Walks Worldwide Brochure 2017

the trekking & walking specialists

Small Groups | Self-Guided | Private Guided

WELCOME...

Go walking with the bears of Slovakia

It is such a privilege to work in a travel company which has such high standards across the globe and such a passionate team of walking specialists here at home.

Walks Worldwide has been operating trekking and walking holidays for nearly twenty years now and during that time we have continuously evolved and improved the itineraries, range and types of walking holidays on offer. We are particularly proud this year to have been commended as one of the UK’s Top Tour Operators (see below); we were voted above 500 other travel companies and placed number six in the UK with a score of 98% (higher than any other UK walking company).

Over the years, due to demand, we’ve expanded the range and variety of walks offered. Self-Guided holidays provide an independent and flexible style of walking, offering not only a chance to walk at your own pace, but also to choose your departure date (or day of the week) so you can take advantage of lower flight prices.

Many of our regular walkers love the company and camaraderie of travelling in a small group and I’m happy to report that we now operate more walking groups than at any other time in our history. If you want to have a guide, but don’t want to join a group, then look out for our Private Guided walks and contact us for a quotation and itinerary.

Explore the varied landscapes of the Atlas Mountains

So please enjoy flicking through the pages of this brochure and rest assured that once you contact us our walking specialists will be happy to provide you with up-to-date availability, a quotation or simply advice about choosing a trip that’s right for you.

Happy travels!

Walks Worldwide Team Trek to Everest Base Camp

‘HIGHLY COMMENDED FINALIST’ FOR TOP TOUR OPERATOR AWARD We are delighted to have been awarded as a ‘Highly Commended Finalist’ for Top Tour Operator as voted for by the readers of the national travel magazine, Wanderlust.

We’d like to thank all of our loyal customers for taking the time to vote for us.

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Follow the Salkantay trail to Machu Picchu

CONTENTS INTRODUCTION Why Walks Worldwide? 4 Walk your way... 6 Where in the world? 8

ASIA Kyrgyzstan 11 Nepal 12 India 19 Vietnam 22 Myanmar 24

AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST Morocco 27 Jordan 32 Ethiopia 33 South Africa 34

LATIN AMERICA Peru 37 Chile 39 Costa Rica 40

NORTH & WEST EUROPE

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE For your peace of mind we provide full financial protection for your money and operate with licences and bonding through ATOL, ABTA and ABTOT. AIR TOUR OPERATORS LICENSE (ATOL) The flights shown are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Our ATOL number is ATOL 10186. ATOL protection extends primarily to customers who book and pay in the United Kingdom. For further information please visit their website www.caa.co.uk.

ASSOCIATION OF BONDED TRAVEL ORGANISERS TRUST (ABTOT) The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 for Walks Worldwide (part of The Natural Travel Collection), and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: 1. non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK; 2. non-flight packages commencing and returning to a country other than the UK; and 3. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the UK, which are sold to customers outside of the UK. 1, 2 and 3 provide for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled. 1 and 3 provide for repatriation. Please note that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Walks Worldwide.

Austria 43 Germany 47 Finland 50 France 52 Camino de Santiago 54

EASTERN EUROPE Slovakia Slovenia Croatia Albania Bulgaria Romania Georgia Armenia

57 59 60 61 65 66 68 69

SOUTHERN EUROPE & THE MEDITERRANEAN Cyprus 71 Spain 74 Corsica 79 Corfu 81 Italy 82

FURTHER INFORMATION Essential Information 84 Booking Conditions 86

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WHY WALKS WORLDWIDE? Walks Worldwide specialise in walking and trekking holidays to most of the world’s great trekking destinations. You can join small group guided treks, be independent and flexible on a self-guided walking holiday, or enjoy your own privately guided walk which can be tailor-made especially for you.

VALUE FOR MONEY Walks Worldwide brings you great walking experiences offering fantastic value for money. We work very hard to bring you affordable and competitively priced trips which don’t cut corners.

Value for money doesn’t mean ‘cheap’ though. Our trekking adventures and walking holidays allow your money to go much further. We work collaboratively with the contacts we’ve built up around the world during the last twenty years to find ways of adding extra value for you.

DEDICATED WALKING SPECIALISTS The Walks Worldwide team is made up of some of the most experienced people in the field of trekking and travel, and over the last twenty years we’ve earned our reputation for providing amazing trekking and walking adventures to exciting destinations around the world.

We are passionate global trekkers and world travellers ourselves – our holidays are created FOR walking and trekking enthusiasts BY walking and trekking enthusiasts – so we’re able to provide the best possible advice and practical assistance when helping you to plan your trip.

Our professional team of travel experts based in Hampshire are dedicated to providing a friendly, personal service.

And although we’re always on the look-out for opportunities to improve value for money, we don’t necessarily choose the cheapest hotels, guides or other local services – decisions are based more on a balance of comfort, affordability and practicality.

Our wealth of experience means we’re able to make an informed choice about what’s worth seeing and what can be left out of an itinerary; and we offer a huge amount of choice and variety, so that you can choose a trip that’s just right for your budget and walking ability.

VARIETY & CHOICE Since Walks Worldwide deals only with walking and trekking holidays, we can offer just about every variation on this theme.

Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will help you to choose a holiday that suits your own preference: perhaps a Guided Small Group trip with like-minded travellers; a Self-Guided trip, at your own pace; a Private Guided trip, travel on the dates you choose or a Tailor-Made trip, built just for you.

See more about our walking choices on pages 6 and 7.

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EXPERT GUIDES & LEADERS

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

For all our Small Group and Private Guided holidays our local leaders and guides all over the world work tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure your holiday runs happily and smoothly.

They are a cross between walking encyclopaedias, nature experts, logistics professionals and guardian angels!

Our trips are not just tours featuring generic hotels and you won’t find satellite TV in every room! We’ve specifically hunted out places with character and charm in the best locations to really experience your chosen destination.

From mountain trekking lodges to remote camps and guesthouses with local hosts...

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SO MUCH IS INCLUDED! With so many deals and discounts around these days it can be very difficult to judge what the real price is or what hidden extras might be added on later. Our pricing is very clear and we include much more than most people expect.

WALKS FOR ALL ABILITIES To help you decide if a trip is right for you, we’ve given each of our holidays a physical grade, which indicates the level of walking involved. We also give each trip an ‘off-thebeaten-track’ rating which may have more of a culture shock than others. See overleaf.

The following things are included in our prices: ¬ Personal service from a real person! ¬ Flights and financial protection ¬ Accommodation throughout ¬ Expert leaders and guides ¬ Advice, local knowledge and guidance ¬ Transport arrangements ¬ A carefully planned itinerary ¬ Entrance fees to sites (where included) ¬ A local contact in case you need help ¬ 24-hour emergency line, 365 days a year Altogether excellent value!

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL We respect local people and the natural features and resources of the countries we have the privilege to travel to, and want to help preserve them. By travelling as part of a small group and by using local guides, local transport and local accommodation where possible, you’ll be putting valuable revenue into the local economy. We won’t preach at you, but we do try to provide you with information as to how you can minimise any negative impacts on the culture and to the environment through which you travel.

PERSONAL & FLEXIBLE SERVICE We are proud of the fact that our small, independent company can be as flexible as you need us to be.

Our team of specialists bring both first-hand knowledge of the destinations we offer, as well as an understanding of how each customer may want something slightly different.

Some may want low-cost flights, while others will only accept first-class. Some may want to have a few days to relax at the beginning or end of a trip, while others will want to get straight into the mountains.

Walks Worldwide is fully bonded (see page 3) through ATOL and ABTOT and we are ABTA members too, so you have complete peace of mind backed by a genuinely professional service.

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WALK YOUR WAY...

Here at Walks Worldwide our number one priority is you. And that starts right at the beginning.

This is your holiday and you should have your choice of walking your way.

That is why we have a whole variety of options from which you can choose your perfect holiday and we have structured our following holiday pages in a way that you can easily see the options that are available to you. From grades of walking levels to group or self-guided holidays - the choice is yours. Here’s a quick guide to help you look out for the options you might be after.

ETHIOPIA

SIMIEN MOUNTAINS & CASTLES

GROUP GUIDED

Trek the World Heritage Site of Simien Mountains National Park

DAYS

GRADE C

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

PHYSICAL GRADE

Each of our holidays has a physical grade from A to D to help you to determine whether a particular trip is suitable for you. See more information about the grades range opposite.

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

The highland area of the Simien Mountains is a designated World Heritage site, dominated by high plateaus, gorges, canyons and dramatic rocky pinnacles.

Explore Gondar - the Camelot of Ethiopia - rich in art and culture as well as being famous for its many medieval castles and churches. We’ll also spend a few hours visiting a ‘Link Ethiopia’ project - a local primary school. Our fascinating 5-day trek culminates with breaktaking views of Ras Dashen across the valley.

Why not extend your stay in Ethiopia? See our extension options on page 40.

Geech Camp

Chenck Camp

Geech Bwahit Pass Sankaber Camp Debark Gondar Lake Tana

ETHIOPIA

This scale is based on a range of cultural, geographical and climatic factors, and sometimes risks that you may not normally have to deal with at home. To highlight the potential ‘culture shock’, each trip has been given an ‘off-thebeaten-track’ grading. The lower end of the scale is fairly adventurous and the higher end of the scale are our ‘really out there’ trips which are exceptionally adventurous and include very remote and isolated areas, possibly with extreme climate or significant cultural differences.

Bahir Dar

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

1/2 Overnight flight to Addis Ababa.

AT A GLANCE

-

 Internal flights to avoid long drives

3

Fly to Gondar. Free time in afternoon.

-

 Try out the local dish of ‘injera and wat’

4

Visit a Link Ethiopia project.

4

 Price includes donation to Link Ethiopia Education project

5

To Debark; walk to Sankaber.

6

Walk to Geech via Jinbar Waterfalls.

7

7

Walk to Chenck.

7

8

Walk to Bwahit Peak and back.

4

9

Transfer back to Gondar.

-

10

Transfer to Bahir Dar: live music.

-

11

Explore Lake Tana. Fly to UK.

-

12

Arrive UK.

-

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 4,200m Average Daily Distance: 14km Accommodation: Hotel x 5, camping x 4 Meals: 9 breakfasts, 9 lunches & 9 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

From/ To UK

EXPERTS’ CHOICE

Addis Ababa

WHY THIS TRIP? “Trekking through ancient villages with communities living as they have for hundreds of years. Trekkers are often invited in to homes for a traditional Ethiopian Coffee ceremony, be warned though the coffee is very strong and you will be expected to drink at least three cups.”

Trip Code: TESM Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,799 | With Flights: From £2,399 Single Supplement: From £189

GRADIENT CHART METRES Sankaber

Geech

Chenck

Bwahit Pass

5000 4000

Bwahit Peak

Chenck

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

EXTENSIONS & TAILOR-MADE

You’ll notice that a few destinations throughout the brochure have Extension options. These are the destinations where we highly recommend extending your trip.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

3000 2000 1000

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0

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SPECIAL ACCOMMODATION

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We seek out the most appropriate types of accommodation to reflect the destination and type of adventure. On some of the holidays, you will see we have highlighted when a trip has a particularly special style of accommodation – this may be from a higher level of comfort or a more unusual theme.

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All of our trekking adventures and walking holidays are special.

However, many want something a little more unusual and out of the ordinary. Perhaps it’s a particular country, a remote region that’s difficult to access, something a little more challenging, or just something that’s very, very different. That’s why we’ve hand-picked our Experts’ Choice holidays.

We can usually tailor any of our itineraries to suit your interests and needs. Please get in touch with the team to discuss this.

find out more online Alongside the information on our trip pages, we have much more detail on our website. ¬ Detailed Trip Dossiers ¬ Photo galleries ¬ Availability, departure dates and prices Online reviews Head to walksworldwide.com

TRIP GRADES EXPLAINED

GROUP GUIDED Whether travelling solo, with family or friends, our Guided Small Group trips provide you with a sociable way to explore the world on foot.

Throughout this brochure you will see that each trip has been graded between A to D to reflect the difficulty of the walking trip.

Our extensive range of worldwide walking destinations enables us to offer you a choice of departures year round. Plus, our small group trips are accompanied by an Englishspeaking leader and, where applicable, a support crew for your peace of mind.

A - EASY A

B

C

D

For those who enjoy leisurely walking and have a reasonable level of fitness.

Walking usually involves short daily distances, often at low level.

B - MODERATE A

B

C

D

For walkers with a reasonable level of fitness. Trips graded B are likely to have increased daily walking times on sometimes rugged mountain trails and forest tracks and with moderate ascent and descent involved.

C - DEMANDING A

B

C

D

For regular hill walkers who enjoy a challenge. These trips involve crossing sections of difficult terrain and sustained periods of both ascent and descent, some at high altitude.

SELF-GUIDED HOLIDAYS Our Self-Guided walking holidays offer fantastic flexibility and a more independent walking experience.

We provide you with route notes and maps and plan all the necessary logistics; leaving you free to enjoy the trail at your own pace, choosing where to eat en route and indulging in what you find interesting along the way. All you need to do is choose the best dates and enjoy the journey.

D - STRENUOUS A

B

C

D

Previous experience of walking at this grade is essential. Daily walking times will be increasingly long. Be prepared for difficult terrain, high mountain passes, glaciated or snow-covered ground and extreme altitudes.

If you are uncertain about your ability to take part in a specific walking holiday please contact us – we’re here to help.

PRIVATE GUIDED TRIPS Many of our Guided Small Group Trips can also be taken on a Private Guided basis for a more individual experience.

You’ll still receive all the services of a Guided Small Group Trip, such as guide and porters, but you won’t be trekking as part of a larger group. Usually you’ll be able to choose the exact dates you want, giving you greater flexibility for your travel plans, as well as enabling unique experiences along the way that may not be possible when travelling with a larger group.

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WHERE IN THE WORLD? Who can resist the lure of trekking amongst magnificent mountain scenery? Or do stunning views closer to sea level hold more appeal? Here we have mapped out some of our favourites: the highs, the lows (altitude that is!) and of course, the classics.

1. THE ANDES

From the spires of Torres del Paine in Patagonia and soaring summits of Peru, the Andes are the highest peaks in the Americas.

2. ATLAS MOUNTAINS

An exotic travel experience in easy and affordable reach. See kasbahs, camels and dramatic mountain views.

3. SIERRA NEVADA & ALPUJARRAS

Europe’s second highest mountain range.

Discover the delights of Andalucia, the classic GR7 or the charm of the Alpujarras.

“The Inca trail was an unbeatable experience. The staff at Walks Worldwide were great. Their knowledge, advice, and administration was without fault. The trek itself was a joy - not just the scenery and history but the guide, cooks and porters who made this an unbeatable experience.”

THE INCA TRAIL

4. THE ALPS

Chocolate box scenery, cowbells jangling, flowery meadows and pretty villages. For the ultimate challenge, trek Tour Du Mont Blanc.

5. THE DINARIC ALPS

The Julian Alps in Slovenia, to the remote Accursed Mountains in Albania, and the Black Mountains of Montenegro and Kosovo.

6. THE LYCIAN WAY

Enjoy the sheer pleasure of walking in almost guaranteed sunshine brings a whole new meaning to Turkish Delight.

1.

7. THE HIMALAYAS

Iconic Everest Base Camp, the Annapurnas and the wild landscapes of Ladakh in India - the Himalayas offer varied trekking opportunities.

8. KILIMANJARO

It’s a once in a lifetime achievement for most to stand aloft on the Roof of Africa. We offer the quieter routes - Rongai and Shira.

9. SOUTH AFRICA

Trek the classic Drakensberg Traverse, walk the ‘Rainbow Route’, see iconic Table Mountain and explore Kruger National Park.

10. MYANMAR (BURMA)

Recently re-opened to the world but seemingly locked in a time-warp, this welcoming country is one of our favourite places in Asia for trekking.

“I am 56 years old and trained for 6 months prior to leaving, and I needed every bit of energy and stamina to get to Everest Base Camp. It was very hard, but worth every ounce of effort.”

EVEREST BASE CAMP LODGE TREK

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“What can I say about this trip apart from “amazing”, a real cultural experience.

The walking and views were stunning (prepare yourself, it is hard walking), the hospitality of the locals was very humbling, plenty of good wholesome food and good basic clean accommodation.”

“We all had a fabulous holiday. The accommodation was fantastic, we were in the highest house in the village and had it all to ourselves. The hosts hugely helpful, food was amazing, walking notes all worked smoothly. No complaints at all.”

THE CATALAN COAST

THE ACCURSED MOUNTAINS

4.

3.

2.

5.

6.

7.

8.

10.

9.

“If you have thought about climbing Kili - book it now!

This was a trip of a lifetime and am so glad so that I stopped talking about booking and actually got on and did it. No question at all, this was a 5* trip.”

KILIMANJARO - RONGAI ROUTE

“The guides could not have been more diligent and caring – their attention to detail was exemplary.”

SPICE TRAILS OF KERALA

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ASIA

Cruise the backwaters of Kerala, India

KYRGYZSTAN Heart of the Tien Shan

NEPAL Explore Nepal On Foot Everest Base Camp Lodge Trek Annapurna Sanctuary Lodge Trek Gokyo Lakes & Everest Lodge Trek Everest in Style Annapurna in Style Nepal Extensions

INDIA Darjeeling & the Singalila Ridge Spice Trails of Kerala

Summit Golden Rock in Myanmar at sunset

VIETNAM Hidden Hilltribes of Vietnam

Trek among the hilltribes of Northern Vietnam

MYANMAR Burmese Days Extend your stay in India, Myanmar or Vietnam

Spend time in the Himalayas of Nepal

REGIONAL INSIGHT...

“Asia... It’s a continent of contrasts for those who like to travel on foot. A myriad of trails stretch from the mighty peaks of the Himalayas, through the tranquil plantations of India and into the hill country of Vietnam, dotted with its many tribes. Beyond the classics, we’re excited to push the boundaries this year with a new trek into the wilds of Tibetan Sichuan in Western China and a new trek in Sri Lanka that crosses the Knuckles Range. If you’re looking for adventurous walking this year, Asia has it all.”

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KYRGYZSTAN

HEART OF THE TIEN SHAN A challenging trek through breathtaking scenery

GROUP GUIDED 14 DAYS

GRADE C

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Remote camping with incredible views

From Bishkek we head to the former Cossack town of Karakol, famous for its wooden cathedral made without nails. We then head into the Seven Bulls Gorge along the southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake to follow a linear route into the heart of the Terskey Ala-Too and discover a pristine landscape of forests, meadows and soaring peaks. Continuing deeper into the Terskey Ala-Too via a series of mountain passes, our trek leads us through a wild and magnificent part of the Tien Shan, so untouched it remains the realm of the snow leopard.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY 1/2 Fly overnight to Bishkek.

-

¬ Camp wild and enjoy incredible views

To Karakol. Visit local sights.

2

¬ The unspoiled Terskey Ala-Too Mountains

4

Trek the Seven Bulls Gorge.

5

¬ See the remarkable Issyk Kul Lake

5

Trek deeper into Terskey Ala-Too.

6

¬ Explore the Seven Bulls Gorge

6

Ascend the Telety Pass.

7

7

Trek to the base of Karakol Mountain.

7

8

Walk through Sirota area.

7

9

Stiff ascent over the Alakol Pass.

7

10

Trek into the Altyn Arashan Valley.

7

Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 3,800m Average Daily Distance: 15km

11

To Issyk Kul Lake by 4WD.

-

12

Free day to enjoy Issyk Kul Lake.

-

Meals: 12 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 12 dinners

13

Travel back to Bishkek.

-

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

14

Fly back to UK from Bishkek.

-

Trip Code: TKYR Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,599 | With Flights: From £1,999 Single Supplement: From £149

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Jeti Oguz River

Telety Pass

From/ To UK

Karakol

KYRGYZSTAN CHINA

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Accommodation: Camping x 7, hotel x 4, guesthouse x 1

Karakol

Iss y La k Ku ke l

AT A GLANCE

3

4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

KAZAKHSTAN

Bishkek

Terskey Ala-Too

Alakol Pass Arashan Canyon

WHY THIS TRIP? “Kyrgyzstan has fantastic mountain scenery, very alpine in nature but without the hoards. That, combined with an insight into Kyrgyz culture makes this a great trip.”

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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EXPLORE NEPAL ON FOOT From cycling and trekking high amongst the peaks, to leading a school expedition in the Annapurna region, Mark Jackson has explored Nepal from top to bottom.

There are so many reasons why I love returning to Nepal. It is the country that I keep returning to again and again. The main draw is of course the mighty Himalayas. There is something I find incredibly relaxing about the routine of going trekking – early starts in the crisp mountain air, breakfasts under a vast blue sky, mind-blowing views of the giant Himalayan peaks, the simplicity of life while camping or staying in tea-houses. In my mind there is no better way to unwind.

The challenge of a trek and its huge ascents and descents provides a massive sense of achievement at the end of each day. And that challenge changes as you move further up into the mountains.

Starting in the sometimes tropical heat of the foothills amongst the terrace fields and towering rhododendrons, moving up into the dryer, cooler glacial mountain landscapes above the tree line and approaching the snow line...

Passing through iconic villages such as Tengboche on an Everest Base Camp Trek, seeing red robed monks against the back drop of beautiful mountains like Ama Dablam and visiting a monastery during a Buddhist prayer ceremony provides an otherworldly experience.

If you have an interest in mountaineering there is nowhere better to appreciate the immense challenges that climbers go through than places like Everest or Annapurna Base Camp. Looking up at the face of Annapurna or the Khumbu icefall on Everest from one of these basecamps, having huffed and puffed for days just to get there, really hammers home the enormous effort and dedication required by mountaineers.

Of course Nepal is a country which has had more than its fair share of troubles. In recent years Nepal has experienced a major earthquake, suffers regular power outages and has only had democracy for eight years. The introduction of that democracy has not been smooth and brings occasional civil unrest. To me all of this makes Nepal a more interesting place to visit. The Nepali’s always make tourists feel very welcome and go out of their way to look after us, they really appreciate the benefits of trekking for their communities and it is rewarding as a visitor to be able to contribute to such a great country.

In several decades of travelling the world I’ve not found a country that I go back to as much as Nepal, and I’ve not found a country that fascinates me as much...

LET US TAKE YOU THERE...

We offer many trekking trips in Nepal, please read the following pages to find out more. Also see our Nepal extensions on page 18.

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NEPAL

EVEREST BASE CAMP LODGE TREK

GROUP GUIDED 17 DAYS

The ultimate trek for walking enthusiasts

GRADE C/D

For most keen walkers, the trek to Everest Base Camp is the holy grail. From historic Kathmandu, a scenic flight takes you to the start of your trek through Sherpa country. This is the once in a lifetime, ultimate trekking Mecca in the mighty Himalaya of Nepal. Not only will you get to experience the comings and goings of expedition life at Everest Base Camp, and see the tumbling Khumbu Icefall that leads to the South Col, you’ll also witness the sublime view of Everest from the summit of Kala Patthar.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

AT A GLANCE

-

¬ The holy grail of every mountain walker

3

Fly to Lukla. Trek to Phakding.

3

¬ See the tumbling Khumbu Icefall

4

Steep climb to Namche Bazaar.

5

¬ Active acclimatisation days included

5

Acclimatisation day in Namche.

-

¬ Classic Everest views from Kala Patthar

6

Trek to Phortse Gaon.

7

7

Trek to Dingboche.

6

8

Acclimatisation day. Trek to Chukung.

-

9

Trek Khumbu glacier to Lobuche.

5

10

To Everest Base Camp.

