2016-2017 National Geographic Journeys

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INTRODUCING A NEW WAY TO TRAVEL THE WORLD –

An inspiring collection of 70 unique small-group trips

2016–2017

NORTH AMERICA

| pgs 12–17 Natural Highlights of Costa Rica | 12 Explore Costa Rica | 13 Explore Belize | 14 Guatemala Journey | 15 Explore Guatemala & Belize | 15 Semana Santa: Easter in Guatemala | 16 Mexico’s Day of the Dead in Oaxaca | 16 Discover the Canadian Rockies | 17

Ecuador: Amazon, Hot Springs, & Volcanoes | 24 Colombia Journey | 25 Explore Argentina & Brazil | 26 Explore Chile & Argentina | 27 Discover Brazil, Argentina, & Chile | 27 Brazil Journey | 28 Discover Patagonia | 29

EUROPE

| pgs 30–35 Iconic Italy | 30 Burgundy by River Barge | 31 SOUTH AMERICA | pgs 18–29 Discover the Balkans | 32 Explore Machu Picchu | 18 Explore Iceland | 32 Iconic Peru | 20 Explore Central Europe | 33 Machu Picchu & the Amazon | 21 Discover Moorish Spain | 33 Inca Explorer | 22 Discover Turkey | 34 Explore Ecuador & Peru | 23 Explore Turkey | 35 Cover: Travelers take in an aerial view on a hot air balloon ride.

Above: Traditional boats at rest on the white-sand beaches of the Andaman Sea, Thailand

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AFRICA

| pgs 36–47 Explore Southern Africa | 36 Explore Kruger National Park | 38 Explore Cape Town & Kruger | 38 Explore Kruger & Victoria Falls | 39 Kruger, Victoria Falls, & Botswana | 39 Botswana Safari Experience | 40 Iconic Southern Africa | 41 Tanzania Safari Experience | 42 Kenya Safari Experience | 43 Safari in Kenya & Tanzania | 43 Rwanda & Uganda Gorilla Discovery | 44 Mysteries of Ethiopia | 45 Morocco Journey | 46 Morocco: Sahara & Beyond | 47

Dear Traveler, For years, people have told us that they’d love to travel with National Geographic—if only there were a more affordable way to do it. We searched long and hard for a partner who could deliver the kind of meaningful travel experiences that people expect from National Geographic— at more accessible prices. The partner we have chosen, G Adventures, is an international leader in small-group travel that got into this business for the same reasons we did: to inspire discovery and understanding of our planet and the diverse cultures and environments it holds.

Together, we are thrilled to present National Geographic Journeys: a collection of 70 trips led by knowledgeable local guides that feature plenty of options and accommodations selected for convenience and value. While keeping our costs low, we’ve created experiences that get right to the heart of why travel matters. You’ll spend time immersed in other cultures, cooking meals in family homes in India; learning ancient crafts with artisans in Peru; riding tuk-tuks in Thailand; and getting a glimpse into the lives of dancers, farmers, monks, or nomads. You’ll visit people and projects supported by the National Geographic Society or G Adventures—like efforts to preserve Africa’s big cats or sea turtles in Costa Rica.

MIDDLE EAST

| pgs 48–49 Israel and Beyond | 48 Explore Jordan | 49 Explore Israel & Jordan | 49

ASIA

| pgs 50–67 North India Highlights | 50 Mysteries of India | 52 Discover India | 53 South India: Explore Kerala | 54 Iconic India | 54

The Heart of Myanmar (Burma) | 62 Explore Vietnam | 63 Thailand Journey | 64 Explore Southern Thailand | 65 Iconic Thailand | 65 Discover Southeast Asia | 66 Explore Bali & Java | 67

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

| pgs 68–69

Cruise the Ganges | 55 Explore North India & the Ganges | 55 Explore India & Nepal | 56

Explore Australia | 68 New Zealand Journey | 69 Explore Australia & New Zealand | 69

Nepal: Himalaya Highlights | 57 Wonders of Bhutan | 58 Discover Sri Lanka | 59 Best of China | 60 Explore China & Tibet | 61

OTHER

| pgs 70–74 More Ways to Travel With National Geographic | 70 Terms and Conditions | 72 Calendar | 74

Throughout each itinerary, there’s free time built in to explore as you wish, whether that means checking out the local music scene, opting for a hot air balloon ride or a snorkeling excursion, or just taking a walk. Your local guide is on hand to share insights, and you’ll receive specially curated travel tips and articles from National Geographic before you go to help you make the most of your trip.

We are excited to bring National Geographic Journeys into our suite of travel experiences that also include small-ship voyages, active adventures, photography workshops, and so much more. In the pages that follow, you’ll find opportunities to explore Botswana’s Okavango Delta in a houseboat, celebrate the Day of the Dead festivities in Oaxaca, or venture into Jordan’s ancient city of Petra. The question is, where will you go first?

I hope you’ll join us!

Sincerely,

Lynn Cutter Executive Vice President National Geographic Travel

When you travel on a National Geographic Journey, you help National Geographic’s mission of increasing global understanding through conservation, research, education, and exploration.

INTRODUCING A NEW WAY TO EXPERIENCE THE WORLD

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WE INVITE YOU TO GO DEEPER INTO FASCINATING CULTURES AND HABITATS AROUND THE WORLD ON A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC JOURNEY. These trips combine hands-on exploration, meaningful interactions with people and places, free time and choices—with the structure and security of small-group travel.

CONNECT WITH THE WORLD Usually limited to 16 or fewer travelers, National Geographic Journeys are designed to forge human connections with people we meet all around the world. Spend the night at a family home in India’s Kerala backwaters, listen to traditional Gnaoua musicians in a Moroccan village, or join tango dancers for a lesson at a Buenos Aires dance studio.

TOP LOCAL GUIDES Each trip is led by a local Chief Experience Officer, or CEO, who knows the destination intimately and whose main purpose is to make your trip extraordinary. Your CEO will introduce you to celebrated sites and local people and offer insider access to events. And they know all the best foodie spots too—from renowned restaurants to local favorites.

Meet a few of them on page 9.

GET INSPIRED You’ll enjoy access to people and projects supported by National Geographic or G Adventures, whether it’s helping out with reforestation efforts at a National Geographic– supported research center in Costa Rica or visiting a village school in South Africa sponsored by G Adventures.

EXPLORE ON YOUR OWN Along the way, we’ve built in free time and plenty of choices so that you can explore as you wish. Opt to ride a zip line through the jungles of Thailand, visit a museum, or spend an afternoon wandering through a historic city center. Before your trip, you’ll receive articles and tips from National Geographic to help you make the most of your travels.

GREAT VALUE With a knowledgeable local guide at the helm, a unique itinerary, and plenty of fascinating experts to meet in the field, these trips are a feast for your mind and your senses—at an incredible value.

The world is waiting… where will your journey take you?

Shwedagon Pagoda, Yangon, Myanmar (Burma)

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THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC JOURNEYS DIFFERENCE Get closer than you ever imagined. 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 every National Geographic Journey.

IT’S THE PLACES YOU GO Follow the Inca Trail on a four-day trek with a great reward: the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Venture into the national parks of Rwanda and Uganda and track chimpanzees and mountain gorillas with a naturalist guide.

Paddle a canoe along India’s Kerala backwaters and spend the night in a family home.

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

IT’S THE EXPERIENCES YOU HAVE Flip tortillas with a family in their home in Costa Rica— and then head out on a variety of adventures amid the rain forests that surround Arenal Volcano.

Take a walk with a local expert through Omaere Ethnobotanical Park in Ecuador and learn how native plants are used by indigenous peoples.

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

Spend an evening with a storytelling troupe near Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, and enjoy a traditional meal together.

Travelers observe tree-climbing lions in the grasslands of Tanzania.

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IT’S THE PERSPECTIVES YOU GET Observe lions and cheetahs on a game drive with a National Geographic Big Cats Initiative grantee in South Africa.

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

Meet scientists at a research aquarium established by a National Geographic grantee in Cairns, Australia, and hear about the latest studies on the Great Barrier Reef.

In Kathmandu, find out how National Geographic grantee Chhing Lhomi is working to preserve traditional weaving practices in rural Nepal.

IT’S THE PEOPLE YOU MEET Sit down with a Maori elder in New Zealand to talk about his culture, beliefs, the challenges his community faces, and whatever else comes up.

Roll up your sleeves for a cooking lesson at a family-run agriturismo in Amalfi, Italy—and enjoy the meal together in the garden.

Spend time in an Afro-Brazilian community in Parati, Brazil, and discover vibrant traditions, from music to cuisine.

Join Buddhist monks in Thailand for a prayer ceremony and a chance to talk about daily life.

IT’S THE IMPACT YOU HAVE When you travel on a National Geographic Journey, you help National Geographic’s mission of increasing global understanding through conservation, research, education, and exploration, and you support G Adventures’ community development initiatives worldwide.

Clockwise from top: Balinese woman carrying flowers near Ubud; CEO Akayi Htet with travelers at a temple in Myanmar (Burma); Maori man with traditional tattoos; cheetah; Nepali weavers

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GET TO KNOW SOME OF OUR CEOS Your Chief Experience Officer—or CEO—is your greatest resource on your trip, sharing insights on area traditions, connecting with interesting people wherever you go, and even offering recommendations for restaurants or things to do in your free time. Meet a few of them below.

Lap Nguyen, Vietnam My name in Vietnamese means “independent”—I was born one year after Vietnam got independence in 1975.

I was born in Nam Dinh province, at the end of the Red River Delta, not far from Hanoi. My parents were farmers so my childhood memories were rice, chicken, pigs, and water buffalo—and the image of countryside. The Red River Delta is where water puppets, folk music, and pho come from.

Hobbies: Writing, badminton, ping pong, tai chi Favorite things to do on tour: Walking tours that feature street food and cooking classes

“ Wherever you go, go with all your heart.”

—CONFUCIUS

Tips for travelers to Vietnam: Try pho (rice noodle soup), nem (spring roll), and bun cha; walk through Hanoi’s Old Quarter and crawl into the Cu Chi Tunnel to experience how Vietnamese people lived and fought during the war.

Renzo Muñoz, Peru

Hola from Arequipa! I got to be in this business since I had a chance to see what my older brother was doing and how much he was enjoying traveling with

guests and showing them

our country. So I started my studies in tourism at the university to be a tour guide.

Hobbies: Basketball (even though I'm a short person) Favorite things to do on tour: Visiting the masterpiece of the Inca culture—Machu Picchu—and imagining how it was a few hundred years ago!

Tips for travelers to Peru: Open your hearts and minds…and try a bit of guinea pig! Most of the time travelers leave Peru surprised about the delicious food here.

Akayi Htet, Myanmar (Burma) I am from the city of Yangon.

My English teacher became a tour guide and I was proud of him. So I took the test and I passed and now I am here as a CEO! I really like meeting different people from different countries. And I really want everyone in the world to see what it’s like in Burma. There is still a very small amount of tourism here, so it is very different than other Asian countries.

Hobbies: Reading, traveling, and music Favorite things to do on tour: See pagodas—we have many! Shwedagon, that’s the landmark of Myanmar. You can’t imagine how beautiful it is, coated with gold leaf. You can see not only the pagoda, but also people and their ways of life there. Also, the sunrise balloon ride over the pagodas of Bagan.

Tips for travelers to Myanmar: Be open and be relaxed.

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WE MAKE IT EASY

100%

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES If you’re booked, you’re going!

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An unforgettable experience is at your fingertips! You can book your National

Geographic Journey, 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.)

100% GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

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

NO EXTRA FEE FOR SOLO TRAVELERS

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 on each itinerary.

ACCOMMODATIONS

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, en suite bathroom, and running hot water (a luxury deep in the jungle). Check out the views (and the architecture) at a mountain hotel in Bhutan, or spend a night cruising New Zealand’s Doubtful Sound.

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE

You can do whatever you wish during your free time on tour, 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 wildlife photography cruise on Botswana’s Chobe River, for instance, or a zip-line adventure in the jungles of Thailand. 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.

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.

LIFELONG EXPLORER

Once you’ve traveled on three National Geographic Journeys, Expeditions, and/or Adventures, you’ll qualify for enrollment in our Lifelong Explorer program and receive a number of benefits, including discounts on all future trips. (See our website for more details.)

Above left: Travelers at Iguaçu Falls. Below, left to right: Our lodge in Peru’s rain forest; traditional weaver; Pinsaqui Hacienda in Otavalo, Ecuador; camel caravan in Morocco’s Sahara

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JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oV isit the Monteverde Institute,

a research center supported by National Geographic, and assist in cloud forest conservation. o T our a G Adventures–supported coffee co-op whose proceeds benefit the local community. ook up traditional Costa Rican o C dishes in the home of a local family, and then sit down to dinner with them.

NATURAL HIGHLIGHTS OF COSTA RICA

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE COSTA RICA EXTREME BUNDLE

Go canyoneering near Arenal, zip-lining in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, and kayaking in Manuel Antonio National Park.

9 DAYS | SAN JOSÉ TO SAN JOSÉ ITINERARY DAY 1 SAN JOSÉ Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included. Those arriving early may wish to explore downtown San José, discovering its lively plazas and colonial architecture.

DAYS 8–9 SAN JOSÉ Return to San José and enjoy an optional farewell dinner in town. Depart at any time the next day. (2B)

DAYS 6–7 MANUEL ANTONIO Continue to the Pacific coast and take a guided walk in Manuel Antonio National Park, famed for its stunning beaches and abundant wildlife, including monkeys, armadillos, sloths, and some 350 species of birds. Take in the laid-back atmosphere of the area with options to surf, go horseback riding, take a catamaran cruise, or visit other nearby beaches. (2B)

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1,499

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 15

+ 799

2016 DATES Apr 9–Apr 17 • Apr 23–May 1

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 home and learn the art of tortilla-making from the family. Then sit down with them 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 rafting, nature hikes (pictured above), canopy walks (pictured right), and more. (2B, 1L, 1D) DAYS 4–5 MONTEVERDE 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 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 the various projects examining insects and birds, as well as tropical reforestation and conservation. (2B)

FROM

Jun 11–19 • Jul 9–17 • Aug 6–14 • Sept 10–18 Oct 8–16 • Nov 12–20 • Dec 17–25 • Dec 18–26 Dec 31–Jan 8, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 7–15 • Jan 14–22

Jan 28–Feb 5 • Feb 4–12 • Feb 11–19 Feb 18–26 • Feb 25–Mar 5 • Mar 4–12 Mar 11–19 • Mar 26–Apr 3 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

Optional excursions in La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range

hotels (8 nights) La Fortuna/ Arenal Mont ntever eveerde

C O S TA R IC A

San José

Manuel Antonio NP

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

MEALS INCLUDED 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner.

Allow an additional $325–425 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private van

NORTH AMERICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oM eet researchers at the Sea Turtle

Conservancy, co-founded by a National Geographic grantee. o P articipate in reforestation efforts at the Monteverde Institute, a research center supported by National Geographic. xplore the canals of Tortuguero o E National Park on a boat tour, spotting caimans, howler monkeys, sloths, and more.

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE

EXPLORE COSTA RICA

COSTA RICA EXTREME BUNDLE

Like to plan ahead? Book your optional Costa Rica activities ahead of time.

14 DAYS | SAN JOSÉ TO SAN JOSÉ ITINERARY DAY 1 SAN JOSÉ Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2–3 TORTUGUERO Travel to Tortuguero National Park (pictured above) and enjoy guided boat trips and wildlife viewing 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 excursion after dark. 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. (2B, 2L, 2D) 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 tortilla-making 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. (3B, 1L, 1D) 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 here for optional activities,

including a visit to a butterfly garden, a zip line canopy tour, and horseback riding. (3B) DAYS 10–12 MANUEL ANTONIO 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. (3B) DAYS 13–14 SAN JOSÉ Return to San José and opt to join a farewell dinner in town. Depart any time the following day. (2B)

FROM

2,099

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 15

+ 999

2016 DATES Apr 3–16 • Apr 10–23

Apr 24–May 7 • May 8–21 • May 22–Jun 4 Jun 12–25 • Jun 26–Jul 9 • Jul 3–16 • Jul 10–23 Jul 31–Aug 13 • Aug 14–27 • Sept 11–24 Nov 6–19 • Nov 27–Dec 10 • Dec 4–17 Dec 11–24 • Dec 14–27 • Dec 18–31 2017 DATES Jan 1–14 • Jan 6–19 • Jan 8–21

Jan 15–28 • Jan 22–Feb 4 • Jan 27–Feb 9 Jan 29–Feb 11 • Feb 5–18 • Feb 12–25 Feb 19–Mar 4 • Feb 26–Mar 11 • Mar 5–18 Mar 12–25 • Mar 19–Apr 1 • Mar 26–Apr 8 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

Tortuguero NP La Fortuna/ Arenal

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

The optional after-dark boating excursion in Tortuguero National Park and optional excursions in La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio are at an additional cost.

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

Monteverde

San José C O S TA R IC A

Manuel Antonio NP

MEALS INCLUDED 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners. Allow an additional $440–575 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private van, shuttle van, boat

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

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JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o E xplore the Mayan ruins at Lamanai with a local guide.

o L earn the age-old art of hand-

TRIP TITLE EXPLORE BELIZE 10 DAYS | BELIZE CITY TO CAYE CAULKER ITINERARY

crafting pottery at a women’s cooperative in San Ignacio. oU nwind on Caye Caulker, and take an optional sailing and snorkeling excursion to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the Belize Barrier Reef. o T ry your hand at traditional Garifuna drumming.

FROM

1,699

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 849

DAY 1 BELIZE CITY/BURRELL BOOM Arrive at any time in Belize City and transfer to our hotel in the village of Burrell Boom.

exploring the Mayan cave of Actun Tunichil Muknal or the ruins of Xunantunich, a visit to a butterfly garden, or tubing and canoeing through the natural limestone caves of the region. (3B, 1L)

DAY 2 BURRELL BOOM Enjoy a full day at Lamanai (pictured below), a renowned Mayan ceremonial site consisting of hundreds of structures surrounded by lush jungle. Then return to the lodge to relax at the patio bar and pool, visit the spa, or walk the grounds enjoying the local wildlife. (1B, 1L)

DAYS 6–7 HOPKINS Travel to the coastal town of Hopkins with a visit to Marie Sharp’s hot sauce factory en route. Discover the fascinating Garifuna culture and take a drumming lesson.

Then opt to visit nearby Tobacco Caye and do some snorkeling, or explore the area by bicycle.

(2B)

DAYS 3–5 SAN IGNACIO Drive to the rustic town of San Ignacio, with a stop at a women’s cooperative to learn about the centuries-old tradition of hand-forming pottery. Learn how to make tortillas and enjoy a lunch of local dishes before continuing on to our hotel in the rain forest. Then indulge in two days of free time to explore the surrounding area. Options include a full-day excursion to Guatemala to visit Tikal,

DAYS 8–9 CAYE CAULKER Catch the ferry to Caye Caulker, a true tropical paradise. Opt to join a full-day sailing-and-snorkeling trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the Belize Barrier Reef, take a manatee tour, enjoy sunset sailing, or just indulge in some valuable relaxation time.

On the final evening, enjoy a fun farewell dinner at a popular local restaurant. (2B, 1D)

hotels (9 nights)

DAY 10 CAYE CAULKER Depart at any time. (1B)

TRANSPORTATION Private van/minibus, ferry

2016 DATES Apr 22–May 1 • May 13–22

Jun 10–19 • Jul 29–Aug 7 • Aug 5–14 Aug 12–21 • Sept 9–18 • Oct 7–16 • Nov 5–14 Nov 10–19 • Nov 25–Dec 4 • Dec 30–Jan 8, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 6–15 • Jan 13–22 • Feb 3–12

Feb 17–26 • Mar 17–26

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional excursions to Tikal, Actun Tunichil Muknal, and Xunantunich, and optional activities in San Ignacio and Caye Caulker, are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range

MEALS INCLUDED 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $320–420 for meals not included.

Burrell Boom

Caye Caulker Belize City

San Ignacio Hopkins BEL IZ E

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

NORTH AMERICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oV enture into the jungle on a

guided tour of the Mayan city of Tikal. oC ruise Lake Atitlán, and visit the lakeside village of San Juan la Laguna for a Mayan lunch and a tree-planting ceremony. o J oin a local chef to prepare traditional Guatemalan dishes on the shores of Lake Petén Itzá. o L earn to make chocolate the Mayan way at the ChocoMuseo, and then sample your tasty creation.

GUATEMALA JOURNEY

FROM

8 DAYS | ANTIGUA TO FLORES ITINERARY DAY 1 GUATEMALA CITY/ANTIGUA Arrive at the Guatemala City airport and transfer to our hotel in Antigua Guatemala (pictured above).

DAY 2 ANTIGUA Explore Antigua on a guided cultural walking tour with a local historian, including the museums at Paseo de los Museos.

Opt to go on a volcano trek, or take an excursion to a macadamia nut plantation or coffee farm. (1B)

museum, learning about the ancient Mayan chocolate-making process from bean to bar and enjoying plenty of tastings. (1B) DAYS 6–7 FLORES/TIKAL Fly to Flores in the Petén region of Guatemala. Enjoy a cooking lesson, and have lunch with a local chef on the shores of Lake Petén Itzá. The next day, take a guided tour of the famous Mayan ruins of Tikal.

(2B, 1L) DAY 8 FLORES Depart at any time. (1B)

DAYS 3–4 LAKE ATITLÁN Travel by van and boat to the village of Jaibalito on Lake Atitlán.

Visit lakeside communities by boat, including San Juan la Laguna, a G Adventures–supported village. Take an orientation walk, visit various co-ops, have a traditional Mayan lunch, and attend a Mayan tree-planting ceremony. Then, with free time, opt for outdoor pursuits like zip lining, fishing, windsurfing, hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking. (2B, 1L)

1,299

$

Tikal

Flores G U AT E M A LA

Lake Atitlán Guatemala City

Antigua Guatemala

DAY 5 ANTIGUA Return to Antigua and participate in a hands-on workshop at a chocolate

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 15

+ 549

2016 DATES Jul 1–8 • Jul 22–29 • Jul 29–Aug 5

Aug 5–12 • Sept 2–9 • Sept 30–Oct 7 Oct 29–Nov 5 • Nov 3–10 • Nov 18–25 Dec 23–30 • Dec 30–Jan 6, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 6–13 • Jan 27–Feb 3

Feb 10–17 • Mar 10–17

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional excursions in Antigua and Lake Atitlán are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels that reflect the local character (7 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches. Allow and additional $270–355 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private van, boat, plane

EXPLORE GUATEMALA & BELIZE

FROM

2,999

17 DAYS | ANTIGUA TO CAYE CAULKER

$

GUATEMALA AND BELIZE SHARE A JUNGLE-SHROUDED BORDER, but the expe-

Airfare to/from is not included.

riences offered by each are truly unique. Explore both countries for a broader look at Central America— from the colonial architecture and Mayan metropolises of Guatemala to the vibrant Garifuna culture and coral reefs of Belize. Visit our website for a detailed itinerary and more 2017 dates.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 15

+ $1,399

2016 DATES Jul 1–17 • Jul 22–Aug 7 • Jul 29–Aug 14 • Aug 5–21 • Sept 2–18 • Sept 30–Oct 16 • Oct 29–Nov 14 • Nov 3–19 • Nov 18–Dec 4

Dec 23–Jan 8, 2017 • Dec 30–Jan 15, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 6–22 • Jan 27–Feb 12 • Feb 10–26 • Mar 10–26

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

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SEMANA SANTA:

EASTER IN GUATEMALA

MEXICO’S DAY OF THE DEAD IN OAXACA

10 DAYS | ANTIGUA TO ANTIGUA

7 DAYS | OAXACA TO OAXACA ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST UNIQUE FESTIVALS,

EXPERIENCE ONE OF CENTRAL AMERICA’S most vibrant celebrations—Semana Santa, the Holy Week leading up to Easter—from our base in Antigua Guatemala. Line the parade route decorated in flower petals, explore Chichicastenango market, and meet Mayan villagers amidst the volcanic scenery of Lake Atitlán. Be part of an exceptional time in an exceptional place.

the Day of the Dead is both a celebration of 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 “Dia de los Muertos.”

