Family adventures
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Unforgettable experiences From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you’ve really explored. We’ll take you closer to the country, its culture and people, often in spontaneous, impossible-toreplicate ways. You’ll come home having seen and experienced the destination in a way that others might never have.
Expert local guides Chosen for their expertise and passion. Explore leaders use their insider knowledge to make the most of extraordinary and unexpected opportunities. They’re on-hand to make sure your trip goes smoothly and are trained by our team to ensure consistently high standards.
Small groups & private trips You’ll generally travel with three to five other families and various private trip options are available too. Group sizes are big enough to meet like-minded people but small enough to get to the heart of a destination.
We do the right thing Our flexible booking policies and sustainable approach set us apart. We continued to offer refunds for trips suspended due to coronavirus, while many others didn’t. Now we’ve gone even further with a refund promise that means you can continue to book with confidence (see page 4). Our trips and flights are Gold Standard carbon offset and we work hard to ensure we impact positively on the communities we visit as part of a commitment to sustainability (see page 8).
Contents Welcome 2
The Americas
48
Europe 14
NEW Private Tours
54
Middle East & Africa 26
General information 58
Asia 36
More from Explore
62
Why Explore? Explore
For 40 years we’ve been leading tours to extraordinary destinations all over the world. There’s a reason why 96% of customers say they’d book with us again.
explore.co.uk 3
Book and travel Our flexible booking and safety policies mean you’re protected before and during your travels with us. Read on to find out why you can still book and travel with confidence*.
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Guaranteed refund option Receive a refund if your trip is cancelled. As highlighted by consumer champion Which? we’re one of few adventure travel companies who’ve offered refunds on suspended trips throughout the coronavirus crisis. And, if you’re required to self-isolate due to COVID-19 and are unable to travel, you can get a cash refund of any recoverable costs. For full details call us or visit our website.
with confidence 10 day no-fee flexibility Transfer your trip free of charge up to 10 days before departure†.
Financial security While Explore feels like a small business, we’re actually part of a much bigger co-operative family.
Safety of a guide All small group and private tours are accompanied by a local leader or private guide; they’re on hand to take the hassle out of your travel and keep you safe.
Go flight-inclusive for peace of mind Choose to book your flights with us and you can restassured that we’ll provide a full refund in the event of FCO cancellations or major disruption. Your entire trip will be ATOL-protected and your flights will also be Gold Standard carbon offset.
Travel with confidence Our safety and hygiene protocols are guided by the World Travel & Tourism Council, World Tourism Organisation, the European Commission and local government regulations. So you can travel in confidence, knowing that we’ve ensured you the safest possible travelling environment.
Plus, we reward our loyal customers We know our customers love Explore; with many returning to book trip after trip with us. There are even those who have travelled with us for over 20 years, on more than 50 different trips! It’s great to see so many returning customers, and to recognise your loyalty, we offer: • a 5% discount on your second and all subsequent family holidays with us^. We also have ways to save if you want to recommend a friend. So, once you’ve caught the travel bug, we make it even easier to keep coming back for more.
* Please note, flexible terms apply to all trips apart from Polar Voyages which have different terms. †
Cancellation charges depend on how long it is before your planned departure. If you transfer to another trip date, rather than cancel, we can arrange that for you or issue a credit voucher for any monies paid, minus any irrecoverable costs. For full details see explore.co.uk/booking-conditions.
^ A different loyalty scheme applies for adult tours. For full Ts&Cs see explore.co.uk/loyalty
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Trip types at 1. Small group adventures - what we’re famous for! Our small group adventure holidays have been running for 40 years, and Explore is still one of the most trusted travel companies in the UK. Choose from over 500 trips to more than 120 countries; from Classic Discovery and Wildlife adventures to Walking holidays and Cycling trips, active Family adventures and even Polar Voyages. You’ll be joined by like-minded travel companions, as well as a local tour leader with in-depth knowledge of your
Prefer to travel with people you know? Here’s how...
destination. Our average group size is between three and five families; not so big that you’re lost in a coach-load of people, but big enough to make new friends. In the following pages you’ll find everything you need to know about our small group Family Adventures. And, if you’re interested in finding out more about our other small group tours just visit explore.co.uk or request a copy of our Unforgettable adventures brochure.
2. NEW Exclusive Groups Gather up five or more friends or family and take over one of our classic trips as your own Exclusive Group. You’ll still have an expert local tour leader on hand, and will follow the itinerary as per the trip page, but the group will be solely made up of your party. To find out more give us a call on 01252 888 537.
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a glance…
3. NEW Private Tours
4. Self-Guided holidays
Our Private Tours give you the flexibility to travel with only those closest to you, at a date and time that suits you. The key difference is that you won’t have a tour leader with you. Instead you’ll have private guides for the various sites and activities, and very often a driver too.
A Self-Guided trip is a walking or cycling holiday on your own terms; our most flexible type of trip. Set your own pace, choose when and where you stop, and enjoy the challenge of navigating yourself. We’ll look after the rest, from routes and maps to luggage and accommodation.
See page 54 to find out more.
To find out more give us a call on 01252 888 537.
explore.co.uk 7
Explore
responsibly Sustainability at Explore Sustainability is embedded within the fibre of Explore, it emanates from the inside out. As we enter a new decade it is clearer than ever that our world needs help. Explore has seized this moment of quiet to reassess how we operate, and our responsibilities to the local communities and ecosystems. We have a robust sustainability strategy. This includes a comprehensive carbon plan, maintaining our attention on education and training, being free of single-use plastic across all trips by 2021 and a new animal welfare policy. We promise to be transparent, honest and collaborative in our efforts to lead our industry in responsible travel.
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Climate change
Plastic free holidays
We appreciate the significant role tourism plays in climate change and the changes that must happen. In January 2020 we declared a climate emergency alongside our peers in the travel industry. We announced that all customers from 1 January 2020 would be booking a carbon neutral holiday and we operate from a carbon neutral office.
We’ve made great progress on eliminating plastic in our head office, now we need to really examine our trips and supply chain.
We encourage you to fly less; experience more. Possibly an unusual statement for a tour operator, but one that we stand by. Take one holiday abroad for two weeks, rather two holidays for one week each. Travel by train to your destination, fly back. Spend more time in your destination to truly immerse yourself, experience more and come back enriched. These are just some ideas - we all have unique situations, but your changes do matter, whatever their size.
Explore wants to be completely singleuse plastic free on our tours by 2021. We have a dedicated group of staff working with our agents and tour leaders to make this possible. Our starting point is to stop all single-use plastic bottles from being provided on our trips. The next step is a full supply chain analysis and zero single-use plastic. We will need your help, and with your support we can all work together for a cleaner and more sustainable planet.
Animal welfare We want wildlife to be wild and nature to be natural. Animal interactions sit at the heart of many of our trips, providing livelihoods, conservation funds and rewilding opportunities. Explore wants to offer authentic, enriching experiences which benefit our customers, the local communities, the natural environment and the wildlife within. We have rewritten our animal welfare policy alongside our charity partners Born Free and consultancy ANIMONDIAL. You can read our wildlife policy online in full.
Our carbon neutral office We’ve made considerable changes to our head office over the last two years. We have: • been certified as a carbon neutral office space • transitioned to zero-waste-to-landfill • added solar panels on our roof • changed to renewable energy providers • swapped to plant-based cleaning products • created an online sustainability training portal for all staff, agents and leaders
Being sustainable in our office is more though; we believe in fair wages, flexible working, a focus on mental health as well as physical, frequent training opportunities, and a gender pay analysis. We are passionate, and are encouraged to be. We are vocal, and supported. Only by challenging behaviours and creating new habits can we build on our sustainability, both in-house and through our trips. Importantly, we are not perfect. We are evolving, learning and working in a wonderfully dynamic industry, and we welcome your feedback.
For more information on our sustainability strategy, visit explore.co.uk/sustainability If you have any suggestions or would like to speak with us about our sustainability policies and commitments, please drop us a line at sustainability@explore.co.uk
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The perfect family holiday formula
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All of the fun, none of the hassle Our Family Adventures are all about fun. We do the research and planning, so you don’t have to. All of our holidays are organised around school holiday dates with additional special dates in early July for teenagers who’ve just finished exams.
2
Widen your horizons, learn more
We’re big believers in the role that travel plays in introducing children to a vast new world. Step away from the textbook and learn about the ancient Egyptians as you cruise down the Nile, take-in the biodiversity of Costa Rica’s continental divide and experience different cultures and religions in India and beyond.
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Kids usually set the tempo of a holiday, so we have different paces of trip to suit your family. Our ‘Relaxed’ holidays have chilled mornings and dedicated pool days, with plenty of time to see the sights. ‘Moderate’ trips have fuller days with downtime built-in, while ‘Full-On’ trips are busier, with some early starts and longer travelling days. If you’d like to opt-out of a day’s activity, you’re free to do your thing.
3
The right pace for your family
4
Shared experiences and new friends
5
A major highlight of travelling on a small group Family Adventure holiday is sharing your experiences with other families, and having your children make new friends. The average age of children travelling on our trips is 13, though it will depend on the trip you choose. To get an idea about who’s travelling on a particular trip date, please get in touch to find out the number of travellers and general ages of the children.
A good night’s sleep
We use a mix of homestays, characterful lodges and locallyowned hotels. Wherever possible, we try to have at least two nights in each place. We always try to find family-friendly accommodation with pools and some of the places are really special too – you can stay in tree tents, houseboats or beehive huts. Whether you all want to stay together in one room or prefer a different configuration, we’ll work to accommodate you.
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School
holiday planner All of our family adventures have been planned around school holiday dates. Whether you fancy snorkelling Belize’s barrier reef over Christmas or sleeping under the stars in Jordan’s Wadi Rum at Easter, we’ve got dozens of adventures for you to choose from.
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Europe MIN. AGE*
COUNTRIES
TRIP NAME
ICELAND
NEW ICELAND YURT ADVENTURE
11
CROATIA
DUBROVNIK AND CROATIAN ISLANDS ADVENTURE
7
GREECE
GREEK COAST CAIQUE CRUISE
7
ITALY
SICILY MULTI-ACTIVITY ADVENTURE
11
ITALY
BEST SELLER TUSCANY MULTI-ACTIVITY ADVENTURE
7
POLAND - SLOVAKIA
SLOVAKIA WINTER ADVENTURE
7
SPAIN
BEST SELLER PYRENEES MULTI-ACTIVITY ADVENTURE
7
TURKEY
BEST SELLER TURKEY COASTAL ACTIVE ADVENTURE
7
TURKEY
CRUISING THE TURQUOISE COAST
7
TURKEY
BEST SELLER TURKEY COASTAL ACTIVE ADVENTURE AND CRUISE
7
FEB HALF TERM
EASTER BREAK
MAY HALF TERM
SUMMER HOLIDAYS
OCTOBER HALF TERM
CHRISTMAS BREAK
FIND OUT MORE
PAGE
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FHY
16
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FDI
21
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FGC
22
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FSI
19
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FTY
18
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FPW
20
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FPY
17
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FLL
24
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FCE
23
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FLLC
25
FIND OUT MORE
PAGE
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FNF
29
Middle East and Africa MIN. AGE*
SUMMER HOLIDAYS
OCTOBER HALF TERM
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FJD
28
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FAT
30
7
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FMA
31
BEST SELLER SOUTH AFRICA KRUGER AND BEACH ADVENTURE
7
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FZK
33
SOUTH AFRICA
SOUTH AFRICA’S GARDEN ROUTE AND SAFARI
7
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FCP
34
TANZANIA
ZANZIBAR, SERENGETI & NGORONGORO SAFARI
7
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FTZ
32
ZAMBIA - NAMIBIA BOTSWANA
BEST SELLER BOTSWANA AND ZAMBIA SAFARI ADVENTURE
7
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FOA
35
FIND OUT MORE
PAGE
COUNTRIES
TRIP NAME
EGYPT
EGYPTIAN SPHINX, PYRAMIDS AND NILE RIVER
7
JORDAN
BEST SELLER JORDAN, PETRA AND DESERT ADVENTURE
7
MOROCCO
BEST SELLER ATLAS MOUNTAIN AND SAHARA ADVENTURE
7
MOROCCO
MARRAKECH, ATLAS & ESSAOUIRA ADVENTURE
SOUTH AFRICA – SWAZILAND
FEB HALF TERM
EASTER BREAK
MAY HALF TERM
CHRISTMAS BREAK
Asia MIN. AGE*
FEB HALF TERM
EASTER BREAK
MAY HALF TERM
SUMMER HOLIDAYS
OCTOBER HALF TERM
CHRISTMAS BREAK
COUNTRIES
TRIP NAME
CHINA
CHINA IN DEPTH
7
INDIA
INDIAN DISCOVERY
7
INDIA
BEST SELLER INDIA GOLDEN TRIANGLE ADVENTURE
7
INDONESIA
DRAGONS AND ISLANDS OF INDONESIA
11
SRI LANKA
HIGHLIGHTS OF SRI LANKA
7
SRI LANKA – MALDIVES
BEST SELLER SRI LANKA AND MALDIVES ADVENTURE
7
THAILAND
BEST SELLER THAILAND ACTIVE JUNGLE AND BEACH ADVENTURE
7
THAILAND
THAILAND JUNGLE AND ISLANDS ADVENTURE
7
VIETNAM
VIETNAM IN DEPTH
7
VIETNAM
BEST SELLER DISCOVER VIETNAM
7
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FQVN
46
VIETNAM - CAMBODIA THAILAND
VIETNAM, CAMBODIA AND THAILAND JOURNEY
7
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FQBK
45
CHRISTMAS BREAK
FIND OUT MORE
PAGE
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FBZ
51
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FQCH
42
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FKB
41
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FMG
40
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FKM
47
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FSS
38
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FSL
39
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FOT
44
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FTTE
43
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FVN
The Americas MIN. AGE*
FEB HALF TERM
EASTER BREAK
MAY HALF TERM
SUMMER HOLIDAYS
COUNTRIES
TRIP NAME
BELIZE
BELIZE WILDLIFE ADVENTURE
7
CANADA
CANADIAN ADVENTURE
7
COSTA RICA
BEST SELLER COSTA RICA RAINFOREST AND WILDLIFE ADVENTURE
7
CUBA
BEST SELLER CUBA DISCOVERY
7
NICARAGUA
NICARAGUA MULTI-ACTIVITY ADVENTURE
7
OCTOBER HALF TERM
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FCN
50
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FCC
52
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FCLT
53
EXPLORE.CO.UK/FNI
–
* Minimum age on date of departure.
