautifully appointed cabins – some with private balconies – as well as bar-lounges, spacious sun decks, and both indoor and alfresco dining. Complimentary snorkelling gear and kayaks invite closer encounters with the islands’ abundant wildlife. For value, Seaman Journey, Archipel, Solaris and Treasure are stand-out choices, while the sleek Endemic, Elite and Monique blend contemporary luxury with an eco-conscious design that honours the delicate Galápagos environment.

Carrying between 40 and 100 passengers, the larger expedition vessels in the Galápagos offer a smooth, comfortable way to explore the islands. Life on board is relaxed, with spacious lounges, observation decks, reading rooms and even a hot tub for unwinding after excursions. Despite their size, the experience remains personal, with daily landings in small groups, led by expert naturalist guides. The Galápagos Legend, Isabela II, Santa Cruz II and the luxury La Pinta are among our preferred options, with thoughtful itineraries and a strong focus on the wildlife experience.

For travellers preferring to stay on land, the four inhabited islands of Santa Cruz, Isabela, Floreana and San Cristóbal offer hotels and lodges surrounded by picturepostcard scenery. Tailor your experience with a choice of daily boat excursions or land-based adventures, or explore further with inter-island flights and multi-centre stays. The eco-conscious Finch Bay Eco Hotel on Santa Cruz provides a tranquil setting beside a quiet bay, while Galápagos Safari Camp offers a luxurious tented stay amid the island’s lush highlands. On Isabela, Scalesia Lodge combines modern comfort with sweeping forest and sea views.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Classic Ecuador 11 days & 9 nights Standard from £5,095 (incl. flights)

For one of Latin America’s smallest nations, Ecuador encompasses a remarkable richness of scenery and culture – from snow-capped Andean volcanoes and bustling colonial towns to the emerald depths of the Amazon. This curated journey reveals the country’s most captivating landscapes and cultural treasures, concluding with a small boat cruise through the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands.

Days 1 & 2: Fly to Quito via Amsterdam Fly to Quito for a 2-night stay at Casona de la Ronda. Take a guided tour of Ecuador’s capital, exploring its elegant colonial heart, grand plazas and ornate churches. Visit the “Middle of the World” monument, where the equator divides the northern and southern hemispheres.

Day 3: Cotopaxi • Riobamba Travel through the Avenue of the Volcanoes to Cotopaxi National Park, home to snowcapped peaks, wild horses and highland lagoons. Visit a local market before

Cotopaxi Volcano National Park

continuing to Riobamba for an overnight stay at Hacienda Abraspungu.

Day 4: Ingapirca • Cuenca Drive south to Cuenca, stopping at Ingapirca, Ecuador’s finest Inca ruins. Visit a rural community on the slopes of Chimborazo volcano, then stay 2 nights at the charming Hotel Santa Lucia.

Day 5: Cuenca Discover Cuenca’s cobbled streets, flowerfilled plazas and 16th-century architecture.

Visit the Panama Hat Museum and learn about the craftsmanship behind Ecuador’s iconic headwear.

Day 6: Cajas • Quito Explore the mirror-like lakes and moorlands of Cajas National Park, a haven for birdlife

and high-altitude flora. Fly back to Quito for an overnight stay at the Wyndham Quito Airport Hotel.

Days 7–9: Fly to the Galápagos Fly to the Galápagos Islands for a 3-night cruise through this extraordinary archipelago, home to blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas and playful sea lions.

Days 10 & 11: Fly home via Guayaquil & Amsterdam Return to Guayaquil for your international flight to Amsterdam and onward connection to London.

Included meals: 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 4 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

25

Discover Chile Lake Pehoé, Torres Del Paine

Cradled between the Andes and the wild Pacific Ocean, Chile stretches across a remarkable range of landscapes. In the north, the Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on Earth, while the south is defined by the mountains, glaciers and wide open spaces of Patagonia. Between them lie fertile wine valleys, deep-blue lakes and a long, rugged coastline of fjords and forest.

Beyond this pristine scenery, Chile is also home to fascinating cities such as Santiago and Valparaíso, indigenous traditions and a culinary scene enriched by the bounty of land and sea. Out in the Pacific, Easter Island stands as a testament to the mysterious Rapa Nui civilisation. With Cox & Kings, a Chilean adventure can be artfully tailored to your passions – crafted, as all great journeys should be, around you.

C&K RECOMMENDS Framed by desert, ice and ocean, Chile captivates with its almost cinematic diversity. In the Atacama, light casts long shadows across salt plains and ochre valleys, while clear skies reveal a glittering theatre of stars. Far south, Patagonia’s glaciers, turquoise lakes and sweeping steppe are most alive from October to March, when daylight lingers and wildlife abounds in the wilderness. Autumn cloaks the land in amber hues, winter in quiet splendour. On Easter Island, summer sees the Tapati Festival fill the air with ancestral song and celebration.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

C H IL E • L ATI N A ME R I CA

THE ATACAMA DESERT ALTIPLANIC LAGOONS, SALT LAKES & GEYSERS • ADOBE VILLAGES The Atacama Desert, where rain is scarce and silence runs deep, is a landscape of staggering beauty. Here, wind-carved dunes meet violet-shaded volcanoes, salt flats glisten like frost, and turquoise lagoons lie hidden amid the sun-baked wilderness.

The small adobe village of San Pedro de Atacama serves as the gateway to this extraordinary region.

At dawn, watch the El Tatio geysers erupt in plumes of steam; by afternoon, wander the vast Salar de Atacama, where pink flamingos drift across mirrored lagoons. As the day fades, the Moon Valley reveals its contours of rock and sand – glowing red, gold and indigo beneath the sinking sun.

Ancient petroglyphs, remote oases and starlit skies deepen the sense of wonder, while thermal springs and expansive horizons remind travellers of nature’s raw artistry. To witness the Atacama’s shifting colours and profound silence is to encounter the desert at its most awe-inspiring.

Moon Valley, Atacama Desert

Grey glacier, Torres del Paine

Puerto Varas

Santiago skyline and the Sky Costanera

TORRES DEL PAINE

CHILEAN LAKE DISTRICT

SANTIAGO & THE COAST

GRANITE PEAKS & STUNNING GLACIERS • PATAGONIA WILDLIFE • NATURE WALKS & HIKES

SNOW-CAPPED VOLCANOES, LAKES & FORESTS • MAPUCHE CULTURE

SANTIAGO’S HISTORY & CULTURE • COLOURFUL VALPARAÍSO

Where the Andes meet the water, Chile’s Lake District opens out to a landscape of lakes, rivers and snow-crowned volcanoes.

The southern region is best explored from Puerto Varas, a charming lakeside town and gateway to Andean crossings and national parks. Offshore, the island of Chiloé enchants with its stilted houses, shingled churches and vibrant folklore, while seabirds and penguins crowd its rugged shores. North around Pucón, ancient araucaria forests cloak the slopes of Villarrica volcano, where steaming springs, tumbling waterfalls and the living culture of the Mapuche people define a land steeped in natural drama.

Sheltered between the Andes and the coastal range, Santiago hums with creative energy and mountain light. Its grand cathedral and superb Museum of PreColumbian Art reveal the city’s layered past, while leafy barrios brim with galleries, cafés and inventive dining. From the Sky Costanera observation deck, the city unfurls in every direction beneath snow-bright peaks. A short journey away, Valparaíso tumbles toward the Pacific in a kaleidoscope of colour – a bohemian port of stairways, funicular elevators and sea views. Eccentric mansions turned boutique hotels echo the spirit of the late Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, whose legacy still drifts through the hills.

Spanning southern Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is a realm of raw beauty. In Torres del Paine National Park, a five-hour drive from the southerly city of Punta Arenas, granite peaks rise above turquoise lakes, glaciers and rugged steppe animated by the movement of guanacos, rheas and circling condors. Explore this untamed wilderness by foot, boat or land vehicle, tracing trails through forests and past waterfalls. Cruise across Lake Grey to the glacier of the same name – its towering blue wall cracking and calving into the water below. From gentle walks to the challenging ascent to the base of the Torres, every path leads to moments of wonder.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Alpacas, Lauca National Park

Moai statues, Easter Island

Carreterra Austral

EXPERIENCE MYSTERIOUS EASTER ISLAND

CHILE’S FAR NORTH EXPLORATIONS

CHILE SELF-DRIVE TRIPS

Adrift in the vast South Pacific, Easter Island – or Rapa Nui – is one of the world’s most remote inhabited places, reached by a 5-hour flight from mainland Chile.

This volcanic island is an open-air museum of haunting beauty, where hundreds of moai (gigantic stone statues) stand sentinel over rolling grasslands and crashing surf.

Guided visits reveal ancient quarries and ceremonial platforms steeped in myth, while the tiny village of Hanga Roa invites slower exploration on your own. A stay of 3 or 4 nights allows time to absorb this enigmatic destination.

Chile’s far north is home to ancient rock paintings and incredible high plateau landscapes. From the coastal city of Arica, journeys ascend into the Andes, where preColumbian geoglyphs and rock carvings mark the ochre hills. Scattered adobe villages and ancestral traditions punctuate the high plains, watched over by ice-clad volcanoes and the emerald waters of Lake Chungará. In the desolate Lauca National Park on the border with Bolivia, flamingoes, rheas and vicuñas wander the altiplano, while along the desert coast, eco-retreats offer tranquil escapes.

Self-drives in Chile bestow you with the freedom to explore at your own pace, following roads that reveal the country’s rich contrasts. In the north, quiet routes wind past highland lagoons and desert plateaus.

Further south, journeys meander through vine-draped valleys, glassy lakes and snowveined mountains. The legendary Carretera Austral, much of it unpaved, carves a path through Patagonia’s unspoilt terrain of forest, fjord and glacier – a voyage as challenging as it is exhilarating, and among the most rewarding road adventures in South America.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

C H IL E • L ATI N A ME R I CA

EXPERIENCE & STAY

Casona Matetic

Stella Australis

Atacama Desert sky

WINELANDS EXPERIENCE

PATAGONIA CRUISES

STARGAZING, NORTHERN CHILE

Set between the Andes and the Pacific coast, Chile’s wine country is renowned for its acclaimed vineyards and picturesque scenery. Historic estates and boutique lodges offer leisurely stays amid rolling vines and colonial charm. Visit for a tasting of the region’s finest vintages or linger longer to appreciate fully its tranquillity.

We recommend the elegant Casa Real at Santa Rita, dating from 1883, or Casona Matetic in the Casablanca Valley – an organic, biodynamic estate with serene courtyards, terraces and views across gardens and vines.

The austral channels of Patagonia form landscapes of extraordinary beauty and offer numerous sailing possibilities. The comfortable Skorpios cruises glide through fjords and iceberg-strewn waters, while the first-class Ventus and Stella Australis ships take guests on 4-night voyages around the southern tip of the continent to the infamous Cape Horn and Ushuaia in Argentina. Along the way, travellers encounter glittering glaciers, spectacular seascapes and fascinating wildlife at the edge of the world.

Renowned for its crystal-clear skies and near-perfect climate, Chile’s Atacama Desert is one of the finest places on Earth to study the heavens. Around San Pedro de Atacama and La Serena, world-class observatories and powerful telescopes unlock the secrets of the cosmos. Join expert astronomers beneath the stars to witness luminous constellations, the swirling brilliance of the Milky Way and the faint glow of distant galaxies – an awe-inspiring experience that reveals the vast beauty of the universe in one of its most ethereal settings.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Essence of Chile 14 days & 11 nights Superior from £4,795 (incl. flights)

Beginning and ending in the cosmopolitan capital of Santiago, this journey reveals Chile’s rich tapestry of terrains – from the transcendent landscape of the Atacama Desert to the glacier-sculpted wilderness of Patagonia. Along the way, revel in a moment of calm at an elegant wine estate, where refinement meets the rhythm of rural life.

Days 1–3: Fly to Santiago Fly direct to Santiago for a 2-night stay at the Plaza El Bosque Ebro Hotel. Explore leafy neighbourhoods, stroll through elegant plazas and discover the city’s world-class museums.

Days 4–6: Fly to Calama • Atacama Fly north to Calama and transfer across the high desert to San Pedro de Atacama for 3 nights at Casa de Don Tomás or upgrade further to El Refugio. Explore desert landscapes of salt flats, sculpted valleys and flamingo-dotted lagoons.

Days 7 & 8: Fly to Santiago • Winelands Return to Santiago and continue to the

Torres del Paine

Maipo Valley for 2 nights at Casa Real, an 18th-century mansion set on the Santa Rita Vineyard. Unwind among vine-covered hills, sampling fine vintages straight from the barrel.

Day 9: Fly to Puerto Natales Fly south to Puerto Natales and stay overnight at Hotel Costaustralis, overlooking the Fjord of Last Hope.

Days 10 & 11: Torres del Paine Journey into Torres del Paine National Park,

a realm of soaring granite towers, emerald lakes and vast Patagonian steppe. Explore this wilderness region on a full-day shared excursion and stay for 2 nights at the Hotel Lago Grey. Optional hikes are available.

Days 12–14: Fly to Santiago and home Drive to Puerto Natales for your return flight to Santiago. Spend your final night in the capital before flying home.

Included meals: 11 breakfasts and 1 lunch

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Argentina Perito Moreno glacier, Patagonia

A land characterised by open spaces yet infused with urban sophistication, Argentina combines a vast scale with vivid contrasts. From the lush rainforests and the thundering majesty of Iguazú Falls to Patagonia’s remote glaciers and windswept plains, nature here feels boundless.

Across this immense landscape unfold ochre canyons, turquoise lakes, fertile pampas and snow-streaked Andean peaks. Wildlife thrives, from penguin colonies and sea lions on the Valdés Peninsula to flocks of herons and ibises in the Iberá wetlands.

Alongside its scenery the cadence of life continues unabated – gauchos on horseback, the pulse of tango and the refined energy of Buenos Aires, one of the continent’s great metropolises. With its warmth, passion and fine cuisine, Argentina invites travellers to experience its spirit in unforgettable ways.

C&K RECOMMENDS Argentina moves to its own rhythm – a country defined by the passion of tango and the cascading majesty of Iguazú Falls. In the capital of Buenos Aires, experience the city’s soul at a traditional milonga, where locals dance late into the night, or enjoy an elegant performance at La Ventana. Visit in spring or autumn, when the boulevards are dressed in blossom or burnished leaves, and the energy is at its most stirring. Further west, Mendoza celebrates the Vendimia grape harvest with exuberant festivities, music and wine – a vivid expression of Argentina’s insatiable zest for life.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

ARG E N T IN A • L ATI N A ME R I CA

PATAGONIA & LAKE DISTRICT GREAT WILDERNESS • AWE-INSPIRING GLACIERS • FOREST-CLAD MOUNTAINS & LAKES In northern Patagonia, Argentina’s Lake District unfolds in a sweep of forests, glassy blue lakes and snow-dusted peaks. This enchanting region gently persuades travellers to slow their pace, breathe in the mountain air and absorb the stillness of a landscape shaped by water and wind. Days can be spent kayaking across tranquil lagoons, following forest trails alive with birdsong, or hiking through flower meadows beneath the Andes.

The alpine-style town of Bariloche, beside vast Nahuel Huapi Lake, is the gateway to the region’s national parks and the departure point for memorable lake crossings into Chile.

Northward, the Ruta de los Siete Lagos traces turquoise waters to San Martín de los Andes, while to the south the legendary Ruta 40 leads toward Patagonia’s wilderness.

Further south, Patagonia becomes a land of windswept plains, towering peaks and giant glaciers descending to turquoise lakes.

Near El Calafate, the immense Perito Moreno Glacier is a mesmerising spectacle, while the granite spires around El Chaltén offer outstanding hiking.

Lake District, Bariloche

La Boca, Buenos Aires

Iguazú Falls

The Hill of Seven Colours, Purmamarca

BUENOS AIRES

IGUAZÚ FALLS

SALTA & THE NORTH-WEST

GRAND AVENUES & OPULENT ARCHITECTURE • BUSTLING CULTURAL LIFE & HISTORY

THUNDEROUS DEVIL’S THROAT • SPEEDBOAT TO THE FOOT OF THE FALLS

PICTURESQUE COLONIAL TOWNS • STRIKING SCENERY

Argentina’s vibrant capital blends European elegance with Latin passion, its wide boulevards, grand theatres and lively neighbourhoods forming the character of a truly world-class city. Admire the opulent Teatro Colón and Casa Rosada, explore Recoleta’s belle époque architecture and famous cemetery and wander through La Boca’s riot of colour. Discover the superb Latin American Art Museum or the mysterious underground tunnels of El Zanjón. Stay at least 3 nights to feel the city to its fullest and get a taste of its culinary excellence – from casual parrillas in San Telmo to stylish waterfront dining in Puerto Madero or alfresco evenings in Palermo.

Straddling the border between Argentina and Brazil, the Iguazú Falls rank among the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Here, the Iguazú River cascades in 275 distinct cataracts, plunging through a jungle alive with mist and birdsong. On the Argentinian side, walkways bring you thrillingly close to the torrents, while an ecotrain leads to the Devil’s Throat – a roaring chasm of spray and thunder. The Brazilian side offers sweeping panoramic views that reveal the full grandeur of the falls.

For an unforgettable encounter, take an exhilarating boat ride beneath the curtain of water - a heart-pounding immersion in nature’s power.

Once part of the Inca Empire, Argentina’s north-west is a land of primeval landscapes and deep-rooted customs. From the high altiplano to the cactus-studded foothills, vivid canyons and clay-built villages honour the ancient earth goddess Pachamama.

Purmamarca’s cream-hued houses glow beneath the multicoloured Hill of Seven Colours, while Cachi and Molinos retain their quiet colonial charm. In Salta, beautifully preserved architecture and fine museums reflect the region’s rich heritage, and the legendary Train to the Clouds ascends through tunnels and viaducts into the barren high plateau. Further south, Cafayate’s sunlit vineyards and crimson cliffs offer a gentler rhythm and, needless to say, superb wines.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Andean Lake Crossing scenery

Patagonia road to El Chalten

Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay

EXPERIENCE ANDEAN LAKES CROSSING

SELF-DRIVE IN ARGENTINA

A TRIP TO COLONIA IN URUGUAY

Considered one of South America’s most exhilarating journeys, this full-day crossing links Argentina and Chile through a tapestry of lakes and mountains. Departing from Bariloche, the route weaves across the Andes by boat and road, tracing fjord-like channels and waters framed by deep forests. Each crossing reveals a fresh spectacle – silent bays, mist-draped peaks and the flawless snowcapped cone of Osorno Volcano rising above the clouds. The journey ends in Puerto Varas, where rain-washed air carries the scent of pine – a memorable finale to a crossing that typically unfolds over 12 hours, including leisurely sightseeing stops along the way.

Argentina’s open roads positively demand discovery, with self-drives charting some of the most stirring scenery you’ll find anywhere on the continent. The legendary Route 40 runs the length of the Andes, where the landscapes shift with the light and horizons seem to have no end. In the north-west, the road winds through cactusstudded plains, salt flats and crimson canyons scattered with Andean hamlets.

Farther south, the Seven Lakes Route glimmers with glassy waters and native forests, while in Patagonia, lonely stretches carve a path between jagged peaks, windshaped steppes and glittering blue glaciers.

Uruguay’s oldest city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Colonia del Sacramento sits on the banks of the Río de la Plata, just an hour by fast ferry from Buenos Aires. Founded by the Portuguese and later claimed by the Spanish, this quaint riverside town reveals its intriguing past in every cobbled street and courtyard. Lantern-lit alleys lead to leafy plazas and waterside promenades where time seems to slow. We can arrange day visits or overnight stays in boutique properties within the beautifully preserved historic quarter.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

ARG E N T IN A • L ATI N A ME R I CA

EXPERIENCE & STAY

Mendoza vineyard

Gauchos

Capybara, Iberá Wetlands

MENDOZA WINE COUNTRY ESCAPES

VISIT A TRADITIONAL ESTANCIA

WILDLIFE VIEWING AT IBERÁ WETLANDS

The celebrated bodegas surrounding Mendoza are home to elegant boutique hotels and luxurious wine estates, delivering a refined escape among the foothills.

Spend unrushed days sampling world-class vintages at private tastings, dining on exquisite regional cuisine, or reclining by the pool with mountainous views.

Signature wine therapies and spa rituals draw on the region’s bounty, while guided walks and leisurely bike rides provide alternative pursuits, all set against the imposing backdrop of the Andes.

Scattered across Argentina’s countryside, traditional estancias range from working cattle ranches to genteel country estates. Day visits from Buenos Aires can include a classic asado barbecue, accompanied by folk music and the thud of hooves as gauchos – Argentina’s legendary horsemen – demonstrate their time-honoured skills. Longer stays in the Pampas, Patagonia or near Cordoba, allow for a slower pace: afternoons spent riding across open plains, sharing maté with hosts and gaining a genuine insight into rural life and the traditions that remain at the heart of the nation’s spirit.

A mosaic of lagoons, floating islands and winding streams, the wetlands of Esteros del Iberá form Argentina’s largest protected reserve and one of South America’s great wildlife sanctuaries. Let us arrange for you to explore this pristine wilderness from the elegant Puerto Valle Hotel, with private access to the wetlands, or from remote eco-ranches such as Rincón del Socorro.

Guided boat excursions and nature walks draw down the curtain on an abundance of life – from capybaras and caimans to marsh deer, giant anteaters, anacondas and more than 350 bird species.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Highlights of Argentina 13 days & 10 nights Superior from £4,295 (incl. flights)

Argentina unfolds in a sweep of wild beauty and European grace. This comprehensive journey begins in elegant Buenos Aires, then spans the country from the subtropical north to Patagonia’s untamed south. Experience thundering waterfalls, sculpted glaciers and mountain grandeur before concluding in Mendoza – a region of fine wine and easy charm.

Iguazú Falls

Day 1: Fly to Buenos Aires Fly from London to Buenos Aires.

Days 2 & 3: Buenos Aires Arrive in the capital and transfer to the Sofitel Recoleta Hotel for 2 nights.

Explore the city’s highlights, from the colourful streets of La Boca to Recoleta Cemetery, resting place of Eva Perón. In the evening, opt for a traditional dinner and tango show to experience the city’s passion first-hand.

Days 4 & 5: Fly to Iguazú Falls Fly north to Iguazú and spend 2 nights at the Mercure Iguazú, or upgrade to the Gran Meliá Iguazú, set inside the national

park. Explore one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, where 275 cascades plunge through lush rainforest.

Days 6 & 7: Fly to El Calafate via Buenos Aires Fly south to El Calafate and stay 2 nights at the Kosten Aike or Esplendor Hotel. Journey across the Patagonian steppe into the rugged beauty of Los Glaciares National Park. Visit the mighty Perito Moreno glacier and cruise across Lake Argentino to admire its towering ice wall at close range.

Days 8–10: Fly to Mendoza Fly to Mendoza, framed by the snow-streaked

Andes, and stay at a nearby wine estate.

Spend leisurely days discovering vineyards, sampling Argentina’s renowned vintages, or exploring the city’s leafy plazas and boutique restaurants.

Days 11–13: Fly home Return to Buenos Aires for a final night before your flight home, arriving the following day. Alternatively, fly to Bariloche for a 3-night stay surrounded by the serene lakes and alpine scenery of northern Patagonia.

Included meals: 10 breakfasts

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Brazil Christ The Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro

South America’s largest nation, Brazil combines remarkable natural diversity with a rich cultural heritage. The Amazon’s vast rainforest, the power of Iguaçu Falls and the long stretches of Atlantic coastline show the country’s extraordinary range of landscapes. Historic colonial towns reveal ornate baroque churches and cobbled streets, while Brasília stands out for its bold modernist architecture.

Throughout Brazil runs a strong sense of energy and celebration, expressed through its music, festivals and everyday life. With Cox & Kings, your journey can be tailored to match your interests and preferred pace, combining cultural discovery, natural highlights and time to relax in this vibrant and welcoming country.

C&K RECOMMENDS Step into Brazil’s kaleidoscope of celebration. In the sultry north-east, the rhythms of Afro-Brazilian culture resonate through every street, while in Rio de Janeiro the flamboyance of Carnival explodes in sequins and samba at the Sambadrome. Arrive on New Year’s Eve in Copacabana and the fireworks over the beach add another layer of spectacle. Meanwhile, coastal markets overflow with feijoada and caipirinhas, and the plains of the Pantanal teems with jaguars, capybaras and jagged birdsong. Every season reveals fresh facets of this vibrant country, making Brazil not just a place to visit, but a journey to feel.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

BR AZ IL • L AT I N A ME R I CA

RIO DE JANEIRO SPECTACULAR BACKDROP • WORLD-RENOWNED BEACHES • UNRIVALLED CARNIVAL Few cities can match the beauty and buzz of Rio de Janeiro, where mountains tumble to the sea and music infuses the air. Famed beaches – Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon – curve along the bay, while the granite peaks of Corcovado and Sugarloaf Mountain frame views that take the breath away. In the historic centre, faded colonial façades stand beside neoclassical mansions and modernist icons, the result of centuries of transformation.

At the edge of the city, venture inland to discover Tijuca Forest, one of the world’s largest urban rainforests and home to monkeys, sloths and an array of tropical birdlife. Travel by open-air jeep through this endangered Atlantic ecosystem to visit the Macacos waterfall and take in views that stretch across the city and coastline.

Whether exploring by day, enjoying Rio’s lively evenings, or in the hush of dawn over Guanabara Bay, the city captures Brazil’s unique blend of nature, culture and exuberance.

Samba dancers at the Rio Carnival, Rio de Janeiro

The Amazon River

Jaguars, Pantanal

Toucan, Foz do Iguaçu National Park

THE AMAZON

IGUAÇU FALLS

THE PANTANAL

RAINFOREST SOUNDS & SIGHTS • MEETING OF THE WATERS

PANORAMIC VIEWS & BOAT TRIPS • TROPICAL BIRDS & RAINBOWS

PREMIER WILDLIFE DESTINATION • BIRDWATCHING & JAGUAR SPOTTING

The Amazon rainforest, covering nearly half of Brazil, is a realm of remarkable biodiversity. Beneath its dense tropical canopy, life teems unseen – from monkeys and toucans to caimans and elusive pink river dolphins. We can arrange river cruises or jungle lodge stays for immersive encounters with nature, while exploring the labyrinth of waterways by canoe or on nature walks.

Foz do Iguaçu National Park is home to one of the world’s great natural wonders, the Iguaçu Falls, and an equally impressive variety of wildlife, from tropical birds to elusive jaguars. Rainbows shimmer through clouds of spray, parrots wheel across the mist and butterflies drift above luxuriant forest. A walkway winds through subtropical vegetation – orchids, bamboos and lianas – to the foot of Floriana Falls, with sweeping views to the Argentinian side.

Boat safaris and moonlit tours offer thrilling perspectives, while a helicopter flight reveals the vast panorama of tumbling cascades, verdant canopy and the river carving its way through the wild.

The world’s largest wetland, the Pantanal is a mosaic of rivers, lagoons and savanna threaded with forest. Its open landscapes make wildlife wonderfully visible: capybaras doze by the water’s edge, caimans bask in the sun, and herons, jabirus and macaws fill the skies. Tapirs, anteaters and howler monkeys roam freely and there’s even a rare chance to glimpse the elusive jaguar. A fascinating spectacle not to be missed is the returning of countless birds to their evening roots at sunset. Life here follows the seasonal cycle of flood and drought – aquatic creatures thrive in the rains (November to March), birds nest as the waters fall. Comfortable lodges, reached via Campo Grande or Cuiabá, offer safaris by 4x4, canoe and horseback.

The city of Manaus, gateway to the Amazon, reflects the opulence of its rubber-boom past in its ornate Opera House. Nearby, witness the “Meeting of the Waters,” where the dark Rio Negro and pale Solimões flow side by side without merging.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Pelourinho, Salvador de Bahia

Lençóis Maranhenses

Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais

EXPERIENCE A TASTE OF BAHIA

MINAS GERAIS COLONIAL GEMS

REMOTE NORTH-EAST EXPLORATIONS

Overlooking the waters of All Saints’ Bay, Salvador enchants visitors with its rhythm and soul. Once a hub of the sugar and slave trades, Bahia’s capital blends Latin flair with deep African roots to intoxicating effect. In Pelourinho, pastel façades and gilded baroque churches rise above cobbled streets alive with drumming, dance and the scent of dendê oil. As night falls, an AfroBahian performance captures the city’s heartbeat – swirling samba, the sacred movements of Candomblé and the airborne grace of capoeira – a bewitching celebration of heritage, spirit and sound.

Tucked amid rolling hills, the gold-rush towns of Minas Gerais gleam with Brazil’s colonial splendour. In Ouro Preto, steep cobbled streets climb past whitewashed mansions to baroque churches draped in gold leaf and filled with sacred art.

Southward lies Tiradentes, a painterly maze of lantern-lit lanes where former miners’ houses now host intimate pousadas and art galleries. The spirit of the 18th century lingers, too, in São João del Rei, Congonhas and Mariana, where carved façades, shaded squares and tolling church bells evoke the opulent age of Brazil’s golden heartland.

Just below the equator, Brazil’s remote north-east is the embodiment of wild beauty and ancient mystery. In the parched sertão, Serra da Capivara shelters one of the Americas’ oldest treasures – a giant gallery of prehistoric rock art etched into ochre cliffs. Along the coast, tiled São Luís evokes colonial times, while Lençóis Maranhenses enthralls with undulating dunes and turquoise lagoons that bloom after the rains. Beyond lie tranquil deltas and fishing hamlets, until Jericoacoara’s golden dune summons locals and travellers alike to watch the sun sink into the sea.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

BR AZ IL • L AT I N A ME R I CA

EXPERIENCE & STAY

Casas Brancas

Amazon Clipper Premium

Ibitipoca Reserve

BRAZIL BEACH STAYS

AMAZON CLIPPER PREMIUM CRUISE

IBITIPOCA RESERVE

Brazil’s coastline is an alluring patchwork of golden arcs, emerald bays and islanddotted horizons that stretches for more than 7,000 km. Near Rio, Búzios exudes laidback sophistication – a former fishing village turned chic seaside retreat, where boutique hotels such as Vila da Santa, Vila d’Este and Casas Brancas overlook aquamarine coves and lively café terraces. In the tropical northeast, Bahia’s palm-fringed shores promise warmth year-round and coral pools at Porto de Galinhas, while further north, windsculpted white dunes and empty stretches are the epitome of barefoot Brazil.

Sailing deep into the sinuous waterways of the Amazon, the Amazon Clipper Premium offers intimate 2-, 3- or 5-night journeys through the world’s greatest rainforest. This elegant, traditionally crafted vessel features 16 airconditioned cabins with wide-ranging river views, a panoramic observation deck and a sun terrace crowned with a jacuzzi. As dawn mist curls over the waters, expert naturalist guides lead canoe excursions and forest walks in search of monkeys, macaws and elusive pink river dolphins. Visit local inhabitants who live off manioc plantations, fishing and diverse fruit trees, and try your hand at piranha fishing.

Spanning 4,000 hectares of restored wilderness beside Ibitipoca State Park, the Ibitipoca Reserve is a sanctuary of misty hills, forested trails and crystalline waterfalls. Just a 3.5-hour drive north of Rio, this visionary private project blends luxury with sustainability, inviting travellers to slow down and reconnect with the rhythms of rural Brazil. Stay in an 18thcentury farmhouse or a rustic-chic cottage set against undulating green pastures, feast on seasonal regional cuisine and wander through lush forest where the melodic sound of birdsong is never far away.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Rhythms of Brazil 15 days & 13 nights Superior from £4,595 (incl. flights) Luxury* from £5,995 (incl. flights)

Discover Brazil’s most captivating corners, where the glittering rhythms of Rio and the colonial soul of Salvador give way to the awe-inspiring power of Iguaçu Falls and the untamed beauty of the Amazon. End your journey in serenity, unwinding on a palmfringed tropical beach.

Days 1–3: Fly to Rio de Janeiro Fly to Rio de Janeiro and stay at the PortoBay Rio de Janeiro / Miramar by Windsor*. Gaze out over Guanabara Bay from the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain, admire the majesty of Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado, and take in Copacabana and Ipanema’s golden sands on a full day guided tour.

Days 4 & 5: Fly to Iguaçu Take a flight to Iguaçu and witness one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural spectacles. Wander rainforest trails to viewpoints overlooking cascades that thunder through clouds of spray. Stay at the Recanto Cataratas Hotel or the Gran Meliá Iguazú* within the park.

Copacabana Beach, Rio

Days 6–8: Fly to Manaus Fly north to Manaus and journey into the Amazon for a 3-night stay at the Amazon Ecopark Jungle Lodge or aboard the Amazon Clipper Premium*. Explore the rainforest by canoe and on foot, accompanied by expert naturalist guides.

Days 9 & 10: Fly to Salvador Fly to Salvador, Bahia’s radiant capital, and spend 2 nights at Casa do Amarelindo / Villa Bahia* discovering its African-Latin heritage.

Wander cobbled streets lined with pastel colonial facades, baroque churches and

music-filled squares.

Days 11–13: Brazilian coast End your journey with 3 nights at Tivoli Praia do Forte or Nannai Porto de Galinhas Resort* on Brazil’s sun-drenched north-east coast, where wide sandy beaches melt into warm turquoise seas.

Days 14 & 15: Fly home Fly home via Sao Paulo / Madrid.

Included meals: 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 6 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Colombia Cartagena de Indias

Still feeling undiscovered by most travellers, Colombia remains one of South America’s most rewarding destinations, where mountainous plateaus, dense Amazon rainforest and tropical Caribbean shores come together in striking variety. Andean peaks rise above fertile valleys, the Amazon teems with life and two coastlines reveal both Caribbean warmth and Pacific wilderness. Its cities blend colonial heritage with a growing creative energy, from cobbled plazas to cutting-edge galleries.

With Cox & Kings, your journey through Colombia can be tailored entirely to your interests – explore pre-Columbian history, wander coffee-growing hillsides, or unwind on quiet tropical shores.

Wildlife is abundant too, from rainforest reserves to the tropical savannahs of Los Llanos.

Everywhere, Colombia’s vitality makes each encounter memorable.

C&K RECOMMENDS Colombia bristles with colour and verve at every turn. In Medellín, the annual Flower Festival bursts into bloom each July and August, filling the streets with fragrance, parades and music. Bogotá, the nation’s capital, blends modern art and colonial charm, while the whitewashed town of Villa de Leyva feels timeless, its vast cobbled plaza surrounded by bougainvillea-draped houses. Along the Caribbean coast, warm breezes, fresh seafood and Afro-Colombian beats define life by the water. From misty coffee hills to dense jungles, Colombia’s beauty is matched only by the unbridled exuberance of its people.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

C OL OM BIA • L AT I N A ME R I CA

BOGOTÁ & SURROUNDS VIBRANT CITY • GOLD MUSEUM • COLONIAL TOWN OF VILLA DE LEYVA Colombia’s high-altitude capital is awash with history and artistry. In Bogotá, the Gold Museum glows with treasures once offered to the gods, while the old quarter of La Candelaria hums with colour and colonial grace. Ride the cable car to Mount Monserrate for sweeping city views, or journey north to Villa de Leyva’s timeworn cobbles and bougainvillea-lined calm.

Pre-Columbian Gold Raft, Bogotá Gold Museum

COFFEE COUNTRY

EXPERIENCE MEDELLÍN SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION TOUR Set in the Aburrá Valley and once known for its turbulent past, Medellín has reinvented itself as a model of innovation and social progress. Explore creative urban projects in former hillside barrios, admire striking street art in Comuna 13, or join a cookery class led by local residents to experience the city’s warmth and community spirit.

SAN AGUSTÍN’S ARCHAEOLOGICAL TREASURES

FERTILE HILLSIDES • TRADITIONAL VILLAGES

High in the Andean foothills of southwest Colombia lies San Agustín, a place of ancient mystery and haunting beauty. Its archaeological park contains the largest collection of megalithic sculptures in South America. Scattered across lush, mist-covered hillsides are hundreds of carved stone figures, altars and burial chambers – the enduring legacy of a vanished pre-Columbian civilisation.

In the heart of the Andes, Colombia’s coffee region is intertwined in its rolling hills, small plantations and traditional villages. Stay in a converted hacienda and learn about the country’s long-established coffee-growing traditions. Nearby, the Cocora Valley is home to towering wax palms, while Los Nevados National Park shelters cloud forest alive with orchids and hummingbirds.

Cocora Valley

ECO-CHIC CARIBBEAN STAYS

CARTAGENA & THE CARIBBEAN BEAUTIFUL FORTIFIED TOWN • CHARACTERFUL COLONIAL HOTELS • TURQUOISE SEAS Cartagena, on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is one of Latin America’s most captivating colonial cities. Within its UNESCO-listed walls lie cobbled streets, colourful plazas and elegant Spanish architecture. Stay in a restored mansion and explore on foot, or extend your visit with a trip to the Rosario Islands, Tayrona National Park or the relaxed island of Providencia.

Accommodation near the ruggedly beautiful Tayrona National Park ranges from eco-chic lodges to relaxed beachfront retreats. This is one of Colombia’s most striking coastal regions, where the Sierra Nevada mountains descend to the Caribbean Sea. Spend your days exploring pristine palm-fringed beaches, hiking through rainforest teeming with spider monkeys and an array of bird species, or simply unwinding in peaceful tropical surroundings.

Tayrona National Park

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Colombia Explorer 11 days & 9 nights Standard from £3,295 (incl. flights)

From Andean highlands to the tropical Caribbean coast, Colombia reveals a wealth of character and contrast. This adventure begins in Bogotá, exploring its historic centre and fascinating Gold Museum, continuing through the lush coffee region and concluding in Cartagena – a beautiful port city of cobbled streets and painted façades.

Days 1 & 2: Fly to Bogotá Fly to Bogotá via Paris. Stay for 2 nights at the Hotel Novotel Parque 93 and spend a full day exploring Colombia’s capital, including the historic Candelaria district and the outstanding Gold Museum. Take a cable car to Monserrate Hill for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Andes.

Days 3 & 4: Villa de Leyva Travel by road to Villa de Leyva, one of Colombia’s most charming colonial towns.

En route, visit Zipaquirá to see the remarkable Salt Cathedral, built within a former mine. Stay 2 nights at Posada de San Antonio and explore the town’s cobbled streets, grand square and the nearby Dominican convent.

Days 5 & 6: Coffee Country Visit a coffee farm and stay for 2 nights at Hotel Boutique Sazagua or Sazagua Cocora,

set within a tranquil private reserve. Explore the picturesque villages of Filandia and Salento, with time to relax and enjoy the serene rural surroundings.

Days 7–9: Cartagena Fly to the Caribbean city of Cartagena for a 3-night stay at Hotel Santa Catalina. Take a walking tour of the old town, visiting the formidable San Felipe Fortress and the hilltop Convento de la Popa. Day 9 is at leisure to relax or take a boat excursion to the coral Rosario Islands.

Days 10 & 11: Fly to London Transfer to the airport for the overnight flight to London via Amsterdam, or extend with a stay on the unspoilt beaches of Isla Baru, Rosario Islands or Tayrona.

Included meals: 9 breakfasts and 2 lunches

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Machu Picchu, Peru

Valley of the Moon, Atacama Desert, Chile

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Traditional reed boats, Lake Titicaca, Peru

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

C OU N T RY • L ATI N A ME R I CA

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

A Journey through the Andes Duration • 19 days & 16 nights Price • From £5,695 (incl. flights) Category • Standard Journey through the spine of the Andes, travelling across Chile, Bolivia and Peru. Explore the striking contrasts of this remarkable highland region, from the stark beauty of Chile’s Atacama Desert to the vast white expanse of Bolivia’s Uyuni salt flats. Continue to the deep-blue waters of Lake Titicaca and on to Peru’s Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, where traces of Inca civilisation remain deeply rooted in the region’s dramatic mountain landscapes.

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Days 1-3: Fly to Santiago, Chile Fly overnight from London to Santiago and transfer to the Rugendas Hotel for a stay of 2 nights. Take a guided tour of the city, visiting key landmarks such as the cathedral, Plaza de Armas and Santa Lucía Hill for panoramic views across the capital.

Days 4 & 5: Atacama Desert Fly to Calama and transfer to San Pedro de Atacama for 2 nights at the Casa de Don Tomas. In the late afternoon, visit the Valley of the Moon to watch the sunset cast shifting colours over the desert. The following day, explore the breathtaking Atacama, including the vast salt flats – home to pink flamingoes – and the village of Toconao, known for its white volcanic stone buildings.

Day 6: To Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia Travel by 4x4 across an ever-changing landscape of snow-capped peaks, geysers, volcanoes and vividly coloured lagoons such as the emerald-green Laguna Verde and the redhued Laguna Colorada, a haven for flamingoes.

Stay 2 nights on the edge of the salt flats at Luna Salada, a remarkable hotel built entirely from salt blocks.

Day 7: Salar de Uyuni Explore the world’s largest salt flat, visiting the salt museum at Colchani, the Ojos de Agua springs and Inka Wasi Island, dotted with towering cacti. Continue to the slopes of the Tunupa volcano to see the pre-Columbian Coquesa mummies.

Days 8 & 9: Fly to La Paz Fly to La Paz, a city set dramatically within a vast mountain bowl. Stay 2 nights at the Hotel Mitru Sur. Take a guided tour of the colonial centre and Witches’ Market, and ride the cable car for sweeping views across the city and the surrounding Andean peaks. Afternoon at leisure.

Flamingoes at Laguna Colorada, Bolivia

Day 10: Lake Titicaca • Puno, Peru Travel across the altiplano to the shores of Lake Titicaca. Visit the Andean Roots Eco Village to learn about Aymara culture and traditional reed boat construction. Board a hydrofoil to Copacabana, stopping at the sacred Sun and Moon islands to see the Inca staircase and the Temple of the Sun Virgins. Continue by road to Puno for an overnight stay at the José Antonio Hotel.

Days 11-13: To Cuzco Drive or take a scenic full-day train journey to Cuzco. Stay 3 nights at Los Portales Hotel.

Explore the city’s rich blend of Inca and colonial heritage on a guided tour, including the cathedral and Koricancha Temple. Spend a day at leisure to discover Cuzco’s lively market, museums and cafés at your own pace.

Days 14 & 15: Sacred Valley • Machu Picchu Transfer to the Sacred Valley and visit the

impressive fortress at Ollantaytambo and the colourful market town of Pisac. Stay 2 nights at Andean Wings Valley Hotel. The next morning, travel by train to Machu Picchu for a guided exploration of this extraordinary Inca citadel, before returning to your hotel.

Days 16 & 17: Fly to Lima Fly to Lima and stay 2 nights at the José Antonio Hotel. Take a morning tour of the capital’s colonial and modern landmarks, including Plaza Mayor, the cathedral and the historic Casa Aliaga.

Days 18 & 19: Fly to London Day at leisure, or take an optional excursion to the Pachacamac archaeological site and the Larco Herrera Museum. Evening flight to London, arriving the following day.

Included meals: 16 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 2 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

South America Explorer Duration • 30 days & 28 nights Price • From £9,495 (incl. flights) Category • Superior This far-reaching journey crosses six countries to reveal many of South America’s most compelling cultural, historical and natural landmarks, from the iconic beaches of Rio de Janeiro and the thundering cascades of Iguazú to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu and a cruise among the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands. Travelling the full breadth of the continent, the adventure ends on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, where colourful Cartagena provides a fitting finale.

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28 30 32

B 20 20 19

16 12 10

10 11 13

15 17 19

C 166 148 122 149 154 146 109 123 134 182 168 134 A: Maximum average temperature (°C) B: Minimum average temperature (°C) C: Average rainfall (mm)

Days 1–3: Fly to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Fly from London to Rio via Amsterdam and spend 3 nights at the PortoBay Rio de Janeiro.

Explore some of the celebrated landmarks of Brazil’s most iconic city, including the statue of Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain and Sugarloaf, with its sweeping views of Guanabara Bay. The following day is free to relax.

Days 4 & 5: Iguazú Falls Fly to Iguazú for a 2-night stay at the Mercure Iguazú. Explore both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides of the falls. Walk along well-marked trails and viewing platforms for spectacular vistas over the cascades.

Days 6 & 7: Buenos Aires, Argentina Fly early to Argentina’s elegant capital and stay for 2 nights at the Intersur Recoleta. Take a guided tour of the city’s main sights, including Plaza de Mayo, the colourful La Boca district and Recoleta Cemetery, resting place of Eva Perón. You may wish to add a day trip across the River Plate to the historic Uruguayan town of Colonia del Sacramento.

Days 8 & 9: Mendoza Fly west to Mendoza, centre of Argentina’s celebrated wine country, and stay 2 nights at the Huentala Hotel amid views of the Andean foothills. Visit nearby vineyards for tastings of the region’s world-class malbecs.

Days 10 & 11: Santiago, Chile Fly across the Andes to Santiago for a 2-night stay. Discover the Chilean capital’s blend of modern and historic architecture, from Plaza de Armas to leafy Lastarria. Optional excursions include a visit to a nearby vineyard or a day trip to the Pacific port of Valparaíso.

Days 12 & 13: Cuzco, Peru • Sacred Valley Fly direct to Cuzco and transfer to the Sacred Valley for 2 nights at the Casa Andina

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Casa Rosada, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Premium Sacred Valley. Explore traditional markets and Inca archaeological sites such as Ollantaytambo and Pisac.

Day 14: Machu Picchu Travel by train through spectacular scenery to Machu Picchu. Tour the fabled citadel before overnighting at El Mapi.

Days 15 & 16: Cuzco Option to revisit Machu Picchu in the morning.

Later, travel by train back to Cuzco for a 2-night stay at Casa Andina Premium Cuzco. Explore the city’s blend of Inca stonework and colonial architecture.

Days 17 & 18: Lima Fly to Lima for 2 nights at Casa Andina Premium Miraflores. Tour the colonial centre, and the pre-Columbian pyramid of Huaca Pucllana, and sample some of the capital’s renowned cuisine.

Days 19 & 20: Quito Continue to Quito for a 2-night stay at Casona de la Ronda. Explore the UNESCO-listed old town and visit the monument marking the equatorial line.

Days 21–23: The Galápagos Fly to the Galápagos Islands for a 3-night cruise, visiting a selection of islands in small groups accompanied by expert naturalist guides. Learn about the archipelago’s unique wildlife and fragile ecosystems on daily shore excursions.

Days 24 & 25: Bogotá, Colombia Fly via Guayaquil to Bogotá for 2 nights at Hotel Chico 97. Visit the colonial quarter of La Candelaria and the excellent Gold and Botero museums.

Days 26–28: Cartagena Fly to Cartagena for a 3-night stay at Santa Catalina Hotel. Explore the walled city on foot, admiring its colourful colonial architecture and lively plazas. Optional excursions include a boat trip to the nearby Rosario Islands.

Days 29 & 30: Fly home via Amsterdam Return flight to London via Amsterdam, arriving the following day.

Included meals: 28 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

B R A Z IL , C H IL E , ARG E N T IN A, P E RU , E C U AD OR & C OL OM BIA • L ATI N A ME R I CA

Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Giant tortoise, Galápagos Islands

Cartagena, Colombia

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

43

Discover Cuba Viñales Valley

The largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba is a nation shaped by revolution, resilience and rhythmic charm. Classic American cars cruise past faded colonial façades, while the scent of cigars drifts through streets alive with rum, music and murals of Che Guevara. Beyond the cities, tobacco fields and rainforest-clad hills reveal a lush interior rich in biodiversity, while coral reefs and white sands fringe the coast.

From Havana’s grand plazas to Trinidad’s cobbled lanes, the island’s long history is written in its architecture and lived daily in its culture. Across the country, private homes open their doors as casas particulares (bed & breakfast style guesthouses) or family-run paladares restaurants, offering a genuine welcome and a memorable insight into Cuban life.

C&K RECOMMENDS Cuba’s appeal lies in its character as much as its beauty. This is no ordinary Caribbean island but a nation sustained by its revolutionary history and a strong sense of identity. Travel here can be unpredictable – journeys are slow, hotels can feel timeworn – yet these quirks are part of the story. Those who arrive with curiosity and flexibility are rewarded with genuine encounters and a deeper understanding of the island. Take a ride along Havana’s lively streets in a vintage car, visit the Museum of the Revolution and experience the island’s celebrated music and cigar culture.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

C U BA • L AT I N A ME R I CA

HAVANA MYSTERIOUS TIME-WARP CITY • FADED GRANDEUR Once a vital port for ships bound for the New World, Havana spreads around a broad natural bay. Its UNESCO-listed old town is a patchwork of restored baroque churches, palaces and cobbled squares, where fading façades add to the city’s intrigue. Explore museums in colonial mansions, dance to salsa and rumba, or unwind with a mojito on your hotel’s rooftop terrace.

El Capitolio, Havana

THE VIÑALES VALLEY

EXPERIENCE DINE AT A PALADAR Cuba’s paladares are small, familyrun restaurants often set within atmospheric old houses filled with character and history. Though the island isn’t famed for fine dining, relaxed private enterprise laws have sparked a flourishing culinary scene.

These intimate venues serve homecooked dishes with warm hospitality – a chance to dine away from tourist haunts and experience genuine Cuban flavours.

