Greetings from Bison Hill! We’re excited to share another year of incredible adventures through the Traveling Bison program! This special opportunity brings OBU alumni and friends together to explore the world, build lifelong connections, and enjoy unforgettable cultural and educational experiences. Best of all, our trips are open to everyone – so feel free to invite family and friends!
In this catalog, you’ll find our 2026 tour lineup, along with photos, testimonials and helpful trip details. We partner with trusted tour operators who specialize in alumni travel to offer enriching, expertly curated journeys around the globe. Even better – a portion of every tour cost supports the OBU Alumni Association.
New this year: We’re proud to partner with OBU Go Trips! Starting in 2025, part of our program revenue will help fund mission-focused travel for current students. When you travel with us, you’re also supporting the next generation of global servants who are doing amazing things for God’s Kingdom.
Please note that prices, dates, and itineraries are subject to change. Detailed brochures are sent 6-12 months before each departure, but you can reserve your spot today! For brochures or questions, contact me at 405.585.5413 or leaann.quirk@okbu.edu. Space is limited –early booking is encouraged!
To stay in the loop, make sure we have your current contact info. Use the QR code below to update your details and share life updates anytime – it only takes a minute!
Thank you for your continued support and for being part of this amazing community. We hope you’ll join us in 2026 – because bison travel with the herd!
God bless you, and God bless OBU!
Sincerely,
Lea Ann Quirk Director, OBU Alumni Association
TRAVELING BISON
Left, top to bottom Classic Greece and Italy, 2024
Portrait of Italy, 2024
Danube Delights, 2023
Below, top to bottom
Portrait of Italy, 2024
Portrait of Italy, 2024
Adventure Awaits! Stampede over to the QR code for the Traveling Bison FAQ.
OBU HOST
President Heath Thomas
See a personal invitation message from Dr. Thomas
Dig Into History: Unearth Egypt’s
Pyramids,
Temples, and Timeless Wonders!
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Egypt’s ancient treasures, from the Great Pyramid and Sphinx to the Karnak Temple. Sail the serene Nile River aboard a private dahabiya, visiting hidden ruins and temples. Explore Elephantine Island, marvel at the Grand Egyptian Museum’s artifacts, and choose an optional excursion to Abu Simbel.
Throughout the journey, OBU host, President Heath Thomas, will open up the Old Testament, offering insights into the biblical significance of these timeless wonders. This immersive trip blends luxury, history, faith and Egypt’s remarkable past.
Want more?
Extend your stay with a post-tour experience in Jordan and visit Petra, Amman and the Dead Sea!
EGYPT
Jordan (post-tour option)
RED SEA
Giza
Alexandria (pre-tour option)
Esna El Kab Kom Ombo
Lake Nasser
Abu Simbel
Aswan
Cairo
Luxor
Discover Egypt and the Nile Valley ORBRIDGE
Land Tour / River Cruise
February 8-20, 2026
Prices start at $7,495 per person, double occupancy Learn more and even book
Costa Rica’s Natural Heritage: Volcanoes, Rainforests, and Coffee – Oh My!
From towering volcanoes to lush rainforests and sun-drenched beaches, experience the best of Costa Rica on this 11-day journey! Walk among orchids, sip world-class coffee, and marvel at breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano.
Explore the legendary Monteverde Cloud Forest and cross the Mistico hanging bridges high in the rainforest canopy. End your adventure with a beachfront stay in Guanacaste and a wildlife-rich Tempisque River safari.
Want more? Arrive early for a 4-day/3-night pre-tour in Tortuguero National Park, a haven of winding waterways and exotic wildlife.
PACIFIC OCEAN
COSTA RICA
(pre-tour option)
Tortuguero National Park
CARIBBEAN SEA
San Jose Arenal Region
Tamerindo (Guanacaste Region)
Liberia
Monteverde
Costa Rica’s Natural Heritage March 5-15, 2026
11 days land tour
March 5-15, 2026
Enchanting Ireland
August 27-September 8, 2026 13 days land tour
The Masters: A Tradition Unlike Any Other, An Experience Unlike Any Other!
