Adventure Awaits...
Greetings from Stillwater!
The OSU Alumni Association is thrilled to unveil our 2026 Traveling Cowboys tour selections! With 34 trips, both domestic and international, our program offers a unique opportunity for OSU alumni and friends to roam the globe and learn together.
In the past year, over 250 Traveling Cowboys ventured to diverse destinations, including Africa, the Mediterranean and Australia, as well as closer-to-home marvels like The Masters and various national parks across the U.S. Traveling with us not only opens doors to new cultures and landscapes but also deepens your connection to Oklahoma State University in a meaningful, life-changing way.
Leave your worries behind as our dedicated staff, along with seven trusted travel partners, handle the intricate details of your journey, allowing you to fully unwind and explore. Our experienced tour directors, expedition leaders and local guides make even the most exotic locations feel like home.
The heart of our program lies within our travelers, which is why we welcome all OSU alumni and friends! Together, we’ll share stories, laugh, forge lasting friendships and create memories that will stay with us for years to come. Plus, when you explore with the Traveling Cowboys, a portion of your tour fee directly supports the OSU Alumni Association, helping to fund essential alumni programs, campus events and other OSU initiatives!
This catalog contains basic information about our 2026 tours. However, please note that in today’s ever-changing travel climate, all prices, itineraries, dates and departures are subject to change.
Detailed brochures for each tour will be mailed out approximately 6-9 months prior to departure. The brochures will also be listed on our Traveling Cowboys webpage at ORANGECONNECTION.org/travel. If you would like to receive specific brochures, feel free to contact me at mallory.rogers@okstate.edu or call 405.744.8837. With a significant increase in our bookings over the last several months, we recommend reserving your tour early to ensure your preferred space!
Lastly, the success of the Traveling Cowboys program is made possible by loyal and true supporters like you. Thank you for trusting us with your travel adventures and for your continued support of both the Traveling Cowboys program and the OSU Alumni Association. Enjoy browsing through this catalog, and I look forward to seeing you on a trip with fellow Cowboys in 2026!
Happy Travels, and Go Pokes!
MALLORY ROGERS Coordinator of Alumni Programs Life Member
INDONESIAN & MALAYSIAN JOY GO NEXT • JANUARY 11 - 25
Estimated starting price: $4,699 pp. + airfare
AFRICA’S WILDLIFE
ODYSSEYS • MAY 3 - 16
Experience unparalleled diversity and rich wildlife on this 14-day safari through some of Southern Africa’s great wildlife sanctuaries. The small group adventure begins with sightseeing in Johannesburg’s renowned Soweto District. Experience Zimbabwe’s spectacular Victoria Falls and enjoy a “Sundowner” Zambezi cruise. Taking a game drive, search for the elusive black rhino. In Botswana’s Chobe National Park, encounter abundant wildlife on sensational boat safaris and game drives. A tour highlight follows: unparalleled game viewing with three nights in Zambia’s exceptional South Luangwa National Park at the intimate, award-winning Mfuwe Lodge. Discover South Africa’s beautiful Cape Town with an optional 4-day/3-night post-tour extension.
Estimated starting price: $11,184 pp. / airfare included
MAORI HERITAGE OF AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND GO NEXT • JANUARY 25 - FEBRUARY 8
Estimated starting price: $6,699 pp. + airfare
TREASURES OF PERU: MACHU PICCHU & LAKE
TITICACA
ODYSSEYS • JANUARY 26 - FEBRUARY 5
A land of treasures archaeological, cultural, and natural awaits your small group on this engaging 11-day tour. The Peruvian adventure begins with Lima’s colonial and modern highlights. See several of Cuzco’s important sacred sites, then experience Peru’s rich cultural heritage in the beautiful Sacred Valley, visiting Incan ruins and indigenous villages. Overnighting at a nearby hotel, take two guided tours of astounding Machu Picchu. Encounter Sacsayhuamán’s impressive ruins and enjoy a wonderful lunch in Cuzco. Traveling through Peru’s scenic altiplano, reach stunning Lake Titicaca and spend a day exploring. Discover the Amazon rainforest’s wonders on an optional 4-day/4-night post-tour extension.