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

DAYS 1–4 ANTIGUA/LAKE ATITLÁN/JAIBALITO Arrive in Antigua (pictured above) and travel to Lake Atitlán. Board a boat to the small town of Jaibalito. Explore indigenous lakeside villages, including the G Adventures–supported San Juan La Laguna, where we’ll take a guided walk, have lunch, and attend a Mayan tree-planting ceremony. Delve into the famed Chichicastenango market with a local guide, and visit nearby pilgrimage sites, including Santo Tomás church, the cemetery, and Cerro Turcaj.

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.

Take short trips to 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 5–10 ANTIGUA Return to Antigua and take a tour of the city and some of its museums with a local guide. Over the next five days, we’ll take part in the many parades and ceremonies of Semana Santa. You’ll also have the option to go on a volcano trek, take a salsa lesson, tour a coffee farm, or enjoy a relaxing massage.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o H elp create a carpet of flowers to

decorate the Semana Santa parade route.

o E xplore the Chichicastenango Mayan market with a guide.

o T ake part in a tree-planting

ceremony in the village of San Juan La Laguna.

16

DAYS 4–7 OAXACA As the Day of the Dead festivities begin, see parades in Oaxaca and Etla Valley. Enjoy plenty of free time for independent discovery, and opt to visit the nearby ruins of Monte Albán or Mitla.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

FROM

1,599

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM $ OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 15

+ 849

See website for further trip details and dates.

oC elebrate the Day of the Dead

at street parades, and gather at cemeteries for twilight vigils.

o S ample the gastronomic delights

of Oaxaca on a food tour through Mexico’s culinary capital.

o V enture out to nearby villages to visit artisans and see traditional Oaxacan handicrafts.

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

FROM

1,199

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM $ OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 15

+ 649

See page 74 for dates.

See website for further trip details.

NORTH AMERICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o E mbark 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. oD rive the scenic Icefields Parkway, and walk atop the Lower Athabasca Glacier. o J oin a historian on a walking tour of Banff.

DISCOVER THE CANADIAN ROCKIES 12 DAYS | VANCOUVER TO CALGARY ITINERARY DAY 1 VANCOUVER Arrive at any time.

DAYS 2–3 VICTORIA Enjoy a stop at Stanley Park and Gastown before boarding a scenic ferry to Victoria, where we’ll take an orientation walk with our CEO. 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. (2B) DAYS 4–5 WHISTLER Catch the ferry back to the mainland and drive the scenic Sea-toSky Highway to the village of Whistler, host of the 2010 Winter Olympics. Enjoy a free day to explore the village or go hiking. Or embark on an optional gondola ride or zip-line adventure.

(2B) DAY 6 BLUE RIVER Travel into the Cariboo Mountains, with stops at emerald-colored Lower Joffre Lake and Marble Canyon before arriving at the stunning Blue River community. (1B, 1D) 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. 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, or opt to take a cruise or go white-water rafting. Later, soak in the hot springs at Miette. (2B) DAY 9 ICEFIELDS PARKWAY/LAKE LOUISE Travel the Icefields Parkway—considered one of the most scenic drives in the world—to the astoundingly blue Peyto Lake (pictured above).

Embark on a walk with a local guide atop the Lower Athabasca Glacier. Continue to picturesque Lake Louise. (1B) DAY 10 BANFF Spend the morning at Lake Louise with an option to hike to Lake Agnes Tea House. Continue to Banff (pictured below) and step back in time with an expert from the Whyte Museum, exploring this historic town. (1B) DAY 11 CALGARY Drive to Calgary for a short tour. Opt to visit museums, cowboy bars, or Canada Olympic Park. (1B) DAY 12 CALGARY Depart at any time. (1B)

FROM

3,699

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 12

+ 1,199

2016 DATES Jun 20–Jul 1 • Jul 2–13* • Jul 18–29

Jul 30–Aug 10* • Aug 15–26 • Aug 27–Sept 7* Sept 12–23 • Sept 24–Oct 5*

* These departures follow the Discover the Canadian Rockies-Westbound itinerary in the reverse order.

Visit our website for more trip details and 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, 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.

TRANSPORTATION Private touring van, hiking,

ferry, boat

B R IT IS H

C O L U M B IA

A L B E RTA

CA NA DA

Jasper NP

Blue River Whistler

Lake Louise

Vancouver

Icefields Parkway Banff NP

Calgary

Victoria

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

17

EXPLORE MACHU PICCHU 8 DAYS | LIMA TO LIMA SET OUT ON AN EIGHT-DAY CULTURAL and historical adventure to Machu Picchu— one of the most awe-inspiring places in the world. Take a scenic train ride to the famous site and enjoy free time to explore its hidden corners. Roam the Sacred Valley, exploring Inca sites and taking in incredible views of the Andes. Traveling with knowledgeable guides who know this region best, we’ll leave no stone unturned.

ITINERARY

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. (1B)

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.

Visit the Ccaccaccollo community and the G Adventures–sponsored Women’s Weaving Co-op, and then explore the Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray ruins (pictured top left on opposite page). Stop in at the G Adventures–supported Sacred Valley Community Restaurant in the indigenous village of Huchuy Qosqo. Also visit a small community that specializes in ceramics and meet local artists for a demonstration. Explore the preInca salt pans of Las Salineras. Enjoy a traditional pachamanca-style meal. (2B, 1L, 1D)

18

DAY 5 MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO Enjoy 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.

(1B) DAY 6 CUSCO Explore historic Cusco, with options to visit museums or go whitewater rafting, horseback riding, or mountain biking.

This evening, glimpse the night sky through the telescopes of the Cusco planetarium. (1B) DAYS 7–8 LIMA Fly back to Lima for our final evening. Depart at any time the next day. (2B)

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

PER U

Lima

Machu Picchu

Sacred Valley Cusco

SOUTH AMERICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o Venture to Inca sites like Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Moray with a local guide. o Visit the village of Huchuy Qosqo for a traditional lunch at a community owned and operated restaurant supported by G Adventures.

o Meet artisans in a village known for adobe- and ceramic-making, and try your hand at the crafts.

o Embark on a spectacular train ride to Machu Picchu, and explore the Inca citadel with a guide.

“Machu Picchu is one of the few places in the world where reality often surpasses a person’s imagination.”

— National Geographic Explorer Johan Reinhard, “50 Places of a Lifetime,” National Geographic Traveler

FROM

1,899

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ $649

2016 DATES Apr 3–10 • Apr 9–16 • Apr 10–17

Apr 17–24 • Apr 24–May 1 • May 1–8 • May 8–15 May 15–22 • May 21–28 • May 22–29 May 29–Jun 5 • Jun 5–12 • Jun 12–19 • Jun 18–25 Jun 19–26 • Jul 2–9 • Jul 3–10 • Jul 9–16 Jul 17–24 • Jul 24–31 • Jul 31–Aug 7 • Aug 7–14 Aug 14–21 • Aug 21–28 • Aug 27–Sept 3 Aug 28–Sept 4 • Sept 3–10 • Sept 11–18 • Sept 18–25 Sept 24–Oct 1 • Sept 25–Oct 2 • Oct 1–8 Oct 8–15 • Oct 9–16 • Oct 16–23 • Oct 23–30 Oct 29–Nov 5 • Nov 6–13 • Nov 13–20 Nov 20–27 • Nov 26–Dec 3 • Dec 4–11 Dec 11–18 • Dec 18–25 • Dec 24–31 2017 DATES Jan 1–8 • Jan 7–14 • Jan 15–22

Jan 22–29 • Jan 28–Feb 4 • Jan 29–Feb 5 Feb 5–12 • Feb 11–18 • Feb 12–19 • Feb 18–25 Feb 25–Mar 4 • Mar 5–12 • Mar 12–19 Mar 18–25 • Mar 25–Apr 1 • Mar 26–Apr 2

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions in Cusco are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

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

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

TRANSPORTATION

Minibus/van, train, plane

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE PERU CULINARY BUNDLE

Love the food? Take part in cooking classes in Lima and Cusco.

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

19

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oH ike the Inca Trail or take the train to Machu Picchu, and visit the ruins at Pisac and Ollantaytambo with a guide.

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

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

ICONIC PERU

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE

14 DAYS | LIMA TO LIMA

Don’t miss out! Prebook Peruvian cooking classes in Lima and Cusco.

ITINERARY 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 then go for a caiman-spotting cruise after dinner.

(2B, 2L, 2D) 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. (1B) DAY 5 SACRED VALLEY/OLLANTAYTAMBO Explore the Sacred Valley of the Inca with a local guide. Discover the ruins at Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Visit the Women’s Weaving Co-op and enjoy a lunch at the Sacred Valley Community Restaurant—both G Adventures for Good projects. (1B, 1L) DAYS 6–9 INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU/ CUSCO All roads lead to Machu Picchu, either by foot or rail. Choose to undertake the fourday 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. (4B, 3L, 3D) DAY 10 CUSCO Take advantage of a free day in Cusco to explore its museums and ruins, or try whitewater rafting or rock climbing. (1B) DAYS 11–12 PUNO/LAKE TITICACA Take in

20

PERU CULINARY BUNDLE

scenic views while traveling through the high Altiplano region to the town of Puno. The next day, enjoy a guided boat tour of Lake Titicaca (pictured above), visiting the floating Islands of Uros and Taquile. Also visit the Luquina community and sit down for a traditional lunch in a family’s home. (2B, 1L) DAYS 13–14 LIMA Transfer to Juliaca and fly back to Lima to enjoy your last night in Peru.

Depart the next day at any time. (2B) 2016 DATES Apr 7–20 • Apr 10–23 Apr 14–27 • Apr 21–May 4 • Apr 24–May 7 Apr 28–May 11 • May 1–14 • May 5–18 May 8–21 • May 12–25 • May 15–28 May 19–Jun 1 • May 26–Jun 8 • May 29–Jun 11 Jun 2–15 • Jun 5–18 • Jun 9–22 • Jun 16–29 Jun 19–Jul 2 • Jun 23–Jul 6 • Jun 26–Jul 9 Jun 30–Jul 13 • Jul 3–16 • Jul 7–20 • Jul 14–27 Jul 17–30 • Jul 21–Aug 3 • Jul 28–Aug 10 Jul 31–Aug 13 • Aug 4–17 • Aug 7–20 Aug 11–24 • Aug 14–27 • Aug 18–31 Aug 21–Sept 3 • Aug 25–Sept 7 • Aug 28–Sept 10 Sept 1–14 • Sept 4–17 • Sept 8–21 • Sept 11–24 Sept 15–28 • Sept 18–Oct 1 • Sept 22–Oct 5 Sept 25–Oct 8 • Sept 29–Oct 12 • Oct 2–15 Oct 6–19 • Oct 9–22 • Oct 20–Nov 2 Oct 23–Nov 5 • Oct 27–Nov 9 • Nov 3–16 Nov 6–19 • Nov 10–23 • Nov 13–26 Nov 20–Dec 3 • Nov 24–Dec 7 • Dec 1–14 Dec 4–17 • Dec 11–24 • Dec 15–28 • Dec 18–31 Dec 22–Jan 4, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 5–18 • Jan 12–25 • Jan 15–28

Jan 22–Feb 4 • Feb 23–Mar 8 • Mar 2–15 Mar 5–18 • Mar 12–25 • Mar 19–Apr 1 Mar 26–Apr 8 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

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

FROM

3,499

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 699

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional excursions in Cusco 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 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private van, plane, train, boat, canoe, hiking. This itinerary includes high altitude hikes, and travelers should be physically fit.

PERU

Lima

Sacred Valley Tambopata National Reserve

Machu Picchu

Cusco Puno

SOUTH AMERICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o S pend four days hiking the Inca

Trail to Machu Picchu, or take the train and enjoy extra time in Cusco.

o S pot Amazonian wildlife with expert naturalists.

oV isit two G Adventures–sponsored

MACHU PICCHU & THE AMAZON

projects: the Women’s Weaving Co-op and the Sacred Valley Community Restaurant.

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE PERU CULINARY BUNDLE

Enjoy Peruvian cuisine? Take part in cooking classes in Lima and Cusco.

10 DAYS | LIMA TO CUSCO ITINERARY

FROM

2,599

$

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. Take advantage of free time to relax or swim, and then go for a caiman-spotting cruise after dinner. (2B, 2L, 2D) 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. (1B) DAY 5 SACRED VALLEY/OLLANTAYTAMBO Enjoy a full day exploring the Sacred Valley with a local guide. Discover the ruins at Písac and Ollantaytambo, and visit the G Adventures–supported Women’s Weaving Co-op. Enjoy lunch at Sacred Valley Community Restaurant, another G Adventures for Good project, located in the indigenous village of Huchuy Qosqo. (1B, 1L) DAYS 6–9 INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU/ CUSCO All roads lead to Machu Picchu, either by foot or rail. Choose to undertake the fourday 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. (4B, 3L, 3D) DAY 10 CUSCO Depart at any time. (1B)

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 499

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

2016 DATES Apr 7–16 • Apr 10–19

Apr 14–23 • Apr 21–30 • Apr 24–May 3 Apr 28–May 7 • May 1–10 • May 5–14 • May 8–17 May 12–21 • May 15–24 • May 19–28 May 26–Jun 4 • May 29–Jun 7 • Jun 2–11 Jun 5–14 • Jun 9–18 • Jun 16–25 • Jun 19–28 Jun 23–Jul 2 • Jun 26–Jul 5 • Jun 30–Jul 9 Jul 3–12 • Jul 7–16 • Jul 14–23 • Jul 17–26 Jul 21–30 • Jul 28–Aug 6 • Jul 31–Aug 9 Aug 4–13 • Aug 7–16 • Aug 11–20 • Aug 14–23 Aug 18–27 • Aug 21–30 • Aug 25–Sept 3 Aug 28–Sept 6 • Sept 1–10 • Sept 4–13 • Sept 8–17 Sept 11–20 • Sept 15–24 • Sept 18–27 • Sept 22–Oct 1 • Sept 25–Oct 4 • Sept 29–Oct 8 Oct 2–11 • Oct 6–15 • Oct 9–18 • Oct 20–29 Oct 23–Nov 1 • Oct 27–Nov 5 • Nov 3–12 Nov 6–15 • Nov 10–19 • Nov 13–22 • Nov 20–29 Nov 24–Dec 3 • Dec 1–10 • Dec 4–13 Dec 11–20 • Dec 15–24 • Dec 18–27 • Dec 22–31

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels (4 nights), G Lodge Amazon (2 nights), Inca Trail camping or Cusco hotel (3 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners. Allow an additional $170–225 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private van, plane, train, boat, canoe, hiking. This itinerary includes high altitutde hikes, and travelers should be physically fit.

Sacred Valley

PERU

Lima

Tambopata National Reserve

Machu Picchu

Cusco

2017 DATES Jan 5–14 • Jan 12–21 • Jan 15–24

Jan 22–31 • Jan 29–Feb 7 • Feb 9–18 Feb 12–21 • Feb 16–25 • Feb 23–Mar 4 Mar 2–11 • Mar 5–14 • Mar 12–21 • Mar 19–28 Mar 23–Apr 1 • Mar 26–Apr 4 • Mar 30–Apr 8 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

21

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o T our pre-Inca and Inca sites with

expert guides—from the Nasca Lines to Machu Picchu. o S ample pisco at an Ica Valley winery, and help a chef prepare local dishes in Arequipa. ruise around the Ballestas Islands, o C spotting penguins, sea lions, and more.

FROM

3,199

$

INCA EXPLORER 15 DAYS | LIMA TO LIMA ITINERARY

indigenous village of Huchuy Qosqo. (1B, 1L)

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

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. (1B)

DAY 2 PARACAS Travel to Paracas National Park. Relax in this gorgeous seaside spot and sample a pisco sour. (1B) DAY 3 BALLESTAS ISLANDS/NASCA Take a boat to the Ballestas Islands to view sea lion colonies and penguins. Visit the Tacama Winery to learn about Peruvian wine and pisco production.

This afternoon, continue southward to mysterious Nasca, with a stop at the Huacachina sand dunes. (1B) DAY 4 NASCA Tour a pre-Inca cemetery in the desert at Nasca to get up close with 1,500-year-old mummies and pottery. Then visit a traditional pottery studio. Later, sit down for a pachamanca-style dinner. Opt to take a flight over the unusual Nasca Lines (pictured above).

(1B, 1D) DAYS 5–6 AREQUIPA Make the full-day drive down the coastal desert to colonial Arequipa.

The next day, take a city tour, including a visit to the Santa Catalina convent. Then enjoy a cooking class led by one of the chefs at a traditional picantería restaurant. (2B, 2L) DAY 7 CUSCO Fly to Cusco and explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. (1B) DAY 8 SACRED VALLEY Enjoy a full day exploring the Sacred Valley of the Inca with a local guide. Discover the ruins at Pisac and Ollantaytambo and visit the G Adventures–supported Women’s Weaving Co-op. Enjoy lunch at Sacred Valley Community Restaurant, another G Adventures–supported project, located in the

22

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. (1B) DAY 11 CUSCO Enjoy free time in historical Cusco, with options to visit museums and ruins or go white water rafting, horseback riding, or mountain biking. This evening, look to the stars through the telescopes of the local Cusco planetarium. (1B) DAYS 12–13 PUNO/LAKE TITICACA Take in scenic views while traveling through the high Altiplano region to the town of Puno. The next day, enjoy 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 home there. (2B, 1L)

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 899

2016 DATES Apr 3–17 • Apr 17–May 1

Apr 24–May 8 • May 1–15 • May 15–29 May 22–Jun 5 • May 29–Jun 12 • Jun 5–19 Jun 12–26 • Jun 19–Jul 3 • Jul 3–17 • Jul 17–31 Jul 24–Aug 7 • Jul 31–Aug 14 • Aug 14–28 Aug 28–Sept 11 • Sept 4–18 • Sept 11–25 Sept 18–Oct 2 • Sept 25–Oct 9 • Oct 9–23 Oct 16–30 • Oct 23–Nov 6 • Nov 6–20 Nov 20–Dec 4 • Dec 11–25 • Dec 25–Jan 8, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 1–15 • Jan 15–29 • Jan 29–Feb 12

Feb 12–26 • Feb 19–Mar 5 • Mar 11–25 Mar 19–Apr 2 • Mar 26–Apr 9 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The following optional activities are at an additional cost: flight over the Nasca Lines, Aguas Calientes hot springs visit, excursions in Cusco, and museum visit in Lima.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable mid-range

hotels (14 nights)

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

TRANSPORTATION Private van, plane, train, boat

DAY 14 LIMA Fly to Lima for our final night.

Opt to visit a museum or enjoy free time to explore. (1B)

PERU

DAY 15 LIMA Depart at any time. (1B) ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE PERU CULINARY BUNDLE

Don’t miss out on additional Peruvian cooking classes in Lima and Cusco.

FLIGHT OVER THE NASCA LINES

The best view is from above! Prebook your Nasca flight.

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

Lima

Machu Picchu

Paracas/ Ballestas Islands Nasca

Arequipa

Sacred Valley Cusco Puno Lake Titicaca BOLIVIA

SOUTH AMERICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oC raft traditional ceramics in

the Sacred Valley, and visit Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu, and more. oD ine by candlelight in the Amazon. o W alk through Omaere Ethnobotanical Park and learn how Ecuador’s indigenous peoples use native plants in their daily lives.

EXPLORE ECUADOR & PERU 16 DAYS | QUITO TO LIMA ITINERARY DAY 1 QUITO Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 OTAVALO Drive to the highlands with a stop at the community of San Clemente for lunch. Continue to the indigenous town of Otavalo and explore its celebrated market.

Spend the night at a historical hacienda. (1B, 1L) DAY 3 PAPALLACTA Visit the studio of a renowned artisan to learn about local weaving traditions. Continue to the Papallacta Hot Springs Resort for on-site hot springs, optional spa treatments, and hiking excursions. Enjoy plenty of free time to soak, relax, and enjoy the mountain views. (1B) DAYS 4–5 BAÑOS Take one last dip in the hot springs before continuing along the Avenue of the Volcanoes to Baños. On the way, visit the Omaere Ethnobotanical Park to learn how Ecuador’s indigenous cultures have found medicinal, culinary, and spiritual uses for native plant species. The next day is free: opt to go hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking; or visit the hot springs. (2B) DAYS 6–7 AMAZON RAIN FOREST Early this morning, begin the drive to Coca, gateway to the Amazon. Continue by motorized canoe to our comfortable lodge and explore the Amazon rain forest with a local guide. Activities include walks, a canopy tower visit, wildlife viewing, and canoeing. In the evening, enjoy dinner and drinks by candlelight, listening to the sounds of our living surroundings before retiring to your cabana. (2B, 2L, 2D)

FROM

3,699

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION:

+ 1,249

GROUP SIZE: Max 16

2016 DATES Jul 1–16 • Aug 26–Sept 10

DAY 8 QUITO Travel by boat back to Coca and catch a flight to Quito. (1B) DAY 9 QUITO/LIMA Catch a flight to Peru and transfer to the hotel in Lima. (1B) DAYS 10–11 SACRED VALLEY Board an early flight to Cusco; then continue to the Sacred Valley to spend two days exploring with a local guide. Visit the Ccaccaccollo community and the G Adventures–sponsored Women’s Weaving Co-op (pictured above); then explore the Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Moray ruins. Visit the G Adventures–supported Sacred Valley Community Restaurant in the village of Huchuy Qosqo. Also visit a small community that specializes in ceramic- and adobe-making and meet local artists for a demonstration. Visit the preInca salt pans of Las Salineras. Enjoy a traditional pachamanca-style meal. (2B, 1L, 1D)

Sept 23–Oct 8 • Oct 21–Nov 5 • Nov 18–Dec 3 Dec 16–31 • Dec 30–Jan 14, 2017 2017 DATES Feb 10–25 • Mar 10–25

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Spa treatments at Papallacta Hot Springs Resort and optional excursions in Baños and Cusco are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels (11 nights), historic hacienda (1 night), jungle lodge (2 nights), hot springs resort (1 night) MEALS INCLUDED 15 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners. Allow an additional $460–600 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private van/bus, boat, plane,

train

DAY 12 AGUAS CALIENTES Catch an early transfer to Ollantaytambo station and board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes. Visit the market here if you wish. (1B) DAY 13 MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO Enjoy a guided tour of the Machu Picchu ruins. Then explore on your own or hike to the Inca Bridge.

Later, return to Cusco by train. (1B) DAY 14 CUSCO Explore historic Cusco, with options to visit museums or go whitewater rafting, horseback riding, or mountain biking.

This evening, glimpse the night sky through the telescopes of the Cusco planetarium. (1B) DAYS 15–16 LIMA Fly back to Lima for our final evening. Depart at any time the next day. (2B)

Otavalo

Coca/Amazon Jungle

ECUADO R

Quito Baños

Coca Papallacta

PERU

Lima

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

Machu Sacred Picchu Valley Cusco

23

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o E xplore Ecuador’s Amazon rain forest—on foot and by boat— alongside a local guide.

o L earn about traditional weaving

during a visit to an artisan’s studio.

o D rive the spectacular Avenue of the Volcanoes, lined by some of Ecuador’s highest peaks.

ECUADOR: AMAZON, $1,699 HOT SPRINGS, & VOLCANOES FROM

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION:

9 DAYS | QUITO TO QUITO ITINERARY DAY 1 QUITO Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 OTAVALO Drive to the highlands with a stop at the community of San Clemente for lunch. Continue to the indigenous town of Otavalo (pictured below) and explore its celebrated market. Spend the night at a historic hacienda. (1B, 1L) DAY 3 PAPALLACTA Visit the studio of a renowned artisan to learn about the local art of weaving. Continue to the Papallacta Hot Springs Resort for on-site hot springs, optional spa treatments, and hiking excursions. Enjoy plenty of free time to soak, relax, and enjoy the mountain views. (1B) DAYS 4–5 BAÑOS Take one last dip in the hot springs before continuing along the Avenue of the Volcanoes to Baños (pictured above). On

+ 599

GROUP SIZE: Max 16

2016 DATES Apr 8–16 • May 6–14 • Jun 3–11

the way, visit the Omaere Ethnobotanical Park to learn how Ecuador’s indigenous cultures have found medicinal, culinary, and spiritual uses for native plant species. The next day is free: opt to go hiking, horseback riding, or mountain biking; or visit the hot springs. (2B) DAYS 6–7 AMAZON RAIN FOREST Early this morning, begin the drive to Coca, gateway to the Amazon. Continue by motorized canoe to our comfortable lodge and explore the Amazon rain forest with a local guide. Activities include walks, a canopy tower visit, wildlife viewing, and canoeing. In the evening, enjoy dinner and drinks by candlelight, listening to the sounds of our living surroundings before retiring to your cabana. (2B, 2L, 2D)

Jul 1–9 • Jul 29–Aug 6 • Aug 26–Sept 3 Sept 23–Oct 1 • Oct 21–29 • Nov 18–26 Dec 14–22 • Dec 16–24 • Dec 30–Jan 7, 2017 2017 DATES Feb 10–18 • Mar 10–18

Mar 28–Apr 5

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Spa treatments at Papallacta Hot Springs Resort and optional excursions in Baños are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels (4 nights), historic hacienda (1 night), jungle lodge (2 nights), hot springs resort (1 night)

DAY 8 QUITO Travel by boat back to Coca and catch a flight to Quito. (1B)

MEALS INCLUDED 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners. Allow an additional $250–325 for meals not included.

