Cycling SMALL GROUP AND SELF-GUIDED ADVENTURES
Why Explore? We’ve been taking small groups on adventures for almost 40 years. Our authentic travel experiences on two wheels immerse you in the sights and culture of each extraordinary destination, and we work with local leaders who are uniquely placed to add spontaneous moments to every trip.
98%
of travellers would book with Explore again.* *According to independently verified reviews. As of 30/08/2019.
Once-in-a-lifetime. Every day.
It’s all about the experience. Expertly created itineraries will take you off the beaten track to fully experience the culture of each destination. We work with local trip leaders who are uniquely placed to add richness and spontaneous moments to every trip. They’re on hand to take the hassle out of your travel, keep you safe and help create lifelong memories that stand the test of time.
Hand-picked accommodation Carefully selected accommodation which balances comfort with location. This means you’ll generally stay in three-star accommodation with en suite facilities, and you’ll only sleep in a tent if it’s the best way to see the stars.
Responsible travel We believe travel should change us, not the world. We aim to always be welcomed back, for communities and cultures to benefit and wildlife to flourish. Of course we also know that travel impacts the environment we care about, so we partner with charities such as Cool Earth to reduce this. See page 4 for more.
MONTENEGRO
Cycling grade to suit you We have a cycling trip to suit everybody, no matter your level of fitness. From idyllic, pancake-flat coastal paths to epic mountain climbs, we grade our trips from ‘Easy’ to ‘Challenging’ to help you choose the right one for you. See page 10 for details.
Small group sizes Our average group tour size is just 12, which is perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Group sizes never exceed 16 people.
Loyalty scheme We like to reward our customers. As a way of recognising your loyalty, we offer a 5% discount on your fifth to ninth trips with us, and 10% on your tenth and all subsequent trips. You can use this discount on all small group trips with Explore, and can combine it with many of our other discounts and promotions. We also have ways to save if you are travelling in a group or want to recommend a friend. So once you’ve caught the travel bug, we make it a little easier to keep coming back for more.
Welcome 2 Europe 12 Middle East and Africa
46
Asia and the Pacific
54
The Americas
70
Self-Guided 80 General information
94
More from Explore
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Welcome
Exceptional itineraries and local leaders
Charities and partners “Responsible In Everything We Do” is one of our core values here at Explore. This includes supporting charities and projects in the destinations that we visit. Discover the partners we financially support below. On top of these, we sponsor many which our customers can visit or support while on our trips.
Cool Earth
Send a Cow
There’s no escaping it – air travel isn’t very green. But after a lot of research on a complicated subject, we’re proud to continue to support a leading deforestation charity Cool Earth.
Send a Cow is our long-term charity partner and we’re thrilled to be working with them.
Protecting rainforest is one of the most effective actions to tackle climate breakdown. Cool Earth work with indigenous communities empowering them to conserve their forest; keeping CO2 locked in.
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Set up back in 1988, Send a Cow gives African farming families the hope and the means to create a sustainable future from their land. Importantly, Send a Cow also works to tackle barriers to social development, such as gender inequality, to help those most marginalised to thrive.
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
SEPILOK | BORNEO
Water-to-Go
Toilet Twinning
A group of 16 people, on a two-week tour will throw away between 800-1000 plastic bottles! Water-to-Go’s refillable filter bottles kill over 99.9% of all microbiological contaminants in water, including viruses, bacteria, chemicals and heavy metals. Suitable for any non-salt water source. No more need for single-use bottles? Genius.
Toilet Twinning are a UK based charity with one commendable goal – to flush away poverty! This fantastic charity is raising funds to enable people living in poor communities to have clean water, a decent toilet, and to learn about hygiene – a vital combination that prevents the spread of disease, reduces the number of deaths among children, and brings hope for the future.
Use code EXPLORE15 to save 15% at watertogo.eu/explore
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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What to expect from a cycling adventure Our cycling trips are a great way to get under the skin of a country, and see more. We’ve got trips to suit all levels of ability, experience and interests; from occasional weekend bike riders to keen regular cyclists. As with all our trips, every group is different but the ‘average’ group consists of roughly half couples and half solo travellers. Don’t worry too much about keeping up with the rest of the group; your Explore leader will, wherever possible, allow everyone to cycle at their own pace, regrouping regularly along the route. A support vehicle accompanies most of our small-group trips, acting as a back-up should you not feel able to ride any section.
How fit do I need to be? It depends on the trip and cycle grade you choose Although an active vacation, our trips are not a race! We regularly stop and regroup along the ride with planned rest breaks. If in any doubt choose a grade within your comfort zone. We advise doing some training rides leading up to the trip. On most trips a support vehicle will be nearby to provide back-up if needed.
What kind of bike is included? Every one of our cycling trips includes the cost of bike rental; we choose good-quality hybrid touring bikes or mountain bikes – whichever is best-suited to the terrain – and we have experienced bike mechanics on hand to resolve any problems. If you’d prefer a bit of extra power, on most trips you can choose to rent an electric bike (e-bike) for an additional fee at the time of booking. This allows you to conserve your energy for later, and makes your experience much more enjoyable.
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For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
Cycle grade, route and terrain All our cycling journeys are graded, from ‘Easy’ (with flatter, shorter rides and plenty of rest-stops) to ‘Challenging’ (more time in the saddle and more hill-climbs). Our cycle routes are designed to follow quieter back roads or cycle paths wherever possible, with some off-road sections on fine gravel or dirt tracks. You’ll find the grade and a daily distance chart included on all trip pages and there is detailed information about the route and terrain online.
What is a Self-Guided cycling trip? On our Self-Guided cycling trips in Europe, we organize the essentials for you, including the bike, route and accommodation. We’ll send you a detailed guide with maps to follow (or GPS files if you prefer), and transfer your luggage from hotel to hotel. You choose the date, your travel companions, your start time and even your rest stops along the way. You’ll find more information about our Self-Guided trips on page 80.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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We’re a company of seasoned travellers, and we’re always on the lookout for new destinations to visit and new experiences to have in the saddle. From time to time, we come across something new that really gets our feet itching and this year we have five brand new cycling trips joining our collection of adventures.
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For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
BAGAN | BURMA (MYANMAR) | EXPLORE.CO.UK/CBUR
New trips for 2020
NEW TRIP
LEBANON
Cycle Lebanon Cycle through the dramatic mountain scenery of Lebanon, sample great wine in the Bekaa Valley, discover the vast Roman temples of Baalbek and explore Crusader castles and Phoenician remains on the beautiful Mediterranean coastline. Fuel your ride with delicious Lebanese cuisine and enjoy warm hospitality.
TRIP CODE - CLL
NEW TRIP
p. 53
NEW TRIP
BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA AND MONTENEGRO
Cycle Bosnia and Montenegro
From the historic city of Gdansk explore the Baltic coast by bike; travelling on quiet roads and newly-built cycle paths, past giant shifting dunes, Teutonic Castles, a V2 rocket testing site and Baltic coastal scenery.
Cycle through the dramatic and beautiful landscapes of these two lesser visited Balkan countries. Try traditional fare and experience warm, friendly hospitality as we cycle through unspoilt countryside and timeless villages.
TRIP CODE - CPB
TRIP CODE - CBM
POLAND
Cycle Poland - Gdansk and the Baltic Coast
p. 43
p. 35
NEW TRIP SPAIN
Cycle Andalucia - Cadiz To Jerez Cycle through a beautiful part of Andalucia; from the coastal town of Cรกdiz and the inviting beaches of Conil de la Frontera, via the whitewashed hilltop villages to the beautiful city of Jerez, home of flamenco. Discover the birthplace of sherry and enjoy delicious tapas along the way.
TRIP CODE - CCJ
p. 19
Also available as a Self-Guided trip: Self-Guided Cycle Andalucia
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
p. 93
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Cycling grades 1
EASY Relatively short rides on flat or gently undulating terrain, our easy grade is ideal if you want to explore, but at a relaxed pace. Approximately 2-4 hours in the saddle for each ride.
10
4
3
2
EASY TO MODERATE A mix of easy and moderate rides cycling through flat or gently undulating terrain with the occasional energetic ascent.
MODERATE Perfect for cyclists used to undulating routes with occasional energetic climbs, and those who have a reasonable level of fitness. Approximately 4-6 hours in the saddle for each ride.
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MODERATE TO CHALLENGING Combining moderate rides with challenging ones, this grade is perfect for reasonably fit cyclists who want to challenge themselves.
CHALLENGING This grade is for longer, more demanding trips, suiting cyclists who enjoy hilly terrain and challenging ascents, and who have a good fitness level. Approximately 6+ hours in the saddle for each ride.
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
Small group experiences COUNTRIES
TRIP NAME
POINT-TO-POINT*
E-BIKE DAYS OPTION**
TRIP CODE
PAGE
8
CCZ
42
8
CCM
15
8
LV
16
EASY Czech Republic - Germany
Prague to Meissen by Bike
France
Cycle Canal du Midi
France
Loire Valley Cycling
India
Cycle Kerala
Italy
Cycle Dolomites, Lake Garda and Venice
13
CKB
57
8
CDV
27
Italy
Cycle Puglia
8
CIP
31
Lithuania - Latvia - Estonia
Cycling the Baltic States
9
CBS
45
Mexico
Cycle Mexico - The Yucatán Peninsula
9
CMX
75
Vietnam
Cycle Vietnam
14
CVN
63
Vietnam - Cambodia
Cycle Vietnam and Cambodia
13
CVE
69
EASY TO MODERATE Costa Rica
Cycle Costa Rica
14
CCR
77
Cuba
Highlights of Cuba by Bicycle
8
CSC
74
North Cyprus
Cycling North Cyprus
Poland
NEW Cycle Poland - Gdansk and the Baltic Coast
8
CNC
36
8
CPB
43
8
CBM
35
14
CBUR
62
8
CCD
33
15
CCC
73
8
CVP
17
8
CFS
18
10
CGE
39
MODERATE Bosnia & Herzegovina Montenegro
NEW Cycle Bosnia and Montenegro
Burma (Myanmar)
Cycle Burma
Croatia
Cycle the Dalmatian Coast
Cuba
Cycle Cuba!
France
Cycle Provence
France - Spain
Cycle Marseille to Barcelona
Georgia
Cycling in Georgia
India
Cycle India - The Golden Triangle
Italy
Cycling in Italy - Cilento to the Amalfi Coast
10
CIR
58
8
CAC
29
Italy
NEW Cycle Sicily - Syracuse to Mount Etna
8
CSE
30
Italy
Cycle Sardinia
8
CSD
26
Japan
Cycle Japan
13
CJA
61
Jordan
Cycle Jordan
9
CJP
49
Morocco
Cycle Morocco - Atlas to the Sahara
8
CSO
50
Portugal
Cycling Portugal - Porto to Lisbon
8
CPL
24
Portugal
Cycle Portugal - Lisbon to Algarve
8
CAL
25
Romania
Cycle Romania
8
CRT
41
South Africa
Cycle South Africa
10
CTC
51
South Korea
Cycle South Korea
11
CSK
60
Spain
Cycle Southern Spain - Murcia
7
CMU
21
Spain
NEW Cycle Andalucia - Cadiz to Jerez
7
CCJ
19
Sri Lanka
Cycle Sri Lanka
14
CSL
59
Thailand - Cambodia - Vietnam
Bangkok to Saigon by Bike
14
CTV
67
Turkey
Cycle Turkey
Vietnam
Cycle Saigon to Hanoi
8
CTT
37
14
CVIE
65
MODERATE TO CHALLENGING Albania
Cycle Albania
8
CAB
34
Lebanon
NEW Cycle Lebanon
8
CLL
53
Nicaragua - Costa Rica - Panama
Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal
14
CNCP
79
Spain - Portugal
Cycle Seville to Porto
8
CEX
23
Cycling Coast to Coast
4
C2C
14
CHALLENGING England
*POINT-TO-POINT: On a point-to-point cycling trip, your entire journey is made by pedal power so you won’t be using any other methods of transportation. **E-BIKE: If you’re interested in using an electric bike on these trips, just enquire at the time of booking and we can let you know the cost and availability.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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LAKE GARDA | ITALY
Contents Albania
34
Bosnia & Herzegovina
35
Croatia
33
Czech Republic
42
England
14
Estonia
45
France 15–18 Georgia 39 Germany 42 Italy
26–31
Latvia
45
Lithuania 45 Montenegro 35 North Cyprus
36
Poland 43 Portugal 23–25 Romania 41 Spain
18–23
Turkey 37
Cycle Southern Spain - Murcia
21
Cycle the Dalmatian Coast
33
Cycling in Georgia
39
Cycling the Baltic States
45
New Trips Cycle Andalucía - Cádiz to Jerez
19
Cycling in Sicily - Syracuse to Mount Etna
30
Cycle Bosnia and Montenegro
35
Cycle Poland - Gdansk and the Baltic Coast
43
Europe
Best Sellers
EUROPE
Cycling Coast to Coast
5
TRIP CODE - C2C | ENGLAND
This classic coast to coast challenge cycles through some of the wildest and most spectacular landscapes in the north of England, from Whitehaven on the Irish Sea to Tynemouth on the North Sea. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Sense of achievement | Cross England by pedal power Natural beauty | Ever changing scenery from the Lake District to the North Pennines C2C route | Cycle the width of England on the famous C2C route
PRICES FROM
US$520
CA$680
trip only (4 days)
trip only (4 days)
ITINERARY DAY 1: J oin trip in Whitehaven, a small former mining town and port on the Irish Sea, on the western edge of the Lake District.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 2: Cycle along country lanes and a disused railway line to the Lake District, an area of outstanding natural beauty. Climb the Whinlatter Pass and freewheel down to Keswick. Continue through Cumbrian villages and hamlets to Penrith.
CYCLE GRADE: Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 3 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from US$180 / CA$230
MEALS: Breakfast: 3
BIKE:
21 gear Ridgeback Meteor hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
DAILY DISTANCES Day 2
86km
Day 3
54km
Day 4
85km
SCOTLAND
CUSTOMER RATING:
NORTH SEA e Newcastle upon Tyne Tynemouth
CHEVIOT HILLS T
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
SCOTLAND
yn
ALLENHEADS
NORTH CHEVIOT HILLS T Consett SEA Greystoke yn Newcastle e Stanhope upon Tyne ALLENHEADS Wea Tynemouth PENRITH r Ed Keswick Te e es Alston n Solway Consett Firth Greystoke WHITEHAVEN Alston
Solway Firth
THE Stanhope PENNINES CUMBRIAN Wear PENRITH MOUNTAINS E Keswick
WHITEHAVEN IRISH CUMBRIAN SEA MOUNTAINS
IRISH SEA
de
n
Te
es
THE PENNINES
ENGLAND
DAY 3: Cross the North Pennines by pedal power. Cycle the long and steady zig zags of the Hartside Pass to the summit at 580m (1,903ft). Then freewheel for several miles down towards the picturesque Pennine village of Garrigill. Continue to Allenheads where you spend the night in a traditional English pub and guesthouse. DAY 4: The final day’s ride is along a disused railway line across open moorland, as well as a few climbs out of villages you pass en route. The C2C signs take you round docks and over bridges as you approach the city of Newcastle alongside the Tyne, from here is one final push to the ruins of Tynemouth Castle and Priory where the trip ends.
ENGLAND
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
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For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycle Canal du Midi
1
TRIP CODE - CCM | FRANCE
A cycling holiday along France’s historic Canal du Midi and surrounding countryside. Explore medieval walled towns, Cathar Castles, local markets and refuel on delicious French cuisine en route. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Canal du Midi | One of the greatest works of civil engineering of the 17th century Discover rich histories | Béziers and the walled fortress town of Carcassonne Carcassonne | Discover this fascinating and impressively preserved walled fortress
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1340 CA$1740 trip only (8 days)
1
trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip at Carcassonne Airport then drive to historic Béziers. DAY 2: Optional ride to Valras Plage. Circular route back to Béziers.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 3: Cycle south along waterways and country lanes. Ride to Narbonne.
CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAY 4: V isit Narbonne or take a circular cycle route via Gruissan back to Narbonne.
US$400 / CA$520
MEALS: Breakfast: 7
BIKE:
21 gear RTE 520 hybrid bike with front suspension
Point-to-Point
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Optional rides
CARCASSONNE
45km
Day 3
35km
Day 4
30/46km
Day 5
37km
Day 6
55km
Day 7
35/70km
DAY 6: Cycle the vineyards, farms and towpaths. Ride to Carcassonne. DAY 7: View the walled fortress of Carcassonne; cycle locally. DAY 8: Trip ends in Carcassonne.
BÉZIERS
Château de Lastours
Bram
Day 2
Optional Rides
FRANCE Villepinte
DAY 5: V isit Narbonne’s 100 year old market. Circular ride though vineyards to Bages.
DAILY DISTANCES
Oppidium d’Ensérun
Ecluse de L’Aiguille
Canal du Midi
LEZIGNANCORBIÈRES
Étang de Thau 9 Locks of Fonserannes
Valras Plage
NARBONNE
Narbonne Plage Optional rides Mediterranean Étang de Sea Peyriac Bages
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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EUROPE
Loire Valley Cycling
1
TRIP CODE - LV | FRANCE
Explore the magnificent chateaux of the Loire Valley. Cycle through pleasant towns and villages and visit medieval Amboise and elegant Azay-le-Rideau along the way. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Montrichard | Bustling market town with a rich medieval heritage Chateau of Chenonceau | One of the most beautiful castles in France Food and wine | Experience fine local cuisine and optional wine tasting
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1350 CA$1760 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip at Chenonceaux.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: Optional rides to the 17th century château of Gué-Péan or to one of the local vineyards.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 3: Cycle the tranquil forest and pretty villages to Amboise. Cycle south along waterways and country lanes.
CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAY 4: Ride along country lanes and beside the river Indre to the elegant town of Azay-le-Rideau.
DAILY DISTANCES
US$400 / CA$520
MEALS:
Day 2
35km
Breakfast: 6
Day 3
30/40km
Day 4
54km
Day 5
38km
Day 6
35km
BIKE:
21 gear RTE 520 hybrid bike with front suspension
Day 7
Point-to-Point
43km Tours Airport
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
FRANCE
DAY 6: Cycle to medieval Chinon, passing Château d’Ussé the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty. DAY 7: Ride the wine route of Chinon along the River Vienne.
Optional Rides
E-Bike available
DAY 5: Explore Azay Château rising out of the Indre River; or visit the pristine gardens of Villandry.
DAY 8: Drive to Tours airport where the trip ends.
Tours Airport
CHENONCEAUX Château de Chenonceau
Villandry Gardens
FRANCE Ussé
e
Loir
AMBOISE Tours
CHENONCEAUX Château de Chenonceau
L
Tours
re
nne
CHINON
Vie
Ussé Fontevraud Abbey
re
nne
Vie
CHINON
Montrichard Ind
AZAY-LE-RIDEAU Fontevraud Abbey
Ind
Montrichard AMBOISE Villandry Gardens AZAY-LE-RIDEAU oire
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
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For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycle Provence
3
TRIP CODE - CVP | FRANCE
Ride through the heart of Provence, visit hilltop villages, vineyards and discover the landscapes that inspired Vincent van Gogh. Explore the region’s amazing heritage of Roman remains, theatres and arc de triomphes. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Dentelles de Montmirail | Alpine foothills rising up from the edge of the Rhône Valley Cycle the Luberon | Visit the village of Gordes and its Renaissance Château St-Rémy-de-Provence | Wander the streets of this market town, one time home to Vincent van Gogh
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1280 CA$1670 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: J oin trip at Marseille airport. Drive to historic Carpentras.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: C ircular ride deep into the Provence countryside. Visiting Vacqueras and Gigondas; sample great Grenache wines in the Dentelles.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from US$400 / CA$520
MEALS: Breakfast: 7
BIKE:
21 gear RTE 520 hybrid bike with front suspension
DAILY DISTANCES Day 2
59km
Day 3
41km
Day 4
20/80km
Day 5
61km
Day 6
52km
Day 7
45km
Optional Rides
Point-to-Point
FRANCE
E-Bike available
DENTELLES DE FRANCE MONTMIRAIL Seguret
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Gigondas Mt. Ventoux Seguret Malaucène Vacqueras
Violès
Ventoux Bédoin Gigondas Mt. Caromb Vacqueras CARPENTRAS Bédoin Caromb Venasque Pernes
PROVENCE Avignon (optional visit)
PROVENCE Avignon (optional visit)
To/From Marseille Airport To/From Marseille Airport
Malaucène DENTELLES DE MONTMIRAIL
Violès
CARPENTRAS
L’Isle-SurPernes La-Sorgue
DAY 3: C ycle under the southern slopes of Mount Ventoux to visit a vineyard for wine tasting. DAY 4: E njoy a free day in the Luberon. Explore Avignon or ride up Mount Ventoux. Alternatively visit Gordes market. ycle to Cavaillon via L’Isle-sur-laDAY 5: C Sorgue and Ménerbes on the edge of the Petit Luberon. DAY 6: C ircular ride from Cavaillon via St Rémy-de-Provençe. DAY 7: C ircular ride through Orgon with its 13th century Knights Templar castle returning along the Durance River Valley. DAY 8: D rive to Marseille Airport where the trip ends.
