2018-2019 National Geographic Journeys

TRIP PRICES FROM

1,599

$

PER PERSON

TRAVEL CATALOG

2018 – 2019

N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C J O U R N E Y S 2018–2019 I CO N I C JA PA N

EXPLORE CAPE TOWN AND KRUGER

I M M E R S I V E E X P LO R AT I O N .

U N B E ATA B L E VA L U E .

We invite you to go deeper into captivating cultures and habitats around the world with National Geographic Journeys. These trips, offered in partnership with internationally acclaimed tour operator G Adventures, combine hands-on exploration, meaningful interactions with people and places, and plenty of choices—with the structure and security that come with group travel. With a knowledgeable local guide at the helm, groups of usually 16 or fewer, a unique itinerary, and fascinating people to meet in the field, National Geographic Journeys are a feast for your mind and your senses—at an incredible value.

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EXPLORE ICELAND

COLOMBIA JOURNEY

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

10 Explore Australia

30 Rwanda & Uganda Gorilla Discovery 31 Wonders of Namibia

11 New Zealand Journey 11 Explore Australia and New Zealand

32 Explore Southern Africa 34 Explore Kruger and Victoria Falls 35 Botswana and Zimbabwe

ASIA

Safari Experience

12 Discover Southeast Asia 14 Thailand Journey 15 Explore Southern Thailand 15 Iconic Thailand 16 The Heart of Myanmar 18 Best of Borneo

NEW

48 Explore Costa Rica 50 Alaska Journey 51 Discover the Canadian Rockies 52 Discover American Canyonlands

36 Explore Kruger National Park

52 Natural Highlights of California

36 Explore Cape Town and Kruger

53 Historic American Cities by Rail

36 Cape Town, Kruger & Namibia

53 Mexico's Day of the Dead in Oaxaca

37 Discover Namibia & Victoria Falls

58 Explore Belize

37 Discover Kruger & Namibia

58 Canadian Polar Bear Experience

37 Kruger, Victoria Falls & Namibia

20 Wonders of Bhutan 20 Nepal: Himalaya Highlights 21 Discover India

37 Southern Africa Highlights 38 Morocco Journey 39 Morocco: Sahara and Beyond

NEW

23 Iconic Japan

SOUTH AMERICA

24 Explore China and Tibet 25 Best of China

40 Explore Machu Picchu

59 Explore Bali & Java

42 Machu Picchu and the Amazon

59 Explore India & Nepal

43 Iconic Peru 44 Inca Explorer

AFRICA

45 Discover Patagonia

26 Wildlife Parks of Tanzania

NEW NEW

28 Tanzania Safari Experience

46 Colombia Journey 58 Ecuador: Amazon, Hot Springs, Volcanoes 58 Explore Argentina & Brazil

EUROPE

54 Explore Iceland 55 Iconic Italy 56 Discover Moorish Spain 57 Explore Central Europe 57 Paris & Normandy Highlights MIDDLE EAST

59 Explore Israel & Jordan RESOURCES

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The National Geographic Journeys Difference

60 More Ways to Travel with National Geographic 61 Terms & Conditions 62 Calendar

29 Kenya Safari Experience

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47 Natural Highlights of Costa Rica

37 Southern Africa Safari Experience

NEW

27 Southern Tanzania Safari

NORTH AMERICA

37 The Great Southern Africa Safari

17 Explore Vietnam

22 Mongolia

29 Safari in Kenya and Tanzania

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CONNECT WITH THE WORLD

TO P LO C A L G U I D E S S H OW YO U T H E WAY

National Geographic Journeys are designed to foster human

Each trip is led by a local Chief Experience Officer, or CEO, who

connections through immersive experiences. You’ll enjoy access

knows the destination intimately and whose main purpose is to

to people and projects supported by National Geographic or G

make your trip extraordinary. Your CEO will share insights on

Adventures, whether you’re cooking up local specialties with

celebrated sites and local culture and introduce you to fascinating

disadvantaged youth at a culinary school in Vietnam or

people—and they know all the best foodie spots too, from

discussing carnivores with scientists at the Cheetah

world-renowned restaurants to local favorites.

Conservation Fund in Namibia.

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Over the past 130 years, we’ve sent our scientists, storytellers, and adventurers across continents and into remote cultures, down to the oceans’ depths and up the highest mountains, in an effort to better understand our planet. Our travel program grew from this legacy as a way to invite others to explore: to encounter the wonders of the world up close, in depth, right at the source— and to be transformed by the experience.

WHEN YOU TRAVEL WITH US, YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE National Geographic and G Adventures believe that travel can and should be a force for good in the world. By traveling with us, you support community projects and initiatives that improve livelihoods in the places we visit. You also support the National Geographic Society’s researchers and explorers who work to preserve, protect, and advance our understanding of the planet and its people. The National Geographic Society receives funds from National Geographic Partners, LLC, funded in part by your purchase. To learn more, visit www.natgeo.com/info.

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T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C J O U R N E YS E X P E R I E N C E National Geographic’s earliest explorers liked to dig in, immerse themselves in new places, and get to know the local people, their traditions, cuisine, and everyday lives. That same passion for discovery is behind each of our National Geographic Journeys trips—which means you’ll get closer than you ever imagined when you explore with us.

RWA N DA A N D U G A N DA G O R I L L A D I SCOV E RY

I T ’ S T H E P L AC E S YO U G O.

I T ’ S T H E P E R S P E C T I V E S Y O U G E T.

Venture into the jungles of Borneo to spot orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and other unusual creatures with a naturalist guide.

Discuss the latest findings on mountain gorillas with scientists at a research center in Rwanda founded by National Geographic grantee Dian Fossey.

Follow the Inca Trail on a four-day trek with a great reward: the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Practice Zen meditation with a Buddhist monk in Nara, Japan.

Explore the less-visited wildlife parks of southern Tanzania on river safaris and game drives.

Visit a field camp of the Okavango Wilderness Project in Botswana for an insider’s look at one of National Geographic’s most important initiatives.

I T ’ S T H E T H I N G S YO U D O.

I T ’ S T H E P E O P L E Y O U M E E T.

Learn traditional archery with a nomadic family in Mongolia’s Gobi desert.

Stay in a Moroccan desert camp in the Sahara and head up the dunes atop a camel or your own two feet.

Clack your castanets alongside a flamenco dancer during a lesson in Seville, Spain.

Go backstage at the famous Shanghai Acrobatic Show in China and meet the performers.

Get insights into ancient Petra with an archaeologist before spending a day exploring the incredible ruins.

Hear from a scientist on a visit to the laboratories of the Alaska SeaLife Center, and learn about ongoing marine life studies.

I T ’ S T H E I M PAC T YO U H AV E .

Simply by traveling with National Geographic Journeys, you make a difference. You help support G Adventures’ community initiatives like a cooking school in Vietnam that trains disadvantaged youth, or the Maasai Clean Cookstoves Project, which empowers Maasai women while improving the health of both humans and the environment. And your support is vital to National Geographic’s mission of increasing global understanding through conservation, research, education, and exploration.

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EXPLORE SOUTHERN AFRICA

E X P LO R E I S R A E L & J O R DA N

T H E H E A R T O F M YA N M A R ( B U R M A )

E X P LO R E CO S TA R I C A

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WE MAKE IT EASY An unforgettable experience is at your fingertips. You can book your National Geographic Journeys trip, purchase extra activities, and make your air travel arrangements all in one phone call or a few clicks of a mouse.

Our reservations team is available 24/7 to help you. Once you’ve reserved your space, all that’s left to do is daydream about your trip. (And pack, of course.)

1 0 0 % G UA R A N T E E D D E PA RT U R E S

A D D TO YO U R E X P E R I E N C E

Once you book your trip, you’re going. Barring extreme weather or security concerns, every National Geographic Journeys departure is guaranteed to run.

You can do whatever you wish during your free time on your trip, but if you’re in need of suggestions, we’ve got them. Check out your National Geographic destination information for tips, or book an extra activity with us—a kayaking excursion on Sydney Harbour, for instance, or a canyoneering adventure in Costa Rica. Look for the “Add to Your Experience” box on trip pages throughout this catalog, and make sure to reserve with us in advance to secure your space.

N O E X T R A F E E F O R S O LO T R AV E L E R S If you’re traveling on your own, we’ll pair you up with a roommate of the same gender so that you can pay the same rate as other travelers. For those who need their alone time, look for the “My Own Room” rate for each itinerary.

ACCO M M O DAT I O N S Where you sleep is part of your experience too, even if you don’t spend a lot of time there. Accommodations are chosen for their comfort, convenience, value, and the special element they add to your trip—a phenomenal view, a piece of history, or access to a remote place.

In the Amazon, settle into a bungalow with a private terrace nestled in the jungle. Check out the views (and the architecture) at a mountain hotel in Bhutan, or spend an unforgettable night cruising New Zealand’s Doubtful Sound.

LIFETIME DEPOSIT Our Lifetime Deposit policy protects you if you ever have to cancel or postpone your trip. Your deposit can be transferred to another departure date or another National Geographic Journey, or you can use it later or transfer it to a friend.

I C O N I C I TA LY

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GET TO KNOW SOME OF OUR CEOS Each trip is led by a Chief Experience Officer—or CEO—your greatest resource on your trip. They’ll share insights on area traditions, connect you with interesting people wherever you go, and even offer recommendations for restaurants or things to do in your free time. Meet a few CEOs below.

DA N I E L B. , CENTRAL AMERICA

P A I N G T. , M YA N M A R ( B U R M A )

I love my job because when I’m walking through a tropical cloud forest or an ancient ruin or when I’m watching whales breach on the Pacific or schools of fish in a coral reef, I can call it my office. I meet people from all over the world and we get to learn from each other, and share great moments that will become cherished memories.

My favorite place to take travelers is Inle Lake.

The first thing they see is its natural beauty, and then they get to know the culture and traditions of the people who call this place their home. Seeing the floating villages and leg-rowing fishermen, visiting the local markets, and learning to cook traditional Burmese dishes in a chef ’s home gives our travelers the chance to really understand what life is like here.

It’s incredible to see the change that occurs in people as they experience a new place, watch an animal they had always hoped to see, challenge themselves to try something they never imagined they would, or alter their perception through interaction with a different culture. It’s exciting for me to be there for these experiences, and help travelers make the most out of the trip.

I love having the chance to share my pride and passion for my country with each group of travelers, and to watch them fall in love with Burma, too.

C H I A R A C . , I TA LY One of the best ways to experience Italian culture is through the food—tasting something typical to each region as we travel from north to south, meeting with a family who has run a restaurant for generations, taking part in everyday rituals like drinking espresso after a meal.

With each trip I lead, I feel like I’m rediscovering my country. Seeing the history, traditions, and culture through the eyes of our travelers is a new experience each time. The sense of wonder that washes over the group as they see something new and wonderful never gets old for me, from watching the sunset paint the sky on the Amalfi coast to the gasps of amazement at the sight of magnificent architecture (I call this a “whoo” moment!).

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EXPLORE AUSTRALIA HIGHLIGHTS • Cruise Sydney Harbour in a private yacht and view the iconic Sydney Opera House.

• Go behind the scenes at James Cook University research aquarium, founded by a National Geographic grantee.

• Explore the Daintree Rainforest with an Aboriginal guide, watch the sun rise over Uluru, and opt to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef.

• Take a guided walk in Melbourne led by a culinary storyteller.

ITINERARY

DAY 6 | CAIRNS Travel southward to the tiny town of Tully for a G Adventures–sponsored experience with an indigenous community.

Meet the Janbanbarra Jirrbal Rainforest people and learn how they have lived in harmony with nature for thousands of years. Enjoy a traditional lunch and participate in a painting class with Aboriginal artists.

1 2 DAY S

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Port Douglas Cairns

Uluru (Ayers Rock) AUSTRALIA

Sydney Melbourne

DAYS 1 & 2 | SYDNEY Arrive at any time.

Kick off the trip at Sydney Harbour with a walk to the iconic Sydney Opera House and through the historic Rocks district. Later, board a private 52-foot yacht and enjoy dinner on deck. Sit back and relax as the opera house lights up in the evening.

DAY 3 | PORT DOUGLAS Fly to Cairns, then travel up the stunning coastal road to Mossman Gorge near Port Douglas. Take an interpretive walk with a local Aboriginal guide and learn about life in the Daintree Rainforest.

DAY 4 | PORT DOUGLAS Enjoy a free day today, opt to snorkel or scuba dive on the Great Barrier Reef.

DAY 5 | CAIRNS Return to Cairns and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the James Cook University research aquarium, founded by marine biologist and National Geographic grantee Dr. Jamie Seymour. Get up close to the marvelous creatures that live there.

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DAYS 7 & 8 | ULURU Fly to the heart of the Australian outback and take in the sunset with a glass of bubbly in the presence of Uluru.

Rise early to catch the sunrise, then go on a guided walk around the base of Uluru, visit the cultural center, and learn about the significance of this sacred monolith.

DAYS 9–11 | ULURU/MELBOURNE Witness sunrise over Uluru before flying to Melbourne, and enjoy a free day to explore this stunning city on your own. The next day, set out on a guided walk led by a local author and culinary storyteller. Have lunch at three popular venues that showcase contemporary cuisine in Melbourne through a mix of European and Asian flavors. The rest of the day is yours to explore the Great Ocean Road or visit some of the area’s wineries.

DAY 12 | MELBOURNE Depart at any time.

A D D TO YO U R E X P E R I E N C E

SYDNEY BRIDGE CLIMB Ascend to the summit of Sydney Harbour Bridge with a guide.

ULURU & KATA TJUTA HELICOPTER FLIGHT Appreciate the sheer size and splendor of Uluru and nearby Kata Tjuta from above.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

4,699

$

SSSS

+ 1,609

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Apr. 4–15 • July 11–22 • Aug. 15–26 • Sept. 5–16 Sept. 26–Oct. 7 • Oct. 3–14 • Oct. 10–21 Oct. 17–28 • Oct. 24–Nov. 4 • Oct. 31–Nov. 11 Nov. 7–18 • Nov. 14–25 • Nov. 21–Dec. 2 Dec. 12–23 • Dec. 26, 2018–Jan. 6, 2019 2019: Jan 9–20 • Jan. 16–27 • Jan 23–Feb. 3 Feb. 6–17 • Feb. 13–24 • Feb. 20–Mar. 3 Mar 6–17 • Apr. 24–May 5 • May 8–19 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D All transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions, ncluding those described in the “Add to your Experience” box (left), are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (11 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

11 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $585–760 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Minibus, plane, boat

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

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NEW ZEALAND JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS • Meet a Maori elder before enjoying a traditional performance and hangi feast.

• Explore the glacial area of Franz Josef and the geothermal wonders of Rotorua.

• Cruise through Fiordland National Park with naturalist guides, spotting dolphins, seals, and penguins.

• Ride a boat through caves lit up by glowworms.

ITINERARY

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Waitomo Caves to see thousands of flickering glowworms lighting up the walls. Continue to Rotorua and meet an elder at Tamaki Maori Village to learn about his culture. Then take in a performance about Maori legends while dining on traditional hangi cuisine.

1 1 DAY S

Auckland Raglan

N EW

Rotorua

Z EAL AN D

(Waiau) Franz Josef Christchurch

Queenstown Fiordland NP

DAYS 1 & 2 | AUCKLAND Arrive at any time.

The next day, take a ferry to Waiheke Island to learn about the history and growth of the wine region at two local wineries and taste local blends.

Return to Auckland by ferry this evening.

DAY 3 | RAGLAN Drive a scenic route, stopping to visit an eel farm that focuses on developing sustainable aquaculture. After lunch at the farm, drive to Bridal Veil Falls, then continue to the seaside town of Raglan and enjoy a cruise on Whaingaroa Harbour.

DAY 4 | ROTORUA Take a boat ride through

two pages for an epic adventure through Australia and New Zealand.

See page 62 for dates.

Visit our website for a detailed itinerary.

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FROM

3,199

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 1,989

DAY 5 | CHRISTCHURCH Fly to Christchurch and take an orientation walk with our CEO.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

DAYS 6 & 7 | FRANZ JOSEF Embark on one of the world’s great scenic rail rides to New Zealand’s glacier region. Transfer to a beautiful rain forest lodge, our home for the next two nights. Opt to take a helicopter ride and hike, walk over the glacier, or relax in nearby hot pools.

D AT E S

DAY 8 | QUEENSTOWN Travel southward along the coast through the rugged rain forest to Queenstown. Enjoy an evening gondola ride with spectacular views.

DAY 9 | FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK Embark on a wilderness cruise through Fiordland National Park (seasonal). Led by onboard naturalist guides, we’ll have the opportunity to see dolphins, seals, and penguins, as well as the option to kayak.

Spend the night on board.

DAYS 10 & 11 | QUEENSTOWN Enjoy morning wildlife viewing as we cruise back to port, then return to Queenstown for our final night. Depart at any time the next day.

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND 22 DAYS | Combine the itineraries on these

I N F O R M AT I O N

FROM

7,999

$

AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED

+ 3,779

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

2018: July 22–Aug. 1 • Aug. 26–Sept. 5 Sept. 16–26 • Oct. 7–17 • Oct. 14–24 Oct. 21–31 • Oct. 28–Nov. 7 • Nov. 18–28 Nov. 25–Dec. 5 • Dec. 2–12 2019: Jan. 13–23 • Jan. 20–30 • Jan. 27–Feb 6 Feb. 3–13• Feb 10–20 • Feb. 17–27 Feb.24–Mar. 6 • Mar. 3–13 • Mar. 10–20 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D All transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional activities are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (9 nights), Fiordland National Park cruise boat (seasonal) (1 night) MEALS INCLUDED

10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Allow an additional $325–425 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Minibus, ferry, plane, boat, train

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DISCOVER SOUTHEAST ASIA

ITINERARY

DAYS 3 & 4 | CHIANG MAI Visit a market with a local chef to learn about key ingredients before enjoying a Thai cooking class and lunch.

Later, visit the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Buddhist temple and experience the lively night market. The next day, take advantage of free time to explore Chiang Mai. Then visit a rural village to meet a local family and sit down for an authentic Khantoke dinner in their home.

1 8 DAY S

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Hanoi

Halong Bay

Luang Prabang Chiang Mai

LAOS THAILAND

Angkor Wat

VIETN A M

Siem Reap

Bangkok

CAMBODIA

Phnom Penh Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

DAY 1 | BANGKOK Arrive in Bangkok, Thailand at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 | BANGKOK/CHIANG MAI Explore the enchanting city of Bangkok and take a boat ride along the canals. Visit the Grand Palace and sacred Emerald Buddha at the Wat Phra Kaew temple. Later, catch a flight to Chiang Mai. 12

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DAY 5 | LUANG PRABANG Fly to Luang Prabang, Laos and take an orientation walk around this World Heritage–listed town.

DAYS 6 & 7 | LUANG PRABANG Rise at dawn to meet local monks and receive a blessing. Visit the Royal Palace Museum and Wat Xieng Thong.

Continue on to Wat Visoun and walk through the temple with a monk. Then catch a boat to the cave temples at Pak Ou and stop in local villages. The next day, visit Kuang Si waterfall, then enjoy free time to explore. Delve into the night market this evening.

DAY 8 | HANOI Fly to Hanoi, Vietnam and go on a guided cyclo ride and orientation tour of the Old Quarter.

DAY 9 | HANOI/HA LONG BAY Visit Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum before continuing to Ha Long Bay for an overnight cruise on a traditional-style junk boat with a local guide. Cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay, a more secluded section of this stunning World Heritage site. Opt to try squid fishing, or simply relax on board.

DAY 10 | HANOI Take a morning cruise around Ha Long Bay and explore Thien Canh Son Cave. Transfer back to Hanoi and have lunch at Hoa Sua, a training school for disadvantaged youth. Explore the area during a free afternoon.

DAYS 11 & 12 | HO CHI MINH CITY Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), and take a thrilling cyclo tour of this bustling city. The next day, go on a guided tour of the infamous Cu Chi tunnels, known for the vital part they played during the Vietnam War. DAYS 13 & 14 | PHNOM PENH Fly to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Set out on an NGO-supported cyclo tour along the waterfront to see key city sites, and opt to visit the famous Foreign Correspondents’ Club for sunset drinks. The next day, reflect on the darker side of Cambodian

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

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HIGHLIGHTS

I N F O R M AT I O N

•E xperience the vibrant cultures and treasures of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

FROM

•G lide along Bangkok’s canals and venture into Chiang Mai’s markets.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

•T our UNESCO World Heritage–listed Luang Prabang, and take a boat to visit the cave temples at Pak Ou.

D AT E S

•E xplore Angkor Wat, and enjoy a Khmer lunch at a G Adventures– supported vocational training restaurant.

3,899

$

PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED

+ 1,539

2018: Mar. 10–27 • Mar. 24–Apr. 10 • May 19–June 5 June 9–26 • July 7–24 • July 28–Aug. 14 • Aug. 18–Sept. 4 • Sept. 1–18 • Oct. 6–23 Oct. 27–Nov. 13 • Nov. 10–27 • Nov. 24–Dec. 11 Dec. 8–25 • Dec. 15, 2018–Jan. 1, 2019 Dec. 29, 2018–Jan. 15, 2019 2019: Jan. 12–29 • Jan. 19–Feb. 5 • Feb. 2–19 Feb. 16–Mar. 5 • Feb. 23–Mar. 12 • Mar. 9–26 Mar. 23–Apr. 9 • Apr. 13–30 • Apr. 20–May 7 May 18–June 4 • June 8–25 • July 6–23 July 27–Aug. 13 • Aug. 31–Sept. 17 Oct. 5–22 • Oct. 26–Nov. 12 • Nov. 9–26 Nov. 23–Dec. 10 • Dec. 7–24 • Dec. 14–31 Dec. 28, 2019–Jan. 14, 2020

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, internal flights, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions are at an additional cost. history with visits to the Choeung Ek memorial and the Tuol Sleng prison.

DAY 15 | SIEM REAP Drive to Siem Reap, and take an orientation walk.

DAYS 16 & 17 | ANGKOR WAT/SIEM REAP Spend two days exploring the Angkor Wat temple complex with a local guide. Sit down to a traditional Khmer lunch at New Hope, a vocational training school supported by G Adventures. Enjoy a fantastic performance at Phare, the Cambodian Circus.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (16 nights), Ha Long Bay junk boat (1 night) MEALS INCLUDED

17 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners. Allow an additional $235-305 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private bus/van, boat, plane, cyclo, traditional junk boat

DAY 18 | SIEM REAP Depart at any time.

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THAILAND JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS • Listen to monks chant and then receive a blessing at one of Thailand’s most revered temples.

• Swim in turquoise pools below a seventiered waterfall in Erawan National Park and go on a jungle hike to spot monkeys.

• Visit a village home outside Chiang Mai and sit down to a traditional Khantoke dinner.

• Visit Wat Pho, the famed Temple of the Reclining Buddha.

ITINERARY

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to the exquisite city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy dinner on a converted 1930s rice barge.

8 DAY S

DAY 4 | AYUTTHAYA/CHIANG MAI Explore the former royal capital of Ayutthaya.

Marvel at the ruins of spectacular temples, stupas, and statues of the Buddha. Later, return to Bangkok and catch a flight to Chiang Mai.