DAY 9 QUITO Depart at any time. (1B)

TRANSPORTATION Private van, boat, plane

Otavalo

Quito

Papallacta

Baños

24

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

Coca/Amazon Jungle Coca

ECUADO R

SOUTH AMERICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oD elve into Medellín on a guided

walk through a recently revitalized community.

o I n coastal Cartagena, discover

the scenic inspiration for author Gabriel García Márquez, and learn to dance salsa.

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

COLOMBIA JOURNEY 12 DAYS | BOGOTÁ TO BOGOTÁ ITINERARY 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. (2B, 2L, 2D) 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. (2B) DAYS 6–7 TAYRONA NATIONAL PARK AREA Catch a morning flight to Santa Marta and continue to our beach lodge near Tayrona National

Park (pictured below) on the Caribbean coast.

Enjoy fresh seafood and some unforgettable 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.

(2B, 1L, 2D) DAYS 8–10 CARTAGENA Drive to tropical 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. (3B) 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. (1B)

FROM

3,099

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 15

+ 1,099

2016 DATES Apr 10–21 • May 15–26 • Jun 19–30

Jul 10–21 • Aug 14–25 • Sept 11–22 • Oct 16–27 Nov 13–24 • Dec 18–29 2017 DATES Jan 8–19 • Feb 12–23

Feb 18–Mar 1 • Mar 12–23

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional visits to the Colombia National Museum and the Gold Museum in Bogotá 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 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Bus, van, jeep, plane

DAY 12 BOGOTÁ Depart at any time. (1B)

Tayrona NP Cartagena

Medellín Armenia

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

COL OM BIA

Bogotá

25

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oW itness Iguaçu Falls from both the Brazilian and Argentine sides, and opt to cruise among the mists of this breathtaking natural wonder.

o T ake a guided tour of Buenos Aires

and practice tango at a local dance studio.

o S pend time with an Afro-Brazilian community outside of Parati, and opt to cruise to nearby islands.

o E xplore Rio de Janeiro from our

EXPLORE TRIP TITLE ARGENTINA & BRAZIL

base on the famous Copacabana Beach.

8 DAYS | BUENOS AIRES TO RIO DE JANEIRO

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE IGUAÇU FALLS BOAT RIDE

Get up close to Iguaçu Falls in a motorboat.

ITINERARY DAY 1 BUENOS AIRES Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 BUENOS AIRES Enjoy a city tour of the “Paris of South America.” Visit the city’s highlights, including the Plaza de Mayo (home to Eva Perón’s famous balcony), La Boca (pictured below left), and La Recoleta Cemetery.

This evening, head out to San Telmo, the oldest barrio in the city, for a light dinner in a cafe and a lesson from local dancers at a studio. 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. (1B, 1D)

BR AZIL

PARA GU AY

Iguaçu Falls

Rio de Janeiro Parati S˜ ao Paulo

2,599

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 999

2016 DATES Apr 23–30 • May 18–25

Buenos Aires ARGEN TIN A

Jun 25–Jul 2 • Jul 23–30 • Sept 17–24 • Oct 1–8 Oct 15–22 • Nov 26–Dec 3 • Dec 10–17 2017 DATES Jan 3–10 • Jan 14–21 • Jan 28–Feb 4

Feb 11–18 • Mar 4–11 • Mar 25–Apr 1

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional excursions in Iguaçu Falls, Parati, and Rio de Janeiro are at an additional cost.

DAYS 3–4 IGUAÇU FALLS Fly to Iguaçu Falls (pictured above) for two days of exploration from both the Argentine and Brazilian sides.

Learn about the region’s flora and fauna with a local biologist. Opt to ride a boat to the base of the falls or visit a nearby bird park. (2B)

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels that reflect the local character (7 nights)

DAYS 5–6 PARATI Fly to São Paulo and continue by van to Parati, where you can opt to visit a cachaça distillery or take a boat excursion to nearby islands and beaches (pictured below right). The next day, enjoy a visit to a nearby Afro-Brazilian community for a unique cultural experience and traditional meal. (2B, 1D)

MEALS INCLUDED 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners. Allow an additional $390–510 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private van, plane, bus

DAY 7 RIO DE JANEIRO Carry on by private van to Rio de Janeiro for free time to explore the city from our hotel in Copacabana. Opt to take a city tour or see a samba show. (1B) DAY 8 RIO DE JANEIRO Depart at any time.

(1B)

26

FROM

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

SOUTH AMERICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o S ample vintages at a winery in

Chile’s scenic Maipo Valley, and learn about local wines from a certified enologist.

o S kim turquoise waters framed by snowcapped peaks on a cruise in Chile’s Lake District.

oH elp prepare a lunch of Chilean

specialties at a family home in the charming lakeside town of Puerto Varas. o E njoy optional dinner with a tango performance in Buenos Aires.

EXPLORE CHILE & ARGENTINA

FROM

8 DAYS | SANTIAGO TO BUENOS AIRES ITINERARY DAY 1 SANTIAGO Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 SANTIAGO Visit a winery outside Santiago, and learn about the wine-making process from a certified wine expert. (1B) DAYS 3–4 PUERTO VARAS Fly southward and transfer to scenic Puerto Varas in the stunning Chilean Lake District. Enjoy views of Osorno Volcano while exploring the Angelmó fish market and dining on traditional dishes with a local family. The next day, opt to take an excursion to Chiloé Island. (2B, 1L) DAYS 5–6 BARILOCHE Travel by bus and ferry to San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina. View Petrohué Falls, then board the Cruce de Lagos for what is considered one of the world’s most scenic ferry cruises. The next day, enjoy free time to explore this stunning region. Opt to hike, stroll the town, or take a boat excursion to the charming village of Puerto Blest. (2B)

2,399

$

DAY 7 BUENOS AIRES Fly to Buenos Aires (pictured above). Opt to attend a tango dinner show, take a guided tour, or enjoy free time to roam the neighborhoods and museums of this unforgettable city. (1B) DAY 8 BUENOS AIRES Depart at any time.

(1B)

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 899

2016 DATES Apr 16–23 • Jul 16–23 • Aug 17–24

Sept 10–17 • Sept 24–Oct 1 • Oct 8–15 Oct 29–Nov 5 • Nov 19–26 • Dec 3–10 Dec 27–Jan 3, 2017

2017 DATES Jan 7–14 • Jan 21–28 • Feb 4–11

Feb 25–Mar 4 • Mar 18–25

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

A R G E N T IN A CHI L E

Santiago

Buenos Aires

San Carlos de Bariloche (Bariloche) Puerto Varas

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional Chiloé Island and Puerto Blest boat rides and optional excursions in Buenos Aires are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels that reflect the local character (7 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch. Allow an additional $350–455 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private van, plane, bus, ferry

DISCOVER BRAZIL, ARGENTINA, & CHILE

15 DAYS | SANTIAGO TO RIO DE JANEIRO

THE SOUTHERN REACHES OF SOUTH AMERICA are home to vibrant cities and spectacular natural wonders, and you can experience the highlights in one incredible trip. Taste wine outside Santiago, enjoy optional tango in Buenos Aires, and stroll along Rio’s Copacabana Beach. See the stunning Chilean Lake District, and feel the spray of the mighty Iguaçu Falls. Visit our website for a detailed itinerary and more 2017 dates.

FROM

4,799

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ $1,899

2016 DATES Apr 16–30 • Jul 16–30 • Sept 10–24 • Sept 24–Oct 8 • Oct 8–22 • Nov 19–Dec 3 • Dec 3–17 • Dec 27–Jan 10, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 7–21 • Jan 21–Feb 4 • Feb 4–18 • Feb 25–Mar 11 • Mar 18–Apr 1

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

27

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o E xperience thundering Iguaçu Falls and the surrounding rain forests with a local biologist.

o T ake a gastronomic tour of São

Paulo, a Brazilian culinary capital.

o E xplore iconic Rio de Janeiro, and dine with members of an AfroBrazilian community in nearby Parati.

BRAZIL JOURNEY 9 DAYS | IGUAÇU FALLS TO RIO DE JANEIRO

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE IGUAÇU FALLS BOAT RIDE

Experience Iguaçu Falls up close on an exciting boat ride.

FROM

ITINERARY DAY 1 IGUAÇU FALLS Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2–3 IGUAÇU FALLS Explore the Brazilian side of the falls (pictured below right) for the best panoramic views, and enjoy a talk given by a local biologist. The next day, explore the Argentine side of the falls, and opt to take a boat tour to see them from their base. (2B) DAY 4 SÃO PAULO Fly to São Paulo and discover its gastronomy and architecture with a local guide. Visit some of its greatest highlights, including the Monument to the Flags, the cathedral, and Oscar Niemeyer’s Ibirapuera Auditorium. Along the way, sample local foods

and enjoy lunch at the Mercado Municipal.

(1B, 1L) DAYS 5–6 PARATI Travel by private vehicle to Parati and visit a nearby Afro-Brazilian community for a unique cultural experience and traditional meal. The next day, enjoy a boat cruise to nearby islands and go on an optional tour of a cachaça distillery. (2B, 2L) DAYS 7–8 RIO DE JANEIRO Travel to Rio (pictured above) and enjoy two days at leisure in this vibrant city. Opt to visit Christ the Redeemer (pictured below left) and Sugarloaf Mountain, saving some energy to experience the nightlife.

(2B) DAY 9 RIO DE JANEIRO Depart at any time.

(1B)

2,699

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 1,099

2016 DATES Jun 25–Jul 3 • Jul 23–31

Sept 24–Oct 2 • Oct 22–30 • Nov 19–27 Dec 10–18 2017 DATES Jan 14–22 • Feb 11–19 • Mar 4–12

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional excursions in Iguaçu Falls, Parati, and Rio de Janeiro are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range

hotels (8 nights)

MEALS INCLUDED 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches.

Allow an additional $450–585 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private van, boat, plane

BRAZIL

S˜ ao Paulo

Iguaçu Falls

28

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

Parati

Rio de Janeiro

SOUTH AMERICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o E xplore the spectacular lakes,

peaks, and waterfalls of Torres del Paine National Park.

oH ear from an expert on the Perito Moreno Glacier, then witness calving in this advancing ice mass.

iscover the massive penguin o D colonies on Martillo Island.

FROM

DISCOVER PATAGONIA 14 DAYS | BUENOS AIRES TO BUENOS AIRES ITINERARY DAY 1 BUENOS AIRES Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2–3 BARILOCHE Catch a flight to northern Patagonia. Enjoy 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. Enjoy the next day free to explore this incredible region by foot, or opt to take a boat excursion to visit Puerto Blest. (2B) DAYS 4–5 PUERTO VARAS Travel by bus and ferry to Puerto Varas in the stunning Chilean Lake District. Enjoy the sights from the Cruce de Lagos, considered one of the most scenic ferry cruises in the world. The next day, opt to take a daytime excursion to picturesque Chiloé Island. (2B) DAYS 6–7 TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK Catch a flight to Punta Arenas and then transfer to Torres del Paine National Park (pictured right). The next day, take a full-day trip into the park alongside a guide. Marvel at pristine lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls in this vast and stunning region. (2B, 1L, 2D) DAYS 8–9 EL CALAFATE Enjoy the gorgeous drive to El Calafate. That evening, attend a talk by a local expert on the Perito Moreno Glacier (pictured above). The following day, travel into Los Glaciares National Park to view the absolutely massive glacier. Opt to travel by boat to its base. (2B) DAYS 10–11 USHUAIA Fly to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. The next day, introduce yourself to 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 a lighthouse at the “end of the world.” (2B) DAYS 12–13 BUENOS AIRES Fly back to Buenos Aires and enjoy some free time for exploring 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 at a studio. 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, enjoy 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. (2B, 1D)

4,799

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION:

+ 1,699

GROUP SIZE: Max 16

2016 DATES Oct 30–Nov 12 • Nov 13–26

Nov 27–Dec 10 • Dec 11–24 • Dec 18–31 2017 DATES Jan 15–28 • Feb 5–18

Feb 19–Mar 4 • Mar 5–18

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional boat excursions from Chiloé Island, Puerto Blest, and Perito Moreno Glacier 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 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Bus/van, plane, boat, hiking

DAY 14 BUENOS AIRES Depart at any time.

(1B)

Buenos Aires CHI LE

Puerto Varas

San Carlos de Bariloche (Bariloche) ARGENTI NA

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

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

29

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oD elve into the colorful coastal

towns of Cinque Terre, and do the “Walk of the Gods” in Amalfi.

oW alk amid the ruins of Pompeii

alongside an expert archaeologist.

ip limoncello at a seaside orchard o S in Sorrento.

FROM

3,899

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION:

ICONIC ITALY

2016 DATES May 14–27 • May 28–Jun 10

Jun 18–Jul 1 • Jul 16–29 • Aug 27–Sept 9 Sept 3–16 • Sept 17–30 • Sept 24–Oct 7 Oct 1–14

14 DAYS | VENICE TO ROME ITINERARY DAY 1 VENICE Arrive at any time.

DAY 2 VENICE Take an orientation walk through the spectacular lanes and piazzas of Venice. (1B) DAY 3 CINQUE TERRE Head to Cinque Terre for an overnight stay in a charming village perched on the rocky coast. Take a boat ride on the crystal-clear Ligurian Sea. (1B)

+ 1,899

GROUP SIZE: Max 16

next day, hike the famous “Walk of the Gods,” following ancient trails linking isolated farms, villages, churches, and monasteries. (2B, 1L) DAYS 12–13 ROME Travel to Rome and take an orientation walk with the CEO. Enjoy a free day to explore this ancient city. Opt to visit the Colosseum (pictured above) and Roman Forum or the Vatican. Or just wander the streets, breaking at a café for some gelato. (2B) DAY 14 ROME Depart at any time. (1B)

DAYS 4–6 FLORENCE Travel to Florence and take an orientation walk with our CEO through its lively streets. Then enjoy two free days to explore the city, with optional excursions including the Duomo (pictured below), the Uffizi, and the Ponte Vecchio—or opt to take an excursion to Pisa. (3B)

Visit our website for 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional excursions in Florence and those to Pisa, Capri, and Ischia, as well as visits to the National Archaeological Museum, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican, are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range

hotels (13 nights)

MEALS INCLUDED 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch. Allow an additional $550–715 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Train, private minivan/bus,

boat

DAY 7 NAPLES Catch the train to Naples with the option to enjoy a fantastic meal in the birthplace of pizza. Opt to visit the National Archaeological Museum. (1B) DAY 8 POMPEII/SORRENTO This morning, head out of town to walk the ruins of Pompeii (pictured right) with an archaeologist. Continue by private bus to Sorrento and tour a lemon farm, where we’ll sample limoncello. (1B)

Venice Cinque Terre NP

DAY 9 SORRENTO Enjoy a free day in Sorrento. Opt to visit the nearby islands of Capri or Ischia. (1B)

Florence

DAYS 10–11 AMALFI Travel to the awe-inspiring 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

30

ITALY

Rome Naples Sorrento

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

Pompeii Amalfi

EUROPE JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o F loat along the Saône River on

a canal barge, disembarking for private wine tastings with local vintners.

oB ike through scenic vineyards

and villages, and visit a castle in Burgundy.

troll the stalls of the Marché o S d’Aligre with a Parisian chef.

FROM

BURGUNDY BY RIVER BARGE 10 DAYS | DIJON TO PARIS ITINERARY DAY 1 DIJON Arrive at any time.

DAY 2 DIJON Explore Dijon, medieval home to the dukes of Burgundy. Stroll its markets, the charming old town, and the Ducal Palace on a walking tour. This afternoon, settle into our river barge (pictured above). (1B, 1D) DAY 3 LONGECOURT-EN-PLAINE Enjoy a full day of biking through vineyards and villages, complete with a wine tasting at the famous Château de Marsannay. Continue to Côte de Nuits before meeting the barge in Longecourten-Plaine. (1B, 1D) DAY 4 AUXONNE Start the day with a walk around a typical Burgundy castle, exploring its lush gardens. Continue the morning with a walk or bike ride along the canal, stopping in small villages between Longecourt and Saint-Jeande-Losne. This afternoon, take in a presentation by a local winemaker and enjoy a tasting. This evening, explore Auxonne at leisure. (1B, 1L)

2,699

$

2016 DATES Jul 29–Aug 7 • Aug 12–21

Aug 26–Sept 4 • Sept 9–18 • Sept 23–Oct 2 Oct 7–16 • Oct 21–30 DAY 7 FRAGNES Cycle along the Côte de Beaune, stopping at villages and vineyards along the way. Explore the vineyards of PulignyMontrachet and Meursault. Opt for lunch in town before returning to the barge. (1B, 1D) DAY 8 BEAUNE/PARIS Transfer to Beaune for a guided walking tour of the renowned Hospices de Beaune, a 15th-century charitable hospital that’s been funded for 155 years by the city’s annual wine auction. Explore the area on your own and then catch the train to Paris. (1B) DAY 9 PARIS Visit the historic Marché d’Aligre with a local chef and food expert. Rarely visited by tourists, this market is where locals come to shop for groceries. This afternoon, explore Paris on your own. (1B)

Visit our website for 2017 dates and to see our Quintessentially Burgundy trip with dates starting in 2017.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

ACCOMMODATIONS Aboard the Daniele river barge (6 nights), comfortable, mid-range hotel (3 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners. Allow an additional $355–465 for meals not included. Drinks and tips on board not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private vehicles, Daniele river barge (pictured below), bicycle

DAY 10 PARIS Depart at any time, or extend your stay in this iconic city. (1B)

DAY 5 SEURRE Enjoy a relaxing morning on board. Then continue on to beautiful little Seurre and enjoy free time to explore this charming town at your leisure. (1B, 1D) DAY 6 VERDUN-SUR-LE-DOUBS Spend the morning exploring the fortified village center of Seurre and the surrounding countryside. Then float on to Verdun-sur-le-Doubs, where three rivers converge: the Saône, the Doubs, and the Dheune. (1B, 1L)

Airfare to/from is not included.

GROUP SIZE: Max 22

Paris

Dijon Auxonne Longecourten-Plaine

F RA NCE

Beaune

Paris

Saint-Jeande-Losne Seurre Verdun-surle-Doubs

Fragnes F R AN C E

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

31

DISCOVER THE BALKANS

EXPLORE ICELAND

12 DAYS | ZAGREB TO DUBROVNIK

7 DAYS | REYKJAVÍK TO REYKJAVÍK

AT THE CROSSROADS BETWEEN EAST AND WEST,

the Balkan Peninsula has been shaped by diverse cultures and a dramatic history. Explore Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, sample delicacies in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and discover Montenegro’s Gulf of Kotor. Walk through Plitvice Lakes National Park with a naturalist, and cap off your journey in pictureperfect Dubrovnik.

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE DAYS 1–4 CROATIA Take a city tour of Zagreb. Travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park (pictured above) for a naturalist-led walk and a traditional dinner. Continue to Split and tour Diocletian’s Palace. With free time, explore the city, visit its archaeology museum, or take an excursion to Trogir.

DAYS 5–7 BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA See the Stari Most, or Old Bridge, in Mostar. Continue to Sarajevo and take an orientation walk. Visit the local market and enjoy a picnic lunch. Take a tour of the “Tunnel of Hope,” and spend free time exploring.

DAYS 8–12 MONTENEGRO/CROATIA Spend two days in the Gulf of Kotor. See the Roman mosaics in Risan, visit Perast, or go kayaking. Travel to Dubrovnik and walk the old city walls. Explore the city on your own, take a boat trip, or go kayaking.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o T ake a guided tour of the Roman

ruins of Diocletian’s Palace in Split.

o C ross the magnificent Stari Most

bridge in Mostar, and picnic on local market specialties in Sarajevo.

o W alk the old city wall of Dubrovnik,

known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.”

AT A PLACE WHERE TWO CONTINENTS quite literally brush up against each other, Iceland is a dynamic land of fire and ice.

Get up close to natural wonders as you make your way through lava tubes, observe active volcanoes, and watch for whales off the coast.

From geysers to glaciers, the elements are on full display in Iceland.

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE DAYS 1–2 REYKJAVÍK/GOLDEN CIRCLE/SELFOSS From Reykjavík, set out on a tour of the Golden Circle. Walk through Thingvellir National Park, and visit the Gullfoss waterfall and the celebrated hot springs of Geysir. Enjoy lunch at a geothermal farm. Opt to visit a spa or hot springs.

DAYS 3–5 SOUTH SHORE/VÍK/SKAFTAFELL Travel along Iceland’s southern coast and visit the Seljalandsfoss waterfall (pictured above), the Sólheimajökull glacier, and the black sands of Reynisfjara beach. Continue to the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and opt for a boat ride amid icebergs.

Visit the Throbergur Cultural Heritage Museum and enjoy a traditional dinner. Hike atop a glacier in Vatnajökull National Park.

DAYS 6–7 REYKJAVÍK Return to Reykjavík, stopping en route at the Skôgar Folk Museum and the Skôgafoss waterfall.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o W alk atop a glacier in Vatnajökull

FROM

2,999

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM $ OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 599

See page 74 for dates.

National Park, and visit the icebergdotted Jökulsárlón lagoon.

o A t the geothermally heated

Friðheimar farm, enjoy a lunch made from greenhouse-grown produce.

o S troll along the black-sand beaches at Reynisfjara.

See website for further trip details.

32

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

FROM

2,999

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM $ OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 899

See page 74 for dates.

See website for further trip details.

EUROPE

EXPLORE CENTRAL EUROPE

DISCOVER MOORISH SPAIN

9 DAYS | BERLIN TO BUDAPEST

8 DAYS | MADRID TO SEVILLE

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 AT A GLANCE DAYS 1–2 GERMANY 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 3–5 CZECH REPUBLIC Take the train to Prague and enjoy a guided tour of the Old Town (pictured above). Opt to visit Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, or city museums. Travel to charming Český Krumlov and opt to take a guided ghost tour or visit the medieval castle.

DAYS 6–9 AUSTRIA/HUNGARY 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.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o Walk along the Berlin Wall with a local historian, and learn about its political, social, and cultural impact.

o S troll Prague’s Old Town alongside a local guide.

o Explore the winding streets of medieval

DISCOVER THE HISTORY AND ROMANCE of Andalusia, enjoying plenty of free time to uncover the region’s secrets on your own.

First explore Madrid’s museums and walk El Greco’s Toledo with a local historian. Then embrace the Moorish spirit of Andalusia—from its exquisite architecture to its mesmerizing music—in Córdoba, Granada, and Ronda.

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE DAYS 1–2 MADRID/TOLEDO From Madrid, travel to Toledo (pictured above) and tour the old quarter with a historian. Return to Madrid and visit some of its world-class museums, or explore at leisure.

DAYS 3–5 CÓRDOBA/GRANADA Travel by train to Córdoba and visit the Mezquita and the old Jewish quarter. Continue to Granada and take an orientation walk. Enjoy a guided visit of the Alhambra, and during free time, opt to take a bike tour or visit the cathedral.

DAYS 6–8 RONDA/SEVILLE Catch a train to Ronda. Descend into El Tajo Gorge for views of the Puente Nuevo. Explore the city, or opt to go caving.

