Liberty Travel | Global Journeys by Liberty Travel

GLOBAL

AFRICA, INDIAN OCEAN, UAE & SOUTH AMERICA

WHY BOOK WITH US? OUR PEOPLE • We have a passion for travel and the knowledge to provide expert recommendations. • We match the right traveler with the right travel consultant. • We have gurus both here and in destinations around the world to provide a complete experience to our customers. • We have over 100 convenient store locations across the U.S.

OUR VACATIONS • We create enhanced and unique travel experiences only available at Liberty Travel. • We have gathered personal recommendations from our 700+ travel consultants to fit every customer’s interest. • We understand the planning and travel process and we are by our customer’s side 24/7.

STAY CONNECTED We love everything travel — it’s even in our name — so whether you’re globetrotting or have returned from an unforgettable vacation, we want to connect with you. Facebook.com/LibertyTravel Like our Official Page to stay inspired by blogs, videos, and photos. Instagram.com/LibertyTravel Follow us and tag @libertytravel in your vacation photos — accompanied by the hashtag #LibertyTravel — so that we can repost your incredible travel photos! YouTube.com/LibertyTravel Subscribe to our channel for mesmerizing travel videos, customer stories, and promotions. Twitter.com/LibertyTravel Follow us for travel news, exciting videos, and industry updates.

When you want to celebrate in style, we’re here to make the planning process stress-free. Our Liberty Group Travel consultants will ensure that your destination wedding, vow renewal, bachelor getaway, bachelorette trip or family reunion is seamless from start to finish. We offer complimentary services that range from choosing your perfect resort to crafting a custom itinerary. We’ll handle all the details including your airfare, hotel transfers, and accommodations, all accessible to your group on a personalized website created by our team.

Photo: Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa, Riviera Maya

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WE’RE HERE FOR YOU BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER YOUR VACATION™ You never travel alone with us. In case of an emergency, our 24/7 Emergency Travel Center is always available to assist you. Our aroundthe-clock support services are provided at no additional cost.

If you have an emergency in the U.S., please call: 1.888.634.7702 When out of the country, please dial: 1.201.661.9587 We ask you to reach out to your travel consultant or your Liberty Travel store for all non-emergency situations during business hours.

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FEATURED IN THIS BROCHURE

Start checking off your wanderlist on these custom trips to the world’s most epic destinations.

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Go on an urban adventure with these quick trips to the most iconic cities in Europe, Canada, and the USA, enhanced by the local guidance of a City Insider.

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CONTENTS AFRICA South Africa......................................................................8 Zimbabwe & Victoria Falls.............................................19 Kenya..............................................................................22 Tanzania..........................................................................26 Botswana........................................................................32 Namibia...........................................................................34 Rwanda & Uganda................................................... 36-37 Egypt...............................................................................40 Morocco..........................................................................44 INDIAN OCEAN Maldives..........................................................................48 Mauritius.........................................................................49 Seychelles & Sri Lanka....................................................50 UAE & QATAR......................................................................70 SOUTH AMERICA Peru.................................................................................83 Brazil...............................................................................87 Chile................................................................................90 Ecuador & Galapagos Islands.........................................92 Argentina........................................................................95 Colombia.........................................................................97 GENERAL CONDITIONS.......................................................99 6

About Our Star Ratings 22222 Exceptional properties offering the finest accommodations and amenities with an outstanding variety of premium facilities and services. 2222 Excellent properties offering well appointed accommodations and amenities with a superior variety of excellent facilities and services. 222 Comfortable and appealing properties offering dependable accommodations and amenities with a variety of facilities and services. 22 Moderately priced properties offering basic accommodations, amenities, facilities, and services. 2 Economically priced properties offering modest accommodations and limited amenities, facilities, and services. 1/2 star indicates that the property meets all criteria of the assigned rating and exceeds in certain areas.

KEY HOTEL FEATURES Throughout this brochure, certain hotel profiles denote one or more key features of that property. Below is a detailed guide to these distinctions to help you choose your best vacation spot!

All-Inclusive

My Time

Enjoy your meals, beverages, and more fun without having to

Unique recognition, special amenities, and services that go

carry cash or credit cards at your resort - it’s all included in the

beyond your expectations – that’s what you get when you book

cost of your trip!

a My Time property.

Preferred Partner

Our My Time partners include some of the world’s most

Hand-selected as the premiere accommodations in their destination,

spectacular hotels, and you’ll be treated like a treasured guest

these are the places we stay when we take a vacation. Our

with exclusive perks at no additional cost. The special treatment

“Preferred Partners” share several essential qualities that make

begins at check-in with private or expedited service, a room

them stand out from the competition, including:

upgrade, a welcome gift, or even a resort or spa credit.

• Dedication – Like us, these featured brands go all-out to

Throughout your stay, you’ll receive even more special extras,

give you the best possible vacation.

with each resort elevating your experience in its own way. From

• Value – At any price level, these brands give you the most

food and beverage credits to free Wi-Fi to kids club access, and

for your money.

more, elevate your time with My Time.

• Reputation – Travelers, travel writers, and critics agree: These properties are the best of the best. • Innovation – These featured brands constantly strive to

Look for the purple My Time icon next to the hotel’s name and your exclusive perks highlighted in the property description.

improve the experience they provide for travelers.

SOUTH AFRICA A DESTINATION OF HISTORY, BEAUTY, GREAT CITIES & AMAZING WILDLIFE KNOW YOUR DESTINATION Awaken in a world like no other in the southern tip of Africa – a multicultural country endowed with enthralling surprises as you immerse in South African culture and history and become entranced by its wonder. Friendly South Africans welcome tourists to explore sophisticated cities, rolling hills, sandy beaches, world-class wines, and tribal villages. US citizens need only a valid passport with a blank page for endorsements, and a return/onward ticket, and do not require a visa for visits up to 90 days. There are 11 official languages spoken; English is the language of administration and is widely spoken throughout South Africa. South Africans generally shake hands when greeting and some women may nod instead of extending their hand. *Please note this is only a guide. Check with the consulate of the country you are visiting or your travel consultant for any immigration requirements.

the panoramic and jaw-dropping waterfront views from its statuesque flat-top mountain. Explore the scenic Cape Peninsula Route, African penguins at Boulder Beach, enchanted vineyards, and many more inspirational and educational sites.

Garden Route Nestled along the Indian Ocean from Mossel Bay to St. Francis, this breathtaking coastal path takes you to laid-back towns, golden beaches with outdoor thrills, parklands and safaris with fascinating wildlife, nature reserves, and plenty of whale-watching opportunities.

GETTING AROUND CITY-TO-CITY Air There are ten airports in South Africa; three of them are international and the other seven are domestic, offering

THE REGIONS Johannesburg South Africa’s wealthiest city, also known as Jo’burg, is a perfect stopover city when connecting to another country or city. This bustling metropolis showcases Africa’s tallest skyscrapers stretching into the sky. And it’s only a twohour drive away from world-renowned game reserves like the Pilanesberg Game Reserve.

Cape Town Cape Town is home to one of the New7Wonders of Nature, the iconic Table Mountain National Park, recognized for

Johannesburg

scheduled flights between major cities. This is a great option for those wishing to get to their destination quickly.

Rail Explore South Africa’s cities on the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) and select from different classes, including economy and luxury compartments for a comfortable and convenient experience. For long-distance travel, luxury train safaris are available, offering gourmet meals and exquisitely appointed suites for ultimate comfort. This is a unique and inspirational way of seeing some of the best game reserves and moving landscapes.

IN-TOWN Taxi There are metered taxis in South Africa’s cities, however, they may not always be readily available on the street. You may need to have your hotel call for a taxi in advance.

ZAMBIA

ANGOLA

Cape Town

TOP EXPERIENCES

Cage Diving

Hike up Table Mountain or take a five-minute cable car ride for million-dollar vistas that will take your breath away.

Unlock the daredevil in you with a cage diving adventure like no other, getting up-close and personal with Great White Sharks off Dyer Island.

Local Specialty

Meet the “Big 5”

Table Mountain

Pull up a chair at a local restaurant and try traditional biltong, South Africa’s version of beef jerky.

Try your luck with tracking the “Big 5” (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos) in Kruger National Park.

Robben Island

Fresh Fish Fare

Peek into the grim past with a visit to Robben Island, and see where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years among many other political prisoners.

Savor mouthwatering fresh catch-of-the-day right from the boat in a Cape Town waterfront restaurant boasting spellbinding views.

Garden Route

Wine Time

Follow the Garden Route, a stunning stretch of coastline, game-viewing opportunities, golf courses, historic towns, and year-round mild weather.

Visit a historic vineyard and sample some of South Africa’s luscious wines, including its signature Chenin Blanc, a fruit-fragranced treat.

Game Cuisine

Nelson Mandela Square

Have steak another day and instead choose from a selection of savory grilled game meats like ostrich, crocodile, antelope, and springbok.

Kruger National Park

ZIMBABWE

NAMIBIA BOTSWANA

Kruger National Park Limpopo Pretoria

Sun City

Gauteng Swaziland

North West

Johannesburg Free State

SOUTH AFRICA South Atlantic Ocean

Kwazulu -Natal

Lesotho

Northern Cape

Durban

Eastern Cape East London

Western Cape Cape Town Winelands

Port Elizabeth Southern Ocean

Meander along Nelson Mandela Square, dotted with favorite designer stores, charming sidewalk cafés, and sophisticated dining.

Knysna, Garden Route

SOUTH AFRICA: ITINERARY

Kruger National Park

CHASING THE BIG FIVE Day 1: Arrive Johannesburg

Day 7: Cape Town

Upon arrival in Johannesburg, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to unwind. Head to Mandela Square for some shopping, and indulge in authentic African cuisine.

Start the morning with an extraordinary in-depth city tour of South Africa, beginning with a trip up to Table Mountain, the jewel of Cape Town. Other tour attractions include the Malay Quarter, City Centre, Company Gardens, and Castle of Good Hope. The evening is yours at leisure. You can venture into the city to pamper your taste buds with flavorful dishes from Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia.

Day 2: Johannesburg – Kruger National Park Enjoy an insightful morning tour of Soweto, known the world over for its role in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Afterwards, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Kruger National Park and then taken to your accommodations.

Days 3 – 5: Kruger National Park Private safari lodges and tented camps in Kruger Park range from absolutely extravagant to romantically intimate to classic family retreats. Using your accommodation as a base, find out how many of the “Big 5” (lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos) you can see in worldrenowned Kruger National Park, a wildlife experience like no other! Kruger National Park houses a fascinating number of species of trees, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals. In between game drives, savor local cuisine paired with unique South African wines, or simply relax by the pool.

Photo: meunierd/Shutterstock.com

9 Days / 8 Nights • JOHANNESBURG • KRUGER NATIONAL PARK • CAPE TOWN

Day 8: Cape Town Start the morning with a visit to Robben Island, which once served as a place of banishment, isolation, and imprisonment between the 17th and 20th centuries, and also where Nelson Mandela spent many years as a political prisoner. You’ll tour the museum, now a World Heritage Site, for a poignant reminder of the price paid for freedom. The afternoon is yours to explore Cape Town. Be sure to sample traditional biltong, a cured meat snack that’s very popular with the locals.

ZAMBIA

Day 9: Cape Town This morning you bid South Africa farewell as you transfer to the airport for your departure.

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ZIMBABWE ZIMBABWE

BOTSWANA BOTSWANA

MOZAMBIQUE

Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park Limpopo

Limpopo Pretoria

Pretoria SunCity City Sun Gauteng North West Gauteng Swaziland North West Swaziland Johannesburg Johannesburg

Day 6: Kruger National Park – Cape Town This morning you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Cape Town. After arriving, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day will be at your leisure. Later in the evening, you can head down to the famous V&A Waterfront to mix with the locals and sample the incredibly fresh seafood brought in on the boats every day.

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South Atlantic Atlantic Ocean Ocean

Free FreeState State Kwazulu Kwazulu -Natal -Natal Durban Lesotho Lesotho

SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH AFRICA Northern Cape

Durban

Northern Cape

Eastern Cape

Eastern Cape East London Western Cape Port Elizabeth East London Cape Town Western Cape Port Elizabeth Southern Cape Town Winelands The Garden Route Ocean Southern Winelands

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ANGOLA Robben Island ANGOLA

Table Mountain

Ocean

SOUTH AFRICA: ITINERARY

Winelands

SOUTH AFRICAN HIGHLIGHTS 8 Days / 7 Nights • CAPE TOWN • PILANESBERG NATIONAL PARK Day 1: Arrive Johannesburg – Cape Town Upon arrival in Johannesburg, you’ll catch a connecting flight to Cape Town, where you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

Day 2: Cape Town Join a full-day tour of Cape Town to see the highlights and appreciate the surrounding natural beauty. Travel along the Atlantic seaboard to Hout Bay; if time permits, you have the option of taking a half-hour boat trip to Duiker Island to see a Cape Fur Seal colony. Continue on Chapman’s Peak Drive (if open), one of the most stunning roadways in the world, to Cape Point Nature Reserve. The return journey to Cape Town takes you along False Bay Coast with an option to visit a colony of rare African Penguins at Boulders Beach. Visit famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens before arriving back at your hotel.

Day 3: Cape Town South Africa is famous for its luscious wines such as Pinotage and Chenin Blanc. Embark on a scenic and historic drive through the Cape Winelands, and enjoy exquisite wine tastings at local farms in Paarl, Stellenbosch, and Franschhoek.

Lions Head, and the mountain itself. After your hike, head to Camps Bay to enjoy lunch with a view of one of the popular local beaches.

Day 5: Cape Town – Johannesburg – Pilanesberg National Park This morning you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departing flight to Johannesburg, and then on to your accommodations at Pilanesberg National Park.

Day 6: Pilanesberg National Park Enjoy morning and evening game drives into the park, which promise thrilling big game viewing of the “Big 5” (lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos) and more than 360 species of birds. Return to your lodgings for locally prepared meals and relaxation by the pool.

Day 7: Pilanesberg National Park – Johannesburg

ZAMBIA

ANGOLA

ZAMBIA

ANGOLA

Today you’ll be transferred back to Johannesburg Airport for your departing flight.

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Pilanesberg Game Reserve

NAMIBIA NAMIBIA

BOTSWANA BOTSWANA Pilanesberg

MOZAMBIQUE

Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park Limpopo

Limpopo Pretoria

Pretoria SunCity City Sun Gauteng North West Gauteng Swaziland North West Swaziland Johannesburg Johannesburg

Day 4: Cape Town Join a hike from Twelve Apostles to the Table Mountain plateau. Climbers are rewarded with views of the Twelve Apostles, a series of mountains that stand like sentinels overlooking the coast. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the Valley of the Red Gods and the Valley of Isolation before reaching the Table Mountain plateau. Descend the mountain in the aerial cableway and enjoy 360° views of Cape Town,

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South Atlantic Atlantic Ocean Ocean

Free FreeState State Kwazulu Kwazulu -Natal -Natal Durban Lesotho Lesotho

SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH AFRICA Northern Cape

Durban

Northern Cape

Eastern Cape

Eastern Cape East London Western Cape Port Elizabeth East London Cape Town Western Cape Port Elizabeth Southern Cape Town Winelands The Garden Route Ocean Southern Winelands

Cape Town

Ocean

SOUTH AFRICA: ITINERARY

Garden Route

WINE, DINE & SAFARI 13 Days / 12 Nights • JOHANNESBURG • CAPE TOWN • GARDEN ROUTE • KRUGER NATIONAL PARK Day 1: Johannesburg Welcome to Johannesburg! You’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to unwind. Later that evening, why not head to Mandela Square for some shopping and indulge in authentic African cuisine?

Day 2: Johannesburg – Cape Town Take a flight to Cape Town and start the morning with an extraordinary in-depth city tour, beginning with a trip up to Table Mountain, the jewel of Cape Town. Other tour highlights include the Malay Quarter, City Centre, Company Gardens, and Castle of Good Hope. The evening is yours at leisure. You can venture into the city to pamper your taste buds with flavorful dishes from all over Africa!

Day 3: Cape Town The thrill of a hot air balloon ride over the magnificent Magalies River Valley is almost indescribable: You’re sipping Champagne while hovering gently above the treetops of the beautiful valley or drifting majestically high above the Magaliesberg range, about 25 miles north of Johannesburg’s northern suburbs, a region boasting some of the best ballooning weather in the world. After landing, savor a delectable Champagne breakfast at the new Clubhouse, Pavilion and Restaurant at Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris.

Day 4: Cape Town For today’s tour, meet your guide at the Bo-Kaap Museum, where you can get a feel for the history and tradition of the area. Then, embark on a leisurely stroll through some of the more historic streets to appreciate the extraordinary collection of pre-1840 architecture in this protected Heritage Site. Arrive at the home of a local resident to begin a Cape Malay hands-on cooking experience. Over

a mug of faloodah (a traditional, lightly rose-scented milk drink), your hostess and cooking instructor will tell you more about the ways in which food, history, and religion are interwoven in the Bo-Kaap culture. Learn how to mix Masala, fold Samoosas, and balance the delicate flavors of a Cape Malay curry. Then it’s time to sit back and appreciate your handwork as you dig in to a full-course traditional Malay Meal.

Day 5: Cape Town South Africa is famous for its wines from Pinotage to Chenin Blanc, and today you’ll be taken on a scenic and historic drive through the Cape Winelands, and exquisite wine tastings at local farms in Paarl, Stellenbosch, and Franschhoek.

Day 6: Cape Town – Garden Route Pick up your rental car in the morning for your scenic journey along the Garden Route! The first stop is the picturesque town of Mossel Bay, home of the Pinnacle Point Caves, Cape St. Blaize Cave, and rock art that is over 27,000 years old!

Day 7: Garden Route Embark on a short journey to Knysna, commonly referred to as the “pot of gold” at the end of the Garden Route, where you can see dolphins peeking out of crystalline waters or interact with elephants in their natural habitat.

short distance from Port Elizabeth is picturesque Nelson Mandela Bay, where you’ll find game parks, golf courses, and surfing.

Day 10: Port Elizabeth – Kruger National Park Drop off the car at the airport in the morning, then fly to Kruger National Park for an exhilarating search of the “Big 5.” You will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your accommodation.

Days 11-12: Kruger National Park Using your hotel as a base, find out how many of the “Big 5” (lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, and rhinos) you can see in world-renowned Kruger National Park, offering a wildlife experience like no other! In between game drives, savor local cuisine paired with unique South African wines, or simply relax by the pool.

Day 9: Plettenberg Bay – Port Elizabeth Port Elizabeth, South Africa’s fifth largest city, is the final stop on your coastal South African journey. A

ZAMBIA

ANGOLA

NAMIBIA NAMIBIA

ZIMBABWE ZIMBABWE

BOTSWANA BOTSWANA

MOZAMBIQUE

Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park Limpopo

Limpopo Pretoria

Pretoria SunCity City Sun Gauteng North West Gauteng Swaziland North West Swaziland Johannesburg Johannesburg

Day 8: Garden Route – Plettenberg Bay Head off this morning to Plettenberg Bay, which boasts sweeping golden beaches, the iconic Robberg Peninsula, intriguing lagoons and estuaries, towering indigenous forests, and lush vineyards and wine estates.

ZAMBIA

ANGOLA

South

South Atlantic Atlantic Ocean Ocean

Free FreeState State Kwazulu Kwazulu -Natal -Natal Durban Lesotho Lesotho

SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH AFRICA Northern Cape

Durban

Northern Cape

Eastern Cape

Eastern Cape East London Western Cape Port Elizabeth East London Cape Town Western Cape Port Elizabeth Southern Cape Town Winelands The Garden Route Ocean Southern Winelands

Ocean

SOUTH AFRICA: SIGHTSEEING • HOTELS ROVOS RAIL TOURS

AFRICAN PRIDE 15 ON ORANGE HOTEL

CAPE GRACE

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Cape Town

Celebrating 30 years in 2019, Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for world-class travel experiences. With perfectly appointed service, delectable cuisine, and a selection of South Africa’s finest wines, Rovos Rail journeys recall a more elegant era. Trains depart regularly from Rovos Rail Station Station in Pretoria for Cape Town, Victoria Falls, and Durban (all with return trips), and feature annual journeys to Tanzania and Namibia, and the new 15-day sojourn to Angola.

Set at the base of Table Mountain in Cape Town’s stylish Gardens district, this exclusive hotel is close to the city’s major attractions. Modern guest accommodations feature marble baths and city or mountain views.

A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, this stellar urban oasis has its own private quay on the picturesque waterfront. Individually decorated guest rooms open to balconies or patios.

• 129 ac rooms & suites • 2 restaurants/café/bar • concierge/24-hr room service • outdoor rooftop pool • Suntra Spa/fitness center • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 120 ac rooms & suites • restaurant/bar/afternoon tea • concierge/ 24-hr room service • spa/24-hr fitness center • Kids@Cape Grace • marina • complimentary Wi-Fi

ONE&ONLY CAPE TOWN

PEPPERCLUB HOTEL & SPA

TINTSWALO ATLANTIC

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Cape Town

In the heart of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, this luxury resort features spacious rooms that open to balconies or terraces with marina or mountain views. Sit down to gourmet bliss at Nobu Matsuhisa’s first restaurant in Africa.

You’re in the middle of all the action when you stay at this sophisticated luxury hotel at the foot of Table Mountain in Cape Town. Spacious guest rooms overlook Table Mountain, Signal Hill, the city, or harbor.

• 131 ac rooms & suites • 3 restaurants/2 bars/wine bar • 24-hr room service • outdoor heated free-form infinity pool • One&Only Spa/fitness center • KidsOnly program/teen activities • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 210 ac suites • 2 restaurants/bar • 24-hr concierge & room service • outdoor rooftop pool • Cayenne Spa/fitness center • private cinema • complimentary Wi-Fi

The only lodge located in Table Mountain National Park, this luxury property is nestled at the base of Chapman’s Peak Drive. Eclectic décor courses through the accommodations, which open to private verandas with views of Hout Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. *Note: Reopening October 2019.

TINTSWALO AT BOULDERS

THE VINEYARD HOTEL

HHHHH Cape Town

Preferred Partner

• 10 ac suites/1 ac villa • restaurant/bar • concierge/room service • outdoor heated pool • Atlantic Spa/fitness center • complimentary Wi-Fi • kids activities

LAGOON BEACH HOTEL CONFERENCE SPA CAPE TOWN

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Cape Town

A charming suburb on the Cape of Good Hope is home to this premier boutique property. Retreat to plush villa suites with unobstructed views of Boulders Beach and the Indian Ocean beyond.

Lush gardens surround this historic luxury hotel, originally built in 1799 and set on the banks of the Liesbeek River just outside Cape Town. Hide away in plush accommodations with courtyard, garden, or Table Mountain views.

Stroll directly onto a white-sand beach along Table Bay from this sophisticated modern resort, where soundproof guest rooms open to breezy patios. After a day of fun in the sun, retreat to Camelot Spa for aromatherapy and hydrotherapy.

• 9 ac suites • 2 lounges • concierge/room service • Boulders Spa/fitness center • kids activities • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 211 ac rooms, suites & cottages • 4 restaurants/2 bars • 24-hr concierge/room service • 2 outdoor pools • Angsana Spa/fitness center/ yoga • kids activities • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 215 ac rooms & suites • 3 restaurants/bar • concierge/room service • 2 outdoor pools • Camelot Spa/fitness center • water sports • complimentary Wi-Fi

THE PENINSULA ALL-SUITE HOTEL

THE MARINE

HOYO HOYO SAFARI LODGE

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Cape Town

Hermanus

Kruger National Park

Set in Cape Town’s cosmopolitan suburb of Sea Point, this boutique all-suite hotel is stands between Lion’s Head Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean. Guest suites open to private balconies with super views of the promenade, Atlantic Ocean, and Robben Island.

Hailed as “the grande dame of Hermanus” by The Telegraph of London, this stellar Relais & Châteaux property stands atop a cliff overlooking breathtaking Walker Bay along the Western Cape. Guest rooms overlook the mountains or the sea.

The ultimate African getaway, this hidden treasure stands on its own private concession area within famous Kruger National Park. Thatched-roof suites have private game viewing decks. After your safari, relax with Nomadic African spa treatments.

• 40 ac rooms & suites • 2 restaurants/bar • 24-hr concierge & room service • 2 outdoor pools • Carchele Beauty Spa • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 6 ac suites • restaurant/lounge • outdoor pool • spa services • game drives/eco tours

• 110 ac suites • 2 restaurants/2 bars • 24-hr concierge & room service • 2 outdoor pools • fitness center • Dream Xplorers kids club • complimentary Wi-Fi

SOUTH AFRICA: HOTELS IMBALI SAFARI LODGE

JOCK SAFARI LODGE

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TINTSWALO SAFARI LODGE

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Kruger National Park

Preferred Partner

An exclusive lodge within world-renowned Kruger National Park, this sterling property continues the safari tradition of a bygone era. Guest suites have spacious decks with private plunge pools and stunning views of the N’waswitsontso River.