Chiang Mai

THAILAND

Kanchanaburi

Ayutthaya

Bangkok

DAY 1 | BANGKOK Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 | KANCHANABURI Travel to Kanchanaburi, home to the infamous bridge that inspired the 1950s novel The Bridge Over the River Kwai, which was later made into a film. Take a train journey over the bridge, which serves as a poignant reminder of the thousands of World War II POWs who died during its construction and of the so-called “Death Railway” from Thailand to Burma.

DAY 3 | KANCHANABURI/AYUTTHAYA Explore Erawan National Park and visit one of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls, boasting seven tiers of cascades. Swim in the turquoise pools, snap photos from the top tier, and go for a jungle hike to spot monkeys. Next, visit the Thailand-Burma Railway Centre’s war museum and cemetery to learn more about Kanchanaburi’s role in a dark chapter of World War II history. This afternoon, travel

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DAYS 5 & 6 | CHIANG MAI Take a Thai cooking class at a private culinary school, including a visit to a local market with the chef. Then sit down and enjoy the delicious meal you’ve helped prepare. Visit the historic Wat Chedi Luang temple and meet one of its young monks to discuss Buddhism and daily life. Later, listen to monks chant at Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of the most stunning golden temples in Thailand. The next day, take advantage of free time to explore on your own before traveling to a local village to have an authentic Khantoke dinner in a family home.

DAY 7 | BANGKOK Fly to Bangkok, and set off on a long-tail boat ride through the city’s canals. Glide along the waterways to see skyscrapers, temples, and shops in the distance; and view the densely populated waterfront settlements up close. Then visit Wat Pho, the famed Temple of the Reclining Buddha.

DAY 8 | BANGKOK Depart at any time.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

1,449

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 539

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 11–18 • Mar. 18–25 • Apr. 1–8 • Apr. 15–22 May 13–20 • June 10–17 • July 1–8 • July 15–22 Aug. 12–19 • Sept. 9–16 • Sept. 30–Oct. 7 Oct. 14–21 • Oct. 28–Nov. 4 • Nov. 4–11 Nov. 18–25 • Nov. 25–Dec. 2 • Dec. 2–9 Dec. 9–16 • Dec. 23–30 2019: Jan. 6–13 • Jan. 20–27 • Feb. 3–10 • Feb. 17–24 Mar. 3–10 • Mar. 10–17 • Mar. 17–24 • Apr. 14–21 May 12–19 • June 9–16 • June 23–30 • July 7–14 July 21–28 • Aug. 4–11 • Sept. 1–8 • Sept. 29–Oct. 6 Oct. 13–20 • Oct. 20–27 • Oct. 27–Nov. 3 Nov. 10–17 • Nov. 24–Dec. 1 • Dec. 1–8 Dec. 8–15 • Dec. 15–22 • Dec. 22–29

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (7 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Allow an additional $100–130 for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private bus/minivan, tuk-tuk, train, boat, plane

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

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EXPLORE SOUTHERN THAILAND HIGHLIGHTS • Cross the scenic Krabi River and explore its caves aboard a long-tail boat.

• Take your seat on a tricycle tuk-tuk to be whisked through villages, rice fields, and rubber plantations.

• Kayak and snorkel along the islands of Koh Madsum and Koh Tan. • Go on a jungle trek and unwind on whitesand beaches.

ITINERARY

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and drive to Anurak Community Lodge, located just outside Khao Sok National Park.

Surrounded by lush rain forest, the lodge focuses on environmental sustainability and working with the local community. This evening, take a rain forest walk with a local guide and enjoy a campfire dinner under the canopy.

8 DAY S

T H A I L A N D

Bangkok

DAY 5 | KHAO SOK Today you are free to relax at the lodge or enjoy a walk along the trails. Opt to enjoy various jungle activities.

Ko Samui

Khao Sok Krabi

DAYS 1 | BANGKOK Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 | KO SAMUI Catch a flight to the tropical island of Ko Samui. Settle in at our resort hotel. This afternoon, opt to catch a tuk-tuk to the beach or visit the town.

DAYS 3 & 4 | KO SAMUI/KHAO SOK Embark on a boat tour to the islands of Koh Madsum and Koh Tan. Enjoy a local lunch on the beach and opt to kayak or snorkel. The next day, catch the ferry back to the mainland

DAYS 6 & 7 | KHAO SOK/KRABI Cross the Krabi River with a local guide by traditional long-tail boat, visiting caves and mangroves.

Then jump in tricycle tuk-tuks to explore local communities and rural industries, including a rubber plantation. See the practice of tree tapping, view lush rice fields, and visit a batik workshop. Learn about the culture and daily life of the rural villagers of southern Thailand.

The next day, opt to visit a spa and relax, rent a kayak, or go snorkeling.

DAY 8 | BANGKOK Return to bustling Bangkok, arriving at the airport in the late afternoon.

See page 62 for dates.

1,749

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 719

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 4–11 • Mar. 18–25 • Apr. 22–29 May 20–27 • June 17–24 • July 22–29 Aug. 19–26 • Sept. 16–23 • Oct. 7–14 Nov. 4–11 • Nov. 25–Dec. 2 • Dec. 9–16 Dec. 16–23 • Dec. 30, 2018–Jan. 6, 2019 2019: Jan. 13–20 • Jan. 27–Feb. 3 • Feb. 10–17 Feb. 24–Mar. 3 • Mar. 10–17 • Mar. 24–31 Apr. 21–28 • May 19–26 • June 16–23 July 14–21 • Aug. 11–18 • Sept. 8–15 • Oct. 6–13 Nov. 3–10 • Nov. 17–24 • Dec. 1–8 • Dec. 8–15 Dec. 15–22 • Dec. 29, 2019–Jan. 5, 2020

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (7 nights)

FROM

3,049

$

AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED

+ 1,259

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

Visit our website for a detailed itinerary.

I

FROM

Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional activities such as snorkeling, the jeep tour, and spa visits are at an additional cost.

ICONIC THAILAND

15 DAYS | Discover the best of Thailand by combining the Thailand Journey and Explore Southern Thailand itineraries to create one epic adventure.

I N F O R M AT I O N

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

MEALS INCLUDED

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $110–145 for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private bus, minivan, tuk-tuk, ferry, boat, plane

I

15

THE HEART OF MYANMAR (BURMA) HIGHLIGHTS • Glide between the markets, monasteries, and floating gardens of Inle Lake, then step into the home of a local chef to learn the basics of Burmese cooking.

• Spend a full day cruising the fabled Irrawaddy River, taking in scenes of daily life along the shoreline.

• Explore the magical temples, stupas, and monasteries of ancient Bagan, and opt to float above the archaeological complex in a hot air balloon.

• Meet with a Buddhist monk at an active Bagan monastery, and visit a traditional palm farm in a nearby village.

ITINERARY

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situated in the middle of a toddy palm farm.

Watch as local workers scale the trees and harvest the juice of the palm fruit and then process it into alcohol or molasses. Opt to take a hot-air balloon ride over the Bagan plain.

1 2 DAY S

Mandalay

DAYS 8 & 9 | INLE LAKE Travel by plane, bus, and boat to serene Inle Lake, visiting Shwe Yan Pyay Monastery and the town of Nyaung Shwe along the way. The next day, explore the lake’s floating villages by boat, and disembark to visit a cigar factory, the daily market, Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda, and Nga Phe Chaung Monastery. Step into the home of a local chef to learn the basics of Burmese cooking. Relax in this charming setting on the lake and enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal.

Bagan Kalaw

Inle Lake

M YAN M AR ( BU R M A)

Yangon (Rangoon)

DAY 1 | YANGON Arrive at any time.

DAYS 2–4 | MANDALAY Fly to the ancient city of Mandalay and explore its highlights, including the Golden Palace Monastery, Kyauk Taw Gyi Pagoda, Kuthodaw Pagoda, and Mahamuni Temple. Then climb Mandalay Hill for views of the surrounding countryside. The next day, cruise the Irrawaddy River to the village of Mingun to visit its pagodas and meet local craftspeople. Explore Myanmar’s spiritual center at Sagaing and in the ancient royal capital of Amarapura. Enjoy free time the next day to continue exploring Mandalay.

DAYS 6 & 7 | BAGAN Discover the vast archaeological zone of Bagan, home to more than 2,500 Buddhist temples, stupas, and monasteries. Venture into the gold-plated Shwezigon Pagoda and the Gubyaukgyi (Wetkyi-in) cave temple, and visit Kyansittha Umin Monastery to meet with a Buddhist monk. The next day, travel to a nearby village

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DAYS 10 & 11 | KALAW/YANGON Travel by boat and bus to Kalaw, and explore this former British hill station with your guide. Fly back to Yangon and encounter the gleaming stupas of Shwedagon Pagoda, decorated with more than 4,000 diamonds. Enjoy free time to explore this former capital on your own.

Tonight, enjoy a lecture and farewell dinner at a G Adventures–supported program, the LinkAge Restaurant, which trains local youth for careers in the hospitality industry.

DAYS 12 | YANGON Depart at any time today.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

3,199

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 1,789

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 12–23 • Oct. 15–26 • Nov. 5–16 Nov. 19–30 • Dec. 17–28 Dec. 24, 2018–Jan. 4, 2019 2019: Jan. 7–18 • Jan. 18–29 • Feb. 11–22 • Feb. 17–28 Mar. 11–22 • Apr. 15–26 • Oct. 14–25 Nov. 4–15 • Nov. 18–29 • Dec. 16–27 Dec. 23, 2019–Jan. 3, 2020

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional hotair balloon ride is at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels that reflect the local character (11 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $205–270 for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private bus/van, plane, boat

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

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EXPLORE VIETNAM HIGHLIGHTS •T ake a cyclo tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, and learn to make traditional lanterns in Hoi An. •S et sail on Ha Long Bay in a traditionalstyle junk boat.

•H ike through hill tribe villages to experience rural life.

•C ook up a delicious noodle dish at a G Adventures–supported youth-training culinary school.

ITINERARY

underprivileged Hanoi youth. Transfer to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay, where our traditional-style wooden junk boat awaits. Set sail in turquoise waters dotted with hundreds of tiny islands and sculpted limestone formations. Cruise through Bai Tu Long Bay, and opt to go squid fishing. Spend a peaceful night anchored in the bay.

1 3 DAY S

|

Hanoi Mai Chau

Ha Long Bay

VI ETNAM L AO S

Hue Hoi An T HAI L AND

CAM BO DI A

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

DAY 1 | HANOI Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2 & 3 | MAI CHAU Travel to the lush Mai Chau Valley and spend a night in a rural lodge, our base for exploring the area and learning about Vietnam’s ethnic hill tribes.

DAY 4 | HANOI Return to Hanoi to discover the city’s colonial architecture and historic sites. Tour the museum of Hoa Lo Prison, ironically referred to as the “Hanoi Hilton” by American POWs during the Vietnam War. Take a guided tour of the mausoleum where Ho Chi Minh’s body is embalmed in a glass case, and visit the museum to learn about Ho Chi Minh’s life. Later, take a seat on a three-wheel cyclo for a tour of Hanoi’s lively Old Quarter. Keep your camera handy as your driver navigates through the bustling streets.

DAY 5 | HA LONG BAY Start off the day with breakfast at Hoa Sua, a training restaurant for

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DAYS 6 & 7 | HA LONG BAY/HUE Continue to cruise around the bay and explore the Thien Canh Son cave with our local guide. Have an early lunch on board before returning to land and heading back to Hanoi to catch a short flight to Hue, the capital of the Nguyen dynasty from 1802 until 1945. The next day, explore the ancient walled citadel containing the imperial palace, and travel into the countryside to visit the final resting place of former emperors.

DAYS 8 & 10 | HOI AN Enjoy a scenic drive to the coastal city of Hoi An and take a walking tour of the charming old city. Learn to make a traditional lantern at the G Adventures– supported Lifestart Foundation, which provides employment to local residents with chronic disabilities. The next day, take an Oodles of Noodles cooking class during which you’ll visit local markets to learn about noodles, then head to a culinary school to cook lunch with the students. Enjoy a full day to explore on your own.

DAYS 11 & 12 | HO CHI MINH CITY Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and opt to take a cyclo tour around the markets and shops. Visit the famous Cu Chi tunnels, known for the role they played during the Vietnam War. DAY 13 | HO CHI MINH CITY Depart at any time.

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

2,099

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 1,069

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 4–16 • Mar. 11–23 • Mar. 18–30 • Apr. 15–27 Apr. 29–May 11 • May 13–25 • June 3–15 June 17–29 • July 1–13 • July 15–27 • Aug. 12–24 Sept. 9–21 • Oct. 14–26 • Nov. 4–16 • Nov. 18–30 Nov. 25–Dec. 7 • Dec. 2–14 • Dec. 16–28 Dec. 23, 2018–Jan. 4, 2019 2019: Jan. 13–25 • Jan. 27–Feb. 8 • Feb. 10–22 Feb. 17–Mar. 1 • Feb. 24–Mar. 8 • Mar. 3–15 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional excursions are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (9 nights), Ha Long Bay junk boat (1 night), lodge (2 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners. Allow an additional $155–205 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Bus, boat, cyclo, plane I

17

BEST OF BORNEO |

NEW HIGHLIGHTS • Glide along jungle waterways by longboat in search of pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and much more.

• Join an amphibian expert for an evening nature walk in Kubah National Park.

• Step into a traditional Bidayuh longhouse and get a glimpse of daily life deep in the rain forest during a visit to a tribal village in Sarawak.

• Hear from a conservationist at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, and get up close to playful jungle primates at the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre.

ITINERARY

|

1 2 DAY S

Bilit/ Kinabatangan River

Kota Kinabalu BRUNEI

Tabin Wildlife Reserve

Gunung Mulu NP MAL AYSI A

Kuching

DAYS 1 | KUCHING Arrive at any time.

DAYS 2 & 3 | KUCHING Travel to the Bidayuh tribal village, home to one of the few remaining traditional Bidayuh longhouses in Sarawak. Explore the village with a local guide and sit down to a traditional lunch. The next day, embark on a cruise down the Santubong River. Take in views of the mangrove forests and keep an eye out for rare Irrawaddy dolphins.

Join an amphibian expert for an evening walk in Kubah National Park. Listen to the chirps and hums of nocturnal creatures at nightfall, and seek out a variety of frog species, including the Kubah narrow-mouthed frog—one of the smallest frogs in the world.

DAYS 4–6 | GUNUNG MULU NATIONAL PARK/KOTA KINABALU Fly to Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its lush rain forest and impressive cave systems, and take a jungle night walk with our local guide. The next day, board a longboat

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and glide the Melinau River to the Wind and Clearwater Caves. Enjoy a picnic, followed by a refreshing swim at Clearwater Springs. Later, gaze at stunning stalagmites and stalactites in Lang Cave, and pass through the mouth of Deer Cave—one of the largest known cave passages in the world and home to millions of bats. Fly to Kota Kinabalu.

DAYS 7 & 8 | BILIT/KINABATANGAN RIVER Catch an early flight to Sandakan and transfer to Bilit. Visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, and attend a conservation talk at the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre.

Transfer to our lodge and enjoy a wildlife cruise and night walk. The next day, set off on a naturalist-led jungle excursions by foot and boat. Cruise the Kinabatangan River in search of pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, orangutans, and much more.

DAYS 9 & 10 | TABIN WILDLIFE RESERVE Drive to the Tabin Wildlife Reserve and check into our rain forest lodge. Hike to Lipad, an active mud volcano that provides a mineral salt lick for area wildlife, and set out on an after-dark safari. The next day, take a morning bird walk, followed by a wildlife drive. Later, trek through lush rain forest en route to the picturesque Lipad Waterfall. Take a dip in the fall’s natural pool and enjoy a refreshing shower under the waterfall. This evening, set out on a night walk in search of frogs, insects, sleeping birds, and much more.

DAYS 11 | TABIN WILDLIFE RESERVE/ KOTA KINABALU/KOTA KINABALU Spend the morning at leisure, then return to Kota Kinabalu.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

3,499

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 929

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Apr. 10–21 • May 8–19 • June 5–16 • July 3–14 July 31–Aug. 11 • Aug. 28–Sept. 8 • Sept. 25–Oct. 6 Oct. 23–Nov. 3 • Nov. 20–Dec. 1 • Dec. 18–29 2019: Jan. 27–Feb. 7 • Mar. 10–21 • Apr. 22–May 3 May 19–30 • June 16–27 • July 14–25 • Aug. 11–22 Sept. 8–19 • Oct. 6–17 • Nov. 3–14 • Dec. 8–19

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels that reflect the local character (7 nights), lodge (4 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 4 dinners. Allow an additional $130–170 for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private vehicle, plane, boat, hiking

DAYS 12 | KOTA KINABALU Depart at any time.

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

I

WONDERS OF BHUTAN HIGHLIGHTS •E xplore Bhutan’s capital city of Thimpu as well as remote shrines and temples nestled in the countryside.

•M eet with a Buddhist monk, visit an arts and crafts school, and enjoy a homecooked meal at a family farmhouse.

• Hike

to the legendary Taktsang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest Temple).

•V isit the beautifully restored Gangtey Goemba, one of the oldest Nyingmapa monasteries in Bhutan.

ITINERARY

|

1 0 DAY S

Punakha Valley

Paro Haa Valley

Gangtey Valley Thimphu B H U T A N

BHUTAN

DAY 1 | PARO/THIMPU Arrive in Paro at any time. Drive to Thimpu, the capital of Bhutan, and settle into our hotel.

DAYS 2 & 3 | PUNAKHA Meet with a Buddhist monk and scholar to discuss Buddhist beliefs and traditions. Drive to Punakha, Bhutan’s ancient capital, crossing the Dochu La pass (10,000 feet) and enjoying stunning views of the Himalaya through flickering prayer flags. Stop for a short hike to the Chimi Lhakhang temple. The next day, explore the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery and Punakha Dzong, located at the confluence of the Pho (male) and Mo (female) Rivers.

From Wangdue, hike through rice terraces and forests to Khamsum Yuelley Namgyel Chorten, and take in sweeping views of the valley below.

DAYS 4 & 5 | PHOBJIKHA VALLEY In the Phobjikha Valley, learn about the endangered cranes that winter here at the Black-necked

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Crane Information Center. The next day, visit Gangtey Goemba, one of the oldest Nyingmapa monasteries in Bhutan. Explore the restored temple complex and examine some of the finest craftsmanship in Bhutan. Then take a spectacular walk through the valley to an age-old temple and make an offering. Travel to the village of Khewa and visit a family farm for a home-cooked dinner.

DAY 6 | THIMPHU Return to Thimpu and head to the National Institute for Zorig Chusum, an arts and crafts school where we can watch students practicing traditional arts such as woodworking, painting, and ceramics. See the Buddha Dordenma, an enormous golden Buddha statue, and hear a talk about the country’s Gross National Happiness Index.

DAY 7 | HAA VALLEY Observe pilgrims circling the beautiful National Memorial Chorten, a whitewashed stupa topped by a golden spire. Drive to the Haa Valley, one of the most remote and sacred valleys in Bhutan, via the Cheli La pass (12,500 feet). Visit the Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple) and Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple).

DAYS 8 & 9 | PARO Hike to the Kila Goemba, built on a steep cliff face. Visit the seventh-century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, and walk the archery grounds. Return to Paro and explore the ruins of the Drukgyel Dzong fortress. Embark on a vigorous hike to the famed pilgrimage site of Taktsang Lhakhang or the Tiger’s Nest Temple, which clings to a vertical granite cliff nearly 3,000 feet above the valley floor.

DAY 10 | PARO Depart at any time. Airport transfer is included.

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

3,749

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 1,289

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 15

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 31–Apr. 9 • Apr. 14–23 • Apr. 28–May 7 May 19–28 • June 16–25 • July 21–30 Aug. 25–Sept. 3 • Sept. 22–Oct. 1 • Oct. 13–22 Oct. 27–Nov. 5 • Nov. 10–19 2019: Mar. 16–25 • Mar. 30–Apr. 8 • Apr. 6–15 • Apr. 13–22 Apr. 20–29 • Apr. 27–May 6 • May 4–13 • May 18–27 June 1–10 • June 15–24 • July 6–15 • July 20–29 Aug. 10–19 • Aug. 24–Sept. 2 • Sept. 7–16 Sept. 21–30 • Oct. 12–21 • Oct. 19–28 Oct. 26–Nov. 4 • Nov. 2–11 • Nov. 9–18

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival and departure transfers, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels and lodges that reflect the local character (9 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners TR ANSPORTATION

Private vehicle, hiking

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NEPAL: HIMALAYA HIGHLIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS • Meet with a member of the Himalayan Indigenous Society to hear about the work of its founder, National Geographic grantee Chhing Lhomi, who has helped to preserve the ancient weaving traditions of the Upper Mustang region.

• Stay overnight at a Buddhist monastery in Pharping, and visit a Tibetan refugee camp in Pokhara.

• Search for tigers, elephants, and rhinos in Chitwan National Park and learn about tiger conservation from a representative of the Nepal Tiger Trust.

ITINERARY

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Pharping for a unique overnight stay at a Buddhist monastery guesthouse where approximately 200 monks are in residence.

Learn about life in the monastery and take a walk in the surrounding forest.

1 0 DAY S

CHINA

Mt Everest

Pokhara Kurintar

Kathmandu

Pharping Chitwan NP

NEPAL

I NDI A

DAY 1 | KATHMANDU Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer and welcome dinner are included.

DAY 2 | KATHMANDU Spend the day exploring the historic treasures of Kathmandu and the surrounding area. Highlights include Bodhnath stupa—one of the world’s largest Buddhist stupas—and the medieval city of Bhaktapur. Visit SASANE, the G Adventures– supported Sisterhood of Survivors project.

Learn how to make Nepalese momos (dumplings) from some of the women there before enjoying a traditional lunch.

DAY 3 | KATHMANDU/PHARPING Opt to take in views of Mount Everest on a sightseeing flight, then visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Swayambhunath. Later, meet with representatives from the Himalayan Indigenous Society and learn about National Geographic grantee Chhing Lhomi’s efforts to preserve ancient weaving traditions in the Upper Mustang region. Then drive to

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DAY 4 | KURINTAR Drive to Kurintar and arrive at our lodge, which sits on a ridge amid the hills and overlooking the banks of the Trishuli River. Choose from a variety of optional activities, including nature walks or visits to local villages.

DAYS 5 & 6 | CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK Drive to Chitwan National Park, the first national park in Nepal, which offers some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in Asia.

Established in 1973, it was designated a World Heritage site in 1984. Enjoy two days of nature and cultural walks; boating; and a jeep safari in search of tigers, rhinos, leopards, elephants, and more. Meet with a representative from the Nepal Tiger Trust.

DAYS 7 & 8 | POKHARA Pokhara lies along a once-vibrant trade route between India and Tibet. Visit the Tashiling Tibetan Refugee Camp, established as a temporary settlement in 1964.

Walk through this friendly community, now home to over 500 Tibetans, and see a photo gallery documenting its history. This afternoon, opt to try paragliding.

DAY 9 | KATHMANDU Catch a flight back to Kathmandu. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore on your own. You may also opt to visit the burning ghats at Pashupatinath, as well as the 1,500-year-old temple and World Heritage site of Swayambhunath, perched on a hilltop above the city.