9

11

Climb Kala Patthar - views of Everest.

6

12

Descend to Tengboche.

5

13

Retrace our steps to Monjo.

6

14

Ascend to Lukla, final trekking day.

5

15

Fly to Kathmandu. Free time.

-

Free day. Overnight flight to UK.

-

5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Namche Bazaar

C

D

Everest Base Camp Kala Patthar Gorak Shep

NEPAL

Lobuche

Phortse

Dingboche

Tengboche

Phakding Lukla

From/To UK via Kathmandu

PRACTICAL INFORMATION WHY THIS TRIP?

Grade: C/D (Demanding/Strenuous) Max Altitude: 5,545m Average Daily Distance: 12km Accommodation: Trekking lodge x 12, hotel x 2 Meals: 2 breakfasts (allow £25 per day for meals) Group Size (Min - Max): 3 - 12 Trip Code: TEBC Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,099 | With Flights: From £1,799 Single Supplement: From £49

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Lukla Phakding

B

CHINA

Namche Bazaar

Overnight flight to Kathmandu.

6000

PHYSICAL GRADE

Pheriche

1/2

16/17

A

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Dingboche Base Camp Kala Patthar

Tengboche

Lukla

“An inspiring journey taking you right into the shadow of the highest mountain in the world. Not technical and achievable by most. Following in the footsteps of many avid climbers is one of life’s great experiences!”

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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NEPAL

ANNAPURNA SANCTUARY LODGE TREK 15 DAYS

Trek in the mountain amphitheatre of ‘the Sanctuary’

This wonderful Himalayan trekking adventure to the astounding Annapurna Sanctuary rightfully deserves its reputation as a classic and is widely regarded as one of the easier (but equally great!) Himalayan treks. Passing through delightful villages with neatly terraced rice fields to forests of rhododendron and oak, awe-inspiring mountain panoramas unfold each day with the rising sun. Heading further up the Modi Khola into bamboo woodlands, you emerge through a previously secret portal to enter the amazing throne room of mountain gods.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

1/2 Fly to Kathmandu overnight.

AT A GLANCE

-

¬ Himalayan vistas and pretty villages

Fly to Pokhara; transfer to Nayapul.

-

¬ Watch the Annapurnas illuminate at sunrise

4

Full day walk to reach Ghorepani.

5

¬ Majestic high mountain scenery

5

Summit Poon Hill for sunrise.

5

¬ Explore the delights of Kathmandu

6

Trek to Chomrong.

6

7

Cross into the Modi Khola.

7

8

To Machhapuchhare Base Camp.

5

9

Walk to the Annapurna Sanctuary.

4

10

Descend into Bamboo.

7

11

Trek to Chomrong, then to Ghandruk.

7

12

Trek to Birethanti. To Pokhara.

4

13

Fly to Kathmandu, explore the city.

-

14

Depart Kathmandu. Fly to the UK.

-

15

Arrive back in the UK.

-

Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 4,130m Average Daily Distance: 12km Accommodation: Trekking lodges x 9, hotel x 3 Meals: 3 breakfasts (allow £25 per day for meals) Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

Dobhan

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £899 | With Flights: From £1,485

Machhapuchhare Annapurna Base Camp Base Camp

4000

B

C

D

Annapurna Sanctuary

Poon Hill Ghorepani

Bamboo Machhapuchhare Base Camp

Tadapani

Chomrong Ghandruk

NEPAL

Pokhara From/To UK via Kathmandu

WHY THIS TRIP? “Standing at Annapurna Base Camp surrounded on all sides by snow covered peaks over 7,000 metres high really brings home the enormity and beauty of the Himalayas. There is no better place to appreciate the sheer scale.”

Ghandruk

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

3000 2000 1000

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0

14

PHYSICAL GRADE

Trip Code: TANN

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Poon

A

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Single Supplement: From £59

Nayapul Ghorepani Hill Tadapani

GRADE B/C

Nayapul

3

5000

GROUP GUIDED

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NEPAL

GOKYO LAKES & EVEREST LODGE TREK 21 DAYS

One of the ultimate and most challenging treks in Nepal

This challenging trek into the high Khumbu region of Nepal combines all the major highlights of the ever-popular Everest Base Camp trek, yet allows the experienced trekker to escape from the standard trail and explore a great deal further into this truly magnificent Himalayan mountain nirvana. Trek to the glittering Gokyo lakes where an ascent of Gokyo Ri reveals simply superlative views of Everest and Makalu. After crossing the spectacular Cho La, you’ll then climb Kala Patthar for more breathtaking views.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

-

¬ High route to Everest Base Camp

3/4

Fly Lukla. Trek to Phakding & Namche.

4

¬ Enjoy iconic views of Everest

Acclimatisation day in Namche.

-

¬ Cross the challenging Cho La

Trails through forests to Machermo.

6

¬ Admire turquoise blue glacial lakes

8

Acclimatisation day with optional walks.

-

9

Trek to Gokyo.

5

10

Summit Gokyo Ri & explore the lakes.

3

Grade: D (Strenuous)

11

Head across the glacier to Thaknak.

4

Max Altitude: 5,545m

12

Trek the Cho La to Jongla.

8

Average Daily Distance: 12km

13

Everest Base Camp trail to Lobuche.

5

Accommodation: Trekking lodge x 16, hotel x 2

14

Gorak Shep pass to Everest Base Camp.

8

Meals: 2 breakfasts (allow £25 per day for meals)

15

Ascend Kala Patthar; to Pheriche.

7

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

16

Trek out of the Khumbu to Tengboche.

4

Trip Code: TGOK

17

Follow rivers to Phakding and onto Lukla.

6

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

18

Fly from Lukla to Kathmandu.

-

Land Only: From £1,299 | With Flights: From £1,899

Overnight flight to UK.

-

Single Supplement: From £49

19/20

Lukla

5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Namche Bazaar

Machermo

Gokyo Ri

Base Camp Kala Patthar

C

D

Gokyo Ri Gokyo

Everest Base Camp Kala Patthar

Cho La

Machermo

Thaknak

Dzongla

Gorak Shep Lobuche

NEPAL Pheriche Tengboche

Lukla From/To UK via Kathmandu

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Cho La

B

CHINA

Phakding

WHY THIS TRIP?

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) 6000

PHYSICAL GRADE

A

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Namche Bazaar

Overnight flight to Kathmandu.

5

GRADE D

Dole

AT A GLANCE

1/2

6/7

GROUP GUIDED

Lukla

“With plenty of time for acclimatisation, avoiding the most crowded route and getting a full panorama of the highest part of the Himalayas, this trek is a personal favourite of mine and a great way to make the most of the Everest region!”

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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15

NEPAL

EVEREST IN STYLE

PRIVATE GUIDED 13 DAYS

Stay in Nepal’s very best trekking lodges

Trekking in the spectacular Everest region with views of iconic peaks such as Ama Dablam, Lhotse and the summit of Everest is nothing short of breathtaking.

On this trip not only do you trek in the land of the Sherpa, each night is spent in comfortable lodges too.

Enjoy the luxury of your own private bedroom, en-suite, blankets and linen. The perfect way to soak up your surroundings after a hard day of trekking.

GRADE C

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

CHINA

Tashinga

Mt Everest Tengboche

Namche Bazaar

NEPAL

Monjo Lukla

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

1/2 Overnight flight to Kathmandu.

AT A GLANCE

-

¬ Stay in the best lodges in the Everest area

3

Sightseeing in Kathmandu.

-

¬ Great walks in the Himalayas

4

Fly to Lukla. Trek to Monjo.

5

¬ Explore wonderful old Kathmandu

5

A challenging trek to Namche.

6

¬ Option to combine with Annapurna region

6

Acclimatisation day in Namche.

-

7

Trek to Tashinga with great views.

3

8

Day trip to Tengboche Monastery.

4

Grade: C (Demanding)

9

Descend to Monjo.

5

Max Altitude: 3,867m

10

Back to Phakding and up to Lukla.

5

Average Daily Distance: 8km

11

Fly to Kathmandu; afternoon free.

-

Accommodation: Hotel x 5, trekking lodge x 5

Fly overnight to UK.

-

Meals: 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners

12/13

From/To UK via Kathmandu

Stay in comfortable lodges

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

WHY THIS TRIP?

Trip Code: TEIS Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £2,245 | With Flights: From £2,899 Single Supplement: £549

“If this is your trek of a lifetime, what better way to do it then with the added comfort of our best trekking lodges? The views are simply stunning and will leave you with amazing memories and photographs.”

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Lukla

4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

16

Phakding

Namche Bazaar Syangboche

Tengboche

Monjo

Lukla

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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NEPAL

ANNAPURNA IN STYLE

PRIVATE GUIDED 12 DAYS

Panoramic Himalayan views from comfortable lodges

GRADE B

PHYSICAL GRADE

A

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Stay in luxury lodges in the mountains

Arriving in the capital of Kathmandu you’ll first enjoy a sightseeing tour of this fascinating city and stay at the luxurious Shangri-La Hotel. The next morning a short flight past Manaslu takes you to Pokhara where the adventure begins. Enjoy relatively low-level, straightforward trekking along village trails with spectacular views of the Annapurna range including the wondrous Fishtail Mountain. Passing through villages you’re sure to be greeted with ‘Namaste’ from the friendly locals, whilst staying in renowned luxury lodges along the way.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY 1/2

Overnight flight to Kathmandu.

-

¬ Stay in comfortable lodges

NEPAL Dhampus

From/To UK via Kathmandu

Sightseeing in Kathmandu.

-

4

Fly to Pokhara. Trek to Sanctuary Lodge.

3

¬ Witness daily life in local villages

5

Trek to Himalaya Lodge in Ghandruk.

5

¬ Option to combine with Everest region

6

Explore the Ghandruk region.

4

7

Across the Modi Khola to Gurung.

5

8

Trek to Dhampus.

4

Grade: B (Moderate)

9

Trek to the road. Transfer to Pokhara.

2

Max Altitude: 2,400m

10

Fly to Kathmandu, free time.

-

Average Daily Distance: 8km

Fly overnight to UK.

-

Accommodation: Trekking lodge x 5, Hotel x 4

If you have time, you can combine this trip with our Everest In Style trek on the opposite page (page 16). Please contact us for a quotation.

Birethanti

Pokhara

¬ Admire the iconic Fishtail Mountain

COMBINE TWO TRIPS

Gurung

AT A GLANCE

3

11/12

Ghandruk

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Meals: 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners Trip Code: TANA Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,935 | With Flights: From £2,599 Single Supplement: From £799

WHY THIS TRIP? “The Annapurnas provided me with the best walking I have ever experienced. Wild rhododendron forests, remote mountain villages, incredibly friendly people, towering snow-capped mountains…

Memories that last an eternity.”

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Pokhara 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Modi River Valley

Ghandruk

Gurung

Dhampus

Pokhara

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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17

NEPAL

EXTEND YOUR STAY IN NEPAL Why not make the most of your time with an extra few days at the end of your trip?

CHITWAN EXTENSION ¬ Stay at the famous Tiger Tops Lodge ¬ Explore surrounding villages and countryside ¬ Wildlife safaris, nature walks and birdwatching The ideal location to experience both the culture and wildlife of the region. Tiger Tops Tharu Lodge is styled after a traditional longhouse overlooking the lush forests of the national park. Enjoy the tranquil garden setting and evening local tribal dancing. Chitwan is home to the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros and is considered to have one of the highest densities of sloth bears.

From £599 per person for 2 nights (3 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

EVEREST FLIGHT EXTENSION ¬ Breath taking views of Everest ¬ Guaranteed window seat ¬ Witness Himalayan peaks, lakes and glaciers Extend your stay in Kathmandu for an early morning scenic flight around Everest. The brand new aircraft fly over the Khumbu valley at 25,000ft - so close it seems you could almost touch it.

Each passenger is guaranteed a window seat for spectacular views of the peaks, lakes and glaciers of the Himalayas.

From £249 per person (price is based on two people sharing)

SETI RIVER RAFTING EXTENSION ¬ Rafting on the Seti River ¬ Superb scenery and wildlife ¬ Stay in a comfortable fixed camp The Seti River offers a fine combination of superb scenery and gentle rapids just one hour from Pokhara.

The river and surrounding area remain unspoilt and we float down the watercourse passing by villages and local bird life. Upon arrival, we stay in a comfortable fixed camp. The next day there is time to explore further with bird-watching, photography and rafting.

From £549 per person for 2 nights (3 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

18

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INDIA

DARJEELING & THE SINGALILA RIDGE A classic Indian trekking holiday in the shadow of Kangchenjunga

Combining wonderful trekking with diverse culture and fascinating history, this adventure is ideal for regular hill walkers seeking their first Himalayan trekking adventure. From Delhi, travel to the Hill Station of Darjeeling. There is time to explore before a stunning trek along the India/Nepal border on the broad, undulating Singalila Ridge with stunning views of mighty Kangchenjunga.

Descending through traditional hill villages you return to Darjeeling to reflect on this very special trek before flying back to eclectic Delhi.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

Overnight flight to Delhi.

-

¬ One of India’s classic Himalayan treks

3

Fly to Bagdogra. To Darjeeling.

-

¬ Explore the old British Hill Station of Darjeeling

4

Free day to explore Darjeeling.

-

¬ Views of Kanchenjunga and Everest

5

Trek to camp at Tonglu.

3

¬ Explore the bustling city of Delhi

6

Trek into Nepal, camp by Kolpokhari. 7

7

Follow trail to camp at Sandakphu.

4

8

A great trek along the ridge.

4

9

An easy ascent of Singalila Peak.

8

10

Pass villages en route to Rimbik.

5

11

Transfer to Darjeeling; free PM.

-

Accommodation: Camping x 5, hotel x 5, lodge x 1

Fly to Delhi. Fly back to UK.

-

Meals: 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 8 dinners

Tonglu

B

C

D

BHUTAN

Rimbik Darjeeling

NEPAL

INDIA

Dhotrey From/To UK via Delhi

PHYSICAL GRADE

Bagdogra

Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 3,690m

WHY THIS TRIP?

Average Daily Distance: 12km

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,249 | With Flights: From £1,849 Single Supplement: From £169w

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Dhotrey

Tonglu

A

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

“See a remote wilderness far from the crowds as you enter an area first visited only a 100 years ago by the first botanists. True Shangri-La country.”

Trip Code: TSIN

Why not extend your stay to include a visit to Agra to see the Taj Mahal. Please contact us for more information or a quotation.

4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Phalut Sandakphu

GRADE B/C

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

EXTEND YOUR STAY

13 DAYS

AT A GLANCE

1/2

12/13

GROUP GUIDED

Kalpokhari

Sabargram Singalila Peak

Samaden Rimbik

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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19

INDIA

SPICE TRAILS OF KERALA

GROUP GUIDED 16 DAYS

Walks in the fragrant Cardamom Hills

Explore the magnificent mountains of the Western Ghats. The cool, fragrant mountain air delights the senses with the scents of spices, coffee and tea. Here you explore the lush forests, tranquil plantation trails and former British hill stations. The high point of Meesapulimala is reached by crossing the Silent Valley plateau, before heading to the temple city of Madurai. The trip is completed with a visit to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and a relaxing night on a traditional houseboat. It’s no surprise that this varied trek is a favourite.

From/ To UK

ITINERARY

-

3

Drive to Thattekkad. Nature walk.

1

4

To Munnar. Bazaar walk & Tea Museum.

2

5

Meesapulimala walk.

6

6

Walk to Anaerangal Lake.

5

7

Walk in Mathikettan Shola NP.

6

Grade: B (Moderate)

8

Summit Chathurangapara.

6

Max Altitude: 2,640m

9

Drive to Madurai. Temple visit.

-

Average Daily Distance: 13km Accommodation: Hotel x 3, camping x 4,

B&B x 5, houseboat x 1

D

Meesapulimala Anaerangal Lake

Kochi

Madurai

Chathurangapara

Periyar

INDIA

¬ Colourful temples of Madurai ¬ Cruise the tropical lagoons and backwaters ¬ Smell traditional spices, coffee and tea

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

10

To Periyar. Spice plantation walk.

1

11

Periyar Tiger Reserve. Forest walk.

3

12

To Alleppey; board houseboat.

-

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

13

Return to Alleppey. Free time.

-

Trip Code: TKER

14

Return to Kochi. Free time.

-

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

Meals: 13 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners

Land Only: From £1,299 | With Flights: From £1,895 Single Supplement: From £299

EXTEND YOUR TRIP We highly recommend that you extend your stay in India to include a few days at Mararikulam Beach.

Please see page 25 for more information or contact us for a quotation.

20

C

Mathikettan Shola

¬ Stay on a traditional houseboat

Fly overnight to Kochi.

Visit Fort Kochi.

-

B

AT A GLANCE

1/2

15/ Overnight flight back to the UK 16 from Kochi.

Munnar

PHYSICAL GRADE

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Thattekkad

Alleppey

Approx Hours Walked

A

GRADE B

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WHY THIS TRIP? “Walking in the midst of tea plantations awash in green is the uniqueness found in Kerala. Self-proclaimed as ‘God’s Own County’ it’s not far from scenic splendour.”

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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21

VIETNAM

HIDDEN HILLTRIBES OF VIETNAM

GROUP GUIDED 14 DAYS

Walks through jungles and across verdant landscapes

Vietnam is home to many diverse and vibrant hill tribes. As well as the challenging trekking through hills and valleys, a wonderful feature of this adventure is spending a couple of nights in the village homes of some of these welcoming tribes. With the help of your guide, you will be able to learn more about their culture and traditions. Always lively, sometimes chaotic, but never dull, this trip to Vietnam is ideal for those who enjoy a challenge and want real cultural experiences too.

GRADE C

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Sin Chai

Lao Cai Mong Sen Cat Cat Village

Sapa Su Pan Ban Ho

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

AT A GLANCE

1/2

Fly overnight to Hanoi. Explore city.

-

¬ Spend time at a local villager’s home

3

Sightseeing; overnight train to Lao Cai.

-

¬ Meet colourful hill tribes

4

Transfer to Sapa for a village trek.

5

¬ Trek in the backdrop of Fansipan (3,143m)

5

Trek through Cat Cat Valley.

5

¬ Soak up the atmosphere of colonial Hanoi

6

Walk along the Hoang Lien range.

5

7

Ascend to highest point of the trek.

5

8

Trek at the bottom of the valley.

6

9

Walk in the rainforest. Visit a school. 7

10

Gentle walk to Sin Chai village.

4

11

Trek to Lao Cai, overnight train to Hanoi.

8

Accommodation: Homestay x 4, hotel x 3, sleeper train x 2, camping x 2

12

Arrive Hanoi. Free time to explore.

-

Meals: 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches & 7 dinners

13/14

Depart Hanoi. Overnight flight to UK.

-

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 10

VIETNAM

Grade: C (Demanding)

WHY THIS TRIP?

Max Altitude: 1,548m

“This trip offers a wonderful window into the way the indigenous peoples interact with their environment.

Experience the vibrant colours, people and sculpted scenery for a real taste of North Vietnam.”

Average Daily Distance: 11km

Land Only: From £999 | With Flights: From £1,749 Single Supplement: From £179

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Ta Phin

Cat Cat

Seo My Ty Deng Thang Sin Chai

1500

Ta Thang

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

1000 500

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0

22

From/ To UK

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

Extend your stay to include time in Halong Bay. Please see page 25 for more.

Sapa

Hanoi

Trip Code: TVIE

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

2000

Thanh Phu

Hoang Lien National Park

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Call us on 01962 302 085

23

MYANMAR

BURMESE DAYS

GROUP GUIDED 14 DAYS

Walk in a beautifully untouched and time-warped land

Myanmar (or Burma) is a time-warped treat and any walker will enjoy travelling back in time to this beautiful untouched land where technology practically goes amiss, the horse and cart is still a popular mode of transport and temples stand as boldly in the countryside as the day they were built. Trek in remote villages, marvel at the temples of Bagan, walk through local villages and see the famous leg-rowers of Inle Lake and visit the incredible temple of the Golden Rock.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

Overnight flight to Yangon.

-

¬ Visit and ascend the Golden Rock

2

Arrive Yangon. Walking tour of city.

-

¬ Trek through remote Burmese villages

3

Fly to Bagan. Explore temples.

-

¬ Explore Bagan temples by bicycle

4

Explore Bagan further. Sunset cruise.

-

¬ Watch the sunset over the Irrawaddy River

5

Fly to Mandalay. Cruise to Mingun.

-

6

To Ava by ferry & horse & cart.

-

7

Fly to Heho. Walks around Kalaw.

5

8

Trek through local villages.

5

9

Trek to Inle Lake.

5 3

11

Trek paddy fields & visit local tribe.

6

12

Fly to Yangon. Free time to explore.

-

13

Summit the Golden Rock.

1

14

Morning stroll, return to Yangon.

1

15

Fly back to the UK.

-

B

C

MYANMAR

Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,000m Average Daily Distance: 16km Accommodation: Hotel x 12, homestay x 1 Meals: 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 1 dinner Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Trip Code: TMBD Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,999 | With Flights: From £2,699 Single Supplement: From £399

We highly recommend that you extend your stay in Myanmar to include a few days at Ngapali Beach.

Please see page 25 for more information or contact us for a quotation.

Bagan

Mt Popa Kalaw

LAOS

Keng Tong Pin Tauk Loimwe

Heho

Ho Jing

Inle Lake

THAILAND

Bago Golden Rock Yangon From/ To UK

WHY THIS TRIP? “Burma is my favourite country in Asia. Partly because of its fascinating history, impressive temples and jaw-dropping scenery. But much more because of its wonderful and ever-smiling people. ”

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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D

Mandalay

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

24

PHYSICAL GRADE

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

AT A GLANCE

1

10 Visit a Pagoda. Fly to Keng Tong.

CHINA

A

GRADE B/C

INDIA, MYANMAR & VIETNAM

EXTEND YOUR STAY IN INDIA, MYANMAR OR VIETNAM Why not make the most of your time with an extra few days at the end of your trip?

INDIA - MARARIKULAM BEACH ¬ Enjoy the relaxed pace of life ¬ Beautiful white sandy beach ¬ Explore colourful local villages Mararikulam’s appeal is its space and silence. The quiet, secluded beach and adjoining fishing village are the perfect place to relax and slow down. Enjoy coconut groves lining the way to the beach, green surroundings and an abundance of birds and butterflies. Visit the village and watch the fascinating process of coir weaving, or explore the meandering lanes of the local village.

From £399 per person for 2 nights (3 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

MYANMAR - NGAPALI BEACH ¬ White sands and clear blue waters ¬ Snorkel with colourful fish ¬ Panoramic views of beach stupa Ngapali’s palm-lined beach is the perfect place to unwind. Lie on the soft, sandy beach, swim and snorkel in the crystal clear waters.

Witness the local fishermen bringing in their catches and dine on fresh food while watching local life pass by.

From £439 per person for 3 nights (4 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

VIETNAM - HALONG BAY EXTENSION ¬ Stay on a small junk in secluded bays ¬ Explore the local fishing community by boat ¬ Visit Thien Canh Son Cave Stay overnight on a small, traditional junk boat and relax on the deck while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Halong Bay. Explore the community of Vung Vieng by kayak or bamboo boat, visit the beach and explore Thien Canh Son Cave. On board, try an early morning Tai Chi class, learn traditional Vietnamese cooking and fruit carving or sip a cocktail while watching the sunset over the islets.