The wilderness safari of your life begins at this unique luxury lodge, one of the very first privately owned camps in famous Kruger National Park, with exclusive traversing rights in an area of the park celebrated for “Big 5” game viewing.

• 12 ac suites • restaurant/lounge • outdoor pool • spa services • game drives

• 12 ac suites • indoor & outdoor dining facilities • complimentary breakfast • concierge/room service • outdoor pool with deck • Pilgrims Rest Spa/fitness center/sauna/steam room • kids activities

Winner of a Condé Nast Traveler 2018 “Readers’ Choice Award,” this exceptional boutique property shares an unfenced boundary with the renowned Kruger National Park. Check out the passing parade of wildlife from your individual villa’s deck.

THE PLETTENBERG

OUDE WERF HOTEL

• 10 ac suites • restaurant/lounge • concierge/room service • Bushwillow Spa/fitness center • game drives • complimentary Wi-Fi

TINTSWALO LAPALALA

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Plettenberg

Stellenbosch

Waterberg

The ultimate South Africa seaside escape, this luxury boutique hotel occupies a rocky headland on Plettenberg Bay along the Garden Route. Rooms and suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows and open to private balconies with sea views.

Set in the heart of Stellenbosch, this historic hotel invites you to indulge in the exceptional food and wines of the Cape. Contemporary style, period details, and views of the town, gardens, or courtyard make the guest rooms havens of comfort.

Environmentally conscious and operated entirely off the grid, this deluxe property is for vacationers seeking authentic African adventures. Step into luxury tented suites with private plunge pools, all with views overlooking the rolling mountains and plains.

• 58 ac rooms • restaurant/bar • 24-hr concierge/room service • outdoor pool • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 8 ac tented suites • restaurant/bar • room service • outdoor pool • Lapalala Spa • game drives • complimentary Wi-Fi

SANBONA DWYKA TENTED LODGE

SANBONA GONDWANA FAMILY LODGE

• 37 ac rooms, suites & villas • restaurant/bar • 24-hr concierge & room service • 2 outdoor pools • Fresh Wellness Spa • complimentary Wi-Fi

SAFARI PLAINS TENTED CAMP

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Waterberg

Western Cape

The magnificent Waterberg region of South Africa’s Limpopo Province is home to this exceptional property, overlooking wide-open savannas and majestic mountains. Tucked away in the secluded bushveld, luxury tents open to private viewing decks.

Situated in the heart of the Little Karoo Wine Route, this unique adults-only resort is surrounded by 133,000 acres of mountains and plains, flora and fauna, and rock formations. Accommodations include the latest tech amenities.

This spacious thatched lodge offers guests a sense of modern comfort with a touch of bush authenticity. Interconnecting rooms, indoor and outdoor play areas, and a child-friendly pool cater to guests of all ages.

• 9 ac rooms & tents • restaurant/bar • concierge/room service • Relaxation Retreat Spa/sauna/steam room • game drives • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 12 ac suites • restaurant/bar • outdoor family pool • concierge/room service • Relaxation Retreat • game drives • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 20 ac tents • restaurant/bar • outdoor pool • Safari Plains Spa • game drives

Cape Town

Full Sea Facing Room

Victoria Falls

ZIMBABWE & VICTORIA FALLS JAW-DROPPING LANDSCAPES & MAGNIFICENT GAME THE REGIONS Zimbabwe This cultural gem is blessed with scenic backdrops, exotic wildlife, and spectacular national parks, including Hwange National Park (famous safari destination), Nyanga National Park, Chizarira National Park, Gonarezhou Park, and of course, Victoria Falls. Catch game going about their day in their natural habitat, like leopards, buffalo, lions, and zebras. Enjoy horseback riding, elephant rides, and marveling at unspoiled flora and fauna. Learn about the ancient formations and the great minds that were once a part of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. Immerse in Zimbabwe’s culture in the bustling capital of Harare. Check out the Chapungu Sculpture Park, housing impressive stone carvings. Pull up a chair at a local eatery with Afro-jazz as the backdrop, and savor a traditional dish of sadza (white porridge made out of corn) and wash it down with a cold glass of Chibuku (local beer).

Hold on tight as you go white-water rafting on the Zambezi River. Feel the thrill and bungee-jump off the 364-foot high Victoria Falls Bridge. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you gently navigate the river above the Falls. Raise your glass on an inspirational sunset cruise. Get an aerial view of the surrounding rainforests and riveting rainbows as you fly high over the Falls in a helicopter.

Bus

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Taxis are available at hotels or can be called for their services. They can also be flagged down in Victoria Falls Town.

US citizens need a passport valid for at least six months, a return onward ticket, and proof of sufficient funds to cover stay. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival.

GETTING AROUND CITY-TO-CITY Air

Minibus taxis are available to go from one city to the next.

Train Enjoy a scenic train ride to Victoria Falls from Bulawayo.

IN-TOWN Taxi

Shuttle Most hotels and lodges offer complimentary shuttles to and from Victoria Falls, other hotel locations, and Victoria Falls Town.

There are several domestic airlines servicing different cities within Zimbabwe.

Victoria Falls Nature’s pride and joy takes the stage to showcase its thundering grandeur and unrivaled beauty – Victoria Falls is the graceful border nestled between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Get a front row seat to one of the New7Wonders of the world, and fall in love with Victoria’s majesty. Recognized as the largest waterfall in the world when it comes to height and width, and known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya, which means “The Smoke That Thunders,” it’s a wonderland overflowing with recreational activities.

The Great Zimbabwe Ruins

ZIMBABWE & VICTORIA FALLS: ITINERARY

FALL IN LOVE WITH ZIMBABWE 5 Days / 4 Nights • VICTORIA FALLS • ZIMBABWE • BOTSWANA • MASUWE Day 1: Arrive Victoria Falls Upon arrival in Victoria Falls, you’ll be met and transferred to your accommodation. The afternoon is yours to explore the stunning surroundings that abound.

Day 2: Victoria Falls Join your expert guide and venture through the rainforest to see the majestic Victoria Falls in all its thundering glory. Marvel at the plentiful flora and fauna of the lush region while learning about the history of the falls.

Day 3: Botswana Venture out of Zimbabwe and into Botswana to visit the breathtaking Chobe National Park. Spend the morning viewing game on the Chobe River. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a charming hotel on the riverbank, where you’ll board safari vehicles for an awe-inspiring afternoon game drive.

Day 4: Masuwe After a relaxing morning you will be taken to Masuwe Estate and be given the opportunity to get up close and personal with one of the “Big 5.” Learn all about the African Lion Rehabilitation Program, and walk with a lion accompanied by your guide. Being in the presence of one of these magnificent animals is an experience of a lifetime. The afternoon and evening are at your leisure.

Day 5: Victoria Falls You will be transferred back to the airport for your departure.

Victoria Falls

Chobe National Park

ZIMBABWE • VICTORIA FALLS: HOTELS VICTORIA FALLS HOTEL

VICTORIA FALLS SAFARI CLUB

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VICTORIA FALLS SAFARI LODGE

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Victoria Falls

A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, this stellar 1904 landmark property was renovated in 2013 to combine its traditional majesty with modern sophistication. Guest rooms open to private balconies overlooking Zambezi National Park.

Built on a plateau overlooking Zambezi National Park, this exclusive resort offers luxurious and spacious accommodations with uninterrupted views of the unspoiled bushveld and spectacular African sunsets.

This stellar property stands high on a plateau bordering Zambezi National Park and is just minutes from thundering Victoria Falls. Retreat to guest rooms with private balconies that are tailor-made for wildlife viewing.

• 161 ac rooms & suites • 2 restaurants/2 lounges/pool bar & grill • 24-hr room service • outdoor pool • spa/fitness center/salon • water sports • galleries/gift shop • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 20 ac rooms & suites • restaurant/bar • butler service/room service • outdoor pool/sundeck • spa/salon • private viewing deck • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 72 ac rooms with private decks • restaurant/2 bars • concierge/room service • outdoor pool/sundeck • spa/salon • Internet café/library/game room • complimentary Wi-Fi

ILALA LODGE HOTEL

THE KINGDOM AT VICTORIA FALLS

CRESTA SPRAYVIEW HOTEL

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Victoria Falls

The closest hotel to majestic Victoria Falls, this stellar boutique property is the perfect base for exploring the area’s attractions. Spacious rooms have sliding doors that open to gardens where wild animals roam. Sit down to gourmet fare at the awardwinning Palm restaurant.

This modern, family-friendly oasis is located close to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Natural wood furnishings accent the guest rooms, many with balconies overlooking the surrounding lakes and water features.

An excellent base for exploring Victoria Falls and nearby national parks, this family-friendly, great value resort welcomes guests into spacious, contemporary-style rooms and suites that open to breezy terraces.

• 294 ac rooms & suites • 3 restaurants/4 bars/24-hr room service • outdoor pool/children’s pool • spa • casino • children’s play area

• 65 ac rooms & suites • restaurant/2 bars/pool bar • room service • outdoor pool • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 73 ac rooms & suites • restaurant/2 bars/pool bar • concierge/24-hr room service • 2 outdoor pools/kids pool • Ilala Spa • complimentary Wi-Fi

Lake Kariba in Bumi National Park, Zimbabwe

KENYA THE AFRICA OF YOUR DREAMS KNOW YOUR DESTINATION Dreaming of Africa? Kenya might just be the perfect place to start. From the open plains of the Masai Mara National Reserve to the beaches and coral reefs of the eastern coast, Kenya is one of Africa’s most enticing destinations. Although the long roads are bumpy and not always easy to navigate, joining a safari can be one of the most unforgettable experiences you’ll have in Kenya. Easily accessible from the cosmopolitan capital city, Nairobi, the Masai Mara National Reserve is famous for its role in the great wildebeest migration. Though it is Kenya’s most famous game park, Masai Mara is definitely not the only one. Depending on your expectations for a memorable safari adventure, Amboseli National Park, Tsavo National Park, and Meru National Park all make a good case for being your number one pick. And they’re just a few of the country’s astounding 45 national parks and reserves.

THE REGIONS Nairobi Kenya’s capital city is the gateway for safari adventures into East Africa. However, this modern and buzzing metropolis has plenty of charm of its own if you know where to look. Amid the high-rise office buildings and daily bustle there are some real gems, such as the heartwarming elephant orphanage. Then there are the city’s excellent museums and pulsing nightlife districts. It’s not hard to see why eating out is

a popular pastime in this city either, with an eclectic mix of flavors and cuisines that reflect the region’s rich and diverse culture and history. Make sure you visit for more than just a weekend to watch Kenya’s biggest city unfold before your eyes.

Game Parks & Reserves Kenya is home to the most famous game parks and reserves on the planet, among them: Masai Mara National Reserve (“Big 5,” wildebeest, cheetah, hyena, jackal, zebra); Nairobi National Park (rhino, lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena); Amboseli National Park (elephant, cape buffalo, impala, lion, cheetah, giraffe, zebra); Lake Nakuru National Park (flamingo, pelican, stork, ostrich, cormorant, heron); and Samburu National Reserve (zebra, ostrich, giraffe, oryx, elephant, lion, leopard). Outside the game parks, local villages are the perfect places to explore the fascinating culture and lifestyle of the country’s 42 tribes, learning about traditional foods, customs, festivals, and rituals. Among the most accessible are the Samburu village in the Rift Valley in northern Kenya, Giriama villages on the northeast coast, and the Alego Nyangoma Kogelo village in western Kenya (ancestral home of US President Barack Obama).

GETTING AROUND CITY-TO-CITY Air Kenya Airways offers scheduled connections and regular daily flights from Nairobi to Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu, and Kisumu. Airkenya and low-cost, no-frills airline Fly540 also fly from Nairobi with scheduled connections to numerous other domestic destinations.

Bus Coast Bus, the oldest bus operator in Kenya, runs a reliable upscale day and night service between Nairobi and Mombasa. Other private bus companies operate passenger service to a number of domestic destinations.

Car You can rent a car or Jeep in Nairobi and Mombasa, although getting around in Kenya, especially on roads out of the city, is difficult as roads are often in a dilapidated state.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS US citizens must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of arrival in Kenya. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival for up to a maximum of three months.

Mount Kilimanjaro in Kenya Amboseli National Park

Tanzania. National Park

TOP EXPERIENCES Bird Species Kenya boasts 1,089 different species of birds, and you can spot the most colorful and unusual varieties in Amboseli, Maasai Mara, Meru, Samburu, Tsavo, the Tana River Delta, and other areas.

Trendy Market Meet chic locals and expats at Nairobi’s Village Market, an upscale shopping and entertainment complex known for its fashion, art, crafts, and trendy restaurants.

Masai Mara Ballooning For a truly unique perspective on the spectacular wilderness and wildlife of Masai Mara National Reserve, rise at dawn and board a hot-air balloon for fantastic views.

Mombasa Beaches Explore the Indian Ocean coastal city of Mombasa, known for its beautiful beaches, diverse culture, lively nightlife, and labyrinth streets of the Old Town.

Kenyan Cuisine The local Kenyan speciality to try is nyama choma, a selection of meats (usually goat and sheep) grilled over an open fire. Wash your meal down with a beer – the local favorite is Tusker.

Village Visits Travel to a Giriama village and visit local schools, live in local homes, eat local food, and take part in the rituals and cycles of daily life.

Nairobi Shopping Bargain for souvenirs and curios in downtown Nairobi at the lively City Market, a sightseeing experience in itself, offering woodcarvings, drums, jewelry, and traditional fabrics.

Kenya Coffee Sit with the locals and sip a cup of Kenya’s world-class coffee at the java houses around Nairobi.

SOUTH SUDAN

ETHIOPIA

Lokitaung Lodwar Marsabit

SOMALIA

UGANDA KENYA Kisumu Lake Victoria

Eldoret Nakuru Nyeri

Meru Garissa

Nairobi Garsen

TANZANIA

Malindi

Indian Ocean

Mombasa

Mount Kenya Gear up to climb Mount Kenya (the second highest mountain in Africa after Kilimanjaro), an extinct volcano in dense mountain forest with stunning glacial peaks and countless photo ops.

Nairobi

Masai warrior playing traditional horn

KENYA: ITINERARY

Masai

KENYA LODGE SAFARI 7 Days / 6 Nights • NAIROBI • ABERDARE NATIONAL PARK • LAKE KAUURU NATIONAL PARK • MASAI MARA NATIONAL RESERVE Day 1: Arrive Nairobi

Day 4: Lake Kauuru National Park

Day 6: Masai Mara National Reserve

On arrival in Nairobi, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. There will be a trip briefing at the hotel at approximately 6:00pm.

After breakfast, enjoy another short game drive en route to Aberdare Country Club to pick up your luggage before continuing along the Great Rift Valley to Nakuru. There will be a quick stop at Thomson’s Falls. On arrival at the lodge, enjoy a late lunch before an afternoon game drive within the park, where you may spot a White Rhino and a big cat or two.

Rise before dawn to begin a morning game drive, then return to camp for lunch and to relax during the heat of the day. Set off again in the afternoon – this time you can expect to return to camp at around sunset. (Depending on wildlife movements, you may not return to camp in the middle of the day, making for one full game drive instead, with a picnic lunch.) Accommodation while in the Mara is a comfortable permanent-tented camp. Once you return to camp there is an option to go back out and visit a Maasai Village. An optional balloon ride over the Masai Mara at sunrise is highly recommended, an unforgettable experience for many travelers.

Day 2: Nairobi – Aberdare National Park Depart to Aberdare National Park and arrive in time for lunch at Aberdare Country Club, set on a 1,300-acre wildlife sanctuary. After lunch, the afternoon is yours. Enjoy the club’s facilities and surroundings, or set off on a nature walk through unspoiled terrain and get up close to zebras and giraffes.

Day 3: Aberdare National Park Embark on a game drive through the park after breakfast, then drive back to the country club for lunch. Keep an eye out for the elusive golden cat or bongo, both rare sightings in the area, and also spot leopards, elephants, baboons, colobus monkeys, and a wide array of birds of prey. Afterwards, bring a day pack for your overnight stay at The Ark, the feature stay on this trip.

Day 5: Masai Mara National Reserve In early morning, join a game drive with a different perspective on the park before returning to the lodge for breakfast. Head southwest to your next destination, the Masai Mara, arguably one of the finest game reserves on the continent. Take in vistas of rolling green plains and riverine woodlands, as well as numerous species of game. End the day watching the sun go down across the Mara while enjoying drinks and canapés.

Day 7: Masai Mara National Reserve – Nairobi After breakfast, return to Nairobi. Your journey ends on arrival in late afternoon. SOUTH SUDAN

ETHIOPIA

Lokitaung Lodwar Marsabit

SOMALIA

UGANDA KENYA

Eldoret

Mt. Kenya Meru

Kisumu Nakuru Lake

Victoria

Nyeri Massai Mara

TANZANIA Nairobi

Garissa

Nairobi Garsen Malindi Mombasa

Indian Ocean

KENYA: ITINERARY

Masai Mara National Park

KENYA IN LUXURY

8 Days / 7 Nights • NAIROBI • AMBOSELI NATIONAL PARK • SHABA NATIONAL RESERVE • MARA NORTH CONSERVANCY Day 1: Arrive Nairobi

Day 4: Amboseli – Shaba National Reserve

Arrive in Nairobi, where you’ll be met and escorted to your hotel. Time permitting, enjoy an optional visit to the Karen Blixen Museum and the Giraffe Manor for a view of the rare Rothschild’s giraffe.

Fly to Shaba National Reserve and transfer to Joy’s Camp, featuring chic canvas bedrooms raised off the ground. Each tent is uniquely decorated using Borana/Somali cloth, handmade glass, and vibrant fabrics of the local tribes. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and a large natural spring. Activities include game drives, bush meals on the Ewaso Nyiro River, cultural visits, and sundowners. The camp is ideal for secluded game viewing as well as relaxing, reading, and soaking up the truly wild environs offered by Shaba.

Day 2: Nairobi – Amboseli National Park In the morning, fly to Amboseli National Park. Transfer to Tortilis Camp, which consists of traditional en suite tents raised above the ground with spacious verandas. There’s a fantastic view of Mount Kilimanjaro! Included are game drives, bush walks, sundowners, cultural visits to the nearby Manyatta, and a swimming pool. There are over 1,000 elephants in the park’s eco-system, featuring some of the largest elephants in Africa.

Day 3: Amboseli National Park Get ready for a full day of game viewing activities in Amboseli National Park. Tortilis Camp is located in a pristine area on the southwest border of the park and has access to both the National Park and the Kitirua Private Conservancy.

Day 5: Shaba National Reserve Gear up for a full day of game viewing activities in Shaba National Reserve, where you can explore the different ecosystems of acacia forest and swamplands.

Day 6: Shaba National Reserve – Mara North Conservancy Fly to the Masai Mara and transfer to your camp with game viewing en route. Small and very exclusive, Elephant Pepper Camp is located in Mara North Conservancy, a

beautiful 74,000-acre private wilderness. A vital part of the Masai Mara ecosystem, it forms the northwestern zone, bordering the Masai Mara National Reserve in the south of Kenya. Activities include day and night game drives, bush walks, bush meals, and sundowners. Early morning and late afternoon are the most productive hours for game drives, and the custom 4WD safari vehicles give everyone a perfect view. Watching wildlife at close range, but without encroaching on their space, is endlessly fascinating, and the guides’ instincts and knowledge afford superb wildlife photo opportunities.

Day 7: Mara North Conservancy Enjoy a full day in the Masai Mara with game viewing activities. A game drive into the Masai Mara National Reserve is also available.

Day 8: Mara North Conservancy – Nairobi SOUTH After a last game drive in the Masai Mara, fly back to SUDAN Nairobi, where a day-use room is provided before you ETHIOPIA transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Lokitaung Lodwar Marsabit

SOMALIA

UGANDA KENYA Kisumu Lake Victoria

Mara North

Shaba

Eldoret Nakuru Nyeri

Meru Garissa

Nairobi Amboseli Garsen

TANZANIA Tortillis Camp

Malindi

Indian Ocean

Mombasa

TANZANIA INCREDIBLE LANDSCAPES YOU’LL FIND NOWHERE ELSE KNOW YOUR DESTINATION From the mountainous north, home of Mt. Kilimanjaro, to the vast Serengeti, a visit to East Africa’s largest country promises to delight. Set off on the wilderness adventure of a lifetime in Tanzania. While an active vacation in Tanzania means much more than chasing wild animals, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to deciding where to go on safari. And beyond the wilderness adventures, explore fastgrowing Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s surprisingly scenic tropical seaport and an excellent base for embarking on wilderness activities as well as offshore recreation from scuba diving to deep-sea fishing. It’s easy to navigate this beautiful country, where English and Swahili are the official languages.

THE REGIONS Dar es Salaam Tanzania’s largest city and its economic capital, “Dar” is located in a quiet bay off the Indian Ocean coast, where its bustling harbor is the country’s main port. Remnants of colonial presence, both German and British, can still be seen in the landmarks and architecture around the city, including St Joseph’s Cathedral, Azania Front Lutheran Church, and the old State House. Reflecting both its location on the Indian Ocean and the region’s role as a major spice producer, Swahili cuisine is a lively fusion of African, Indian, and Arabic influences. And Dar by night is a lot of fun, especially the venues playing Taarab, a fast-paced Swahili music style that blends Tanzania’s tribal music with Arab vibes.

Game Parks & Wilderness Destinations Welcome to some of the most famous wilderness on the planet, including fabulous Serengeti National Park and its wide range of wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, hippos, elephants, zebra, buffalo, crocodiles, gazelles, and wildebeests. Formed by the same volcanic activity that generated Kilimanjaro and the Great Rift Valley, Ngorongoro Conservation Area consists of the highlands around the famed Ngorongoro Crater. In the “Northern Circuit” of Tanzania, Tarangire National Park is surely a bird-watcher’s paradise, with over 570 species identified. Perhaps Tanzania’s biggest draw, Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa.

Zanzibar As alluring and enchanting as its name, Zanzibar is a semiautonomous archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, and home to gorgeous beaches, a sultry climate, dreamy East African flavors, and warm, welcoming locals.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS A US passport valid for six months beyond date of entry is required. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival. Confirmed return/onward tickets and the necessary travel documentation for your next destination are required, as well as proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in the country.

GETTING AROUND CITY-TO-CITY Air Although not inexpensive, air travel is the best way to access the far-flung parts of Tanzania. There are major airports in Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro, served by Air Tanzania, air viva, Precision Air, Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, ZanAir, and Regional Air.

Stroll the labyrinthine streets – too narrow for modern cars – of Stone Town, where little has changed in the last 200 years, but everyday life still bustles. Marvel at the unique architecture of grand homes, built in an enduring mix of Arab, Persian, Indian, European, and African traditions and styles. And take a “spice tour” of cardamon, ginger, clove, nutmeg, and saffron plantations.

Zanzibar

Mt. Kilimanjaro

TOP EXPERIENCES

Ngorongoro

Big Cats

Arusha

KENYA

Track lions and other big cats amid the waving grass and acacia trees of legendary Serengeti National Park. Tarangire National Park

Protected Primates See the protected chimpanzees, made famous by primatologist Jane Goodall, in the forests of Gombe Stream National Park.

TANZANIA

Game Spotting

Zanzibar

Try to spot all of the “Big 5” in the natural enclosure of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a/k/a “Africa’s Eden.”

Wildlife Park On the shores of Lake Victoria, Rubondo Island National Park reveals a rich and diverse variety of butterflies and bird life.

Pemba Island

Dar es Saalam Cheetahs, Serengeti National Park

Indian Ocean Diving Scuba dive and snorkel in an underwater world of tropical fish in the cool Indian Ocean.

Mt. Kilimanjaro Climb Africa’s tallest peak, Mt. Kilimanjaro – or just gaze upon its utter majesty.

Game Fishing Go deep-sea fishing for marlin, swordfish, and barracuda.

Jewelry Shopping Shop for handcrafted jewelry at Dar es Salaam’s lively Ilala Market.

Continental Cuisine Pull up a chair for Thai, Indian, Italian, Japanese, Ethiopian, and other cuisines, as well as chipsi, ugali, and nyama choma.

Dar Music City Dive into an electric live music scene in Dar showcasing traditional taraab orchestras, jazz, salsa, afro funk, and bongo flava. Two Masai in the Savannah of Tanzania

TANZANIA: ITINERARY

Kilimanjaro

BEST OF TANZANIA 8 Days / 7 Nights • TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK • LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK • NGORONGORO CRATER • SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK Day 1: Arrive Kilimanjaro – Arusha

Day 7: Serengeti National Park

Upon arrival, you’ll be met and escorted to your lodge.