DAY 10 | KATHMANDU Depart at any time.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

2,299

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 769

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 15

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 4–13 • Mar. 18–27 • Mar. 25–Apr. 3 Apr. 1–10 • Apr. 20–29 • Apr. 29–May 8 Sept. 16–25 • Sept. 23–Oct. 2 Sept. 30–Oct. 9 • Oct. 7–16 • Oct. 14–23 Oct. 21–30 • Nov. 4–13 • Nov. 11–20 Nov. 18–27 • Dec. 9–18 • Dec. 16–25 Dec. 23, 2018–Jan. 1, 2019 Dec. 30, 2018–Jan. 8, 2019 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional activities are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (8 nights), monastery guesthouse (1 night) MEALS INCLUDED

9 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners. Allow an additional $170–225 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private bus, plane, boat

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

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DISCOVER INDIA HIGHLIGHTS •E xplore five UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the incredible Taj Mahal.

•C ruise the Ganges River at sunrise to witness ancient Hindu rituals, and prepare a meal with a family in Jaipur.

•S eek out leopards, birds, and perhaps a tiger on safari in Ranthambore National Park.

•T ake an insider’s tour of Delhi with a youth from the G Adventures–supported City Walk project.

ITINERARY

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1 5 DAY S

DAY 6 | AGRA Travel by road before mingling with locals on the train ride to Agra.

Delhi

Jaipur

Agra Jojawar Udaipur Ranthambore NP Khajuraho

Varanasi (Banaras)

IN D IA

DAY 1 | DELHI Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included through Women on Wheels, a G Adventures–supported project.

DAY 2 | DELHI Walk through Delhi on an insider tour with a young adult from the G Adventures–supported City Walk project. Later, explore Old Delhi with our CEO and enjoy a rickshaw ride through the busy streets.

DAYS 3 & 4 | VARANASI Fly to Varanasi, known as the spiritual capital of India. At one of the ghats (steps) of the Ganges, hear a lecture about the river’s spiritual, social, and economic significance, and then embark on a boat ride just before sunset. The next day, rise early for a dawn-lit boat ride on the river and observe the sacred rituals of bathing and funeral pyres.

Have breakfast at Open Hand Café, a partner of G Adventures, and learn how this social enterprise is providing opportunity to locals.

Later, visit Sarnath, the site of the Buddha’s first sermon.

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DAY 5 | KHAJURAHO Fly to Khajuraho and visit the western group of the temple complex, famed for its erotic sculptures depicting the Kama Sutra. Later, take a yoga class if you wish.

DAY 7 | AGRA/RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK This morning, explore the magnificent Taj Mahal and visit the Agra Fort. Later, travel by private vehicle to Ranthambore National Park.

DAY 8 | RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK Enjoy a safari drive through the park with park rangers to spot leopards, monkeys, and, with some luck, one of the park’s elusive tigers.

Then walk with some locals to the ruins of Ranthambore Fort and visit the Trinetra Ganesh Temple.

DAYS 9 & 10 | JAIPUR Drive to Jaipur and delve into India’s history with visits to the City Palace, the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), and the impressive Amber Fort. Enjoy a traditional culinary experience with a local family, visiting a nearby market with them and then sitting down to a meal in their home.

DAY 11 | JOJĀWAR Travel to the village of Jojāwar and spend the night in a family-run guesthouse. Explore the village and meet some of its residents. Opt to take a rustic train safari through the Aravalli Hills.

DAYS 12 & 13 | UDAIPUR Travel to Udaipur and take an orientation walk. Discover Lake Pichola and the fairytale Lake Palace. Explore the City Palace and Jagdish Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

DAYS 14 & 15 | DELHI Fly to Delhi for our final evening, and opt to join a farewell dinner.

Depart at any time the next day.

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

2,899

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 999

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 11–25 • Mar. 25–Apr. 8 Apr. 1–15 • Apr. 22–May 6 Oct. 7–21 • Oct. 14–28 • Oct. 28–Nov. 11 • Nov. 11–25 Nov. 25–Dec. 9 • Dec. 9–23 • Dec. 16–30 Dec. 23, 2018–Jan. 6, 2019 2019: Jan. 6–20 • Jan. 13–27 • Jan. 20–Feb. 3 Jan. 27–Feb. 10 • Feb. 10–24 • Feb. 17–Mar. 3 Feb. 24–Mar. 10 • Mar. 3–17 • Mar. 10–24 • Mar. 17–31 Mar. 24–Apr. 7 • Mar. 31–Apr. 14 • Apr. 7–21 Apr. 14–28 • Apr. 21–May 5 • Oct. 6–20 • Oct. 13–27 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional activities are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (14 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

14 breakfasts, 4 dinners. Allow an additional $320–420 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Minibus, rickshaw, boat, plane, train

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DISCOVER MONGOLIA |

NEW HIGHLIGHTS • Visit with a nomadic camel-herding family in the Gobi.

• Tour the Central Museum of Mongolian Dinosaurs with an expert guide, and look for dinosaur fossils while exploring the Flaming Cliffs.

• Discuss Buddhism with the head monk at the Erdene Zhu Monastery.

• Hear from rangers at Khustai National Park and track takhi, or wild horses, across the grassy steppe.

ITINERARY

|

1 4 DAY S

Orkhon Valley Tsenkher Hot Springs

Ulaanbaatar

Khustai NP Karakorum MO NGO L I A

Ongiin Hiid Khongoryn Els

Yoliin Am

DAY 1 | ULAANBAATAR Arrive at any time.

DAY 2 | ULAANBAATAR Enjoy a city tour that includes visits to the Gandan Monastery, Bogd Khan Palace, and Zaisan Hill. Later, join an expert guide to explore the Central Museum of Mongolian Dinosaurs. Opt to sample beer at a local brewery.

DAY 3 | KHUSTAI NATIONAL PARK Travel to Khustai National Park and meet with staff to learn about how the park has reintroduced wild horses into the surrounding habitat.

Keep an eye out for these takhi horses as you explore the park’s grassy steppe.

DAY 4 | KARAKORUM Drive to Karakorum, an ancient capital of the Mongol Empire situated along the Silk Road. Visit the Erdene Zhu Monastery, the nation’s first center of Lama Buddhism, and meet with the head monk for an in-depth discussion on his religion. Later, visit the Karakorum Museum.

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DAYS 5–7 | TSENKHER HOT SPRINGS/ ORKOHN Travel to the Tsenkher Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in their steaming waters.

Continue to Orkhon and visit the Tuvkhun Monastery, established in the 17th century by Zanabazar, one of Mongolia’s most respected religious leaders. The next day, visit the horseand yak-breeding farm of a local family. Learn about their daily life and see how they make cheese and butter. Afterward, enjoy a hike to a waterfall before returning to our ger camp for a traditional Mongolian barbecue.

DAYS 8 & 9 | ONGIIN KHIID Drive into the vast Gobi desert, which covers much of southern Mongolia. Visit the ruins of the Hoshuu and Ongiin Khiid monasteries, and explore the famed Flaming Cliffs, known for their large repositories of dinosaur bones and eggs.

DAYS 10 & 11 | KHONGORYN ELS Drive to the Khongoryn Els sand dunes, known as the “singing sands,” and slide down their slopes to induce their famous groaning sounds. The next day, visit with a nomadic camel-herding family. Try your hand at their daily farming chores, enjoy an archery lesson, and opt for a camel ride.

DAY 12 | VULTURE VALLEY Visit Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park, passing through the green valleys of Yoliin Am and Dungeness Am. Along your journey, go for a hike in search of wild Argali sheep, ibex, desert gazelles, and golden eagles. Later, pay a visit to the park museum, where you can admire a collection of dinosaur bones.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

4,199

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 1,199

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 14

D AT E S 2018: June 17–30 • July 10–25 • Aug. 12–25 2019: May 19–June 1 • June 16–29 • July 10–25 Aug. 11–24 • Sept. 15–28

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels and lodges that reflect the local character (3 nights), ger camps (10 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

13 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 11 dinners

TR ANSPORTATION

Private vehicle, 4x4 vehicle, hiking, plane

DAY 13 | ULAANBAATAR Fly back to Ulaanbaatar, and enjoy a farewell dinner and folklore show.

DAY 14 | ULAANBAATAR Depart at any time.

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

I

ICONIC JAPAN HIGHLIGHTS • Browse the bustling fish stalls of Tokyo’s world-famous Tsukiji Market, and create artful dishes at a sushi-making class; then make your own chopsticks in historic Kanazawa.

• Practice Zen meditation with a Buddhist monk in Nara.

• Enjoy a multi-course kaiseki feast while staying at a traditional ryokan in the countryside.

• In ancient Kyoto, take part in an authentic tea ceremony, and learn martial arts from a local expert.

ITINERARY

|

1 2 DAY S

Kanazawa

J A PA N

Tokyo

Tsumago Hiroshima

Kyoto

DAY 1 | TOKYO Arrive at any time.

DAYS 2 & 3 | TOKYO Spend the day exploring Tokyo. Experience the city’s traditional side with visits to Meiji Shrine and the historic Asakusa neighborhood. Then delve into Japanese pop culture in the quirky Harajuka district. The next day, visit the sprawling Tsukiji Market to learn about the country’s fishing industry, and take part in a sushi-making class.

DAY 4 | NAGISO/TSUMAGO Depart Tokyo by train for the quaint town of Nagiso. Walk through the countryside, passing picturesque farms and hamlets on our way to the rural village of Tsumago. Arrive at our traditional Japanese inn, or ryokan. Feast on a multicourse kaiseki meal.

DAYS 5 & 6 | KANAZAWA Travel by train to historic Kanazawa. Explore Japan’s ancient samurai culture in the well-preserved Nagamachi district, and opt to visit the area’s stunning gardens or castles. Explore Myoryuji I

Temple the next morning, then stroll the cobblestoned streets of the Higashi Chaya geisha neighborhood, lined with traditional wooden homes and tea houses. The city of Kanazawa is known as a center for traditional arts, and we’ll delve into one of them during a chopstickmaking experience.

DAYS 7 & 8 | HIROSHIMA/MIYAJIMA Speed by bullet train to Hiroshima, where we’ll visit the Peace Memorial Park and the Peace Memorial Museum to learn about a dark chapter in human history. The next day, set off by ferry to Itsukushima Island, popularly called Miyajima. Venture into the 12th-century Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site built over the water, where a beautiful torii gate appears to float at high tide.

DAY 9 | KYOTO Begin the day at the hilltop Himeji Castle, one of the best-preserved castles in Japan. Then catch a train to Kyoto, which served as the imperial capital for more than a thousand years. Stroll the charming streets of Gion, Kyoto’s most famous geisha district.

Take part in an authentic tea ceremony and discover the intricacies of this important Japanese tradition.

DAYS 10 & 11 | NARA/KYOTO Spend the day exploring ancient Nara, another imperial capital of Japan. Visit Todai-ji temple, the world’s largest wooden building, and Kasugataisha, Nara’s most celebrated shrine. Meet a Buddhist monk who will teach us the techniques of Zen meditation. The following day, discover Kyoto’s exquisite Kinkakuji Golden Pavilion. Then visit a local dojo, or martial arts school, where we’ll enjoy a presentation about samurai etiquette and try out some traditional moves.

DAY 12 | KYOTO Depart at any time.

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

5,149

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 1,879

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 15

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 22–Apr. 2 • Apr. 4–15 • Apr. 9–20 • Apr. 16–27 Apr. 23–May 4 • May 28–June 8 • June 11–22 July 9–20 • Aug. 20–31 • Sept. 17–28 • Oct. 8–19 Oct. 22–Nov. 2 2019: Jan. 28–Feb. 8 • Feb. 25–Mar. 8 • Mar. 18–29 Mar. 25–Apr. 5 • Apr. 1–12 • Apr. 8–19 • Apr. 22–May 3 May 13–24 • May 27–June 7 • June 10–21 June 24–July 5 • July 22–Aug. 2 • Aug. 19–30 Sept. 2–13 • Sept. 16–27 • Oct. 14–25 Oct. 28–Nov. 8 • Nov. 11–22 • Nov. 25–Dec. 6 Dec. 16–27

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Internal flights, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional experiences are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (10 nights), traditional ryokan (1 night) MEALS INCLUDED

11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $475-620 for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Bullet train, express train, local train, ferry, metro, public bus I

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EXPLORE CHINA & TIBET HIGHLIGHTS •G et up close to giant pandas at a breeding center in Chengdu.

•E xplore Lhasa’s palaces and temples, and make Tibetan dumplings with a local chef.

•T ake a tai chi lesson with a local expert at Beijing’s historic Temple of Heaven.

•S ail through the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River on a three-night cruise.

ITINERARY

|

1 5 DAY S

Beijing CHINA

Xi’an

Shanghai

Chengdu Lhasa

Chongqing

Yichang TAI WAN

DAY 1 | BEIJING Arrive at any time. Kick off your trip with a Peking duck welcome dinner.

DAYS 2 & 3 | BEIJING Start the day early with a lesson in tai chi, led by a local expert at the historic Temple of Heaven. Then explore the key sites of Beijing, including Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. The next day, take a walk along the Great Wall, exploring its towers and enjoying outstanding views. Board an overnight sleeper train to Xi’an.

DAYS 4 & 5 | XI’AN Ride a bike atop Xi’an’s ancient city walls. Then enjoy a unique, behind-the-scenes experience at Gao’s Grand Courtyard, a historic house in the Muslim Quarter. Interact with local artists, enjoy a performance of shadow puppetry, and visit backstage. Stroll the markets of the Muslim Quarter and sample some of the best street food in China. The next day, visit the famed terra-cotta warriors, and have lunch in the nearby farming village.

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DAYS 6–8 | LHASA Fly over the Himalaya to Lhasa, Tibet, and take an orientation walk through Barkhor Square. Enjoy a guided visit to Potala Palace, the sacred Jokhang temple, and the Tibetan Medical Institute. Visit the 15th-century Sera Monastery, and take a cooking class with a local chef to make Tibetan momo dumplings. Visit a thangka academy to observe this ancient and intricate art form, considered sacred to Buddhists.

DAYS 9 & 10 | CHENGDU/CHONGQING Fly to Chengdu and sample fiery Sichuan cuisine for dinner. Visit a panda breeding center to observe these iconic national treasures and learn about their behavior and habitat. Board a riverboat for your first of three nights on the Yangtze.

DAYS 11 & 12 | YANGTZE RIVER Cruise the Yangtze River with daily shore excursions that may include: visiting Fengdu, Shibaozhai, or Wanzhou; sailing through Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, Daning River Small Gorges, or Shennong Stream; sailing through Three Gorges Dam locks; and an optional excursion to White Emperor City (dependent on the season and river conditions). Relax in your well-appointed cabin and enjoy shipboard activities such as tai chi, tea tastings, and calligraphy classes.

DAYS 13 & 14 | SHANGHAI Take a tour of Three Gorges Dam before flying to Shanghai.

The next day, enjoy free time to explore this vibrant city on your own. Opt to visit Yuyuan Garden, the Shanghai Museum or, this evening, catch an awe-inspiring performance by the famed Shanghai acrobats.

DAY 15 | SHANGHAI Depart at any time.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

4,499

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 759

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 15

D AT E S 2018: Apr. 14–28 • Apr. 21–May 5 • May 12–26 June 23–July 7 • July 7–21 • Aug. 18–Sept. 1 Sept. 8–22 • Sept. 22–Oct. 6 • Oct. 6–20 Oct. 13–27 2019: Apr. 13–27 • Apr. 27–May 11 • May 4–18 May 18–June 1 • June 15–29 • July 6–20 Aug. 24–Sept. 7 • Sept. 7–21 • Oct. 5–19

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (10 nights), soft-sleeper overnight train (1 night), Yangtze riverboat (3 nights).

MEALS INCLUDED

14 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners. Allow an additional $365–475 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Train, minibus, boat, plane, bicycle

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

I

BEST OF CHINA HIGHLIGHTS • Bicycle atop the city walls of Xi’an before facing its ancient army of terra-cotta warriors.

• Walk along the Great Wall, taking in magnificent views, and hike through the Guilin countryside.

• Go behind the scenes at the historic Gao’s Grand Courtyard House and interact with local artists.

• Wake early for a private tai chi class led by a local expert. Learn the basic principles of this ancient practice and discover firsthand why it’s revered for such health benefits as stress relief, improved balance, and overall well–being.

ITINERARY

|

1 2 DAY S

Beijing

Shanghai

Xi’an C H IN A

Yueluowan

Yangshuo

TAIWAN

DAY 1 | BEIJING Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included. Enjoy a first taste of Chinese cuisine with a welcome dinner of Peking duck.

DAYS 2–4 | BEIJING Explore the highlights of Beijing, including Tiananmen Square and the lavish Forbidden City—a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the stunning Temple of Heaven and its surrounding grounds, which offer a chance to watch locals practicing tai chi, water calligraphy, and other activities.

Then set off on an excursion to the Great Wall, one of the greatest structures ever built. Take a walk along the 500-year-old Mutianyu section, and spend time exploring the towers.

Later, enjoy a walking tour of some of the city’s traditional hutong neighborhoods. Then catch an overnight train to Xi’an.

DAYS 5 & 6 | XI’AN Arrive in the ancient Chinese capital of Xi’an, once the eastern

I

terminus of the Silk Road. Set out to experience the city like the locals do with a bike ride atop the ancient walls. Then enjoy a unique, behind-the-scenes experience at the historic Gao’s Grand Courtyard House. Visit backstage, interact with local artists, and enjoy a performance of shadow puppetry. In the evening, delve into the bustling alleyways of the Muslim Quarter, perusing colorful shops and food stalls. The next day, encounter Xi’an’s famed terra-cotta warriors, an army of life-size soldiers that stand guard outside the tomb of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang.

Learn about the discovery and excavation of these archaeological treasures. Then have lunch in the farming village where the artifacts were found.

DAYS 7 & 8 | GUILIN/YANGSHUO Fly to Guilin and immerse yourself in the local culture. Trek through the countryside, passing through villages and rice fields, and enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Li River.

DAY 9 | YANGSHUO Rise early for a private tai chi class with a local expert. Then take an easy cycling trip through the countryside, passing rice fields and karst mountains. Later, learn how to prepare local cuisine at a cooking school and enjoy the results for dinner.

DAYS 10 & 11 | SHANGHAI Fly to Shanghai and take an orientation walk through the historic Bund area. Enjoy free time to explore this vibrant city on your own. Opt to visit Yuyuan Gardens or the Shanghai Museum, or catch the famed Shanghai acrobats performance this evening.

DAY 12 | SHANGHAI Depart at any time.

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

2,799

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 669

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 15

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 18–29 • Apr. 8–19 • May 13–24 June 24–July 5 • July 1–12 • July 15–26 Aug. 5–16 • Sept. 2–13 • Sept. 16–27 Oct. 7–18 • Oct. 14–25 2019: Mar. 17–28 • Apr. 7–18 • Apr. 21–May 2 May 12–23 • June 30–July 11 • July 14–25 Aug. 18–29 • Sept. 1–12 • Sept. 15–26 Oct. 6–17

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional Beijing kung fu show and Li River light show are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (10 nights), soft sleeper overnight train (1 night) MEALS INCLUDED

11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners. Allow an additional $325–425 for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private bus, plane, boat, train, bicycle

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25

WILDLIFE PARKS OF TANZANIA |

NEW

HIGHLIGHTS • Hear from a scientist at the Serengeti Wildlife Research Centre, then set out on safari into the surrounding plains.

• Meet local Maasai during a village visit, and hear about the G Adventures– supported Clean Cookstoves Project.

• Discuss the importance of conserving African wildlife with a ranger from Ruaha National Park.

• Go on safari in the Ngorongoro Crater, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site.

ITINERARY

Serengeti NP

DAY 5 | NGORONGORO Spot more wildlife on the drive out of the Serengeti to our comfortable tented camp. Relax this evening and watch an African sunset over the hills.

1 2 DAY S

|

Olduvai Gorge

DAYS 6 & 7 | NGORONGORO/ARUSHA Depart early into the Ngorongoro Crater, home to some 25,000 creatures, and enjoy a wildlife drive and picnic lunch. In the afternoon, drive to Arusha. Spend the following day exploring the city at your leisure.

Ngorongoro Crater

Arusha Lake Manyara NP

TAN Z AN I A

Dar es Salaam Ruaha NP Selous Game Reserve

DAY 1 | ARUSHA Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 | LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK Visit Mto wa Mbu village and take a guided cultural walk before a traditional lunch with a local family. Continue to our safari camp located outside Lake Manyara National Park to embark on an afternoon safari with phenomenal wildlife viewing.

DAYS 3 & 4 | SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK Travel through the Rift Valley and visit a Maasai village to learn about its people and the G Adventures–supported Clean Cookstoves project.

Take a guided tour of the village, meet the women that have been trained as stove engineers, and opt to help build a stove. Then visit the Olduvai Gorge Museum and Visitors Center before heading to our safari camp. Embark on more wildlife viewing drives and visit the Serengeti Wildlife Research Centre for a lecture by a researcher. Opt to take a sunrise balloon safari.

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DAY 8 | RUAHA NATIONAL PARK This morning catch a flight to Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s largest national park, which harbors an abundance of wildlife and vast, diverse landscapes. Transfer to our safari lodge and enjoy wildlife-viewing.

DAY 9 | RUAHA NATIONAL PARK Spend a full day observing wildlife with our expert safari guide inside this vast and remote park, keeping an eye out for lions, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and impalas.

DAYS 10 & 11 | SELOUS GAME RESERVE Enjoy one last morning safari drive in Ruaha before catching our flight to Selous Game Reserve, a World Heritage site. After settling into our camp, board a boat on the river for an evening wildlife cruise. The rivers of Selous are the lifeblood of the park that attract an abundance of life, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of bird species. The next morning, rise early and head out for a full day on safari. The park is known for its numerous lion prides, zebras, wildebeests, and giraffes.

DAY 12 | DAR ES SALAAM Enjoy a morning bush walk before catching a flight to Dar Es Salaam. Depart at any time.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

7,699

$

PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 6

+ $1,159

D AT E S 2018: June 29–July 10 • July 13–24 • July 20–31 July 27–Aug 7 • Aug. 17–28 • Sept. 1–12 • Sept. 7–18 Sept. 21–Oct. 2 • Oct. 12–23 • Nov. 2–13 Dec. 21, 2018–Jan. 1, 2019 2019: Jan. 18–29 • Feb. 16–27 • Mar. 2–13 June 21–July 2 • July 5–16 • July 19–30 July 26–Aug. 6 • Aug. 9–20 • Aug. 16–27 Sept. 6–17 • Sept. 20–Oct. 1 • Oct. 11–22 Nov. 1–12 • Dec. 13–24 • Dec. 20–31 Dec. 28, 2019–Jan. 8, 2020

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Safari camp/lodges (5 nights), hotels (3 nights), comfortable tented camps (3 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

11 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 8 dinners. Allow an additional $205–270 for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

4x4 safari vehicle, plane, boat

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

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SOUTHERN TANZANIA SAFARI |

NEW

HIGHLIGHTS • Set out on safari in two distinct game reserves to seek out Tanzania’s incredible wildlife, including lions, zebras, giraffes, and African wild dogs.

• Discuss the importance of wildlife conservation with rangers in Ruaha National Park.

• Explore the Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a local guide.

• Embark on a river safari through Selous Game Reserve to spot wading hippos, elephants, and more.