Estimated starting price: $5,387 pp. / airfare included
In 2026, the Traveling Cowboys are journeying to more than 10 states across the U.S. along with nearly 50 countries worldwide.
VIVID WESTERN CARIBBEAN & PANAMA CANAL
GO NEXT • APRIL 14 - 24
Estimated starting price: $2,999 pp. + airfare
FINLAND
AHI • FEBRUARY 21 - MARCH 1
Embrace Finland’s majestic beauty and Nordic charm on this seven-night, active journey! Explore vibrant Helsinki and indulge in the quintessentially Finnish tradition of a rejuvenating sauna. In northern Lapland, gaze at the awe-inspiring Northern Lights from your glass-domed cabin, enjoy a snowshoe trek by moonlight, and drive across the pristine fjells aboard a dogsled or snowmobile! You’ll also tour the splendid old town of Tallinn, Estonia. Includes first-class hotels and a round-trip flight within Finland.
Estimated starting price: $5,495 pp. + airfare
ITALY’S CLASSIC CITIES
ODYSSEYS • APRIL 16 - MAY 1
Savor art, history, culture, and cuisine in this captivating small group journey to a collection of Italy’s classic cities: Milan, Verona, Bologna, Florence, and Rome. We begin in Milan where we explore the marvelous Milan Cathedral. Next, we visit the Lake District and enjoy a stunning cruise on Lake Como in the foothills of the snowcapped Alps. On to Verona, rich with its Shakespeare connections, we visit Juliet’s House; the 13th century home of the Del Capello family said to be the inspiration for the infamous play. Ending the tour in historic Rome, we visit the famed Borghese Gallery and have ample free time to explore the city independently.
Estimated starting price: $TBD pp. / airfare included
NORMANDY - HONFLEUR
AHI • APRIL 18 - 26
Immerse yourself in Normandy’s remarkable history on this first-class, seven-night sojourn! Unpack once, setting out daily to explore from picturesque Honfleur. Explore WWII’s impact at pivotal D-Day sites as you walk along Normandy’s solemn beaches. Witness majestic Mont-SaintMichel, the Bayeux Tapestry and MuMa’s impressionist art. Plus, savor Normandy cuisine and sip its celebrated Calvados brandy. This smallgroup program features a generous meal plan!
Estimated starting price: $4,545 pp. + airfare. No single supplement.
The current Traveling Cowboys program turns 10 this year! Since our reorganization, we have guided more than 1,600 travelers.
ETRUSCAN WATERWAYS - SPAIN TO ITALY
GO NEXT • APRIL 21 - 28
Estimated starting price: $2,499 pp. + airfare
CULTURED IBERIA & FRANCE
GO NEXT • MAY 16 - 26
Estimated starting price: $3,299 pp. + airfare
EUROPEAN TAPESTRY: AMSTERDAM TO PARIS
ODYSSEYS • MAY 7 - 18
Europe of old – and new – springs to life on this relaxed 12-day small group journey. Explore charming Amsterdam, visiting the renowned Rijksmuseum and the dazzling Keukenhof gardens. In Kinderdijk, see The Netherlands’ iconic windmills. With three nights in medieval Bruges, visit a chocolatier, take a private canal cruise, and tour vibrant Ghent. After encountering Bastogne’s poignant WWII memorial and museum, discover beautiful Luxembourg City. Stopping in Épernay, sample the town’s prized champagne. The European sojourn’s fitting finale is a two-night stay in celebrated Paris. Savor more time in Paris with an optional 3-day/2-night post-tour extension.
Estimated starting price: $6,689 pp. / airfare included
Select trips in 2026 will have OSU hosts, helping our Traveling Cowboys continue their lifelong connection with the university.