From £175 per person for 1 night (2 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

Call us on 01962 302 085

25

AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST

Trekking in the Atlas Mountains

MOROCCO The Berber Trail Marrakech & Atlas Short Break Raiders of the Lost Kasbah Toubkal Ascent Morocco Extensions

JORDAN Bedouin Trail to Petra

ETHIOPIA Simien Mountains & Castles

SOUTH AFRICA Kruger, Zulus & Drakensberg

REGIONAL INSIGHT... “Spread your wings, and your ambition by taking on the challenge of two mighty peaks in the form of Kilimanjaro, the highest free standing volcano in the world, and Mount Toubkal in Morocco. We also we have spectacular new walks in Ethiopia and South Africa. There are also shorter duration walks available in Morocco and Jordan, from just five days and to suit all tastes and abilities.�

Walk in the Simien Mountains of Ethiopia

Trek to the magnificent Petra in Jordan

26

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MOROCCO

THE BERBER TRAIL

GROUP GUIDED 8 DAYS

Trek in four different valleys of Morocco

Trekking across a series of mountain passes (tizis) you explore four entirely different valleys to discover a fascinating variety of changing, colourful landscapes.

Enjoy a sublime Atlas trek and stimulating cultural experience with comfortable, charming accommodation, friendly Berber hospitality, tasty fresh Moroccan food and breathtaking scenery along the way. Explore the curious labyrinths of the souks in colourful Marrakech and stay in a charming, traditional family-run riad in the heart of the city.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

GRADE B

A

-

¬ Discover tiny, timeless mountain villages

2

Follow a piste track to Tacheddirt.

5

¬ Friendly Berber hospitality and culture

3

Cross Tizi Tamatert to Aremd.

5

¬ Dramatic High Atlas panoramas

4

Tizi Mizik to Tizi Oussem Village.

7

¬ Experience the magnetism of Marrakech

5

Walk the Azzaden Valley to Ouirgane.

5

6

Explore a nature reserve.

4

7

To Marrakech. Free time to explore.

-

8

Depart Marrakech. Arrive UK.

-

Mount Toubkal

Max Altitude: 2,560m Average Daily Distance: 12km

Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 6 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

Okaimeden

Aremd

WHY THIS TRIP?

Grade: B (Moderate)

Accommodation: Trekking lodge x 4, riad x 1, hotel x 1, gite x 1

D

Tacheddirt

Ouirgane

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

C

Marrakech

MOROCCO

Arrive Marrakech; to Oukaimeden.

B

From/ To UK

AT A GLANCE

1

PHYSICAL GRADE

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

“Discover new cultures whilst discovering the real you. If you aim to do something challenging or learn something new every day, you’ll have no trouble with that on this trip. There are plenty of adrenaline rushes too!”

Trip Code: TTBT Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £499 | With Flights: From £799 Single Supplement: From £129 (hotel & riad only)

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Oukaimeden Tacheddirt 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Tizi n’Tamatert

Aremd

Tizi Mizik

Tizi Oussem

Tassa Ouirgane

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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27

MOROCCO

MARRAKECH & ATLAS SHORT BREAK 5 DAYS

A great ‘quick fix’ trekking trip in Morocco

After a night in a traditional riad in the heart of old Marrakech, we take you into the majestic High Atlas Mountains. Here you’ll enjoy two magnificent days of trekking over moderate passes, through scenic valleys and atmospheric Berber villages, before returning for a final night in the Imperial Ochre City. Soak up the atmosphere of the souks and square amid belly dancers, acrobats and snake charmers. Great value for money, sublime walking and a touch of the exotic, Morocco is the ideal destination for a short get-away.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

PRIVATE GUIDED A

GRADE B

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

From/ To UK Marrakech

MOROCCO

Okaimeden

AT A GLANCE

1

Fly to Marrakech. Time to explore.

-

¬ Stay in a traditional riad in Marrakech

2

To Oukaimeden. Trek the Tizi nou Addi.

5

¬ Enjoy sublime trekking in the Atlas Mountains

3

Follow a mule trail to Tizi n’ Tamatert.

5

¬ Visit traditional Berber villages

4

Short walk to Imlil. To Marrakech.

1

¬ Experience exotic Marrakech

5

Depart Marrakech. Arrive UK.

-

Tacheddirt Imlil Mount Toubkal

Aremd

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: B (Moderate) Max Altitude: 2,960m Average Daily Distance: 7-12km Accommodation: Riad x 2, trekking lodge x 2 Meals: 4 breakfasts, 2 lunches & 2 dinners

WHY THIS TRIP?

Trip Code: TASB Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £399 Flight Price Guideline: From £180 Single Supplement: From £40 (Marrakech only)

“A small taste of life in Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains - the contrast between the two is quite something. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone wanting a short break adventure. An unforgettable experience”

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Oukaimeden

3500

Oukaimeden Peak (optional)

Tizi n’Tamatert

3000 2500

Imlil

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

2000 1500 1000 500

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28

Aremd

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MOROCCO

RAIDERS OF THE LOST KASBAH

GROUP GUIDED 8 DAYS

Journey on foot through the history of Morocco

This unique trekking adventure takes you across the Atlas Mountains on the ancient caravan route to discover historic fortresses, crumbling kasbahs, lunar landscapes, fertile valleys, spectacular canyons, tiny villages and the iconic ksar of magnificent Ait Ben Haddou.

Back in imperial Marrakech you’ll have time to explore the souks and experience the magical evening spectacle of Djemma El Fna Square.

GRADE C

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Marrakech

From/ To UK

Taddert

MOROCCO

Telouet

Mount Toubkal Ait Ben Haddou Ouarzarzate

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

AT A GLANCE

1

Depart UK. Arrive Marrakech.

-

¬ Explore the Southern flanks of the Atlas

2

To Atlas Mountains. Time to trek.

5

¬ Follow an old trade route

3

Cross Tizi n’Telouet to Telouet.

6

¬ Kasbahs, ksars and Ait Ben Haddou

4

Ascend the Adrar Taqqat. To Assaka.

6

¬ Experience the busy souks of Marrakech

5

Walk via kasbah villages to Tizgui.

4

6

Trek to Ait Ben Haddou via Assif Aounil.

6

7

Ait Ben Haddou, then to Marrakech.

8

Depart Marrakech. Arrive UK.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION WHY THIS TRIP?

Grade: C (Demanding) -

Max Altitude: 2,200m Average Daily Distance: 10km Accommodation: Hotel x 3, gite x 2,

auberge x 1, camping x 1 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 5 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

“One of our best trips for blending cultural immersion with great off-the-beaten-track walking. Morocco is friendly and exotic and if you are deciding how to get the most out of the country, this trip is a great option!”

Trip Code: TLKM Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £499 | With Flights: From £749 Single Supplement: From £40 (Marrakech only)

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Izihks

Titoula

Tizi n’Telouet

Telouet

Assaka

Tizgui Ait Ben Haddou

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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29

MOROCCO

TOUBKAL ASCENT

GROUP GUIDED 8 DAYS

A classic trekking holiday in Morocco

This amazing trek takes you to the summit of Jebel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. Commencing in the beautiful, verdant Ourika Valley, you’ll trek over the rarely crossed Tizi n’Tacheddirt to reach North Africa’s highest permanently inhabited village. One more pass and then you join the regular trail to the Neltner Refuge beneath Toubkal itself. Here, a rugged route takes you to the summit of Toubkal for far-reaching and truly stupendous vistas of the Atlas Mountains and beyond to the Sahara.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

GRADE C

From/ To UK

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

Marrakech

MOROCCO

Setti Fatma

AT A GLANCE

1

Depart UK. Arrive Marrakech.

-

¬ The superb High Atlas peaks

2

To Atlas Mountains; trek to Timichi.

6

¬ Summit Jebel Toubkal (4,167m)

3

Walk to the village of Tacheddirt.

8

¬ The delightful Ourika valley

4

Trek via Tizi Tamatert to Aremd.

5

¬ Explore the vibrant city of Marrakech

5

Trek to Neltner - Mt. Toubkal Base Camp.

5

6

Summit Toubkal; walk to Aremd.

9

7

Return to Marrakech; time to explore.

-

8

Depart Marrakech. Arrive UK.

-

Timichi Toubkal Refuge

Tacheddirt Aremd Toubkal

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding)

WHY THIS TRIP?

Max Altitude: 4,167m Average Daily Distance: 9km Accommodation: Trekking lodge x 3, hotel x 2,

gite x 1, mountain hut x 1 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 5 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

“Trekking to the summit of Toubkal through the mud brick villages, past the terrace fields or fruit trees with the Berber people of the Atlas Mountains is a great achievement immersed with Moroccan culture.”

Trip Code: TTAS Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £399 | With Flights: From £649 Single Supplement: From £40 (Marrakech only)

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Setti Fatma Timichi

Tizi N’Tacheddirt

Tacheddirt

Aremd Toubkal Refuge Toubkal

5000 4000

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

3000 2000 1000

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30

Aremd

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D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

MOROCCO

EXTEND YOUR STAY IN MOROCCO Why not make the most of your time with an extra few days at the end of your trip?

MARRAKECH RIADS EXTENSION ¬ Escape the hustle and bustle of the city ¬ Enjoy serene courtyard gardens ¬ Relax in a hammam Experience the feeling of opulence in a traditional riad; the former residences of Moroccan nobility. Enjoy some quiet relaxation away from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech in a walled courtyard garden while sipping mint tea and delicious Moroccan pastries.

Admire the views from a roof top as you relax in a hammock. Unwind in a warm hammam or take a dip in a courtyard pool.

From £199 per person for 2 nights (3 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

ESSAOUIRA EXTENSION ¬ A refreshing coastal escape ¬ Great for shopping for souvenirs ¬ Explore an old pirates’ port Discover the atmospheric old port of Essaouira.

Explore the faded grandeur of its colonial past, walk along the old ramparts passing by cannons pointing out to sea. Visit the medieval harbour teeming with blue fishing boats bobbing up and down on the waves.

Enjoy wandering through cobbled alleyways, discover artisan workshops and barter for souvenirs.

From £229 per person for 2 nights (3 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

SAHARA DESERT EXTENSION ¬ Experience a camel trek in the desert ¬ Camp under a blanket of stars ¬ Immerse yourself in rolling sand dunes Enjoy a four-day Sahara adventure; trek by camel into the wilderness of the Sahara itself and overnight in the desert in a comfortable permanent camp.

Add to this two nights spent poolside at the absolutely beautiful and tranquil Chez Le Pacha, plus the option to try out a bit of desert sand-boarding and quadbiking too.

From £499 per person for 3 nights (4 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

Call us on 01962 302 085

31

JORDAN

BEDOUIN TRAIL TO PETRA Desert trekking from Dana on the ‘Inca Trail of the Middle East’

GROUP GUIDED 8 DAYS

GRADE C

A truly incredible and iconic walk across the deserts and mountains of Jordan to magnificent, iconic Petra. Trekking through dramatic gorges and canyons on trails known only to the local Bedouin, it’s unlikely you’ll encounter other trekkers.

Cross the classic rocky hamada desert to climb into the spectacular mountains and escarpments above the Great Rift Valley. Spectacular trails lead through wadis and along rocky ledges to emerge at the ‘back door’ of Petra itself.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

AT A GLANCE

1

Depart UK. Arrive Amman.

-

¬ Trek from Dana Reserve to Petra

2

Wadi Dana trail to Feynan Eco-lodge.

6

¬ Amazing mountain and desert scenery

3

Trek along the Wadi Araba.

6

¬ Camp Bedouin-style beneath the stars

4

Climb up to camp at Ras el Fied.

6

¬ Stay in an eco-lodge in Dana Reserve

5

Pass wadis to camp at Ishkart Msaid .

9

6

Walking excursion to ‘Little Petra’.

6

7

Explore Petra. Drive to Madaba.

5

8

Depart Amman. Arrive UK.

-

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

Amman

From/ To UK

Madaba

ISRAEL

JORDAN

Dana Wadi Araba

Petra

Feynan Eco-lodge in Dana Reserve

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: Under 1,000m Average Daily Distance: 15km Accommodation: Camping x 4, hotel x 2,

eco-lodge x 1 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 5 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 16 Trip Code: TBTP Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £999 | With Flights: From £1,499 Single Supplement: From £149 (excluding camps)

WHY THIS TRIP? “Walking in Jordan is a real pleasure. The rocky landscape is beautiful especially early and late in the day. You’ll never forget sleeping beneath the stars in the desert in a Bedouin-style camp.”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

ETHIOPIA

SIMIEN MOUNTAINS & CASTLES

GROUP GUIDED 12 DAYS

Trek the World Heritage Site of Simien Mountains National Park

The highland area of the Simien Mountains is a designated World Heritage site, dominated by high plateaus, gorges, canyons and dramatic rocky pinnacles.

Explore Gondar - the Camelot of Ethiopia - rich in art and culture as well as being famous for its many medieval castles and churches. We’ll also spend a few hours visiting a ‘Link Ethiopia’ project - a local primary school. Our fascinating 5-day trek culminates with breaktaking views of Ras Dashen across the valley.

Why not extend your stay in Ethiopia?

GRADE C

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Geech Camp

Chenck Camp

Geech Bwahit Pass Sankaber Camp Debark Gondar Lake Tana

ETHIOPIA

Bahir Dar

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

AT A GLANCE

1/2 Overnight flight to Addis Ababa.

-

¬ Internal flights to avoid long drives

3

Fly to Gondar. Free time in afternoon.

-

¬ Try out the local dish of ‘injera and wat’

4

Visit a Link Ethiopia project.

-

5

To Debark; walk to Sankaber.

4

¬ Price includes donation to Link Ethiopia Education project

6

Walk to Geech via Jinbar Waterfalls.

7

7

Walk to Chenck.

7

8

Walk to Bwahit Peak and back.

4

9

Transfer back to Gondar.

-

10

Transfer to Bahir Dar: live music.

-

11

Explore Lake Tana. Fly to UK.

-

12

Arrive UK.

-

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 4,200m Average Daily Distance: 14km Accommodation: Hotel x 5, camping x 4 Meals: 9 breakfasts, 9 lunches & 9 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

From/ To UK

Addis Ababa

WHY THIS TRIP? “Trekking through ancient villages with communities living as they have for hundreds of years. Trekkers are often invited in to homes for a traditional Ethiopian Coffee ceremony, be warned though the coffee is very strong and you will be expected to drink at least three cups.”

Trip Code: TESM Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,799 | With Flights: From £2,399 Single Supplement: From £189

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Sankaber 5000 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Geech

Chenck

Bwahit Pass

Bwahit Peak

Chenck

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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33

SOUTH AFRICA

KRUGER, ZULUS & DRAKENSBERG

GROUP GUIDED 17 DAYS

Scenic and cultural walks in South Africa and Swaziland

South Africa has so much to offer and on this walking focused safari, you will explore variety of scenic and cultural destinations within the country. This is an active holiday and the level of walking is varied from leisurely to challenging. In Mpumalanga you can soak up the mountains and marvel at waterfalls before heading on to the famed Kruger National Park where you have the opportunity to spot the Big Five. Learn about the fascinating Zulu culture and walk along mountain stream paths in the 200km-long Drakensberg Mountains.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

AT A GLANCE

1/2

Overnight flight to Johannesburg.

-

¬ Trek in the Drakensberg Mountains

3

To Mpumalanga. Short walk.

1

¬ Spot the ‘Big Five’ in Kruger National Park

4/5

Kruger Private Game Reserve walks with day & night game drives.

4

6

Kruger National Park - bush walk.

4

7/8

Kingdom of Swaziland - full day walks around mountainous region.

6

9/10

Isimangoliso Wetland Park - walks around the local area.

3

11/12

Zululand - Tulana Museum & hike through hills to Buffalo River.

5

13/14

Drakensburg Mountains - walks along mountain trails.

5

Trek to the beautiful Tugela Falls.

6

15

Overnight flight back to the UK 16/17 from Johannesburg.

¬ Dramatic coastlines backed by pristine forests

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 3,000m Accommodation: Chalet x 7, lodge x 5, tented

lodge x 2 Meals: 13 breakfasts, 14 lunches & 9 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

B

C

Kruger National Park

D

MOZAMBIQUE

Mpumalanga Johannesburg

From/ To UK

Malalotja Nature Reserve

SWAZILAND

SOUTH AFRICA Zululand

LESOTHO

Isimangoliso Wetland Park

Drakensburg

WHY THIS TRIP? “It’s hard to describe how pristine walking in South Africa’s Drakensberg range actually is. The air is clear, the wildflowers magnificent and the scenery rejuvenating. It’s a must for walkers who enjoy the scenery as much as the walking.”

Trip Code: TSWA Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,489 | With Flights: From £2,499 Single Supplement: From £499

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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PHYSICAL GRADE

A

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

¬ Complete eight scenic walks

Average Daily Distance: 10km

-

GRADE C

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35

LATIN AMERICA

Trek to Machu Picchu in the land of the Incas

PERU The Classic Inca Trail Extend your stay in Peru

CHILE The W-Trek & Chilean Lakes

COSTA RICA Tropical Trails Stun your Senses in Costa Rica

REGIONAL INSIGHT...

“Latin America and in particular the Andes, which form the spine of South America, should not be missed. The scenery is spellbinding, the colonial towns are real gems, and the way of life is eye-opening. There are unique landscapes, spectacular Inca ruins in Peru, giant palms in the lush coffee triangle of Colombia, as well as stunning panoramas and magical rocky towers in Patagonia.”

Walk amongst the wildlife of Costa Rica’s cloud forests

36

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PERU

THE CLASSIC INCA TRAIL

GROUP GUIDED 11 DAYS

Most famous route to Machu Picchu

Our version of this famous trek incorporates plenty of time to acclimatise and explore Cusco and the Sacred Valley. The landscape along the trail is spectacular, passing soaring ice-capped peaks and sweeping valleys which gradually change to lush cloud forests. Trek over Dead Woman’s Pass, before descending towards the Sun Gate. The climax of this trek is arrival at the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu. We offer year round private departures and some group trips.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

-

¬ Three nights in Cusco to acclimatise

2

Arrive Cusco. Rest following journey.

-

¬ Trek a world famous route

3

Walk in Cusco & Sacsayhuaman.

3

¬ Arrive at Machu Picchu on foot

4

Acclimatise - walk in Sacred Valley.

3

¬ Walks in Cusco and Sacred Valley

5

To Ollantaytambo, start Inca Trail.

3

6

Along the trail to Llulluchapampa.

7

7

Trek onwards to Phuyupatamarca.

9

8

Through Sun Gate to Machu Picchu.

6

9

Explore Machu Picchu, train to Cusco.

2

Overnight flights home.

-

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 4,200m Average Daily Distance: 9km Accommodation: Simple hotel x 5, camp x 3 Meals: 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 3 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 16

We recommend that you extend your stay in Peru to include a few days in the Amazon. See page 38 for more information or contact us for a quotation.

KM82 4000 3000 2000 1000 0

Wayllabamba Warmiwanusca

Pacaymayo Valley

B

C

D

Aguas Calientes Machu Picchu

Phuyupatamarca

Llulluchupampa

Ollantaytambo

PERU From/ To UK

WHY THIS TRIP? “The trip certainly does not disappoint - it’s a classic route. The Inca Trail is one of those journeys where the end reward, makes the challenging elements of the trek more than worthwhile. A totally unforgettable trip.”

Trip Code: TINC Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,399 | With Flights: From £2,289 Single Supplement: From £269

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) 5000

PHYSICAL GRADE

Cusco

Fly overnight to Peru.

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

A

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

AT A GLANCE

1

10/11

GRADE C

Abra Runkurakay Sayacmarca

Winaywayna

Aguas Calientes

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION Doing the Inca Trail privately allows you greater choice of dates to fit with permit availability. For more information, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

walksworldwide.com

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37

PERU

EXTEND YOUR STAY IN PERU Why not make the most of your time with an extra few days at the end of your trip?

PERU - AMAZON BASIN EXTENSION ¬ Stay in a rainforest lodge ¬ Walks and boat trips with expert local guides ¬ Try your hand at piranha fishing Fly from Cusco to Puerto Maldonado in the Amazon Basin, then travel by boat to your rainforest lodge. Stay for three nights. During your time at the lodge, you have activities included such as guided walks, boat trips, piranha fishing and bird watching. You’ll learn about the flora and fauna of the forest and hear about medicinal uses of plants.

From £495 per person for 3 nights (4 days) (price is based on two people sharing)

38

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CHILE

THE W-TREK & CHILEAN LAKES

GROUP GUIDED 15 DAYS

Trek amidst volcanoes, lakes and the spires of Patagonia

GRADE C

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Also see our ‘Ultimate Patagonia Adventure’ trip online from Adventure Worldwide.

You’ll start your Chilean adventure with a walking tour of the capital - Santiago - before flying south to Pucon. Trek in Huerquehue National Park and have the chance to ascend Villarrica volcano. Further south you’ll enter the world-famous Torres del Paine National Park for four full days of trekking in the area of the towers themselves - Lake Nordenskjold, Los Cuernos and French Valley - amid dramatic mountain scenery, lakes and glaciers. Leaving Torres del Paine behind, you’ll have a night in Puerto Natales and then return to Santiago to fly home.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY 1

Overnight flight to Santiago.

¬ Explore Torres del Paine on foot

2

Arrive Santiago. Walking tour in PM.

4

¬ Enjoy Los Cuernos and the French Valley

3

Fly/drive to the Lake District.

-

¬ Take a cruise on Lago Grey

4

Trek in Huerquehue National Park.

6

¬ Trip extensions available - see opposite

5

Option to summit Villarrica Volcano.

5

6

Fly & bus to Punta Arenas.

-

7

Travel to Torres del Paine by bus.

-

8

Trek to the base of Las Torres.

7

9

Trek to Los Cuernos.

5 11

11

Trek to Grey Glacier.

5

12

Boat trip on Lake Grey.

-

13

Bus & fly back to Santiago.

-

14/ Overnight flight back to the UK 15 from Santiago.

-

Pucon 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Villarrica (optional)

Huerquehue National Park Villarrica Volcano

Puerto Montt ARGENTINA

Torres del Paine

Punta Arenas

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding)

WHY THIS TRIP?

Max Altitude: 2,847m

“Considered to be one of the world’s great treks, the scenery of the Chilean side of Patagonia is simply amazing. Pristine Lake Pehoe, the mystical grey glacier, and the iconic granite towers rising from the beautiful green landscape.”

Average Daily Distance: 14km Accommodation: Hotel x 7, lodges x 5 Meals: 12 breakfasts Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 14 Trip Code: TCWL Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £2,999 | With Flights: From £3,849 Single Supplement: From £279 (hotels only)

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) 3000

Temuco

AT A GLANCE

-

10 Trekking in the French Valley.

From/ To UK

Santiago

Base Las Torres Los Cuernos French Valley

Grey Glacier

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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39

COSTA RICA

TROPICAL TRAILS

GROUP GUIDED

A unique journey of volcanoes, wildlife, rainforest and cloudforest

This very different and varied holiday will see you walk your way around volcano craters, meander through nature reserves, look out for birds in cloud forests and finally explore the steamy rainforests of the Osa Peninsula. Costa Rica’s landscapes are beautiful and the country is rich in bird and animal life. You may glimpse the colourful quetzal, toucans, monkeys, and more. You’ll stay in simple lodges most of the time, plus a couple of nights camping. Walking is mostly along good paths or tracks and varies from short walks to full days.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

Arrive San Jose, to Barva volcano.

-

¬ Walk to crater of Barva Volcano

2

Volcano hike to crater.

5

¬ See rich birdlife including famed quetzal

3

Walk the slopes of Turrialba volcano.

3

¬ Trek across the Osa Peninsula

4

Espino Blanco nature reserve walk.