ITINERARY

|

After settling into our camp, board a boat for an evening river safari. The rivers of Selous are the lifeblood of the park, attracting elephants, hippos, and crocodiles, among other animals.

6 DAY S

Arusha

DAY 5 | SELOUS GAME RESERVE Rise early and head out for a full day wildlife safari drive in this incredible reserve, accompanied by our local guide. The park is known for its numerous lion prides, over 50 percent of the remaining endangered African wild dog population, and over 400 bird species. There also is an abundance of zebra, impala, giraffe, sable, kudu, baboon, wildebeest, colobus, and vervet monkeys.

After a busy day, relax this evening, enjoying sunset by the river and dinner in the boma.

TAN ZANIA

Dar es Salaam Ruaha NP

Selous Game Reserve

DAY 1 | ARUSHA Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 | ARUSHA/RUAHA NATIONAL PARK This morning, catch a flight to Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s largest national park, which harbors an abundance of wildlife and vast, diverse landscapes. Transfer to our lodge and embark on an afternoon safari to spot local wildlife.

DAY 6 | SELOUS GAME RESERVE/ DAR ES SALAAM Enjoy a morning safari walk before catching a flight to Dar Es Salaam.

Depart at any time.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

3,999

$

PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 6

+ $779

D AT E S 2018: June 21–26 • July 5–10 • July 19–24 July 26–31 • Aug. 2–7 • Aug. 16–21 Aug. 23–28 • Sept. 7–12 • Sept. 13–18 Sept. 27–Oct. 2 • Oct. 18–23 • Nov. 8–13 Dec. 27, 2018–Jan. 1, 2019 2019: Jan. 24–29 • Feb. 22–27 • Mar. 8–13 June 27–July 2 • July 11–16 • July 25–30 Aug. 1–6 • Aug. 15–20 • Aug. 22–27 Sept. 12–17 • Sept. 26–Oct. 1 • Oct. 17–22 Nov. 7–12 • Dec. 19–24 • Dec. 26–31

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

DAY 3 | RUAHA NATIONAL PARK Spend a full day viewing wildlife with our expert safari guide inside this remote park, keeping an eye out for lions, buffalo, zebras, giraffes, and impalas. This evening, relax at the lodge, sitting on the deck with a cool drink, listening to the night sounds, and gazing at the stars.

Safari camp/lodges (4 nights), hotel (1 night)

DAY 4 | RUAHA NATIONAL PARK/SELOUS Enjoy one last morning safari in Ruaha before catching our flight to Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

4x4 safari vehicle, plane, boat

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VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

ACCOMMODATIONS MEALS INCLUDED

5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners. Allow an additional $110–145 for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

I

27

TANZANIA SAFARI EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS • Set out on safari in Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti in search of lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.

• Meet with a researcher from the Serengeti Wildlife Centre to discuss ongoing studies.

• Spend time with Maasai women involved in the G Adventures–sponsored Clean Cookstoves Project.

• Pay a visit to a village for a traditional lunch with a local family.

ITINERARY

|

DAY 4 | SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK Opt to take a sunrise balloon safari. Embark on an incredible full-day safari and drop by the Serengeti Wildlife Research Centre for a talk by one of its visiting researchers.

7 DAY S

DAY 5 | NGORONGORO CONSERVATION AREA Spot more wildlife on the drive out of the Serengeti to our comfortable tented camp.

Later, relax and enjoy the African sunset.

Olduvai Gorge

Serengeti NP

Arusha Lake Manyara NP Ngorongoro Crater

TA NZ A NIA

DAY 6 | NGORONGORO CRATER/ARUSHA Depart early into Ngorongoro Crater, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a safari and picnic lunch. In the afternoon, drive to Arusha for the final night.

DAY 7 | ARUSHA Depart at any time.

DAY 1 | ARUSHA Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

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FROM

3,999

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 6

+ $379

D AT E S 2018: Apr. 7–13 • Apr. 21–27 • May 12–18 • June 9–15 June 16–22 • June 22–28 • June 23–29 June 30–July 6 • July 2–8 • July 6–12 • July 7–13 July 16–22 • July 21–27 • July 30–Aug. 5 Aug. 4–10 • Aug. 24–30 • Aug. 25–31 Sept. 14–20 • Sept. 15–21 • Sept. 17–23 Sept. 29–Oct. 5 • Oct. 5–11 • Oct. 6–12 • Oct. 8–14 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

DAY 2 | MTO WA MBU VILLAGE/LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK Visit Mto wa Mbu village to take a guided cultural walk and have a traditional lunch with a local family. Continue to our safari lodge, located outside Lake Manyara National Park and featuring unobstructed views of the Rift Valley escarpment. Embark on an afternoon safari with phenomenal wildlife viewing and search out the famed tree-climbing lions.

DAY 3 | OLDUVAI GORGE/SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK Travel through the Rift Valley and visit a Maasai village to learn about the G Adventures–supported Clean Cookstoves Project. Enjoy an exclusive presentation by some of the “Maasai mamas” and take a guided tour of the village. Afterward, visit the historic site of Olduvai Gorge, and travel to our safari camp located inside Serengeti National Park.

I N F O R M AT I O N

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions, including those described in the “ Add to your Experience” box (left), are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (2 nights), safari lodge (1 night), tented camp in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area (3 nights) A D D TO YO U R E X P E R I E N C E

SERENGETI BALLOON SAFARI Soar over the Serengeti. Pre-book your balloon ride today.

MEALS INCLUDED

6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners. Allow an additional $170–225 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

4x4 safari vehicle

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

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KENYA SAFARI EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS • Explore three incredible wildlife areas: Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, and Amboseli.

• Get an insider’s view on elephant conservation during a talk with a researcher from the Kenya Wildlife Service.

• Opt to visit a Maasai village or to go for a hot-air balloon ride over the savanna.

• Stop by the G Adventures-sponsored Café Ubuntu to learn about their efforts to improve livelihoods and empower the local community.

ITINERARY

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DAY 4 | LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK Depart early to a G Adventures for Good supported project, Café Ubuntu—an initiative that trains and employs local women. Continue to our safari lodge inside Lake Nakuru National Park. Take an afternoon wildlife-viewing drive, paying special attention to the rare rhinos that make this area their home.

8 DAY S

KE N YA

Lake Nakuru NP Masai Mara National Reserve

Nairobi

Amboseli NP TA NZANIA

DAY 1 | NAIROBI Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2 & 3 | MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE Travel to our comfortable tented camp located in the heart of Kenya’s premier wildlife reserve. Enjoy daily wildlife viewing drives and options to visit a Maasai village or embark on a balloon safari. In the evenings, settle back at the camp and marvel at the views overlooking the surrounding plains.

DAYS 5 & 6 | AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK Embark on a sunrise wildlife-viewing drive before continuing on to Amboseli National Park. The next day, head out on morning and afternoon safaris, taking in iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro. Gain a deeper understanding of elephant conservation during a lecture by a speaker from the Kenya Wildlife Service.

DAY 7 | AMBOSELI/NAIROBI Enjoy an incredible African sunrise on our final safari before returning back to the capital.

DAY 8 | NAIROBI Depart at any time.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

3,699

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 6

+ $999

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 4–11 • Mar. 11–18 • Apr. 15–22 • June 9–16 June 23–30 • June 24–July 1 • June 30–July 7 July 1–8 • July 7–14 • July 14–21 • July 15–22 July 21–28 • Aug. 4–11 • Aug. 5–12 • Aug. 11–18 Aug. 18–25 • Aug. 19–26 • Aug. 25–Sept. 1 Aug. 26–Sept. 2 • Sept. 1–8 • Sept. 15–22 Sept. 29–Oct. 6 • Sept. 30–Oct. 7 • Oct. 6–13 Oct. 7–14 • Oct. 13–20 • Oct. 14–21 • Oct. 20–27 Oct. 21–28 • Oct. 27–Nov. 3 • Oct. 28–Nov. 4 Nov. 4–11 • Nov. 18–25 • Nov. 24–Dec. 1 • Dec. 9–16 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional excursions are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (2 nights), safari lodge (1 night), comfortable tented camps in Masai Mara and Amboseli National Park (4 nights)

SAFARI IN KENYA & TANZANIA 13 DAYS | Double your wildlife encoaunters on a journey that combines the best of Kenya and Tanzania.

See page 62 for dates.

Visit our website for a detailed itinerary.

FROM

7,299

$

MEALS INCLUDED PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 6

+ $1,299

7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners. Allow an additional $100–130 per person for meals not included

TR ANSPORTATION

4x4 safari vehicle I

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

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29

RWANDA & UGANDA GORILLA DISCOVERY HIGHLIGHTS • Observe numerous primate species on a mountain gorilla trek, a golden monkey trek, and a chimpanzee trek.

• Meet a researcher at the Karisoke Research Center, founded by National Geographic grantee Dian Fossey.

• Attend a drum workshop and enjoy a meal prepared by women at a center sponsored by G Adventures.

• Set out on safari in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to elephants, buffaloes, lions, and various species of antelope.

ITINERARY

|

spend time observing their behavior. Later, visit a nearby village where locals have put a stop to poaching.

9 DAY S

DAYS 5–7 | QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK Cross into Uganda and arrive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Trek in search of chimpanzees and enjoy a safari drive with possible sightings of buffaloes and lions. Then cruise the Kazinga Channel to view hippos and birds, and, with a bit of luck, elephants or big cats.

UG A N D A

Queen Elizabeth NP

Entebbe

Volcanoes NP

Kigali

DAY 8 | ENTEBBE After breakfast, head to Entebbe with a stop at the Equator, and a visit to a royal drum maker’s workshop.

RWANDA

DAY 9 | ENTEBBE Depart at any time.

DAY 1 | KIGALI Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 | KIGALI/VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK Visit the poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial to learn about a tragic period in Rwanda’s past. Then take a walk through Nyamirambo Township and enjoy a local lunch at the G Adventures–supported Nyamirambo Women’s Center. Continue north into the hills to our lodge, located just outside Volcanoes National Park. Settle in and relax, taking in stunning views of the surrounding volcanic peaks.

DAYS 3 & 4 | VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK Head into the jungle with a guide in search of a unique and endangered species, the golden monkey. Then visit the Karisoke Research Center, where Dian Fossey studied mountain gorillas with support from National Geographic. The next day, embark on a gorilla trek to search for these iconic creatures, and

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I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

6,249

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 6

+ $1,399

D AT E S 2018: Apr. 7–15 • May 12–20 • June 9–17 June 23–July 1 • June 30–July 8 • July 7–15 July 9–17 • July 21–29 • July 28–Aug. 5 Aug. 4–12 • Aug. 11–19 • Aug. 18–26 Aug. 27–Sept. 4 • Sept. 1–9 • Sept. 22–30 Oct. 13–21 • Nov. 10–18 • Dec. 1–9 Dec. 22–30 • Dec. 29, 2018–Jan. 6, 2019 2019: Jan. 5–13 • Jan. 12–20 • Jan. 26–Feb. 3 Feb. 9–17 • Feb. 23–Mar. 3 • Mar. 2–10 Apr. 6–14 • May 11–19 • June 8–16 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (8 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners. Allow an additional $85–110 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

4x4 safari vehicle, hiking, boat

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

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WONDERS OF NAMIBIA HIGHLIGHTS • Visit the Cheetah Conservation Fund— founded by Laurie Marker, who has received funding from National Geographic— for a lecture and a wildlife-viewing drive.

• Meet the residents of Mondesa Township and enjoy dinner and entertainment in a family-run establishment.

• Explore the dunes of Namib-Naukluft National Park and the grasslands of Etosha National Park.

• Discover ancient petroglyphs at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Twyfelfontein.

ITINERARY

|

1 0 DAY S

Etosha NP Twyfelfontein

Swakopmund

N A M I B I A

Windhoek Sesriem

Namib-Naukluft NP

DAYS 1–3 | WINDHOEK/SESRIEM Land in Windhoek, Namibia’s capital. Set out across dramatic desert landscapes the following morning for our drive to the outpost town of Sesriem, and then enjoy an evening to relax at our lodge. The next day, embark on a 4x4 excursion into the otherworldly landscapes of Namib-Naukluft National Park. Take in the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei, and keep an eye out for springbok, bat-eared foxes, and other desert wildlife. Continue to Sesriem Canyon, carved into the rock by the Tsauchab River over millions of years.

DAYS 4 & 5 | SWAKOPMUND Set out on a guided 4x4 desert drive and discuss the survival strategies of the San in the surrounding harsh environments, then continue to Swakopmund on the Atlantic coast. The next day, enjoy a free morning and opt to go quad biking, sandboarding, or just take a walk through town. This afternoon,

I

explore the township of Mondesa with a local guide, learning about its people and history.

Tour the local market for an introduction to traditional food. Later, visit an arts and crafts shop, and then continue to a family-run establishment for dinner and local entertainment.

DAYS 6–8 | TWYFELFONTEIN/ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK Travel to Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to view ancient San petroglyphs dating back some 5,000 years.

Depart early the next day to visit the 280million-year-old Petrified Forest, and then continue to our lodge in the Etosha National Park area. Over the next two days, set out into the surrounding grasslands on open-vehicle safari drives to spot elephants, lions, and with luck, elusive leopards and endangered black rhinos. Enjoy free time to relax back at the lodge.

DAYS 9 & 10 | CHEETAH CONSERVATION FUND/WINDHOEK Visit the Cheetah Conservation Fund, a global research organization founded by Dr. Laurie Marker, whose work has been funded by National Geographic.

Meet a researcher for a tour of the facility, and learn about ongoing projects before setting out on a safari to view cheetahs up close. Enjoy lunch on the veranda overlooking the magnificent Waterberg Plateau, and then return to Windhoek for our final evening. Depart at any time the following day.

MORE OPTIONS ONLINE

See how you can combine this itinerary with Kruger National Park, Victoria Falls, and more.

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

2,999

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 919

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: May 14–23 • June 25–July 4 • July 23–Aug. 1 Sept. 17–26 • Oct. 1–10 • Oct. 15–24 Oct. 29–Nov. 7 • Nov. 26–Dec. 5 Dec. 24, 2018–Jan. 2, 2019 2019: Jan. 2–11 • Jan. 16–25 • Jan. 30–Feb. 8 Feb. 6–15 • Feb. 13–22 • Feb. 20–Mar. 1 Mar. 6–15 • Mar. 20–29 • Mar. 25–Apr. 3 Apr. 3–12 • Apr. 19–28 • Apr. 24–May 3 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional experiences are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels/lodges (9 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners. Allow an additional $230–300 for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Air-conditioned touring vehicle, 4x4 safari vehicle

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EXPLORE SOUTHERN AFRICA

ITINERARY

penguins at Boulders Beach (pictured near right). Enjoy free time the next day to hike Table Mountain or embark on a wine tour around Stellenbosch.

1 2 DAY S

|

ZAM BIA

Victoria Falls ZIM BABWE

Karongwe Private Game Reserve

Kruger NP

DAY 4 | JOHANNESBURG Fly to Johannesburg. Meet your CEO and enjoy a traditional South African braai (barbecue) welcome dinner.

DAY 1 | CAPE TOWN Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 5 & 6 | PANORAMA ROUTE/KRUGER NATIONAL PARK Take a scenic drive along the famed Panorama Route with stops at Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and God’s Window. Continue to our tented camp, conveniently located just outside Kruger National Park. The next morning, go on a wildlife viewing drive inside Kruger National Park and observe all manner of wildlife from an open safari vehicle. Later, opt to take an afternoon safari drive or wildlife bush walk.

DAYS 2 & 3 | CAPE TOWN Visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens on a behind-thescenes tour with an expert. National Geographic Traveler magazine named these gardens among the top ten in the world. Explore vibrant Cape Town and Cape Point, stopping to see the

DAYS 7 & 8 | KARONGWE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Continue to Karongwe Private Game Reserve. Enjoy morning and evening open-vehicle wildlife safari drives while searching for Africa’s “big five”—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo. Meet with a

Johannesburg

S OU TH

A FR I C A

Cape Town

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researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Cheetah Metapopulation Project, a project managed by National Geographic grantee Vincent van der Merwe. A member of Vincent’s team will tell us about their ongoing field research.

DAY 9 | JOHANNESBURG After one last safari drive, head back to the city. This evening, enjoy a home-cooked dinner at our guesthouse.

DAYS 10 & 11 | VICTORIA FALLS Fly to Zimbabwe. Gain insight into everyday life during a walk through a local market before dinner at a family homestead. Get to know the family and share stories as we all help prepare a traditional Zimbabwean dinner. The next day, take a guided tour along the trails of the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. Enjoy free time for optional activities, including a river safari, bungee jumping, or even a helicopter ride over the falls.

DAY 12 | VICTORIA FALLS Depart at any time.

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

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HIGHLIGHTS •M eet with a researcher sponsored by National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative.

•E ncounter spectacular Victoria Falls and follow a guide on trails around this natural wonder.

• Take

a behind-the-scenes tour of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens with an expert.

•W ander through a local market and enjoy dinner at a family home in Zimbabwe.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

3,699

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 779

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 17–28 • Mar. 28–Apr. 8 • Apr. 7–18 Apr. 25–May 6 • May 2–13 • May 9–20 May 16–27 • May 23–June 3 • May 26–June 6 May 30–June 10 • June 6–17 • June 13–24 June 20–July 1 • June 23–July 4 • June 27–July 8 June 30–July 11 • July 4–15 • July 11–22 July 14–25 • July 21–Aug. 1 • July 25–Aug. 5 July 28–Aug. 8 • Aug. 1–12 • Aug. 4–15 • Aug. 6–17 Aug. 11–22 • Aug. 22–Sept. 2 • Aug. 29–Sept. 9 Sept. 5–16 • Sept. 12–23 • Sept. 15–26 Sept. 17–28 • Sept. 19–30 • Sept. 29–Oct. 10 Oct. 6–17 • Oct. 10–21 • Oct. 13–24 • Oct. 20–31 Oct. 24–Nov. 4 • Oct. 27–Nov. 7 • Nov. 3–14 Nov. 7–18 • Nov. 10–21 • Nov. 17–28 Nov. 24–Dec. 5 • Dec. 1–12 • Dec. 8–19 • Dec. 15–26 Dec. 19–30 • Dec. 22, 2018–Jan. 2, 2019 Dec. 24, 2018–Jan. 4, 2019 Dec. 26, 2018–Jan. 6, 2019 Dec. 29, 2018–Jan. 9, 2019 2019: Jan. 2–13 • Jan. 7–18 • Jan. 16–27 Jan. 21–Feb. 1 • Jan. 28–Feb. 8 Jan. 30–Feb. 10 • Feb. 4–15 • Feb. 6–17 Feb. 9–20 • Feb. 11–22 • Feb. 13–24 Feb. 20–Mar. 3 • Feb. 25–Mar. 8 • Mar. 2–13 Mar. 6–17 • Mar. 11–22 • Mar. 16–27 Mar. 20–31 • Mar. 23–Apr. 3 • Mar. 25–Apr. 5 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, internal flights, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions, including those described in the “Add to your Experience” box (left), are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

A D D TO YO U R E X P E R I E N C E

VICTORIA FALLS RIVER RAFTING Feeling adventurous? Approach the falls on a rafting trip on the Zambezi River.

VICTORIA FALLS HELICOPTER RIDE Pre-book your ride and see the falls from above!

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VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

Guesthouse (2 nights), comfortable, mid-range hotel (5 nights), safari tented camp in Kruger (2 nights), comfortable tents or chalets in Karongwe (2 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 6 dinners. Allow an additional $290-380 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private vehicle, open safari vehicle, plane

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33

EXPLORE KRUGER & VICTORIA FALLS HIGHLIGHTS • Experience dramatic landscapes, from the Panorama Route to Victoria Falls.

• Observe wildlife alongside a researcher from the National Geographic–sponsored Cheetah Metapopulation Project.

• Enjoy a traditional Zimbabwean dinner in a family home and learn about daily life.

• Go on safari in world-famous Kruger National Park and in Karongwe Private Game Reserve.

ITINERARY

|

DAYS 4 & 5 | KARONGWE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Travel to the Karongwe Private Game Reserve, and enjoy morning and evening open-vehicle safaris to seek out Africa’s “big five”—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo. Meet with a researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Cheetah Metapopulation Project, a project managed by National Geographic grantee Vincent van der Merwe. A member of Vincent’s team will tell us about their ongoing field research.

9 DAY S

Victoria Falls Z IM B A B W E

Karongwe Private Game Reserve Kruger NP

DAY 6 | JOHANNESBURG After one last wildlife viewing drive, head back to the city.

Enjoy a home-cooked dinner at our guesthouse.

Johannesburg SOU T H

AF R ICA

DAY 1 | JOHANNESBURG Arrive at any time and transfer to our guesthouse. Enjoy a traditional braai (barbecue) welcome dinner tonight.

DAY 2 | PANORAMA ROUTE/KRUGER NATIONAL PARK Take a scenic drive along the famed Panorama Route with stops at Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and God’s Window. Continue to our tented camp, conveniently located just outside Kruger National Park.

DAY 3 | KRUGER NATIONAL PARK This morning, set out on a wildlife-viewing drive in an open safari vehicle to take in views of the abundant wildlife, including impalas, zebras, and the endangered African wild dog. Opt for another drive or a bush walk this afternoon, or relax on the lodge deck overlooking the area watering hole—a popular spot for animals to visit. In the evening, enjoy stunning views and an incredible al fresco dinner at our lodge.

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DAY 7 | VICTORIA FALLS Fly to Zimbabwe.

Walk through a local market before dinner at a family homestead. Meet our hosts and learn about daily life in Zimbabwe. Share stories as you enjoy a traditional Zimbabwean dinner.

DAYS 8 & 9 | VICTORIA FALLS Take a guided tour along the trails of the aweinspiring Victoria Falls. Enjoy free time in the afternoon for optional activities: take to the water on a river safari in Chobe National Park, or thrill-seekers have options to go zip-lining, bungee jumping from the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge, or take a dip in Devil’s Pool—a swimming hole at the lip of the falls. Choose to soar over the falls on a helicopter excursion, and in the evening, opt for a sunset cruise along the Zambezi. Depart anytime the next day.

MORE OPTIONS ONLINE

See how you can combine this itinerary with a trip to Namibia, Botswana, or Cape Town.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

2,949

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 599

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 17–25 • Mar. 20–28 • Mar. 31–Apr. 8 • Apr. 3–11 Apr. 10–18 • Apr. 28–May 6 • May 1–9 • May 5–13 May 12–20 • May 19–27 • May 26–June 3 May 29–June 6 • June 2–10 • June 9–17 June 16–24 • June 23–July 1 • June 26–July 4 June 30–July 8 • July 7–15 • July 14–22 July 24–Aug. 1 • July 28–Aug. 5 • July 31–Aug. 8 Aug. 4–12 • Aug. 7–15 • Aug. 9–17 • Aug. 11–19 Aug. 14–22 • Aug. 21–29 • Aug. 23–31 Aug. 25–Sept. 2 • Sept. 1–9 • Sept. 8–16 Sept. 11–19 • Sept. 15–23 • Sept. 18–26 Sept. 20–28 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels and guest houses (4 nights), comfortable safari camp and chalets (4 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 6 dinners. Allow an additional $175-230 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private vehicle, 4x4 safari vehicle, plane GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

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BOTSWANA & ZIMBABWE SAFARI |

NEW

HIGHLIGHTS • Settle into a remote bush camp in the Okavango Delta and explore wildlife-rich waterways by dugout canoe.