Venasque
Gordes Fontaine-deL’Isle-SurVaucluse 12th Century Villages La-Sorgue LUBERON Gordes Fontaine-deST-RÉMY-DE Cavaillon Vaucluse 12th Century Villages -PROVENCE Durance Orgon LUBERON ST-RÉMY-DE Cavaillon DES ALPILLES -PROVENCE Durance Orgon Senas
DES ALPILLES
Senas
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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EUROPE
Cycle Marseille to Barcelona
3
TRIP CODE - CFS | FRANCE, SPAIN
A cycle, rail and road journey from Marseille to Barcelona that explores the wild beauty of the Camargue, medieval villages, the Canal du Midi, vineyards, Greek and Roman remains and the inviting beaches of Catalonia. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Catalan Emporda | Cycle through this beautiful region Camargue wetlands | Explore the regional park and natural reserve by bike Mediterranean culture | Contrasts between the French and Catalan Mediterranean
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1520 CA$1980 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in Marseille.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: Explore old Marseille on foot then cycle the protected wetlands of the Camargue.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 3: Spot flamingos and white horses on our ride to the ancient port city, Sète.
CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAILY DISTANCES
US$320 / CA$420
MEALS:
Day 2
31km
Breakfast: 7
Day 3
75km
Day 4
51km
Day 5
50km
BIKE:
27 gear Stevens Galant SX or similar hybrid bike
DAY 4: Cycle the Canal du Midi to historic Béziers. Train ride to the medieval coastal town of Collioure.
E-Bike available
Day 6
58km
Day 7
50km
CUSTOMER RATING:
DAY 5: Inland mountain ride on back roads through the Pyrenees to Figueres, home to the Dalí Museum. DAY 6: C ycle through rolling hills of the Empordà with great beaches and Greek settlement remains. DAY 7: R ide through medieval villages and cork oak forests to Sant Feliu de Guixols on the Mediterranean. DAY 8: Trip ends in Barcelona.
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
FRANCE
SAINTES MARIES DE LA MER Camargue N.P
Béziers
SЀTE Canal du Midi
COLLIOURE
MARSEILLE Panier district Old Port
Mediterranean Sea
FIGUERES
Dali Museum
SPAIN
TORROELLA DE MONTGRI
Empuries Greek ruins Sant Feliu de Guixols
BARCELONA
Gaudi Modernist Architecture
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
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For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycle Andalucía - Cádiz to Jerez
3
TRIP CODE - CCJ | SPAIN NEW TRIP
Discover the south western corner of Andalucía on two wheels. From the ancient port of Cádiz we cycle along the Costa de la Luz past golden sands. Heading inland we ride between beautiful, hilltop towns that once marked the frontier between Christian and Muslim Spain. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Varied point-to-point cycling | Scenic rides with culture and history Wine tasting | Visit the sherry triangle and learn about the five types of sherry Jerez | Beautiful town renowned for Flamenco
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1350 CA$1760 trip only (7 days)
DAY 1: T rip starts in Cadiz. Ancient port town from where ships used to set sail to the newly-discovered Americas.
trip only (7 days)
AT A GLANCE
DAY 2: B us to Conil de la Frontera. Start cycling via Cape Trafalgar to Vejer de la Frontera.
CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAILY DISTANCES
US$250 / CA$330
Day 2
33km
MEALS:
Day 3
60km
Breakfast: 6
Day 4
67km
BIKE:
Day 5
54km
Day 6
42km
21 gear Stevens hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
SPAIN
ARCOS DE LA FRONTERA
ycle past the Moorish castle DAY 5: C in Gigonza, through orange and almond orchards to Arcos de la Frontera.
DAY 7: T rip ends in Jerez.
SPAIN
Sherry tasting
CADIZ
DAY 4: T raverse holm oak woods and big finca estates with grazing bulls on bike ride to medieval Medina Sidonia.
DAY 6: F inal ride passing vineyards, olive groves and riverside towns to Jerez de la Frontera. Included sherry tasting. Optional flamenco.
CADIZ
JEREZ DE LA FRONTERA
DAY 3: L oop ride through nature reserve and rice paddies to coastal town Zahara de los Atunes.
MEDINA SIDONIA
Conil de la Frontera
VEJER DE LA FRONTERA
Cape Trafalgar Barbate
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
19
LA FLORACIÓN, MURCIA | SPAIN
20
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycle Southern Spain - Murcia
3
TRIP CODE - CMU | SPAIN
On this cycling adventure in southern Spain we discover Murcia’s whitewashed villages and Moorish towers, endless orchards, ancient irrigation channels and layers of history. Murcia enjoys mild winters, a semi-arid climate and averages more than 320 days of sun per year. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Peaceful cycling | Ride on scenic and quiet backroads and cycle paths Whitewashed villages | Typical Spanish villages with Moorish roots Tapas y Vino | Reward yourself and refuel on delicious Spanish food and wine
PRICES FROM
US$940
CA$1230
trip only (7 days)
trip only (7 days)
ITINERARY DAY 1: Join trip in Murcia. Optional loop ride to Fuensanta Sanctuary. DAY 2: Follow ‘via verde’ cycle path to Caravaca de la Cruz, one of the Vatican’s five Holy cities.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate
DAY 3: A circular bike route from Caravaca past historic irrigation channels, elm groves and tiny villages.
ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAILY DISTANCES
US$210 / CA$270
MEALS:
Day 1
18km
Breakfast: 6
Day 2
39km
Day 3
45km
Day 4
44km
Day 5
33/46km
Day 6
57km
BIKE:
27 gear Bergamont Horizon hybrid bike with front suspension
SPAIN
Point-to-Point Optional Rides
E-Bike available
MURCIA
DAY 4: Cycle on ‘via verde’ cycle path to Calasparra via the 15th century fortress in Moratalla. DAY 5: Ride along peaceful country roads, past almond and apricot orchards, to the lively town of Cieza. DAY 6: Complete our circuit with a cycle through the deep and scenic Ricote Valley back into Murcia. DAY 7: Trip ends in Murcia.
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
CALASPARRA Moratalla
SPAIN
CIEZA
MURCIA CARAVACA DE LA CRUZ
Archivel
Bullas
CALASPARRA
Moratalla
CIEZA
MURCIA
GO SELF-GUIDED? Choose to explore this itinerary at your own pace with a Self-Guided option. See page 90 or visit exploreworldwide.com/CSSM for more details.
CARAVACA DE LA CRUZ
Archivel
Bullas
SPAIN MURCIA
SPAIN
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
21
DOURO VALLEY | PORTUGAL
22
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycle Seville to Porto
4
TRIP CODE - CEX | SPAIN, PORTUGAL
A cycling adventure across the vast and scenic landscapes along Europe’s oldest border between Spain and Portugal. Discover the legacy of Roman Iberia, the Moors and the land of the conquistadores. Finally we travel by train along the Douro Valley into Porto. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cycle off the beaten track | Discover the littlevisited regions of Extremadura and Alentejo Seville and Porto | Explore these two fascinating and beautiful cities Douro Valley | Enjoy the scenery and relax on a train journey
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1480 CA$1930 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in Seville, one of Spain’s finest cities.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: Cycle through a landscape of cork oak estates and Iberian pigs to UNESCO-listed Elvas.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate to Challenging
DAY 3: Scenic ride criss-crossing the Spanish-Portuguese border to the medieval hilltop village of Marvão.
ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights premium hotel
DAILY DISTANCES
2 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
Day 2
US$360 / CA$460
Day 3
87km
MEALS:
Day 4
82km
Breakfast: 12 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 1
BIKE:
55km
Day 5
77km
Day 6
75km
18 gear Giant or Merida mountain bike with front suspension
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
Ermesinde Ermesinde
PORTO PORTO
Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Ocean
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Douro Valley train ride Douro Valley train ride Pocinho Pocinho
ALDEA DEL OBISPODEL ALDEA OBISPO SAN MARTIN DE TREVEJO SAN MARTIN DE TREVEJO
DAY 4: Enjoy wide open spaces riding to the Spanish city of Alcantara and its impressive Roman bridge. DAY 5: Cycle through the hinterland of the Extremadura region, dotted with huge finca estates. DAY 6: Ride through the Sierra de Gata mountains to our spectacular hotel in Aldea del Obispo. DAY 7: Beautiful Douro Valley train into Porto. Celebrate with some Port tasting (optional). DAY 8: Trip ends in Porto.
ALCANTARA ALCANTARA
PORTUGAL PORTUGAL
MARVÃO MARVÃO ELVAS ELVAS
SPAIN SPAIN
SEVILLE SEVILLE
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
23
EUROPE
Cycling Portugal - Porto to Lisbon
3
TRIP CODE - CPL | PORTUGAL
Discover the cultural highlights, beaches and natural beauty of central Portugal. Cycle the Douro Valley, a bike path to Coimbra then take a train to picturesque Aveiro. Spend the next three days following the Atlantic Coast, trying the excellent local wines and catch of the day. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Varied and scenic cycling | Two inland rides and three days closer to the coast Porto and Lisbon | Explore Portugal’s two finest cities Local cuisine | Taste great food and local wines
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1480 CA$1930 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in Porto.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: Cycle ride up the scenic Douro Valley on quiet roads to Peso da Régua.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from US$350 / CA$450
MEALS: Breakfast: 7
DAILY DISTANCES Day 2
47km
Day 3
49km
Day 4
49km
Day 5
48km
Day 6
30km
Day 7
43km
BIKE:
27 gear Stevens Galant SX or similar hybrid bike
Optional Rides Pala Pala
E-Bike available
PORTO PORTO
CUSTOMER RATING:
Aveiro ‘Portuguese Venice’ Aveiro ‘Portuguese Venice’
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019. Atlantic Ocean Atlantic Ocean
FIGUEIRA DA FOZ FIGUEIRA DA FOZ
Pria de Mira Pria de Mira
Douro Valley cycle ride Douro Valley Peso da Régua cycle ride Peso da Régua
VISEU VISEU Dão cycle and walking path Dão cycle and walking path
DAY 3: Ride the Ecopista Dão cycle path with a downhill bias. Drive to university town of Coimbra. DAY 4: Train ride to Aveiro – the Portuguese ‘Venice’. Cycle on coastal plains to Figueira da Foz. DAY 5: Drive to historic Alcobaça. Scenic coastal cycling via Nazaré to Foz do Arelho. DAY 6: Free day. Relax on the beach or visit charming walled town of Óbidos. DAY 7: Coastal ride to traditional fishing port of Peniche. Drive to Lisbon for the final night. DAY 8: Trip ends in Lisbon.
COIMBRA COIMBRA
PORTUGAL PORTUGAL
Nazare Nazare FOZ DO ARELHO FOZ DO Peniche ARELHO Peniche
Alcobaça Alcobaça Obidos Optional visit by bike or taxi Obidos Optional visit by bike or taxi
LISBON
Optional Fado
LISBON
Optional Fado
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
24
For For more more details details call call 1 800 1 800 715 715 1746 1746 oror gogo toto www.exploreworldwide.com www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycle Portugal - Lisbon to Algarve
3
TRIP CODE - CAL | PORTUGAL
From the cobbled streets of Lisbon we cycle south through wild coastal landscapes, past fishing villages, pristine coves and superb beaches, to the remote south-westerly corner of Europe. Discover the Costa Vicentina - Europe’s largest coastal natural park. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Lisbon | Explore Portugal’s charming capital Vicentine Coast Natural Park | Cycle the entire length of this wild and unspoilt corner of Europe Food and drink | Try great local cuisine and Alentejo wines
PRICES FROM
US$1280 CA$1670 trip only (8 days)
trip only (8 days)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate
Choose to explore this itinerary at your own pace with a Self-Guided option.
DAY 1: Join trip in Lisbon. DAY 2: E xplore Lisbon. Afternoon optional visit to Sintra by train.
See page 93 or visit exploreworldwide.com/CSPO for more details.
ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAY 3: Ferry across the Tagus and follow the Caparica coast on our ride to Cape Espichel.
DAILY DISTANCES
US$270 / CA$340
Day 3
59km
MEALS:
Day 4
35km
Day 5
27km
Day 6
66km
Day 7
54km
Breakfast: 7
BIKE:
27 gear Stevens Galant or similar hybrid bike
ITINERARY
GO SELF-GUIDED?
E-Bike available
LISBON
Trafaria Trafaria
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Lagoa Lagoa de de Albufeira Albufeira Cape Cape Espichel Espichel Lighthouse Lighthouse
DAY 5: Drive south into the Alentejo region for our cycle to Vila Nova de Milfontes. DAY 6: Continue cycling south through the Costa Vicentina Natural Park to historic Aljezur village. DAY 7: C ycle past great wild beaches to end ride in Sagres. Drive to Faro.
Sintra Sintra (optional) (optional)
CUSTOMER RATING:
DAY 4: Cycle through the rolling hills, beaches and bays of Arrabida Natural Park to Setúbal.
SETÚBAL
DAY 8: Trip ends in Faro.
Arrabida Arrabida Natural Natural Park Park
SESIMBRA
PORTUGAL
Sines Sines
ATLANTIC OCEAN
VILA NOVA DE MILFONTES
Costa Costa Vicentina Vicentina Natural Natural Park Park
ALJEZUR
Sagres Sagres
FARO
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
25
EUROPE
Cycle Sardinia
3
TRIP CODE - CSD | ITALY
Discover the unspoilt beauty and wild coastlines of Sardinia - perfect for a cycle adventure. Ride past cliffs, bays and inviting beaches. Explore Sant’Antioco and Carloforte islands and cycle along the stunning ‘Costa del Sud’ before spending our final night in lively Cagliari. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cycle Sardinia | Pedalling the wild Costa Verde with breath-taking views Excellent food and wine | Carignano and Vermentino wines and pecorino cheese Beaches | Enjoy vast unspoilt beaches with inviting crystal waters
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1550 CA$2020 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip at our agriturismo near Arbus.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: A beautifully wild and scenic loop route via Piscinas beach.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 3:
CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights comfortable hotel
DAILY DISTANCES
2 nights comfortable agriturismo Optional single rooms from
Day 2
46km
US$220 / CA$280
Day 3
40km
MEALS:
Day 4
39km
Day 5
42km
Day 6
48km
Day 7
49km
Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 1
BIKE:
30 gear custom-built hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
SARDINIA SARDINIA
ARBUS
DAY 5: An optional loop ride to explore the island of Sant’Antioco or choose to relax.
DAY 7: Finish on a high with the best ride – with breathtaking views of the coast and sea and plenty of ups and downs.
CUSTOMER RATING: ARBUS
DAY 4: Discover the island of San Pietro and continue by ferry to Sant’Antioco Island. Chance to taste Carignano wine.
DAY 6: Return to the main island and ride to Teulada via Zuddas cave and Santadi for wine tasting.
Optional Rides
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
After a long downhill to surf town Portixeddu we ride past the Sugar Loaf cliff to Nebida. Visit an abandoned mine.
DAY 8: Trip ends in lively Cagliari.
NEBIDA NEBIDA Portovesme Carloforte Carloforte
GO SELF-GUIDED? Choose to explore this itinerary at your own pace with a Self-Guided option.
CAGLIARI CAGLIARI
Portovesme Calasetta Calasetta
SANT’ANTIOCO
Pula
SANT’ANTIOCO TEULADA
Pula
TEULADA
See page 87 or visit exploreworldwide.com/CSSD for more details.
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
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For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycle Dolomites, Lake Garda and Venice
1
TRIP CODE - CDV | ITALY
On this cycle journey we ride down the magnificent glacial valleys of the South Tyrol, past the jagged backdrop of the Dolomites to the beautiful setting of Lake Garda. Cross Lake Garda to explore the grand architecture and cultural heritage of Verona and Venice, where our journey ends. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Easy cycling | Enjoy peaceful cycle paths and country roads through the South Tyrol Natural beauty | Cycle past rugged mountain peaks, pristine lakes and gentle alpine meadows Venice and Verona | End on a cultural high
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1890 CA$2460 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip at Venice Airport. Drive to the elegant Alpine town of Merano.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: Cycle on the Adige bike path through a broad glacial valley to the Tyrolean capital of Bolzano.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy
DAY 3: Bike down the ‘wine route’ to Trento, past the crystal clear waters of Lake Caldaro.
ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAY 4: Be rewarded with stunning views of Lake Garda on our descent by bike to Riva del Garda.
US$340 / CA$450
MEALS: Breakfast: 7
DAY 5: A scenic catamaran ride across Lake Garda. Ride the cycle path to beautiful Verona.
DAILY DISTANCES
BIKE:
21 gear custom-built hybrid bike
Day 2
35km
Day 3
72km
Day 4
42km
CUSTOMER RATING:
Day 5
29km
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Day 6
35km
E-Bike available
DAY 6: Ride quiet country roads to wine producing Soave. Return by train to Verona for a free afternoon. DAY 7: Explore the marvellous city of Venice. DAY 8: Trip ends in Mestre.
MERANO BOLZANO Caldaro Ora
RIVA DEL GARDA
TRENTO
ITALY
GO SELF-GUIDED? Choose to explore this itinerary at your own pace with a Self-Guided option. See page 88 or visit exploreworldwide.com/CSDV for more details.
Lake Garda
MESTRE
Bardolino
VERONA
Soave
Venice Guided tour
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
27
POSITANO, AMALFI COAST | ITALY
28
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycling in Italy - Cilento to the Amalfi Coast
3
TRIP CODE - CAC | ITALY
Cycle the dramatic coastline and rugged interior of Cilento National Park. Visit superb Greek temples at Paestum and try the freshest mozzarella di bufala and Cilento wines. After five days riding, we explore the Amalfi Coast on the ‘Walk of the Gods’. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cilento National Park | Discover unspoilt nature, traditions and beautiful scenery Varied cycling | Ride along dramatic coastline and up to mountain hamlets Amalfi Coast | Walk the ‘Path of the Gods’ from Bomerano to Positano
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1620 CA$2110 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip at Naples Airport. Drive to San Severino in Cilento National Park. Two transfer times to choose from.
trip only (8 days)
AT A GLANCE
DAY 2: Loop ride around Mount Bulgheria into the rugged interior with superb views of the coastline looking south.
CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 1 night simple homestay 11 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple overnight train Optional single rooms from
DAY 3: A linear ride along the jagged coastline to Marina di Ascea. Learn about and try traditional Cilento dried, white figs.
DAILY DISTANCES
US$220 / CA$290
MEALS:
Day 2
54km
Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 2
Day 3
40km
Day 4
48km
BIKE:
27 gear Atala Planet mountain bike with front suspension
Day 5
60km
Day 6
25/25km
Day 7
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
13km
WALK
Optional Rides
Naples Airport
Gulf of Naples
Positano
ITALY
ITALY
Bomerano
Naples Airport
MINORI/ MAIORI
Amalfi ‘Walk of the Gods’
DAY 4:
Another loop ride with superb panoramic views; through olive groves, chestnut forests and charming villages. Visit ancient Greek Velia.
DAY 5:
We ride north following the coast through the fishing villages of Pioppi and Acciaroli to Agropoli. Cilento wine tasting.
DAY 6: Visit Greek temples and forum of Paestum before our final loop ride with a mozzarella farm visit. $PDOĆ Coast & Cilento
DAY 7: Enjoy the dramatic beauty of the Amalfi Coast on the ‘Walk of the Gods’ and a cruise to Amalfi. DAY 8: Trip ends in Maiori or Minori.
Paestum Greek Temple
Cilento National Park
AGROPOLI Tyrrhenian Sea
Velia
SAN SEVERINO
MARINA DI ASCEA Palinuro
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
29
EUROPE
Cycling in Sicily - Syracuse to Mount Etna
3
TRIP CODE - CSE | ITALY NEW TRIP
A varied and scenic journey by bike and bus discovering the highlights of Eastern Sicily. Starting our journey in Syracuse, the ancient Greek capital, we cycle between the beautiful Baroque towns of Ragusa, Modica and Noto. We end our journey with a ride around the flanks of Mount Etna. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cycle Sicily | Picturesque landscapes and beautiful towns Mount Etna | Ride around the volcano and optional ascent by cable car and 4WD Gastronomic Sicily | Great food and wine
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1440 CA$1870 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in Syracuse.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: D rive into hilly interior to medieval Palazzolo Acreide. Cycle to the Baroque pearl of Ragusa.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 3: C ycle to Modica to explore and for chocolate tasting. Ride to beautiful Scicli and drive onto Noto.
CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 4 nights comfortable hotel 3 nights premium hotel Optional single rooms from US$300 / CA$390
DAILY DISTANCES Day 2
35km
MEALS:
Day 3
51km
Breakfast: 7
Day 4
45km
BIKE:
Day 5
43km
Day 6
57km
27 gear Stevens Galant SX or similar hybrid bike
DAY 5: Free day. Optional loop ride to dramatic Cavagrande National Reserve. Or visit to ancient Greek capital of Syracuse and Ortygia Island. DAY 6: A spectacular bike ride around the northern flanks of Mount Etna from Malletto to the sea.
Optional Rides

DAY 4: L oop ride to lovely coastal village of Marzamemi. Swim and visit wetlands of Vendicari Nature Reserve.