3

¬ Highly varied walking

5

Travel to Los Quetzales NP.

2

6

Walk many ecosystems to Death Hill.

6

7

Travel to Osa Peninsula.

-

8

Full day walk in Corcovado rainforest.

9

9

Exploration of Corcovado on foot.

7

11/ 12

Overnight flight back to the UK via San Jose.

7 -

GRADE C

From/ To UK

A

B

C

Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 3,490 m Average Daily Distance: 11 km Accommodation: Simple lodges x 8, camp x 2 Meals: 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 3 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 16 Trip Code: TCOS Land Only: From £2,329 | With Flights: From £2,979 Single Supplement: From £499

San Jose

Espino Blanco Reserve

Los Quetzales National Park

COSTA RICA

PANAMA

Osa Peninsula

WHY THIS TRIP? “Our Costa Rica holiday with Walks Worldwide was full of adventure and variety. We would highly recommend this trip if you are looking to experience all of the flora and fauna of this beautiful country.”

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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D

Barva Volcano Turrialba Volcano

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

40

PHYSICAL GRADE

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

AT A GLANCE

1

10 Walk forest & beaches to Carate.

12 DAYS

COSTA RICA

STUN YOUR SENSES IN COSTA RICA Costa Rica packs quite a kick.

It’s the country’s extraordinary geography that nurtures dizzying wildlife and creates the perfect setting for walking adventures.

Volcanoes looming from the rainforest, spewing lava and courting trekkers; beaches where turtles nest and surfers ride the waves; junglelined channels luring kayakers among caiman and monkeys; and of course the mountain trails. And with two coasts on the Caribbean and Pacific, there’s no shortage of sandy strands for relaxing.

Meeting the locals, of course, is an essential element for a visit – and the cast list is impressive. Fancy a date with a resplendent quetzal – a dazzling creature with traffic-light plumage and tail-feathers extravagant enough to make a bird of paradise feel dowdy? Head to the cloud forest

for an introduction – you might meet sloths and monkeys en route. Then there are the ‘Ticos’ themselves, Costa Rica’s chilled-out, music-loving people, ready with welcoming smiles.

In Spanish, Costa Rica means ‘rich coast’, and rightly so as it is abundant in natural diversity and wildlife.

Rainforests, mangrove swamps, cloud forests, beaches, coral reefs and a plethora of plant life. It is home to 5% of the world’s biodiversity. It is thought to have 1,200 species of orchid, 35,000 species of insects, 160 amphibians’ species, 220 reptiles and over 850 species of birds. There are 12 different ecosystems, including tropical wetlands, primary dry forest and tidal mangrove swamps.

Costa Rica offers the chance to experience such a diverse contrast in culture and content. Our walking

adventure is perfectly balanced to complement the laid back lifestyle known as ‘Pura Vida’ - it’s a good life!

The best news of all, is that with new direct flights from London Gatwick to San Jose with British Airways, Costa Rica is even more accessible.

For a small country, Costa Rica certainly has a large amount to offer.

And remember, as well as the Tropical Trails itinerary offered by Walks Worldwide, we can provide a range of tailor-make options too so please contact us for a quotation.

LET US TAKE YOU THERE...

Head to Costa Rica on our Tropical Trails trip to see volcanoes, wildlife, rainforest and cloudforest.

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NORTH & WEST EUROPE AUSTRIA Lakes and Alps in Style Alpine Splendour Dachstein Alpine Trek

GERMANY

Stroll past mountain lakes in the Dachstein region of Austria

Kingdom of Old Saxony Along the Rhine Bavarian Alps in Style

FINLAND Call of the Wild Forests of the Midnight Sun Arctic Snowshoe Adventure

FRANCE Tour du Mont Blanc In the Footsteps of the Cathars

CAMINO DE SANTIAGO About the Camino de Santiago Your Camino de Santiago choices

REGIONAL INSIGHT...

“From the frozen forests of the North to the alpine playgrounds of the Alps, we’re incredibly fortunate to have such a diverse and accessible continent on our doorstep.

Walk the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc route, journey along the Rhine in Germany or try snowshoeing in the winter wonderland of Finland”

Walk around the fairytale castles and mountains of Bavaria in Germany

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AUSTRIA

LAKES & ALPS IN STYLE Atmospheric walking and superb accommodation

Stunning walks, together with charming, traditional, small towns and villages, impressive mountains, glittering lakes, wildflower meadows, great food and welcoming hospitality, make this the perfect trip for a summer holiday. You’ll spend time walking through the wondrous alpine Lake District, with overnight stops at idyllic locations and the option to upgrade to superior 4* accommodation in St Wolfgang and Bad Ischl. Spend two nights in the picture-postcard town of Hallstatt at the end of the walking holiday.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

SELF-GUIDED 8 DAYS

A

GRADE B

Travel to St. Wolfgang from UK.

-

¬ Great views from ‘Five Fingers of Krippen’

2

Cog railway to Schafberg summit.

2

¬ Explore salt mines of Salzwelten Hallstatt

3

Walk to Strobl, then to Bad Ischl.

5

¬ Marvel at the ice caves in the Dachstein

4

Mount Katrin & Seven Lakes walk.

2

¬ Enjoy stunning lake walks

5

Walks along Hallstat Lake.

5

6

Cable car to 5 Fingers viewpoint.

2

7

Boat & walk to Steeg. Train to Bad Ischl.

3

Grade: B (Moderate)

8

Depart Bad Ischl. Arrive UK.

-

Max Altitude: 2,300m

B

C

D

From/To Salzburg or Munich

St Wolfgang Strobl

Bad Ischl

Mount Katrin

AUSTRIA

AT A GLANCE

1

PHYSICAL GRADE

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Bad Goisern

Steeg

Halstatt

Obertraun

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Average Daily Distance: 10km Accommodation: Hotels x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts Trip Code: TLAA Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £899 Flight Price Guideline: From £185 Single Supplement: £299

WHY THIS TRIP? “Wonderful for walkers of all levels, with panoramic views and fairytale villages. Why not add a night in Salzburg, home of Mozart, and take in a orchestral show.”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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AUSTRIA

ALPINE SPLENDOUR

SELF-GUIDED

Walk amongst the resplendent scenery of Austria’s Lake District

This superb itinerary leads you between various traditional alpine villages, over mountain passes, across meadows and plateau, and down to the panoramic lakeshore scenery the area is renowned for. Walking days are longer, allowing you to explore deeper into the mountains, yet invariably following way-marked trails.

A particular delight is encountering wonderful, remote mountain restaurants along the way, always scenically located and always with tasty food. Charming accommodation in towns along the route ensures overnight stops are a delight.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

8 DAYS

GRADE B

A

Depart UK. Arrive Bad Ischl.

-

¬ Delightful alpine meadows

2

Elisabeth Forest Trail to Weissenbach.

8

¬ Splendid valley walks

3

Follow the gorge trail to Abersee.

9

¬ Enjoy tasty local cuisine

4

Boat on Wolfgangsee. Walk to Strobl.

3

¬ Longer walking days and great value

5

Trek to Bad Goisern.

8

6

Hike to Bad Aussee.

10

7

Final walk to Bad Ischl.

8

8

Depart Bad Ischl. Arrive UK.

-

B

C

D

From/To Weissenbach Salzburg or Munich Burggrabenklamm Abersee

St Wolfgang Bad Ischl

Strobl

AUSTRIA Bad Goisern

AT A GLANCE

1

PHYSICAL GRADE

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Bad Aussee

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: B (Moderate) Max Altitude: 1,254m Average Daily Distance: 25km Accommodation: Hotel/inn x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts Trip Code: TASP

WHY THIS TRIP?

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

“Taking nothing away from the dramatic alpine scenery on offer, this itinerary offers longer walking days without the challenging ascents and descents that Austria is known for.”

Land Only: From £539 Flight Price Guideline: From £185 Single Supplement: £99

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Bad Ischl

Lake Attersee

Buchbergutte

Barenkogel

Bad Goisern Bad Aussee

1500 1200

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900 600 300

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Bad Ischl

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AUSTRIA

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AUSTRIA

DACHSTEIN ALPINE TREK

SELF-GUIDED 12 DAYS

Our ultimate Alpine walking experience

The mighty Dachstein rises to almost 3,000m. This superb alpine trek takes you into the realms of its jagged peaks and glaciers, and is perfect for those who enjoy challenging higher-level routes.

A carefully structured itinerary combines charming hotels with intermittent nights spent in the mountains in basic yet comfortable huts (a sleeping bag liner is required). You’ll be following way-marked mountain trails throughout, crossing over the impressive Dachstein Massif.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

Depart UK. Travel to Gosau.

-

¬ The majestic peaks of the mighty Dachstein

2

Cable car to Zwieselalm & walks.

5

¬ The turquoise lake of Gosau

3

Trek to Ramsau.

6

¬ Crossing the Am Stein plateau

4

Free day to relax & explore Ramsau.

-

¬ Spend time in the village of Hallstatt

5

Cable car to the Dachstein Glacier.

5

6

Walk over ‘Am Stein’ to Grobming.

6

7

Trek to the Steinitzenalm.

7

Grade: C (Demanding)

8

Hike to Hallstatt via Bad Aussee.

8

Max Altitude: 2,700m

9

Free day to explore the area.

7

11

Trek the Iglmoosalm to Gosau.

3

12

Depart Gosau. Arrive UK.

-

D

From/To Salzburg or Munich Bad Goisern

Iglmoosalm Gosau

Bad Aussee

Hallstatt

AUSTRIA

Steinitzenalm

Hofpurglhutte Guttenberghaus Grobming

Meals: 11 breakfasts

WHY THIS TRIP?

Trip Code: TDCT

“Staying at the Steinitzenalm is a must. It’s so peaceful, with lovely hosts who’ll cook a fresh meal for you on their small stove. Although they were out tending to their herd of mountain dwelling cows when we arrived, the beer had been left cooling in the water trough for us most welcome after a hot day.”

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Grafenbergalm Steiner Haus

3000 2500

Hochmuhleck

Iglmoosalm

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2000 1500 1000 500

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C

Accommodation: Hotel/inn x 7, mountain hut x 4

Single Supplement: From £99 (hotels only)

Gjaidestein

B

Average Daily Distance: 10-17km

Flight Price Guideline: From £185

Sulzenschneid

PHYSICAL GRADE

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Land Only: From £879

Gosau

A

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Ramsau

AT A GLANCE

1

10 Mountain railway to salt mines.

GRADE C

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GERMANY

KINGDOM OF OLD SAXONY Discover the hidden delights of Saxon Europe

Bordering the Czech Republic, Saxony’s towering fortresses and incredible rock formations dominate the landscape, whilst picturesque small towns line the River Elbe, creating a very attractive and varied walking experience. There is time to explore the city of Dresden before continuing to Bad Schandau, in the heart of Saxon Switzerland. After exploring this lovely town, enjoy some walking along the River Elbe and stride out to the Hohnstein fortress and the Bastei, with sandstone rocks, pillars and the bridge spanning the ravine.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

SELF-GUIDED 8 DAYS

GRADE A

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Dresden From/ To UK

Bastei

GERMANY Koenigstein Gohrisch

Rathen Bad Schandau Krippen

AT A GLANCE

1

Depart UK. Fly to Dresden.

-

¬ Discover fortresses and castles

2

Train to Bad Schandau.

-

¬ Trekking in the ‘Empire of the Stones’

3

Walk to Rathen via Hohnstein.

6

¬ The famous pillars of the Bastei

4

Ascend the Bastei. To Koenigstein.

6

¬ Walk in Saxon Switzerland National Park

5

Walk to Gohrisch.

5

6

Over Table Mountains to Krippen.

5

7

Ferry & walk to Bad Schandau.

5

Grade: A (Easy)

8

Train to Dresden. Fly to UK.

-

Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m)

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Average Daily Distance: 11km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 3 dinners Trip Code: TSAX Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £699 Flight Price Guideline: From £185 Single Supplement: From £149

WHY THIS TRIP? “Looking for something unexpected and spectacular in Europe?

The stunning landscapes and fascinating cultures of Saxon Switzerland will leave you with fond memories.”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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GERMANY

ALONG THE RHINE Follow the Rhine from Koblenz to Rudesheim

The ‘Rheinsteig’ is a fully way-marked trail following the River Rhine upstream, through countryside, famous for its castles, vineyards, culture, history and nature.

Dramatic castles perched high above the Rhine are frequent along the route.

You also pass the world famous Loreley, a dramatic rock formation where legend has it a siren would lure sailors to their doom. During the walking day, you can enjoy stops at rural wine cellars. Evenings are spent in a wide variety of quality restaurants to sample the delicious local food.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

AT A GLANCE ¬ See the legendary Lorelei rock formation

1

Fly to Frankfurt. Train to Koblenz.

-

2

Follow the river to reach Braubach.

6

¬ Walk through romantic countryside

3

Walk to Kamp-Bornhofen.

6

¬ Sample great local foods

4

Continue along to St. Goarshausen.

6

¬ Visit dramatic castles and rural wine cellars

5

To Kaub, home of the wine growers.

6

6

Walk through vineyards to Lorch.

6

7

Pass castles en route to Rudesheim.

6

8

Train to Frankfurt. Fly to UK.

-

SELF-GUIDED 8 DAYS

GRADE A

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Koblenz

Braubach Kamp-Bornhofen St.Goarshausen Kaub

GERMANY

Frankfurt From/ To UK

Lorch

Rudesheim

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: A (Easy) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 20km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts Trip Code: TRHE Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £599 Flight Price Guideline: From £175 Single Supplement: From £99

WHY THIS TRIP? “It is really satisfying to be out hiking all day in amazing surroundings free of the burden of luggage. Being able to arrive at the hotel where we could have a hot shower and some delicious food was a winning combination for us.”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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GERMANY

BAVARIAN ALPS IN STYLE

SELF-GUIDED

The regal way to trek through King Ludwig’s Bavarian Alps

During the course of this wonderful holiday you’ll discover more about the fascinating Ludwig II, the eccentric King of Bavaria, known as the Swan King.

You’ll visit many of his fairytale castles, made even more atmospheric by their picturesque locations, surrounded by magnificent peaks.

Visit medieval Fussen iconic Neuschwanstein and the famous alpine resort of Garmisch, where there’s the option of going to the summit of Zugspitze.

8 DAYS

GRADE B

PHYSICAL GRADE

A

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

From/ To UK

Munich

Oy-Mittelberg

GERMANY Eisenberg Zell

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

Füssen

AT A GLANCE

Schloss Linderhof

1

Fly to Munich. Train to Oy-Mittelberg.

2

¬ Fairytale Schloss Neuschwanstein

2

Walk through villages to Lake Grunten.

5

¬ Walk from Oy-Mittelberg to Garmisch

3

Hike to Falkenstein & Lake Forggen.

6

¬ Bavarian hospitality and gastronomy

4

Visit Schloss Neuschwanstein.

7

¬ Stunning alpine walks

5

Walk up to the Alpe Jagerhutte.

6

6

Hike to Garmisch.

7

7

Free day with two optional walks.

7

Grade: B (Moderate)

8

Train to Munich. Fly to UK.

-

Max Altitude: 1,800m

Garmisch

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Average Daily Distance: 16km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts Trip Code: TISK Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,079 Flight Price Guideline: From £175 Single Supplement: From £329

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Oy-Mittelberg 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Falkenstein Fussen Tegelberg

Alpe Jagerhutte Schloss Linderhof

Schachen Schloss

WHY THIS TRIP? “The very best of King Ludwig’s trail. This is a mystical and historic route through one of Europe’s finest mountain ranges, with the very highest standard of accommodation to match.”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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FINLAND

CALL OF THE WILD Fun and active trip in the snow forests of Finland

Just beneath the Arctic Circle, the wild forests and frozen lakes of the Taiga are the perfect location for this winter adventure holiday. There’s the thrill of driving your own husky sled team and making your own igloo. If you’re happy with your igloo you can even spend the night in it, or return to the warmth of your cosy log cabin should you prefer. Ski or snowshoe your way across frozen lakes into thick forests, or try your hand at ice fishing. After each day’s fun in the snow you can enjoy a Finnish-style sauna.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

AT A GLANCE

1

Fly to Kuusamo or Oulu via Helsinki.

-

¬ Drive your own husky sled

2

Introduction & cross-country skiing.

4

¬ See the Northern Lights

3

Snowshoe through the winter forest.

6

¬ Enjoy snowshoeing through the wilderness

4

Snowshoe over frozen lakes.

4

¬ Build an igloo and enjoy Finnish saunas

5

Learn how to make your own igloo.

5

6

Free day of optional activities.

6

7

Husky sledding.

4

8

Fly from Oulu to UK via Helsinki.

-

GROUP GUIDED 8 DAYS

A

GRADE B

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

From UK via Helsinki Kuusamo

To/From UK via Helsinki

Kylmaluoma

Oulu

RUSSIA

FINLAND

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: B (Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 7km Accommodation: Log cabins x 6, wilderness

cabin x 1 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Trip Code: TCOW Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,179 | With Flights: From £1,499 Single Supplement: From £175 (except day 3)

WHY THIS TRIP? “Jack London’s Call of the Wild provides a perfect perspective for this trip; a wintertime adventure in a deep wilderness setting!”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

FINLAND

FORESTS OF THE MIDNIGHT SUN Explore the remote Taiga forest on foot

The location for this wilderness adventure, just beneath the Arctic Circle and a stone’s throw from the Russian border, adds a certain mystery to the atmosphere.

Enjoy trekking through the forests and lakes of the Taiga which is one of Europe’s last great wilderness areas and home to a variety of wildlife, including wolves, lynx, bears, wolverines, pine martens, elk and reindeer. Stay in cosy log cabins and enjoy a Finnish sauna. For those who really want to get away from it all, this trip is hard to beat.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

GROUP GUIDED 8 DAYS

GRADE B

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Hossa

Tolosenvirta

FINLAND

RUSSIA

Oulu Kovajarvi Lake

Martinselkonen

To/From UK via Helsinki Arola

AT A GLANCE

1

Fly to Oulu via Helsinki.

-

¬ Trek along the border of the ‘Russian Bear’

2

Martinselkonen Nature Reserve.

6

¬ Enjoy the long summer days

3

Along the Russian border to Kovajarvi.

8

¬ The wilderness of the Taiga forests and lakes

4

Trek into the wild Hossa region.

7

¬ See a variety of wildlife such as bears

5

Trek past lakes to Tolosenvirta.

6

6

Canoe through Reindeer country.

7

7

Boat to Canyon Lake & hike.

6

8

Fly from Oulu to UK via Helsinki.

-

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: B (Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (Under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 16km Accommodation: Log cabin x 5, guesthouse x 2 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Trip Code: TFIN Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £929 | With Flights: From £1,199 Single Supplement: Not available

WHY THIS TRIP? “Escape to the wilderness and enjoy exploring this remote area on foot and by canoe.

In August, there is the opportunity to visit a bear hide too - not to be missed!”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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FRANCE, SWITZERLAND & ITALY

TOUR DU MONT BLANC

SELF-GUIDED 8 DAYS

The world famous, alpine trekking circuit

Stretching through France, Switzerland and Italy, this trek is perhaps the most iconic and famous of all walks in the Alps. This circuit of Mont Blanc affords spectacular views at every point and is quite simply a ‘must do’ for all mountain walking enthusiasts. Crossing alpine passes, the route takes you beneath glaciers, through valleys and across summer meadows and, of course, provides breathtaking mountain panoramas. Star of the show is western Europe’s highest peak, Mont Blanc, which at 4,807m is the ‘Monarch of the Alps’.

ITINERARY 1

Approx Hours Walked

Fly to Geneva. To Les Contamines.

GRADE C

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

From/ To UK

Geneva

SWITZERLAND Trient

Chamonix

Champex

FRANCE

AT A GLANCE

Mont Blanc

-

¬ Walk the Tour du Mont Blanc circuit

2

Trek Col de Croix du Bonhomme.

6

¬ Alpine passes, valleys and meadows

3

Two options to Refuge des Mottets.

6

¬ Explore charming Champex

4

Trek the France & Italy border.

7

¬ Enjoy breathtaking views at every point

5

Down to Courmayeur & to Champex.

7

6

Two options to walk to Trient.

6

7

Over the Col de Balme to Chamonix.

5

8

Transfer to Geneva. Fly to UK.

-

Col de Croix du Bonhomme

Col de Checroui

ITALY Refuge des Mottets

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,537m Average Daily Distance: 21km Accommodation: Hotel x 3, mountain refuges

x 3, Auberge x 1 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 5 dinners Trip Code: TTMB

WHY THIS TRIP?

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

“The Tour du Mont Blanc trek is achievable for all age groups and I would thoroughly recommend it. We have become fitter and slimmer through just walking every other day in preparation for our trip.”

Land Only: From £699 Flight Price Guideline: From £120 Single Supplement: From £99 (hotel/auberge only)

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Les Contamines 3000

Col de la Croix du Bonhomme Col des Fours

Mt Fortin

Courmayeur

2500

Col de Balme Montroc

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2000 1500 1000

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500 0

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Col Ferret

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FRANCE

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE CATHARS

SELF-GUIDED 8 OR 15 GRADE DAYS B/C

Step into the French Pyrenees

A mixture of historical interest that stirs the imagination, as well as memorable walking through landscapes of immense natural beauty - lush, rolling hills, unspoilt mountains and valleys. The trails pass through a whole variety of terrains, each day is different and the vegetation is fragrant and often full of colour.

DUILHAC TO QUILLAN 1

Approx Hours Walked

Depart UK. Arrive Carcassonne.

AT A GLANCE

-

¬ A to B walking in the Pyrenees

2

To Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse.

2

¬ Discover local foods and wines

3

Walk from Chateau de Padern.

5

¬ Explore villages and castles as you walk

4

Walk to Bouchard.

5

¬ Daily changes in scenery ¬ Combine the two weeks for a 15-day trip

5

Walk to Sougraigne.

6

6

Walk to Pailheres.

5

7

Walk to Quillan.

6

8

Circular walk. Fly to UK.

4

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Carcassonne From/To Toulouse or Girona

FRANCE

Foix

Roquefixade Puivert

Pailheres

Montsegur Comus

Quillan

Bouchard

Duilhac

Padern

Sougraine

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 1,300m

QUILLAN TO FOIX

Approx Hours Walked

Average Daily Distance: 16km Accommodation: Hotels & guesthouses

1

Depart UK. Arrive Quillan.

-

2

Walk to Puivert.

6

3

Walk to Comus.

6

4

Walk to Montsegur.

4

Week One - Land Only: From £829

WHY THIS TRIP?

5

Circular walk at Montsegur.

6

Week Two - Land Only: From £729

6

Walk to Roquefixade.

5

Combined - Land Only: From £1,549

7

Walk to Foix.

5

Flight Price Guideline: From £120

8

Foix Castle. Fly to UK.

2

Single Supplement: From £159 to £349

“One of my favourite walks in Europe – a very diverse trail that combines a region of great historical significance with ever changing scenery.

Can be split in two, for two very different experiences.”

Meals: 6 breakfasts & 6 dinners per week Trip Code: TF1E or TF2E Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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53

CAMINO DE SANTIAGO

CAMINO DE SANTIAGO Planning to follow the Camino de Santiago? This ancient pilgrimage route isn’t just one path but many – and with Walks Worldwide two great trails.

The Camino de Santiago offers walkers of all abilities the opportunity to embark on a journey of discovery to pay homage to an ancient city which once vied with Rome and Jerusalem as on the great powers and pilgrimage cities of the world.