• Visit the Painted Dog Conservation project to learn how African wild dogs affected by poaching are rehabilitated.

• Hear about delta conservation projects from a researcher with the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project.

• Listen to Botswanan folklore during a festive dinner with storytellers in Maun.

ITINERARY

1 0 DAY S

|

Z A M B I A

Victoria Falls NAMIBIA

Chobe NP Hwange NP

Okavango Delta (Panhandle)

Z I M B A B WE

Maun BOTSWAN A

DAYS 1 & 2 | VICTORIA FALLS/HWANGE NATIONAL PARK Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer included. The following day, enjoy free time in the morning and opt to visit the falls. Later, meet with a conservationist from Painted Dog Conservation to learn about the work being done to rehabilitate injured African wild dogs as a result of poaching. Then, travel to Hwange, Zimbabwe’s largest national park, and enjoy a safari drive on the lodge concession in search of wildlife.

DAYS 3 & 4 | HWANGE NATIONAL PARK/ CHOBE NATIONAL PARK Take a full day wildlife safari in the park, home to large elephant herds, lions, and the rare African wild dog. This evening, relax on the sun deck with a cool drink, keeping an eye out for local wildlife that visit the lodge’s watering hole.

The final morning in Hwange allows for an optional safari drive or walk, before we cross into Botswana and arrive in Kasane, gateway

I

to stunning Chobe National Park. This afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on the Chobe River in search of bathing elephants, hippos, and crocodiles.

DAY 5 | CHOBE NATIONAL PARK In the morning, view more wildlife on a safari drive along the banks of the Chobe River. In the afternoon, opt to take a photography river safari on a specialized photography boat.

DAYS 6–8 | OKAVANGO DELTA Catch a flight into the “panhandle” area of the Okavango Delta and check into our remote camp in the wilderness. Enjoy lunch before taking a walk to the research camps of the National Geographic–funded Okavango Wilderness Project. The next day, explore the stunning Okavango Panhandle with expert local guides to view wildlife from mokoros, or African dugout canoes, and on bush walks.

This evening, enjoy a unique stay in a bush camp on one of the remote islands within the delta. The following morning, depart from our island camp and continue our safari on foot and by mokoro with our expert local guides.

DAYS 9 & 10 | MAUN Transfer to the frontier town of Maun and enjoy an evening of culture and traditional foods with celebrated author Bonty Botumile and the Thari-E-Ntsho Storytellers. This local enterprise is dedicated to preserving Botswana’s heritage and providing youth with employment opportunities in the arts. Opt to take a scenic flight over the delta.

Depart at any time the next day.

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

4,999

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 499

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: May 9–18 • May 16–25 • May 30–June 8 June 13–22 • June 27–July 6 • July 4–13 • July 11–20 July 25–Aug. 3 • Aug. 1–10 • Aug. 15–24 Aug. 29–Sept. 7 • Sept. 5–14 • Sept. 12–21 Sept. 19–28 • Sept. 26–Oct. 5 • Oct. 3–12 Oct. 10–19 • Oct. 24–Nov. 2 • Nov. 7–16 • Dec. 5–14 2019: Jan. 13–22 • Jan. 27–Feb. 5 • Feb. 10–19 Feb. 17–26 • Feb. 24–Mar. 5 • Mar. 3–12 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (2 nights), comfortable safari tents or lodges (6 nights), bush camp in the Okavango Delta (1 night) MEALS INCLUDED

9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 6 dinners. Allow an additional $190–250 for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private vehicle, 4x4 safari vehicle, boat, mokoro, plane I

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From South Africa’s lowveld to Namibia’s coastal dunes, southern Africa is packed with diverse landscapes and rare wildlife—and National Geographic Journeys offers safaris for every budget and schedule. Fill a fantastic week with wildlife sightings in legendary Kruger National Park or set out on an epic 21-day safari that includes Cape Town and Victoria Falls.

7 DAY S

E X P LO R E K R U G E R N AT I O N A L PA R K

F R O M $ 2 ,14 9 P E R P E R S O N

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1 9 DAY S

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GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE B OOKED, YOU’RE GOING

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1 2 DAY S

D I S COV E R N A M I B I A & V I C TO R I A FA L L S

FROM $3,799 PER PERSON

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1 6 DAY S

DISCOVER KRUGER & NAMIBIA

F R O M $ 5 ,14 9 P E R P E R S O N

Search for the Big Five with a National Geographic researcher, explore the stunning dunes of the parched Namib Desert, and meet scientists at the National Geographic–supported Cheetah Conservation Fund.

2 1 DAY S

T H E G R E AT S O U T H E R N A F R I C A S A FA R I

FROM $8,829 PER PERSON

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FIND EVEN MORE TRIPS ON OUR WEBSITE 1 8 DAY S

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1 8 DAY S

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FROM $5,949

2 1 DAY S

SOUTHERN AFRICA HIGHLIGHTS

FROM $6,549

Airfare is not included in the trip costs. Please visit our website for more information.

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VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

.

37

MOROCCO JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS • Venture into the medinas of Marrakech and stock up at the market for a cooking class with a local chef.

• Experience ancient Fez, the stunning stables of Meknès, and the Roman ruins of Volubilis.

• Meet Berbers and artisans, and listen to the tunes of traditional Gnaoua musicians.

• Explore the Sahara on a thrilling 4x4 tour.

ITINERARY

DAY 4 | MERZOUGA Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains to the Sahara, overnighting in a kasbah-style desert hotel at the edge of the awe-inspiring dunes. Enjoy a dinner of local specialties.

9 DAY S

|

DAY 5 | TODRA GORGE/TINGHIR Explore the Sahara on a thrilling 4x4 dunes tour.

Visit the village of Khamliya to meet Gnaoua musicians and take in a performance. Drink mint tea with local Berbers and then continue to Tinghir.

Meknès

Casablanca

Fez

Marrakech M ORO CCO

Aït Ben Haddou

Merzouga

Ouarzazate

Tinghir

DAY 1 | CASABLANCA Land in Casablanca and enjoy the rest of the day to explore on your own. Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 | MEKNES/VOLUBILIS/FEZ Enjoy a guided tour of the imperial city of Meknes, Morocco’s 17th-century capital. Then head to the ancient ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take in the impressive mosaics and arcades of this once-great Roman city. Continue on to Fez. DAY 3 | FEZ Step back in time on a guided walking tour of the Fez medina, a World Heritage site. See artisans and tanners at work, and pass by market stands selling everything from aromatic spices and colorful ceramics to pastries and kitchen gadgets.

Sit down to a traditional tagine lunch at a G Adventures–supported organization that provides vocational training for rural Moroccan women. Later, opt to have dinner at one of Fez’s grand riads.

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DAY 6 | DADES GORGE/OUARZAZATE Drive through Dades Valley and along the Route of 1,000 Kasbahs. Peer into the magnificent chasm of the Dadès Gorge, and spot crumbling kasbahs on the valley floor.

Visit the 19th-century Taourirt Kasbah, once home to the el Galoui clan who controlled the region’s caravan routes. Opt to meet an herbalist in Ouarzazate to learn about traditional remedies used by Berbers.

DAY 7 | AÏT BEN HADDOU/MARRAKECH Wander through the well-preserved adobe village of Aït Ben Haddou, a World Heritage site. Then journey to Marrakech, crossing the High Atlas Mountains via the Tichka Pass.

DAY 8 | MARRAKECH Go on an optional morning tour through the city’s atmospheric souks, taking in the intoxicating sights, scents, and sounds. Then visit a historic riad for a cooking class led by a celebrated Moroccan chef. Help prepare lunch and sit down to eat with our host. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in this timeless city.

DAY 9 | MARRAKECH Depart at any time.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

1,799

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 469

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 12

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 31–Apr. 8 • Apr. 7–15 • Apr. 14–22 Apr. 28–May 6 • May 5–13 • May 19–27 May 26–June 3 • June 9–17 • June 23–July 1 Aug. 4–12 • Aug. 25–Sept. 2 • Sept. 8–16 Sept. 15–23 • Oct. 6–14 • Oct. 27–Nov. 4 Nov. 10–18 • Nov. 24–Dec. 2 • Dec. 8–16 Dec. 23–31 2019: Jan. 5–13 • Jan. 19–27 • Feb. 9–17 • Feb. 16–24 Feb. 23–Mar. 3 • Mar. 2–10 • Mar 9–17 • Mar. 16–24 Mar. 23–31 • Mar. 30–Arp. 7 • Apr. 6–14 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (8 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners. Allow an additional $255–335 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private van, 4x4 vehicle

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

I

MOROCCO: SAHARA & BEYOND HIGHLIGHTS • Explore no fewer than seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the medinas of Fez and Marrakech and the adobe village of Aït Ben Haddou.

• Sleep among the Saharan dunes in a traditional tent and explore the Anti-Atlas Mountains.

• Try your hand at Arabic calligraphy with a local master in Fez. • Visit the leather tanneries and lively markets of Taroudant.

ITINERARY

1 5 DAY S

|

Meknès Fez

Casablanca

M O RO CCO

Marrakech

Aït Ben Haddou

Essaouira Tafraout

Zagora Taroudant

Erg Chigaga Desert Camp

DAY 1 | CASABLANCA Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer is included. Enjoy a welcome dinner.

DAYS 2 & 3 | MEKNES/VOLUBILIS/FEZ Enjoy a guided tour of the imperial city of Meknes, and marvel at the ancient Roman ruins at Volubilis before continuing on to Fez. The next morning, set out on a walking tour of the Fez medina, exploring its winding lanes with a knowledgeable guide. Sit down to a traditional tagine lunch at a G Adventures–supported organization that provides vocational training for rural Moroccan women. Later, visit a local café for a class on Islamic calligraphy.

DAYS 4 & 5 | MARRAKECH Travel to Marrakech to experience the color and chaos of its famed medina. The next day, set out for a guided tour of this incredible city, including the Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs. Visit a historic riad for a cooking class led by a celebrated Moroccan chef.

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DAYS 6 & 7 | AÏT BEN HADDOU/ERG CHIGAGA Explore the ancient adobe village of Aït Ben Haddou in the Atlas Mountains.

The following day, journey through the Drâa Valley to Zagora and set off into the desert in 4x4s. Stop at Tamegroute to visit the library of ancient Islamic texts. Continue to our desert camp, located amid the dunes of Erg Chigaga.

Opt to take a camel ride, or climb the dunes for views of the vast Sahara. Enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars.

DAYS 8 & 9 | ZAGORA/TAROUDANT Return to the desert outpost of Zagora, where we’ll attend a talk on the history of the Drâa region and visit nearby historical sites. The next day, head to the towns of Tazenakht and Taliouine, known for their saffron harvests and carpets. In Taroudant, visit the famed leather tanneries and local markets.

DAYS 10 & 11 | TAFRAOUT Enter the AntiAtlas region to view intriguing natural rock formations and explore the mountain town of Tafraout. The following day, visit Aït Mansour Gorge, the Painted Rocks, and the Chapeau de Napoleon. Walk through a palm oasis, have lunch in a village home, and visit a women’s handicraft cooperative.

DAYS 12 & 13 | ESSAOUIRA Travel to the port town of Essaouira on the Atlantic coast, and see the local fishing fleet unload their catch. Opt to visit a hammam—a traditional spa and steam bath—or choose to stroll the beach, or go surfing or sailing.

DAYS 14 & 15 | MARRAKECH Return to Marrakech to visit the Menara and Majorelle Gardens. Enjoy an optional farewell dinner with local folkloric entertainment. The next day, depart at any time.

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

2,899

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 839

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 12

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 4–18 • Mar. 11–25 • Apr. 8–22 • Apr. 15–29 Apr. 22–May 6 • Apr. 29–May 13 • May 13–27 May 27–June 10 • June 17–July 1 • July 15–29 Aug. 12–26 • Sept. 2–16 • Sept. 9–23 Sept. 16–30 • Sept. 23–Oct. 7 • Oct. 7–21 Oct. 21–Nov. 4 • Oct. 28–Nov. 11 • Nov. 11–25 Dec. 9–23 • Dec. 23, 2018–Jan. 6, 2019 2019: Jan. 6–20 • Jan. 13–27 • Jan. 27–Feb. 10 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (13 nights), comfortable desert camp (1 night) MEALS INCLUDED

14 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners. Allow an additional $380–495 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private van, 4x4 vehicle I

39

EXPLORE MACHU PICCHU

ITINERARY

more than 700 varieties of potatoes. Learn about potato cultivation and traditional weaving, and the importance of each to Andean culture.

Next, explore the Pisac ruins and visit the G Adventures–supported Sacred Valley Community Restaurant in the village of Huchuy Qosqo. Discover the pre-Inca salt pans of Maras, and enjoy a traditional pachamanca-style meal.

8 DAY S

|

PERU

Machu Picchu

Lima

Sacred Valley

DAY 4 | AGUAS CALIENTES Catch an early transfer to Ollantaytambo station and board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes. Visit the market here if you wish.

Cusco

DAY 1 | LIMA Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2 & 3 | SACRED VALLEY Board an early flight to Cusco, then continue to the Sacred Valley to spend two days exploring with a local guide. Tour the G Adventures–supported Parque de la Papa, or Potato Park, a network of rural agricultural communities working to preserve 40

I

DAY 5 | MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO Go on a guided tour of the Machu Picchu ruins (pictured above). Then explore the site on your own or hike to the Inca Bridge. Later, return to Cusco by train.

DAY 6 | CUSCO Explore historic Cusco, with options to visit museums or go white-water rafting, horseback riding, or mountain biking.

This evening, glimpse the night sky through the telescopes of the Cusco planetarium.

DAYS 7 & 8 | LIMA Fly back to Lima for our final evening. Depart at any time the next day.

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

I

HIGHLIGHTS

I N F O R M AT I O N

•E mbark on a spectacular train ride to Machu Picchu, and explore the Inca citadel with a guide.

FROM

•V isit the village of Huchuy Qosqo for a traditional lunch at a community-owned and -operated restaurant supported by G Adventures.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

•V enture to Inca sites like Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Moray with a local guide.

2018: Mar. 4–11 • Mar. 25–Apr. 1 • Apr. 1–8 • Apr. 14–21 May 5–12 • May 6–13 • June 3–10 • June 9–16 July 1–8 • July 7–14 • July 14–21 • July 29–Aug. 5 Aug. 4–11 • Aug. 12–19 • Aug. 26–Sept. 2 Sept. 9–16 • Sept. 15–22 • Sept. 23–30 Sept. 29–Oct. 6 • Oct. 7–14 • Oct. 27–Nov. 3 Nov. 4–11 • Nov. 11–18 • Dec. 22–29 Dec. 30, 2018–Jan. 6, 2019

•S ee the night sky through telescopes at the Cusco Planetarium.

1,899

$

PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED

+ 599

D AT E S

2019: Jan. 13–20 • Feb. 10–17 • Mar. 10–17 • Apr. 7–14 Apr. 13–20 • Apr. 21–28 • May 5–12 • May 11–18 May 19–26 • May 25–June 1 • June 2–9 June 16–23 • June 30–July 7 • July 6–13 July 14–21 • July 20–27 • July 28–Aug. 4 Aug. 11•18 • Aug. 17–24 • Aug. 25–Sept. 1 Aug. 31–Sept. 7 • Sept. 8–15 • Sept. 14–21 Sept. 22–29 • Sept. 28–Oct. 5 • Oct 6–13 Oct. 12–19 • Oct. 20–27 • Oct. 26–Nov. 2 Nov. 3–10 • Nov. 9–16 • Nov. 17–24 Nov. 30–Dec. 7 • Dec. 1–8 • Dec. 15–22 Dec. 22–29 • Dec. 29, 2019–Jan. 5, 2020

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions, including those listed in the “Add to your Experience” box (left) are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (7 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $255–335 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Minibus/van, train, plane NOTE : This itinerary includes high altitude hikes,

and travelers should be physically fit.

I

A D D TO YO U R E X P E R I E N C E

MORE OPTIONS ONLINE

PERU CULINARY BUNDLE Love food? Take part in cooking classes in Lima and Cusco.

Visit our website to see how you can combine this itinerary with a trip to the Amazon.

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

I

41

MACHU PICCHU & THE AMAZON HIGHLIGHTS •S pend four days hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, or take the train and enjoy extra time in Cusco.

•S pot Amazonian wildlife with expert naturalists.

•V isit two G Adventures–supported projects: Parque de la Papa (Potato Park) and the Sacred Valley Community Restaurant • Explore the important Inca ruins of Ollantaytambo and Pisac.

ITINERARY

|

Sacred Valley

PER U

Lima

Journeys and supported by G Adventures for Good. Walk through this rural community with a local guide to learn about potato cultivation, weaving, and the importance of both to Andean culture. Later, enjoy lunch at the G Adventures– supported Sacred Valley Community Restaurant in the indigenous village of Huchuy Qosqo.

1 0 DAY S

Tambopata National Reserve

Machu Picchu

Cusco

DAY 1 | LIMA Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 6–9 | INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO All roads lead to Machu Picchu, either by foot or rail. Choose to undertake the four-day guided Inca Trail hike. Or enjoy two full free days in Cusco and catch a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, our base for visiting the famed site. Explore Machu Picchu (pictured above) with an expert guide before returning to Cusco by train.

DAY 10 | CUSCO Depart at any time.

DAY 5 | SACRED VALLEY/ OLLANTAYTAMBO Enjoy a full day of exploring the Sacred Valley, including the Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins. Visit the Parque de la Papa (Potato Park)—an experience exclusive to National Geographic 42

I

FROM

2,599

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 399

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 1–10 • Mar. 18–27 • Mar. 29–Apr. 7 • Apr. 5–14 Apr. 12–21 • Apr. 19–28 • May 6–15 • May 20–29 May 27–June 5 • June 7–16 • June 10–19 July 1–10 • July 8–17 • July 12–21 • July 19–28 July 26–Aug. 4 • Aug. 2–11 • Aug. 16–25 Aug. 23–Sept. 1 • Aug. 30–Sept. 8 • Sept. 2–11 Sept. 6–15 • Sept. 9–18 Please visit our website for additional depature dates.

DAYS 2 & 3 | AMAZON RAIN FOREST Fly to Puerto Maldonado and continue by motorized canoe to the comfortable G Lodge Amazon, located in the lush Tambopata rain forest. Go on jungle excursions guided by knowledgeable naturalists to spot wildlife.

Take advantage of free time to relax or swim, and go for a caiman-spotting cruise after dinner.

DAY 4 | CUSCO Travel by boat out of the jungle and catch our flight over the Andes to Cusco. This evening, peer at the stars through the telescopes of the Cusco planetarium.

I N F O R M AT I O N

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions, including those described in the “Add to your Experience” box (left), are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (4 nights), G Lodge Amazon (2 nights), Inca Trail camping or Cusco hotel (3 nights) MEALS INCLUDED A D D TO YO U R E X P E R I E N C E

9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners. Allow an additional $170-225 per person for meals not included.

PERU CULINARY BUNDLE Love experiencing new cuisines? Take part in Peruvian cooking classes in Lima and Cusco.

Private van, plane, train, boat, hiking

TR ANSPORTATION

NOTE: This itinerary includes high altitude hikes,

and travelers should be physically fit.

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

I

ICONIC PERU HIGHLIGHTS •H ike the Inca Trail or take the train to Machu Picchu, and visit the ruins at Pisac and Ollantaytambo with a guide.

•S pend two days exploring the Amazon rain forest with a naturalist guide.

•E njoy lunch in the home of a local family on the shores of Lake Titicaca, and take a cruise on the lake.

•V isit a women’s weaving cooperative in the Sacred Valley and learn about an age-old craft.

ITINERARY

|

P E R U

Lima

1 4 DAY S

Sacred Valley Tambopata National Reserve

Machu Picchu

Cusco Puno

DAY 1 | LIMA Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2 & 3 | AMAZON RAIN FOREST Fly to Puerto Maldonado and continue by motorized canoe to the comfortable G Lodge Amazon, located in the lush Tambopata rain forest. Go on jungle excursions guided by knowledgeable naturalists to spot wildlife.

Enjoy some free time to relax or swim, and go for a caiman-spotting cruise after dinner.

DAYS 6–9 | INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO All roads lead to Machu Picchu, either by foot or rail. Choose to undertake the four-day guided Inca Trail hike. Or enjoy two free days in Cusco and catch a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, our base for visiting the famed site. Explore Machu Picchu with an expert guide before returning to Cusco by train.

DAY 10 | CUSCO Take advantage of a free day in Cusco to explore its museums and ruins, or try white-water rafting or rock climbing.

DAYS 11 & 12 | PUNO/LAKE TITICACA Take in scenic views while traveling through the high Altiplano region to the town of Puno.

The next day, go on a guided boat tour of Lake Titicaca, visiting the floating islands of Uros and Taquile. Also visit the Luquina community and sit down for a traditional lunch in a family home.

DAYS 13 & 14 | LIMA Transfer to Juliaca and fly back to Lima for our last night in Peru.

Depart the next day at any time.

DAY 4 | CUSCO Travel by boat out of the jungle and catch our flight over the Andes to Cusco. This evening, peer at the stars through the telescopes of the Cusco planetarium.

DAY 5 | SACRED VALLEY/ OLLANTAYTAMBO Explore the Sacred Valley of the Inca with a local guide, visiting the ruins at Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Stop by the Women’s Weaving Co-op and enjoy lunch at the Sacred Valley Community Restaurant— both G Adventures for Good projects.

I

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

3,499

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 599

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 1–14 • Mar. 18–31 • Mar. 29–Apr. 11 • Apr. 5–18 Apr. 12–25 • Apr. 19–May 2 • May 6–19 May 20–June 2 • May 27–June 9 • June 7–20 June 10–23 • July 1–14 • July 8–21 • July 12–25 July 26–Aug. 8 • Aug. 2–15 • Aug. 16–29 Aug. 23–Sept. 5 • Aug. 30–Sept. 12 Please visit our website for additional depature dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

The optional excursions are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (8 nights), G Lodge Amazon (2 nights), Inca Trail camping or Cusco hotel (3 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

13 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 5 dinners. Allow an additional $295–385 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private van, plane, train, boat NOTE : This itinerary includes high altitude hikes,

and travelers should be physically fit.

I

43

INCA EXPLORER HIGHLIGHTS •T our pre-Inca and Inca sites with expert guides—from the Nasca Lines to Machu Picchu.

•S ample pisco at an Inca Valley winery, and help a chef prepare local dishes in Arequipa.

•C ruise around the Ballestas Islands, spotting penguins, sea lions, and more.

•V isit the Andean villages of the Sacred Valley, and explore the floating straw islands of Lake Titicaca.

ITINERARY

|

Participate in a cooking class led by one of the chefs at a traditional picantería restaurant.

1 5 DAY S

PERU

Lima

Machu Picchu

Paracas/ Ballestas Islands Nasca

Arequipa

Sacred Valley Cusco Puno Lake Titicaca B OL IV IA

DAY 1 | LIMA Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 | PARACAS Travel to Paracas National Park and relax in this gorgeous seaside spot.