E-Bike available Taormina Taormina (optional) (optional)
Maletto Maletto
MASCALI MASCALI
Etna MtMt Etna (optional acent) (optional acent)
SICILY SICILY
DAY 7: F ree day. Optional ascent of Mount Etna or stroll through nearby Taormina. DAY 8: Trip ends in Mascali.
Catania Catania Airport Airport
Palazzolo Acreide Palazzolo Acreide
Cavagrande Cavagrande Reserve Reserve (optional ride) (optional ride)
RAGUSA RAGUSA
NOTO NOTO
Modica Modica Scicli Scicli
SYRACUSE SYRACUSE
Pozzallo Pozzallo
Marzamemi Marzamemi
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
30
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycle Puglia
1
TRIP CODE - CIP | ITALY
Discover the ‘heel’ of Italy on easy cycle rides through the sun-drenched region of Puglia. Along the way we sample the superb Pugliese cuisine with cheeses from a local ‘caseificio’, a visit to a family-run bakery and wine tasting. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Alberobello and Monopoli | Whitewashed towns with the fairytale-like ‘trulli’ dwellings Matera | Ancient city ‘sassi’ cave dwellings, one of Europe’s oldest settlements Alta Murgia National Park | Ride through a perfect example of Mediterranean Steppe to an impressive castle
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1590 CA$2070 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in Altamura.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: Cycle through Alta Murgia National Park from UNESCO-listed Monte castle.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 3: Ride across wide open vistas under blue skies to the unique troglodyte settlement of Matera.
CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAY 4: Cycle past olive groves to the distinctive dry stone conical trulli buildings of Alberobello.
US$250 / CA$320
DAILY DISTANCES
MEALS: Breakfast: 7
BIKE:
21 gear Lombardo Taranto 400 hybrid bike
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Day 2
34km
Day 3
30km
Day 4
33km
Day 5
44/10km
Day 6
35km
Day 7
45km
Optional Rides
DAY 5: A circular ride that explores beautiful villages. Enjoy a local wine tasting. DAY 6: Cycle past ochre fields and the Adriatic coast to Monopoli. Sample local cheeses. DAY 7: A coastal ride past inviting clear waters to the bronze age site of Egnazia. Evening wine tasting. DAY 8: Trip ends in Monopoli.
Bari Airport
ADRIATIC SEA
13th century castle
MONOPOLI ALTAMURA
local bakery visit
Alta Murgia National Park
GO SELF-GUIDED? Choose to explore this itinerary at your own pace with a Self-Guided option.
San Giuliano Lake
ALBEROBELLO
Egnazia Bronze-age site
ITALY
Trulli town, Cisternino Caseificio cheese tasting Locorotondo Troglodyte Vineyard visit Town
MATERA
See page 88 or visit exploreworldwide.com/CSIP for more details.
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
31
DUBROVNIK | CROATIA
32
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycle the Dalmatian Coast
3
TRIP CODE - CCD | CROATIA
Explore the beautiful Dalmatian coast by bike from Split to Dubrovnik. Visit medieval towns, fishing villages and plenty of vineyards while island hopping along Croatia’s coast. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Dubrovnik and Split | Spend time in the historic hearts of the region’s oldest cities Hvar Island | Cycle through the beautiful countryside of one of Croatia’s scenic gems Korcula Island | Explore the villages and vineyards of this historic Island
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1210 CA$1580 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in the coastal town of Kastel Kambelovac.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: Morning sightseeing in Split. Ferry to Hvar Island and explore by bike.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 3: Cycle the old streets and abandoned villages on the beautiful island of Hvar.
CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 4 nights simple hotel 3 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAILY DISTANCES
US$270 / CA$350
MEALS:
Day 2
42km
Breakfast: 7
Day 3
42km
BIKE:
21 gear Polar or Mirage hybrid bike
DAY 4: Ferry to Korcula. Ride around the red terracotta roofed villages and limestone streets.
Day 4
13km
Day 5
62km
Day 6
27km
Day 7
34km
E-Bike available Optional Rides
CUSTOMER RATING:
DAY 5: Full day’s cycling on Korcula. Experience the rural elegance of the island. DAY 6: Morning ferry to Orebić. Cycle to Zuljana, then drive to Dubrovnik. DAY 7: Opportunity to cycle through the villages of the Dalmatian Coast or explore Dubrovnik. DAY 8: Trip ends Dubrovnik.
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
KASTEL KAMBELOVAC Sightseeing Split
STARI GRAD HVAR
CROATIA
BOSNIA HERZEGOVINA
KORCULA
DUBROVNIK
Cavtat
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
33
EUROPE
Cycle Albania
4
TRIP CODE - CAB | ALBANIA
Discover the highlights of Albania while cycling through stunning scenery along peaceful, almost traffic-free roads in the mountains and along the turquoise coast. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Albanian Riviera | Picturesque trails and villages Archaeological ruins and UNESCO Sites | Gjirokaster, Butrint and Berat Food and drink | Mouth-watering local delicacies and great value beer
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1180 CA$1540 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip at Tirana Airport and drive to Lake Ohrid.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: Lake Ohrid to Korçë. Cycle up to the elevated plateau with fine views over the lake.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate to Challenging
DAY 3: Climb into the heart of the Gramos Mountians to Gërmenj.
ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel
DAILY DISTANCES
1 night comfortable guesthouse
Day 2
50km
Optional single rooms from
Day 3
72km
US$170 / CA$220
Day 4
58km
MEALS:
Day 5
67km
Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 3
Day 6
40km
BIKE:
Day 7
33km
24 gear Specialized CrossTrail or Ariel hybrid bike with lockable front suspension
Durrës Durrës
Tirana Tirana Airport Airport
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
NORTH NORTH MACEDONIA MACEDONIA
Lake Lake Ohrid Ohrid
ALBANIA
ADRIATIC SEA
DAY 4: Pedal amid dramatic mountain scenery in the Drino Valley and Këlcyrë Gorge to Gjirokaster. DAY 5: Cycle to Sarande on the Ionian Coast via Butrint; an archaeological treasure. DAY 6: Coastal cycling along the Albanian Riviera to the fine beaches of Qeparo. DAY 7: Ride through coastal towns and forests, then drive through Llogara National Park to Berat. DAY 8: Trip ends at Tirana Airport.
POGRADEC
Onufri Onufri Icons Icons Museum Museum
BERAT
‘Baba ‘Baba Tomor’ Tomor’ 2416m 2416m
ii mm ssuu OO
V Vjjoo
ssëë
Llogara Llogara Pass Pass
Dhermi Dhermi
Himara Himara
GЁRMENJ
D Dririnnoo
Llogara Llogara NP NP
Këlcyrë Këlcyrë Gorge Gorge
QEPARO
Piqeras Piqeras Lukovë Lukovë
SARANDE
KORÇË
Remote Remote Gërmenj Gërmenj Park Park Vjosa Vjosa gorge gorge
Permet Permet
BenjaBenjaHot Hot springs springs
GJIROKASTËR
Muzina Muzina Pass Pass Blue Blue Eye Eye Spring Spring
Butrint Butrint NP NP Lagoon Lagoon
GREECE GREECE
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
34
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycle Bosnia and Montenegro
3
TRIP CODE - CBM | BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA, MONTENEGRO NEW TRIP
Experience traditional Balkan fare and warm, friendly hospitality as you cycle through unspoilt countryside and timeless villages. Traverse landscapes of dramatic mountains and pretty rivers on this journey through Bosnia and Montenegro. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Sarajevo | Explore the cultural highlights of the ‘Jerusalem of Europe’ Skadar Lake National Park | Cycle with views of the largest lake in the Balkans Virpazar | Stay in this traditional Montenegrin village
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1080 CA$1410 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: J oin tour in Sarajevo (Bosnia and Herzegovina).
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: M orning tour of Sarajevo city often called the ‘Jerusalem of Europe’ due to its rich history of religious and cultural variety. Short cycle to the source of the Bosna River.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights comfortable hotel
DAILY DISTANCES
1 night simple cabin 1 night simple hotel
Day 2
Optional single rooms from
Day 3
71km
US$130 / CA$170
Day 4
65km
MEALS:
Day 5
61km
Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 1
Day 6
45km
Day 7
48km
BIKE:
21 gear Polar or Mirage hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
30km
BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA BOSNIA & SARAJEVO HERZEGOVINA Pale Mount Jahorina 1913m Mount Jahorina 1913m
SARAJEVO GORAZDE Ustikolina Pale Brod
GORAZDE
Ustikolina Brod
IZALZAK VILLAGE IZALZAK MONTENEGRO VILLAGE Niksic MONTENEGRO
BOGETICI
Ostrog Niksic Monastery Podgorica BOGETICI Ostrog Monastery Podgorica
DAY 3: S hort drive to Pale then cycle to Gorazde through deciduous forests, mountain farms and villages. DAY 4: C ycle alongside the Drina River passing through Ustikolina and Brod heading towards the Durmitor massif in Montenegro. Overnight rural stay in cabins amid natural beauty. eautiful ride through Alpine DAY 5: B scenery and descend towards Niksic to reach Ostrog Monastery, dramatically perched on a cliff. DAY 6: C ycle on the slopes of Prekornica Mountain following the Zeta River valley. Slowly descend towards Virpazar, on the shores of Skadar Lake. DAY 7: L oop ride through typical Mediterranean landscapes to Rijeka Crnojevica village. DAY 8: Tour ends in Virpazar.
VIRPAZAR
ADRIATIC SEA
Skadar Lake (option boat trip)
ADRIATIC SEA
Skadar Lake (option boat trip)
VIRPAZAR
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
35
EUROPE
Cycling North Cyprus
2
TRIP CODE - CNC | NORTH CYPRUS
An off-the-beaten-track cycling holiday in North Cyprus. Enjoy cycling along the sparsely populated Karpaz Peninsula, past lemon and orange groves, through old villages and fishing harbours from Famagusta to Zimyamet. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Karpaz Peninsula | Unspoilt and beautiful beaches Ancient towns and sites | Salamis, Famagusta and Saint Barnabas Monastery Turkish hospitality | Delicious food and 340 days of sunshine a year
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1180 CA$1540 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in Famagusta.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: Orientation ride round Famagusta. Explore the old town and its Venetian fortifications.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate
DAY 3: Cycle to ancient Salamis, then on to the fishing village of Bogaz.
ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel
DAY 4: Pedal across the Karpaz peninsula to Karpaz Gate Marina.
1 night simple apartment
DAY 5: Follow the North coast then cycle inland to Dipkarpaz.
Optional single rooms from
DAILY DISTANCES
US$260 / CA$330
MEALS:
Day 2
Breakfast: 7
Day 3
45km
BIKE:
Day 4
50km
26 gear Marlin Trek mountain bike

12km
Day 5
25/47km
Aphendrika
Day 6
Point-to-Point
Karpaz Gate Marina
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
KYRENIA
Aylos Phllon
Day 7
CUSTOMER RATING:
Kantara Castle
NORTH CYPRUS
DAY 7: Cycle to Zimyamet. Drive to the picturesque harbour town of Kyrenia via Kantara Castle. DAY 8: Trip ends in Kyrenia.
Turtle beach
Monastery
Zimyamet Aphendrika
KYRENIA
Cape 35km Andreas
DIPKARPAZ
Optional RidesEleousa
Kantara Castle
NORTH CYPRUS
Andreas Monastery 45km
DAY 6: Ride through Karpaz National Park to Golden Beach and Cape Andreas.
BOGAZ
Aylos Phllon
DIPKARPAZ
Karpaz Gate Marina Eleousa Ancient Salamis Monastery
FAMAGUSTA
Andreas Monastery Cape Andreas
Turtle beach
Zimyamet
BOGAZ
Larnaca Airport
Ancient Salamis
FAMAGUSTA
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices. Larnaca Airport
36
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycle Turkey
3
TRIP CODE - CTT | TURKEY
Cycle through farmland, hills and forests and discover ancient Lycia as we travel along Turkey’s beautiful Turquoise Coast. We cycle along the shores of Lake Köyceğiz, visit traditional villages and relax on the golden sands of Patara Beach. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Ancient Lycia | Visit ruins at Xanthos and Patara Stay overnight in a hill village | Experience local culture with a night in a village house Kas | Stay in the pretty harbour town of Kas
PRICES FROM
US$840
CA$1100
trip only (8 days)
trip only (8 days)
ITINERARY DAY 1: Join trip in Dalyan. DAY 2: Cycle and river taxi to the hot springs of Sultaniye. Ride along the shores of Lake Köyceğiz.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 3: Ride along country roads to the fertile plain of Dalaman. Private boat from Göcek Bay to Fethiye.
CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights comfortable hotel
DAY 4: Visit Telmessos on foot. Drive to Gökben and then to Saklikent. Lunch in a village house in Minare.
1 night simple hotel 1 night simple village house Optional single rooms from
DAY 5: Ride through the hills to Sütlegen. Visit ancient Tlos with views over the Xanthos Valley.
US$180 / CA$230
MEALS:
DAILY DISTANCES
Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 3 | Dinner: 1
BIKE:
Day 2
35km
Day 3
40km
CUSTOMER RATING:
Day 4
33km
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Day 5
29km
Day 6
45km
Day 7
42km
24 gear Sedona mountain bike
DAY 6: Descend through Cedar forests to Patara. Visit the ancient site of Xanthos en route. DAY 7: Ride along the Turquoise Coast to Kas. There will be a chance to swim during the ride. DAY 8: Trip ends at Dalaman.
Lake Köyceğiz
Sultaniye
Optional tour Kaunos, Iztuzu beach
DALYAN
TURKEY
Göcek
Dalaman
FETHİYE
Gökben
Tlos Arsaköy
Minare
SAKLİKENT
MEDITERRANEAN SEA
Xanthos
PATARA
Optional beach and ruins
Kalkan
SÜTLEGEN
Islamlar
KAS
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
37
GEORGIA
38
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycling in Georgia
3
TRIP CODE - CGE | GEORGIA
A cycling adventure in the Caucasus a beautiful land steeped in history that straddles two continents. Travelling by bus and bike, we explore ancient Silk Road cave towns and the wine producing region of Kakheti to visit local farms, vineyards and try the delicious cuisine. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cycle Georgia | Discover beautiful landscapes and countryside from the saddle Tbilisi | Discover the picturesque Old Town of Georgia’s capital Georgian food and wine | Superb food and the birthplace of wine
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1890 CA$2460
DAY 1: Join trip in Tbilisi.
trip only (10 days)
trip only (10 days)
DAY 2: Explore Old Tbilisi on foot. Afternoon cable car ride to Narika Fort and the sulphur baths.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 3: Visit the ancient capital Mtskheta. Cycle to the great Silk Road cave town of Uplistsikhe.
CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel 3 nights comfortable guesthouse Optional single rooms from
DAILY DISTANCES
US$320 / CA$410
Day 3
61km
MEALS:
Day 4
65km
Breakfast: 9 | Lunch: 6 | Dinner: 3
Day 5
46km
BIKE:
Day 6
74km
Day 7
39km
Day 8
45km
Day 9
31km
21 gear Ghost mountain bike
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
GEORGIA
TELAVI
Food market
Uplistsikhe
Cave Town GEORGIA
KVARELI
Mtskheta ancient capital
Uplistsikhe Cave Town
Food market
Wine tasting Gremi fort
making Wine tasting
ancient capitalGombori Pass
TBILISI
Tsalka
Gavazi walnut Velistsikhe sweet winemaking tasting
Gombori Pass AZERBAIJAN
Cave town
AKHALKALAKI
VARDZIA Cave town
Gavazi walnut
sweet KVARELI
Tsalka
AKHALTSIKHE AKHALKALAKI Rabati Castle VARDZIA
TELAVI
TBILISIMtskheta
AKHALTSIKHE Rabati Castle
Gremi fort
ARMENIA
ARMENIA
AZERBAIJAN
Velistsikhe wine tasting
DAY 4: Stunning ride from Akhaltsikhe to the ancient cave town of Vardzia which is cut into the side of the mountain. DAY 5: Scenic cycle amid mountain foothills and via Khertvisi fortress then up the valley to Akhalkalaki. DAY 6: Pedal past Lake Paravani and across Georgian ‘Siberia’. Continue by bus back to Tbilisi. DAY 7: A nice challenging cycle up over Gombori Pass, then a great descent into the Kakheti wine region – rich with history and culture. DAY 8: D iscover the birthplace of wine on a ride alongside vineyards. Sample local wines, learn about the Qvevri technique and try Chacha grape spirit firewater! DAY 9: C ycle past more vineyards with a backdrop of the Caucasus Mountains. Visit a family farm for typical Georgian sweet making. Delicious family hosted lunch. DAY 10: Trip ends in Tbilisi.
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
39
BRAN CASTLE | ROMANIA
40
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycle Romania
3
TRIP CODE - CRT | ROMANIA
Cycle through the heart of the Transylvanian Alps, exploring beautiful countryside, medieval towns, imposing castles and the Libearty Bear Sanctuary. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Bran and Peles Castles | Atmospheric medieval and neo-renaissance castles Sighisoara | Discover this beautiful UNESCOlisted medieval town Bucharest | Stay in Romania’s capital city, known in the 1930’s as the Paris of the East
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1280 CA$1670 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip at Bucharest Airport, drive to Moieciu.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: Visit Libearty Bear Sanctuary. Cycle through Piatra Craiului National Park.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate
DAY 3: A scenic ride along the Carpathian Mountains. Visit Sambata Monastery.
ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights comfortable guesthouse
DAY 4: Cycle to the foot of the Făgăraș Mountains. Stroll through medieval Sibiu.
Optional single rooms from US$270 / CA$340
DAILY DISTANCES
MEALS:
Day 2
Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 2
BIKE:
21 gear Merida or B’TWIN mountain bike
41km
Day 3
53km
Day 4
55km
Day 5
38km
Day 6
74km
E-Bike available
DAY 5: Cycle to Agnita and visit the impressive Saxon-German fortified churches. DAY 6: Cycle to the medieval town and castle of Sighisoara, the largest lived-in castle in Europe. DAY 7: Drive to Bucharest via ornately decorated Peles Castle.
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
SIGHISOARA
N HIA AT INS RP TA CA OUN M
CUSTOMER RATING:
UNESCO listed Medieval town
DEALU FRUMOS
Agnita Carta
SIBIU
BUCIUM
Historic town
ARPASU Talmaciu
N
IA LVAN NSY TRA ALPS
DAY 8: Trip ends in Bucharest.
Bran castle
MOIECIU
CHEILE GRADISTEI
Peles castle
Libearty Bear Sanctuary
ROMANIA BUCHAREST
BULGARIA
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
41
EUROPE
Prague to Meissen by Bike
1
TRIP CODE - CCZ | CZECH REPUBLIC, GERMANY
Cycle from Prague in the Czech Republic to Meissen in Germany, along attractive riverside paths in the Vitava and Elbe valleys. Wander the streets of Prague and soak up the atmosphere of one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Saxon Switzerland | Bike through sandstone gorges and wooded valleys Dresden | Traffic-free arrival into the heart of Germany’s finest Baroque city Litomerice and Pirna | Attractive and characterful market towns
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1080 CA$1410 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in Prague, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: Cycle to Melník via the ‘Garden of Bohemia’.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 3: Pedal to Litomerice, stopping to visit the vast Terezin fortress.
CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAILY DISTANCES
US$230 / CA$300
MEALS:
Day 2
50km
Breakfast: 7
Day 3
41km
Day 4
48km
Day 5
44km
Day 6
46km
BIKE:
24-27 gear Unibike Voyager, Cross Trans or B-Twin hybrid bike
DAY 4: Ride through wooded valleys, rolling hills and along the river via Strekov Castle to Decin.
MEISSEN
Point-to-Point
DAY 5: Cross into Germany. Visit the impressive Königstein fortress and continue on to Pirna. DAY 6: Cycle via Dresden to Meissen. DAY 7: Drive to Prague. Afternoon walking tour. DAY 8: Trip ends in Prague.
Dresden Pillnitz Castle
MEISSEN
E-Bike available
DresdenPIRNA Pillnitz Castle Königstien Fortress
GERMANY
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
PIRNA
Bad Schandau Schmilka
SpaSchandau town E Bad RG EBI Königstien DECIN G Z GERMANY Schmilka Fortress Y ER Spa town EOR IRÉGH Valtírov Velké Brezno EŠBN DECIN G U Strekov Usti nadY ERKZR Ruined fortress Labem OR É H Valtírov Velké Brezno LITOMERICE N Š U StrekovRoundnice Usti nad KR Elbe
CUSTOMER RATING:
Elbe
Ruined fortress LabemTerezín Fortress town Terezín Fortress town
LITOMERICE RoundniceMELNIK Palace Vineyards
MELNIK
Palace Vineyards
a
av
Vit Vit
CZECH REPUBLIC CZECH REPUBLIC
PRAGUE
a
av
City walking tour Wenceslas Square
PRAGUE
City walking tour Wenceslas Square
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
42
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycle Poland - Gdansk and the Baltic Coast
2
TRIP CODE - CPB | POLAND NEW TRIP
An exploration of Poland’s Baltic Coast on two wheels. Cycle along dedicated cycle paths and quiet country roads through charming medieval towns, past pristine beaches and along the Hel Peninsula sand bar. Visit the giant Teutonic castle of Malbork. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Gdansk | Beautiful maritime city rich with history Słowiński National Park | Cycle with views of giant shifting sand dunes Elblag canal | Take a short cruise on this unique engineering achievement
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1140 CA$1490 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in Gdansk.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: D rive to Łeba, gateway to Słowiński National Park. Short cycle ride past huge, shifting sand dunes.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 3: R ide through the Coastal Landscape Park along part of EuroVelo route 10, an international cycle route that encircles the entire Baltic Sea. Overnight in Jastrzębia Góra.
CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAILY DISTANCES
US$330 / CA$430
Day 2
20km
MEALS:
Day 3
60km
Breakfast: 7
Day 4
70km
Day 5
58km
Day 6
60km
Day 7
48km
BIKE:
24-27 gear Unibike Voyager, Cross Trans or B-Twin hybrid bike
ŁEBA ŁEBA
JASTRZEBIA GORA
GDANSK
Frombork
Tczew
Frombork
Tczew Malbork Castle Malbork Castle
MALBORK ELBLAG MALBORK (Elblag Canal) ELBLAG
(Elblag Canal)
POLAND
DAY 5: C ycle south to Malbork, visit the 13th century fortress - the main seat of the Teutonic Knights and considered to be world’s biggest castle. DAY 6: M orning cycle through countryside to Buczyniec Lock. Cruise along the Elbląg Canal and see the extraordinary system of locks and rail tracks.
JASTRZEBIA GORA
GDANSK
DAY 4: F ollow a dedicated cycle path with wonderful views of sandy beaches along the 35-km-long sand bar Hel Peninsula. Water tram ride back to Gdańsk for a city tour.
DAY 7: C oastal ride along the GreenVelo cycle path to Frombork, a small town where the astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus spent most of his life. Drive to Gdansk. DAY 8: Trip ends in Gdansk.
POLAND
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
43
TRAKAI CASTLE | LITHUANIA
44
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
EUROPE
Cycling the Baltic States
1
TRIP CODE - CBS | LITHUANIA, LATVIA, ESTONIA
Explore the Baltic States by bicycle on this guided route through Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. Cycle through national parks, coastal scenes and medieval towns; past feudal castles and picturesque fishing villages. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Three Baltic capitals | Explore Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn Coastal scenery | Discover Lahemaa and Curonian Spit National Parks Trakai Castle | Cycle around the Historical National Park
PRICES FROM
US$1350 CA$1760 trip only (9 days)
trip only (9 days)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAILY DISTANCES
ITINERARY
Day 2
18km
Day 3
39km
Day 4
36/58km
Day 5
42km
Day 6
28km
Day 7
41km
Day 8
37km
DAY 2: C ycle around the lake to explore Trakai’s historic island castle. DAY 3: C ycle through fishing villages to the Curonian Lagoon and on to the Baltic port of Klaipeda. DAY 4: E xplore the peaceful and beautiful Curonian Spit National Park on cycle paths and forest trails.
Optional Rides
US$300 / CA$380
MEALS:
DAY 5: C ycle through the Giruliai forest to Palanga Botanical Park and the Amber Museum.
Breakfast: 8
BIKE:
7 gear Kalkhoff Jubilee hybrid bike with front suspension
DAY 1: Join trip in Vilnius, capital of Lithuania.
Gulf of Finland
TALLINN
BALTIC SEA
E-Bike available
Medieval walled city
LAHEMAA National Park
ESTONIA
CUSTOMER RATING:
DAY 6: C ycle on Jurmala’s white sand beach and explore Riga, capital of Latvia. DAY 7: D iscover the beauty of Lahemaa National Park by bike. DAY 8: F inal ride in Lahemaa. Explore Tallinn, the picturesque capital of Estonia.
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019. Gulf of Riga
LATVIA Jurmala
DAY 9: T rip ends in Tallinn.
RIGA
Art nouveau architecture
Palanga
KLAIPEDA
LITHUANIA
Nida Kintai KALININGRAD
UNESCO Old Town
TRAKAI
VILNIUS
Island Castle
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
45
PIGEON ROCKS, BEIRUT | LEBANON | EXPLORE.CO.UK/CLL
Contents Jordan
49
Morocco
50
South Africa
51
Best Sellers Cycle Jordan
49
New Trips Cycle Lebanon
53
Middle East and Africa
Lebanon 53
THE TREASURY, PETRA | JORDAN
48
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
Cycle Jordan
3
TRIP CODE - CJP | JORDAN
Cycle through some of the most spectacular scenery and sites of Jordan. Float in the Dead Sea at the lowest place on earth and camp in Wadi Rum desert under a blanket of stars. Visit the ancient city of Petra - a World Heritage Site. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Madaba and Mount Nebo | Discover Jordan’s biblical heritage Wadi Rum desert camp | A night under the stars in our Bedouin camp in a secluded spot Red Sea | Relax on the beaches and swim among the coral and fish
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1550 CA$2020 trip only (9 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in Madaba.
trip only (9 days)
DAY 2: Visit Madaba and cycle to Mount Nebo. Descend to the Dead Sea for a dip.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 3: Cycle from Shobak crusader castle to Petra.
CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple tented camp
DAY 4: Explore Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Optional Bedouin cookery demonstration and meal.
DAILY DISTANCES
Optional single rooms from US$300 / CA$390
Day 2
36km
MEALS:
Day 3
42km
Breakfast: 8 | Lunch: 4 | Dinner: 1
Day 4
0km
BIKE:
Day 5
20km
24 gear Trek 3700 mountain bike with front suspension
Day 6
58km SYRIA
Day 7
CUSTOMER RATING:
AMMAN
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
MADABA
35km
DAY 5: Free time in Petra. Cycle to Little Petra and Al Beidha. DAY 6: Cycle to Wadi Rum and overnight under the stars in a desert camp. DAY 7: Cycle from Wadi Rum and continue on to Aqaba by bus. DAY 8: Free day to relax by the Red Sea in Aqaba. Return to Amman in the evening. DAY 9: Trip ends at Amman airport.
PETRA
AQABA
g’s H ighw a
Shobak Crusader castle Little Petra
JORDAN
Kin
ISRAEL
y
Dead Sea
ASH SHOBAK
WADI RUM Desert Camp
Red Sea port
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
49
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
Cycle Morocco - Atlas to the Sahara
3
TRIP CODE - CSO | MOROCCO
Discover the kasbahs, tribal villages and cool oases of the Draa Valley on this cycling holiday in Morocco. Cycle through the remote hamada desert of the Sahara and enjoy an exhilarating High Atlas descent through the Berber heartland. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Overnight Sahara camp | Ride camels through Saharan sand dunes Thrilling descent | Scenic descent from the stunning High Atlas mountain pass of Tizi N’Fedrhate Marrakech | Discover the atmospheric medina and lively Djemaa el-Fna Square
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1170 CA$1530 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in Marrakech. Take in the sunset from the lively Djemaa el-Fna Square.
trip only (8 days)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate
DAY 2: Explore Marrakech. Drive over a High Atlas pass to the garrison town of Ouarzazate.
ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel
DAY 3: Cycle in the Draa Valley. Drive to Alnif.
1 night simple camping
DAY 4: Cycle the foothills of Jebel Sarhro. Camel trek to camp.
Optional single rooms from US$130 / CA$170
DAY 5: Enjoy the sunrise in the sand dunes then pedal to Erfoud.
MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 1
DAY 6: Bike through local villages en route to El Kalaat M’Gouna.
DAILY DISTANCES
BIKE:
27 gear Cannondale Off Road or Trail mountain bike with front suspension (or similar)
Day 3
45km
Day 4
50km
Day 5
39km
CUSTOMER RATING:
Day 6
40km
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Day 7
Demnate Tizi n’Outfi 2,180m Ighil M’Goun MARRAKECH Demnate 4,071m Toufrine Tizi n’Tichka 2,260m EL KALAAT Tizi 2,180m Jebel Tizin’Outfi n’Fedrhate ’ Ighil M’Goun MARRAKECH Toubkal 2,180m Toufrine M’GOUNA HS 4,071m Tizi n’Tichka BA 4,167m s AS 2,260m Assermo ade K D 0 HIGH ATLAS EL KALAAT 00 Jebel Tizi n’Fedrhate Skoura F 1 JEBEL SARHRO M’GOUNA S’ Taourirt Kasbah Toubkal 2,180m YO AH E L 4,167m SB L Assermo es A A d a ‘V D OUARZAZATE 0K HIGH ATLAS WHY NOT CYCLE? Skoura 00 Tazzarine Agdz F 1 JEBEL SARHRO Taourirt Kasbah O Tinififte PassLEY L Cycle Nicaragua to the 1,660m ‘VA OUARZAZATE Tazzarine Agdz Dr Panama Canal. DRAA aa Tinififte Pass VALLEY Explore on two wheels with1,660m our
moderate to challenging grade cycle holiday. (Trip code: XXX).
DRAA VALLEY
Dr
aa
DAY 7: Ride down the Atlas Mountains and return to Marrakech. DAY 8: Trip ends in Marrakech.
50km
MOROCCO Walk in Todra Gorge
MOROCCO
Tinerhir Walk in Todra Gorge Tinerhir
Rhettaras
Optional visit Maadid
ERFOUD
Oasis Rissani Optional visit Maadid Rhettaras
ALNIF
ERFOUD ERG CHEBBI Rissani SAND DUNESOasis
ALNIF
ERG CHEBBI SAND DUNES
SAHARA
SAHARA
Camel ride
Camel ride
ALGERIA
ALGERIA
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
50
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
Cycle South Africa
3
TRIP CODE - CTC | SOUTH AFRICA
Cycle the rugged coastline and beautiful winelands of the Western Cape on this cycling holiday through South Africa. Ride on the side of the iconic Table Mountain and along the famous garden route from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Stellenbosch winelands | Cycle through stunning vineyards and farmlands Oudtshoorn | Freewheel down the dramatic Swartberg Pass Cape Agulhas | Cycle to the southernmost point of Africa
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$2330 CA$3030 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: J oin trip in Cape Town. Optional introductory ride on the slopes of Table Mountain.
trip only (8 days)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate
DAY 2: D rive to Cape Point Nature Reserve via Hout Bay. Cycle to Simon’s Town, visit Boulders Beach.
ACCOMMODATION: 1 nights comfortable 3 simple homestay, hotel
DAY 3: D rive to Stellenbosch. Cycle through wine farms to Jonkershoek Reserve.
2 nights 11 nightscomfortable standard hotel lodge , 1 night nightscomfortable simple overnight cabintrain.
DAY 4: V isit Cape Agulhas. Drive and cycle to Swellendam river camp.
Optional 2 nights simple single rooms cabinfrom £000
1 night comfortable guesthouse MEALS: Optional single rooms from
Breakfast: 12 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 1
US$320 / CA$430 BIKE: 18 MEALS: Breakfast: 9 | Dinner: 2 gear Giant or Merida mountain
bikes with front suspension. E-bike available. 27 gear Silverback mountain bike with front suspension
BIKE:
DAY 5: C ycle down the dramatic Swartberg Pass. Optional visit to Cango Caves.
DAILY DISTANCES Day 1
12km
Day 2
33km
Day 3
18km
Day 4
60km
Day 5
46km
Point-to-Point
Day 6
36km
P oint-to-Point E-Bike available
Day 7
58km
E-Bike available
Day 8
12/30km
Day 9
65km
CUSTOMER RATING:
SOUTH AFRICA
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Optional Rides Swartberg pass Cango Caves
Table Mountain
Cape
winelands AFRICA CAPE TOWNSOUTH STELLENBOSCH
Optional Marloth NR
SWELLENDAM
Table Mountain Cape Optional Marloth NR WHY NOT CYCLE? winelands Jonkershoek Sea TOWN Island CAPE SWELLENDAM boat trip STELLENBOSCH Malgas Cycle Cape Cycle Nicaragua to the of Good Hope Bredasdorp Jonkershoek Sea IslandCanal. Panama boat trip ATLANTIC OCEAN Cape Agulhas Malgas Cycle Cape Southernmost point in Africa Explore on two wheels with our of Good Hope Bredasdorp moderate to challenging grade cycle ATLANTIC OCEAN Cape Agulhas holiday. (Trip code: XXX). Southernmost point in Africa
Swartberg pass Oudtshoorn Cango Caves Oudtshoorn
KNYSNA
INDIAN OCEAN KNYSNA
DAY 6: Cycle the Meiringspoort Pass and gorge with waterfall stop. DAY 7: Drive to the foot of the Prince Alfred Pass and cycle to Knysna. DAY 8: Explore Knysna. Cycle and drive to Tsitsikamma National Park. DAY 9: Enjoy a circular ride through the forest in Tsitsikamma National Park. DAY 10: Drive to Port Elizabeth where the trip ends.
Meiringspoort Pass Uniondale TsitsikammaPass NP Meiringspoort cycle Bloukrans & Nature’s Valley Uniondale Tsitsikamma NP cycle Bloukrans & Port Elizabeth Nature’s Valley
Port Elizabeth
INDIAN OCEAN
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
51
TEMPLE OF BACCHUS, BAALBEK | LEBANON
52
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
Cycle Lebanon
4
TRIP CODE - CLL | LEBANON NEW TRIP
Discover Lebanon’s beautiful rural heartland, dramatic mountain scenery and warm hospitality on this cycle adventure. With a cuisine as rich and varied as its history, Lebanon is a small country where east meets west, with surprises at every corner. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Beautiful cycling | In the Chouf Mountains, Mount Lebanon range and Qadisha Valley Ancient cultures | Remarkable Phoenician, Roman, Ottoman and Crusader sites Lebanese food | Feast on Levantine cuisine and try fine wine in the Bekaa Valley
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1860 CA$2420 trip only (8 days)
DAY 1: J oin trip in the lively, friendly and busy city of Beirut.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: Cycle in the Chouf Mountains passing Druze minority villages. Explore Sidon’s Crusader Castle and ancient souk. Overnight in Deir Al Qamar.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate to Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel 1 night comfortable monastery
DAILY DISTANCES
Optional single rooms from US$360 / CA$470
MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 2
BIKE:
18 gear Trek mountain bike with front suspension
Day 2
40km
Day 3
32km
Day 4
48km
Day 5
48km
Day 6
48km
Day 7
0km MEDITERRANEAN SEA
MEDITERRANEAN SEA
QOZHAYA (QADISHA VALLEY)
Batroun
Batroun
Cedars Forest
Cedars
Forest MAYROUBA
BEIRUT
Jeitta Caves
Tannourine
BAALBEK
LEBANON
Mt. Sannine
MAYROUBA Ksara BAALBEK
DEIR EL
Jeitta Mt. Sannine Caves QAMAR
BEIRUT Sidon
DEIR EL QAMAR
Sidon Jezzine
DAY 4: A beautiful ride around the flanks of Mount Sannine, through Maronite Christian villages and ski resorts on a rewarding route that few tourists travel. DAY 5: Epic cycle ride across Lebanon’s beautiful rural heartland to Tannourine. Discover the stunning Qadisha Valley and walk amid 1,000 year old Cedars. Overnight in monastery guesthouse.
Tannourine
QOZHAYA LEBANON (QADISHA VALLEY)
BYBLOS
BYBLOS
DAY 3: Cycle across the Chouf range and descend into the fertile Bekaa Valley. Wine-tasting and visit to the remarkable and vast Roman temples of Baalbek.
Jezzine
Wine-tasting
Ksara Wine-tasting
SYRIA
SYRIA
DAY 6: Final ride from the mountains down to the Mediterranean Sea at the ancient port of Batroun for a welldeserved iced lemonade. Discover 9,000 year old Byblos’ crusader fort, Roman and Phoenician remains. DAY 7: Visit the vast and impressive Jeita Grotto. Beirut city tour taking in ancient sites, the incredible ancient artefacts of the National Museum and reminders of the recent civil war. DAY 8: Trip ends in Beirut.
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
53
VIETNAM
Contents Burma (Myanmar)
62
Cambodia 67–69 India
57–58
South Korea
60
Sri Lanka
59
Thailand
67
Vietnam 63–69
Best Sellers Cycle Kerala
57
Cycle Saigon to Hanoi
65
Bangkok to Saigon by Bike
67
Cycle Vietnam and Cambodia
69
Asia and the Pacific
Japan 61
VARKALA | INDIA
56
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Cycle Kerala
1
TRIP CODE - CKB | INDIA
This cycling holiday in southern India travels along Kerala’s backroads through a landscape of tropical forests, spice, tea and rubber plantations. Discover village life, search for wildlife in Periyar National Park and relax on Indian Ocean beaches. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Varied cycling | Pedal along beautiful coastlines, through plantations and tropical forests Kochi | Explore this fascinating colonial coastal town Kovalam | Relax on the stunning beaches of the Malabar Coast
PRICES FROM
US$2230 CA$2900 trip only (13 days)
trip only (13 days)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 10 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights simple homestay Optional single rooms from US$490 / CA$640
MEALS: Breakfast: 12 | Lunch: 3 | Dinner: 2
DAILY DISTANCES
ITINERARY
Day 2
10/32km
Day 3
37km
Day 4
36km
Day 5
39km
Day 6
35km
Day 7
33km
Day 8
9/32km
Day 9
36km
Day 10
0km
Day 11
30km
Day 12
10km
THEKKADY
KOCHI
Idukki Reservoir
Sunset cruise
CUSTOMER RATING:
PLANTER’S HOMESTAY
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Tea & spice plantations
Alleppey
MANCOMBU
Cruise backwaters Canoe trip
Ashtamudi Lake
KOLLAM
INDIAN OCEAN
Diwali Festival
DAY 3: Drive to Veli Lagoon. Visit Anjengo Fort and cycle to Varkala. DAY 4: Cycle through traditional Keralan villages to Kollam. DAY 5: Boat trip along backwaters. Cycle to Mancombu. DAY 6: Full day cycling through backwater villages. Afternoon canoe trip.
DAY 8: Free to explore Vagamon on foot. Optional cycle rides available. DAY 9: Drive and cycle to Thekkady. Visit plantations and a tea factory. DAY 10: Walk Periyar National Park forest in search of wildlife. Explore the spice gardens of Thekkady.
INDIA
DAY 11: Drive to Kuttikkanam. Cycle to Malayattoor. Drive to Kochi.
CARDAMOM HILLS
DAY 12: Tour of Kochi by bike. Evening boat cruise. DAY 13: Trip ends in Kochi.
VARKALA
FESTIVAL DEPARTURES
DAY 2: Morning cycle ride. Afternoon free to relax on the Malabar Coast.
DAY 7: Drive and cycle to Vagamon. Stay at Planter’s Homestay.
Optional Rides
BIKE:
21 or 24 gear Trek or Merida mountain bike with lockable front suspension
DAY 1: Join trip in Kovalam.
Veli Trivandrum
A special Diwali Festival departure is available for this trip. See date and prices on our website.
KOVALAM
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
57
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Cycle India - The Golden Triangle
3
TRIP CODE - CIR | INDIA
Explore the cultural heart of vibrant northern India on this cycling holiday. Discover Rajasthan’s impressive Moghul architecture, visit the incredible Taj Mahal and look out for tiger in Ranthambore National Park. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Indian villages | Cycle through the backroads and villages of rural Rajasthan Wild India | Game drives in Ranthambore National Park to search for tiger Taj Mahal, Agra Fort and Jaipur | Explore the majesty of the Moghuls
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1650 CA$2160 trip only (10 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in Delhi.
trip only (10 days)
DAY 2: Drive to Agra. Visit the incredible Taj Mahal and dramatic Agra Fort.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 9 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from US$380 / CA$480
MEALS: Breakfast: 9
BIKE:
21 or 24 gear Trek or Merida mountain bike with lockable front suspension
DAY 3: Visit the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri. Cycle backroads through rural India to Bharatpur.
DAILY DISTANCES Day 3
34km
Day 4
70km
Day 5
40km
Day 6
30km
Day 7
65km
Day 8
75km
Day 9
30km
Optional Rides
PA K
IS TA N
CHINA
Arabian Sea
DELHI
DELHI
Chandni Chowk & Humayun’s Tomb
INDIA
INDIAN OCEAN
INDIA BHARATPUR BHANDAREJ Spend the night in a Maharaja’s Palace
JAIPUR
Amber Fort
FESTIVAL DEPARTURES
DAY 5: Cycle to Ranthambore National Park home to tiger, leopard and marsh crocodile. DAY 6: Game drive in Ranthambore National Park. Search for big cats in the former royal hunting ground. DAY 7: Cycle through villages passing Hindu settlements, temples and shrines. Sleep in a Maharaja’s Palace.
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
DAY 4: Pedal through scenic villages, agricultural land and past red sandstone quarries to Karauli.
Lalsot
Keoladeo National Park
Fatehpur Sikri
AGRA
Fort & Taj Mahal
DAY 8: Ride on quiet country roads with views of hilltop forts silhouetted against the sky to Jaipur. DAY 9: Jaipur sightseeing, including the old Maharaja’s residence, the City Palace and the Amber Fort. Late afternoon drive back to Delhi. DAY 10: Trip ends in Delhi.