Join up with morning and afternoon game drives in Serengeti National Park. An optional balloon safari at dawn is available (additional cost).

Day 2: Arusha – Tarangire National Park Drive to Tarangire National Park, where you enjoy afternoon game viewing.

Day 3: Tarangire National Park – Lake Manyara After a morning of game viewing and a picnic lunch in Tarangire National Park, continue to Lake Manyara National Park. In the afternoon, choose from mountain biking, a village visit, a forest hike, or a short nature walk.

Day 4: Lake Manyara National Park

Day 8: Serengeti National Park – Arusha – Kilimanjaro This morning’s pre-breakfast game drive is your final opportunity to bask in the unmatched grandeur of the African safari lands before flying to Arusha for lunch. Time permitting, a day room is provided to freshen up before you transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your evening departure flight. An optional extension to Zanzibar is available.

On a full-day game drive, you’ll find an abundance of wildlife, including hippos, zebras, giraffes, buffalo, leopards, impalas, wildebeests, baboons, and monkeys.

Day 5: Lake Manyara National Park – Ngorongoro Crater

Jumping with the Maasai, Ngorongoro

Ascend through the highlands to the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. From there, descend into the crater for a full afternoon of game viewing. Vast herds of wildebeests, zebras, gazelles, buffalo, and their predators – the big cats – roam the crater floor.

Serengeti National Park

Ngorongoro

Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater – Serengeti National Park Depart Ngorongoro for Serengeti National Park. Visit Olduvai Gorge, an archeological site extensively excavated by the Leakey family. Continue to Serengeti National Park, where huge herds of wildebeest, antelope, and zebra provide an unequalled wildlife spectacle. Later, enjoy an afternoon game drive.

KENYA Mt. Kilimanjaro Arusha

Tarangire National Park

TANZANIA Lake Manyara National Park

TANZANIA: ITINERARY

Mt. Kilimanjaro

MT. KILIMANJARO CLIMB - MARANGU ROUTE 8 Days / 7 Nights • MARANGU • MARANGU HUT • HOROMBO HUT • KIBO HUT • UHURU PEAK Day 1: Arrive Marangu

Day 4: Horombo Hut

Welcome to Tanzania. This journey begins at the foothills of Mt. Kilimanjaro. The tour commences at the hotel in early evening with a full briefing and kit inspection with your experienced Kilimanjaro leader before dinner.

After breakfast, hike to Mawenzi Hut, passing the unusual Zebra Rocks and enjoying awesome views. Return to Horombo for lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing and acclimatizing to the altitude, or ask your guides about short walks in the area. Take advantage of the rest day and drink plenty of water to prepare for the days to come.

to reach Gilman’s Point, perhaps in time for breathtaking views of the sun rising behind Mawenzi Peak. It is a further two hours along the rim of the crater to Uhuru Peak, at 19,340 feet, the highest point in Africa. From this peak, there are unforgettable views of the crater, ice fields, and the vast and distant East African plains below. Descend back to Horombo Hut for a well-earned rest.

Day 5: Kibo Hut

Day 7: Marangu

The landscape becomes progressively more rugged and rocky and the air noticeably thinner, so slow the pace accordingly. Pass giant groundsels and lobelias while traveling across the sparse moorland. Skirting Mawenzi Peak, arrive at the stark lunar landscape of the Saddle. Upon reaching Kibo Hut in afternoon, take the opportunity to have an early night before your 11:00pm wakeup call later in the evening.

Continue the descent through alpine meadows and rainforest to the park gate. In the afternoon, return to the Marangu Hotel. Over a celebratory meal, relive and share your experiences of your days on the mountain.

Day 2: Mandara Hut After breakfast, meet the guides and porters. After completing registration procedures, you should be on your way to the Marangu Gate at Mt. Kilimanjaro National Park by late morning. The porters will carry your trek bag with all of your gear, while you’ll carry a day bag with your wet-weather equipment, camera, lunch, and water. Hike to Mandara Hut, where you will spend the night. From here, embark on an optional walk to nearby Maundi Crater. If the skies are clear, there may be excellent views of the town of Moshi far below.

Day 3: Horombo Hut

Day 6: Horombo Hut / Uhuru Peak

Continue the trek with another long hike over a slightly steeper stretch where the rainforest gives way to open and rolling alpine meadows dotted with giant heather trees. Traverse several ravines before reaching Horombo Hut, your base for the night.

After being woken by our guides and served hot tea late in the evening on Day 5, begin the last leg of the trek to the summit. The trek begins beneath the stars as you zigzag your way up a large scree slope guided only by torchlight

Horombo

Uhuru Peak

Day 8: Marangu Depart on a transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport or shuttle to Nairobi, which can be arranged locally.

Mt. Kilimanjaro

TANZANIA: HOTELS DREAM OF ZANZIBAR

THE RESIDENCE ZANZIBAR

HHHHH Zanzibar

Preferred Partner

All-Inclusive Nestled in exotic gardens on the beachfront at Pwani Machangani overlooking the Indian Ocean, this exceptional resort opens onto a private stretch of white-sand beach. Guest rooms and suites open to private terraces. • 157 ac rooms & suites • 9 restaurants/3 bars • concierge/room service • 2 outdoor pools/kids pool • The Dream Spa/fitness center • water sports/tennis • Simba Club • complimentary Wi-Fi

SEA CLIFF RESORT & SPA

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Zanzibar

Set amid fragrant tropical gardens on a pristine mile-long beach along the Indian Ocean, this top-flight resort immerses you in the splendor of a secluded hideaway. Retreat to luxurious villas with contemporary style, private pools, and furnished patios.

Located amid tropical gardens on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, this stellar resort offers the perfect setting for either a relaxing or recreation-filled escape. Step into guest rooms featuring elegant furnishings and private furnished balconies.

• 66 ac villas • 2 restaurants/bar • room service • outdoor pool • spa/ fitness center/yoga • water sports/tennis/complimentary bicycles • kids club • complimentary Wi-Fi

BREEZES BEACH CLUB ZANZIBAR

• 120 ac rooms • 3 restaurants/2 bars • 24-hr concierge & room service • 2 outdoor infinity pools/kids pool • Mali Spa/fitness center • water sports/tennis/bicycles • golf course • Kidz Club • complimentary Wi-Fi

FUMBA BEACH LODGE

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SULTAN SANDS ISLAND RESORT

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Zanzibar

A quiet, pristine sandy beach is right outside the doors of this romantic, elegant resort on the southeast coast. Guest accommodations, decorated in traditional Zanzibari style, open to breezy private terraces or balconies.

Barefoot luxury is the watchword at this peaceful boutique hideaway that opens onto a stretch of secluded beach on the island’s southwest coast. Set in individual bungalows shaded by a forest of baobab trees, guest rooms feature sea views.

• 70 ac rooms & suites • 4 restaurants/café/3 bars/pool bar • concierge • Frangipani Spa Zanzibar/fitness center/aerobics • tennis • water sports/ PADI Dive Center • shopping • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 26 ac rooms & suites • restaurant/2 bars/beach bar • concierge/room service • outdoor pool/Jacuzzi • Baobab Spa • water sports/PADI dive center • complimentary Wi-Fi

Step directly onto the white-sand beaches of Kiwengwa from this luxury resort on Zanzibar’s east coast. Spacious rooms are built in the style of traditional African rondavels and open to private balconies. Gear up for snorkeling and scuba in sparkling waters.

• 76 ac rooms • 2 restaurants/coffee bar/2 bars • concierge • Oasis Spa/ fitness center • water sports/PADI dive center • kids club • boutiques

Elephants at a waterhole

BOTSWANA AFRICA AT ITS MOST UNSPOILED KNOW YOUR DESTINATION About 40% of Botswana is protected wildlife management area, and it is one of the most sparsely populated countries in the world, inviting you to tread deeper into the realm of exotic creatures than anywhere else. Wildlife is Botswana’s main draw, and the nation has acted to preserve natural habitats for a diverse array of fauna. And though the lions roar, the welcoming human population of Botswana speaks English. The capital city of Gaborone – made famous in the bestselling book series “The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency” – is a modern city, but its main attractions include the old Village and its colonial architecture, and the crafts markets where you can buy locally made wood carvings and colorful prints and tapestries.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS A valid US passport, return or onward tickets, and proof of sufficient funds are required for entry; a visa is not required. Visitors entering Botswana are required to pay a $30 tourism levy at point of entry.

GETTING AROUND City-To-City Air Major areas of Botswana are linked by air; the main airports are Sir Seretse Khama International (Gabarone) and Maun International Airport, the latter a gateway airport to the Okavango Delta. The national carrier, Air

Botswana, operates scheduled domestic flights from Gaborone to several destinations, including Francistown, Maun, and Kasane.

Elephant Park

Rail

Migrating Animals

Botswana Railways operates one of Africa’s few modern train services, traveling between Lobatse and Francistown, via Gaborone, Pilane, Mahalapye, Palapye, Serule, and other villages.

Animals move freely along ancient migration routes in the 700-square-mile Moremi Wildlife Reserve. It’s easy to spot buffalo, giraffes, hippos, antelope, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and jackals, as well as almost 500 different birds.

Car Renting a vehicle, especially 4WD, will allow you the freedom to explore some of Botswana’s most beautiful wilderness areas on your own timetable via roads that are paved and well maintained. The downside is that distances are long and the cost of renting a vehicle is high.

TOP EXPERIENCES Okavango Delta Visit the Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world and a World Heritage Site – and one of the world’s great wildlife havens.

Big Game Reserve

Head to Chobe National Park to see the largest population of African elephants on the continent.

A Range of Recreation Botswana’s wide-open spaces also invite all manner of recreation, including hiking, ATVs, mountain biking, windsurfing, horseback and camel riding, bird-watching, swimming, canoeing (via mokoro), caving, camping, boat cruising, fishing, and hot-air ballooning.

Sundown Sip End the day in beautiful Botswana with a sundowner: sip a vintage-style British cocktail after a satisfying afternoon game drive, or join an evening river cruise and catch some of the most stunning sunsets Mother Nature has to offer.

Explore the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, the second largest game reserve in the world, home to the Bushmen (or San) for thousands of years.

Salt Pans The stark salt pans of Makgadikgadi Pans National Park attract a large number and variety of birds year-round. In these and other parks and preserves you will also find lions, cheetahs, crocodiles, elephants, and antelope. Kalahari Bushman

BOTSWANA: ITINERARY

Chobe National Park

CLASSIC BOTSWANA

8 Days / 7 Nights • VICTORIA FALLS • CHOBE NATIONAL PARK • MOREMI GAME RESERVE • OKAVANGO DELTA • MAUN Day 1: Arrive Victoria Falls On arrival in Victoria Falls, you will be met by a Wild Horizons representative and transferred to your hotel. Located about two miles from the town center, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is set high on a plateau and enjoys uninterrupted views of the African bush. After a short briefing, the rest of the day is at leisure.

on the Delta searching for aquatic antelope, relaxing, and soaking up the unique ambiance of this remarkable environment. Go ashore on some of the larger islands to stretch your legs and explore. Enjoy a spot of high tea, then head off for an afternoon gliding quietly through the wetlands and papyrus-clad waterways in traditional dugout canoes or on a sunset boat cruise.

Day 2: Victoria Falls – Chobe National Park

Day 5: Moremi Game Reserve

In the morning, tour Victoria Falls with a guide. Afterwards, return to your lodge and meet your Sheerwater/Chobezi representative for your transfer into Botswana and Chobe National Park. Arrive at your lodge at midday and meet with a local representative to go over the rest of your itinerary. After lunch, unwind before joining a mid-afternoon game drive to spot elephants and buffalo. Accommodation at Chobe Safari Lodge is usually in rondavels – comfortable individual circular thatched units with private facilities and balconies.

In the wilderness you may spot giraffes, impalas, baboons, elephants, buffalo, warthogs, wildebeests, waterbucks, zebras, hippos, and crocodiles in the waterways. During the hotter part of the day, relax on the camp’s open decks or siesta by the pool. Bird-watchers might even see the very rare and shy Pel’s Fishing Owl.

Day 3: Chobe National Park Begin with a morning game drive to see the wildlife at their most active, followed by relaxation at the lodge during the hottest part of the day. In late afternoon, take a boat trip on the Chobe River. In Chobe National Park, spot big game including buffalo, elephants, lions, zebras, impalas, wildebeests, and giraffes, plus saddle-billed storks, malachite kingfishers, fish eagles, goliath herons, and beautiful bee-eaters. Return to the lodge the final evening.

Day 4: Chobe National Park – Moremi Game Reserve After breakfast, fly into the Okavango Delta, where you’ll be met and transferred to either Moremi Crossing or neighboring sister property Gunn’s Camp. Spend time

Day 6: Moremi Game Reserve – Okavango Delta After breakfast and a morning activity, depart Moremi Crossing via small aircraft and fly to Pom Pom Camp, the base from which to explore the abundant wildlife and life-sustaining waters of the Okavango Delta. Accommodation is located on Pom Pom Island in the private Matsebe concession area. Activities at Pom Pom camp include game drives and walks, time out on the water in a mokoro, and fishing trips.

Day 7: Okavango Delta

Chobe National Park

ANGOLA

ZAMBIA Victoria Falls

Okavango/Moremi

ZIMBABWE

Maun

NAMIBIA

BOTSWANA

Makgadikgadi Francistown

Ghanzi

Spend the day taking in the unspoiled and diverse wilderness of this stunning area where the varied habitats offer refuge to a wide range of animal and bird species.

Bobonong Serowe Mahalapye

Day 8: Maun Enjoy breakfast with the group on your final morning before flying to Maun Airport, where your adventure comes to an end.

Chobe

Gaborone Tsabong

SOUTH AFRICA

Oryx, Sossuvlei

NAMIBIA UNUSUAL HISTORY & UNWORLDLY BEAUTY IN ONE DESTINATION KNOW YOUR DESTINATION A country of diverse cultures and European influences. A landscape awash in sunshine and exotic wildlife. A land of stark, mystical beauty, all the more manifest as it is one of the most sparsely populated countries on the map. Namibia is one of a kind. Explore landscapes as geographically varied as the dunes and desert coastal plains of Namib, the Skeleton Coast, the Kalahari Basin, and the wooded bushveld of Kavango and Caprivi. Windhoek, the capital, is steeped in the influence of German colonization, still present in language, architecture, and restaurants where you can savor traditional dishes and beer, and even celebrate Oktoberfest. You’ll find that the city center has the air of European café culture, laid-back and eclectic, with a pedestrian precinct, bustling shops, and market stalls. While English is the official language, many people also speak Afrikaans and German.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS A US passport valid for six months beyond date of entry (with two blank visa pages remaining for entry and departure endorsements) and confirmed return/onward tickets are required for entry; a visa is not required.

GETTING AROUND CITY-TO-CITY Train The national railway company, TransNamib, operates trains (and buses) to destinations all over Namibia via their

StarLine passenger service. Service operates from Windhoek to Otjiwarongo-Tsumeb, Gobabis, Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Keetmanshoop, and other destinations.

Car

German Influence Discover more German colonial legacies and colorful architecture in Swakopmund, at the Skeleton Coast’s southern end.

There are numerous rental car agencies in Windhoek, and Namibia’s roads are very good, with primary routes paved, and secondary routes of well-graded gravel. Please note, gas stations typically do not accept any form of payment except cash.

Rare Species

IN-TOWN Taxi

Join a safari into the Namib Desert, the oldest in the world, home to antelope, gazelles, ostriches, meerkats, and several species of lizards.

There is no public transit in Windhoek, but there is a system of shared taxis that primarily run between the townships and the main industrial/commercial areas of the city.

TOP EXPERIENCES

Explore famous Etosha National Park, where you’ll find rare and endangered species like the Black Rhino, Blackfaced Impala, and Gemsbok.

World’s Oldest Desert

River Ravines Explore the gigantic Fish River Canyon, Africa’s version of the Grand Canyon, and its deep ravines, hot springs, and towering rock stratas of purples, pinks, and grays.

Canyon Trek

Colorful Dunes

Take a guided excursion to the Sesriem Canyon, a picturesque, narrow craggy gorge with steep 100-foot walls, carved by the Tsauchab River into sedimentary rock.

Bring your camera to one of the most photographed landscapes in the world, the Sossusvlei, known for its undulating red, pink, and orange sand dunes. It looks even more stunning from a hot-air balloon.

Shipwreck Coast Once known by sailors as the “Gates of Hell,” the rugged Skeleton Coast National Park is lined with hundreds of beached shipwrecks.

Rock Engravings Visit the stark, barren wilderness of Damaraland, home to Brandberg (Namibia’s highest mountain), the Petrified Forest, and over 2,500 prehistoric rock engravings. Sesriem Canyon

NAMIBIA: ITINERARY

Sossusvlei

CLASSIC NAMIBIA 15 Days / 14 Nights • WINDHOEK • ESTOSHA NATIONAL PARK • DAMARALAND • SWAKOPMUND • SOSSUSVLEI • SESRIEM • FISH RIVER CANYON • ORANGE RIVER • TRAWAL • CAPE TOWN Day 1: Windhoek Your journey begins with a welcome meeting at your hotel at 6:00pm.

Day 2: Windhoek – Etosha National Park

your hotel, explore this township of German-Namibian atmosphere.

Day 7: Swakopmund

Travel to your lodge located just outside Etosha National Park, and spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.

Your day is at leisure, or you can join an optional activity such as a trip north to Cape Cross, a breeding site for Cape Fur Seals.

Day 3: Etosha National Park

Day 8: Swakopmund – Sossusvlei

Rise early and enjoy a full day of game viewing in the park, watching for black rhinos, Hartmann’s mountain zebras, black-faced impalas, roan antelopes, and the tiny Damara dik-dik, as well as some 340 bird species.

Depart Swakopmund and head south to Sesriem, with a seasonal detour to Walvis Bay, the hibernation area for thousands of migratory birds, most notably flamingos. Continue past Moon Valley, an eerie granite valley, and the Tropic of Capricorn. Stop by the small settlement of Solitaire before arriving at your lodge.

Day 4: Etosha National Park – Damaraland Enjoy a morning game drive in the park, then venture into the heart of Damaraland, home to Namibia’s highest peak, ancient rock paintings, and petrified forests. Keep an eye out for the desert elephants that roam the area. Your home for the next two nights is the Mopane Lodge.

Day 5: Damaraland Spend the morning visiting Twyfelfontein Heritage Site, known for its ancient rock engravings, and the Petrified Forest. Continue on to the Living Museum of the Damara, which reconstructs and preserves the “lost culture” of the Damara, who are, along with the Bushmen, the oldest nation in Namibia. Return to the lodge with the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 6: Damaraland – Swakopmund Travel through the Namib Desert to reach the Atlantic coastline, taking in the beautiful, diverse, and colorful landscapes along the way – mountains, sand dunes, ocean waves, and shipwrecks. Arrive at the beachside town of Swakopmund on the Skeleton Coast. After checking into

Day 9: Sossusvlei – Sesriem An early-morning visit to Sossusvlei is a great opportunity for unsurpassed views of the surrounding area. Climb to the top of Dune 45 for spectacular vistas of the surreal desert. After breakfast, travel to Dead Vlei, a clay pan best known for its eerie iconic landscape, surrounded by some of the highest dunes in the world. In the afternoon, visit Sesriem Gorge, a tranquil natural corridor that you can walk through and explore. Return to the lodge for the evening.

Day 10: Sesriem – Fish River Canyon Depart Sossusvlei and travel to Fish River Canyon. Your accommodation for the next two nights is the Canyon Lodge. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Day 11: Fish River Canyon Rise early and witness the colorful sunrise from the edge of Fish River Canyon. Stop at various lookouts that offer spectacular views and photo opportunities, and keep an

eye out for birds including plovers, wagtails, hammerkops, and herons. Next, make your way to the main viewpoint for a picnic breakfast with unforgettable views over the canyon. Return to the lodge and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Optional activities include a guided drive to the Fish River Canyon and a 4x4 wildebeest drive.

Day 12: Fish River Canyon – Orange River Depart Fish River Canyon and proceed to Orange River, the longest stream in South Africa. Join an easy six-mile journey downstream in a two-person canoe with a local guide.

Day 13: Orange River – Trawal Cross the border from Namibia into South Africa and to a wine farm in Trawal, arriving in late afternoon or early evening. In the evening, enjoy a unique wine tasting of the region’s finest wines with your experienced and knowledgeable host.

Day 14: Trawal – Cape Town Continue to Cape Town, with the rest of the day until the evening at your leisure. Explore attractions such as Robben Island, the V&A Waterfront, and Table Mountain. In the evening, enjoy a memorable dinner with the group in Bo-Kapp, spiritual home of the Cape’s Muslim community, known for its brightly colored houses. Make a stop at the famed purple house of Faldela Tolker and her family, and learn how to make samosas before sitting down to an authentic home-cooked dinner.

Day 15: Cape Town Extend your stay in Cape Town or depart for home.

Lake Kivu

RWANDA FABULOUS LANDSCAPES & WILDLIFE UNLIMITED KNOW YOUR DESTINATION More than its reputation as the home of the world’s most magnificent gorillas, Rwanda is a breathtakingly beautiful land, from its one thousand hills to its rolling green savannahs, with huge volcanoes, East Africa’s only canopy walk, acclaimed coffee growers, amazing range of flora and fauna, and water sports at Lake Kivu. Rwanda has truly come into its own as a full-fledged safari destination, thanks to the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park as well as the recent reintroduction of lions to Akagera National Park. You’ll find a range of primate tracking and bird-watching excursions, nature hikes, cycling and photography tours, and wildlife safaris. The attractive European-influenced capital city of Kigali is becoming a destination all its own, thanks to its winding boulevards and bustling streets, and its cosmopolitan vibe, enhanced by plenty of good places to eat, some lively night-time action, and interesting museums. Kinyarwanda is the chief spoken language in Rwanda, but English and French are also official languages.

IN-TOWN Taxi Taxis and airport taxis are plentiful in Kigali, with many independent and amalgamated operators.

TOP EXPERIENCES Coffee Farming Meet the farmers of Kivu and participate in coffee farming activities such as harvesting, sorting, and tending Rwanda’s exceptional beans – and, of course, tasting the final brewed coffee.

Primate Home Get up-close and personal with some of the country’s 14 primate species among the 18 mountain gorilla families in Volcanoes National Park.

Orchid Wonderland See and smell one of the world’s greatest concentrations of exotic orchids in Nyungwe National Park, home to over 160 species.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS A US passport valid for six months beyond date of entry is required; a visa and yellow fever vaccination certificate are also required.

GETTING AROUND CITY-TO-CITY Air Kigali International Airport serves as the primary gateway for Rwanda’s gorilla safaris, with domestic flights available through Akagera Aviation and Rwandair.

Akagera National Park

Game Safaris Join a “Big 5” game safari in Akagera National Park, where the savannahs, mountains, and swamps are also home to elephants, giraffes, hippos, zebras, and buffalo.

Art Market In Kigali, shop for traditional handicrafts at CAPLAKI Craft Village, while distinctive contemporary art is available at Ivuka Arts, Inema Art Center, and Uburanga Art Studio.

Local Fare Try the local specialty, brochettes (goat kebabs), which are delicious and served in most bars and restaurants.

Genocide Memorial Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which commemorates the dark days of the tragic Rwandan genocide in 1994.

Murchison Falls

UGANDA ASTOUNDING LANDSCAPES FOR SAFARIS & ADVENTURES KNOW YOUR DESTINATION

GETTING AROUND

Ten national parks. A dazzling array of landscapes. Dry savannahs and dense forests. Snow-capped mountains and the world’s longest river. Did you guess we were speaking of Uganda?

CITY-TO-CITY Air

Perhaps not a surprise is that Uganda is home to one of the most diverse and concentrated ranges of African fauna, including the endangered mountain gorilla and common chimpanzee. Or that the people of Uganda have a very strong cultural heritage, and that they are very kind and friendly and approachable. While visitors usually fly into the airport at Entebbe, the capital city of Kampala is a thoroughly dynamic, engaging, and surprisingly picturesque city, from its Alpine-style Makerere University to the Gaudi-esque Gurdwara Ramgarhia Sabha temple. It’s an ideal base for vacationers who want to observe lions prowling the grasslands one day and go white-water rafting down the Nile the next.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS A US passport valid for six months beyond date of entry, plus visa, evidence of yellow fever virus vaccination, as well as a polio vaccination for children younger than five, are required for entry. Travelers entering via land border crossings may face various entry procedures; the Ugandan immigration officer at the port of entry will determine the length of authorized stay, generally from two weeks to three months.