DAYS 7 & 8 | CUSCO/SACRED VALLEY Fly to Cusco, and spend the next day discovering the Sacred Valley of the Inca with a local guide.

Tour the G Adventures–supported Parque de la Papa, or Potato Park, a network of rural agricultural communities working to preserve potato species. Explore the Pisac ruins, and visit the Sacred Valley Community Restaurant in the village of Huchuy Qosqo, an eatery supported by G Adventures.

DAY 9 | AGUAS CALIENTES Embark on a scenic train ride along the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes. Opt to visit the town’s hot springs, butterfly house, or botanical garden.

DAY 10 | MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu alongside a local guide. Enjoy free time to discover the ruins on your own or hike to the Inca Bridge before returning by train to Cusco.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

3,199

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 899

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 25–Apr. 8 • Apr. 1–15 • Apr. 15–29 Apr. 22–May 6 • Apr. 29–May 13 •May 13–27 May 20–June 3 • June 3–17 • June 10–24 June 17–July 1 • July 1–15 • July 15–29 July 22–Aug. 5 • July 29–Aug. 12 • Aug. 12–26 Aug. 26–Sept. 9 • Sept. 9–23 • Oct. 7–21 Oct. 14–28 • Oct. 21–Nov. 4 • Nov. 4–18 Nov. 18–Dec. 2 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

DAY 11 | CUSCO Explore historical Cusco at your leisure, with options to visit museums and ruins or go white-water rafting or paragliding. This evening, look to the stars through the telescopes of the local Cusco planetarium.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D

ACCOMMODATIONS

DAY 4 | NASCA Tour a pre-Inca cemetery in the desert at Nasca, then visit a traditional pottery studio. Later, sit down for a pachamancastyle dinner. Opt to take a flight over the beguiling Nasca Lines.

DAYS 12 & 13 | PUNO/LAKE TITICACA Travel to the town of Puno. The next day, enjoy a guided boat tour of Lake Titicaca, visiting the floating Islands of Uros and Taquile. Visit the Luquina community and sit down for a traditional lunch in a home there. Later, make the optional trip to the Sillustani burial towers.

DAYS 5 & 6 | AREQUIPA Drive to colonial Arequipa. The next day, take a city tour, including a visit to the Santa Catalina convent.

DAY 14 & 15 | LIMA Fly to Lima for our final night. Opt to visit a museum or enjoy free time to explore. Depart at any time the next day.

DAY 3 | BALLESTAS ISLANDS/NASCA Cruise to the Ballestas Islands and seek out resident sea lion colonies, penguins, and other bird life. Then visit a local winery to learn about Peruvian wine and pisco production.

Continue to mysterious Nasca, with a stop at the Huacachina sand dunes.

Arrival transfer, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

Optional excursions are at an additional cost.

Comfortable, mid-range hotels and lodges (14 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

14 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $455–595 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private van, plane, train, boat, hiking.

NOTE : This itinerary includes high altitude hikes,

and travelers should be physically fit.

44

I

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

I

DISCOVER PATAGONIA HIGHLIGHTS • Explore the spectacular lakes, peaks, and waterfalls of Torres del Paine National Park.

• Hear from an expert on the Perito Moreno Glacier, and then witness the calving of this advancing ice mass.

• Discover the enormous penguin colonies on Martillo Island.

•S ample beer and chocolate on a tour of Bariloche, and try out tango in Buenos Aires.

ITINERARY

|

1 4 DAY S

Buenos Aires C HILE

Puerto Varas

San Carlos de Bariloche A RGE N TINA

El Calafate (Lago Argentino) Torres del Paine NP Punta Arenas Ushuaia

DAY 1 | BUENOS AIRES Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2 & 3 | BARILOCHE Catch a flight to northern Patagonia. Discover the highlights of scenic San Carlos de Bariloche on a Circuito Chico tour, with stops at local artisanal producers specializing in chocolate, beer, and jams. The next day is free to explore this incredible region by foot or bike.

DAYS 4 & 5 | PUERTO VARAS Travel by bus and ferry to Puerto Varas in the stunning Chilean Lake District. Enjoy the sights of the Cruce de Lagos, considered one of the most scenic lake crossingsin the world. The next day, opt to take a daytime excursion to picturesque Chiloé Island.

pristine lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls in this vast and stunning region.

DAYS 8 & 9 | EL CALAFATE Enjoy the gorgeous drive to El Calafate. The following day, attend a talk by a local expert on the Perito Moreno Glacier. Then travel into Los Glaciares National Park to view this massive glacier, and opt to take a boat ride to its base.

FROM

DAYS 10 & 11 | USHUAIA Fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. The next day, see the penguins on Martillo Island with a naturalist guide. Then return to Ushuaia by navigating the Beagle Channel on a catamaran, passing islands inhabited by birds, penguins, and seals, as well as the lighthouse at the “end of the world.”

D AT E S

DAYS 12 & 13 | BUENOS AIRES Fly back to Buenos Aires and the afternoon is free to explore the “Paris of South America.” In the evening, head out to San Telmo, the oldest barrio in the city, for a light dinner in a café and a lesson from local dancers.. Then it’s time for a milonga, a neighborhood tradition where students and teachers of the studio show up to practice their moves. Sit back and enjoy or join in the fun. The next day, venture out on a tour of the city’s highlights, including the Plaza de Mayo (home to Eva Perón’s famous balcony), La Boca, and La Recoleta Cemetery.

DAY 14 | BUENOS AIRES Depart at any time.

DAYS 6 & 7 | TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK Catch a flight to Punta Arenas and then transfer to Torres del Paine National Park. The next day, take a full-day trip into the park alongside a guide. Marvel at I

I N F O R M AT I O N

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

5,199

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 1,999

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

2018: Mar. 4–17 • Mar. 11–24 • Oct. 14–27 • Oct. 21–Nov. 3 Oct. 28–Nov. 10 • Nov. 11–24 • Nov. 18–Dec. 1 Nov. 25–Dec. 8 • Dec. 2–15 • Dec. 9–22 Dec. 16–29 • Dec. 23, 2018–Jan. 5, 2019 2019: Jan. 13–26 • Jan. 20–Feb. 2 • Jan. 27–Feb. 9 Feb. 10–23 • Feb. 17–Mar. 2 • Feb. 24–Mar. 9 Mar. 3–16 • Mar. 10–23 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (13 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

13 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners. Allow an additional $545–710 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private bus/van, plane, boat, hiking

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45

COLOMBIA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS •D elve into Medellín on a guided walk through a recently revitalized community.

• I n coastal Cartagena, discover the scenic inspiration for author Gabriel García Márquez, and learn to dance salsa.

• I mmerse yourself in Colombian coffee culture during a stay at an Armenia farm.

•D iscover the beaches of Tayrona National Park, and hike through the jungle to ruins.

ITINERARY

|

National Park on the Caribbean coast. Enjoy fresh seafood and some beach time on the white sand. Opt to hike in the park or into the jungle to see the ruins of El Pueblito, or just lie back and relax by the water.

1 2 DAY S

Tayrona NP

DAYS 8–10 | CARTAGENA Drive to colonial Cartagena (pictured above). Take a walking tour of the old city, and visit sites that inspired Nobel Prize–winner Gabriel García Márquez.

This evening, learn the basics of Colombian salsa in a private lesson with two local dancers.

The next day, enjoy free time to visit Playa Blanca; take a boat tour to the Islas del Rosario, a protected archipelago of coral islands or soak in an incredible mud volcano.

Cartagena

Medellín

C OL OM B I A

Bogotá

Armenia

DAY 1 | BOGOTÁ Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2 & 3 | ARMENIA Catch a flight to Armenia and immerse yourself in coffee culture, staying two nights at a traditional hacienda on a working coffee farm. Spend the afternoon with a coffee expert exploring natural elements that influence flavor and production. The next day, take a trip to Salento for hiking in the Cocora valley.

DAYS 4 & 5 | MEDELLÍN Drive to Medellín and visit Comuna 13, a community transformed into a shining example of Colombia’s progress in overcoming its notorious past. Meet a local guide and ride upward on the city’s unique public system of cable cars and escalators.

Enjoy free time for some exploration.

DAYS 6 & 7 | TAYRONA NATIONAL PARK AREA Catch a morning flight to Santa Marta and continue to our beach lodge near Tayrona

DAY 11 | BOGOTÁ Fly back to Bogotá and opt to visit the Colombia National Museum or the Gold Museum, or just wander one of the city’s many quaint neighborhoods.

DAY 12 | BOGOTÁ Depart at any time.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

3,249

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 899

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 15

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 10–21 • May 5–16 • June 2–13 June 30–July 11 • July 30–Aug. 10 Aug. 25–Sept. 5 • Sept. 22–Oct. 3 Oct. 20–31 • Dec. 15–26 2019: Jan. 5–16 • Feb. 2–13 • Mar. 2–13 • Apr. 6–17 May 11–22 • June 8–19 • July 6–17 Aug. 24–Sept. 4 • Sept. 21–Oct. 2 • Oct 12–23 Nov. 16–27 • Dec. 28, 2019–Jan. 8, 2020 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, internal flights, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (9 nights), hacienda/farm (2 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

11 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners. Allow an additional $330–430 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Bus, van, jeep, plane 46

I

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

I

NATURAL HIGHLIGHTS OF COSTA RICA HIGHLIGHTS • Visit the Monteverde Institute, a research center supported by National Geographic, and assist in cloud forest conservation efforts.

• Explore the jungles of Manuel Antonio National Park on a guided walk, and swim in its coastal waters.

• Tour a G Adventures–supported coffee co-op whose proceeds benefit the local community.

• Cook up traditional Costa Rican dishes in the home of a local family, and then sit down to dinner with them.

ITINERARY

|

has served as the base for numerous National Geographic–funded explorers and scientists studying the cloud forest. Meet some of the researchers and learn about various projects examining insects and birds, as well as tropical reforestation and conservation.

9 DAY S

DAY 6 | MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK Continue to Manuel Antonio on the stunning Pacific coast. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of the area with options to take a surfing lesson, go horseback riding through tropical forests, take a catamaran cruise, or visit other nearby beaches.

La Fortuna/ Arenal Mont ntever eveerde

COSTA RICA

San José

Manuel Antonio NP

DAY 1 | SAN JOSÉ Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2 & 3 | LA FORTUNA/ARENAL Visit a G Adventures–supported coffee co-op for lunch and a tour. Continue on to La Fortuna to visit a local family’s home and learn the art of tortilla-making. Then sit down with the family to a dinner of casado, a typical Costa Rican dish of black beans, plantains, and tortillas. The next day, take advantage of free time to explore La Fortuna, the adventure hub of Costa Rica. Optional activities include canyoneering, canopy walks, and a boat tour of the wetlands in the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge.

DAYS 4 & 5 | MONTEVERDE Travel to Monteverde and enjoy a guided nature hike in the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can opt to visit a butterfly garden, ride a zip line through the canopy, or go horseback riding. Visit the Monteverde Institute, which

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DAY 7 | MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK Take a guided walk in the park, famed for its stunning beaches and abundant wildlife, including monkeys, armadillos, sloths, and some 350 species of birds. Swim or snorkel in the park’s pristine waters, and then hike the trails that wind through the inland tropical forests.

DAY 8 | SAN JOSÉ Return to San José and enjoy an optional farewell dinner in town.

DAY 9 | SAN JOSÉ Depart at any time.

A D D TO YO U R E X P E R I E N C E COSTA RICA ADRENALINE BUNDLE

Go canyoneering near Arenal Volcano and zip-lining in Monteverde.

MANUEL ANTONIO CATAMARAN TOUR

Cruise along the Pacific coast, spotting dolphins and stopping to snorkel.

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

1,699

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 849

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Mar. 3–11 • Mar. 10–18 • Apr. 7–15 • Apr. 21–29 June 9–17 • Aug. 4–12 • Sept. 8–16 • Oct. 6–14 Oct. 13–21 • Nov. 3–11 • Nov. 24–Dec. 2 Dec. 15–23 • Dec. 22–30 2019: Jan. 5–13 • Jan. 12–20 • Jan. 26–Feb. 3 Feb. 2–10 • Feb. 9–17 • Feb. 16–24 Feb. 23–Mar. 3 • Mar. 2–10 • Mar. 9–17 Please visit our website for additional departure dates.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions, including those described in the “Add to your Experience” box (left), are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (8 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

8 breakfasts, 1 lunches, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $355–465 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private van, hiking

I

47

EXPLORE COSTA RICA

ITINERARY

|

excursion after dark to spot nocturnal creatures.

The next day, meet with researchers from the Sea Turtle Conservancy, co-founded by National Geographic grantee Archie Carr. The research team will tell us about four species of sea turtles found on the beaches of Tortuguero, as well as the threats they face.

1 4 DAY S

Tortuguero-NP La Fortuna/ Arenal

DAYS 4–6 | LA FORTUNA/ARENAL Visit a G Adventures–supported coffee co-op for lunch and a tour. Continue on to La Fortuna to visit a local home and learn the art of tortillamaking from the family before sitting down to dinner together. Take advantage of two full days to explore La Fortuna—the adventure hub of Costa Rica. Optional activities include rafting, canyoneering, nature hikes, a boat tour of the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, and more.

Monteverde

San José COSTA RI CA

Manuel Antonio-NP

DAY 1 | SAN JOSÉ Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2 & 3 | TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK Travel to Tortuguero National Park and enjoy a guided boat trip through the canals in search of caimans, howler monkeys, and sloths. Take advantage of free time to relax at our secluded lodge, or take an optional boating 48

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here for optional activities, including a visit to a butterfly garden, a zip line canopy tour, and horseback riding.

DAYS 10–12 | MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK Continue to the Pacific coast and take a guided walk through Manuel Antonio National Park, famed for its stunning beaches and abundant wildlife, including monkeys, armadillos, sloths, and some 350 species of birds. Spend three days taking in the laid-back atmosphere of the area, with options to surf, go horseback riding, take a catamaran cruise to spot marine life, or visit other nearby beaches.

DAYS 13 & 14 | SAN JOSÉ Return to San José and opt to join a farewell dinner in town.

Depart any time the following day.

DAYS 7–9 | MONTEVERDE Visit the Monteverde Institute, which has served as the base for numerous National Geographic– funded explorers and scientists studying the cloud forest. Meet some of the researchers and learn about their conservation projects. Take a guided nature hike in the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, and then enjoy extended time

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

I

HIGHLIGHTS

I N F O R M AT I O N

•M eet researchers at the Sea Turtle Conservancy, co-founded by a National Geographic grantee.

FROM

•P articipate in reforestation efforts at the Monteverde Institute, a research center supported by National Geographic.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

•E xplore the canals of Tortuguero National Park on a boat tour, spotting caimans, howler monkeys, sloths, and more.

2018: Mar. 25–Apr. 7 • Apr. 8–21 • Apr. 22–May 5 Apr. 29–May 12 • May 6–19 • May 20–June 2 June 3–16 • June 10–23 • June 24–July 7 July 1–14 • July 8–21 • July 29–Aug. 11 Aug. 12–25 • Sept. 9–22 • Sept. 30–Oct. 13 Oct. 14–27• Nov. 4–17 • Nov. 11–24 Nov. 18–Dec. 1 • Nov. 25–Dec. 8 • Dec. 2–15 Dec. 16–29 • Dec. 30, 2018–Jan. 12, 2019

•M ake tortillas with a local family in La Fortuna.

2,399

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 1,399

D AT E S

2019: Jan. 3–16 • Jan. 6–19 • Jan. 10–23 • Jan. 13–26 Jan. 17–30 • Jan. 20–Feb. 2 • Jan. 24–Feb. 6 Jan. 31–Feb. 13 • Feb. 3–16 • Feb. 10–23 Feb. 17–Mar. 2 • Feb. 24–Mar. 9 • Mar. 3–16 Mar. 10–23 • Mar 17–30 • Mar. 24–Apr. 6 Mar. 31–Apr. 13 • Apr. 7–20 • Apr. 14–27 Apr. 28–May 11 • May 5–18 • May 12–25 May 25–June 8 • June 9–22 • June 23–July 6 June 30–July 13 • July 7–20 • July 14–27 July 28–Aug. 10 • Aug. 11–24 • Sept. 8–21 Sept. 29–Oct. 12 • Oct. 27–Nov. 9 • Nov. 3–16 Nov. 10–23 • Nov. 17–30 • Nov. 24–Dec. 7 Dec. 15–28 • Dec. 29, 2019–Jan. 11, 2020

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Arrival transfer, all transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions, including those described in the “Add to your Experience” box (left), are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (11 nights), rustic jungle lodge (2 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners. Allow an additional $485–630 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private van, shuttle van, boat

A D D TO YO U R E X P E R I E N C E

COSTA RICA EXTREME BUNDLE Like to plan ahead? Book your optional Costa Rica activities ahead of time.

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VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

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49

ALASKA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS • Visit the Denali Education Center to learn about the park’s natural and human history, and then head out on a hike with a naturalist guide.

• Cruise the stunning Kenai Fjords on a boat tour, watching for puffins, sea lions, and orcas.

• Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Alaska SeaLife Center, visiting its marine science laboratories and hearing from a researcher about current projects.

• Meet with a resident to hear about life on the northern frontier.

ITINERARY

|

glaciers, seabird colonies, puffins, sea lions, and whales. The afternoon is free to go hiking or explore the town.

1 0 DAY S

DAY 6 | DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE Enjoy a scenic drive, stopping for photos along the road to Denali National Park and Preserve, home to the highest mountain in North America. Settle in this afternoon and meet with an expert from the Denali Education Center to learn about the natural history of the park and National Geographic’s long legacy of exploration and scientific research here.

Denali National Park and Preserve

AL ASKA

U N I TE D S TATE S

Anchorage Seward Homer

DAY 1 | ANCHORAGE Arrive at any time.

DAYS 2 & 3 | HOMER Travel along the stunning glacier-carved coast of the Kenai Peninsula. Keep your eye out for beluga whales playing out at sea, and take in views of the volcanoes lining Cook Inlet. Upon arrival, set out on an optional hike outside of Homer.

The next day is free to explore the town’s museums, restaurants, and art galleries. You may also opt to cruise Kachemak Bay by water taxi or try your hand at halibut fishing.

DAYS 4 & 5 | SEWARD Continue to the tip of the Kenai Peninsula for a behind-the-scenes tour of the renowned Alaska SeaLife Center.

National Geographic has collaborated with this marine science facility on projects like CritterCam, which documents wildlife behavior from an animal’s perspective. Visit the labs here and meet a researcher for a presentation on current projects. The next day, set out by ship to explore the Kenai Fjords, viewing

50

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DAY 7 | DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE Embark on a day-long excursion to the Eielson Visitor Center at the heart of the park for a tour with a naturalist from the National Parks Service. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Alaska Range and its soaring peaks. Have your camera at the ready to capture images of caribou, grizzly bears, moose, and more.

DAY 8 | DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE Set out on a hike with a naturalist guide, taking in the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Denali’s wilderness. The afternoon is yours to relax and enjoy the great outdoors, with options to visit a sled dog kennel or take a scenic flight over the park. This evening, meet up with a local resident to discuss the area’s history and culture and learn about daily life among these rugged landscapes.

DAYS 9 & 10 | ANCHORAGE Enjoy the beautiful drive back to Anchorage for our final evening. Depart at any time the following day.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

3,999

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 1,319

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 12

D AT E S 2018: June 2–11 • June 16–25 • June 30–July 9 July 14–23 • July 28–Aug. 6 • Aug. 11–20 Aug. 25–Sept. 3 2019: June 1–10 • June 12–21 • June 16-25 June 22–July 1 • June 30-July 9 • July 3–12 July 13–22 • July 24–Aug. 2 • July 28-Aug. 6 Aug. 3–12 • Aug 11-20 • Aug. 14–23 Aug. 24–Sept. 2

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D All transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels and cabins (9 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $440–575 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private bus/van, boat, hiking

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

I

DISCOVER THE CANADIAN ROCKIES HIGHLIGHTS • Embark on a river safari through Grizzly Bear Valley and the world’s only inland temperate rain forest in search of grizzly bears, moose, and eagles.

• Drive the scenic Icefields Parkway, and walk atop the Lower Athabasca Glacier.

• Join a historian on a walking tour of Banff.

• Take a scenic drive to Whistler and visit a local cultural center for a traditional tea ritual.

ITINERARY

B RITISH

DAY 6 | BLUE RIVER Travel into the Cariboo Mountains, with stops at Marble Canyon and the emerald-colored Lower Joffre Lake, before arriving at the stunning Blue River community.

1 2 DAY S

|

CO LUMBIA

ALBERTA

CANADA

Jasper NP

Blue River Whistler

Lake Louise

Vancouver

Icefields Parkway Banff NP

Calgary

Victoria

DAY 1 | VANCOUVER Arrive at any time.

DAYS 2 & 3 | VICTORIA Enjoy a stop at beautiful Stanley Park and Gastown— Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood—before boarding a scenic ferry to Victoria, where we’ll take an orientation walk. The next day is free for optional activities, including a Zodiac whale-watching cruise, high tea at a historic hotel, or a visit to a museum or Butchart Gardens.

DAYS 4 & 5 | WHISTLER Catch the ferry back to the mainland and drive the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway to the village of Whistler, host of the 2010 Winter Olympics. Here we visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Center for a G Adventures for Good experience.

Enjoy a traditional tea with bannock and explore the grounds and museum with an indigenous guide.

DAYS 7 & 8 | JASPER NATIONAL PARK Take an amazing river safari through Grizzly Bear Valley and the world’s only inland temperate rain forest. Seek out wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, and eagles.

Then head to Jasper National Park and view the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson. During free time the next day, hike at Maligne Canyon, opt to take a cruise, or go white-water rafting. Later, soak in the hot springs at Miette.

DAY 9 | ICEFIELD PARKWAY/LAKE LOUISE Travel the Icefields Parkway—considered one of the most scenic drives in the world—to the astoundingly blue Peyto Lake. Embark on a walk with a local guide atop the Lower Athabasca Glacier. Continue to picturesque Lake Louise.

DAY 10 | BANFF Spend the morning at Lake Louise with the option to hike to Lake Agnes Tea House. Continue to Banff and step back in time with an expert from the Whyte Museum, exploring this historic town.

DAY 11 | CALGARY Drive to Calgary for a short tour. Opt to visit museums, cowboy bars, or Canada Olympic Park.

DAY 12 | CALGARY Depart at any time.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

3,999

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 1,539

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 12

D AT E S 2018: June 11–22* • June 16–27 • June 18–29* June 23–July 4 • June 30–July 11 • July 2–13* July 9–20* • July 14–25 • July 16–27* July 21–Aug. 1 • July 28–Aug. 8 July 30–Aug. 10* • Aug. 6–17* • Aug. 11–22 Aug. 13–24* • Aug. 18–29 • Aug. 25–Sept. 5 Aug. 27–Sept. 7* • Sept. 3–14* • Sept. 10–21* Sept. 15–26 • Sept. 22–Oct. 3 Please visit our website for additional departure dates. * T hese departures follow the itinerary shown but in the reverse order.

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D Transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional excursions in Victoria, Whistler, Jasper, and Calgary are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotel/lodges (11 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

11 breakfasts, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $470–615 for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Private touring van, hiking, ferry, boat

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VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

I

51

DISCOVER AMERICAN CANYONLANDS

EMBARK ON AN ADVENTURE-FILLED eight days among the striking natural towers and red plateaus of the American canyonlands. Walk along the edge of the Grand Canyon with an expert to view 2,000-year-old rock art, hike among the astounding rock formations of Zion National Park, and discover Antelope Canyon alongside a Navajo guide. Find inspiration amid the beauty of these legendary landscapes.