ORIENTE EXPLORATIONS

PECULIAR LIMESTONE OUTCROPS • TRADITIONAL RURAL LIFE & TOBACCO PLANTATIONS West of Havana, Viñales is a serene valley of palm-studded farmland and striking limestone mogote hills. Tobacco has been grown here for centuries using timehonoured methods and traditional farm visits reveal Cuba’s rural rhythms. Nearby, the Sierra del Rosario Biosphere Reserve and the eco-community of Las Terrazas offer further insight into the island’s countryside life.

Tobacco plantation, Viñales

Verdant mountains and deep-rooted history define the Oriente, Cuba’s eastern region, often described as the nation’s soul. Santiago de Cuba, the island’s first capital, is rich in colonial heritage and revolutionary landmarks, while its Afro-Caribbean rhythms have gone some way to shaping Cuba’s music traditions. Camagüey’s maze-like streets recall its pirate-fighting past, and further east, Baracoa, the island’s oldest town, retains a quiet, timeworn charm.

TRINIDAD & SURROUNDS

CUBA’S CAYS

BEAUTIFUL COLONIAL TOWN • VALLEY OF THE SUGAR MILLS • CHE GUEVARA’S MEMORIAL

Cuba’s northern coast is lined with white sands, calm seas and small offshore cays linked by long causeways. Cayo Santa María offers crystal-clear waters, coral reefs and a peaceful atmosphere.

Each of its first-class resorts is allinclusive – from the superior Vila Galé Cayo Santa Maria to the secluded Meliá Buenavista, surrounded by coves and ideal for a relaxed and intimate retreat.

Recline by one of the pools, swim in turquoise waters, or unwind with the treatment at the spa.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinidad is a vision of pastel façades and cobbled streets untouched by time. Visit the Cantero Museum and the lively Casa de la Música, then venture to nearby beaches, the remnants of old sugar estates and the Escambray mountains.

We can also arrange for you to combine your journey with trips to the colonial port of Cienfuegos and historic Santa Clara.

Trinidad

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Spirit of Cuba 12 days & 10 nights Standard from £2,595 (incl. flights)

Experience Cuba’s vibrant past and coastal tranquillity on a journey through its most captivating settings. Explore Havana’s historic grandeur and Trinidad’s beautifully preserved colonial streets, staying in the heart of each city. Conclude your travels on the soft sands of Cayo Santa María, where turquoise Caribbean waters invite complete relaxation.

Day 1 Fly to Havana Fly to Havana via Madrid and spend 3 nights at the Iberostar Selection Parque Central, located in the heart of the capital.

Days 2 & 3 Havana Explore Old Havana’s colonial squares, visit a traditional cigar factory and the rum museum, and take a ride in a classic 1950s car. Optional experiences include a day trip to the Viñales Valley or an evening performance by the Buena Vista Social Club.

Days 4–6: Trinidad Travel south via the French-influenced port of Cienfuegos, then continue to colonial Trinidad for 3 nights at Mistyque Trinidad or Hotel E la Calesa. Explore the cobbled streets, colourful houses and lively plazas on a guided tour and spend time at leisure.

Visit the nearby Valley of the Sugar Mills to

learn about the region’s plantation heritage.

Days 7–9: Cayo Santa María Continue to Santa Clara to see Che Guevara’s mausoleum and museum, then head to the northern coast for 3 nights at the Vila Galé Cayo Santa Maria or upgrade to the Meliá Buenavista. Relax on soft sandy beaches, swim in turquoise waters and enjoy the island’s tranquil setting.

Day 10: Havana Return to Havana for a final night in the city.

Days 11 & 12: To London Morning at leisure before the overnight flight to London, via Madrid.

Included meals: 10 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 3 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

45

Discover Mexico San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

From its ancient temples to its bustling plazas, Mexico is a enticing blend of ancient civilisations, colonial splendour and vibrant modern culture – the result of centuries of creativity and exchange. Its landscapes range from desert plateaus and volcanic peaks to tropical jungles and white-sand beaches washed by the Pacific and Caribbean seas. In the centre and north, gracious colonial towns reflect the legacy of Spanish rule, while in the Yucatán and the south, magnificent Mayan and Aztec temples reveal the depth of Mexico’s pre-Columbian heritage.

The country’s spirit is also expressed in its colourful markets, regional cuisines and enduring traditions. Carefully restored haciendas and characterful hotels offer distinctive stays that connect travellers to the country’s deep sense of place.

C&K RECOMMENDS Few countries stir the senses quite like Mexico. Wander through Mérida’s colonial streets and shaded park, or explore the extraordinary Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá. In Chiapas, the Tzotzil villages reveal a fascinating blend of pre-Hispanic and Catholic traditions, while Oaxaca tempts with complex moles and market flavours. Further north, colonial cities such as San Miguel de Allende and Guanajuato brim with history and art. Along the Baja peninsula, witness the grey whale migration from January to March. Visit during the Day of the Dead to see the country at its most vibrant, when Mexico celebrates life through remembrance.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

M E X IC O • L ATI N A ME R I CA

MEXICO CITY & OAXACA SUPERB ANTHROPOLOGICAL MUSEUM • ANCIENT PYRAMIDS • REGIONAL CUISINE Mexico City hums with creative energy, home to exceptional museums, cutting-edge galleries and a flourishing dining scene. Explore the monumental Zócalo, the outstanding Museum of Anthropology, and the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacán. Further south, Oaxaca enchants with ornate baroque churches, shaded arcades and sun-warmed plazas, while nearby valleys reveal Zapotec ruins and villages alive with enduring craft traditions.

Oaxaca

YUCATAN PENINSULA

EXPERIENCE PALENQUE MAYAN RUINS TOUR Deep in the jungle, Palenque’s atmospheric ruins rank among Mexico’s most captivating archaeological sites.

Intricately carved temples and painted stucco friezes rise from the dense forest canopy, their artistry revealing the sophistication and spiritual depth of the ancient Maya. Wonder at the soaring eight-storey Temple of the Inscriptions and hear the distinctive calls of howler monkeys echo through the trees.

COPPER CANYON TRAIN RIDE

IMPRESSIVE MAYAN RUINS • LUXURY COLONIAL HACIENDAS • CARIBBEAN COASTAL RETREATS Carpeted in lush jungle and scattered with ancient cities, the Yucatán offers both discovery and repose. Base yourself in the evocative colonial charm of Mérida or a converted hacienda amid the verdant countryside. Explore the temples of Uxmal, Chichén Itzá and Cobá, swim in natural cenotes, visit the flamingo-filled Celestún Reserve or unwind on tranquil beaches.

Chichén Itzá

CHIAPAS INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES • LUSH JUNGLE • MAYAN RUINS • RIVERS, CANYONS & WATERFALLS In the cool highlands of Chiapas, misty forests conceal extraordinary Mayan ruins, including the jungle-clad pyramids of Palenque and the remote sites of Yaxchilán and Bonampak, famed for their vivid murals.

Explore colonial San Cristóbal de las Casas, visit traditional mountain communities, and witness the dramatic gorges of Sumidero Canyon and the azure cascades of Agua Azul.

The legendary El Chepe train traces one of the world’s most spectacular rail routes, winding from Chihuahua all the way to Los Mochis on the Pacific coast.

The journey passes through forests, tunnels and towering bridges, revealing the vast Copper Canyon – a network of rugged, forested gorges deeper than the Grand Canyon. Stop at Divisadero for extraordinary views and hiking opportunities combined with an aweinspiring cable car ride. En route, visit Creel and Cerocahui for further exploration of valleys, lakes and canyons, or overnight in the delightful colonial town of El Fuerte.

MAYAN RIVIERA STAY Stretching south from Cancún along the Caribbean coast, the Mayan Riviera combines turquoise seas with powdersoft beaches and ancient heritage. We can arrange for you to stay at an intimate coastal retreat, explore the clifftop ruins of Tulum, or snorkel above the world’s second-largest reef. Nearby, the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve shelters mangroves, lagoons and abundant marine life.

Agua Azul, Chiapas

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Treasures of Mexico 10 days & 8 nights Superior from £3,795 (incl. flights)

Mexico’s past is written in stone, in temple pyramids that rise above the jungle and colonial streets lined with baroque façades. This curated journey charts the country’s cultural heartlands, combining the grandeur of ancient Mayan sites with the charm of historic cities, with an option to end beside the Caribbean’s calm shores.

Days 1-3: Fly to Mexico City Fly to Mexico City and stay for 3 nights at the Galeria Plaza or Hotel Zocalo Central.

Explore the historic centre, including the outstanding Museum of Anthropology, and visit the pyramids of Teotihuacán. Optional excursions include Coyoacán, where you can visit the former home of artist Frida Kahlo, or Xochimilco floating gardens.

Days 4 & 5: Oaxaca Fly to colonial Oaxaca (or travel overland via historic Puebla) and transfer to Hotel Na’ura for 2 nights. Discover the city’s fine baroque architecture and the impressive Zapotec ruins of Monte Albán. Optional visits include the 2,000-year-old tree at El Tule and the ancient ruins of Mitla.

Days 6 & 7: Fly to Mérida Fly to Mérida via Mexico City and spend

2 nights at the Hotel Casa Lucia. Visit the remarkable Mayan sites of Uxmal and Kabah, and take a walking tour through Mérida’s colonial streets, lined with colourful mansions and shaded plazas.

Day 8: Chichén Itzá Explore Chichén Itzá, renowned for its intricate temples, pyramids and ancient observatories. Overnight at Hacienda Chichén, with the chance to experience the site illuminated at night.

Days 9 & 10: Fly to London Travel to Cancún and board your return flight home or alternatively extend your stay on the white-sand beaches of the beautiful Mayan Riviera.

Included meals: 8 breakfasts and 2 lunches

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Costa Rica Resplendent quetzal, Monteverde

Compact, welcoming and astonishingly biodiverse, Costa Rica encapsulates the vitality of Central America in a single, captivating destination. Volcanoes rise above fertile valleys, cloud forests teem with orchids and birdlife, and two coastlines offer rainforest-fringed beaches on both the Pacific and Caribbean. More than a quarter of the country is protected as national parks and reserves, sheltering dazzling wildlife, from monkeys and macaws to brilliant butterflies.

Easy to explore yet endlessly rewarding, Costa Rica suits both independent travellers and those seeking thoughtful guidance. With Cox & Kings, each journey is planned with care and insight, allowing time to absorb the landscapes, wildlife, culture and the easy rhythm of pura vida.

C&K RECOMMENDS Costa Rica’s modest size makes it ideal for self-drives, with short road distances linking coast, rainforest and volcanoes. The dry season – December to April – offers the best land-based wildlife viewing, while the lush green season brings quieter trails and turtles nesting on the Caribbean coast. Begin in San José and the fertile Central Valley, where coffee plantations, national parks and volcanic craters showcase the country’s landscapes. Visit Poás volcano with its turquoise crater lake, wander orchid gardens or explore rainforest trails alive with the flutter of butterflies, the flash of hummingbirds and the steady chorus of the forest.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

C OS T A R IC A • L AT I N A ME R I CA

TORTUGUERO BOAT TRIPS ALONG CANALS • TURTLE WATCHING On Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean coast, Tortuguero is reached only by boat or light aircraft. Travel past banana plantations, then navigate canals that wind through dense tropical forest linking rivers and lagoons. Lodges along the banks provide access to boat safaris and forest walks in search of monkeys, sloths and caimans.

For an extra thrill, witness green and leatherback turtles nesting on the beaches between March and September.

Tortuguero canals

MONTEVERDE QUETZALS & BUTTERFLIES • CANOPY WALKWAYS • HIKING TRAILS High in Costa Rica’s central highlands and reached along unpaved roads, Monteverde and the neighbouring Santa Elena Reserve are veiled in cool mist and bursting with the country’s famous biodiversity. Trails wind through dense forest laced with orchids, bromeliads and moss-draped vines, while suspended canopy bridges offer a bird’s-eye view of this magnificent ecosystem. Listen for the call of the resplendent quetzal – a fleeting flash of green plumage among the clouds.

Malachite butterfly, Monteverde cloud forest

Roseat spoonbill, Caño Negro

ARENAL & THE NORTH ACTIVE VOLCANOES • HOT SPRINGS • CAÑO NEGRO BOAT TRIP & BIRDLIFE A near-perfect cone rising above tropical forest, Arenal is framed by verdant gardens and expansive vistas. Nearby attractions include soothing hot springs, treetop canopy walkways and boat trips through the Caño Negro wetlands, home to an abundance of birdlife. To the northwest, discover turquoise Río Celeste and Rincón de la Vieja’s geothermal pools.

Capuchin monkey, Manuel Antonio

MANUEL ANTONIO & SURROUNDS JUNGLE-CLAD BEACHES • SUPERB WILDLIFE VIEWING Few places reward curiosity quite like Manuel Antonio, where rainforest trails, golden beaches and wildlife encounters can all be found within easy reach of one another. Spot monkeys, sloths and toucans along forest trails, then unwind at hillside hotels with far-reaching sea views. Nearby, Carara National Park is home to crocodiles and brilliant scarlet macaws.

Nicoya Peninsula beach

TAMARINDO & NICOYA UNSPOILT BEACHES • NESTING TURTLES On Costa Rica’s north-west coast, the Nicoya Peninsula blends sand beaches with rare dry forest – one of Central America’s last.

In Tamarindo, a relaxed surf town, explore mangroves by boat or watch nesting leatherback turtles. Further south, quiet coves and hidden retreats on the more remote part of the peninsula offer a gentler pace of life.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Poás volcano

Tabacon natural hot springs, Arenal

Turtle hatchling, Tamarindo

EXPERIENCE VOLCANO VISITS

NATURAL HOT SPRINGS

TURTLE WATCHING ON THE BEACH

Volcanoes shape much of Costa Rica’s landscape, their craters, forests and fumaroles exposing the country’s restless geology. Arenal, with its striking symmetrical cone, is the most recognisable, while near San José, Poás impresses with a vast milewide crater and a sulphuric lake tinted turquoise. The slopes support dwarf cloud forest that serves as a haven for hummingbirds and other highland bird species. Irazú, the highest volcano in Costa Rica, is also easily reached and on clear days its summit affords views of both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.

In a country defined by its volcanic landscapes and abundant forests, water plays a central role in daily life. Heated by volcanic energy deep below the surface, Costa Rica’s natural thermal springs make for a restorative escape. At the foot of Arenal Volcano and within Rincón de la Vieja National Park, mineral-rich pools range from secluded forest basins to landscaped retreats surrounded by tropical foliage.

Steam rises through lush vegetation and the air is filled with the sound of running water – a welcoming pause for travellers after days of exploration.

Costa Rica provides a sanctuary for six species of sea turtle, including the giant leatherback. During nesting season, visitors can witness one of nature’s most moving spectacles – adults laying eggs and hatchlings making their first journey to the ocean. Night-time excursions in Tortuguero, on the Caribbean coast, offer the chance to see loggerhead, hawksbill and green turtles between July and October.

On the Pacific side, at Tamarindo and Ostional, endangered leatherbacks arrive from October to March to nest on the dark volcanic sands.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

C OS T A R IC A • L AT I N A ME R I CA

EXPERIENCE

Sloth, Corcovado National Park

Canopy walkway, Monteverde

Long-tailed Silky flycatcher, San Gerardo

REMOTE OSA PENINSULA

CANOPY EXPLORATIONS

BIRDWATCHING

Draped in dense primary rainforest, the magnificent Osa Peninsula shelters one of Costa Rica’s greatest natural treasures: Corcovado National Park, described by National Geographic as “the most biologically intense place on Earth.” we can arrange stays in a rustic yet luxurious lodge in the park or on the penisula where you’ll encounter a remarkable diversity of wildlife, from monkeys and sloths to ocelots, anteaters, toucans and scarlet macaws. Offshore, palm-fringed Caño Island boasts golden beaches, vivid coral reefs and superb snorkelling in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life.

One of the most memorable ways to experience Costa Rica’s biodiverse forests is from the treetop canopy, with numerous tours offering a fresh perspective over the green expanse below. Thrill seekers can opt for zip lining – a popular attraction – which invites you to spot wildlife while soaring above the forest floor, secured in a harness and clipped to sturdy cables. Those preferring gentler pursuits can explore via forest trails, aerial trams and suspension bridges, gaining a bird’s-eye view of the vibrant ecosystem and the soundscape of the jungle.

Laying claim to more than 850 recorded bird species, many endemic, Costa Rica is a world-class birdwatching destination. In the north, the internationally significant Caño Negro wetlands protect endangered migratory species and host turtles, caimans and monkeys alongside anhingas, roseate spoonbills and wood storks. The Osa Peninsula and Palo Verde wetlands shelter abundant waterfowl, while Sarapiquí rainforest and the cloud forests around San Gerardo offer sightings of trogons, hummingbirds and the brilliantly plumed quetzal – a highlight for many visitors.

From highlands to coast, birdlife flourishes in exceptional variety.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Costa Rica Adventure 12 days & 10 nights Standard Self-drive from £2,895 (incl. flights) Standard Guided from £3,495 (incl. flights)

Explore Costa Rica at your own pace on a self-drive adventure or a guided journey through one of the planet’s richest natural environments. From tropical beaches and volcanic valleys to cloud forests filled with wildlife, it’s a destination that draws you in, one landscape at a time – ideal for couples, families and nature lovers alike.

Days 1 & 2: Fly to San José Fly from London to San José and stay for 2 nights at the D’Sabana Hotel. Depending on your interests, visit one of the country’s active volcanoes – Poás, with its turquoise crater lake, or Irazú, the highest in Costa Rica – and enjoy wide panoramas over the Central Valley.

Days 3 & 4: Arenal Drive to Arenal for a 2-night stay beneath the striking form of Arenal Volcano. Visit Sky Adventure Park for broad views of the

Hummingbird, Monteverde

rainforest, volcano and enjoy an exhilarating zipline ride, or unwind in the natural hot springs and thermal pools at Tabacón.

Days 5 & 6: Monteverde Continue to Monteverde for 2 nights at Trapp Family Lodge. Explore the cloud forest reserve, walk through hanging bridges in the canopy in search of wildlife and visit a butterfly garden, brimming with movement and colour.

Days 7–10: Manuel Antonio or Nicoya Travel to the Pacific coast for 4 nights at the

Parador Resort & Spa. In Manuel Antonio, relax by the ocean or explore the national park’s forest trails; optional boat trips provide the chance to spot dolphins.

Alternatively, continue to the Nicoya Peninsula, offering some of Costa Rica’s finest beaches.

Days 11 & 12: San José • Fly home Return to San José for your overnight direct flight to London.

Included meals: 10 breakfasts

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Central America GUA T E M A LA | PA NA M A | NICA R A G UA | BELIZ E | EL SALV AD OR | HOND UR AS Antigua, Guatemala

Linking North and South America, this slender isthmus is a region of jungle-covered ruins, smoking volcanoes and dazzling Caribbean and Pacific shores. Panama’s famous canal connects the two coastlines, but beyond it lie rainforests, islands and remarkable biodiversity.

Guatemala fuses colonial splendour with ancient Mayan heritage, its landscapes dotted with volcanoes, jungles and glistening lakes. Neighbouring Belize, a tiny tropical paradise, offers pristine reefs, wildlife-rich forests and a relaxed Caribbean spirit. Less visited yet deeply rewarding, Nicaragua, Honduras and El Salvador reveal authentic cultures, charming colonial towns and a slower pace of life. Together, these small nations form a bridge between continents – a meeting point of landscapes, peoples and histories unlike anywhere else.

C&K RECOMMENDS Ancient civilisations, volcanic landscapes and tropical coastlines intertwine in Central America. Explore Mayan ruins at Tikal, Copán and Caracol, or wander through the colourful markets of Chichicastenango.

Local communities such as the Kuna and Emberá maintain enduring cultural identities, while colonial towns like Antigua, Granada and León showcase centuries of Spanish heritage. Wildlife thrives in forests and reserves, and highland plantations in Panama and Nicaragua reveal the roots of the region’s coffee culture. For relaxation, the islands of San Blas, Ambergris Caye and the Corn Islands offer white-sand beaches and superb snorkelling.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

C E N T R AL AM E RIC A • L AT I N A ME R I CA

GUATEMALA COLONIAL ANTIGUA • MAYAN RUINS • INDIGENOUS VILLAGES & MARKETS Guatemala combines natural beauty and ancient heritage in a compact and captivating setting. The colonial city of Antigua enchants with cobbled streets, pastel façades and views of surrounding volcanoes, while the nearby highlands are rich in coffee plantations, traditional weaving workshops and lively Mayan markets. Beautiful Lake Atitlán shimmers beneath three volcanic peaks, its shoreline dotted with villages such as Santiago Atitlán and San Juan La Laguna, where local life plays out in vivid colour and rhythm.

In the northern jungles of El Petén, the great Mayan city of Tikal rises above a vast forest full of wildlife, while lesser-known sites like Yaxhá and Ceibal offer quieter encounters with the distant past. Travelling further east, the lush Río Dulce winds toward the Caribbean, passing canyon cliffs and rainforest before reaching Livingston, a lively coastal town shaped by Garifuna, Maya and Afro-Caribbean culture, and a fascinating counterpoint to the country’s highland heart.

Lake Atitlán

Casco Viejo, Panama City

Caracol Mayan ruins

Ometepe Island

PANAMA

NICARAGUA

BELIZE

PANAMA CANAL • CLOUD FOREST & COFFEE PLANTATIONS • TROPICAL ISLANDS

COLONIAL ARCHITECTURE • ACTIVE VOLCANOS • CARIBBEAN BAREFOOT BLISS

JUNGLE LODGES • OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES • MAYAN SITES • BARRIER REEF & CARIBBEAN BEACHES

At the meeting point of two oceans and two continents, Panama combines sublime natural scenery with a dynamic cultural mix. In Panama City, modern skyscrapers rise beside the colonial quarter of Casco Viejo, while the Miraflores Locks reveal the workings of the world-famous canal.

Beyond the capital, explore the bird-rich rainforests of Soberanía National Park or the cool highlands of Boquete, known for its coffee plantations and mountain scenery.

In Central Panama, the Azuero Peninsula is home to folkloric towns and traditional festivals, while offshore lie coral-fringed islands including the laid-back Bocas del Toro archipelago and idyllic San Blas, home to local communities.

Safe, welcoming and refreshingly underexplored, Nicaragua rewards travellers with volcanic landscapes, graceful colonial cities and pristine nature reserves. Wander the cobbled streets of Granada beside Lake Nicaragua, or explore León’s vibrant art scene and revolutionary heritage. In the highlands, Matagalpa’s fertile slopes produce some of Central America’s finest coffee, while adventurous visitors can hike Mombacho volcano or explore the twin-peaked island of Ometepe. Along the San Juan River, dense rainforest and wetlands lead into the wildliferich Indio Maíz Biological Reserve. Nicaragua’s coastlines range from Pacific surf beaches to the laid-back Caribbean charm of Little Corn Island, ideal for barefoot relaxation.

Small but perfectly formed, Belize combines rainforest adventure, Mayan heritage and an inimitably Caribbean pace of life. In the Cayo District, luxury jungle lodges provide access to forest trails, caves and the ancient temples of Caracol. Northern Belize’s Orange Walk District features a myriad of birdlife and archaeological sites like Altun Ha and Lamanai, reached by boat through lush waterways. Further south, the remote Toledo District reveals rainforests, rivers and traditional Maya villages. Offshore, the world’s second-largest barrier reef stretches along a coastline of palm-fringed cayes and turquoise seas – perfect for snorkelling and relaxed days on Ambergris Caye or Placencia.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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EXPERIENCE

Copán, Honduras

Antigua, Guatemala

Centennial Bridge, Panama Canal

MAYAN RUINS OF TIKAL & COPÁN

COLONIAL ANTIGUA, GUATEMALA

PANAMA CANAL CROSSING

Hidden deep in the rainforest, the ancient city of Tikal in Guatemala is one of the most impressive Mayan sites, with more than 3,000 structures rising above the jungle canopy. Its towering pyramids – the Temple of the Grand Jaguar and the Temple of the Masks – face each other across the Grand Plaza amid a chorus of howler monkeys and tropical birds. In neighbouring Honduras, still near the Guatemalan border, Copán reveals a different splendour: intricately carved stelae, detailed sculptures and tunnels leading to buried temples and cosmological stucco reliefs.

Once Guatemala’s 16th-century capital, Antigua remains a colonial city of stark beauty, set against the backdrop of three majestic volcanoes. Despite centuries of earthquakes and rebuilding, its cobbled streets and pastel façades retain remarkable charm. Explore on foot to discover grand churches, monasteries, shaded courtyards and graceful mansions. The city is also famed for its spectacular Holy Week celebrations, when intricate alfombras – carpets of dyed sawdust, flowers and pine needles – line the streets for colourful processions.

Sail through one of the world’s great engineering achievements on a partial or full transit of the Panama Canal. Glide past rainforest-covered banks, through a series of mighty locks, and into Lake Gatún via the dramatic Gaillard Cut, where the canal pierces the Continental Divide. The Miraflores Locks visitor centre offers a fascinating insight into this extraordinary feat of construction, with a museum detailing its history and an observation platform from which to watch vast ships squeeze through the narrow passageways with astonishing precision.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Mayan Triangle 16 days & 14 nights Superior from £5,295 (incl. flights)

Beginning in Antigua, Guatemala’s elegant former capital, this overland private journey explores Central America’s ancient and colonial heritage. Visit atmospheric Mayan sites across Guatemala, Honduras and Belize, discover indigenous traditions and unwind on white-sand beaches.

Days 1 & 2 : Fly to Guatemala City • Antigua Fly to Guatemala City, via the US and transfer to the colonial town of Antigua for 2 nights at Meson de Maria. Take a walking tour of this picturesque town to discover cobbled streets and ornately decorated churches.

Days 3 & 4: Lake Atitlán Drive to Lake Atitlán via the small Mayan ruins of Iximché. Stay at Hotel Atitlan overlooking the lake and take a boat tour to visit surrounding villages.

Day 5: Chichicastenango • Antigua Visit the colourful indigenous Chichicastenango market (Thur & Sun) before returning to Antigua for an overnight.

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Mayan temple, Tikal, Guatemala

Days 6 & 7: Copán Travel across Guatemala into Honduras for 2 nights at Marina Copan, close to the famous Mayan site of Copán and visit the ruins.

Days 8 & 9: Tikal Continue to northern Guatemala to explore the magnificent Mayan temples of Tikal, stopping en route at Quiriguá.

Days 10 & 11: Cayo District Cross into Belize for a 2-night stay at the

Black Rock Jungle Lodge in the Cayo District and visit the Mayan ruins of Caracol and Rio Frio Cave.

Days 12–14: Hopkins Transfer to the coastal village of Hopkins for 3 nights at Hopkins Bay Resort to relax by the Caribbean Sea. Days 15 & 16: Fly home via the US Included meals: 14 breakfasts and 4 lunches

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 1800 or speak to your travel agent

C E N T R AL AM E RIC A • L AT I N A ME R I CA

EXPERIENCE

Masaya volcano, Nicaragua

VISIT ACTIVE MASAYA VOLCANO, NICARAGUA Just outside Managua, Masaya Volcano National Park is among Nicaragua’s most accessible and awe-inspiring natural sites.

The park’s vast caldera contains several craters, including the active Santiago crater, whose steaming rim delivers dramatic views deep into the earth. From the viewpoint, you can watch molten lava glowing red-orange in the darkness below – a mesmerising sight, particularly at dusk. As evening falls, bright green parakeets circle and roost close to the crater walls, seemingly unfazed by the heat and smoke rising from this mesmerising volcanic landscape.

Ambergris Caye, Belize

Suchitoto, El Salvador

RELAX AT AMBERGRIS CAYE, BELIZE

EL SALVADOR’S DELIGHTS

Ambergris Caye, the largest of Belize’s islands, is an alluring mix of Caribbean charm and understated luxury. A short distance from the lively yet laid-back town of San Pedro, elegant beachfront lodges and boutique resorts line white sands overlooking turquoise seas. The island lies parallel to the world’s second-largest barrier reef, making it a popular base for snorkelling and diving. At Hol Chan Marine Reserve, a natural break in the reef, crystal-clear waters uncover brilliantly coloured coral gardens and tropical marine life, from angelfish and rays to gentle nurse sharks.

Often overlooked yet richly rewarding, El Salvador may be small in scale but offers an experience of real depth and warmth.

Discover the cobbled streets and colonial charm of Suchitoto, cruise across its tranquil lake, or visit coffee plantations set amid volcanic slopes. The scenic Route of the Flowers winds through mountain villages famed for their handicrafts, while the Pacific coast offers black-sand beaches and relaxed surf towns. Archaeological treasures such as San Andrés, Tazumal and UNESCO-listed Joya de Cerén – known as the “Pompeii of the Americas” – complete this captivating journey.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Central America Revealed 19 days & 17 nights Standard from £5,795 (incl. flights)

Venture through Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua and El Salvador to discover Central America’s rich blend of volcanic landscapes, tropical wildlife and atmospheric colonial towns, ending in Antigua, Guatemala’s picturesque former capital. Extend your adventure to explore the Mayan ruins of Tikal and unwind on the white-sand beaches of Belize’s Ambergris Caye.

Days 1–3: Fly to Panama City via the US Fly to Panama City for 3 nights. Tour the colonial old town with an optional visit to the Miraflores Locks Museum. Take a half-day shared transit along the Panama Canal and an optional early-morning birdwatching excursion in Soberanía National Park.

Days 4 & 5: To Boquete Fly to David and continue to Boquete, a charming highland town. Explore forest trails and visit a coffee estate.

Days 6 & 7: To Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica Travel by road across the border into Costa

Granada, Nicaragua

Rica and continue down the Pacific coast to Manuel Antonio. Take a guided tour of the park – its compact size belies its biodiversity.

Days 8 & 9: Carara • Arenal Drive to Arenal, stopping at Carara National Park, home to monkeys, crocodiles and scarlet macaws. Stay 2 nights near Arenal Volcano and visit the hanging bridges or natural hot springs.

Days 10 & 11: To Granada, Nicaragua Cross the border into Nicaragua and stay 2 nights in colonial Granada. Explore the city, cruise among the islets of Lake Nicaragua, and visit the Masaya handicraft market and active Masaya volcano.

Days 12 & 13: León • Suchitoto, El Salvador Drive to León to tour its historic centre and the ruins of León Viejo. Stay overnight and take an optional boat trip in Juan Venado

Nature Reserve before flying to San Salvador.

Continue to the colonial town of Suchitoto for 1 night and including a half-day tour.

Days 14 & 15: Route of the Flowers • Ataco Visit Joya de Cerén archaeological site and transfer to Ataco, located on the scenic Route of the Flowers. Stay for 2 nights and explore Cerro Verde National Park, the beautiful Coatepeque Lake and the indigenous town of Nahuizalco.

Days 16 & 17: Antigua, Guatemala Continue by road over the border to Antigua and stay for 2 nights. Explore the historic city on a half-day tour or extend your stay at Lake Atitlán.

Days 18 & 19: Fly home from Guatemala City via the US. Included meals: 17 breakfasts

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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N O R T H AM E R I C A From the glitz, grit and verve of the big cities to the monumental grandeur of the national parks, the US and Canada offer a continent’s worth of experiences all year round.

It’s easy to let nature take centre stage. Rail ride through the Rockies, seek out grizzlies in British Columbia, and soak up the iconic red-rock vistas of America’s grandest canyons. In between, you’re spoilt for boldly individual cities to explore, not least cosmopolitan Vancouver, glamorous Los Angeles, flashy Las Vegas and historic Québec City.

Both countries lend themselves to a self-drive holiday, with extensive road networks that grant you freedom, flexibility and access to dramatic scenery – from the rugged coasts of Pacific California to New England’s autumnal foliage. There is plenty to please the palate, too, including the Creole flavours of the Deep South, the French cuisine of Québec and the lauded lobsters of Atlantic Canada.

View our full collection online The destinations and tours featured in this brochure represent a small sample of what we offer. Our website contains a wealth of additional itineraries, detailed country guides and accommodation options.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3514 0916 or speak to your travel agent

C OU N T RY • N ORT H A ME R I CA

Spirit Island in the Canadian Rocky Mountains

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Canada Algonquin National Park, Ontario

Known for its tremendous wilderness, abundant wildlife, and eminently livable cities, Canada stretches across six time zones and is the world’s second-largest country.

The landscapes on offer are truly cinematic. The peaks of the Canadian Rockies loom large in the west, providing a backdrop for adventures by rail and road. In the wilds of British Columbia, cool Pacific waters gush into pristine inlets, where isolated lodges give you the chance to spot grizzly bears.

Meanwhile, the east is a picture of vineyards, farmland and maple forests, alongside the economic powerhouse of Toronto – gateway to the Niagara Falls – and the distinctly FrenchCanadian cities of Montréal and Québec City.

Numerous First Nations settlements across the country also offer a chance to explore Canada’s indigenous heritage.

C&K RECOMMENDS Few countries have an outdoors as great, in both scale and access, as Canada’s. We can organise open-air activities that suit all ages; you can zipline from the top of mountains, horse ride in the wilderness and cruise glacial lakes to drifting icebergs. That’s not to mention the wildlife; our hand-picked guides will help you spot grizzly bears, moose, puffins, all manner of whales, and – if you’re lucky – polar bears. History enthusiasts may choose to explore the Gold Rush legacy in the Yukon, the colonial heritage of French Canada in Québec and the traditions of First Nations people in Atlantic Canada.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3514 0916 or speak to your travel agent

C AN AD A • N OR T H A ME R I CA

DRIVING IN CANADA FREEDOM & FLEXIBILITY • SCENIC ROUTES FOLLOWING MOUNTAINS & COASTLINE Many visitors to Canada enjoy the freedom of a hire car, and we can plan a self-drive itinerary that encompasses the highlights without excessive time on the road. Driving is on the right and road conditions are generally good. Your journey can incorporate one of Canada’s superlative scenic routes, such as the Sea-to-Sky Highway of British Columbia, which carries you from emerald ocean to snow-capped peaks; the Icefields Parkway of Alberta, taking you through the spine of the Rockies with a chance to visit the Columbia Icefield; the Cabot Trail of Nova Scotia, a 267-kilometre loop passing coastal mountains and highlands; or the Viking Trail of Newfoundland, which visits the remains of a 1,000-year-old Norse settlement.

Canadian Rockies

EXPLORE BY RAIL COVER VAST DISTANCES IN COMFORT • RIDE THE RENOWNED ROCKY MOUNTAINEER A rail journey is the perfect way to experience Canada’s immense landscapes, covering huge distances in comfort. Vibrant cities such as Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montréal are great places to start or end your journey. Along the way, watch the scenery change mile by mile, from sprawling forests to imposing peaks and glistening lakes. Our Canada experts can advise on the wide range of rail journeys available, from short day trips to longer coast-to-coast itineraries. Rocky Mountaineer is the most popular and one of the country’s most luxurious trains, winding through the heart of the Canadian Rockies with stops to take in the natural scenery.

Cheakamus Canyon on the ‘Rainforest to Gold Rush’ route (© Rocky Mountaineer)

WILDLIFE ADVENTURES SPOT BLACK, GRIZZLY & POLAR BEARS • GO WHALE WATCHING Canada’s sprawl of forests, rivers and lakes shelters an abundance of wildlife, including antlered moose, dam-building beavers, snow-padding lynxes and every shade of bear – American black, grizzly brown and polar white. In Western Canada, you may spot bears from the road, but a guided bear-watching excursion by boat ups your chances. In the east’s Gaspé Peninsula, take to the waters to see beluga whales, gannets, black bears, beavers and caribou.

In Atlantic Canada, cruise in search of puffins and endangered whale species such as humpback, finback and minke. For something truly rare, head to Manitoba to spot polar bears on the icy wastes.

Brown bears, Jasper National Park

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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BRITISH COLUMBIA VIBRANT VANCOUVER • BEAR WATCHING • SCENIC WILDLIFE CRUISES Framed by the Pacific Ocean and the Canadian Rocky Mountains, there’s no place quite like British Columbia on Canada’s west coast. The diverse landscapes include lush rainforests, towering mountain peaks, glistening glacial lakes, rugged coastlines, vibrant cities, rolling vineyards and flat prairies. Victoria on Vancouver Island is the provincial capital, but the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver is larger and more frequently visited. With us, you can whale watch from Vancouver Island, seek out grizzly bears in the Great Bear Rainforest, relax in the year-round mountain retreat of Whistler, sail a portion of the Inside Passage, sample local wines in the Okanagan Valley and stay in a wilderness lodge.

Orca, Vancouver Island

ALBERTA & THE ROCKIES SCENIC NATIONAL PARKS • THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS • TURQUOISE LAKES Alberta lies in the heart of Western Canada and is home to many of the characteristic images of the country. Famous for the Canadian Rocky Mountains that border the province to the west, Alberta’s landscapes stretch far beyond the mountains, with the rugged, dinosaur-fossil-strewn badlands to the east, vibrant cities and more than 300 provincial parks. With us, you can access the very best of the province, visiting the national parks of Banff and Jasper; the world’s largest dark-sky preserve; joining a glacier tour on Athabasca Glacier; seeing the turquoise water of Lake Louise; and donning a Stetson and boots for Canada’s biggest rodeo, the Calgary Stampede.

Moraine Lake, Banff National Park

MANITOBA POLAR BEAR VIEWING • DAY TRIPS ON THE TUNDRA & WILDERNESS LODGE STAYS Viewing polar bears is a key attraction in Canada, and Churchill – a town on Hudson Bay in northern Manitoba – is a hot spot for sightings of these impressive creatures, as well as beluga whales, Arctic foxes and the multi-hued phenomenon of the northern lights. There are various ways for you to enjoy Churchill’s wildlife with our expertise, from simple hotel stays with day trips onto the tundra, to group excursions to wilderness lodges that require an additional flight from Churchill. The warmer months between July and September are the best time to see much of the wildlife, including polar bears; however, the colder months of October and November provide polar bear sightings against a snowy backdrop.

Polar bear, Churchill, Manitoba

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3514 0916 or speak to your travel agent

C AN AD A • N OR T H A ME R I CA

ONTARIO RUGGED NATURAL BEAUTY • AWE-INSPIRING NIAGARA FALLS • ABUNDANT WILDLIFE Ontario reaches from the icy shores of Hudson Bay in the north down to the USA’s Great Lakes and has something remarkable to offer every visitor. Canada’s second-largest province provides an exciting mixture of bustling cities, coastal scenery, national parks and beautiful waterways.

Witness the power of Niagara Falls, search for moose and beavers in Algonquin Provincial Park and drive along the rugged coast of Georgian Bay. Visit the many sights of the Canadian capital, Ottawa, and cruise through the tranquil waters of the Thousand Islands archipelago. There are four international airports, although most will use Toronto or Ottawa as the gateway.

Niagara Falls

QUÉBEC PICTURESQUE NATIONAL PARKS • COBBLED STREETS TO EXPLORE • FRENCH CUISINE & CULTURE Québec encompasses a vast and diverse territory extending nearly 2,000km from the US border to the Arctic Ocean. The province has a strong French influence that dates to its formation in 1763, notable today in the region’s language, cuisine, architecture and politics. With swathes of forest, tundra, lakes, rivers, mountains and coastline, there’s much for the adventurous to explore. However, for most, the first places to visit are the cities of Montréal and Québec City. With a unique culinary tradition, Québec is justly celebrated for its many terroir products: craft beers and wines, ice ciders, Charlevoix lamb, cheeses and maple.

Frontenac Castle and Québec City

ATLANTIC CANADA FASCINATING CULTURE • SCENIC DRIVES • DELICIOUS SEAFOOD Located on the east coast, sparsely populated Atlantic Canada encompasses the provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. This maritime region is well known for its delectable seafood, remote beaches, whale watching, quaint villages, lighthouses and drifting icebergs. Each province has its own charm and culture, with the coastal landscapes and small towns best explored on a self-drive itinerary at a leisurely pace. The deep, whale-plied waters off Newfoundland are the final resting place of the Titanic, while Prince Edward Island provided the rustic setting for the classic children’s book Anne of Green Gables.

Traditional fishing stages, Newfoundland and Labrador

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Signature Vancouver to the Rockies by Rail & Road Duration • 12 days & 11 nights

RAIL JOURNEY

Price • From £8,175 (incl. flights)

SELF-DRIVE

Category • Superior The air is crisp and fragrant with pine as the Rocky Mountaineer train threads through soaring mountains and glacier-clad slopes, each bend revealing forests, waterfalls and hidden lakes. This journey by rail and road brings you to the celebrated national parks of Jasper and Banff, introducing you to the most cinematic scenery of the Canadian Rockies. You have the chance to cross glaciers, cruise crystalline lakes, hike forested trails and drive the scenic route, with expert guides available to elevate your excursions.

Day 1: Arrive Vancouver Arrive in Vancouver and check into L’Hermitage Hotel for 3 nights. Rest of your day at leisure.

Days 2 & 3: Vancouver Enjoy sweeping views of the bays, bridges, parks and peaks of Vancouver on a floatplane flight from Coal Harbour. Your following day is at leisure to explore more of the city, perhaps strolling the Stanley Park seawall or between Granville Island’s galleries and markets.

Day 4: Kamloops Board the Rocky Mountaineer train this morning – complete with Gold Leaf Service upgrade – and glide past fertile farmlands, lofty summits, sinuous rivers and sage-covered hills to the town of Kamloops. Transfer to a hotel of good standard for 1 night.

Day 5: Jasper Rejoin the Rocky Mountaineer on the scenic journey to Jasper. Arrive this afternoon and collect your hire car. Make your way to Forest Park Hotel for 3 nights.

Days 6 & 7: Jasper Enjoy a voyage on Maligne Lake with guided commentary, before reaching Spirit Island for a short walk to its most celebrated viewpoint.

Return to Jasper. Your next day is at leisure to explore more of Jasper National Park.

Day 8: Lake Louise Step onto ancient glaciers aboard the Ice Explorer all-terrain vehicle, then ascend to the vertiginous Glacier Skywalk. Arrive in Lake Louise for the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

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Day 9: Banff Enjoy an optional canoe ride on Lake Louise or hike to Lake Agnes Tea House. Drive the Bow Valley Parkway to Banff, with the afternoon at leisure. Stay 3 nights at Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa. Days 10 & 11: Banff Enjoy a serene morning drifting on the Bow River with the Big-Canoe guided tour (included). Following day at leisure.

Day 12: Fly home Drive to Calgary Airport, return your hire car and fly home.

Included meals: 2 breakfasts and 2 lunches.

The Rocky Mountaineer train

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3514 0916 or speak to your travel agent

C AN AD A • N OR T H A ME R I CA

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Wild Wonders of British Columbia Duration • 13 days & 12 nights

SELF-DRIVE

Price • From £7,815 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Revel in the wild delights of British Columbia – from Vancouver Island’s rainforests to the roaming grizzlies – on this tailored adventure. Journeying by floatplane, boat and hire car, you have the chance to admire Canada’s westernmost province from every angle. Seek out grizzly bears at Knight Inlet Lodge and lobtailing whales on Clayoquot Sound, and explore the cosmopolitan charms of Vancouver and Victoria.

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Grizzly bear, Knight Inlet

Day 1: Arrive Vancouver Arrive in Vancouver and make your way to L’Hermitage Hotel for 3 nights. The rest of your day is at leisure.

Days 2 & 3: Vancouver Take a floatplane flight for sweeping views over Vancouver and its surrounding mountains and coastline.. Following day at leisure to explore more of the city.

Day 4: Campbell River Collect your hire car and drive to Horseshoe Bay for the ferry to Vancouver Island. After crossing, drive to Campbell River – ‘Salmon Capital of the World’ – and check into Comfort Inn & Suites for 1 night.

Day 5: Knight Inlet Take a floatplane to the mouth of Glendale River, where Knight Inlet Lodge rests upon wide cedar booms. After settling in, join an interpretive bear-watching excursion.

Stay at Knight Inlet Lodge for 2 nights.

Day 6: Knight Inlet Enjoy a short boat ride to the pristine Kwalate Valley for an interpretive rainforest walk.

Alternatively, opt for another lodge-led adventure.

Day 7: Tofino/Ucluelet Final visit to the bear viewing platforms, then take a floatplane to Campbell River. Drive to Tofino, stopping en route to wander among the 800-year-old Douglas firs and cedars of Cathedral Grove. Stay 3 nights at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.

Days 8 & 9: Tofino Embark on a whale-watching cruise on Clayoquot Sound. You may spot grey or humpback whales, sea lions basking on outcrops, or the piercing gaze of a bald eagle.

Following day at leisure.

Grey whale, Tofino

Days 10 & 11: Victoria Return to Vancouver’s eastern shores and drive to Victoria, perhaps pausing en route at the artist community of Chemainus, or in Duncan, famed for its First Nations totem poles. Continue to Fairmont Empress Hotel for 3 nights. Your following day is at leisure.

Day 12: Victoria Sample the best of Victoria’s culinary heart on a food tour, tasting your way around the vibrant Inner Harbour.

Day 13: Fly home Drive to Swartz Bay and take the ferry to Tsawwassen. Continue to Vancouver Airport, where you return your hire car and fly home.

Included meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Gems of Atlantic Canada Duration • 13 days & 12 nights

SELF-DRIVE

Price • From £3,095 (incl. flights) Category • Standard This journey along Canada’s Atlantic coast brings you to sandstone cliffs sculpted by the world’s highest tides, towns steeped in Acadian heritage and islands where the nation’s confederation was born. From Halifax, take the scenic route to Saint John, Charlottetown and Baddeck on Cape Breton Island, enjoying vistas of weathered lighthouses, rugged headlands and mirror-like lakes as you visit the cultural and historical highlights.

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Day 1: Arrive Halifax Arrive in Halifax, gateway to Atlantic Canada, and spend 2 nights at Lord Nelson Hotel.

Days 2 & 3: Halifax Set off on a guided tour of Peggy’s Cove, a picturesque fishing village where Canada’s most photographed lighthouse stands watch over wave-battered rocks. Your following day is at leisure; perhaps visit Grand-Pré to uncover the story of the Acadians, or one of Halifax’s acclaimed vineyards for a wine tasting.

Day 4: Moncton Depart Halifax and follow the Bay of Fundy’s dramatic shoreline, arriving in Moncton this afternoon. Check in to Rodd Moncton Hotel for 1 night.

Days 5 & 6: Saint John After visiting the Monument-Lefebvre National Historic Site, take the coastal route toward

Saint John, stopping at Hopewell Rocks’ sandstone formations. Upon arrival in Saint John – Canada’s oldest incorporated city – check into Homeport Historic B&B for 2 nights. Following day at leisure.

Day 7: Charlottetown Depart Saint John and journey across the Confederation Bridge, the world’s longest continuous multi-span bridge, to Prince Edward Island. Arrive in Charlottetown, ‘Birthplace of Confederation’, and check into The Great George for 3 nights.

Days 8 & 9: Charlottetown Enjoy two days at leisure, with admission included to both Prince Edward Island National Park and the Green Gables Heritage Site.

Day 10: Baddeck Take a ferry across the Northumberland Strait, then continue to Cape Breton Island via the

Cabot Trail

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Canso Causeway. Arrive in Baddeck, with the option to visit the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site (admission included) for insight into the inventor’s life on the island.

Check into Inverary Resort for 3 nights on the shores of Bras d’Or Lake.

Days 11 & 12: Baddeck Cape Breton’s wild coast, dramatic cliffs and Cabot Trail scenic highway are yours to discover at leisure. You may also wish to visit the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site (admission included) for its fascinating reconstruction of 18th-century colonial life.

Day 13: Fly home Drive to Halifax Airport, return your hire car and fly home.

Included meals: 3 breakfasts.

Flowerpot Rocks, Cape Hopewell, Bay of Fundy

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3514 0916 or speak to your travel agent

C AN AD A • N OR T H A ME R I CA

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Eastern Canada by Rail Duration • 12 days & 11 nights

RAIL JOURNEY

Price • From £4,835 (incl. flights) Category • Luxury Embark on a whistlestop tour of Eastern Canada, rolling between the central attractions of its two largest provinces: Ontario and Québec. Highlights include a boat ride at the base of the Niagara Falls, a cruise along the UNESCO-listed Rideau Canal and guided city tours of Ottawa, Montréal and Québec City.

Comfortable rail journeys connect each stage, taking you past maple groves, rolling hills and winding rivers, while accommodation is luxurious and perfectly placed throughout.

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Niagara Falls, Toronto

Château Frontenac, Québec City

Day 1: Arrive Toronto Arrive in Toronto and make your way to Fairmont Royal York for 3 nights.

to experience Ottawa’s landmarks, including Parliament Hill, the National War Memorial and ByWard Market.

famous Fairmont Le Château Frontenac for 3 nights.

Day 2: Toronto Explore Toronto at leisure, with included entry to the landmark CN Tower for panoramas across Lake Ontario and the city.

Day 6: Montréal Take the train to Montréal, pulling in directly beneath the lobby of the grand Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth, where you stay for 3 nights.

Day 3: Toronto Join a guided Niagara Falls small-group tour to experience the roaring cascades from the water, bypassing queues with priority boarding of the Hornblower boat.

Days 7 & 8: Montréal Join a guided walking tour of old Montréal, visiting landmarks such as the magnificent Notre-Dame Basilica and the Old Port. The next day is at leisure.