Air service inside Uganda includes direct flights to Entebbe from Kampala, and there are domestic flights to Arua, Adjumani, Gulu, Kitgum, and Moyo. Airlines include Aerolink and Eagle Air.

IN-TOWN Taxi

River Rafting The white-water experience of your life awaits when you gear up for crystal-clear Grade V rapids on the fabled and scenic “White Nile.”

Traditional Specialties Sit down to a helping of the Ugandan favourite known as Beef Luwombo, a traditional feast of beef steamed in banana leaf.

Friday Craft Market

The best way to get around Kampala and neighboring towns is via minibus-type taxis, which run along fixed routes, picking up and dropping off riders anywhere along the route.

Visit the Jukali handicraft village, better known as the Friday craft market, which offers a good selection of artwork, jewelry, fabrics, and wooden and stone sculptures.

TOP EXPERIENCES

Ascend to the top of the tower of the picturesque Gaddafi Mosque (Uganda’s largest mosque) in Old Kampala for the best views of the entire city.

Primate Reserve Track endangered gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and join a tour of Kibale National Park to see more than ten primate species found only in this reserve.

Kampala City Views

White Nile Soak up the awesome sight of the “White Nile” as it squeezes through a 20-foot-wide gorge and drops into spectacular Murchison Falls before flowing into Lake Albert.

Mountain Hiking Pull on your hiking shoes and go for the peaks of the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, which range up to 16,700 feet (Mt. Stanley). Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

UGANDA AND RWANDA: ITINERARY

UGANDA AND RWANDA IN DEPTH 11 Days / 10 Nights • ENTEBBE • MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK • LAKE ALBERT • KIBALE NATIONAL PARK • QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK • BWINDI • LAKE KIVU

Rothschild giraffes, Murchison National Park, Uganda

UGANDA AND RWANDA: ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrive Entebbe

Day 6: Queen Elizabeth National Park

SUDAN Day 9: Bwindi – Volcanoes National Park

Arrive in Entebbe, Uganda, where you’ll be met and escorted to your hotel.

Join a morning game drive in the park. The Mweya Peninsula is good for a variety of animals including elephants; in the Kasenyi plains you’ll find mostly lions and Uganda kob. A vast array of birds and wildlife can be seen on an afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.

Depart from Bwindi in the morning to Rwanda. Travel to your lodge near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 2: Entebbe – Murchison Falls National Park Depart Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park, stopping at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary en route. The sanctuary is home to rhinos and a range of other game and many bird species, and a guided rhino-tracking excursion is offered. Cross the Nile by ferry and proceed to your lodge.

Day 3: Murchison Falls National Park Join a morning game drive that most commonly reveals elephants, giraffes, buffalo, warthogs, leopards, lions, and many others. Embark on an afternoon boat trip to the bottom of the falls. Enjoy a stunning sunset on your return.

Day 4: Murchison Falls National Park – Fort Portal

Depart for Bwindi through grass covered hills, valleys filled with a mixture of banana, soy, and coffee plantations, and the busy commercial center of Kabale. As you approach, catch magnificent views of the entire volcano chain of the Virunga Mountains. Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Early in the morning, you are guided into Volcanoes National Park. Tracking the gorillas through the unique vegetation can take several hours of challenging walking in wet and muddy conditions. In the late afternoon, drive to Gisenyi, a small town located on the northern shore of Lake Kivu.

Day 11: Lake Kivu – Kigali In the morning, journey to Kigali. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Day 8: Bwindi National Park An early morning trek into the forest on the slopes of the volcanoes, led by experienced trackers, will bring you amongst a family of Mountain Gorillas. You will get within feet of the family and be privileged to spend time amongst them. Return to the lodge for a late lunch, with an opportunity for a forest walk with the guides.

DEP. REP OF THE CONGO

UGANDA

Gulu

Moroto

Lira Murchison Falls

Masaka Mbarara

Bwindi

RWANDA Byumba

Nile

Kampala Entebbe

Kibale Lake Edward

ria

Lake Albert Fort Portal

Day 5: Fort Portal – Queen Elizabeth National Park There’s an early start for chimpanzee tracking. Kibale National Park protects a large block of rainforest harboring the greatest variety and concentration of primates anywhere in East Africa. Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park along the foothills of the Rwenzoris for an evening game drive and overnight lodging.

Arua

to Vic

Travel through the Rift Valley via Lake Albert and its coastal fringes, where flocks of small zebu are tended by the proud Alur herdsmen. Continue to Fort Portal, traveling through changing vistas of high plateaus, valleys, and resplendent tea plantations. The landscape becomes more tortuous, descending to the foot of the Rwenzori Mountains, whose snowcapped peaks can be seen in the distance.

Day 7: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Bwindi National Park

Day 10: Volcanoes National Park – Lake Kivu

Soroti Lake Mbale Kyoga Jinja

Port Bell

KENYA

Lake Victoria

TANZANIA

Lake RWANDA Lake Kivu Kigali Kiva Cyangugu Kibungo Butare Bwindi National Park

BURUNDI

EGYPT THE ORIGINAL MECCA FOR WORLD TRAVELERS KNOW YOUR DESTINATION Awe-inspiring ancient wonders, boundless sandy deserts, the fascinating Nile, and the chaotic allure of Cairo are just some of the many things that make Egypt a classic travel destination. From the mystery of the Pyramids to the imposing Great Sphinx of Giza, from the endless sands of the Sahara in the west to the turquoise waters of the Red Sea off the Sinai Peninsula, Egypt boasts a breathtaking landscape of attractions. Cairo is vast – with more than 17 million people, it’s the largest city in Africa and the Middle East. Though firmly attached to the past, it is also home to a vibrant modern society, buzzing with life and movement. Visit the Al-Azhar Mosque, one of the pillars of Islamic thought and home to the world’s oldest university, then drop into one of Cairo’s numerous friendly coffee houses, the best places to soak up the flavors of the city.

THE REGIONS Cairo Egypt’s capital city, Cairo is also the largest city in Africa and the Middle East, and, as such, all hustle and bustle. There are quiet medieval backstreets to explore as well as the waterfront Corniche, but the essence is more to be found in the packed markets, such as the famous Khan el-Khalili souk, largely unchanged since the 14th century. You’ll find spices, perfumes, gold, silver, carpets, brass and copperware, leather work, glass, and ceramics.

Giza Just a few miles outside Cairo, this plateau is home to the only remaining monuments of the Seven Wonders

of the Ancient World, the three iconic Pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx. While instantly recognizable to almost everybody in the world via photos and film, they are absolutely breathtaking when viewed up close.

Luxor

Bus Egypt has an extensive long-distance bus network, operated mostly by government-owned companies, including Pullman, West Delta, Golden Arrow, Super Jet, East Delta, El Gouna, Upper Egypt Bus Co, and Bedouin Bus.

Though a small city, Luxor is extensive and straddles the Nile, with many of its ancient attractions on the West Bank, including the Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, while the more modern East Bank is home to most hotels and restaurants, as well as the 3,000-year-old Luxor Temple.

IN-TOWN Taxi

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Subway

A US passport valid for six months beyond date of entry is required; a visa is also required.

Cairo is home to Africa’s first and most expansive metro system, encompassing three lines that cover most of the main districts.

GETTING AROUND

Taxis are a cheap and convenient way of getting around Cairo; make sure they have official markings on the dashboard or elsewhere (taxis are painted black with white around the front and rear fenders).

CITY-TO-CITY Air Egypt’s domestic air network is fairly extensive and covers most major cities and towns. The national carrier, EgyptAir has the most regular services; they have a large network of offices at strategic points around the country, which can sell you tickets. Egypt’s largest private airline, Nile Air, also offers scheduled flights.

Train The state-owned company Egyptian National Railways runs almost all trains in Egypt; the Cairo-Alexandria route is heavily traveled by train, with frequent service daily. Overnight trains are available from Cairo to Luxor and Aswan, in Upper Egypt, run by a separate private company called Abela Egypt.

Ruins of Karnak Temple, Luxor

The Sphinx, Giza

TOP EXPERIENCES

Coptic Cairo

Visit one of Cairo’s many cafés, where you can sip some great brew as well as play backgammon and smoke a shisha water pipe and watch the world pass by.

Wander the streets of Old Cairo to “Coptic Cairo,” a unique area encompassing the Babylon Fortress as well as several Christian churches that date to before the Muslim conquest of Egypt.

Major Mosque

Luxor Shopping

Café Culture

Shop in Luxor’s main souk for brass trays, alabaster vases and bowls, leather poufs, jewelry, and brightly colored cotton scarves and galabeyyas.

Cairo Tower

Luxor Museums

Get an amazing view of Cairo from the 614-foot-tall Cairo Tower, topped by a circular observation deck and rotating restaurant.

Alexandria Sights Join a day tour of nearby Alexandria, site of the Alexandria National Museum, the picturesque Fort Qaitbay, and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, a commemoration of the legendary Library of Alexandria that was lost in antiquity.

Cairo

Take advantage of Luxor’s status as “The World’s Largest Outdoor Museum” and visit the Temple of Luxor, one of the best preserved of all of the ancient monuments, and the Temple of Karnak, the largest religious structure ever built, a virtual city covering about 200 acres which was a place of pilgrimage for nearly 2,000 years.

SYRIA Mediterranean Sea

Cairo Giza

Pyramids of Giza

ISRAEL

JORDAN

Suez SAUDI ARABIA

Nile

Explore the great Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha (or Alabaster Mosque), built in the early 19th century, which dominates the skyline from atop the Citadel.

LEBANON

EGYPT Valley of the Kings GREAT SAND DESERT

Luxor Edfu Aswan

Red Sea

Abu Simbel

EGYPT: ITINERARY

Great Sphinx of Giza

ANCIENT EGYPT 8 Days / 7 Nights • CAIRO • NILE CRUISE • LUXOR Day 1: Arrive Cairo

Day 6: Edfu – Luxor

Upon arriving, transfer to your hotel in Cairo, Africa’s largest city and the political and cultural center of the Arab World.

Visit the wonderfully preserved Temple of Horus at Edfu, the second largest ancient temple in Egypt (after Karnak).

Day 2: Cairo

On the East Bank, visit the magnificent Karnak Temple, the largest of its kind, and the famous Luxor Temple in the city center. Crossing to the other bank of the Nile, visit the burial places of the Pharaohs – the Valley of the Kings – where the tomb of Tutankhamen was discovered in 1922. Continue to the adjacent Valley of the Queens, burial site of royal consorts including Nefertiti, and other ancient attractions.

Embark of a full-day tour to visit the Pyramids and the Great Sphinx – which literally need no introduction – as well as Memphis (the capital of ancient Egypt) and Sakkara (one of the country’s most extensive archaeological sites).

Day 3: Cairo Join a full-day tour that takes you to the Egyptian Museum and The Citadel, followed by the Mosque of Sultan Hassan (perhaps the most majestic monument of Arab architecture in Egypt) and the Mosque of Al-Rifai. Then, explore the ancient Khan ElKhalili bazaar, which offers a wide array of antiques, handicrafts of gold, silver, and copper, and numerous old coffee shops and local restaurants which attract both Egyptians and tourists alike.

Day 7: Luxor – Cairo

Day 8: Cairo Transfer to Cairo International Airport for your flight home. LEBANON SYRIA

Luxor Temple

Mediterranean Sea

Day 4: Cairo – Aswan / Nile Cruise

Cairo Giza

After your arrival at Aswan airport, transfer to board the Nile cruise, which will take you to Aswan, one of the oldest inhabited places in Egypt. Then, marvel at the imposing Aswan Dam, one of the world’s outstanding engineering feats, completed in 1971, and Lake Nasser, the largest artificial lake in the world. You will also visit the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, and the Abu Simbel temples, a pair of massive structures originally carved from a solid rock cliff.

Pyramids of Giza

SAUDI ARABIA

Nile

JORDAN

Suez

EGYPT Valley of the Kings GREAT SAND DESERT

Day 5: Nile Cruise – Edfu Your cruise continues on to Kom Ombo, home to an unusual double temple constructed during the Ptolemaic dynasty, 180–47 BCE.

ISRAEL

Abu Simbel

Avenue of Rams in Karnak Temple

Luxor Edfu Aswan

Red Sea

EGYPT: SIGHTSEEING • HOTELS AFFORDABLE EGYPT

KING TUTANKHAMUN

DAHABIYA BOUTIQUE LUXURY SAILING ON THE RIVER NILE

6 Days-5 Nights / Emeco Travel

6 Days-5 Nights / Emeco Travel Egypt

9 Days-8 Nights / On the Go Tours

This amazing short break begins with a flight from Cairo to Aswan, where you embark on a Nile River cruise to Luxor. Visit the High Dam and Philae Temple in Aswan, and the Kom Ombo and Edfu Temples. Then sail to Luxor and visit the Valley of the Kings and Queens and other sites on both West and East Banks, including the Luxor Temple. Return to Cairo and explore the Giza Pyramids and Sphinx.

Explore the highlights of Egypt on this tour aboard a luxury 8-cabin boutique sailing boat along the River Nile between Luxor and Aswan. Visit ancient historical sites, including Karnak and Luxor Temples on the East Bank and the Valley of the Kings & Queens and Hatshepsut Temple on the West Bank. This journey offers the romance of the past with every modern comfort and convenience. A wonderful mix of superb sightseeing, traditional cuisine and attentive personal service.

Kicking off in Cairo with a visit the phenomenal Pyramids of Giza, this tour then heads south to explore Aswan and take a leisurely boat trip to the romantic Philae Temple. From there, set sail on the Nile in a traditional felucca boat to Kom Ombo and ultimately Luxor. Take in the ancient wonders and impressive Valley of the Kings before heading back to Cairo to visit the famed Egyptian Museum.

CONRAD CAIRO

HILTON CAIRO HELIOPOLIS

RAMSES HILTON

HHHHH

Cairo

Overlooking the River Nile, this luxury urban hotel is set in the heart of bustling downtown Cairo. Elegant guest rooms have traditional style, marble baths, private balconies, and river views. The roaring casino is open 24 hours.

You’re just minutes from Cairo city center at this modern luxury hotel, known for attentive service and unrivaled amenities. Savor regional, Middle Eastern, Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Indian, Mexican, Italian, French, and other cuisines.

Set on the banks of the River Nile, this family-friendly high-rise hotel is the perfect base for exploring Cairo, the Pyramids, and other attractions. Bright and airy guest rooms open to private balconies overlooking the Nile or city skyline.

• 614 ac rooms & suites • 5 restaurants/2 bars/pool bar • concierge/ 24-hr room service • outdoor heated pool • fitness center/sauna/steam room/massage services/personal trainers • 24-hr casino • shopping • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 589 ac rooms & suites • 11 restaurants/4 bars/pool bar • concierge/ room service • outdoor pool • 24-hr fitness center/salon • tennis & squash courts • kids playground

• 771 ac rooms & suites • 4 restaurants/2 cafés/bar • concierge/room service • outdoor heated pool/sundeck • fitness center/plunge pool/ sauna/whirlpool/steam room • 24-hr casino • video arcade • shopping • complimentary Wi-Fi

INTERCONTINENTAL CAIRO SEMIRAMIS

HHHH½ Cairo This modern luxury hotel stands on the banks of the Nile River, close to the Egyptian Museum and the bazaars of old Cairo. Guest accommodations feature traditional style and private balconies overlooking the river or city skyline. • 726 ac rooms & suites • 8 restaurants/2 bars • concierge/24-hr room service • outdoor free-form rooftop pool • spa/24-hr fitness center/ sauna/steam room/whirlpool • nightclub/casino • complimentary Wi-Fi

NOVOTEL CAIRO AIRPORT

HHHH Cairo Convenience and comfort are the watchwords at this modern airport hotel, just minutes from downtown Cairo and a great base for exploring the Pyramids and Sphinx. Choose from Italian/Mediterranean, international, and barbecue fare at on-site eateries. • 313 ac rooms & suites • 4 restaurants/3 bars • room service • 2 outdoor pools • spa/fitness center/salon/sauna/Jacuzzi • complimentary 24-hr airport shuttle • complimentary Wi-Fi

MOROCCO A MODERN COUNTRY THAT LIVES UP TO ITS EXOTIC & MYSTERIOUS IMAGE KNOW YOUR DESTINATION Desert sheiks, date palm oases, wild camel rides, belly dancing – exotic images, to be sure, and this has long been the popular vision conjured by the word “Morocco.” While such stereotypes have some truth to them, there is much more to this North African country than mere clichés. Situated on Africa’s Atlantic coast just 10 miles from Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar, Morocco is a fascinating melting pot of Berber, African, Moorish, European, and Arabic cultures. Famous for its hospitality, Morocco is liberal by African standards and welcomes hordes of writers, artists, and those seeking an alternative lifestyle and enlightenment in an ancient land.

spaces. Its Old City (medina) is a labyrinth of souks and artisan shops. The modern city of Meknes bustles with street life and nightlife and is close to the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Marrakech combines old and new Morocco, consisting of the historical medina, all intertwining narrow passageways, and the Gueliz (or Ville Nouvelle), a modern, European-style district.

Casablanca Far from the days when it was known primarily as a safe haven for pirates, contemporary Casablanca is the country’s modern cultural centre, boasting art galleries, French Art Deco architecture, and a trendy, cosmopolitan vibe. A primary entry point for visitors from Europe, this coastal city was a favorite of free spirits such as Henri Matisse, Jimi Hendrix, and William Burroughs, thanks to its aura of exotic mystery, beautiful vistas, and fantastic beaches.

THE REGIONS

A valid US passport (with at least one blank page) valid for the period of intended stay. A visa is not required for stay of less than 90 days.

Marrakech, Fez, Rabat, and Meknes have all serves as Morocco’s capital at some point during its history. Fez, the oldest capital, is also home to the world’s oldest university, the University of al-Qarawiyyin. Its ancient walled city is the best-preserved in the Arab world, and is also the world’s largest car-free urban zone. The current capital, Rabat, is a relaxed city on the Atlantic Ocean, marked by beautiful domes, minarets, wide avenues, and green

The major cities are all linked by reliable rail links. There are usually several trains every day to or from every major town, plus a night train between Marrakech and Tangier.

Bus Cheap and popular, buses are an excellent way to travel between Morocco’s major cities. Nearly every city has a central bus station where you can buy tickets to travel from region to region. CTM, Supratours, and some smaller companies provide good comfort at reasonable prices.

Tangier

Officially the Kingdom of Morocco (it’s a constitutional monarchy), this mysterious nation offers an unforgettable experience that only begins with its hypnotic Saharan desert landscapes, snowy mountain peaks, bustling souks, steamy bathhouses, and labyrinthine cities.

The Imperial Cities

Rail

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

GETTING AROUND CITY-TO-CITY Air Royal Air Maroc, the national flag carrier, has an excellent but expensive network to most cities. Other airlines include Air Arabia Maroc.

Goats graze in an Argan tree

LEBANON

Tajines, Marrakech

SYRIA

TOP EXPERIENCES

Marrakech Square

Lose yourself, or rather, find your way around the twisty Fez medina, full of sights, sounds, and smells that will overwhelm your senses.

Spend an evening in Marrakech’s great square of Jemaa el Fna, one of the largest public spaces in the world, teeming with snake-charmers, henna-painters, performers, storytellers, and street food vendors.

Mosque & Minaret

Casablanca Art Museum

Fez Medina

Join a guided tour of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, one of the largest in the world, with a 600-foot-tall minaret.

Urban Souks In any of Morocco’s major cities, visit the various souks and shop for fabrics, spices, Berber bracelets and necklaces, pottery and ceramics, embossed copper and brass trays, coffee pots, leatherwork and of course, carpets.

Volubilis Archaeological Site

Drop in to the Art Deco-style Villa Des Arts, the only Moroccan contemporary art museum in Casablanca, featuring Moroccan and international exhibitions.

PORT.

Mediterranean Sea

Tangier

Atlantic Ocean

Kenitra Rabat Fez Casablanca Meknes Mohammedia El Jadida

MOROCCO

Safi

Oujda

Bouarfa

Marrakech

Outdoor Adventures Morocco’s amazing and varied landscapes present a prime opportunity to join into hot-air ballooning over the towering Atlas Mountain range, hopping onto an ATV for a desert adventure, and riding the waves at laid-back Taghazout, a former hippie hangout turned pro surfing mecca.

SPAIN

Agadir

Ouarzazate

ALGERIA

Tarfaya WESTERN SAHARA

Explore the hilltop archaeological site of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the most remote of the Roman Empire’s bases.

MAUR.

Striking Architecture Take a side trip to Chefchaouen, a small city that blends Moroccan and Anadalusian architecture and is known for its striking blue and whitewashed houses, red-tiled roofs and artistic doorways.

Volubilis

Blue city of Chefchaouen

MOROCCO: ITINERARY

MOROCCO UNCOVERED

Western Sahara camel ride

13 Days / 12 Nights • CASABLANCA • MEKNES • CHEFCHAOUEN • FEZ • MIDELT • MERZOUGA • M’GOUN VALLEY • AIT BENHADDOU • MARRAKECH Day 1: Arrive Casablanca

Day 6: Fez – Midelt

Day 10: M’goun Valley – Ait Benhaddou

Welcome to Morocco. Your journey begins with a welcome meeting at your hotel at 6:00pm.

Today is for exploring the High Atlas Mountains. Drive south and inland through variety spectacular scenery to Midelt, a market town originally built as a base for mining. After lunch, join an easy hike in the nearby hills for some superb views of snowy peaks.

Set off on the fabled “Road of 1,000 Kasbahs” to Skoura Oasis, home to privately owned kasbahs including the extravagant Kasbah Ameridhl. Continue to the iconic Ait Benhaddou, perched on a hilltop and almost unchanged since the 11th century. Walk through the winding streets of the old town, making your way to the top of the hill, where you can enjoy the views across the surrounding plains.

Day 2: Casablanca – Meknes After breakfast, join a guided tour of the Hassan II Mosque, which features the world’s tallest minaret. Next, drive to the capital of Rabat and see the vast minaret of the Hassan Mosque and explore the walled quarter known as the Kasbah des Oudaias. In late afternoon, continue on to Meknes, former capital of Morocco.

Day 3: Meknes – Chefchaouen Today enjoy a morning tour of Meknes, including the charming streets of the old medina, the shrine of Moulay Ismail, the Bou Inania, and the old souk. Next, drive to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage archeological site of Volubilis, one of the Roman Empire’s most remote bases. Tour the ancient hilltop ruins with a local guide. Afterwards, drive to Chefchaouen, or the “Blue City,” one of the prettiest places in Morocco, and walk through the ancient medina.

Day 4: Chefchaouen – Fez Your morning is free to further discover Chefchaouen, then perhaps enjoy lunch before boarding a private minibus to Fez for the night.

Day 5: Fez Journey into Fez’ old city, known locally as Fez el Bali, at once both fascinating and confounding! Walk through the twisty streets and alleyways, and explore the souk, the colorful Medresse el Attarine madrasa, the tanneries, and the splendid Fondouk Nejjarine, a beautifully restored 18th-century inn.

Day 7: Midelt – Merzouga Reserve some time in the morning to haggle for carpets or visit a nearby Franciscan convent. Drive through barren mountainsides and fertile valleys to Merzouga, a charming Saharan village abutting the stunning orange Erg Chebbi sand dunes – an essential part of any visit to Morocco. Ride a camel to the edge of the Sahara Desert, and in the evening, camp out in traditional style, try some fantastic local cuisine around an open fire, enjoy lively music, and dance under the stars.

Day 11: Ait Benhaddou – Marrakech Today, traverse the winding roads of the Atlas to Marrakech, an ancient, exotic city wrapped in European modernity. On arrival, check in to your beautiful riad, or Moroccan mansion. This evening, head to Marrakech’s unique Jemaa el Fna, one of the largest public spaces in the world.

Day 8: Merzouga – M’goun Valley

Day 12: Marrakech

Enjoy a real “Lawrence of Arabia” moment with a sunrise camel ride across the desert on the return journey to the auberge. Then, drive to Todra Gorge, one of the most spectacular canyons on the planet, where you can take a short hike. Continue inland to M’goun, and get closer to the customs and lifestyle of the Berber in a traditional Berber house.

After breakfast, set off on a morning guided tour of the old medina, through the bustling souks, tranquil courtyards, and salons and chambers of Bahia Palace. Continue to the Marrakech Museum, a former palace with a fine collection of Moroccan art and sculpture, and the Koutoubia Mosque, with its famous minaret. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 9: M’goun Valley

Day 13: Marrakech

Explore the stark beauty of the largely untouched Moroccan backcountry. Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll walk a six-mile trail that passes Berber villages where you can meet local Berbers.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home.