explore.co.uk 13
DUBROVNIK | CROATIA | EXPLORE.CO.UK/FDI
Contents Croatia
21
Greece 22 Iceland 16 Italy 18–19 Poland
20
Slovakia
20
Spain 17 23–25
Best Sellers Pyrenees Multi-Activity Adventure
17
Tuscany Multi-Activity Adventure
18
Turkey Coastal Active Adventure
24
New Trips Iceland Yurt Adventure
16
Europe
Turkey
EUROPE
Iceland Yurt Adventure TRIP CODE - FHY | ICELAND
On this action-packed short break designed for teenagers we stay in the heart of Iceland's Golden Circle. We've blended thrilling adventurous activities with the opportunity to explore the dramatic scenery this incredible country has to offer. MAGIC MOMENTS
Nattura Yurtel | Spend three nights sleeping in a custom-made Mongolian yurt located on a working horse farm Whitewater rafting | Experience the thrill of rafting the Gullfoss canyon Glacier hike | Hike on Solheimajokull glacier
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1299pp trip only (5 days)
£1655pp
with flights (5 days)
CHILD PRICE (11 YEARS) FROM
£1170*pp £1470*pp trip only
with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip at Keflavik Airport.
DAY 2:
xplore Reykjavik’s city centre and E harbour, visit Thingvellir National Park and Laugarvatn Lake.
DAY 3:
Visit Iceland's south shore and the waterfalls at Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss. Take an exhilarating hike on the Solheimajokull Glacier.
DAY 4:
iscover the highlights of the D Golden Circle including Gullfoss falls and Strokkur Geysir. Experience whitewater rafting on the Hvita River.
DAY 5:
Trip ends at Keflavik Airport.
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE: 11 12 13 14 15 16
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ACCOMMODATION: 1 night comfortable hotel 3 nights comfortable yurt MEALS: Breakfast: 4 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
ICELAND REYKJAVÍK Keflavík airport
Geysir
Thingvellir National Park
NÁTTURÁ YURTEL River rafting
Seljalandsfoss
Sólheimajökull Glacier walk Vik I Myrdal
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
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explore.co.uk/FHY
EUROPE
Pyrenees Multi-Activity Adventure TRIP CODE - FPY | SPAIN
Set against the backdrop of the breathtaking Pyrenees, explore the beautiful surroundings of Aigues Tortes National Park. Whitewater raft and kayak along rivers, have the option to abseil down gorges and head to the hills for mountain biking. MAGIC MOMENTS
Sort | Activity centre of the Spanish Pyrenees with several excellent restaurants Noguera River | Whitewater rafting and kayaking on one of Europe’s safest rivers Spa hotel | Comfortable accommodation based in a family-run hotel with a swimming pool PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£940pp
trip only (8 days)
£1165pp
with flights (8 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£850*pp
£1070*pp
trip only
with flights
AT A GLANCE
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip at Barcelona Airport. Drive to Sort in the Spanish Pyrenees.
DAY 2:
Drive to the beautiful Aigues Tortes National Park. Circular walk of the alpine lake with a picnic lunch.
DAY 3:
Whitewater rafting 14km of the beautiful Noguera River.
DAY 4:
Free day with the option to try abseiling, jumping and sliding down the Estaron Canyon.
DAY 5:
Transfer 20 minutes out of Sort to kayak along the rapids and canyons of the Noguera River.
DAY 6:
ree day for optional mountain F biking, horse-riding or try out the hotel spa.
DAY 7:
ption to go kayaking or O canyoning or try hydrospeed (river boarding).
DAY 8:
Drive to Barcelona Airport where the trip ends.
TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
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15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights premium hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 1 MONTHS OF TRAVEL: Sant Maurici Lake
Canyoning
Espot
es
ar
all
P ra
e gu
Walk & picnic
No
Portarro Pass Pic de Peguera 2983m
a
Aigues Tortes & Lake San Maurici NP
Optional mountain biking & hydrospeed
SORT
River rafting
SPAIN From/To Barcelona
FRANCE
Pobla de Segur
Go Go lleg rg ats e
Kayaking
SORT
Pyrenees
SPAIN Barcelona
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FPY 17
EUROPE
Tuscany Multi-Activity Adventure TRIP CODE - FTY | ITALY
This energetic trip explores one of Tuscany’s hidden gems, the stunning Garfagnana Valley. Combine kayaking, via ferrata, mountain biking and walking the Cinque Terre coastal path. At the end of each day we return to our hotel and enjoy home-cooked Tuscan cuisine. MAGIC MOMENTS
Get active | Kayaking, trekking, high ropes, canyoning and zip wires Characterful accommodation | Relax by the pool with views of the Garfagnana Valley Cinque Terre | Walk the UNESCO World Heritage landscapes of the Tuscan Riviera PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1220pp trip only (8 days)
£1470pp
with flights (8 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1099*pp £1335*pp trip only
with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Lucca.
DAY 2:
Tour of Lucca old town, optional ride on top of the city walls. Afternoon rafting at Bagni di Lucca.
DAY 3:
Climbing and zip wire adventure park in San Romano. Afternoon kayaking on Lake Gramolazzo.
DAY 4:
Canyoning in the Turrite Valley.
DAY 5:
ree Day. Optional visit to Pisa to F see the famous leaning tower or 25km downhill bike ride through medieval villages.
DAY 6:
Exploring the backstreets of Monterosso on the stunning Cinque Terre coast. Walk along the famed coastal trail.
DAY 7:
Walking in the Orecchiella National Park.
DAY 8:
Trip ends at Pisa Airport.
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE:
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14
15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 3 | Dinner: 4 APEN
NINE
MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
S
Orecchiella National Park walk to Pania del Corfino (1610m) San Tree climbing in Pellegrino Buffardello Park Villetta Kayaking on Lake Gramolazzo
Rio Maggiore ‘Cinque Terre’ trails
CASTELNUOVO DI GARFAGNANA
Ser
chio
Canyoning Ligurian Sea
ITALY Walled town
LUCCA
Ar no Pisa Leaning Tower
CASTELNUOVO DI GARFAGNANA Florence
ITALY
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
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explore.co.uk/FTY
EUROPE
Sicily Multi-Activity Adventure TRIP CODE - FSI | ITALY
Join us on an active family holiday to Sicily. Try out sea kayaking, snorkelling, climbing and archery, with one night spent in a tree tent! Hike on the slopes of Mount Etna and learn to prepare fresh gnocchi. Each evening return to our comfortable hotel. MAGIC MOMENTS
Palermo | Sicily’s capital, learn to cook pasta and gnocchi Madonie Adventure Park | Stay in a tree tent, try out zip lines, tree climbing and archery Coastal adventures | Try sea kayaking in Isole Ciclopi Marine Park PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1235pp trip only (8 days)
£1545pp
with flights (8 days)
CHILD PRICE (11 YEARS) FROM
£1099*pp £1425*pp
trip only
with flights
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE: 11 12 13 14 15 16
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip at Palermo Airport and drive to our hotel.
DAY 2:
Discover a vibrant and historic city with a pasta or Sicilian gnocchi cooking lesson.
DAY 3:
Choose from a range of fun activities in an adventure park and spend the night in tree tents.
DAY 4:
Visit Etnaland, a water park with 14 slides all designed for excitement and adventure.
DAY 5:
nter another world as you ascend E Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe.
DAY 6:
Morning walk in the spectacular Alcantara Gorge. Sea kayaking in the afternoon.
DAY 7:
I magine Greek and Roman life at the impressive ruins of Taormina with afternoon snorkelling.
DAY 8:
Trip ends at Catania Airport.
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ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple tree tent MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 7 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
Aeolian Islands
FRANCAVILLA DI SICILIA
PALERMO
Cookery lesson
Traditional Sicilian Village
MADONIE ADVENTURE PARK Aerial assault course Tree tent
SICILY
Alcantara Gorge walk
Taormina Naxos Mount Etna
Blue Cave Bay snorkelling Water park
Catania Airport
Sea kayaking
127 reviews
Independently verified reviews
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FSI 19
EUROPE
Slovakia Winter Adventure TRIP CODE - FPW | POLAND, SLOVAKIA
Explore the stunning natural beauty of Poland and Slovakia’s winter landscape with their snow-covered mountains and beautiful towns. Experience skifox, a type of bike on skis, riding in a snow cat vehicle, snow tubing on air-filled rings and night sledging. A real winter adventure. MAGIC MOMENTS
Snow tubing | Discover snow tubing, a ride in an air filled tube Snow cat | Ride on a snow cat up the mountain Avalanche challenge | Find a hidden object under piles of snow PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1295pp trip only (8 days)
£1490pp
with flights (8 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1140*pp £1325*pp trip only
with flights
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12
ITINERARY DAY 1:
J oin trip in Krakow. Explore the city on foot.
DAY 2:
orning departure to the M High Tatras with afternoon snowshoeing.
DAY 3:
Avalanche activity challenge, assist someone who is hidden under piles of snow.
DAY 4:
ross-country skiing followed by C a funicular up the mountain for an exhilarating 2.6km sledge track at night back to our mountain base.
DAY 5:
orning ice skating. Afternoon M optional skiing. Snowcat ride. Five course dinner in the mountains.
DAY 6:
ry your hand at snowtubing on an T inflatable ring. Afternoon cookery lesson, prepare a three course traditional dinner.
DAY 7:
rive to Krakow with the D afternoon free to explore.
DAY 8:
rive to the airport where the D trip ends.
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ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 2 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
POLAND
To/From
Krakow
KRAKOW
NOVY SMOKOVEC
City tour
Du
BSLOVAKIA jec MO ESKID UNT AIN S na
Niedzica Reservoir Cerveny Klastor Cross-country skiing
POLAND
SLOVAKIA Hrebienok Night sledging, cooking lessons
NOVY SMOKOVEC
Tatranska Lomnica Avalanche action, ice skating, snowcat ride
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
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explore.co.uk/FPW
EUROPE
Dubrovnik and Croatian Islands Adventure TRIP CODE - FDI | CROATIA
Based on the island of Lopud, just off the coast of Dubrovnik, this week long holiday is ideal for water lovers. Spend the week kayaking around inlets and bays, learn how to stand up paddle board, cycle on Sipan Island and venture into Dubrovnik's winding streets. MAGIC MOMENTS
Snorkelling and swimming | In the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Stand up paddle board | Ideal for beginners or experienced paddle boarders Kayaking between islands | Explore grottos and golden sandy beaches PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1140pp trip only (8 days)
£1440pp
with flights (8 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£990*pp trip only
£1280*pp with flights
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Relaxed AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip at Dubrovnik Airport. Take a ferry to Lopud Island.
DAY 2:
I ntroduction to sea kayaking. Paddle to the Green Grotto, swim and snorkel.
DAY 3:
ea kayak to Sunj Beach on S Lopud for beach games. Walk back to Lopud town along island tracks.
DAY 4:
Introduction to paddle boarding with a full day to practice. Sunset paddle from Sunj to Lopud town.
DAY 5:
Early morning ferry to Dubrovnik. Full day for sightseeing. Late afternoon ferry back to Lopud.
DAY 6:
Paddle boarding in the morning. Afternoon kayak to Sipan Island, biking on the island and beach time.
DAY 7:
ree day. Optional day trip to F Montenegro to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kotor.
DAY 8:
Ferry back to Dubrovnik Airport where the trip ends. Transfer back to the airport.
13 14 15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable guesthouse MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 2 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
Sipan Island Mountain biking
CROATIA
LOPUD Dubrovnik
Sea Kayaking Stand up paddle boarding Snorkelling Swimming
Sightseeing Optional Game of Thrones tour
ADRIATIC SEA
Dubrovnik Airport
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FDI 21
EUROPE
Greek Coast Caique Cruise TRIP CODE - FGC | GREECE
Join our captain, Thanos, on board a traditional Greek motorised sailing boat and explore the forts and ruins scattered along this historic coastline. Along the way drop anchor and swim in the sea, soak up the sunshine on deck and sample delicious local Mediterranean cuisine. MAGIC MOMENTS
Thrill of adventure at sea | Cruise around the beautiful Greek island of Evia Swimming | In the warm, azure waters of the Aegean Sea, straight from the boat Relax | Wake up to a new view every morning in the Mediterranean PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£825pp
trip only (8 days)
£1195pp
with flights (8 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£745*pp
£1040*pp
trip only
with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
to catch a ferry to Evia and board our caique.