Traditionally, the Camino meant any path taken by those travelling to pay their respects to the remains of St

54

James; today, a number of established trails lead walkers through Galicia to Santiago, all offering quite different, but equally delightful trekking. Collect stamps in your Camino de Santiago passport as you follow the trail to receive your certificate at the end of the trek.

While simple auberges (refuges) provide basic sleeping spots for pilgrims along the camino, we’ve chosen comfortable hotels to ensure a good night’s rest at the end of each day’s walking. On the Camino Francés (French Way), the best-known route, you can upgrade to our ‘In Style’

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option and bed down in traditional country hotels, a restored 18th-century noble’s home and, to finish off in true grandeur, the five-star Parador Reis Católicos in Santiago – one of Europe’s most beautiful hotels, overlooking the cathedral square.

The fine inns, gently rolling terrain, country lanes and forest trails are any rambler’s heaven.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Please call one of our Camino experts on

01962 302 085. Or visit our website for more information on the routes we offer.

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CAMINO DE SANTIAGO

YOUR CAMINO DE SANTIAGO CHOICES THE FRENCH WAY - 7 DAYS ¬ Walk the “Way of St.James” ¬ Visit ancient sites and Romanesque churches ¬ Qualify for the official Pilgrim’s Certificate ¬ In Style accommodation option available The French Way is by far the most widely trodden of all the Caminos. Your journey begins in Sarria and ensures that you walk the final 100 kms (Sarria is 112km from Santiago) to qualify for the official pilgrim’s certificate on arrival at the magnificent cathedral in Santiago. You walk through rolling terrain following quiet country lanes, old bridle paths and forest trails. Ever popular with pilgrims from around the world, early booking and some flexibility with travel dates are highly recommended.

The best time to travel is mid-March to early November.

Land Only Price: From £649 (based on two sharing) Single Supplement: from £169 to £249

OR ‘IN STYLE’ VERSION FROM £979 Following the same route as our standard trip but you can enjoy a higher standard of accommodation including the final night at a 5* Parador in Santiago.

A walking holiday with a bit of luxury!

THE COASTAL WAY - 8 DAYS ¬ Discover the wild, sandy beaches ¬ Walk to Santiago de Compostela ¬ Enjoy walks along the coastal Camino path The Coastal Way or Caminho da Costa is a stunning alternative route of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago. Following the Atlantic Coast towards Santiago de Compostela. The Coastal Way starts in the seaside town of Baiona, located in the heart of R’ Baixas. From Baiona you will follow the coast towards Vigo, marvel at the views of the magnificent Illas Cies and the bays along the way. Discover the wild Atlantic beauty and sandy beaches of Northern Portugal and Galicia, taste delicious seafood and wine, stay in fishing villages and feel refreshed by the maritime feel of our newest Coastal Camino.

Land Only Price: From £829 (based on two sharing) Single Supplement: from £229

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55

EASTERN EUROPE

Challenge yourself with a trek in the Balkans

SLOVAKIA Walking with Bears Rysy & the High Tatras

SLOVENIA Lakes & Mountains

CROATIA Dalmatia Islands Walk

ALBANIA Peaks of the Balkans Step into Albania The Accursed Mountains In the Footsteps of Byron

BULGARIA Summits & Ridges

ROMANIA Land of Dracula The Alps of Transylvania

GEORGIA Trekking in the Caucasus

ARMENIA

REGIONAL INSIGHT...

“Eastern Europe is great for trekking. I’ll always remember exploring Northern Albania on foot. Upon my return to Britain, I remarked to friends and family that Albania was ‘the closest place to home, which feels the furthest place from home’. In a nutshell that is what Eastern Europe is for me... a chance for adventure, a journey into the unknown, something different, all without the need for long haul travel.”

Beyond the Silk Road

Follow the Silk Road in Armenia

56

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Explore the historic town of Dubrovnik

SLOVAKIA

WALKING WITH BEARS Challenging walks in a spectacular mountain area

You won’t be sitting around in a bear hide all day hoping a bear might just come along - our aim is to actively locate and observe bears in their natural habitat.

Reaching the Silent Valley a park ranger will accompany us as we go ‘off-piste’ and walk amongst the mountains in an area where tourists are usually forbidden. In cooperation with the local rangers and national park, the group size is limited to a maximum of eight to minimise disturbance to the animals. A great adventure.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

GROUP GUIDED 8 DAYS

Liptovske Kopy

GRADE C

2

2

Walks in Slovak Paradise Park.

4

¬ The majestic peaks of the High Tatras

3

Trek up the Kamienista Valley.

6

¬ Walk through dramatic gorges

4

Search for bears with park ranger.

9

¬ Follow bears tracks and trails in the wild

5

Trek to Liptovske Kopy. Look for bears.

9

6

Drive to Spisska Sobota village.

-

7

Free day. Visit Poprad or Spis Castle.

-

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

B

C

D

SLOVAKIA Spisska Sobota Poprad

¬ Unique and exclusive to Walks Worldwide

Fly to Poprad. Wildlife walk.

PHYSICAL GRADE

Kamienista Valley

AT A GLANCE

1

A

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

From/ To UK

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,493m Average Daily Distance: 15km Accommodation: Ranger cottage x 3, hotel x 2, pension x 2

Meals: 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 3 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 8

WHY THIS TRIP?

Trip Code: TURS

“The dramatic Tatras Mountains completely took my breath away. Seeing bears playing naturally in the wild took my breath away too - but they also stole my heart. Do this trip!”

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £999 | With Flights: From £1,199 Single Supplement: From £119 (hotel only)

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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57

SLOVAKIA & POLAND

RYSY & THE HIGH TATRAS Stunning traverse and summit ascent in the Slovakian Tatras

The High Tatras are the highest and most spectacular peaks in the Carpathian Mountain range. This trip explores the most majestic section of the High Tatras by following the excellent Tatranska Magistrala trail that traverses the range.

Enjoy the mountain vistas along this rugged terrain.

There is also the opportunity to make an optional ascent of Rysy (2,499m), the highest mountain in Poland wth some of the best mountain views in Europe.

SELF-GUIDED 8 DAYS

GRADE B/C

Approx Hours Walked

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

POLAND

Zamkovskeho Chata Zelene Pleso

Rysy Hincovo Pleso Tatranska Lamnica

Popradske Pleso

SLOVAKIA

AT A GLANCE ¬ Trek the famous Tatranska Magistrala trail

1

Make your way to Tatranska Lamnica.

-

2

Trek the Biela Valley to Zelene Pleso.

5

¬ Climb Rysy - Poland’s highest mountain

3

Walk to Zamkovskeho Chata.

5

¬ Jagged Carpathian panoramas

4

Descend to Popradske Pleso.

7

¬ Great views over the Carpathian region

5

Climb to the summit of Rysy.

8

6

Circuit walk around Hincovo Pleso.

5

7

Forest trail to Strbske Pleso.

2

8

Depart & fly back to UK.

-

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,499m Average Daily Distance: 8km Accommodation: Mountain huts x 5, pension x 2 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 2 dinners Trip Code: TRYS Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £499 Flight Price Guideline: From £125 Single Supplement: From £49 (pensions only)

WHY THIS TRIP? “Walking the Tatras Mountain Range offers peaceful hiking in classic mountain scenery. Taking on the ascent of Mount Rysy offers magnificent views of the landscape below, and well worth the challenge.”

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Tatranska Lomnica Zelene Pleso 2500

Zamkovskeho

Popradske Pleso Rysy Hincovo Pleso Strbske Pleso

2000

1000 500

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0

58

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1500

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D

From/To Krakow or Poprad

Strbske Pleso

ITINERARY

A

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

SLOVENIA

LAKES & MOUNTAINS On foot in the pristine Alpine region of Slovenia

SELF-GUIDED 8 DAYS

Mountains, Alpine lakes, meadows and forests... Wander across wildflower meadows in the backdrop the magnificent Julian Alps is a pure delight.

GRADE B/C

Kranjska Gora

Stay in two different areas in Kranjska Gora and Lake Bohinj to fully appreciate the beauty of Slovenia. You can explore amongst immaculate, hidden mountain valleys where strips of vegetables grow amongst the hayfields, discover villages brimming with traditional architecture, or ascend mountains for amazing views.

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

AUSTRIA

Lake Bled Lake Bohinj

ITALY

SLOVENIA

ITINERARY 1

Approx Hours Walked

Fly to Ljubljana. To Lake Bohinj.

-

AT A GLANCE ¬ Scenic lakes, forests and mountains

Walks in the Bohinj Mountains with styles & grades to choose from.

2-4

4

Visit Lake Bled. To Kranjska Gora.

2-4

¬ Variety of walks through meadows to the sound of cowbells jangling

5-7

Walking in Karavanke or Julian Alps. Different styles, lengths & grades available to choose from.

3-6

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Fly back to the UK from Ljubljana.

-

From/ To UK

¬ Magnificent views in the Julian Alps

2/3

8

Ljubljana

Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,000m Average Daily Distance: 10km Accommodation: Pensions x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 3 dinners Trip Code: TSIS Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £759 Flight Price Guideline: From £195 Single Supplement: From £179

WHY THIS TRIP? “We were delighted with this trip. We went a bit tailor made and the arrangements were faultless. An excellent guide who dealt brilliantly when weather forced a change of plan. We’d recommend Walks Worldwide’s Julian Alps expedition to anyone.”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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59

CROATIA

DALMATIA ISLANDS WALK

GROUP GUIDED 8 DAYS

Explore the Elaphiti Islands & Dalmatia Coast on foot

You will be based in medieval Dubrovnik, the iconic coastal city known as the Pearl of the Adriatic. Each day your guided walk will take you around the Dalmatia coastline for a spot of island hopping and exploration of the Elaphiti Islands.

Each island has its own unique charm, rustic culture and varied landscapes.

Explore the traffic free island of Lopud, visit Mljet Island National Park, walk through the shady olive groves, orchards and forests to hidden coves on Kolocep.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

GRADE A/B

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

CROATIA

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

Dubrovnik Our base

Mljet Island

Mount Srd

Sipan Island Lopud Island Kolocep Island From/ To UK

Cavtat

AT A GLANCE ¬ Discover the Elaphiti Islands

1

Fly to Dubrovnik. Transfer to hotel.

-

2

Walk to Mount Srd and Cavtat.

4

¬ Explore historic Dubrovnik

3

Walks on Kolocep Island.

4

¬ Walk in national parks and along coastal paths

4

Free day to explore the local area.

-

¬ Enjoy beautiful beaches and warm ocean

5

Explore Lopud Island on foot.

4

6

Walks around Sipan Island.

4

7

Mljet Island National Park walks.

4

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: A/B (Easy/Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 8-11km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 16

WHY THIS TRIP?

Trip Code: TCDW Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £849 | With Flights: From £1,179 Single Supplement: From £379

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Dubrovnik Mt Srd

Cavtat

Kolocep

Crkva

Lopud

400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0

60

Sipan

Tor

Mljet

Polace

“This holiday is a great way to explore the beautiful Elaphiti Islands on foot. With free time to wander around the cobbled streets and Old Town of Dubrovnik.”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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ALBANIA, KOSOVO & MONTENEGRO

PEAKS OF THE BALKANS

GROUP GUIDED

An incredible journey walking in Albania, Kosovo & Montenegro

You’ll discover Shkodra, the oldest and largest city in Northern Albania, the remote region of Kelmendi and the Eastern Alps while trekking amongst glacial valleys, waterfalls and pristine alpine pastures. Meet the locals in the villages of Thethi and enjoy a home-cooked meal with a local family. You will hike the pass from Montenegro to Albania, climb to the peak of ‘Tre Kujfit’ which crowns the borders of these three countries and climb to the summit of Albania’s highest peak; Mount Korab. This is a remote and challenging Balkan adventure.

ITINERARY 1

Approx Hours Walked

Fly to Tirana. Transfer to Shkodra.

-

14 DAYS

GRADE C

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

MONTENEGRO

Plava

KOSOVO

Tre Kujfite Doberdol Ceremi

Lepush Thethi

Prizren

Valbona Pass Shkodra

ALBANIA

AT A GLANCE

Tejza

Mt Korab

¬ Incredible views of the Accursed Mountains MACEDONIA

2

To Lepush. Walk to waterfall of Sllapi.

5

¬ Hike the spectacular ridge of Berizhdol

3

Hike to Koprisht & Berizhodol Ridge.

6

¬ Perja pass from Montenegro to Albania

4

Walk to the Peak of Greben.

6

¬ Summit Mount Korab and ‘Tre Kujfit’ ridge

5

Trek to the valley of Thethi.

8

6

Explore the villages of Thethi.

6

7

Valbona Pass, descend to the valley.

7

8

Head to the border of Montenegro.

6

9

Transfer to Ceremi, walk to Doberdol.

6

From/ To UK

Tirana

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,756m Average Daily Distance: 8-18km

10 Climb to ‘Tre Kujfit’ peak.

6

Accommodation: Guesthouse x 6, hotel x 4,

village house x 2, mountain hut x 1

11

Drive back to Albania.

-

Meals: 13 breakfasts, 12 lunches & 12 dinners

12

Summit Mount Korab.

9

Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 10

13

Return to Tirana.

-

14

Fly back to the UK.

-

Trip Code: TBAL Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,299 | With Flights: From £1,579 Single Supplement: From £129 (hotels only)

WHY THIS TRIP? “I was fortunate enough to recce this route in 2014, which had newly opened up to allow organised groups to cross the borders. This is a wild landscape on a route that rivals that of the world’s major mountain ranges.”

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Selca 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Berizhdol Ridge Zabeli Pass

Peja Pass

Blue Eye Valbona Pass

Balqin

Prizren Mt Korab

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61

ALBANIA

STEP INTO ALBANIA Often unfairly overlooked in favour of its western neighbours, Albania is a must for all trekkers looking for a refreshingly different trekking destination closer to home. Trekking expert, Nathan talks about the highlights of visiting Albania.

I’ll always remember the first time I dropped down from Diagonal Pass into the Nderlysa Valley in Northern Albania - the Shephard high on the hillside herding sheep on horseback, with a fire warming his bothy in the distance. It was the first sign of life as we lowered away from the harshness of the mountains to human settlement again - we were welcomed by the locals who through their farming techniques of yesteryear treated us to good honest food – the fruits of simple hard work.

STUNNING SCENERY Whether you’re visiting the wild north or following in the footsteps of Lord Byron through the mysterious south, Albania is filled with enough scenery to put your wanderlust into overdrive.

From the stunning national parks of Thethi and Llogara to the glistening turquoise waters of the Adriatic, Albania provides a permanent wow factor for those looking for a jawdropping view.

62

RELATIVELY TOURIST-FREE Although touted as one of the emerging countries in the tourism industry, this part of Albania is yet to be spoiled by the flow of travellers. This makes it an avid traveller’s dream. Many parts of Albania’s countryside remain untouched apart from the footprints of the friendly highlanders that call it home.

HEAD-TURNING COMPARISONS The mountains of Northern Albania are spectacular and virtually impenetrable apart from a series of passes that connect a few farmsteads.

It’s hard to believe that you are still in Europe, with landscapes that resemble more far-flung destinations like the Himalayas.

A FASCINATING HISTORY From the 13th century castle that stands in Berat, to the UNESCO world heritage site of Butrint, Albania boasts a proud and colourful history. And from the collapse of

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the Ottoman Empire to the rise of communism, Albania has experienced a lot since the first Albanian state was founded in 1912. As you walk, keep a look-out for gjakmarrjas, or ‘blood feud towers’, previous safe-havens for men that had become involved in a blood feud.

CLOSE TO HOME Tirana, Albania’s capital city, is only a three-hour flight away from London, making it perfect for a short summer escape. With flights departing across the UK it provides an excellent alternative.

Albania offers the chance of real adventure, a journey into the unknown, something different and all without the need for the prices and hassles of long haul travel.

LET US TAKE YOU THERE We offer three incredible adventures in Albania. See pages 63 - 64.

ALBANIA

THE ACCURSED MOUNTAINS

GROUP GUIDED 8 DAYS

Step out into the wild north of Albania

The Accursed Mountains are spectacular, unspoiled and virtually impenetrable, except for a series of high passes that link the few farmsteads of the exceptionally hospitable Albanian Highlanders to the outside world. This is a truly special European trekking adventure, ideal for the discerning traveller.

You’ll discover the remote Thethi National Park and meet people who live in a world which is refreshingly disconnected from the rest of Europe.

A

GRADE C

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

MONTENEGRO

Thethi Nderlysa Thore Pass

Kukaj Valbona

KOSOVO

Lake Koman Shkodra

ALBANIA

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

AT A GLANCE

MACEDONIA

¬ One of our best selling walking adventures

1

Fly to Tirana. Transfer to Shkodra.

-

2

Lake Koman & trek in Valbona.

4

¬ Remote Balkan alpine adventure

3

Trek to Kukaj. Optional walk to border.

6

¬ Magnificent, isolated Thethi National Park

4

Trek to Thethi via the Valbona Pass.

8

¬ Albanian highlander hospitality

5

Trek to the Peja Pass.

8

6

Visit Blood Feud Tower. To Nderlysa.

5

7

Diagonal & Thore Pass. To Tirana.

7

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

From/ To UK

Tirana

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,000m Average Daily Distance: 8-14km Accommodation: Pension/village home x 5, hotel x 2

Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 6 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Trip Code: TALB Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £699 | With Flights: From £999 Single Supplement: From £59 (Tirana only)

WHY THIS TRIP? “After thigh-busting high passes you slowly meander through forests and alpine meadows into the remote villages of the Theth valley where you’ll find some of the warmest hospitality anywhere! ”

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Valbona 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Kukaj

Valbona Pass Thethi

Peja Pass

Nderlysa

Thore Pass

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ALBANIA

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF BYRON

GROUP GUIDED 8 DAYS

Discover a wild, rugged coast and superb mountains

We follow in the footsteps of Lord Byron, starting our walking tour in the picturesque Llogara National Park, trekking through forest towards the Karaburini Peninsula. The following day we embark on a trek to Mount Cika with the option to walk the steep ascent to Qore Summit (2005m) for a memorable mountain and sea panorama. Our trail leads us down to the Albanian Riviera where you will notice the vegetation becomes Mediterranean once more, with olive groves and vines. This is a great walking adventure through warm Southern Albania.

GRADE B/C

From/ To UK

ITINERARY

AT A GLANCE

-

2

Walk in Llogara National Park.

5

¬ Trek through forests of Llogara National Park

3

Option summit to Qore (2005m).

4

¬ Follow coastal trails along the Albanian Riviera

4

Byron’s trail of the Albanian Riviera.

2

¬ See Greek, Roman and Ottoman ruins

5

Follow Byron’s trail to Gjirokastra.

5

6

Walk to Antigonea & Lunxheria.

5

7

To Tirana. Cable car to Mt. Dajti.

3

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

C

D

ALBANIA Karaburun Peninsula

Vlore Mt Cika GREECE

Saranda

¬ Climb Mount Cika

Fly to Tirana. Transfer to Vlore.

B

MACEDONIA

Dhermi

1

PHYSICAL GRADE

Tirana

Llogara NP

Approx Hours Walked

A

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Gjirokastra Blue Eye Springs

Butrint

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,005m Average Daily Distance: 9km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 6 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 10 Trip Code: TAFB Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £899 | With Flights: From £1,099 Single Supplement: From £159

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Llogora Qafa e Thelle

Mt Cika

Dhermi Tepelena

2500 2000

Mt Dajti Tirana

“A great mix of historial sites from Albania’s rich heritage combined with fabulous coastal scenery and mountain trekking.”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

1500 1000 500

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0

64

Dhoksat

WHY THIS TRIP?

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BULGARIA

SUMMITS & RIDGES

GROUP GUIDED 9 DAYS

Enjoy high mountain walking in the Rila and Pirin

Bulgaria contains some of the most dramatic and jaw dropping mountain scenery to be found in Europe, especially in the Rila and Pirin ranges.

Ascend the Rila giant, Musala, the highest mountain in Bulgaria. Follow airy, dramatic ridges. Visit the ornate Rila Monastery and thrill at the challenging climb to the Pirin summit of Vihren. Panoramic mountain views will take your breath away along an almost infinite series of trails to meadows and remote glacial lakes.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

AT A GLANCE

GRADE C

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

From/ To UK

Sofia Vitosha Mt Cherni Vruh

SERBIA

BULGARIA

Borovets Mt Musala Rila Monastery

MACEDONIA

¬ Climb Musala - the highest Balkan summit

1

Fly to Sofia. Transfer to Vitosha.

-

2

Climb Mt Cherni Vruh.

5

¬ Wild and majestic marbled Pirin Mountains

3

To Borovets. Climb Musala.

6

¬ Spectacular views from Vihren Summit

4

Trek to the Prekorechki Lakes.

7

¬ Walk through meadows and glacial lakes

5

Loop hike to Rila Monastery.

5

6

Begin trek to the Central Pirin.

6

7

Central Pirin trek.

6

8

Climb Mount Vihren.

7

9

Transfer to Sofia. Fly to the UK.

-

Bankso Mt Vihren

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,925m Average Daily Distance: 13km Accommodation: Hotel x 7, mountain hut x 1 Meals: 8 breakfasts & 6 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

WHY THIS TRIP?

Trip Code: TRPS

“If you enjoy great scenery and something that offers a good feeling of challenge, this trip takes you to a beautiful area of Eastern Europe. Off many people’s radar this trip has opportunities to reach a few good peaks as well!”

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £589 | With Flights: From £799 Single Supplement: From £99 (hotels only)

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Aleko Mt Cherni Vruh 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Musala

Maliovitsa Kamilata

Bankso

Demyanitsa

Mt Vihren

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65

ROMANIA

LAND OF DRACULA Private guided walking in the Carpathian Mountains

Transylvania, thankfully, still remains a destination for the discerning traveller and is yet to be touched by mass tourism. Amongst high, soaring peaks, wild swathes of forest, ancient fortresses, forbidding castles and timeless villages, the myths and legends, fantasies and facts of legendary Transylvania become entwined.

Discover the local culture and history on a series of intentionally varied walks in a place where you arrive as strangers and leave as friends.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

8 DAYS

GRADE B/C

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

ROMANIA Zarnesti Ciucas Mountains Bran Castle From/ To UK

Bucharest

¬ Trek to ‘Castle Dracula’

Fly to Bucharest. To Zarnesti.

-

2

Curmatura & the Zarnesti Gorge.

6

¬ Breathtaking Carpathian Mountain scenery

3

The La Zaplaz circuit walk.

7

¬ Explore Piatra Craiului National Park

4

Rural walk to Bran Castle.

6

¬ Walk the land of mythical vampires

5

Walk to Caraiman Cross; cable car.

7

6

Visit Rasnov & walk to Poiana Brasov.

5

7

Optional walks in Ciucas Mountains.

3-8

8

Train to Bucharest. Fly to the UK.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 2,505m Average Daily Distance: 15km Accommodation: Pensions x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 4 dinners Trip Code: TRAN Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £899 Flight Price Guideline: From £220 Single Supplement: From £139

WHY THIS TRIP? “Warmth and friendliness of the guides and the accommodation hosts is what I love most when travelling - and this trip to Romania was up there with the best.”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Brasov

AT A GLANCE

1

-

PRIVATE GUIDED

ROMANIA

THE ALPS OF TRANSYLVANIA

GROUP GUIDED 8 DAYS

The classic “Haute Route” of the Carpathian Mountains

The mighty mountains of the Fagaras provide the opportunity for one of Europe’s best and most intoxicating ridge walks. With stunning views along the way, this immense ridge is revealed in all its glory, culminating with an ascent of Moldoveanu (2,544m), the highest peak in Romania. Two days are also spent trekking in the equally stunning Piatra Craiului National Park, home to wolves, bears and the elusive lynx. Trek through rural Transylvania and visit ‘Castle Dracula’. We round off the trip nicely with two nights in the Bohemian city of old Brasov.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

GRADE C

Fagaras Mountains Mt Moldoveanu

Zarnesti

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Brasov

Bran Castle

ROMANIA From/ To UK

Bucharest

AT A GLANCE ¬ Climb Moldoveanu - Romania’s highest peak

1

Fly to Bucharest. To Zarnesti.