MOROCCO: SIGHTSEEING • HOTELS ESSAOUIRA FOOD & CULTURE

ROAD TO CASABLANCA

A TASTE OF MARRAKECH: INSIDE THE MEDINA

4 Hours / Urban Adventures

9 Days-8 Nights / On the Go Tours

3.5 Hours / Urban Adventures

Head off the beaten path and discover local life in Essaouira. Sample pastries from the city’s oldest bakery and grill fresh fish at the local market. Climb a historic watchtower for a 360° view of the port, ocean, and city. Visit a local artist’s studio in the medina to appreciate authentic Moroccan artwork. Meet a traditional herbalist and taste his expertly-mixed exotic tea.

This classic nine day tour takes you to Morocco’s highlights, including Casablanca, the souks of bustling Marrakech, ancient Ait Benhaddou at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, riding a camel into the Sahara desert for an overnight stay in a Berber camp, and touring the medina of medieval Fez.

Follow a local to discover the hidden local food shops in Marrakech on this tasty tour. Sample Moroccan delicacies in the souks. Become a spice guru after a visit to a local spice market. Explore the legendary Djemaa El-Fna as it comes alive at night. Savor a traditional Moroccan dinner in the middle of a World Heritage-listed square.

TOTALLY MOROCCO

FOUR SEASONS RESORT MARRAKECH

LES JARDINS DE LA KOUTOUBIA

HHHHH 9 Days-8 Nights / On the Go Tours Starting in Marrakech with a guided city tour and a visit to beautiful Majorelle Gardens, this tour travels to UNESCOlisted Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate, the Hollywood of North Africa. From there, camel trek across the Sahara to spend a night in a traditional Berber camp. Then explore Morocco’s imperial cities and discover the vibrant tanneries of Fez, the stunning ornate buildings of Meknes and the charm of Morocco’s capital Rabat, before ending in Casablanca.

HHHHH

Marrakech

Traditional style, modern amenities, and trademark Four Seasons service are yours at this stellar resort near the medina and Ville Nouvelle. Retreat to sumptuous rooms with Moroccan décor, marble baths, and private balconies.

In the heart of Marrakech’s medina, just steps from Jamaa el Fna Square and the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, this former palace-turned-hotel is hailed by Condé Nast Traveler as “a stylish haven of peace.” Hide away in exceedingly plush guest rooms and suites.

• 139 ac rooms & suites • 3 restaurants/lounge • 2 outdoor pools • 24-hr concierge • Le Spa at Four Seasons/salon/fitness center • tennis • Kids for All Seasons/Young Adult Centre • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 108 ac rooms & suites • 3 restaurants/snack bar/piano bar • concierge/ 24-hr room service • indoor & outdoor heated pools • Spa by Carita/ fitness center/Jacuzzi/Turkish bath • library

Overwater Bungalows

MALDIVES IDYLLIC. ISOLATED. UNFORGETTABLE. KNOW YOUR DESTINATION Awaken in a sun-soaked archipelago comprising 1,192 coral islands and 26 atolls – where the sunset transforms into a hypnotizing fusion of striking colors, where your senses are balanced, where there is an abundance of underwater life and thrilling water sports. With its stunning beaches, blue waters, and pure air, the Maldives may be the ultimate exotic getaway. Escape to one of the most idyllic – and isolated – destinations on the planet. Enjoy a picnic lunch on an uninhabited island. Take a sunset cruise on a catamaran. Dive into the clearest water you’ll ever see. Rejuvenate body and soul at a sinfully delicious spa. Knowing where to begin your Maldives holiday will be your only question – for starters, there are 26 coral atolls to choose from, and it’s near impossible to pick a favorite. Intrepid travelers can opt for some city buzz in the energetic capital Malé. Notice that when you check into your resort, it occupies its own separate island. And in the Maldives, it’s the law that all resort guest rooms must face the beach, and five linear meters of beachfront is allocated to each resort bungalow. When it comes to food, Maldivians adore three things: fish, coconut, and starch. Opt for local favorites like skipjack and yellowfin tuna, best served with rice, taro, sweet potato, or cassava. Beyond seafood, the Maldives is also renowned for its delectable vegetable curries – spicy, redolent, and packed with a fresh selection of aubergine,

pumpkin, potato, and carrot. And then there’s roshi – a tasty flatbread that’s a nationwide staple, often eaten for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The people in Maldives live a simple, unhurried lifestyle and are extremely devout in their Islamic religion. Even though Maldivian Dhivehi is the official language, English is widely spoken.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS A valid US passport, return or onward tickets, and proof of sufficient funds are required for entry; a no-cost visa valid for 30 days is issued on arrival.

GETTING AROUND A speedboat, seaplane, or local dhoni (a multipurpose sailboat) are used when traveling within the islands. Taxis, motorbikes, and walking are also options on Malé; it takes approximately 10 minutes to walk from one end to the other on the island. Scheduled ferries are available when traveling to other islands.

TOP EXPERIENCES Spa Therapy Reconnect with your spirit as you plunge into a sensory journey in an overwater spa palapa with therapeutic rituals and hypnotic Maldivian waters as your backdrop.

Local Breakfast Specialty Wake up in the Maldives and sample mas huni, a Maldivian local delicacy including tuna, onion, coconut, and chili accompanied by hot tea and roshi flatbread.

History Museum Marvel at the impressive collection of artifacts that reflects the rich history of the island at the former Sultan Palace, now called the National Museum in Malé.

Diving Snorkel right off a private terrace and dip into the Tiffanyblue waters amid tropical marine life and some of the planet’s most mesmerizing coral reefs.

Craft Market Join an excursion to some of the inhabited islands, where local shops sell authentic lacquer works, dhoni crafts (miniatures of traditional boats), wood carvings, mat weavings, coconut shell products, coir ropes, and clothing.

Land Sports Many resorts have built elaborate sports facilities, so it’s easy to find a pick-up basketball game, soccer and volleyball action, and top-level tennis. And all the islands are tailor-made for jogging and bicycling.

Sport Fishing Experience an unforgettable adventure on a sport fishing cruise for giant trevally, sailfish, marlin, barracuda, yellowfin tuna, wahoo, swordfish, and other impressive game.

Le Morne

MAURITIUS PARADISE AMID THE BLUE HORIZON KNOW YOUR DESTINATION An idyllic volcanic island surrounded by immaculate waters and covered with lush vegetation and swaying palm trees, full of friendly smiles and hand-picked resorts carefully designed to preserve nature’s organic beauty – get ready to recline on a stretch of powdery sands or break out your water sports gear. There is much to love about Mauritius and not just its organic mountainous beauty and pristine beaches. It’s also a melting pot of cultures, religions, and warm-hearted people welcoming you to their land.

You’ll also find a string of modern resorts that have been carefully developed to preserve the island’s beauty and ecology. English is the official language but French and Creole are widely spoken.

Fishing Expedition

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Street Food

Sport fishermen can cast for blue or black marlin, all types of sharks, yellow tuna, and bonito. Excursions can be arranged through most of the resorts.

US citizens need only a valid passport, an onward/return ticket, and sufficient funds to cover your stay. A visa is not required.

In Grand Baie, dig into excellent, inexpensive street food like fresh coconut water, fruit smothered in chilli and sugar, hot curries, and Chinese noodles.

GETTING AROUND

Tea Estate Tour

Taxi

Nothing will prepare you for the genuine FrenchMauritian hospitality and laid-back island lifestyle, something that’s felt across the country. Experience it all first-hand – strolling through the neighborhoods, eating freshly-ripped loaves of bread, bathing in lagoons that are off the tourist trail, and weaving through sky-high fields of sugarcane. Beware, though – this type of cool routine can quickly get addictive.

Metered taxis can be taken from the airport, hotels, and at bus stations, and are generally the best way to traverse Mauritius.

Those looking for the best scenery should head for the nearby Le Morne peninsula, epitomized by a huge coastal monolith of the same name. But if you simply can’t tear yourself away from the beach, make sure you opt for some of the prettiest ones at least – Belle Mare and Trou aux Biches host some of the most picture-perfect sands. The island’s capital, Port Louis, serves up a blend of bustling markets, colonial architecture, and blissfully private beaches.

Seaplane Tour

Bus Economical express bus service is available throughout the island.

TOP EXPERIENCES

Join a tour of the venerable Bois Chéri tea estate, Mauritius’ oldest plantation, where a range of black, green, herbal, and flavored teas are produced, and stay for a taste-testing back at the chalet.

National Park Spend a day in the rugged refuge of Black River Gorges National Park, home to thick forests, jaw-dropping cascades such as Tamarin Falls, and much of the country’s most elusive wildlife species and avifauna.

Be whisked away on a seaplane journey with a dramatic water take-off and landing as you enjoy extraordinary views of the islands.

Duty-Free Shopping The island’s tourists-only duty-free shops are a great source of basketwork, embroidery, pottery, cut stones, and recycled glass art, as well as apparel like pull-overs and knitwear, plus tasty fruit jellies, chillies, vanilla tea, and rum.

Chamarel Seven Colored Earths

Eden Island, Mahe, Seychelles

SEYCHELLES & SRI LANKA ISLANDS OF SHEER EXOTIC PLEASURE, AND ONE OF THE HOTTEST NEW DESTINATIONS ON THE PLANET KNOW YOUR DESTINATIONS Seychelles Untouched. Uncrowded. Unobstructed views. Unimaginable natural wonders. In the Seychelles, you’ll wake up with an enhanced appreciation of life – and an otherworldly experience of sheer exotic pleasure. The Seychelles take the concept of beaches to a whole new level, with powder-soft sands and lapping turquoise waves acting as a gateway to the ocean and the marine gems hidden beneath its surface. Anse Major, Anse Boileau, and Anse Aux Pins on Mahé are all perfect for snorkeling straight from the beach. The warm Indian Ocean waters make it ideal for sailing, windsurfing, fishing, and surfing as well. Take a day to explore Victoria, the world’s smallest capital city, where many buildings are virtually unchanged since colonial times. Explore the downtown Victoria Market, packed with fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, and locally grown spices.

Sri Lanka No matter if you are a surfer, a food lover, or a culture maven, Sri Lanka is an exotic island destination with plenty of attractions for you to enjoy. Discover fantastic beaches, an abundance of wildlife, delicious cuisine, friendly locals, and absorbing historical and cultural sites – eight of which are World Heritagelisted. Small in size but big in personality, the island is easily traversed via rental car or tuk tuk, or abroad leisurely regional trains. If you’re fit and adventurous, try cycling around the country’s winding back roads to discover some 300 waterfalls.

The bustling capital city of Colombo is a great place to soak up the energetic side of Sri Lanka before heading to its many laidback locations. As well as being able to sip world famous tea, you can also treat your taste buds to some unbelievably flavorful food. Local dishes are similar to what you’ll find in India and usually consist of rice and curry, but Sri Lanka cuisine benefits from the addition of fruits and greater use of seafood.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

on intercity-express runs as well as ancient minibuses on shorter runs between towns and villages.

Rail Sri Lanka has an extensive railway system serving most major towns and cities in the island.

Car Driving in Sri Lanka is on the left side and traffic is quite hectic – recommended only for confident and experienced drivers.

Seychelles

TOP EXPERIENCES

US citizens need a passport valid on the date of entry and exit, return/onward ticket, proof of stay, and sufficient funds to cover stay. A one-month visitor’s permit will be issued on arrival.

Seychelles No Worries Atoll

Sri Lanka

Dive down under the Aldabra, the world’s second largest atoll, and keep your eyes peeled for angel fish, sting rays, reef sharks, and whale sharks.

A US passport valid for six months beyond date of entry is required (also with a blank page); a visa is also required; visitors should apply online at www.eta.gov.lk).

Night Lines

GETTING AROUND

Kalou You

Seychelles Air

Toast the surrounding natural beauty with a wine glass of Kalou, extracted from a coconut palm tree.

Air Seychelles operates multiple daily flights between Mahé and Praslin.

Sri Lanka Colombo City Tour

Boat

Take a tour of Colombo to experience the Floating Market, the offshore Colombo Port City, and the Gangarama temple, a Buddhist shrine.

Cat Cocos and Inter Island ferry offer multiple daily crossings between Praslin, Mahé, and La Digue.

Sri Lanka Bus Bus routes cover about 80% of the nation’s roads. Independent bus companies operate late-model coaches

Why go to bed early when you can try to hook barracuda and sharks on a night-time sport fishing adventure?

Dutch Heritage Explore the city of Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage site where classic Dutch colonial architecture meets a tropical setting, creating a vivid atmosphere of Old World charm.

YEMEN

INDIA

Praslin Island

SOMALIA

La Digue Island

North Island

SRI LANKA

SEYCHELLES

ETHIOPIA Silhouette Island

Indian Ocean

MALDIVES Frigate Island Mahé Mahé Island

MALDIVES Ihavandhippolhu Atoll

Haa Alifu Atoll Haa Dhaalu Atoll

Maamakunudhoo Atoll

SEYCHELLES

Indian Ocean

Shaviyani Atoll Noonu Atoll

Raa Atoll

Lhaviyani Atoll

Baa Atoll Goidhoo Atoll Malé Indian Ocean

Malé Atoll

Ari Atoll Vaavu Atoll Port Louis

MAURITIUS

Faafu Atoll

Meemu Atoll

Dhaalu Atoll Thaa Atoll

MADAGASCAR

Laamu Atoll

MAURITIUS Indian Ocean

Huvadhoo Atoll

REUNION Addu Atoll

Coco Island, Seychelles

MALDIVES: HOTELS AMAYA KUDA RAH MALDIVES

ATMOSPHERE KANIFUSHI MALDIVES

HHHHH

CENTARA GRAND ISLAND RESORT & SPA MALDIVES

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Maldives

The lush South Ari Atoll is home to this exceptional boutique resort that welcomes you into serene beachside and overwater villas with private terraces and ocean views. Go diving, kayaking, and Jet-Skiing, and unwind with signature treatments at the spa.

All-Inclusive A fusion of traditional and modern architecture, this luxury beachfront resort teems with recreational activities. Individual villas have direct access to the pristine white beach and turquoise lagoon, and feature private outdoor areas and whirlpool baths.

All-Inclusive Surrounded by white-sand beaches and aqua waters, this stellar resort welcomes couples and families seeking the ultimate escape in the sun. Guest rooms have the latest tech amenities, plus private verandas with awesome ocean views.

• 51 ac suites & villas • 2 restaurants/bar • room service • outdoor infinity pool/kids pool • Amaya Spa by Mandara/fitness center • water sports • Nemo Kids Club • cooking classes • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 132 ac suites & villas • 4 restaurants/2 bars/pool bar • 24-hr concierge/ room service • 2 outdoor pools/kids pool • Akiri Spa by Manadara/fitness center • water sports/tennis • The Kids Club • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 112 ac suites & villas • 3 restaurants/2 bars • 2 outdoor pools • Spa Cenvaree/fitness center • water sports/PADI dive center/tennis • kids & teens clubs • nightly entertainment • complimentary Wi-Fi

COCO BODU HITHI

COCO PALM DHUNI KOLHU

GILI LANKANFUSHI MALDIVES

HHHHH

Preferred Partner

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Maldives

An intimate and unique experience, this exclusive boutique hideaway on North Malé Atoll defines island elegance in spacious beachfront villas and secluded overwater villas. Go swimming and diving, and unwind at the spa.

Escape to pure white beaches, turquoise lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs at this eco-resort that blends with its surroundings on its own private island. Posh villas stand amid palm trees or on stilts over the lagoon with views to the horizon.

Jetties thread across crystal-clear waters to spacious villas with spectacular ocean views at this exquisite resort, an intimate coral island in a sparkling lagoon. Guest villas have private water gardens and sundecks.

• 100 ac villas • 5 restaurants/2 bars/wine bar/weekly seafood BBQ • 24-hr room service • outdoor pool/private beach • Coco Spa/fitness center/salon • water sports/PADI dive center • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 98 ac villas • 2 restaurants/2 bars • 24-hr room service • Coco Spa/ fitness center/yoga • water sports/PADI dive center • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 45 ac over-water villas • 3 restaurants/bar/wine cellar/chocolate cave • organic garden • outdoor pool • Meera Spa/fitness center/sauna/yoga/ Tai Chi • PADI dive center/water sports • tennis

GRAND PARK KODHIPPARU, MALDIVES

HIDEAWAY BEACH RESORT & SPA MALDIVES

HHHHH

Maldives

Famous for its dive sites, the sun-drenched island of Kodhipparu in North Male Atoll is home to this exceptional boutique resort. Set on the beach or lagoon, or over the water, chic guest villas feature private plunge pools and furnished terraces.

Hailed as an “exotic paradise” by Condé Nast Johansens, this exceptional resort sets on a crescent-shaped private island in the northern Haa Alifu Atoll. Retreat to plush villas, most with private pools, set on the beachfront or on stilts over the lagoon.

• 120 ac rooms • 2 restaurants/bar • 24-hr room service • outdoor infinity pool/kids pool/beach club • spa/fitness center/sauna/yoga • water sports/PADI dive center • Little Explorer kids club • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 103 ac rooms & suites • 4 restaurants/2 bars • room service • 2 outdoor pools/kids pool • Hideaway Spa/fitness center/yoga instruction • water sports/ PADI 5-Star Gold Dive Resort/tennis • kids club • complimentary Wi-Fi

OUTRIGGER KONOTTA MALDIVES RESORT

SHANGRI-LA’S VILLINGILI RESORT & SPA MALDIVES

HHHHH Maldives

My Time / Preferred Partner

HHHHH Maldives All-Inclusive Bringing you the Maldives at its finest, this sparkling luxury resort is noted for its pristine beaches, lush tropical vegetation, and exotic reef just offshore. Individual guest villas have furnished patios, spa tubs, and private decks with beach access. • 125 ac villas • 4 restaurants/3 bars • 24-hr concierge & room service • 2 outdoor pools/kids pool • Tamara Spa/fitness center • water sports/ tennis • live music • Turtles Kids’ Club • complimentary Wi-Fi

SUN AQUA IRU VELI

HHHHH Maldives

Preferred Partner

This exceptional boutique resort rests within the crystal waters of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, offering complete privacy and intimate luxury. Stunning individual guest villas feature floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces and pools.

Hailed as “island living in uncompromising style” by The Telegraph of London, this stunning luxury hideaway encompasses the entirety of Villingili Island. Set on the beach or over the water, spacious villas open to private terraces with ocean views.

• 53 ac villas • 3 restaurants/bar/BBQ grills • concierge/24-hr room service • 2 outdoor pools/kids pool • Navasana Spa/fitness center • water sports/dive center • Coral Kids • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 132 ac villas • 3 restaurants/3 bars • concierge/24-hr in-villa dining • outdoor infinity pool/Jacuzzi • Chi, The Spa/fitness center • water sports/PADI dive center • 9-hole golf course/tennis • Cool Zone kids club • complimentary Wi-Fi

LILY BEACH RESORT & SPA

HHHHH Maldives

Preferred Partner

All-Inclusive Option Play, indulge, and escape in your own private island paradise at this stellar resort. Choose from stylish beach or overwater accommodations, each one with stunning ocean views and private freshwater pools. Spend your days snorkeling, diving, and swimming. • 125 ac suites • 3 restaurants/2 bars/wine cellar • 24-hr room service • outdoor pool • Sun Aqua Spa/fitness center • water sports/ PADI 5 Star Gold Palm-SSI Diamond dive center • Turtle Kidz Kids’ Club

MALDIVES • MAURITIUS: HOTELS OZEN BY ATMOSPHERE AT MAADHOO

SUN AQUA VILU REEF

HHHHH

THE SUN SIYAM IRU FUSHI

HHHHH Maldives

All-Inclusive Located on Maadhoo Island in South Malé Atoll, this stellar resort is hailed by Condé Nast Traveler for its “astoundingly beautiful hotel rooms.” Elegant beachfront and overwater villas feature private pools and ocean views to the blue horizon.

All-Inclusive Luxury and serenity come together at this deluxe boutique hideaway, set on a lush private island. Retreat to spacious beachfront and overwater villas with private terraces and views to the endless blue horizon. The spa is a blissful, indulgent diversion.

• 90 ac villas • 4 restaurants/2 bars • 24-hr concierge/room service • outdoor pool/kids pool • Elena Spa & Wellness Complex/fitness center • water sports/PADI dive center/tennis • kids club • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 103 ac villas • 4 restaurants/2 bars/wine cellar • Sun Aqua Spa/fitness center/salon/sauna/steam room • water sports/ PADI 5 Star Gold Palm-SSI Diamond dive center • live entertainment • kids club • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 221 ac villas • 10 restaurants/5 bars • 2 outdoor pools • Spa by Thalgo France/fitness center/salon/sauna/steam room/yoga & meditation • water sports/PADI-SSI dive center/tennis • Komas Kidz Paradise • complimentary Wi-Fi

TAJ EXOTICA RESORT & SPA MALDIVES

TAJ CORAL REEF MALDIVES

W MALDIVES

HHHHH

Preferred Partner

HHHHH

Maldives

Preferred Partner

The remote Noonu Atoll is home to this exceptional resort, set on a 52-acre private island. Step into beachside and overwater villas with private terraces and ocean views. Go windsurfing, Jet-Skiing, snorkeling, or scuba diving in the nearby coral reefs.

HHHHH

Maldives

Surrounded by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, this romantic resort is an island sanctuary along an idyllic beach and serene lagoon on Emboodhu Finolhu. Overwater bungalows and beachside cottages have private terraces and ocean views.

All-Inclusive Option A hip, luxurious yet affordable hideaway on Hembadhu Island, this superb resort opens to one of the Maldives’ best spots for diving. “Rustic elegant” villas have private decks with sea views.

Escape to a private island and luxury playground in a wonderland of white-sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and breathtaking reefs. Luscious beachfront and overwater accommodations have private plunge pools and other luxury accessories.

• 62 ac villas • 3 restaurants/bar • room service • outdoor infinity pool • Jiva Spa/24-hr fitness center • water sports/PADI dive center • excursions • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 77 ac rooms & suites • 3 restaurants/2 bars/pool bar • WET® Outdoor Infinity Pool • Away® Spa/FIT Fitness Center • Whatever/Whenever® Service • water sports/PADI dive center • nightclub • complimentary Wi-Fi

HOLIDAY INN RESORT KANDOOMA MALDIVES

OLHUVELI BEACH & SPA MALDIVES

• 64 ac bungalows • 3 restaurants/2 bars • room service • outdoor infinity pool • Jiva Grande Spa/fitness center • water sports • library/ boutique • complimentary Wi-Fi

CENTARA RAS FUSHI RESORT & SPA MALDIVES

HHHH½ Maldives

Preferred Partner

HHHH

HHHH½ Maldives

Maldives

Optional All-Inclusive Dive into absolute serenity at this adults-only luxury getaway, set on a pristine North Malé Atoll, ideal for couples and honeymooners. Beachside and overwater villas provide sensational views of the Indian Ocean.

This contemporary family resort welcomes you into luxurious beachfront and overwater villas with private terraces and ocean views. Go sailing, windsurfing, and Jet-Skiing, and unwind with dreamy massage treatments at the spa.

• 140 ac villas & over-water villas • 4 restaurants/4 bars/pool bar • outdoor beachfront free-form pool/sundeck • Spa Cenvaree/fitness center/yoga • water sports/PADI dive center • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 160 ac villas • 3 restaurants/4 bars • 24-hr room service • outdoor pool/kids splash pool • Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambala/fitness center • water sports/PADI 5-Star dive center/surf school/tennis • kids club • complimentary Wi-Fi

All-Inclusive Hide away in posh thatched-roof and overwater villas with views to the horizon at this deluxe resort, set in South Malé Atoll. After a day of lolling on the sands, dipping into azure waters, and playing tennis, unwind with signature spa treatments.

LUX* GRAND GAUBE

PRESKIL ISLAND RESORT MAURITIUS

HHHHH Mauritius

My Time / Preferred Partner

Preferred Partner

• 225 ac villas • 5 restaurants/2 bars • 2 outdoor pools/kids pool • Sun Aqua Spa/24-hr fitness center/sauna/steam room • live entertainment • complimentary Wi-Fi

SOLANA BEACH MAURITIUS

HHHH

HHHH½ Mauritius

Mauritius

All-Inclusive This tranquil luxury retreat on the north coast is home to a wide range of recreational activities for the entire family. Hide away in spacious guest accommodations with private verandas and spectacular ocean views.

Set on a peninsula between Mahébourg and Blue Bay Marine Park, this deluxe resort offers a friendly atmosphere and authentic experiences. Guest rooms open to private verandas overlooking the lagoon, Île aux Aigrettes, or majestic Lion Mountain.