AT A GLANCE
DAY 2:
TRIP PACE: Relaxed
Sail to the bay of Panagia, a small fishing village lying in the shelter of a fjord.
AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12
Join trip in Athens. Travel to Rafina
13
DAY 3:
14 15 16 17
Cruise to Porto Buffalo, a delightful small fishing port
ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights simple boat 1 night comfortable hotel
steeped in ancient history. Sail to Eretria. DAY 4:
MEALS:
Spend the morning in Eretria with its ancient baths and mosaics.
Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 6
Cruise to Nea Styra in the afternoon.
MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
DAY 5:
Swim and snorkel in Nea Styra. In the afternoon cruise to Figias and on to Marmari.
DAY 6:
swimming and on to Karystos.
EVIA ISLAND
DAY 7:
Ancient city-state Walk to temple Picturesque villages
PANAGIA
AEGEAN SEA
DAY 8:
Board a ferry to Rafina then drive to Athens where the trip ends.
NOTE: Itinerary may vary due to local conditions.
STIRA
GREECE
Cruise to Bouros Bay and then on to Karystos, overnight in a hotel.
ERETRIA
NEA STYRA
Swimming secluded islands
ATTICA
Cruise to Petali Islands for
Stunning coastline
PETALI
MARMARI KARYSTOS
Old venetian castle
Athens Rafina
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
22 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FGC
EUROPE
Cruising the Turquoise Coast TRIP CODE - FCE | TURKEY
Sailing on a traditional gulet, explore the shoreline of the ancient kingdom of Lycia, known as the Turquoise Coast for its shimmering crystal clear waters. Along the way snorkel in secluded coves and discover uninhabited islands wandering through Roman ruins. MAGIC MOMENTS
Traditional wooden gulet | Seven nights cruising along the beautiful shoreline Swimming and snorkelling | In quiet coves, straight from the boat and Iztuzu beach Kekova | Whitewashed villages, sunken ruins and medieval castle PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£770pp
trip only (8 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1230pp
with flights (8 days)
£695*pp trip only
£1090*pp with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Fethiye harbour.
DAY 2:
Travel by riverboat to the ruins at Caunus. Visit Iztuzu Beach before
AT A GLANCE
sailing to Yassica Island. DAY 3:
TRIP PACE: Relaxed
and snorkel in the warm waters of
AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12
13
the Turquoise Coast.
14 15 16 17
DAY 4:
ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights simple boat
Sail to Kalkan with an optional trip to Saklikent Gorge and to the ancient city of Xanthos.
MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 6 | Dinner: 7
DAY 5:
Cruise to the beautiful Bay of Kekova, stopping to swim en route.
DAY 6:
MONTHS OF TRAVEL: Visit Caunus and Iztuzu Beach by riverboat
Cruise to Gemiler Island and swim
Optional kayaking to the sunken city of Kekova before cruising to
Dalyan
the harbour town of Kas. Dalaman
DAY 7:
GOCEK Dalyan Visit Caunus and Iztuzu BeachAga Limani by riverboat Batik Hamam Optional walk
Tersane Island
Dalaman YASSICA ISLANDS GOCEK
Aga Limani
Tersane Island
MEDITERRANEAN SEA Batik Hamam YASSICA Optional walk ISLANDS MEDITERRANEAN SEA
Sail along the Turquoise Coast towards Fethiye, stopping for
FETHIYE
swimming and snorkelling.
TURKEY
Board Gulet
GEMILER ISLAND
DAY 8:
Trip ends in Fethiye harbour.
Saklikent
FETHIYE Gorge Board Gulet
TURKEY
Optional excursion
GEMILER Xanthos ISLAND
Saklikent Gorge
KALKAN
KAS
UCAGIZ KEKOVA ISLAND
KAS
UCAGIZ KEKOVA ISLAND
Optional excursion
Xanthos
KALKAN
Sunken ruins Optional sea-kayaking
Sunken ruins Optional sea-kayaking
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FCE 23
EUROPE
Turkey Coastal Active Adventure TRIP CODE - FLL | TURKEY
Uncover the rich history and beautiful landscape of ancient Lycia. Canoe from the historic city of Xanthos to the beach at Patara, kayak over the sunken ruins of Kekova and explore the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, enjoying a lunch with a local family. MAGIC MOMENTS
Snorkelling and swimming | Opportunity to swim everyday Kas | Spend evenings exploring the cobbled streets and enjoying local Turkish cuisine Sea kayaking | Over the ruins in Kekova Bay, and visit a medieval castle PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£499pp
trip only (8 days)
£945pp
with flights (8 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£450*pp trip only
£835*pp with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Kas. Free evening to explore the charming fishing port.
DAY 2:
AT A GLANCE
Take a traditional gulet cruise and swim and snorkel from the boat.
DAY 3:
TRIP PACE: Relaxed AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12
Visit the Taurus Mountain foothills where we take a walk and enjoy a typical Turkish lunch.
13 14 15 16 17
DAY 4:
ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel
Free day with option to visit the Greek island of Kastellorizo.
DAY 5:
MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 3
Drive to Xanthos where we canoe down river to Patara Beach and enjoy a swim in the warm sea.
DAY 6:
MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
Free day with option to visit the ancient city of Myra (where the legend of Santa Claus began).
DAY 7: From/To From/To Dalaman Dalaman Airport Airport
Kekova by sea kayak. Visit Simena castle.
Xanthos Xanthos Capital of CapitalLycia of ancient ancient Lycia
DAY 8:
Taurus foothills walk Taurus foothills walk and village lunch and village lunch
Canoe Canoeto Xanthos Xanthos to Patara Beach Patara Beach
Trip ends in Kas.
TURKEY TURKEY
Es Es en en
Patara Patara Beach Beach
Discover the sunken city of
KALKAN KALKAN
Optional trip to Myra Myra & Optional Church oftrip St to Nicholas & Church of St Nicholas
Kaputas beach Kaputas beach & gorge & gorge
MEDITERRANEAN MEDITERRANEAN SEA SEA
Ruins of Ruins of Antiphellus Antiphellus
KAS KAS Boat trip
Boat trip snorkelling snorkelling
Meis Island Optional visit Meis Island Optional visit GREECE GREECE
Ucagiz Ucagiz
Simena Simena
Kekova Island Sea Kekova ruins Island Sunken Sea kayaking kayaking Sunken ruins
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
24 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FLL
EUROPE
Turkey Coastal Active Adventure and Cruise TRIP CODE - FLLC | TURKEY
Spend two weeks amongst the beautiful landscapes of ancient Lycia. From Kas, canoe to the ancient city of Xanthos, sea kayak over sunken ruins and explore ancient villages in the Taurus Mountains. Spend the second week sailing along the coast on a traditional gulet. MAGIC MOMENTS
Sea kayaking | Over the ruins in Kekova Bay, and visit a medieval castle Traditional wooden gulet | Seven nights cruising along the beautiful shoreline Kas | Spend evenings exploring the cobbled streets and enjoying local Turkish cuisine PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1355pp £1815pp trip only (15 days)
with flights (15 days)
£1220*pp £1615*pp
trip only
with flights
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Relaxed
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Kas. Free evening to explore the charming fishing port.
DAY 2:
Take a traditional gulet cruise and swim and snorkel from the boat.
DAY 3:
Drive to the Taurus Mountain foothills where we take a walk. Visit beautiful Kaputas Beach.
DAY 4:
Free day with option to visit the Greek island of Kastellorizo.
DAY 5:
Canoe down river to Patara Beach.
DAY 6:
Free day with option to visit the ancient city of Myra (where the legend of Santa Claus began).
DAY 7:
Discover the sunken city of Kekova and travel to Simena castle by kayak.
DAY 8:
Join gulet (traditional sailboat)
AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12
13
14 15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel 7 nights simple boat MEALS: Breakfast: 14 | Lunch: 9 | Dinner: 7 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
Dalyan Visit Caunus and Iztuzu Beach by riverboat Batik Hamam Optional walk
in Fethiye. Dalaman
DAY 9:
YASSICA GOCEK ISLANDS Tersane
Aga Limani
Island
DAY 10: Sail via Tersane Island to Gemiler Island for sunset. Optional walks on nearby islands.
TURKEY
FETHIYE
Board Gulet
GEMILER ISLAND
DAYS 11–12:
Xanthos Capital of ancient Lycia Taurus foothills walk and village lunch
Es e
MEDITERRANEAN SEA
Patara Beach
KALKAN Kapatas beach & gorge
Optional trip to Myra & Church of St Nicholas
Ruins of Antiphellus
Meis Island Optional visit
Sail to Kalkan and then on to the beautiful Bay of Kekova.
DAY 13: Option to explore the sunken city of Kekova by sea kayak.
n
Canoe Xanthos to Patara Beach
Travel by riverboat to the ancient rock tombs and ruins at Caunus.
UCAGIZ
Sea KAS Boat trip kayaking snorkelling
Simena Kekova Island Sunken ruins
DAYS 14–15:
Cruise to Kas. Sail along the Turquoise Coast towards Fethiye where the trip ends.
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FLLC 25
CHOBE NATIONAL PARK | BOTSWANA | EXPLORE.CO.UK/FOA
Botswana 35 Egypt 29 Jordan 28 Morocco 30–31 Namibia 35 South Africa
33–34
Swaziland 33 Tanzania 32 Zambia 35
Best Sellers Jordan, Petra and Desert Adventure
28
Atlas Mountain and Sahara Adventure
30
South Africa Kruger and Beach Adventure 33 Botswana and Zambia Safari Adventure
35
Middle East and Africa
Contents
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
Jordan, Petra and Desert Adventure TRIP CODE - FJD | JORDAN
Lost cities, crusader castles and sleeping under the stars are all part of this action packed family holiday to Jordan. Discover the spectacular lost city of Petra, spend a night in a traditional Bedouin camp in the Wadi Rum Desert and float in the Dead Sea. MAGIC MOMENTS
Petra | Visit the spectacular ‘Rose Red City’ of the ancient Nabateans Wadi Rum | Enjoy a delicious meal in the desert and camp in style under the stars Aqaba | Swim and snorkel in the turquoise waters of the Red Sea PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1260pp trip only (9 days)
£1880pp
with flights (9 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1060*pp £1530*pp trip only
with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Amman.
DAY 2:
Visit the ruins of Jerash, one of the great cities of the Roman Empire and Madaba.
DAY 3:
Float in the Dead Sea and travel along the King’s Highway to Little Petra via Kerak castle. Spend the night in a traditional Bedouin Camp right next to Little Petra.
DAY 4:
Explore the ancient Nabatean city of Petra which has scarcely changed in 2,000 years.
DAY 5:
orning free to visit the ‘Rose M City’ of Petra again and dine with a local family in Wadi Mousa.
DAY 6:
ravel by bus and four-wheel T drive through the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum to our comfortable Bedouin camp.
DAY 7:
ptional camel ride. Travel to O Aqaba and swim in the Red Sea with an optional snorkelling trip over the coral reefs.
DAY 8:
ree day in Aqaba with optional F sailing and snorkelling, return to Amman.
DAY 9:
Drive to Amman Airport where the trip ends.
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate
AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel 1 night premium tented camp 1 night simple camp MEALS: Breakfast: 8 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 3
JERASH
Ancient Roman city
AMMAN
Dead Sea swimming
MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
Madaba Mosaic workshop visit
Dead Sea
KERAK
Crusader castle
Kin g’s H
Des ert
ighw
Hig
ay
hwa
y
ISRAEL
LITTLE PETRA
Overnight camp
JORDAN
PETRA
Rock-carved city Visit a local family for dinner
Explore desert by 4WD
WADI RUM
Bedouin camp AQABA Red Sea port Optional camel trek
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
28 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FJD
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
Egyptian Sphinx, Pyramids and Nile River TRIP CODE - FNF | EGYPT
Witness the Pyramids, Sphinx and the Egyptian Museum in Cairo where the famous Tutankhamun mask is housed. Travel from Aswan to Luxor on a traditional felucca sailing boat. Explore the Karnak Temple and Valley of the Kings before a day on the Red Sea. MAGIC MOMENTS
Aswan | Enjoy a Nubian dinner, with the option to visit the temples at Abu Simbel Luxor | Tour of Karnak Temple with transfer by ‘calesh’, a horse-drawn carriage Red Sea | Take a full day boat trip and snorkel in the Red Sea PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1199pp £1870pp trip only (10 days)
with flights (10 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£975*pp
£1520*pp
trip only
with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Cairo.
DAY 2:
isit the Sphinx, Great Pyramids V of Giza and Egyptian Museum. Overnight train to Aswan.
DAY 3:
Free day in Aswan to explore the souks and markets. Visit a Nubian family for dinner.
DAY 4:
ptional visit to Abu Simbel. O Board traditional felucca boat and sail towards Kom Ombo.
DAY 5:
ull day sailing on the Nile River F towards Kom Ombo.
DAY 6:
rive to Kom Ombo temple. D Continue to Luxor on the banks of the Nile.
DAY 7:
iscover the Valley of the D Kings and its tombs, including Tutankhamun’s.