Travel to Seville and go on an orientation walk. Enjoy a private flamenco lesson, and take an optional walking tour of the Santa Cruz quarter. Explore at leisure, or opt to see a flamenco show.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o D iscover layers of culture and history in

FROM

2,199

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM $ OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 899

Córdoba at the Mezquita and in the old Jewish quarter.

o E njoy a guided tour of Granada’s famed Alhambra, a stunning example of Moorish architecture.

o T ry out flamenco steps during a private

FROM

1,999

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM $ OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 12

+ 799

lesson with a professional dancer in Seville.

See page 74 for dates.

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

33

Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

See page 74 for dates.

See website for further trip details.

See website for further trip details.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o T our ancient Troy with a classics

scholar, and explore the World War I site of Gallipoli. oD iscover the iconic mosques of Istanbul and the Byzantine cave churches of Cappadocia. isit the Kirazli market and cook o V dinner with a village chef.

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE CAPPADOCIA BALLOON RIDE

DISCOVER TURKEY 9 DAYS | ISTANBUL TO ISTANBUL ITINERARY DAY 1 ISTANBUL Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

storied city. Spend an evening in the waterfront town of Çanakkale—a busy port with a thriving student population. Join the crowds that stroll the waterfront after the sun goes down. (1B)

DAY 2 ISTANBUL Enjoy a walking tour of Istanbul, including stops at the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome, and the Hagia Sophia (pictured right). The afternoon is at your leisure. Consider a visit to Topkapi Palace, or just relax at a café overlooking the Bosporus. (1B)

DAY 8 GALLIPOLI/ISTANBUL Travel to Gallipoli, where thousands gave their lives during a devastating World War I battle. The visit includes stops at ANZAC cove, the war cemeteries, and Lone Pine. Continue to Istanbul for the night. (1B)

DAYS 3–4 GÖREME/CAPPADOCIA Fly to Cappadocia (pictured above) to explore some of the region’s villages and enjoy dinner with a local family. The following day, take an excursion to the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a complex of Byzantine cave churches carved by monks. Opt to take part in a Turkish folk night—a multi-course meal followed by local entertainment. (2B, 1D)

DAY 9 ISTANBUL Depart at any time. (1B)

FROM

1,499

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 12

+ 599

2016 DATES Apr 2–10 • May 14–22

May 28–Jun 5 • Jun 25–Jul 3 • Jul 9–17 Aug 13–21 • Sept 10–18 • Oct 8–16 Nov 12–20 • Dec 17–25 Visit our website for 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

The optional balloon ride and Turkish folk night in Cappadocia are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotel that reflects the local character (8 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 8 breakfasts, 2 dinners. Allow an additional $200–260 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Minibus, plane

DAYS 5–6 SELÇUK Fly via Izmir to Selçuk, and take a walking tour of the town, known as the gateway to Ephesus (pictured below). Discover the ruins of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Continue to the Isa Bey Mosque and St. John’s Basilica.

The next day, visit the ancient Roman town of Ephesus and enjoy a wine tasting in Şirince village. Then head to the village of Kirazli for an immersive culinary experience. You’ll visit the town market to shop for fresh ingredients and learn about regional flavors alongside a local chef. After shopping, head to the chef’s home for a cooking lesson, where you’ll prepare dinner together. (2B, 1D)

Istanbul Çanakkale TURKEY

Selçuk

DAY 7 TROY/ÇANAKKALE Take a scenic, coastal drive to the ancient ruins of Troy. Here you’ll enjoy a guided tour, during which you’ll hear about the legends and history of this

34

Soar over the wild landscapes of Cappadocia.

Book your balloon ride ahead of time.

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

Göreme (Cappadocia)

EUROPE JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o T race Turkey’s Turquoise Coast

from historic Antalya to the dazzling Blue Lagoon beach. oV enture into the past at the ancient sites of Ephesus, Cappadocia, Dalyan, Hierapolis, and more. ruise to the Mediterranean on a o C boat trip, and enjoy lunch on board.

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE CAPPADOCIA BALLOON RIDE

EXPLORE TURKEY 15 DAYS | ISTANBUL TO ISTANBUL ITINERARY DAY 1 ISTANBUL Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 ISTANBUL Head out on a walking tour of this incredible city, including stops at the Blue Mosque (pictured below), the Hippodrome, and the famous Hagia Sophia. Later, enjoy free time to explore on your own. (1B)

viewing the cinematic Carian Rock Tombs and the remains of the ancient city of Kaunos. Also visit Iztuzu Beach and opt to soak in the local mud baths. (2B) DAY 11 PAMUKKALE Continue to Pamukkale for a guided visit of the white cliffs and the ancient city of Hierapolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. (1B)

Get a bird’s-eye view of an incredible place.

Prebook your balloon ride today.

FROM

2,499

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 12

+ 999

2016 DATES Apr 16–30 • Apr 30–May 14

May 14–28 • May 28–Jun 11 • Jun 11–25 Jun 25–Jul 9 • Jul 16–30 • Aug 6–20 Aug 27–Sept 10 • Sept 3–17 • Sept 17–Oct 1 Oct 1–15 2017 DATES Mar 25–Apr 8

DAYS 3–4 GÖREME/CAPPADOCIA Fly to Cappadocia and sit down to an amazing homemade dinner with a local family. The next day, explore the Göreme Open-Air Museum, a complex of Byzantine painted cave churches carved out by monks. Continue to Avanos for a visit, then take a walk in one of the valleys. Opt to take part in a Turkish folk night—a multi-course meal followed by local entertainment. (2B, 1D)

DAYS 12–13 SELÇUK Head to the vibrant town of Selçuk. From here, enjoy a guided tour of the picturesque village of Şirince to sample some of its local wines. Then explore the ruins of Ephesus (pictured above) and continue to the traditional village of Kirazli for an immersive culinary experience. You’ll shop for fresh ingredients at the market alongside a local chef.

Afterwards, head to the chef’s home for a group cooking lesson and dinner. (2B, 1D)

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

DAY 5 BEYŞEHIR Visit a mysterious underground city, and then continue to Beyşehir for the evening, with a stop at the historic city of Konya. (1B)

DAY 14 ISTANBUL Fly to Istanbul and enjoy an afternoon of free time to explore at leisure.

Later, take in a lecture on Anatolian history. (1B)

MEALS INCLUDED 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Allow an additional $330–430 for meals not included.

DAY 6 ANTALYA Get an early start and travel to Antalya. Gather for an orientation walk along the city’s charming cobblestoned streets. Opt to visit the archaeology museum or one of the many tea shops. (1B)

DAY 15 ISTANBUL Depart at any time. (1B)

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

The optional balloon ride and Turkish folk night in Cappadocia and the archaeology museum visit in Antalya are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range

hotels (14 nights)

TRANSPORTATION Private air-conditioned van,

boat, plane

Istanbul Göreme (Cappadocia)

DAYS 7–8 KAŞ Travel to the coastal village of Kaş. Embark on a boat cruise through turquoise waters, and enjoy a traditional lunch on board.

(2B, 1L) DAYS 9–10 FETHIYE/DALYAN Travel along the stunning Mediterranean coast to the city of Fethiye. Visit the ghost town of Kayaköy and the Blue Lagoon beach en route to Dalyan. The next day, enjoy a boat trip on the Dalyan River,

TURKEY

Pamukkale Selçuk Dalyan

Antalya

Beyşehir

Kaş

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

35

EXPLORE SOUTHERN AFRICA 12 DAYS | CAPE TOWN TO VICTORIA FALLS EXPERIENCE SOUTHERN AFRICA’S DIVERSE WONDERS, from the glittering beauty of Cape Town to the vast wilderness of Kruger National Park—home of the “big five.”

Then it’s onward to Victoria Falls, where you’ll feel the awesome power of one of the largest waterfalls in the world. Encounter the amazing wildlife, landscapes, and culture of southern Africa on a journey of a lifetime.

ITINERARY DAY 1 CAPE TOWN Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2–3 CAPE TOWN Visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens alongside an expert guide. National Geographic Traveler magazine named these gardens among the top ten in the world. Continue on to explore vibrant Cape Town and Cape Point, stopping to see the penguins at Boulders Beach (pictured far right). Enjoy free time the next day to visit Robben Island or Table Mountain, or embark on a wine tour around Stellenbosch. (2B) DAY 4 JOHANNESBURG Fly to Johannesburg.

Meet your CEO and enjoy a traditional South

36

African braai (barbecue) welcome dinner. (1B, 1D) 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, opt to take a game walk before embarking on a game drive in an open safari vehicle to take in views of the abundant wildlife in the afternoon. This evening, enjoy stunning views and an incredible dinner on the deck. (2B, 1D) DAYS 7–8 KARONGWE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Visit the G Adventures–supported Children’s Day School and Shalati Village before continuing to a private nature reserve nearby.

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

Enjoy morning and evening open-vehicle game drives while searching for Africa’s “big five”—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo. Meet with a researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Carnivore Conservation Programme, a project headed by National Geographic grantee Kelly Marnewick. A member of Kelly’s team will tell us about their ongoing field research and join us on one of our game drives. (2B, 1L, 2D) DAY 9 JOHANNESBURG After one last game drive, head back to the city. This evening, enjoy a home-cooked dinner at our guesthouse. (1B, 1D) DAYS 10–11 VICTORIA FALLS Fly to Zimbabwe and take a guided tour along the trails of the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls (pictured right). Then 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, enjoy free time for optional activities, including a river safari, whitewater rafting, canoeing, or even a flight over the falls. (2B, 1D) DAY 12 VICTORIA FALLS Depart at any time.

(1B)

AFRICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oG o on safari with a researcher sponsored by National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative.

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

o T ake a behind-the-scenes tour of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens with a local expert.

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

“Sighting a leopard in a riverine fig tree at dusk, coming across a pride of lions feeding on a kill, or seeing a herd of elephant file with massive majesty across the savanna: These precious experiences will stay with you for a lifetime.”

— Roberta Cosi, National Geographic Traveler: South Africa guidebook, 2013

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE

FROM

3,299

$

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

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 9

+ $1,399

VICTORIA FALLS HELICOPTER RIDE (ZIMBABWE) Prebook your ride and see the falls from above!

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

Optional excursions in Cape Town and Victoria Falls are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Guesthouse (2 nights), comfortable, mid-range hotel (5 nights), safari tented camp in Kruger and Karongwe (4 nights) MEALS INCLUDED

11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 6 dinners. Allow an additional $280–365 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION

Plane, air-conditioned touring vehicle, open safari vehicle

2016 DATES Apr 2–13 • Apr 9–20 • Apr 16–27

Apr 30–May 11 • May 7–18 • May 21–Jun 1 Jun 4–15 • Jun 11–22 • Jun 18–29 • Jun 25–Jul 6 Jul 2–13 • Jul 9–20 • Jul 11–22 • Jul 16–27 Jul 18–29 • Jul 23–Aug 3 • Jul 30–Aug 10 Aug 1–12 • Aug 6–17 • Aug 8–19 • Aug 13–24 Aug 20–31 • Aug 27–Sept 7 • Sept 3–14 Sept 10–21 • Sept 17–28 • Sept 24–Oct 5 Oct 1–12 • Oct 8–19 • Oct 15–26 • Oct 22–Nov 2 Oct 29–Nov 9 • Nov 5–16 • Nov 19–30 Dec 3–14 • Dec 17–28 2017 DATES Jan 7–18 • Jan 28–Feb 8 • Feb 11–22

ZAMBIA

Victoria Falls ZIMBABWE

Karongwe Private Game Reserve

Kruger NP

Johannesburg

SOUTH

AFRICA

Cape Town

Feb 25–Mar 8 • Mar 11–22 • Mar 25–Apr 5 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

37

EXPLORE KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

EXPLORE CAPE TOWN & KRUGER

7 DAYS | JOHANNESBURG TO JOHANNESBURG

10 DAYS | CAPE TOWN TO JOHANNESBURG

VENTURE INTO SOUTH AFRICA’S LEGENDARY WILDERNESS to search for leopards, lions, rhinos, and much more in

the Greater Kruger area. Meet local families in a rural village, and discuss conservation efforts while on safari with a researcher from the National Geographic–supported Carnivore Conservation Programme.

EXPERIENCE CAPE TOWN and the beautiful Cape Peninsula, and then travel east to some of South Africa’s most celebrated game reserves. Spot the “big five” in Kruger National Park, and head into the bush with a scientist sponsored by National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative.

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

DAY 1 JOHANNESBURG Arrive and transfer to the guesthouse. Enjoy a traditional braai (barbecue) welcome dinner.

DAYS 1–3 CAPE TOWN Arrive in Cape Town. Visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens with an expert. Explore vibrant Cape Town and Cape Point, and see the penguins at Boulders Beach. Enjoy a free day to explore.

DAYS 2–3 KRUGER NATIONAL PARK Drive along the scenic Panorama Route on the way to our safari camp, located just outside Kruger National Park. The next day, spot wildlife on an optional early morning bushwalk and afternoon game drive before embarking on an evening game drive in an open safari vehicle. Enjoy a delicious dinner on the deck or in the boma.

DAYS 4–5 KARONGWE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Visit a G Adventures– supported school and nearby village before continuing to a private nature reserve. Enjoy morning and evening open-vehicle game drives. Go on safari with a researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Carnivore Conservation Programme, a project headed by National Geographic grantee Kelly Marnewick.

DAYS 6–7 JOHANNESBURG After a final game drive, head back to the city. Depart at any time the next day.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o Witness the wildlife of Kruger

National Park on open-vehicle safaris and optional bushwalks. o Go on safari with a National Geographic–sponsored researcher and learn about ongoing research. o Visit a local school and learn about everyday life in a rural village.

FROM

1,999

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM $ OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 699

See page 74 for dates.

DAYS 4–6 KRUGER NATIONAL PARK Fly to Johannesburg and enjoy a traditional braai (barbecue). Drive the famed Panorama Route on the way to our safari camp, located just outside Kruger National Park. Set out on a game drive in an open safari vehicle or look for wildlife on optional bushwalks and additional game drives.

DAYS 7–8 KARONGWE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Visit a G Adventures–supported school and village. Travel to a private nature reserve and enjoy morning and evening open-vehicle game drives. Go on safari with a National Geographic–supported researcher working on carnivore conservation.

DAYS 9–10 JOHANNESBURG After a final game drive, head back to the city. Depart at any time the next day.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oG o on safari away from the crowds

in a private game reserve. o G et an insider’s tour of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and see the penguins of Boulders Beach. o E njoy a traditional braai, or Southern African barbecue.

See website for further trip detials.

38

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

FROM

2,699

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM $ OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 9

+ 999

See page 74 for dates.

See website for further trip detials.

AFRICA

EXPLORE KRUGER & VICTORIA FALLS

KRUGER, VICTORIA FALLS, & BOTSWANA

9 DAYS | JOHANNESBURG TO VICTORIA FALLS

18 DAYS | JOHANNESBURG TO VICTORIA FALLS

ON A JOURNEY TO SOUTH AFRICA AND ZIMBABWE,

head to the Greater Kruger area to observe and photograph elephants, leopards, wild dogs, lions, and much more on their own turf. Then jet off to Zimbabwe to witness the awesome spectacle of Victoria Falls, which can be heard from up to 25 miles (40km) away.

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE DAYS 1–3 JOHANNESBURG/KRUGER NATIONAL PARK Arrive in Johannesburg at any time and transfer to our guesthouse. Drive the scenic Panorama Route on the way to our safari camp. Watch for the “big five” on an open-vehicle game drive and embark on an optional nature walk or additional game drive.

DAYS 4–5 KARONGWE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE After a visit to a local community, travel to a private nature reserve. Go on safari with a researcher from a carnivore conservation project headed by National Geographic grantee Kelly Marnewick.

DAY 6 JOHANNESBURG After a last game drive, head back to the city.

This evening, enjoy a home-cooked dinner at our guesthouse.

DAYS 7–9 VICTORIA FALLS Fly to Zimbabwe and take a guided tour of Victoria Falls. Browse the local market and gather for dinner at a family homestead. During a free day to explore, opt to take a river safari, go white water rafting, and more. Depart at any time the final day.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o Experience dramatic landscapes, from

the Panorama Route to Victoria Falls. o Observe wildlife alongside a researcher from the National Geographic– sponsored Carnivore Conservation Programme. o Enjoy a traditional Zimbabwean dinner in a family home and learn about daily life.

FROM

2,599

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM $ OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 9

+ 999

WITNESS SOME OF NATURE’S GREATEST SPECTACLES

on a safari that encompasses southern Africa’s most iconic landscapes.

Go on game drives in Kruger and Chobe National Parks. Glide through the Okavango Delta on a two-night excursion on a houseboat. Enjoy a family dinner at a home near Victoria Falls, and take in views of this national wonder, known locally as the “smoke that thunders.”

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE DAYS 1–6 SOUTH AFRICA Arrive in Johannesburg. Drive the scenic Panorama Route. In Kruger National Park and Karongwe Private Nature Reserve, watch for the “big five” on open-vehicle game drives and optional nature walks. Go on safari with a researcher from a National Geographic– supported carnivore conservation project. Spend a night in Johannesburg.

DAYS 7–9 VICTORIA FALLS Fly to Zimbabwe and take a guided tour of Victoria Falls (pictured above). Browse the market and enjoy dinner at a family homestead before two free days to explore.

DAYS 10–16 BOTSWANA Travel to the Okavango Delta and settle into a houseboat for two nights. In Maun, enjoy an evening with a local storytelling troupe. Take open-vehicle game drives in the Khwai River area beside the Moremi Game Reserve. Then head to Chobe National Park and the Ghoha Hills to meet a wildlife and bush-survival expert before our safari.

DAYS 17–18 VICTORIA FALLS Cross back into Zimbabwe and depart the next day at any time.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o J oin a National Geographic–sponsored

researcher on a game drive. o A ttend a talk by a local expert on the Savuti region and Chobe National Park. o E njoy two free days at Victoria Falls to explore as you wish.

See page 74 for dates.

See website for further trip detials.

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

FROM

7,799

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM $ OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 9

+ 1,999

See page 74 for dates.

See website for further trip detials.

39

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o S et out on open-vehicle game

drives in Chobe National Park and Moremi Game Reserve. o P ly the waterways of the Okavango Delta in a houseboat on a twonight cruise. eet an author and her storytelling o M troupe to hear local legends over a traditional meal.

BOTSWANA SAFARI EXPERIENCE 10 DAYS | VICTORIA FALLS TO VICTORIA FALLS ITINERARY DAY 1 VICTORIA FALLS Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2–3 OKAVANGO DELTA Cross the border into Botswana via Namibia and transfer to a houseboat, our home in the Okavango Delta for the next two nights. Cruise the delta’s channels on the lookout for amazing wildlife. Opt to enjoy a cultural excursion to Tsodilo Hills, or relax on deck. (2B, 2L, 2D) DAY 4 MAUN Transfer to the frontier town of Maun. Enjoy an evening of culture and traditional foods with celebrated author Bonty Botumile and the Thari-E-Ntsho Storytellers, a local enterprise dedicated to preserving Botswana’s heritage. Opt to take a scenic flight over the delta. (1B, 1D)

DAYS 5–6 KHWAI RIVER/MOREMI GAME RESERVE Drive to the Khwai River area beside the Moremi Game Reserve. Embark on open-vehicle game drives with time to relax at our comfortable tented camp. (2B, 2L, 2D) DAY 7 CHOBE NATIONAL PARK Travel deeper into the Chobe wilderness to the Ghoha Hills, which offer spectacular views of the surrounding bush. Relax at our camp and learn about the parks and reserves during an informative talk with a local expert. Enjoy late-afternoon game viewing in open vehicles. (1B, 1L, 1D) DAY 8 CHOBE NATIONAL PARK/KASANE After an early start, take a slow game drive along the southern bank of the Chobe River, home to some of the world’s largest elephant populations. Buffalo, hippos, and lions can also be seen here. Later, opt to take a sunset photography river cruise accompanied by a knowledgeable wildlife expert and guide. (1B, 1L)

FROM

5,199

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 9

+ 1,299

2016 DATES Apr 27–May 6 • May 18–27

Jun 22–Jul 1 • Jul 6–15 • Jul 20–29 • Aug 10–19 Aug 24–Sept 2 • Sept 7–16 • Sept 21–30 Oct 12–21 • Oct 26–Nov 4 • Nov 9–18 Dec 28–Jan 6, 2017 2017 DATES Mar 8–17

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

The optional Okavango Delta flight, Chobe photo cruise, and Chobe photo game drive are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels (4 nights), comfortable safari tents in Moremi Game Reserve and Chobe National Park (3 nights), houseboat on the Okavango Delta (2 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners. Allow an additional $140–185 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION 4x4 vehicle, van, boat

DAYS 9–10 VICTORIA FALLS Cross the border back into Zimbabwe and enjoy our final evening. Depart at any time the next day.

(2B) Z A MB I A

Victoria Falls

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE

OKAVANGO DELTA FLIGHT Get a bird’s-eye view of the Okavango.

CHOBE PHOTO RIVER SAFARI Cruise the Chobe River in a boat custom-designed for photographers.

CHOBE PHOTO GAME DRIVE Get the best wildlife shots on a photo safari—camera equipment included.

40

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

N A M I B I A

Kasane/Chobe NP Savuti/Chobe NP Okavango Delta

Z I MB A B WE

Khwai River/ Moremi Game Reserve

Maun B O T S WAN A

AFRICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o T ravel from Cape Town to the

Okavango Delta by way of Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls. oV isit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden with a local expert and go on safari with a National Geographic–funded researcher. pot wildlife on bushwalks, game o S drives, and on a cruise on the Okavango Delta.

ICONIC SOUTHERN AFRICA 21 DAYS | CAPE TOWN TO VICTORIA FALLS

FROM

8,499

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION:

+ 2,699

GROUP SIZE: Max 9

2016 DATES Apr 16–May 6 • May 7–27

ITINERARY DAY 1 CAPE TOWN Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2–3 CAPE TOWN Visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens with an expert guide. National Geographic Traveler magazine named these gardens among the top ten in the world. Explore vibrant Cape Town and Cape Point (pictured above) and see the penguins at Boulders Beach. Enjoy free time the next day to visit Robben Island or Table Mountain, or embark on a wine tour around Stellenbosch. (2B) DAY 4 JOHANNESBURG Fly to Johannesburg and enjoy a traditional South African braai (barbecue). (1B, 1D) DAYS 5–6 PANORAMA ROUTE/KRUGER NATIONAL PARK Drive along the scenic Panorama Route. Continue to our camp, located just outside Kruger National Park. The next day, embark on a game drive in an open vehicle, and later, relax with stunning views from our camp’s deck. (2B, 1D) DAYS 7–8 KARONGWE PRIVATE GAME RESERVE Visit the G Adventures–supported Children’s Day School and Shalati village.