Days 4 & 5: Ottawa Riding in Business Class, take the train to Canada’s capital, where you stay 2 nights at Fairmont Château Laurier. The next day, enjoy a guided walking tour and Rideau Canal cruise

Day 9: Québec City Take the train in Business Class to Québec City, the country’s oldest walled settlement, with its deeply rooted French-Canadian culture and lovingly preserved architecture. Check into the

Days 10 & 11: Québec City Enjoy a guided history tour, tracing the story of Québec with visits to the atmospheric Latin Quarter, the Plains of Abraham where empires once clashed, the ramparts that encircle the old centre, the Place-Royale and the Citadelle.

The following day is at leisure.

Day 12: Fly home Travel to the airport and catch your overnight flight home.

Included meals: 1 breakfast and 2 lunches.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover the USA Yosemite National Park

One of the world’s largest countries, the US comprises 50 states, each with its own culture, cuisine and historical influences. This is the land of the spectacular Grand Canyon, the sizzling tastes and sounds of the South, and numerous national parks whose splendour and scale defy belief.

Discover the colonial charm of New England, go in search of glaciers and bears in Alaska, experience the Pacific paradise of Hawaii, or visit the glitzy cities along California’s golden coast. With so many sights on and off the beaten track, one visit is rarely enough, and we have enough recommendations to last you a lifetime.

C&K RECOMMENDS Arguably the greatest way to explore the US is by car, and we can plot the perfect route for you, arranging your hire vehicle and hotels along the way. There are plenty of renowned highways and byways whisking you through jaw-dropping scenery, not least California’s Pacific Coast Highway, where you can follow rugged coastline past mountains covered in redwoods. Then there are the 63 nationals parks; see the sandstone cliffs and canyons of Zion or Bryce, admire the sequoia trees and waterfalls of Yosemite, seek wildlife and geothermal wonders in Yellowstone, or hike in the wilds of Denali, Alaska.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3514 0916 or speak to your travel agent

U S A • N ORT H A ME R I CA

CALIFORNIA WORLD-CLASS WINES • GOLDEN BEACHES • YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK The ‘Golden State’ offers a celebrated coastline, sun-kissed beaches, dazzling cities and picturesque parklands. In the north, you’ll find towering redwood forests to explore, while golden sands and a relaxed lifestyle typify the south. Go hiking in Yosemite National Park, sample word-class wines in Sonoma and Napa Valley, cycle across the Golden Gate Bridge and see the imprints of Hollywood greats along Los Angeles’ Walk of Fame.

Bixby Creek Bridge, Pacific Coast Highway, Big Sur

THE SOUTH HOME OF COUNTRY MUSIC • MISSISSIPPI CRUISES • NEW ORLEANS’ FOOD & MUSIC SCENE Stretching from Louisiana to South Carolina, the Deep South is defined by its riveting history, influential culture and melting pot cuisine. Here you can learn about Alabama’s civil rights heritage, take a steam paddler down the Mississippi, sample authentic mud pie and fried chicken, discover the home of country music in Nashville and explore Kentucky’s frontier history – all before immersing yourself in the vibrant music scene of New Orleans.

Bourbon Street, French Quarter of New Orleans

Horseshoe Bend, Arizona

Hudson Valley in autumn

Whale watching, Alaska

THE SOUTHWEST

THE NORTHEAST

THE NORTHWEST & ALASKA

GRAND CANYON & NATIONAL PARKS • NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE • GLITZY LAS VEGAS

NEW ENGLAND IN AUTUMN • NEW YORK CITY • LANDMARKS OF WASHINGTON DC

ART & FOOD SCENES OF SEATTLE & PORTLAND • ALASKA’S SNOWBOUND BEAUTY & WILDLIFE

The Southwest covers Arizona, New Mexico and parts of California, Colorado, Nevada, Oklahoma, Texas and Utah. Las Vegas and Phoenix – two of the largest cities – are popular entry points. The region is blessed with multiple national parks, exceptional wildlife, and, of course, the Grand Canyon.

Hike mountains, admire desert vistas, join an authentic cowboy experience and learn the traditions of local people.

The Northeast is home to the capital, Washington DC, with its numerous national landmarks; and New York, one of the world’s great global cities and a cultural powerhouse. An autumn visit to New England, the landing site of the Pilgrims, promises forests ablaze in gold, amber and red; while the Hudson Valley rewards visitors after a scenic hike with its farm-totable dining.

The Pacific Northwest brings you up to the edge of Canada. For cultural highs, sample the arts and food scenes of Seattle and Portland. For natural highs, you have the ‘American Alps’, wild coasts and temperate rainforests. Alaska, the largest state in the US, is a picture of gelid forests, towering mountains, calving glaciers and photogenic wildlife, and is best explored from Anchorage.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Signature California In Style Duration • 16 days & 15 nights

SELF-DRIVE

Price • From £4,695 (incl. flights) Category • Superior California seduces with its golden beaches, misty redwoods, granite cliffs and vineyard-covered hills – and a self-drive holiday is the most flexible way to explore America’s ‘Golden State’. This road journey brings you from the rainbow streets of San Francisco to the sunlit calm of Santa Barbara, through national parks, wine country and along one of the world’s most scenic coastlines.

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Day 1: Arrive San Francisco Arrive in San Francisco and check into Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf for 3 nights.

Day 2: San Francisco Join a hop-on, hop-off bus tour for an introduction to San Francisco and its landmarks, from the Golden Gate Bridge to multicoloured Haight-Ashbury. This includes a ferry across the Bay to Alcatraz Island, where a self-guided audio tour brings the former prison to life.

Day 3: San Francisco Venture beyond the city limits on a smallgroup nature tour, including the redwoods of Armstrong Woods, the Pacific coastline and the waterfront enclave of Sausalito.

Day 4: Napa Valley Pick up your hire car and set off to Napa Valley, California’s wine-growing epicentre. Check into River Terrace Inn for 2 nights.

Day 5: Napa Valley Morning and afternoon at leisure. This evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner experience aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train, winding between sunlit vineyards.

Days 6-8: Yosemite National Park Drive to Yosemite National Park and check in at Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite for 3 nights. On your second day, embark on a 5-hour guided hike through the park’s photogenic, quieter corners. Your final day is at leisure.

Days 9 & 10: Monterey Depart Yosemite and head to the cool Pacific waters of Monterey Bay. The InterContinental the Clement Monterey is your home for the next 2 nights. The following day, take a whalewatching tour for a chance to spot humpbacks, dolphins and more.

Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

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Days 11 & 12: Santa Barbara Drive along Carmel’s famed 17-Mile Drive and Highway 1 for Pacific coast views. Arrive in Santa Barbara and check into The Steward, Santa Barbara for 2 nights. Your following day is at leisure to explore Santa Barbara, home to beautiful beaches, Spanish-colonial architecture and tempting restaurants.

Days 13-15: Santa Monica Drive to Santa Monica and check into Viceroy Santa Monica for 2 nights. The following day, take a guided bike ride through the city’s charming downtown and Venice Beach’s neighbourhoods. Your final day is at leisure.

Day 16: Fly home Return your hire car at LAX and fly home.

Included meals: 1 dinner

Napa Valley vineyard

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3514 0916 or speak to your travel agent

U S A • N ORT H A ME R I CA

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Quintessential New England Duration • 15 days & 14 nights

SELF-DRIVE

Price • From £3,845 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Self-drive through some of the most historic corners of New England, from Boston’s red-brick heritage to Cape Cod’s salt-air serenity. Enjoy independent exploration at a pace that suits you, alongside guided walking tours tracing the history and embracing the scenery of this northeastern region. Days shift between seafood feasts and forest trails, stately mansions and golden beaches; by the time you reach the dunes of Provincetown, New England has worked its lasting magic.

Statue of George Washington, Boston

Day 1: Arrive Boston After landing in Boston, check into Fairmont Coplay Plaza for 3 nights.

Day 2: Boston Join a guided walking tour of the Freedom Trail, tracing Boston’s revolutionary roots from Boston Common to Copp’s Hill Terrace, stopping at all 16 official landmarks. Rest of the day at leisure.

Day 3: Boston Enjoy a guided tour of Fenway Park, home of the famous Boston Red Sox baseball team.

Your afternoon is at leisure to explore more of Boston.

Day 4: Kennebunkport Collect your hire car and set off to the heritagesteeped coastal town of Kennebunkport.

Overnight at Inn on the Square, Falmouth.

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The Breakers and Cliff Walk, Newport

Days 5 & 6: White Mountains Set off towards the ruggedly beautiful White Mountains and check into The Inn at Thorn Hill for 2 nights. The next day, join a ‘Meet the Winemakers’ tour at Seven Birches Winery, which includes tastings and demonstrations.

Days 7 & 8: Stowe Drive into the heart of alpine Vermont to Stowe, and check in at Von Trapp Family Lodge for 2 nights. Your next day is at leisure to explore Stowe’s mountain scenery and woodland trails.

Day 9: The Berkshires Journey south into the rolling hills and leafy lanes of the Berkshires region and check into the Hotel on North, Pittsfield for 1 night. Rest of the day at leisure.

Days 10 & 11: Newport Drive from the wooded hills of western Massachusetts to the Atlantic-facing elegance of Newport, Rhode Island – once the summer playground of America’s ‘Gilded Age’ elite.

Check into The Chanler at Cliff Walk for 2 nights. The next day, visit two of Newport’s heritage mansions, including the palatial Breakers property.

Days 12-14: Cape Cod Drive to Cape Cod, a region awash with weathered shingles and windswept dunes, and check into Chatham Bars Inn for 3 nights.

Your next day is at leisure. On your final day, join a whale-watching tour to Stellwagen Bank, sailing from Barnstable Harbor.

Day 15: Fly home Return your hire car at Boston Logan International Airport and fly home.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

The Historic Heartland Duration • 17 days & 16 nights

SELF-DRIVE

Price • From £3,735 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Take a self-drive tour through America’s eastern heartland, where historic harbours meet rustic Amish villages and university towns give way to battlefield plains. Baltimore hums with waterfront energy, while Pittsburgh blends steel-town grit with leafy parks and art-filled enclaves. Through founding cities and quiet countryside, riverside strolls and rolling Blue Ridge views, this route reveals a patchwork of past and present.

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Capitol Building, Washington DC

Day 1: Arrive Washington DC Arrive in the American capital and check into The Darcy Hotel for 3 nights.

Days 2 & 3: Washington DC Take a guided electric bike tour of Washington’s landmarks, including the National Mall, Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the WWII and Vietnam Veterans Memorials. The next day, join a guided culinary tour and walk around Georgetown.

Days 4 & 5: Baltimore Collect your hire car and drive alongside the Chesapeake Estuary to Baltimore, then check into Hotel Revival for 2 nights. Your next day is at leisure to explore this historic harbour city, home of Edgar Allen Poe, Fort McHenry, the National Aquarium and seafood eateries serving up sought-after crab cakes.

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Battlefields in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Days 6 & 7: Philadelphia Drive to Philadelphia, arriving in time for a walking tour of the Old City led by a local historian who traces the legacy of the Founding Fathers. Check into Anna & Bel Hotel for 2 nights. Your next day is at leisure.

Day 8: Lancaster Journey to Lancaster, a charming city framed by farmland, for a day at leisure. Overnight at Lancaster Arts Hotel.

Day 9: Gettysburg Travel to historic Gettysburg, pausing en route for an Amish village tour. Overnight at Hotel Gettysburg.

Day 10: Pittsburgh Board a coach for a 2-hour Civil War battlefield tour led by a licensed National Park guide.

Continue to Pittsburgh and check in at Priory

Hotel for 2 nights. Your next day is at leisure to explore the city.

Day 12: Charleston Drive south into West Virginia, arriving in Charleston for time at leisure. Overnight at Hampton Inn Charleston-Southridge.

Days 13 & 14: Charlottesville Drive to Charlottesville and check in at Omni Charlottesville Hotel for 2 nights.

The following day is at leisure.

Days 15 & 16: Williamsburg Travel to Williamsburg, renowned for its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture, and check in at Williamsburg Lodge for 2 nights. The following day is at leisure.

Day 17: Fly home Return your hire car to Dulles International Airport and fly home.

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3514 0916 or speak to your travel agent

U S A • N ORT H A ME R I CA

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Flavours & Sounds of the South Duration • 15 days & 14 nights

SELF-DRIVE

Price • From £4,225 (incl. flights) Category • Superior This journey takes you through America’s Deep South to its cultural centres, focusing on the region’s musical heritage and distinctive cuisine. You begin in Nashville, a cornerstone of the country music scene, take the road to Memphis, home of Sun Studio and Elvis’ Graceland residence, and follow the Mississippi River to New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz and the perfect place to try rich Creole cuisine.

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Day 1: Arrive Nashville Arrive in Nashville, Tennessee’s toe-tapping capital, and check into Noelle Nashville Hotel for 4 nights.

the afternoon, take a short drive to Sheffield, Alabama for a tour of the FAME Recording Studios, Overnight at Renaissance Shoals Resort & Spa.

Days 2 & 3: Nashville Dive into the city’s musical heritage with your Nashville FUN Pass, which grants entry into attractions including the Johnny Cash Museum, the Country Music Hall of Fame and RCA Studio B. Your following day is at leisure.

Days 6-8: Memphis Drive to Memphis, another hotbed of musical tradition, and stay at ARRIVE Memphis Hotel for 3 nights. Your second day features a guided Memphis City Tour, including a visit to Sun Studio. On the final day in Memphis, your queue-skipping Graceland VIP ticket grants you access to Elvis’ historic home and private planes.

Day 4: Nashville Rise early for a full-day Jack Daniel’s Distillery Bus Tour & Whiskey Tastings in Lynchburg.

Day 5: Muscle Shoals Collect your hire car in Nashville and drive to Muscle Shoals, a town rich in musical lore. In

Day 9: Vicksburg Drive the Great River Road to Vicksburg, with the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at Anchuca Historic Mansion & Inn.

Lower Broadway, Nashville

Day 10: Natchez Drive to the riverside town of Natchez and overnight at Monmouth Historic Inn. Days 11-14: New Orleans Travel to New Orleans, return your hire car, and check into Hotel Monteleone for 4 nights.

On your second day, join a food walking tour of the French Quarter, sampling regional specialities at beloved eateries. Your next two days are at leisure to revel in New Orleans’ distinct cuisine, French-colonial architecture and influential music scene, rounded off with a jazz-filled cruise on the Mississippi.

Day 15: Fly home Travel to New Orleans Airport and fly home.

Trumpet player, New Orleans

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Gadi Sagar lake, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 1529 or speak to your travel agent

C OU N T RY • IN D IAN S U B CO NT I NE NT

I N D I AN SUBCONTINENT India: where cities alive with spice and colour give way to tranquil hill stations, sweeping deserts and tangled waterways. Forests shelter creatures of every kind, from prowling tigers to lumbering elephants. Ornate temples and glittering palaces mesmerise, while warm hospitality brings to life the Hindi adage that “the guest is god” (atithi devo bhava).

South lies teardrop-shaped Sri Lanka, the fabled “Gem Island”, gleaming with rubies, sapphires and the lush green of its tea plantations and palm-fringed shores. Hidden among its forests are ancient citadels and sacred sites of extraordinary beauty.

To the north rise the great Himalaya: Nepal, with its dramatic peaks and timeless villages, and tiny Bhutan, a Buddhist kingdom of vibrant festivals and cliffside monasteries.

The Indian Subcontinent lies at the heart of the Cox & Kings story, its wonders best revealed through the insight of our expert guides.

View our full collection online The destinations and tours featured in this brochure represent a small sample of what we offer. Our website contains a wealth of additional itineraries, detailed country guides and accommodation options.

CO X ANDKI N GST RAVEL .COM This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover the Golden Triangle & Rajasthan Women carrying water in the Thar Desert, Rajasthan

A land of fortresses and palaces, desert cities and sacred lakes, Rajasthan embodies the grandeur and colour of India’s royal past. Once traversed by caravans trading silk, spices and precious stones, the Thar Desert formed part of the ancient Silk Road and the heartland of the Rajput dynasties, who built magnificent citadels and ornate temples across its sands.

Today, the region’s arid plains and vibrant towns remain bursting with tradition – from Brahmin farmers and weavers to Raika shepherds in vivid attire. Across Rajasthan, the rhythms of village life meet the opulence of historic cities such as Jodhpur and Udaipur. Combined with Delhi, Agra and Jaipur – the famed Golden Triangle – Rajasthan offers a compelling portrait of India’s history, artistry and enduring spirit.

C&K RECOMMENDS Rajasthan’s festivals bring the region’s spirit vividly to life, with music, dance, processions and local food filling streets and courtyards. The exuberant celebrations of Diwali and Holi light up cities and villages alike, while the Pushkar Camel Fair draws traders and pilgrims to its desert arena each year. In Jodhpur, explore the monumental Mehrangarh Fort and the serene marble cenotaph of Jaswant Thada before taking a heritage walk through the old city’s indigo-washed lanes, temples and bustling bazaars. Here, amid the hum of daily life, the traditions of the Brahmins and artisans still colour Rajasthan’s cultural heart.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 1529 or speak to your travel agent

IN D IA • IN D IAN S U B CO NT I NE NT

DELHI BUSTLING LANES & RICKSHAW RIDES • TOMB OF EMPEROR HUMAYUN Discover Delhi’s contrasting faces, from the bustling lanes of Old Delhi to the grand avenues of the new. Explore Chandni Chowk – one of the city’s oldest and busiest markets – by rickshaw, visit the Jama Masjid and pass the Red Fort, then tour New Delhi’s landmarks, including India Gate, the viceregal residence, Qutb Minar and the exquisite tomb of Emperor Humayun with our expert guides.

Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi

AGRA SUNRISE AT THE TAJ MAHAL • COLONIAL WALKS & FOOD TOURS • UNESCO-LISTED FATEHPUR SIKRI Agra is home to the imposing Mughalbuilt Agra Fort and the sublime Taj Mahal.

Completed in 1653 by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, the Taj remains the world’s greatest monument to love and devotion. Nearby, the deserted city of Fatehpur Sikri offers a fascinating glimpse into 16th-century imperial life under Akbar the Great.

Taj Mahal, Agra

City Palace, Udaipur

UDAIPUR BOAT RIDE ON LAKE PICHOLA • CITY PALACE • KUMBHALGARH, THE ‘GREAT WALL OF INDIA’ Set beside the twinkling waters of Lake Pichola, Udaipur is one of India’s most romantic cities. Once the proud capital of Mewar, its era of peace from the 16th century fostered exquisite palaces and gardens along the water’s edge. Nearby lie the intricate Jain temples of Ranakpur and the mighty fort of Kumbhalgarh, encircled by vast walls and forested hills.

Bengal tiger, Ranthambore National Park

RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK BENGAL TIGERS & DIVERSE WILDLIFE • 300 BIRD SPECIES Once the private hunting reserve of Rajasthan’s maharajahs, Ranthambore is now a leading example of successful tiger conservation. Dominated by the 10thcentury, UNESCO-listed Ranthambore Fort, the park shelters over 80 Bengal tigers as well as leopards, sloth bears and sambar deer. Birdlife is prolific here too, with more than 300 species thriving among its lakes and forests.

Hawa Mahal, Jaipur

JAIPUR THE PINK CITY • COLOURFUL BAZAARS • PALACE OF MIRRORS Founded in 1727 and recognised by UNESCO in 2019, Jaipur – the famed ‘Pink City’ – is renowned for its stately architecture and regal heritage. Explore the City Palace and its museum, the Jantar Mantar observatory and colourful craft bazaars. Nearby, Amber Fort showcases exquisite Rajput and Mughal design, crowned by the glittering Sheesh Mahal, known as the ‘Palace of Mirrors’.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Columned hall of a Jain temple, Ranakpur

Train ride through rural Rajasthan

Kathak dancers, Haveli Dharampura

EXPERIENCE RANAKPUR

RURAL TRAIN RIDE DEOGARH

HAVELI DHARAMPURA

Set in a peaceful valley amid the Aravalli Hills, Ranakpur is home to one of India’s most beautiful Jain temples. Built in creamy marble and renowned for its astonishing detail, the temple is supported by 1,444 intricately carved pillars – no two alike.

Light filters through latticed stone, casting shifting patterns across the floors, while delicate sculptures depict celestial beings, dancers and deities. The stillness of the surrounding hills enhances the temple’s sense of devotion and artistry, making Ranakpur both an architectural wonder and a place of profound tranquillity and spiritual grace.

Take a ride on Deogarh’s historic metregauge train for a glimpse into Rajasthan’s timeless rural life. The leisurely journey winds past small villages, where children wave from dusty lanes and farmers tend their fields, before climbing through rugged hills and forested valleys once evoked in Kipling’s writing. Along the way, the open carriages offer an intimate view of the countryside – peacocks strutting among the trees, women in bright saris gathering firewood and flashes of sunlight on ancient rock formations, all serving to capture the poetry and rituals of everyday India.

Tucked into the narrow lanes of Old Delhi near Jama Masjid and the Red Fort, Haveli Dharampura is a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion that evokes the grandeur of Mughal Delhi. Guests can savour refined Mughlai and modern Indian cuisine in its elegant restaurant, watch a beguiling Kathak dance accompanied by Hindustani classical music, or join locals for rooftop kite flying. The haveli also offers boutique accommodation, blending heritage character with contemporary comfort – an atmospheric base for exploring the bustle of Chandni Chowk and the city’s buzzing old quarter.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 1529 or speak to your travel agent

IN D IA • IN D IAN S U B CO NT I NE NT

STAY

ROHET HOUSE, JODHPUR

NARENDRA BHAWAN PALACE, BIKANER

RAMGARH LODGE, JAIPUR

In the heart of Jodhpur, Rohet House stands as a testament to heritage reimagined for the modern traveller. Once the private residence of the royal family of Rohet, this pristinely restored urban haveli combines Rajput elegance with the trappings of contemporary comfort. Courtyards and landscaped gardens provide a tranquil setting, while interiors feature traditional craftsmanship alongside sleek design. Guests can relax by the pool, enjoy authentic Rajasthani cuisine prepared from cherished family recipes and soak up the understated luxury of a residence that embodies both regal lineage and modern sophistication.

Once the residence of Maharaja Narendra Singh, Narendra Bhawan in Bikaner is now a beautifully conceived boutique hotel exuding both royal heritage and modern style. The interiors artfully blend regal splendour, colonial elegance and contemporary design, creating an atmosphere of refined eccentricity and warmth that reflects the spirit of its princely origins. Each room is individually styled, combining vintage charm with luxurious comfort. Guests can enjoy imaginative dining experiences that celebrate regional flavours – from elegant formal settings to relaxed courtyard meals beneath the desert sky.

Perched amid the rugged Aravalli Hills, Ramgarh Lodge was once the hunting retreat of the Maharaja of Jaipur and today blends colonial architecture with ageless Rajasthani charm. Its vintage-style rooms feature antique furnishings, high ceilings and royal portraits, while elegant verandas, manicured lawns and sweeping views evoke the grandeur of Jaipur’s royal era.

A peaceful antidote to the bustle of the city, the lodge retains a sense of seclusion and romance, inviting guests to relax in regal surroundings, dine on traditional cuisine and take in the beauty of Rajasthan’s landscapes.

Narendra Bhawan Palace

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Golden Triangle & Ranthambore Duration • 10 days & 8 nights Price • From £2,995 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Discover the rich splendour of India’s Golden Triangle, where centuries of history, architecture and culture converge. Explore Jaipur’s majestic Amber Fort, a sandstone masterpiece overlooking the rugged Aravalli Hills, and marvel at Agra’s exquisite Taj Mahal, the ultimate symbol of love in marble.

Between these cultural icons, venture into Ranthambore National Park – a former royal hunting ground now reclaimed by nature and home to Bengal tigers, leopards, sambar deer and a remarkable wealth of other wildlife.

Day 1: Fly to Jaipur Days 2-4: Jaipur Arrive in Jaipur and transfer to the Royal Heritage Haveli for 3 nights. Take a guided tour of the city, including the hilltop Amber Fort, Anokhi Museum and the Panna Meena ka Kund stepwell. Visit the City Palace and view the ornate façade of the Hawa Mahal, the ‘Palace of the Winds’.

Days 5 & 6: Ranthambore National Park Visit a local Hindu temple for morning prayers before travelling to Ranthambore National Park for 2 nights at The Maharaja’s Lodge. Once the royal hunting ground of the maharajahs, the park is now home to around 80 Bengal tigers, including several cubs. This afternoon, relax

or explore nearby Devpura village, known for blackbuck deer, or meet a local textile artist to learn about the region’s tie-dye traditions. On your second day, enjoy morning and afternoon wildlife drives in a private 4x4 jeep.

Day 7: Agra Board the train from Sawai Madhopur to Bharatpur, then drive to Agra, visiting the deserted Mughal capital of Fatehpur Sikri en route. In the afternoon, explore Agra Fort, a grand complex of palaces built in distinctive red sandstone. Overnight at Tajview Agra.

Day 8: Delhi Visit the majestic Taj Mahal at sunrise and witness the soft morning light gently wash

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over its marble domes, then travel to Delhi for 2 nights at the Taj Palace. View Lutyens’ Delhi, then visit the magnificent red-sandstone edifice of Qutb Minar.

Day 9: Delhi Today, discover Old Delhi’s highlights, including Jama Masjid Agra, and take a rickshaw ride through the bustling lanes of Chandni Chowk.

Later, explore New Delhi’s refined grandeur with a visit to Humayun’s Tomb, a stunning example of Mughal architecture.

Day 10: Fly home Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Included meals: 9 breakfasts and 2 dinners

Amber Fort, Jaipur

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 1529 or speak to your travel agent

IN D IA • IN D IAN S U B CO NT I NE NT

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Heritage Rajasthan Duration • 17 days & 15 nights Price • From £4,095 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Follow the thread of India’s royal past on an adventure that takes in its most storied cities and landscapes. This evocative journey through Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle takes you from the Mughal grandeur of Delhi and Agra to Jaipur’s pink-hued palaces and the desert citadels of Jodhpur and Deogarh.

Stay in elegant havelis and opulent palaces, wander through bustling bazaars and serene courtyards, explore ornate forts and sacred temples, and conclude in Udaipur – a lakeside city steeped in romance and reflection.

Days 1-4: Delhi & Agra Fly to Delhi and stay 3 nights at the Haveli Dharampura. Take a rickshaw ride through Old Delhi. Travel by train to Agra to see the magnificent Taj Mahal and the impressive Mughal-era Agra Fort.

Days 5 & 6: Jaipur Fly to Jaipur and stay 2 nights at the beautifully restored Royal Heritage Haveli. Explore independently or join guided visits to the majestic Amber Fort, the City Palace, the Jantar Mantar Observatory and the city’s craftfilled bazaars.

Day 7: Barli Drive to Barli for an overnight stay at the 16th-century Fort Barli, where you can

experience the living history and warm hospitality of rural Rajasthan.

Days 8 & 9: Jodhpur Visit Barli’s bustling local market and ancient cenotaphs before continuing to Jodhpur for 2 nights at the heritage property Ajit Bhawan.

Explore the formidable Mehrangarh Fort and enjoy time at leisure.

Day 10: Ranakpur & Narlai Visit the intricately carved Jain temples at Ranakpur, then continue to Narlai for an overnight stay at Rawla Narlai, complete with an atmospheric dinner by candlelight.

Days 11 & 12: Deogarh Visit the hilltop fortress of Kumbhalgarh before

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travelling to Deogarh for 2 nights at Dev Shree, a charming heritage home. The following day is at leisure, with the option to take a scenic train ride or a 4x4 village safari.

Days 13-15: Udaipur Stop at the revered Nathdwara Temples en route to Udaipur. Stay 3 nights at Fateh Garh.

Explore the fresco-lined City Palace complex, wander the lakeside ghats and visit the Art & Frames Gallery.

Days 16 & 17: Delhi & Fly Home Fly to Delhi for a final night at the Trident Gurgaon.

Included meals: 15 breakfasts and 1 dinner

Lake Pichola, Udaipur

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

79

Discover the Indian Himalaya Shimla

Rising along India’s northern frontier, the Himalaya form a realm of dramatic peaks, deep ravines and enduring spiritual power. This is a landscape where mountain trails wind through pine forests, remote monasteries cling to hillsides and prayer flags ripple in the wind, carrying whispered prayers across high, snow-fed valleys.

Yet the region’s cultural richness is as striking as its scenery. In Amritsar, the magnificent Golden Temple – its dome gilded with 100 kilograms of pure gold by Maharajah Ranjit Singh – stands as a radiant symbol of Sikh devotion. Each evening, the temple glows with light during the moving Palki Sahib ceremony, a moment that captures the Himalaya’s atmosphere of faith and serenity.

C&K RECOMMENDS Nestled at the foot of the Dhauladhar mountain range, Palampur is Himachal Pradesh’s serene tea capital, where terraced plantations spread beneath forested hills. Visit a working estate to stroll through manicured tea gardens, meet local pickers and see the delicate process that transforms leaf to cup before sampling freshly brewed infusions. For the most comfortable conditions, visit between October and November, or February and March.

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SHIMLA SUMMER CAPITAL OF THE BRITISH RAJ • COLOURFUL MARKETS • MOUNTAIN RAILWAY TOY TRAIN Set amid cedar forests and snowy Himalayan peaks, Shimla was once the summer capital of the British Raj. Stroll along the Mall, where half-timbered houses and grand colonial buildings overlook colourful markets such as Lakkar Bazaar.

Ride the narrow-gauge ‘toy train’ through misty hills, and visit the splendid Viceregal Lodge, a striking reminder of Shimla’s imperial past.

Viceregal Lodge, Shimla

DHARAMSALA HOME OF THE DALAI LAMA • TIBETAN CULTURE • GENTLE WALKS IN THE HIMALAYAN FOOTHILLS Once a British hill station, Dharamsala is now the spiritual home of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. At its heart, McLeod Ganj charms with monasteries, craft shops, teahouses and panoramic mountain views. Visit the Tsuglagkhang Complex – the Dalai Lama’s residence – explore the Norbulingka Institute’s Tibetan art, or join a cookery class beneath the majestic Dhauladhar peaks.

Prayer wheels, Kora circuit in McLeod Ganj

Kangra Valley Railway

Golden Temple, Amritsar

Offering for Ganga aarti, Haridwar

KANGRA VALLEY

AMRITSAR

HARIDWAR

HIMALAYAN VISTAS • SCENIC MOUNTAIN RAILWAY

GOLDEN TEMPLE • PRIDE & PAGEANTRY AT THE BORDER

A PLACE OF PILGRIMAGE • REVERED TEMPLES • HOLY RITUALS

The medieval village of Pragpur provides an idyllic base for exploring the Kangra Valley, a landscape of forested hills, winding rivers and enchanting rural life. Walk, cycle or birdwatch through its tranquil countryside, visit the ruins of Kangra Fort and the Bajreshwari temples, or ride the wonderfully scenic Kangra railway between Baijnath and Nagrota.

The holy city of Amritsar is home to the resplendent Golden Temple, its gilded dome glowing at dusk during the moving Palki Sahib ceremony, accompanied by devotional song and prayer. Nearby, the daily Wagah Border ceremony sees a spirited display of pride and pageantry as the border guards of India and Pakistan lower their flags in unison at sunset.

One of Hinduism’s seven sacred cities, Haridwar marks the place where the Ganges River emerges from the Himalaya. Pilgrims gather daily to bathe in its holy waters and visit revered temples. As dusk falls, the Ganga Aarti at Har-ki-Pauri ghat fills the air with music, chanting and the distinctive fragrance of incense carried by the wind.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

81

Discover the Central Plains Royal Cenotaphs on the banks of River Betwa, Orchha

At the heart of northern India, the Central Plains reflect centuries of empire, artistry and reverence. In Lucknow, elegant architecture and nawabi refinement evoke a bygone age, while Varanasi, on the banks of the Ganges, remains one of the world’s most sacred cities, with ritual and divine belief never far from the surface, as seen in the pilgrims who gather at dawn each day.

Nearby Khajuraho captivates with its finely carved temples celebrating both the hallowed and the everyday. Across Madhya Pradesh, ancient forts, painted caves and wildlife reserves reveal the region’s deep historical and natural wealth.

Together, these destinations capture the essence of the Central Plains – a meeting ground of spiritual life and enduring tradition.

C&K RECOMMENDS Visit Varanasi during Dev Deepawali, held 15 days after Diwali, when the ghats are illuminated by thousands of flickering lamps and the Ganges glows with floating diyas – a breathtaking celebration of light over darkness. Just outside Varanasi lies Sarnath, one of Buddhism’s four holiest sites, where the Buddha delivered his first sermon. Explore the Dhamek and Chaukhandi stupas, the Ashoka Pillar, and the site’s serene parklands, which together convey a deep sense of peace and continuity across centuries of devotion.

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VARANASI HINDU CENTRE OF PILGRIMAGE • SACRED GANGES RIVER • EVENING GANGA AARTI CEREMONY On the banks of the sacred Ganges River, the city of Varanasi is India’s spiritual heart.

At dawn, the ghats come alive with pilgrims bathing, chanting and lighting incense as the sun rises over the famous river. Beyond the water, lanes hum with classical music, handwoven Banarasi silk and the aromas of street food.

Varanasi

LUCKNOW REMNANTS OF THE RAJ • UNIQUE INDO-PERSIAN CULTURE • DISTINCT CUISINE WITH A FUSION OF STYLES Elegant and atmospheric, Lucknow is a city of culture, cuisine and courtly grace.

Once the seat of the Nawabs of Awadh, it flourished as a centre of art, music and Mughal-inspired architecture. Explore the grand Bara Imambara and Rumi Darwaza, admire colonial relics from the Raj era and sample the city’s celebrated Awadhi fare, renowned for its rich, aromatic flavours.

Bara Imambara, Lucknow

Kandariya Mahadeva Temple, Khajuraho

KHAJURAHO EYE-CATCHING CHANDELA TEMPLES • RANEH FALLS Built a thousand years ago by the Chandela dynasty, Khajuraho’s Hindu and Jain temples are famed for their intricate carvings and evocative sculptures that celebrate life, love and divine creation. Of the original 85, 22 survive today. Each February, the Khajuraho Dance Festival transforms the temple complex with classical music, dance and local craftsmanship.

Bengal tigers, Bandhavgarh National Park

BANDHAVGARH NATIONAL PARK HIGH DENSITY OF TIGERS • 250 BIRD SPECIES Once the hunting reserve of the maharajahs of Rewa, Bandhavgarh National Park now shelters one of India’s highest concentrations of Bengal tigers, and is the perfect choice for a safari. Its mosaic of forest, grassland and rocky hills supports remarkably rich wildlife, from leopards to wild dogs and over 250 bird species.

Jahangir Mahal Orchha

ORCHHA BEAUTIFUL PALACES & SHRINES • SUPERB RURAL VISTAS Sleepy Orchha is one of central India’s most evocative historic towns and a lasting testament to the Bundela rulers’ legacy.

Founded in 1531 on the banks of the Betwa River, it’s home to an impressive fort complex of palaces and temples, including Jahangir Mahal and Chaturbhuj Temple, scattered with small shrines and cenotaphs and boasting scenic views over the countryside.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

A Walk through Himalayan Foothills Duration • 11 days & 9 nights Price • From £3,695 (incl. flights) Category • Discovery This journey through the Himalayan foothills reveals a quieter side of northern India, where mountain trails wind through pine forests and rural villages untouched by time. Gentle walks offer glimpses of traditional Kumaoni life, while Corbett National Park provides the chance to spot tigers and elephants in their natural habitat. The journey concludes in Haridwar, where pilgrims gather on the Ganges for the evening aarti ceremony – a moving celebration of light, faith and renewal.

Day 1: Fly to Delhi Day 2: Delhi Arrive and transfer to the heritage Maidens Hotel for 1 night.

Days 3–6: Kathgodam & Kumaon villages Take the train to Kathgodam and stay overnight at the peaceful Itmenaan Estate, set among pine, oak and rhododendron forests in the Kumaon Himalayas. Trek through picturesque villages such as Almora, Thikalna and Ganghet, staying in welcoming village houses along the way. Across your days here, there are also treks through the

scenic countryside around Kathogodam and a moderate day hike to Jhankarsem temple, along with several local villages, terraced fields and old Kumaoni houses, followed by a picnic lunch before returning to the estate for an overnight stay.

Days 7 & 8: Corbett National Park Drive to Corbett National Park for 2 nights at the Jim’s Jungle Retreat, spread across the foothills of Kumaon. India’s first wildlife reserve, and one of India’s last expanses of Himalayan wilderness, Corbett’s rugged terrain shelters elephants, deer, leopards and Bengal tigers.

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Day 9: Haridwar Travel to Haridwar for the evening Ganga Aarti ceremony on the riverbanks, where priests perform ancient rituals with flaming torches.

Overnight at Haveli Hari Ganga.

Day 10: Delhi Morning train to Delhi for an overnight stay at the Maidens Hotel.

Day 11: Fly to London Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Included meals: 9 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners

View of the Himlayas, Kumaon

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

The Jungle Book: Wildlife of India Duration • 12 days & 10 nights Price • From £3,295 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Travel into the wild reaches of Kipling’s India, where dense forests, grassy meadows and winding rivers form the domain of the majestic Royal Bengal tiger along with countless other exalted species. Explore three of the region’s most celebrated reserves – Kanha, Bandhavgarh and Pench – on immersive guided safaris led by expert naturalists. Staying in intimate, characterful wilderness lodges, experience the landscapes and wildlife that inspired The Jungle Book and continue to define India’s alluring, untamed heart.

Day 1: Fly to Delhi Day 2: Delhi Arrive in Delhi and transfer to The Claridges New Delhi for an overnight stay.

Days 3–5: Bandhavgarh National Park Fly to Jabalpur and drive to Bandhavgarh for 3 nights at Bandhav Vilas. Morning and afternoon jeep safaris offer the chance to spot tigers, leopards, sloth bears, deer and abundant birdlife. Enjoy a second day of wildlife viewing in Bandhavgarh with more safari drives.

Days 6–8: Kanha National Park Drive to Kanha and spend 3 nights at Chitvan Jungle Lodge, a tranquil retreat surrounded by forest. Once a British hunting ground, Kanha inspired Kipling’s The Jungle Book and supports rich wildlife, including tigers, leopards and langur monkeys. During your stay, embark on two safaris that reveal the park’s varied terrain and habitats.

Days 9 & 10: Pench National Park Continue to Pench National Park for 2 nights at Pench Jungle Camp. Enjoy wildlife drives through teak forests and river valleys, home

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to deer, leopards, wild dogs and a wealth of birdlife. The best time for sightings is February to March.

Day 11: Mumbai Drive to Nagpur and fly to Mumbai for an overnight stay at the Trident Nariman Point.

Day 12: Fly to London Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Included meals: 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 9 dinners

Leopard, Kanha National Park

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Southern India Houseboat on the backwaters of Kerala

In India’s southern reaches, the rhythms of daily life are dictated by monsoon rains, temple bells and the scent of cardamom in the breeze. In Kerala, palm-fringed backwaters weave through spice plantations and emerald hills, while lively festivals fill the air with music and colour.

Crossing the Western Ghats into Tamil Nadu reveals a land steeped in faith, its ancient temples and towering gopurams chronicling centuries of devotion. Further inland, the vast Deccan Plateau bears the legacy of powerful dynasties, from the maharajahs of Mysore to the grand forts and graceful palaces that once defined their reign. Combined, these southern states offer a captivating portrait of India – serene yet spirited, ancient yet ever evolving.

C&K RECOMMENDS Glide through Kerala’s tranquil backwaters aboard a traditional kettuvallam houseboat, passing palm-shaded villages, paddy fields, canals and fishing nets heavy with the day’s catch. Journey on the UNESCO-listed Blue Mountain Railway as it winds through tea plantations, forests and misty Nilgiri hills, stopping at hill stations like Ooty and Coonoor along the way. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the lush sanctuaries of Nagarhole, Bandipur and Periyar, home to elephants, tigers and vibrant birdlife. November to March brings the most pleasant weather for travel, while September and October see temple festivals and post-monsoon greenery at their most vivid.

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KOCHI RICH COLONIAL LEGACY • SPICE TRADE HISTORY Previously a thriving port on southern India’s fabled spice route, Kochi remains one of the country’s most atmospheric coastal cities – an alluring blend of colonial history and Keralan charm. With our expert guides, explore Fort Kochi’s streets lined with old churches, warehouses and markets, visit the Mattancherry Palace and synagogue, and watch the iconic Chinese fishing nets at sunset over the Arabian Sea.

Chinese fishing nets, Kochi

CHENNAI COLOURFUL GOPURAMS • ROCK-CUT TEMPLES • SUNSET BEACH WALKS Chennai, the gateway to southern India, blends coastal energy with deep-rooted tradition. Explore the colourful gopurams of Kapaleeshwarar and Parthasarathy temples, stroll along Marina Beach at sunset and discover nearby Mahabalipuram with its remarkable rock-cut temples and shore carvings – a UNESCO-listed landmark that stands as a bold testament to Tamil Nadu’s artistic and spiritual heritage.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Chennai

Inside of Meenakshi hindu temple, Madurai,

French quarter, Puducherry

Mysore Palace

MADURAI

PUDUCHERRY

MYSORE

ANCIENT & BUSTLING CITY • THE LIVELY MEENAKSHI TEMPLE • GANDHI MUSEUM

FRENCH LEGACY • COLONIAL MANSIONS

ORNATE ARCHITECTURE • SUBLIME TEMPLES OF SOMNATHPUR

The seaside town of Puducherry was once a French colonial outpost and still exudes a distinctly Gallic charm. Its elegant villas, treelined boulevards and pavement cafés evoke the ambience of southern France, while Tamil culture adds a local rhythm. Notable attractions include the Sri Aurobindo Ashram and nearby Auroville, or travellers can simply wander the shaded streets of the atmospheric French Quarter.

The former capital of a princely state, Mysore still reflects its regal splendour in grand palaces and manicured gardens.

The opulent Mysore Palace, adorned with murals, is illuminated by 100,000 lights on Sundays and public holidays. From here, visit the island fortress of Srirangapatna or the beautifully carved temples of Somnathpur for a glimpse of Karnataka’s heritage.

Madurai lies on the banks of the Vaigai River and hums with a spiritual energy you might expect from one of India’s oldest cities. Its beating heart is the magnificent MeenakshiSundareswarar Temple, a riot of vividly painted towers and ceaseless devotion.

Explore the ornate Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace and sample Chettinad cuisine, rich with spice and flavour.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Highlights of Kerala Duration • 14 days & 12 nights Price • From £2,995 (incl. flights) Category • Superior A striking contrast to India’s bustling northern plains, Kerala offers a sense of calm amid a setting of lush abundance. This serene southern state, situated on the country’s tropical Malabar Coast, is characterised by palm-lined waterways, emerald rice paddies and spice-scented hillsides. Discover its cultural and natural highlights – from Kochi’s colonial charm to Munnar’s misty slopes to Kumarakom’s lakeside calm – before unwinding on Kerala’s sun-drenched coast, where the golden sands and tranquil backwaters provide the perfect finale.

Day 1: Fly to Kochi Days 2 & 3: Kochi Arrive in Kochi, a coastal city rich in colonial history, spice-scented markets and backwater charm. Transfer to the Eighth Bastion for 2 nights. Explore landmarks revealing Kochi’s blend of Arab, Jewish and European influences, including the Chinese fishing nets, Mattancherry Palace, St Francis Church and the world’s oldest active synagogue. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kathakali dance performance.

Days 4 & 5: Munnar Drive to Munnar, a picturesque hill station carpeted with tea plantations. Stay 2 nights at Windermere Estate. Take a guided walk

through the Lockhart Estate and learn about traditional tea cultivation.

Days 6 & 7: Thekkady Travel through the Western Ghats to Thekkady for 2 nights at Spice Village. Stroll through the spice plantation, then explore the biodiverse forests and grasslands of Periyar, home to vibrant birdlife, elephants and lush tropical flora.

Days 8 & 9: Kumarakom Continue to Kumarakom for 2 nights at Coconut Lagoon, set along the peaceful Vembanad Lake. Take part in Kerala’s Responsible Tourism village experience, meeting local farmers and artisans to gain an authentic glimpse of rural life.

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Day 10: Backwaters Board a traditional kettuvallam houseboat for an overnight cruise through Kerala’s palmfringed backwaters. Watch village life unfold along the canals and enjoy freshly prepared cuisine on board.

Days 11-13: Mararikulam Disembark and transfer to Mararikulam for 3 nights at Marari Beach Resort. Spend your days relaxing amid golden sands and swaying palms.

Day 14: Fly home Transfer to Kochi airport for your return flight.

Included meals: 12 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner

Tea plantations, Munnar, Kerala

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Tamil Nadu: Temples & Traditions Duration • 13 days & 11 nights Price • From £2,895 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Discover the cultural and spiritual essence of Tamil Nadu on this evocative journey through southern India. From Chennai’s lively streets and Puducherry’s French charm to the grand temples of Tanjore and Madurai’s sacred splendour, experience a region steeped in history, artistry and a deep spirituality. Explore exquisite temple architecture, colonial heritage and vibrant markets, stay in elegant heritage hotels and sample the distinctive flavours of Chettinad cuisine during this memorable adventure through one of the jewels in India’s crown.

Day 1: Fly to Chennai Days 2 & 3: Chennai Arrive in Chennai and transfer to the Taj Connemara for 2 nights. The remainder of the day is at leisure. The next day, enjoy a fullday guided city tour visiting Mylapore and the sacred Kapaleeshwarar Temple, San Thome Basilica and the historic Fort George area, before exploring Georgetown’s bustling bazaar.

Days 4-6: Puducherry Drive south via Mahabalipuram to see the famous Shore Temples before continuing to Puducherry. Stay 3 nights at Palais de Mahé – CGH Earth. Discover the French Quarter, Aurobindo Ashram and the scenic promenade, browse local markets and sample Franco-Tamil

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cuisine. The final day is free to relax or explore at leisure.

and learn about the area’s architectural and mercantile heritage.

Days 7 & 8: Kumbakonam Drive inland toward Tanjore, visiting Chidambaram Temple and Kumbakonam, known for its traditional bronze workshops.

Stay 2 nights at Mantra Koodam. Take a halfday city tour including Brihadishwara Temple, Tanjore Palace and the Saraswathi Mahal Library, followed by an afternoon at leisure.

Days 11 & 12: Madurai Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to Madurai. Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple for the atmospheric evening ceremony. Stay 2 nights at Gateway Madurai. The following day, take a tour including the Meenakshi Temple, Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal and local markets.

Afternoon at leisure.

Days 9 & 10: Chettinad Continue to Chettinad, stopping en route in Tiruchirappalli. Stay 2 nights at Visalam – CGH Earth, a beautifully restored Chettinad mansion. Explore the region’s grand ancestral homes, lively markets and distinctive cuisine,

Day 13: Fly home Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Included meals: 11 breakfasts

Brihadishwara Temple, Tanjore

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Eastern India Mount Kanchenjunga over Darjeeling

Stretching from the Bay of Bengal’s fertile deltas to the Himalayan foothills, eastern India is a region of mighty rivers, monsoon-green plains and misty highlands. This part of the country encompasses the cultural dynamism of Kolkata, the tea-covered slopes of Darjeeling and the remote monasteries of Sikkim. Ancient trade routes once crossed these mountains, leaving behind a rich mix of Buddhist and colonial influence.

Further east, the hills of Meghalaya and the broad valleys of Assam reveal quieter rural settings, while Kaziranga National Park boasts some of the jewels of the animal kingdom: one-horned rhinos, Bengal tigers and wild elephants. In the mangrove labyrinth of the Sundarbans, land and water merge – a fitting reflection of eastern India’s remarkable diversity.

C&K RECOMMENDS Visit Puri on the Bay of Bengal, known for its long beaches and for the 12th-century Jagannath Temple, one of Hinduism’s most important pilgrimage sites. Nearby Konark is home to the UNESCO-listed Sun Temple, a remarkable 13th-century structure carved in the form of Surya’s chariot. A visit to Lake Chilika offers the chance to spot Irrawaddy dolphins and large flocks of migratory birds. River cruising is also an excellent way to experience eastern India, particularly along the Hooghly or Brahmaputra (see page 96 for more details).

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KOLKATA COLONIAL LEGACY • VICTORIA MEMORIAL • LIVELY FLOWER MARKET Kolkata, on the banks of the Hooghly River, is India’s cultural capital with a strong colonial heritage. Highlights include the grand Victoria Memorial and the iconic Howrah Bridge. Explore Dalhousie Square, browse bookstalls along College Street and visit the lively early-morning flower market.

We suggest at least 3 nights to absorb the city’s rich history, architecture and everyday street life.

Victoria Memorial, Kolkata

DARJEELING COLONIAL SUMMER CAPITAL • TEA PLANTATIONS Once a summer retreat of the British Raj, Darjeeling retains its colonial-era charm alongside Buddhist monasteries and bustling bazaars. Ride the UNESCO-listed Darjeeling Hill Railway, visit Observatory Hill for views of Kanchenjunga and explore the Tenzing Norgay Mountaineering Institute.

Stay on a tea estate to walk through plantations, meet tea workers and learn traditional plucking techniques.

Tea plantation, Darjeeling

Stupas at Tirpai Monastery, Kalimpong

Enchey Monastery, Gangtok

One-horned rhino, Kaziranga National Park

KALIMPONG

GANGTOK

KAZIRANGA NATIONAL PARK

COLOURFUL MARKETS • ORCHID NURSERIES • RURAL LIFE

RICH TIBETAN BUDDHIST CULTURE • VILLAGE WALKS

ONE-HORNED RHINOS, BENGAL TIGERS & WILD ELEPHANTS

Kalimpong is a small hill town in northern West Bengal, known for its bustling twiceweekly markets where villagers gather to trade fresh produce, woollen textiles and traditional medicines. Once an important stop on the old tea trade route, today the town is recognised for its flower nurseries, which ship blooms worldwide. Nearby, rural trails lead through villages, rice fields and scenic waterfalls.