DAY 8:
ravel by calesh (a horse-drawn T carriage) to Karnak and then drive to Safaga on the Red Sea coast.
DAY 9:
njoy a boat trip to the coral reefs. E Swim, snorkel and search for marine life.
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate
AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 2 nights simple felucca 6 nights premium hotel 1 night simple overnight train MEALS: Breakfast: 9 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 4 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
CAIRO
Giza Pyramids Sphinx
Museum of Pharaonic wonders
JORDAN SAUDI ARABIA
The N
LOWER EGYPT
ile
HURGHADA RED SEA SAFAGA Boat trip to coral reefs
Hatshepsut Temple & visit Valley of the Kings Edfu Horus temple
UPPER EGYPT
LUXOR
Visit Karnak by calesh
St Simeon’s Monastery camel trek
Abu Simbel optional visit
DAY 10: Trip ends in Safaga.
ASWAN
High Dam Optional Philae Temple visit Lake Nasser
SUDAN
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FNF 29
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
Atlas Mountain and Sahara Adventure TRIP CODE - FAT | MOROCCO
An active adventure in the Moroccan wilderness exploring North Africa’s mountains and desert. Ride mules in the High Atlas and cycle the southern mountain slopes. Explore the great Sahara by camel, sleeping in a traditional Berber tent among the dunes. MAGIC MOMENTS
Atlas Mountains | Enjoy local hospitality in a traditional Berber gite Sahara Desert | Spend a night camping under the stars Marrakech | Explore the captivating medina with its market and food stalls PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£720pp
trip only (8 days)
£1015pp
with flights (8 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£650*pp
£935*pp
trip only
with flights
ITINERARY ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Marrakech.
DAY 2:
Drive to the High Atlas mountains and take a mule trek to the remote village of Tighza.
DAY 3:
Hike in the valleys of the southern Atlas. Visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
DAY 4:
Cycle to Ouarzazate and visit the Atlas Film Studios. Drive south to the oasis of Tamnougalt.
DAY 5:
Camel ride to the remote oasis of Tiraf Dunes. Camp Berber style under the stars.
DAY 6:
Camel trek back to the road head. Visit the desert oasis town of Zagora. Continue to Ouarzazate.
DAY 7:
Return to Marrakech and experience the sights of the souks and medina with a local guide.
DAY 8:
Trip ends in Marrakech.
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE:
7 8 9 10 11 12
13
14 15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 1 night simple camping 1 night simple gite 4 nights comfortable hotel 1 night comfortable kasbah MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 4 | Dinner: 2
MONTHS OF TRAVEL: s
MOROCCO
Da
City tour
dé
MARRAKECH
Tizi-n-Tichka
ed
Mule ride & valley hike
Ou
HIGH ATLAS
TIGHZA
AÏT BEN HADDOU
TAMNOUGALT KASBAH
OUARZAZATE Atlas Film Studios
ANTI ATLAS
Ou
ed
Dr
aa
Tagounite
OULED DRISS Camel ride & desert camp
SAHARA DESERT
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
30 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FAT
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
Marrakech, Atlas and Essaouira Adventure TRIP CODE - FMA | MOROCCO
Explore the souks and spice-infused alleyways of Marrakech, ride a mule on mountain tracks in the High Atlas mountains, learn how to prepare a tagine and kick back on the coast at the charming fishing port of Essaouira. MAGIC MOMENTS
Marrakech | Hear the call to prayer and try haggling at the local markets The High Atlas | Take a walk or ride a mule through the mountain foothills Essaouira | Try your hand at surfing and explore the craft markets in the old town PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£620pp
trip only (9 days)
£915pp
with flights (9 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£560*pp trip only
£805*pp with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Marrakech.
DAY 2:
Discover the magic of Marrakech before driving on to Ouirgane in the High Atlas Mountains.
DAY 3:
Explore the foothills with walks to nearby Berber villages. Have lunch with a local family.
DAY 4:
Travel over the Tizi n’ Test pass via Tin Mal mosque to our hotel in Taroudant.
DAY 5:
rive to the oasis town of Tiout. D Learn to cook a tagine. Village walk.
DAY 6:
isit an argan oil cooperative V en route to Essaouira. Sunset camel ride.
DAY 7:
Discover the hidden highlights of Essaouira. Afternoon to relax on the coast.
DAY 8:
Return to Marrakech and enjoy an evening visit to Djemma el-Fna square.
DAY 9:
Trip ends in Marrakech.
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate
AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 2 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights premium hotel 4 nights comfortable riad MEALS: Breakfast: 8
MONTHS OF TRAVEL: ATLANTIC OCEAN
MOROCCO MARRAKECH City tour
ESSAOUIRA
Ancient fortified fort, city tour, camel rides, optional surf lessons
HIGH ATLAS
Walks & Berber villages
OUIRGANE Tizi-n-Test
TAROUDANT Berber villages and walks
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FMA 31
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
Zanzibar, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Safari TRIP CODE - FTZ | TANZANIA
Track Africa’s greatest wildlife in three of Tanzania’s famous safari parks. Walk through coffee plantations on the slopes of Kilimanjaro, canoe on a crater lake and visit local tribes. Finally spend three days on Zanzibar unwinding beside the Indian Ocean. MAGIC MOMENTS
Big Five | Seek out predators in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro National Park Stone Town, Zanzibar | Discover a labyrinthine of alleys and whitewashed houses Chagga tribe | Swim in rockpools near Materuni waterfall and meet local tribes people PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£3575pp £4585pp
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£2999*pp £3790*pp
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Moshi. Walk through coffee plantations on Kilimanjaro.
DAY 2:
xplore the forest in the foothills E of Kilimanjaro and take a walk to the Materuni waterfalls.
DAY 3:
2 nights comfortable hotel 3 nights premium lodge
Canoe on a crater lake and visit the Meserani Snake Park to learn about Africa’s most infamous reptiles.
DAY 4:
4 nights comfortable lodge 2 nights premium tented camp
Spot wildlife around Lake Manyara on your first game drive.
DAY 5:
MEALS: Breakfast: 11 | Lunch: 7 | Dinner: 7
Drive to the Serengeti through the Rift Valley. Visit Olduvai Gorge and take a game drive on the plains.
DAY 6:
Discover the variety of game that lives in the Serengeti including zebra, lion and giraffe.
DAY 7:
escend into Ngorongoro, the D world’s largest volcanic crater, with abundant wildlife viewing.
DAY 8:
Drive back to Arusha, fly to Stone Town on Zanzibar.
DAY 9:
Walking tour of Stone Town. Optional afternoon trip around the island to discover the range of spices produced.
DAYS 10–11:
Relax on the Indian Ocean coast at Nungwi, renowned for its white sandy beaches.
trip only (12 days)
with flights (14 days)
trip only
with flights
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14
15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION:
MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
SERENGETI NP Game drives
KENYA
NGORONGORO CRATER 4WD game drive
Olduvai gorge
Kilimanjaro 5895m
KARATU ARUSHA LAKE MANYARA NP
TANZANIA NUNGWI BEACH
NORTH COAST
STONE TOWN ZANZIBAR SPICE ISLE
Swimming & relaxation
STONE TOWN
DAY 12: Trip ends in Stone Town.
Sultan’s Palace
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
32 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FTZ
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
South Africa Kruger and Beach Adventure TRIP CODE - FZK | SOUTH AFRICA, SWAZILAND
From the game lands of the Kruger to the beautiful coastline of the Indian Ocean, South Africa is a wonderful destination for a family holiday. Visit a traditional Zulu village, Blyde River Canyon and take game walks in a wildlife sanctuary in the kingdom of Swaziland. MAGIC MOMENTS
Kruger National Park | Seeking out the Big Five from our safari vehicle African style accommodation | Sleeping in a beehive hut or traditional rondavel Kosi Bay | Walking along unspoilt beaches on the Indian Ocean PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1620pp £2380pp trip only (12 days)
with flights (14 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1445*pp £2040*pp trip only
with flights
AT A GLANCE
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Johannesburg. Drive to Graskop with views of the lowveld (low bush).
DAY 2:
ead to Tshukudu Game Reserve, H famous for its lion rehabilitation programmes.
DAY 3:
Spend the day wildlife tracking at Tshukudu Game Reserve.
DAY 4:
Drive to Kruger National Park, South Africa’s premier wildlife reserve.
DAY 5:
Game drives in search of the Big Five in Kruger National Park.
DAY 6:
Travel to Mlilwane Sanctuary in Swaziland. Stay in traditional huts.
DAY 7:
Game walk in Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary. Optional afternoon activities.
DAY 8:
Travel to Kosi Bay on the coast, home to a large variety of birds and animals.
DAY 9:
Free day to enjoy kayaking, snorkelling or hiking.
TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE:
7 8 9 10 11 12
13
14 15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 2 nights simple bungalow 9 nights comfortable lodge MEALS: Breakfast: 11 | Lunch: 3 | Dinner: 5 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
TSHUKUDU GAME RESERVE Blyde River Canyon NP
KRUGER NP Game drives (Big 5)
GRASKOP
Johannesburg
Game walk (Non-Predator)
SOUTH AFRICA
MLILWANE
SWAZILAND
Boat Trip
DAY 10: Visit a traditional Zulu village and then on to St Lucia Wetland Park.
ST. LUCIA
DAY 11: Free day with a range of optional activities.
KOSI BAY
LESOTHO Durban
DAY 12: Trip ends at Durban Airport in the afternoon.
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FZK 33
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
South Africa’s Garden Route and Safari TRIP CODE - FCP | SOUTH AFRICA
From the top of Table Mountain to dramatic sea cliffs, beautiful sandy beaches and underground caverns, South Africa has it all. Experience the thrill of a safari, river rafting, caving and whale watching as we explore the best of South Africa’s famous Garden Route. MAGIC MOMENTS
Cape Town | Guided tour around Robben Island and District Six Museum Garden Route | Sea kayaking in Plettenberg Bay Addo Elephant Park | Search for elephant, lion and leopard on a safari game drive PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1560pp £2375pp trip only (12 days)
£1365*pp £2005*pp
with flights (14 days)
trip only
with flights
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE:
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14
2 nights comfortable cabin 5 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights simple lodge 1 night comfortable lodge 1 night comfortable treehouse MEALS: Breakfast: 11 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 3 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
SOUTH AFRICA Ladismith
CAPE TOWN
Hout Bay Seals
Cape of Good Hope
Swellendam Betty’s Bay
Hermanus Whale watching (June-Nov)
ATLANTIC OCEAN
DAY 1:
Join trip in Cape Town and summit Table Mountain (walk or cable car).
DAY 2:
ake a ferry to see Nelson T Mandela’s prison on Robben Island.
DAY 3:
Visit Seal Island, Hout Bay and Cape Point. Visit a skateboard park.
DAY 4:
Visit a museum explaining life under apartheid and Stony Point penguin colony.
DAY 5:
Rafting down the Breede River.
DAY 6:
Hike into the spectacular Cango Caves. Visit an ostrich and butterfly farm.
DAY 7:
ea kayak along the coast before S travelling onto Plettenberg.
DAY 8:
Enjoy the beach at Plettenberg Bay with a host of optional activities to choose from.
DAY 9:
Canopy tour and zip line trail. Treehouse accommodation in the tree canopy.
15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION:
Skatepark Robben Island District Six Museum Table Mountain
ITINERARY
Cango Caves Wigehandel Farm Featherbed NP Safari
OUDTSHOORN Ostrich Farm
BREEDE RIVER Rafting
SEDGEFIELD Tree house Canopy Tour
ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK TSITSIKAMMA NP
Snorkelling
Knysna
PLETTENBERG BAY Optional whale watching (June-Nov) Sea kayaking
Game Drive Port Elizabeth
DAY 10: Morning walk and snorkelling in a marine park. DAY 11: Visit Addo National Park, famous for its elephant population. Enjoy an evening game drive. DAY 12: Trip ends in Port Elizabeth.
INDIAN OCEAN
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
34 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FCP
MIDDLE EAST AND AFRICA
Botswana and Zambia Safari Adventure TRIP CODE - FOA | ZAMBIA, NAMIBIA, BOTSWANA
Join us on a journey through one of the last untouched wilderness in Africa. Starting at the majestic Victoria Falls, stay on-board a private houseboat in the Okavango Delta and visit Chobe National Park, famous for elephant, lion and cheetah. MAGIC MOMENTS
Moremi Game Reserve | The big wildlife of Africa in a huge unspoilt wilderness Okavango Delta Panhandle | Two nights on a houseboat exploring the Okavango Delta Chobe National Park | Look for herds of elephant in the park PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£2360pp £3550pp trip only (12 days)
with flights (14 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£2095*pp £3055*pp trip only
with flights
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE:
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Livingstone and check into your hotel.
DAY 2:
See the wonder of Victoria Falls on the shores of the Zambezi River with optional rafting.
DAY 3:
Travel to Chobe National Park, game drives around the park and track herds of elephant.
DAY 4:
Morning game drives with afternoon game viewing by boat.
DAY 5:
Drive across the Caprivi Strip to our houseboat.
DAY 6:
Explore the waterways of the Okavango Panhandle in a private houseboat.
DAY 7:
isit Tsodilo Hills, believed by V locals to be the birthplace of mankind. Continue to Maun.
DAY 8:
Drive into the Xakanaka area of the Moremi Game Reserve.
DAY 9:
Game drives in Moremi in search of Africa’s unique wildlife.