ITALY - TUSCANY, CINQUE TERRE, & AMALFI COAST
GOHAGAN • MAY 18 - 16
Experience the stunning coasts of Italy, Corsica and Amalfi on this remarkable 7-night cruise, round-trip Rome, aboard a deluxe small ship. Stop in 6 ports to explore historic Italian cities, fabled coastal villages and enchanting islands. Begin in Tuscany with a choice to visit Florence or Lucca. Then, visit the legendary Cinque Terre, iconic Amalfi Coast and Isle of Capri on a journey that concludes with a visit to the Sicily-Rome American Cemetery and Memorial — led by Guest Speaker Dwight David Eisenhower II.
Estimated starting price: $7,195 pp. + airfare
GRAND DANUBE PASSAGE
AHI • MAY 19 - JUNE 3
Explore eight countries and discover epic history, Old World capitals and charming villages along the mighty Danube River. Plus, enjoy stays in Sofia, Bulgaria, and Prague, Czech Republic. Visit Vienna, Bratislava and Belgrade, and feast your eyes on an illuminated Budapest on an evening cruise. Discover beauty around every bend, from the picturesque Wachau Valley to Melk Abbey and the Iron Gate Gorge to idyllic villages. Taste delicacies in Croatia’s Slavonia region and celebrate rich culture while enjoying a folk show and Viennese waltz performance. You’ll enjoy first-class ship accommodations, deluxe hotels and a generous meal plan featuring wine and beer with lunch and dinner.
Estimated starting price: $6,495 pp. + airfare. No single supplement.
FLAVORS OF PIEDMONT
ORBRIDGE • MAY 30 - JUNE 7
Delight in a perfectly paced journey through Italy’s enchanting Piedmont region, where prestigious wines meet exquisite gastronomy against a backdrop of unparalleled natural splendor. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Alps, this diverse landscape beckons with its captivating blend of vineyarddraped hillsides, quaint villages and lush valleys. Delve into a tapestry of culture and history as you wander among ancient castles, time-honored wineries and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each offering a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage and timeless allure.
Estimated starting price: $5,895 pp. + airfare
NORWEGIAN SPLENDOR: SERENITY AMONGST THE FJORDS
ORBRIDGE • JUNE 27 - JULY 6
Seize this opportunity to experience the magnitude of Norway’s breathtaking fjords in unparalleled luxury and style. Cruising aboard state-of-the-art Le Lapérouse, ignite your inner explorer with visits to incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites, immersive hiking and kayaking adventures, and enriching cultural and historical excursions. Accompanied by a dedicated team of expert guides who will enhance your journey, every moment promises to be one of discovery and delight.
Estimated starting price: $7,495 pp. + airfare
BALTIC SEA DISCOVERY
GO NEXT • JULY 10 - 20
Estimated starting price: $3,499 pp. + airfare
WONDERS OF ICELAND
GO NEXT • JULY 24 - AUGUST 3
Estimated starting price: $4,299 pp. + airfare
ENCHANTING IRELAND
ODYSSEYS • AUGUST 6 - 18
Ireland delights your small band of travelers on this full yet well-paced 13-day tour. Touring in Dublin includes Trinity College and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Journeying through County Galway’s legendary Connemara, see beautiful Kylemore Abbey. Embark on an Aran Islands excursion to fabled Inishmore. Traveling County Clare’s spectacular coastline, encounter the rugged Burren and the majestic Cliffs of Moher. In County Kerry, tour charming Killarney, experience the stunning Ring of Kerry, and watch an Irish sheepdog demonstration. After exploring Kilkenny, Ireland’s cultural capital, finish the journey in Dublin. Savor Northern Ireland’s Antrim Coast and Belfast with an optional 4-day/3-night post-tour extension.