The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok offers impressive views of the Kanchenjunga range and a strong Tibetan Buddhist influence.

Visit Enchey Monastery, an important Nyingma site, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, which houses rare scriptures and artefacts. Gangtok also serves as a convenient base for village walks and visits to other notable monasteries in the surrounding hills.

Kaziranga National Park was established to protect the Indian one-horned rhinoceros and is now home to a thriving population of the species. Its marshes, tall elephant grass and woodland also support Bengal tigers, wild buffalo, barasingha and numerous bird species. Open October to May, the park can be explored by 4x4 safari with an expert naturalist.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Western India Jain temples on top of Shatrunjaya hill, Palitana, Gujarat

Western India combines centuries of maritime trade, desert frontiers and fast-growing cities.

Gujarat, once a key stop on ancient trading routes, is known today for its salt plains in the Little Rann of Kutch, traditional textile heritage and the Gir Forest, the only remaining habitat of the Asiatic lion. Further south, Maharashtra centres around Mumbai – India’s financial capital and home to Bollywood, colonial architecture and a thriving arts scene.

Inland, the UNESCO-listed cave temples of Ajanta and Ellora reveal extraordinary craftsmanship carved directly from rock.

Halfway down the western coastline, Goa reflects its long Portuguese history, with whitewashed churches, seafood markets and wide sandy beaches that make it one of India’s most relaxed coastal retreats.

C&K RECOMMENDS Anchored on the banks of the Godavari, Nashik serves as an important pilgrimage centre and one of the four host cities of the Kumbh Mela pilgrimage festival. Visit its river ghats, temples and the Pandav Leni caves, then explore the surrounding vineyards, now central to India’s emerging wine industry. Further south, Goa offers wide sandy beaches, fresh-off-the-boat seafood and a relaxed pace of life shaped by more than four centuries of Portuguese influence. Baroque churches, spice-rich cuisine and colourful village festivals also make it an enjoyable place to unwind.

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MUMBAI GATEWAY OF INDIA • COLONIAL ARCHITECTURE Mumbai (formerly Bombay) has a history spanning fishing village origins, Portuguese rule and British expansion, shaping it into India’s major port and commercial hub.

The iconic Gateway of India, built to mark the 1911 royal visit, still overlooks the harbour. Today, Mumbai blends colonial architecture with markets, waterfront promenades and busy neighbourhoods, offering a vivid introduction to western India’s energy and contrasts.

Gateway of India, Mumbai

SASAN GIR NATIONAL PARK HOME TO ASIATIC LIONS • 250 BIRD SPECIES • HOT SPRINGS Located in south-west Gujarat, Sasan Gir National Park is the last remaining habitat of the endangered Asiatic lion. Established in 1965, its conservation efforts have helped the population recover to more than 300. The park’s forests and rocky valleys also support leopards, hyenas, wild boar, crocodiles and over 250 bird species, with visits also possible to Kankai Mata temple and the Tulsi Shyam hot springs.

Asiatic lions, Sasan Gir National Park

Traditional embroidery, Bhuj

Adalaj stepwell

Flamingoes, Little Rann of Kutch

BHUJ

AHMEDABAD

LITTLE RANN OF KUTCH

DISTINCTIVE BANNI VILLAGES • KUTCHI-EMBROIDERED HANDICRAFTS • SALT FLATS

TEMPLES, MOSQUES & STEPWELLS • CALICO MUSEUM

COASTAL WETLAND • SUPERB WILDLIFE SPOTTING

Perched on the banks of the Sabarmati River, Ahmedabad blends historic neighbourhoods with a modern urban core.

Once the capital of the Gujarat sultanate and later a textile centre, it is home to the excellent Calico Museum of Textiles. January brings the popular Uttarayan kite festival.

En route to the Little Rann of Kutch, stop at Patan’s Rani-ki-Vav stepwell and Modhera’s 11th-century sun temple.

The Little Rann of Kutch is a vast saline plain that becomes a coastal wetland after the monsoon, making it excellent for cross-desert safaris and wildlife viewing. In winter, nearly 300 bird species can be seen, including flamingoes and demoiselle cranes.

The sanctuary also protects the endangered Indian wild ass. Nearby, Dasada provides access to Rabari villages known for fine embroidery.

The city of Bhuj serves as the main base for exploring the Banni tribal villages and the salt flats of Kutch. Its old town retains narrow lanes where camel carts still operate and artisans produce renowned Kutchi embroidery. Although the 2001 earthquake damaged much of the city, notable buildings such as the Prag Mahal and the Aina Mahal survived, displaying striking 18th-century interiors.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Eastern Himalayan Trails Duration • 12 days & 10 nights Price • From £3,995 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Venture into India’s Himalayan northeast, where misty mountains shelter scenic temples and villages. This journey focuses on the highlights of West Bengal and Sikkim, exploring Tibetan Buddhist culture alongside historic colonial influences. Travel aboard the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway to Ghoom, stay at a working tea estate overlooking terraced slopes and visit monasteries and viewpoints in Gangtok and Pelling. The itinerary is bookended with time in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), the capital of West Bengal, home to grand Raj-era architecture, art galleries and cultural festivals.

Day 1: Fly to Kolkata

Overnight at Elgin Silver Oaks.

Days 2 & 3: Kolkata Arrive and transfer to the Taj Bengal for 2 nights. Visit Kolkata’s flower market, a feast of colours and fragrances, then walk to the famous Howrah Bridge. Explore Kumartuli (the clay sculptors’ district), Tagore House, the Marble Palace and the Jain Temple. Later, drive past notable landmarks including the Writers’ Building, St Paul’s Cathedral, Town Hall, College Street and the Victoria Memorial before returning to your hotel.

Days 5 & 6: Gangtok Drive to Gangtok for 2 nights at the Elgin NorKhill. Enjoy views of the Kanchenjunga range and explore Sikkim’s Buddhist heritage. Visits include Rumtek Monastery, Enchey Monastery and the orchid sanctuary.

Day 4: Fly to Bagdogra • Kalimpong Fly to Bagdogra and drive to Kalimpong, known for its scenic setting and flower nurseries.

Toy Train, Darjeeling Himlayan Railway

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Stay 3 nights at Glenburn Tea Estate. Take a guided estate walk with views over Sikkim, Kalimpong and the Rungeet river, observing local birdlife and rural life. Ride the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (toy train) to Ghoom. Take a guided tour including the Tibetan Refugee Centre and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute.

Day 7: Pelling Continue to Pelling and stay overnight at Elgin Mount Pandim, set in forested grounds.

Visit Pemayangtse Monastery and the nearby Rabdentse ruins.

Day 11: Fly to Kolkata Drive to Bagdogra and fly to Kolkata for an overnight stay at the Taj Bengal.

Days 8–10: Darjeeling Visit Khecheopalri Lake en route to Darjeeling.

Included meals: 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners

Day 12: Fly home

Rumtek Monastery, Sikkim

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 1529 or speak to your travel agent

IN D IA • IN D IAN S U B CO NT I NE NT

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Colours of Gujarat Duration • 13 days & 11 nights Price • From £3,595 (incl. flights) Category • Superior This adventure through Gujarat combines craft traditions, wildlife and sacred heritage. Begin in Bhuj, where village artisans continue intricate textile work. Travel via Rajkot to Sasan Gir National Park for safari drives in the last remaining habitat of the Asiatic lion. Continue to Bhavnagar to visit the hilltop Jain temples of Palitana, before ending in Ahmedabad to explore its historic old city and the Sun Temple at Modhera. A varied itinerary offering culture, history and wildlife in equal measure.

Day 1: Fly to Bhuj via Mumbai Days 2-4: Bhuj Arrive and transfer to The Bhuj House for 3 nights. During your stay, take a full-day excursion to the Banni villages and the salt flats to observe local artisan traditions.

Many communities here continue longstanding crafts, particularly needlework and textile arts that form an important part of regional culture.

Day 5: Rajkot Drive to Rajkot, where Mahatma Gandhi spent part of his early life. Stay overnight at the Sayaji Rajkot.

Days 6–8: Sasan Gir National Park Drive to Sasan Gir National Park, stopping to explore Junagadh and the Uparkot Fort complex, with its palaces, stepwells and ancient caves. Continue to Sasan Gir for a 3-night stay at Lion Safari Camp. The park’s forested valleys and rivers are the last remaining habitat of the Asiatic lion. Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives with opportunities to see lions, leopards, hyenas, wild boar, deer and varied birdlife.

Days 9 & 10: Bhavnagar Drive to Bhavnagar and stay 2 nights at Efcee Sarovar Portico. Visit the hilltop Jain temple complex at Palitana on the Shatrunjaya hills, which contains hundreds of intricately carved

Banni village huts, Bhuj

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marble shrines and is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Jains.

Days 11 & 12: Ahmedabad Drive to Ahmedabad and stay 2 nights at The House of MG. Explore the old city’s historic gates, traditional residential clusters and examples of Indo-Islamic architecture.

Visit the intricately carved Sun Temple at Modhera, where the temple and stepped tank form a striking complex aligned to the solar calendar.

Day 13: Fly home via Mumbai Included meals: 11 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 4 dinners

Asiatic lions, Sasan Gir National Park

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover India Rail & Cruise Varanasi Ghats, Ganges River

Rail and river cruise journeys provide a relaxed way to see India without the demands of overland travel. Crossing the country by train brings its shifting landscapes into view through wide picture windows, with opulent cabins, attentive service and fine dining. River cruising offers a different perspective altogether: daily life along the banks unfolds steadily as you sail, with stops to visit small towns, rural communities and historic sites that are often missed on traditional routes.

Both styles of travel include guided excursions, well-planned itineraries and accommodation that moves with you, allowing more time to enjoy the journey rather than the logistics. Our experts can tailor rail or cruise adventures with key sites and experiences for the ideal holiday.

C&K RECOMMENDS A river cruise on the Brahmaputra offers a different view of India’s northeast. One of the world’s widest rivers, it flows past fishing villages, tea gardens and shifting sandbanks. Shore excursions introduce local crafts, monasteries and tribal communities, while wildlife encounters may include one-horned rhinos and elephants in nearby Kaziranga National Park. For a shorter rail experience, India’s famous toy trains, running on narrow gauge tracks at a gentle pace, provide a scenic alternative to overnight journeys.

Toy Train, Shimla to Kalka

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 1529 or speak to your travel agent

IN D IA • IN D IAN S U B CO NT I NE NT

EXPERIENCE

Hoohly River, Kolkata

Maharaja’s Express

Houseboat, Kerala

GANGES AND HOOGHLY RIVERS

RAIL TRAVEL

KERALA BACKWATERS

Cruising along the Ganges and Hooghly offers a slow, detailed view of India’s cultural heartland. On the Ganges, sail past riverside temples, historic ghats and small rural communities, with opportunities to witness daily worship and evening aarti ceremonies in cities such as Varanasi or Patna. The Hooghly, branching from the Ganges, carries you from Kolkata into quieter countryside, where faded colonial mansions, terracotta temples and village markets line the banks.

Shore excursions and guided visits provide a relaxed, immersive way to experience life along these storied rivers.

Luxury rail journeys provide a distinctive way to see India, linking key regions without the need for repeated packing or long road transfers. Aboard renowned trains such as the Palace on Wheels, Maharajas’ Express and Deccan Odyssey, guests enjoy a blend of traditional hospitality and modern conveniences. Spacious cabins and onboard dining create a refined base while the train moves between destinations. Each journey includes guided excursions to historic sites and cultural landmarks, allowing travellers to explore by day and return to the comfort of the train each evening.

Traditional kettuvallam houseboats, now equipped with comfortable cabins and modern amenities, welcome travellers onboard to cruise the Kerala backwaters and experience the region’s unique waterways and village life. As you travel at an easy pace through narrow canals lined with coconut palms and paddy fields, you may see fishermen casting nets, coir being processed and toddy tapped from palm trees. Meals are prepared on board, using local spices and fresh produce. Cruises range from a short day trip to overnight or multi-night itineraries, depending on your schedule.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Cruising the Lower Ganges 11 days & 9 nights Superior from £3,395 (incl. flights)

Cruise the Ganges for 7 nights aboard the ABN Rajmahal. Visit riverside towns, villages and temples, and explore historic sites including old mosques and colonial palaces that reflect West Bengal’s layered past. Observe daily life along the riverbanks and relax on board in one of the boat’s 22 comfortable cabins.

Day 1: Fly to Kolkata Day 2: Kolkata Arrive in Kolkata and transfer to the Oberoi Grand for 1 night.

Day 3: Serampore & Barrackpore Transfer to the 22-cabin ABN Rajmahal for a 7-night cruise. Sail past the former Danish colony of Serampore to Barrackpore, where a guided walk introduces the early history of India’s independence movement.

Day 4: Chandannagar Visit an 18th-century church and the Dupleix Palace, former residence of the governorgeneral of French India. Continue upriver past the old Dutch settlement of Chinsura and visit Hooghly Imambara, a 19th-century

Srila Prabhupada’s Samadhi. Mayapur

Shia mosque and congregation hall. Sail onward towards Kalna.

Day 5: Mayapur Take a rickshaw to a Shiva temple built in concentric rings of 108 small shrines.

Visit a muslin weaving centre before sailing to Mayapur to see the large ISKCON Temple complex.

Day 6: Matiari & Plassey Stop in the village of Matiari to see traditional brass work being crafted. Continue to Plassey, site of the 1757 battle that marked the beginning of British rule in Bengal.

Day 7: Khushbagh & Kathgola Visit Khushbagh, a Mughal-style garden containing the tomb of Siraj-ud-Daula.

Continue to Hazarduari Palace Museum,

Katra Mosque and Kathgola Palace.

Day 8: Baranagar Walk through the quiet fields of Baranagar to visit small terracotta temples. Continue sailing upriver toward the Farakka Barrage.

Day 9: Gaur Full-day road excursion to Gaur, former capital of the Bengal Sultanate, to see remains of mosques, gateways and palaces.

Day 10: Kolkata Take the train from Farakka to Kolkata.

Overnight at the Oberoi Grand.

Day 11: Fly to the UK Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Included meals: 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Sri Lanka Sigiriya

Sri Lanka’s compact size belies the variety of experiences found here, from ancient Buddhist kingdoms and colonial port towns to tea-covered highlands and wildlife-filled plains. In the central hills, cool, misty hills are planted with orderly tea estates, while the dry northern and central flatlands are home to the remains of ancient capitals, Buddhist temples and rock fortresses.

Wildlife reserves offer sightings of elephants, birdlife and, in some regions, leopards. All of this is bordered by a coastline of long beaches and small fishing towns. Colombo, the island’s capital, offers museums, markets and restored buildings from Portuguese, Dutch and British periods. Its dining scene ranges from street-side snacks to contemporary restaurants, including those in the Old Dutch Hospital complex.

C&K RECOMMENDS Sri Lanka’s north-east coast rewards travellers seeking quieter shores and clear, warm seas. From the shallow, calm bay at Pasikudah to the historic harbour town of Trincomalee, this coastline combines relaxation with cultural exploration. Visit Koneswaram Kovil and the 17th-century fort, or take a boat to Pigeon Island for snorkelling among coral gardens.

Traditional fishing villages and peaceful lagoons slow life to a leisurely cadence. The east coast is at its best between April and September.

Many travellers tag on a short flight to the Maldives for a beach stay to end their adventure.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 1529 or speak to your travel agent

S R I L AN K A • IN D IAN S U BCO NT I NE NT

CULTURAL TRIANGLE CRADLE OF BUDDHISM IN SRI LANKA • ELEPHANT GATHERING • CAVE TEMPLES The ancient cities of Anuradhapura, Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, together with the cave temples at Dambulla, form Sri Lanka’s revered Cultural Triangle. Concentrated within a compact region, these sites offer an accessible way to explore the island’s early kingdoms and long Buddhist heritage, as our expert guides breathe life into the stories behind each historic landmark. Anuradhapura, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited capitals, features monasteries, vast tanks and towering dagobas. Polonnaruwa, which succeeded it as the island’s capital, has well-preserved palace complexes, audience halls and the famous Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddha statues.

At the centre of the region stands Sigiriya, the 5th-century rock fortress rising above the plains. A staircase leads past the Mirror Wall and frescoes to the summit, where the remains of King Kassapa’s palace overlook the surrounding countryside. Nearby, the cave temples of Dambulla contain centuries of murals and more than 150 Buddha images, including a 15-metre reclining figure. For those wishing to include wildlife, Minneriya National Park is close by, known for its seasonal gathering of Asiatic elephants.

Polonnaruwa

Tea plantation

Temple of the Tooth

Whale watching, Mirissa

HILL COUNTRY

KANDY

SOUTH-WEST COAST

TEA ESTATES • RURAL TRAIN RIDES • HORTON PLAINS

TEMPLE OF THE TOOTH • ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS • BRITISH GARRISON CEMETERY

GALLE FORT • PALM-FRINGED BEACHES

Sri Lanka’s hill country is one of the island’s most scenic regions and travelling through it by train offers an enjoyable glimpse of daily rural life. Locals use these trains regularly and sharing the journey provides an authentic and memorable experience.

The landscape combines mist-covered mountains, colonial-era hill stations, rolling tea plantations and waterfalls, with the towns of Nuwara Eliya, Ella and Hatton as appealing bases. The area is also home to the Horton Plains, a high plateau known for its walking trail to ‘World’s End’, an impressive cliff edge with views across the tea valleys and, on clear days, towards Adam’s Peak.

Once the capital of the last Sinhalese kingdom, Kandy remains the cultural centre of Sri Lanka. Its most important landmark is the Temple of the Tooth, which is believed to house a sacred relic of the Buddha and is set beside a lake in the centre of town.

A short walk away is the British Garrison Cemetery, dating from 1817. Kandy also has a compact old quarter, cultural shows and small museums to explore. Just outside the city, the Peradeniya Botanic Gardens offers 4,000 species of plants and trees.

The pristine beaches of Sri Lanka’s southwest coast make for ideal respite after exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural sites and hill country. East of Galle lie the quieter shores of Thalpe and Weligama, Mirissa’s whale-watching harbour, and the coves of Tangalle. Hambantota makes a useful base for Bundala and Yala national parks, as well as the Kataragama temple. West of Galle, Bentota’s palm-backed sands provide easy access to the turtle sanctuary at Kosgoda, while in Wadduwa the lush beauty of coconut plantations gives the small seaside town an exotic feel. Accommodation options are plentiful too, from ultra-luxurious beachside resorts to boutique stays, and Cox & Kings can help you choose the places that suit you best.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Elephant herd, Minneriya National Park

Galle Fort

Nine Arches Bridge

EXPERIENCE NATIONAL PARK SAFARIS

RURAL TRAIN RIDE

TOUR GALLE FORT

Each of Sri Lanka’s many national parks boasts its own distinct character and wildlife highlights. Yala’s dry scrubland is known for one of the world’s highest concentrations of leopards, while Minneriya is famous for its seasonal gathering of Asian elephants.

Gal Oya presents the rare chance to see elephants swimming between lake islands and Wilpattu provides a quieter, more forested safari experience. Uda Walawe, meanwhile, is particularly good for animal sightings. We can arrange private game drives in most parks, accompanied by trained naturalists.

A rural train ride in Sri Lanka’s Hill Country is a enchanting way to enjoy the region’s landscapes. Travelling at a gentle pace, trains wind past tea estates, forests, waterfalls and small villages, gradually climbing into cloud-topped hills. Each journey provides a window onto daily rural routines, with tourists travelling alongside locals who depend on these routes. Popular sections include the route between Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya), Haputale and Ella, which also crosses scenic viaducts such as the Nine Arches Bridge and stops at charming hillside stations.

Galle, on Sri Lanka’s south-west coast, is best known for its 17th-century fort, originally built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch. Within its ramparts, narrow streets are lined with cafés, galleries, small museums and independent boutiques. For an immersive experience, a guided tour of the fort can be arranged with a professional archaeologist. Many hotels here also occupy restored period buildings, while larger beachfront properties offer easy access to the coast. Beyond Galle, coastal towns and fishing villages showcase local culture and long stretches of sandy beach.

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S R I L AN K A • IN D IAN S U BCO NT I NE NT

STAY

HERITANCE TEA FACTORY

CINNAMON WILD YALA

WATER GARDEN SIGIRIYA

Set in the hills near Nuwara Eliya, the Heritance Tea Factory is housed in a restored tea factory converted into a characterful heritage hotel. The property retains many original features, reflecting its plantation history. Surrounded by working tea estates, forest paths and wide mountain views, it provides a quiet base for exploring the hill country. Guests can take part in hands-on tea experiences, such as leaf plucking and factory demonstrations, and learn about the region’s long association with Sri Lanka’s tea industry, adding to a distinctive stay with a strong sense of place.

Cinnamon Wild Yala offers a relaxed safari lodge experience close to Yala National Park. Designed to sit naturally within its surroundings, it features rustic-style chalets and open communal spaces that look out towards the jungle, beach and nearby lagoon. The 10-acre property is regularly visited by wildlife, so sightings of deer, boar and sometimes elephants are not uncommon around the grounds. Just a 5-minute drive from the park entrance, it provides an easy base for morning and afternoon game drives, while still offering comfort and space to unwind.

Located in the Cultural Triangle, just 3km from the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Water Garden Sigiriya combines a prime setting with plenty of lavish trappings. Most villas and shared spaces offer clear views of the imposing rock, making it a convenient base for visits to both Sigiriya and nearby Dambulla. Some of the villas also feature private plunge pools, while landscaped waterways run throughout the grounds.

Other notable features include a main restaurant that sits at the centre of a lake, creating a calm setting for meals.

Sri Lankan leopard, Yala National Park

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Treasures of Sri Lanka Duration • 16 days & 14 nights Price • From £3,995 (incl. flights) Category • Superior This journey combines Sri Lanka’s key cultural sites, hill country scenery and wildlife, with time to unwind by the coast. Begin in the Cultural Triangle, visiting ancient capitals, cave temples and the rock fortress of Sigiriya, before exploring botanical gardens and tea estates in the central highlands. Continue to Yala National Park for private safari drives in search of leopards and elephants, then spend time in the historic port city of Galle. End your trip with two relaxing nights by the ocean.

Day 1: Fly to Colombo Day 2: Colombo Arrive and transfer to Cinnamon Lakeside for 1 night.

Days 3-5: Habarana Drive to Habarana, gateway to Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. Stay 3 nights at Cinnamon Lodge, set among woodland beside a historic lake. Visit Sigiriya rock fortress, a UNESCO site rising 200 metres above the plains, and take in views from the summit. Next day, explore Polonnaruwa to see the Royal Palace ruins, Gal Viharaya and Parakrama Samudraya Lake.

Later, take a safari in Minneriya National Park, home to elephants, deer, sloth bears, leopards and crocodiles.

Lion’s paws pathway on Sigiriya rock

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Days 6 & 7: Dambulla • Matale Drive to Matale and stay 2 nights at Jim’s Farm Villas. Visit the Dambulla cave temples, decorated with ancient murals and statues, then continue to the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya to see its extensive collection of tropical plants and orchids.

Days 8 & 9: Hill Country Continue to Pussellawa, stopping in Kandy to visit the Temple of the Tooth. Stay 2 nights at The Lavender House. Time at leisure to explore tea estates, viewpoints and nearby waterfalls on foot or by bike.

Days 10 & 11: Yala National Park Enjoy a scenic rail journey from Nanu Oya, then drive to Yala, stopping at Ravana Ella waterfall and Buduruwagala temple. Stay 2 nights at

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Cinnamon Wild. Take safari drives to look for leopards, elephants, deer and birdlife across woodland, grassland and lagoon habitats.

Days 12 & 13: Galle Continue to Galle for 2 nights at Yara Galle.

Explore Galle Fort, a UNESCO-listed historic quarter with preserved streets and coastal ramparts.

Days 14 & 15: Wadduwa Drive to Wadduwa and stay 2 nights at The Blue Water Hotel and Spa. Spend your time here at leisure to round off your trip.

Day 16: Fly home Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Included meals: 14 breakfasts and 12 dinners

Dambulla Cave Temple

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 1529 or speak to your travel agent

S R I L AN K A • IN D IAN S U BCO NT I NE NT

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Hidden Sri Lanka Duration • 16 days & 14 nights Price • From £3,995 (incl. flights) Category • Superior This itinerary offers a nature-focused route contrasted with a more culturally oriented alternative. Begin among tea and rubber plantations at a restored estate bungalow, with time to relax and experience rural life. Continue to Kandy for its temples, gardens and lakeside setting, then on to Gal Oya for lake safaris and village encounters. Travel through Ella and Udawalawe for hill views and wildlife before ending with three leisurely days on the south coast near Thalpe and Galle.

Day 1: Fly to Colombo Days 2 & 3: Kegalle Arrive in Colombo and transfer to Rosyth Estate House, a planter’s bungalow set within 25 hectares of tea and rubber plantations. Stay 2 nights and enjoy time at leisure, walking the estate, visiting the local tea factory, joining a cookery lesson, relaxing by the pool, or simply taking in the views.

Days 4–6: Kandy Transfer to Kandy for 3 nights at Taru Villas Levita. Visit the Temple of the Tooth, explore the Royal Botanical Gardens and browse local markets and workshops. Final day free to relax.

Days 7 & 8: Gal Oya National Park Travel to Gal Oya and stay 2 nights at Gal Oya

Lodge. This remote region includes forest, open grasslands and one of Sri Lanka’s largest lakes. Take a boat safari on Senanayake Samudraya to look for elephants swimming between islands. Jeep safaris, guided walks and visits to meet members of the indigenous Vedda community are also available.

Days 9 & 10: Ella Continue to Ella for 2 nights at 98 Acres Resort & Spa. In the afternoon, climb Little Adam’s Peak for broad views of surrounding tea country. Optional activities include hiking, plantation visits, birdwatching and cookery lessons (additional costs may apply).

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national park, known for its large elephant population. Other wildlife includes deer, water buffalo, jackal, langur and a variety of birdlife.

Days 13-15: Thalpe Visit the Elephant Transit Home, who reintroduce orphaned elephants back into the wild, en route to Thalpe, where you’ll stay 3 nights at KK Beach. Days at leisure to relax by the beach or visit nearby Galle.

Day 16: Fly home Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Included meals: 14 breakfasts

Days 11 & 12: Udawalawe National Park Travel to Udawalawe for 2 nights at Kalu’s Hideaway. Take a morning safari in the

View of Adam’s Peak, Ella

Elephant, Udawalawe National Park

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Nepal & Bhutan Tiger’s Nest monastery, Bhutan

The neighbouring Himalayan nations of Nepal and Bhutan offer striking mountain landscapes and long-established traditions that remain central to everyday life. Nepal ranges from the high peaks of the world’s tallest mountains to lowland jungles where rhinos, Bengal tigers and sloth bears live in protected reserves. Its towns and villages reflect both Buddhist and Hindu heritage, seen in small temples, shrines and daily rituals.

Bhutan remains more reserved and less visited, where Buddhism continues to define community life, architecture and festivals. Across deep valleys and forested ridges stand monasteries and fortress-style dzongs that serve as religious and administrative centres. Cox & Kings can arrange tailor-made journeys through both countries, comprising everything from gentle village walks and cultural visits to wildlife experiences.

C&K RECOMMENDS Nepal’s national parks treat travellers to memorable wildlife adventures.

Chitwan National Park, a UNESCO site of sal forest and grassland, is known for sightings of one-horned rhinos, wild boar, monkeys and over 450 bird species, with chances to see leopards and gharials along the rivers. Bardia National Park offers similar habitats but fewer visitors, with increasing tiger numbers and opportunities to encounter elephants and langur. In neighbouring Bhutan, spring and autumn are also ideal and coincide with major festivals such as the Paro and Thimphu tshechus.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 1529 or speak to your travel agent

N E P AL & BH U T AN • IN D IAN S U BCO NT I NE NT

NEPAL DURBAR SQUARE • NEWARI ARCHITECTURE • MOUNTAIN SCENERY Nepal blends the bustle of city life with historic towns and mountain scenery.

In Kathmandu, explore Durbar Square, Thamel’s markets and the hillside stupa of Swayambhunath. Nearby, Patan and Bhaktapur are decorated with fine Newari architecture and skilled artisans at work. In Pokhara, lakeside paths and views of the Annapurna range provide a relaxed base for walks or gentle hikes.

Durbar Square, Kathmandu

BHUTAN SERENE VALLEYS • CLIFFSIDE MONASTERIES • RIVERSIDE WALKS Bhutan’s serene valleys, monasteries and fortified dzongs set against Himalayan peaks are a sight to behold. In Paro, visit cliff-side Taktsang and Rinpung Dzong. Punakha’s warmer valley is known for orchards and riverside walks. Thimphu combines traditional architecture with craft workshops and markets. Further east, the Bumthang Valley, considered Bhutan’s spiritual heartland, is home to some of the country’s oldest and most revered monasteries.

Paro Tsechu festival, Bhutan

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Nepal & Bhutan: Journey to the Dragon Kingdom 11 days & 9 nights Standard from £3,895 (incl. flights)

Bhutan is imbued with a deeply spiritual atmosphere amid dramatic Himalayan scenery. Opened to visitors only in 1974, it continues to preserve its traditional way of life. This private journey follows forts, monasteries and local markets across western Bhutan, combined with time in Kathmandu, and can be tailored to your chosen interests.

Day 1: Fly to Kathmandu Days 2 & 3: Kathmandu Arrive and transfer to Hotel Himalaya for 2 nights. Time at leisure on arrival. The following day, tour Kathmandu’s highlights, beginning in Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit Kumari Chowk, residence of the living goddess, then wander through the historic Newari quarter of Itumbahal and the colourful markets of Indra Chowk and Ason Chowk, finishing at the Annapurna Temple. In the afternoon, visit Pashupatinath, with views over the temple complex and cremation ghats, followed by Bodhnath,

Punakha Dzong, Bhutan

Nepal’s largest stupa and a major centre of Tibetan life.

Days 4 & 5: Fly to Paro • Arrive Thimphu Fly to Paro and transfer to Thimphu for a 2-night stay at City Hotel Thimphu.

Visit the School of Arts and Crafts, Institute of Traditional Medicine, papermaking factory, Textile Museum, Folk Heritage Museum and National Library. The following day, visit the National Memorial Chorten and Tashichho Dzong, seat of the government and central monastic body. Later, browse handicraft shops. This evening, enjoy dinner with a local family.

Days 6 & 7: Punakha Drive over Dochula Pass to Punakha. Visit a traditional farmhouse. Stay 2 nights at Zhingkham Resort. Visit Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of two rivers,

then meet monks at the Nalanda Buddhist Institute.

Days 8 & 9: Paro Drive to Paro for 2 nights at Village Lodge.

Visit Ta Dzong, the national museum, then take a Bhutanese cooking class. Next day, hike to Taktsang (Tiger’s Nest) monastery.

In the afternoon, visit Rinpung Dzong and try your hand at archery, Bhutan’s national sport.

Day 10: Fly to Kathmandu Return to Kathmandu and stay overnight at Hotel Himalaya. Farewell dinner included.

Day 11: Fly to London Time at leisure before your return flight.

Included meals: 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Plaza de España, Seville, Spain

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

C OU N T R Y • E U R O PE

EUROPE You needn’t travel far to experience the extraordinary. Despite being the world’s second smallest continent, Europe is blessed with an abundance of swoon-worthy delights – just a short flight or romantic rail journey away.

Southern favourites Italy, Spain and Greece earn their reputation, with Graeco-Roman ruins, Renaissance masterpieces, sun-kissed vineyards and world-conquering dishes. That’s not to mention the natural scenery, which includes plunging coasts, cypress-studded hills and lofty mountains.

There are surprises, too. From pretty-as-a-picture Transylvania to the crossroad countries of the Caucasus, Europe’s less-visited regions have the power to delight even the most experienced traveller – and we can show them to you.

View our full collection online The destinations and tours featured in this brochure represent a small sample of what we offer. Our website contains a wealth of additional itineraries, detailed country guides and accommodation options.

CO X AN DKI NGST RA VEL .COM This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Italy Amalfi Coast

Italy: heart of the Roman Empire and catalyst of the Renaissance. There’s much to see, do and taste across this boot-shaped peninsula and its romantic islands.

The north is a postcard of zig-zagging mountains, dreamy lakes, fashionable cities, and food to fly for. That’s not to mention the superabundance of World Heritage sites – more than any other part of Italy. Here is Venice, with its gondola-plied lagoons; Milan, ever dressed to impress; and Lake Como, making the famous swoon since Roman times.

The central regions offer rusticity in spades and is where Florence showcases its crucial role in the Renaissance, while the sun-kissed south is where you can explore ash-preserved Pompeii, Matera’s cave dwellings and Sicily’s Norman, Roman, Arab and Greek heritage.

C&K RECOMMENDS From South Tyrol to Friuli-Venezia Giulia, the north-east of Italy offers the perfect foil for the south. Take in the alpine scenery, historysteeped hamlets, grand castles and Austro-Hungarian heritage on well-paced self-drive journeys, with everything arranged for you.

We can take you beyond Venice to the unsung gems of the Veneto region, organise guided tours of UNESCO sites such as mosaic-laden Aquileia, and plot the perfect walking routes for admiring the peaks and lakes of the dominating Dolomites.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

IT A LY • E U R O PE

TUSCANY FLORENCE, ‘CRADLE OF THE RENAISSANCE’ • WALLED CITY OF LUCCA • SIENA’S PALIO HORSE RACE The central region of Tuscany lit the spark of Europe’s Renaissance movement, and it remains a trove of cultural treasures set in a bucolic landscape. In Florence, the regional capital, admire the UNESCO-listed gothic cathedral and the masterpieces hanging in the Uffizi Gallery. Further highlights include the walled city of Lucca, birthplace of Puccini; and hilltop Siena, whose medieval Piazza del Campo hosts the Palio horse race.

San Gimignano

LAZIO THE ‘ETERNAL CITY’ OF ROME • MEDIEVAL HILLSIDE TOWNS • PICTURESQUE ISLAND OF PONZA Lazio is more than just Rome. Worthy stops beyond the ‘Eternal City’ include Viterbo, medieval residence of several popes; Tarquinia, UNESCO-listed for its Etruscan necropolis; the hillside towns of Castelli Romani; and Castel Gandolfo, among Italy’s most beautiful villages. The isle of Ponza is a short trip across the Tyrrhenian Sea; picture bobbing boats, pastel houses overlooking golden beaches, and towering tuff headlands.

Island of Ponza

Trullo roundhouses, Alberobello

Pompeii

Palermo

PUGLIA & BASILICATA

CAMPANIA

SICILY

CHARMING ROUNDHOUSES • MATERA’S CAVES • BAROQUE LECCE

ROMANCE OF THE AMALFI COAST • RUINS OF POMPEII & HERCULANEUM

Basilicata and Puglia – the instep and heel of Italy’s boot – reward stepping off the tourist trail. Puglia offers remote coastline and countryside dotted with olive groves, whitewashed towns, and conical houses called trulli. It’s home to Lecce, nicknamed the ‘Florence of the South’ for its baroque architecture. Neighbouring Basilicata is where you’ll find Matera’s ancient cave dwellings, as well as pretty hillside villages and Apennine vistas.

Campania’s capital and one of the great centres of classical Graeco-Roman civilisation, Naples, seduces with its famous food, easy rilassato lifestyle, and photogenic bay. Close by lie the ruins of Pompeii, surely Campania’s headline attraction – though Herculaneum, also entombed by Vesuvius, warrants a visit. Stay in Sorrento for postcard-worthy views over the Bay of Naples, or the less-visited port city of Salerno with its historic cathedral.

PALERMO’S ARCHITECTURE & STREET FOOD • MOUNT ETNA • QUIET SOUTHERN BEACHES Sicily is an island crossroads with a long history. The Arab-Norman architecture of Palermo, the capital, is a treat for the eyes, as is the food – not least pistachiosprinkled cannoli. Further attractions include the medieval town of Taormina, the Doric temples in Agrigento and the magnificent natural scenery, from smouldering Mount Etna to the quiet beaches in the south.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Gaeta

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Coastal Lazio: Roads beyond Rome Duration • 9 days & 8 nights

SELF-DRIVE

Price • From £2,395 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Explore beyond the ‘Eternal City’ on this self-drive tour of coastal Lazio.

From your base in Gaeta, visit historic sites and maritime marvels, including Montecassino Abbey; Ponza Island and its sea caves; Sperlonga, once home to Emperor Tiberius; and Minturno, a town replete with Roman relics. Transfer to San Felice Circeo, one of Italy’s most beautiful villages, visiting the Roman heart of Terracina, the gorgeous Garden of Ninfa, Sermoneta’s 13th-century castle, and the tranquil Valvisciolo Abbey.

Day 1: Arrive Rome • Gaeta Arrive in Rome, pick up your hire car and depart for the coastal city of Gaeta. En route, you may choose to visit the Montecassino Abbey, an impressive national monument rebuilt after the second world war and one of Italy’s major Benedictine sites. Arrive in Gaeta and stay 5 nights at Villa Irlanda.

Day 2: Gaeta Today you explore more of Gaeta and its historic surrounds. You may wish to visit the nearby sea grotto of Montagna Spaccata, where legends abound; and the beautiful baroque church of Santissima Annunziata.

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Day 3: Gaeta Your day is at leisure. You have the option to take a boat trip from the nearby port of Formia to visit Ponza, the largest island of the Pontine archipelago. Here we can arrange a boat to the Grotte di Pilato, a series of artificial sea caves and tunnels carved by the Romans into the volcanic tuff rock; and the Faraglioni della Madonna, natural rock formations that stagger out from the coast of Ponza.

Day 4: Sperlonga • Gaeta After a morning at leisure, spend the afternoon touring one of Italy’s most beautiful borghi: Sperlonga. This pretty coastal village was once

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home to a villa and grotto belonging to Roman emperor Tiberius, and numerous sculptures discovered here have been reconstructed for display at the on-site museum. After visiting the museum, and dinner at leisure, return to Gaeta.

Day 5: Minturno • Gaeta Following a morning at leisure, drive to Minturno, a hilltop town with ancient origins.

In Roman times, it was known as Minturnae, and evidence from this period survives, including a theatre, amphitheatre, colonnade, baths and aqueduct. Various medieval buildings also remain, including the churches

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

IT A LY • E U R O PE

Roman theatre and Cathedral of San Cesareo, Terracina

Truglia Tower, Sperlonga

of San Pietro Apostolo, San Francesco and Annunziata. After your visit, return to Gaeta.

Day 6: Terracina • San Felice Circeo Drive to the coastal town of Terracina, strategically important since antiquity. The Old Town is replete with historical treasures, especially around Foro Emiliano square, where you’ll find the Cathedral of San Cesareo – partially built out of a Roman temple – as well as many Roman relics, including part of the ancient Appia Road. You can also enjoy views across the glittering Gulf of Terracina and wander down to the water’s edge, where you can see the Pisco Montano – a steep promontory cut away by the Romans to allow passage. Continue to San Felice Circeo and check into Hotel Punta Rossa for 3 nights.

Mount Circeo

Day 7: San Felice Circeo Your day is at leisure to explore San Felice Circeo, designated as one of the ‘Borghi più Belli d’Italia’ (‘Most Beautiful Villages in Italy’) and located on the site of the Roman city of Circeii.

It’s a chance to admire the town’s coastal scenery, which includes numerous sea caves and dramatic promontories.

Day 8: Garden of Ninfa • San Felice Circeo Embark on an exclusive tour of the Garden of Ninfa, part of a 105-hectare park and national monument, whose centre contains medieval ruins, leafy trees, rambling roses, exotic plants, a lake and branches of the Ninfa River. After exploring the landscaped gardens, you may wish to continue to the medieval town of Sermoneta and its 13th-century castle, or to

Valvisciolo Abbey, a tranquil RomanesqueCistercian monastery. Return to San Felice Circeo.

Day 9: Fly home Drive to Rome Fiumicino Airport, where you leave your hire car and catch your flight home.

Included meals: 8 breakfasts Private driver: We can arrange for this itinerary to include a private driver throughout.

Please enquire for full details.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Trieste

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Northeast Italy: Friuli to the Dolomites Duration • 10 days & 9 nights

SELF-DRIVE

Price • From £2,595 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Delve into the distinctive history and seductive scenery of Italy’s north-east on this private journey from Friuli-Venezia-Giulia to the Dolomites. You begin in Trieste – ‘Little Vienna by the Sea’ – visiting the Roman ruins of Aquileia, the Habsburg castle of Miramare and the rustic wine region of Collio. Continue to Udine, with visits to Cividale del Friuli – the first capital of the Lombard Kingdom – and San Daniel del Friuli, famed for its prosciutto. Finish amid the dramatic peaks, lakes and tucked-away towns of the Dolomites.

Day 1: Arrive Venice • Trieste Arrive in Venice, collect your hire car and drive to Trieste, nicknamed ‘Little Vienna by the Sea’.

En route, you may wish to visit the remarkable Renaissance town of Palmanova, built as a nine-pointed star complete with fortifications and imposing city gates. Upon arrival in Trieste, check into Savoia Excelsior Palace for 3 nights.

Day 2: Aquileia • Trieste Today begins with a visit to Aquileia, UNESCOlisted for its early Roman ruins and 11th-century Basilica, which contains medieval frescoes and a magnificent fourth-century floor mosaic. After, enjoy a chocolate and coffee tasting experience.

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Next, you may wish to independently visit the town of Grado, set on an Adriatic peninsula, where you can discover its historic Venetian centre and sun-kissed, south-facing beach.

Afterwards, return to Trieste.

Day 3: Trieste Begin today with a guided walking tour of Trieste, exploring the city’s heritage highlights, from its Roman origins to its Habsburg splendours. After, drive to Miramare Castle for an independent visit, with tickets included.

Gothic-revival in style, this 19th-century Habsburg property overlooks the Gulf of Trieste and includes landscaped grounds.

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Day 4: Collio • Udine We recommend a morning visit to Gorizia, Europe’s 2025 Capital of Culture, Continue into the bucolic surrounds of the Collio wine region.

Here you visit a winery for a tasting – a chance to sample white wines made from the Ribolla grape famously grown in these hills. Continue to Udine and check into Ambassador Palace Hotel for 3 nights.

Day 5: San Daniele del Friuli • Udine Begin the day independently touring Cividale del Friuli, founded in Roman times as Forum Julii (Julius Marketplace) – possibly by Caesar himself. It became the first capital of the

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

IT A LY • E U R O PE

Cortina d’Ampezzo

Miramare Castle

Lombard Kingdom, and the historic centre from this time is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the eighthcentury Oratory of Santa Maria and its interior lined with stucco saints; and Devil’s Bridge, whose twin arches scenically straddle the green waters of the Natisone River. Continue to San Daniele del Friuli, a town famed for its prosciutto. Enjoy an included tasting of this celebrated dry-cured ham before returning to Udine.

Day 6: Udine Take a private walking tour of Udine, a city of graceful squares and Venetian-inspired palaces. Highlights include Piazza Libertà, considered the most beautiful Venetian square on the mainland, and Piazza Matteotti, an open-air salon surrounded by painted façades. Udine also preserves major works by Giambattista Tiepolo, who achieved artistic maturity here. The remainder of your day is at leisure.

Aquileia

Day 7: The Dolomites Depart Udine and head towards the Dolomites, the 18-peak mountain range that dominates Italy’s northeast. En route, we recommend visiting Cortina d’Ampezzo mountain resort, popular among skiers but beautiful all year round. Popular activities off the slopes include sampling traditional alpine dishes, shopping at the many boutiques and hiking and cycling the scenic trails. Arrive in the commune of Dobbiaco and spend 3 nights at Hotel Santer.

Day 8: The Dolomites Your day is at leisure. We recommend a gentle hike to admire the alpine surroundings. Ascend from Lake Misurina to the Auronzo Refuge for views of the Three Peaks of Lavaredo, a trio of battlement-like mountains that jut out of the hills and are icons of the Dolomites. Upon descent, pause at Lake D’Antorno to soak up the cinematic views; this area has featured in a number of films, including Star Wars and

Cliffhanger. After lunch, you may wish to visit Lake Braies for a relaxed walk or boat trip.

Day 9: The Dolomites Your day is at leisure to explore more of this scenic region. We recommend visiting Forni di Sopra, a town set amid the forested slopes of the Friulian Dolomites. Activities available include guided nature hikes, gourmet tastings of regional specialities, and visits to rural museums for insight into the history and crafts of the area.

Day 10: Fly home Drive to Venice Airport, where you leave your hire car and catch your flight home.

Included meals: 9 breakfasts Private driver: We can arrange for this itinerary to include a private driver throughout.

Please enquire for full details.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Spain & Portugal Porto, Portugal

The many regions of Spain offer strikingly differing scenery. This includes the rugged, green and rainy Atlantic coast of Galicia and the Pyrenees peaks of the north, across the high central plateaus of Castille-La Mancha, and down to the hot Mediterranean hills and Moorish architecture of Andalucía in the far south.

Portugal – Spain’s Iberian neighbour – charms with its picturesque villages and medieval castles. Porto and Lisbon are great places to explore on foot, both having excellent restaurants, energetic nightlife, picturesque neighbourhoods and wide plazas. Beyond the cities, Portugal’s scenery ranges from vineyards to dramatic windswept coasts.

C&K RECOMMENDS The Moors ruled Andalucía for some 800 years, leaving Spain’s southernmost region with superb Hispano-Moorish architecture, including two of the country’s greatest sites: the Alhambra palace in Granada and the Mezquita mosque-cathedral in Córdoba. To the northwest of Andalucía, just beyond the tourist trail, lies Extremadura, origin of world-renowned Iberian ham. We can arrange a tour and tasting at a traditional drying house in the regional capital, Mérida, which is also home to remarkable Roman ruins. The Moors left their mark on Portugal, too, including in Lisbon’s oldest district, Alfama. Today, this labyrinthine neighbourhood is the perfect spot to hear traditional fado music. Beyond, the beautiful Atlantic coast beckons.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

S P AIN & P ORT U G AL • E U R O PE

PORTO & DUORO VALLEY DOURO RIVER CRUISES • PORTO’S COBBLED RIBEIRA DISTRICT • UNESCOLISTED WINE REGION Portugal’s second-largest city after Lisbon, Porto sprawls across the hills overlooking the mouth of the Douro River. The historical centre is UNESCO-listed and includes the picturesque, cobblestoned district of Ribeira, the 12th-century Cathedral and the neoclassical Stock Exchange Palace.

Here, too, are numerous monuments and museums worth visiting, and you can do so on foot easily thanks to Porto’s compact size.

You can also admire this city from the water during a cruise along the Douro, which carves westward across the Iberian Peninsula to the Atlantic Ocean. The bucolic Alto Douro (Upper Douro) incorporates a UNESCO-listed DOC wine region, where vineyards sprinkling the green valley slopes offer tastings with a view. We can combine Porto and the Douro Valley into a holiday tailored to you, with the option of travelling by railway.

Douro Valley, Portugal

Courtyard of the Alcázar, Seville

Alcántara Bridge, Toledo

Cathedral of Santa Maria, Segovia

SEVILLE

SEGOVIA

TOLEDO

HISTORIC MOORISH ARCHITECTURE • BIRTHPLACE OF FLAMENCO • CELEBRATED TAPAS

THE FAIRY-TALE ALCÁZAR CASTLE • EUROPE’S LAST GOTHIC CATHEDRAL • PRESERVED ROMAN AQUEDUCT

MEDIEVAL OLD TOWN • RENAISSANCE ART • THE ALCÁZAR FORTRESS

In Seville, you’ll find streets fragranced by orange trees and alive with flamenco music and chatter over tapas. This romantic city was one of the earliest Moorish conquests, becoming the second city of Al-Andalus, and many remnants from this riveting period remain. That includes Seville’s gothic cathedral – originally a mosque whose marvellous minaret is now the Giralda belltower. The cathedral is also the burial place of Christopher Columbus. Another essential stop is the Alcázar of Seville, a royal palace displaying a medley of Mudéjar, Moorish, Renaissance and gothic design.

Just northwest of Madrid is a page out of a fairy tale. Segovia’s steeples and spires rise against a backdrop of the Sierra de Guadarrama’s snowy peaks. High on an eastern hill looms one of the city’s three great landmarks: the Alcázar, thought to have inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle.

Just downhill, you’ll find the second of its great landmarks, the late-gothic Segovia Cathedral, and further towards the city centre you can see the third: the impressively preserved, UNESCO-listed Roman Aqueduct.

A short high-speed rail ride from Madrid is one of Spain’s most fascinating cities: Toledo. The nation’s former capital is known as the ‘City of Three Cultures’ for its history of peaceful coexistence between Christians, Muslims and Jews. Its walled old town is a jumble of narrow, winding streets, perched on a small hill above the Tajo River. The dominating cathedral is a remarkable gothic structure containing the tombs of kings, and art by El Greco, Velázquez and Goya. Other highlights include the Alcázar fortress, which occupies the highest point of the city; the 13th-century synagogue of Santa María La Blanca; and the El Greco Museum, dedicated to the-eponymous Renaissance artist.