KARAULI
RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK
Diwali Festival
Game drives
A special Diwali Festival departure is available for this trip. See date and prices on our website.
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
58 58
For more more details details call call 11 800 800 715 715 1746 1746 or or go go to to www.exploreworldwide.com www.exploreworldwide.com For
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Cycle Sri Lanka
3
TRIP CODE - CSL | SRI LANKA
Cycle across the scenic trails of the Knuckles Range and through tea plantations, visiting ancient temples and fortresses. We explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa on two wheels and search for leopard in Yala National Park, ending at the beach for a well-earned rest. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cycle Sri Lanka | Ride the backroads, villages and central highlands of Sri Lanka Sigiriya | Climb the dramatic ‘Sky Fortress’ Kandy and the Hill Country | Cycle the lush tea plantations in cooler climates
PRICES FROM
US$2430 CA$3160 trip only (14 days)
trip only (14 days)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 11 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights premium hotel Optional single rooms from US$500 / CA$660
MEALS: Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 5 | Dinner: 2
DAILY DISTANCES
ITINERARY
Day 1
10km
Day 2
41km
Day 3
50km
Day 4
33km
Day 5
42km
Day 6
0km
Day 7
18km
Day 8
60km
Day 9
38km
Day 10
46km
Day 11
65km
Day 12
32km
Optional Rides
BIKE:
DAY 1: Join trip in Negombo. Cycle to beaches and villages that line the coast around Waikkal. DAY 2: Cycle along backroads and through lush forest. Visit Dambulla UNESCO-listed cave temples. DAY 3: Climb Lion’s Rock, then cycle to Polonnaruwa. DAY 4: Pedal to Polonnaruwa archeological site and village. DAYS 5–6:
Cycle and drive to Kandy. Visit spice gardens en route. Explore Kandy on foot.
DAY 7: Cycle in the beautiful highlands and past tea plantations to Nuwara Eliya.
27 gear Stevens Galant hybrid bike with front suspension
CUSTOMER RATING:
Ancient city
POLONNARUWA
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Dambulla
Ancient city Dambulla caves
SIGIRIYA POLONNARUWA
Lion Platform Sky Fortress Dambulla
SIGIRIYA
Lion Platform Kuliyapitiya Sky Fortress
NEGOMBO Kuliyapitiya Fishing Port
Colombo NEGOMBO Fishing Port
Colombo
Airport
SRI LANKA Airport SRI LANKA Galle
Bay of Bengal
Pallegama Dambulla caves
KANDY
Temple of the Tooth Pallegama Bluefields (tea plantation) KANDY Temple of the Tooth NUWARA ELIYA Bluefields (tea plantation)
UDAWALAWE NUWARA ELIYA National Park UDAWALAWE
Old Dutch Port Galle MIRISSA OldBeaches Dutch Port
MIRISSA Beaches
Bay of Bengal
NationalYALA Park
National Park Game drives
YALA
National Park INDIAN Game drives OCEAN
INDIAN OCEAN
DAY 8: Continue cycling through the highlands to Bambarakanda Waterfall. DAY 9: Spectacular ride to Udawalawe. Optional Jeep safari to search for elephants in Udawalawe National Park. DAY 10: Cycle country roads to Yala National Park. Optional safari. DAY 11: Ride along the coast through Bundala National Park. DAYS Cycle the coastal backroads and 12–13: visit Galle. Day at leisure in Mirissa. DAY 14: T rip ends at Colombo Airport. Two transfers included to cover different flight options.
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
59
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Cycle South Korea
3
TRIP CODE - CSK | SOUTH KOREA
Explore the landscapes, flavours and character of rural South Korea on this off-the-beaten-track cycling holiday. Visit historical temples, cycle scenic coastlines and stop at sleepy fishing villages along the way. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Jeju | Explore the natural beauty, historic and volcanic sites of Jeju Island Gyeongju | Ancient Korean capital, filled with temples, ponds and historic treasures Seoul | One of the world’s great and fastchanging modern metropolises
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$3370 CA$4400 trip only (11 days)
DAY 1: Join trip on the volcanic island of Jeju.
trip only (11 days)
DAY 2: Ride Jeju’s north coast to the white beaches and cobalt sea of Hyeopjae.
AT A GLANCE
DAILY DISTANCES
CYCLE GRADE: Moderate Day 2
60km
Day 3
62km
1 night simple cabin Optional single rooms from
Day 4
55km
Day 5
0km
US$520 / CA$660
Day 6
42km
Day 7
48km
Day 8
70km
Day 9
70km
ACCOMMODATION: 9 nights comfortable hotel
MEALS: Breakfast: 10 | Dinner: 3
BIKE:
24 gear Giant ToughRoad hybrid bike or similar
NORTH KOREA
EAST SEA JANGHOHANG PORT
SEOUL
(city tour)
Seongryugul cave
GISEONG MANGYANG GANGGU PORT Visit fish market
POHANG
SOUTH KOREA
GYEONGJU
Bulguksa Temple and Anapji Pond
Busan
A
RE
KO
IT
RA
ST
DAY 3: Cycle among waterfalls, mountains and temples on Jeju’s coastal bike path. DAY 4: Ride the beaches and estuaries of Jeju’s west coast to the lava tubes at the Manjanggul Caves. DAY 5: F ly to Busan. Explore the historic temples and ponds at Gyeongju. DAY 6: R ide inland country lanes to the traditional folk village of Gyeongju Yandong. DAY 7: Cycle the seafront of modern Pohang. Taste the famous local crab dishes at Yeongdeok. DAY 8: Cycle the coastal road to Ulchin caves and traditional stone pagoda. DAY 9: Continue along stunning coastal roads to the pretty beaches of Jangho. DAY 10: T ake the fast train to Seoul. Sightsee in South Korea’s capital, farewell dinner at a traditional Korean restaurant. DAY 11: Trip ends in Seoul.
JEJU SEONGSAN SEOGWIPO
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
60
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Cycle Japan
3
TRIP CODE - CJA | JAPAN
From ancient Kyoto we ride along quiet roads on the Noto Peninsula into the highlands around Shirakawa-gō historic village, taking us firmly off the beaten track. Along the way we will see Japanese gardens, stay in ryokan and enjoy varied mountain scenery and coastal paths. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Noto Peninsula | Uninterrupted scenic ride for eight days Delicious local food | Included traditional Japanese cuisine Kyoto and Tokyo | Experience the ancient and modern capitals
PRICES FROM
US$5580 CA$7270 trip only (13 days)
trip only (13 days)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights simple ryokan 1 night premium ryokan
DAILY DISTANCES Day 2
17km
Day 3
8km
Day 4
60km
Day 5
66km
Day 6
47km
Day 7
49km
Day 8
71km
Day 9
71km
Day 10
57km
1 night simple hotel Optional single rooms from
Morning market
SEA OF JAPAN
MEALS:
Ganmon National Park
Breakfast: 12 | Dinner: 7 HAKUI
BIKE:
Coastal cycling
24 gear Specialized Sirrus or Vita hybrid bike. Simple local bike in Kyoto
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
SUZU NOROSHI
WAJIMA
US$250 / CA$320
ITINERARY
NOTO USHITSU WAKURA ONSEN Hot Springs
Takaoka
KANAZAWA Kenrokuen Gardens
SHOKAWA ONSEN
Hot Springs, mountain scenery
SHIRAKAWA-GO
UNESCO rural village, traditional farmhouse stay
JAPAN
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Ancient city Bike tour
KYOTO
Shinkansen Bullet train to
TOKYO (optional city tour)
DAY 1: Join trip in historic Kyoto. DAY 2: Kyoto sightseeing by bike along the Philosopher’s Path to temples. Visit Tofukuji rock gardens. DAY 3: M orning train to Kanazawa. Bike tour of Kenrokuen Garden and the old teahouse district. DAY 4: C ycle around the beautiful Noto Peninsula including the Chirihama Beach Road. DAY 5: C ycle the coastal road to Wajima. Visit the Sojijiso-in Temple. DAY 6: E xplore Wajima Market. Continue along the stunning coastal road to Suzu. DAY 7: C ycle to Noto Ushitsu as we head down the eastern side of the peninsula. DAY 8: C ycle to Wakura Onsen where ancient, healing hot baths await our arrival. DAY 9: B egin our journey inland heading up to Shokawa Onsen. DAY 10: V isit stunning Shirakawa-gō, famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses. DAYS Take the Shinkansen bullet train 11–12: to Tokyo. Explore the Japanese capital. DAY 13: Trip ends in Tokyo.
Kansai International Airport
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
61
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Cycle Burma
3
TRIP CODE - CBUR | BURMA (MYANMAR)
A cycling holiday that uncovers the scenic beauty and cultural highlights of Burma. Get off the beaten track with bike rides between Mandalay, stilt villages of Inle Lake and the temple-studded plains of ancient Bagan. We also cruise the mighty Irrawaddy River. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Inle Lake | Discover floating gardens, stilted villages and leg-rowing fishermen Rangoon (Yangon) | Colonial grandeur, gilded temples and street markets Shan Highlands | Hilltribe villages and former British hill station of Kalaw
PRICES FROM
US$2490 CA$3250 trip only (14 days)
trip only (14 days)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 13 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from US$510 / CA$660
DAILY DISTANCES
ITINERARY
Day 3
40km
Day 4
60km
Day 5
39km
Day 6
57km
Day 7
37km
Day 8
0km
Day 9
33km
Day 10
55km
Day 11
24km
Day 12
49km
MEALS: Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 9
Mingun
BIKE:
21 gear Cannondale Trail 8 mountain bike with front suspension
CUSTOMER RATING:
Nyaung Pin Win
Monywa
MANDALAY
Amarapura
SHAN PLATEAU
BAGAN
Magnificent Temple complex
KALAW
PINDAYA
INLE LAKE
One-leg rowers, floating gardens
BURMA
RAN
waddy)
KAN
ARA
ady (Irra Ayeyarw
Popa
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Heho
(MYANMAR) Salaween
GE Shwedagon Pagoda Colonial architecture
RANGOON (YANGON)
DAY 1: Join trip in Rangoon. Dusk visit to the magnificent Shwedagon Pagoda. DAYS 2–3:
Explore Inle Lake by bike and long-tail boat past floating gardens and stilt villages.
DAY 4: Bike across the Shan Plateau to the former British hill station of Kalaw. DAY 5: A scenic ride past rice fields and vegetable gardens. Visit Pindaya Cave with 8,000 images of the Lord Buddha. DAY 6: Combine time in the saddle and on the bus along the road to Mandalay. DAY 7: Cycle to former capital Sagaing and the giant stupa of Mingun. Irrawaddy cruise back to Mandalay. DAY 8: See monks collecting alms, the lively jade market and sunset from Mandalay Hill. DAY 9: Ride off the beaten track to discover real Burma on the way to the thriving river town of Monywa. DAY 10: See rural life on a backroad cycle to Pakokku. Irrawaddy cruise down to Bagan. DAY 11: Explore the remarkable ancient temples of Bagan by bike and on foot. DAY 12: Cycle through countryside to Mount Popa, home to the spirit gods. Return to Bagan by bike. DAYS Fly back to Rangoon. Visit the 13–14: colonial quarter. Trip ends in Rangoon.
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
62
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Cycle Vietnam
1
TRIP CODE - CVN | VIETNAM
On this trip we discover the highlights of Vietnam by bike. Explore the charming cities of Hanoi, Hué, Old Saigon and Hoi An and experience the natural beauty of Halong Bay. Visit the ancient capital of the Cham Empire at My Son and discover the thriving Mekong Delta. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Halong Bay | Cruise through the beautiful landscapes of Halong Bay Bike Vietnam | Get closer to Vietnam’s fascinating sites and welcoming people Hué, Hoi An and My Son | Cycle the Imperial sights and World Heritage monuments
PRICES FROM
US$2020 CA$2640 trip only (14 days)
trip only (14 days)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 12 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple overnight train Optional single rooms from US$360 / CA$460
MEALS:
DAILY DISTANCES
ITINERARY
Day 2
19km
Day 3
15km
Day 4
0km
Day 5
33km
Day 6
18km
Day 7
35km
Day 8
28km
Day 9
20km
Day 10
30km
Day 11
0km
Day 12
25km
Day 13
25km
Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 4 Red River Delta cycle
BIKE: Giant, ATX and Trek mountain bikes are used during the trip, please
HALONG
NINH BINH Rice Paddies cycle
E-Bike available Perfume River (optional) Royal tombs
CUSTOMER RATING:
Hai Van
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019. Imperial Citadel cycle
DAYS 3–4:
Drive to Dong Ho. Cycle through the villages of the Red River Delta.
DAY 5: Halong Bay cruise. Drive to Ninh Binh via Nhan Muc. DAY 6: Explore the countryside of Ninh Binh by bicycle. Overnight Reunification Express to Hué. DAY 7: Explore Hué by bike. Optional half day trip along the Perfume River.
DAY 9: Enjoy a river cruise, cycling and free time to explore Hoi An.
GULF OF TONKIN
DAY 2: Explore Hanoi city then cycle around West Lake.
DAY 8: Bus and bike to Hoi An, via Hai Van Pass, Da Nang and Thuan Phuoc Bridge.
BAY Cycle around HANOI West Lake Cruise, caves Old Quarter & limestone cliffs
refer to Trip Notes for more details
DAY 1: Join trip in Hanoi. Orientation tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
HUÉ Pass Danang
HOI AN
LAOS
Historic port
My Son (UNESCO site) ancient Cham capital
VIETNAM
DAY 10: Visit to My Son World Heritage Site with ruins of structures from ancient Cham Kingdom. DAY 11: Fly to Old Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). Cycle to the Cu Chi Tunnels. DAYS Explore the Mekong Delta by 12–13: bike and boat – a fascinating hub of local culture and activity. DAY 14: Trip ends in Old Saigon.
CAMBODIA
Cu ChiTunnels cycle ride Mekong Delta cycle ride
HO CHI MINH CITY
SOUTH CHINA SEA
Old Saigon
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
63
CENTRAL HIGHLANDS | VIETNAM
64
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Cycle Saigon to Hanoi
3
TRIP CODE - CVIE | VIETNAM
On this adventurous and active trip we experience Vietnam on two wheels. Along the way we discover Saigon, Hoi An, Hué, Hanoi and the majestic beauty of Halong Bay on an overnight cruise. What better way to fuel your ride than with the delicious Vietnamese cuisine. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cycle the Central Highlands | Explore the hill country and cycle over Hon Giao Pass Saigon | Cycle out to the Cu Chi Tunnels and explore the Mekong Delta Hoi An | Visit the beautiful World Heritage town
PRICES FROM
US$1890 CA$2460 trip only (14 days)
trip only (14 days)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 11 nights comfortable hotel 1 night comfortable junk 1 night simple overnight train Optional single rooms from
DAILY DISTANCES Day 2
50km
Day 3
51km
Day 4
30km
Day 5
80km
Day 6
0km
Day 7
60km
Day 8
59km
Day 9
0km
Day 10
80km
Day 11
20km
US$360 / CA$470
Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 1
HALONG BAY
HANOI
Cruise through clear waters, caves & Kayaking
BIKE:
24 gear Giant or ATX mountain bike with front suspension
HUÉ
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Cycle the citadel & Tu Doc Mausoleum LAOS
L TRA DS CENHLAN HIG
DAYS Cycle and drive to Hué via the 10–11: Hai Van Pass. Cycle around Hué then overnight train to Hanoi. Quy Nhon
CAMBODIA Khanh Vinh Colonial hill station
DALAT
Cu Chi Tunnels Can Duoc
Mekong Delta
DAY 4: Explore Vietnam’s Central Highlands. Stay in the old French city of Dalat.
DAY 9: Morning walking tour of Hoi An’s traditional wooden houses and Chinese temples. Free afternoon.
Hai Van Pass
HOI AN
CAI BE
DAY 3: Drive to Mekong Delta. Cycle the backroads to Cai Be.
DAY 8: Pedal over the Thi Nai sea bridge. Drive to historic Hoi An.
Perfume River Royal tombs
CUSTOMER RATING:
DAY 2: Cycle to Cu Chi Tunnels. Late afternoon free to explore Old Saigon.
DAY 7: Cycle and drive from Nha Trang to Quy Nhon.
GULF OF TONKIN
E-Bike available
DAY 1: Join trip in Ho Chi Minh City with an afternoon orientation tour of Old Saigon.
DAYS Cycle over Hon Giao Pass to Nha 5–6: Trang. Rest day from the bikes. To relax, take a boat trip to tropical islands.
CHINA
VIETNAM
MEALS:
ITINERARY
NHA TRANG Offshore islands day trip
HO CHI MINH CITY Old Saigon Mekong Delta cruise Explore waterways
DAY 12: Arrive in Hanoi. Drive to Halong Bay for overnight cruise amid stunning karst scenery. DAY 13: Morning cruise of the bay. Drive to Hanoi for a tour of the city. DAY 14: Trip ends in Hanoi.
SOUTH CHINA SEA
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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CAMBODIA
66
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Bangkok to Saigon by Bike
3
TRIP CODE - CTV | THAILAND, CAMBODIA, VIETNAM
A cycle trip that explores the classic highlights of South East Asia in an active way. Travel by bike, bus and boat to discover cultural diversity, natural beauty and fascinating history. Along the way we visit Angkor, the Killing Fields and silk weaving villages on the Mekong Delta. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Khao Yai National Park | Cycle amid beautiful scenery and waterfalls Temples of Angkor | Cycle through the jungle between Khmer temples Cycle the Mekong Delta | Boat and bike along the labyrinthine waterways
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$2430 CA$3160 trip only (14 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in Bangkok. Optional long-tail canal trip.
trip only (14 days)
DAY 2: Cycle Bangkok’s hidden urban oasis. Night bike ride with food tour.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate
DAY 3: Explore Khao Yai National Park by bike.
DAILY DISTANCES
ACCOMMODATION: 12 nights comfortable hotel
Day 2
40km
1 night simple homestay
Day 3
53km
Optional single rooms from
Day 4
51km
US$400 / CA$520
Day 5
0km
Day 6
25km
Day 7
56km
Day 8
37km
MEALS: Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 2
BIKE:
24 gear Giant or ATX mountain bike with front suspension
Day 9
0km
Day 10
20km
Day 11
50km
CUSTOMER RATING:
Day 12
50km
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Day 13
30km
ARANYAPRATHET Night ride
Poi Pet
NAKHON NAYOK
THAILAND
Angkor Wat temple complex
SIEM REAP
CAMBODIA
Choeung Ek “Killing Fields”
PHNOM PENH
CHAU DOC HA TIEN
DAY 7: Visit Tonle Sap floating village by boat. See Banteay Srey temple and try a home hosted lunch. DAY 8: Drive and cycle to Phnom Penh via Koh Dach silk weaving village.
DAY 11: Cycle the canal between Vietnam and Cambodia to Chau Doc.
Royal Palace Silver Pagoda Wat Phnom Gulf of Thailand
DAY 6: Explore the magnificent temples of Angkor by bike including Angkor Wat, the Bayon and Ta Prohm.
DAY 10: Cross the border to Vietnam. Cycle around Ha Tien on the Mekong Delta.
Kompong Phluk (floating village trip) Lake Tonle Sap
DAY 5: Silk farm visit and drive to Siem Reap in Cambodia. Sunset visit to Angkor temples.
DAY 9: Explore Phnom Penh. Visit National Museum, Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the Killing Fields.
Khao Yai National Park
BANGKOK
DAY 4: Cycle past typical scenes of rural Thailand to the Cambodian border.
VIETNAM Binh Hoa Phuoc
HO CHI MINH CITY
DAY 12: Rural village cycling. Homestay with traditional Vietnamese dinner included. DAY 13: Cycling on Binh Hoa Phuoc Island then drive to Ho Chi Minh City. DAY 14: Trip ends in Ho Chi Minh City.
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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ANGKOR WAT TEMPLE | CAMBODIA
68
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ASIA AND THE PACIFIC
Cycle Vietnam and Cambodia
1
TRIP CODE - CVE | VIETNAM, CAMBODIA
A classic cycle journey through the cities and rural landscapes of Vietnam and Cambodia. Ride past paddy fields and orchards to remote villages. Cycle into the jungle to explore the ancient temple city of Angkor and swap bikes for traditional boats to cruise the Mekong River. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Peddle quiet backroads | Get closer to the locals on rides through the Mekong Delta and beyond Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh | Explore the contrasts of two fascinating cities Temples of Angkor | Pedal through the jungle and discover the wonderful temple cities
PRICES FROM
US$2430 CA$3160 trip only (13 days)
trip only (13 days)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 11 nights comfortable hotel 1 night premium hotel Optional single rooms from US$360 / CA$480
DAILY DISTANCES
ITINERARY
Day 2
33km
Day 3
43km
Day 4
38/61km
Day 5
16km
Day 6
30km
Day 7
0km
Day 8
20km
Day 9
40km
Day 10
28km
Day 11
25km
Day 12
15km
MEALS: Breakfast: 12 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 1
Optional Rides
18 gear Giant or Merida mountain bike with front suspension
LAOS
E-Bike available
Angkor jungle temple complex
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
SIEM REAP
CAMBODIA
Kampong Cham Mekong Island Weaving village
DAY 4: Cycle and drive via Vinh Long to Can Tho – famous for rice fields and floating markets. DAY 5: Cruise the floating markets and explore villages of Can Tho province.