15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 2 nights comfortable boat 3 nights simple camping 2 nights comfortable hotel 4 nights simple lodge EALS: M Breakfast: 11 | Lunch: 6 | Dinner: 6 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
ZAMBIA i
ez
mb
Za
NAMIBIA
Tsodilo Hills
KASANE
Chobe NP game drive
LIVINGSTONE Victoria Falls
MOREMI GAME RESERVE OKAVANGO DELTA
Game drives
MAUN
ZIMBABWE
OKAVANGO HOUSEBOAT
Zambezi river crossing
DAY 10: A second day of viewing game on the flood plains. DAY 11: Drive back to Maun with evening cultural show. DAY 12: Trip ends in Maun.
BOTSWANA MAKGADIKGADI SALT PANS
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FOA 35
MEKONG DELTA | VIETNAM | EXPLORE.CO.UK/FQVN
Contents Cambodia
45
China
42 40–41
Indonesia
47
Maldives
39
Sri Lanka
38–39
Thailand
43–45
Vietnam
45–46
Best Sellers Sri Lanka and Maldives Adventure
39
India Golden Triangle Adventure
40
Thailand Active Jungle & Beach Adventure
44
Discover Vietnam
46
Asia
India
ASIA
Highlights of Sri Lanka TRIP CODE - FSS | SRI LANKA
Search for leopard in Wilpattu, cycle the backroads to discover ancient Buddhist cities in Polonnaruwa and raft the white waters of the Central Highlands. Blessed with sun soaked beaches, Sri Lanka remains one of our most popular family holiday destinations. MAGIC MOMENTS
Wildlife | Search for Asian elephant, leopard, sloth bear, buffalo and mongoose Beach time | Relax on the tropical beaches of the Indian Ocean Get active | Whitewater rafting on the Kelani River and surf on the west coast PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1099pp £1880pp trip only (9 days)
with flights (10 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£850*pp
£1465*pp
trip only
with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Negombo.
DAY 2:
Take a jeep safari in search of leopard in Wilpattu National Park. Overnight stay in a tented camp.
DAY 3:
Share a meal with locals in Habarana. Enjoy a cycling tour of ancient Polonnaruwa.
DAY 4:
Climb to the top of Sigiriya’s dramatic Lion’s Rock and explore Kandy’s markets.
DAY 5:
Drive to Kitulgala, adventure capital of Sri Lanka. Whitewater rafting and jungle walks.
DAY 6:
Continue to the Indian Ocean town of Hikkaduwa. Free afternoon on the beach.
DAY 7:
Morning surfing lesson in Hikkaduwa. Rest of the day free to enjoy the beach.
DAY 8:
Free morning on the beach. Train journey from Hikkaduwa to Colombo. Continue to Negombo.
DAY 9:
Trip ends in Negombo.
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate
AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 1 night comfortable camping 5 nights comfortable hotel 1 night premium hotel 1 night comfortable lodge EALS: M Breakfast: 8 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 2 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
Wilpattu National Park Jeep safari
HABARANA
Tuk tuk ride, canoe ride, cooking lesson
Sigiriya Lion Rock Polonnaruwa Cycle around ancient temples
NEGOMBO
KANDY
Temple of the Tooth, Botanical gardens
NOTE: There are east and west coast versions of this family holiday to benefit from the best weather conditions on each coast. We stay on the east coast over the summer holidays and October half term, switching to the south west coast over Christmas, February and Easter.
KITULGALA
White water rafting Jungle walks
SRI LANKA
HIKKADUWA
Beach, surfing lesson
INDIAN OCEAN
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
38 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FSS
ASIA
Sri Lanka and Maldives Adventure TRIP CODE - FSL | SRI LANKA, MALDIVES
Combining an action packed 10-day journey across Sri Lanka with a relaxing traditional dhoni cruise in the Maldives is a winning combination! Explore jungles, discover Buddhist relics, take part in a cookery lesson and tour ancient temple sites on mountain bikes. MAGIC MOMENTS
Wildlife | Search for groups of elephant, buffalo and wild boar in Udawalawe Anamaduwa | A magical experience staying in a thatched ‘mud-house’ eco-lodge Maldives | Cruise around the islands on a traditional dhoni, swimming and snorkelling PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£2199pp £2765pp trip only (15 days)
with flights (16 days)
AT A GLANCE
NORTH MALE ATOLL
TRIP PACE: Moderate Hulhule GULHI FALHU AVERAGE AGE:
7 8 9 10 11 12
Male
13Market visit14
bo
olom
C rom
F
15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: SOUTH
6 nights MALEcomfortable hotel ATOLL MALDIVES 2 nights comfortable hut 4 nights simple boat 1 night comfortable camping GULHI Cooking lesson, 1 night premium hotel INDIAN snorkelling
RIHIVELI
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1729*pp £2145*pp
trip only
with flights
Habarana, Tuk tuk ride, canoe ride, Minneriya NP Mudhouse farm, cooking lesson Jeep safari Bay of cooking lesson, GIRITALE Bengal kayaking, cycling ANAMADUWA Sigiriya Polonnaruwa Rock Ancient capital Fortress INDIAN cycling OCEAN Peradeniya Botanical KANDY NEGOMBO Gardens Nuwara Eliya Fishing Port Tea factory
SRI LANKA
BENTOTA
Kosgoda Turtle sanctuary
Dinner:Habarana, 7
Colo
Tuk tuk ride, Minneriya NP canoeFELIDHOO ride, cooking lesson Jeep safari Mudhouse farm, BOLI KUDHI Bay of ATOLL cooking lesson, Snorkelling, MONTHS OF TRAVEL: GIRITALE Bengal kayaking, cycling island tour, Sigiriya school visit ANAMADUWA Polonnaruwa Rock Ancient capital Fortress 0 km INDIAN 18 km cycling OCEAN Peradeniya KANDY Botanical NEGOMBO Gardens Nuwara Eliya Fishing Port Tea factory
SRI LANKA
BENTOTA
VES
Colombo
Kosgoda Turtle sanctuary
Belihuloya
UDAWALAWE Galle Fort
NORTH MALE ATOLL Colombo
SOUTH MALE ATOLL
Visit elephant transit home and National Park
m Fro SRI LANKA
MALDIVES Male
SRI LANKA
KUDHI BOLI Snorkelling, island tour, school visit
DAY 3:
Full day at an eco-lodge with activities including cooking lessons, canoeing and cycling.
DAY 4:
Take a tuk-tuk ride, board bullock carts and canoe back to the village.
DAYS 5–6:
Climb to Sigiriya’s Sky Fortress, discover Polonnaruwa by bike and experience a safari.
DAYS 7–8:
Explore botanical gardens in Kandy. Catch a train to Ella, centre of the tea growing industry. Habarana,
Tuk tuk ride, canoe ride, Minneriya NP Mudhouse farm, cooking lesson Jeep safari Bay of cooking lesson, GIRITALE Bengal kayaking, cycling Sigiriya ANAMADUWA Polonnaruwa Rock Ancient capital Fortress INDIAN cycling OCEAN Peradeniya Botanical KANDY NEGOMBO Gardens Nuwara Eliya Fishing Port Tea factory
Visit an elephant transit home before taking optional game drives in Udawalawe National Park.
DAY 10: Enjoy time at a turtle hatchery. SRI Free afternoonLANKA on the beach.
Kosgoda Turtle sanctuary
Fly to the Maldives. Board a BANDARAWELA traditional dhoni boat and cruise UDAWALAWE to the South Male Atolls. Visit elephant
Belihuloya
transit home
DAYS Galle Fort While sailing enjoy and National Parksnorkelling, 12–13: fishing and swimming stops.
INDIAN OCEAN
DAY 14: Try a cooking lesson and visit Male with its local market before Colombo anchoring close by.
Fulidhoo
Colombo
Drive to Anamaduwa and stay in an eco-lodge. Cycle to Paramakanda Temple.
Colombo
GULHI RIHIVELI
Join trip in Colombo.
DAY 2:
DAY 11: BENTOTA
MALDIVES
Cooking lesson, snorkelling
DAY 1:
DAY 9:
bo
m Colo
Male Market visit
Male
BANDARAWELA UDAWALAWE
Hulhule
GULHI MALDIVESFALHU
Belihuloya
Galle Fort
Visit elephant transit home and National Park
OCEAN
MEALS: Breakfast: 14Fulidhoo | Lunch: 7 |
mbo
BANDARAWELA
Colombo
ITINERARY
MALDIVES DAY 15: Trip ends atSRI Male Airport. LANKA
FELIDHOO ATOLL
Male
0 km
18 km
18 km
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FSL 39
ASIA
India Golden Triangle Adventure TRIP CODE - FMG | INDIA
India is a truly captivating country to visit. Search for Bengal tiger, stay in a historic fort in Rajasthan and visit the magnificent Taj Mahal at sunrise. On our return to Delhi visit a former royal residence and take a camel ride tour of its beautiful grounds. MAGIC MOMENTS
Ranthambore National Park | Game drives in search of tiger, monkey and sloth bear Pachewar | Cooking class in a rural village. Stay in a heritage fort Jaipur | Explore the Amber Fort and Palace of the Winds PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£930pp
trip only (10 days)
£1665pp
with flights (11 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£815*pp
£1385*pp
trip only
with flights
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12
ITINERARY ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Delhi. Explore New Delhi.
DAY 2:
Old Delhi sightseeing by rickshaw; drive to Agra and visit the Agra Fort.
DAY 3:
Early morning visit to the Taj Mahal. Visit Keoladeo Ghana National Park. Continue to Ranthambore by train.
DAY 4:
Take a game drive in search of the Bengal tiger in Ranthambore National Park.
DAY 5:
Travel to Pachewar. Explore the village in bullock-drawn carts and stay in a restored fort.
DAY 6:
Full day in Pachewar. Visit a local temple and village home for a cooking demonstration. Free afternoon.
DAY 7:
Drive to Jaipur, the Pink City. Visit the Palace of the Winds, Observatory and the old city. Optional Bollywood movie.
DAY 8:
Guided sightseeing of Jaipur. Visit the City Palace and drive up to the Amber Fort.
DAY 9:
Return to Delhi stopping at Samode Palace outside Jaipur for camel cart ride and tour.
13 14 15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights comfortable hotel 4 nights premium hotel EALS: M Breakfast: 9 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 3 MONTHS OF TRAVEL: DELHI
India Gate & Chandni Chowk
INDIA Keoladeo National Park Bharatpur Samode Palace
AGRA
Historic Fort Taj Mahal
JAIPUR
Amber Palace
PACHEWAR
Walking tour of village, Cooking lessons Puppet show
RANTHAMBORE NP Tiger Safari
DAY 10: Trip ends in Delhi. NOTE: During July and August Ranthambore National Park is closed, so there is no option to take a jeep safari in search of tiger. Instead we spend time in Karauli, staying in an old Maharajah’s house and explore the Royal Palace and the old town.
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
40 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FMG
ASIA
Indian Discovery TRIP CODE - FKB | INDIA
Combine north and south India in two weeks. Visit the magnificent Taj Mahal and cruise the backwaters of tropical Kerala in the south. Spend a night at a homestay, cook up a fragrant curry and explore ornate temples. Relax with two days on the Indian Ocean. MAGIC MOMENTS
Houseboat | Float through the backwaters on a traditional boat Periyar National Park | Look out for wildlife on a boat trip through the park Kochi | Discover Fort Kochi and Mattancherry Palace. Watch a Kathakali show PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1235pp £2045pp trip only (13 days)
with flights (14 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1075*pp £1720*pp
trip only
with flights
AT A GLANCE
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Delhi.
DAY 2:
Drive to Agra and visit the fort. Explore the Taj Mahal at sunset.
DAY 3:
Discover the Keoladeo National Park by rickshaw. Continue on to Jaipur.
DAY 4:
Drive to the hilltop of the Amber Fort and enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Jaipur.
DAY 5:
Fly to Kochi. Spend the afternoon exploring the former colonial city including Fort Kochi.
DAY 6:
Visit the Dutch Palace, Jewish Quarter and Mattancherry Palace. Evening Kathakali dancing show.
DAY 7:
Drive to Thekkady. Free day to explore.
DAY 8:
Boat trip in Periyar National Park in search of wildlife. Homestay visit. Help prepare a traditional curry.
DAY 9:
Stroll through coconut plantations and paddy fields or hire bikes to explore temples.
TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE:
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14
15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 1 night simple boat 2 nights simple homestay 6 nights comfortable hotel 3 nights premium hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 12 | Lunch: 5 | Dinner: 5
DELHI
City tour
INDIA
MONTHS OF TRAVEL: Keoladeo �ati�na� �a�� Bharatpur
AGRA
Historic Fort Taj Mahal
JAIPUR
���e� �a�ace To Kochi via Mumbai From Mumbai
INDIAN OCEAN
INDIA
KOCHI
Fort Kochi Kathakali face painting
THEKKADY
MARARIKULAM
Beach resort
ALLEPPEY
House boat cruise
Boat trip in Periyar NP visit tea factory
DAY 10: Cruise through the backwaters of Kerala staying on a houseboat. DAYS 11–13:
Free time to relax at our beach resort at Mararikulam where the trip ends.