-

2

Circuit walk to ‘La Zaplaz’ rock formation.

7

¬ Traverse the stunning Fagaras Ridge

3

To the mountains, trek to Balea Lake.

5

¬ Trek to “Castle Dracula”

4

Trek past the Dragon’s Window.

9

¬ Plenty of mountain walking

5

Summit Moldoveanu.

10

6

Descend into Sambata. To Brasov.

2

7

Walk to Castle Dracula in Bran.

6

8

Transfer to Bucharest. Fly to the UK.

-

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding)

WHY THIS TRIP?

Max Altitude: 2,544m Average Daily Distance: 10-15km Accommodation: Pensions x 4, mountain hut x 3 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 6 dinners Trip Code: TAPT

“There are a few long day walks, but the views and feelings of achievement is well worth the effort. Brasov exudes a distinctive medieval ambiance and is great to spend time exploring.”

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £699 | With Flights: From £899 Single Supplement: From £79 (pensions only)

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Zarnesti 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Balea

Cabana Podragu Saua Podraglui

Bran

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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67

GEORGIA

TREKKING IN THE CAUCASUS

GROUP GUIDED 10 DAYS

A walk where Europe meets Asia

The mighty peaks of the Caucasus soar to heights of over 5,000m and form a natural barrier between geographical Europe and Asia. This challenging trek takes us into the provinces of Khevsureti and Tusheti, the “soul” of Georgia and deep into a landscape of mountains, alpine meadows, roaring rivers and verdant valleys.

A nice mix of camping and local guest houses affords the opportunity to experience both the wild side as well as the cultural side of the Caucasus.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

-

2

Travel to the village of Shatili.

1

¬ Magnificent Caucasus Mountain scenery

3

Walk to Khonistchala via Mutso Towers.

8

¬ Head deep into the wilds of the Atsunta Pass

4

Head deeper into Atsunta Pass.

8

¬ Take a city tour of Tbilisi

5

Top of the pass for great views.

7

6

Trek past Parsma and Girevi.

6

7

Trek to Omala via Dartlo.

6

8

Transfer to Tbilisi.

-

9

City tour of Tbilisi & folk dinner.

4

Khonistchala Khidotani

Kvakhidi

GEORGIA

Chesho Omalo

From/ To UK

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: C (Demanding)

WHY THIS TRIP?

Max Altitude: 3,430m

“Stunning scenery with wild mountain passes, flowers and history in abundance, generous hospitality and great food, a fine bijou capital city AND they invented wine!! How can you not visit? It deserves your presence go and be captivated, as we were.”

Average Daily Distance: 15km Accommodation: Hotel x 3, guesthouse x 3,

wild camping x 3 Meals: 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 7 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12 Trip Code: TGEO Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,399 | With Flights: From £1,799 Single Supplement: From £149

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Shatili

Mutso Towers

Khonistchala

Khidotani

Atsunta Pass

3500 3000

Chesho

Dartlo

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

2500 2000 1500 1000

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500 0

68

D

¬ Explore the soul of Georgia on foot

Fly from UK to Tbilisi.

-

A

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Tbilisi

AT A GLANCE

1

10 Depart Tbilisi and fly to UK.

Shatili

GRADE C

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ARMENIA

BEYOND THE SILK ROAD

GROUP GUIDED 9 DAYS

An exciting walking adventure in Armenia

GRADE B/C

Armenia presents the discerning traveller with an excellent backdrop for a cultural trekking journey through its landscapes and history.

Varied walks, history, culture, great food and hospitality in one of the most spectacular and interesting countries that many have never thought to visit. Trek above dramatic canyons and gorges, hike high into the wild Geghama mountains and meet nomads and summit Aragats, Armenia’s highest peak.

ITINERARY 1

Fly to Yerevan.

-

2

Trek above the Garni Canyon.

8

3

Debet Gorge. Transfer to Haghpat.

4

4

Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites.

4

5

Follow ridge line above Lake Sevan.

4

6

Visit Sevan Monastery. To Yerevan.

-

7

Summit Mount Geghmakhan.

8

8

Ascend Aragats South Peak.

7

9

Fly back to the UK.

-

If you have time, we highly recommend combining this trip with our Trekking in the Caucasus trip in Georgia on page 68.

Please contact us for a quotation.

Haghpat

TURKEY

ARMENIA

Garni Pagan Temple Sanahin

Dilijan

AZERBAIJAN

Mt Aragats

Sevan Monastery La

ke

Se

va

n

Mt Geghmakhan

Yerevan

Garni Canyon

¬ Savour dramatic views from the summit of Aragats’ south peak ¬ Rich history, culture and ethnic heritage

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: 3,900m

WHY THIS TRIP?

Average Daily Distance: 15km Accommodation: Hotel x 8 Group Size (Min - Max): 4 - 12

“Armenia is a fascinating country to visit with a rich history and a great variety of walking. Walks Worldwide looked after us very well. We would highly recommend it.”

Trip Code: TBSR Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £1,099 | With Flights: From £1,799

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Goght

D

¬ Trek above Lake Sevan

Single Supplement: From £199

4000 3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

C

AT A GLANCE

Meals: 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches & 5 dinners

COMBINE TWO TRIPS

B

Debet Gorge

From/ To UK

Approx Hours Walked

PHYSICAL GRADE

A

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Sevan Mt Geghmakhan

Aragats South Peak

PRIVATE-GUIDED OPTION For more information about going Private Guided on this trip, please call one of the team on 01962 302 085.

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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69

SOUTHERN EUROPE & THE MEDITERRANEAN CYPRUS Kyrenia to Karpaz Troodos and the Akamas

SPAIN Senderismo mixta!

Hiking over Lemons The Catalan Coast Andalucia - Along the GR7 Almeria Coastal Way

Admire sea views as you walk along the coast of Northern Cyprus Discover the ancient Moorish fortress of the Alhambra in Granada, Spain

CORSICA GR20 North From Mountains to Coast

CORFU The Corfu Trail

ITALY Vesuvius, Capri & the Amalfi Coast Tuscany Classico

Walk through the vineyards of Tuscany

70

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Wander around the rock formations of Cappadocia

REGIONAL INSIGHT...

“Despite the allure of trekking among snowy peaks to achieve a goal, there is little that can top the gentler pleasures of trail-walking in warm, Mediterranean climes. Southern Europe offers some of the world’s best island and coastal walking. Enjoy stunning views along the Corfu Trail in Greece; walk the Lycian Way along Turkey’s pine-scented turquoise coast; take on one of Europe’s most challenging treks – the GR20 on the stunning island of Corsica…”

NORTH CYPRUS

KYRENIA TO KARPAZ

SELF-GUIDED

Discover the rugged landscapes and unspoilt coast of North Cyprus

Discover this unspoilt corner of the Mediterranean. North Cyprus is renowned for its blue skies, crystal clear sea lapping onto uncrowded beaches and rugged beauty of unspoilt landscape. It has 200 miles of beautiful coastline, secluded coves and golden sands. There is also an abundance of history with ancient city sites, Byzantine period basilicas with intricate mosaics; timeworn churches, and rural traditional Cypriot villages. Walk in the Kyrenia Mountains along to the beautiful coastal trails of the stunning Karpaz Peninsula.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

Fly to Ercan. Transfer to Lapta, Kyrenia.

-

¬ Explore small north Cypriot villages

2

Walk the Kyrenia Mountain range.

3

¬ Walk along the Five Fingers Mountain

3

Walk in the Kalkanli Olive Grove.

4

¬ Explore the untouched Karpaz Peninsula

4

Follow the Bellapais Crusader path.

4

¬ Unspoilt scenery and Cypriot hospitality

5

Five Fingers Mountain trail.

5

Karpaz Peninsula walks - along the rugged coastline.

4

Fly back to the UK.

-

8

GRADE B

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

CYPRUS

D

Karpaz Peninsula

Lapta Kalkanli

C

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Ercan From/ To UK

AT A GLANCE

1

6/7

8 DAYS

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: B (Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 10km Accommodation: Hotels x 5, guesthouse x 2 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 5 dinners Trip Code: TCKK Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £599 Flight Price Guideline: From £250 Single Supplement: From £229

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Kozan 1000 800 600 400 200 0

Lapta

Kalkanli Bellapais

Five Finger Mountains

Dipkarpaz

WHY THIS TRIP? “You stumble across untouched historical sites on the hillside, with magnificent 360 degree views of the island, whilst the Karpaz peninsula offers a Europe of yesteryear and the chance to spot turtles!”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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71

CYPRUS

TROODOS & THE AKAMAS

SELF-GUIDED 8 DAYS

Wonderful walks on the sunshine island

The ‘Island of Aphrodite’ floating on the blue, warm waters of the Mediterranean crossroads between Europe, Asia and Africa is no stranger to visitors.

The discerning walker can escape crowded beaches to explore the trails and fragrant cedar and pine-wood forests of the delightful Troodos in peaceful tranquillity. Offering cooler sanctuary away from the heat of the coast the Troodos rise to almost 2,000 metres at their highest point with Mount Olympus.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

GRADE A/B

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

Pedoulas Baths of Aphrodite

CYPRUS Kakopetria Spilia Agros

Pittokopos

Adonis

Troodos

Paphos From/ To UK

Larnaca From/ To UK

Agios Nikolaos

AT A GLANCE

1

Fly to Pathos or Larnaca. To Agros.

-

¬ Traditional mountain villages of the Troodos

2

Walk via Mt. Adelphoi to Spilia.

6

¬ The wild Akamas peninsula

3

Through pine forests to Kakopetria.

5

¬ Walk through fragrant forests and wild flowers

4

Visit Agios Nikolaos. To Troodos village.

6

¬ Take a refreshing dip in the warm waters

5

Walk via Prodromos to Pedoulas.

6

6

Walk to the ‘Baths of Aphrodite’.

6

7

Circuit walk on Adonis.

5

Grade: A/B (Easy/Moderate)

8

To Pathos or Larnaca. Fly to UK.

-

Max Altitude: 1,950m

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Average Daily Distance: 18km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 6 dinners Trip Code: TCYP Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £799 Flight Price Guideline: From £175 Single Supplement: From £129

WHY THIS TRIP? “This trip offers some lovely walking in the mountains along quiet (very quiet), well maintained tracks and paths.”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

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73

SPAIN

SENDERISMO MIXTA! Walking in Spain is like jumping into a very tasty ensalada mixta – a mixed salad - of stunning mountains, cultural and linguistic diversity, ancient byways, long-standing tradition, great architecture, classic trails and wonderful food and wine.

Geographically (as well as culturally), the variety within one country is staggering. From the Picos de Europa in the North and the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the South, you’ll find an incredible menu of food, wine, culture, walking and sightseeing to drink in.

Spain is also well known for being very respectful and accommodating towards overseas visitors. Spaniards are quite simply a very friendly bunch; they really know how to make you feel welcome and Walks Worldwide has developed a useful and interesting network of local contacts who live in some of the best walking areas in the country. You’ll find yourself in tiny unspoilt villages where the pace of life has hardly changed for several centuries.

74

ANDALUCIA Further south, our shorter, six-day Self-Guided Almeria Coastal Walk, to the east of the Sierra Nevada, offers a very different view of the Andalucian coast, a million miles from the crowded ‘costas’ further west. Cliff-top trails take you above secluded beaches and rocky coves, and through charming fishing villages such as Las Negras. The areas is popular year round, blessed by winter temperatures which average around 15°C between November and March and offers great walking opportunities

ALPUJARRAS Then of course there is the bizarrely untouched region of the Alpujarras, just a couple of hours from one of the most tourist-ridden beaches of the Costa Del Sol, where flat-roofed and white-washed villages adorn the

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flanks of green, terraced hills below the mighty peaks of Mulhacen, the tallest on mainland Spain. Our two trips in this area – ‘Along the GR7’ and ‘Hiking Over Lemons’ bring you the best of a peaceful and beautiful mountain region.

LET US TAKE YOU THERE All our Spanish trekking holidays are on pages 75 - 78.

SPAIN

HIKING OVER LEMONS Explore the atmospheric and sleepy Alpujarras on foot

This Alpujarran delight offers you the opportunity to explore one of the most stunning and least-discovered areas of Spain, where life continues as it has done for hundreds of years since the Moors first farmed here.

Explore the almond orchards, olive groves and terraces on foot, visit the Mairena Olive Mill. Wander through the traditional local white-washed villages high up in this part of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

SELF-GUIDED 8 DAYS

GRADE A/B

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Granada Sierra Nevada National Park From/ To UK

Trevelez Berchules

Mairena Yegen

SPAIN From/ To UK

Almeria

AT A GLANCE

1

Fly to chosen airport. To Mairena.

-

¬ Easy daily walks through stunning scenery

2

Day walk from Mairena.

7

¬ Unspoiled Moorish villages

3

Transfer to Trevelez, day walk.

4

¬ Charming accommodations and hosts

4

Along the GR7 to Berchules.

6

¬ Enjoy traditional Spanish cuisine

5

Follow trails to Yegen.

6

6

Walk back to Mairena.

6

7

Day walk from Mairena.

4

Grade: A/B (Easy/Moderate)

8

Fly back to UK from chosen airport.

-

Max Altitude: 2,000m

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Average Daily Distance: 15km Accommodation: Guesthouse x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches & 4 dinners Trip Code: TLEM Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £699 Flight Price Guideline: From £160 Single Supplement: From £279

WHY THIS TRIP? “Every time I visit the Alpujarras I’m delighted to find that these remote, white-washed mountain villages remain locked in a time warp. This trip discovers the best of a wild, untouched region.”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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75

SPAIN

THE CATALAN COAST

SELF-GUIDED 8 DAYS

Walk the wild coast of Catalonia

GRADE A/B

A

There is something special about mountains and sea in close proximity, and along the ‘Wild Coast’ of Catalonia that wonderful combination is enhanced by the pleasing Mediterranean climate.

Palau Saverdera

From the coast to the mountains, from sea to crag, from sandy beach to shady Mediterranean forest - the diverse and changing natural landscapes help to create a stimulating walking holiday.

Sant Pere Pescador

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

El Port de la Selva

Cadaqués

SPAIN

Castello D'Empuries

L'Escala

AT A GLANCE

1

Fly to Girona. Transfer to L’Escala.

-

¬ Charming medieval villages

2

Walk to Sant Pere Pescador.

4

¬ Famous Catalonian wines and gastronomy

3

Aiguamolls National Park to Castello.

4

¬ Inspiring mountainous seascapes

4

Coastal trail to Cadaques.

6

¬ Mountains, coast, beaches and forests

5

Free day to explore the local area.

4

6

Cap de Creus National Park.

5

7

Walk to Palau Saverdera.

6

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

From/ To UK

Girona

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: A/B (Easy/Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 12km Accommodation: Hotel x 5, Pension x 1, Casa Rural x 1

Meals: 7 breakfasts Trip Code: TCAT Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £699 Flight Price Guideline: From £160 Single Supplement: From £349

WHY THIS TRIP? “I was amazed at how wild and unspoiled the areas to the north of Girona were. Medieval villages, stunning cliffs, great coastal views… An excellent short break.”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

SPAIN

ALONG THE GR7

SELF-GUIDED 8 DAYS

Discover rural Andalucia in the veil of the Sierra Nevada

The foothills of the Sierra Nevada afford delightful walking opportunities through open countryside, woodlands, colourful fruit orchards and distinctive mountain villages with their iconic white-washed stone houses. The famous GR7 trail winds its way through this landscape along the flanks of this mountain range.

The bustling ‘costas’ of the Med’ feel like a million miles away as you walk through this timeless region of rural Andalucia with its appealing climate.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

AT A GLANCE

GRADE B

1

Fly to Granada. Transfer to Lanjaron.

-

2

Follow GR7 to Soportujar. To Orgiva.

5

¬ White-washed villages of the Alpujarras

3

To Soportujar, walk to Capileira.

4

¬ Visit magical Granada

4

Along the GR7 to Busquistar.

5

¬ Visit Spain’s highest village

5

Walk through pine woods to Trevelez.

5

6

Trek downhill to Cadiar.

7

7

Transfer to Granada. Free PM.

-

Grade: B (Moderate)

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

Max Altitude: 1,600m

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

From/ To UK

Granada

SPAIN Sierra Nevada National Park

Lanjaron

Trevelez Capileira Soportujar

¬ Walking through timeless, rural Andalucia

A

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Busquistar

Cadiar

Orgiva

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Average Daily Distance: 12km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts

WHY THIS TRIP?

Trip Code: TSNF

“The European ‘GR’ routes are always the most rewarding. The combination of beautiful Andalucia and white washed Mediterranean villages, make this my personal favourite out of the selfguided range.”

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £729 Flight Price Guideline: From £180 Single Supplement: From £229

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Lanjaron 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Canar

Soportujar

Capileira

Busquistar

Trevelez

Cadiar

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77

SPAIN

ALMERIA COASTAL WAY

SELF-GUIDED 6 DAYS

Walking in the Cabo de Gata Natural Park

Cliff-top trails take you above some secluded beaches and rocky coves, and through small fishing villages such as Las Negras. The trail follows a section of the GR92 the Mediterranean Way from Los Escullos to San Jose. At Rodaquilar you can take an excursion to a unique desert-like landscape where you will find old, abandoned gold mines and villages. A destination famed for western and action films. Another film location on our trail is Mesa Roldan, a table-top mountain that is one of the locations of Season Six of ‘Games of Thrones’.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

A

GRADE A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

Agua Amerga

From/ To UK

Almeria

Las Negras

SPAIN

Rodalquilar Los Escullos

Cabo de Gata San Jose

AT A GLANCE

1

Fly to Almeria. To Agua Amarga.

-

¬ Explore small coves and azure waters

2

Coastal walk to Las Negras.

4

¬ Walk to Cabo de Gata Lighthouse

3

Inland walk to Las Minas.

5

¬ Walk along rugged coastal trails

4

Walk from Rodalquilar to San Jose.

4

¬ Explore the desert like interior landscape

5

Walk to Cabo de Gata Lighthouse.

6

6

Fly back to the UK.

-

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: A (Easy) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 14km Accommodation: Hotel x 5 Meals: 5 breakfasts

WHY THIS TRIP?

Trip Code: TSAC Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £529 Flight Price Guideline: From £180 Single Supplement: From £149

“Away from resorts, this coastal fringe offers cosy coves and old Moorish forts. Experience the wonderful contrasts between the clear, turquoise sea at the coastline and the incredible Sierra Nevada Mountains inland.”

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Almeria Mesa Roldan

Las Negras Rodalquilar Las Minas

La Isleta

250 200

Cabo de Gato

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

150 100 50

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0

78

San Jose

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D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

CORSICA

GR20 NORTH

GROUP GUIDED

Embark on one of the most challenging treks along the GR20

8 DAYS

This section of the northern part of the GR20 takes you through the most wild and beautiful landscapes that Corsica has to offer.

Your journey takes you across 30m footbridges, rocky terrain, traversing plateaus, forests and the Monte Cinto ridge walk to the shepherd huts of Vallone. There are a few long days of 8-10 hour walking, over a variety of different terrains, from steep rocky paths to plateaus and green meadows.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

GRADE D

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

From/ To UK

Bastia

Calvi

Bonifatu

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

From/ To UK

Calenzana Asco Vallone Corte

Verghio

CORSICA

Lac de Nino Manganu

Grotelle

AT A GLANCE

1

Fly to Bastia or Calvi. Join Calvi.

-

¬ One of the most challenging walks in Europe

2

To Calenzana. Hike to Bonifatu.

5

¬ Trek through varied landscapes

3

Walk from Bonfatu to Asco.

8

¬ Enjoy the challenge of the Monte Cinto ridge

4

Monte Cinto ridge walk to Vallone.

10

5

Trek from Vallone to Castel di Verghio.

7

6

Walk through forests to Manganu.

6

7

Walk to Grotelle. Drive to Corte.

5

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: D (Strenuous) Max Altitude: 2,607m Average Daily Distance: 11km Accommodation: Gite x 3, hotel x 2, camp x 2 Meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners Group Size (Min - Max): 6 - 12 Trip Code: TCNG

WHY THIS TRIP?

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

“You don’t need any technical knowledge for this walk, but a head for heights helps! This is easily one of Europe’s most outstanding (and challenging) walks which takes you into the heart of the Cirque de la Solitude.”

Land Only: From £999 | With Flights: From £1,399 NB: Transfer from Bastia to Calvi available (approx £150pp) or local bus/train (approx £30pp).

Single Supplement: From £229 (excludes camp)

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) 0

Calenzana 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0

Carrozzu

Asco

Pointe des Eboulis

Vallone Ciotulu di Mori

Manganu

Breche de Capitello

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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79

CORSICA

FROM MOUNTAINS TO COAST

SELF-GUIDED 8 DAYS

Walk from the high mountains to the beautiful coast

The trek begins in Corte located in the heart of Corsica, crossing the region of Niolu with its pretty villages. Your trail takes you through stunning scenery of Scala Santa Regina Gorge and the pine forest of Verghio. There are plenty of opportunities to stop en route and take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear rock pools and paddle in the mountain rivers and waterfalls. The trail passes through Spelunca Gorge and its famous Genoeses bridges as you head down to Porto and the marina. Finally, follow the coastal trail inland to Piana.

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

A

GRADE B/C

Porto Evisa

Piana

Fly to Ajaccio. Transfer to Corte.

-

2

Walk to Scala Santa Regina Gorge.

5

¬ Cool down in crystal clear rock pools

3

Visit the waterfalls of Radule.

8

¬ Stunning scenery of Scala Santa Regina Gorge

4

Cross the Col de Vergio to Evisa.

5

¬ Spot dolphins at Scandola Nature Reserve

5

Travel through the Spelunca Gorge.

6

6

Coastal trail inland to Piana.

5

7

Travel to Ajaccio.

-

Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding)

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

Max Altitude: 1,140m

C

D

Corte

CORSICA

Ajaccio

1

B

Scala Santa Regina Gorge

AT A GLANCE ¬ Explore the heart of Corsica on foot

PHYSICAL GRADE

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

From/ To UK

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Average Daily Distance: 12km Accommodation: Hotel x 6, mountain hotel x 1 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 4 dinners

WHY THIS TRIP?

Trip Code: TCCM Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £899 Flight Price Guideline: From £230 Single Supplement: From £399 (hotels only)

“This is a great itinerary for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness looking to get away from it all on a selfguided adventure through the peaks, gorges and coast line of this beautiful island. ”

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Corte

Calacuccia

Col de Vergio

Evisa

1500 1200

Porto

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

900 600 300

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0

80

Ota

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CORFU

THE CORFU TRAIL

SELF-GUIDED 10 / 15 DAYS

Follow our Corfu Trail from Spartera to Spartillas

From the mountainous north to the rolling landscapes of the south there is much to experience and enjoy. This walk is a magnificent trip through the finest areas of Corfu. Following inland tracks and cobbled paths. The trail undulates through willow, cedar and juniper forests, alongside rivers and through lush pastures.