Blending natural beauty and contemporary design, this adultsonly getaway fronts a white-sand Indian Ocean beach on Mauritius’ eastern coast. Guest rooms are all sea-facing and open to private balconies or garden patios.

• 198 ac rooms, suites & villas • 3 restaurants/2 bars • concierge/room service • 3 outdoor pools/kids pool • LUX* Me Spa/fitness center • water sports/tennis • PLAY kids club/Studio 17 teens club • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 214 ac rooms & suites • 3 restaurants/2 bars • room service • outdoor infinity pool/kids pool • Banyan Spa/fitness center/sauna/hammam • water sports/PADI dive center//tennis • daily live entertainment/ Tikoulou kids club • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 117 ac rooms & suites • 3 restaurants/2 bars • room service • outdoor pool • Yland Spa/fitness center • water sports/tennis • cultural entertainment

SEYCHELLES • SRI LANKA: HOTELS BANYAN TREE SEYCHELLES

CONSTANCE EPHELIA RESORT

HHHHH

JA ENCHANTED ISLAND RESORT SEYCHELLES

HHHHH Preferred Partner

HHHHH

Seychelles

A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, this sparkling boutique resort stands on a stunning strip of beachfront formerly owned by the Beatles’ George Harrison. Exquisite pool villas have panoramic views.

Nestled between two idyllic beaches, this family-friendly resort welcomes guests into luxury accommodation set amid a tropical paradise. Guest suites and villas feature private balconies or terraces with garden or ocean views.

Prepare to be spellbound as you discover this hidden gem, featuring 10 exquisite villas on a private island in the middle of the Saint Anne Marine Park. Feast on delicious Creole cuisine, unwind at the hilltop spa, and lounge in your own private pool.

• 60 ac villas • 4 restaurants/2 bars/pool bar • outdoor infinity pool • spa/fitness center • tennis/water sports • catamaran cruises

• 271 ac suites & villas • 5 restaurants/5 bars • concierge/room service • 4 outdoor pools/kids pool • U Spa by Constance/fitness center • Constance Kids Club • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 10 ac pool villas • restaurant/bar • concierge/room service • outdoor pool • spa/fitness center • water sports • complimentary Wi-Fi

KEMPINSKI SEYCHELLES RESORT BAIE LAZARE

RAFFLES SEYCHELLES

AMARI GALLE

HHHHH Seychelles

Preferred Partner

Seychelles

HHHHH

Seychelles

Sri Lanka

An indulgent retreat offering a huge variety of facilities and activities, this romantic luxury resort sits between an idyllic private beach and an epic granite mountain on the island of Mahé. Guest rooms open to private balconies or terraces with ocean views.

Set on a lush hillside and opening onto a private white-sand beach on the northeastern tip of Praslin, this outstanding boutique resort welcomes guests into spacious villas featuring private plunge pools, balconies, and outdoor pavilions with breathtaking views.

• 142 ac rooms & suites • 3 restaurants/bar • concierge/24-hr room service • outdoor Olympic-length pool/kids pool • spa/24-hr fitness center/yoga • water sports/PADI 5 Star Dive Center/tennis • Esmerelda Kids Club • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 86 ac villas • 3 restaurants/2 bars/pool bar • concierge/24-hr room service/24-hr butler service • outdoor infinity pool • spa/fitness center/ salon/yoga/Pilates • water sports/hiking • Sugar Palm Kids Club • complimentary Wi-Fi

Overlooking the Indian Ocean on the southwest coast, and surrounded by lush greenery, this sterling resort combines Sri Lankan charm and traditional Asian hospitality. Step into spacious guest rooms that open to breezy private balconies with ocean views.

THE KINGSBURY COLOMBO – SRI LANKA

AMAYA HILLS KANDY SRI LANKA

HHHHH

• 172 ac rooms & suites • restaurant/2 bars • concierge/room service • outdoor free-form pool/kids pool • Breeze Spa/fitness center • kids club • complimentary Wi-Fi

AMAYA BEACH RESORT & SPA PASIKUDAH SRI LANKA

HHHH

Sri Lanka

Set in the heart of Colombo, this modern hotel puts you close to the Galle Face Green seaside promenade, World Trade Centre, and great shopping and entertainment. Step into contemporary guest rooms with Frette linens, marble baths, and ocean views.

Known as the “Palace in the Hills,” this stunning resort infuses the elegant charm of traditional Kandyan culture with the comforts of modern luxury. Elegant guest rooms feature private terraces with views of the gardens or hill country.

Step directly onto a gorgeous stretch of golden-sand beach from this picturesque resort on Pasikudah Bay on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka. Contemporary-style guest rooms open to private furnished terraces or balconies with sweet ocean views.

• 229 ac rooms & suites • 9 restaurants/3 bars • concierge/room service • outdoor pool/kids pool/Honey Beach Club • Senses Spa/salon/fitness center/Jacuzzi • shops • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 100 ac rooms & suites • 2 restaurants/2 bars • concierge/room service • outdoor pool • Pancha Karma Ayurveda Center/fitness center • Le Garage Nightclub • complimentary Wi-Fi

AMAYA LAKE DAMBULLA SRI LANKA

• 125 ac rooms & suites • 3 restaurants/2 bars • 24-hr concierge/room service • outdoor pool/kids pool • Senses Spa by Amaya/24-hr fitness center • water sports/tennis • game room • complimentary Wi-Fi

OZO COLOMBO SRI LANKA

HHHH

Preferred Partner

OZO KANDY SRI LANKA

HHHH

Sri Lanka

Become immersed in the culture and traditions of Sri Lanka at this relaxed resort, nestled along the shores of Kandalama Reservoir. Rustic style courses through the guest suites and villas, which overlook the lush forested landscape.

Just across the street from the ocean and only minutes from Colombo city center, this deluxe resort hotel is an innovative urban outpost. Guest rooms feature contemporary style, the latest tech amenities, and city or ocean views.

• 101 ac suites & villas • 2 restaurants/2 bars • concierge/room service • outdoor pool/sundeck • Pancha Karma Ayurvedic Center • tennis • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 158 ac rooms & suites • restaurant/bar • concierge/room service • outdoor pool • fitness center • complimentary Wi-Fi

Smart, stylish, and inspired by Sri Lankan charm, this modern hotel in the Central Province capital of Kandy is within walking distance of the Temple of the Tooth, a World Heritage Site. Step into contemporary rooms with garden, mountain, city, or lake views.

• 122 ac rooms & suites • restaurant/bar • concierge/room service • outdoor pool • fitness center • complimentary Wi-Fi

Traditional stilt fishermen, Sri Lanka

U.A.E. & QATAR ANCIENT ALLURE & SURPRISING STYLE IN THE DYNAMIC MIDDLE EAST KNOW YOUR DESTINATION Dubai is a thriving cosmopolitan country and has become one of the world’s hottest vacation destinations. From the world’s largest artificial islands and the planet’s tallest building, to uber-luxury accommodations and top-notch dining, it’s nothing less than a scintillating experience for the senses. An elegant fusion of sand and sea, Abu Dhabi graces its visitors with a rich cultural heritage, pristine waters, dutyfree shopping galore, high-touch prestigious hotels, one of the largest mosques in the world, and the planet’s most spectacular sand dunes. Soon to make history as the first country in the Arab world to host the FIFA World Cup in 2022, Qatar is a country of affluence and extravagance, with futuristic skyscrapers, luxurious spas, and modern galleries littering the capital city of Doha – all set against the backdrop of massive sand dunes and the glimmering Persian Gulf. The people of the UAE and Qatar are friendly and welcoming and adhere to a number of Islamic traditions. It is important to respect these traditions, and both men and women should dress appropriately, and refrain from dressing suggestively. English and Arabic are both commonly spoken throughout the UAE and Qatar.

THE REGIONS Dubai Downtown Dubai plays host to the world’s tallest manmade structure, the Burj Khalifa and to the largest mall in the known universe. Jumeriah Beach is home to upscale hotels boasting high-touch facilities, sumptuous restaurants, white-glove service, and spectacular vistas

uniquely designed to enchant and luxuriate the most discerning traveler. Take a waterfront stroll and relish picturesque views when visiting the historic Dubai Creek that once served as a port for trading vessels.

Abu Dhabi It couldn’t be a better time to visit Abu Dhabi. With so many sights to see, you’re bound to become utterly entranced by its remarkable wonder. You’ll want to make sure you’ve at least tried some of the experiential activities like a water take-off on a seaplane for the ultimate million-dollar views, sailing on a catamaran along the majestic coastline, or skiing on the orange-hued desert dunes for a thrill of a lifetime.

Qatar Occupying an elongated peninsula on the eastern edge of Saudi Arabia, Qatar’s small geographic size means that most of the country’s attractions lie around Doha and its surrounding suburbs. (You’ll know Doha by its skyline – a cacophony of skyscrapers.) For a glimpse of the Old World, visit the majestic Doha Fort and the venerable Souq Waqif, Doha’s main traditional market.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Dubai US travelers visiting Dubai need only passports valid for three months, as well as an onward/return ticket. Visas are not required.

Abu Dhabi US citizens need a passport valid for three months from the date of entry, as well as an onward/return ticket. Visas are not required.

Qatar A US passport valid for six months beyond date of entry is required (also with a blank page); a visa is not required.

GETTING AROUND Dubai Taxi Metered taxis are the most common form of transportation and can be easily found outside of hotels or malls, or you can flag one down on the street.

Metro The Red and Green Lines offer frequent air-conditioned trains that are available every three to five minutes. You can obtain a day pass for unlimited rides.

Abu Dhabi Taxi Abu Dhabi is built for cars, and taxis are a great way to get around. They are also fairly cheap compared to other developed countries.

Bus The main bus station in Abu Dhabi is on Hazaa Bin Zayed Road for all routes.

Qatar Bus There is limited bus service available in Qatar; you can travel as far north as Al Shamal/Al Ruwais, as far west as Dukhan, and as far south as Mesaieed (Umm Said).

Burj al Arab, Dubai

TOP EXPERIENCES Dubai – Afternoon Delight Spend a delightful afternoon immersing in utter sophistication at the lavishly adorned Burj Al Arab with a cup of aromatic tea, gourmet sandwiches, sinful treats, and jaw-dropping vistas from the 27th floor.

Dubai – Strike Gold Haggle away for the lowest price as you pop in and out of an impressive collection of jewelry shops at the legendary Deira Gold Souk, packed with gold bracelets, rings, earrings, and necklaces.

Dubai – Dune It Right Traverse the rolling dunes of the Arabian desert on a 4-wheel-drive vehicle for the ultimate adrenalinepumping adventure. Then ride a camel and catch a bellydancing show under the starlit skies.

Abu Dhabi – Formula One Thrills Visit Yas Island for roaring Formula 1 excitement at Abu Dhabi’s Grand Prix, the largest sporting event in the Middle East.

Abu Dhabi – Worshipful Explore Islamic spirituality as you visit Abu Dhabi’s divine Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and marvel at its immaculate resplendence, housing the largest knotted carpet in the world under its 82 domes.

Persian Gulf

BAHRAIN

QATAR

Qatar – Monumental Mosque A Doha city tour takes you to the famous Corniche, the Gold Souq, the Pearl-Qatar (a man-made island off the West Bay coast), and Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque (National Mosque of Qatar).

Qatar – Fascinating Fort Head north from Doha to explore Old World landmarks like the Al-Zubarah fortress, a sand-colored, four-towered fort standing lonely guard in the desert.

rmuz of Ho Zighy Bay Strait OMAN Ra’s al Khaimah Dubai Gulf of Abu Oman Dhabi Al Ayan

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Muscat Nizwa

Sur

OMAN SAUDI ARABIA

Qatar – Day in the Desert Join a tour of Qatar’s most impressive desert landscapes, where you can ride a camel and conquer the endless dunes on a sand board.

YEMEN

Salalah

Abu Dhabi – Super Car Park Experience adrenaline-pumping action in the world’s largest indoor theme park, showcasing state-of-theart attractions like 3D & 4D adventures, exhilarating simulation races, and Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster in the world – only in Ferrari World.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

Doha, Qatar

Photo: RiumaLab/Shutterstock.com

DUBAI: ITINERARY

Abra ferry

DISCOVER DUBAI 6 Days / 5 Nights • DUBAI Day 1: Dubai Welcome to Dubai! After clearing customs you will be met and taken to your private vehicle for a transfer to your hotel. The afternoon is at your leisure to explore the resort and the local area.

Spend the day at your leisure. Cool off at your hotel pool or at the beach. In the evening, head back to the Mall of the Emirates to a restaurant that overlooks the Dubai Fountains, the world’s largest dancing fountain, featuring classical, Arabic, and world music.

Day 2: Dubai

Day 5: Dubai

This morning you will join a half-day Traditional City Tour that will give you an insight into Dubai’s rich history. You will pass royal palaces, visit important historical buildings, and take a ride across Dubai Creek in a traditional abra (water taxi) and explore the city’s vibrant souks. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure to explore further.

This morning is at your leisure to explore the city. Make sure you are ready to go for your pick-up in the afternoon to continue discovering the highlights of Dubai. It is your turn to explore the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, not with camels but with 4WD vehicles. Your evening starts with a thrilling journey over the sand dunes deep into the heart of the desert, then after arriving at your private Bedouin-style camp you will enjoy a Middle Eastern feast and cultural show under the stars.

Day 3: Dubai

Day 6: Dubai A private vehicle will take you to the airport for your onward journey.

Strait

Persian Gulf

QATAR

Doha

Palm Islands Abu Dhabi

TROPIC OF CANCER

Desert Safari

Dubai Jebel Ali

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Rub’ Al Khali Desert

Day 4: Dubai

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OMAN

Aerial view of downtown Dubai from the Burj Khalifa Photo: Adrian Lindley/Shutterstock.com

Head to the Mall of the Emirates to indulge in some shopping. Your travel consultant has booked you tickets to the Burj Khalifa’s “At the Top” observation deck on Level 124 of the world’s tallest tower, where you can experience 360° views, from the Gulf Coast to the Arabian desert and beyond. Explore the unique, interactive Burj Khalifa multi-media exhibits.

SAUDI ARABIA

OMAN

Photo: Philip Lange/Shutterstock.com

ABU DHABI • DUBAI: ITINERARY

Ferrari World

ARABIAN ADVENTURE 8 Days / 7 Nights • ABU DHABI • DUBAI

Welcome to the United Arab Emirates. After clearing customs and immigration you will be met by a representative and private vehicle to transfer to your hotel in Abu Dhabi. The remainder of the day is for you to relax and acclimatize.

Day 2: Abu Dhabi Today is at your leisure to explore Abu Dhabi’s vibrant culture and amazing history. Why not visit the Old Town or one of the many souks in the area? Alternatively you can relax poolside and enjoy the luxuries of your hotel, or indulge in a day of shopping at one of the many expansive air-conditioned malls.

Day 3: Abu Dhabi Today is your opportunity to visit Ferrari World. Abu Dhabi is home to the world’s first and only Ferrari branded theme park and the largest attraction of its kind. You will need to make your own way to the park, where our VIP tickets will allow you to fast-track your way through every attraction.

taxi), and explore the city’s vibrant souks. The remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure to explore further.

Photo S-F/Shutterstock.com

Day 1: Arrive Abu Dhabi

Day 6: Dubai The day is yours to leisurely shop at the Mall of the Emirates, or visit the Burj Al Arab and enjoy high tea in the Skyview Bar overlooking the Arabian Gulf.

Day 7: Dubai This morning is at your leisure to explore the city. Make sure you are ready for your pick-up in the afternoon to continue discovering the highlights of Dubai. It is your turn to explore the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, not with camels but with 4WD vehicles. Your evening starts with a thrilling journey over the sand dunes deep into the heart of the desert, then after arriving at your private Bedouin-style camp, you will enjoy a delightful Middle Eastern feast and cultural show under the stars.

Day 8: Dubai A private vehicle will take you to the airport for your onward journey.

Strait

Persian Gulf

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OMAN

Mall of the Emirates

QATAR

Day 4: Abu Dhabi – Dubai Doha

Say goodbye to Abu Dhabi as you are transferred to your hotel in Dubai. A short two-hour drive to the neighboring Emirate will allow you to witness how the desert encapsulates each of these awe-inspiring cities. The afternoon is at your leisure to explore your hotel and the surrounding area.

Palm Islands Abu Dhabi

TROPIC OF CANCER

Day 5: Dubai This morning you will join a half-day Traditional City Tour that will give you an insight into Dubai’s rich history. You will pass royal palaces, visit important historical buildings, take a ride across Dubai Creek in a traditional abra (water

Dubai Jebel Ali

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

OMAN

Rub’ Al Khali Desert

SAUDI ARABIA Gold Souq

DUBAI • ABU DHABI: HOTELS ANANTARA THE PALM DUBAI

HABTOOR GRAND RESORT, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION

HHHHH

NIKKI BEACH RESORT & SPA DUBAI

HHHHH

Dubai

Located on the East Crescent of Dubai’s iconic Palm Jumeirah, this Condé Nast Traveler 2018 “Readers’ Choice Award” winner welcomes guests into unique, private guest accommodations, including the only overwater villas in the UAE.

Step out of the resort and right onto Jumeirah Beach from this elegant hotel, located within Dubai Marina. Guest accommodations spotlight traditional style and have spectacular views of the gardens, beach, and ocean.

This deluxe beachfront resort on Palm Jumeirah is close to downtown Dubai’s shopping and tourist attractions. Retreat to spacious guest rooms with private balconies featuring spectacular Arabian Gulf and city views.

• 446 ac rooms • 14 restaurants/8 bars • 24-hr concierge & room service • 3 outdoor pools, kids pool Elixir Spa/fitness center/steam room • water sports/tennis • Junior Jungle Club • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 132 ac rooms, suites & villas • 3 restaurants/lounge/coffee shop/swim-up bar • concierge/24-hr room service • outdoor pools • Nikki Spa/24-hr Tone Gym • water sports/tennis • Nikki Beach Club • complimentary Wi-Fi

PARK REGIS KRIS KIN HOTEL

PULLMAN DUBAI JUMEIRAH LAKES TOWERS – HOTEL & RESIDENCE

• 293 ac rooms & villas • 5 restaurants/2 bars • 24-hr concierge & room service • outdoor infinity pool/kids pool/Jacuzzi • Anantara Spa/fitness center • water sports/tennis • Tuk Tuk Kids Club/Chill Tenns Club

PALAZZO VERSACE DUBAI

HHHHH Dubai

Preferred Partner

HHHHH Dubai

Preferred Partner

HHHHH Dubai

On the Jaddaf Waterfront near the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai, this sterling hotel features exclusive décor tailor-made by Versace. Lavish guest rooms feature baths with handcrafted Carrara marble tiling, plus private balconies.

Set amid Dubai’s historic district and rich cultural attractions, this luxury hotel stands opposite Burjuman Mall and has easy access to Downtown Dubai. Spacious, contemporary rooms feature great city views.

Elegant and contemporary with a warm ambiance, this modern high-rise hotel overlooks Sheikh Zayed Road and the Dubai Marina. After sightseeing, retreat to plush, spacious guest rooms with the latest tech amenities and city views.

• 215 ac rooms & suites • 7 restaurants/2 bars • 24-hr concierge & room service • 3 outdoor pools/kids pool/access to Nikki Beach • spa/fitness center • kids club • shopping • complementary shuttles to Nikki Beach & Dubai Mall • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 386 ac rooms & suites • 2 restaurants/café/2 bars/wine bar • concierge/ 24-hr room service • outdoor rooftop pool/kids pool • fitness center/ sauna/steam room/Jacuzzi/salon • nightclub • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 354 ac rooms & suites • 5 restaurants/pool bar • concierge/room service • outdoor heated pool • spa/fitness center/sauna/Jacuzzi • complimentary Wi-Fi

RAFFLES DUBAI

SHERATON DUBAI CREEK HOTEL & TOWERS

TAJ DUBAI

HHHHH

Dubai

A stunning landmark hotel with a distinctive pyramid shape, this property is connected to Wafi Mall and convenient to Dubai’s famous attractions and shopping. Step into spacious 750-sf rooms with private balconies offering breathtaking skyline views.

Set on Dubai Creek in the heart of the city, this stylish contemporary hotel is close to the Gold and Spice Souks as well as city center attractions. Guest rooms have the latest tech amenities, plus floor-to-ceiling windows with Creek or city views.

•• 252 ac rooms & suites • 4 restaurants/3 bars/pool restaurant & bar • concierge/24-hr room service/butler service • outdoor pool • Raffles Spa/fitness center/sauna/steam room/whirlpools • nightclub • Wafi Mall • complimentary Wi-Fi

GOLDEN SANDS HOTEL APARTMENTS

• 268 ac rooms & suites • 4 restaurants/24-hr café/2 bars • concierge/ 24-hr room service • outdoor pool/kids pool • 24-hr Sheraton Fitness Center by Exous/sauna/steam room • complimentary Wi-Fi

Preferred Partner

Overlooking Burj Khalifa and just steps from the Dubai Mall, this family-friendly resort hotel fuses extravagance, heritage, and contemporary style. Lavish guest rooms offer stunning views of the majestic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. • 296 ac rooms & suites • 3 restaurants/3 bars/afternoon tea • 24-hr concierge & room service • outdoor pool/kids pool • Jiva Spa/fitness center/sauna/steam rooms • complimentary Wi-Fi

DUSIT THANI ABU DHABI

HHHHH

Abu Dhabi

Dubai’s original hotel apartments, this modern property welcomes guests into studio and 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom accommodations with kitchenettes and private balconies. You’re close to Dubai’s many attractions and great shopping.

A former palace, this lavish boutique resort opens onto a sandy island beach on a private nature reserve. Spacious guest rooms have Arabian Gulf views. Unwind at Anantara Spa and experience the natural beauty of this wildlife paradise.

A unique architectural achievement, this stunning modern hotel is centrally located in Abu Dhabi’s new business and government district. Step into guest rooms and suites with Thai-inspired décor, spacious baths, and city views.

• 616 ac studios, 1-, 2- & 3-bedroom apartments • 2 restaurants/ 2 lounges • concierge/24-hr room service • 3 outdoor pools/sundeck • fitness center • kids playroom • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 64 ac rooms & suites • 3 restaurants/2 bars • outdoor infinity-edge pool/kids pool • Anantara Spa/fitness center/Jacuzzi • tennis/water sports center • kids club/horseback riding • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 527 ac rooms & suites • 4 restaurants/3 bars & lounges/bakery café/ pool bar • concierge/24-hr room service • outdoor rooftop heated pool/ kids pool • Namm Spa/DFiT Fitness Centre/salon • complimentary Wi-Fi

Preferred Partner

HHHHH Dubai

DESERT ISLANDS RESORT & SPA BY ANANTARA

HHH½ Dubai

Preferred Partner

ABU DHABI • QATAR: HOTELS EASTERN MANGROVES HOTEL & SPA, ABU DHABI BY ANANTARA

QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT BY ANANTARA

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SHERATON ABU DHABI HOTEL & RESORT

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Abu Dhabi

Majestically set on the Abu Dhabi waterfront, this exotic hotel is a natural haven on the cusp of urban life. Step into oversize rooms with private balconies and city or mangrove forest views. You’re close to Yas Island and major attractions.

Set in Liwa Desert, the world’s largest uninterrupted sand desert, this top-flight resort embraces the epic adventures of indigenous desert culture with renowned luxury. The deluxe Anantara Spa’s facilities include a hammam.

Set directly on Abu Dhabi’s famous Corniche just steps from city center, this modern high-rise hotel welcomes you into contemporary guest rooms, most with stunning views. Swim in three pools, and sunbathe on the private beach.

• 222 ac rooms & suites • 3 restaurants/2 bars/poolside bar & grill • outdoor infinity pool/kids pool/Jacuzzi/sundeck • Anantara Spa/fitness center/hammam • golf & water sports nearby • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 206 ac rooms, suites & villas • 3 restaurants/3 bars • outdoor free-form pool/kids pool • Anantara Spa/fitness center/kinesis, yoga & aerobics studio • tennis • kids & teens clubs • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 272 ac rooms & suites • 5 restaurants/café/4 bars/pool bar • concierge/ 24-hr room service • 3 outdoor pools/sundeck/kids pools/private beach • Sheraton Fitness/personal trainers • complimentary Wi-Fi

LE MÉRIDIEN ABU DHABI

CROWNE PLAZA DOHA – THE BUSINESS PARK

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL DOHA

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Abu Dhabi

Doha, Qatar

One of Abu Dhabi’s original urban resorts, this newly renovated landmark opens directly onto the beachfront near the famous Corniche. Spacious guest rooms feature contemporary design and open to breezy private balconies.