Cu Chi Tunnels
DAY 7: Speedboat to Phnom Penh with an afternoon city tour. DAY 8: Morning cycle. Visit Tuol Sleng and the Killing Fields.
DAY 10: Early cycle to Sambor Prei Kuk Temple. Drive to Siem Reap. VIETNAM
Old Saigon HO CHI MINH Tan An My Tho CITY Vinh Long BEN TRE Homestay Mo Cay CAN THO SOUTH Floating market CHINA SEA Mekong Delta cruise
CHAU DOC Sam Mountain sunset
DAY 3: Bike to the Mekong Delta then enjoy a boat trip to the islands.
DAY 9: Cycle along the Mekong River then drive to Kampong Thom.
Sambor Prei Kuk Temple KAMPONG THOM
PHNOM PENH City tour ‘Killing Fields’
DAY 2: Visit the Cu Chi Tunnels. Cycle around the countryside.
DAY 6: Drive and cycle to Chau Doc on the Cambodian border.
BIKE:
DAY 1: Join trip in Ho Chi Minh City. Afternoon orientation walk.
DAY 11: Sunrise visit to Angkor Wat. Cycle to see beautifully ornate Banteay Srei and jungle-clad Ta Phrom temple. DAY 12: Final day in Angkor. Ride to Angkor Thom to see the Bayon Temple and its superb 12th century bas reliefs. DAY 13: Trip ends in Siem Reap.
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For Formore more details details call call 11 888 888 216 216 3401 3401 or orgo go to towww.exploreworldwide.ca www.exploreworldwide.ca
69 69
ARENAL VOLCANO | COSTA RICA | EXPLORE.CO.UK/CNCP
Costa Rica
77–79
Cuba
73–74
Mexico
75
Nicaragua
79
Panama
79
Best Sellers Cycle Cuba!
73
Cycle Mexico - The Yucatán Peninsula
75
The Americas
Contents
VINALES | CUBA
72 72
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
THE AMERICAS
Cycle Cuba!
3 Cuba trips are not currently for sale in the USA or to travelers subject to US jurisdiction. This may change so please call for latest status.
TRIP CODE - CCC | CUBA
Explore the scenic beauty and cultural highlights of Cuba on two wheels. Cycle on quiet roads along the Caribbean coast to historic Trinidad, past striking limestone landscapes in Viñales and through tropical forests in Topes de Collantes. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cycle Cuba | With very little traffic this is the ideal way to see the island Casas Particulares | Stay in private homestays in colonial Trinidad and Viñales Havana | Explore this atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage Site
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
CA$3140
DAY 1: Join trip in Havana.
trip only (15 days)
DAY 2: Walking tour of Old Havana. Drive to forested mountain setting of Soroa.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate
DAY 3: Cycle through tropical forests to San Juan river for a refreshing dip.
DAILY DISTANCES
ACCOMMODATION: 9 nights simple casas particulares
Day 3
21km
5 nights comfortable hotel
Day 4
58km
Optional single rooms from
Day 5
43/58km
CA$520
Day 6
25km
Day 7
20/45km
Day 8
0km
Day 9
41km
Day 10
37km
MEALS: Breakfast: 14 | Dinner: 1
BIKE:
24 or 27 gear Conor Avenue or Stevens Galant SX hybrid bike with front suspension
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Day 11
0km
Day 12
35km
Day 13
17km
Day 14
23km
Optional Rides
Cayo Jutías Optional visit
VIÑALES Santo Tomas Cave Optional visit
Valle Yumurí
Las Terrazas
CUBA
SOROA SAN DIEGO DE LOS BAÑOS
DAYS 5–6:
Explore the stunning limestone scenery of Viñales by bike.
DAY 7: Free day to relax, cycle some more or explore the island of Cayo Levisa. DAY 8: Drive to colonial Cienfuegos past the infamous Bay of Pigs. DAY 9: C ycle to the beautifully preserved colonial town of Trinidad. DAY 10: R ide through the beautiful scenic ‘valley of the sugar mills’. Return to Trinidad. DAY 11: A free day to explore the cobbled streets of Trinidad or take a catamaran trip to Las Iguanas Island.
HAVANA Historical capital
DAY 4: Ride to the spa town of San Diego de los Baños.
CIENFUEGOS SANTA CLARA
Cueva de los Peces swimming
Manicaragua Playa Girón
Topes de Collantes
Guajimico
TRINIDAD
Playa Ancon
Colonial architecture
DAY 12: S cenic downhill ride in Escambray Mountains. Visit Che Guevara’s tomb in Santa Clara. DAY 13: Cycle through the quiet Yumuri Valley and try Cuba’s best piña colada at Bacunayagua canyon. DAY 14: Explore the old capital of Havana on foot or by bike. DAY 15: Trip ends in Havana.
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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THE AMERICAS
Highlights of Cuba by Bicycle TRIP CODE - CSC | CUBA
Cuba trips are not currently for sale in the USA or to travelers subject to US jurisdiction. This may change so please call for latest status.
2
Cycling on quiet roads explore Cuba’s verdant countryside, colonial towns and revolutionary history. From Havana cycle past the historic Bay of Pigs to charming Trinidad and experience Cuban hospitality in Casas Particulares. Along the way learn about modern day Cuba. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cycle Cuba | With relatively little traffic this is an ideal way to see the island Casas Particulares | Stay in homestays in the heart of colonial Trinidad Topes de Collantes | Beautiful mountain bike ride
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
CA$1850
DAY 1: Join trip in Havana.
trip only (8 days)
DAY 2: Cycle past the Bay of Pigs followed by a refreshing swim in the Cueva de los Peces.
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate
DAY 3: Caribbean coastal ride to the beautiful colonial town of Trinidad.
ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights simple casas particulares
DAY 4: Explore the cobbled streets of Trinidad. Optional catamaran trip to nearby islands.
2 nights comfortable hotel
DAY 5: Cycle through the ‘valley of the sugar mills’ and visit Sancti Spíritus. Return to Trinidad.
Optional single rooms from CA$290
MEALS:
DAILY DISTANCES
Breakfast: 7
BIKE:
27 gear Stevens Galant SX or similar hybrid bike
CUSTOMER RATING:
Day 2
28km
Day 3
30km
Day 4
30km
Day 5
60km
Day 6
35km
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
GULF OF MEXICO
Optional Rides
DAY 6:
Downhill ride in Escambray Mountains. Visit the site of the battle for the armoured train in Santa Clara.
DAY 7: Visit Che Guevara’s Mausoleum at Santa Clara. Explore the heart of Old Havana. DAY 8: Trip ends in Havana.
HAVANA
Walking tour
CUBA
Cueva de los Peces
SANTA CLARA Che Guevara’s Mausoleum
Guama
Manicaragua
Cienfuegos
Topes de Collantes
Bay of Pigs
YAGUANABO TRINIDAD
CARIBBEAN SEA
Optional ride Ancon Peninsula
Sancti Spíritus Manaca Iznaga slave watchtower
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
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For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
THE AMERICAS
Cycle Mexico - The Yucatán Peninsula
1
TRIP CODE - CMX | MEXICO
Discover the beaches, Mayan temples and colourful villages of the Yucatan Peninsula by bike. After Cozumel Island visit the colonial towns of Merida and Valladolid and cycle through colourful Mayan villages on quiet roads with chances to swim from beautiful beaches. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum | Explore amazing Mayan sites Easy Yucatan cycling | Pedal on quiet backroads on the flat Swim | From idyllic white sand beaches and in freshwater cenotes
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
US$1750 CA$2290 trip only (9 days)
DAY 1: Join trip in Playa del Carmen.
trip only (9 days)
DAY 2: Boat to Cozumel Island. Explore this quiet island by bike with a chance to swim.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 3: Visit Chichen Itza Mayan site. Swim in Ik Kil cenote. Early evening ride in historic Mérida. Included Mexican dinner.
CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAILY DISTANCES
US$340 / CA$440
MEALS: Breakfast: 8 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 1
BIKE:
10 gear Specialized hybrid bike with front suspension
CUSTOMER RATING:
Day 2
40/60km
Day 3
10km
Day 4
35km
Day 5
25km
Day 6
23km
Day 7
35km
Optional Rides
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Las Coloradas San Crisanto beach
Pink lagoons
Dzilam de Bravo
MÉRIDA
City ride and Tacos dinner
Cancún
Cacalchén Izamal Colonial convent Chichen Itza
DAY 5: Ride to colonial Spanish convent of Izamal. Visit interesting Mayan villages. Tamales for lunch. DAY 6: Ride sand paths to coastal towns and colourful pink lagoons. Taste and learn all about tequila. DAY 7: Ride and drive to climb impressive temples at Coba ruins. Drive to Tulum.
San Felipe Progreso
DAY 4: Cycle to the beach. Enjoy a seafood lunch grill and learn to make cocktails. Sunset kayak.
DAY 9: Trip ends in Tulum.
PLAYA DEL CARMEN
VALLADOLID
DAY 8: M orning guided visit to incredible Tulum Mayan temple on white sand beach. Afternoon free at beach or optional ride to Punta Laguna Nature Reserve for jungle tour.
Coba
MEXICO
TULUM
Cozumel Island
CARIBBEAN SEA
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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ARENAL VOLCANO | COSTA RICA
76 76
For For more more details details call call 11 800 800 715 715 1746 1746 or or go go to to www.exploreworldwide.com www.exploreworldwide.com
THE AMERICAS
Cycle Costa Rica
2
TRIP CODE - CCR | COSTA RICA
Cycle Costa Rica and discover a diverse land rich with nature, towering volcanoes and abundant wildlife. Explore lush rainforest in Tortuguero before cycling past active volcanoes, lakes and cloud forest. Finally we reach the beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio NP. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cycle Costa Rica | Discover the beauty and diversity of Costa Rica by bike Wildlife | Spot sloth, monkey and spectacular birdlife National Parks | Explore Tortuguero, Manuel Antonio, Arenal and Miravalles
PRICES FROM
US$3100 CA$4040 trip only (14 days)
trip only (14 days)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 13 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from
DAILY DISTANCES
ITINERARY
Day 4
20km
Day 5
28km
Day 6
0km
Day 7
28/40km
Day 8
22/37km
Day 9
27km
Day 10
37km
Day 11
29km
Optional Rides
US$570 / CA$740
BIKE:
Lake Nicaragua
CARIBBEAN SEA
27 gear Trek 4500 mountain bike
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
NICARAGUA
LAS HORNILLAS
Miravalles 2028m
LA FORTUNA
TILARÁN CAÑAS
DAYS 2–3:
Discover the incredibly rich and diverse wildlife of Tortuguero National Park on foot and by boat.
DAY 4: A warm up ride past farmland and banana plantations to Guápiles. DAYS 5–6:
Cycle through lush countryside to La Fortuna. Optional jungle canopy tour, hot springs or zip line.
DAY 7: Ride along the lakeshore with impressive views of the classic cone of the active Arenal Volcano.
MEALS: Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 3 | Dinner: 2
DAY 1: Join trip in San José, Costa Rica’s capital.
MUELLE
TORTUGUERO NP Sea turtles
Arenal 1633m
COSTA RICA
Guápiles
SAN JOSÉ PACIFIC OCEAN
Quepos
DAY 8: Enjoy spectacular views of the Pacific coastline on a cycle to Cañas. DAYS 9–10:
Discover great scenery and hot springs cycling in the foothills of the Miravalles Volcano.
DAYS Explore the jungle trails, resident 11–13: wildlife and golden beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park. DAY 14: Trip ends in San José.
MANUEL ANTONIO NP
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
77
GRANADA | NICARAGUA
78 78
more details 1 800 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com ForFor more details callcall 1 800 715715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
THE AMERICAS
Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal
4
TRIP CODE - CNCP | NICARAGUA, COSTA RICA, PANAMA
This adventurous cycle trip takes us on a journey through beautiful Central America. We ride through a varied scenery of volcanoes, cloud forest and rainforest. Along the way we visit the volcanic island of Ometepe, tropical islands of Bocas del Toro and the famous Panama Canal. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cycle Central America | An adventurous and exciting way to travel Arenal Volcano | Cycle around the live volcano and expansive lake Caribbean Islands | Relax in paradise
PRICES FROM
DAILY DISTANCES
US$3100 CA$4040 trip only (14 days)
trip only (14 days)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate to Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 11 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights premium hotel Optional single rooms from US$590 / CA$770
MEALS:
Day 2
11km
Day 3
46km
Day 4
15/33km
Day 5
26km
Day 6
46/68km
Day 7
50km
Day 8
46km
Day 9
31km
Day 10
0km
Day 11
35km
Day 12
38km
Day 13
7km
Optional Rides
Breakfast: 13
27 gear mountain bike with front suspension
Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
NICARAGUA
Miravalles Volcano Arenal Volcano
LA FORTUNA Orosi Valley
DAY 4: Explore the volcanic island of Ometepe in Lake Nicaragua on two wheels. DAYS 5–6:
Enter Costa Rica and ride around Arenal Lake with a spectacular backdrop of Arenal Volcano.
TURRIALBA
DAY 12: Cycle through the traditional farmland and ranches. Drive to Panama City.
BOCAS DEL TORO
Almirante
PACIFIC OCEAN
Lake La Fortuna David
Cross border into Panama. Relax and snorkel on the idyllic Bocas del Toro Caribbean islands.
DAY 11: Cross the continental divide to the Pacific side. Cycle and drive to Santiago.
CARIBBEAN SEA
Siquirres
Paraiso
COSTA RICA
DAY 3: Discover the central Nicaraguan highlands and traditional villages by bike.
DAYS 9–10:
Managua Masaya Volcano NP GRANADA Mombacho Lake Nicaragua Volcano NP ISLA OMETEPE San Jorge Ferry
Lake Arenal
DAY 2: Ride to the shores of Lake Nicaragua. Visit Masaya Volcano National Park.
DAY 8: Cycle through the coffee plantations of the lush Orosi Valley to Turrialba.
CUSTOMER RATING:
CAÑAS
DAY 1: Join trip in colonial Granada, Nicaragua.
DAY 7: Optional hot springs, jungle canopy tour by zip wire or jungle walk across hanging bridges.
BIKE:
Bagaces
ITINERARY
Panama Canal
PANAMA
SANTIAGO
PANAMA CITY Gulf of Panama
DAY 13: Visit the Panama Canal. Ride the shoreline cycle way for fine views of Panama City’s skyline. DAY 14: Trip ends in Panama City.
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
79
RIOJA | SPAIN | EXPLORE.CO.UK/CSRR
Contents Austria
84–85
Croatia
90
France
86
Germany
84
Hungary
85 86–90
Netherlands
84
Portugal
93
Slovakia
85
Slovenia
90
Spain Switzerland
90–93 84
Best Sellers Danube Cycling - Vienna to Budapest
85
Cycle Sicily
86
Cycling in Murcia, Southern Spain
90
New Trips Cycle Andalucía
93
Self-Guided
Italy
Five reasons to go Self-Guided Self-Guided cycling trips are a great way to see your destination under your own steam.
Hassle-free travel
one
We’ve planned the routes to include the must-sees, as well as off-the-beaten-track sights. Choose to start your journey on any day and even extend your trip. You are your own guide, so you can explore at your own leisure. Indulge in local cuisine, chat to locals and stop for a swim or rest when it suits you.
two
We’ve made the arrangements so that you don’t have to. From conveniently located airports to route maps and public transport timetables, we take care of the logistics transporting your luggage from hotel to hotel and send you everything you need in advance, so all that’s left for you to do is enjoy your trip.
A good night’s sleep
Finding your way
three
Hotels are hand-selected for their character, comfort and warm welcome. We use a wide range of accommodation from simple mountain huts to four-star hotels with facilities. If you want a higher standard of hotel look out for our trips with Premium grade accommodation.
We provide detailed, easy-to-read route notes, maps and GPX route files on request. We’ll highlight everything from ‘must-see’ sights along the way, to challenges and route extensions.
141 82
explore.co.uk
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
four
Sense of Achievement
five
Finding your own way from place to place, even with the help of maps, is an impressive feat. Discovering new places under your own steam is a rewarding experience, knowing that you’re making the most of your holiday, your way.
All you need
All you’ll need to bring is your own helmet. We’ll supply the rest, including a goodquality bike suitable for the route and terrain. We offer electric bikes as an optional extra on many of our trips. More details are provided on each trip page and online.
Self-Guided trips, by grade For more information on cycling grades, see page 10. COUNTRIES
TRIP CODE
TRIP NAME
POINT-TO-POINT
E-BIKE
DAYS
PAGE
EASY Austria - Slovakia - Hungary
CSVB
Danube Cycling - Vienna to Budapest
8
85
Germany - Austria
CSBD
Danube Cycling - Passau to Vienna
8
85
Italy
CSTY
Cycling Pisa to Florence
8
87
Italy
CSDV
Dolomites to Lake Garda Ride
7
88
Italy
CSIP
Puglia Cycling
7
88
Netherlands
CSNL
Highlights of Holland by Bike
8
84
Spain (Mallorca)
CSMA
Cycling in Mallorca
8
91
Switzerland - Germany - Austria
CSLC
Lake Constance by Bike
7
84
CSVP
Cycling Canal de la Garonne
7
86
Italy (Sicily)
CSSI
Cycling in Sicily
7
86
Italy - Slovenia - Croatia
CSIC
Cycle Venice to Poreč
8
90
Portugal
CSPO
Cycle South Portugal
8
93
Spain
CSJC
NEW Cycle Andalucía
8
93
Spain
CSRR
Rioja Cycling
7
92
Italy
CSIV
Cycling along Italy's Prosecco Route
7
89
Italy (Sardinia)
CSSD
Cycling in Sardinia
8
87
Spain
CSCS
Cycle Camino de Santiago
10
91
Spain
CSSM
Cycling in Murcia, Southern Spain
7
90
EASY TO MODERATE France
MODERATE
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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SELF-GUIDED
Highlights of Holland by Bike
1
TRIP CODE - CSNL | NETHERLANDS PRICES FROM
US$1340*
CA$1750*
trip only
trip only
8 day trip
Explore the green heart of Holland | Countryside of polders, windmills and villages Historic towns | Haarlem, Gouda and vibrant Amsterdam Superb network of cycle paths | Travelling by bike at its best
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 7
BIKE:
24 gear Batavus or Gazelle hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
Lake Constance by Bike
1
TRIP CODE - CSLC | GERMANY, SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA PRICES FROM
US$1030*
CA$1350*
trip only
trip only
7 day trip
Germany, Switzerland and Austria | Three countries on two wheels in one week Circumnavigate Lake Constance | Follow the flat, car-free cycle paths and minor roads Historic towns and villages | Overnight in Konstanz, Höchst and Kressbronn
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 6
BIKE:
24 gear Batavus or Gazelle hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices. *Prices per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.
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For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
SELF-GUIDED
Danube Cycling - Passau to Vienna
1
TRIP CODE - CSBD | GERMANY, AUSTRIA PRICES FROM
US$980*
CA$1280*
trip only
trip only
8 day trip
Danube River | Ride the famed section between Passau and Vienna Medieval towns and villages | Cycle through Krems, Linz and Grein Schlogener Schlinge | See the dramatic bend on the Danube
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel 1 night comfortable guesthouse MEALS: Breakfast: 7
BIKE:
7 gear European city bike or 21 gear hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
Danube Cycling - Vienna to Budapest
1
TRIP CODE - CSVB | AUSTRIA, HUNGARY, SLOVAKIA PRICES FROM
US$1060* CA$1380* trip only
trip only
8 day trip
Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest | Discover three impressive capital cities Easy scenic cycling | Along the Danube between Vienna and Budapest Viennese culinary specialties | Try sweet treats like Sachertorte (type of chocolate cake)
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION 7 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 7
BIKE:
7 gear European city bike or 21 gear hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices. *Prices per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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SELF-GUIDED
Cycling Canal de la Garonne
2
TRIP CODE - CSVP | FRANCE PRICES FROM
US$1450*
CA$1890*
trip only
trip only
7 day trip
Easy cycling | Follow the historic Canal de la Garonne from Bordeaux to Toulouse Picturesque landscapes | Rewarding views of southwest France from the saddle Delicious local gastronomy | Accompany regional delicacies with a glass of Bordeaux
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights comfortable hotel 1 night premium hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 6 | Dinner: 2
BIKE:
21 or 24 gear hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
Cycling in Sicily
2
TRIP CODE - CSSI | ITALY (SICILY) PRICES FROM
US$1210*
CA$1580*
trip only
trip only
7 day trip
Colourful landscapes | Cycle on quiet coastal roads through the countryside Favignana Island | Explore this hidden gem in the Mediterranean Gastronomic Sicily | Delicious culinary specialties, accompanied by superb local wines
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 2 nights comfortable agriturismo 4 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 6 | Dinner: 2
BIKE:
21 gear Atala Discovery hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices. *Prices per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.