Continue to a private nature reserve nearby and enjoy morning and evening open vehicle game drives. Meet with a researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Carnivore Conservation Programme, headed by National Geographic grantee Kelly Marnewick. (2B, 1L, 2D)

local market before visiting a family home to have dinner and share stories. Enjoy two free days to explore the area, with optional excursions including a river safari, white water rafting, canoeing, or a flight over the falls. (3B, 1D) DAYS 13–14 OKAVANGO DELTA Cross into Botswana via Namibia and transfer to a houseboat, our home in the Okavango Delta for the next two nights. Cruise the delta’s channels on the lookout for wildlife. (2B, 2L, 2D) DAY 15 MAUN Transfer to the frontier town of Maun for an unforgettable evening of culture and traditional foods with a celebrated author and her troupe of storytellers. Opt to take a scenic flight over the delta. (1B, 1D) DAYS 16–17 KHWAI RIVER/MOREMI GAME RESERVE Drive to the Khwai River area adjacent to the Moremi Game Reserve. Embark on open-vehicle game drives, with time to relax at our comfortable tented camp. (2B, 2L, 2D) DAY 18 CHOBE/GHOHA HILLS Travel deeper into the Chobe wilderness to Ghoha Hills. Learn about the area’s parks and reserves during an informative talk with a local wildlife and bush-survival expert. Enjoy late-afternoon game viewing in open vehicles. (1B, 1L, 1D)

DAY 9 JOHANNESBURG After one last game drive, head back to the city. (1B, 1D)

DAY 19 CHOBE/KASANE After an early start, take a game drive along the southern bank of the Chobe River, home to some of the world’s largest elephant populations. Later, opt to take a sunset photography river cruise, accompanied by a knowledgeable wildlife photographer and guide. (1B, 1L)

DAYS 10–12 VICTORIA FALLS Fly to Zimbabwe and head out on a guided tour of famous Victoria Falls. Then walk through the

DAYS 20–21 VICTORIA FALLS Cross the border back into Zimbabwe for our final evening. Depart at any time the next day. (2B)

Jun 11–Jul 1 • Jun 25–Jul 15 • Jul 9–29 Jul 30–Aug 19 • Aug 13–Sept 2 • Aug 27–Sept 16 Sept 10–30 • Oct 1–21 • Oct 15–Nov 4 Oct 29–Nov 18 2017 DATES Feb 25–Mar 17

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional excursions in Cape Town and Victoria Falls, as well as the optional Okavango Delta flight, Chobe photo cruise, and Chobe photo game drive, are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable hotels (8 nights); guesthouse (2 nights); safari camps in Kruger, Karongwe, Moremi, and Chobe (8 nights); houseboat on the Okavango Delta (2 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 20 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 12 dinners. Allow total of $370–485 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Plane, air-conditioned touring vehicle, open safari vehicle, 4x4 vehicle, van, boat

Z A M B I A

Chobe River Chobe NP Okavango Delta

Maun

Victoria Falls Z I MB A B WE

Karongwe Private Nature Reserve Kruger NP

B O T S WAN A

Johannesburg

SOUT H

AF RI CA

Cape Town

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

41

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o S et out on safari in Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti in search of lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.

oM eet with a researcher from the Serengeti Wildlife Centre to discuss ongoing studies.

o S pend time with Maasai women involved in the G Adventures– sponsored Clean Cookstoves Project.

TANZANIA TRIP TITLE SAFARI EXPERIENCE

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE SERENGETI BALLOON SAFARI

Soar over the Serengeti. Prebook your balloon ride today.

7 DAYS | ARUSHA TO ARUSHA ITINERARY DAY 1 ARUSHA Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

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 game drive with phenomenal wildlife viewing and search out the famed tree-climbing lions. (1B, 1L, 1D) 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.

(1B, 1L, 1D) DAY 4 SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK Opt to take a sunrise balloon safari. Embark on an incredible full-day game drive and drop by the Serengeti Wildlife Research Centre for a talk by one of its visiting researchers. (1B, 1L, 1D) DAY 5 NGORONGORO CONSERVATION AREA Continue game viewing on the drive out of the Serengeti to our comfortable tented camp. Later, relax and enjoy the African sunset as you overlook scenic Lake Eyasi. (1B, 1L, 1D) DAY 6 NGORONGORO CRATER/ARUSHA Depart early into Ngorongoro Crater, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a game drive and picnic lunch. In the afternoon, drive to Arusha for the final night. (1B, 1L) DAY 7 ARUSHA Depart at any time. (1B)

FROM

3,499

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 6

+ 1,099

2016 DATES Jun 19–25 • Jun 26–Jul 2 • Jul 3–9

Jul 10–16 • Jul 17–23 • Jul 22–28 • Jul 24–30 Jul 29–Aug 4 • Aug 12–18 • Aug 19–25 Aug 21–27 • Aug 26–Sept 1 • Sept 2–8 • Sept 4–10 Sept 9–15 • Sept 11–17 • Sept 16–22 • Sept 23–29 Sept 30–Oct 6 • Oct 2–8 • Oct 9–15 • Oct 14–20 Dec 4–10 • Dec 11–17 • Dec 16–22 • Dec 23–29 Dec 25–31 • Dec 30–Jan 5, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 1–7 • Jan 8–14 • Jan 13–19

Jan 20–26 • Jan 27–Feb 2 • Feb 10–16 Feb 17–23 • Mar 5-11 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

The optional Serengeti balloon safari is at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, midrange hotels (2 nights), safari lodge (1 night), comfortable tented camp in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area (3 nights)

Olduvai Gorge

Serengeti NP

Arusha Lake Manyara NP Ngorongoro Crater

TAN ZAN IA

42

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

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

TRANSPORTATION 7-seat 4x4 safari vehicle

AFRICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o E xplore three incredible wildlife

areas: Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, and Amboseli.

oG et an insider’s view on rhino

conservation during a talk with a researcher from the Kenya Wildlife Service.

oV isit a Maasai village or opt for a hot-air balloon ride over the savanna.

KENYA SAFARI EXPERIENCE 8 DAYS | NAIROBI TO NAIROBI ITINERARY 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 game 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. (2B, 2L, 2D) DAY 4 LAKE NAKURU NATIONAL PARK Continue to our safari lodge inside Lake Nakuru National Park. Take an afternoon game drive around Lake Nakuru, paying special attention to the rare rhinos that make this area their home.

Gain a deeper understanding of rhino conservation during a lecture by an accredited speaker from the Kenya Wildlife Service. (1B, 1L, 1D) DAYS 5–6 AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK Embark on a sunrise game drive before continuing on to Amboseli National Park and our safari tented camp. The next day, head out on

FROM

3,499

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 6

+ 999

2016 DATES Jun 13–20 • Jun 20–27

morning and afternoon game drives, taking in iconic views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the wildlife that lives in its shadow. (2B, 2L, 2D) DAY 7 AMBOSELI/NAIROBI Enjoy an incredible African sunrise on our last game drive before returning back to the capital. (1B, 1L) DAY 8 NAIROBI Depart at any time. (1B)

Jun 27–Jul 4 • Jul 4–11 • Jul 11–18 • Jul 16–23 Jul 18–25 • Jul 23–30 • Aug 6–13 • Aug 13–20 Aug 15–22 • Aug 20–27 • Aug 27–Sept 3 Aug 29–Sept 5 • Sept 3–10 • Sept 5–12 • Sept 10–17 Sept 17–24 • Sept 24–Oct 1 • Sept 26–Oct 3 Oct 3–10 • Oct 8–15 • Nov 28–Dec 5 • Dec 5–12 Dec 10–17 • Dec 17–24 • Dec 19–26 • Dec 24–31 Dec 26–Jan 2, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 2–9 • Jan 7–14 • Jan 14–21

Jan 21–28 • Feb 4–11 • Feb 11–18 • Feb 27–Mar 6 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

K E NYA

Lake Nakuru NP Masai Mara National Reserve

Nairobi

Amboseli NP TA NZA NIA

SAFARI IN KENYA & TANZANIA

13 DAYS | NAIROBI TO ARUSHA

Double your wildlife encounters on a journey that combines the best of Kenya and Tanzania, bringing you to six national parks, reserves, and conservation areas, from Amboseli to the Serengeti. Visit our website for a detailed itinerary and more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

The optional Masai Mara balloon safari and village visit are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, midrange hotels (2 nights), safari lodge (1 night), comfortable tented camps in Masai Mara and Amboseli National Park (4 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners. Allow an additional $100-130 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION 7-seat 4x4 safari van

FROM

6,499

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 6

+ $2,099

2016 DATES Jun 13–25 • Jun 20–Jul 2 • Jun 27–Jul 9 • Jul 4–16 • Jul 11–23 • Jul 16–28 • Jul 18–30 • Jul 23–Aug 4 • Aug 6–18 • Aug 13–25

Aug 15–27 • Aug 20–Sept 1 • Aug 27–Sept 8 • Aug 29–Sept 10 • Sept 3–15 • Sept 5–17 • Sept 10–22 • Sept 17–29 • Sept 24–Oct 6 • Sept 26–Oct 8 Oct 3–15 • Oct 8–20 • Nov 28–Dec 10 • Dec 5–17 • Dec 10–22 • Dec 17–29 • Dec 19–31 • Dec 24–Jan 5, 2017 • Dec 26–Jan 7, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 2–14 • Jan 7–19 • Jan 14–26 • Jan 21–Feb 2 • Feb 4–16 • Feb 11–23 • Feb 27–Mar 11

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

43

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oO bserve numerous primate species

RWANDA & UGANDA GORILLA DISCOVERY 9 DAYS | KIGALI TO ENTEBBE ITINERARY DAY 1 KIGALI Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAY 2 KIGALI/VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK Visit the unforgettable 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 Centre. Continue north into the hills to our lodge, located just outside Volcanoes National Park (pictured above). Settle in and relax, taking in stunning views of the surrounding volcanic peaks. (1B, 1L, 1D) DAYS 3–4 VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK Head into the jungle-covered slopes of the park with a guide. Search for gorilla families, and then sit quietly to observe them in their natural habitat—a truly life-changing experience. Join a

on mountain gorilla treks, a golden monkey trek, and a chimpanzee trek. oD iscuss the behavior of mountain gorillas—and efforts to protect them—with a game warden at Volcanoes National Park. o A ttend a drum workshop and enjoy a meal prepared by women at a center sponsored by G Adventures.

FROM

4,999

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 7

park warden for a talk about these endangered creatures, which have seen an encouraging growth in their numbers over the past decade.

The next day, go out with a guide in search of another species that inhabits these hills: the golden monkey. Take a stroll through a nearby village this afternoon. (2B, 2L, 2D)

+ 1,399

2016 DATES Jun 4–12 • Jul 2–10 • Jul 9–17

Jul 23–31 • Aug 6–14 • Sept 3–11 • Oct 1–9 Dec 17–25 2017 DATES Jan 7–15 • Feb 18–26

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

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 buffalo and lions. Then cruise the Kazinga Channel to view hippos and birds, and, with a bit of luck, elephants or big cats. (3B, 3L, 3D)

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotel/lodges that reflect the local character (8 nights)

DAY 8 ENTEBBE After breakfast, head to Entebbe with a stop at the Equator and a visit to a royal drum maker’s workshop. (1B, 1L)

TRANSPORTATION 4x4 land cruiser, hiking, boat

MEALS INCLUDED 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners. Allow an additional $65–85 for meals not included.

DAY 9 ENTEBBE Depart at any time. (1B)

UG A N D A

Queen Elizabeth NP

Volcanoes NP

Kigali RWA NDA

44

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

Entebbe

AFRICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o E xplore the incredible ancient sites

of Lalibela and Axum, see the royal monuments of Gonder, and cruise Lake Tana. oV isit artisans at a women’s cooperative, and make (and eat!) local dishes in a rural community supported by G Adventures. o ike into the gorgeous Simien H Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

MYSTERIES OF ETHIOPIA 13 DAYS | ADDIS ABABA TO ADDIS ABABA ITINERARY DAY 1 ADDIS ABABA Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2–3 BAHIR DAR Fly to Bahir Dar for an excursion to the Blue Nile Falls (pictured right).

Take a boat trip on Lake Tana to enjoy stunning views. Visit lakeside monasteries and wander through the lively markets of Bahir Dar. (2B) DAYS 4–5 GONDER Drive north, stopping in the unique egalitarian community of Awra Amba, founded as a progressive social experiment more than 40 years ago. Then spend time exploring the ancient capital of Gonder, including Debre Birhan Selassie Church and the castles of the Royal Enclosure, built by a succession of emperors in the 17th and 18th centuries. Visit Ploughshare Women’s Crafts Training Center and then the Kossoye community to learn about the staples of Ethiopian food, with a demonstration and traditional dinner. (2B, 1D) DAYS 6–7 SIMIEN MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK Travel to Debark, our base for visiting the Simien Mountains. Head out on guided hiking excursions amid the remarkable eroded landscapes that have earned these mountains World Heritage status. (2B) DAYS 8–9 AXUM Travel to Axum, one of Ethiopia’s oldest and holiest cities and thought to be the home of the Queen of Sheba. Enjoy guided tours of the city’s archaeological sites and the ancient church of St. Mary of Zion. (2B) DAYS 10–11 LALIBELA Take an early morning flight to Lalibela (pictured above) and enjoy two incredible days discovering this World Heritage site. Venture into a subterranean maze of

FROM

3,099

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 15

+ 699

passageways and rock-hewn churches that have drawn worshippers for centuries. (2B)

2016 DATES Jul 4–16 • Sept 12–24 • Oct 31–Nov 12

DAY 12 ADDIS ABABA Take a morning flight to Addis Ababa. Opt to enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (1B)

2017 DATES Jan 23–Feb 4 • Feb 20–Mar 4

DAY 13 ADDIS ABABA Depart at any time. (1B)

Nov 14–26 • Nov 21–Dec 3 • Dec 26–Jan 7, 2017 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional farewell dinner is at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels that reflect the local character (12 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 12 breakfasts, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $285–370 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Plane, minivan/bus, boat,

hiking

Axum Simien Mountains NP Gonder Bahir Dar

Lalibela

E T H I OPI A

Addis Ababa

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

45

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oV enture into the medinas of

Marrakech and stock up at the market for a cooking class with a local chef.

o E xperience ancient Fez, the

stunning stables of Meknès, and the Roman ruins of Volubilis.

o M eet Berbers and artisans, and listen to the tunes of traditional Gnaoua musicians.

MOROCCO JOURNEY 9 DAYS | CASABLANCA TO MARRAKECH ITINERARY DAY 1 CASABLANCA Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer included.

DAY 2 MEKNÈS/VOLUBILIS/FEZ Enjoy a traditional tagine lunch at a G Adventures– supported cooperative that benefits rural Moroccan women and children before a guided tour of the imperial city of Meknès. Then head to the ancient ruins of Volubilis to see impressive mosaics and arcades of this once-great Roman city. Continue on to Fez for the night.

(1B, 1L)

Then cross the mountains to Marrakech. Get acquainted with the famous medina here on a visit with a local resident. Then go to a typical Berber house for a cooking class, and prepare dinner with our hosts. (1B, 1D) DAY 8 MARRAKECH Enjoy a free day to explore incredible Marrakech (pictured below).

Opt to take a historical tour, visit the Bahia Palace, or simply meander through the souks— enjoying the sights, scents, and sounds of a timeless city. (1B) DAY 9 MARRAKECH Depart at any time. (1B)

DAY 3 FEZ Step back in time on a guided walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage–rated medina of Fez. See artisans and tanners at work, and pass by market stands selling everything from aromatic spices and colorful ceramics to pastries and kitchen gadgets. (1B)

FROM

1,699

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 499

2016 DATES Apr 2–10 • May 21–29

Sept 24–Oct 2 • Oct 15–23 • Nov 12–20 Dec 10–18 • Dec 24–Jan 1, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 7–15 • Feb 11–19 • Mar 11–19

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

The optional historical tour of Marrakech is at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels that reflect the local character (8 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners. Allow an additional $250–325 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private air-conditioned minivan/coach, 4x4 vehicle

DAY 4 MERZOUGA Travel through the Middle Atlas Mountains to the Sahara (pictured above), overnighting in a kasbah-style desert hotel at the edge of the awe-inspiring dunes. (1B, 1D) DAY 5 TODRA GORGE/TINEGHIR Explore the Sahara on a thrilling 4x4 dunes tour.

Visit the village of Khamliya to meet Gnaoua musicians and take in an amazing performance.

Drink mint tea with local Berbers and then continue to Tineghir. (1B, 1D)

Meknès

Casablanca Marrakech

DAY 6 DADÈS GORGE/OUARZAZATE Visit Dadès Valley and then head along the “Route of 1,000 Kasbahs,” with an included visit to Taourirt Kasbah. (1B)

MOR OC C O

Aït Ben Haddou Ouarzazate

DAY 7 AÏT BEN HADDOU/MARRAKECH Wander through the adobe village of Aït Ben Haddou, another World Heritage site.

46

Fez

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

Merzouga Todra Gorge

AFRICA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o E xplore no fewer than seven

UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the medinas of Fez and Marrakech and the adobe village of Aït Ben Haddou.

o S leep among the Saharan dunes in a traditional tent and explore the Anti-Atlas Mountains.

MOROCCO: SAHARA & BEYOND 15 DAYS | CASABLANCA TO MARRAKECH ITINERARY DAY 1 CASABLANCA Arrive at any time.

Arrival transfer included. Enjoy a welcome dinner. (1D) DAY 2 MEKNÈS/VOLUBILIS/FEZ Enjoy a traditional tagine lunch at a G Adventures– supported cooperative that benefits rural Moroccan women and children before a guided tour of the imperial city of Meknès. Continue to the ruins of Volubilis, one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco, then on to Fez for the night. (1B, 1L) DAY 3 FEZ Step back in time on a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage–rated Fez medina. Explore its winding lanes and alleys with a knowledgeable guide. Later, visit a local café for a class on Islamic calligraphy. (1B) DAYS 4–5 MARRAKECH Travel to Marrakech to experience its color and chaos firsthand.

Watch storytellers and acrobats while enjoying a simple and delicious meal at a market food stall. The next day, set out for a guided tour of this incredible city, including the Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs. Visit the medina with a city resident who will discuss spices and herbs. Then head to a traditional Berber house to enjoy a cooking class and an incredible dinner together.

(2B, 2D) DAY 6 AÏT BEN HADDOU Travel to Aït Ben Haddou (pictured above), a World Heritage site in the Atlas Mountains, and explore this ancient adobe village. (1B, 1D) DAY 7 ERG CHIGAGA Travel through the Drâa Valley to Zagora and set off on 4x4s into the desert. Stop at Tamegroute to visit the library of ancient Islamic texts. Continue off-road toward

the great dunes of Erg Chigaga to our comfortable desert camp. Opt to take a camel ride or climb to the top of the dunes for views of the vast Sahara. Enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars. (1B, 1L, 1D) DAY 8 ZAGORA Cross the desert back to Zagora. Enjoy a talk on the history of the Drâa region and visit nearby historical sites. (1B) DAY 9 TAROUDANT Head toward the AntiAtlas region to the carpet towns of Tazenakht and Taliouine, where saffron is harvested. In Taroudant, visit the famed leather tanneries and local markets. (1B) DAYS 10–11 TAFRAOUT Enter the Anti-Atlas region to view natural rock formations and explore the Tafraout town center and local markets. The following day, visit Aït Mansour Gorge, the Painted Rocks, and the Chapeau de Napoleon. Walk through a palm oasis and have lunch in a village house. Visit a women’s cooperative that produces handicrafts and argan oil.

(2B, 1L) DAYS 12–13 ESSAOUIRA Travel toward the Atlantic coast to the port town of Essaouira.

Head down to the port to see the fishing fleet unload their catch. Pick out the best of the bunch, which we’ll take to a nearby restaurant to cook up for our lunch. Opt to visit a hammam (traditional spa and steam baths), stroll the beach, visit shops and galleries, or go surfing or sailing. (2B, 1L) DAYS 14–15 MARRAKECH Return to Marrakech and visit the Menara Gardens and the Majorelle Gardens. Enjoy an optional farewell dinner at a palace-style restaurant with folkloric entertainment. The next day, depart at any time.

(2B)

o T ry your hand at Arabic calligraphy with a local master in Fez.

FROM

2,699

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 699

2016 DATES Apr 11–25 • May 16–30 • Sept 12–26

Oct 10–24 • Nov 14–28 • Dec 12–26

2017 DATES Jan 9–23 • Feb 13–27 • Mar 13–27

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

The optional desert camel ride, optional activities in Essaouira, and optional farewell dinner are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels that reflect the local character (13 nights), comfortable desert camp in the Sahara (1 night) MEALS INCLUDED 14 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners. Allow an additional $375–490 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private air-conditioned minivan, 4x4 vehicle

Meknès Fez

Casablanca

MO R O C C O

Marrakech

Aït Ben Haddou

Essaouira Tafraout

Zagora Taroudant

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

Erg Chigaga Desert Camp

47

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o S ee the Dead Sea Scrolls, explore

Masada, stroll ancient sites in the Galilee, and float in the Dead Sea.

oD iscover Jerusalem’s Old City on

a dual-narrative walking tour led by an Israeli guide and a Palestinian guide, both trained by National Geographic Emerging Explorer Aziz Abu Sarah.

TRIP TITLE ISRAEL AND BEYOND 8 DAYS | JERUSALEM TO TEL AVIV ITINERARY DAY 1 JERUSALEM Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer included.

DAY 2 JERUSALEM Take a specially designed walking tour of the Old City of Jerusalem (pictured above) with two guides, one Israeli and one Palestinian, both trained by National Geographic Emerging Explorer Aziz Abu Sarah.

This unique dual-narrative tour allows travelers a deeper understanding of the diverse cultural, religious, and political aspects of the region.

Visit key sites including the Temple Mount, the Dome of the Rock, and the Al Aqsa Mosque.

Continue to the Western Wall, then walk through the Stations of the Cross to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This afternoon, visit the Mount of Olives, the Garden of Gethsemane, and the Church of All Nations, and take in amazing views of the Old City. Later, enjoy a discussion on the current state of affairs with a leading Israeli scholar. (1B)

DAYS 5–6 MASADA/DEAD SEA/ NAZARETH/SEA OF GALILEE Enjoy a guided visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Masada. Next, visit Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Head to the Dead Sea (pictured below) for a float and mud bath before continuing to the Sea of Galilee to stay in a kibbutz hotel for two nights. The next day, visit the Mount of Beatitudes and the ruins at Capernaum. (2B) DAYS 7–8 TEL AVIV Head west to the Mediterranean, visiting the coastal city of Haifa and then traveling south to Caesarea Maritima to explore the ruins of Herod’s harbor city.

Then it’s off to the ancient port city of Jaffa and bustling Tel Aviv for our final evening. Depart at any time the next day. (2B)

DAYS 3–4 JERUSALEM/BETHLEHEM Pay respect to victims of the Holocaust at the evocative Yad Vashem Memorial, and then step further back in history among the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Israel Museum. The next day, take another exclusively designed dual-narrative tour of Bethlehem with Israeli and Palestinian guides.

Visit Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity, built over the spot considered by many to be the birthplace of Jesus. Walk through a nearby Palestinian refugee camp, and then head to a local Palestinian family’s home for a cooking class and lunch. Later, visit Herodion, a hill fortress built by Herod the Great. (2B, 1L)

48

oV isit the home of a Palestinian

family in Bethlehem and cook up some favorite recipes together.

FROM

2,299

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION:

+ 799

GROUP SIZE: Max 16

2016 DATES May 15–22 • Jun 12–19 • Jul 17–24

Aug 14–21 • Sept 11–18 • Oct 9–16 • Nov 13–20 Dec 22–29 2017 DATES Jan 22–29 • Feb 19–26 • Mar 19–26

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED 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) MEALS INCLUDED 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch. Allow an additional $300–390 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private van/bus

Sea of Galilee ISR AEL

Tel Aviv-Yafo Jerusalem Bethlehem Masada/Dead Sea

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

MIDDLE EAST JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oV enture to the ancient ruins of Jerash and view the incredible mosaics of Madaba.

o E xperience Petra, and join an

archaeologist for a talk about ongoing excavations.

oH ead into Wadi Rum on a 4x4

excursion and go stargazing with a local Bedouin.

FROM

1,599

EXPLORE JORDAN

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

7 DAYS | AMMAN TO THE DEAD SEA

+ 499

2016 DATES May 22–28 • Jun 19–25

ITINERARY DAY 1 AMMAN Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer included.

DAY 2 AMMAN/JERASH On a city tour of Amman, visit the Jordan Museum and the archaeological site of the Citadel. Head to Jerash (pictured above), one of the largest and best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy. (1B) DAY 3 MADABA/MT. NEBO/WADI MUSA Visit the ancient town of Madaba, famous for its mosaics and churches. Continue to Mount Nebo for the stunning views from its summit.

This evening, enjoy a lecture by a local archaeologist on the importance of Petra and the ongoing excavations at this UNESCO World Heritage site. (1B)

evening, walk into the desert to admire the night sky alongside a Bedouin guide who will explain how to use the locations of stars for desert navigation. (1B, 1L, 1D)

Jul 24–30 • Aug 21–27 • Sept 18–24 Oct 16–22 • Nov 20–26 • Dec 29–Jan 4, 2017

DAYS 6–7 DEAD SEA Visit the archaeological site of Bethany, believed to be the site of Jesus’s baptism, before going on to the Dead Sea for a float or an optional mud or sea salt treatment.