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Seville Cathedral

The Roman Bridge and Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba

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Flamenco dancer, Seville

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

S P AIN & P ORT U G AL • E U R O PE

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Andalucía by Rail Duration • 7 days & 6 nights

RAIL JOURNEY

Price • From £1,595 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Using Spain’s fast and efficient AVE rail service, this journey takes in the Roman, Moorish and Catholic heritage of Andalucía. Visit all three major cities of this distinctive region of Spain: the Andalucían capital of Seville with its immense cathedral, Córdoba and its UNESCO-listed Mezquita, and Granada, home to the exquisite Alhambra Palace complex. Along the way, stay in characterful 4-star hotels or choose historic Hospes accommodation.

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Day 1: Fly to Seville Arrive at Seville airport and privately transfer to H10 Casa de la Plata Hotel for 2 nights.

Day 2: Seville Your day is at leisure to explore the capital of Andalucía. Seville’s history stretches back to Roman times, but its most impressive historical monuments date from the Moorish and Castilian conquests. This includes the imposing Seville Cathedral, which is the world’s largest gothic church; the Alcázar palace, with its multifoil arches and Arabesque decoration; and the 16th-century General Archive of the Indies. You can visit all three – together a UNESCO World Heritage Site – by touring the city’s old town, the Casco Antiguo.

Day 3: Córdoba This morning, you’re privately transferred to the railway station where you catch the train to Córdoba. Upon arrival, you’re privately transferred to your accommodation. Stay 2 nights at Las Casas de la Judería de Córdoba.

Day 4: Córdoba Your day is at leisure to see the sights. During Islamic rule, Córdoba became an important centre of learning, as well as political and economic power. Today, the city’s historic heart is UNESCO-listed and contains impressive landmarks, including the thousand-year-old Mezquita, with its striking two-tiered columns; the 14th-century Alcázar fortress and gardens; and the Calahorra Tower and Roman Bridge.

Beyond historic attractions, the city features enticing narrow streets, flower-filled courtyards and tucked-away tapas restaurants. Return to your hotel.

Day 5: Granada This morning, you’re privately transferred to the railway station to catch the train to Granada and on to your accommodation.

Spend 2 nights at Villa Oniria.

Courtyard of the Lions at the Alhambra, Granada

Day 6: Granada Today is at leisure, giving you the opportunity to explore Granada at your own pace – a city rich in history and nestled at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you wish to visit the Alhambra, Granada’s iconic UNESCO-listed fortress with its elegant palaces, courtyards and gardens, we strongly recommend booking tickets in advance due to limited availability.

Other highlights you may wish to discover include the Renaissance-style Granada

Cathedral, the Moorish Albaicín district and the Mirador de San Nicolás, offering breathtaking views over the city and surrounding hills.

Day 7: Fly home This morning, you’re privately transferred from your hotel to Malaga airport for your return flight.

Included meals: 6 breakfasts

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Porto to Lisbon by Rail Duration • 7 days & 6 nights

RAIL JOURNEY

Price • From £2,895 (incl. flights) Category • Luxury Explore two of Portugal’s most culturally rich cities on this luxury holiday.

You begin in Porto, Portugal’s sparkling second city. Stroll the cobbles of its historical centre, then embark on a scenic cruise along the Douro river.

Continue by high-speed rail to Lisbon, the effervescent capital from which Vasco da Gama set sail. Your personal driver-guide will take you on a tour between the city’s highlights, which include vibrant architecture, world-class museums and superlative restaurants. Throughout, you are accommodated in hand-picked, five-star properties.

1: Fly to Porto Fly to Porto. Transfer to the Hotel Infante de Sagres, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World group, for a 3-night stay.

Day 2: Porto Enjoy a morning walking tour of Porto, starting from your hotel. Portugal’s second-largest city was built overlooking the mouth of the Douro River and is an outstanding urban landscape with a UNESCO-listed historical centre. The city is known for its delicious cuisine, charismatic locals and steep cobbled streets lined with colourful houses. Highlights include the 75-metre-high Clérigos Tower, whose spiral staircase rewards visitors’ efforts with a superlative panorama of Porto; Avenida dos Aliados, with its stately buildings and monuments; and the colourful, maze-like

Ribeira district on the Douro shoreline.

Day 3: Porto Your day is at leisure to further explore Porto.

Alternatively, take a cruise in the bucolic Douro Valley, famed for its production of wine and port.

Day 4: Lisbon Your morning is at leisure. In the early afternoon, take the Alfa Pendular high-speed train to Lisbon (a journey of approximately 3 hours). On arrival, transfer to the Palácio do Governador for a 3-night stay.

Day 5: Lisbon Take a morning tour of the Portuguese capital with a driver-guide. Enjoy Lisbon’s colourful architecture, world-class museums and

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excellent restaurants. We recommend making time to explore the National Tile Museum and the Lisbon Aquarium in Parque das Nações.

The city has a fascinating maritime history, with explorers such as Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan setting sail from here to discover the New World.

Day 6: Lisbon Your day is at leisure to enjoy Lisbon. Explore the city on foot, or aboard one of the capital’s iconic yellow trams. Alternatively, take a day excursion to Sintra Palace and Cascais.

Day 7: Fly home Transfer to Lisbon Airport for your departure flight home.

Included meals: 6 breakfasts

Ribeira district, Porto

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

S P AIN & P ORT U G AL • E U R O PE

Alfama district, Lisbon

Pena Palace, Sintra

Vintage tram, Lisbon

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Europe by Rail Bernina Express, Switzerland

The golden age of rail travel: when the well-dressed and well-heeled reclined in art-deco carriages, as they were whisked between Europe’s grandest cities under towers of steam. Yet you could argue that the true golden age is now. It has never been easier to explore the continent by train, thanks to a large, integrated railway network and high-speed services such as AVE in Spain and Le Frecce in Italy.

We can arrange a tailor-made rail journey that visits the highlights of one or multiple destinations across Europe, expertly designed to suit your passions and preferences. Recreate the famous route from London to Istanbul, journey on impossibly scenic lines such as Switzerland’s Alpine railway, and more.

C&K RECOMMENDS Europe’s sleeper trains allow you to fall asleep in one fascinating city and wake up in another. The Rome-to-Sicily sleeper takes you from the ‘Eternal City’ of Rome to the island of Sicily with an unforgettable water crossing by train ferry. Spain’s long, luxurious Al Andalus offers full-week rail journeys visiting Seville, Córdoba, Cadiz, Ronda and Granada, with nights spent in en-suite, air-conditioned cabins replete with period detail. Or opt for a short, scenic train trip, such as BosniaHerzegovina’s Sarajevo-to-Mostar route, which lets you admire views of forested mountains, glassy lakes, and tucked-away villages.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

E U ROP E BY RA I L • E U R O PE

AVE, SPAIN

FRECCIAROSSA, ITALY

GOTTHARD, SWITZERLAND

HIGH-SPEED TRAVEL • VISITS KEY SPANISH CITIES • OFFERS THREE TRAVEL CLASSES

HIGH-SPEED TRAVEL • VISITS POPULAR ITALIAN CITIES • OFFERS FOUR TRAVEL CLASSES

DRAMATIC ALPINE PANORAMAS • PASS THROUGH THE 19TH-CENTURY GOTTHARD TUNNEL

‘Ave’ is the Spanish word for ‘bird’ – apt, considering this rail service matches the dive speeds of the peregrine falcon, the world’s fastest animal. Each year, the trains of Alta Velocidad Española (‘Spanish High Speed’) take millions of passengers between Spain’s key cities, including Barcelona, Córdoba, Madrid and Seville. Recline in modern, air-conditioned carriages in your choice of three classes. On board, there’s a buffet coach, multimedia entertainment, generous luggage space, and power outlets for keeping your devices topped up. You can cover Madrid to Barcelona – around 625km – in as little as 2.5 hours.

The Frecciarossa – meaning ‘Red Arrow’ – zips across Italy at up to 300km per hour.

Launched in 2008, this intercity train service visits an array of popular destinations, including Bologna, Naples, Florence and Rome. Thanks to the Frecciarossa’s speed, the 570km journey between Bologna and Naples – comparable to travelling from London to Inverness – can take as little as 3.5 hours. Passengers are accommodated in modern, comfortable carriages and can satisfy their appetite in the buffet coach.

Depending on your preference, you can travel in Standard, Premium, Business, or Executive Class.

Opened in 1882, the Gotthard Railway was built to cut north-to-south through the Swiss Alps via the St Gotthard Pass, traversing the very heart of Switzerland. Today it remains one of Europe’s highest and most scenic railways. The Gotthard Panorama Express takes you from Lake Lucerne to Ticino, or vice versa, offering ever-changing vistas of plunging green gorges, ice-capped mountains and spectacular viaducts, as well as three different angles of the landmark church of Wassen. You can begin or end your journey with a romantic boat trip across Lake Lucerne aboard a historic paddle steamer.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Vienna, Munich & Zurich

by Rail 9 days & 8 nights Superior | From £1,995

Explore a selection of Central Europe’s cultural highlights by rail, beginning with Vienna and its grand Habsburg palaces.

Continue to Bavaria’s capital, Munich, home to the bustling Viktualienmarkt and the bejewelled Palatine Crown. Finish in Zurich with a cruise on the Limmat river and walk around the picturesque old town.

Day 1: Arrive Vienna, Austria Travel by train from London St Pancras to Vienna, connecting in Brussels with an overnight sleeper service, aboard which you have a private cabin.

Days 2-4: Vienna Arrive in Vienna and check in at Hotel Kaiserhof Wien for 3 nights. The following two days are at leisure to explore Vienna.

Highlights include the grand Habsburg palaces of Hofburg and Schönbrunn; St Stephen’s Cathedral, with its lofty tower and striped, multicoloured rooftop; and the city’s renowned konditoreien (patisseries) – perfect for a break between sights. You may

Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna

also wish to visit the Slovakian capital of Bratislava, just a 1-hour rail journey away.

Days 5 & 6: Munich, Germany Depart Vienna for Munich by train. Check in at Hotel Excelsior by Geisel for 2 nights.

The next day is at leisure to explore Munich.

The restored old town tempts visitors into the heart of the city, where you can admire the old and new townhalls that overlook Marienplatz square, taste food from the Viktualienmarkt, compare two contrasting churches – austere Frauenkirche and ostentatious Asamkirche – and visit the Residenz München, which houses a rare treasure: the jewel-encrusted Palatine Crown.

Days 7 & 8: Zurich, Switzerland Travel from Munich to Zurich, Switzerland by train. Check in at Hotel Adler for 2 nights.

The following day is at leisure to explore Zurich. Straddling the Limmat river, the city’s walkable old town is a must, with its leafy avenues, cobbled squares and traditional buildings with brightly painted window shutters. Landmarks include the Fraumünster church, whose clocktower is capped by a tall, slender and oxidised spire; and the equally handsome Grossmünster church, inaugurated in around 1220. Perhaps see the city from the water with a cruise along the Limmat.

Day 9: Return home Depart Zurich for Paris, before proceeding via Eurostar to London St Pancras.

Included meals: 8 breakfasts

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Turkey & the Caucasus Alaverdi Monastery, Kakheti, Georgia

Turkey has played a major role in the history of the Mediterranean world. Straddling two continents, it became a crucial crossroads and staging post on the trade routes between East and West. Several empires rose and fell here over the centuries, including the Hittites, Byzantines and Ottomans, and relics from these periods survive, from ancient Troy to Byzantine Hagia Sophia and Ottoman Topkapi Palace. There are natural wonders, too, including Pamukkale’s travertine terraces and Cappadocia’s ‘fairy chimneys’.

To the east, on the ancient Silk Road, lies the Caucasus region. Encompassing Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan, it offers some of Europe’s oldest churches, fine wines and cognacs, as well as the impressive palaces and mosques commissioned by the Khans who once ruled here.

C&K RECOMMENDS Once the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires, Istanbul is an essential stop on a visit to Turkey. The city’s 15th-century Topkapi Palace, home to the sultans and their families, remains a magnificent treasure house and, together with the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, reflects a fascinating fusion of Eastern and Western cultures. For wine enthusiasts, Georgia’s Kakheti region stands apart. The oldest evidence of viticulture found anywhere in the world was discovered in this mountainous region, where we can arrange tastings amid bucolic surrounds. Kakheti is also home to Gremi, a 16th-century hilltop citadel on the Silk Road; and the 11th-century Alaverdi Monastery.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

T U R K E Y & T H E C AU C AS U S • E U R O PE

YEREVAN, ARMENIA NEOCLASSICAL SOVIET ARCHITECTURE • VIEWS OF MOUNT ARARAT • MUSEUM OF ANCIENT MANUSCRIPTS The Soviets transformed Yerevan from a small provincial town into the capital it is today, a compact city of wide boulevards, neoclassical buildings and uniquely Armenian touches such as the use of pink stone and traditional carvings.

Essential stops include the Museum of Ancient Manuscripts; Garni, a royal summer house originally built as a temple; and the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery, one of the world’s oldest Christian monasteries.

Mount Ararat and view of the ruins of Zvartnots Temple, Armenia

TELAVI, GEORGIA CENTRE OF GEORGIA’S VITICULTURE • TUSCAN-STYLE SETTING If it weren’t for the occasional Lada and shop signs in the distinctive Georgian alphabet, you could believe you were in Tuscany when visiting Telavi. This pretty hilltop town is surrounded by the rolling, vine-strewn hills of the Kakheti region – the heart of George’s wine industry for millennia.

Nearby, you’ll find the small, fortified town of Sighnaghi, a worthy detour famous for its wine and carpet making.

Telavi, Georgia

EXPERIENCES

STAY IN A CAVE HOTEL, TURKEY

CRUISE ON THE BOSPHORUS, TURKEY

TASTE BRANDY IN YEREVAN, ARMENIA

Cappadocia is famed for its striking rock landscape, including fantastical ‘fairy chimneys’ and the centuries-old dwellings and churches carved into them. In addition to touring the region, you can stay in a rockcarved hotel yourself, such as the Yunak Evleri cave houses or the luxurious Museum Hotel.

The Bosphorus Strait divides Istanbul – and Turkey itself – between Europe and Asia.

Discover the impressive sights on both shores with a Bosphorus cruise. From Istanbul, you can sail as far as the Black Sea, passing Ottoman mansions, castles and forts; forested hills; and pretty villages.

Armenian brandy was reputedly a favourite tipple of Winston Churchill, who it’s said arranged for several cases to be shipped to him each year. You can sample this spirit yourself at the Armenian factory which once supplied it to the Tsars of Russia and the rulers of the USSR.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Hidden Treasures of Eastern Turkey Duration • 14 days & 13 nights Price • From £9,595 (incl. flights) Category • Standard Turkey’s less-visited eastern reaches were shaped by ancient powers, from the Mongol khans to Armenian kings. This region is home to the source of the Euphrates, vast Lake Van and Mount Ararat – biblical in both senses of the word. Highlights of your private journey include a sunrise ascent of Mount Nemrut to see the stone heads of ancient gods, a visit to the 12,000-year-old ruins of Göbekli Tepe, a boat trip on Turkey’s largest lake to its island church and a tour of the Ottoman-era Ishak Pasha Palace.

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Day 1: Arrive Istanbul Arrive in Istanbul and overnight at Royan Hotel Hagia Sophia.

Day 2: Malatya Take the short flight to Malatya and visit Malatya Museum, whose archaeological exhibits span the neolithic to the Ottoman eras. Overnight at Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Malatya.

Day 3: Nemrut Mountain • Urfa Ascend Mount Nemrut in time for sunrise.

Here you visit ruins from the Commagene Kingdom, including the scattered stone heads of ancient gods. This afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Adiyaman, and the remains of ancient Perre, which include city walls, a necropolis and a fountain still used today. Drive to Urfa and stay 2 nights at Hilton Garden Inn Sanliurfa.

Day 4: Harran • Urfa Privately tour Harran, notable for its beehiveshaped mud houses. Return to Urfa.

Day 5: Göbekli Tepe • Mardin Visit the UNESCO-listed site of Göbekli Tepe, whose ruins date from 10,000 BC. Continue to the city of Mardin and visit the Deyrulzafaran – or ‘Saffron Monastery’ – a centuries-old church.

Spend 2 nights at Hilton Garden Inn Mardin.

Day 6: Mardin Guided tour of Mardin, visiting Mardin Museum, the historic centre, the lively bazaar and the Mor Gabriel Monastery.

Days 7 & 8: Van Drive to Van, arriving by dinnertime, and stay 2 nights at DoubleTree by Hilton Van. The following day, visit the Urartian fortress of Cavustepe, and Lake Van – Turkey’s largest lake – for a boat ride to Akdamar Island and its solitary church.

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Sumela Monastery, Trabzon

Day 9: Doğubeyazit Drive to Doğubeyazit and visit the hilltop Ottoman-era Ishak Pasha Palace. Spend the night at Sim-er Hotel.

Day 10: Ani • Kars Drive to Kars and visit Kars Castle, and the Armenian ruins of Ani, replete with excavated churches. Overnight at Hotel Katerina Sarayi.

Day 11: Erzurum Transfer to Erzurum, visiting various Seljuk and Mongolian monuments en route.

Overnight at Hilton Garden Inn Erzurum.

Day 12: Trabzon Drive to Trabzon, visiting the 4th-century Sumela Monastery, which is set into a sheer cliff face within Altindere Valley National Park; and the Hagia Sophia church-turned-museum.

Overnight at Radisson Blu Hotel Trabzon.

Days 13 & 14: Istanbul • Fly home Fly to Istanbul and overnight at Royan Hotel Hagia Sophia. Return home the following day.

Included meals: 13 breakfasts, 11 lunches and 13 dinners

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

T U R K E Y & T H E C AU C AS U S • E U R O PE

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Georgia & Armenia: Crossroads of the Caucasus Duration • 10 days & 9 nights Price • From £2,995 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Explore two of the Caucasus’ most riveting countries on this private journey, tailored to you. You begin in Georgia, touring its capital by metro, cable car and riverboat, as well as visiting the cave ruins of Uplistsikhe, Gori’s Stalin Museum, and the Kakheti wine region. Cross the border into Armenia, one of the first Christian nations, to experience its medieval monasteries, ancient cave dwellings, storied capital and tremendous natural beauty – from vast, blue Lake Sevan to the plunging gorge of Garni.

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Day 1: Arrive Tbilisi, Georgia Arrive in Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital, and stay 4 nights at Clocks Hotel Tbilisi.

Day 2: Tbilisi Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Tbilisi, exploring via metro, cable car, river boat and on foot. Visit the historic centre, as well as the Mother Georgia statue and the fortress of Narikala.

Day 3: Uplistsikhe • Gori • Tbilisi Visit the cave ruins of Uplistsikhe, one of Georgia’s oldest settlements, and the Joseph Stalin Museum in nearby Gori, including the Soviet dictator’s bulletproof train carriage.

Return to Tbilisi.

Day 4: Kakheti • Tbilisi Sample the fruits of Georgia’s millennia-old viticulture in Kakheti, seeing the traditional process as well as tasting local wines and fiery chacha spirit. You also visit an artisan specialising in felt crafts. Return to Tbilisi for a funicular ride to Mtatsminda Park and enjoy nocturnal views across the city.

Day 5: Dilijan, Armenia Cross into Armenia and visit the 10th-century Haghpat Monastery, followed by picturesque Lake Parz and the Goshavank Monastery.

Arrive in Dilijan and overnight at Best Western Paradise Hotel Dilijan.

Day 6: Lake Sevan • Mikaelyan Farm • Selim Caravanserai • Goris Drive to the vast, blue lake of Sevan where you visit the medieval monastery of Sevanavank.

Continue to Mikaelyan Family Farm for insight into Armenian cheese production, and the Selim Caravanserai, a 14th-century mountainside rest stop. Arrive in Goris and overnight at Mirhav Hotel.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Day 7: Khndzoresk • Tatev • Qarahunj • Areni • Norovank • Yerevan En route to Yerevan, stop at the hillside village and caves of Khndzoresk; Tatev Monastery, arriving via cable car over a gorge; the Qarahunj standing stones; Areni’s ancient caves, home to the earliest known winery; and the 13th-century Noravank Monastery.

Arrive in Yerevan and stay 3 nights at Opera Suite Hotel.

Day 8: Yerevan Take a guided tour of Armenia’s capital,

including its major landmarks, markets, manuscript museum and brandy distillery.

Day 9: Geghard • Garni • Yerevan Visit the mountain-carved monastery of Geghard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Continue to Garni’s restored Pagan temple and remarkable rock formations.

Day 10: Fly home Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Included meals: 9 breakfasts

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Greece & the Balkans Caryatids at Porch of the Erechtheion, Acropolis, Greece

Greece: where ancient colonnaded temples and vibrant modern cities glisten under the same sun. The birthplace of Western civilisation is woven with a rich mythology and offers up a trove of celebrated art and architecture. Beyond the mainland attractions, there are some 1,400 islands to explore, including Crete, land of the Minoans; the sandy Cyclades; and oft-overlooked Evia.

For more under-the-radar delights, south-east Europe delivers in the form of Romania’s folkloric castles, Albania’s Ottoman-era towns, and Croatia’s fortified, Aegean-side city of Dubrovnik.

Other worthy stops include Bulgaria with its Balkan peaks, Black Sea beaches and numerous churches; and Bosnia-Herzegovina, whose eclectic architecture is surrounded by the Dinaric Alps.

C&K RECOMMENDS The Greek island of Evia is blessed with archaeological wonders, crowdless beaches, idyllic wineries and historic towns. Yet, despite being just over the bridge from Athens, it’s mostly off the tourist map.

As well as exploring the island itself, we can arrange for you to sail along the Euripus Strait that divides it from mainland Greece and is notable for its tidal reversal. Relish views of craggy headlands, tuckedaway harbours and quiet coves. For another of Greece’s under-theradar islands, visit Serifos, a rugged beauty with steep mountains, broad bays, twisting streets and white-washed houses.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

G RE E C E & T H E BAL K ANS • E U R O PE

METEORA SAMPLE THE FAMOUS TRUFFLES • VISIT BYZANTINE MONASTERIES When medieval monks stumbled upon vast sandstone pillars jutting out of Thessaly’s green hills, they saw potential. The precipices of Meteora (meaning ‘suspended in the air’) became the base of some 24 monasteries – six of which survive today and form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The forests beneath, meanwhile, shelter prized wild truffles, allowing you to combine a visit to the monasteries with a truffle hunting and tasting experience.

Agia Triada Monastery, Meteora

TRANSYLVANIA, ROMANIA SAXON CHURCHES • MOUNTAIN SCENERY • MEDIEVAL CASTLES Romania’s Transylvania region is a picture of sprawling forests, Saxon churches, fairy-tale castles and rural villages, set against the Carpathian Mountains and Transylvanian Alps. Britain’s King Charles III – a distant ancestor of Vlad the Impaler – owns properties here, including a restored guesthouse in the village of Zalanpatak.

Further highlights include the iconic Bran Castle, the fiery local brandy of Palinca, and the pastel-hued, UNESCO-listed town of Sighisoara.

Sighisoara, Romania

EXPERIENCES

TASTINGS AT SKENDERBEU WINERY, ALBANIA We can arrange for you to sample celebrated tipples at the Gjergj Kastrioti Skenderbeu Winery, Albania’s largest winery. Founded in 1933 and named after national hero, Skenderbeu (Skanderbeg), it’s famed for its brandy, which you can try on a tour of the distillery, production line and cellar.

TOUR DUBROVNIK’S OLD TOWN, CROATIA Dubrovnik, described by Byron as the “Pearl of the Adriatic”, is a city of rich cultural heritage and Mediterranean beauty. Its central appeal lies in the old town, Stari Grad, with its marble-paved squares, steep cobbled streets, tall houses, baroque churches and gothic palaces. The intact city walls keep motorists at bay, allowing for a seamless walking tour with our experts.

ADMIRE MOSTAR’S OLD BRIDGE AREA, BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA Mostar was named after the keepers of the Stari Most bridge – built by the Ottomans in the 16th century, rebuilt after destruction, and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The reconstructed old town surrounding it gives you a glimpse into the past. We can arrange for you to arrive here by train on one of Europe’s most scenic railway journeys.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

The Secret Cyclades: Serifos, Syros & Tinos Duration • 11 days & 10 nights Price • From £1,395 (incl. flights) Category • Standard This island-hopping tour explores three of Greece’s lesser-known Cyclades islands: Serifos, Syros and Tinos. Enjoy some time in Athens, the Greek capital, before moving on to spend a couple of days on each of these three tranquil islands, which are a far cry from the crowds of Mykonos and Santorini. Amid rugged coastal scenery, enjoy leisure time to amble the winding streets of white-washed towns and unwind beside quiet harbours.

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Day 1: Fly to Athens Fly to Athens. Transfer to the Arion Hotel for 1 night. Time at leisure to enjoy the Greek capital.

Day 2: Athens • Serifos Transfer to the port of Piraeus for the 2.5-hour crossing to Serifos in the western Cyclades.

Transfer to Dorkas Studios for 2 nights. Free time to explore the local town of Livádion.

Day 3: Serifos Full day to explore ruggedly beautiful Serifos.

Be sure to take a ride up to Hora, the island’s ‘capital’, a maze of twisting streets with a neoclassical town hall and a blue-domed church.

Day 4: Serifos • Syros Morning transfer to the port and a 4-hour ferry crossing to Syros. Check in at the beachfront Brazzera Hotel for 3 nights.

Days 5 & 6: Syros Enjoy two full days to explore Syros, the administrative centre and most populous island of the Cyclades. The main town, Ermoupoli, is a maze of pink and white buildings tumbling down the hillside, and well worth exploring. Your following day is at leisure.

Day 7: Syros • Tinos Take the short ferry transfer to Tinos. Stay for 3 nights at Nama Boutique Hotel.

Day 10: Tinos • Athens Return to Athens via a 4-hour crossing to Rafina Port, then transfer to Arion Hotel for 1 night. Free time to enjoy a meal in the Plaka neighbourhood that surrounds the Acropolis.

Day 11: Fly home Transfer to Athens Airport and fly home.

Included meals: 10 breakfasts

Days 8 & 9: Tinos Explore Tinos, an island known for its Orthodox pilgrimage site, the Church of the Annunciation, situated in the main town (also known as Hora). Beyond the town, Tinos is a patchwork of 40 marble-ornamented villages found in hidden bays and terraced hillsides. Your following day is at leisure.

Hora, Serifos

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

G RE E C E & T H E BAL K ANS • E U R O PE

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Across Albania & Kosovo Duration • 10 days & 9 nights Price • From £3,495 (incl. flights) Category • Standard Discover the best of an oft-overlooked corner of the Mediterranean. Known as the Cradle of the Balkans, Albania is home to a wealth of natural and historic sites. Beyond Tirana, its lively capital, lies spectacular mountain and coastal scenery as well as pretty Ottoman-era towns such as Gjirokastër and Kruja.

It’s also home to important Greek and Roman sites, most notably Apollonia.

Neighbouring Kosovo is a young country where you can admire medieval monasteries adorned with Byzantine frescoes and meander around historic Ottoman towns with winding streets.

Day 1: Arrive Tirana, Albania Transfer and stay at the Hotel Opera for 2 nights. Enjoy a welcome drink at KomitetiKafe Museum.

Day 2: Tirana This morning, enjoy a walking tour of Tirana, followed by a visit to BunkArt – an antinuclear bunker that’s now a museum and modern art gallery. Afterwards, visit Bektashi World Centre, the headquarters of a Dervish sect that fuses elements of Shia and Sufi Islam. Your afternoon is at leisure.

Day 3: Apollonia • Gjirokastër Drive to the historic Ottoman town of Gjirokastër, pausing en route to visit the Graeco-Roman ruins of Apollonia. Check into Hotel Argjiro for 2 nights.

Day 4: Butrint • Gjirokastër Tour the ancient ruins of Butrint and visit the historic city of Sarandë. Return to Gjirokastër.

Day 5: Gjirokastër • Berat Spend the morning touring the key sights of Gjirokastër. Visit Hoxha’s birthplace and learn more about Albania’s recent history. In the afternoon, depart for the town of Berat and check in at Hotel Onufri for 2 nights.

Day 6: Berat Explore UNESCO-listed Berat, visiting the Onufri Museum and the town castle. This afternoon, meet a local family and learn how to prepare raki – a strong spirit – as well as traditional coffee.

Day 7: Prizren, Kosovo Depart Berat and cross the border to Prizren, the historic and cultural capital of Kosovo.

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Day 8: Prizren • Pristina Visit Gracanica Monastery and its elaborate Byzantine frescoes, then tour Pristina, including both the modern city and the historic Ottoman district, which dates from the 14th century.

Day 9: Kruja, Albania Return to Albania for an afternoon tour of Kruja’s highlights. Stay overnight at Hotel Panorama Kruje.

Day 10: Fly home Transfer to Tirana Airport for your flight home or proceed to Budva in Montenegro to begin your extension.

Included meals: 9 breakfasts and 2 dinners

Kruja, Albania

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Scandinavia S W ED E N | N OR WA Y | FINLA ND | ICELAND | D ENMARK | FAROE ISLAND S Seljalandsfoss, Iceland

Across Norway, Sweden and Denmark, head-turning nature abounds. Fjords cut through vaulting mountains and emerald forests, islands stagger out from crystalline waters, and the ephemeral ribbons of the northern lights ripple above the Arctic Circle. Some of Earth’s most picturesque water, rail and road journeys are waiting for you.

Amid this nature, you’ll find highly liveable cities with understated confidence. Trends are set and broken here, in the bold, modern designs of buildings and in the gourmet kitchens. Yet history and tradition survive, with medieval churches and wood-clad harbour towns that feel ageless, and museums that explore the origin of the seafaring Vikings. More legends and landscapes await in the wider Nordic world, which includes Finland, Iceland and the rarely visited Faroe Islands.

C&K RECOMMENDS Norway is pretty as a picture, whether you’re looking at it from the land or the water. Connecting mountainous Myrdal with fjord-side Flåm, the Flåmsbana Railway offers you one of the best vantage points. Roll along at a leisurely pace in vintage carriages, passing farms and river bends flanked by plunging, forested slopes. Follow this with a cruise through mountains along one of Norway’s longest fjords. Stockholm, Sweden’s capital, is a city of islands and has its own navigable waterways. Boat trips here grant you a novel view of the landmarks, from the Royal Palace to the attractive Djurgården island.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

S C AN D IN AVI A • E U R O PE

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN TOUR THE OLD TOWN OF GAMLA STAN • SEE THE CITY BY BOAT • VISIT VASA’S VIKING SHIP Nicknamed the ‘Venice of the North’, Sweden’s capital stretches across 14 islands where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic Sea. Its history is preserved in the cobbled old town and various Viking museums. It’s also eminently explorable – on foot, by boat and via the metro, whose eccentric stations are themselves an attraction. Wander between harbours, parks, galleries, and cafes perfect for a fika (coffee and pastry in good company).

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TRONDHEIM, NORWAY RENOWNED GASTRONOMY • EASILY EXPLORED ON FOOT • HOME TO GOTHIC NIDAROS CATHEDRAL

Colorful old houses at the Nidelva river embankment, Trondheim, Norway

Market Square, Helsinki, Finland

Today, Norway’s Viking-age capital is a certified European Region of Gastronomy.

When you aren’t sampling elk, cloudberries, or straight-off-the-boat crayfish, explore the cobbled streets of this compact, walkable city. Nidaros Cathedral sits atop the tomb of Viking King Olaf and is a must, while the Nidelva River allows you to cruise past the city’s colourful merchant houses into Trondheimsfjord – the third-longest fjord in Norway.

Reykjavík, Iceland

Faroe Islands

HELSINKI, FINLAND

REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND

FAROE ISLANDS

IMPRESSIVE ART-DECO BUILDINGS • FINNISH SAUNA CULTURE • VISIT IN WINTER OR SUMMER

EXCELLENT NIGHTLIFE • CENTRE OF CULTURE • CLOSE TO NATURE INCLUDING THE BLUE LAGOON

BARREN ISLAND BEAUTY • BIRD WATCHING • NORDIC HISTORY

Set on the shores of the Baltic Sea, Finland’s capital is one of the world’s most liveable cities. Helsinki’s wide avenues are lined with buildings of eclectic style, from gothic through to art deco and contemporary.

During winter here, you can embrace Finnish sauna culture, tour the Christmas markets and warm up in cosy cafes. At the peak of summer, explore the city until late, with near round-the-clock sunlight.

First settled by Vikings in 870 AD, the world’s most northerly capital is also Iceland’s most populous city. Reykjavík is home to the expressionist Hallgrimskirkja church, as well as pioneering musicians, writers and film makers. Framed by the majestic Mount Esja and Faxaflói Bay, the city enjoys a wonderful natural setting, with the tempting thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon as well as whalewatching opportunities in close reach.

Equidistant between Iceland, Scotland and Norway, the 18 islands of the Faroes are home to fewer than 60,000 people, and feel truly remote. Picture misty promontories that dwarf the timber houses on their edges, and treeless hills speckled by hardy wildflowers and equally hardy Faroese sheep. Here, you can go island hopping and birdwatching, dine on the freshest seafood and tour turf houses and stone churches.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

The Heart of Scandinavia: Stockholm to Trondheim Duration • 8 days & 7 nights Price • From £4,695 (incl. flights) Category • Superior On this leisurely paced holiday, you explore Sweden and neighbouring Norway by rail, road and boat. Start in Stockholm, admiring the historic buildings of Gamla Stan, cruising the Royal Canal and touring the Vasa Museum. Take the train north to the scenic slopes of Åre, staying in comfort at a mountain lodge.

Then cross the border to Trondheim, the Viking-age capital, where a boat tour ferries you past wood-clad merchant houses into the shimmering waters of one of Norway’s largest fjords.

Day 1: Arrive Stockholm, Sweden Arrive in Stockholm and privately transfer to your hotel. There’s time to independently explore, should you wish to visit the historic centre or step into one of the excellent restaurants and bars nearby. Stay 2 nights at Hotel At Six. Day 2: Stockholm Explore Stockholm on a 3-hour tour with a local guide and private driver. Your tour includes a visit to the historic centre, Gamla Stan, home to the baroque Royal Palace and the 13thcentury cathedral of Storkyrkan – the city’s oldest church. Afterwards, entrance to the Vasa Museum allows you to see the preserved hull of a 17th-century warship.

This afternoon, admire Stockholm from

the water on a canal tour looping around Djurgården island.

Days 3 & 4: Åre This day is a travel day, bringing you to the scenic slopes of Åre. You are privately driven from your hotel to Stockholm Central railway station, where you ride the train in First Class to Östersund. Upon arrival, you’re privately transferred to Copperhill Mountain Lodge for a 2-night stay. The following day is at leisure.

Day 5: Trondheim, Norway Private road transfer from Åre to Trondheim, crossing the border into neighbouring Norway.

Remainder of the day at leisure. Stay 3 nights at the Britannia Hotel.

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Days 6 & 7: Trondheim The Nidelva River bisects Trondheim and today’s boat tour along its course lets you admire the city from the water. Pass through the centre, by historical merchant houses whose colourful wood-clad facades have been preserved, and into Trondheimsfjord – the third-longest fjord in Norway. The following day is at leisure.

Day 8: Fly home Private transfer to Trondheim Airport for your departure flight.

Included meals: 7 breakfasts

Stortorget Square, Stockholm

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3993 7016 or speak to your travel agent

S C AN D IN AVI A • E U R O PE

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Iceland: The Golden Circle & The South Duration • 5 days & 4 nights Price • From £3,495 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Iceland’s smoking volcanoes, geothermal springs, spouting geysers and bubbling fumaroles offer an insight into the fiery beginnings of planet Earth.

Frolic amid this elemental nature on a tour of the highlights, including the waterfalls and geysers of the Golden Circle and southern coast, the lively and compact capital of Reykjavík, and the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.

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Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavík Arrive at Keflavik Airport and transfer to Reykjavík. Stay 4 nights at Hotel Reykjavík Saga.

Day 2: Reykjavík Enjoy a private tour of Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital, learning about the city’s storied past.

This afternoon, visit the Blue Lagoon for a chance to bathe in the silica-rich geothermal waters.

Day 3: Reykjavík Navigate Iceland’s Golden Circle, the scenic route linking many of the country’s greatest natural and historical landmarks. Your shared excursion begins in UNESCO-listed Thingvellir National Park, where you can see Iceland’s

Viking-age parliament, and the rift dividing Europe from North America. Continue to the hot springs of the Haukadalur Valley, home to the dependable Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 10 minutes or so. Next, visit Gullfoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls, and the aquamarine crater lake of Kerid, nicknamed the ‘Eye of the World’. Finish in the geothermal town of Hveragerdi, with its hot-spring heated greenhouses and earthquake exhibition.

waves and remarkable basalt columns; and Vik, a small coastal town with a charming redroofed church.

Day 5: Fly home This afternoon, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Included meals: 4 breakfasts

Day 4: Reykjavík Embark on a comprehensive tour of Iceland’s southern wonders. Your shared excursion visits the dramatic waterfalls of Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss – the latter offering a chance to stand behind its cascading curtain; the volcanic black-sand beach of Reynisfjara, with its roiling

Thingvellir National Park

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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M I D D L E E A S T& NORTH AFRICA Vast sweeps of desert, centuries-old cities and layers of history lie at the heart of the Middle East and North Africa. This is a region where ancient ruins sit beside Islamic mosques and where the stories of early civilisations are visible at every turn.

Chart the legacy of the antiquity in North Africa’s Roman cities, Jordan’s rockcarved Petra and the temple complexes along the Nile in Egypt. As the birthplace of Christianity, Judaism and Islam, it remains a place of pilgrimage, yet modern life thrives in cities such as Cairo, Riyadh and Marrakech.

Nature is equally compelling. The dunes of the Sahara, Sharqiya and Wadi Rum make captivating settings for desert camps and 4x4 exploration. The Atlas and Hajar mountains offer superb hiking, while coastlines along the Red Sea and Mediterranean provide opportunities to swim, snorkel, or just unwind.

With extensive regional knowledge and trusted local guides, Cox & Kings arranges journeys that reveal the region’s depth in all its textures.

View our full collection online The destinations and tours featured in this brochure represent a small sample of what we offer. Our website contains a wealth of additional itineraries, detailed country guides and accommodation options.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 5842 or speak to your travel agent

C OU N T RY • MI DDLE E A ST

Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca

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Discover Egypt Pyramids of Giza

Egypt has captivated cultural travellers since the 19th century and it continues to fascinate anyone with an interest in ancient history. Home to an extraordinary concentration of archaeological treasures, it offers a journey through temples, tombs and monumental sites on a scale seen nowhere else.

Many visitors begin in Cairo, then travel north to Alexandria, a Mediterranean city with strong Greek, Roman and modern influences.

Further south, a multi-night cruise along the Nile remains one of the most rewarding ways to explore, with most historic sites lining the riverbanks. Cruises range from larger vessels to intimate dahabeyas. To round off a trip, the Red Sea coast offers crystalline waters, golden sands and excellent snorkelling over colourful reefs.

C&K RECOMMENDS Egypt is best enjoyed in the cooler months of autumn and spring, when daytime temperatures are comfortable for exploring. A journey along the Nile takes you between temple complexes, tombs and riverside villages, with the option to cruise aboard anything from a traditional dahabeya to a larger, modern vessel. Winter is mild in the south around Luxor and Aswan, while December and January can feel cooler in Cairo and Alexandria. In summer, visitor numbers fall, making it easier to experience major highlights. To relax at the end of a trip, head to the Red Sea coast, with its clear waters and and sandy beaches.

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E G YP T • MI DDLE E A ST

CAIRO PYRAMIDS & THE GREAT SPHINX AT GIZA • ANCIENT KHAN EL-KHALILI SOUK Cairo is Egypt’s energetic capital, where Islamic, Coptic and Jewish heritage shape the city’s eastern quarters. Here, wander the Khan el Khalili bazaar, and explore historic mosques and citadels. To the west, Giza is home to the Great Pyramids, the Sphinx and the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum, showcasing Tutankhamun’s treasures. Nearby Sakkara, Dashour and ancient Memphis reveal further layers of pharaonic history.

Cairo

LUXOR EAST BANK TEMPLES OF KARNAK & LUXOR • VALLEY OF THE KINGS & QUEENS ON THE WEST BANK Luxor is a modern city framed by some of Egypt’s most remarkable ancient sites. On the East Bank, visit the vast Karnak temple complex and the illuminated Luxor Temple.

Across the Nile on the West Bank lies the necropolis, home to the Valley of the Kings and the lesser-visited Valley of the Queens, where richly decorated royal tombs await discovery.

Row of sphinx statues at Karnak temple, Luxor

Philae Temple on Agilkia Island, Aswan

Great Temple at Abu Simbel

Citadel of Qaitbay, Alexandria

ASWAN

ABU SIMBEL

ALEXANDRIA

TEMPLE OF PHILAE • NUBIAN MUSEUM • SAIL ON A TRADITIONAL FELUCCA

SEE THE COLOSSAL TEMPLE OF RAMSES II • DAY EXCURSION FROM ASWAN

Aswan’s highlight is the Temple of Philae, relocated to Agilkia Island in the 1960s to save it from flooding and now one of the Nile’s most striking sights. The city also boasts the excellent Nubian Museum, which explores the heritage of southern Egypt’s Nubian communities. A gentle sail on a traditional felucca provides a memorable way to experience Aswan’s tranquil stretch of river.

Set on the shores of Lake Nasser, Abu Simbel is home to the dazzling Temple of Ramses II, carved into the rock with four seated statues each around 20 metres high.

Following the construction of the Aswan High Dam, the temple was relocated in the 1960s. Beside it sits the smaller Temple of Nefertari. Most travellers visit on a day trip from Aswan by air, but it’s also possible to travel by road through the desert.

CATACOMBS OF KOM EL SHUGAFA • WAR MEMORIALS & MONASTERIES • SEAFOOD ON THE SHORE Along Egypt’s northern coast, Alexandria is a major Mediterranean port and a crossroads of Graeco-Roman, Coptic and Islamic heritage. Walk the Corniche and enjoy seafood overlooking the water. Key sights include the Catacombs of Kom El Shugafa, the Roman amphitheatre and the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina. Nearby, El Alamein’s war memorials and the monasteries of Wadi Natrun can be visited via Cairo.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Feluccas on the Nile river at sunset, Luxor

STAY

Nile Adventurer

NILE ADVENTURER & SUN BOAT IV, A&K SANCTUARY VESSELS Sanctuary’s Nile Adventurer and Sun Boat IV both offer refined cruising along the Nile with expert Egyptologists on board. The 32-cabin Nile Adventurer blends contemporary décor with Egyptian touches, featuring a teak sundeck with private cabanas and a pool, plus gourmet dining and varied sightseeing on 3- or 4-night itineraries. Sun Boat IV combines art deco style with modern comforts, offering 34 standard cabins and suites, elegant dining surrounded by handpainted Nubian motifs, and a sun deck with heated pool for relaxed viewing of the passing river landscapes.

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OBEROI PHILAE

SOFITEL LEGEND OLD CATARACT, ASWAN

The Oberoi Philae offers multi-night cruises between Aswan and Luxor, combining Nile views with signature Oberoi service.

Shore excursions are included and led by an English-speaking Egyptologist, travelling in small luxury coaches. The ship has 22 spacious cabins and suites – among the largest on the Nile – each with French doors, a sitting area and a marble bathroom with a rain shower. On the upper deck is a temperature-controlled pool and poolside dining, with further meals served in the main restaurant. Additional facilities include a spa, gym, cinema, cigar lounge and highspeed Wi-Fi.

Standing on a hill overlooking the Nile and Elephantine Island, The Sofitel Legend Old Cataract’s distinctive Victorian façade is recognisable from the film adaptation of “Death on the Nile”. Inside, a historic lobby with marble floors and Islamic arches sets the tone. The property offers two notable styles: the heritage-rich Palace wing and the more contemporary Nile Wing. Four restaurants include the fine-dining 1902 Restaurant and there are two stylish bars for evening relaxation. On-site facilities include a spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and terraces with superb river views.

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 5842 or speak to your travel agent

E G YP T • MI DDLE E A ST

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Egyptian Grand Tour: Nile Cruise & Lake Nasser Duration • 13 days & 12 nights Price • From £4,995 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Cairo

This comprehensive journey is designed for travellers wishing to experience Egypt’s major highlights in comfort. Begin in Cairo, exploring historic districts and bustling bazaars, before flying to Luxor to join a multi-night cruise along the Nile, visiting celebrated temples and ancient tombs along its banks.

Continue south to Abu Simbel to board a second cruise on Lake Nasser, offering access to lesser-visited Nubian sites. The trip concludes with time in Giza and a day excursion to Alexandria.

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Day 1: Fly to Cairo Arrive in Cairo and transfer to the InterContinental Semiramis for 2 nights.

Afternoon cruise to Kom Ombo to see the Temple of Sobek and Haroeris. Continue sailing to Aswan.

Day 9: Wadi El Sebua Morning visit to the Temple of Wadi El Sebua.

Afternoon cruise to Aswan.

Day 2: Cairo Half-day tour of Islamic Cairo and the bazaar.

Day 6: Aswan Morning visits to the Aswan High Dam, Unfinished Obelisk and the Temple of Philae.

Afternoon felucca trip on the Nile.

Days 10-12: Aswan • Fly to Cairo • Giza Disembark and visit the Temple of Kalabsha.

Fly to Cairo and transfer to the InterContinental Semiramis for 3 nights. During your stay in the capital, take a full-day tour of the Pyramids, Sphinx and Grand Egyptian Museum, as well as a day trip to Alexandria, Egypt’s second-largest city on the Mediterranean coast.

Days 3 & 4: Fly to Luxor Transfer to Cairo airport for an early flight to Luxor. On arrival, board the Mövenpick Royal Lily for a 4-night cruise. Afternoon trip to the East Bank to see Luxor and Karnak temples.

The next morning, visit the Valley of the Kings and Queens and the Temple of Hatshepsut on the West Bank, then sail to Edfu via Esna lock.

Day 5: Edfu • Kom Ombo Morning visit to the Temple of Horus.

Day 7: Fly to Abu Simbel Fly to Abu Simbel and board the Prince Abbas for a 3-night Lake Nasser cruise. Visit the Abu Simbel temple complex, with an optional evening sound and light show.

Day 8: Sail to Qasr Ibrim Visit the Temple of Amada, the rock-cut Temple of Derr and the Tomb of Penout.

Day 13: Fly home Transfer to the airport for your return flight.

Included meals: 12 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners

The Great Temple of Ramesses II on the shore of Lake Nasser

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Discover Morocco Koutoubia mosque, Marrakech

Get lost in the labyrinthine souks of Marrakech – once a key crossroads of the ancient caravan routes – and stay in a boutique riad. Explore Morocco’s imperial cities, from the ruins of Roman Volubilis to the medieval alleyways of Fez and the wide avenues of Rabat. Venture into the wild, trekking the valleys and peaks of the Atlas Mountains and camping beneath the stars in the Sahara Desert, or unwind in coastal towns such as Essaouira or Agadir.

All of this lies just a short flight from the UK, making Morocco an ideal destination for a complete change of scene without the need for long-haul travel. Its varied landscapes and atmospheric cities mean even a short trip can feel wonderfully restorative.

C&K RECOMMENDS From staying in traditional riads and browsing winding souks to exploring dramatic mountain passes and the open expanse of the Sahara, Morocco offers a rewarding mix of experiences for visitors.

Travel between Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier is easy thanks to a modern high-speed rail network, while coastal towns such as Essaouira provide a relaxed base with sea breezes year-round. Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable times to visit Marrakech and the Atlas foothills. The High Atlas can be snow-covered into early summer, and desert nights from December to February can be surprisingly cold despite warm daytime temperatures.

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M OROC C O • MI DDLE E A ST

MARRAKECH WALLED MEDIEVAL CITY • BUZZING DJEMAA EL FNA SQUARE • STAY IN A TRADITIONAL RIAD Set against the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech’s walled medina is a maze of narrow alleys, market stalls and historic buildings. The Koutoubia minaret dominates the skyline, while Djemaa el Fna fills with performers and food vendors each evening. Visit the tranquil Jardin Majorelle, then retreat to a traditional riad, where rooms often open onto atmospheric interior courtyards.

Marrakech

RABAT & CASABLANCA MODERN CAPITAL & ANCIENT PORT • ROMAN RUINS AT CHELLAH • HASSAN II GRAND MOSQUE Morocco’s capital, Rabat, combines modern boulevards with historic sites such as the riverside Chellah ruins and the peaceful Kasbah of the Oudayas overlooking the ocean. Casablanca, the nation’s largest city, blends colonial-era architecture with a lively old medina. Its standout landmark is the Hassan II Mosque, dramatically positioned above the Atlantic and offering a striking introduction to the country’s coastal heritage.

Kasbah of the Oudayas , Rabat

Air Benhaddou

Courtyard of the Al-Attarine Madrasa Fez

Sahara desert

THE ATLAS MOUNTAINS

FEZ

THE SAHARA & OASES

SCENIC HIKES • FERTILE OURIKA VALLEY • STAYS IN CONVERTED KASBAHS

MEDIEVAL ATMOSPHERE • LABYRINTHINE SOUKS • ANCIENT TANNING WORKMANSHIP

STAY IN A LUXURY DESERT CAMP • EXPLORE THE DRAMATIC DUNES BY 4X4

North Africa’s highest mountain range, the High Atlas is home to fertile valleys, rivers and snow-topped peaks just an hour from Marrakech. The lush Ourika Valley is ideal for a day trip, with orchards, olive groves and shaded riversides. Longer stays allow time to walk village trails and mountain paths, with accommodation ranging from converted kasbah retreats to simple local guesthouses.