Estimated starting price: $8,092 pp. / airfare included
SCOTLAND FEATURING THE ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO
AHI • AUGUST 16 - 24
Discover Scotland’s stirring scenery and vibrant history on a seven-night, first-class stay in charming Stirling. Take in the pristine splendor of The Trossachs National Park and commanding views from the ramparts of Stirling and Edinburgh Castles. Stroll along Edinburgh’s celebrated Royal Mile and attend an unforgettable performance of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Sample Scottish whisky, cruise Loch Lomond, see golf’s home in St Andrews and more! This small-group experience features expert guides and lecturers.
Estimated starting price: $4,295 pp. + airfare
ANCIENT GREECE
ODYSSEYS • SEPTEMBER 17 - 30
Unearth the ancient world’s grandeur on this singular 14-day small group journey combining premier archaeological sites with the beauty of the Aegean isles. Visit Athens’ key sights, explore the Temple of Poseidon’s spectacular ruins, and tour the renowned National Archaeological Museum. After seeing Ancient Corinth’s ruins, spend three nights on the Peloponnesian coast. Marvel at Epidaurus and Mycenae’s ruins and discover idyllic Hydra. Staying three nights in Crete’s fascinating capital, Heraklion, tour the Palace of Knossos, visit an olive oil farm then cruise to Spinalonga. With two nights on picturesque Santorini, tour a winery and the Akrotiri archaeological site before returning to Athens.
Estimated starting price: $8,392 pp. / airfare included
VILLAGE LIFE - COTSWOLDS
GOHAGAN • OCTOBER 11 - 19
Journey through the charming Cotswolds, the Heart of England and home to some of the country’s most scenic landscapes. From your home base in the first-class Queens Hotel in Cheltenham, embark on daily excursions. At prestigious Oxford University, indulge in an exclusive after-hours tour of the Bodleian Library and Radcliffe Camera. At a local farm, learn about sustainability and foraging, harvest fresh vegetables from the garden and engage in a cooking lesson. Discover the history and heritage of the Arts and Crafts movement in the Cotswolds during a lecture and a visit to Hidcote Garden. Tour Blenheim Palace and Sudeley Castle and tread in Shakespeare’s footsteps in Stratford-upon-Avon. Treat yourself to this unforgettable 7-night escape to England’s castles and countryside!
Estimated starting price: $4,995 pp. + airfare
ITALIAN SOJOURN
GO NEXT • OCTOBER 13 - 23
Estimated starting price: $2,999 pp. + airfare
All Traveling Cowboys who are members of the OSU Alumni Association will receive an additional gift prior to their departure date.
CRUISE THE HEART OF EUROPE
AHI • OCTOBER 13 - 28
Cruise the legendary Rhine, Main and Danube rivers through Central Europe on a 14-night journey to the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary! Uncover the history of Amsterdam, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest and other storied cities, visiting medieval villages and lauded landmarks. Included excursions allow you to customize your journey throughout. Unpack once aboard an exclusively chartered first-class riverboat. Includes all meals and features expert guides and lecturers!
Estimated starting price: $6,795 pp. + airfare. No single supplement.
SWISS ALPS & THE ITALIAN LAKES
AHI • OCTOBER 21 - 30
Embrace the beauty and culture of Switzerland and Italy on an epic eight-night journey! Stay in chic St. Moritz and lakeside Stresa, immersing yourself in the natural beauty and heritage of these celebrated destinations. Journey by train to Zuoz and wind through incredible scenery on the Bernina Express. Cruise by private boat to the Borromean Islands and explore the romantic villages of Bellagio and Como. Stand before Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” and learn to prepare regional dishes at a family-owned restaurant. This program includes first-class accommodations and a generous meal plan including wine with dinner.