GAABY WORLD HOMESTAY Cooking lesson
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FKB 41
ASIA
China In Depth TRIP CODE - FQCH | CHINA, HONG KONG
Travel across China using overnight sleepers and ultra-modern high speed bullet trains. This fast-paced journey takes us from the imperial palaces of Beijing to the skyscrapers of Hong Kong via Xian’s Terracotta Army, Chengdu and the rural town of Yangshuo. MAGIC MOMENTS
Beijing | Walk along the Great Wall at Mutianyu and explore Tiananmen Square Pandas | Visit the famous Panda breeding and research centre in Chengdu Hong Kong | Free time to explore one of Asia’s most vibrant cities PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1775pp £2645pp trip only (15 days)
with flights (16 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1560*pp £2240*pp trip only
with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Beijing.
DAY 2:
Time to explore the Imperial Palaces of the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square.
DAY 3:
Visit the Great Wall at Mutianyu. Sleeper train to Xian.
DAYS 4–5:
Visit the Terracotta Army collection and get the chance to make your own warrior in a workshop.
DAY 6:
Morning bullet train to Chengdu to visit the ancient city of Huanglongxi.
DAY 7:
Visit the Panda Research Centre. Afternoon bullet train to Guilin, one of China’s most picturesque cities.
DAY 8:
Drive to Pingan. Village walk to meet the local Zhuang people. Stay in a traditional village house.
DAY 9:
Full day in rural Pingan Village.
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On AVERAGE AGE:
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14
15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 2 nights simple guesthouse 8 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights premium hotel 2 nights simple overnight train EALS: M Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 1
MONGOLIA
Mutianyu Walk the Great Wall
BEIJING
MONTHS OF TRAVEL: Sleeper train
Yellow River Terracotta Army site Army figure workshop Calligraphy class
XIAN
Bullet train
CHINA
Yangtse River
CHENGDU Panda Research Centre Bullet train
GUILIN
LONGJI
Stay in Pingan village houses and village walk
YANGSHUO
Cooking lesson, Kite flying
VIETNAM
HONG KONG
DAY 10: Morning walk to Longji Village. Afternoon drive to Yangshou. DAY 11: Chinese cooking lesson. Fly kites and explore markets with a free afternoon in Yangshou. DAY 12: Optional river rafting on the scenic Li River, followed by bike ride. Overnight sleeper train to Shenzen. DAYS 13–14:
Free time to explore Hong Kong and wander through the night markets.
DAY 15: Trip ends in Hong Kong. *Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
42 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FQCH
ASIA
Thailand Jungle and Islands Adventure TRIP CODE - FTTE | THAILAND
Try out Thai boxing, hang out in lively Bangkok and visit Khao Sok rainforest. In the second week swap land for sea and travel to Thailand’s famous tropical islands with white sandy beaches, easy going villages and the chance to spot pink dolphin. MAGIC MOMENTS
Khao Sok National Park | Enjoy a canoe trip through this ancient jungle Koh Phangan | Stunning bays, beautiful beaches, waterfalls and forests Ang Thong National Marine Park | Stunning islands home to dolphin, otter and lizard PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1590pp £2320pp trip only (13 days)
with flights (14 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1249*pp £1800*pp
trip only
with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Bangkok.
DAY 2:
Try Muay Thai boxing, cruise the city’s klongs (canals) and catch an overnight train south.
DAY 3:
Breakfast in Surat Thani. Drive to Khao Sok National Park. Afternoon canoe trip.
DAY 4:
Full day in Khao Sok National Park. Morning guided jungle walk. Free afternoon.
DAY 5:
Drive to Surat Thani. Catch a ferry to the island of Koh Phangan. Free afternoon on the beach.
DAYS 6–7:
Boat trip around the island visiting secluded bays and waterfalls.
DAY 8:
Ferry to Koh Samui to relax on its white sandy beaches and swim over coral reefs.
DAY 9:
Cruise to the beautiful chain of islands that make up the Ang Thong National Marine Park.
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Relaxed AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12
13
14 15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 2 nights premium hotel 6 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights comfortable lodge 2 nights simple overnight train EALS: M Breakfast: 12 | Lunch: 2 BURMA
MONTHS OF TRAVEL: Gulf of Thailand
KOH PHANGAN Boat cruise
Overnight train from BANGKOK Thai boxing lesson, Longtail boat tour
KHAO SOK NP Jungle walks, & canoe trip
Ang Thong Marine NP boat cruise & walks
Surat Thani
THAILAND
KOH SAMUI Khanom Pink Dolphins boat trip
South China Sea
DAY 10: Free day to snorkel or relax on the beach with optional cookery lesson. DAY 11: Boat trip to see pink dolphin and overnight train back to Bangkok. DAY 12: Optional city trip to the Grand Palace, Emerald Buddha and Wat Po. DAY 13: Trip ends in Bangkok.
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FTTE 43
ASIA
Thailand Active Jungle and Beach Adventure TRIP CODE - FOT | THAILAND
Thailand has long been a highly popular destination for families, with a welcoming reputation, fascinating culture and fantastic food. Stay in raft houses on the River Kwai, walk through rainforests, put culinary skills to the test and relax on tropical beaches. MAGIC MOMENTS
Bangkok | Take part in a Muay Thai boxing training session Local living | Experience village life in a rural homestay Koh Samui | Relax among the island’s coconut plantations and palm-fringed beaches PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1399pp £2100pp trip only (14 days)
with flights (15 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1055*pp £1575*pp trip only
with flights
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE:
7 8 9 10 11 12
13
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Bangkok with a tuk-tuk ride to a street food market at Wat Saket.
DAY 2:
Try Thai boxing training before cruising the city’s klongs.
DAY 3:
Opportunity to try a Thai cooking lesson before driving to the raft houses on the River Kwai.
DAY 4:
Bamboo rafting, cycle to limestone caves.
DAY 5:
Long tail boat and trek to Erawan Waterfall. Overnight train to Surat Thani.
DAY 6:
Spend the night at a homestay in Klong Noi.
DAY 7:
Walks, jungle canoe and wildlife spotting in Khao Sok National Park.
DAY 8:
Full day in Khao Sok National Park.
DAYS 9-11:
Take a ferry to Koh Samui for three nights on the beach including a full day in Ang Thong Marine Park.
14 15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 1 night simple homestay 3 nights premium hotel 3 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights comfortable lodge 2 nights simple overnight train 2 nights simple raft house MEALS: Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 5 | Dinner: 4
KWAI NOI RIVER Jungle raft house Bamboo rafting
Cycle to cave Pakseng Pier
THAILAND Kanchanaburi Visit The Bridge Zip-line adventure park Nakhon Pathom
BANGKOK
Longtail boat tour Thai boxing lesson Street food tour
MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
Sleeper train BURMA
Andaman Sea
Gulf of Thailand Ang Thong Marine NP Snorkeling & walks
KLONG NOI
KOH SAMUI
Homestay
KHAO SOK NP
DAY 12: Return to the mainland, overnight train to Bangkok. DAY 13: Free time in the Thai capital to visit the many temples. DAY 14: Trip ends in Bangkok.
Surat Thani Punpin
Jungle walks, kayaking, local market visit
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
44 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FOT
ASIA
Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand Journey TRIP CODE - FQBK | VIETNAM, CAMBODIA, THAILAND
This action-packed grand tour travels across Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. Explore floating markets of the Mekong Delta, discover temples of ancient Angkor and witness fast moving cities and dense jungles. We finish on golden sand beaches on the Gulf of Thailand. MAGIC MOMENTS
Ho Chi Minh City | Visit an underground weapons bunker in Saigon’s bustling back alleys Phnom Penh | Take part in a cookery lesson in a Khmer restaurant Bangkok | Explore the beautiful temple of the Reclining Buddha and Grand Palace (optional) PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1575pp £2315pp trip only (14 days)
with flights (16 days)
£1375*pp £1895*pp
trip only
with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Ho Chi Minh City.
DAY 2:
Discover the Cu Chi Tunnels used in the Vietnam war and travel around Old Saigon on a cyclo.
DAY 3:
Cycle on the Mekong Delta pathways. Drive to Can Tho border town via the floating markets.
DAY 4:
Cruise on sampans, offering an in depth view of Cai Rang’s floating market from the delta.
DAY 5:
Exhilarating speedboat ride to Phnom Penh.
DAY 6:
Put your culinary skills to the test with a cookery lesson in Phnom Penh. Visit a local school in the afternoon.
DAY 7:
Drive to lively Siem Reap, home to Angkor Wat enjoying the Cambodian countryside en route.
DAYS 8–9:
Two full days to explore the world famous Angkor Temples. Full guided tour on first day by tuk-tuk.
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On AVERAGE AGE:
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14
15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 12 nights comfortable hotel 1 night premium hotel EALS: M Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 1
MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
THAILAND
BANGKOK
THAILAND BURMA
PRANBURI BANGKOK
SIEM REAP Lake Tonle Sap
SIEM REAP
Visit Temples of Angkor by tuk tuk
CAMBODIA Visit Temples of Angkor by tuk tuk
PHNOM PENH Lake
HUA HIN BURMA
Poipet
Gulf of Thailand
Gulf of Thailand
Cooking lesson, Tonle school visit Sap
VIETNAM Cu Chi Tunnels
CAMBODIA
CHAU DOC PHNOM PENH
Cai Be Floating Market
Cooking lesson, school visit
HO CHI MINH CITY VIETNAM
Cu Chi Tunnels Vinh Long
Cycle tour
HO CHI CAN THOCai Be MEKONG MINH CITY Cai Rang Floating CHAU DOC Cycle tour Floating Market, Market DELTA cycle ride, boat trip
CAN THO
Vinh Long
MEKONG Cai Rang Floating Market, DELTA cycle ride, boat trip
DAY 10: Morning flight to Bangkok, Thailand. Free afternoon to explore the capital. DAY 11: Option to visit many of the city’s famous sights including the Grand Palace. Afternoon transfer to beach resort. DAYS 12–13:
Enjoy two days relaxing on the tranquil palm-fringed tropical beaches of Hua Hin.
DAY 14: Trip ends in Bangkok.
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FQBK 45
ASIA
Discover Vietnam TRIP CODE - FQVN | VIETNAM
Experience an exciting introduction to Vietnam travelling along the coast from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Kayak around the island cliffs of Halong Bay, take part in a martial arts lesson and cook a Vietnamese meal staying in a traditional homestay in the Mekong Delta. MAGIC MOMENTS
Hanoi | Free time to wander through the bustling narrow streets of the Old Quarter Hue | Explore the magnificent Imperial Citadel and cruise along the Perfume River Ho Chi Minh City | Visit an underground weapons bunker in Saigon’s bustling back alleys PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£1235pp £2015pp trip only (11 days)
with flights (13 days)
HANOI trip only
with flights
City tour, optional cooking class
Stay on junk boat Limestone caves & sea kayaking
15 16 17
VIETNAM
ACCOMMODATION: 1 night comfortable homestay 7 nights comfortable hotel 1 night comfortable junk 1 night simple overnight train
HUE
EALS: M Breakfast: 8 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 2
Martial arts, kite flying and making
Hai Danang Van
HOI AN Pass
Historic port
CAMBODIA
CAMBODIA
EXTEND YOUR TRIP
Extend your trip with a few days exploring the world famous Angkor temple complex and Phnom Penh in Cambodia. explore.co.uk/FQVNA
Cu Chi Tunnels Cu Chi Tunnels
MEKONG DELTA
Cycling, homestay, MEKONG boat cruise
DELTA
DAY 2:
Explore the ancient city including Ho’s Mausoleum and the One Pillar Pagoda.
DAY 3:
Cruise on Halong Bay on-board a traditional junk boat and sea kayak around the bay.
DAY 4:
Take the Reunification Express sleeper train to Hue.
DAY 5:
Travel to the Tu Duc Royal Tombs. Try kite making and visit the Imperial Palace.
DAY 6:
Make traditional wood paintings, cruise on the Perfume River. Get involved in a martial arts lesson.
DAY 7:
Free day in Hoi An to explore the cultural sights or head to a local beach for the day.
DAY 8:
Fly to Ho Chi Minh City. Explore the Old Quarter on cyclos.
DAY 9:
Discover the Cu Chi Tunnels which the Viet Cong used as a hideout during the Vietnam War.
Hai Van Pass
HUE Boat ride, LAOSarts, Martial wood painting,Historic Danang kite flying cycle ride port and making HOI AN Boat ride, LAOS wood painting, cycle ride
MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
Family Discover Vietnam and Angkor Wat Extension
Join trip in Hanoi. Enjoy an orientation walk of the Old Quarter.
Stay on junk boat Limestone caves
GULF& sea kayaking OF TONKIN GULF OF TONKIN
Sleeper train
14
DAY 1:
HALONG BAY
VIETNAM
AVERAGE AGE:
ITINERARY
HALONG BAY
City tour, optional cooking class Sleeper train
TRIP PACE: Moderate 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
£1040*pp £1595*pp HANOI
AT A GLANCE
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
HO CHI MINH CITY Cyclo tour SOUTH HO CHI CHINA SEA MINH CITY Cyclo tour SOUTH CHINA SEA
DAY 10: Travel to the Mekong Delta to a homestay where we have a cooking lesson and cycle along pathways. DAY 11: Cruise to the floating markets and drive back to Ho Chi Minh City where the trip ends.