Step onto the greens of history at the iconic Masters Golf Tournament! Feel the excitement as the world’s top golfers compete for the legendary Green Jacket at Augusta National Golf Club.
This exclusive experience includes a stay in charming Savannah, a round at the prestigious Club at Savannah Harbor, and an unforgettable day at Augusta on Cut Day (Friday).
Immerse yourself in the thrill, the tradition and the Southern hospitality of this premier event!
ATLANTA
OCEAN
GEORGIA
Augusta
Savannah
Masters Golf Tournament with Savannah
SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT TRAVEL
Land Tour
April 8-11, 2026
Prices start at $6,599 per person, double occupancy
“We traveled on The Masters golf tournament trip in 2024 through the Traveling Bison program. The trip exceeded our expectations. We have been a part of, and have attended, several PGA tournaments but the course and the atmosphere was incredible. The accommodations and coordination for transportation went smoothly. It was a great trip. Five Stars ... We would go again!”
Learn more and even book online here!
Rob and Anita Robidou Trophy Club, TX
From
Palms
to
Pompeii
in One Week: A Mediterranean Adventure Awaits!
Set sail on a dazzling 7-night Mediterranean adventure aboard Oceania Cruises’ Begin in vibrant Barcelona and cruise the sun-kissed coastline, stopping in Toulon to stroll through charming streets and savor mouthwatering French dishes. Next, fall in love with the picture-perfect Portofino, with its colorful buildings and stunning harbor views. Hike the legendary Cinque Terre trail, exploring five colorful Italian villages along the way.
Discover Ajaccio, Napoleon’s birthplace, and be amazed by the rugged beauty of Olbia and Porto Cervo.
Finally, end your journey with a visit to Pompeii before disembarking in Rome – this cruise blends history, beauty, and adventure in the best possible way!
Tyrrhenian Sea
Barcelona
ITALY
Naples/Pompeii
SPAIN FRANCE
Rome
Toulon
Portofino
Cinque Terre
Ajaccio
Olbia / Porto Cervo
Civitavecchia
Etruscan Waterways
Barcelona to Rome
GO NEXT
Ocean Cruise
April 21-28, 2026
Prices start at $2,499 per person, double occupancy
“We were so pleased with our Mediterranean Cruise with Go Next. I loved how organized they were. They did all the thinking and planning for us so it truly was a vacation to remember.”
Learn more and even book online here!
Roger Sims, Class of ’78 and Karen Sims, Class of ’80
Get Ready to Rock: Hike, Explore, and Awe at the SW’s Natural Wonders!
Explore the Wonders of the American Southwest as you connect with nature as you journey through the stunning Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Parks.
Hike through towering sandstone cliffs, marvel at vibrant Antelope Canyon, and feel the serenity of rafting the Colorado River. Choose your adventure – take a scenic helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon or explore at your own pace.
(Optional Denver to Moab Pre-Tour)
Each day is filled with outdoor exploration, breathtaking landscapes, and enriching insights from expert guides. This is a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in God’s amazing creation!
UTAH
COLORADO
NEW MEXICO
ARIZONA
Southwest National Parks
ORBRIDGE
Land Tour
May 13-21, 2026
Prices start at $5,595 per person, double occupancy
Learn more and even book online here! Special tour video link here.
Southwest National Parks with Orbridge was one of our favorite vacations! First class accommodations, excellent tour guides, group very congenial. I highly recommend the pre-tour as the train ride was exquisite. Arches, Moab, and Navajo Nation were inspirational.”
Sandra Steele, Class of ’69 and Terry Steele Herndon, VA
Historic Baseball
SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT TRAVEL
Land Tour
June, 2026
(Tour dates will be informed when 2026 MLB baseball schedule is released)
Prices start at $4,399 per person, double occupancy
Learn more and even book online here!
Fueling the passion of fans and creating a community where shared experiences amplify the joy of sports and entertainment. Two opportunities to travel with the Bison in 2026.
Historic Baseball in June
The Masters in April
Summer in the Baltics: No Snow, But Olaf-Approved Adventure!
Sail through Northern Europe’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes on this 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’
Explore Copenhagen, charming Swedish fishing villages, and the captivating streets of Tallinn. Kayak a tranquil Lithuanian river, visit WWII sites, and shop Helsinki’s open-air markets.