Estimated starting price: $4,495 pp. + airfare
CHRISTKINDLMÄRKTE OF AUSTRIA & GERMANY
GOHAGAN • NOVEMBER 27 - DECEMBER 5
Revel in joyful Yuletide celebrations on a first-class, seven-night Danube River cruise from Vienna, Austria, to Nuremberg, Germany, and visit colorful holiday markets in Vienna, Passau, Regensburg and Nuremberg. Be dazzled by Vienna’s baroque Schönbrunn Palace and the grand Melk Abbey, plus choose from engaging excursions: a tour of beautiful Salzburg, or a “Silent Night” tour to charming Austrian towns. Unpack once aboard your exclusively chartered river boat and embrace the splendor of the season as storybook Christmas scenes unfold around you!
Estimated starting price: $3,495 pp. + airfare
THE MASTERS
SET • APRIL 8 - 11
The Masters brings together legacy, competition, challenge, charm, and prestige, creating one of the most acclaimed weekends in sports. Seize the chance to witness this celebrated tournament firsthand. Indulge in a stay in the historic city of Savannah, and enjoy a round at the Club at Savannah Harbor, a creation by Robert Cupp and Sam Snead. Journey to Augusta National on Friday for Cut Day and witness the thrilling competition of the world’s best golfers. This exclusive tour provides a perfect blend of golf, relaxation, southern charm, and the chance to be a part of the historic spectacle that is - The Masters.
Estimated starting price: $6,999 pp. + airfare
THE KENTUCKY DERBY
SET • APRIL 29 - MAY 3
Experience the charm of the horse capital of the world with a unique Kentucky Derby adventure in Lexington & Louisville, Kentucky. Revel in downtown luxury at the Lexington Marriott City Center while immersing yourself in the essence of the Run for the Roses. Explore the American Saddlebred Museum, venture along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, embark on tours of working horse farms, visit the iconic Keeneland racetrack, and more! Be at the heart of the action on Derby Day, savoring the spectacle, elegance, and iconic hats at Churchill Downs. This exclusive tour provides an unforgettable journey into “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.”
Estimated starting price: $3,599 pp. + airfare + race ticket
VANCOUVER TO TORONTO BY RAIL
ORBRIDGE • JULY 16 - 22
Embark upon a once-in-a-lifetime rail odyssey across Canada’s five provinces, gliding through rolling prairies, rugged lake country and the snowy peaks of the magnificent Rockies. This five-star journey features hotel stays at luxurious, historic rail properties bookending four amazing days and nights in Prestige Class aboard VIA Rail’s The Canadian. This nostalgic rail experience harkens the golden age of train travel.
Estimated starting price: $7,995 pp. + airfare
Did you know? The Traveling Cowboys program is open to all OSU alumni, fans, and supportersnot just graduates and members!
MAJESTIC VISTAS & WILDLIFE - ALASKA
GO NEXT • JULY 28 - AUGUST 8
Estimated starting price: $3,399 pp. + airfare
COLUMBIA & SNAKE RIVERS
GO NEXT • AUGUST 4 - 12
Estimated starting price: $6,400 pp. + airfare
Did you know? The orange ball car decal used today was developed for our first alumni travel program in 1962 to help identify our travelers’ luggage.
SAN JUAN ISLANDS
ORBRIDGE • AUGUST 24 - 29
Our exclusive, six-day, small group journey offers immersive, private boat excursions to some of San Juan’s most remote islands with accommodations at intimate boutique properties. You’ll also indulge in the freshest Pacific Northwest seafood and taste other locally sourced specialties at elaborate, authentic meals prepared by the region’s finest chefs. The archipelago’s past comes to life as you visit the site that launched the famous 1859 “Pig War” and explore the waterfront town of La Conner. In the company of expert guides, you will also watch for whales at Lime Kiln State Park, enjoy panoramic views from Mount Constitution, and admire the cliffs of Deception Pass on this experience to remember, offered at the best time of year.