Cycling, homestay, boat cruise
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
46 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FQVN
ASIA
Dragons and Islands of Indonesia TRIP CODE - FKM | INDONESIA
Experience the islands of Flores, Komodo, Bali and Lombok on this family adventure of a lifetime. Travel through paddy fields and thick tropical jungle. Board a boat for three days on the waters off the Komodo archipelago in search of the infamous Komodo dragon. MAGIC MOMENTS
Komodo dragon | Witness Komodo dragon in their natural habitat Kelimutu Volcano | Climb Kelimutu Volcano for stunning views of its three crater lakes Local living | Experience local life staying in homestays in remote villages PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
CHILD PRICE (11 YEARS) FROM
£1850pp £2820pp trip only (14 days)
with flights (16 days)
£1665*pp £2415*pp
trip only
with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Bali.
DAY 2:
Full day for optional excursions including a surf lesson, mountain biking and island trip.
DAY 3:
Fly to Flores. Drive to Moni, a small settlement at the foot of Mount Kelimutu.
DAY 4:
Trek to a sunrise viewing point of Mount Kelimutu. Scenic drive along jungle covered hills to Bajawa.
DAY 5:
Trekking through tribal villages. Continue by truck to Belaraghi.
DAY 6:
Drive to Ruteng, surrounded by rice fields.
DAY 7:
Take a stroll around the villages and rice fields. Continue to the fishing town of Labuan Bajo.
DAYS 8–10:
Embark on a three-day cruise to Komodo and Rinca Island in search of Komodo dragon.
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On AVERAGE AGE: 11 12 13 14 15 16
17
ACCOMMODATION: 2 nights simple boat 1 night simple homestay 9 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple hotel EALS: M Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 4 | Dinner: 3 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
DAY 11: Fly to Lombok. Drive to Tetebatu, a small village on the slopes of the mighty Rinjani Volcano.
BALI
Golden sand beaches
LOMBOK SENGGIGI BEACH
SEMINYAK BEACH INDIAN OCEAN
KOMODO
LABUAN RUTENG BAJO FLORES
Komodo dragon safari Boat cruise
SUMBAWA
Tribal villages
BAJAWA
BELARAGHI Rural homestay
Volcano walk Ende
MONI
DAY 12: Short walk to homestay for cookery lesson and lunch. Drive to Senggigi Beach. DAY 13: Morning bike ride along back country roads to Lingsar Temple. DAY 14: Trip ends in Lombok.
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FKM 47
CAPUCHIN MONKEY | COSTA RICA | EXPLORE.CO.UK/FCC
Belize
51
Canada
50
Costa Rica
52
Cuba 53 Guatemala 51
Best Sellers Costa Rica Rainforest and Wildlife Adventure 52 Cuba Discovery
53
The Americas
Contents
THE AMERICAS
Canadian Adventure TRIP CODE - FCN | CANADA
Explore western Canada’s natural highlights including the vast Athabasca Glacier near Lake Louise. Spot Orca, Minke and Humpback whale off the coast of Victoria Island, visit a bear sanctuary and hike and canoe in Wells Gray Provincial Park with an overnight camp. MAGIC MOMENTS
Jasper | Drive along the Icefields Parkway, visit Glacier National Park Whistler | Try out a tree top adventure on a series of suspension bridges Wells Gray Park | Wilderness canoe trip and overnight camp on Clearwater Lake PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£2545pp £3390pp trip only (14 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
ITINERARY
trip only
DAYS 1–2:
Join trip in Vancouver. Catch the ferry to Vancouver Island.
DAY 3:
Whale watching cruise and sightseeing in Victoria.
DAY 4:
Ferry back to the mainland. Visit the Capilano Suspension bridges high above the trees. Drive to Whistler.
DAY 5:
Visit a First Nations cultural centre and make a traditional drum.
DAY 6:
Travel to Clearwater and stay in rustic cabins on a working ranch.
DAY 7:
Head to Wells Gray Provincial Park for an overnight canoe and camping trip.
DAY 8:
Morning canoeing. Drive to Mount Robson Provincial Park for a walk along Fraser Canyon.
DAY 9:
Walk in Maligne Canyon and drive to Maligne Lake.
£2170*pp £2815*pp
with flights (15 days)
with flights
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE:
14
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 1 night comfortable cabin 10 nights simple camping 2 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 11 | Lunch: 11 | Dinner: 11 MONTHS OF TRAVEL: Mount Robson 3954m
JASPER NP
Canoe trip
Ice
ay ur s Pa hicl o ld ve rkw e t Pa hicl efie rer Ic plo lds ve fie er Ex Ice plor Ice Ex
GOLDEN
Gondola ride, grizzly bear refuge
USA
City tour, whale watching
VANCOUVER
City tour, treetop adventure
PACIFIC OCEAN
VICTORIA
ALBERTA
Sulphur Mountain 2451m BANFF NP
ay our rkw e t
S
IN TA
City tour, treetop adventure
VANCOUVER PACIFIC OCEAN ISLAND VICTORIA
Gondola Mountride, grizzly bear refuge Columbia
BANFF NP
Hike, hot springs
GOLDEN 3750m
UN
MO VANCOUVER CANADA
S
KY
IN TA
C RO
UN
CANADA
VANCOUVER ISLANDWHISTLER
Hike, cultural centre
ALBERTA Mount JASPER NP Columbia Lake cruise,Canyon hike 3750m
MO
Canoe trip
WHISTLER
Cowboy ranch & BBQ
Mount Robson 3954m
KY
Cowboy ranch & BBQ
CLEARWATER Hike, cultural centre
Lake cruise,Canyon hike
C RO
CLEARWATER
Hike, hot springs CALGARY City tour
Sulphur Mountain 2451m
CALGARY City tour
DAY 10: Drive to Banff along the Icefields Parkway using an Ice Explorer to discover the glacier. DAY 11: Visit Kicking Horse Grizzly Bear Sanctuary and Yoho National Park. DAY 12: Drive to Lake Louise with walks in the area and then on to Banff with a visit to the hot springs. DAYS 13–14:
Hike in Banff National Park and drive to Calgary Airport where the trip ends.
USA
City tour, whale watching
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
50 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FCN
THE AMERICAS
Belize Wildlife Adventure TRIP CODE - FBZ | BELIZE, GUATEMALA
With swathes of untouched rainforest, prolific wildlife, mangrove coasts and an extensive coral reef, Belize is one of the world’s leading ecotourism destinations. Add to that ancient monuments and fantastic beaches and you have an ideal family adventure destination. MAGIC MOMENTS
Wildlife | Howler monkey, toucan, parrot and crocodile in Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary Mayan sites | Journey by boat to the ancient temples of Xunantunich and Lamanai Tropical islands | Experience laid back Caribbean island life on two tropical islands PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£2145pp £3135pp trip only (14 days)
with flights (15 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1930*pp £2735*pp
trip only
with flights
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Belize City.
DAY 2:
Visit a baboon reservation and Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, where we cruise on the lagoon.
DAY 3:
Travel by boat upriver into the rainforest to find Lamanai, an ancient Mayan pyramid.
DAY 4:
Explore Crooked Tree village and lagoon, wildlife watching.
DAY 5:
Cross the river by ferry. Visit the ancient Mayan site of Xunantunich and its pyramids.
DAY 6:
Free day in San Ignacio with optional visit to Tikal in Guatemala, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
DAY 7:
Travel along the Hummingbird Highway to the Blue Hole for a swim and then boat to Tobacco Caye.
DAY 8:
Free day on Tobacco Caye Island with the opportunity to kayak, surf, fish and snorkel from the island.
DAYS 9–10:
Travel to the Cockscomb Basin Jaguar Reserve and stay in a jungle lodge.
DAYS 11–13:
Drive to Belize City and take a water taxi to the Caribbean island of Caye Caulker.
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE:
7 8 9 10 11 12
13
14 15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 9 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights comfortable lodge 2 nights simple lodge EALS: M Breakfast: 10 | Lunch: 5 | Dinner: 6 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
MEXICO
Lamanai Boat to Mayan Jungle site
CROOKED TREE
CAYE CAULKER Coral reef
Wildlife Sanctuary
Optional Mayan city Tikal
Community Baboon Sanctuary
SAN IGNACIO Xunantunich ‘El Castillo’
GUATEMALA
Caracol
Belize City
Blue Hole Hu m Higmingb hw ird ay
COCKSCOMB Jaguar Reserve Forest trails
BELIZE
TOBACCO CAYE
DAY 14: Return to Belize City by water taxi where the trip ends.
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FBZ 51
THE AMERICAS
Costa Rica Rainforest and Wildlife Adventure TRIP CODE - FCC | COSTA RICA
Journey from the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean through one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world. Discover cloud forest, home to the magnificent resplendent quetzal, learn how to make chocolate and zip wire through the forest canopy. MAGIC MOMENTS
Wildlife | Look out for howler monkey, sloth and beautifully-coloured birds Jungle | Cruise along the waterways of the Tortuguero ‘mini Amazon’ Golden beaches | Share the beach with sun-bathing iguana and capuchin monkey PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
£2365pp £3265pp trip only (14 days)
with flights (15 days)
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1970*pp £2675*pp trip only
with flights
AT A GLANCE
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in San Jose.
DAY 2:
Drive to Turrialba via the former capital Cartago and Irazu Volcano.
DAY 3:
Turrialba. Free morning with optional whitewater rafting. Afternoon visit to a local farm for cheese making tour.
DAY 4:
Bus/boat to Tortuguero National Park. Keep an eye out for wildlife as we cruise through the narrow waterways.
DAY 5:
Full day in the park searching for wildlife including howler monkey and parrot.
DAY 6:
Boat transfer to Cano Blanco, drive to Sarapiqui. Visit La Tirimbina for a chocolate tour.
DAYS 7–8:
Continue to La Fortuna via a nature reserve at the foot of Arenal Volcano.
DAY 9:
Monteverde cloud forest. Prepare a traditional dish and visit a conservation project.
TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE
7 8 9 10 11 12
13
14 15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION 4 nights comfortable hotel 5 nights premium hotel 2 nights comfortable lodge 2 nights premium lodge MEALS: Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 4 | Dinner: 2
Lake Nicaragua
CARIBBEAN SEA NICARAGUA
MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
PUERTO VIEJO SARAPIQUI Chocolate tour
FORTUNA Arenal 1633m
Sea turtles
TORTUGUERO NP
MONTEVERDE RESERVE
Irazu 3432m Cooking lesson Guápiles Cloud Forest Poás Optional 2707m Guayabo Zip-wiring Canopy tour
SAN JOSÉ Coffee plantation
Quepos Optional conservation centre
PACIFIC OCEAN
Cartago
TURRIALBA
Optional rafting
COSTA RICA MANUEL ANTONIO NP Sandy beaches
DAY 10: Visit Santa Elena Reserve with free time to try a canopy tour or wire walkways. DAY 11: Drive to Manuel Antonio National Park along the Pacific coast. DAY 12: Full day on the Pacific coast at Manuel Antonio. DAY 13: Manuel Antonio National Park. Free day to relax on the beaches of the Pacific Ocean. DAY 14: Trip ends in Manuel Antonio.
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
52 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FCC
THE AMERICAS
Cuba Discovery TRIP CODE - FCLT | CUBA
An action-packed holiday for adventurous families. Swim in jungle pools, hike along forest trails and stay in a hacienda in the mountains. Cruise around Havana in a 1950s American car, snorkel in the Caribbean and experience zip wiring through the tree tops. MAGIC MOMENTS
Las Terrazas | Discover the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, swimming in natural rock pools Viva la Revolution! | Visit the most iconic reminders of the Cuban Revolution Trinidad | Soak up lively music and salsa dancing each evening PRODUCT RATING:
ADULT PRICE FROM
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1595pp £2580pp trip only (15 days)
with flights (16 days)
£1435*pp £2185*pp
trip only
with flights
AT A GLANCE
ITINERARY DAY 1:
Join trip in Havana.
DAY 2:
Explore Havana in a 1950s American car. Salsa lesson.
DAY 3:
Discover the Vinales Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and explore the tobacco fields.
DAY 4:
Day trip to Cayo Levisa island to relax on beautiful white sand beaches.
DAY 5:
Drive to Soroa to visit an orchid garden. Option to take a dip in a waterfall.
DAY 6:
Swim in jungle pools, hike through forest trails and take an optional zip wire through rainforests.
DAY 7:
Travel to Cienfuegos and visit Cuevas de los Peces and Playa Giron Museum (Bay of Pigs).
DAY 8:
Sightseeing in the colonial town of Cienfuegos.
DAY 9:
Short drive to Trinidad, one of Cuba’s most impressive and best preserved colonial towns.
DAYS 10–11:
Drive to the mountains of Topes de Collantes National Park. Hike along forest trails. Stay in a Hacienda.
DAYS 12–13:
Drive to the beach near Trinidad with a host of beach sports available.
TRIP PACE: Full On AVERAGE AGE:
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14
15 16 17
ACCOMMODATION: 2 nights simple camping 1 night simple casas particulares 11 nights comfortable hotel EALS: M Breakfast: 14 | Lunch: 7 | Dinner: 5 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:
LAS TERRAZAS Jungle pools, Optional zip line
HAVANA
City tour in a Classic American car
Cayo Levisa White beaches
Soroa
CUBA
VINALES
Santa Clara
Caves and walks
CARIBBEAN SEA
TOPES DE COLLANTES
Cueva de los Peces Bay of Pigs
CIENFUEGOS TRINIDAD PLAYA ANCON
Jungle treks Hacienda stay
Trinidad Colonial Town Golden Beach
DAY 14: Drive back to Havana. Visit Che Guevara’s Mausoleum in Santa Clara en route. DAY 15: Trip ends in Havana.