ITINERARY

|

8 DAY S

DAY 4 | BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK/PAGE Spend today discovering Bryce Canyon National Park, famed for its multi-colored rock pinnacles. Later, continue toward Page, Arizona.

DAYS 5 & 6 | ANTELOPE CANYON/GRAND CANYON Join a Navajo guide for a walk through Antelope Canyon. Later, travel to the Grand Canyon and explore the area alongside an expert from the Grand Canyon Association Field Institute. Visit Historic Village District, and continue down the Bright Angel Trail to view 2,000-year-old rock art.

DAYS 7 & 8 | FLAGSTAFF/LAS VEGAS Visit Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff for a tour of its giant telescopes, and hear about the facility’s National Geographic–supported studies of Mars. Return to Las Vegas and depart at any time the following day.

FROM

HIGHLIGHTS • Peer into the Lowell Observatory’s highpowered telescopes on a behind-thescenes tour.

• Photograph Antelope Canyon during an interpretive walk with a Navajo guide.

2,699

$

PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED

MY OWN ROOM COST:

+ $1,419

• Meet a scientist from the Grand Canyon Association Field Institute for a guided walk along the South Rim.

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 15

• Hike Zion’s famous Narrows, and take in the spectacular sculpted rock formations of Bryce Canyon.

See website for further trip details.

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SET OUT ON A NINE-DAY QUEST THROUGH SOME OF CALIFORNIA’S GREATEST NATIONAL PARKS. Venture into the sun-scorched landscapes of Death Valley and walk amid the astonishing giant redwoods of Sequoia National Park. Gaze at Yosemite’s awe-inspiring panorama of granite domes and commune with sea creatures in Monterey. This adventure covers a lot of ground—and almost every type of terrain imaginable.

ITINERARY

DAYS 1–3 | LAS VEGAS/ZION NATIONAL PARK Arrive in Las Vegas.

Depart early for Zion National Park, known for its red sandstone gorges.

The next day, set out on a hike to the picturesque Narrows. Wade into the Virgin River, which cuts through the slot canyon.

52

NATURAL HIGHLIGHTS OF CALIFORNIA

See page 63 for dates.

|

9 DAY S

DAYS 1–4 | LAS VEGAS/DEATH VALLEY/YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK Arrive in Las Vegas. Travel to Death Valley, the hottest and driest place in North America, and opt to take a jeep tour. The next day, take a scenic drive across the Sierra Nevada to Yosemite. Explore the park’s majestic waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green meadows.

DAY 5 | SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK In Sequoia National Park, meet with a naturalist and hike the Big Tree Trail among legendary sequoias, visiting an area dedicated to the National Geographic Society. This evening, gaze at the stars with an astronomy expert.

DAYS 6 & 7 | MONTEREY Travel to Monterey and marvel at the beautiful coastline and mountain ridges of Big Sur. Then enjoy a specially arranged tour of the Monterey Bay Aquarium and learn about the research of National Geographic grantees based here.

DAYS 8 & 9 | SAN FRANCISCO Continue to San Francisco, catching a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge en route. Opt to ride a cable car, explore by bike, or take a sunset cruise across the bay.

HIGHLIGHTS • E xamine Sequoia National Park’s giant trees with a naturalist, and then stargaze with an astronomy expert after the sun goes down.

• Enjoy a tour of the Monterey Bay Aquarium and learn about the facility’s National Geographic–sponsored research.

• Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Yosemite National Park.

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

FROM

2,899

$

PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED

MY OWN ROOM COST:

+ $1,829

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 15

See page 63 for dates.

See website for further trip details.

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HISTORIC AMERICAN CITIES BY RAIL

MEXICO’S DAY OF THE DEAD IN OAXACA

STEP BACK IN TIME AT HISTORIC SITES along the Eastern Seaboard of the United States during a weeklong journey by rail. Explore the cobbled streets of colonial Boston, take in the iconic landmarks of New York City, and stroll amid the marble monuments of Washington, D.C. From the Statue of Liberty to the Liberty Bell, delve into some of the most fascinating chapters of American history.

ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST UNIQUE FESTIVALS, the Day of the Dead is both a celebration of deceased ancestors and a huge party. Join us in Oaxaca for a different perspective on Mexico. With street dances, painted faces, and picturesque landscapes, it’s easy to get into the macabre spirit of “Día de los Muertos.”

ITINERARY

|

8 DAY S

ITINERARY

DAYS 1 & 2 | BOSTON Delve into the history of the American Revolution on an expert-led walk along Boston’s Freedom Trail. Take an afternoon to explore on your own, or opt to visit Faneuil Hall, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, or Fenway Park for a Red Sox game.

DAYS 3–5 | NEW YORK CITY/PHILADELPHIA Catch a train to the Big Apple, and set off on a photo walk with a local photographer through Brooklyn’s trendy Bushwick neighborhood. Enjoy a free day to explore the city, with options to see Times Square or Central Park, catch a Broadway show, or visit iconic landmarks. During a day in Philadelphia, take in important sites in American history, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.

DAYS 6–8 | WASHINGTON, D.C. Continue to the nation’s capital, and take a walking tour of the monuments along the National Mall. The next day, visit the headquarters of National Geographic. Tour the on-site museum and go behind the scenes at the photo archives and remote imaging lab. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the city.

FROM

HIGHLIGHTS • Explore Boston’s renowned Freedom Trail with a local expert.

• Take a photo walk with a photographer in Brooklyn.

• Enjoy an insider’s tour of National Geographic headquarters in Washington, D.C. • Visit Philadelphia’s Independence Hall and see the Liberty Bell.

2,599

$

PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED

MY OWN ROOM COST:

+ 1,719 $

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

See page 63 for dates.

|

7 DAY S

DAYS 1–3 | OAXACA Discover the culture, spirituality, and celebrations of the famed Day of the Dead festival. Take an orientation walk around Oaxaca, shop at local markets, and visit cemeteries in Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán and Santa Maria Atzompa to observe families gathering at dusk. Opt to visit the nearby ruins of Monte Albán or Mitla, or nearby villages to meet artisans at work. Sample the culinary delights of the region with a host who takes us to a local market, the chocolate-grinding mills, and a tortilla-making workshop. Visit a local family’s kitchen to taste an array of Oaxacan dishes and learn traditional cooking methods.

DAYS 4–7 | OAXACA As the Day of the Dead festivities get into full swing, discover the symbolism and pageantry of unusual celebration parades in Oaxaca and Etla Valley. Enjoy plenty of free time to explore on your own, take in the kaleidescope of colors, and experience the revelry.

FROM

HIGHLIGHTS • Celebrate the Day of the Dead at street parades, and gather at cemeteries for twilight vigils.

• Sample the gastronomic delights of Oaxaca on a food tour through Mexico’s culinary capital.

• Venture out to nearby villages to visit artisans and see traditional Oaxacan handicrafts.

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED

MY OWN ROOM COST:

+ $899

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

See page 63 for dates.

See website for further trip details.

I

1,379

$

See website for further trip details.

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53

EXPLORE ICELAND HIGHLIGHTS • Walk to a waterfall in Vatnajökull National Park, and visit the iceberg-dotted Jökulsárlón lagoon.

• At the geothermally heated Friðheimar farm, enjoy a lunch made from greenhousegrown produce.

• Stroll along the black sand beaches at Reynisfjara.

• Walk atop a glacier in Skaftafell National Park.

ITINERARY

|

Later, visit the Throbergur Cultural Heritage Museum and enjoy a traditional dinner. The next day, hike into Vatnajökull National Park to Svartifoss waterfall, framed by basaltic lava columns. We’ll also embark on a guided walk atop a glacier in Skaftafell National Park.

Strap on a pair of crampons, and get up-close views of intriguing ice formations, deep sink holes, and rugged crevasses. Depending on the weather conditions, guests traveling in the winter (November and December) may also have opportunity to visit an ice cave.

7 DAY S

ICELAND

Reykjavík

VATN AJÖKU L L

Golden Circle

N P

JÖKU L SÁR L ÓN GL AC IER L AGOON

Skaftafell

Selfoss

DAY 6 | REYKJAVÍK Return to Reykjavík, stopping en route to learn about Icelandic cultural heritage at the Skôgar Folk Museum and visit the picturesque Skôgafoss waterfall.

S K Ó G A F O S S

Vík

DAY 1 | REYKJAVÍK Arrive at any time.

DAY 2 | GOLDEN CIRCLE/SELFOSS From Reykjavík, set out on a tour of the celebrated Golden Circle. Walk through Thingvellir National Park, which marks the meeting point of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Continue to the mighty Gullfoss waterfall, and then visit Geysir, the hot springs for which all other geysers are named. Tour a geothermal power plant, and enjoy lunch made from greenhousegrown produce at a geothermal farm. Opt to soak in the hot springs.

DAY 7 | REYKJAVÍK Depart at any time.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

3,099

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

D AT E S 2018: May 6–12 • June 3–9 • June 10–16 • June 24–30 July 8–14 • July 15–21 • July 22–28 • Aug. 5–11 Aug. 12–18 • Aug. 19–25 • Sept. 9–15 • Oct. 7–13 Nov. 18–24 • Dec. 9–15 2019: Jan. 13–19 • Feb. 10–16 • Mar. 10–16 • Apr. 14–20 May 5–11 • June 2–8 • June 9–15 • June 23–29 July 7–13 • July 14–20 • July 21–27 July 28–Aug. 3 • Aug. 4–10 • Aug. 11–17 Aug. 18–24 • Sept. 1–7 • Sept. 8–14 • Oct. 6–12 Nov. 17–23 • Dec. 8–14

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D All transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (6 nights)

DAY 3 | SELFOSS/VÍK Travel along Iceland’s southern coast from Selfoss to Vík, stopping for a look at the stunning Seljalandsfoss waterfall and a stroll along the black sands of Reynisfjara Beach.

MEALS INCLUDED

DAYS 4 & 5 | JÖKULSÁRLÓN/SKAFTAFELL Travel to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and opt for a boat ride amid its blue icebergs.

Private bus/van

54

I

+ 1,939

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $345–450 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

I

ICONIC ITALY HIGHLIGHTS • Delve into the colorful villages of the Cinque Terre, and take a boat ride along the coast.

• Explore the ruins of Pompeii alongside an archaeologist.

• Sip limoncello at a seaside orchard in Sorrento.

• Hike the Path of the Gods in Amalfi, and enjoy a cooking lesson at an agriturismo.

ITINERARY

|

1 4 DAY S

Venice Cinque Terre NP

DAYS 8 & 9 | POMPEII/SORRENTO This morning, head out of town to walk amid the ruins of Pompeii with an archaeologist.

Continue by private bus to Sorrento and tour a lemon orchard, where we’ll sample limoncello.

Later, take an optional trip to the wellpreserved ruins of Herculaneum. Enjoy the next day at leisure in Sorrento, or opt to visit the nearby islands of Capri or Ischia.

Florence

I TALY

Rome Naples Sorrento

Pompeii Amalfi

DAY 1 | VENICE Arrive at any time.

DAY 2 | VENICE Take an orientation walk through the spectacular lanes and piazzas of Venice. Explore the city on your own this afternoon, or opt to visit the Doge’s Palace, glide across the canals on a gondola ride, or cruise to Murano and Burano—two of the northern Venetian islands.

DAY 3 | THE CINQUE TERRE Head to the Cinque Terre for an overnight stay in a charming village perched on the rocky coast.

Take in the region’s colorful waterfront towns during a boat ride on the crystal clear Ligurian Sea. DAYS 4–6 | FLORENCE Travel to Florence and take a stroll through its lively streets. Then enjoy two free days to explore the city, with optional tours of Ponte Vecchio and the Medici Chapels. Or opt to take an excursion to Pisa or the medieval city of Lucca.

I

DAY 7 | NAPLES Catch the train to Naples, where there is the option to enjoy a fantastic meal in the birthplace of pizza. Opt to visit the National Archaeological Museum, or tour the labyrinth of caves and tunnels that lies below the old town.

DAYS 10 & 11 | AMALFI Travel to the aweinspiring Amalfi coast and tour a local agriturismo. Meet the family that lives there and stroll the beautiful property, a converted 17th-century monastery. Head into the kitchen for a cooking demonstration and sit down for an unforgettable meal overlooking the Mediterranean. The next day, hike the famous Path of the Gods, following ancient trails linking isolated farms, villages, churches, and monasteries.

DAYS 12 & 13 | ROME Travel to Rome and take an orientation walk. Enjoy a free day to explore this ancient city. Opt to visit the Colosseum or the Vatican, or just wander the streets, stopping at a café for some gelato.

DAY 14 | ROME Depart at any time.

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

4,199

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 1,359

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

D AT E S 2018: Apr. 14–27 • Apr. 28–May 11 • May 12–25 May 19–June 1 • May 26–June 8 June 16–29 • July 14–27 • July 28–Aug. 10 Aug. 25–Sept. 7 • Sept. 15–28 Sept. 22–Oct. 5 • Oct. 6–19 • Oct. 13–26 Nov. 3–16 • Dec. 20, 2018–Jan. 2, 2019 2019: Apr. 13–26 • Apr. 27–May 10 • May 11–24 May 18–31 • May 25–June 7 • June 15–28 July 13–26 • July 27–Aug. 9 • Aug. 10–23 Aug. 24–Sept. 6 • Aug. 31–Sept. 13 Sept. 14–27 • Sept. 21–Oct. 4 • Oct. 5–18 Oct. 12–25 • Nov. 2–15 Dec. 20, 2019–Jan. 2, 2020

W H AT ’ S I N C L U D E D All transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (13 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

13 breakfasts, 1 lunch. Allow an additional $550–715 per person for meals not included.

TR ANSPORTATION

Train, private van or bus, boat

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55

DISCOVER MOORISH SPAIN HIGHLIGHTS • Discover layers of culture and history in Córdoba at the Mezquita and in the old Jewish quarter.

• Enjoy a guided tour of Granada’s famed Alhambra, a stunning example of Moorish architecture.

• Try out flamenco during a private lesson with a professional dancer in Granada.

• Tour the UNESCO World Heritage site of medieval Toledo with a historian.

ITINERARY

DAYS 4 & 5 | GRANADA Travel to Granada and take an orientation walk. Enjoy a private flamenco lesson with a professional dancer at a local studio. Take a guided tour of the magnificent Alhambra hilltop fortress, one of the world’s greatest examples of Moorish architecture and a World Heritage site. During free time, explore the city on your own. Opt to take a segway tour around the city, wander the white-washed Albayzín quarter, or visit the Granada Cathedral—one of the largest cathedrals in Spain.

8 DAY S

|

Madrid Toledo S PAI N

Córdoba

Seville

Granada

DAY 1 | MADRID Arrive at any time.

DAY 2 | TOLEDO/MADRID Travel to nearby Toledo and join a local historian on a tour of its medieval center, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with historical churches, synagogues, mosques, and plazas. Return to Madrid and explore the city on your own.

Take a seat at a sidewalk café in the bustling Plaza Mayor and watch the world go by.

Or opt to visit the renowned Museo del Prado— one of the world’s greatest art museums— and the nearby botanical garden, Real Jardín Botanico.

DAY 3 | CÓRDOBA Take the high-speed train to Córdoba and visit the Mezquita—a Catholic cathedral built within a former Moorish mosque. Afterwards, stroll the medieval Jewish quarter’s maze of winding lanes and traditional houses. Savor Córdoba’s culinary specialties at a restaurant of your choice this evening.

56

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DAYS 6 & 7 | SEVILLE This morning, head to Seville, one of the most colorful and exciting cities in Spain. Take an orientation walk with your CEO and opt to visit the cathedral Giralda or Casa Pilatos, or enjoy a traditional flamenco show. The next day is at your leisure to explore the many monuments, parks, and gardens, or sit back and people watch at a local cafe.

DAY 8 | SEVILLE Depart at any time.

I N F O R M AT I O N FROM

2,099

$

P E R P E R SO N . A I R FA R E TO / F RO M I S N OT I N C LU D E D

+ 679

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: $ MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 12

DATES 2018: Apr. 29–May 6 • May 13–20 • May 27–June 3 June 10–17 • June 17–24 • July 1–8 • July 15–22 Aug. 12–19 • Aug. 26–Sept. 2 • Sept. 2–9 Sept. 9–16 • Sept. 23–30 • Oct. 7–14 • Oct. 14–21 Nov. 11–18 2019: Apr. 21–28 • Apr. 28–May 5 • May 5–12 • May 12–19 May 19–26 • May 26–June 2 • June 9–16 June 16–23 • June 23–30 • June 30–July 7 July 14–21 • July 28–Aug. 4 • Aug. 11–18 Aug. 25–Sept. 1 • Sept. 1–8 • Sept. 8–15 Sept. 22–29 • Oct. 6–13 • Oct. 13–20 Oct. 27–Nov. 3 • Nov. 10–17

WHAT’S INCLUDED All transport between destinations, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (7 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

7 breakfasts. Allow an additional $405–530 per person for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION

Public bus, train

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

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EXPLORE CENTRAL EUROPE

BRIMMING WITH FANTASTIC ARCHITECTURE and important cultural monuments, Central Europe offers endless opportunities to explore. Cross four countries and stop in some of Europe’s most fascinating cities—Berlin, Vienna, Prague, and Budapest. Choose from a host of optional excursions and make incredible memories against a backdrop rich with art, music, and history.

ITINERARY

|

9 DAY S

PARIS & NORMANDY HIGHLIGHTS

IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE CULTURE AND HISTORY of northern France on a journey between Paris and the coastal province of Normandy.

Stroll Claude Monet’s gardens in Giverny, marvel at the medieval cities of Bayeux and Rouen, and visit the studio of acclaimed National Geographic photographer Reza. Cap off your trip with free time to explore the incomparable City of Light.

ITINERARY

|

8 DAY S

DAYS 1 & 2 | BERLIN Take an orientation tour and then walk the Berlin Wall with a historian. Enjoy an optional river tour, or spend a free afternoon exploring the city.

DAYS 1 & 2 | PARIS/GIVERNY/HONFLEUR/BAYEUX Set out from Paris to tour Claude Monet’s iconic gardens at Giverny. Visit the charming port town of Honfleur, and enjoy dinner at a crêperie in Bayeux.

DAYS 3–5 | PRAGUE/ČESKÝ KRUMLOV Take the train to Prague and enjoy a guided tour of the Old Town (pictured above). Opt to visit Prague Castle, ride a cable car up Petřín Hill, or enjoy local brews at a beer garden.

Travel to charming Český Krumlov and opt to take a guided ghost tour or visit the medieval castle.

DAYS 3–5 | D-DAY BEACHES/MONT-SAINT-MICHEL/BAYEUX Delve into World War II history with a local expert before visiting a local museum for an opportunity to handle relics from the war. Visit the Secqueville-en-Bessin War Cemetery, Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Cemetery.

Discover the magnificent medieval fortress of Mont-Saint-Michel, perched on a tidal islet off the coast. Spend a free day exploring Bayeux.

DAYS 6–9 | VIENNA/BUDAPEST Drive to Vienna and go on an orientation walk. Taste the world-famous Sacher torte at the Hotel Sacher. Enjoy a free day to visit museums, or experience mass with the Vienna Boys’ Choir. Travel by train to Budapest and take a walking tour. Opt to visit a thermal bathhouse or Buda Castle.

FROM

HIGHLIGHTS • Walk along the Berlin Wall with a local historian, and learn about its political, social, and cultural impact.

• Stroll Prague’s Old Town alongside a local guide.

• Explore the winding streets of medieval Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

2,299

$

PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED

MY OWN ROOM COST:

+ 799 $

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

See page 63 for dates.

DAYS 6–8 | ROUEN/PARIS Visit Rouen, enjoying free time to stroll its medieval streets. Continue to Paris and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the studio of renowned National Geographic photographer and explorer Reza.

Opt to visit the interiors of Notre Dame and Sainte-Chapelle, or explore the city on your own.

FROM

HIGHLIGHTS • See magnificent Mont-Saint-Michel rising from its rocky islet, and climb to the abbey that sits atop the fortress monastery.

• Go behind the scenes at the Paris studio of Reza, renowned National Geographic photographer and explorer.

• Delve into the history of World War II with a historian in Normandy, and then take a walk along the legendary Omaha Beach.

See website for further trip details.

I

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

2,299

$

PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED

MY OWN ROOM COST:

+ $1,039

MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

See page 63 for dates.

See website for further trip details.

I

57

M O R E J O U R N E YS AWA I T

EXPLORE BELIZE

ECUADOR: AMAZON, HOT SPRINGS, & VOLCANOES

10 DAYS | FROM $1,899

WHETHER RELAXING ON THE BEACH or immersing yourself in the local culture, refresh your spirit on a 10-day adventure in Belize. Explore some of best-preserved Mayan ruins anywhere, take part in a Garifuna drumming lesson, discover a monkey sanctuary and remote jungle villages, and swim in the luxuriously warm waters off Caye Caulker. Leave your to-do list at home, and slow down to the pace of this special place in the sun.

9 DAYS | FROM $1,699

DISCOVER BALI & JAVA

EXPLORE INDIA & NEPAL

15 DAYS | FROM $2,899

17 DAYS | FROM $3,599

SET LOOSE YOUR SPIRITUAL SIDE on a 15-day journey to the stunning beaches and jungles of Bali and Java. Ride through Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park by jeep at sunrise.

Visit the exquisite Bogor Botanical Gardens. Enjoy inner peace at ancient Hindu and Buddhist temples, and stroll the unforgettable beaches of Sanur. Inspired by Buddhist zen, find harmony in this incredible corner of the world.

58

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GET IN TOUCH WITH THE POWER OF THE PLANET on this nine-day adventure packed with many of Ecuador’s natural wonders. Hike through the greener-than-green Amazon jungle with a local naturalist guide at your side, slip into the celebrated (and restorative) hot springs of Papallacta, enjoy lunch with the residents of an Andean community, and spend a night at a historic hacienda.

DISCOVER NORTHERN INDIA’S FAMED GOLDEN TRIANGLE and get immersed in Nepalese culture on a 17-day journey.

Explore the Taj Mahal and encounter the iconic colors of Rajasthan. Spend a night at a Buddhist monastery, and meet with one of the brave women from SASANE, a program that trains former victims of trafficking to become paralegals.

From epic sights to intimate encounters, every moment packs a big punch.

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

I

EXPLORE ARGENTINA & BRAZIL

CANADIAN POLAR BEAR EXPERIENCE

9 DAYS | FROM $2,999

6 DAYS | FROM $7,199

TAKE IN NATURAL AND CULTURAL WONDERS during a nine-day introduction to the best of Argentina and Brazil.

Explore the sophisticated architecture and sizzling spirit of Buenos Aires one day, and discover the lush beauty and cool mist of Iguaçu Falls the next. While gliding effortlessly from samba to tango and from village life to the rainforest, soak up the rhythms of this diverse region.