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For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
SELF-GUIDED
Cycling in Sardinia
3
TRIP CODE - CSSD | ITALY (SARDINIA) PRICES FROM
US$1560*
CA$2030*
trip only
trip only
8 day trip
Costa Verde | Explore Sardinia’s stunning south west coastline by bike Pula | Discover ancient abandoned mines and Roman ruins Cagliari | Cycle with views of the crystal clear Sardinian sea to vibrant Cagliari
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 3 nights comfortable guesthouse 4 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 2
BIKE:
30 gear custom-built hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
Cycling Pisa to Florence
1
TRIP CODE - CSTY | ITALY PRICES FROM
US$1280*
CA$1660*
trip only
trip only
8 day trip
Tuscan landscapes | Vineyards and olive groves, sample the delicious local delicacies Magnificent Florence | Explore this renaissance city par excellence Italian culture | Visit Pisa, Lucca and Vinci; each with a major role in the history of Italy
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 1 night comfortable agriturismo 6 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 7
BIKE:
21 gear hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices. *Prices per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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SELF-GUIDED
Dolomites to Lake Garda Ride
1
TRIP CODE - CSDV | ITALY PRICES FROM
US$1480*
CA$1930*
trip only
trip only
7 day trip
Dramatic scenery | Cycle past rugged mountain peaks, pristine lakes and alpine meadows Lake Garda | Admire the azure waters of Lake Garda Quiet cycling | Ride mostly on dedicated cycle paths with a downhill bias
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION 6 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 6
BIKE:
21 gear hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
Puglia Cycling
1
TRIP CODE - CSIP | ITALY PRICES FROM
US$1370*
CA$1790*
trip only
trip only
7 day trip
Cycle Puglia | Discover the natural and cultural highlights of the heel of Italy Rich history | A land forged centuries ago by Greeks, Romans, Ottomans and Spanish Jagged coastline | Beautiful sandy beaches and turquoise seas
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION 5 nights comfortable hotel 1 night premium hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 6
BIKE:
27 gear hybrid bike
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices. *Prices per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.
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For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
SELF-GUIDED
Cycling Along Italy’s Prosecco Route
3
TRIP CODE - CSIV | ITALY
Pedal through the vine-covered hills of the Prosecco region on this self-guided cycling holiday. Your route wends its way from winery to winery where you can learn more about the local frizzante wine. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Prosecco and Grappa | Sample great Prosecco wine and the famous Grappa spirit Treviso, Castelfranco Veneto and Vittorio Veneto | Charming villages rich in history Varied cycling | Peaceful roads and bike paths with views of the dramatic Dolomites
PRICES FROM
US$1130* trip only
ITINERARY
7
DAY 1: Join trip in Treviso
day trip
DAY 2: R ide from charming Treviso along narrow winding roads past cultivated fields to Asolo nicknamed ‘city of a hundred horizons’.
CA$1470* trip only
DAILY DISTANCES
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION 6 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 6
Day 2
43km
Day 3
43km
Day 4
34km
Day 5
48km
Day 6
51km
BIKE: 24 gear hybrid bike available
Venice
ITALY
Point-to-Point E-Bike available
ITALY VITTORIO VENETO PEGEGUARDA
DAY 3: T ake a circular ride along beautiful country roads to the town of Bassano del Grappa - famous for its local tipple. DAY 4: C ycle from Prosecco vineyards to the village of Follina. A breathtaking panorama of snow-covered Alps provides a stunning backdrop to today’s ride. DAY 5: P edal through tiny villages along the ‘Strada del Prosecco’ or Prosecco route, Italy’s oldest wine trail through ancient terraced vineyards. Continue to historic Vittorio Veneto. DAY 6: R ide the beautiful hills of the Prosecco Region to Gorgo al Monticano. DAY 7: Trip ends in Gorgo al Monticano.
ASOLO
GORGO AL MONTICANO
BASSANO DEL GRAPPA
TREVISO
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
Venice
*Prices per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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SELF-GUIDED
Cycle Venice to Poreč
2
TRIP CODE - CSIC | ITALY, SLOVENIA, CROATIA PRICES FROM
US$1520*
CA$1980*
trip only
trip only
8 day trip
Italy, Slovenia and Croatia | Three countries on two wheels in one week Istria | Cycle on a converted railway to the medieval coastal town Poreč Trieste | Grand architecture, plazas and coastal promenade
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 7
BIKE:
24 gear hybrid bike
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
Cycling in Murcia, Southern Spain
3
TRIP CODE - CSSM | SPAIN PRICES FROM
US$890*
CA$1160*
trip only
trip only
7 day trip
Murcia | Peaceful and beautiful cycling through a less-visited region of Spain Pueblos Blancos | Picture-perfect whitewashed villages of Cieza and the Ricote Valley Caravaca de la Cruz | Holy city and home to the medieval castle of Santa Cruz
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 6
BIKE:
27 gear mountain bike with lockable front suspension
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices. *Prices per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.
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For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
SELF-GUIDED
Cycle Camino de Santiago
3
TRIP CODE - CSCS | SPAIN PRICES FROM
US$1680*
CA$2190*
trip only
trip only
10 day trip
Camino de Santiago | Cycle the legendary pilgrimage trail to Santiago de Compostela Scenic Northern Spain | Pass historical monuments and pretty villages along the way Leon | Imposing Gothic Cathedral with stunning stained glass windows
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights premium hotel 3 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 9 | Dinner: 4
BIKE:
24 gear mountain bike with lockable front suspension
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
Cycling in Mallorca
1
TRIP CODE - CSMA | SPAIN (MALLORCA) PRICES FROM
US$1290*
CA$1690*
trip only
trip only
8 day trip
Mediterranean landscapes | Ride on quiet roads through the fertile rolling countryside Medieval villages | Located on hilltops with 360 degree views Port de Pollenca | Long swathe of sandy beach
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 7
BIKE:
24 gear Giant Roam or 27 gear Gitane Play hybrid bike with front suspension
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices. *Prices per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
91
SELF-GUIDED
Rioja Cycling
2
TRIP CODE - CSRR | SPAIN
This self-guided cycling trip takes you through the vineyards, rolling countryside and picturesque villages of La Rioja. Along your route you can visit impressive wine estates and soak up the history and culture of this fascinating region. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Sierra de la Demanda | Cycle the foothills of the Demanda range Camino de Santiago | Cross the pilgrims’ trail at Santo Domingo de la Calzada Wine and tapas | Excellent local wines complimented by superb regional cuisine
PRICES FROM
ITINERARY
7
US$1060* trip only
DAY 1: Join trip in Ezcaray.
day trip
CA$1380*
DAY 2: C ircular ride through southern Rioja’s landscape of grain fields, orchards and sunflowers. Stop off in Santo Domingo de la Calzada cathedral.
trip only AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate
DAILY DISTANCES Day 1
ACCOMMODATION 5 nights premium hotel 1 night comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 6
BIKE:
24 gear Specialized Crosstrail hybrid bike with front suspension
20km
Day 2
48km
Day 3
40/44km
Day 4
30km
Day 5
41km
Day 6
28/31km
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
SPAIN S.VICENTE
EZCARAY
DAY 4: B ike to San Vicente de la Sonsierra across the plains of the Rioja Alta, by way of Alesanco, Azofre and Briones. DAY 5: A circular ride to Alava - the Basque province of the Rioja wine region. Here, every square inch of fertile soil across this rolling landscape has been covered in grapevines, with medieval villages sitting on hilltops.
Optional Rides
Bilbao
Point-to-Point
DAY 3: R ide along the Via Verde - an old railway track that has been converted into a cycling path. Continue to Badarán via UNESCO World Heritage monasteries.
BADARAN
DAY 6: T oday’s circular route takes you along the banks of the winding River Ebro to the Riojan wine capital of Haro. DAY 7: T rip ends in San Vicente de la Sonsierra.
Prices vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
*Prices per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.
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For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
SELF-GUIDED
Cycle Andalucía
2
TRIP CODE - CSJC | SPAIN PRICES FROM
US$1220*
CA$1590*
trip only
trip only
8 day trip
Whitewashed hilltop villages | Wonderfully scenic cycling to La Costa de la Luz Coastal towns | Relax in Cádiz and the sandy beaches of Conil de la Frontera Jerez | Explore this cultural hub, home of sherry and flamenco
AT A GLANCE NEW TRIP
CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 7
BIKE:
24 gear mountain bike with lockable front suspension
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
Cycle South Portugal
2
TRIP CODE - CSPO | PORTUGAL PRICES FROM
US$1120*
CA$1520*
trip only
trip only
8 day trip
Alentejo to the Algarve | Cycle Portugal’s beautiful coastline to Cape Sao Vicente Vilanova de Milfontes | Beautiful coastal villages Food and wine | Refuel on local specialties and catch of the day
AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 7
BIKE:
18 gear Coluer Rave mountain bike with lockable front suspension
Point-to-Point
E-Bike available
CUSTOMER RATING: Independently verified reviews, up to 30/06/2019.
Prices are per person, vary by date and do not include international flights. Please call or see website for latest dates and prices.
*Prices per person based on two people sharing. Single room and solo traveller prices on request.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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ELEPHANT | SRI LANKA
94
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
Contents More from Explore About our Cycling Trips
96-97 98-102 102
Passport and Visa Requirements
102
General information
Privacy Policy
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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One more thing before you go... We don’t just offer Cycling Adventures
TANZANIA | WALKING & TREKKING
If you visit our website, you can see our complete offering. There, you can choose from over 500 trips to more than 120 countries; from discovery and wildlife adventures, to walks and treks, family trips and polar voyages.
Follow the less-used and scenic Lemosho route on this iconic trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest point in Africa.
From trekking to the summit of Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, to exploring the ‘Rose Red City’ of Petra in Jordan, we’ve got hundreds of unforgettable experiences in extraordinary destinations all over the world. Here’s a sample of tried and tested favourites from exploreworldwide.com; popular with newcomers and loyal customers alike, each with lots of departure date choices, some of which you can extend. They’re an excellent place to start looking for your next adventure when you’re ready to look beyond a cycling trip…
Kilimanjaro – Lemosho Trek
exploreworldwide.com/KC
JORDAN | DISCOVERY ADVENTURES
Jordan Discovery Discover the rugged beauty, delicious food and rich heritage of Jordan. Explore the ‘Rose Red City’ of Petra, sleep out under the stars in Wadi Rum and float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea.
exploreworldwide.com/JD
MOROCCO | DISCOVERY ADVENTURES
Highlights of Morocco Explore the vibrant souks of Marrakech, walk across the golden sand dunes of Erg Chebbi and take in the beautiful scenery of the Atlas Mountains.
exploreworldwide.com/ MMR
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For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
ITALY | WALKING & TREKKING
Amalfi Coast Walking Explore the trails of the spectacular Amalfi Coast, from clifftop hikes to woodland walks. Visit Amalfi and Positano, hop to the island of Capri by boat and experience the Walk of the Gods, regarded as one of the world’s greatest coastal walks.
exploreworldwide.com/NAW
ICELAND | DISCOVERY ADVENTURES
Iceland Yurt Adventure Set on a working horse farm in the heart of the Golden Circle, our new yurts are perfectly located to discover Iceland’s highlights including thundering waterfalls, Geysir and Vik Beach.
exploreworldwide.com/IHY
COSTA RICA | WILDLIFE ADVENTURES
Explore Costa Rica Cruise through jungle waterways, fly through the tree tops on a zip wire and hike on Arenal Volcano. Listen for howler monkey, spot brightly coloured toucan and go in search of the resplendent quetzal. With wildlife, adventure and beautiful beaches to boot, this two-week trip won’t disappoint.
exploreworldwide.com/CC
VIETNAM | DISCOVERY ADVENTURES
Simply Vietnam Staying in simple hotels and using local transport, explore the highlights of Vietnam in just 10 days. Barter for exotic fruit in the Mekong Delta and cruise around Halong Bay aboard a traditional junk boat.
exploreworldwide.com/QVN
TURKEY | FAMILY ADVENTURES
Turkey Coastal Active Adventure Canoe from Xanthos to the beach at Patara, kayak over the sunken ruins of Kekova and enjoy local Turkish cuisine in harbour-side tavernas.
exploreworldwide.com/FLL
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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About Explore trips Please read carefully through the following information about booking an Explore trip. When you book (whether by phone, travel agent or online), you will be asked to confirm that you have read and understood these pages, as well as our Booking Conditions (www.exploreworldwide.com/booking-conditions) and Trip Notes. Travelling on an Explore trip
Group size
We offer a wide variety of experiences and activities which allow you to really get to know an area and to see beyond the normal tourist facade. Of course we include the better known sights but we understand that you should have the flexibility to do your own thing. We therefore build in free time for you to either take part in optional excursions or to explore independently – an important part of any trip. Your travel companions come from a wide range of locations and backgrounds. However, because we only offer English-speaking trips, the majority will be from the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the US. Everyone will share your passion for adventure travel.
The size of the group on group trips usually ranges from between 8 to 18 people; the average group size is usually 12 people, depending on the type of trip, the transport and accommodation used and activities included. While every group make up is different, we occasionally have groups that are smaller than six or seven people.
Guaranteed departures We guarantee that for departures advertised on our website as being guaranteed, the trip only itinerary will not be cancelled or significantly changed once the first booking is confirmed unless we are forced to do so by a “force majeure” (as defined in our Booking Conditions). There is no minimum group size. This guarantee does not apply to international or UK domestic flights, which may be subject to change or cancellation in accordance with our Booking Conditions.
Itineraries From time to time, some elements of our trips may change from those that have been published. This could be the result of inclement weather, a change in the local political situation or in flight or train schedules or other circumstances beyond our control. We will keep you as well informed as possible about these changes. Significant changes to your holiday will be notified as soon as we feasibly can. Minor amendments to your trip will be detailed on your final trip documentation, although our website will be regularly updated should you wish to check the information at any time. You will be provided with a provisional list of your accommodation shortly after booking. While we expect to stay at the accommodation stated, please note that this is subject to change to an equivalent or higher standard at any time.
98
Age limits The minimum age on most group trips featured in this brochure is 14. Our minimum age for trips travelling at high altitude is 16 years old. Trips to certain destinations (for example, Chernobyl) have a higher minimum age limit. Please refer to individual trips notes and our website where this is mentioned if applicable. A parent or adult must accompany people under the age of 18. Fitness and stamina are more important than age. We often find some of our older customers are the fittest in the group! While we don’t have a maximum age, we do recognise that at some point during our customer’s journey with us, they will reach an age where we will have to review their fitness and ability to participate in the trips they’ve chosen to book. Should you be 80 or older at time of travel we will discuss the itinerary with you before booking you on the trip and may ask you additional questions about your health and fitness.
Fitness and trip participation All our trips require some level of active participation. This could be on a cultural trip, trek, safari, expedition or voyage. It is in the interests of all members of the group that everyone should be capable of fully participating in the activities of their chosen trip. With this in mind, please be aware that (as detailed in our Booking Conditions) if it is felt that any customer is not able to participate in a trip without endangering the health or safety of themselves or any other person (including other group members), or that the presence of the customer on the trip means we will be unable to provide the trip, in whole or part, to other members of the group as advertised and contracted, the Explore Leader at any stage has the right to require them
to leave the trip. To ensure that this is never necessary, please make sure that you have fully understood the level of fitness and ability required to complete the trip on which you are booking. It is your responsibility to let us know if you have any concerns related to this subject. If you have any medical condition or disability which may affect your trip arrangements in any way, you must provide us with full details at the time of booking. In certain circumstances, usually on more strenuous trips, we may require you to provide proof of medical fitness before travelling. On many of our trips, there will be water based activities, boat excursions or swimming opportunities. For your own personal safety and enjoyment, an ability to swim is therefore strongly recommended. Several trips reach elevations of 2,500 metres or more. We allow time for acclimatisation and usually the body acclimatises well to spending extended periods of time above this altitude. It is difficult to predict who is at risk from altitude sickness but if you have a heart or respiratory problem we advise you not to risk extended travel or trekking at high altitudes.
Trip prices The prices shown in this brochure are for guidance only and do not include international flights. They represent the basic per-person cost of the trip at the time of publication of this brochure. For self-guided trips the price stated is per person based on two people sharing. The price at the time of booking may be different. The latest guide prices for each trip can be found on our website. For US dollar prices go to www.exploreworldwide.com, for Canadian dollar prices go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
No surcharge price guarantee Once we have confirmed your booking we guarantee the price you pay for your confirmed services won’t change: we will not pass on surcharges of any kind. Unlike most other tour operators we will not pass on unexpected additional costs like fuel surcharges and tax increases.
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
What’s included in the trip price? Transport, meals and accommodation: all details are outlined in the individual Trip Notes. Explore Leader: the services of an Explore Leader are included on nearly all group trips. In most cases they will accompany you for the full duration of the trip. On some group trips a local representative may be provided instead (this will be outlined in the individual Trip Notes). L ocal crew: as well as drivers and local guides, interpreters, cooks, helpers and porters may be provided on some trips (details will be outlined in the individual Trip Notes). Activities, equipment, sightseeing and visits: please see individual Trip Notes for details. For Private Guided and Self-guided trips we include accommodation, transport and meals as outlined in the individual trip itinerary. Bike hire is included for both group and self-guided cycling trips. Your included bike will be the correct frame size for your height. All bikes have a maximum rider’s weight limit which varies but is usually around 120kg. Should you exceed this weight you must mention this to us at the time of booking to enable us to try to source a suitable alternative. E –Bikes can be hired locally on some trips for an additional charge. See trip notes for details.
Included transfers We are pleased to be able to include airport transfers for customers booking a flight inclusive or land only trip where the flight arrives on the same day the trip starts and departs on the day the trip ends. Where trips join and end at the designated overseas airport or train station, one arrival and one departure transfer will be provided for the whole group. In order to be included in this transfer please ensure that you arrive at the designated airport or train station for the joining time and book flights departing after the given ending time. Please refer to your trip notes or joining information for further details and see www.exploreworldwide.com/transfers. You are responsible for telling us your flight details and keeping us updated with any changes.
Meal plan Most trips include breakfast, but other meals are often not included. This allows you to try the cuisine in local restaurants and also to choose what and where to eat and how much to spend. We try to keep all-inclusive accommodation to a minimum. Where there is no option, such as when camping, on safari or on some boat-based trips, meals tend to be included. We try to cater for you if you
have special dietary requirements but we do ask you to have realistic expectations. In some countries there is a limited choice of food and it may be difficult to cater for all special meal requirements. Please let us know at the time of booking if you have any specific dietary requirements.
Explore Leaders (not applicable to Self-guided Trips) Our leaders’ main responsibility is to make sure that all members of the group are well looked after and return home having had a wonderful holiday with some fantastic memories. It is the leader’s responsibility to ensure that the trip runs smoothly and that all the logistics are in place; also to oversee the health and safety aspects of the trip. Our Explore Leaders will be as flexible as possible - within the confines of the itinerary. For example, they can arrange group meals for those that would like to eat with their travel companions. Alternatively, if you would prefer to make your own plans they may offer suggestions for local restaurants. They will also try to make sure that everyone has as much free time during the trip as they wish. In order to keep the trip running effectively, Explore Leaders give regular briefings to talk about what is happening in the next few days, to remind you of timings and what you need to bring for excursions, sightseeing and activities. Often this will be reiterated on notices put up in hotel receptions or other appropriate places. Explore Leaders will also brief the group on safety and general health issues. Explore Leaders are carefully selected and have undergone thorough training in the UK and/or overseas which is generally accepted to be some of the best in the industry. Explore Leaders are chosen for their travel experience, their people skills and their experience of working with groups. Please note that a small number of trips and Private Guided Walks and Treks are accompanied by local representatives instead. This will not affect the enjoyment of your holiday and will be outlined clearly in the individual Trip Notes.
What’s not included? The price of the trip does not include: visa fees, vaccination charges, travel insurance premiums, passport costs, international departure taxes, excess baggage charges, optional tours and excursions, hotel porters or meals (other than those we list as included). We also do not include items of a personal nature; such as laundry, room service charges, drinks or phone calls. Tips for personal service are not included and are usually expected. If you book on a land only basis we do not include flights or trains to or from the trip join and end points or departure taxes. For Self-guided trips we do not include the services of an Explore Leader.
Accommodation and rooming arrangements
Wherever possible, we try to include accommodation which best reflects the local area in which we are travelling. For example, this could be a Berber village house in Morocco, a Bedouin camp in Jordan’s Wadi Rum or a safari lodge in Botswana. Where we use hotels, we aim for mid-range accommodation, with the key requirements being cleanliness, safety, comfort and a good location. The type of room provided and the level of facilities may vary from place to place. In exceptional circumstances, we may use simple hotels with more basic amenities. Several trips include camping. We provide all the necessary equipment (for example two person tents), but you are likely to need your own sleeping mats and sleeping bags. You will not have to cook, but on some trips you may be asked to help with the camp chores. Please see the individual Trip Notes for details. All our accommodation is given a rating to describe standards and facilities. You can find this in the individual Trip Notes.