Fez is home to one of the world’s oldest universities and is widely considered Morocco’s intellectual and spiritual heart.

Its medina is a maze of souks, with the tanneries a highlight, showcasing where hides are dyed in centuries-old stone vats.

To the west lie the Roman ruins of Volubilis, with triumphal arches, basilicas and intricate floor mosaics still visible today.

South of the High Atlas, Ouarzazate is the gateway to the Sahara, the Draa Valley and Zagora, where crumbling kasbahs sit among palm-filled oases – fertile pockets of life in the desert. Continue past the Todra Gorge to Erfoud and the vast dunes of Erg Chebbi near Merzouga, where 4x4 journeys and nights under canvas reveal the desert’s shifting colours at sunrise and sunset.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Chefchaouen

Spice stall, Fez

Lighthouse at Cape Spartel, Tangier

EXPERIENCE TASTING TRAIL THROUGH FEZ MEDINA WITH A CULINARY EXPERT Wander the winding lanes of Fez’s medina with a culinary expert and gain insight into the flavours and ingredients that define Moroccan cuisine. Begin at the Blue Gate, one of the city’s oldest food markets, where traders share the stories behind their spices, olives and seasonal produce.

Continue through the honey souk, past traditional bakeries and vegetable stalls, pausing to sample street-side specialities along the way. The experience concludes in a traditional riad, where you take part in a hands-on cookery class, preparing classic dishes to enjoy afterwards.

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EXPLORE BLUE-WASHED CHEFCHAOUEN

TAKE THE HIGH-SPEED TRAIN TO TANGIER

Set in the northern Rif mountains, Chefchaouen is a popular base for exploring nearby valleys, gorges and Berber villages.

Founded in 1471 as a Moorish refuge for exiles from Spain, it later grew into a community where Muslims, Jews and Christian converts lived side by side. The town is famed for its blue-washed buildings, a tradition often linked to Jewish dyeing practices that evoke sky and spirituality.

Wander the medina via steep cobbled lanes lined with leather and weaving workshops, and stop in the main square, Place Outa el Hammam, beside its red-walled kasbah.

Travelling between Morocco’s major cities is easiest by rail. The Al Boraq highspeed service links Tangier, Rabat and Casablanca in under two hours, while classic trains connect Tangier and Casablanca with Meknes, Fez and Marrakech. From Casablanca or Rabat, take the Al Boraq to Tangier to explore this coastal gateway where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic. Wander the medina and kasbah, visit the Mendoubia gardens and the Sidi Bouabid Mosque and take excursions to Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules for striking views over the Strait of Gibraltar.

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 5842 or speak to your travel agent

M OROC C O • MI DDLE E A ST

STAY

LA VILLA DE ORANGERS, MARRAKECH

LA DOMAINE DE LA ROSERAIE, ATLAS FOOTHILLS

LA SULTANA OUALIDIA

This enchanting Relais & Châteaux riad is set at the end of an orange-tree-lined avenue, just 400 metres from Marrakech’s Djemaa el Fna. Converted from a traditional home, it is entered through a carved wooden door into two serene courtyards with cushioned seating and gently bubbling fountains. The Villa des Orangers features lush gardens, plant-filled patios and a restaurant serving French, Mediterranean and Moroccan dishes. A highlight is the rooftop swimming pool, offering views towards the Koutoubia Mosque and the distant Atlas mountains.

Domaine de la Roseraie sits in the Ouirgane Valley in the foothills of the Atlas mountains, around 60km from Marrakech and close to both Toubkal National Park and Ouirgane Lake. Nestled within 25 hectares of natural parkland, its extensive gardens are filled with flowering shrubs, mature trees and quiet corners with sun loungers for peaceful relaxation. The open-air poolside restaurant affords views over the surrounding Berber countryside and village life. Guestrooms come with modern amenities and are decorated in a traditional Moroccan style, creating a comfortable and welcoming retreat.

Located on a peaceful, picture-postcard lagoon on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, La Sultana Oualidia offers an ideal setting for a relaxing escape. The property has been thoughtfully designed to blend with its natural surroundings, with individually styled rooms and suites set amid lush gardens. Each features a private terrace with views across the water, creating a sense of calm and privacy. The lagoon is renowned for its fresh oysters and seafood, which you can enjoy in the hotel’s restaurant while watching birds and fishing boats drift across the bay.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Historic Cities & Culinary Delights 8 days & 7 nights Superior from £3,275 (incl. flights)

This journey explores the imperial cities of Rabat, Fez and Marrakech, while revealing the secrets of Moroccan cuisine.

Take part in cookery classes and learn the recipes and techniques that define the nation’s dishes, with visits to markets and food stalls offering further insight into local produce and flavours.

Days 1 & 2: Fly to Rabat • Fez Fly to Rabat and transfer to Fez. Stay 2 nights at the Palais Ommeyad Suites & Spa. The next morning, join a cooking class at a traditional riad. Afternoon tour of Fez, visiting the medieval medina and exploring the famous souks and tanneries.

Day 3: Rabat • Casablanca Transfer to Rabat to explore the Oudayas garden, Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. After lunch, depart for Casablanca. Stay overnight at Barcelo Casablanca.

Days 4 & 5: Casablanca • Marrakech Take a morning tour of Casablanca, then

Selection of tajines

continue to Marrakech. Stay at the Les Jardins de la Medina for 2 nights. The next morning, join another cooking class at a traditional riad before an afternoon sightseeing tour of the Saadian Tombs, Menara gardens, Koutoubia Mosque and Bahia Palace. Continue to the souks and Djemaa el Fna square.

Days 6 & 7: Essaouira Travel to Essaouira and visit the ramparts

of Skala, the seaport, fish market and the medina. Stay at the Villa Maroc, or upgrade to Palais L’Heure Bleue, for 2 nights and enjoy some time at leisure.

Day 8: Fly home Transfer to Marrakech airport and fly home.

Included meals: 7 breakfasts and 2 lunches

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Jordan Al-Khazneh (The Treasury), Petra

Home to Roman and Nabatean cities, Crusader castles and significant Biblical sites, Jordan is a kingdom with history and culture in abundance. It also offers unmissable natural landscapes, from the dramatic desert of Wadi Rum and protected nature reserves to the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea and the warm, clear shores of the Red Sea. Whether your focus is culture, cuisine, scenery, or simple relaxation, Jordan offers all of these in close proximity. Amman, the capital, is the starting point for most travellers, where modern neighbourhoods retain remnants of earlier civilisations. Compact in size and easy to navigate, Jordan allows for varied experiences within a single journey and also pairs well with Egypt, Saudi Arabia or Oman for an extended adventure.

C&K RECOMMENDS Jordan is ideal to explore in a week to 10 days, with Petra the major highlight – an extraordinary Nabataean city carved into rose-red cliffs.

For those who enjoy time outdoors, sections of the Jordan Trail offer rewarding hiking through canyons, mountains and desert. Journeys often end with relaxation by the Dead Sea or the Red Sea. The best times to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when temperatures are pleasant. Summer can be extremely hot, especially in the Jordan Valley, while winter nights – particularly in the desert – can be surprisingly cold.

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JORD AN • MI DDLE E A ST

PETRA NABATAEAN CAPITAL • UNESCO ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE No visit to Jordan is complete without seeing Petra. Founded in the sixth century BC by the Nabataeans, the city was later shaped by Roman, Byzantine and Crusader influence.

Enter through the narrow Siq, a dramatic rock passage, to reach Al Khazneh (‘The Treasury’). Beyond this revered façade, trails lead to tombs, dwellings and viewpoints that reveal Petra’s scale and history.

Royal Tombs, Petra

JERASH ROMAN RUINS • CHRISTIAN CHURCHES & MOSAICS North of Amman, Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the region.

Enter through the triumphal arch built for Emperor Hadrian, then explore the remains of theatres, a vast forum, temples to Zeus and Artemis, and the colonnaded Cardo.

Later Byzantine influences are visible in church foundations and mosaic floors, reflecting Jerash’s long and layered history.

Ruins of the Nymphaeum, Jerash

Wadi Rum

WADI RUM STUNNING NATURAL SCENERY • LUXURY DESERT CAMPS Wadi Rum’s dramatic and far-reaching landscapes made a lasting impression on Lawrence of Arabia and continue to captivate today. Its towering sandstone formations and sweeping desert plains have starred in films such as “Dune” and “The Martian”. Beyond the scenery, thousands of petroglyphs, inscriptions and temple remains reveal over 12,000 years of human presence, earning the valley UNESCO World Heritage status.

Ancient roman mosaic, Madaba

MADABA, MOUNT NEBO & AS-SALT MOSAIC MAP OF JERUSALEM • VIEWS FROM MOUNT NEBO Known as the ‘City of Mosaics’, Madaba is home to exquisite Byzantine and Umayyad floors, including the sixth-century Map of Madaba at St George’s Church, the oldest surviving map of the Holy Land. Nearby, Mount Nebo provides panoramic views across the Jordan Valley, linked to the biblical story of Moses. Also close by, the historic town of As-Salt reflects its past as a major trading centre.

Dead Sea

DEAD SEA MINERAL-RICH WATERS • LUXURY SPA RESORTS The Dead Sea, 400 metres below sea level, is the lowest point on Earth. Fed mainly by the Jordan River with no outlet, its waters evaporate to leave dense mineral salts, creating buoyancy and reputed therapeutic benefits. With luxurious spa resorts and easy access from Amman, it’s the perfect place to relax at the end of a journey or after visiting Petra.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Wadi Rum

Shobak Castle

Dana Biosphere Reserve

EXPERIENCE CAMP OVERNIGHT IN WADI RUM

VISIT JORDAN’S DESERT CASTLES

Explore Wadi Rum’s vast desert landscapes by 4x4, travelling between towering sandstone cliffs and valleys of red sand.

As the afternoon light transforms, the rock faces deepen to rich crimson tones – a sight famously admired by celebrated British writer T.E. Lawrence. Stay overnight in a desert camp to fully appreciate the stillness and scale of the landscape. After sunset, the sky reveals a canopy of stars so clear that the Milky Way appears to stretch across the horizon, making nights here as memorable as the desert views by day.

East and south of Amman, a chain of qasrs (desert castles) stands in isolation across the plains. Built mainly by Umayyad caliphs in the 7th and 8th centuries, many feature early Islamic architecture, mosaics and frescoes. Qasr Amra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the highlight, with more than 1,000-year-old ceiling paintings depicting rulers, hunters and constellations.

Further south along the King’s Highway, the crusader castles of Shobak and Kerak sit atop rocky outcrops, offering atmospheric ruins and wide-ranging views of the surrounding landscapes.

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HIKE IN ONE OF JORDAN’S RUGGED NATURE RESERVES Experience Jordan’s quieter, wilder side in either Dana Biosphere Reserve or Ajloun Forest Reserve, each offering scenic trails and varied wildlife. Dana, the largest reserve in the country, is a haven for birdwatchers, with dramatic canyons, sandstone cliffs and broad vistas across desert and mountain terrain. Ajloun, a wooded reserve of oak and pistachio, is well suited to gentle exploration. Walk the 7km Soap Maker’s Trail for sweeping views of the hills and visit a local women’s co-operative where natural olive-oil soap is made using traditional techniques.

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 5842 or speak to your travel agent

JORD AN • MI DDLE E A ST

STAY

MÖVENPICK RESORT, PETRA

SARAYA RUM PRIVATE LUXURY CAMP, WADI RUM

MÖVENPICK RESORT & SPA, DEAD SEA

The Mövenpick Resort, just a short walk from the entrance to Petra, is surrounded by amber sandstone cliffs and desert scenery. Designed with natural stone, carved wood and Middle Eastern textiles, it has a warm and relaxed character. The 183 spacious rooms include air conditioning, satellite TV, tea and coffee facilities and a minibar. Guests can choose from several dining spots, including two restaurants, plus a bar, a tea room, an ice-cream counter and a rooftop garden with views of the surrounding mountains – ideal for recharging after exploring Petra.

Saraya Rum sits beneath the dramatic cliffs of Umm Ishreen mountain, known for the ‘Seven Pillars of Wisdom’ formation.

This modern desert camp features airconditioned tented suites with bold textiles, sleek bathrooms and private terraces.

Meals are served in a large dining tent, with buffets of local dishes and fresh pastries.

Communal outdoor seating, a 24-hour front desk and free Wi-Fi provide comfort amid Wadi Rum’s vast silence. Guests can explore the surrounding desert on guided hikes, horseback rides, 4×4 excursions, hot-air balloon flights, or evening stargazing.

Perched among lush gardens on the northeastern shore of the Dead Sea, the Mövenpick Resort & Spa offers private beach access and tranquil views from every room, each with a balcony or terrace overlooking the gardens, mountains or water. Styled like a traditional village with warm stone and local artworks, the resort features 346 rooms and suites, 9 restaurants and bars, 3 swimming pools and a gym. The award-winning Zara Spa provides extensive wellness facilities and mineral-rich treatments. An ideal base for floating in the Dead Sea, visiting Bethany, or hiking in nearby Wadi Mujib.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Natural Jordan 10 days & 9 nights Superior from £3,825 (incl. flights)

Discover Jordan’s remarkable variety of landscapes, from the carved façades of Petra to the wild canyons and highland trails of the Dana Biosphere Reserve.

Walk among ancient history, experience sweeping desert views, then unwind on the tranquil shores of the Dead Sea, where mineral-rich waters offer a natural place to relax.

Day 1: Fly to Amman Arrive in Amman and transfer to the Rotana Tower Hotel for 3 nights.

Days 2 & 3: Amman Enjoy a morning walking tour of Jordan’s capital, taking in its busy streets and historic highlights. In the afternoon, visit nearby Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the region, with colonnaded avenues, theatres and temples. The next morning, spend a full day exploring the Ajloun Forest Reserve. This woodland habitat has played a key role in efforts to reintroduce the roe deer to Jordan and has also been recognised as an Important Bird Area.

Aljoun Forest Reserve

Day 4: Mount Nebo • Madaba • Dana Biosphere Reserve Travel via Mount Nebo and Madaba to Dana Biosphere Reserve, a protected wilderness of cliffs, wadis and highland plateaus.

Time permitting, take a short sunset walk.

Overnight at Feynan Ecolodge.

Day 5: Feynan Choose a sunrise walk or explore the copper mine trail, which passes ancient shafts once worked by the Romans. Later, continue to Petra for 3 nights at the Petra Guesthouse.

Days 6 & 7: Petra Spend a full day exploring Petra, the Nabataean capital carved into rose-red sandstone. Walk through the Siq to the Treasury and continue to the Royal Tombs,

theatres and high viewpoints. A second day allows further independent discovery.

Day 8: Wadi Rum Drive to Wadi Rum for a 4x4 excursion through its desert landscapes. Overnight at Luxury Saraya Rum Camp, with the chance to sleep under the stars.

Day 9: The Dead Sea Continue to the Dead Sea, stopping at Shobak or Kerak castle en route. Overnight at the Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea. Day 10: Fly home Transfer to Amman airport for your flight home.

Included meals: 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Oman Ras al Hadd, Oman

Stretching across the south-eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman remains one of the Middle East’s less-visited yet most rewarding destinations. Spanning ancient trade routes that once crossed ocean and sand, it overlooks the Arabian Sea, the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf. In the capital, Muscat, discover lively waterfronts, traditional souks and winding alleyways.

Venture further to explore imposing forts, old trading towns and coastal fishing villages. Embark on a 4x4 adventure into the Sharqiya Sands or through the soaring Hajar mountains, before decompressing amid the tropical greenery of Salalah. For something different, travel north to the Musandam Peninsula and explore its fjord-like inlets aboard a traditional dhow, keeping an eye out for dolphins along the way.

C&K RECOMMENDS Oman’s appeal lies in its contrasts: craggy mountains, boundless deserts, deep wadis and an inviting coastline, all paired with the warmth and hospitality of its people. Scattered across the landscape are historic forts – a defining feature of Omani heritage, with several recognised by UNESCO. After exploring wadis and traditional towns, many travellers choose to conclude at a coastal resort in Muscat or Salalah. The best time to visit is between October and April, when temperatures are warm but pleasant. Summers can be extremely hot and humid, particularly on the coast, while the interior tends to feel drier and less oppressive.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3966 5842 or speak to your travel agent

OM AN • M I DDLE E A ST

MUSCAT ATMOSPHERIC SOUKS • COASTAL FORTS • SNORKELLING AMONG CORAL Muscat sits between the Al Hajar mountains and the sea, with the districts of Mutrah and Old Muscat offering atmospheric souks, waterfronts and lanes. Visit the Bait Al Zubair Museum and see the coastal forts of Jalali and Mirani. Day trips include Nakhal and Rustaq castles, or a boat to the Daymaniyat Islands for snorkelling among coral and marine life.

Mutrah Corniche, Muscat

NIZWA & THE JABAL AKHDAR

EXPERIENCE STAY OVERNIGHT IN THE SHARQIYA SANDS Explore the vast Sharqiya Sands, a golden desert stretching over 12,500 sq km in eastern Oman. Stay overnight in eco-resorts or luxury Bedouinstyle tents with private bathrooms, combining comfort with authenticity.

Experience dune bashing on a thrilling 4x4 drive, then watch the sun set over the sands before a peaceful night beneath a sky ablaze with stars.

TURTLES & DHOWS

WATCH THE TRADING OF LIVESTOCK • ENJOY A STAY IN THE MOUNTAINS

South-east of Muscat, the coastal town of Sur is famed for its centuries-old dhow-building tradition. Visit a working boatyard, then take to the water on a traditional dhow cruise along the coast. Nearby, Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve protects nesting green turtles – best seen on guided evening walks between May and September along this endlessly fascinating shoreline.

Once Oman’s capital, Nizwa is known for its circular fort and lively souk, especially on Fridays when livestock is traded. Jabal Akhdar itself offers terraced orchards, rose gardens and small villages overlooking deep canyons and rugged peaks, including Jabal Shams, Oman’s highest point. Most of our guests stay in the Jabal Akhdar mountains and visit Nizwa on a half-day trip.

Nizwa Fort

SALALAH & DHOFAR PROVINCE LUSH LANDSCAPE • OLD FISHING VILLAGES • 4X4 ADVENTURES Salalah, capital of Dhofar in southern Oman, is unique for its khareef monsoon (late June to September), when the landscape turns lush and cool. The coastline offers long, quiet beaches, while inland lie forts, archaeological sites and old fishing villages. Visit the partly unearthed lost city of Ubar by 4x4 and learn about Wilfred Thesiger’s Empty Quarter journeys at the local museum.

EXPLORE THE FRANKINCENSE TRAIL Journey along the Frankincense Trail from Salalah through Dhofar’s lush mountains, once the source of the world’s finest frankincense – an aromatic resin at one time worth more than gold. Visit the tomb of the prophet Job, see the dramatic blowholes at Mughsail Beach and wind through valleys scented with resin from the ancient frankincense trees that still thrive here today.

Al Mugsail Beach, Salalah

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Oman Discovery 8 days & 7 nights Superior from £2,895 (incl. flights)

Experience the cultural and scenic highlights of Oman on this 8-day journey.

Travel through mountain landscapes and villages that have paused in time, stay overnight among the rolling dunes of the desert and follow the coast past wadis, beaches and fishing towns. Along the way, experience authentic Omani hospitality and striking natural beauty.

Days 1 & 2: Fly to Muscat Arrive in Muscat and transfer to the Mysk Al Mouj for 2 nights. Explore the capital’s highlights on a guided city tour, with an optional late-afternoon dhow cruise along the coast.

Day 3: Nakhal • Wadi Bani Awf • Jabal Shams Drive into the Jabal Akhdar mountains, stopping at Barka fish market, Nakhal springs, Wadi Bani Awf and the picturesque village of Bilad Sayt. Overnight at Sama Heights, 2,100 metres above sea level near Jabal Shams.

Days 4 & 5: Jabal Akhdar Optional morning ‘balcony walk’ along the rim of Oman’s Grand Canyon. Continue via Al Hamra and Nizwa’s lively souk and fort. Stay 2 nights at Hanging Terraces Guesthouses,

with time to explore mountain trails or relax amid stunning scenery.

Day 6: Wadi Bani Khalid • Sharqiya Sands Travel via Sinaw to Wadi Bani Khalid, known for its turquoise pools and palm-fringed villages. Continue to Sharqiya Sands for an overnight stay at Arabian Nights Resort, visiting a local Bedouin family en route.

Day 7: Sur • Muscat Return to Muscat along the coastal road, stopping at Sur’s dhow factory, the Bimah sinkhole, Wadi Arbayeen and Fins Beach.

Overnight at Mysk Al Mouj.

Day 8: Fly home or take a 3-night extension to Salalah.

Included meals: 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 4 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Saudi Arabia Hegra, AlUla

Millions of worshippers journey to Saudi Arabia each year to visit the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, yet the kingdom offers far more beyond the pilgrim trail. Now open to tourism, it invites travellers to explore a land of striking contrasts, where futuristic, oil-rich cities and highspeed trains meet ancient archaeological wonders, including six UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Experience the warmth of Saudi hospitality, cross vast deserts and fertile oases and unwind on the Red Sea coast with its idyllic beaches and coral reefs. Alternatively, head south to the cool, green mountains and forests of Asir.

The Nabataean heritage of Hegra in AlUla makes Saudi Arabia an excellent pairing with Jordan, Oman, Egypt, or the United Arab Emirates.

C&K RECOMMENDS Saudi Arabia experiences a desert climate, with long, intensely hot summers from May to September and cooler, more comfortable weather between November and March. The shoulder months of autumn bring warm, pleasant days – ideal for exploring AlUla’s sandstone valleys. This is also when major cultural events including the AlUla Wellness Festival, Azimuth Music and Arts Festival, and Ancient Kingdoms Festival all take place, combining art, heritage and outdoor experiences under desert skies. For coastal escapes, the Red Sea resorts off er year-round sunshine, calm waters and luxurious stays.

Lightweight linen clothing and a wide-brimmed hat are recommended for daytime exploration.

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S AU D I AR ABIA • MI DDLE E A ST

ALULA NABATEAN HEGRA • LABYRINTHINE OLD TOWN • ROCK-CARVED TOMBS OF DADAN Once a key stop on ancient incense and pilgrimage routes, AlUla is a captivating desert-valley oasis rich in archaeology and history. Explore the rock-carved tombs of Dadan and Nabataean Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover Jabal Ikmah’s inscriptions, wander AlUla Old Town, and journey through dramatic canyons and sandstone formations, including the iconic Elephant Rock.

Elephant Rock, AlUla

EXPERIENCE ROCK ART & CAMELS From Arabian Nights to The Seven Pillars of Wisdom, the desert’s best tales feature a camel or two. In Jubbah, ancient rock art at Jabel Umm Sinman (‘Two Camel-Hump Mountain’) depicts these legendary creatures. For the ultimate spectacle, visit Buraydah, home to the world’s largest camel market, where thousands – along with goats and sheep – are traded each morning.

JEDDAH

STAR GAZING IN GHARAMEEL

OTTOMAN-INFLUENCED OLD TOWN OF AL BALAD • THE GLAMOROUS CORNICHE WATERFRONT

Easily reached from AlUla, Gharameel Nature Reserve offers pristine dark skies untouched by light pollution.

Gaze up at a canopy of stars set against a striking backdrop of towering rock pillars, their silhouettes etched against the night. A stargazing guide can reveal the constellations, before you dine under the twinkling stars beside a gently crackling campfire.

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia’s commercial hub and gateway to Mecca, sits on the Red Sea and fuses history with modernity. Once a key Indian Ocean trading port, its Al Balad old town features Ottoman and Hijazi houses with intricate wooden balconies. Along the Corniche, you’ll find contemporary hotels, busy cafés, an outdoor art museum and the Al Rahma Floating Mosque.

EXPLORE HALLOWED MEDINA Town houses in Al Balad, Jeddah

RIYADH HEAD-TURNING ARCHITECTURE • RESTORED HISTORIC DISTRICT OF ALTURAIF • AL-BUJARI HERITAGE PARK Dynamic and fast-evolving, Riyadh captures Saudi Arabia’s mix of modern ambition and deep tradition. The capital’s skyline of glittering towers contrasts with its souks, palaces and historic quarters. Visit the National Museum, then head to Diriyah to explore Al-Turaif, the restored mudbrick district. Sample traditional cuisine in AlBujairi Heritage Park.

Only recently opened to non-Muslim visitors, Medina is Islam’s second holiest city after Mecca and home to the Prophet’s Mosque, founded

by Muhammad in 622. Arrive on the Haramain high-speed railway and explore the Hejaz Railway Museum, Quba Mosque, the historic battleground of Mount Uhud and a traditional local market reflecting Medina’s long and enduring heritage.

Diriyah ruins, Riyadh

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Saudi Arabia Discovery 8 days & 7 nights Superior from £4,645 (incl. flights)

Venture into the heart of the Arabian Peninsula to discover Saudi Arabia’s desert kingdom. Explore Riyadh’s glittering capital, Ha’il and its prehistoric rock art, and the AlUla archaeological area, including the Nabataeans’ rock-carved city of Hegra.

Conclude with a visit to holy Medina and Jeddah’s vibrant Corniche on the Red Sea coast.

Day 1: Fly to Riyadh Arrive in Riyadh and transfer to the Joudyan Hotel for 2 nights.

Day 2: Riyadh Discover the contrasts of the Saudi capital with visits to historic Diriyah, the National Museum and a bustling souk.

Day 3: Ha’il Take the train to Ha’il and visit Jubbah to see ancient petroglyphs and Thamudic inscriptions. Overnight at the Millennium Ha’il Hotel.

Days 4 & 5: AlUla Explore Ha’il’s forts and museum before driving through the desert to the AlUla archaeological site. Check in for 2 nights at Cloud 7 Residences. Later this afternoon, visit Elephant Rock and Harrat viewpoint at sunset. The next day, explore Dadan’s tombs,

Jabal Ikmah’s rock inscriptions, the old Hejaz railway, Hegra’s ‘Lonely Castle’, AlUla’s old town and a local farm.

Days 6 & 7: Medina • Jeddah Drive to Medina for a city tour before taking the high-speed bullet train to Jeddah. Stay 2 nights at the Warwick Jeddah (or similar). In the morning, tour the Corniche promenade, which skirts the Red Sea coast, and Jeddah’s historic centre. Spend the afternoon at leisure.

Day 8: Fly to London Morning transfer for your return flight.

Included meals: 7 breakfasts and 3 lunches

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Tunisia Sidi Bou Said

In its long and eventful history, Tunisia has been ruled by the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs and even the Normans. This rich blend of influences has left an extraordinary legacy, with nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites among its treasures – from the ancient ruins of Carthage and the vast Roman amphitheatre at El Djem to the sacred city of Kairouan, once a centre of Islamic learning. In the south, Berber villages, ancient ksars and cinematic desert scenery reveal another side of the country, with shimmering oases, rolling dunes and the vast Chott el Jerid salt flat.

Tunisia also offers Mediterranean beaches and charming coastal resorts that make for a relaxing finale to a journey through this small but endlessly varied North African nation.

C&K RECOMMENDS Compact and easy to explore, Tunisia combines desert drama with coastal calm and layers of ancient history. Stay in modern hotels, converted dars in historic medinas, or desert camps under starspecked skies. The coast enjoys a Mediterranean climate, while the south is warmer and drier. The best times to visit are March–May and September–November, when temperatures are ideal for sightseeing and festivals enliven towns and oases. Tunisian cuisine reflects its rich culture – fresh produce, fragrant spices, dates, citrus fruits and the fiery chilli paste harissa feature in many dishes, best enjoyed in colourful souks or family-run restaurants.

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T U N IS IA • M I DDLE E A ST

TUNIS, CARTHAGE & SIDI BOU SAID

EXPERIENCE

TUNIS’ HISTORIC MEDINA, • SIDI BOU SAID’S MEDITERRANEAN VISTAS • SPRAWLING ANCIENT RUINS

SLEEP IN THE SAHARAN DUNES

Tunis blends old and new, from the Europeanstyle modern city to the 12th-century medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of lively souks and mosques. Visit the Bardo Museum’s superb Roman mosaics, the ancient Punic and Roman ruins of Carthage, and the blue-andwhite cliff-top town of Sidi Bou Said, with its breathtaking views over the Gulf of Tunis.

The Baths of Antoninus, Carthage

KAIROUAN, SOUSSE & MONASTIR

Experience an authentic taste of Bedouin life at a tented camp in the Grand Erg Oriental, a vast expanse of Saharan dunes within the acclaimed Jebil National Park. Though facilities are simple and unfussy, the candlelit camp offers a truly atmospheric desert stay. Dinner features barbecued meats, homemade couscous and traditional bread baked beneath the sands.

DISCOVER ROMAN TUNISIA Perhaps Tunisia’s best-preserved archaeological site, Dougga once held the status of municipium under the Romans. Visitors can still wander its stone-paved streets and admire the capitol, theatre and other grand public buildings. Latin inscriptions reveal stories of the city’s notable residents.

Closer to the coast, the immense Roman amphitheatre of El Djem stands remarkably intact, a testament to Tunisia’s rich classical heritage.

NORTH AFRICA’S FIRST MOSQUE • UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE • THE ANCIENT RIBAT OF MONASTIR Kairouan, the ‘City of 50 Mosques’, was founded in 670 AD and became the Maghreb’s principal holy city. Its Great Mosque, the first in North Africa, remains a key highlight for travellers. On the coast, UNESCO-listed Sousse is famed for its early Islamic medina and excellent mosaic museum, while nearby Monastir’s eighthcentury Ribat stands sentinel over the sea.

The Great Mosque, Kairouan

SAHARA, OASES & BERBER HEARTLANDS CHOTT EL JERID SALT FLAT & MIRAGES • OASIS TOWNS OF TOZEUR & DOUZ • BERBER CAVE DWELLINGS Southern Tunisia reveals striking contrasts of desert and oasis. Cross the shimmering Chott el Jerid salt flat to the palm-filled oasis of Tozeur, then travel south from Douz through rolling dunes to a desert camp.

Explore Berber culture in Matmata and Tataouine to find distinctive underground homes, granaries and fortified ksars.

SEE THE CARPET WEAVERS OF KAIROUAN Kairouan is renowned for its alloucha – exquisite hand-knotted carpets crafted from natural wool and featuring intricate geometric and floral designs.

The Tunisian government enforces strict quality standards, with only the finest pieces awarded the official seal of excellence. Visitors can watch skilled artisans at work in a traditional alloucha workshop, preserving techniques passed down through the generations.

Berber underground dwellings, Matmata

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Tunisian Highlights 8 days & 7 nights Superior from £2,725 (incl. flights)

Discover Tunisia’s rich history on this private journey, taking in ancient Carthage, Monastir’s Ribat fortress, Kairouan’s mosques and the Roman ruins of Dougga. Explore the medina of Tunis and its vibrant heritage, with the option to extend your trip south to the Sahara’s oases, desert landscapes and traditional Berber villages.

Day 1: Arrive in Tunis Fly to Tunis and stay 2 nights at the Belvedere Fourati, or upgrade to Dar el Jeld in the heart of the medina.

Day 2: Tunis Visit the Bardo Museum, home to an outstanding collection of Roman and Byzantine mosaics. Continue to the medina for lunch and a guided walking tour.

Day 3: Sousse, Monastir & El Djem Drive to Sousse to visit the Great Mosque and archaeological museum, then continue to Monastir to see the Ribat fortress and Bourguiba mausoleum. Visit El Djem’s Roman amphitheatre and mosaic museum before travelling to Kairouan for 2 nights at La Kasbah.

Day 4: Kairouan Morning tour of the Great Mosque of Uqba,

the Mosque of the Barber and the 9th-century Aghlabid Reservoirs. Afternoon at leisure.

Day 5: Thuburbo Majus, Jedidi & Tunis Explore Thuburbo Majus, then visit a working eco-farm to learn about Berber culture.

Return to Tunis for 3 nights at Belvedere Fourati or upgrade to a stay in Sidi Bou Said.

Day 6: Dougga Drive to Dougga, a remarkably preserved Roman town.

Day 7: Carthage & Sidi Bou Said Visit the Punic and Roman ruins of Carthage before exploring Sidi Bou Said, with views over the Gulf of Tunis.

Day 8: Fly to London Included meals: 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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C E N T R AL A S I A Many moons ago, caravans laden with silk, tea, perfume and porcelain crossed Central Asia to the markets of Europe and Africa. Heading in the opposite direction: honey, horses, glassware and gold. And along this ancient Silk Road, nations and empires emerged.

You can explore this fascinating legacy in Uzbekistan, birthplace of conqueror Timur and home to blue-domed mosques, madrasas and mausoleums.

The yurt-studded steppe of Kazakhstan, meanwhile, offers the chance to experience a traditional nomadic lifestyle. Neighbouring Kyrgyzstan is home to impressive scenery, including the Issyk-Kul Lake, the Tian Shan Mountains and Bishkek’s Soviet architecture, while Tajikistan promises off-the-radar highlights, including the mountain-bound capital, Dushanbe.

We love taking guests to this storied region, often overlooked by other travel companies, and our hand-picked guides bring its history and culture vividly to life.

View our full collection online The destinations and tours featured in this brochure represent a small sample of what we offer. Our website contains a wealth of additional itineraries, detailed country guides and accommodation options.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 3290 or speak to your travel agent

C OU N T R Y • C ENT R A L A SI A

Historic architecture of the Itchan Kala, Khiva

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Discover Uzbekistan Ceiling of the Tilya Kori Madrasa, Samarkand

Uzbekistan: a vibrant stop on the ancient Silk Road and the metropole of a medieval empire. The country’s valleys, deserts and steppes reward those seeking isolated beauty, but it’s for the remarkable heritage that most visit.

Conquerors from Alexander the Great to Genghis Khan coveted this crossroads between east and west. Then, in the 14th and 15th centuries, the Turco-Mongol warlord Timur transformed Uzbekistan into an imperial power, leading to a renaissance in Islamic architecture – a legacy that survives to this day. Our experts can show you these historic highlights alongside revived traditions, revered dishes and varied landscapes for a deeper appreciation of Uzbekistan.

C&K RECOMMENDS One of the most sustainable and comprehensive ways to tour the Stans of Central Asia is by rail. High-speed trains connect all the major Silk Road cities of the region, with sightseeing sleeper services such as the Orient Silk Road Express promising a comfortable, seamless journey.

Cross the wide-open steppe between high peaks and deep gorges, visiting the key attractions of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan – all in one far-reaching adventure. We can arrange everything for you, from your preferred class of compartment to guided tours along the way.

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U Z BE K IS T AN • C E NT R A L A SI A

SAMARKAND ARCHITECTURE OF REGISTAN SQUARE • ULUGBEK OBSERVATORY One of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Samarkand dazzles with Islamic-renaissance architecture. Visit the Registan Square for three of the most impressive examples: Ulugh Beg Madrasa, Sher-Dor Madrasa and the Tilya-Kori Madrasa. Picture foiled archways, turquoise domes and the most intricate mosaics.

Further highlights include the ornate necropolis of Shah-i-Zinda, the ancient ruins and uncovered frescoes of Afrasiyab, and the historic Ulugh Beg Observatory.

Sher-Dor Madrasa, Samarkand

TASHKENT SOVIET LANDMARKS • COLOSSAL MONUMENTS • LIVELY MARKETS The Soviets had free rein to reshape Uzbekistan’s capital after a devastating earthquake in 1966, and this influence is most visible in the marble and murals of Tashkent’s grand metro stations. Some historic buildings survived, however – most notably the Barak Khan Madrasa, Kukeldash Madrasa and Russian Orthodox Cathedral.

Meanwhile, the covered market of Chorsu Bazaar showcases authentic Uzbek produce, from the wearable to the edible.

Main dome of the Chorsu Bazaar, Tahskent

Kalyan Minaret, Bukhara

Khiva

Fergana Valley

BUKHARA

KHIVA

FERGANA VALLEY

KALYAN MINARET • THE IMPOSING FORTRESS OF THE ARK

ANCIENT CITY TURNED OPEN-AIR MUSEUM • CENTURIES-OLD CITY WALLS

BUCOLIC SCENERY • KOKAND’S IMPRESSIVE PALACE

Bukhara was once described by Lord Curzon as “the most interesting city in the world”.

During the golden age of the Silk Road, caravanserais traded spices, silks and furs here, and hundreds of monuments from this prosperous era survive. Highlights include the restored, fifth-century Ark fortress, the elegant 10th-century Ismail Samani Tomb, the 48-metre Kalyan Minaret and the Lyab-i Hauz ensemble.

The ancient, walled heart of Khiva, known as Itchan Kala, has been extensively restored and is in effect a giant open-air museum. Its sand-hued streets lead you from centuriesold madrasas and mosques to local markets and tucked-away teahouses. The wider city of Khiva, meanwhile, is a picture straight out of the Arabian Nights, with its clay-brick bastions and onion domes.

Fergana Valley is a picture of plunging green slopes in eastern Uzbekistan and was once an important Silk Road trading post. This is the birthplace of Babur, who established the Mughal empire. Kokand – a gateway city into the valley – is home to impressive historical buildings, including the grand 19th-century Palace of Khudayar Khan, which dazzles with its intricate arabesque decoration.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Shah-i-Zinda, Samarkand

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Uzbekistan: Treasures of the Silk Road Duration • 12 days & 10 nights Price • From £5,395 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Journey between the most historic cities of Uzbekistan on this private holiday tailored to you. Beginning in Tashkent – a capital reshaped by the Soviet era – explore the grand Islamic architecture of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, once centres of power along the old Silk Road and intimately linked to the Timurid Empire. You also witness centuries-old crafts, from silk weaving and ceramics to carpet making.

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Day 1: Fly to Tashkent Fly overnight to Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital.

Day 2: Tashkent Arrive in Tashkent and transfer to Swissotel for early check-in. Enjoy a guided city tour, beginning at the Khast Imam Square – among the few heritage complexes to survive the 1966 earthquake. Continue to the restored, 16thcentury Kukeldash Madrasa, followed by the Chorsu Bazaar, where colourful fruits, spices, breads and more are piled high under one dome. Visit the State Museum of Applied Arts to admire traditional Uzbek art, followed by a stop at a number of Soviet-era metro stations.

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Day 3: Kokand • Rishtan • Fergana Take the train to Kokand. This afternoon, see the ornate Palace of Khudayar Khan; the Jami Complex; the Modari Khan Mausoleum; the Norbut-Biya Madrasa; and the DakhmaI-Shokhon, a necropolis for the Khans of Kokand. Afterwards, visit an award-winning ceramicist in Rishtan for insight into traditional red-clay ceramics production. Transfer to the Grand Fergana Hotel for the night.

Day 4: Tashkent • Samarkand This morning, drive to Tashkent. En route, visit the Said Akhmad-Khoja Madrasa, home to craftsmen producing handmade carpets and

silk; and the Yodgorlik Silk Factory, where you witness silk production featuring intricate Ikat patterns. Take the high-speed Afrosiyob train to Samarkand, arriving this evening. Transfer to Kosh Havuz Boutique Hotel for 3 nights.

Day 5: Samarkand Your full-day tour begins at the UNESCOlisted Registan Square, where you attend a short musical performance and talk at the ornate Sher-Dor Madrasa. Continue to the restored Bibi-Khanym Mosque; Siyob Bazaar, Samarkand’s largest market; the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis with its myriad mausoleums; the Afrosiyob Museum, which reveals details about

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 3290 or speak to your travel agent

U Z BE K IS T AN • C E NT R A L A SI A

Poi Kalyan Mosque and the Ark of Bukhara

Plov, the national dish

the ancient city of its namesake; and Gur-eAmir Mausoleum, the final resting place of emperor Timur. Enjoy the evening light show at Registan Square, then overnight at your hotel.

Day 6: Shakhrisabz • Samarkand Drive to Shakhrisabz, birthplace of emperor Timur, via the scenic Tahtakaracha mountain pass. Upon arrival, visit the 14th-century ruins of Ak-Saray Palace, the Jakhongir Mausoleum and the Dorut Tilovat Ensemble – all significant monuments connected to Timur and his descendants. Return to your hotel in Samarkand, visiting a village in Mingbuloq en route.

Day 7: Bukhara Catch a high-speed Afrosiyob train to Bukhara.

Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of this historic city, beginning with the Emir’s Palace in Kogon, unusual for its blend of baroque and Moorish architecture. Proceed to Sitorai Mokhi Khossa, a residence of Bukhara’s last emir; the

Metro station, Tashkent

Chor-Bakr memorial complex; and the Fayzulla Khodjaev Museum, a preserved 19th-century merchant’s house. This evening, enjoy a shared dining experience with a local family and see how to cook a national staple: Uzbek plov. Stay 2 nights at Mercure Bukhara Old Town.

Day 8: Bukhara Explore more of Bukhara’s historical treasures on a full-day tour. Highlights include the Lyab-i Hauz ensemble, which surrounds a traditional hauz pool; the Poi Kalyan Complex with its mosaic-adorned madrasa and landmark minaret; the Ulugh Beg Madrasa, completed in 1421; and the 10th-century Samanid Mosque. You also enjoy a traditional herbal tea tasting.

Day 9: Khiva Take the train to Khiva. Upon arrival, transfer to Hotel Bankir for a 2-night stay. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 10: Khiva Enjoy a full-day tour of Khiva’s historic centre, known as Itchan Kala. Here you visit centuriesold madrasas, mausoleums, mosques, fortresses and gateways within its sand-hued inner walls. You also visit a local bakery and a UNESCO-sponsored silk workshop, which produces traditional carpets and decorative suzani textiles.

Day 11: Tashkent Transfer to Urgench Airport for your flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival, visit the Charvak Reservoir, then take a cable car up to Amirsoy Mountain Resort. Here, take another cable car to the summit for dramatic views. Return to Charvak Reservoir and transfer to Swissotel in Tashkent for the night.

Day 12: Fly home Transfer to Tashkent Airport for your flight home.

Included meals: 11 breakfasts and 1 dinner

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Central Asia KA Z AK H ST AN | KYR G YZS TA N | TA JIK ISTAN | TURK MENISTAN Nomads, Kyrgyzstan

The Stans of Central Asia are often overlooked. Yet the curious traveller will find these crossroad countries every bit as rich in history, culture and nature as anywhere to their east or west. Here, you can explore Silk Road cities with ornate architecture; yurt-speckled steppes grazed by horses; high peaks and deep gorges; and cherished traditions shaped by people from all corners of the continent.

We can take you beyond Uzbekistan to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan – each a nation with its own story to tell, and guaranteed to give you a story worth telling.

C&K RECOMMENDS Bring your walking boots: this is a landscape that deserves to be explored. Monumental peaks such as the Pamir and Altai Mountains backdrop glacial lakes and alpine forests. Cloudless skies yawn over treeless steppes, where you can camp in a yurt like the traditional Kyrgyz pastoralists. Martian rock formations defy belief in Turkmenistan’s Yangikala Canyon and Kazakhstan’s Altyn-Emel National Park. In remote settlements, you can also witness masters of age-old traditions, from horse riding to hunting with eagles, and perhaps even take part.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 3290 or speak to your travel agent

KA ZAK H S T AN , K YR G YZ S T AN , T AJIK IS T AN & T U RK M E N IS T AN • C ENT R A L A SI A

KAZAKHSTAN ALMATY’S RUSSIAN-REVIVAL ARCHITECTURE • SCENIC LAKES, STEPPES & CANYONS The largest and most northerly of the Stans is a place of ostentatious buildings, windswept steppes, sandstone canyons and glacial lakes.

Almaty is the natural first port of call.

Framed by the Tian Shan mountains, Kazakhstan’s largest city is home to more than two million people and typified by grand Russian-Revival architecture. You can ascend by cable car for a spin on the world’s highest ice-skating rink, tour the multicoloured Zenkov Cathedral – one of the world’s tallest wooden buildings – and break bread in a traditional Kazakh yurt.

Head south of the city for Big Almaty Lake, whose mint-turquoise waters sit scenically at the foot of snow-capped mountains, or, for desert beauty, look east to Altyn-Emel National Park, a picture of multi-hued bluffs, sun-cracked channels and ‘singing’ dunes; and Charyn Canyon, where nature has sculpted a hiker’s playground out of red sandstone.

Altyn-Emel National Park, Kazakhstan

Ala-Archa National Park, Kyrgyzstan

Central Cathedral Mosque, Dushanbe, Tajikistan

Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan (Credit: Jemima Fennell)

KYRGYZSTAN

TAJIKISTAN

TURKMENISTAN

BEAUTIFUL ISSYK-KUL LAKE • GEOLOGICAL MARVELS • BISHKEK’S SOVIET CHARACTER

SOARING PEAKS OF THE PAMIR MOUNTAINS • DUSHANBE’S SOVIET-ERA ARCHITECTURE

FLAMING DARVAZA CRATER • YANGIKALA CANYON’S ROCK-SCAPE • ANCIENT RUINS OF MERV

In Kyrgyzstan, nature displays its broad palette: turquoise lakes, red gorges, white peaks and green pastures. You could mistake Issyk-Kul for the ocean, but this beautiful lake is landlocked between mountains and far saltier than the sea. The nearby Centre of Nomadic Civilisation offers insight into Kyrgyz traditions, but for a first-hand experience, join an eagle-hunting showcase amid the massifs and spruces of Djety-Oguz Gorge. Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan’s capital, was shaped by the Soviet era and here you can amble wide plazas fringed by triumphant monuments and enjoy the hubbub of Osh Bazaar. South of the city is the Ala-Archa National Park, dominated by the alpine scenery of Ala-Archa Gorge.

Mountainous Tajikistan is the smallest of the Central Asian countries. The name of its capital, Dushanbe, means ‘Monday’ in Persian, the day of the week when the city would host its largest bazaar. Dushanbe underwent a dramatic metamorphosis during Soviet rule, from humble market town to industrial capital of a republic. It retains a sense of meticulous urban planning, with broad boulevards, wide public squares, landmark statues, landscaped parks and stately buildings. For grandeur of a natural kind, follow the M41 Highway between the Pamir Mountains, known as the ‘Roof of the World’, or unwind beside the turquoise waters of Lake Iskanderkul.

A ‘door to hell’, a ‘fiery fortress’ and the ‘mother of cities’: surprises abound for travellers in Central Asia’s least-visited country. Turkmenistan’s Darvaza Gas Crater has burned in the heart of the Karakum Desert since 1971, and this oasis of fire is a sight to behold. The otherworldly canyon of Yangikala – meaning ‘fiery fortresses’ – isn’t as hot to the touch, but its jagged and striped rock formations often display a flame hue. By contrast, capital Ashgabat gleams white with marble, while the hulking UNESCO-listed fortress of Merv – known as the ‘mother of cities’ for its importance on the Silk Road – is the earthy colour of the mud used to build it some 1,400 years ago.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Zenkov Cathedral, Almaty, Kazakhstan

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

The Legendary Silk Road by Rail: Almaty to Tashkent Duration • 15 days & 13 nights

RAIL JOURNEY

Price • From £8,095 (incl. flights) Category • Superior or Luxury This far-reaching rail journey traverses Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, travelling to the Tien Shan Mountains along the route of the ancient Silk Road. Cross windswept deserts, past towering mountains, explore local cultures and marvel at Central Asia’s ancient monuments. You travel and stay overnight aboard the Orient Silk Road Express, a sightseeing sleeper train, with additional nights in hotels perfectly situated in key cities, including Bishkek, Samarkand, Bukhara and Tashkent.

Day 1: Fly to Almaty, Kazakhstan Fly to Almaty, arriving the next day.

Day 2: Almaty Arrive in Almaty, Kazakhstan’s cultural centre.

Transfer to the Rahat Palace Hotel (or similar) for 1 night. Afternoon excursion to Medeo, home to the world’s highest ice-skating rink.

Ride the cable car 3,164 metres up to the Talgar Pass, enjoying the crisp mountain air and panoramic views before your welcome dinner.

Day 3: Almaty Morning city tour including the Russian-

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Orthodox Zenkov Cathedral, one of the world’s tallest wooden buildings. Lunch in Kazakh yurts before transferring to the Orient Silk Road Express sleeper train.

of its numerous sights, including an excursion into the spectacular Ala-Archa National Park, 35 kilometres south of the city. Overnight at Damas International Hotel (or similar).

Day 4: Issyk-Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan This morning, arrive at Issyk-Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan. Visit the Centre of Nomadic Culture before time at leisure for a walk along the shore of this vast saline lake. After a boat trip on Issyk-Kul, your train makes its way to Bishkek. Overnight aboard the train.

Day 6: Bishkek Enjoy a relaxing day of lectures on the legendary Silk Road aboard your train as it makes the journey to Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Overnight aboard the train.

Day 5: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan Arrive at the Kyrgyz capital of Bishkek for a tour

Day 7: Samarkand, Uzbekistan Full-day tour of Samarkand, with visits to Shahi-Zinda necropolis, the imposing madrasas on Registan Square and the excavation

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 3290 or speak to your travel agent

K AZ AK H S T AN , K YRG YZ S T AN , U Z BE K IS T AN & T AJIK IS T AN • C ENT R A L A SI A

Yurts beside Issyk-Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan

Orient Silk Road Express (Credit: Lernidee)

sites of Afrasiyob – among the oldest ruins of this ancient city. Stay at the Hotel Grand Samarkand (or similar) for 2 nights.

its many sights on a tour. In the late afternoon, return to your train for the journey to Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Overnight aboard the train.