Conveniently located in the heart of Doha’s business district, this modern luxury hotel is close to the Gold Souq, Souq Waqif, and Doha Corniche. Step into plush guest rooms with the latest tech amenities, plus city views.

Soak up the best of Qatar’s capital at this stellar hotel, featuring skyline views on one side and a pristine, private Arabian Gulf beach on the other. Dine on new-style Japanese cuisine with infinite sea views at the world’s largest outpost of Nobu.

• 248 ac rooms • 6 restaurants/2 bars • concierge/24-hr room service • 3 outdoor pools/kids pool/private beach • Eden Spa/fitness center/ Jacuzzi • water sports/tennis & squash courts • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 378 AC rooms & suites • 2 restaurants/4 bars • 24-hr concierge & room service • outdoor heated pool/kids pool • The Spa/24-hr fitness center • live entertainment • complimentary airport shuttle • complimentary Wi-Fi

• 232 ac rooms & suites • 5 restaurants/2 bars/café/tea lounge/cigar lounge • concierge/24-hr room service • 5 outdoor pools • Spa and Wellness Center/personal trainers/sauna/steam room/whirlpool • tennis/ squash courts • kids & teens programs

Camel in front of Dubai Marina

Dubai skyline at night

Machu Picchu

PERU ONE SMALL COUNTRY WITH MANY REASONS TO VISIT KNOW YOUR DESTINATION The oldest civilization in South America is a spellbinding blend of lush jungles, statuesque mountains, verdant valleys, coastal wonders, and vivacious people with heartfelt smiles who love to share the spirit of their culture. Explore huge ancient geoglyphs and some of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest-elevation cities boasting contemporary sophistication. Peru is inarguably one of the most intriguing countries on the planet. This naturally diverse country holds indigenous rituals, cultural festivities, and traditional gastronomy in high regard, and relishes its mixture of wonderful native languages. Spanish is the official language in Peru.

THE REGIONS Machu Picchu Discover the amazing ancient legacy that the Incas graciously left us. Walk behind the footsteps of their archaeological wonder and explore the jaw-dropping mountaintop ruins of Machu Picchu where the Incas built terraces, gardens, staircases, temples, and aqueducts as close to their gods as they could ingeniously manage.

Lima The sprawling capital of Peru is endowed with colonial architecture, a vibrant culture, a rich heritage, and nine million people. There is so much to explore in a city that is dotted with beaches, shopping, restaurants, and significant landmarks. Marvel at the artistic grandeur of pre-Inca temples and Catholic cathedrals. Pop in and out of historic museums, shop at local markets, and dine in exquisite restaurants.

Cuzco

Bus

Cuzco is not only drenched in historic marvels like ancient ruins and rustic churches, but also entertains a lively cafĂŠ scene and energetic nightlife, centered mostly in the streets just off the Plaza de Armas and in San Blas.

For short distance travel, there are hop-on/hop-off bus services along with local minivans called micros and combis that are available at bus terminals.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Your US passport must have six months validity at time of entry; 1 page required for entry stamp. A visa is not required; maximum period of stay granted by the authorities is 183 days.

GETTING AROUND CITY-TO-CITY Air Flying is by far the best and most convenient and efficient form of transportation in Peru. There are four airlines offering scheduled domestic flights to major cities. You may need to connect in one of the cities before reaching your desired destination.

TOP EXPERIENCES Lake Titicaca Visit the floating island of Lake Titicaca, made from the skilled hands of the Uros tribe people out of dried totora reeds which they also use to make their boats out of.

Sacred Valley Soak in a luxuriant spa experience tucked within the heart of the Sacred Valley, designed to balance the mind, body, and spirit with detoxifying Incan spa rituals.

Traditional Cuisine Sample a traditional Peruvian dish with marinated strips of sirloin, topped with onions and potato slices and served with rice that goes by the name of lomo saltado.

Train For long distance travel, you may opt for a train ride instead of a bus or plane. However, keep in mind the trains do get packed with passengers and their luggage. Some of the most breathtakingly scenic journeys are those train rides that connect to Cuzco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu.

IN-TOWN Taxis If you decide to hop on a taxi, keep in mind that taxis in Peru are unmetered and you have to set a price before you get on. Some of the major cities offer standard pricing. Peruvian woman selling souvenirs at Inca ruins, Sacred Valley

PERU: ITINERARY

Machu Picchu

INCA ENCOUNTER 10 Days / 9 Nights • LIMA • AMAZON JUNGLE • CUZCO • OLLANTAYTAMBO • INCA TRAIL Day 1: Arrive Lima

Day 5: Cuzco

Welcome to Lima, Peru. On arrival at Lima’s Jorge Chavez International Airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Miraflores. There will be a welcome briefing at the hotel with your tour guide at approximately 2:00pm, followed by a half-day walking tour of downtown Lima, including the city’s historical center, Plaza Mayor, San Francisco Monastery, and Central Market. The evening is at your leisure.

Travel by private bus from Cuzco through the Sacred Valley, the main source of food for the high Andes. Visit the stone fortress of Sacsayhuaman, then venture to a community in the valley to learn about the local lifestyle and enjoy lunch. Continue to Ollantaytambo, an NICARAGUA archaeological site east of the Plaza de Armas.

Day 2: Lima – Amazon Jungle Fly to Puerto Maldonado in the Amazon Jungle, where you’ll be staying for two nights. Travel by bus or motorized canoe to the Amazon lodge. Either tonight or tomorrow night, you’ll venture into the jungle for a nighttime excursion.

Day 3: Amazon Jungle

Days 6 – 7: Cuzco Depending on your pre-arranged travel arrangements, during the next four days you may hike the Classic Inca Trail, hike the Inca Quarry Trail, or stay in Cuzco for another two days before taking the train to Aguas Calientes.

Day 8: Cuzco – Machu Picchu Those staying in Cuzco the past two nights will board a morning train to the town of Aguas Calientes, nestled in the hills at the foot of Machu Picchu. There’s time to visit Machu Picchu independently before the guided tour the next day; otherwise, perhaps unwind in the natural hot LAOS springs of Aguas Calientes.

Your full day in the jungle starts with a boat ride followed by a short walk to the middle of the rainforest, where MYANMAR you’ll see a variety of jungle fauna. Return to the lodge Chiang Rai to freshen up, then enjoy some dinner. After dinner there Chiang Mai will be an optional night walk through the jungle.

Mekong River

Day 9: Machu Picchu – Cuzco

Caribbean Sea

Caracas

COSTA RICA PANAMA

VENEZUELA Medellin

Bogota

Ollantaytambo Cali Galapagos Islands

Quito

ECUADOR Gulf of Guayaquil

COLOMBIA

Guayaquil Cuenca

Day 4: Amazon Jungle – Cuzco

Explore the archeological wonder of Machu Picchu. Today, travel back to Puerto Maldonado before taking THAILAND Day 10: Cuzco the short flight to Cuzco, where you can explore its many Kanchanaburi Depart Cuzco for your onward flight. Baroque churches and ancient temples. On an orientation Bangkok walk, visit the facade of Qoricancha temple, the local San Pattaya CAMBODIA Hua Hin Pedro market, the main square, the 12 Andaman Angled Stone, Sea by the Regocijo Square, and San Blas Square, followed VIETNAM ChocoMuseo Cusco, with an opportunity to sample a Koh Pha Ngan hot chocolate made from local cacao beans. Your evening Koh Samui is free. Krabi Phuket

BRAZIL PERU Machu Picchu Lima

Cuzco

Nazca

Puno Arequipa

BOLIVIA La Paz

PERU: ITINERARY

Cuzco

AFFORDABLE PERU 7 Days / 6 Nights • LIMA • SACRED VALLEY • MACHU PICCHU • CUZCO Day 1: Arrive Lima

the many legends and strange truths of these ancient ruins from your local guide.

Arrive in Lima, Peru, where you’ll be welcomed and transferred to the hotel.

Day 5: Machu Picchu – Cuzco

Day 2: Lima

Enjoy the tranquility of the morning, with some free time to stroll through the charming village of Aguas Calientes, or pay locally to take the coach up to the Citadel and NICARAGUA wander the Machu Picchu ruins at your own pace. After lunch at the hotel, return to Cuzco aboard the “Inca Train.” Sip a cup of tea and enjoy panoramic views as the COSTA RICA beautiful greenery of the Urubamba Valley rolls by. PANAMA

Explore Lima, long considered the colonial capital of South America, and visit the Plaza de Armas, the Government Palace, the Cathedral, the Santo Domingo and San Francisco convents, and the modern garden suburb districts of Miraflores and San Isidro. At the Larco Herrera Museum, see the ancient relics and shining treasures of the mighty Incas.

Caracas

VENEZUELA

Day 6: Cuzco

Day 3: Lima – Cuzco – Sacred Valley

Today, visit several ruins including Kenko and Tambomachay. Journey to the Sacsayhuaman fortress in the “Valley of the Incas.” Later, see the hillside fort and Puca Pucara. Overnight at the hotel.

Fly to Cuzco, the oldest inhabited city in the Western Hemisphere. A full-day tour visits the Sacred Valley, including Chincheros and Ollanta. Afterwards, proceed to Ollantaytambo, one of the most monumental architectural complexes of the ancient Inca Empire. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant. MYANMAR

Day 4: Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu

Caribbean Sea

Day 7: Cuzco – Lima Fly back to Lima in the morning. You have free time before driving to an excellent restaurant for a farewell lunch. The remainder of your afternoon and evening is free before LAOS departure. your late-night

Chiang Rai

Travel aboard the Vistadome train from Ollantaytambo to Chiang Mai the archeological wonder of Machu Picchu. Learn about

Mekong River

Medellin

Bogota Cali Galapagos Machu Picchu Islands

Quito

ECUADOR Gulf of Guayaquil

COLOMBIA

Guayaquil Cuenca

THAILAND

BRAZIL

Kanchanaburi Bangkok Hua Hin Andaman Sea

VIETNAM Koh Pha Ngan

Phuket

San Francisco Cathedral

PERU

Pattaya CAMBODIA

Koh Samui Krabi

Sacsayhuaman

Machu Picchu Lima Cuzco Nazca

Puno

BOLIVIA La Paz

Arequipa

Lake Titicaca

Copacabana Beach

BRAZIL BIG LAND, HUGE ATTRACTIONS KNOW YOUR DESTINATION The largest country in South America and the fifth largest country in the world has an energetic pulse like no other. Think Brazil and think Amazonian wonders, spirited Carnival, sultry beaches, humming samba, friendly people, mouthwatering rodizios and churrascarias, worldclass soccer, home of legendary Pelé, and host of the 2016 Summer Olympics. Brazil is a melting pot of different cultures from all over the world that have migrated here, and even though there are more than a hundred languages spoken, Portuguese continues to remain the official language. Experience unrivaled excellence with world-class metropolises, multiethnic cuisines, a hypnotizing nightlife charged with vibrating energy, and jovial festivities born to free the soul and excite the senses.

THE REGIONS Rio de Janiero One of the most provocative and recognizable cities in the world entices with its celebratory lifestyle and alluring beaches like the famous Ipanema and Copacabana, brimming with tanned bodies, volleyball, cold drinks, and pulsating music – all with stunning mountains as their backdrop. Rio is not just known for its buckets of sun but also known for its stimulating nightlife and world-famous Maracanã Stadium. And one of the New7Wonders of the World, the 100-foot-tall Christ the Redeemer is an absolute must-see.

Iguazu Falls

Taxis

Tucked within a lush national park full of hundreds of exotic butterfly species and bordering the Brazil-Argentina border is the enchanted Iguazú Falls – larger than Niagara – with the greatest average annual flow of any waterfall in the world. Get different perspectives of this natural wonder with an exhilarating boat ride for an up-close view of the thundering waters, or a panoramic view of the upper part of the falls right from an elevator.

There are metered taxis in major cities, and it’s important to know that most taxi drivers do not speak English. Some taxis from the airport already have a fixed rate to some select cities.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS US citizens need both a passport and visa when traveling to Brazil for any purpose. Visas must be obtained in advance from the Brazilian Embassy or consulate nearest your place of residence.

GETTING AROUND CITY-TO-CITY Air There are many scheduled domestic flights to choose from that service most cities in Brazil. LATAM and Gol are the main domestic airlines. It is important to keep in mind that these flights may make frequent stops in cities other than your destination.

IN-TOWN Bus You may take buses for short-distance travel at local bus stops but be sure to flag them down as they may not always stop. For long-distance travel, tickets in advance can be purchased for air-conditioned reserved seats.

TOP EXPERIENCES Corcovado View Meditate with 360-degree panoramic views of Rio from high atop the Corcovado, the statue of Christ the Redeemer.

Amazon Navigate the mighty Amazon River to explore the planet’s largest tropical rainforest. Discover Mamirauá and Humaitá, and fill your lungs with fresh air as you inhale the vast breathing landscape.

São Paulo Nightlife Have a cold one in São Paulo’s super-hip Vila Madalena and get a taste of its scintillating nightlife as you pop in and out of pubs, cafés, bars, and lounges that are jam-packed with creative people.

Rodizio The green card on your table means you’re still in the mood to keep indulging in different kinds of meat cuts in a rodízio steakhouse restaurant; when you feel like you’ve had enough, simply switch to the red card.

Rio Beaches Stroll through the sexy Brazilian coastline and enjoy people-watching at Copacabana and Ipanema, some of the globe’s hottest and most famous sands ever.

BRAZIL: ITINERARY

AMAZON CRUISE BRAZIL: RIO SOLIMOES 4 Days / 3 Nights • MANAUS • CRUISE • MANACAPURU • JANAUACÁ Day 1: Arrive Manaus Check in at the Iberostar reception office in the harbor building. The ship departs at 6:00pm to Manacapuru, passing by Ponta Negra. Enjoy classical music while watching the sunset from the upper deck. Join the Captain’s Welcome Cocktail Party followed by dinner in the Kuarup restaurant.

Day 2: Cruise Today, pass through the Manacapuru harbor, ten miles from the entrance of Rio Manacapuru. A Sunrise Lovers Breakfast will be served on the upper deck as well as breakfast in the Kuarup restaurant. After breakfast, go on a trek and photo safari in the Manacapuru region. A boat ride will bring you to Igarapes e Igapos. On the way to Lago do Jacare, enjoy lunch in the Kuarup restaurant, followed by a themed lecture. Piranha fishing (optional) and bird-watching at Lago do Rei is available. Dinner in the Kuarup restaurant.

Day 3: Cruise Reach Janauaca, where a Sunrise Lovers Breakfast will be served on the upper deck. Partake in bird-watching at Lago Janauacá. Experience a photo safari at Lago Janauacá and trekking on two available trails. Lunch will be served in the Kuarup restaurant. Enjoy bird-watching and alligator spotting at Igarapé do Rei, and take a boat excursion through the Igarapes. The farewell dinner will be in the Kuarup restaurant, followed by a folkloric show in the party room. Enjoy the music in the party room and open bar on the Sol deck.

Day 4: Cruise Continue to “Encontro das Águas” (meeting of the Negro and the Solimoes rivers). A Sunrise Lovers Breakfast will be served on the upper deck. Check out and disembark upon arrival at Manaus.

Amazon

BRAZIL: ITINERARY

Christ The Redeemer Statue at Corcovado Mountain

AFFORDABLE BRAZIL

WITH EXTENSIONS TO SALVADOR, BAHIA & SANTA CATARINA 7 Days / 6 Nights • RIO DE JANEIRO • IGUAZÚ FALLS • SÃO PAULO Day 1: Arrive Rio de Janeiro

Day 6: Iguazú Falls – Iguazú National Park

Day 4: Depart Florianopolis

Arrive in Rio de Janeiro and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Travel by coach to the Argentine side of the falls. Continue on to Iguazú National Park to enjoy a guided walking tour of this natural wonderland. Your afternoon is free. Tonight, enjoy a barbecue dinner and Latin show at the Rafain Hotel.

Depart Florianopolis for your onward flight home.

Day 2: Rio de Janeiro Your morning tour features a ride by cable car to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain. Take in spectacular views of the city from Corcovado to Guanabara Bay and Niteroi Bridge. Later, drive along the Leblon and famous Ipanema beaches before stopping for lunch at a local restaurant. Next, visit Corcovado, site of the statue of Christ the Redeemer. En route, see Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon and the traditional Cosme Velho neighborhood. Take a cogwheel train to the famous statue and enjoy the stunning vista before descending.

Day 3: Rio de Janeiro Head to the mountain retreat of Petropolis, called the Imperial City since the times of Emperor Pedro II. Visit the Imperial Museum, the summer residence of Emperor D. Pedro II, where all of his treasures are displayed. Continue to the Gothic Cathedral, where Princess Isabel was buried, and view the tombstones of D. Pedro II and his wife. From there, you will see the Crystal Palace, built to shelter exhibitions and great parties promoted by Princess Isabel.

Day 7: Iguazú Falls – São Paulo Depart by air to São Paulo. Arrive and connect with your flight to onward destination.

(Extension to Bahia: Salvador or Guaeajuba Vila Gale Mares) Day 7: São Paulo – Salvador

SURINAME FRENCH GUIANA Arrive Salvador and transfer to your city hotel or NICARAGUA to Guarajuba. COSTA RICA GUYANA Day 8: Salvador PANAMA Iguassu Falls Enjoy a guided city tour, or day at leisure if staying at VENEZUELA Guarajuba. COLOMBIA Atlantic

Day 9: Depart Salvador (Extension to Florianopolis) Day 1: Arrive Florianopolis

ECUADOR

Enjoy a full day at leisure to relax.

Arrive in Florianopolis, capital of Santa Catarina, a paradisiacal island with white sandy beaches, azure blue lagoons, and lush green hills. Stay overnight at one of the best resorts in Brazil.

Day 5: Rio de Janeiro – Iguazú Falls

Days 2-3: Florianopolis

Fly to Iguazú and transfer to your hotel. Later, take a walking tour with a local guide along the Brazilian side of the amazing Iguazú Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world. Join an optional helicopter ride over the spectacular falls.

Enjoy two days at leisure during which you can pursue independent activities. Ask about the myriad optional tours available by boat and overland.

Day 4: Rio de Janeiro

Belem Manaus

Pacific Ocean

Ocean

Fortaleza Natal Sao Goncalo Recife

BRAZIL Salvador

PERU

Brasilia

Goiania Belo Horizonte

BOLIVIA CHILE

Buzios Rio de Janeiro Campinas Sao Paulo PARAGUAY Curitiba Iguazu Falls Porto Alegre

ARGENTINA

Florianapolis

URUGUAY Atlantic Ocean

Neptune’s Terrace Fountain, Santiago

CHILE STUNNING LANDSCAPES, DIVERSE CITIES & WELCOMING PEOPLE KNOW YOUR DESTINATION From its mighty fjords, icy-blue glaciers, fiery volcanoes, and craggy peaks, to its thriving vineyards, gourmet feasts, café culture, and urban appeal, Chile is flat-out fascinating. Where else can you feel like you’re absorbed in ancient civilization, blissfully isolated in the middle of nowhere, on the cutting edge of urban sophistication, and perched at the far ends of the earth – all in one country? Chile’s European heritage is evident throughout, and travelers here are likely to feel more familiar with its culture than those of the neighboring countries, with their strongly indigenous lifestyles. There are still local traditions persisting however, and together with the European influence this makes for an interesting juxtaposition, providing a distinctive culture.

THE REGIONS

Patagonia & Lakes District Once a remote backpacking destination, Patagonia has attracted increasing numbers of upscale visitors looking for soft adventure. Hike the Torres del Paine national park, see glaciers and penguin colonies up-close, and explore snowcapped Andean peaks, pristine lakes, and alpine forests. Spectacular snow-capped mountain peaks, gloriously green forests, and azul lakes define the Lakes District, which stretches from the Pacific to the Andes, and also encompasses waterfalls, thermal hot springs, and volcanoes.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS US citizens must have a valid passport; those traveling to Chile for recreation, tourism, or business do not need to obtain a visa prior to their arrival in Chile. A Tourist Card will be issued for a stay of up to 90 days; the card must be surrendered upon departure.

Santiago & Valparaiso

GETTING AROUND

The towering Andes provide an awesome backdrop for sprawling Santiago, home to more than five million. A village atmosphere prevails downtown, where friends will more than likely meet and greet each other in the bustling streets and walkways. The city is a mix of skyscrapers, 19th-century European architecture, and Spanish adobe bungalows.

CITY-TO-CITY Air

The World Heritage Site of Valparaiso is built among, atop, around, and between some 42 hills above a Pacific Coast bay. Climb aboard any of 15 funicular-style “elevators” around town for beautiful seaside views.

Several airlines connect Santiago to cities in more remote parts of the country, including LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, and Principal Airlines. The only airline flying to Easter Island is LATAM Airlines.

Rail Passenger trains operate between Santiago and Chillán, Talca, and Constitución.

Car Rental cars are widely available throughout most major cities, though not in smaller towns. All traffic signs are

in Spanish only and can be very different from North American standards.

IN-TOWN Subway/Bus In Santiago, get a Bip! card at any subway station for use on both subway and buses. The Metro Santiago subway system operates five lines and 94 stations. Buses are mostly modern and run around the clock on the main lines.

TOP EXPERIENCES Valley of the Moon Bring a water bottle to the Valley of the Moon, one of the driest places on earth, and a barren, surreal vista of timeless volcanoes, serrated mountains, and striated mesas.

Wine Country Join a tour of the gorgeous wine country, centered in the Colchagua and Casablanca valleys, as well as San Antonio, and sample Chardonnays, Sauvignon Blancs, Pinot Noirs, and Cabernet Sauvignons.

Skiing Strap on your skis or snowboard and head to Valle Nevado for the biggest skiable surface in South America, set in the Andes just 30 miles east of Santiago.

Pisco Anywhere in Chile, sip a pisco sour, the alcoholic drink of choice, made up of Chilean pisco (a colorless or lightlycolored brandy) and pica lime.

CHILE: ITINERARY

Caribbean Sea

NICARAGUA

Caracas

COSTA RICA PANAMA

VENEZUELA Medellin

GUYANA Bogota

SUR

Cali Galapagos Islands

COLOMBIA Quito

SPLENDORS OF CHILE

Santiago

ECUADOR Gulf of Guayaquil

Guayaquil Manaus

Cuenca

10 Days / 9 Nights • SANTIAGO • CHILOE ISLAND • PUERTO VARAS • TORRES DEL PAINE Day 1: Arrive Santiago Transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 2: Santiago Spend the day at leisure. An optional city tour is available upon request.

Day 3: Santiago – Wine Country, Valparaiso & Vina Del Mar Enjoy an excursion to a winery, with wine tasting included. Continue on to the port city of Valparaiso and the chic resort town of Viña del Mar, aptly named the “Pearl of the Pacific.”

Day 4: Santiago – Puerto Montt – Chiloe Island Depart Santiago by air for Puerto Montt. You’ll be met upon arrival and transferred to Lahuen Ñadi Nature Reserve and Larches Park to observe the bird life and native forest. Later, drive to Chiloe Island along the PanAmerican Highway south route. At Pargua, cross the Chacao Channel on a half-hour ferry ride. Once aboard, you can leave the vehicle to enjoy the trip and appreciate fauna such as sea lions, cormorants, and pelicans, among others. Leaving the ferry, arrive in Chacao, a town famous for its church and the birdlife that inhabits the coast. Your transfer will continue to Caulín, famous for its oysters and considered a natural bird sanctuary. Upon arrival in Ancud, transfer to the hotel.

Lima

Depart to Puerto Montt for your flight to Punta Arenas. Transfer upon arrival at your hotel, inside the Patagonia, situated against a backdrop of imposing mountains.

Cusco Puno

Nazca

Enjoy a full-day excursion to Vicente Perez Rosales National Park, including a soft hike to Petrohue Falls. Stroll through an ancient coigue forest to the Green Lagoon. A walk around the base of Osorno Volcano offers wonderful views of the Petrohue Valley, the Andes, and Calbuco, a nearby volcano.

La Paz

BOLIVIA

Arequipa

Sucre

PAR

Valparaiso

Igu

CHILE Pacific Ocean Vina del Mar Valparaiso Santiago

Days 8-9: Torres del Paine Enjoy various activities offered by the lodge in and around Torres del Paine.

ARGENTINA

Day 10: Punta Arenas – Santiago Drive to Punta Arenas Airport for your flight to Santiago, and connect to your overnight flight home.

Day 5: Chiloe Island – Puerto Varas Tour the fishing village of Ancud, where generations of fishermen still sail in the small colorful boats that they have sailed for hundreds of years. Learn more about local traditions at a unique handicrafts market. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Later, board a ferry to Puerto Montt and then transfer directly to Puerto Varas, a pretty lakeside

Machu Picchu

Day 6: Puerto Varas – Vicente Perez Rosales National Park

Day 7: Puerto Varas – Punta Arenas – Torres del Paine

PERU

town renowned for its handicrafts. Overnight at your hotel. Join an optional boat trip to Punihuil to see the penguins.