Accommodation grades We know that finding the right place to stay is just as important as the destination and the activities. All our accommodation is carefully chosen for location and character. Countries have varying standards and on some holidays a range of grades are used. Simple These are often small, family run establishments or campsites which provide a no-frills experience with adequate amenities and service standards. Sleeping arrangements are simple, sometimes with en suite facilities. Comfortable Our comfortable, mid-range accommodation offers a good level of service, often with other amenities such as a restaurant, bar, garden or swimming pool. Generally rooms will have en suite facilities and heating or air-conditioning. Premium Our premium accommodation is hand-picked for its character, location or local importance. These properties have excellent facilities and a higher level of comfort and service.
Single rooms Most trips are based on customers sharing twin-bedded rooms. If you book a group trip as an individual, you will share a room with someone of the same sex. However, on many trips we offer the opportunity to pay a supplement to pre-book a single room. On some of these trips a single room will be provided every night, on others it will be provided on some nights, but for logistical reasons
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not all. Individual Trip Notes clarify this. Please note that on rare occasions it may be necessary for customers in single rooms to share bathroom facilities. Please note that single rooms may differ in configuration and may be smaller than a standard twin/double room.
Preparing for your trip Travelling to far-flung corners of the earth involves adapting to living conditions that are often very different from your own. Please be prepared for unusual situations, local differences and unpredictable events. The very nature of adventure holidays means your most enjoyable moments are likely to come from the unexpected. You need to be sure you are happy to swap luxury for experience when joining an Explore trip. If you are someone who prefers things to go as planned and enjoys some pampering along the way, then maybe think twice about an adventure holiday. You should also be aware that some countries around the world have security problems. Unsavoury characters are likely to be active in big cities and street markets and certain areas may be considered ‘out-of-bounds’ for tourists. However, most crime is opportunistic. Using your common sense will reduce the risks. Unfortunately, no destination can be guaranteed to be safe from terrorism. We constantly monitor the political situation in the regions we visit and will re-route or cancel a trip if we feel it is necessary. Whilst we endeavour to provide as much information as possible in our brochure and individual Trip Notes regarding the areas our trips travel to, we would always recommend that you undertake some background research about the places you will be visiting and the type of climate and local conditions you can expect in order to get the most from your holiday.
Foreign Office travel advice We monitor UK FCO travel warnings and advice based on them, may cancel trips before departure, or re-route or make other changes to trips operating in or throughout the country concerned. Any decision we take about whether to operate or cancel a trip or make other changes will always be in the interests of your safety and security. We will make these decisions at least four weeks before departure, unless we believe that local conditions will improve before the start of the trip. The UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) Travel Advice Unit can be found here: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/emailsignup . The USA and Canadian Governments
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both provide detailed information about overseas destinations. We strongly recommend that you read their comments about the country you are planning to visit, both when you book and again just before you leave. The information can be found here: USA citizens : https://travel.state.gov/ destination Canadian Citizens: https://travel.gc.ca/ travelling/advisories
Travel insurance and pre-existing medical conditions You must have valid travel insurance. You will need to confirm to your Explore Leader that you are covered by a travel insurance policy at the start of the trip. Please ensure that your documentation shows you as the named policyholder and that the cover is valid for the entire period of travel. It must also indicate that you have cover for (at least) Medical Expenses and Emergency Repatriation in the event of illness or injury. Please ensure that a 24 hour contact telephone number for your insurance company is written on your documentation in case of an emergency. If you are unable to provide this information at the start of the trip you will not be able to continue with us unless you purchase a suitable insurance policy. If you, your travelling companions, or anyone upon whom your travel depends (such as a friend or family member) have a pre-existing medical condition, you must disclose this to your travel insurer’s medical screening helpline when you purchase your insurance policy. Failure to do so may result in your claim being declined. Please ensure that you receive written confirmation from them that the condition is covered. You must take this written confirmation with you on the trip, in addition to the insurance policy itself. If you don’t, you may not have appropriate cover. We reserve the right to cancel your booking at any point if you do not fully insure your pre-existing medical condition. Please also tell us about any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of booking.
Seating on flights and trains Although it is possible to request specific seats from the majority of airlines and train operators, it’s important to note that the carrier may ask you for an additional fee to pre-book your seats in advance. To ensure your request is fulfilled we recommend that you contact the airline/train operators directly via their website and use their ‘manage my booking’ facility. Although this facility will be available for the majority of flights and train bookings, there are some airlines that don’t enable this option. If you find you’re not able to access your booking directly through the airline/train
website, then please contact Explore with your seating request and we’ll submit it on your behalf. It’s important to note that we are unable to guarantee your seating requests and that failure to grant your request will not be a breach of contract on our part. Sometimes seats are booked as part of a block booking (allocation) – the relevant airline/train will automatically allocate your seating and so it is possible that you might not be close to other members of your party. For these journeys you’ll be unable to check in online and so we recommend arriving and checking in at the airport/ train station as early as possible so that you have a better chance of selecting alternative seats should the need arise. If you require specific seats because of a disability/reduced mobility/a medical condition, please make this clear at the time of booking. Subject to safety requirements and availability, EU airlines are required to make all reasonable efforts to arrange seating to meet the requirements of individuals with a disability or reduced mobility. You may be required to provide written confirmation of your disability, reduced mobility or medical condition and fitness to travel from your doctor.
In-flight meals Although meals are still provided on most international flights, you should be aware that there is a trend towards them not being included on shorter flights, and particularly those within Europe. On many routes with connections within Europe, a meal will be provided on the inter-continental sector, but not on the sector between the UK and the connecting European airport. We cannot therefore guarantee that a meal will be provided on all flights. If you have a special dietary requirement, please let us know at the time of booking. We will send an automated request through to the airline. Please be aware that in most cases airlines do not confirm individual meal requests, so it is worth double checking that the meal has been ordered at check-in.
Changes to flight information When you book a flight-inclusive trip with Explore, your confirmation will contain provisional flight details. The timings, flight numbers or route could change several times before departure. We will confirm final timings with your final documents. We will notify you immediately of any significant airline schedule change which occurs after your tickets have been issued. We recommend that you defer booking any connecting travel to the airport or arrangements such as car parking or overnight hotels until you have received your final documents, with confirmed travel times. Where Explore are arranging
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
domestic regional flights, these will be automatically rebooked to connect with your international flights. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible, non-refundable connecting rail, air or bus tickets, as they usually incur cancellation or penalty charges in the event of a change to the departure time or date.
EU banned airlines In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005 Article 9, we are required to bring to your attention the existence of a “Community List” which contains details of air carriers which are subject to an operating ban within the EU. The Community List is available for inspection at www.europa.eu. In accordance with EU Regulations we are required to advise you of the actual carrier(s) (or, if the actual carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your international flight(s) to and from an EU airport 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 become aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. If the carrier with whom you have a confirmed reservation becomes subject to an operating ban and, as a result, we or the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable alternative, the provisions of our Booking Conditions “If
we change or cancel your trip” will apply. Please note that we will not book our customers onto banned airlines whose flights may be available for general sale and accessible to the public.
Aircraft weight restrictions
For the purposes of flight safety, it is essential that you adhere to the luggage weight restrictions imposed by the airline you are flying with, particularly when flying on internal flights on smaller aircraft.
Lost luggage In the rare event that your luggage is either misplaced or damaged during a flight, a PIR (Property Irregularity Report) will need to be filed with the airline before you leave the airport to allow an insurance claim to be processed at a later date.
What should I pack for a cycling holiday? When packing for a cycling holiday, you’ll need to bring your own bike helmet, as these are not supplied. We also highly recommend packing some padded shorts, as you’ll appreciate these after several days of cycling! Cycle gloves are always a good idea as they protect the hands from the sun and give some extra padding to add comfort. Other than that, it’s up to you whether you wear clothing designed especially for cycling. Some people prefer to wear cycling clothing, others don’t it’s not essential for our trips. Also we suggest bringing at least one water bottle
– many of our bikes have bottle holders where you can store them. Most of our bikes also have handlebar bags, panniers or saddle-bags to store extra water and snacks – check the trip page to find out more. If it only has a small handlebar bag we recommend bringing a small rucksack to wear on your back while you cycle, for a waterproof jacket, camera, food and drinks. All of your large luggage will be transported for you.
Land only packages Our land only packages start and finish at the designated overseas joining and ending point. Land only packages do not include any connecting flights to or from the joining or ending point. If you are planning to book a land only package on one of our trips, then we strongly recommend that you only purchase flights/train/ bus tickets that are totally flexible and refundable. This is because by their very nature, adventure travel itineraries can change and it’s important that you’re able to amend your connecting travel arrangements should the need arise. In the event of a trip being cancelled it is important that you are able to get a refund if you no longer wish to use the associated flight, bus or train. We regret that we cannot accept liability for any connecting travel arrangements that you make (including any cancellation or amendment charges) in the event of any change to, or cancellation of, our trip; or for any other reason that makes you unable to use your booked travel arrangements.
The Association of Independent Tour Operators AITO is the association for independent and specialist holiday companies. Its member companies, usually owner-managed, strive to create overseas holidays with high levels of professionalism and a shared concern for quality and personal service. The Association encourages the highest standards in all aspects of tour operating.
Exclusive membership
AITO sets criteria regarding ownership, finance and quality which must be satisfied before new companies are admitted to membership. All members are required to adhere to a Code of Business Practice which encourages high operational standards and conduct.
Financial security
An AITO member is required to arrange financial protection for all holidays and other arrangements (including accommodation only) booked by customers with the member under the AITO logo. This financial protection applies to customers who are resident in the UK at the time of booking and to most overseas customers who have booked directly with the member. In doing so, the member must comply with UK Government regulations. Members are required to submit details of their financial protection arrangements to AITO on a regular basis.
Professional service and continual improvements
All members are committed to high standards of service and believe in regular and thorough training of employees. Members continually seek to review and improve their holidays. They listen to their customers and always welcome suggestions for improving standards.
CALIFORNIA SELLER OF TRAVEL PROGRAM Please be advised that California has established a Travel Consumer Restitution Fund. It does not cover non-California residents and, even in the case of California residents, does not cover any foreign travel where the foreign ‘providers of transportation or travel services’ are not in compliance with the Seller of Travel Law (compliances being defined as: registered as a Seller of Travel Consumer Restitution Fund). Thus none of the trips in this brochure qualify and by law you are
Monitoring standards
AITO endeavours to monitor quality standards regularly. All customers should receive a postholiday questionnaire, the results of which are scrutinised by the Association.
Sustainable tourism
All members acknowledge the importance of AITO’s Sustainable Tourism guidelines, which recognise the social, economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating.
Customer relations
All members endeavour to deal swiftly and fairly with any issues their customers may raise. In the unlikely event that a dispute between an AITO member and a customer cannot be settled amicably, AITO’s low-cost Independent Dispute Settlement Service may be called upon by either side to bring the matter to a speedy and acceptable conclusion. Explore is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. To contact the association visit www.aito.com
Please note:
The information contained in our brochure, website and other advertising material is believed to be correct at the time of printing or publication. However, this information may subsequently change. Please ensure that you check all the details of your chosen holiday (including the price) with us at the time of booking.
required to be advised that you would not be eligible to make any claim from that fund in the unlikely event of any default by the Company or any of our suppliers. Explore! - North America California Seller of Travel Registration #2102544-40. Registration as a Seller of Travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.
Brochure / Website / Advertising material accuracy The information contained in our
brochure, on our website and in our other advertising material is believed correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of printing or publication. However, errors may occasionally occur and information may subsequently change. You must therefore ensure you check all details of your chosen trip (including the price) with us or your travel agent at the time of booking. Explore Worldwide Ltd., Registered Office: Nelson House, 55 Victoria Road, Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 7PA, UK. VAT No. 358 7552 13.
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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Passports and Visas It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct, current information in good time before departure and that you act on it. Please ensure that you are in possession of a full passport , with the correct validity and appropriate number of blank pages for your chosen destination. You must also obtain all visas and vaccination certificates that are necessary to enter or pass through any countries involved in your journey or trip. Visa requirements are listed in individual Trip Notes, but please note that this information is subject to change. Please check the latest visa requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate for the countries you will be visiting.
Visas Many countries require a visa to be obtained before travel or on arrival. Visa requirements should be confirmed with the relevant embassy or consulate for the countries you will be visiting. If required, visas can be obtained through a Visa Service or the relevant embassy or consulate.
accepted standards of dress or appearance (even if they hold a visa). Entry may also be refused to some countries if your passport bears stamps or visas (valid or expired) from certain countries. Please bear this in mind when booking/traveling to these destinations as it can negatively affect your future travel plans.
Immigration Advice Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with any person under the age of 18. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.
VisaHQ We have partnered with VisaHQ; a company who specialize in visa processing. Please visit their website to download visa application forms or make general enquiries about their visa service. The VisaHQ service is easy to use, simply go to their website and select the countries you are visiting. The website will then tell you which visas you need for your trip.
General Note: Some countries refuse admission to travellers not meeting their
For more information visit the VisaHQ website https://exploreworldwide. visaheadquarters.com/ or call VisaHQ on 1-800-345-6541.
Vaccinations and Health Requirements It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct vaccinations required for all countries that you will visit on your trip. Explore Trip Notes detail the recommended vaccinations for each trip but you must consult with your doctor or a travel health clinic to ensure you have the most up to date advice. Please note that some inoculation programmes require two injections, administered four weeks apart. You should leave plenty of time for this. As a general rule, please note that health requirements and recommendations may change and you must check the current requirements with your doctor or a travel health clinic in good time before departure. Further information can be found at www. fitfortravel.nhs.uk For country-specific advice https://nathnac.net is an excellent source of information on health risks.
Data protection privacy statement Explore takes your privacy extremely seriously. We are committed to doing everything we can to protect any personal information provided to us when you enquire about or book a holiday or another travel service with us, when you visit our website, or when you engage with us by other means. This equally applies if someone else makes arrangements on your behalf. For full details of what, why and how we collect and use your personal information, how we protect it and how you can contact us, see our online Privacy Centre at www. explore.co.uk/essential-information/terms-and-conditions/privacy-policy or call us on 01252 379438 so that we can send the details to you. If you handle the arrangements for other travellers, please ensure they are aware of the information contained within our Privacy Centre and they consent to you acting on their behalf in your dealings with us. To enable us to make holiday arrangements for you, we may ask you to provide information such as: • your name, gender, date of birth, contact details; • your preferred rooming arrangements and other special requests (including special categories of personal data such as dietary requirements, which may disclose health matters or your religious or philosophical beliefs, and information about any disability or medical condition which may affect the chosen holiday arrangements); • the name and telephone number of an emergency contact person (whom we will only contact in urgent circumstances while you are away); • your passport and travel insurance details; • details of your payment card or your bank account (this information is processed using a third party payment services provider and is not stored by us); When you call us or correspond with us about your booking, we may record the call for training and quality control purposes and/or keep information on why you contacted us, and the advice we gave you. On your return from holiday we email or post a satisfaction questionnaire to you. This gives us specific feedback on any issue you may have experienced, and statistical data we can amalgamate in order to monitor the quality of our holidays; We will need to share your data with third party service providers, used in the delivery of your purchased holiday arrangements, some of which may be based outside the EEA. These providers include accommodation, restaurants and transport providers; local ground partners and agents, where we use them; equipment hire operators, including our cycling partners and guides, tutors and local attractions where booked on your behalf. We keep the information related to your booking for a period which enables us to handle or respond to any complaints or queries and to fulfil our obligations to our third party suppliers who provided your holiday arrangements. The information may also be retained so that we can continue to improve your experience with us while you engage with and purchase from us. By law we have to keep basic information about our customers for legal and tax purposes for up to 7 years after they cease being customers. If you fail to provide personal information Should you fail to provide data required either by law, or necessary to provide your chosen travel arrangements, we will not be able to provide the services you have booked or are attempting to book. This may result in Explore being unable to process your booking and be forced to cancel the booking. In this case, we will treat this as a
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‘cancellation by you’ in accordance with the relevant Booking Terms & Conditions and notify you accordingly. Marketing communications We may use your information to provide you with brochures, newsletters and other communications if you have provided your prior consent or we are permitted under an identified and assessed legitimate interest. We sell our holidays directly to customers and so sending out brochures and other marketing communications by post from time-to-time is very important to the way we do business. We use data we have collected from bookings, brochure requests and other forms of engagement to decide what marketing information our customers may like to receive, and we have identified this as in our legitimate interest. We do provide an opportunity to opt-out of this direct marketing during the booking or enquiry process and in subsequent communications, or you may contact us at any time to do so. We have found over the years that the majority of people welcome these communications and those who do not are happy to let us know so we can ensure no more are sent. If you ask us to stop sending marketing information, you may continue to receive communications for up to 4 weeks after your requested change while our systems are fully updated. Images From time-to-time, our staff, customers and suppliers may take photographs and video footage of trips in progress, including photos and video footage of our customers. You will be invited to sign a model release form to consent to this. These images may be used in future marketing materials and stored physically and digitally. If you do not wish to be filmed or for your pictures to be taken or used in this manner, please advise your Explore Leader and/or the photographer at the start of your trip. Website use In order for us to provide you with the optimum service, we use ‘Cookies’ on our website. Cookies are small text files sent to your computer when you access our site. Cookies used on our site are anonymous and contain no personal information, but do identify your computer so that you can navigate our site more easily and our website can remember your preferences. For more information about what cookies we use and how to manage them please refer to our Cookie Policy at www.explore.co.uk/privacy/ cookies Contact us It is important that the personal data we hold about you is accurate and current. Please keep us informed if any of the details you provide to us should change during the course of your relationship with us. If you need further assistance, would like to make a comment or update your marketing preferences, you can contact us: • By telephone on 01252 379438 • By email: dataprivacy@explore.co.uk • By mail to Data Privacy Manager, Explore, Nelson House, 55 Victoria Road, Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 7PA, UK, You also have the right to make a complaint at any time to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). You can contact them on 0303 123 1113 or go online to www.ico.org.uk/concerns.
For more details call 1 800 715 1746 or go to www.exploreworldwide.com
How to Book
Explore trips fill up quickly, so to secure space on your chosen departure date it is best to book as early as possible.
Local Travel Agent Visit your local travel agent to plan and book your Explore adventure.
Book Online It’s easy to check availability and book online. www.exploreworldwide.com - for US dollar bookings www.exploreworldwide.ca - for Canadian dollar bookings
Call Toll Free Call our Adventure Travel Consultants to check availability and for help planning your trip:
USA - 1 800 715 1746 Canada - 1 888 216 3401 Travel agents call 1 888 230 8364
Booking Checklist
Names Most airlines now require your full first name, middle name (if you have one) and surname. These must be provided exactly as they appear on your passport.
Passenger Information (API/APIs) Advance Some governments require you to provide personal information from your passport, before travel. We will advise you if this is required.
Conditions Booking When you book, you will be asked if you have read and understood the Booking Conditions and General Information “About Explore trips” – please note that you are legally bound to do so. You will find that a great deal of useful information is included. We really appreciate you taking the time to read all the information provided.
and Ability Fitness You must be sufficiently fit and healthy to be able to take part in all included elements of the trip.
Payment Deposit To confirm a booking we require a non-refundable deposit of 10% of the trip price. If your trip starts within 60 days of booking, full payment will be required at time of booking. Occasionally, a higher deposit is required, in which case you will be advised at time of booking.
Final Payment A final invoice will be sent about ten weeks before departure. Your booking must be paid for in full no later than 60 days before departure.
Debit and Credit Cards You can pay the deposit and final invoice by credit or debit card. We accept Visa and MasterCard. All charges are transacted in the UK in the currency in which your booking is made. We do not charge fees for credit card transactions in USD or CAD.
Visas Please leave adequate time to obtain all visas and make sure you have enough space in your passport for stamps. Passports Must be valid for at least six months after travel date.
Insurance Travel Travel Insurance is mandatory for all customers on all Explore trips. See www.exploreworldwide.com/insurance Medical Conditions Pre-existing Make sure any pre-existing conditions are covered by insurance and declared to your insurers.
Travel Insurance Adequate travel insurance with coverage for at least $100,000 emergency medical evacuation plus $100,000 medical expenses is required. To get an insurance quote go to: www.exploreworldwide.com/insurance Head Office Explore Worldwide Ltd Nelson House, 55 Victoria Road Farnborough, Hants, GU14 7PA United Kingdom
For more details call 1 888 216 3401 or go to www.exploreworldwide.ca
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- North America 75 State Street 1st Floor Boston, MA 02109 USA
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Discovery Adventures
Walking and Trekking
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Choose from our collection of carefully designed cultural and wildlife adventures exploring some of the most fascinating and beautiful places on earth.
From mountain treks to gentle walks, our range of walking and trekking adventures enable you to set foot in some of the world’s most inspiring landscapes.
Full of inspirational journeys designed specifically with families in mind; choose from wildlife, discovery and activity adventures around the globe.
For more information consult your Professional Travel Agent or contact us, we’re here to help.
USA toll free - 1 800 715 1746
www.exploreworldwide.com
Canada toll free - 1 888 216 3401 www.exploreworldwide.ca
Email tripinfo@exploreworldwide.com Travel Agents call 1 888 230 8364
CST 2102544-40
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