Day 8: Samarkand Another day to explore Samarkand, with a chance to see the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, the Ulugh Beg Observatory and the Gur Amir mausoleum. You also visit a silk carpet factory and a family of craftspeople who specialise in making paper from tree bark.

Day 11: Bukhara Arrive in Bukhara, whose UNESCO-listed monuments recall the glory days of the Silk Road. Visit the 12th-century Kalyan Minaret, the Lyabi-Hauz architectural ensemble and the statue of smiling folk hero Nasreddin riding a donkey. In the courtyard of a madrasa, attend a folklore show with music, traditional dance and a presentation of colourful national costumes. Overnight at Hotel Asia Bukhara (or similar).

Day 9: Shahrisabz Today, attend a traditional folklore show before visiting Shahrisabz, birthplace of Timur. In the evening, your rail journey continues to Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

Overnight aboard the train.

Day 10: Dushanbe, Tajikistan Arrive this morning in Dushanbe, the mountain-bound capital of Tajikistan, exploring

Day 12: Bukhara Full-day city tour, including visits to the ornate Mir-i-Arab madrasa, the Ark fortress, the Samanid Mausoleum and Sitorai Molhi-Khosa – the summer residence of Uzbekistan’s final emir. Board the train for an evening departure.

The Palace of the Nation, Dushanbe, Tajikistan

Overnight aboard the train.

Day 13: Khiva Today, visit the oasis city of Khiva with its great gates and clay-brick bastions. A walking tour takes you around the well-preserved medieval palaces, mosques, mausoleums, minarets and madrasas. Overnight aboard the train.

Day 14: Tashkent Arrive this afternoon in Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital. Take a city tour, visiting the Kukeldash Madrasa, Timur monuments and traditional clay houses. This evening, attend a farewell dinner.

Overnight at Inspira-S Hotel (or similar).

Day 15: Fly home Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Included meals: 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 12 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Ala Archa National Park, Kyrgyzstan

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Silk Road Adventure Duration • 22 days & 20 nights Price • From £9,095 (incl. flights) Category • Discovery Discover the rich history of the Silk Road and the dramatic scenery of Central Asia on this 22-day journey through Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.

Explore ancient cities, visit important Silk Road trading points, wander through expansive green valleys and see stunning Islamic architecture. Along the way, learn about the different cultures within this fascinating region.

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Day 1: Fly to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan Fly overnight to Bishkek via Istanbul.

Day 2: Bishkek Arrive and transfer to the Orion Hotel for 2 nights (including immediate occupancy).

Afternoon city tour including visits to the Open-Air Sculpture Museum, Victory Park, Ala-Too Square and the Kyrgyz State Philharmonic Hall.

Day 3: Ala Archa National Park • Bishkek Drive to Ala Archa National Park, a picturesque area of wooded valleys, rivers, glaciers and waterfalls. View the magnificent peaks of the

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Kyrgyz Alatau Ridge (Tien Shan Mountains), with a range of walking options available.

A packed lunch is included. Return to Bishkek, with a guide at your disposal.

Day 4: Bokonbaevo • Karakol Drive to Bokonbaevo village on the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake and watch the villagers make felt carpets and other handicrafts. Continue to Karakol, stopping en route at Fairytale Canyon for a short walk to see the striking rock formations. Stay 2 nights at Green Yard Hotel.

Day 5: Djety-Oguz Drive to Djety-Oguz Gorge for a walk among

its impressive red-rock formations and spruce forests. Join an optional golden eagle hunting show to witness this ancient tradition. This evening, return to Karakol and join a Uighur family for a cooking demonstration of lagman, a Kyrgyz noodle dish.

Day 6: Karakol • Issyk-Kul Tour of Karakol including Dungan Mosque, built for a community of Chinese Muslims who arrived in the late 19th century. Continue to the Bronze Age petroglyphs found at CholponAta on the northern shores of Issyk-Kul Lake.

Optional one-hour boat cruise on the lake. Stay overnight at Karven Issyk-Kul Hotel.

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 3290 or speak to your travel agent

K AZ AK H S T AN , K YRG YZ S T AN & U Z BE K IS T AN • C E NT R A L A SI A

Shah-I-Zinda, Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Day 7: Burana Tower • Almaty Drive to Burana Tower and explore the ruins of this important Silk Road trading point.

The 25-metre-high minaret is the last remnant of a mosque found in the medieval city of Balasagun. Continue to Bishkek airport for your short flight to Almaty. Upon arrival, transfer to Rixos Almaty Hotel for 4 nights.

Day 8: Almaty, Kazakhstan Embark on a guided tour of Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan. Visit Panfilov Park, a local bazaar, a chocolate factory and Zenkov Cathedral – one of the world’s tallest wooden buildings and striking for its colourful and eclectic architecture.

Day 9: Almaty Take another city tour including Republic Square and the Central State Museum, which showcases the country’s history, from Bronze Age burials and nomadic culture to modern times. Drive to the picturesque valley of Medeo Gorge, then take a cable car up to 2,230 metres above sea level for views of the surrounding mountains and to see one of the world’s most famous ice rinks. Visit Sunkar Falcon Farm and Kok-Tobe hill with its 37-metre-high TV tower, offering sweeping views of the city from its viewing deck.

Day 10: Charyn Canyon Travel to the spectacular Charyn Canyon for a gentle hike amid spectacular scenery. The red sandstone canyon is approximately 90km long and features some stunning rock formations. Return to Almaty, a journey of about 4 hours.

Day 11: Tashkent, Uzbekistan Fly to Tashkent and transfer to the Lotte City Hotel for 1 night.

Charyn Canyon, Kazakhstan

Day 12: Tashkent • Khiva Morning tour of Tashkent’s old city, visiting Amir Timur Square, Kukeldash mosque and madrasa, and some of the unique metro stations. This evening, take a short flight to Urgench then drive to Khiva. Stay 3 nights at the Orient Star (or similar).

Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum, which legend links to the Biblical figure of Job; the Bahoutdin Architectural Complex, dedicated to the founder of the Naqshbandi order of Sufis; and Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, a former residence of Bukhara’s last emirs that is now a museum of decorative and applied arts.

Day 13: Khiva Morning visit to the ancient fortresses of Toprak-Kala and Ayaz-Kala, situated on a hill overlooking the Kyzylkum Desert. Take lunch in a yurt then continue to Goybu village to visit Ulli Khovli, an ancient Khorezmian local house.

Take a tour through the village to see the traditional lifestyle of the Khorezmians.

Day 18: Shahrisabz • Samarkand Drive to Shahrisabz, birthplace of Timur, and visit the mosques, mausoleums and summer palace. Continue to Samarkand and stay at the Bibikhanum Hotel for 3 nights.

Day 14: Khiva Full-day tour of Khiva including Kunya Ark, Islam Khoja minaret, a local bakery and Tash Havli Palace.

Day 15: Bukhara Full-day drive to Bukhara (7-8 hours) through the Kyzylkum Desert, with a photo stop en route at Amudaryo river. Stay at the Minzifa Boutique Hotel for 3 nights.

Day 16: Bukhara City tour of Bukhara including visits to the Po-iKaylan complex, historic trading domes, Lyabi-Hauz complex, and Ulugbek and Abdulaziz Khan madrasas. This evening, enjoy dinner at a family home with a cooking demonstration of plov – a traditional Uzbek rice dish.

Day 17: Bukhara Continue exploring Bukhara, with visits to the historical Magoki Attori Mosque, part of the Lyab-i Hauz complex; the monumental Ark fortress, with its imposing earthen walls; the 18th-century Bolo Haouz Mosque;

Day 19: Samarkand Spend the full day on a guided tour of Samarkand, including visits to Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, Afrosiab Museum, the Bibi Khanum Mosque and Registan Square.

Day 20: Samarkand Continue your tour of Samarkand, visiting the medieval Ulugbek Observatory; Khoja Doniyor Mausoleum, dedicated to the faith-spanning Saint Daniel; the 19th-century Hazrat Khizr Mosque; and Khudjum Silk Carpet Factory, where you witness each stage of production, from unwinding silkworm cocoons to adding the final decorative touches.

Day 21: Samarkand • Tashkent Morning at leisure in Samarkand. Late afternoon Afrosiyob express train to Tashkent.

On arrival, transfer to a local restaurant for dinner and then stay 1 night at Lotte City Hotel.

Day 22: Fly home Morning at leisure. Afternoon transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Included meals: 21 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 9 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Buddha statues at Wat Arun temple, Bangkok, Thailand

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 5048 or speak to your travel agent

C OU N T RY • FA R E A ST

FAR E A S T Asia’s eastern-most countries are a harmony of contrasts. Bullet trains zip through serene rice paddies, and frenetic cities hide temples and tea houses.

With our expertise in the Far East, even the most seasoned traveller will discover something new.

In Japan, revel in neon-lit Tokyo then retreat to the hot springs, traditional inns and alpine trails. For dazzling colour, book ahead to enjoy spring’s cherry blossom viewing (hanami) or autumn’s leaf admiring (momijigari).

Awaiting you in China: the stone-still Terracotta Army, the black-eyed pandas of Chengdu, the verdant cliffs along the Yangtze and the 21,000km Great Wall.

Nearby, the island of Taiwan surprises with its natural beauty.

Then there’s South-east Asia – ideal for a multi-destination adventure. Explore the riverside cities, karst-strewn bays and sizzling street-food of Vietnam, find spiritual sanctuary in the temples of Cambodia and Laos, witness life along the Mekong, and much more.

View our full collection online The destinations and tours featured in this brochure represent a small sample of what we offer. Our website contains a wealth of additional itineraries, detailed country guides and accommodation options.

CO X ANDKI N GST RAVEL .COM This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Japan Senso-ji temple, Tokyo

Japan is at once futuristic and deeply traditional. Cities that set the trend for the modern world sit beside timeworn temples and gardens, snowy volcanic peaks, valleys of spring cherry blossom, remote mountains and subtropical islands.

High-speed rail connects major cities, so you can easily experience the eclectic districts of Tokyo and the imperial quarters of Kyoto. For peace and quiet, retreat to a Buddhist temple on Mount Koya, unwind in a ryokan inn, or take part in a tea ceremony at a tucked-away chashitsu.

C&K RECOMMENDS Japanese food is more than sushi and we can guide you to the places overlooked by tourists. Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka impress with their many Michelin-starred restaurants, but there are also the low-key izakaya eateries catering to busy locals, ryokan inns offering multicourse kaiseki dinners, and charming chashitsu houses where tea preparation is elevated to an art. Japan is also more than its main island, Honshu. Journey south to Kyushu for hot springs, pretty porcelain, historic Nagasaki and smouldering Mount Aso.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 5048 or speak to your travel agent

JAP AN • FA R E A ST

TOKYO NEON CITYSCAPES • WORLD-CLASS RESTAURANTS • TEMPLES & GARDENS One of the world’s largest cities, Tokyo merits several days’ exploration. You could begin at Asakusa Kannon Temple, a popular meeting place for locals, or nearby Nakamise-dori, one of Japan’s oldest shopping streets. In the Imperial Palace’s East Gardens, paths wind through manicured lawns and waterlilies top pretty ponds. The displays in Tokyo National Museum could take up a full day, while the districts of Ginza, Shibuya and Shinjuku promise the classic neon-lit vision of Tokyo.

Imperial Palace, Tokyo

KYOTO ZEN GARDENS & TEMPLES • GEISHA DISTRICT • FAMOUS BAMBOO GROVE Japan’s former capital is full of historical treasures, including the gold-clad temple of Kinkaku-ji, the 17th-century Nijo Castle, Sanjusangendo Hall and its 1,001 Buddhas, and the Fushimi Inari shrine, with its arcades of vermilion torii gates. Gion, Kyoto’s geisha district, is an area of hushed narrow lanes where you may pass geisha walking between appointments. Arashiyama is known for its towering bamboo groves and is especially beautiful in cherry blossom season.

Ginkaku-ji Silver Pavilion, Kyoto

Mt Fuji and red torii gate from Ashinoko Lake

Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima

Kenroku-en Garden, Kanazawa

FUJI-HAKONE-IZU

HIROSHIMA

KANAZAWA

HAKONE OPEN-AIR MUSEUM • LAKE CRUISES, MUSEUMS & HOT SPRINGS

A-BOMB MUSEUM & PEACE MEMORIAL PARK • HIROSHIMA CASTLE

BEAUTIFUL KENROKU-EN GARDENS • NAGAMACHI, HOME OF THE SAMURAI

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is a picture of lakes, valleys and volcanoes, and a popular daytrip from Tokyo – though an overnight stay allows more time for exploration.

Attractions include the Hakone Tozan mountain railway, numerous hot springs that feed the bath houses and ryokans in the region, and scenic cruises across Lake Ashi to Hakone Botanical Garden. A cable-car ride up Mount Komagatake offers superb views of Mount Fuji.

The first city to be hit by an atomic bomb, Hiroshima needs little introduction introduction, yet today it is prospering.

Residents built the A-Bomb Museum & Peace Memorial Park as a symbol of everlasting peace. Hiroshima Castle was originally constructed in 1589, and the keep, main gates and turrets have survived. A short boat ride across the water lies Miyajima Island, famed for the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine and its iconic ‘floating’ torii gate.

Kanazawa grew in importance from the 15th century and came to rival Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo’s former name) in cultural significance.

The Nagamachi district at the foot of Kanazawa Castle is where samurai nobility once resided, and it retains a historical atmosphere. Kanazawa is also notable for Kenroku-en, considered one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens. Nearby, the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawa-go showcases traditional gasshō-zukuri (‘praying hands’) houses.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Essential Japan Duration • 11 days & 8 nights Price • From £5,295 (incl. flights) Category • Superior This is your ideal introduction to Japan, featuring key attractions in Tokyo, Hakone National Park and Kyoto. Admire Zen temples and historical landmarks, unwind in Japan’s hot-spring capital and take tea with a geisha.

Your journey is mostly made using Japan’s excellent public transport – including the shinkansen ‘bullet train’ – with private guides on selected visits to elevate your insight into this riveting country.

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Day 1: Fly to Tokyo Catch a flight to Tokyo, arriving the next day.

Day 2: Tokyo Upon arrival in Japan, you’re privately transferred by car to your hotel, situated conveniently close to the Shiodome subway station. Stay 3 nights at Park Hotel Tokyo.

Day 3: Tokyo Spend the day exploring Tokyo by public transport on a privately guided tour. Visit the Imperial Palace East Garden, once the grounds of an Edo-era castle and today a public park. Continue to the iconic Tokyo Sky Tree, ascending to the Tembo Deck for a panoramic view over Tokyo. You also visit Sensoji Temple, established in 645 AD and rebuilt after the second world war, and the adjacent Nakamise shopping arcade. This afternoon, cruise on the Sumida River and visit Odaiba Seaside Park.

Day 4: Tokyo Your day is at leisure to explore more of Japan’s vast capital city, or to unwind at your hotel.

Day 5: Hakone Zip at high-speed out of Tokyo via a shinkansen – Japan’s famous ‘bullet trains’ – then transfer to Hakone National Park by shared bus. Hakone is a picture of forested hills, natural hot springs and lakes that reflect towering Mount Fuji. Stay 2 nights at Kowakien Tenyu Hotel.

Day 6: Hakone Today, use your Hakone Free Pass to explore this scenic area. You may wish to see the steaming vents and hot springs of the volcanic Owakudani valley, visit the Picasso Pavilion at the Open-Air Art Museum, take a ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway, or cruise across scenic Lake Ashi.

Day 7: Kyoto Take the shared bus to Odawara then continue

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Kiyomizudera Temple, Kyoto

south by shinkansen to Kyoto. Stay at RIHGA Royal Kyoto Hotel, situated near Kyoto Station, for 3 nights.

Day 8: Kyoto Enjoy a privately guided tour of Kyoto, navigating the city by public transport. Visit the two Zen temples of Kinkakuji and Ryoanji, followed by the charming Old Town of Higashiyama. Here you enter the landmark Kiyomizudera Temple, built between 778 and 1633 out of wood without using a single nail. Continue to the historical district of Gion for a tea ceremony with a geiko (geisha).

You’re joined by a host who will explain the

symbolism and an interpreter to aid the conversation.

Day 9: Kyoto Your day is at leisure to explore Kyoto further, whether it’s visiting more of the city’s historical shrines and temples, taking in the ambience of its old quarters, or browsing at the local markets.

Days 10 & 11: Fly home You’re privately transferred by car to Kansai Airport for your overnight flight home.

Included meals: 8 breakfast and 2 dinners

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 5048 or speak to your travel agent

JAP AN • FA R E A ST

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

North Japan: Hokkaido Discovery Duration • 11 days & 8 nights Price • From £6,395 (incl. flights) Category • Superior This private holiday reveals the beauty and history of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost main island. Your journey begins with a cycle tour of Sapporo’s highlights. Continue to the port city of Hakodate to explore its heritage buildings in picturesque surrounds. Head out to the calm lakes of Toya and Onuma, then up to the summit of Mount Usu. Along the way, you learn about the history of the indigenous Ainu and Jomon people. Finish with the waterfalls and colourful flower farms around the town of Biei.

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Day 1: Fly to Sapporo Take an overnight flight to Sapporo.

Day 2: Sapporo Arrive in Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido, and transfer to your hotel by private car. Stay 2 nights at JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo.

Day 3: Sapporo Explore Sapporo on a cycling tour with a guide. Highlights include leafy Odori Park; the landmark Sapporo TV Tower; Sapporo Clock Tower, the oldest clock tower in Japan; the 19th-century Red Brick Office; the Nijo Fish Market; and the Sapporo Factory entertainment complex. Sapporo is famous for its eponymous beer and this afternoon you visit the Sapporo Beer Museum for insight into the city’s brewing heritage. Travel to Otaru city by train for a self-guided tour before returning to your hotel.

Former Hokkaido Government Office, Sapporo

Day 4: Hakodate Make your way to Sapporo Station to catch the express train to Hakodate, a port city that looks across the water to Japan’s largest island, Honshu. Upon arrival, check into Hakodate International Hotel for a 2-night stay and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Hakodate. Begin at the Jomon Culture Centre and the nearby Ofune ruins to learn about the ancient inhabitants of this region. Continue to Lake Onuma for canoeing on its peaceful waters, then transfer to Lake Toya and your lake-view hotel room. Stay 1 night at Toya Kohantei Hotel.

Day 5: Hakodate Meet your private guide for a tour of Hakodate by public transport. Visit Goryokaku Park, the 19th-century star fort famous for its springtime cherry blossom, landmark viewing tower and the Hakodate Bugyosho – a handsome historical building established by the shogunate. You also visit the Motomachi District, home to an eclectic mix of heritage buildings, including the Old British Consulate and Hakodate Public Hall. Your afternoon is at leisure.

Day 7: Mount Usu Privately transfer by car to Mount Usu accompanied by your guide. Part of the ToyaUsu Geo Park, this volcanic mountain juts out of thick greenery between Lake Toya and Uchiura Bay, and the Usuzan Ropeway can carry you to its summit. Afterwards, transfer to Shiraoi to visit the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park, learning about the local Ainu people and witnessing a traditional Ainu dance. Return to Sapporo and stay 1 night at JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo.

Day 6: Lake Toya Join your guide on an excursion by private car to the scenic lakes and heritage sites of

Day 8: Biei Make your way to Sapporo Station and take

the express train to Asahikawa city for time at leisure. Transfer by shuttle bus to MorinoShizuku RIN Hotel in the town of Biei for a 1-night stay.

Day 9: Biei Enjoy a full-day guided excursion by private car into the picturesque landscape surrounding Biei. Visit the Shirahige Waterfalls, Shirogane Blue Pond and the flower garden of Shikisai no Oka, where flowers cascade down a hill in neat 300-metre rows arranged by colour.

This afternoon, traverse the undulating Roller Coaster Road to Farm Tomita, famed for its own fields of flowers, especially purple lavender. Return to Sapporo and stay 1 night at JR Tower Hotel Nikko Sapporo.

Days 10 & 11: Fly home Transfer to the airport by private car for your overnight flight home, arriving the next day.

Included meals: 8 breakfasts and 2 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover China Summer Palace, Beijing

China is a vast and varied country with much to see. As well as the cuttingedge cities of Shanghai, Hong Kong and Beijing, you’ll find ancient villages where traditions endure, spiritual sanctuaries such as the temples of Datong, and archaeological wonders including the Terracotta Warriors and the Great Wall.

The national parks have their own appeal, from the limestone peaks of Guilin and the misty mountains of Huang Shan to the mighty Yangtze River. China deserves more than one visit to truly appreciate its depths.

C&K RECOMMENDS Why not take advantage of the world’s largest network of high-speed trains? You can travel quickly and comfortably from Beijing to Xi’an’s Terracotta Warriors, Chengdu’s panda sanctuaries, the historic Bund of Shanghai, and beyond. Alternatively, admire China’s riverine scenery with a cruise on the Yangtze(see page 184 for more details). For authentic flavours, let us take you to where the locals eat. Be sure to try specialities such as jianbing (savoury crepes) in Beijing, Shanghai’s famous xiao long bao (steamed buns), spicy Sichuan hotpot in Chengdu and biang biang noodles in Xi’an.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 5048 or speak to your travel agent

C H IN A • FA R E A ST

BEIJING ANCIENT TEMPLES, PALACES & MUSEUMS • GLIMPSE OLD BEIJING IN THE HUTONG ALLEYS Beijing has long been the political, cultural and economic centre of China. Tiananmen Square remains its most well-known landmark, but the adjacent Forbidden City holds more interest to visitors, built in the 15th century and off-limits for 500 years until 1911. For a glimpse into Beijing’s pre-industrial past, tour the labyrinthine network of old hutongs – narrow alleys connecting courtyard residences – on foot, or better yet, by cycle rickshaw.

Forbidden City, Beijing

GREAT WALL OF CHINA LESS-VISITED JINSHANLING PASS • CABLE CAR ACCESS AT MUTIANYU The Great Wall is the largest man-made structure on Earth and an amazing feat of engineering, labour and sacrifice. The wall at Mutianyu, 1.5 hours’ drive from Beijing, offers superb views and is accessible by cable car. Jinshanling Pass, a 3.5-hour drive from Beijing, is less developed and sees far fewer visitors, allowing for a more peaceful experience.

Great Wall at Jinshanling

Shanghai

Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an

Giant panda, Chengdu

SHANGHAI

XI’AN

CHENGDU

WALK ALONG THE HISTORIC BUND • GARDENS, TEMPLES & RIVER CRUISES

ANCIENT WALLED CITY WITH PAGODAS & TOMBS • TERRACOTTA WARRIORS

SANXINGDUI ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE • GIANT PANDA RESEARCH BASE

Today, Shanghai is one of the world’s most dynamic cities, evident in its gleaming skyscrapers and busy neon-lit streets.

Around its famous Bund waterfront, however, you’ll find interesting traces of its colonial past in the architecture. It’s also from here that you can enjoy a cruise on the Huangpu River that snakes through the city – a chance to admire the skyline from the water.

Set at the end of the ancient Silk Road, Xi’an retains much of its historic character and its museums are a trove of ancient artefacts.

It was here that, about 2,000 years ago, thousands of life-sized soldiers and their horses were created to guard the emperor’s tomb. These Terracotta Warriors remained buried until a farmer stumbled upon them in 1974. They are now an essential stop on any visit to the region.

The capital of Sichuan, Chengdu is rapidly developing, yet you can still glimpse the old ways in backstreets bustling with artisans, markets and street stalls. Nearby are the 3rd-century ruins of Sanxingdui and its treasure-trove museum, as well as the Chengdu Giant Panda Research Base – your best chance to see these charming animals up close.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Luxury China Duration • 12 days & 10 nights Price • From £4,595 (incl. flights) Category • Luxury Explore China in style, staying in some of the country’s finest hotels while enjoying private tours of China’s most celebrated sites, visiting Beijing, Shanghai, the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors. The tour also includes a 3-night cruise on the Yangtze River, staying in a suite aboard the luxurious Yangzi Explorer.

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Day 1: Fly to Beijing Take an overnight flight to Beijing.

Day 2: Beijing Arrive in China and transfer to the New World Beijing Hotel for 3 nights.

Day 3: Beijing Drive out to the Aman at Summer Palace for lunch, followed by a visit to the Imperial Summer Palace gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the afternoon, tour Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, a former imperial palace that served as the home of Chinese emperors for nearly 500 years.

Day 4: Great Wall of China Full-day tour of the Great Wall of China at Mutianyu, one of the most well-preserved and scenic sections of the ancient wall. Take a short walk on the wall, where you’ll be able to admire views of rolling hills and rugged terrain.

Afterwards, enjoy a champagne picnic in a nearby pine forest.

Qutang Gorge, Yangtze River

Day 5: Xi’an In the morning, relax with a private tai chi lesson at the Temple of Heaven, followed by a tour of the temple. Board a high-speed train to Xi’an, travelling in First Class. Stay at the Gran Melia Xi’an for 2 nights.

Day 6: Xi’an This morning visit the famed Terracotta Warriors archaeological site, one of China’s most significant and awe-inspiring cultural treasures. Walk through the vast excavation pits and marvel at the life-sized statues of soldiers, horses and chariots that were buried with China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, to protect him in the afterlife.

Day 7: Chongqing Fly to Chongqing. Enjoy lunch at a local spicy hotpot known as má là at a local restaurant

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before boarding the Yangzi Explorer for a 3-night cruise to Yichang.

Day 8: Yangtze River Enjoy a range of shore excursions and onboard activities. Perhaps visit the abandoned Fuling 816 Nuclear Plant and its eerie tunnels; the White Crane Ridge Underwater Museum; and the Beacon of Three Kingdoms show.

Day 9: Yangtze River Today, sail through Qutang Gorge, then explore Wushan by land or take a boat along the Daning River, before continuing through Wu Gorge.

Day 10: Fly to Shanghai Disembark early this morning in Yichang

and visit the site of the Three Gorges Dam project. After lunch, fly to Shanghai. Stay at the Fairmont Shanghai for 2 nights.

Day 11: Shanghai Visit Jade Buddha Temple and Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden located in the heart of Shanghai’s old city. Then, take a stroll along the Bund waterfront. This historic promenade stretches along the Huangpu River, offering spectacular views of the city’s skyline.

Day 12: Fly home Take the maglev train to Shanghai Airport, then fly home.

Included meals: 10 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 3 dinners

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 5048 or speak to your travel agent

C H IN A • FA R E A ST

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

China’s Ancient Heartlands Duration • 15 days & 13 nights Price • From £5,395 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Embark on an expansive journey visiting some of China’s more remote sites, including ancient Buddhist art and sculpture at the Yungang and Longmen caves, the Hanging Monastery near Datong, the Shuanglin temple near Taiyuan and the famous Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an.

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Day 1: Fly to Beijing Fly overnight to Beijing, arriving the next day.

explore the bazaar with stalls selling spices, souvenirs and various handicrafts. Stay 2 nights at the Grand Nobel Hotel.

Day 2: Beijing Arrive and transfer to the Beijing Unified Courtyard Hotel for 3 nights. Take a rickshaw tour of the city’s hutongs – traditional narrow alleyways that link Beijing’s neighbourhoods.

Day 11: Xi’an This morning, visit the site of the famed Terracotta Army, where thousands of clay warriors were uncovered in the 1970s after spending two millennia hidden underground.

In the afternoon, discover two fine museums: the Forest of Steles Museum, which displays a collection of stone steles from the Han and Qing dynasties, and the Xi’an Museum, which offers insight into the city’s rich history through its extensive collection of artefacts.

Day 3: Beijing Morning visit to two of Beijing’s classic sites: Tiananmen Square and the adjacent Forbidden City, former home of Ming and Qing emperors.

In the afternoon, visit the Lama Temple, a stunning example of traditional Tibetan Buddhist architecture.

Day 4: Great Wall of China Drive north from Beijing to the Great Wall at Jinshanling, a quiet and dramatic section of the wall where you can go on walks between the watchtowers.

Day 5: Datong Take a morning train to Datong, former capital of the Northern Wei dynasty (386 – 534AD).

Stay 2 nights at the Datong Yugang Jianguo Hotel.

Day 6: Datong Visit the Cloud Ridge Caves of Yungang – Buddhist temples that were hewn from the rock face – and a remote section of the Great Wall at Desheng Bao. Day 7: Taiyuan Drive to Taiyuan, stopping en route at the Hanging Monastery, built precariously on sheer cliffs; and the Yingxian wooden pagoda, one of the oldest wooden buildings in the world, built without using a single nail. Overnight at the Mercure Taiyuan Jinyang Hotel.

Day 8: Pingyao After visiting Shanxi Museum, drive to Pingyao.

Hanging Monastery near Datong

En route, visit Shuanglin Temple, a UNESCOlisted site notable for its collection of more than 2,000 colourful clay statues; and the Wang Family Courtyard, home to superb examples of Ming and Qing architecture. Stay 2 nights at Pingyao Yide Hotel.

Day 12: Luoyang Take the train to Luoyang, once the capital of 13 ruling dynasties. Today the city’s museums, monasteries and caves hold fragments of its former prominence, including the Longmen grottoes that contain more than 100,000 Buddhist images. Nearby, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dengfeng is one of China’s spiritual centres, home to various religious institutions and temples. Overnight at the Courtyard By Marriott Luoyang.

Day 9: Pingyao Today, take a guided walking tour of the ancient centre of Pingyao, which is enclosed by the last intact Ming-dynasty wall in China. Visit some of the most important buildings from the Ming dynasty, such as the Rishengchang Exchange Shop – the oldest bank in China – then wander the cobblestoned Ming-Qing Street, which is lined with Qing-dynasty era architectural works and shops with hanging lanterns.

Day 13: Fly to Shanghai Morning visit to the Shaolin temple to watch demonstrations of kung fu by the resident monks. Afternoon flight to Shanghai, then transfer to Central Hotel for a 2-night stay.

Day 10: Xi’an Take the high-speed train to Xi’an. Later in the day visit Xi’an’s Muslim quarter, Huajue Xiang, home to the old houses and narrow lanes of Xi’an’s Hui (Muslim) community. Here you can

Day 15: Fly home Transfer to the airport and fly home.

Day 14: Shanghai Morning tour of the Jade Buddha Temple and Yu Garden, and a walk along the historic Bund.

Optional evening visit to the state acrobatics show.

Included meals: 13 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 1 dinner

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Taiwan Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, Kaohsiung

Compared to its better-known neighbours, Taiwan is a relatively unexplored treasure, and offers tremendous diversity for its size. The gateway is the ultra-modern capital of Taipei, from where high-speed rail opens up the rest of the island, including Tainan – the oldest city and a place replete with historical charm.

This is also a country of surprising natural beauty.

The Alishan National Scenic Area is perfect for walking, with its tea plantations and mountain views, while Sun Moon Lake and the beaches of Kenting offer shore-side relaxation, while Taroko National Park impresses with its vast marble gorge.

C&K RECOMMENDS To see why Portuguese explorers called Taiwan ‘Isla Formosa’ (‘Beautiful Island’), head to the East Coast National Scenic Area, a dramatic stretch of beaches, reefs, capes and bays – and just an hour’s drive from Chihpen, Taiwan’s oldest and best-known hot spring resort.

For a different kind of beauty, time your visit for the Lantern Festival, held on the fifteenth day of the lunar calendar. In Pingxi district, locals light and release thousands of lanterns into the sky, while in Tainan, a firework display is held to ward off evil.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 5048 or speak to your travel agent

T AIW AN • FA R E A ST

TAIPEI NATIONAL PALACE MUSEUM • LONGSHAN TEMPLE • NIGHT MARKETS Taiwan’s modern capital reserves space amid the skyscrapers for its temples and teashops. The city has plenty to hold your attention, not least the National Palace Museum and its Chinese artefacts; Taipei 101 Tower, among the world’s tallest buildings; and Longshan Temple, with its ornate, sweeping roof. After dark, visit the famed night markets for everything from street food to souvenirs.

Taipei skyline

SUN MOON LAKE

EXPERIENCE RIDE TAIWAN’S SCENIC RAILWAYS Alongside high-speed rail and the capital’s metro system, Taiwan offers scenic train rides that are as much about the journey as the destination.

In Alishan Forest Park, a narrow-gauge railway will carry you gently over a serpentine track, through tunnels and across wooden bridges, past misthugged trees, rugged cliffs and sparkling streams. Views along the Pingxi Line, meanwhile, include charming villages, waterfalls and historic mining towns.

SCENIC LAKE CRUISES • CAPTIVATING MOUNTAIN SCENERY

FIND NATURAL BEAUTY IN THE NATIONAL PARKS

Surrounded by green mountains, Sun Moon Lake is Taiwan’s largest natural lake and an idyllic spot for a boat trip. The eastern part is round like the sun, while the western part is shaped like a crescent moon, and in the middle sits an island sacred to the Shao people. Other highlights include Wenwu Temple, Ci’en Pagoda and the Ita Thao indigenous village.

You’re spoilt for beauty spots across Taiwan’s nine national parks and 13 national scenic areas. Taroko National Park affords you views of a pure-marble gorge, where tree-covered cliffs plunge down to the winding Liwu River. At the island’s southern tip, you’ll find the beaches, reefs and wildlife of Kenting National Park. Yushan National Park features Taiwan’s highest peak, Mount Jade, while Wuling Mountain Pass offers unforgettable panoramas.

Ci’en Pagoda and Sun Moon Lake

TAINAN TAIWAN’S OLDEST CITY • HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE & QUAINT STREETS Taiwan’s oldest city retains relics from Dutch, Japanese and Chinese rule, including the fort of Zeelandia, the merchant street of Yanping, Chihkan Tower and the Confucian Temple. It’s also Taiwan’s food capital, sating appetites with its smorgasbord of street food vendors, noodle restaurants and cosy cafes. The city is best explored on foot, following narrow lanes between courtyards, walled gardens and lantern-lit shops.

VISIT THE NATION’S LARGEST BUDDHIST MONASTERY Taiwan is home to thousands of Buddhist and Taoist temples that offer a serene retreat, as well as monastic centres for spiritual development. At Fo Guang Shan – ‘Buddha’s Light Mountain’ – you can witness age-old rituals under the smiling gaze of the monumental statue of Amitābha Buddha. The complex features several large shrine halls surrounded by pagodas, bridges, ponds and grottoes.

Chihkan Tower, Tainan

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Taiwan Explorer 14 days & 12 nights Superior from £7,395 (incl. flights)

Journey from Taipei in the north to the far south of Taiwan, visiting national parks, striking coastline and magnificent countryside en route. Travelling down the less-visited east coast, you’ll learn about the country’s aboriginal history and visit off-the-beaten-track sites including the volcanic Green Island and tribal villages near Taitung.

Days 1 & 2: Fly to Taipei Fly to Taipei, and transfer to The Grand Hotel Taipei for 2 nights.

Day 3: Taipei Guided tour of Taipei and its most important landmarks, including Longshan Temple.

Days 4 & 5: Taroko Gorge Express train to Hualien. Transfer to the Lakeshore Hotel Taroko for 2 nights.

Following day, explore Taroko Gorge.

Day 6: Taitung via the East Coast Scenic Area Drive through the East Coast National Scenic Area to Taitung, stopping at beauty spots and the Amis Folk Centre. Stay 3 nights at Formosan Naruwan Hotel.

Day 7: East Rift Valley Explore the East Rift Valley with a private guide and vehicle.

Day 8: Green Island

Ferry to Green Island for a guided trip with private vehicle, exploring the coastal scenery.

Days 9 & 10: Kenting Drive to the forested hills, caves and coastline of Kenting National Park. Following day at leisure. Stay 2 nights at the Gloria Manor.

Day 11: Kaohsiung Drive to the port city of Kaohsiung via the Maolin Scenic Area and the ‘Purple Butterfly Valley’. Stay 2 nights at Howard Plaza Hotel.

Day 12: Kaohsiung Guided tour of Kaohsiung, visiting Shoushan Mountain, Chijin Island, Ren-Ai River and Ruifeng night market.

Days 13 & 14: Taipei High-speed train to Taipei. Overnight at The Grand Hotel Taipei. Fly home the next day.

Included meals: 12 breakfasts

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Vietnam Thu Bon River, Hoi An

Awaiting you in Vietnam: steamy cities, stepped rice paddies, karst-strewn bays, colonial towns, glorious beaches and Mekong waterways. That’s not to mention some of the most delicious food you can experience in South-east Asia.

With us, you have numerous opportunities to explore the country’s ancient, colonial and recent past. Enjoy guided tours of historic cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, and visit important landmarks such as the Cu Chi Tunnels.

C&K RECOMMENDS For insight into the Vietnam War, the Cu Chi Tunnels War Memorial Park is an essential stop. The vast network of claustrophobic tunnels dug by the Viet Cong has been preserved, with a widened section offering access to visitors. If gastronomy is your passion, Vietnam has plenty to whet your appetite and we can arrange street food tours, cookery classes and dining at characterful restaurants, such as Hue’s Tha Om Garden House, a 19th-century residence complete with landscaped garden and lotus pond. Round off your holiday with a relaxing beach stay at the ‘Pearl Island’ of Phu Quoc or the coastal resort of Nha Trang.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 5048 or speak to your travel agent

V IE T N AM • FA R E A ST

HANOI COLONIAL BUILDINGS • LIVELY MARKETS & STREET FOOD The Vietnamese capital is a mix of tree-lined avenues, maze-like backstreets and fine French-colonial buildings, with various sites connected to revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh. Also of interest are the 900-year-old Confucian Temple of Literature, the Vietnam Military History Museum, the Museum of Ethnology and Hoan Kiem Lake, home to Jade Island and the Ngoc Son Temple. The city also boasts a lively street-food scene.

Flower vendors, Hanoi Old Quarter

HO CHI MINH CITY MIX OF FRENCH-COLONIAL & MODERN ARCHITECTURE • GATEWAY TO THE MEKONG DELTA Vietnam’s economic powerhouse, Ho Chi Minh City is a frenetic metropolis with streets bustling with scooters, food stalls and pedestrians, and lined with restaurants, office blocks and shopping malls. The city has much to explore, including the best museums in the country. Its position in the south-east also makes it an important gateway to the Mekong Delta for both traders and tourists alike.

Palace of the Reunification, Ho Chi Minh City

Hien Nhon Gate, Hue

Halong Bay

Floating market

GULF OF TONKIN

CENTRAL COAST

MEKONG DELTA

TOWERING LIMESTONE KARSTS • SANDY BEACHES • HIDDEN CAVES

ANCIENT HOI AN • HUE’S UNESCO MONUMENTS • DANANG’S BEACHES

FLOATING MARKETS • RIVERSIDE TOWNS • NAVIGABLE CANALS

The Gulf of Tonkin provides some of the most romantic coastal scenery in Vietnam, especially the oft-photographed Halong Bay and its less-visited counterpart, Lan Ha Bay. Sail aboard traditional Vietnamese junks or modern passenger vessels for visions of towering limestone karsts, emerald waters and golden beaches. See page 184 for more details on cruises in the Far East.

Vietnam’s Central Coast includes ancient towns, sandy beaches and dramatic headlands. In Hoi An, you’ll find distinctly Chinese architecture as well as celebrated Vietnamese cuisine. Nearby is the port city of Danang, known for its French-colonial boulevards and white-sand beaches. Hue, the former capital, is UNESCO-listed for its historic monuments. For views out to the South China Sea, journey the Hoi Van Pass.

The Mekong is one of the most important rivers in South-east Asia. Much of its delta can be explored by boat, with excursions to floating markets and along tranquil tributaries. The riverside towns of Can Tho and Chau Doc are excellent bases from which to explore the surrounding area.

See page 184 for more details on cruises in the Far East.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Laos & Cambodia Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Cambodia is where the legacy of the Khmer Empire is writ large. The headline attraction is Angkor Wat, the largest temple complex in the world, but there are numerous smaller temples worth exploring. Beyond Angkor, you’ll find national museums with a wealth of artefacts from the same period, important sites that explore the country’s tumultuous contemporary history, and a gorgeous coastline.

Laos is a mountainous, landlocked nation with a culture rooted in Buddhism. Highlights include romantic Luang Prabang, the riverside capital Vientiane and the natural scenes of the south.

These two Indochinese neighbours make the perfect pairing.

C&K RECOMMENDS Soak up the sights of rural Cambodia with a boat trip on Tonlé Sap, a large lake surrounded by ‘floating’ villages with stilted houses. Or journey further with a river cruise along the Mekong (see page 184 for more details). In the south of the country lies the Koh Rong archipelago with its rainforests, reefs and beaches. Head south of Luang Prabang in Laos, passing various villages, and you’ll find the waterfalls of Kuang Si, whose clear pools offer a cooling escape from the tropical heat.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 5048 or speak to your travel agent

L AOS & C AM BOD IA • FA R E A ST

PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA REVEALS CAMBODIA’S RECENT HISTORY • RELAXED RIVERSIDE SETTING Cambodia’s capital is a jumble of colonial buildings, temples, markets and broad avenues. Its blend of cultural influences can be seen in landmark buildings, including the Khmer Royal Palace, tuckedaway Chinese temples, and the FrenchIndochinese Central Post Office, National Library and Royal Railway Station.

The darkest chapter of Cambodian history is remembered at Choeung Ek and the Tuol Sleng Museum of Genocide.

Royal Palace, Phnom Penh

THE ANGKOR TEMPLES, CAMBODIA JUNGLE-BOUND TEMPLES • CRUISE ANGKOR THOM MOAT These magnificent temples are just a short drive from Siem Reap. Created by a succession of kings, the monuments belong to the classic period of Khmer civilisation.

From the 15th century, the temples were abandoned and forgotten until rediscovery in 1861. Highlights include the walled and moated city of Angkor Thom, the giant stone faces of Bayon and the huge three-tiered pyramid of Angkor Wat. Temples of Angkor Wat

Cardamom Mountains

CARDAMOM MOUNTAINS, CAMBODIA RARE FLORA & FAUNA • EXPLORE THE PRISTINE JUNGLE This verdant region of mountain, jungle and river is one of the most important ecological areas in South-east Asia, and home to almost all Cambodia’s known species of mammal, amphibian, bird and reptile – including threatened species such as clouded leopards, Malaysian sun bears, tigers and Asian elephants. The Cardamom Mountains are accessible from Phnom Penh by boat and road.

Wat Xiengthong temple

Tad Yuang waterfall

LUANG PRABANG, LAOS

SOUTHERN LAOS

BUDDHIST TEMPLES & COLONIAL ARCHITECTURE

CENTURIES-OLD TEMPLES • WATERFALLS & RIVER-BOUND ISLANDS

The former royal capital of Luang Prabang is considered the best-preserved historic town in South-east Asia, with a UNESCO-protected centre that encompasses Buddhist temples, French-colonial architecture and traditional Laotian buildings. The city is beautifully situated on a peninsula formed by the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers set against verdant mountains. Be sure to visit the National Palace Museum and the temple of Wat Mai.

Laos’ less-visited south rewards intrepid travellers. In Champasak Province, the remarkable riverine archipelago of Si Phan Don – or ‘4,000 Islands’ – emerges when the Mekong’s water level lowers. It is also home to the waterfalls of Khone Phapheng and Tad Fane, as well as highland coffee plantations. At the base of Phu Kao mountain, you’ll find the Vat Phou temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Vietnam in Style Duration • 16 days & 14 nights Price • From £5,395 (incl. flights) Category • Luxury Explore the length and breadth of Vietnam in style, staying in some of the country’s finest hotels throughout. This journey includes two memorable nights aboard a luxury cruise ship to discover less-visited parts of Halong Bay. You also tour the capital, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as visit the tribal highlands near Sapa and the cultural landmarks of Hue and Hoi An.

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Day 1: Fly to Hanoi Take an overnight flight to Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam.

at the Tha Om Garden House, a wonderfully atmospheric place to dine, set in a beautiful garden with a lotus pond in the middle. Stay 2 nights at Azerai La Residence.

Day 2: Hanoi Arrive and transfer for 2 nights at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, an elegant property within Hanoi’s French Quarter.

Day 11: Hue Take an escorted ride through the streets of Hue for a view of the city from street level, visiting the Imperial City and its enclosed Purple Forbidden City. Afterwards, enjoy a short cruise on the Perfume River and then visit the Thien Mu Pagoda, which is situated on the riverbank outside the city.

Day 3: Hanoi Full-day tour of Hanoi, with the chance to explore the Old Quarter. Visit the city’s museums and temples, and learn about Vietnam’s revolutionary history at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. In the afternoon, enjoy a street food tour with a walk through Hom Market, visiting a quaint eatery and the famous Bun Cha Restaurant.

Day 4: Halong Bay Drive east from Hanoi to the World Heritage Site of Halong Bay. Here you’ll board the Indochine Premium for a 2-night cruise on one of the finest ships on the bay. In the afternoon, visit Luon Cave, known for its remarkable limestone structures.

Day 5: Halong Bay Travel by sampan – a traditional flat-bottomed boat – to explore the highlights of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay. Stroll through charming rustic villages or perhaps take a swim or kayak.

Day 6: Hanoi Watch the sun rise over the bay before visiting Titov Island. Then, disembark and return to Hanoi for an overnight stay at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi.

Day 7: Sapa Drive along the Red River to visit the small, picturesque mountain town of Sapa known for its natural scenery, vibrant ethnic culture and cool climate. Stay 2 nights at the Topas Ecolodge, situated on a beautiful

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Day 12: Hoi An Drive to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass, the ‘Pass of the Ocean Clouds’, where the Truong Son mountain range cuts across the narrow centre of the country. Stay 2 nights at the Namia River Retreat, a serene riverside property.

Thien Mu Pagoda, Hué

hilltop deep in the mountains of Hoang Lien National Park.

Day 8: Sapa Day at leisure. Perhaps explore the former French colonial town or choose one of the excursions offered at the ecolodge, such as visiting local villages, textile workshops, or a cycle tour (additional cost paid locally).

Day 9: Hanoi After breakfast, explore the local market where many ethnic groups such as the Flower Hmong, the Phu La and the Dao Tuyen minorities gather to trade their produce. Drive back to Hanoi and overnight at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi.

Day 10: Fly to Hue Fly to Hue, the 19th-century Nguyen capital.

Afternoon visit to the royal tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. A dinner reservation will be made

Day 13: Hoi An Take a walking tour through the twisting lanes of Hoi An, home to many galleries and cafes, the 400-year-old Japanese covered bridge and numerous wooden merchant houses built in a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese architectural styles.

Days 14 & 15: Ho Chi Minh City Drive to Danang and fly to Ho Chi Minh City.

Take an afternoon tour of the city visiting the Reunification Palace, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the War Remnants Museum, which displays a number of exhibits relating to the war with the US and battles with occupying French forces.

Stay 2 nights at the Park Hyatt Saigon. Your following day is at leisure.

Day 16: Fly home Transfer to the airport and catch your return flight home.

Included meals: 14 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 3 dinners

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 5048 or speak to your travel agent

IN D OC H IN A • FA R E A ST

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Laos & Cambodia: Kingdoms of Wonder Duration • 14 days & 11 nights Price • From £3,695 (incl. flights) Category • Superior Explore the cultural and historical highlights of Laos and Cambodia on this private holiday. Your journey begins with a tour of the temples and monuments of Laos’ capital, Vientiane. A scenic train ride brings you to Luang Prabang, where heritage buildings, hidden waterfalls and lively markets await.

Cross the border to Siem Reap and Angkor’s atmospheric temples. After touring the French-colonial buildings and limestone caves of Battambang, finish in the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh, where you take in the sights before sailing the Mekong at sunset.

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Days 1 & 2: Fly to Vientiane, Laos Fly overnight to Vientiane. Upon arrival the next day, you’re met and transferred to your hotel. Stay 2 nights at Lao Poet Hotel.

Day 3: Vientiane Morning tour of Vientiane, starting at Wat Sisaket temple and its 2,000 Buddhas.

Continue to Wat Prakeo, a royal temple turned arts museum; the pilgrimage site of Wat Simuang; and the golden stupa of Pha That Luang. Finish at COPE Visitor Centre to learn about Laos’ unexploded ordnance. This afternoon, visit Buddha Park and its eccentric religious sculptures. En route back, you have the option to visit the Lao Disabled Women’s Centre and speak to the inspiring women there.

Pha That Luang stupa, Vientiane

Day 4: Luang Prabang Take a train to Luang Prabang and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon, visit the Royal Palace Museum, the Huan Chuan Heritage House, Wat Xiengthong, Wat Khili temple, and the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre. Stay 2 nights at Maison Dalabua.

Day 5: Luang Prabang Optional early start to witness alms giving and to visit a Laotian market. After breakfast, enjoy an excursion to the Kuang Si Waterfall, with the option to swim in the pool at its base or walk the forest trails. Return to Luang Prabang by afternoon, with a guided tour of Ock Pop Tock silk-weaving centre.

Day 6: Siem Reap, Cambodia Morning at leisure, followed by an afternoon flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia. Upon arrival, you’re transferred to your hotel. Stay 3 nights at Montra Nivesha Residence.

Day 7: Siem Reap Explore the jungle-bound Khmer temples north of Siem Reap, including Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Prohm and Angkor Wat – the largest temple

complex in the world. You have the option to stay to see Angkor Wat at sunset.

of transport. Return to town for a guided tour of Battambang’s French-colonial buildings.