Depart at any time the next day. (2B, 1D)

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

Amman

Dead Sea

DAY 5 WADI RUM Head to Wadi Rum in the heart of the desert. After lunch at our lodge, take an exciting 4x4 ride over the dunes. This

Mar 26–Apr 1

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

The optional spa treatments at the Dead Sea are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels that reflect the local character (5 nights), desert lodge (1 night)

Jerash

Madaba JORDAN

DAY 4 WADI MUSA/PETRA Enjoy a guided tour of Petra with free time to explore on your own. Later, attend a cooking demonstration and traditional dinner in Wadi Musa. (1B, 1D)

2017 DATES Jan 29–Feb 4 • Feb 26–Mar 4

MEALS INCLUDED 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners. Allow an additional $190–250 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private van/bus, 4x4

Wadi Musa/Petra

Wadi Rum

EXPLORE ISRAEL & JORDAN

14 DAYS | JERUSALEM TO THE DEAD SEA

STEP INTO AN ANCIENT WORLD ON A JOURNEY that combines the highlights of Israel and Jordan. Experience Jerusalem’s Old City from two perspectives, venture into Petra, and trace the history of the Romans in Jerash and Caesarea Maritima. Stay in a kibbutz in the hills of the Galilee, and spend a night in the deserts of Wadi Rum. Visit our website for a detailed itinerary and more 2017 dates.

FROM

3,799

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ $1,299

2016 DATES May 15–28 • Jun 12–25 • Jul 17–30 • Aug 14–27 • Sept 11–24 • Oct 9–22 • Nov 13–26 • Dec 22–Jan 4, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 22–Feb 4 • Feb 19–Mar 4 • Mar 19–Apr 1

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

49

NORTH INDIA HIGHLIGHTS 8 DAYS | DELHI TO DELHI DISCOVER EVOCATIVE INDIA during an eight-day journey to bustling cities and iconic monuments. Witness the utter beauty of the Taj Mahal, which took about 20,000 workers and 1,000 elephants more than 20 years to complete. Stroll through little-known corners of Delhi with a local youth, and visit the “pink city” of Jaipur. Then head into the countryside to spend a night in a family-run guesthouse.

ITINERARY DAY 1 DELHI Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included through Women on Wheels, a G Adventures–supported project that trains and employs local women.

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DAY 4 JAIPUR Drive to Jaipur today. Stop to explore the deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri and the village of Abhāneri, which has one of India’s deepest and largest step wells (tank gardens). (1B)

DAY 2 DELHI/AGRA Walk through the backstreets of Delhi with a young adult from the G Adventures–supported New Delhi Streetkids Project. Later, explore Old Delhi with our CEO before an afternoon drive to Agra. (1B)

DAY 5 JAIPUR Spend the day discovering the “pink city” of Jaipur, including the hilltop Amber Fort (pictured above and far right) and the City Palace. View the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds), and enjoy a talk with a local historian about India’s social fabric and customs. (1B)

DAY 3 AGRA Spend the day visiting the highlights of the walled city of Agra. Visit the beautiful tombs of Mirza Ghiyas Beg, often called the “Baby Taj.” Venture into Agra Fort, then encounter the world’s most incredible monument to love: the Taj Mahal (pictured left). (1B)

DAY 6 SĀWARDA Drive to the traditional rural village of Sāwarda. Meet the town elders to discuss life here. Join a family for a Hindu prayer session, and stay the night in a guesthouse in the village. (1B, 1D)

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

DAYS 7–8 DELHI Drive back to Delhi. Depart at any time the following day. (2B)

ASIA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o Discover the stunning Taj Mahal and the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri. o Explore the palaces of Jaipur, see the impressive stepwells of Abhāneri, and hear a talk by a local historian.

oM eet with elders in a rural village, join a family for a Hindu prayer session, and spend the night in a traditional home.

o T ake a walking tour of Delhi with a local young adult from the G Adventures–supported New Delhi Street Kids Project.

“It was as if all my life I had been seeing the world in black and white and, when brought faceto-face with India, experienced everything re-rendered in brilliant technicolor.”

— Keith Bellows, former editor of National Geographic Traveler

FROM

1,149

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ $499

2016 DATES

Delhi

Sawarda

Agra Jaipur

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE JAIPUR BALLOON RIDE

Get a bird’s-eye view of the ancient forts and palaces of Jaipur.

2017 DATES I N D I A

IN D IA

Apr 3–10 • Apr 10–17 • Apr 17–24 Sept 4–11 • Sept 11–18 • Sept 15–22 • Sept 18–25 Oct 2–9 • Oct 9–16 • Oct 13–20 • Oct 16–23 Oct 23–30 • Oct 30–Nov 6 • Nov 6–13 Nov 10–17 • Nov 13–20 • Nov 20–27 Nov 27–Dec 4 • Dec 4–11 • Dec 8–15 • Dec 11–18 Dec 18–25 • Dec 25–Jan 1, 2017 Jan 5–12 • Jan 8–15 • Jan 22–29 Jan 29–Feb 5 • Feb 2–9 • Feb 5–12 • Feb 12–19 Feb 19–26 • Feb 26–Mar 5 • Mar 2–9 • Mar 5–12 Mar 16–23 • Mar 19–26 • Mar 30–Apr 6 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Comfortable, mid-range hotels (6 nights), heritage guesthouse (1 night) MEALS INCLUDED

7 breakfasts, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $190–250 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION

Van, bus, auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

51

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oV enture into Udaipur’s marble

palaces, the legendary Taj Mahal in Agra, Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort, and more. o E xplore tribal villages and visit a crafts school that empowers local women. iscover the historic markets of o D Bikaner alongside a local expert.

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE

MYSTERIES OF INDIA

JAIPUR BALLOON RIDE

Soar over Jaipur in a hot air balloon.

FROM

2,149

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

DAY 2 DELHI/MANDĀWA Walk through Delhi on an insider tour with a young adult from the G Adventures–supported New Delhi Streetkids Project. Continue on to colonial New Delhi for an orientation tour before driving to Mandāwa village. (1B) DAYS 3–4 BIKANER Enjoy a walking tour of Mandāwa. Then drive to Bikaner to explore some of its estates and spend the night in a homestay. The next day, venture into the traditional markets in the old city alongside a local expert. Visit Junagarh Fort and the infamous “Rat Temple.” (2B) DAY 5 JODHPUR Arrive in the “blue city” of Jodhpur (pictured below) and visit the Mehrangarh Fort and the Clock Tower. (1B)

$ DAY 10 JOJĀWAR Stay at the family-run guesthouse in Jojāwar. Enjoy a rural train safari and village orientation walk. (1B, 1D) DAYS 11–12 JAIPUR Drive to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Pay a visit to Barefoot College, an NGO providing basic services and solutions to issues in rural India for more than 40 years. The following day, explore City Palace and Amber Fort, and view the Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds). Visit the local bazaars to browse colorful textiles, pottery, and handicrafts. (2B) DAY 13 AGRA Drive to Agra, visiting the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri en route. Later, encounter the historic Agra Fort. (1B) DAY 14 DELHI Rise early to visit the worldfamous Taj Mahal, enjoying stunning sunrise views. Continue onward to Delhi. (1B) DAY 15 DELHI Depart at any time. (1B)

+ 799

2016 DATES Apr 3–17 • May 29–Jun 12

Jun 26–Jul 10 • Jul 24–Aug 7 • Aug 21–Sept 4 Sept 11–25 • Sept 25–Oct 9 • Oct 9–23 Oct 23–Nov 6 • Nov 6–20 • Nov 20–Dec 4 Dec 4–Dec 18 • Dec 18–Jan 1, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 1–15 • Jan 15–29 • Jan 22–Feb 5

Jan 29–Feb 12 • Feb 5–19 • Feb 19–Mar 5 Mar 5–19 • Mar 19–Apr 2 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional balloon ride is at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels/heritage guesthouse (14 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 14 breakfasts, 3 dinners. Allow an additional $335–435 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Van, bus, jeep, train, cycle-

rickshaw

DAYS 6–7 CHĀNDELAO Take a jeep excursion into the countryside, visiting tribal hamlets such as Bishnois. Continue on to Chāndelao to explore the village and local markets. Meet with the town elders to discuss daily life in rural India. Visit the Sunder Rang Project, which helps village women become more economically independent by training them in traditional crafts. (2B, 2D)

Bikaner

Mandawa

Chandelao Garh

Jaipur Jojawar

Udaipur

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

Delhi Agra

Jodhpur

DAYS 8–9 UDAIPUR Drive to Udaipur (pictured above), visiting the stunning Ranakpur Jain temples en route. Explore the City Palace museum, enjoy a Lake Pichola boat ride, and visit the Jagdish Temple. (2B)

52

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

INDIA

ASIA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o E xplore five UNESCO World

Heritage sites, including the incredible Taj Mahal. oC ruise the Ganges River at sunrise to witness ancient Hindu rituals, and prepare a meal with a family in Jaipur. o G o on game drives in Ranthambore National Park.

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE

DISCOVER INDIA

JAIPUR BALLOON RIDE

Book your sunrise balloon ride over Jaipur.

FROM

15 DAYS | DELHI TO DELHI ITINERARY 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 New Delhi Streetkids Project. Later, explore Old Delhi with our CEO and enjoy a rickshaw ride through the busy streets. (1B) DAYS 3–4 VARANASI Fly to Varanasi, the quintessential Indian holy city. In the afternoon, enjoy a lecture at the ghats (stairs) of the Ganges on the river’s spiritual, social, and economic significance, and then embark on a boat just before sunset. The next day, rise early for a dawn-lit boat ride on the river and observe rituals of bathing and burial. Then have breakfast at Open Hand Café, a G Adventures partner, to learn how this social enterprise is providing opportunity to local people. Later, visit Sarnath, the site of the Buddha’s first sermon. (2B) 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. (1B) DAY 6 AGRA Today, travel by road before mingling with locals on the train ride to Agra. (1B) 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 (pictured above). (1B, 1D)

2,649

$ DAY 8 RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK Enjoy two safari drives through the park with local naturalists/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. (1B, 1D) 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. (2B, 1D) 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. (1B, 1D) DAYS 12–13 UDAIPUR Travel to Udaipur and take an orientation walk. Discover Lake Pichola and the fairy-tale Lake Palace. Explore the City Palace and Jagdish Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. (2B)

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 799

2016 DATES Apr 3–17 • Apr 17–May 1

Oct 23–Nov 6 • Oct 30–Nov 13 • Nov 6–20 Nov 13–27 • Nov 27–Dec 11 • Dec 11–25 Dec 25–Jan 8, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 8–22 • Jan 22–Feb 5

Feb 5–19 • Feb 19–Mar 5 • Mar 5–19

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional rural train safari, optional balloon ride, and optional farewell dinner are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range

hotels (14 nights)

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

TRANSPORTATION Minibus, auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw, boat, plane

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. (2B)

Delhi

Jaipur

Agra Jojawar Udaipur

Varanasi (Banaras) Ranthambore NP Khajuraho

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

INDIA

53

SOUTH INDIA: EXPLORE KERALA

ICONIC INDIA

7 DAYS | KOCHI TO CHERAI BEACH

14 DAYS | DELHI TO CHERAI BEACH

Kerala is home to beautiful beaches and backwaters, verdant jungles and tea-covered hills. This compact trip offers a chance to experience a part of India that’s truly off the beaten path. Paddle a canoe along lush canals, explore historic forts and palaces, sample flavorful cuisine, and more.

STRETCHING ALONG INDIA’S SOUTHWESTERN COAST,

EXPERIENCE INDIA’S NORTH AND SOUTH on one remarkable journey. Venture into Rajasthan’s forts and palaces, float through Kerala’s backwaters, and visit the village of Sāwarda. From the Taj Mahal and the “pink city” of Jaipur to Kochi’s markets, immerse yourself in incredible India.

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

DAYS 1–2 KOCHI (COCHIN) Embark on a walking tour of Fort Kochi, including the fish market, the Dutch Palace, and the Jewish Quarter. Explore the spice market with a local expert and take in a kathakali dance performance.

DAYS 1–5 DELHI/AGRA/JAIPUR Explore Delhi with a young adult from the G Adventures–supported New Delhi Street Kids Project. In Agra, encounter the Taj Mahal (pictured above), the “Baby Taj,” and Agra Fort.

Visit Fatehpur Sikri and discover the highlights of Jaipur.

DAY 3 KUMARAKOM Visit Tripunithura Hill Palace before continuing to Vembanad Lake, Kerala’s largest lake. Paddle a canoe along narrow canals and walk through rice fields to the village of Chempu.

DAY 4 ALLEPPEY/KERALA BACKWATERS Spend the day on a houseboat, cruising the Kerala backwaters (pictured above) and observing scenes of daily life. At our homestay in Alleppey, enjoy a traditional cooking demonstration.

DAYS 5–7 CHERAI BEACH/VYPĪN ISLAND On Vembanad Lake, meet fishermen to learn about conservation efforts at a fish sanctuary established by a National Geographic–supported non-profit. Continue to Cherai Beach and enjoy free time to explore the village and experience the beaches and scenic backwaters of Vypīn Island.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o S ee the colonial architecture of

Fort Kochi and watch a kathakali performance. o P addle a canoe on Kerala’s waterways. o M eet fishermen working with a National Geographic–funded program to preserve the Vembanad wetlands. o S ample southern Indian cuisine during a stay at a family home.

54

FROM

1,099

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM $ OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 499

See page 74 for dates.

See website for further trip details.

DAYS 6–8 SĀWARDA/DELHI/KOCHI (COCHIN) Meet town elders in Sāwarda and stay in a heritage home in the village. Drive back to Delhi and fly to Kochi.

DAYS 9–11 KOCHI/ALLEPPEY/KERALA BACKWATERS Tour Fort Kochi and take in a kathakali dance performance. Paddle a canoe and cruise Kerala’s backwaters aboard a houseboat. Later, enjoy a cooking demonstration during a family homestay in Alleppey.

DAYS 12–14 CHERAI BEACH/VYPĪN ISLAND Learn about the efforts by local communities and a National Geographic–supported non-profit to conserve the Vembanad wetlands. In Cherai Beach, enjoy free time to explore the village and experience the beaches and scenic backwaters of Vypīn Island.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

M o eet with a local historian in Jaipur. o C ruise the backwaters of Kerala aboard a houseboat. o T ake part in a Hindu prayer session and meet village elders. o E xplore Kochi’s spice markets with a local expert.

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

FROM

2,299

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM $ OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 999

See page 74 for dates.

See website for further trip details.

ASIA

CRUISE THE GANGES

EXPLORE NORTH INDIA & THE GANGES

12 DAYS | KOLKATA TO VARANASI

16 DAYS | DELHI TO KOLKATA

ON A JOURNEY BY BOAT AND BY LAND, discover a host of fascinating sites along the Ganges River: picturesque villages; Hindu rock carvings; and incredible temples, forts, and palaces. Conclude your journey in Varanasi, known as the spiritual heart of India, and observe age-old rituals taking place at the water’s edge.

the magnificent Taj Mahal, and the exquisite monuments of Jaipur. Then set sail aboard a traditional riverboat to experience the timeless treasures of the Ganges, from riverside palaces and temples to scenic villages and Mughalstyle gardens.

GET INTRODUCED TO DELHI’S BUSTLING BACKSTREETS,

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

ITINERARY AT A GLANCE

DAYS 1–8 KOLKATA (CALCUTTA)/CRUISING THE GANGES Arrive in Kolkata and catch a train to Farakka, where we embark on our riverboat.

Travel upstream, exploring historic towns and sites along the way. See the eighth-century rock carvings at Bateshwar and the early Hindu carvings of Jahangira Island. Wander among the ruins of one of the world’s first universities at Nālanda, and visit a Jain lake temple at Pawapuri.

DAYS 1–8 DELHI/AGRA/JAIPUR/SĀWARDA/KOLKATA (CALCUTTA) Explore Delhi with a young adult from the G Adventures–supported New Delhi Street Kids Project. In Agra, encounter the famed Taj Mahal, the “Baby Taj,” and Agra Fort. Visit Fatehpur Sikri en route to Jaipur, where we’ll enjoy a talk with a local historian. Experience village life in Sāwarda, then return to Delhi and fly to Kolkata.

DAY 9 BODH GAYA Disembark and transfer to Bodh Gaya to explore the Mahabodhi temple complex and meet with a monk.

DAYS 9–14 KOLKATA/CRUISING THE GANGES Transfer to our riverboat (pictured above) and set sail on the Ganges. Explore an array of sites along the river: the age-old settlement of Chinsurah, the terra-cotta temples at Kalna, the impressive Hazarduari Palace, and much more.

DAYS 10–12 VARANASI Drive to Varanasi and enjoy a lecture by a local scholar at the ghats (stairs) of the Ganges. Set out on boat rides at sunset and sunrise to observe daily rituals on the river (pictured above).

Have breakfast at a G Adventures–supported vocational training café, and visit the Buddhist pilgrimage site of Sarnath.

DAYS 15–16 FARAKKA/GAUR Disembark and set out to explore the fascinating mosques and ruins of Gaur, the former Muslim capital of Bengal. Later, return to Kolkata via train and connect with your flight home.

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o Cruise the Ganges aboard a classic

riverboat. o Meet with a monk at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Mahabodhi Temple complex. o Take a bicycle rickshaw ride to view Mughal ruins. o In Varanasi, talk with a scholar about the river’s role in daily life.

FROM

2,499

o V isit Jaipur’s Amber Fort and the

breathtaking Taj Mahal. $ o S tep back in time in the traditional Airfare to/from is not village of Sāwarda. included. o S pend six days cruising the sacred GROUP SIZE: Max 24 Ganges, discovering villages, palaces, See page 74 for dates. and historic settlements.

See website for further o R ide a bicycle rickshaw to explore the trip details. terra-cotta temple complex at Kalna.

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

FROM

3,099

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

GROUP SIZE: Max 24

See page 74 for dates.

See website for further trip details.

55

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oV isit the highlights of Rajasthan

and Kathmandu and stay in a family home in a rural Indian village. oM eet a Nepalese National Geographic grantee who is working to preserve ancient weaving traditions. pend a night in a Buddhist o S monastery and participate in daily rituals alongside the monks.

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE

EXPLORE INDIA & NEPAL 17 DAYS | DELHI TO KATHMANDU ITINERARY DAY 1 DELHI Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer included through Women on Wheels, a G Adventures–supported project that trains and employs local women.

DAY 2 DELHI/AGRA Walk through Delhi with a young adult from the G Adventures–supported New Delhi Streetkids Project. Later, explore Old Delhi with our CEO before an afternoon drive to Agra. (1B) DAY 3 AGRA Spend the day visiting the highlights of the walled city of Agra, including the famed Taj Mahal, the “Baby Taj,” and Agra Fort. (1B) DAY 4 JAIPUR Drive to Jaipur, exploring the deserted Mughal city of Fatehpur Sikri and the village of Abhāneri, home to one of India’s largest step wells (tank gardens). (1B) DAY 5 JAIPUR Explore the “pink city” of Jaipur, including the Amber Fort and the City Palace, and view the Hawa Mahal, or Palace of Winds, (pictured above). Enjoy a talk with a local historian about India’s social fabric and customs. (1B) DAY 6 SĀWARDA Drive to Sāwarda and step back in time as we explore this traditional, rural village. Meet the town elders to discuss life here.

Join a family in a Hindu prayer session and stay in a guesthouse in the village. (1B, 1D) DAYS 7–8 DELHI/KATHMANDU Drive back to Delhi. The next day, transfer to the airport and catch a flight to Kathmandu. Enjoy our first taste of Nepalese food at a welcome dinner.

(2B, 1D) DAY 9 KATHMANDU Spend the day exploring Kathmandu. Visit Bodhnath Stupa, one of the

56

world’s largest Buddhist stupas, and the medieval city of Bhaktapur. Visit SASANE, the G Adventures–supported Sisterhood of Survivors project, to meet the women there and enjoy lunch. Then, talk with one of the participants to learn about the project firsthand. 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. (1B, 1L) DAY 10 PHARPING Opt to take in breathtaking views of Mount Everest on a morning sightseeing flight. Explore Durbar Square, then drive to Pharping for an overnight stay at a Buddhist monastery guesthouse, participating in daily riturals alongside the resident monks. Walk or cycle the trails of the surrounding forest. (1B) DAY 11 KURINTAR Drive to Kurintar and arrive at our nature lodge on the banks of the Trishuli River. Choose from a variety of optional activities, including nature walks or visits to local villages. (1B, 1D) DAYS 12–13 CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK Drive to Chitwan National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage site—for two days of nature walks, boating, and a jeep safari in search of rhinos, leopards, elephants, and elusive Bengal tigers. (2B, 2L, 2D) DAYS 14–15 POKHARA Drive across the mountains to beautiful Pokhara. Go boating on Phewa Lake and then hike to the World Peace Pagoda. (2B) DAYS 16–17 KATHMANDU Catch a flight back to Kathmandu. The following day, depart at any time. (2B)

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

JAIPUR BALLOON RIDE

Get a bird’s-eye view of Jaipur on a balloon ride!

FROM

2,999

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION:

GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 1,299

2016 DATES Apr 10–26 • Sept 11–27 • Oct 9–25

Oct 23–Nov 8 • Nov 6–22 • Nov 20–Dec 6 Dec 4–20 • Dec 18–Jan 3, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 8–24 • Jan 29–Feb 14

Feb 12–28 • Feb 26–Mar 14 • Mar 19–Apr 4 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional scenic flight to Mount Everest and the balloon ride in Jaipur are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels (14 nights), heritage guesthouse (1 night), monastery guesthouse (1 night) MEALS INCLUDED 16 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners. Allow an additional $335–435 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Van, bus, auto-rickshaw, cycle-rickshaw, walking, plane, boat

Delhi

Sawarda Jaipur

Agra

NE PA L

Kathmandu

Pokhara Kurintar

Mt Everest

Chitwan NP Pharping

I NDI A

ASIA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oV isit National Geographic grantee

Chhing Lhomi’s Himalayan Indigenous Society, and learn about her efforts to preserve the ancient weaving traditions of the Upper Mustang region. o S tay overnight at a Buddhist monastery in Pharping, and visit a Tibetan refugee camp in Pokhara. earch for leopards, elephants, and o S rhinos in Chitwan National Park.

NEPAL: HIMALAYA HIGHLIGHTS 10 DAYS | KATHMANDU TO KATHMANDU

FROM

1,799

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION:

+ 799

GROUP SIZE: Max 15

2016 DATES Apr 17–26 • Apr 22–May 1

ITINERARY DAY 1 KATHMANDU Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer and welcome dinner are included. (1D) 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 an authentic lunch. Then, walk with one of the participants to learn about the project firsthand. 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. (1B, 1L) DAY 3 PHARPING Opt to take in breathtaking views of Mount Everest on a morning sightseeing flight. Later, see the temples and palaces of Durbar Square. Then drive to 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 participate in daily rituals alongside the monks. Walk or cycle the grounds and the trails of the surrounding forest. (1B) DAY 4 KURINTAR Drive to Kurintar and arrive at our lodge, which sits on a ridge amid the hills and overlooks the banks of the Trishuli River.

Choose from a variety of optional activities, including nature walks or visits to local villages.

(1B, 1D)

DAYS 5–6 CHITWAN NATIONAL PARK Drive to Chitwan National Park, the oldest national park in Nepal, which offers some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in Asia. Established in 1973, it was designated a UNESCO 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. (2B, 2L, 2D) DAYS 7–8 POKHARA Nestled in a tranquil valley, Pokhara lies along a once vibrant trade route between India and Tibet. To this day, mule trains can be seen bringing goods from remote regions of the Himalaya. Go boating on beautiful Phewa Lake (pictured above) and then hike to the World Peace Pagoda. Later, visit the Tashiling Tibetan Refugee Camp, established as a temporary settlement in 1964. Walk through this friendly community, now home to over 500, and see a photo gallery documenting its history before a traditional lunch at the camp’s restaurant. (2B, 1L)

May 6–15 • May 20–29 • Jul 15–24 • Aug 12–21 Sept 2–11 • Sept 18–27 • Oct 7–16 • Oct 16–25 Oct 30–Nov 8 • Nov 13–22 • Nov 27–Dec 6 Dec 11–20 • Dec 25–Jan 3, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 15–24 • Feb 5–14 • Feb 19–28

Mar 5–14 • Mar 26–Apr 4

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional scenic flight to Mount Everest and the optional activities in Kathmandu 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 $185–240 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private bus, plane, boat,

walking

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 and the 1,500-year-old temple and World Heritage site of Swayambhunath, perched on a hilltop above the city. (1B) DAY 10 KATHMANDU Depart at any time. (1B)

CHINA

Mt Everest

Pokhara Kurintar

Kathmandu

Pharping Chitwan NP

NEPAL

INDIA

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

57

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o E xplore Bhutan’s capital city as

well as remote shrines and temples nestled in the countryside.

o T alk with a Buddhist monk, visit an arts-and-crafts school, and enjoy a home-cooked meal at a family farmhouse.