End in Stockholm’s stunning capital. This is a journey brimming with adventure, history, and unforgettable moments!
Istanbul to Athens · Sep26-Oct 3, 2025
From $4,249 per person
7 nights on Oceania Cruises’ Vista
Seattle to Seattle · July 29-August 8, 2025
From $3,899 per person
10 nights on Oceania Cruises’ Riviera
Etruscan Waterways
April 21-28, 2026
Barelona, Spain to Rome, Italy
7 nights on Oceania Cruises
July 10-20, 2026
Copenhagen, Denmark to Stockholm, Sweden 10 nights on Oceania Cruises
Whales, Bears and Polar Flairs – Your Summer Adventure Awaits!
Venture to Churchill, Manitoba, where polar bears and 60,000 beluga whales share the spotlight in a breathtaking summer display.
Begin with a private reception in Winnipeg before settling into the cozy Lazy Bear Lodge, built from local stone and reclaimed timbers. Explore the wild beauty of the Hudson Bay with two water tours, spotting playful belugas and incredible wildlife like arctic foxes and snowy owls.
Optional kayaking and AquaGliding™ tours offer a chance to get even closer to nature. Discover the rich indigenous culture at Itsanitaq Museum – an unforgettable, oncein-a-lifetime adventure for the whole family!
UNITED STATES
HUDSON BAY
Churchill Winnipeg
MANITOBA
ONTARIO
Polar Bears and Beluga Whales
ORBRIDGE
Land Tour
August 3-9, 2026
Prices start at $7,995 per person, double occupancy
Learn more and even book online here!
Special tour video link here.
We loved our trip to Northern Manitoba with Orbridge! What a treat to have expert guides and educators with us daily. Our cabin was private and comfortable. We went to see the Aurora Borealis but what was even better than that was the whole experience of the Sub-Arctic – the incredibly beautiful terrain and seeing the caribou migration from helicopter and sea plane were unbelievable experiences. We are ready to go again!”
Dr. Stan Corley, Class of ’74 and Dottie Corley
Oklahoma City, OK
Shamrocks, Legends, and a Whole Lot of Charm!
From storybook landscapes to legendary landmarks, experience the magic of Ireland on this 13-day journey! Wander Dublin’s historic streets, explore Trinity College and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and discover the hangouts of literary greats.
Stand in awe at the Cliffs of Moher, roam the rugged Burren, and ferry to the timeless Aran Islands. Take in the grandeur of Kylemore Abbey, the scenic Ring of Kerry, and kiss the iconic Blarney Stone. Conclude with Kilkenny’s medieval charm before a final stop in Dublin.
Want more? Extend your adventure with a 4-day/3-night post-tour to Northern Ireland, featuring the breathtaking Antrim Coast and dynamic Belfast.
NORTHERN IRELAND
IRELAND
Killarney CELTIC SEA
ATLANTIC OCEAN
IRISH SEA
Galway
Kilkenny
Dublin
Belfast/Antrim Coast (extension)
Enchanting Ireland
ODYSSEYS UNLIMITED
Land Tour
August 27September 8, 2026
Prices start at $8,492 per person, roundtrip airfare included. Call our tour operator partner, Odysseys Unlimited, at 1.888.370.6765 to reserve your spot today!
We have been on many tours with various tour operators. Odyssey Unlimited is first class. Our tour guide genuinely cared for us and took care of us.”
Chuck Lawrence, Class of ’82 and Anne Lawrence Norman, OK
All Aboard for Alpine Adventure:
Luxury Trains, Majestic Peaks and Scenic Surprises!
Embark on a scenic rail journey through Italy and Switzerland’s most stunning landscapes. Start with panoramic views of the Dolomites from Mount Baldo, then explore Trento’s Renaissance charm.
Experience the Bernina Express, the highest railway in the Alps, and ride the Glacier Express through the Swiss Alps. Savor Alpine cheese and other local cuisine and enjoy breathtaking views of the Matterhorn on the Gornergrat Bahn.
This luxury adventure offers the perfect blend of culture, nature and relaxation!