Estimated starting price: $TBD pp. + airfare
BLACK HILLS, BADLANDS, & MOUNT RUSHMORE
PREMIER WORLD DISCOVERY • AUGUST 26 - SEPTEMBER 1
This seven-day tour invites participants to explore the history and culture of the American West, staying six nights in a hotel in Rapid City, South Dakota. The itinerary includes visits to Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial, a Buffalo Jeep Safari in Custer State Park, Devil’s Tower National Monument, and the historic town of Deadwood. Guests will also ride the 1880 Steam Train, experience the rugged beauty of Badlands National Park, visit Wall Drug Store, and enjoy a Chuckwagon Supper & Cowboy Show.
Estimated starting price: $3,995 pp. + airfare
NATIONAL PARKS OF THE SOUTHWEST
ODYSSEYS • OCTOBER 18 - 28
It’s a land of scenes epic in scope, from the immense Grand Canyon to Zion’s red-rock cliffs, which your small group celebrates on this captivating 11-day journey. Setting out from Phoenix, experience Sedona’s striking red sandstone landscape with an exhilarating Pink Jeep tour. Spend a memorable day exploring the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Staying at a hotel on Lake Powell’s shores, discover spectacular Upper Antelope Canyon, and embark on a rousing Colorado River motorized rafting excursion. In stunning Bryce Canyon National Park, marvel at the hoodoo rock formations, then encounter wondrously diverse Zion National Park. Toast the Southwestern adventure in Las Vegas.
Estimated starting price: $4,995 pp. + airfare
MONTREAL & QUEBEC CITY CHRISTMAS MARKETS
PREMIER WORLD DISCOVERY • DECEMBER 7 - 12
Embrace the holiday spirit and season with the unique and warm atmosphere, beautiful decorations, and succulent German treats in both Montreal and Quebec. In Montreal, stay 2 nights at the historic Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel. Enjoy this modern city seeing Notre Dame Cathedral, St. Joseph’s Oratory, Jacques Cartier Square, McGill University, Mount Royal and more. Board the Via Rail train for the scenic journey to Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A highlight of the trip is a three night stay at the world-famous Chateau Frontenac. Enjoy leisure time at the German Christmas Market in the heart of Old Quebec. Embrace this magical city with illuminated pedestrian streets, decorated shops and bistros, all offering a festive atmosphere during the holiday season.
Estimated starting price: $3,995 pp. + airfare
Frequently Asked Questions
DO I HAVE TO BE A MEMBER OF THE OSU ALUMNI ASSOCIATION?
No, you do not need to be a member! Our program is open to all OSU alumni, their families, and friends. You do not have to be a graduate of OSU to travel with us.
WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT A TRIP?
Brochures and other available information can be found online at ORANGECONNECTION.org/travel, requested via email at mallory.rogers@ okstate.edu, or by calling 405-744-8837. Brochures for each trip will be mailed approximately 6-9 months prior to departure. In most cases, you do not need to wait for a brochure to reserve your spot on a tour. Many tours fill quickly, so we encourage you to contact the tour operator directly to assist with your decision.
HOW DO I REGISTER FOR A TRIP?
To register for a trip, please contact the respective tour operator for that program. If there is an online booking option, you can visit the appropriate website. Contact information for each tour operator can be found at the back of the catalog.
HOW MANY OSU ALUMNI SHOULD I EXPECT TO TRAVEL WITH?
While we hope for high reservation numbers on all our tours, the response to each trip can vary. Group sizes have ranged from as small as two people to as large as 30. In recent years, our average group size is around 12. You can always contact the OSU Alumni Association to inquire about the current group size before or after booking a tour.
WILL MY TOUR INCLUDE AN OSU STAFF HOST?
A minimum number of participants is required to secure the services of an Oklahoma State representative. We strive to have an OSU host on as many departures as possible, as we know this greatly enhances the experience for travelers. Please note that all our tours include professional tour directors and guides provided by our tour operators, who are excellent at making your trip memorable. Their goal, as well as ours, is to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I NEED TO CANCEL? WILL I GET A REFUND?
Be sure to review the cancellation policies for your specific trip. Generally, penalties apply as a percentage of the tour cost based on the number of days prior to departure. We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance, as it can often cover the costs lost due to cancellation.