Day 8: Siem Reap Excursion to Kampong Phluk village, whose houses sit on stilts over Tonle Sap. During dry season, you can visit the floating village of Chong Kneas, while in the rainy season you can explore the forest by boat. This afternoon, visit Lotus Silk Farm for an immersive experience watching the sustainable process used to transform lotus flowers into silk.

Day 11: Phnom Penh Depart early for Phnom Penh, stopping en route at Kampong Chhnang to learn about traditional pottery and Pursat to see its stone carving. Upon arrival, visit the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, National Museum and Phnom Penh’s oldest shrine, Wat Phnom. Stay 2 nights at La Rose Suites.

Day 9: Battambang Drive to Battambang and visit the Provincial Museum, which houses Angkorian and preAngkorian artefacts, then check in at your hotel. Afternoon at leisure. Stay 2 nights at Maisons Wat Kor. Day 10: Battambang Head to Phnom Sampeau, a limestone outcrop that shelters several temples and whose caves were used by the Khmer Rouge for executions.

Continue to the Bamboo Train, a simple mode

Day 12: Phnom Penh This morning, take a sombre visit to the the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. This afternoon, browse at two of Phnom Penh’s popular covered markets, followed by a sunset cruise on the Mekong with guided commentary.

Days 13 & 14: Fly home Transfer from your hotel to the airport for your departure flight, arriving the next day.

Included meals: 11 breakfasts

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Far East river cruising Floating market, Mekong Delta

The Far East has been shaped by its waterways, and cruising along these vital arteries and tributaries provides a different perspective of the region.

Meander through tranquil countryside, quaint fishing villages, floating markets and major port cities aboard converted rice barges and high-sailed junk boats, as well as modern passenger ships designed with comfort in mind.

We can arrange weeklong odysseys between countries, as well as short boat excursions.

As you cruise the rivers, canals and coves, visit places not easily reached by other means.

C&K RECOMMENDS The Red River in Northern Vietnam will take you from the bustle of Hanoi to the beauty of Halong Bay and its towering limestone islands.

The sprawling delta of the Mekong, meanwhile, connects Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, and can be experienced on weeklong cruises via luxury passenger vessels, or short boat trips aboard traditional flatbottomed sanpans. On China’s Li River, soak up views of terraced rice fields, fishermen seeking their daily catch, deep forests and limestone karsts – visions a world away from the frenetic modern cities.

Boats on the Mekong River, Laos

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 5048 or speak to your travel agent

R IV E R C RU IS IN G • FA R E A ST

EXPERIENCES

MEKONG RIVER

HALONG AND LAN HA BAYS

YANGTZE RIVER

The Mekong meanders about 4,900km through South-east Asia to the South China Sea. Across its course there is a constant flow of boats – fishing, ferrying and forming floating markets. A Mekong cruise provides glimpses of daily life here. Most routes sail between Vietnam and Cambodia, while more adventurous voyages take in Laos and Thailand. Guided shore excursions take you to riverside villages and reveal their trades, from silk weaving to fish farming, offering valuable insight into life on the Mekong.

Easily accessible from Hanoi, Vietnam’s Gulf of Tonkin encompasses three main bays: Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best known, Lan Ha Bay is quieter and includes the large island of Cat Ba, while Bai Tu Long Bay occupies the far north. All three feature a number of small islands, beaches, floating villages and limestone karsts that rise out of clear waters. A cruise of between one and three nights is recommended, with opportunities to kayak, snorkel and explore untouched beaches.

The Yangtze – Asia’s longest river – has been central to China’s trade and transport for millennia. We can arrange cruises of up to seven nights on this historic waterway. Sail past centuries-old temples and riverside villages that contrast sharply with the huge Three Gorges Dam. Highlights include the Three Gorges of Qutang, Wu and Xiling, with their steep cliffs and misty peaks; sampan rides on the Shennong tributary; the cavernous 816 Nuclear Military Plant; and White Crane Ridge Underwater Museum.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

A River Journey on the Mekong 14 days & 12 nights Luxury from £5,295 (incl. flights)

Explore one of the world’s great rivers aboard the Jayavarman, witnessing life and landscapes along the Mekong in both Vietnam and Cambodia. You pass small villages and sleepy temples that, being inaccessible by road, are well off the tourist trail. This journey can be taken either up or downstream, ending or beginning at the temples of Angkor.

Day 1: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Catch your flight to Vietnam.

Days 2 & 3: Ho Chi Minh City Arrive and transfer to the Caravelle Hotel for 2 nights. Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Day 4: Mekong Transfer to My Tho to board the Jayavarman for a 7-night cruise to Siem Reap, Cambodia.

Day 5: Cai Be • Binh Thanh Island Take a boat trip around Cai Be to see the floating market, and explore the islands and orchards of the delta.

Day 6: Gieng Island • Evergreen Island Visit Gieng Island and Evergreen Island to

Jayavarman deluxe stateroom

witness traditional boat building and farming, then cross the border into Cambodia.

Day 7: Phnom Penh, Cambodia Full-day tour of Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s bustling capital.

Day 8: Kampong Laeang Experience authentic rural life with a leisurely ox-cart ride through picturesque rice fields.

Day 9: Kampong Luong Visit a renowned silver-smithing village before continuing to Wat Prang, a royal Buddhist temple.

Day 10: Angkor Ban • Kampong Cham Angkor Ban is home to a serene monastery and charming riverside village. Meet monks and wander through the village.

Day 11: Siem Reap After breakfast disembark and travel to Siem Reap. Stay at the Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor for 3 nights.

Days 12 & 13: Angkor temples Explore picturesque Ta Prohm, Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and some of the smaller temples of Angkor, including the Roluos Group and Banteay Srei.

Day 14: Fly home Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Included meals: 12 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover South-east Asia T H A ILAN D | M ALA YS IA | S IN G A PORE | BORNEO Wat Phra Singh, Chiang Mai

There is more to discover in South-east Asia. This is a region of hushed temples, hooting rainforests, buzzing cities and sizzling street-food that lends itself to a multi-country holiday.

In Thailand, witness Siam’s legacy in the Ayutthaya ruins and unwind on southern beaches.

More seductive sands await in Malaysia, alongside its cosmopolitan capital and ancient Taman Negara rainforest. Borneo’s rainforests are where to spot orangutans, while Singapore offers bold architecture and fusion cuisine.

C&K RECOMMENDS Drive north of Bangkok to see Thailand’s ruined medieval city of Ayutthaya. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is where you can wander between spire-topped temples and smiling Buddhas. More photogenic sights await in the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia, a picture of cooling rainforests, lush tea farms and vibrant rose plantations. For a serene finish to your holiday, head to the beaches that fringe the Andaman Sea; we recommend Phang Nga and Krabi in Thailand, or Malaysia’s ninety-nine-island archipelago of Langkawi.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3936 5048 or speak to your travel agent

T H AIL AN D , M AL AYS IA, S IN G AP ORE & BORN E O • FA R E A ST

THAILAND BUSTLING BANGKOK & ITS CUISINE • SOUTHERN BEACHES • NORTHERN HILL TRIBES Thailand is among Asia’s most popular destinations for good reason. It’s a country of effervescent cities, tropical islands, tempting street food and dazzling temples.

There are still areas under the tourist radar, however, and our experts can weave them into a private holiday tailored to you.

The capital, Bangkok, is the usual point of entry. Alongside thoroughly modern skyscrapers, you will find royal palaces, national museums, Buddhist temples, buzzing markets and backstreet eateries.

The UNESCO-listed ruins of Ayutthaya lie a short drive away; here you can wander between monasteries and elegant prang spires for a glimpse of the Siamese Kingdom’s past grandeur.

In the mountainous north, you can visit waterfalls, hill tribes and the temples of Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai; while in the south, alluring beaches of white and gold sand promise relaxation.

Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai

Malacca’s Old Town

Gardens by the Bay

Orangutan

MALAYSIA

BORNEO

SINGAPORE

DYNAMIC KUALA LUMPUR • LUSH RAINFORESTS & RELAXING BEACHES

NATIVE ORANGUTANS • INDIGENOUS TRIBES • MARINE HABITATS

CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE • WORLD-CLASS DINING

Malaysia’s main peninsula showcases an interesting mix of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures and cuisines. It’s home to the modern capital, Kuala Lumpur, with its landmark skyscrapers, urban parks, street markets, huge malls and ethnic enclaves, including Little India and Chinatown.

Here, too, are colonial cities such as Penang and Malacca, white sandy beaches and national parks including Taman Negara – one of the world’s oldest rainforests.

Malaysian Borneo is renowned for its steamy rainforests, marine national parks, smouldering volcanoes, indigenous tribes and diverse wildlife. Orangutans are the main draw and best seen at rehabilitation centres such as Sepilok, or, more rarely, natural habitats such as the Danum Valley. Borneo’s jungles also shelter Asian elephants, proboscis monkeys, colourful birds and eye-catching plants, while the coast plays host to turtles, barracudas and rays.

The city-state of Singapore is an ideal stopover, with some of the best restaurants in Asia as well as beautiful parks and colonial buildings. The city is compact and boasts an excellent transport system, making it easy to hop between highlights such as the Gardens by the Bay and their famous ‘supertrees’; diverse neighbourhoods including Chinatown and Little India; and the redeveloped quay areas. The landmark Raffles Hotel, birthplace of the Singapore Sling cocktail, is worth a visit to experience the ambience of the famous Long Bar.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Lioness and cub, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3608 0596 or speak to your travel agent

C OU N TR Y • A FR I CA

AF R I C A Welcome to where lions and nomads roam. Africa is a continent of vast savannas and golden shores, cosmopolitan cities and tribal villages, world-famous wildlife and celebrated wine.

South Africa is the ideal introduction – a land of natural beauty and comfort, from the Winelands and wildlife reserves to the fair Cape and arid Kalahari.

Venture north to Kenya and Tanzania for Big Five safaris and the great wildebeest migration, to Namibia for its stark and striking desert landscapes, or to Uganda and Rwanda for close-up encounters with gorillas and chimpanzees.

Offshore, the Indian Ocean islands promise the ultimate in post-safari relaxation, plus captivating wildlife such as Madagascar’s tree-leaping lemurs.

To the west, Africa’s Atlantic nations deliver vibrant cultural experiences and a distinct sense of place.

View our full collection online The destinations and tours featured in this brochure represent a small sample of what we offer. Our website contains a wealth of additional itineraries, detailed country guides and accommodation options.

CO X AN DKI NGST RA VEL .COM This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Madagascar Indri lemur, Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

Geographically isolated for around 70 million years, Madagascar is a living museum of evolution – a lost world where flora and fauna trace their lineage all the way back to the age of dinosaurs. The world’s fourth-largest island is home to 18 tribal cultures, five distinct regions and a staggering array of endemic species.

Travel from desert plains to spiny rainforest and palm-lined beaches, discovering a land unlike anywhere else on Earth. Spot some of Madagascar’s 100 species of lemur, over 120 endemic birds, and fascinating creatures such as the jewel-toned panther chameleon and the graceful silky sifaka.

With its ancient landscapes and spell-binding biodiversity, this is a naturalist’s paradise.

C&K RECOMMENDS Madagascar enjoys a tropical climate, conditioned by its mountains and trade winds. The dry season from April to October offers the best time to visit, when travel is easier and wildlife sightings are at their best. The rainy season runs from December to March, with cyclones possible in February and March. Explore the capital, Antananarivo, with its markets and colonial architecture, before journeying into Madagascar’s wild heart. Encounter wildlife found nowhere else, from playful lemurs to chameleons in every hue, and walk among the towering baobabs that define the island’s landscapes. Finish your adventure on the pristine beaches of the Indian Ocean.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3608 0596 or speak to your travel agent

M AD AG AS CA R • A FR I CA

ANDASIBE-MANTADIA NATIONAL PARK UNTOUCHED PRIMARY RAINFOREST IN MANTADIA • HOME TO INDRI LEMURS A scenic drive east from Antananarivo, Andasibe-Mantadia National Park comprises two reserves: Analamazoatra and Mantadia.

Analamazoatra’s compact rainforest shelters 11 lemur species, including the indri, as well as over 100 bird species, reptiles and butterflies. Mantadia’s sprawling primary forest is more remote and tranquil, providing rewarding bird and reptile sightings.

Parson’s chameleon

ISALO NATIONAL PARK DEEP CANYONS & MAGICAL WATERFALLS • ELEPHANT’S FOOT BLOOM IN SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER

EXPERIENCE DISCOVER THE IFOTAKA COMMUNITY FOREST The Ifotaka Community Forest, managed by the indigenous Antandroy people, combines wildlife encounters with rich cultural traditions. Explore gallery and spiny forests teeming with ring-tailed lemurs, Verreaux’s sifakas and nocturnal species like mouse lemurs. Join an Antandroy guide as they accompany you to the sacred forests, where ornate ancestral tombs rise among the thorns, or visit the bustling village market.

EXPLORE THE TSINGYS OF ANKARANA

One of Madagascar’s most scenic parks, Isalo features a dramatic sandstone massif carved by canyons and dotted with tapia forest, waterfalls and natural springs. Though wildlife is sparser here, ring-tailed and red-fronted lemurs are commonly spotted, alongside 80 exotic bird species and over 500 plants. Its dry climate and varied trails also make it ideal for walking year round.

Isalo National Park

Located two hours south of Diego Suarez, Ankarana National Park reveals a surreal world of limestone pinnacles, canyons and caves – the largest system of its kind in Africa. Between the jagged tsingy formations, tropical forest shelters an array of wildlife, from crowned and Sanford’s brown lemurs to fossas and tenrecs. Boardwalks and bridges make this eye-catching landscape easy to explore.

RANOMAFANA NATIONAL PARK

TROPICAL ISLANDS AND BEACHES

BEAUTIFUL MONTANE RAINFOREST • HOME TO RARE GOLDEN BAMBOO & GREATER BAMBOO LEMURS

Off Madagascar’s north-west coast, Nosy Be offers a blend of white-sand beaches, lemur-filled reserves and fragrant ylang-ylang plantations. Head to nearby Nosy Komba, a volcanic island with no roads or power grid, for a true castaway feel. Boat trips reveal marine reserves like Nosy Tanikely, where sea turtles glide through vivid coral reefs.

June–September brings whale sightings around Île Sainte-Marie.

Established in 1991, Ranomafana National Park is a prime spot for wildlife viewing on foot. Its varied elevations create a striking mix of lowland and cloud forests, together home to 12 lemur species, including the golden bamboo lemur. Birdlife is rich here too, with 118 species – 36 of which are endemic – such as the velvet asity and crested ibis.

Pitta-like ground roller

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Madagascar: Lemurs, Forests, Tsingy & Islands 18 days & 15 nights Discovery from £6,195 (incl. flights)

Discover the majesty of Madagascar on this comprehensive journey from the rainforests of Andasibe to the limestone pinnacles of Ankarana and the beaches of Nosy Be. Encounter lemurs and chameleons in lush reserves, explore volcanic and tsingy landscapes, and kick back beside the Indian Ocean on this unforgettable island adventure.

Days 1 & 2: Fly to Antananarivo Fly overnight to Antananarivo via Addis Ababa. On arrival, transfer to Pallisandre Hotel & Spa for 1 night.

Days 3-5: Andasibe-Mantadia National Park Drive to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park and stay 3 nights at Mantadia Lodge.

Explore Mantadia and Analamazaotra reserves on guided walks in search of lemurs, birds and reptiles. Visit Vakona Reserve and Lemur Island, with an evening walk to spot nocturnal species.

Day 6: Antananarivo Morning visit to Mitsinjo Reserve before returning to Antananarivo for an overnight stay.

Days 7-10: Diego Suarez, Amber Mountain & Ankarana Fly north to Diego Suarez to visit French

Mountain and the 3 Bays. Overnight at Allamanda Hotel. Continue to Amber Mountain National Park to explore its forested trails, waterfalls and wildlife.

Overnight in Joffreville. Visit the red tsingys, then spend 2 nights in Ankarana National Park, home to limestone formations, caves and canyons.

Days 11-16: Ambilobe & Nosy Be Stay 2 nights at Iharana Bush Camp to explore nearby tsingys and caves before transferring to Ankify for the ferry to Nosy Be/Nosy Komba. Spend 4 nights at Vanila Hotel (or similar), relaxing on the beach or taking boat trips to nearby islands.

Days 17–18: Fly to the UK Fly overnight via Addis Ababa.

Included meals: 15 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 9 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover South Africa Clifton Beach, Western Cape, Cape Town

South Africa’s blend of dramatic landscapes, cultures, cuisines and languages never fail to impress.

The Cape Provinces offer a mix of cultures, from Cape Malay flavours and world-class wines to the elegant architecture of historic towns. Wildlife thrives across the country, with opportunities for land and ocean safaris – from spotting the Big Five to watching whales off the coast.

For jaw-dropping scenery and a fascinating glimpse of diamond-rush history, the vast Northern Cape awaits, while the lesser-known west coast reveals the peaceful charm of Paternoster and the rugged Cedarberg mountains, where ancient Bushman rock art tells stories thousands of years old.

With such variety, every corner of South Africa offers a different but equally compelling experience for travellers.

C&K RECOMMENDS South Africa offers an incredible mix of scenery, wildlife, food and wine, making it a rewarding year-round destination. The Western Cape enjoys warm, dry weather from November to March – perfect for self-drives along the Garden Route or wine tasting during the harvest season. Between June and November, coastal towns like Hermanus are superb for whale watching, while the northern reserves, including Kruger, are best visited in the dry winter months from May to September, when animals gather at waterholes. Spring brings carpets of wildflowers and colourful fynbos across the Cape Floral Kingdom.

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We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3608 0596 or speak to your travel agent

S OU T H AF RI CA • A FR I CA

CAPE TOWN & WINELANDS ONE OF AFRICA’S MOST LIVEABLE CITIES • ROBBEN ISLAND, NELSON MANDELA’S FORMER PRISON • WORLD-RENOWNED WINE ESTATES Set against Table Mountain and the Atlantic, Cape Town mixes coastal beauty with cosmopolitan charm. Explore the spectacular Cape Peninsula, from lively city streets to infamous Robben Island and the penguin colony at Boulders Beach. Journey along Chapman’s Peak Drive to the Cape of Good Hope, stroll through Kirstenbosch Gardens, then sample fine wines and cuisine in the scenic Cape Winelands.

Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands

THE GARDEN ROUTE EXCELLENT MARINE WILDLIFE • QUAINT TOWNS & LOCAL CULTURE • WILDLY BEAUTIFUL TSITSIKAMMA NATIONAL PARK A popular way to elevate your South Africa adventure is to travel the Garden Route by car or guided tour, winding through landscapes rich in Cape flora and fauna.

Explore the Cango Caves near Oudtshoorn, the Swartberg Mountains, Knysna’s lagoon and Plettenberg Bay’s beaches. Stay in boutique guesthouses or farms, then continue to the Eastern Cape.

Knysna Heads, Garden Route

Elephant, Addo National Park

Zulu warrior

African wild dogs, Kruger National Park

THE EASTERN CAPE

KWAZULU-NATAL

THE NORTH

EXCELLENT MALARIA-FREE WILDLIFE RESERVES • COMMUNITY CONSERVATION ENTERPRISES • WILD COASTLINE

SUB-TROPICAL COASTLINE • RICH CULTURAL HERITAGE • UNESCO SITES & HISTORIC BATTLEFIELDS

RENOWNED FOR WILDLIFE • EXCEPTIONAL BIRD WATCHING • SLEEPOUT EXPERIENCES IN THE BUSH

Stretching along South Africa’s subtropical east coast, KwaZulu-Natal blends unspoilt Indian Ocean beaches, rich Zulu heritage and dramatic mountain scenery. The province is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – iSimangaliso Wetland Park and uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park – as well as historic battlefields.

Nearby, Eswatini and Lesotho offer equally striking landscapes and enduring traditions.

In South Africa’s north, Kruger National Park stands as the country’s flagship wildlife reserve, home to hundreds of mammal, bird, reptile and plant species. Its unfenced borders meet acclaimed private reserves such as Sabi Sands and Timbavati. Close by, the Waterberg and malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve offer scenic, less-visited alternatives, with more superb wildlife encounters including the elusive African wild dog.

The Eastern Cape makes for an excellent start or end point to the Garden Route, with private wildlife reserves, a dramatic coastline, and malaria-free safaris. Visitors can spot elephants at Addo National Park, dolphins and whales offshore, and enjoy thrilling game drives, bush walks, or river cruises. Luxury lodges and tented camps cater perfectly to families and couples alike.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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EXPERIENCE

SUMITTING TABLE MOUNTAIN | CAPE TOWN

WHALE WATCHING FROM THE WILD COAST | GARDEN ROUTE

A visit to Cape Town is incomplete without taking in the many vantage points of the city’s iconic landmark, Table Mountain.

Rising dramatically behind the city, its flat-topped summit offers expansive views of the ocean and surrounding peaks. Hike one of the scenic trails or take the rotating cable car to the top, where a network of walking paths reveals native fynbos, rock formations and views stretching to the distant Cape Peninsula.

Whether you visit at sunrise or sunset, it’s one of the most breathtaking panoramas in South Africa.

Depending on the season, travellers exploring South Africa’s famous Garden Route may encounter all of the region’s ‘Marine Big Five’. Take a boat trip to spot whales breaching offshore, pods of dolphins playing in the surf, and colonies of seals and penguins along the rocky coast near Gansbaai and Dyer Island. Stop by the seaside town of Hermanus, where whale sightings are possible from the shore between June and November. Here, the town’s famous ‘whale crier’ still announces the day’s sightings by blowing his kelp horn along the promenade.

ROVOS RAIL Ride through some of Africa’s most headturning scenery aboard Rovos Rail, a luxurious train that captures the romance and elegance of rail travel’s golden age.

Three-night journeys include the classic Cape Town to Pretoria route, with stops in Matjiesfontein and the historic diamondmining town of Kimberley, or Durban to Johannesburg, featuring safari drives and a Zulu battlefields tour. Three- to 4-night options include travel to Victoria Falls with a wildlife drive in Hwange National Park, while longer expeditions venture further afield into Namibia’s deserts, Mozambique’s coast, or the great plains of Zambia and Tanzania.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

South Africa: Cape Town, the Garden Route and Safari 16 days & 13 nights Superior from £3,845 (incl. flights)

This classic self-drive journey showcases South Africa’s most celebrated highlights in one scenic, well-paced itinerary.

Begin in Cape Town, exploring its history and landmarks, before heading to the Winelands for world-class food and wine.

Continue east along the Garden Route’s coast and finish with an unforgettable ‘Big Five’ safari in Amakhala Game Reserve.

Day 1: Fly to Cape Town Fly overnight from London to Cape Town.

Days 2-4: Cape Town Transfer to Three Boutique Hotel for 3 nights. Enjoy time at leisure to explore the city and waterfront, or take optional excursions such as Robben Island or Table Mountain. Your hire car will be delivered on day three. Drive along the Cape Peninsula to see the penguin colony at Boulders Beach and the Cape of Good Hope.

Days 5 & 6: Winelands Drive to the Winelands, perhaps detouring via coastal Hermanus for whale watching. Stay 2

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Lions, Amakhala Game Reserve

nights at Le Clé Lodge in Franschhoek. Enjoy leisurely wine tastings, vineyard lunches and the area’s relaxed charm.

Days 7 & 8: Oudtshoorn Continue along scenic Route 62 to Oudtshoorn and stay at De Zeekoe. Visit the dramatic Cango Caves, an ostrich farm, or take a guided tour of the Swartberg Mountains for spectacular views and short hikes.

Days 9-11: The Garden Route Early morning, you have the chance to join a meerkat viewing before driving east to Knysna. Stay 3 nights at Kanonkop House.

Explore the beaches, forests and lagoons of the Garden Route, with optional boat trips to

Featherbed Nature Reserve or dolphin- and whale-watching around Plettenberg Bay. Days 12-14: Eastern Cape – Amakhala Game Reserve Drive east to Amakhala Game Reserve for 3 nights at Amakhala Safari Lodge. Enjoy included ‘Big Five’ wildlife drives and bush walks in this malaria-free reserve.

Days 15 & 16: Fly home Drive to Port Elizabeth Airport, return your hire car and fly home via Johannesburg, arriving the next day.

Included meals: 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 3 dinners

We can design every element of your holiday to suit you. Contact us on 020 3608 0596 or speak to your travel agent

S OU T H AF RI CA • A FR I CA

Leopard, Kruger National Park

STAY

BOSCHENDAL, CAPE WINELANDS

KANONKOP GUESTHOUSE, KNYSNA

MALAMALA CAMP, SABI SAND RESERVE

Set in the Franschhoek Valley, in the heart of South Africa’s Cape Winelands, Boschendal is a 17th-century wine estate that blends heritage with contemporary comfort. Set amid vineyards and mountain scenery, it features boutique-style suites and charming cottages for a tranquil escape.

Guests can enjoy wine tastings and cellar tours, explore the estate’s landscaped gardens, or try farm-to-table cuisine at its acclaimed restaurants. With cycling trails, picnics under the trees and a working farm to discover, Boschendal provides an authentic taste of the region’s winemaking traditions and natural beauty.

Perched on a hillside overlooking the Knysna lagoon, family-run Kanonkop House is an elegant boutique property just 5 minutes from the town centre. Each individually designed room has its own distinctive style, featuring original works by South African artists. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with attentive personal service and a relaxed, homely charm.

Mornings begin with breakfast served at the communal table, where guests can share travel stories while taking in panoramic lagoon views. With its tranquil gardens and refined comfort, Kanonkop House offers a memorable Garden Route stay.

MalaMala, South Africa’s oldest and largest private game reserve, lies within the Sabi Sands, bordering Kruger National Park.

This renowned camp combines a deep conservation legacy with captivating wildlife viewing. Spacious suites overlook the Sand River, and each guest is paired with a professional ranger and tracker for expertly guided game drives. The camp’s history stretches back to 1929, when it was purchased with the vision of preserving the wilderness for future generations.

Today, MalaMala remains a pioneer of photographic safaris, offering some of the best ‘Big Five’ encounters in Africa.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Namibia Skelecton Coast

One of the world’s least densely populated countries, Namibia is a land of vast horizons, home to the world’s oldest desert, the highest dunes and the mighty Fish River Canyon. Its landscapes range from the red sands of the Kalahari to the sun-bleached salt pans of Etosha, while traditional San and Himba cultures provide deep insight into desert life dating back centuries.

With nearly half the country under conservation, wildlife is in its element here too – with everything from desert-adapted elephants to rare black rhinos taking up residence in its many national parks and community reserves.

Whether travelling between remote lodges or gazing across far-reaching plains, Namibia’s everchanging palette of colour and light create travel experiences that last long in the memory.

C&K RECOMMENDS Namibia’s wide open landscapes are best explored by road, either self-drive or with a private driver-guide, allowing freedom to stop for wildlife, viewpoints and cultural encounters. Alternatively, a fly-safari by light aircraft delivers a spectacular aerial perspective of the country’s deserts and dunes. The cooler, dry months from May to October are the prime time for travel and game viewing. Highlights include tracking black rhinos on foot in Palmwag, taking a hot air balloon flight over the Sossusvlei dunes, or visiting the dramatic Fish River Canyon. At Okonjima, meet the AfriCat Foundation team and observe rehabilitated cheetahs and leopards in the wild.

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N AM IB I A • A FR I CA

NAMIB NAUKLUFT NATIONAL PARK STUNNING SUNSETS OVER SOSSUSVLEI’S SAND DUNES • HOT-AIR BALLOON FLIGHT OVER THE DESERT The Namib-Naukluft Park, home to the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei, is one of Namibia’s most photographed and atmospheric attractions. Travellers can explore this otherworldly desert either on a guided excursion or independently by hire car, pausing to watch sunrise or sunset over the dunes. For easy access and superb views, stay in a lodge within the private Kulala Wilderness Reserve, which has its own entrance to the park.

Sossusvlei, Namib-Naukluft Park

Elephants at a watering hole, Etosha

Rock art, Twyfelfontein

Himba tribeswoman

ETOSHA

DAMARALAND

SKELETON COAST

EXPLORE THE PARK ON SELF-DRIVES • WATER HOLES THAT ATTRACT LARGE GROUPS OF WILDLIFE

TWYFELFONTEIN ROCK ART SITE • RARE DESERT ELEPHANTS

RUGGED COASTLINE & SHIPWRECKS • VISIT A HIMBA VILLAGE

Once inhabited by the Damara people, Damaraland is a rugged region of rocky plains and ancient valleys. Stay in lodges or tented camps and spot desert-adapted elephants and black rhinos, plus Bushman rock art, among the granite outcrops. Visit the Petrified Forest, Burnt Mountain and the Organ Pipes, or hike through fascinating landscapes and camp under the stars on a mobile safari in the Palmwag Concession.

Namibia’s remote north-west shines a light on some of its most visually arresting scenery, from the shipwreck-strewn Skeleton Coast to the desert valleys inland.

We can help you explore this wild region by arranging a four-night stay, split between Shipwreck Lodge and Hoanib Valley Camp, discovering haunting coastal relics, rare desert-adapted wildlife and the traditional culture of the semi-nomadic Himba people.

Days 1 & 2: Fly overnight to Windhoek Arrive in Windhoek, collect your hire car and transfer to The Elegant Guesthouse for an overnight stay.

Day 3: Gamsberg Drive to Corona Guest Farm, nestled at the foot of the striking Gamsberg Mountain, and check in for the night.

Days 4 & 5: Sossusvlei Continue south to Sossusvlei, famed for its immense red dunes and surreal desert landscapes. Spend 2 nights at Desert Homestead Lodge and explore the area’s dazzling scenery.

Days 6 & 7: Swakopmund Drive to the coastal town of Swakopmund, a relic of German colonial influence and gateway to the Skeleton Coast. Enjoy a catamaran cruise the following day. Stay 2 nights at Cornerstone Guesthouse.

Days 8 & 9: Twyfelfontein Journey north to Damaraland, home to desert-adapted wildlife and ancient rock engravings. Spend 2 nights at Camp Kipwe.

Days 10–13: Etosha National Park Spend 4 days exploring Etosha, one of Africa’s great wildlife reserves. Stay 2 nights each at Okaukuejo Rest Camp and Onguma Bush Camp.

Days 14 & 15: Okonjima Nature Reserve Visit Okonjima, home to the AfriCat Foundation’s cheetah and leopard rehabilitation programme. Stay 2 nights at Okonjima Plains Camp.

Days 16 & 17: Fly to the UK Return to Windhoek for your overnight flight home.

Etosha, meaning ‘great white place’, takes its name from the vast, shimmering Etosha Pan that dominates the park. Along its southern edge, waterholes and springs attract elephants, giraffes, zebra, antelope and predators including lions and cheetahs.

Explore independently or we can arrange for you to join guided drives from camps inside the park or nearby private reserves.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Namibia Classic Self-Drive 17 days & 14 nights Superior from £4,595 (incl. flights)

This popular self-drive itinerary offers a flexible, cost-effective way to experience Namibia’s highlights. Discover the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei, the coastal delights of Swakopmund and Damaraland’s striking granite landscapes before continuing to Etosha National Park, where self-drive safaris reveal elephants, lions and other wildlife around gleaming salt pans.

Included meals: 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 9 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover Southern Africa B O T S WA N A | ZIM BA BWE | ZA M BIA | MALAWI Elephants, Okavango Delta

Rivers carve through deserts and wildlife thrives in floodplains across Southern Africa. Botswana epitomises these contrasts, its UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta a living oasis that floods the desert each year. Along the Zambezi River, Chobe National Park teems with elephants and lions, while the Kalahari and the salt pans of Makgadikgadi and Nxai reveal a desolate, transcendent calm.

Zimbabwe is crowned by the mighty Victoria Falls, with other highlights including Hwange National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and lion prides, and Mana Pools National Park, set in the heart of the Zambezi Valley. In less-travelled Zambia, exceptional guiding and pioneering walking safaris await, while compact, welcoming Malawi combines lakeside beaches, tea estates, mountain trails and wildlife encounters.

C&K RECOMMENDS Southern Africa’s seasons shape the safari experience. In Botswana, the dry months from May to October bring warm days, cool nights and peak Okavango Delta floods, perfect for mokoro excursions and game viewing. The greener summer months offer fewer visitors, lush landscapes and newborn wildlife. Zimbabwe and Zambia share similar patterns: April to October is best for safaris, while Victoria Falls thunders at full force between March and May. September brings nesting carmine bee-eaters along Zambia’s riverbanks. Malawi’s cooler, calmer months from April to November are ideal for lake and mountain exploration.

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S OU T H E RN AF RI CA • A FR I CA

THE VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE WALK THE FALLS • THRILLING ACTIVITIES FROM LAND, WATER & AIR • HISTORIC HOTELS On the Zambezi River, between Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (‘The Smoke That Thunders’), is the world’s largest curtain of falling water, where up to half a million tonnes of the Zambezi plunge into deep gorges each minute. The Zimbabwean side offers the best rainforest viewpoints, while sunset cruises and lightaircraft flights reveal thrilling perspectives of this awesome natural wonder.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

THE OKAVANGO DELTA, BOTSWANA MOKORO CANOE SAFARIS • GAIN A BIRD’S-EYE VIEW FROM THE AIR • AUTHENTIC TENTED BUSH CAMPS

African wild dog, Hwange National Park

Mokoro canoe safari, Okavango Delta, Botswana

The UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta, the world’s largest inland delta, floods from May to October, drawing elephants, buffaloes, red lechwe, crocodiles and rare wattled cranes. Explore by 4x4, mokoro canoe, or on foot, with superb birdwatching and fishing.

At its heart lies Moremi Game Reserve, a pristine wilderness where big cats roam freely amid riverine forests, open savannas and lagoons.

Carmine bee-eater, South Luangwa National Park

Lake Malawi

HWANGE NATIONAL PARK, ZIMBABWE

SOUTH LUANGWA NATIONAL PARK, ZAMBIA

LAKE MALAWI & LIKOMA ISLAND, MALAWI

LARGE ELEPHANT POPULATION • SEE THE ‘BIG FIVE’ • AUTHENTIC SAFARI CAMPS

EXPLORE ON FOOT • SUPERB NIGHT DRIVES

CLEAR TURQUOISE WATERS • LOVELY BEACHES & ROCKY COVES

The South Luangwa Valley, located at the tail of the Great Rift, is one of Africa’s richest and most unspoilt wildlife sanctuaries. Its lagoons and plains are packed with elephants, lions, leopards and hippos, while over 400 bird species also thrive here. Famed as the birthplace of walking safaris, it offers exceptional guided treks through pristine, game-filled wilderness.

Lake Malawi, the country’s sparkling centrepiece, dazzles with clear waters teeming with colourful cichlids and opportunities for water-based recreation including kayaking, sailing and snorkelling.

The southern lakeshore and Cape Maclear are the most accessible, while remote Likoma Island boasts tranquil beaches, rocky coves and the impressive St Peter’s Cathedral – a striking landmark in this car-free island haven.

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest reserve, protects vast Kalahari sandveld dotted with teak and mopane woodlands, salt pans and open plains. Home to over 100 mammal species, including 30,000 elephants and endangered wild dogs, it also delivers exceptional birding opportunities.

Visit the Painted Dog Conservation Centre or traverse walking trails that promise wildlife encounters during the green season.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover East Africa KEN Y A | T A N ZA NIA | UG A N DA | R WAND A Lions and wildebeest, Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

Misty forests echo with the call of great apes and the Great Migration sees vast herds of wildebeest and zebra sweep across the plains – East Africa truly stirs the imagination. In Kenya, the Maasai Mara teems with wildlife and the traditions of the Masai and Samburu people endure. Tanzania offers the drama of the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, snowcapped Kilimanjaro – Africa’s highest mountain – and the exotic shores of Zanzibar.

To the west, Uganda and Rwanda invite close encounters with mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in their volcanic highlands. Uganda’s 20 national parks protect an incredible diversity of wildlife and over 1,000 bird species, while Rwanda combines luxury lodges with the striking landscapes of the Virunga Mountains, Lake Kivu and Akagera’s wide savannas.

C&K RECOMMENDS East Africa merges some of the continent’s finest safari experiences with traditional cultures and idyllic beaches. In Kenya and Tanzania, game viewing is superb year-round. The Great Migration sees millions of wildebeest and zebras circle between the Serengeti and Masai Mara, with dramatic river crossings from July to October, or calving on the southern Serengeti plains from January to March. For fewer crowds, visit outside these peak months or explore the quieter southern parks.

Uganda and Rwanda offer unforgettable primate encounters, with gorilla trekking best during the dry months.

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E AS T AF R I CA • A FR I CA

TANZANIA’S NORTHERN SAFARI CIRCUIT WORLD-CLASS SAFARI PARKS • GREAT WILDEBEEST MIGRATION • UNESCOLISTED NGORONGORO CRATER Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit – Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti – ranks among Africa’s best wildlife regions. Tarangire’s baobabdotted plains draw elephants to its river in the dry season, while Lake Manyara hosts tree-climbing lions. The Ngorongoro Crater is also crammed with captivating creatures, and the Serengeti’s vast plains stage the Great Wildebeest Migration in all its visual drama.

Flamingos, Lake Manyara, Tanzania

LAIKIPIA PLATEAU RUGGED, UNTAMED LANDSCAPES • AUTHENTIC CULTURAL INTERACTIONS • CONSERVATION ENTERPRISES Stretching from the foothills of Mount Kenya to Lake Baringo, the Laikipia region encompasses contrasting landscapes, where wildlife – from elephants and buffaloes to lions and leopards – is in abundance.

Luxurious lodges and community-run conservancies such as Lewa and Ol Pejeta offer insight into pioneering conservation efforts, while Samburu and Maasai involvement provides cultural connections.

Zebra’s, Laikipia Plateau, Kenya

Cheetah, Masai Mara, Kenya

Gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park,

Diani beach, Kenya

Uganda

MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE

BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

KENYA & ZANZIBAR BEACHES

WILDEBEEST MIGRATION • CINEMATIC SAVANNAS • NIGHT DRIVES & GUIDED WALKS

TREK TO SEE MOUNTAIN GORILLAS • SPOT ENDEMIC BIRDS • MEET THE INDIGENOUS BATWA PEOPLE

ENJOY THE SWAHILI CULTURE OF THE COAST • TAKE A TRADITIONAL DHOW CRUISE • PRISTINE SANDY BEACHES

The Masai Mara, Kenya’s most iconic reserve, is renowned for its abundant wildlife and cinematic landscapes. All of the ‘Big Five’ roam here, alongside cheetahs, hyenas and the distinctive Masai giraffe.

Expanding conservancies on the reserve’s borders deliver vital protection for animals along their migration routes, with more exclusive encounters away from the crowds, including night drives and guided walks.

Laying claim to over half the world’s mountain gorillas, Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest shelters approximately 450 of these endangered primates. This UNESCO-listed sanctuary also supports 120 mammal varieties, such as colobus monkeys and forest elephants, along with about 350 bird species including Albertine Rift endemics.

Visits include local community projects and meetings with the local Batwa people.

Kenya’s palm-fringed coastline provides the perfect post-safari retreat, blending Swahili culture with Indian Ocean tranquility and beauty. From the white sands of Diani to the coral reefs off Watamu and the understated charm of Lamu, there’s a beach for every traveller. Alternatively, the Zanzibar Archipelago offers spice-scented islands, historic Stone Town and idyllic shores, with nearby Pemba promising superb diving.

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Murchison Falls, White Nile River, Uganda

EXPERIENCE

HOT AIR BALLOONING SAFARI FLIGHT

WITNESS GORILLAS IN THE MIST

SEE THE WHITE NILE AT MURCHISON FALLS

Few experiences capture the magic of East Africa quite like a hot air balloon flight at sunrise. As dawn breaks and the balloon slowly lifts above the savanna, the landscape glows in soft golden light, while the sounds of the waking bush add to the sensory drama. Drift silently over herds of elephant, zebra and antelope roaming the plains of the Masai Mara, Serengeti or Tarangire, then toast this unforgettable adventure with a sparkling wine breakfast served back on the ground, wherever the wind has carried you.

Deep in the mist-shrouded forests of Uganda and Rwanda, a handful of habituated mountain gorilla families provide travellers with one of the world’s most moving wildlife encounters. Led the whole time by a team of expert guides, trekkers navigate steep forested slopes and tangled undergrowth for up to four hours each way. The effort is rewarded with a magical, once-in-a-lifetime hour spent quietly observing these immensely powerful yet gentle creatures in their natural habitat – watching young gorillas play, mothers nuturing their infants and silverbacks calmly surveying the forest around them.

Murchison Falls National Park lies in the northern reaches of Uganda’s Albertine Rift Valley, where the White Nile crashes spectacularly through a narrow, jungleclad gorge before spreading into a broad, tranquil flow. Let us arrange a scenic boat ride to the base of the falls, spotting hippos, buffaloes, crocodiles and waterbucks along the way. The surrounding savannas support lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, hartebeest and graceful oribi antelope.

Birdwatching is also sensational, with more than 450 recorded species and a high-odds chance of sighting the elusive shoebill stork.

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E AS T AF R I CA • A FR I CA

STAY

LITTLE ZEBRA RIVER CAMP, MASAI MARA, KENYA

NGORONGORO LION’S PAW, TANZANIA

BREEZES BEACH CLUB & SPA, ZANZIBAR

Little Zebra River Camp is an intimate tented retreat nestled in riverine forest on a bend of the Talek River, overlooking the Masai Mara Reserve. Located on Masai community land, the camp works closely with local people and is surrounded by abundant birdlife, hippos, crocodiles and plains game.

With just 9 spacious tents and 1 family tent, it’s ideal for couples, families or small groups. Each booking includes exclusive use of a 4x4 safari vehicle and guide, while the camp’s facilities – restaurant, bar, pool and firepit – create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Perched on the eastern rim of the famous Ngorongoro Crater, one of Africa’s most breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Lion’s Paw features 17 elegant suites, each exuding comfort amid untamed wilderness and spectacular scenery. From the bar and dining area, guests can take in unbroken views of the crater floor, occasionally spotting majestic tusked elephants and the elusive black rhino through binoculars. Just a short 10-minute drive from the crater gate, the camp is perfectly positioned for early morning game drives and peaceful, starlit evenings beside the fire.

Breezes rests on the powder-white sands of Zanzibar’s eastern coast – the ultimate place to slow down and recharge after an actionpacked safari. The grounds of this relaxed, villa-style retreat is dotted with palm trees, with guests treated to commanding views across tropical gardens to the Indian Ocean.

Spacious rooms are tastefully furnished in Zanzibari style, each with a terrace or balcony overlooking the sea. Breezes’ restaurant showcases the island’s distinctive fusion cuisine, while on-site facilities include a spa, fitness centre, tennis court, outdoor pool and beachfront water sports centre.

Zanzibar

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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Discover West Africa GHA N A | T OG O | BE NIN Traditional thatched huts, Ghana

Nowhere else on the continent weaves music, dance, art and spirituality so seamlessly into daily life as West Africa – a region still refreshingly unspoilt by excessive tourism. In Ghana, the legacy of the Ashanti empire endures in royal festivals, crafts and storytelling, while coastal forts built by European powers stand as reminders of the Atlantic slave trade’s dark history.

Togo’s landscapes shift from palm-fringed shores to fertile highlands, each region home to distinct ethnic groups with their own customs and rituals. In neighbouring Benin, Voodoo remains a living faith, its ceremonies and shrines woven into the fabric of society. Further west, Ivory Coast, Sierra Leone, Senegal and Gambia share this region’s infectious rhythm, creative spirit and proud sense of tradition and cultural identity.

C&K RECOMMENDS West Africa’s cultural calendar is at its brightest between October and March, when dry, comfortable weather coincides with some of the region’s most captivating celebrations. In Ghana, the Ashanti mark Akwasidae with pageantry, kente-bright ceremony and rhythms that animate palace courtyards. Along the shores of Togo, Benin and eastern Ghana, Voodoo remains a guiding spiritual force, most vividly felt during Ouidah’s annual festival, where processions, percussion and masked traditions fill the streets. Other important harvest celebrations include Benin’s Yam Festival and Ghana’s Millet Festival, each honouring the season through communal feasting, dance and ancestral customs.

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W E S T AF R I CA • A FR I CA

Typical Ashanti kente weaving, Kumasi, Ghana

Masked dancer at a voodo festival, Benin

Voodoo statues at the fetish market, Lomé, Togo

GHANA

TOGO

BENIN

COLOURFUL KENTE WEAVERS • HISTORIC FORTS • RAINFOREST CANOPY IN KAKUM

MARKETS & GALLERIES • DRUMMING & FIRE DANCES • MEET DIVERSE ETHNIC GROUPS

IDYLLIC BEACHES • THE ‘VENICE OF AFRICA’ • SACRED TEMPLES

Often described as one of Africa’s friendliest nations, Ghana offers a enticing blend of culture, nature and history. Explore Accra’s lively streets and artisans’ workshops, the Ashanti capital of Kumasi with its colourful kente weavers and the poignant slave forts of Elmina. Walk the rainforest canopy in Kakum, spot wildlife in Mole and meet local farmers and chiefs.

Togo may be small, but it holds stupendous cultural and geographic diversity. From the cosmopolitan markets and art galleries of Lomé to remote villages where drumming and fire dances are common sights, each of its 37 ethnic groups preserves distinct and time-honoured rituals and practices. Experience voodoo ceremonies, meet the Tamberma people and admire their remarkable adobe fortress homes.

Benin’s landscapes range from palm-fringed beaches and tropical plains to the baobabdotted savannas of the north. On Lake Nokwe lies Ganvie, the ‘Venice of Africa’, a vast stilt village built on water by the Tofinu people. In Ouidah, once a principal slave post of the Dahomey Kingdom, explore Afro-Brazilian architecture, sacred python temples and the vivid masked dances of Fon culture.

SUGGESTED ITINERARY

Coastal Kingdoms of West Africa 16 days & 14 nights Discovery from £7,995 (incl. flights)

On this adventurous journey through Togo, Benin and Ghana, uncover the mysteries of Voodoo, the legacy of the Ashanti empire and the history of the Atlantic slave trade.

Meet local farmers, artisans and chiefs for an authentic glimpse into daily life in three fascinating, culturally rich countries still untouched by mass tourism.

Day 1: Fly to Lomé, Togo Fly via Paris to Lomé for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Lomé • Lake Togo Tour Lomé’s colonial landmarks and vibrant market, then continue to Lake Togo for 2 nights.

Day 3: Anaheo Discover Voodoo culture with visits to animist shrines, sacred Glidji and a traditional ceremony in a local village.

Day 4: To Ouidah, Benin Cross into Benin to witness the Zangbeto dancing masks, then continue to Ouidah for an overnight stay. Visit the python temple, Portuguese fort and the poignant ‘slave road’.

Traditional Tamberma house with voodoo fetishes, Togo

Day 5: Ganvie • Abomey Take a boat across Lake Nokwe to the stilt village of Ganvie, then continue inland to Abomey to visit local caves and blacksmiths.

Overnight stay.

Day 6: Gelede & Egun See the Gelede and Egun mask dances and meet the semi-nomadic Fulani people.

Overnight at Hotel Jeko.

Days 7 & 8: Kara & Tamberma Meet the Anii king, then explore the Tamberma people’s striking adobe fortress homes.

Day 9: Sokode Visit Kabeye villages and witness a spectacular fire dance.

Day 10: Kpalimé See Kotoccoli horsemanship displays and kente weaving, and learn about herbal traditions in Kpalimé.

Days 11-14: Kumasi • Kakum • Elmina In Ghana, visit Krobo bead makers and Ashanti shrines, and witness the Akwasidae Festival. Explore Kakum rainforest and Elmina’s coastal forts.

Days 15 & 16: Fly home End in vibrant Accra. Extend with additional time here or fly to the Ivory Coast for further exploration.

Included meals: 14 breakfasts, 13 lunches and 13 dinners

This is just a sample of what we offer. For more ideas or to enquire, visit COXANDKINGSTRAVEL.COM

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SMALL GROUP TOURS Go smaller, get closer For those who enjoy travelling in the company of others, Cox & Kings offers an exceptional range of small group tours.

From immersive ‘Discovery’ journeys to indulgent ‘Luxury’ itineraries, our trips cater to different interests, comfort levels and degrees of fitness, bringing together like-minded travellers on curated routes that reveal each destination’s character.

Every tour is designed through the insight of our experts. Thoughtfully balanced itineraries combine landmark highlights with Signature Experiences that open doors to places not easily accessed independently. You benefit from expert tour managers, knowledgeable local guides and the reassurance of guaranteed small group sizes.

Our tours offer excellent value without compromising on quality. You enjoy competitive rates, specialist guidance and 24/7 support, with the confidence of full financial protection. And if an itinerary inspires you to travel privately, our specialists can tailor any group tour – or design a new journey entirely – to suit your interests.

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Toompea Hill, Tallinn, Estonia

Contact one of our experienced travel consultants and start planning your next Cox & Kings adventure with us today on 020 3993 3884 | CoxandKingsTravel.com

For up-to-date terms and conditions, visit CoxandKingsTravel.com/booking-conditions

CREDITS

Guanaco, Torres del Paine, Chile

Design & production: Cox & Kings | Printing: Buxton Press Photography: Abercrombie & Kent; Getty Images; Shutterstock; Unsplash; StepMap; Jemima Fennell Rocky Mountaineer; Belmond; Lernidee; Mala Mala

Abercrombie & Kent Limited, trading as Cox & Kings | Registered in England No. 1082430

ABTA No.V6398

GUIDED BY CURIOSITY