You’ll summit Corfu’s second highest peak, Agii Deka (576m) on day five. Away from the coastal tourist hubs, you’ll pass over a hundred villages, Byzantine monasteries and welcoming quayside tavernas.

Approx Hours Walked

ITINERARY

GRADE B/C

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Agios Spyridon

CORFU Rekini

ALBANIA

Spartillas

Kalami

Agios Georgios

GREECE

Liapades

From/ To UK

Corfu Aiport Pelekas Benitses

AT A GLANCE

Paramonas

1

Fly to Corfu.

-

¬ Friendly mountain villages

2

Follow trails to Santa Barbara.

7

¬ Age-old tracks and mule paths

3

Trek through forest to Paramonas.

6

¬ Rolling hills, olive groves and vineyards

4

Walk over ridges & down to Benitses.

7

¬ Also available as a 10-day itinerary

5

Ascend Agii Deka & walk to Pelekas.

6

6

Follow the river to Liapades.

7

7

Free day to explore the local area.

-

8

Walk to Agios Georgios.

5

9

Follow tracks until you reach Ringini.

4

10 Cobbled & wild paths to Spartillas.

6

Accommodation: Pension x 5, taverna x 5,

hotel x 4

11

Walk to Agios Spyridon & Kalami.

7

Meals: 14 breakfasts & 8 dinners

12

Free day to explore the local area.

-

Trip Code: TCFE_15

13

Circuit walk along the coast.

5

Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D

14

Free day to explore the local area.

-

15

Fly back to the UK.

-

Lefkimi Santa Barbara

Sparterá

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: B/C (Moderate/Demanding) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 18km

WHY THIS TRIP?

Land Only: From £899 (£629 for 10 days) Flight Price Guideline: From £180 Single Supplement: From £279 (£199 for 10 days)

“This is a rare chance to complete an entire long distance trail from start to finish in just over a fortnight. It’s not just about the secret beaches and rugged inland hills – climbing to the summit of Pantokrator (915m) was a highlight for me.”

GRADIENT CHART (METRES) Spartera 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0

Paramonas

Stavros Benitses Pelekas

Agios Georgios

Old Peritha

Kalami

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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ITALY

VESUVIUS, CAPRI & THE AMALFI COAST Discover the delights of the Italian coastline

This varied ‘Italian Job’ combines an explosive volcano walk, ancient history and culture, as well as coastal and island hikes. Ascend world famous Vesuvius for a stunning panoramic view over the Bay of Naples, and then travel by boat to Capri for an island walk and fantastic views back to Vesuvius. A visit to the ruins of Pompeii is a must before travelling to the striking Amalfi Peninsula. Here, from the delightful town of Agerola, you’ll enjoy four days exploring the fascinating coastline with its rugged sea cliffs and picturesque villages.

SELF-GUIDED 8 DAYS

GRADE A/B

A

PHYSICAL GRADE

B

C

D

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

From/ To UK

Naples

Mt.Vesuvius

ITALY Ercolano Pompeii

Agerola

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

AT A GLANCE

1

Fly to Naples.

-

¬ Summit Mount Vesuvius for panoramic views

2

Train to Ercolano. Summit Vesuvius.

2

¬ Island hiking on Capri

3

Ferry to Capri for island hiking.

3

¬ Trek the ‘Path of the Gods’ to Positano

4

Visit Pompeii. Transfer to Agerola.

-

¬ Explore the fragrant landscape

5

Walk to the Canyon of Furore.

3

6

Walk to Valle dei Mulini & Ravello.

4

7

Hike the “Path of the Gods”.

5

8

Fly back to the UK.

-

Positano

Ravello Amalfi

Capri

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: A/B (Easy/Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 8km Accommodation: Hotel x 7 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 4 dinners Trip Code: TVES Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £699 Flight Price Guideline: From £150 Single Supplement: From £229 Non-Saturday Departure Supplement: £40pp

WHY THIS TRIP? “This trip provides a contrasting mixture of the vibrant life and historical sites around Naples and old Pompeii, and quiet coastal trails and island walks. A great Italian cocktail.”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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ITALY

TUSCANY CLASSICO Enjoy ‘La Dolce Vita’ on delightful walks through the rolling hills

Vineyards and olive groves abound in a region rich with history, where the famous Chianti wine has been produced since Etruscan times. The Tuscan landscape comes ablaze with seasonal colour, from the red of poppies to the violet of the iris, the yellow of the sunflower and the verdant green of cypress. With ancient, golden stone villages and magnificent castles, as well as famous Tuscan culinary delights to relish with many opportunities to sample exquisite wine, you may just not want to leave!

ITINERARY

Approx Hours Walked

SELF-GUIDED 7 DAYS

GRADE A/B

A

Fly to Florence or Pisa. Arrive Florence.

-

¬ Hike the ‘Road of Wines’

2

Walk from Florence to Fiesole.

4

¬ Explore celebrated Florence

3

Walk to Panzano, then to Radda.

4

¬ Discover charming Tuscan villages

4

Walking in Castellina.

4

¬ Enjoy ‘La Dolce Vita’

5

Castello di Brolio - walking.

5

6

Hike to San Gimignano.

5

7

Depart. Fly from Florence or Pisa.

-

B

C

D

From/ To UK

From/ To UK

Florence

Pisa

ITALY Panzano Radda

San Gimignano Colle Val d'Elsa Siena

AT A GLANCE

1

PHYSICAL GRADE

OFF-THE-BEATEN-TRACK RATING

Castle of Brolio

PRACTICAL INFORMATION Grade: A/B (Easy/Moderate) Max Altitude: Low (under 1,000m) Average Daily Distance: 12km Accommodation: Hotel x 6 Meals: 6 breakfasts Trip Code: TCHI Departures: J F M A M J J A S O N D Land Only: From £649 Flight Price Guideline: From £175 Single Supplement: From £249 Non-Saturday Departure Supplement: £40pp

WHY THIS TRIP? “Anywhere that bears the name ‘Road of Wines’ deserves to be hiked!

However, for me it’s the lush rolling hills and endless bucolic ideal that win this destination over…who am I kidding?”

WHAT NEXT? Visit our website for more information and for Trip Dossiers, prices and dates.

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ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

Please take the time to read the information about travelling on a Walks Worldwide holiday.

PRICING

Full details of prices including seasonal price variations can be found on our website. We reserve the right to alter the prices of any of the holidays shown in our brochure and/or on our website. Prices indicated in this brochure are ‘from’ prices only.

Please note: If booking a 2017 holiday, prices, dates and itineraries quoted are provisional and may be subject to change.

FLIGHT INCLUSIVE

You can combine our Land Only holidays with international flights as a Flight Inclusive package. We are fully bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority and hold a full ATOL and IATA license, so we can book flights with most airlines. International flight prices are variable and usually can only be guaranteed at the time of booking.

The ‘from’ prices shown for all flights in this brochure are a guideline only, to help you decide whether the holiday we are offering is within your budget. These prices are based on flight costs obtained by our team in December 2014 and were the lowest fares available on this date from London airports with either a scheduled or low cost airline. In some instances, where 2015 fares were unavailable on these dates, we have used an estimated price based on 2014 fares. These guideline prices are not fixed and do not include our booking fee, or additional charges some airlines may charge (e.g. baggage). As flight prices will vary considerably according to your specific travel dates, seat availability, preferred airline, peak travel periods, etc, please bear in mind that these fares may no longer be available at the time you book your holiday or for the dates you are travelling. Please contact us for an upto-date flight price quote for your preferred travel dates and regional departure options.

LAND ONLY

For all our holidays we offer a ‘Land Only’ price.

This price does not include international travel and is based on joining at the stated point for the individual holiday in the destination country, as shown in the Trip Dossier. IMPORTANT – If you are purchasing your own flights, you should be aware that most of the cheaper airline tickets available for sale on the internet or from low cost carriers are non-refundable in the case of cancellation and will not be protected by our ATOL bonding. For this reason we strongly advise you to check the rules of the ticket when you make a flight booking, and check the limitations of any cancellation insurance policy you have. We cannot be held liable for any losses incurred relating to, or as a result of, any flight bookings or other travel arrangements you have made yourself, including you having to cancel your holiday due to travel disruption.

Please also refer to the specific joining arrangements, transfers section, and Land Only section of the individual Trip Dossier before booking your holiday with us.

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WHAT IS INCLUDED?

As we offer such a wide variety of holiday choices, what we include and don’t include also varies. We firmly believe in a clear, concise and fair pricing policy and you will find what’s included in the price of each holiday outlined in brief on the trip pages in this brochure and on our website. Further details of what is and what isn’t included can be found in the relevant Trip Dossier.

NOT INCLUDED

Overseas departure/entry taxes, airport transfers (unless stated), excess baggage charges, porterage (unless stated), insurance, passports, visas, vaccinations, optional excursions, city taxes, gratuities and any items of a personal nature.

TRIP EXTENSIONS

The prices shown for trip extensions are priced on the assumption that you take our international flights from the UK. Extension prices may sometimes be higher if you book on a Land Only basis.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

For many of our trips there is a wide choice of international flight options. So rather than tying ourselves to one airline and/or route we will always try to take advantage of special fares, promotions and regional flight options to provide you with the lowest possible flight prices. Consequently, clients are likely to arrive and depart on different flights, making a single group transfer impractical in most cases.

Therefore as a general rule, unless otherwise stated in the Trip Dossier, airport transfers are usually not included* in our prices.

If you do require an airport arrival and/or departure transfer, we can arrange this for you at a small extra cost – please see our website or ask your consultant for details. Alternatively, you may choose to organise your own taxi or use local transport to reach the Joining Point of the tour. The choice is yours. It’s worth

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noting that there can be a significant price advantage in offering such flexibility with regard to international airfares, and this far outweighs the relatively insignificant cost of a transfer. So, rather than build the transfer cost into the selling price for everyone, we give you the choice.

Please note: On some trips – where it is difficult to arrange your own transfer to the Joining Point – we include a timed transfer in the trip price. Please see Trip Dossier or ask your consultant for details.

GROUP SIZES

For all of our scheduled Group Trips there is both a minimum and maximum group size.

These are stated on the individual trip pages in this brochure and on our website. To enable a trip to go ahead, a minimum number of participants required must be reached.

TOUR LEADERS

For all of our Guided Group Trips or Private Guided Trips, a professional, English-speaking guide will be provided. The local guide will often act as the overall Tour Leader throughout the trip; however itineraries which cover a range of regions or activities may be accompanied by multiple specialist guides.

SOLO TRAVELLERS Subject to space, it is possible to pay a supplement to have the privacy of your own room. If you are willing to share accommodation with a stranger of the same sex, there is no supplement on many of our trips. Where we do charge a supplement, we keep this as low as possible. Please call us to discuss the options.

ACCOMMODATION

The accommodation we offer on our walking and trekking trips is as varied as the trips themselves.

On one trip alone you may find yourself staying in a 3-star hotel, a rustic and remote village house, and a yurt! Details of the accommodation

used can be found in the relevant Trip Dossier. As a general rule we use mid-range accommodation where available. Our itineraries are planned around the quality of the walking first and foremost. For many of our trips we do not name specific accommodation in advance, but we indicate a type of accommodation (e.g. hotel, pension, tent, etc.), as the specific accommodation used may vary from trip to trip, depending on availability.

BAGGAGE

Please ensure you use the correct type of baggage for your chosen trip. Please refer to the specific Clothing & Equipment list on our website or call us for any specific information about what to use for your main baggage, and any weight restrictions.

LOCAL PAYMENT

On a small number of our trips there may be additional local fees which must be paid as part of the itinerary (e.g. National Park fees), where possible we will always try and include these in the price of the tour. Any necessary additional fees which we have not been able to include will be detailed in your Trip Dossier.

ALTITUDE

Where our trips involve going to altitudes above 1,000m, the maximum altitudes on these trips are indicated on the relevant trip page in this brochure and on our website.

The effects of altitude are something that you should be aware of. To combat such effects our itineraries are carefully planned to allow most walkers adequate acclimatisation.

Generally speaking, most people will acclimatise to the altitudes on our trips, although it is important to understand that everyone acclimatises at different rates. More details regarding altitude can be found in the Essential Information section of our website, which we strongly recommend you read.

Please contact us if you have any concerns.

LOW COST AIRLINES

In Europe in particular, low cost airlines appear to offer a very economical option. We are able to book and arrange these flights for you, subject to a nominal booking fee and, if we do this for you as part of your travel arrangements, we can continue to offer you peace of mind and 100% financial protection through our ATOL licence. This brings many benefits. For instance, if your international flight were to be delayed or cancelled and you could not join your holiday on time (remember the airport closures caused by snow and volcanic ash!), we would manage the situation accordingly.

Please note that we cannot provide separate menus and cannot accept any liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements, requests or intolerances.

VISAS & VACCINATIONS

To check whether a visa is required, and for the most up-to-date visa information for the country you are visiting, please contact us for details. At Walks Worldwide, we offer a visa service with complimentary form filling. Please ask your consultant when booking, you can add visas to the cost of your trip or buy visas separately through our website all powered by The Visa Machine, experts in adventure travel visas. Passports and completed application forms are normally required six weeks prior to departure date.

We always recommend visiting your doctor and dentist for a check-up before travelling. Your GP, or a specialist vaccination centre, will have access to the most up-to-date information on relevant vaccinations and medical precautions for your destination.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Walks Worldwide are fully committed to the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s ‘Know before you go’ campaign.

We recommend that all Walks Worldwide clients visit the FCO website – www.fco.gov.uk.

If you have any questions or concerns about government travel advice to your chosen country please contact the Walks Worldwide office.

It is not our policy to provide destination information (e.g. laws, culture, etc.) beyond the bounds of the trip itself. As there are a large number of country/destination travel guide books available, we strongly recommend that you obtain a travel guide book relevant to your chosen destination before you travel.

PLEASE BOOK EARLY

There are many reasons why it is beneficial to book early. It usually means the lowest air fares can be found, and that you can be more certain of a place on your chosen trip, especially if it’s one of our scheduled Guided Small Group Trip departures. Where a particular trip requires a minimum number of participants to reach guaranteed operational status, it is clearly in the best interests of all those wishing to take part to book as early as possible. Of course we understand that it isn’t always possible to book well in advance, therefore we do not impose a late booking charge. However, higher air fares and restricted availability are more likely to be the result of booking late.

IMPORTANT WARNING Walks Worldwide holidays are adventurous by nature and often involve travel to remote areas and/or to countries less developed than the United Kingdom. Whilst we go to great lengths to ensure our trips run smoothly by ensuring that they are thoroughly planned and researched, sometimes unforeseen circumstances necessitate changes. Therefore, our published holiday itineraries are statements of intent and not contractual obligations. Many factors (e.g. weather, transport problems, political instability etc.) can dictate the need to make an enforced change to an itinerary at short notice, and sometimes during the course of the holiday itself. We ask you to travel with an open mind and a sense of adventure, and accept these changes as part of the experience if they should occur. We believe it’s the unpredictable nature of adventure travel that makes it most exciting!

It is important to understand and recognise that the standard of health care and emergency services available in some destinations will likely not meet the same standards you would expect in the UK. Travelling in remote areas can mean being hours, or even days away from a comprehensive medical facility.

Road conditions can be challenging and transport can be unreliable (and sometimes uncomfortable). Standards of accommodation may vary and can often be very basic, although we always try and source accommodation in keeping with the style of the trip and local culture. One night might be spent camping under the stars and the next sleeping in a remote village guest house in the mountains.

A Walks Worldwide trip is certainly not your average package holiday and our travel consultants will be very happy to discuss the unique nature of your trip in depth with you. If after reading this information you are not comfortable with the idea of adventure, challenge and the occasional change to the published itinerary, then our trips may not be the right kind of holiday for you.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

Vegetarians can usually be catered for on most of our trips. However, in certain destinations you may find vegetarian options very limited.

If you have other special dietary requirements it is important that you discuss these BEFORE BOOKING. While we will do our best to pass on any dietary details you provide us with, we cannot always guarantee that such requests can always be delivered. On many trips special dietary requirements cannot be catered for.

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BOOKING CONDITIONS The following booking conditions together with the Booking Information form the basis of your contract with The Natural Travel Collection Limited trading as Walks Worldwide. Please read them carefully as they set out our respective rights and obligations.

These booking conditions only apply to holiday arrangements which you book with us in the UK and which we agree to make, provide or perform (as applicable) as part of our contract. All references in these booking conditions to ‘booking’, ‘contract’, ‘itinerary’, ‘tour’ or ‘arrangements’ mean such holiday arrangements.

In these booking conditions, the following words have the following meanings. References to ‘you’, ‘your’ and ‘party’ means all persons (or any of them as the context permits or requires) named on the booking (including anyone who is added or substituted at a later date) and ‘party leader’ means the adult who makes the booking.

‘We’, ‘us’ and ‘our’ means The Natural Travel Collection Limited trading as Walks Worldwide.

1. Making your booking To confirm a booking, you should provide us with the information requested. All bookings are subject to our booking conditions. You must confirm your acceptance of our booking conditions by completing our booking details form, or in writing. The party leader (who must be at least 18) must be authorised by all persons named on the booking, or their parent or guardian where any such person is under 18, to make a booking with us on the basis of our booking conditions. By making a booking, the party leader confirms that you agree to the Booking Conditions. The party leader is responsible for making all payments due to us as set out in more detail in clause 2 below. If you make your reservation through an authorised travel agent, we shall address all communications to the agent.

Subject to the availability of your chosen arrangements and receipt of the payment due at the time of booking (see clause 2), we will confirm your booking by issuing a confirmation invoice. This invoice will be sent to the party leader or your travel agent. Please check your invoice carefully as soon as you receive it. Contact us immediately if any information which appears on the confirmation or any other document appears to be incorrect or incomplete as it may not be possible to make changes later. We regret we cannot accept any liability if we are not notified of any inaccuracy (for which we are responsible) in any document within 14 days of our sending it out (5 days for tickets). We will do our best to rectify any mistake notified to us outside these time limits but you must meet any costs involved in doing so. The only exception to this requirement to meet costs is where the mistake in question was made by us and there is good reason why you did not tell us about it within these time limits.

2. Payment The applicable deposit (£200 per person or 10% of the holiday cost, whichever is the greater) or, if you are booking 8 weeks or less* before departure, the total cost of the holiday must be paid at the time of booking.

For some holidays we may request a higher deposit to cover non refundable elements of the holiday payable by us to our suppliers on booking or prior to balance due date. * Eight weeks before departure the balance of the total holiday cost is due.

Except for flight inclusive bookings, all monies you pay to one of our authorised travel agents for your holiday with us will be held by the agent on your behalf until we issue our confirmation invoice. After that point, your agent will hold the monies on our behalf. For flight inclusive bookings, all monies paid to any authorised travel agent of ours for your holiday with us will be held on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust subject to the travel agent’s obligation to pay such monies to us in accordance with our

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trading terms unless we fail. In the unlikely event of our financial failure, all monies then held by the travel agent or subsequently paid by you to the travel agent will be held by the agent on behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any obligation on the agent to pay such monies to us.

If we do not receive all payments due (including any surcharge where applicable) in full and on time, we are entitled to assume that you wish to cancel your booking.

In this case, we will be entitled to keep all payments which are paid or due at that date. If we do not cancel straight away because you have promised to make payment, you must pay the cancellation charges shown in clause 8 depending on the date we reasonably treat your booking as cancelled.

3. Prices Some of the holidays we feature require a minimum number before we can operate them. The applicable minimum number depends on various factors and varies from tour to tour. If the group size drops below the minimum number, we reserve the right either to cancel or to run the trip. We promise to advise you no later than 6 weeks prior to departure if we have to cancel your holiday due to lack of numbers. Clause 10 of our booking conditions will then apply. For groups, the price per person given at the time of booking is based on a particular number of participants. If the group size changes at any time prior to departure (including where confirmed participants cancel without being substituted and pay less than 100% cancellation charges), we reserve the right to re-cost the trip and the per person price. Any increase in the price will be payable by all remaining participants. The increase will not be a surcharge and accordingly will not be subject to the surcharge provision set out in clause 9 of our booking conditions. Our tailor-made prices are based on two people travelling together and sharing a room.

If you require a single room, a supplement (available on request) will be payable.

4. Your contract A binding contract between us and you comes into existence when we despatch our confirmation invoice to the party leader or your travel agent. We both agree that English law (and no other) will apply to that contract and to any dispute, claim or other matter of any description that arises between us (‘claim’) (except as set out below). We both also agree that any claim must be dealt with by the courts of England and Wales only unless, in the case of court proceedings, you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland. In this case, proceedings must either be brought in the courts of your home country or those of England and Wales. If proceedings are brought in Scotland or Northern Ireland, you may choose to have the contract and your claim governed by the law of Scotland or Northern Ireland as applicable (but if you do not so choose, English law will apply).

5. Special requests & medical conditions/ disabilities/reduced mobility If you have a special request, you should inform us of it in writing at the time of booking. We will advise the relevant supplier of your requirements, but we cannot guarantee that such requests will be met unless we have specifically confirmed this. For your own protection, you should obtain confirmation in writing from us that your request will be complied with (where it is possible for us to give this) if your request is important to you.

Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to the supplier or the inclusion of the special request on your confirmation invoice or any other documentation is not confirmation that the request will be met. Unless and until specifically confirmed, all special requests are subject to availability If you have any medical condition or disability or suffer from reduced mobility which may affect your holiday or any special requirements as a result of any medical condition, disability or reduced mobility (including any

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which affect the booking process), please tell us before you confirm your booking so that we can assist you in considering the suitability of the arrangements and/or making the booking. In any event, you must give us full details in writing at the time of booking and whenever any change in the condition or disability or your mobility occurs. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability or reduction in your mobility which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. Any client affected by a disability or medical condition must ensure they have notified this to their travel insurers and that their travel insurance will cover it.

6. Insurance You must have adequate and appropriate insurance. The insurance must as a minimum cover personal accident, medical expenses, loss of effects, repatriation costs and all other expenses, which might arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience. This policy must include a minimum cover of £5,000,000 for medical and repatriation expenses. Policy details should be read carefully and taken on holiday with you. It is your responsibility to ensure that the insurance cover you purchase is suitable and adequate for your particular needs. We can offer insurance via the specialist insurance broker Endsleigh.

7. Changes by you If you wish to make any alterations to your holiday, we will do our best to help, but cannot guarantee that alterations will be possible. If they are, these will be subject to payment of any amendment or other charges imposed or incurred by the relevant supplier plus the sum of £50 per amendment / booking (as applicable) to cover our administrative costs. Requests for amendments must be made in writing by the party leader.

If we accept a request to transfer you from one holiday to another you will be liable for the cancellation charges applicable as a result of cancelling the original holiday in addition to the cost of the new one. In addition, we also reserve the right to charge an administration fee of 10% of the value of the first holiday booked.

If you are prevented from travelling, the person(s) concerned may transfer their place to someone else (introduced by you) providing we are notified not less than 2 weeks before the start of your holiday. All costs and charges incurred by us and/or incurred or imposed by any of our suppliers as a result together with an amendment fee of £50 per person must be paid before the transfer can be effected. Any overdue balance payment must also be received. For flight inclusive bookings, you must pay the charges levied by the airline concerned. As most airlines do not permit name changes after tickets have been issued for any reason, these charges are likely to be the full cost of the flight.

8. Cancellation by you Should you or any member of your party need to cancel your holiday once it has been confirmed, the party leader must immediately advise us in writing.