*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/FCLT 53
POLUNNARUWA TEMPLE | SRI LANKA | EXPLORE.CO.UK/PTFSS
NEW – Private Tours If you’re after an adventure without the small group, our new private tours could be just what you’re looking for. All the unforgettable experiences and once-in-a-lifetime moments of an Explore trip, but just for you and your family.
Contents Morocco
56
Sri Lanka
57
Turkey 56 Vietnam
57
Private Tours
NEW TRIPS
PRIVATE TOURS
Family Active Turkey – Private Tour TRIP CODE - PTFLL | TURKEY ADULT PRICE FROM
£599pp trip only
8
day trip
HIGHLIGHTS
Sea kayaking | Over the ruins in Kekova Bay Kas | Stay in a family-run hotel with a great pool in the center of Kas
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£540pp*
Village lunch | In the foothills of the Taurus Mountains
trip only
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Relaxed ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel TRANSPORT: Bicycle | Boat | Car MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 3
MONTHS OF DEPARTURE:
Choose your own departure date
explore.co.uk/PTFLL
Family Morocco Adventure – Private Tour TRIP CODE - PTFAT | MOROCCO ADULT PRICE FROM
£990pp trip only
8
day trip
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£895pp* trip only
AT A GLANCE
HIGHLIGHTS
Atlas mountain villages | Stay overnight in a traditional Berber gite Sahara Desert | Travel to a desert camp by camel, sleep out under the stars Marrakech | Explore the captivating medina and Djemaa el-Fna
TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 4 nights comfortable hotel 1 night comfortable kasbah 1 night simple camping 1 night simple gite TRANSPORT: Bicycle | Minibus MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 4 | Dinner: 2
MONTHS OF DEPARTURE:
Choose your own departure date
Price per person based on four people traveling, we’ll give you an accurate cost for your party when you enquire. *Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
56 01252 888 537
explore.co.uk/PTFAT
PRIVATE TOURS
Family Highlights of Sri Lanka – Private Tour TRIP CODE - PTFSS | SRI LANKA ADULT PRICE FROM
£1245pp trip only
9
day trip
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£860pp* trip only
HIGHLIGHTS
Wildlife | Search for Asian elephant, leopard and sloth bear Beach time | Relax on the tropical beaches and take a surfing lesson Get active | Whitewater rafting on the Kelani River
AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights comfortable hotel 1 night premium hotel 1 night comfortable camping 1 night comfortable lodge TRANSPORT: 4WD | Car MEALS: Breakfast: 8 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 2
MONTHS OF DEPARTURE:
Choose your own departure date
explore.co.uk/PTFSS
Family Discover Vietnam – Private Tour TRIP CODE - PTFVN | VIETNAM ADULT PRICE FROM
£1445pp trip only
11
day trip
CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM
£1299pp* trip only
AT A GLANCE
HIGHLIGHTS
Hanoi | Free time to wander through the narrow streets of the Old Quarter Hue | Take a martial arts class and learn the traditional art of kite-making Halong Bay | Cruise through the dramatic, cliff-lined waters
TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 9 nights comfortable hotel 1 night comfortable homestay TRANSPORT: Bicycle | Boat | Car | Flight MEALS: Breakfast: 10 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 1
MONTHS OF DEPARTURE:
Choose your own departure date
Price per person based on four people traveling, we’ll give you an accurate cost for your party when you enquire. *Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 12 and page 58 for more information.
01252 888 882 537 461
explore.co.uk/tripcode explore.co.uk/PTFVN 57
About our Family trips Please carefully read through the following information about booking an Explore Family Adventure. 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 Trip Notes and Booking Conditions (www.explore.co.uk/booking-conditions). The combination of travel services offered to you is a package within the meaning of the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations. Therefore, you will benefit from all EU rights applying to packages. Explore will be fully responsible for the proper performance of the package as a whole. Additionally, as required by law, Explore has protection in place to refund your payments and, where transport is included in the package, to ensure your repatriation in the event that it becomes/they become insolvent. More information on your key rights under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 can be found here: www.explore.co.uk/travel-regulations.
Guaranteed departures
We guarantee that the advertised triponly 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. Whilst 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.
Eligibility for Family adventures
For our purposes, a family is defined as having a minimum of two people, with at least one adult over the age of 18 and one child under 18.
Age limits
Because of the active nature of our Family Adventures, we provide guidelines regarding the minimum age that we feel is most suitable for each trip. This starts at 7 years of age, at the time of travel depending on the level of activity involved and overall suitability. On certain trips there may be some flexibility to accept children from the age of 5. Please speak to our Sales team for details. Please check individual trip pages for information about age limits and also refer to the table on page 12–13. We offer some trips that are exclusively for families with children aged 11
58 01252 888 537
or over. These are identified in the table on page 12–13. Whilst we don’t have a maximum age, we do recognise that at some point during our customers’ journey with us they will reach an age where we will have to review the fitness and ability to participate in the trips they’ve chosen to book. Should you be 80 years old or older at the 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 has the right to require them to leave at any stage. 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.
already includes any applicable reduction of the Air Passenger Duty (APD) for children.
What is included? Transport, meals and accommodation: all
details are outlined in the individual Trip Notes.
Explore Leader (not applicable to self-
guided trips, or Private tours which are a mixture of travelling independently and with local guides): 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).
Local 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.
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 visit www.explore.co.uk/transfers. You are responsible for telling us your flight details and keeping us updated with any changes.
Responsibility for your children and parental consent
Several Family 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.
Please note that Explore Leaders are not expected to be child-minders. Parents and guardians booking on Explore Family Adventures agree to take full responsibility for any children travelling with them at all times. Any child under the age of 16 wishing to participate in the activities can do so only with the full consent of their parent or guardian.
Trip prices
The price of the trip does not include: visa fees, vaccination charges, passport costs, international departure taxes, insurance premiums, excess baggage charges, optional trips 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 from the UK or departure taxes.
The prices shown for group tours in this brochure are for guidance only. For family private tours the price per person is based on four people travelling; we will give you an accurate cost for your party when you enquire. Prices represent the basic per person cost of the trip at the time of publication of this brochure. The price at the time of booking may be different. The latest guide prices for each trip departure can be found on our website: www.explore.co.uk. The guide price shown
What’s not included?
Accommodation and rooming arrangements
We will room your family in the most appropriate way using a mixture of twin, triple, double and single rooms as necessary. Please note that sometimes a triple room may be a twin room with an additional bed added. We will leave it to you to decide who shares with whom in your family group. We will do our very best to give you rooms next to each other but we can’t promise this. In exceptional cases, where accommodation is limited, for example on boat-based trips, one or more of you may need to share with members of another family. On some trips a night or two may be spent in communal sleeping areas, for example in a village house, or an overnight train. On certain trips there may be the opportunity to pre-book triple rooms. Please speak to our Sales team for details and prices. Please note that single rooms may differ in configuration and may be smaller than a standard twin/double room.
Accommodation grades There is a range of accommodation to suit all families, and budgets, from staying in simple homestays to premium resorts. Simple Our simple accommodation is our most basic grade, perfect for those who enjoy camping, hogan huts, guesthouses and basic family-run lodges. Most are en suite, although some have shared facilities. Comfortable Our comfortable accommodation offers numerous amenities and services for families, including a restaurant, bar, garden or swimming pool. The rooms are comfortable and usually include en suite facilities. Premium Our premium accommodation is handpicked and chosen for its character, location or local importance. They feature excellent facilities such as a gym or spa and a higher level of comfort.
Preparing for your holiday
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-ofbounds’ 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
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) Travel Advice Unit – www.gov.uk/foreigntravel-advice – provides detailed information about your destination. 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 and that you sign up to the government travel alert service. For the UK, the FCO alert service can be found here: www.gov. uk/foreign-travel-advice/email-signup. We monitor FCO travel warnings and advice, and 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.
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 preexisting medical condition. Please also tell us about any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of booking.
Changes to flight information
When you book a flight-inclusive trip with Explore, your holiday 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 is arranging 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 https://ec.europa. eu/transport/modes/air/safety/air-ban/ search_en. 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.
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 holiday 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.
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Consumer peace of mind
Explore is proud to be the first tour operator to be approved by Trading Standards.
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95 Explore is a fully bonded Tour Operator licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and by ABTOT. We hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 2595). All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays* in this brochure or on our website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay, you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to www.atol.org.uk/ ATOLCertificate.
*The flights and flight-inclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected providing they are made available in the UK.
call their 24/7 helpline on 01702 811397 and advise you are a customer of an ABTOT protected travel company.
The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited Member 5207 (ABTOT) provides financial protection under The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 for Explore Worldwide Ltd, and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: non-flight packages. You can access The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 here: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ ukdsi/2018/9780111168479/contents.
Brochure / Website / Advertising material accuracy
ABTOT cover provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled or repatriation if you are abroad. Please note that bookings made outside the EU are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Explore Worldwide Ltd.
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.
In the unlikely event that you require assistance whilst abroad due to our financial failure, please call ABTOT on 020 7065 5311 (during office hours Mon – Fri) or alternatively
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.
Professional Service and Continual Improvements
Exclusive Membership
Monitoring Standards
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.
Accurate Brochures / Websites
All members do their utmost to ensure that all their brochures and other publications, print or electronic, clearly and accurately describe the holidays and services offered.
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. AITO endeavours to monitor quality standards regularly. All customers should receive a post-holiday 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.
Passport and Visa Requirements Passport information
Please note 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 have all visas and vaccination certificates that are necessary to enter or pass through any countries involved in the journey or trip.
Visas
Many countries require a visa to be obtained before travel or on arrival. A summary of requirements for British passport holders can be found on the individual Trip Notes but
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please note that visa and passport information is subject to change at any time. If required, visas can be obtained through a Visa Service or the relevant Embassy or Consular Office.
General Note
Some countries refuse admission to travellers not meeting their 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/travelling to these destinations as it can negatively affect your future travel plans. Further information can be found on our Trip Notes where applicable.
Travcour
We have partnered with Travcour; a company who specialise in visa processing. Please visit their website to download visa application forms, follow links to important embassy websites or make general enquiries about their visa service. Please call 020 8543 1846 for more information or visit www.travcour.com.
Vaccinations
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 in good time before departure. Further information can be found at www. fitfortravel.nhs.uk. For country-specific advice http://nathnac.net is an excellent source of information on health risks.
Under 18 immigration guidance
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.
Lone parents travelling with children
Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of
parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. For further information on exactly what will be required at immigration please contact the consulate of your destination country (this information can be found on the Foreign & Commonwealth Office website www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice).
Your Privacy 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.
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.
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/privacy-policy or call us on 01252 379438 so that we can send the details to you.
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 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
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 being forced to cancel the booking. In this case, we will treat this as a ‘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.
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We don’t just offer
Family adventures
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 small group Classic Discovery and Wildlife adventures, to Walking tours, Cycling trips, Polar holidays and even Self-Guided and Private Tour options. Here’s a sample of tried and tested favourites from explore.co.uk. They’re an excellent place to start looking for your next adventure when you’re ready to look beyond a Family trip…
Botswana Wildlife Safari
Jordan Discovery
A trip through Botswana’s remote wilderness to track Africa’s greatest animals, stay on a houseboat on the delta, sleep under canvas in the bush and visit the Smoke that Thunders - Victoria Falls.
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.
explore.co.uk/BW
explore.co.uk/JD
Cycle the Dalmatian Coast 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.
explore.co.uk/CCD
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Turkey in Depth
Cycle Southern Spain - Murcia
This all-encompassing trip takes in Istanbul, the impressive ancient sites of Aphrodisias and Ephesus, the unusual terraces of Pamukkale, and visits the World War I battlefields of Gallipoli.
Cycle along peaceful backroads and cycle paths discovering Murcia’s whitewashed villages, endless orchards and ancient irrigation channels; and then refuel on delicious Spanish food and wine.
explore.co.uk/TU
explore.co.uk/CMU
Northumberland Coast and Castles Staying in the picturesque fishing village of Amble, we’ll explore the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, travel across to Hadrian’s Wall, visit Berwick-upon-Tweed and explore the impressive Alnwick and Bamburgh castles.
explore.co.uk/NTH
Hiking in the Caucasus
Amalfi Coast Walking
Trek in a fascinating region, largely untouched by tourism, as you explore Georgia’s Svaneti region, which lies among the craggy snow-capped peaks and deep gorges of the Greater Caucasus Mountains.
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.
explore.co.uk/WGEO
explore.co.uk/NAW
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An adventure travel company you can trust UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES | EXPERT LOCAL GUIDES | SMALL GROUPS & PRIVATE TRIPS | WE DO THE RIGHT THING
More brochures are available at explore.co.uk/brochures
Unforgettable
adventures
Classic Discovery | Wildlife | Walking | Cycling | Family
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We love nothing more than talking about holidays! 01252 888 537 (UK) | 1890 747 747 (IRE) | customerservice@explore.co.uk explore.co.uk | exploreworldwide.eu
2595
Member
Head office: Explore Worldwide Ltd, Nelson House, 55 Victoria Road, Farnborough, Hants, GU14 7PA.
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