IMAGINE WATCHING POLAR BEARS IN THE WILD alongside a naturalist expert from Polar Bears International, one of the world’s leading organizations dedicated to protecting these amazing animals. The opportunity is yours on this six-day adventure in the vast wilderness of the Canadian Arctic. Sit down to a picnic on the tundra, and opt to go dogsledding through the region’s breathtaking landscapes on a one-of-a-kind wildlife adventure.

EXPLORE ISRAEL & JORDAN 15 DAYS | FROM $4,199

STEP INTO THE ANCIENT WORLD OF THE MIDDLE EAST on a 15-day journey that combines the highlights of Israel and Jordan. Discover life in Jerusalem on a dual-perspective walking tour with Israeli and Palestinian guides, explore the Roman ruins of Jerash, ride through the desert on a 4x4, and venture into the awesome and ancient city of Petra. Connect with the past while glimpsing contemporary life in this incredible region.

I

SEE DETAILED ITINERARIES FOR THESE AND MORE INCREDIBLE DESTINATIONS AT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM

SEE PAGES 62–63 FOR DATES ALL PRICING IS PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED.

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

.

59

MORE WAYS TO TRAVEL WITH NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Our range of travel experiences is truly panoramic. In addition to National Geographic Journeys, we offer many different ways to see the world—from wildlife safaris, archaeology-focused expeditions, and active trips to expedition cruises and much more. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer, an avid hiker, or a parent looking for a way to make your family vacation unforgettable, you’ll find a wide array of opportunities to nourish your wanderlust. And no matter how you travel with us, you’ll delve into local traditions, learn about habitats, and meet fascinating people—exploring in the tradition of National Geographic. Learn more at natgeoexpeditions.com.

Land

Expedition cruise

Our land trips are designed to immerse you in fascinating places and draw out the uniqueness of each destination through enriching and authentic experiences. Led by a National Geographic expert, these trips celebrate the history, culture, and natural heritage of a destination.

Take to the sea aboard one of the eight ships of the National Geographic– Lindblad fleet, and explore wild places from the Galápagos to Antarctica with an expedition team of naturalists, historians, photographers, and more.

train

family

photography

river cruise

Glide through epic landscapes by classic train, experiencing the sense of nostalgia that comes with train travel. With a National Geographic expert on board, the places that you pass through take on a whole new depth and meaning.

Introduce your family to the magic of travel on trips designed for travelers of all ages. Our expedition leaders and local experts enrich your understanding of each incredible destination, and on many of our family trips, a Young Explorer leader facilitates fun learning activities for kids.

Improve your photography skills with the guidance of a National Geographic photographer while traveling through some of the world’s most photogenic destinations. These expeditions are designed to maximize photographic opportunities and capture the best light.

Ply the fabled rivers of Europe and Asia aboard spacious, world-class riverboats on all-inclusive voyages operated in partnership with Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours. A National Geographic expert accompanies each voyage and one of our photographers is aboard all European sailings.

active

p r i va t e j e t

student

p r i va t e

Explore by foot, by kayak, or even by dogsled on an active expedition. Led by dynamic adventure guides, these trips combine spectacular places, physical challenge, and cultural interaction.

Experience fascinating places as far-flung as Easter Island and Marrakech on one epic journey, traveling with a team of National Geographic experts in the comfort of a VIP-configured private jet.

Send your high school or middle school student on assignment with National Geographic to explore inspiring destinations in depth alongside our experts and trip leaders.

Travel independently—with all the benefits of traveling with National Geographic—on a private trip curated by us and geared for you and the traveling companions of your choice.

Explore with private guides and stay in top accommodations, including our Unique Lodges of the World.

60

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VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/JOURNEYS

I

N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C J O U R N E Y S TERMS AND CONDITIONS By booking or participating in a National Geographic Journey and any related products or services (a “Tour”), operated by G Adventures Inc. (“G Adventures” or the “Tour Operator”), you (“you”) agree to these Terms & Conditions (the “Terms”).

National Geographic: National Geographic Partners, LLC (for purposes of these Terms, collectively “NGP”) will provide educational enrichment as outlined in its catalog and on its website (nationalgeographicjourneys.com) and has licensed G Adventures to organize and administer National Geographic Journeys tours. The Tour Operator is solely responsible for arranging and providing all the services and accommodations offered to you in connection with the Tour.

Conditions of Carriage: If your Tour includes carriage by sea, the Conditions of Carriage available at www.gadventures.com/termsconditions/conditions-of-carriage/ also apply to your Tour, are expressly incorporated into these Terms and form part of your booking contract with the Tour Operator.

By booking a Tour you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to be bound by these Terms. If you make a booking on behalf of other participants, you guarantee that you have the authority to accept and do accept these Terms on behalf of the other participants in your party.

VALIDITY All dates, itineraries, and prices of Tours are subject to change at any time and the current price will be quoted and confirmed at the time of booking, subject to any surcharges that may be levied in accordance these Terms. You acknowledge that you are responsible for keeping up to date on the specific details of your Tour and any other products or services, including, but not limited to checking the Tour Operator’s website at least 72 hours prior to departure as minor changes may have been made after the time of booking.

DEPOSITS At the time of booking, a non-refundable deposit of USD $250 per person per Tour is due to the Tour Operator. If the booking is made 60 days or less prior to departure, full payment is due at the time of booking. The non-refundable deposit should be sent to the Tour Operator or authorized agent, as applicable.

When certain products or services offered by the Tour Operator are combined, you may be required to provide a higher deposit or make full payment at the time of booking. The Tour Operator will advise

you of any such requirements prior to confirmation of the applicable booking.

Lifetime Deposits: If you cancel your booking, and that cancellation is not a result of nonpayment or any other breach of these Terms, the deposit amount will be held as a “Lifetime Deposit” with the Tour Operator, subject to these Terms. Lifetime Deposits have no expiry and may be applied towards payment of a deposit on any other Tour offered by the Tour Operator. The Lifetime Deposit is transferable and may be transferred by you to another individual of your choosing by providing notice to the Tour Operator in writing. For the avoidance of doubt, only the deposit amount will form part of the Lifetime Deposit. The Lifetime Deposit has no cash value. Only one Lifetime Deposit may be applied per person per product booked. A Lifetime Deposit must be applied to a new Tour booking that is of equal or greater value to the cancelled Tour for which the Lifetime Deposit was originally received. A Lifetime Deposit may not be applied to the same or similar dates of travel.

MANDATORY INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS YOU MUST HAVE TRAVEL INSURANCE WITH A MINIMUM MEDICAL, EVACUATION AND REPATRIATION COVERAGE OF USD $200,000 covering all applicable dates of travel with the Tour Operator. This insurance must cover personal injury and emergency medical expenses. On the first day of each Tour, a representative of the Tour Operator will verify that you have sufficient insurance in place. You are strongly recommended to extend your coverage to include cancellation, curtailment, and all other expenses that may arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay, or inconvenience while traveling. You acknowledge that insurance coverage is not included in the cost of any Tour offered by the Tour Operator and you are required to obtain separate coverage at an additional cost. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have sufficient coverage and comply with the terms of the applicable insurance plans.

You are responsible for advising your insurer of the type of travel, destination(s), and activities included in your booking so that the insurer may provide appropriate coverage.

AGE REQUIREMENTS Anyone under the age of 18 on the date of first travel is considered to be a minor. Minors must always be accompanied by an adult. One adult may accompany up to two minors. Unless otherwise indicated in the Tour description or by the Tour Operator, the minimum age for minors travelling on any Tour is 12 years old.

All bookings with a minor are subject to review and approval by the Tour Operator. If the consent of a parent, guardian, or any other person is required by applicable law for any minor to travel, the accompanying adult is responsible for securing all consents, documentation, and ensuring that they and the minor(s) meet all legal requirements to travel and to enter into and depart from applicable countries and regions.

The Tour Operator will not be responsible for any fees, damages, or losses incurred as a result of any failure to secure necessary consents, permits, and approvals.

Each adult on a booking with a minor or minor(s) is jointly and severally responsible for the behavior, well-being, supervision, and monitoring of such minor(s), and jointly and severally accepts these Terms for and on behalf of any minor(s) on their booking, including all assumptions of risk and limitations of liability. The Tour Operator does not provide care services for minors and expressly disclaims any responsibility for chaperoning or controlling any minor(s).

CANCELLATION BY THE PARTICIPANT You may cancel your booking by notifying the Tour Operator. Cancellation fees, if any, will be determined with reference to the date on which notice of cancellation is received by the Tour Operator and are expressed as a percentage of the total price paid for the cancelled Tour, product, or service (excluding any insurance products).

Cancellation of a Tour: (a) Cancellation received 60 days or more before departure of first product or service in relevant booking: Lifetime Deposit will be held by the Tour Operator in accordance with these Terms, the remainder of the payments made to the Tour Operator in respect of the cancelled product will be refunded. (b) Cancellation received 59–30 days before departure of first product or service in relevant booking: Lifetime Deposit will be held by the Tour Operator in accordance with these Terms, an amount equal to 50% of the remainder of the payments made to the Tour Operator in respect of the cancelled Tour will be refunded. (c) Cancellation less than 30 days before departure of first product or service in relevant booking: Lifetime Deposit will be held by the Tour Operator in accordance with these Terms, and no further refund will be payable. In the event that certain products or services offered by the Tour Operator are combined, alternative cancellation terms may apply.

The Tour Operator will advise you of any such requirements prior to confirmation of the applicable booking.

Please visit our website for further information: nationalgeographicjourneys.com/terms

© 2018 National Geographic Partners, LLC. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC JOURNEYS and the Yellow Border Design are trademarks of the National Geographic Society, used under license. E Printed on Recycled paper.

I

CALL 1-888-732-2379 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/JOURNEYS

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61

CALENDAR

2019 DEPA RTU RE DAT E S

PAGE

# OF DAYS

2 0 1 8 D E PA R T U R E DAT E S

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA

10

12

NEW ZEALAND JOURNEY

11

11

22

26

16

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

11

22

11

1, 15

5, 26

DISCOVER SOUTHEAST ASIA

12

18

10, 24

14, 21

19

9

7, 28

18

1

6, 27

THAILAND JOURNEY

14

8

11, 18

1, 15

13

10

1, 15

12

9, 30

14, 28

EXPLORE SOUTHERN THAILAND

15

8

4, 18

22

20

17

22

19

16

7

4, 25

ICONIC THAILAND

15

15

11, 18

15

13

10

15

12

9, 30

28

18

THE HEART OF MYANMAR (BURMA)

16

12

12

15

5, 19

4, 11, 18

MAR.

APR.

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUG.

SEPT.

11

15

5, 26

OCT.

NOV.

DEC.

JAN.

FEB.

AU S T R A L I A & T H E PAC I F I C 4

3, 10, 17, 7, 14, 21 24, 31 7, 14, 21, 28

18, 25

3, 10, 17, 7, 14, 21 24

12, 26 2 12

9, 16, 23 6, 13, 20 13, 20, 27

3, 10, 17, 24

9, 16, 23 6, 13, 20

ASIA

EXPLORE VIETNAM BEST OF BORNEO

NEW

WONDERS OF BHUTAN

17

13

18

12

19

10

20 10

NEPAL: HIMALAYA HIGHLIGHTS

21

DISCOVER INDIA DISCOVER MONGOLIA

31 11, 25

15 4, 11, 25

ICONIC JAPAN

23

12

22

EXPLORE CHINA & TIBET

24 15

BEST OF CHINA

25 12

18

DISCOVER BALI & JAVA

59 15

11

EXPLORE INDIA & NEPAL

59 17 11, 18, 25

10, 24

12, 19

2, 16, 23

6, 20

3, 17

9, 16, 30

13, 27

10, 24

2, 9, 23

6, 20

3, 17

17, 24

7, 18

11, 17

13, 27

10, 17, 24

15, 29

13

3, 17

1, 15

12

9

14

10

8

5

3, 31

28

25

23

20

14, 28

19

16

21

25

4, 18, 25 2, 16, 23

22

13, 27

10

18

9, 16, 23, 9, 16, 23, 7, 14, 21 4, 11, 18 30 30

1, 20, 29 1, 22

7, 14, 28

22 14

NEW

8, 15, 29

4, 18, 25 2, 9, 23

17

10

12

4, 9, 16, 23

28

11

9

20

17

8, 22

14, 21

12

23

7

18

1, 8, 22

6, 13

8

13

24

1, 15

5

2, 16

7, 14

22

27

17

8, 29

19

16

28

1, 22

9, 23, 30 7, 14, 28

11, 25

9, 16, 23

27

6, 20

10

6, 13, 20, 10, 17, 24 27

28

11

16

27

2, 16, 23

13

25

3, 17, 24

AFRICA 26

12

29

13, 20, 27

27

6

21

5, 19, 26 2, 16, 23 7, 13, 27

TANZANIA SAFARI EXPERIENCE

28

7

10

7, 21

KENYA SAFARI EXPERIENCE

29

8

4, 11

15

SAFARI IN KENYA & TANZANIA

29

13

4

1, 15

RWANDA & UGANDA GORILLA DISCOVERY

30

9

7

WONDERS OF NAMIBIA

31

10

EXPLORE SOUTHERN AFRICA

32

12 10, 17, 28 7, 14, 25

EXPLORE KRUGER & VICTORIA FALLS

34

9

6, 13, 17, 3, 10, 17, 1, 5, 12, 20, 31 28 26, 29

BOTSWANA & ZIMBABWE SAFARI

35 10

9, 16, 30

WILDLIFE PARKS OF TANZANIA SOUTHERN TANZANIA SAFARI

NEW NEW

NEW

EXPLORE KRUGER NATIONAL PARK NATIONAL PARK

36

EXPLORE CAPE TOWN & KRUGER

36 10

CAPE TOWN, KRUGER & NAMIBIA

36 19

62

I

7

12

2, 6, 7, 16, 21, 28, 30

4, 11, 18, 24, 25

1, 7, 21

12

2

21

18

16

18

8

27

24

22

4, 5, 11, 12, 19, 26

1, 8, 9, 19, 23

5, 6, 8, 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 3, 10, 13, 19, 20, 14, 15, 22, 17, 29 24, 30 26, 27 28, 29

9, 23, 24, 1, 7, 14, 30 15, 21

4, 5, 11, 6, 7, 13, 9, 15, 16, 1, 15, 29, 18, 19, 14, 20, 21, 4, 18, 24 22, 23, 30 25, 26 27, 28 29, 30

5, 6, 12, 3, 10, 13, 13, 20 17, 24

6

17, 24, 30

1, 15

2, 7, 13, 9, 16, 22, 5, 18, 19 11, 29, 30 14, 20, 21, 4, 18, 24 23, 29, 28 30

5, 6, 13, 20

3, 13, 17

12

9, 23, 30

7, 9, 21, 28

4, 11, 18, 1, 8, 15, 27 22

5, 12, 26

9, 23

14

11, 25

23

2, 9, 23, 6, 13, 23, 26, 30 27, 30

6, 13, 17, 3, 10, 17, 1, 5, 12, 20, 31 28 26, 29 10, 17, 28, 31

9, 16, 22, 23, 30

17

2, 9, 16, 26, 30 13, 27 2, 9, 16, 26, 30

7, 14, 25, 2, 9, 23, 6, 13, 23, 28 26, 30 27, 30

6, 20

17

13, 27

10

1, 22, 29

1, 15, 29

26

24

2, 16, 30 6, 13, 20

4, 11, 14, 1, 4, 8, 5, 12, 15, 6, 10, 13, 1, 8, 15, 3, 7, 10, 21, 25, 11, 18, 22, 17, 19, 22, 20, 24, 19, 22, 24, 17, 24 29 29 27 28 26, 29

2, 7, 16, 21, 28, 30

3, 7, 14, 17, 24, 28, 31

1, 5, 10, 2, 7, 9, 19, 24, 12, 14, 16, 31 23, 28

4, 7, 11, 1, 4, 8, 11, 2, 9, 13, 4, 11, 18, 6, 10, 13, 14, 21, 15, 18, 16, 23, 22, 25, 20, 27 25 20, 25 27, 30 27, 29

4, 11, 25 1 , 15, 29

5, 12, 19, 3, 10, 24 26

7

5

13, 27

4, 6, 9, 11, 13, 20, 25

10, 17, 24

3, 7, 14, 4, 7, 9, 1, 4, 8, 2, 9, 13, 4, 11, 18, 6, 10, 13, 17, 24, 11, 14, 21, 11, 15, 18, 16, 23, 22, 25, 20, 27 28, 31 23, 25 20, 25 27, 30 27, 29

2, 7, 9, 1, 5, 10, 12, 14, 16, 19, 24, 31 23, 28

4, 11, 14, 1, 4, 8, 5, 8, 12, 6, 10, 13, 1, 8, 15, 3, 7, 10, 21, 25, 11, 18, 22, 15, 17, 22, 20, 24, 19, 22, 24, 17, 24 28 29 29 27 26, 29

2, 7, 16, 4, 6, 9, 21, 28, 11, 13, 20, 30 25

14, 28

11

8, 22

6, 20

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES: IF YOU’RE BOOKED, YOU’RE GOING

17

15, 24

7, 21, 28 4, 11, 25

I

PAGE

# OF DAYS

DISCOVER NAMIBIA & VICTORIA FALLS

37

12

DISCOVER KRUGER & NAMIBIA

37

16

2019 DEPA RTU RE DAT E S

2 0 1 8 D E PA R T U R E DAT E S

MAR.

APR.

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUG.

SEPT.

OCT.

NOV.

DEC.

JAN.

FEB.

14

11, 25

23

6, 20

17

1, 15, 29

26

24

2, 16, 30 6, 13, 20

17, 31

14

11, 25

9, 23

20

18, 27

10, 24, 31 7, 14, 28

13, 27

24

AFRICA (CONTINUED)

23, 30

14, 21

4, 18

8, 15, 22, 29

26

3, 17, 24

7, 21

4, 11, 18, 2, 16, 30 25

18

17, 31

14

11, 25

9, 23

20

18, 27

10, 24, 31 7, 14, 28

21

14, 28

11

8, 22

6, 20

17

15, 24

7, 21, 28 4, 11, 25

4, 25

8, 15

6, 27

10, 24

8, 23

11

9, 23

7, 27

4, 24

22, 30

THE GREAT SOUTHERN AFRICA SAFARI

37

21

28

SOUTHERN AFRICA SAFARI EXPERIENCE

37 10

KRUGER, VICTORIA FALLS & NAMIBIA

37

SOUTHERN AFRICA HIGHLIGHTS

37

MOROCCO JOURNEY

38

9

3, 31

7, 14, 21, 5, 19, 26 28

MOROCCO: SAHARA & BEYOND

39 15

4, 11

8, 15, 22, 29

13, 27

17

25

14

5, 12, 26

3, 9

1

9, 23 15

12

27

2, 9, 16, 7, 21, 28 23

2, 16, 30 6, 13, 20 5, 19

5 , 19

2, 9, 16, 23

SOUTH AMERICA 8

1, 7, 14, 9, 15, 23, 4, 12, 26 29 29

EXPLORE MACHU PICCHU

40

MACHU PICCHU & THE AMAZON

42 10

2, 6, 9, 1, 18, 22, 5, 12, 19, 6, 13, 20, 1, 8, 12, 2, 16, 23, 7, 10, 24 16, 20, 29 26 24, 27 19, 26 30 27, 30

4, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25

4, 11, 18, 22

16, 20, 30

6, 13, 20

10

ICONIC PERU

43 14

2, 6, 9, 1, 18, 22, 5, 12, 19, 6, 13, 20, 1, 8, 12, 2, 16, 23, 7, 10, 24 16, 20, 29 26 24, 27 19, 26 30 27, 30

4, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25

4, 11, 18, 22

16, 20, 30

6, 13, 20

10

INCA EXPLORER

44 15

25

7, 14, 21

4, 18

9, 23

13, 27

10, 17

DISCOVER PATAGONIA

45 14

4, 11

14, 21, 28

11, 18, 25

2, 9, 16, 23

COLOMBIA JOURNEY

46 12

10

ECUADOR: AMAZON, HOT SPRINGS, & VOLCANOES

58

9

EXPLORE ARGENTINA & BRAZIL

58

9

NATURAL HIGHLIGHTS OF COSTA RICA

47

9

EXPLORE COSTA RICA

48 14 11, 18, 25 8, 22, 29

ALASKA JOURNEY

50 10

DISCOVER THE CANADIAN ROCKIES

51

DISCOVER AMERICAN CANYONLANDS

52

8

13

3, 18

15

26

16

7

NATURAL HIGHLIGHTS OF CALIFORNIA

52

9

20

10, 25

22

12

2, 23

14

HISTORIC AMERICAN CITIES BY RAIL

53

8

30

14, 28

11, 25

8

6

MEXICO'S DAY OF THE DEAD IN OAXACA

53

7

EXPLORE BELIZE

58 10

15

20

24

28

26

CANADIAN POLAR BEAR EXPERIENCE

59

6

EXPLORE ICELAND

54

7

ICONIC ITALY

55 14

DISCOVER MOORISH SPAIN

56

EXPLORE CENTRAL EUROPE

57

PARIS & NORMANDY HIGHLIGHTS

57

8

9, 23

1, 15, 22, 29

6, 13, 20, 27

5 6 25

22

7, 21

5

3, 10, 17

1, 15, 22, 29

12, 26

2, 30

30

25

29

27

24

9, 23

22

20

13, 20, 10, 17, 24 27

15

21

19

2, 16

14

26

9

14

16

4

8

6, 13

3, 24

15, 22

12

9, 30

14

13

17

6, 20

3, 17, 24

NORTH AMERICA 3, 10, 17, 25

6, 20

9 3, 10, 24 1, 8, 29 2

14

4, 11, 18, 2, 16, 30 25

25

4*, 11*, 16, 2*, 9*, 14, 6*, 11, 13*, 3*, 10*, 18*, 23, 16*, 21, 18, 25, 15, 22 30 28, 30* 27*

12

28 2, 30

27

18

9, 30

21, 28

20, 24

EUROPE 6

3, 10, 24 8, 15, 22 5, 12, 19

9

7

18

9

14, 28

25

15, 22

6, 13

3

20

10, 17

1, 15

12, 26

2, 9, 23

7, 14

11

2, 16

14, 28

11, 25

1, 15

6

13

10

22

19

30

28

20, 27

3, 17, 24

8, 22

5, 19

2, 30

14, 28

12, 19, 26

16

8

29

13, 27

9

21

5, 19

1, 22

MIDDLE EAST EXPLORE ISRAEL & JORDAN

59 15

4

7, 14, 21 4, 11, 25

9, 16

*These departures follow the itinerary described in this catalog, but in the reverse direction.

I

VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1- 800-281-2354

.

63

1 1 4 5 1 7 T H S T R E E T N .W. , W A S H I N G T O N , D.C . 2 0 0 3 6

N E W T R I P S F O R 2 0 1 8–2 0 1 9 V I S I T N ATG E O J O U R N E Y S . C O M O R C A L L 1 - 8 0 0 -2 8 1 -2 3 5 4

S O U T H E R N TA N Z A N I A S A FA R I PAGE 27

MONGOLIA PAGE 49 DISCOVER MONGOLIA PAGE 22

BEST OF BORNEO PAGE 18

BOTSWANA AND ZIMBABWE SAFARI EXPERIENCE PAGE 35

W I L D L I F E PA R K S O F TA N Z A N I A PAGE 26

8 9 5 5 - 1 8F