Your notice of cancellation will only be effective when it is received in writing by us at our offices. As we incur costs from the time we confirm your booking, the following cancellation charges will be payable. Where the cancellation charge is shown as a percentage, this is calculated on the basis of the total cost payable by the person(s) cancelling excluding amendment charges and any charity donation paid at the time of booking.

Amendment charges and charity donations are not refundable in the event of cancellation.

Period before departure within which written notification of cancellation is received by us

10. Changes and cancellation by us Cancellation charge per person cancelling

More than 56 days

Deposit paid or payable at the time of booking

45 to 56 days

50%

31 to 44 days

75%

30 days or less

100%

Depending on the reason for cancellation, you may be able to reclaim these cancellation charges (less any excess) under the terms of your insurance policy.

Claims must be made directly to the insurance company concerned.

Please note, deposits are not refundable in the event of your cancellation except as set out in these Booking Conditions. Deposits include any additional amounts payable at the time of booking, or as an interim payment, to cover non refundable elements of the holiday which need to be paid to suppliers at this stage or prior to balance due date. Partial cancellation may result in additional costs being payable by the remaining participants.

9. Price changes after booking Prices quoted are based on costs and exchange rates as known at the time your quotation is prepared. We reserve the right to make changes to and correct errors in quoted prices at any time before your holiday is confirmed.

Once the price of your chosen holiday has been confirmed at the time of booking, we will only increase or decrease it in the following circumstances. A surcharge or refund (as applicable) will be payable, subject to the conditions set out in this clause, in the event of a change in transportation costs (e.g. fuel, scheduled airfares and any other airline surcharges which are part of the contract between airlines (and their agents) and the tour operator) or in dues, taxes or fees payable for services such as landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports or airports or in the exchange rate(s) which have been used to calculate the cost of your holiday.

Even in the above cases, only if the increase in our costs exceeds 2% of the total cost of your holiday (excluding insurance premium and any amendment charges) will we levy a surcharge. A surcharge will only be levied in respect of the amount by which the increase in our costs exceeds this 2%. If any surcharge is greater than 10% of the cost of your holiday (excluding any insurance premiums and amendment charges), the party leader will be entitled to cancel the booking and receive a full refund of all monies paid to us (except for any amendment or previously levied cancellation charges) or alternatively purchase another holiday from us as referred to in clause 10 below. Where a surcharge is payable, there will be an administration fee of £5 per person. Please note that travel arrangements are not always purchased in local currency and some apparent changes have no impact on the price of your holiday due to contractual and other protection in place.

A refund will only be payable if any decrease in our costs exceeds 2% as set out above. Where a refund is due, we will pay you the full amount of the decrease in our costs.

You have 14 days from the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice to tell us if you want to cancel or purchase another holiday where applicable. If you do not tell us that you wish to do so within this period of time, we are entitled to assume that you will pay the surcharge. Any surcharge must be paid with the balance of the cost of the holiday or within 14 days of the issue date printed on the surcharge invoice, whichever is the later.

We promise not to levy a surcharge within 30 days of the start of your holiday. No refunds will be payable if any decrease in our costs occurs within this period either.

We start planning the holidays we offer many months in advance. Occasionally, we have to make changes to and correct errors in details both before and after bookings have been confirmed and cancel confirmed bookings.

Whilst we always endeavour to avoid changes and cancellations, we reserve the right to do so.

Most changes are minor. Occasionally, we have to make a ‘significant change’. A significant change is a change made before departure which we can reasonably expect to have a major effect on your holiday.

Significant changes are likely to include the following changes when made before departure; a change of outward departure time or overall length of time you are away of twelve or more hours*, a change of UK departure point* to one which is more inconvenient for you and a significant change of itinerary missing out one or more major destination substantially or altogether (on which our decision is final).

reasonably able to (using the same type and class of transport included in the holiday) and a pro rata refund of the cost of the remainder of your holiday. In addition, if appropriate, we will pay you compensation of an amount which is reasonable taking into account the circumstances. Compensation and refunds (unless obtained from any supplier) will not be payable where the situation is caused by force majeure – see clause 11.

11. Force majeure

If we have to make a significant change or cancel, we will tell you or your travel agent as soon as possible. If there is time to do so before departure, we will offer you the choice of the following options:

Except where otherwise expressly stated in these booking conditions, we regret we cannot accept liability or pay any compensation where the performance or prompt performance of our obligations under our contract with you is prevented or affected by or you otherwise suffer any damage or loss (as more fully described in clause 15.2) as a result of ‘force majeure’.

In these booking conditions, ‘force majeure’ means any event or circumstances which we or the supplier of the service(s) in question could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Examples include (in all cases whether actual or threatened) war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, epidemics / pandemics, fire, flood, adverse weather conditions and closure or restriction of airspace or airports.

(a) (For significant changes) accepting the changed arrangements; or

12. Flexibility of itineraries and your responsibilities overseas

(b) Purchasing an alternative holiday from us, of a similar quality to that originally booked if available. Providing it is possible to do so, we will offer at least one alternative holiday of at least equivalent standard for which you will not be asked to pay any more than the original price. If this holiday is in fact cheaper than the original one, we will refund the price difference. If the party leader does not wish to accept the holiday we specifically offer, you may choose any of our other then available holidays.

You must pay the applicable price of any such holiday.

This will mean you paying more if it is more expensive or receiving a refund if it is cheaper; or

The type of travel we offer requires flexibility on your part. The itinerary provided at the time of booking is intended to be followed but local conditions and other circumstances may require changes. The final decision on the itinerary and conduct of any holiday will be taken by us in the interests of the group as a whole. At all times the decision of our tour leader or overseas representative will be final on all matters likely to affect the safety and well being of the tour being operated. You must at all times strictly comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange requirements and drug regulations of the countries visited. Should you fail to do so, you may be required to leave the holiday. In this situation, you will not be entitled to the payment of any refund, expense or other sum whatsoever.

* Only applies where international flights to and from the UK form part of your holiday.

(c) Cancelling or accepting the cancellation in which case you will receive a full and quick refund of all monies you have paid to us.

Please note: the above options are not available where any change made is a minor one.

If we have to make a significant change or cancel, we will as a minimum (where compensation is appropriate) pay you the compensation set out below depending on the circumstances and when the significant change or cancellation is notified to you or your travel agent subject to the following exceptions. Compensation will not be payable and no liability beyond offering the above mentioned choices can be accepted where we are forced to make a change or cancel as a result of unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond our control, the consequences of which we could not have avoided even with all due care or where we have to cancel because the minimum number of persons required to operate your holiday is not reached. No compensation will be payable and the above options will not be available if we cancel as a result of your failure to comply with any requirement of these booking conditions entitling us to cancel (such as paying on time) or if the change made is a minor one. A minor change is any change which is not a significant change.

Period before departure within which significant change/cancellation is notified to the party leader / your travel agent / Compensation per person.

More than 56 days / Nil 56 – 43 days / £10 42 – 29 days / £15 28 – 15 days / £20 14 – 0 days / £30

13. Damage and behaviour You are responsible for any damage or loss caused by you. Full payment for any such damage or loss (reasonably estimated if not precisely known) must be made direct at the time to the accommodation owner or manager or other supplier. If the actual cost of the loss or damage exceeds the amount paid where estimated, you must pay the difference once known.

If the actual cost is less than the amount paid, the difference will be refunded. You will also be responsible for meeting any claims subsequently made against us (together with our own and the other party’s full legal costs) as a result of your actions.

We expect you to have consideration for other people and the environment. We strongly condemn the collecting of any specimen from the natural world.

Our holidays often provide the opportunity to view and photograph wildlife but not to disturb it! If in our reasonable opinion or in the reasonable opinion of any other person in authority, you behave in such a way as to cause or be likely to cause danger, upset or distress to anyone or damage to property or fail to comply with the reasonable instructions of our tour leader or overseas representative or with clause 12, we are entitled, without prior notice, to terminate your holiday. In this situation, you will be required to leave the accommodation or other service. We will have no further responsibility towards you including any return travel arrangements. No refunds or compensation will be paid and we will not meet any expenses or costs incurred as a result of the termination.

In the unlikely event that we become unable to provide a significant proportion of the services you have booked after you depart, we will endeavour to make alternative arrangements in respect of those services at no extra charge, or, if we are unable to do so or you do not accept these alternative arrangements for a good reason, we will provide you with transport back to your point of departure with us as soon as we are

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14. Inherent risks By booking with us, you acknowledge and accept that the holidays we offer often involve their own inherent risks and dangers due to matters such as the geographical location of the tour, activities involved, proximity to wildlife and distance from medical facilities. Such risks may on occasion be significant and include injury, disease, illness, death, loss or damage to property, inconvenience and discomfort.

15. Our responsibility for your holiday 15.1 We promise to make sure that the holiday arrangements we have agreed to make, perform or provide as applicable as part of our contract are made, performed or provided with reasonable skill and care. This means that, subject to these booking conditions, we will accept responsibility if, for example, you suffer death or personal injury or the contracted holiday arrangements are not provided as promised or prove deficient as a result of the failure of ourselves, our employees, agents or suppliers to use reasonable skill and care in making, performing or providing, as applicable, the contracted arrangements. Please note it is your responsibility to show that reasonable skill and care has not been used if you wish to make a claim against us. In addition, we will only be responsible for what our employees, agents and suppliers do or do not do if they were at the time acting within the course of their employment (for employees) or carrying out work we had asked them to do (for agents and suppliers).

15.2 We will not be responsible for any injury, illness, death, loss (for example, loss of enjoyment or possessions), damage, expense, cost or other sum or claim of any description whatsoever which results from any of the following: The act(s) and/or omission(s) of the participant(s) affected or any other participant(s); or The act(s) and/or omission(s) of a third party not connected with the provision of your holiday and which were unforeseeable or unavoidable; or ’Force majeure’ as defined in clause 11 above.

15.3 Please note, we cannot accept responsibility for any services which do not form part of our contract.

This includes, for example, any additional services or facilities which your hotel, accommodation provider or any other supplier agrees to provide for you where the services or facilities are not included in the cost of your itinerary and we have not agreed to arrange them as part of our contract, and any excursion or activities you purchase whilst overseas. In addition, regardless of any wording used by us on our website, in any of our brochures or elsewhere, we only promise to use reasonable skill and care as set out above and we do not have any greater or different liability to you.

15.4 The promises we make to you about the services we have agreed to provide or arrange as part of our contract – and the laws and regulations of the country in which your claim or complaint occurred will be used as the basis for deciding whether the services in question had been properly provided. If the particular services which gave rise to the claim or complaint complied with the local laws and regulations applicable to those services at the time, the services will be treated as having been properly provided. This will be the case even if the services did not comply with the laws and regulations of the UK which would have applied had those services been provided in the UK. The exception to this is where the claim or complaint concerns the absence of a safety feature which might lead a reasonable holidaymaker to refuse to take the holiday in question. Please note, however, our obligation is to exercise reasonable skill and care as referred to in clause 15.1. We do not make any representation or commitment that all services will comply with applicable local laws and regulations and failure to comply does not automatically mean we have not exercised reasonable skill and care.

15.5 Where we are found liable for loss of and/ or damage to any luggage or personal possessions (including money), the maximum amount we will have to pay you is £1000 per participant affected or twice the price (excluding any amendment charges

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and charity donations) paid by or on behalf of the participant(s) affected, whichever is the lower, unless a lower limitation applies to your claim under clause 15.6 below. For all other claims which do not involve death or personal injury, if we are found liable to you on any basis, the maximum amount we will have to pay you is twice the price (excluding any amendment charges and charity donations) paid by or on behalf of the participant(s) affected in total unless a lower limitation applies to your claim under clause 15.6 below. This maximum amount will only be payable where everything has gone wrong and you have not received any benefit at all from your holiday.

15.6 Where any claim or part of a claim (including those involving death or personal injury) concerns or is based on any travel arrangements (including the process of getting on and/or off the transport concerned) provided by any air, sea or rail carrier to which any international convention or EC regulation applies, our liability (including the maximum amount of compensation we will have to pay you, the types of claim and the circumstances in which compensation will be payable) will be limited as if we were the carrier in question as referred to below. The most we will have to pay you for that claim or that part of a claim if we are found liable to you on any basis is the most the carrier concerned would have to pay under the international convention or regulation which applies to the travel arrangements in question (for example, the Warsaw Convention as amended or unamended and the Montreal Convention for international travel by air and/ or for airlines with an operating licence granted by an EU country, the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability No 889/2002 for national and international travel by air, the Athens Convention for international travel by sea (as amended by the 2002 Protocol where applicable) and COTIF, the Convention on International Travel by Rail). Where a carrier would not be obliged to make any payment to you under the applicable international convention or regulation in respect of a claim or part of a claim, we similarly are not obliged to make a payment to you for that claim or part of the claim. When making any payment, we are entitled to deduct any money which you have received or are entitled to receive from the carrier for the claim in question. Copies of the applicable international conventions and regulations are available from us on request.

15.7 Please note, we cannot accept any liability for any damage, loss, expense or other sum(s) of any description which (1) on the basis of the information given to us by you concerning your booking prior to our accepting it, we could not have foreseen you would suffer or incur if we breached our contract or (2) did not result from any breach of contract or other fault (for which we are legally liable) by ourselves or our employees or, where we are responsible for them, our suppliers or (3) relates to any business (including without limitation, self employed loss of earnings).

16. Complaints If you have any complaint whilst on holiday, you must immediately inform your tour leader or our overseas representative who will use all reasonable efforts to remedy it. If you remain dissatisfied, you must make full details of the complaint known to us in writing within 28 days of the end of your holiday. If you fail to follow this simple complaints procedure, your right to claim the compensation you may otherwise have been entitled to may be affected or even lost as a result.

17. Land only arrangements For land only arrangements where you have booked your own flights, it is your sole responsibility to ensure you arrive at the departure point for the contracted arrangements in good time before these commence.

In the event that flight delays or cancellation result in your late arrival, you will be responsible for all costs we incur in assisting you to join the holiday at a later stage.

No refunds will be provided in respect of any services which are unused as a result. Similarly, our contractual responsibilities cease at the end of your contracted arrangements.

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18. Delays and the Denied Boarding Regulations We regret we are not in a position to offer you any assistance in the event of delay at your outward or homeward point of departure. The airline concerned will be responsible for you in the event of flight cancellation or delays and may provide refreshments / meals /accommodation in the event of a delay or cancellation.

We cannot accept liability for any delay which is due to any of the reasons set out in clause 15.2 of these booking conditions (which includes the behaviour of any passenger(s) on the flight who, for example, fails to check in or board on time). In addition, we will not be liable for any delay unless it has a significant effect on your holiday arrangements.

If any flight you have booked is cancelled or delayed, your flight ticket is downgraded or boarding is denied by your airline, depending on the circumstances, the airline may be required to pay you compensation, refund the cost of your flight and/ or provide you with accommodation and/or refreshments under EC Regulation No 261/2004 – the Denied Boarding Regulations 2004. Where applicable, you must pursue the airline for the compensation or other payment due to you. All sums you receive or are entitled to receive from the airline concerned by virtue of these Regulations represent the full amount of your entitlement to compensation or any other payment arising from such cancellation, delay, downgrading or denied boarding. This includes any disappointment, distress, inconvenience or effect on any other arrangements.

The fact a delay may entitle you to cancel your flight does not automatically entitle you to cancel any other arrangements even where those arrangements have been made in conjunction with your flight. We have no liability to make any payment to you in relation to the Denied Boarding Regulations or in respect of any flight cancellation or delay, downgrading of any flight ticket or denial of any boarding as the full amount of your entitlement to any compensation or other payment (as dealt with above) is covered by the airline’s obligations under the Denied Boarding Regulations. If, for any reason, we make any payment to you or a third party which the airline is responsible for in accordance with the Denied Boarding Regulations, you must, when requested, assign to us the rights you have or had to claim the payment in question from the airline. If your airline does not comply with these rules, you may complain to the Civil Aviation Authority on 020 7453 6888 or by email to passengercomplaints@caa.co.uk or see www.caa.co.uk – Referring your Complaint to the CAA.

19. Local standards It is the requirements and standards of the country in which any services which make up your holiday are provided which apply to those services and not those of the UK. As a general rule, these requirements and standards will not be the same as the UK and may often be lower.

20. Flights In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005, we are required to bring to your attention the existence of a ‘Community list’ which contains details of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban with the EU Community. The Community list is available for inspection at hhtp:// ec.europa.eu/transport/air-ban/ list_en. We are also required to advise you of the carrier(s) (or, if the carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your flight(s) at the time of booking. Where we are only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we shall inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we are aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will be notified as soon as possible.

We are not always in a position at the time of booking to confirm the flight timings which will be used in connection with your flight. The flight timings shown in this brochure, on our website and detailed on your confirmation invoice are for guidance only and

are subject to alteration and confirmation. The latest timings will be shown on your e-tickets which will be despatched to you approximately two weeks before departure. You must accordingly check your tickets very carefully immediately on receipt to ensure you have the correct flight times. It is possible that flight times may be changed even after tickets have been despatched – we will contact you as soon as possible if this occurs.

Any change in the identity of the carrier, flight timings, and/or aircraft type (if given) will not entitle you to cancel or change to other arrangements without paying our normal charges except where otherwise specified in these Booking Conditions.

If the carrier with whom you have a confirmed reservation becomes subject to an operating ban as above as a result of which we/ the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable alternative, the provisions of clause 10 will apply.

21. Passports, visas and health requirements All participants must be in possession of a valid passport and all visas, permits and certificates, including medical certificates, required for the whole of the holiday booked. It is your responsibility to obtain these unless you are expressly advised otherwise by us. All information and advice given by us on visas, vaccinations, climate, clothing, baggage, special equipment etc. is given in good faith. The party leader must ensure that all participants are in possession of all necessary travel and health documents before departure. All costs incurred in obtaining such documentation must be paid by you. We regret we cannot accept any liability if you are refused entry onto any transport or into any country due to failure on your part to carry correct documentation. If you are not a British citizen or hold a non British passport, you must check passport and visa requirements with the embassy or consulate of the country(ies) to or through which you are intending to travel. If failure to have any necessary travel or other documents results in fines, surcharges or other financial penalty being imposed on us or costs incurred by us, you will be responsible for reimbursing us accordingly.

We require details of the passports held by all participants no later than 6 weeks prior to departure.

A full British passport usually takes approximately 2 to 4 weeks to obtain unless you are 16 or over and are applying for a first passport. The UK Passport Service has to confirm your identity before issuing such a passport and asks applicants to attend an interview in order to do this. A minimum of 6 weeks should be allowed in this case. If you do not have a passport or will need to renew it prior to departure, you are recommended to apply at least 2 months in advance.

For travel to and via the USA, every person travelling (including children) must have a visa unless they qualify for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Most British citizens travelling on holiday will qualify for the VWP but please see the important note below.

All visitors who are eligible for the VWP must now apply for authorisation to travel to the US in advance in accordance with the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). You must complete an online application for authorization to travel on the ESTA website (details below) at least 72 hours before your flight to the US departs but you are recommended to apply earlier. Providing the application is accepted, you will be provided with approval via the website.

Approval is usually provided very quickly but can take up to 72 hours if data needs to be checked. You should make a note of the ESTA approval number when you receive it.

Please note; authorisation to travel under ESTA does not guarantee entry into the United States; that decision rests with the immigration official at the point of entry in the same way that travellers currently entering the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program or with a visa are subject to inspection. Warning: If your passport has ever been reported lost or stolen to the authorities and then recovered, please do not attempt to use it for travel to the United States. If you input the passport details into ESTA, your application will be denied. It is your responsibility to obtain ESTA

approval or a US visa if required. If you fail to obtain authorization to travel through the ESTA website or a US visa in advance of travel, you will not be allowed on your outbound flight to the US. Full cancellation charges will then apply.

The ESTA website can be found at esta.cbp.dhs.gov/ esta.

Important note: Not all British visitors to the USA will qualify for the Visa Waiver Program. You cannot apply for the VWP and will require a visa if you do not have a machine readable passport. All new style, burgundy coloured UK passports are machine readable. You will also need to apply for a visa if you have ever been arrested (even if you were not convicted of an offence) or have a criminal record of any description. Other exemptions also apply. If you are in any doubt as to whether you may require a visa, please contact the US Embassy, Consular Information Unit, 24 Grosvenor Square, London W1A 1AE or visit the website www. uk.usembassy.gov/visas before making your booking.

Further information on entry requirements for the USA is available at travel.state.gov. You must check entry requirements at the time of booking and in good time before departure as requirements may change.

re-assigned to another body, if that other body has paid sums you have claimed under the ATOL scheme.

We are also a member of the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers (ABTOT) with whom we have lodged a bond.The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 for Walks Worldwide, and in the event of our insolvency, protection is provided for the following: 1. non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK; 2. non-flight packages commencing and returning to a country other than the UK; 3. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the UK, which are sold to customers outside of the UK; 4. accommodation only bookings; 5. 1, 2, 3 and 4 provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled. 1 and 3 provides for repatriation.

Please note that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Walks Worldwide.

Requirements generally and for any country may change and you must check the up to date position in good time before departure with the embassy or consulate of the country(ies) you are travelling through and to.

It is your responsibility to ensure you are aware of all recommended vaccinations and health precautions in good time before departure. Details are available from your GP surgery and from the National Travel Health Network and Centre www.nathnac.org. Information on health abroad is also available on www.nhs.uk/Livewell/ Travelhealth For holidays in the EEA you should obtain an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) prior to departure from www.ehic.org.uk. An EHIC is not, however, a substitute for travel insurance. Health requirements and recommendations may change and you must check the up to date position in good time before departure.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office publishes regularly updated travel information on its website www.gov.uk/foreigh-travel-advice which you are recommended to consult before booking and in good time before departure.

22. Financial protection We hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 10544). When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from us, you will receive an ATOL Certificate.

This lists what is financially protected, where you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go wrong. We, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where neither we nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative (at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder. However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). If we, or the suppliers identified on your ATOL certificate, are unable to provide the services listed (or a suitable alternative, through an alternative ATOL holder or otherwise) for reasons of insolvency, the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust may make a payment to (or confer a benefit on) you under the ATOL scheme. You agree that in return for such a payment or benefit, you assign absolutely to those Trustees any claims which you have or may have arising out of or relating to the nonprovision of the services, including any claim against us, the travel agent or your credit card issuer where applicable. You also agree that any such claims may be

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Wildlife Worldwide With over 25 years experience, we create outstanding wildlife holidays worldwide. Our team of wildlife experts explore destinations around the world to ensure we give you the finest wildlife encounters.

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The Travelling Naturalist For over 30 years our expert naturalists have led small group tours to some of the world’s most spectacular wildlife and birdwatching destinations. Our programme features over 100 specialist nature holidays to choose from.

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Families Worldwide Whether your family loves to explore, discover new cultures, get active or enjoy fun adventures, we have a holiday for you.

Join a small group holiday, with like-minded families, or we can design your very own private adventure.

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Dive Worldwide With over 15 years experience, our team of friendly dive experts are dedicated to creating exceptional tailor-made and small group diving and snorkelling holidays to the world’s finest dive destinations.

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Schools Worldwide Our comprehensive range of overseas schools expeditions, project-based school trips abroad, and study-based adventures provide young people with the opportunity to experience the benefits of exploring new environments.

01962 302051 schoolsworldwide.co.uk

Walks Worldwide is part of The Natural Travel Collection Ltd, a small independent travel company that places a special emphasis on sustainable holidays. © WALKS WORLDWIDE 2017 No portion of this brochure may be reproduced without the prior written consent of Walks Worldwide.

Photographs: With thanks to our leaders, suppliers & staff.

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