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

WONDERS OF BHUTAN 10 DAYS | PARO TO PARO ITINERARY DAY 1 PARO Arrive at any time and transfer to our hotel. Visit Rinpung Dzong, a school for monks, and take an orientation walk in town before dinner. (1D) DAYS 2–3 PUNAKHA 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. The next day, visit the Punakha Dzong, an elaborate fortress guarding the southern end of the valley at the confluence of the Pho (male) and Mo (female) Rivers. Hike to the Chime Lhakhang temple and continue on to the town of Wangdue Phodrang. In the afternoon, hike through rice terraces and forests to Khamsum Yulley Namgyal Chorten, a spectacularly situated temple, and take in sweeping views of the valley below. (2B, 2L, 2D) DAYS 4–5 GANGTEY VALLEY Travel to the village of Khewa before continuing on to the Gangtey Valley to get a taste of Bhutanese life. Visit the farm of a local family and enjoy a home-cooked dinner. The next day, walk to Gangtey Goemba, one of the oldest Nyingmapa monasteries in Bhutan, perched atop a hill amid a cluster of cottages. Explore the restored temple complex and examine some of the finest craftsmanship in Bhutan.

Visit a community school, followed by a spectacular walk through the valley to visit an ageold temple and make an offering. (2B, 2L, 2D)

whitewashed stuppa stopped by a golden spire.

Then 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 (pictured below). Meet with a Buddhist monk and scholar to discuss Buddhist beliefs and traditions. (1B, 1L, 1D) DAY 7 HAA VALLEY Drive to the Haa Valley, one of the most remote and sacred valleys in Bhutan, via the Cheli La pass (12,500 feet).

En route, hike to the Kila Goemba nunnery and take in spectacular views from the temple complex, which was built on a steep cliff face.

Drive to the valley and visit the Lhakhang Nagpo (Black Temple) and Lhakhang Karpo (White Temple). (1B, 1L, 1D)

3,699

$

+ 1,099

2016 DATES Apr 9–18 • May 21–30 • Jun 18–27 Jul 9–18 • Aug 13–22 • Sept 10–19 • Oct 15–24 Nov 5–14 2017 DATES Mar 18–27

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED 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.

TRANSPORTATION Private vehicle, hiking

Punakha Valley

Paro

DAY 10 PARO Depart at any time. Airport transfer is included. (1B)

Haa Valley

Gangtey Valley Thimphu B H U T A N

B H U TA N

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

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

DAYS 8–9 PARO Return to Paro and explore the ruins of the Drukgyel Dzong fortress, which once defended this valley from invasions. Embark on a vigorous hike to the famed pilgrimage site of Taktsang Lhakhang or the Tiger’s Nest Temple (pictured above), which clings to a vertical granite cliff nearly 3,000 feet above the valley floor. Take in some of the best views in the region. Later, visit the seventh-century Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan’s oldest temples, and walk the local archery grounds. (2B, 2L, 2D)

DAY 6 THIMPHU Drive to Thimphu, the capital of Bhutan and home to the royal family. Visit the National Library and observe pilgrims circling the beautiful National Memorial Chorten, a

58

FROM

ASIA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o E xplore four UNESCO World

Heritage sites: the Sigiriya rockfortress, the Golden Temple of Dambulla, and the sacred cities of Kandy and Anuradhapura.

oW alk through spice gardens and tea plantations, and enjoy a traditional farmhouse meal.

o V enture into Wilpattu National Park in search of elephants and leopards.

DISCOVER SRI LANKA 11 DAYS | COLOMBO TO MARAWILA ITINERARY DAY 1 COLOMBO Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2–3 COLOMBO/NUWARA ELIYA Discover the colonial and modern mix of Colombo on a city tour. Then drive into the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country to Nuwara Eliya, stopping amid rain forests to visit the town of Kitulgala en route. The next day, enjoy a picnic breakfast and a hike in Horton Plains National Park, keeping an eye out for macaques and wild boars. Enjoy high tea at the historic Grand Hotel. Embark on an evening tuk-tuk ride and visit the town center and market. Opt for a rafting excursion on the Kelani River. (2B) DAYS 4–5 KANDY/MADULKELE Travel to the former royal capital of Kandy, stopping at a Ceylon tea plantation to learn about the growing and harvesting of tea. Enjoy a tour around the city and lake, with a guided visit to the Temple of the Tooth, believed to house a tooth of the Buddha. Then head to our eco-lodge in Madulkele, which is located on a tea estate. The next day, set out on a hiking excursion in the Knuckles Mountain Range, following lush forest trails past villages and tea plantations. Later, enjoy a lecture and demonstration on Ayurveda, the traditional Hindu art of medicine, by a local practitioner. (2B, 2D) DAYS 6–7 MATALE/DAMBULLA/SIGIRIYA ROCK-FORTRESS Visit a spice garden in Matale before arriving at the archaeological site of Nalanda Gedige. Our next destination is the Golden Temple of Dambulla (pictured above), which has drawn Buddhist pilgrims

for more than 22 centuries. Venture into this extraordinary rock sanctuary to admire ancient murals and statues. The next day, visit the CIC Hingurakgoda farm and observe traditional agricultural practices. Purchase fresh ingredients before heading to a farmhouse to prepare a traditional lunch with a local family.

Our next adventure takes us to the legendary rock-fortress of Sigiriya. Climb steep staircases to the top of the Lion Rock—which is crowned by the ruins of a fifth-century royal city—and take in stellar views at the summit.

(2B, 1L) DAY 8 WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK Travel north to Wilpattu National Park, renowned for its leopard population. Explore the park by jeep and meet with a forest ranger to learn about conservation efforts. Continue to Anuradhapura for the night. (1B)

FROM

2,299

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 15

+ 1,049

2016 DATES Jul 11–22 • Aug 15–26 • Oct 10–21

Nov 14–25 • Dec 12–23

2017 DATES Jan 9–20 • Feb 13–24 • Mar 13–24

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary.

The optional rafting excursion on the Kelani River is at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels and resorts that reflect the local character (10 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners. Allow an additional $220–290 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private air-conditioned van/ minibus, boat, tuk-tuk

DAYS 9–10 ANURADHAPURA/MARAWILA Explore the sacred city of Anuradhapura—a World Heritage site—and discover ancient Buddhist monasteries. Later, travel south to coastal Marawila and spend the next day relaxing at the beach. (2B, 2D) DAY 11 MARAWILA Depart at any time. (1B) SRI

LANKA

Wilpattu NP Anuradhapura Dambulla/Sigiriya Madulkelle Kandy

Colombo

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

Nuwara Eliya

Marawila

59

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oB icycle atop the city walls of Xi’an

before facing its ancient army of terra-cotta warriors. oW alk along the Great Wall, taking in magnificent views, and hike through the Guilin countryside. o behind the scenes and meet o G the performers of a renowned acrobatic show in Shanghai.

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE BEIJING KUNG FU SHOW

Follow the tale of a kung fu master in an art and dance performance.

BEST OF CHINA

LI RIVER LIGHT SHOW

Take in an incredible light show on the banks of the Li River.

12 DAYS | BEIJING TO SHANGHAI ITINERARY 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.

(1D) DAYS 2–4 BEIJING Explore the highlights of Beijing, including Tiananmen Square and the lavish Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage site spanning more than 800 palaces, temples, government buildings, and homes. 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 and taking in magnificent views.

Later, enjoy a walking tour of some of the city’s traditional hutong neighborhoods. Then catch an overnight train to Xi’an. (3B)

2,499

$

DAY 9 YANGSHUO Take an easy cycling trip through the countryside, passing rice paddy fields and striking karst mountains. Later, learn how to prepare local cuisine at a cooking school and enjoy the results for dinner. (1B, 1D)

Jun 12–23 • Jul 3–14 • Jul 17–28 • Aug 7–18 Aug 23–Sept 3 • Sept 4–15 • Sept 18–29 Oct 2–13 • Oct 16–27

DAYS 10–11 SHANGHAI Fly to the vibrant metropolis of Shanghai and take an orientation walk through the historic Bund area. Go behind the scenes at the world-class Shanghai Acrobatic Show, where we will have an opportunity to visit the acrobats’ training room and learn firsthand about this ancient tradition. Later, enjoy an awe-inspiring performance. (2B) DAY 12 SHANGHAI Depart at any time. (1B)

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 15

+ 749

2016 DATES Apr 10–21 • Apr 17–28 • May 15–26

2017 DATES Mar 19-30

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED 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.

DAYS 5–6 XI’AN Arrive in the ancient Chinese capital of Xi’an, once the eastern terminus of the Silk Road. Set out to experience the city like the locals do with a bike ride atop the ancient walls.

In the evening, delve into the bustling alleyways of the Muslim Quarter, perusing colorful shops and food stalls selling naan, kebabs, and an array of sweets. The next day, encounter Xi’an’s famed terra-cotta warriors (pictured right), 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. (2B, 1L)

60

FROM

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 (pictured above). (2B, 1D)

TRANSPORTATION Private bus, plane, boat, train

Beijing

Shanghai

Xi’an CHI NA

Yueluowan

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

Yangshuo

TAIWAN

ASIA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oG et up close to pandas at a

breeding center in Chengdu.

o E xplore Lhasa’s palaces and

temples, and make Tibetan dumplings with a local chef. o T ake a shipboard tai chi lesson as you cruise through the Three Gorges Dam of the Yangtze River.

ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE

EXPLORE CHINA & TIBET

FROM

15 DAYS | BEIJING TO SHANGHAI

$

ITINERARY DAY 1 BEIJING Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer to the hotel is included. Kick off your trip with a welcome dinner of Peking duck. (1D) DAY 2 BEIJING Enjoy a tour of Tiananmen Square, the lavish Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven, with free time in the afternoon to explore on your own. (1B) DAY 3 BEIJING Take a walk along the Great Wall (pictured above), exploring its towers and enjoying outstanding views. This evening, board an overnight sleeper train to Xi’an. (1B) DAYS 4–5 XI’AN Take in incredible views of Xi’an with a bike ride along its city walls. In the evening, visit the vibrant Muslim Quarter and local markets for the chance to try some of the best street food in China. The next day, visit the famed terra-cotta warriors and then have lunch in the local farming village where these archaeological treasures were discovered. (2B, 1L) DAY 6 LHASA Fly over the Himalaya to Tibet.

Set off on an orientation walk with a local guide through Barkhor Square. (1B) DAYS 7–8 LHASA Enjoy a guided visit to Potala Palace, the sacred Jokhang temple, and the Tibetan Medical Institute. The next day, visit 15th-century Sera Monastery, then take a cooking class with a local chef to make (and eat) Tibetan momo dumplings. Also visit a thangka academy to observe this ancient and intricate art form, considered sacred to Buddhists.

(2B, 1L)

DAY 9 CHENGDU Fly to Chengdu and sample the city’s famed (and fiery) Sichuan cuisine for dinner. (1B, 1D) DAY 10 CHENGDU/CHONGQING Visit a panda breeding center to observe these iconic national treasures and learn about their life cycle and habitat. Later, board a riverboat for your first of three nights on the Yangtze. (1B) 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 ship locks; and an optional excursion to White Emperor City (all depending on the season and river conditions). Relax in your well-appointed cabin and enjoy shipboard activities such as tai chi, tea tasting, and calligraphy classes.

(2B, 2L, 2D) DAY 13 SHANGHAI Take a tour of Three Gorges Dam before flying to Shanghai. (1B) DAY 14 SHANGHAI Enjoy free time to explore on your own, or opt to visit Yuyuan Garden or the Shanghai Museum. This evening, get a behind-the-scenes peek at the famed Shanghai acrobats. Visit their training room to interact with them and learn about this ancient tradition before attending an awe-inspiring performance.

(1B) DAY 15 SHANGHAI Depart at any time. (1B)

BEIJING KUNG FU SHOW

Follow the tale of a kung fu master in an art and dance performance.

4,199

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION:

+ 1,249

GROUP SIZE: Max 15

2016 DATES Apr 9–23 • Apr 30–May 14

May 14–28 • May 28–Jun 11 • Jun 11–25 Jul 9–23 • Aug 6–20 • Sept 10–24 Sept 24–Oct 8 • Oct 8–22 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional visits to Yuyuan Garden, the Shanghai Museum, and the Beijing kung fu show 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 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Train, minibus, cruise boat, small canal boat, ferry, plane

Beijing CHINA

Xi’an

Shanghai

Chengdu Lhasa

Chongqing

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

Yichang TAI WAN

61

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oV isit the markets, monasteries, and floating gardens of Inle Lake.

oC ruise the Irrawaddy River to

ancient Bagan and explore this vast temple complex.

ttend a Burmese comedy o A performance, discuss daily life with a Buddhist monk, and visit a traditional palm farm.

THE HEART OF MYANMAR (BURMA) 12 DAYS | YANGON TO YANGON

FROM

3,199

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 1,499

2016 DATES Apr 18–29 • Nov 7–18

ITINERARY DAY 1 YANGON Arrive at any time today.

Arrival transfer is included.

DAYS 2–4 MANDALAY Fly to the ancient city of Mandalay to explore its highlights, including the Golden Palace Monastery, Kyauk Taw Gyi Pagoda, Kuthodaw Pagoda, and Mahamuni Temple. Climb Mandalay Hill for views of the surrounding countryside, then visit a local home to enjoy a comedy cabaret performance by the renowned Moustache Brothers. The next day, take a boat to the village of Mingun to visit its pagodas and meet local craftspeople. Explore the spiritual center of Burma at Sagaing and the ancient royal capital of Amarapura. Enjoy free time the next day to continue exploring Mandalay. (3B) DAY 5 BAGAN Sit back and enjoy the sights on a full-day cruise down the Irrawaddy River to the ancient capital of Bagan (pictured above).

(1B) DAYS 6–7 BAGAN Explore the vast archaeological zone of Bagan, which includes over 2,500 Buddhist temples, stupas, and monasteries. Venture into fascinating sites, including the gold-plated Shwezigon Pagoda and Gubyaukgyi (Wetkyi-in) cave temple. Visit Kyansittha Umin Monastery to discuss daily life with a Buddhist monk. The next day, travel to the outskirts of town to a village 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. (2B)

Monastery and Nyaung Shwe along the way. The next day, explore the lake by boat and visit floating villages, a cigar factory, and the daily market, with stops at Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda and Nga Phe Chaung Monastery. Along the way, visit the home of a local chef and learn the basics of Burmese cooking. Relax in this charming setting on the lake and have a delicious home-cooked meal. (2B, 1L) DAY 10 KALAW Travel to this former British hill station where you’ll enjoy a scenic hike into the hills. Visit villages that have been helped by the Rural Development Society, a communitybased organization providing water supply, microfinance, libraries, and schools to rural areas. (1B, 1L) DAY 11 YANGON Fly back to Yangon and encounter the gleaming stupas of Shwedagon Pagoda, a soaring, gilded pagoda decorated with more than 4,000 diamonds. Enjoy free time to explore the old capital. (1B)

2017 DATES Jan 2–13 • Jan 9–20 • Feb 13–24

Feb 19–Mar 2 • Mar 13–24

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional hot-air balloon ride is at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels that reflect the local character (11 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 11 breakfasts, 2 lunches. Allow an additional $210–275 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private bus/van, plane, boat

DAY 12 YANGON Depart any time today. (1B) Mandalay Bagan Kalaw MYAN MAR (BU R MA)

Yangon (Rangoon)

DAYS 8–9 INLE LAKE Travel by plane, bus, and boat to serene Inle Lake, visiting Shwe Yan Pyay

62

Nov 21–Dec 2 • Dec 19–30 • Dec 26–Jan 6, 2017

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

Inle Lake

ASIA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o T ake a cyclo tour of Hanoi’s Old

Quarter before setting sail on Ha Long Bay in a traditional-style junk boat.

oH ike through hill tribe villages to experience rural life.

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

FROM

EXPLORE VIETNAM 13 DAYS | HANOI TO HO CHI MINH CITY

2,099

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 999

2016 DATES Apr 3–15 • Apr 17–29 • May 15–27

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

DAYS 2–3 MAI CHAU Start off the day with breakfast at Hoa Sua, a training restaurant for underprivileged Hanoi youth. Continue 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. (2B) 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. (1B) DAY 5 HA LONG BAY Transfer to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay, where our traditional-style wooden junk boat (pictured above) awaits. Set sail into turquoise waters dotted with hundreds of tiny islands and sculpted limestone formations. Opt to go kayaking, or relax on board. Spend a peaceful night anchored in the bay under the stars. (1B, 1L, 1D) DAYS 6–7 HUE After a morning on the bay, transfer back to Hanoi and catch a flight to Hue, the capital of the Nguyen dynasty from 1802 until 1945. Explore the ancient walled citadel containing the imperial palace and travel into the countryside to visit the final resting place of former emperors. (2B, 1L)

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. The next day is free to explore on your own. (3B, 1L) 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 vital role they played during the Vietnam War. (2B, 1D) DAY 13 HO CHI MINH CITY Depart at any time. (1B)

Jun 19–Jul 1 • Jul 17–29 • Aug 14–26 • Sept 11–23 Oct 9–21 • Nov 6–18 • Nov 20–Dec 2 • Dec 4–16 Dec 18–30 • Dec 25–Jan 6, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 1–13 • Jan 15–27 • Jan 29–Feb 10

Feb 12–24 • Feb 26–Mar 10 • Mar 12–24 Mar 26–Apr 7 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional Ha Long Bay kayaking excursion and Ho Chi Minh City cyclo tour are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels (10 nights), Ha Long Bay junk boat (1 night), lodge (1 night) MEALS INCLUDED 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners. Allow an additional $155–205 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Bus, boat, cyclo, plane

Hanoi Mai Chau

Ha Long Bay

VIETNAM LAOS

Hue Hoi An THAILAND

CAM BODIA

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

63

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o L isten to monks chant and then

receive a blessing at one of Thailand’s most revered temples. o S wim in turquoise pools below a seven-tiered waterfall in Erawan National Park and go on a jungle hike to spot monkeys. oV isit a village home outside Chiang Mai and sit down to a traditional Khantoke dinner.

TRIP TITLE THAILAND JOURNEY 8 DAYS | BANGKOK TO BANGKOK ITINERARY 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. (1B) DAY 3 KANCHANABURI/AYUTTHAYA Explore Erawan National Park and visit one of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls, with 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 war museum and cemetery to learn more about Kanchanaburi’s role in a dark chapter of World War II history. This afternoon, travel to the exquisite city of Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy dinner on a converted 1930s rice barge. (1B, 1D)

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. (2B, 1L, 1D) 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. (1B) DAY 8 BANGKOK Depart at any time. (1B) ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE FLIGHT OF THE GIBBON

Swing through the jungle on a thrilling zip line ride.

of the Reclining Buddha.

FROM

1,349

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 549

2016 DATES Apr 3–10 • May 1–8 • May 15–22

May 29–Jun 5 • Jun 12–19 • Jul 3–10 • Jul 17–24 Jul 31–Aug 7 • Aug 14–21 • Aug 28–Sept 4 Sept 11–18 • Oct 2–9 • Oct 30–Nov 6 Nov 13–20 • Dec 4–11 • Dec 18–25 Dec 25–Jan 1, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 1–8 • Jan 15–22 • Jan 29–Feb 5

Feb 12–19 • Feb 26–Mar 5 • Mar 12–19 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED 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.

TRANSPORTATION Private bus/minivan, tuk-tuk,

train, boat, plane

Chiang Mai

DAY 4 AYUTTHAYA/CHIANG MAI Explore the former royal capital of Ayutthaya (pictured right). Marvel at the ruins of spectacular temples, stupas, and statues of the Buddha. Later, return to Bangkok and catch a flight to Chiang Mai. (1B)

TH AILAND

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

64

oV isit Wat Pho, the famed Temple

Kanchanaburi

Ayutthaya

Bangkok

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

ASIA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oC ross the scenic Krabi River

and explore its caves aboard a long-tail boat. o T ake your seat on a tricycle tuk-tuk to be whisked through villages, rice fields, and rubber plantations. o K ayak and snorkel along the limestone cliffs of Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park. oG o on a jungle trek and unwind on white-sand beaches.

EXPLORE SOUTHERN THAILAND

FROM

8 DAYS | BANGKOK TO BANGKOK

$

ITINERARY DAY 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, relax on the beach or visit the town. (1B)

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION:

Learn about the culture and daily life of the rural villagers of southern Thailand. The next day, opt to visit spas and relax, rent kayaks, or snorkel.

(2B) DAY 8 BANGKOK Return to bustling Bangkok, arriving at the airport in the late afternoon. (1B)

DAYS 3–4 KO SAMUI Embark on a boat tour to Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park and go kayaking along Ko Mae Ko. Enjoy an easy jungle trek to the green lagoon. Then opt to snorkel, enjoy a Thai massage, visit a spa, or take a jeep tour. (2B, 1L)

GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ 599

2016 DATES May 8–15 • May 22–29 • Jun 5–12

Jun 19–26 • Jul 10–17 • Jul 24–31 • Aug 7–14 Aug 21–28 • Sept 4–11 • Sept 18–25 • Oct 9–16 Nov 6–13 • Nov 20–27 • Dec 11–18 Dec 25–Jan 1, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 1–8 • Jan 8–15 • Jan 22–29

Feb 5–12 • Feb 19–26 • Mar 5–12 • Mar 19–26 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

T H A I L A N D

Bangkok

DAY 5 KRABI Fly to the tropical paradise of Krabi (pictured above). Settle in this evening, then have dinner at a local restaurant. (1B, 1D) DAYS 6–7 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 tree tapping, rice fields, and a batik workshop.

1,749

WHAT’S INCLUDED 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.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range

Ko Samui Krabi

hotels (7 nights)

MEALS INCLUDED 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner.

Allow an additional $110–145 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private bus, minivan, tuk-tuk,

boat, walking, plane

ICONIC THAILAND

FROM

2,899

15 DAYS | BANGKOK TO BANGKOK

$

AN ENTICING BLEND OF HISTORY AND CULTURE, activities and relaxation, this 15-day

Airfare to/from is not included.

adventure combines the highlights of Thailand from north to south. In northern Thailand, trace World War II history, visit Buddhist temples, and take a cooking class to learn the secrets of Thai dishes. Then fly to Ko Samui and Krabi to experience the stunning beaches and lagoons, lush jungles, and villages of the southern coast. Visit our website for a detailed itinerary.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ $1,099

2016 DATES May 1–15 • May 15–29 • May 29–Jun 12 • Jun 12–26 • Jul 3–17 • Jul 17–31 • Jul 31–Aug 14 • Aug 14–28 • Aug 28–Sept 11 • Sept 11–25

Oct 2–16 • Oct 30–Nov 13 • Nov 13–27 • Dec 4–18 • Dec 18–Jan 1, 2017

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

65

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o E xperience the vibrant cultures

and treasures of Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia. oG lide along Bangkok’s canals and venture into Chiang Mai’s markets. o T our World Heritage–listed Louangphrabang and take a boat to visit the cave temples at Pak Ou. o E xplore Angkor Wat and enjoy a Khmer lunch at a G Adventures– supported vocational training restaurant.

DISCOVER SOUTHEAST ASIA 18 DAYS | BANGKOK TO SIEM REAP

FROM

3,799

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

ITINERARY DAY 1 BANGKOK Arrive 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. (1B) 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. (2B, 1L, 1D) DAY 5 LOUANGPHRABANG Fly to Louangphrabang, and take an orientation walk around this UNESCO World Heritage-listed town. (1B) DAYS 6–7 LOUANGPHRABANG Rise at dawn to meet and receive a blessing from local monks. Visit the Royal Palace Museum and Wat Xieng Thong. Continue on to Wat Visoun and walk through the temple with a local monk.