A O

Easter Island Puerto Varas Puerto Montt Isla Grande de Chiloe

El Calafate

Falklan Puerto Natales Punta Arenas

Torres del Paine

Strait of Magellan Tierra Del Fuego Ushuaia

Port S

Pinnacle Rock, Bartolome Island, Galapagos

ECUADOR / GALAPAGOS ISLANDS SOUTH AMERICA’S MOST ENTICING & REWARDING DESTINATIONS KNOW YOUR DESTINATION Straddling the equator, Ecuador is the smallest nation in the Andean Highlands but among the world’s most biodiverse countries, with an astounding variety of wildlife, birds, and vegetation. Experience dramatic changes in scenery, temperature, and altitude between the Pacific Coast beaches, the sweltering rainforest, and the remote Galápagos Islands. Since Charles Darwin first visited the Galápagos Islands during his famed 1835 voyage aboard the HMS Beagle, the volcanic archipelago has been renowned for its amazing animal life and isolated shores. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galápagos Islands invite nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts to observe some of the planet’s most rare and beautiful creatures in their natural habitats.

THE REGIONS Quito Welcome to one of the highest capital cities in the world. Spread out across the Andean Valley at an elevation of 9,350 feet above sea level, the foundations of Quito are built upon an ancient Incan city. Declared by UNESCO as the “Cultural Heritage of Humanity” in 1978, its striking Jesuit Church and monasteries are exquisite displays of the unique Baroque school of Quito architecture, which fuses Spanish, Moorish, Italian, Flemish, and indigenous influences.

Galápagos Islands An Ecuadorian possession located in the eastern Pacific Ocean, the Galápagos Islands consists of 13 main islands

and six smaller isles totaling almost 20,000 square miles, located approximately 600 miles west of the South American continent. The unique draw of the Galápagos is the stunning animals that wander their rugged shores and swim their open waters. Existing untouched for millennia with no natural predators or human contact, most native species react with total indifference to visitors, alternately fearless and inquisitive, or simply uninterested.

upon a price before getting in or ask the driver to use the meter (often cheaper than a negotiated rate).

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

In Quito, shop for exquisite pottery, rugs, and jewelry at the Mercado Artesanal La Mariscal.

Your US passport must have six months validity at time of entry; you also may need evidence of return or onward travel, such as an airline ticket. Visas are not required for stays up to 90 days.

GETTING AROUND CITY-TO-CITY Air Flights between the biggest cities are in jets, while some of the smaller cities are served by prop aircraft. The domestic airlines in Ecuador are LanEcuador, Tame, Aerogal, and Saereo. Guayaquil is the most convenient air departure point to the Galapagos Islands; there are also numerous cruises to the islands.

Car Most international car rental agencies have a presence in all Ecuadorian cities and both international and national local airports.

IN-TOWN Taxi Yellow taxis are ubiquitous in Quito, and you can agree

Bus Three independent public bus lines operate a total of 134 routes within Quito.

TOP EXPERIENCES Shopping

Quito Cable Car Hop the TelefériQo cable car 13,000 feet to the summit of Cruz Loma for panoramic views of Quito and the surrounding volcano peaks.

Old Town Stroll Quito’s beautifully preserved Old Town, and be enchanted by its colonial atmosphere, Spanish-style architecture, broad public squares, and scores of churches.

Quito Markets Mingle with the Quito locals and buy some exotic fruit or a freshly squeezed juice at Mercado Santa Clara (Santa Clara Market) on Antonio de Ulloa.

Soccer Action Head to Estadio Monumental, Ecuador’s largest stadium, to see Guayaquil’s 14-time championship soccer team, Barcelona Sporting Club, in high-scoring action.

ECUADOR • GALAPAGOS ISLANDS • PERU: ITINERARY

Galapagos Islands

ECUADOR & PERU 10 Days / 9 Nights • QUITO • GALAPAGOS ISLANDS • LIMA • CUZCO • MACHU PICCHU Day 1: Arrive Quito

Day 6: North Seymour Island – Baltra – Galapagos Islands – Quito – Lima

Arrive in Quito. You’ll be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Transfer in the morning to the airport for your flight to Lima, Peru. You’ll be welcomed before embarking on your tour of Lima. Your local expert focuses on the city’s colonial heritage during a walking tour. Start at the Plaza de Armas to see the Government Palace and visit Day 7: Lima – Cuzco – Sacsayhuaman Caribbean Sea the Cathedral, where the skeleton of Francisco Pizarro NICARAGUA Fly to Cuzco, the oldest inhabited city in the Western is sealed in a wooden coffin. From there, stroll to the Hemisphere. Visit several ruins, including Kenko and venerable San Francisco Monastery, with its splendid Caracas Tambomachay. Journey to the “Valley of the Incas” to COSTA RICAcloister murals. Next, stop at Lima’s famous 17th-century the Sacsayhuamán fortress. Later, see the hillside fort and PANAMA Herrera Museum. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner Puca Pucara, which most likely served as a lookout post at La Rosa Nautica Restaurant. Later, transferVENEZUELA to the and stopping point between Cuzco and the Sacred Valley. Medellin airport for your flight home. Arrive in Baltra in the morning. Transfer to the airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador. Upon arrival in Quito, connect with your flight to Lima.

Day 2: Quito A morning tour offers the best of Quito, with its rich cultural legacy, ornate façades, and dazzling gilt altars. Visit Independence Square, the Archbishop’s Palace, and the Metropolitan Cathedral as well as other representative samples of colonial art and architecture. Explore and relive the history of Ecuador’s most ancient cultures in one of the finest archaeological and gold artifact collections in the Americas, with over 1,800 pieces beautifully arranged in chronological corridors with explanatory panels and dioramas.

Day 8: Sacred Valley – Machu Picchu

Travel aboard the Vistadome train from Cuzco to the Day 3: Quito / Baltra – Galapagos Islands archeological wonder of Machu Picchu. With mountains Cruise to one side and a river roaring far below, this solemn You’ll be assisted and transferred to the airport for your fortress is a fascinating remnant of a once-bustling city flight to Baltra. Upon arrival, transfer to the pier to board that was mysteriously abandoned after the middle of the MYANMAR the cruise. 16th century. Shrouded amid dense jungle vegetation and Chiang Rai steep LAOS hills, Machu Picchu remained undiscovered by the (Enjoy a 4-day/3-night cruise on board M/V Galapagos Legend) Chiang Mai world until 1911. Learn about the many legends modern Mekong River Itinerary: Subject to change due to climatic conditions or and strange truths of these ancient ruins from your local National Park regulations. guide. THAILAND Day 4: Dragon Hill – Venice, Santa Cruz

Island – Cormorant Point, Floreana Kanchanaburi Island Day 5: Suarez Point, Espanola Island – Breeding Center or La Galapaguera, Hua Hin Andaman San Cristóbal Island Sea

Phuket

Day 10: Cuzco – Lima – Home

Bogota Cali Galapagos Islands

Quito

ECUADOR

COLOMBIA

Guayaquil

Gulf of Guayaquil Cuenca

BRAZIL

Day 9: Machu Picchu – Cuzco

Enjoy the tranquility of the morning with free time to Bangkok wander the charming village of Aguas Calientes or pay Pattaya CAMBODIA locally to take the coach up to the Citadel and wander the Machu Picchu ruins at your own pace. After lunch at VIETNAM the hotel, return to Cuzco aboard the “Inca Train.” Sip Koh Pha Ngan a cup of tea and enjoy panoramic views as the beautiful Koh Samui of the Urubamba Valley rolls by. greenery

Krabi

PERU Machu Picchu Lima Cuzco Nazca

Puno

BOLIVIA La Paz

Arequipa

ECUADOR • GALAPAGOS ISLANDS: ITINERARY

CLASSIC GALAPAGOS SOUTH ISLANDS

Galapagos Islands

10 Days / 9 Nights • QUITO • MC QUEEN BEATRIZ Day 1: Arrive Quito Upon arrival in Quito, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day will be at your leisure; a welcome meeting will be held in early evening.

Day 2: Quito – Baltra – MC Queen Beatriz: Punta Carrion You will be transferred to the airport for your flight to the Galapagos Islands. On arrival in the Galapagos you will be met in the arrivals hall and then transferred to your catamaran, MC Queen Beatriz. Your first stop will be Punta Carrión, a shallow and protected cove that’s ideal for your first snorkel and swim in the Galapagos! In the evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail and crew presentation on board.

Day 3: MC Queen Beatriz: Isla Isabela Today you will wake up on the south coast of Isla Isabela, the largest of the Galapagos Archipelago. Visit Las Tintoreras, where you can look down into this narrow channel to see white-tipped reef sharks and the occasional playful sea lion! Blue-footed boobies and penguins, marine iguanas, and crabs also make their home here. Enjoy a long walk through the lava flow and see plenty of marine iguanas. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through a coastal lagoon, then visit the Arnoldo Tupiza Tortoise Breeding Center. Later, you have the option of swimming at the beach or shopping in Puerto Villamil.

Day 4: MC Queen Beatriz: Isla Floreana – Punta Cormorant On Isla Floreana, enjoy a panga ride around La Loberia to observe marine iguanas, sea lions, and crabs. Then, take a leisurely walk to Post Office Bay, where 18th-century whalers used a barrel as an unofficial mail drop, with the custom continuing to this day! You will also have the

chance to go snorkeling with sea turtles. Go ashore at Punta Cormorant.

Day 5: MC Queen Beatriz: Isla Santa Cruz Visit Isla Santa Cruz, the second largest island in the Galapagos, and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where you can observe giant tortoises, baby tortoises, and land iguanas. Afterward, head up into the highlands, traveling across the agricultural region and into the misty forests, where you may see giant tortoises.

Day 6: MC Queen Beatriz: Isla Sante Fe On Santa Fe Island, you can expect to spot sea lions, Galapagos hawks, land iguanas, a variety of finches, Galapagos mockingbirds, sea lions, marine turtles, frigatebirds, Galapagos doves, and lava lizards. Follow a trail along the coast into the opuntia forest, where you see the largest trees in the Galapagos, or hike towards the cliffs and a forest of prickly pear cactus. Back at the beach, there’s free time to snorkel in the lagoon.

Day 7: MC Queen Beatriz: Isla Espanola

Walk to the top of the volcanic hill for expansive views. On a panga ride, observe three varieties of boobies and go snorkeling at the beach. Pass through Leon Dormido, the magnificent basalt remains of a crater in the middle of the sea. Cruise through the channel with nesting seabirds on either side of the boat, tropic birds overhead, marine iguanas in the water, and sea lions resting on the rocks. You’ll also visit tiny Isla Lobos, a perfect place to witness sea lions as well as blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, and marine iguanas.

Day 9: MC Queen Beatriz: San Cristobal – Quito Visit the San Cristobal Interpretation Center in the morning, which brings the history and geography of the archipelago to life, then head to the airport in San Cristobál for your flight back to Quito and transfer to your hotel.

Day 10: Quito Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

After an overnight sail, wake up on the island of Española, breeding site for nearly all of the world’s 12,000 pairs of waved albatrosses and home to colonies of blue-footed and masked boobies. Hike through the middle of booby colonies, and visit the beautiful white sandy beaches at Bahia Gardner, great for swimming and relaxing. Snorkel off the rocks and see reef sharks, turtles, and many species of tropical fish. You’ll also pay a visit to Punta Suarez, home to large and varied wildlife population. Take a walk along its trails to a clifftop viewpoint.

Day 8: MC Queen Beatriz: Isla San Cristobal – Isla Lobos In the morning, visit Punta Pitt on San Cristobál Island. Giant tortoises

Buenos Aires

ARGENTINA DIVERSE CULTURAL & NATURAL ATTRACTIONS KNOW YOUR DESTINATION

Iguazu Falls

TOP EXPERIENCES

The eighth largest country in the world has plenty to offer, with championship soccer, culinary masterpieces, urban sophistication, verdant countryside, Eva Perón’s legacy, cascading waterfalls, and glacial wonders. Nature lovers, adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, foodies, and wine lovers can’t stop exploring this naturally diverse country again and again.

There are two sides to every story, and the same goes for the majestic Iguazú Falls – distinctive yet remarkable viewpoints from both the Argentine side and the Brazilian side. Meander along walking trails or hop on the train near the entrance to see the dramatic Devil’s Throat falls and take in the spellbinding views.

Argentines relish celebrating life and are friendly and welcoming to tourists. Although Argentine culture is built by French, Italian, and Spanish immigrants, Argentina is the largest Spanish-speaking country in Central and South America. Hence, Spanish is the official language spoken here.

US citizens are required to have a passport that is valid for the duration of your stay, and do not need a visa for visits of up to 90 days.

Pull up a chair at a traditional Argentinian steakhouse and select from a variety of high-quality cuts that are perfectly cooked over a parrilla (grill with charcoal flame) and flavored with sumptuous chimichurri.

GETTING AROUND

Tango Dancing

CITY-TO-CITY Air

Immerse in a passionate ambiance at a tango club, and learn the art of dancing to its seductive tunes.

Domestic flights are mostly available from Buenos Aires and are great options for long distance travel. Aerolineas Argentinas and LATAM offer domestic flights.

Mendoza Wines

THE REGIONS Buenos Aires The capital city of Argentina is a classic yet contemporary metropolis boasting colonial architecture and refined European flair, with a mixture of 48 hip, charming, and historic districts/barrios. Expect to be captivated with wide avenues sprinkled with eclectic museums, chic sidewalk cafés, top-notch restaurants, and some of the world’s trendiest boutiques.

Mendoza Argentina’s winemaking province delights the senses with premium wines and a stunning Andean landscape. Explore the Plaza Independencia in downtown Mendoza, the charming Plaza España reflecting Old World charm, and the arts at several historic museums.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Train There is train service from Buenos Aires to other Argentine cities, plus local commuter lines.

IN-TOWN Taxi Black and yellow taxis are available throughout the cities of Argentina.

Peron Museum Visit Casa Rosada, the extravagant presidential palace where Madonna graced the balcony for the musical “Evita.” Also visit the Evita Perón Museum for to learn about her significant contributions to Argentina.

Steakhouse Cuisine

Learn the history of winemaking in Mendoza’s lush countryside vineyards, indulge in exquisite regional fare, and have a toast in tasting rooms as you sample some of the most fragranced and velvety wines.

Soccer Thrills Catch yourself cheering at the impressive team that the legendary Diego Maradonna once played for – the Boca Juniors – and watch them show off their soccer skills.

Bus Short- and long-distance buses are available in most cities.

ARGENTINA: ITINERARY

Caribbean Sea

NICARAGUA

Caracas

COSTA RICA PANAMA

VENEZUELA Medellin

GUYANA

FRENCH SURINAME GUIANA

Bogota Cali Galapagos Islands

COLOMBIA Patagonia

Quito

PATAGONIA WILDERNESS ECUADOR

Gulf of Guayaquil

Guayaquil

Manaus

Cuenca

15 Days / 14 Nights • BUENOS AIRES • EL CHALTEN • EL CALAFATE • PERITO MORENO GLACIER • TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK • PUERTO NATALES • USHUAIA Day 6: El Calafate – Perito Moreno Glacier

In the afternoon, your tour leader will take you for an orientation walk around some of Buenos Aires’ main attractions. In the evening you have the option of going out for a group dinner.

Today, visit Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world and a spectacular sight. Watch and listen to the crack of the ice as it plunges into the waters below. Return to El Calafate for the night.

Day 2: Buenos Aires – El Calafate – El Chalten

Day 7-9: El Calafate – Torres del Paine National Park

Fly south from Buenos Aires to El Calafate, then travel by van to the frontier town of El Chalten, north of Glacier National Park, a gathering place for hikers and climbers from all around the world.

Board a local bus to Cerro Castillo in Chile. Stop for lunch (not included) while waiting for the connecting van to Torres del Paine in Patagonia, your home for the next three nights and the base for your day hikes. Hikes include “Base Las Torres” and “Refugio Los Cuernos.” You and a fellow traveler will share a tent for the next three nights. All meals will be provided while camping.

Days 3 – 4: El Chalten During the next two days, embark on at least two of the most popular day treks in the area: Laguna de los Tres and Laguna Torre. You can expect to walk from six to nine hours on clearly marked and well maintained paths.

Day 5: El Chalten – El Calafate Enjoy the morning in El Chalten before transferring back to El Calafate.

Day 10: Torres del Paine National Park – Puerto Natales

BRAZIL

PERU

Day 1: Arrive Buenos Aires

Day 11: Puerto Natales – Ushuaia Machu Picchu

Embark on a 14-hour bus ride back to Argentina and the Cusco southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia.

Lima

Puno

Day 12: Ushuaia

Nazca

La included Paz In theArequipa morning, take an boat trip on the Beagle BOLIVIA Channel to observe the marine wildlife among the small Sucre islands and inlets along this waterway named after Charles Darwin’s expedition ship.

Day 13: Ushuaia

PARAGUAY The day is free CHILE for you to explore on your own.

Curitiba

Day 14: Ushuaia – Buenos Aires Salta

Iguazu Falls

Return to Buenos Aires by plane for a final night out. ARGENTINA

Pacific Ocean

Day 15: Buenos Aires Vina del Mar

Join a full-day guided tour around another part of Torres del Paine National Park, including a visit to Grey Lake before transferring to Puerto Natales for the night.

Flo Porto Al

Cordoba

Transfer to the airport for your departing flight. Santiago

Puerto Varas

Rosario

Mendoza

URUGUAY

Buenos Aires

Bariloche

Isla Grande Puerto Mont de Chiloe

Montevideo

Atlantic Ocean Gulf of San Matias Puerto Madryn

Gulf of San Jorge

El Calafate Puerto Natales Strait of Magellan Punta Arenas Tierra Del Fuego Ushuaia

El Chalten

Cam S

Asuncion

Easter Island

Perito Moreno Glacier

Goiania

Falkland Islands Port Stanley

Cartagena

COLOMBIA UNEXPECTED DELIGHTS AMID JUNGLES, BEACHES, RUINS & BIG CITIES KNOW YOUR DESTINATION

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

TOP EXPERIENCES

There’s much to enjoy in the country that introduced salsa, cumbia, Shakira, and Gabriel Garcia Márquez to the world. Bound by both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, the equatorial South American country encompasses coastal beaches, the alpine Andes, central highlands, and flat plains, not to mention world-class cities like Bogotá and Medellin, as well as historic colonial gems such as Cartagena.

US citizens must present a valid US passport to enter Colombia; you may also need evidence of return or onward travel, usually in the form of a plane ticket. A visa is not required for tourist stays of 90 days or less.

Coffee Culture

GETTING AROUND

Salsa Capital

CITY-TO-CITY Air

Let down your hair and give yourself over to great dance music in Cali, the salsa capital of South America.

The bustling capital of Colombia, and one of the biggest cities in Latin America, Bogotá is a city of contrasts. Vibrant universities, stunning colonial architecture, gritty urban pockets and chic modern living are the calling cards of this fascinating city. With the Andes forming a dramatic rugged ridge along its spine and a skyline made up of soaring towers and beautiful historic churches, Bogotá is nothing if not scenic.

Colombia maintains an excellent internal air network connecting major cities; the major domestic carriers include Avianca, COPA Colombia, LATAM Colombia, EasyFly, Satena, VivaColombia, and ADA.

Outdoor Adventure

IN-TOWN Taxi

Historic Bogotá

Colombia is also blessed with abundant natural attributes from the snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes of Parque Nacional de Cocuy to the sandy stretches of beach and deep bays of Parque Nacional Tayrona on the Caribbean coast. The official language is Spanish, but as in many countries around the world, younger people tend to learn at least some English thanks to popular culture and may want to practice their English skills with you.

The taxi networks in big cities such as Bogotá, Cali, and Medellin are extensive and very cheap.

Bus

Sit down to local favorites such as empanadas and sancocho de gallina (rich chicken soup), and top it off with the country’s most famous export: coffee.

Gear up and head to San Gil – the adventure capital of Colombia – for rafting, abseiling, and rock climbing, among other thrills. Explore La Candelaria, Bogotá’s stunning historic district, paved in cobbles and boasting many historic cathedrals and homes, beautiful architecture, and the famous Plaza Bolivar that dates back to 1846.

Most of the major cities in Colombia enjoy highly affordable, clean, and efficient bus transit systems, including Bogotá, Medellin, Cali, and Barranquilla.

Metro Medellín’s two modern elevated metro lines connect suburban towns to the city. In addition, the system includes the MetroCable, a sky train (or cable car) with four stations that ascends the mountain to the east.

Bolivar Square, Bogota

COLOMBIA: ITINERARY

Cocora Valley

CAFÉ COLOMBIA 9 Days / 8 Nights • BOGOTA • SALENTO • COFFEE ESTANCIA • MEDELLIN • CARATAGENA Day 1: Arrive Bogota

Day 4: Coffee Estancia

Day 7: Medellin

Bienvenidos! Welcome to Colombia. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 2:00pm, followed by an orientation walk in downtown Bogota. You’re then free to explore as you please.

On a guided tour of the coffee plantation and processing center, learn about the history of the coffee plant and the inside story of this important industry. See how the beans are grown and harvested, processed, dried, roasted, and ground. Sample different types of coffee grains, learn how to prepare different types of coffees, and relax with a steaming cup of freshly brewed joe. Afterwards, explore the estancia’s beautiful sloping green hills and valleys.

Enjoy a free day exploring Medellin.

Day 2: Bogota – Salento Join a morning visit to Paloquemao Market, where you can find flowers, fruit, vegetables, herbs, meat, and fish. Then, take a short flight to Armenia and transfer to the beautiful village of Salento. Stroll through its quaint streets and admire the regional Paisa architecture. You have the option to visit the local tejo hall and see Colombia’s national sport in action.

Day 3: Salento – Coffee Estancia Travel by jeep to the magnificent Cocora Valley. Spend the morning walking amid the region’s incredible scenery, perhaps hiking up to Acaime Reserve. A generous box lunch will be provided. Alternatively, you can explore the valley as you please, then take a jeep back to town. Later, travel deep into Colombia’s coffee region for a two-night stay in a traditional coffee estancia.

Day 5: Coffee Estancia – Medellin Travel via comfortable bus to Medellin and join an orientation walk around this beautiful and exciting city, now known for some of the country’s finest museums, parks, and architecture.

Day 8: Medellin – Cartagena Fly to Cartagena, one of South America’s most historic cities. After a short orientation walk, explore the old city, particularly the walled Old Town, packed with beautiful churches, monasteries, plazas, mansions, and fort (now on UNESCO’s World Heritage list).

Day 9: Cartagena Transfer to the airport for your flight home.

Day 6: Medellin

Cartagena

Enjoy breathtaking views of Medellin and its surroundings on a cable car ride up to Santa Elena, a beautiful town nestled in the mountains just east of the city. After returning to Medellin, search out one of the city’s lively salsa bars.

VENEZUELA Medellin

Salento

Bogotá

Cali

COLOMBIA

BRAZIL ECUADOR PERU

Colorful colonial style balconies in Salento

Medellin

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Photographs and Maps

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Unused hotel nights are refundable only if they cover a minimum of two consecutive nights and only to the extent that the tour operator receives a refund from the hotel after deducting cancellation charges levied by the hotel, if any. Unused transfers and/or sightseeing tours included in the basic tours will only be refunded to the extent that the tour operator receives a refund from the supplier. To get a prompt refund for unused services, clients are requested to submit to their agent written proof from the hotel or other operator that services were unused and refundable. A check-out bill from the hotel in question will be accepted in lieu of special certification. If no proof is furnished, a refund may be made pending an investigation, which may take up to three months. To be accepted, all refund claims should be presented to the travel agent who initially booked the tour, no later than 30 days after the trip has ended. No refunds or adjustments will be made for any changes, cancellations or modifications of services provided in this itinerary, if such changes are made by the tour participant during the tour.

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not up to U.S. standards. Liberty reserves the right to withdraw any program or Travel in this brochure and/or make such changes in the program(s) or Travel. If due to weather, flight schedules or other uncontrollable factors You are required to spend additional night(s), You will be responsible for your own hotel, transfers and meal costs. Baggage is entirely at owner’s risk. You may see the name Liberty affixed to motor vehicles, on signs around the hotel or elsewhere. This use of our name is purely for reasons of identification and does not denote ownership, supervision, or control by Liberty in any way. The prices of these tours are based on rates in effect (including foreign exchange rates) at the time of printing and are subject to change without notice.

Important Notes–Consult Agent

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