Then catch a boat to the cave temples at Pak Ou and stop in local villages. The next day, visit Kuang Si waterfall before some free time to explore the night market. (2B) DAY 8 HANOI Fly to Hanoi and enjoy a guided cyclo ride and orientation tour of the Old Quarter. Have lunch at Hoa Sua, a training school for disadvantaged youth. (1B, 1L)

66

DAY 9 HA LONG BAY Visit Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum before continuing to Ha Long Bay for an overnight cruise in a traditional-style junk boat with a local guide. Explore the limestone caves and feast fresh seafood. Then sit back and relax on deck. (1B, 1L, 1D) DAY 10 HANOI Take a morning cruise around Ha Long Bay with an option to kayak before transferring back to Hanoi. Explore the area during a free afternoon. (1B) 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. (2B) DAYS 13–14 PHNOM PENH Fly to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Set out on an NGO-supported cyclo city 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 history with visits to the Choeung Ek memorial and the Tuol Sleng prison. (2B)

2016 DATES May 21–Jun 7 • Jun 25–Jul 12

Jul 9–26 • Jul 30–Aug 16 • Sept 3–20 Oct 8–25 • Nov 12–29 • Dec 10–27 Dec 17–Jan 3, 2017 • Dec 31–Jan 17, 2017 2017 DATES Feb 4–21 • Feb 18–Mar 7

Mar 11–28

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional Ha Long Bay kayaking excursion is at an additional cost.

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 $225–295 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Private bus/van, boat, tuk-tuk, plane, cyclo, traditional junk boat

DAY 15 SIEM REAP Drive to Siem Reap, and take an orientation walk. (1B) DAYS 16–17 ANGKOR WAT/SIEM REAP Spend two days exploring the Angkor Wat (pictured above) temple complex with a local guide.

Sit down to a traditional Khmer lunch at New Hope, a local vocational training school and G Adventures–supported project. Then enjoy a fantastic performance at Phare, the Cambodian Circus. (2B, 1L) DAY 18 SIEM REAP Depart at any time. (1B)

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

+ 1,199

Hanoi

Ha Long Bay

Louangphrabang Chiang Mai

TH AIL AN D

LA O S

Angkor

Bangkok

V I E T N AM

Siem Reap

C AM B O DI A

Phnom Penh Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

ASIA JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oV enture into Yogyakarta by bicycle

rickshaw, exploring the Sultan’s Palace and batik workshops. o E xplore the extraordinary temple complex of Borobudur. oC limb to the top of an active volcano in Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. o isit a Balinese market to select V ingredients for a feast you’ll create with a local chef.

EXPLORE BALI & JAVA 12 DAYS | YOGYAKARTA TO SANUR ITINERARY DAY 1 YOGYAKARTA Arrive at any time.

Transfer to the hotel and enjoy a welcome dinner. (1D) DAYS 2–3 YOGYAKARTA Take in the city’s sights during a leisurely bicycle rickshaw ride.

See the Sultan’s Palace, colorful markets, and batik workshops. Then embark on an excursion to the Buddhist temple complex of Borobudur (pictured above). Examine the artistic and architectural marvels of this UNESCO World Heritage site, which once lay buried under layers of volcanic ash. (2B) DAYS 4–5 SOLO (SURAKARTA) Take a tour of Prambanan, the largest Hindu temple complex in Java. Continue on to Solo and visit the Mangkunegaran Palace for a traditional dance class and high tea. The next day, travel to Mount Lawu to visit the Candi Cetho and Candi Sukuh temples. (2B)

secrets of Balinese cuisine. Then roll up your sleeves for a fun cooking class and learn how to prepare a traditional meal. The next day, explore spiritual Bali, following mountain roads through the jungle to visit Tirta Empul Temple and its bubbling spring, said to hold curative powers.

Continue to the 11th-century Gunung Kawi, an ancient Balinese monument surrounded by terraced rice fields, and the village of Kintamani, perched on the edge of a giant crater. (2B, 1L) DAY 11 SANUR Head to the coastal village of Sanur and enjoy free time with the option to visit a beautiful beach. (1B) DAY 12 SANUR Depart at any time. (1B)

FROM

2,249

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION:

+ 999

GROUP SIZE: Max 16

2016 DATES Apr 3–14 • May 1–12 • May 29–Jun 9 Jul 3–14 • Jul 31–Aug 11 • Sept 4–15 • Oct 2–13 Oct 30–Nov 10 • Dec 18–29 2017 DATES Jan 1–12 • Jan 29–Feb 9 Feb 26–Mar 9 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED 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 (11 nights) MEALS INCLUDED 11 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $175–230 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Minibus/van, cycle-rickshaw

DAYS 6–7 MALANG Journey to the beautiful colonial city of Malang, the second largest city in East Java. The next morning, hop in a jeep to catch the sunrise at Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. Ascend to the top of Mount Bromo (pictured right)—part of the Tengger Caldera, the largest volcanic range in the area.

Later, visit the volcanology office to meet with one of the researchers and learn about the geology of this beautiful area. (2B, 1L) DAY 8 UBUD Catch a flight and transfer to Ubud, the cultural and artistic heart of Bali and our base for the next three nights. (1B)

INDONESIA

Yogyakarta

DAYS 9–10 UBUD Venture into markets and rice fields with a local chef to discover the

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

Solo

Malang Ubud

Sanur

67

JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

oC ruise Sydney Harbour and view

the iconic Sydney Opera House. oG o behind the scenes at James Cook University research aquarium, founded by a National Geographic grantee. o E xplore the Daintree Rainforest with an Aboriginal guide, watch the sun rise over Uluru, and opt to snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef.

TRIP TITLE EXPLORE AUSTRALIA 12 DAYS | SYDNEY TO MELBOURNE ITINERARY DAY 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 for a sunset dinner cruise through Sydney Harbour’s beautiful bays and coves. Opt to swim, fish, or kayak, or simply sit back and relax as the opera house lights up in the evening.

(1B, 1D) 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. (1B) DAY 4 PORT DOUGLAS Opt to snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef. (1B)

DAY 8 ULURU Awaken early to watch the sun rise over Uluru. Continue on a guided walk around its base, visit the cultural center, and learn about the significance of this sacred monolith to the people who live with it. (1B) DAY 9 ALICE SPRINGS Enjoy another sunrise over Uluru before a walk in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Continue to Alice Springs for the night. (1B) DAYS 10–11 MELBOURNE Fly to cosmopolitan Melbourne. Later, enjoy a discussion on Australian wines and a three-course tasting menu with paired wines at the Mill House. The next day, take advantage of free time to explore the Great Ocean Road or visit some of the area’s wineries. (2B, 1D) DAY 12 MELBOURNE Depart at any time. (1B)

SYDNEY BRIDGE CLIMB

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

SYDNEY ADRENALINE BUNDLE

Combine the bridge climb with a jetboat ride in Sydney Harbour.

FROM

4,799

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION:

+ 1,699

GROUP SIZE: Max 16

2016 DATES Jul 13–23 • Sept 28–Oct 8

Oct 26–Nov 5 • Nov 9–19 • Nov 23–Dec 3 Dec 7–17 • Dec 21–31 2017 DATES Jan 4–14 • Jan 18–28 • Feb 1–11

Feb 15–25 • Mar 15–25

Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/ from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional Great Barrier Reef snorkeling excursion and the optional activities in Sydney are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range

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. (1B)

hotels (11 nights)

MEALS INCLUDED 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners. Allow an additional $570–745 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Mini bus, plane, boat

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

Meet the people of the Janbanbarra Jirrbal Rainforest 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. (1B, 1L)

Port Douglas Cairns

Uluru (Ayers Rock)

DAY 7 CAIRNS/ULURU Catch a flight to the heart of the Australian outback and witness an outstanding sunset with a glass of bubbly in the presence of the sacred site of Uluru (pictured above). (1B)

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ADD TO YOUR EXPERIENCE

Alice Springs A US TRA L IA

Sydney Melbourne

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

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS

o Meet a Maori elder before enjoying a

traditional performance and feast. o E xplore the glacial area of Franz Josef and the geothermal wonders of Rotorua. oC ruise through Doubtful Sound (seasonal) with naturalist guides, spotting dolphins, seals, and penguins.

FROM

3,399

$

Airfare to/from is not included. $ MY OWN ROOM OPTION:

+ 1,499

NEW ZEALAND JOURNEY

2016 DATES Jul 24–Aug 3 • Oct 9–19 • Nov 6–16

11 DAYS | AUCKLAND TO QUEENSTOWN

2017 DATES Jan 1–11 • Jan 15–25 • Jan 29–Feb 8

ITINERARY DAY 1 AUCKLAND Arrive at any time.

DAY 2 AUCKLAND Cruise Hauraki Gulf Marine Park on a research boat, searching for whales and dolphins. Later, take some free time to explore this lovely city. (1B) DAY 3 RAGLAN Take the scenic route to the artsy beach town of Raglan, visiting Bridal Veil Falls and a local farm en route. Later, enjoy a cruise on stunning Raglan Harbour. (1B, 1L) DAY 4 ROTORUA Drive to Rotorua and take a dip in the geothermal hot pools at the hotel.

Meet an elder at Tamaki Maori Village to learn about his culture. Then take in a performance about local myths and legends while dining on traditional hangi cuisine. (1B, 1D) DAY 5 CHRISTCHURCH Visit the Maori village of Whakarewarewa with a local guide. Enjoy a light lunch of corn cooked in a natural hot pool and a traditional pie. Fly to Christchurch and take an orientation walk with our CEO. (1B, 1L) DAYS 6–7 FRANZ JOSEF Embark on one of the world’s great scenic rail rides on the

TranzAlpine 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 the hot pools. (2B) DAY 8 QUEENSTOWN Travel southward along the coast, through the rugged rain forest to Queenstown. Enjoy an evening gondola ride with spectacular views (pictured above) and the option to eat dinner at a skyline restaurant. (1B) DAY 9 DOUBTFUL SOUND Embark on an amazing wilderness cruise (seasonal) through spectacular Doubtful Sound. 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 in your comfortable cabin, with time to relax on deck, stargazing and enjoying New Zealand wine. (1B, 1D)

GROUP SIZE: Max 16

Nov 20–30 • Dec 4–14 • Dec 18–28

Feb 12–22 • Feb 26–Mar 8 • Mar 26–Apr 5 Visit our website for more 2017 dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED Arrival transfer, internal flights, transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. The optional Franz Josef helicopter ride and glacier walk and optional dinner in Queenstown are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels (7 nights), rain forest lodge (2 nights), Doubtful Sound cruise boat (seasonal) (1 night) MEALS INCLUDED 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners. Allow an additional $310–405 for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Mini bus, plane, train, boat

DAY 10 QUEENSTOWN Enjoy morning wildlife viewing as we cruise back to port, then return to Queenstown for our final night. (1B) DAY 11 QUEENSTOWN Depart at any time.

(1B)

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND

22 DAYS | SYDNEY TO QUEENSTOWN

Combine the itineraries above for a 22-day adventure that will have you cruising the Doubtful Sound; encountering cultures both ancient and modern; and exploring incredible architecture, volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and incomparable Uluru. Visit our website for a detailed itinerary and more 2017 dates.

Auckland Raglan

N EW

Rotorua

ZEAL AN D

(Waiau) Franz Josef Christchurch

Queenstown Doubtful Sound (Patea)

FROM

8,399

$

Airfare to/from is not included.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: GROUP SIZE: Max 16

+ $3,199

2016 DATES Jul 13–Aug 3 • Sept 28–Oct 19 • Oct 26–Nov 16 • Nov 9–30 • Nov 23–Dec 14 • Dec 7–28 • Dec 21–Jan 11, 2017 2017 DATES Jan 4–25 • Jan 18–Feb 8 • Feb 1–22 • Feb 15–Mar 8 • Mar 15–Apr 5

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, AND DETAILED ITINERARIES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

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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, archaeologyfocused expeditions, and other land-based trips to small-ship voyages 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 by visiting natgeoexpeditions.com.

SMALL-SHIP VOYAGES

PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS AND WORKSHOPS

FAMILY EXPEDITIONS

Take to the sea aboard one of the six ships of the National Geographic–Lindblad fleet and explore the Galápagos, Alaska, Antarctica, and more with a team of experts.

Improve your photography skills with the guidance of a National Geographic photographer— whether you’re traveling through Japan or heading out on shoots during an intensive weekend workshop in New York City.

Introduce your family to the magic of travel on trips designed for travelers of all ages that combine learning, discovery, and fun.

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TRAIN TRIPS

PRIVATE JET TRIPS

ACTIVE ADVENTURES

Wind through dramatic mountain scenery or observe scenes of everyday life, experiencing the world through the nostalgic lens of train travel.

Experience fascinating places as farflung as Easter Island and Marrakech on one epic journey, traveling with a team of experts in the comfort of a VIP-configured jet.

Explore by foot, by camel or kayak, or even by dogsled on an active adventure that combines spectacular places, physical challenge, and cultural interaction.

Visit natgeoadventures.com.

PRIVATE EXPEDITIONS

UNIQUE LODGES OF THE WORLD

STUDENT EXPEDITIONS

Travel independently—with all the benefits of traveling with National Geographic—on a private trip geared for just you and your traveling companions.

Visit natgeoexpeditions.com/private.

Our handpicked collection of lodges treat you to one-of-a-kind experiences while treating our planet with care and respect. Stay at one of these world-class hotels and enjoy first-rate amenities and genuine interactions with the local environment and culture.

Visit natgeolodges.com.

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71

CALENDAR

D E P A R T U R E

D A T E S

PAGE

# DAYS

2016 APR

Natural Highlights of Costa Rica

12

9

9, 23

Explore Costa Rica

13 14 3, 10, 24

Explore Belize

14 10

Guatemala Journey

15

8

1, 22, 29

Explore Guatemala & Belize

15 17

1, 22, 29

Semana Santa: Easter in Guatemala†

16 10

Mexico’s Day of the Dead in Oaxaca

16

Discover the Canadian Rockies

17 12

MAY

2017

JUNE

JULY

AUG

SEPT

OCT

NOV

DEC

JAN

FEB

MAR

11

9

6

10

8

12

18, 4, 11, 26 17, 18, 31 7, 14, 28 4, 11, 25

8, 22

12, 26

3, 10, 31

14

11

6, 27

4, 11, 14, 1, 6, 8, 15, 5, 12, 19, 5, 12, 19, 18 22, 27, 29 26 26

13

10

29

5, 12

9

7

5, 10, 25

30

5

2, 30

29

3, 18

23, 30

6, 27

10

10

5 2, 30 29 3, 18 23, 30 See our website for departure dates.

6, 27

10

10

NORTH AMERICA

22

7

6, 13

3, 17

17

29 20

2*,18, 30* 15, 27*

12, 24*

SOUTH AMERICA 8

3, 9, 10, 1, 8, 15, 5, 12, 18, 2, 3, 9, 17, 7, 14, 21, 3, 11, 18, 1, 8, 9,16, 6, 13, 20, 4, 11, 18, 1, 7, 15, 5, 11, 12, 5, 12, 18, 17, 24 21, 22, 29 19 24, 31 27, 28 24, 25 23, 29 26 24 22, 28, 29 18, 25 25, 26

Explore Machu Picchu

18

Iconic Peru

5, 8, 2, 5, 9, 3, 7, 14, 4, 7, 11, 1, 4, 8, 11, 2, 6, 9, 20, 3, 6, 10, 7, 10, 14, 12,1,15, 20 14 21, 19, 23, 17, 21, 14, 18, 21, 15, 18, 22, 23, 27 13, 20, 24, 28 26, 2919, 16,26, 30 28, 31 25, 28 25, 29 24

Machu Picchu & the Amazon

21 10

Inca Explorer

22, 5, 12, 19 3, 17, 24, 22 15 3, 17, 24 1, 15, 29 31

Explore Ecuador & Peru

23 16

Ecuador: Amazon, Hot Springs, & Volcanoes

24

9

8

6

Colombia Journey

25 12

10

15

Explore Argentina & Brazil

26

8

23

18

25

Explore Chile & Argentina

27

8

16

16

Discover Brazil, Argentina, & Chile

27 15

16

Brazil Journey

28

Discover Patagonia

29 14

7, 10, 14, 1, 5, 8, 2, 5, 9, 3, 7, 14, 4, 7, 11, 1, 4, 8, 10, 6, 9, 20, 3,13,6,20, 21, 24, 12, 15, 19, 16, 19, 23, 17, 21, 14, 18, 21, 11, 15, 18, 2,23, 27 28 26, 29 26, 30 28, 31 25, 28 22, 25, 29 24

9

14, 28

4, 11, 18, 9, 16, 23 25

1, 4, 11, 5, 12, 15, 15, 18, 22 22

6, 20

11, 25

1, 15, 29

26

23

21

18

16, 30

3

1, 29

26

23

21

18

14, 16, 30

19

10

14

11

16

13

18

8

17

1, 15

26

10

17

10, 24

8, 29

19

3, 27

16

10, 24

8

19

3, 27

23

24

25

2, 5, 12, 19, 26

1, 4, 11, 5, 12, 15, 9, 12, 16, 2, 5, 12, 15, 18, 19, 23, 22, 29 23 22 26, 30

1

23

23

12, 19

11, 19, 26

10

10

10

10, 28

12, 18

12

3, 14, 28

11

4, 25

7, 21

4, 25

18

7, 21

4, 25

18

22

19

10

14

11

4

30

13, 27

11, 18

15

5, 19

5

20

11

15

12

12

EUROPE Iconic Italy

30 14

16

27

3, 17, 24

1

Burgundy by River Barge

31 10

29

12, 26

9, 23

7, 21

Discover the Balkans

32 12

15

12

16

Explore Iceland

32

7

10, 24

7, 21

4

Explore Central Europe

33

9

9

13

3

Discover Moorish Spain

33

8

3

14

11

Discover Turkey

34

9

Explore Turkey

35 15

14, 28

18

12, 26 8

19

3

2

14, 28

25

9

13

10

8

16, 30

14, 28

11, 25

16

6, 27

3, 17

1

12

17 25

AFRICA 11, 1, 6, 8, 13, 3, 10, 17, 1, 8, 15, 4, 11, 18, 2,16,9,18, 25 20, 27 24 22, 29 23, 30

Explore Southern Africa

16, 36 12 2, 9, 30

7, 21

Explore Kruger National Park

38

3, 24

7, 21

5, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26

Explore Cape Town & Kruger

23, 38 10 2, 9, 30

21

4, 18

2, 9, 11, 1, 6, 8, 16, 18, 23 20

Explore Kruger & Victoria Falls

39

5, 12

3, 24

7, 21

5, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26

Kruger, Victoria Falls, & Botswana

39 18

19

10

14, 28

Botswana Safari Experience

40 10

27

18

22

74

7

9

5, 12, 26

4, 9, 11, 23

4, 9, 11, 23

6, 13, 20, 27

10, 24

3, 17

7, 28

11, 25

11, 25

8, 22

6, 20

10, 31

14

14, 28

5, 19

3, 17

7, 28

11

11, 25

11, 25

8, 22

6, 20

10, 31

14

14, 28

4

1

12, 26

9

11, 25

3, 10, 17, 8, 15, 22 24 6, 13, 20, 27

2, 16, 30 6, 20

5, 19

7, 21

28 28

FOR BOOKING, AVAILABILITY, DETAILED ITINERARIES, AND ADDITIONAL DATES, VISIT NATGEOJOURNEYS.COM OR CALL 1-800-281-2354.

8

D E P A R T U R E # DAYS

APR

MAY

JUNE

41 21

16

7

PAGE

D A T E S

2016 JULY

AUG

11, 25

9, 30

2017 SEPT

OCT

13, 27

10

1, 15, 29

12, 19, 21, 26

2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 23, 30

NOV

DEC

JAN

FEB

MAR

AFRICA (Continued) Iconic Southern Africa

25

Tanzania Safari Experience

42

7

19, 26

3, 10, 17, 22, 24, 29

Kenya Safari Experience

43

8

13, 20, 27

13, 15, 3, 5, 10, 4, 11, 16, 6,20, 27, 17, 24, 18, 23 29 26

3, 8

28

5, 10, 17, 2, 7, 14, 19, 24, 21 26

4, 11, 27

Safari in Kenya & Tanzania

43 13

13, 15, 3, 5, 10, 11, 16, 6,20, 13, 20, 27 4,18, 27, 17, 24, 23 29 26

3, 8

28

5, 10, 17, 2, 7, 14, 19, 24, 21 26

4, 11, 27

Rwanda & Uganda Gorilla Discovery

44

Mysteries of Ethiopia

45 13

Morocco Journey

46

9

2

Morocco: Sahara & Beyond

47 15

11

9

4

2, 9, 23

6

4, 11, 16, 23, 25, 30

2, 9, 14

1, 8, 13, 20, 27

10, 17

5

3

1

17

7

18

12

31

14, 21

26

23

20

21

24

15

12

10, 24

7

11

11

16

12

10

14

12

9

13

13

19

4

MIDDLE EAST Israel and Beyond

48

8

15

12

17

14

11

9

13

22

22

19

Explore Jordan

49

7

22

19

24

21

18

16

20

29

29

26

26

Explore Israel & Jordan

49 14

15

12

17

14

11

9

13

22

22

19

19

5, 8, 22, 29

2, 5, 12, 19, 26

2, 5, 16, 19, 30

ASIA 8

4, 11, 15, 2, 9, 13, 6, 10, 13, 4, 8, 11, 18 16, 23, 30 20, 27 18, 25

North India Highlights

50

Mysteries of India

52 15

3

Discover India

53 15

3, 17

South India: Explore Kerala

54

7

24

Iconic India

54 14

17

Cruise the Ganges Explore North India & the Ganges Explore India & Nepal

56 17

10

Nepal: Himalaya Highlights

57 10

17, 22

6, 20

15

Wonders of Bhutan

58 10

9

21

18

9

Discover Sri Lanka

59 11

11

15

Best of China

60 12

10, 17

15

12

3, 17

Explore China & Tibet

61 15

9, 30

14, 28

11

The Heart of Myanmar (Burma)

62 12

18

Explore Vietnam

63 13

3, 17

15

Thailand Journey

64

8

3

Explore Southern Thailand

65

8

Iconic Thailand

65 15

Discover Southeast Asia

66 18

Explore Bali & Java

67 12

3, 10, 17

9, 23

6, 20

4, 18

1, 15, 22, 29

5, 19

5, 19

23, 30

6, 13, 27

11, 25

8, 22

5, 19

5

25

23

20

4, 18

1, 29

5, 12, 19, 26

12

4

2

13

11, 25

22, 29

5, 12, 19

5

55 12

29

27

24

22

55 16

15

13

10

8

5

2

2, 16, 30

11

9, 23

6, 20

4, 18

8, 29

12, 26

19

12

2, 18

7, 16, 30

13, 27

11, 25

15

5, 19

5, 26

13

10

15

5

10

14

7, 23

4, 18

2, 16

9

6

10, 24

8 13, 19

13

19

17

14

11

9

6, 20

4, 18, 25 1, 15, 29

12, 26

12, 26

1, 15, 29

12

3, 17, 31

14, 28

11

2, 30

13

4, 18, 25 1, 15, 29

12, 26

12

5, 19

5, 19

4, 18

11

3

29

26

24

21

11, 25

18 12

9

13

13 19

7, 21

19, 26

2, 9

8, 22

5, 19

10, 24

7, 21

4, 18

9

6, 20

11, 25

1, 15, 29

12

3, 17, 31

14, 28

11

2, 30

13

4, 18

21

25

9, 30

3

8

12

10, 17, 31

3, 31

4

2, 30

28

26

9, 23

7, 21

4, 18

1, 15

15

9

6, 20

4, 18

1, 15, 29

12, 26

26

26

9, 23

7, 21

4, 18

1, 15

15

1, 29

18

1, 8, 22

1, 29

26

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND Explore Australia

68 12

13

New Zealand Journey

69 11

24

Explore Australia & New Zealand

69 22

13

* These departures follow the itinerary described within, but in the reverse direction. † This trip is offered once per year to coincide with the Holy Week. Please see our website for dates. © 2016 National Geographic Partners NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC and Yellow Border Design are trademarks of the National Geographic Society, used under license.

28

Back cover: Under a cluster of parasols, novice monks in Bagan, Myanmar (Burma) pose for an upside-down portrait.

E Recycled paper.

75

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