Mountain Travel Sobek - 2016 Polar Voyages Brochure by Mountain Travel Sobek

The Original Adventure Travel Company Since 1969

Polar Voyages Mountain Travel Sobek

2016

Polar Exploration with MTS The Arctic and Antarctic are the last bastions of raw wilderness. Vast, icy horizons of electric blue,

Classic Polar Voyages.................. 4–5

scarcely inhabitable by humans yet teeming with wildlife, these are truly the final frontiers. Beginning

Antarctica Antarctica Fly & Cruise............ 6–7 Antarctic Expedition..................... 8 Antarctic Circle & Beyond............ 9 Emperor Penguins, Weddell Sea & the Falkland Islands.....10 Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falklands........................ 11

with our early voyages, including summiting Mount Vinson and taking the first Americans and first woman ever to arrive at the South Pole by their own efforts, we’ve worked to create the ultimate suite of polar adventures for 2016, including a breathtaking Narwhal & Polar Bear Safari in Arctic Canada, an iconic voyage through the remote Northwest Passage, and our ever-popular Antarctica Fly & Cruise! As we say at MTS, there’s simply no better way to reset your inner compass than by visiting the ends of the Earth, so join us for your ideal polar journey.

The Polar Experts With over 30 years of experience in the polar regions, we’ve solidified long-term relationships with the best polar exploration companies on the planet. Our carefully selected operators include Antarctica Photos on this spread ©Achim Baque, OneOcean, Manfred Thürig, MTS Photo File

Table of Contents

XXI and One Ocean Expeditions in Antarctica, and Arctic Kingdom and One Ocean Expeditions in the Arctic. Their maneuverable ice-strengthened expedition ships come complete with state-of-the-art equipment and an expert crew that is committed to traveling both safely and responsibly—minimizing impact on the environment. All of our polar trips are fully supported 24/7 by a trusted team of U.S.-based, in-house experts and our commitment to guest safety is evident in our sterling safety record throughout the polar regions.

The Arctic Canada’s Atlantic Maritimes......12 Polar Bear Migration Safari........ 13 Narwhal & Polar Bear Safari.......14 Spitsbergen Explorer................... 15 Northwest Passage— Westbound Explorer................16 What You Need to Know.......... 17–18

Our Value Promise We know that polar voyages can be costly, which is why we offer MTS in-house services to help plan and execute your polar adventure for no added cost! This means you’ll pay the same price booking through MTS as you would booking directly, but with the added assurance of MTS’s expert team to assist you every step of the way. We also include insurance and evacuation coverage within the price of our polar trips. So call our MTS polar specialists today at 1-888-687-6235 and learn more about our value promise.

MTS is a Preferred Travel Outfitter For

EUROPE

POLAR VOYAGES

Classic Polar Voyages The polar regions are perhaps the most unusual travel destinations

We have five Antarctic journeys, all covered in-depth in this catalog.

Stromness, Shackleton immediately set out to rescue the men on South

to be found, so it’s no wonder why adventurers list it as a must-do

Trace the footsteps of Shackleton on South Georgia Island, cross the

Georgia and Elephant Island, and those in the Ross Sea party. This

on their bucket lists. There is simply no better way to experience the

mighty Drake Passage (by boat or plane), sail through tabular ice

century-old story of Shackleton and the Endurance has become one

hidden treasures of the polar wilderness than by sailing aboard a highly

shelves in the lingering glow of polar twilight in the Weddell Sea,

of the most famous feats in the history of exploration. See the islands

maneuverable, ice-strengthened vessel of the caliber that carries MTS

or join the ranks of the few who have traveled beyond the Antarctic

and Shackleton’s grave on our Antarctica, South Georgia & the

trip members to the ends of the earth.

Circle, and much, much more!

Falkland Islands trip.

Land of the Ice Bear

• We carefully select each expedition ship for its comfort and size, which carries relatively few passengers with a maximum of 68–96

The Arctic differs from Antarctica on almost every level. An ocean

trip members.

rather than a continent, it is blanketed by thick sheets of ice and defined

• On an MTS-curated polar voyage you won’t get lost in a crowd of

history of inhabitation by native peoples who continue many of their

have sea kayaking and overnight camping options for more ways to enjoy this once in a lifetime journey.

The Seventh Continent Antarctica is the last unspoiled wilderness on earth, and its indescribable beauty often leaves visitors speechless. The only continent that has been nearly free of human contact since the beginning of time, it has been set aside by an international treaty as a scientific preserve. The Antarctic’s nutrient rich waters attract thousands of penguins, seals, seabirds, and whales. Whatever your expectations of Antarctica might be, this transcendent and moving land is guaranteed to exceed them. WWW.MTSOBEK.COM | 1-888-687-6235

Photos on this spread ©Jo Crebbin, Stanislav Fosenbauer, MTS Photo File

Antarctica, which has no indigenous inhabitants, the Arctic has a long

Zodiac and more time soaking in the magic of these rare paradises. • In addition to our nimble and lightning fast Zodiacs, select voyages

by the northern boundaries of North America and Eurasia. Unlike

hundreds jostling to get ashore, you’ll spend less time waiting for a

traditional lifestyles. While both poles share several species of whales and seabirds, the Arctic is home to unique animals not found in the southern climes: reindeer, walrus, narwhal, and of course, the iconic polar bear.

In the Footsteps of Shackleton

We have four incredible Arctic adventures, including navigating the Northwest Passage on a route that still retains the mystery of a

In May 1916, polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton made a stormy

bygone age, a cruise through the misty fjords of the beautiful Svalbard

720-nautical-mile ocean voyage and 32-mile journey across the

Archipelago in Norway, a Polar Bear Migration Safari in Arctic

mountainous ice fields of South Georgia Island to get help to rescue the

Canada, and a Narwhal & Polar Bear Safari that has the added thrill

crew of the Endurance, who were encamped under upturned lifeboats

of snorkeling (yes, snorkeling) with narwhals!

on inhospitable Elephant Island. After reaching a whaling station at WWW.MTSOBEK.COM | 1-888-687-6235

POLAR VOYAGES

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS to/from Punta Arenas

King George Island

ANTARCTICA Deception Island Lemaire Channel Antarctic Circle

ANTARCTICA Land/Sea Travel Air Travel

Antarctica Fly & Cruise • Maximize your time by skipping the Drake Passage and flying to the Antarctic Peninsula • Discover the otherworldly beauty of Antarctica from the comfort of your well-appointed expedition vessel • Enjoy the full Antarctic experience of icebergs, whales, penguins, seals, and Zodiac excursions Few places on Earth make a deeper or more lasting impression than Antarctica. Its utter remoteness and

Activities Cruising, wildlife viewing, Zodiac cruising Trip Level Easy

wild beauty make it feel like another world. This trip lets you make the most of your unforgettable time here by trading the multi-day Drake Passage crossing for a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas. Once aboard your

Lodging Expedition ship, hotel

expedition ship you’ll visit narrow straits of jaw-dropping majesty and gaze at vast glaciers of incandescent

8-Day Trip Departs Jan, Feb, Dec

blue. On Zodiac excursions you’ll cruise past towering icebergs that look like a giant’s chess set, walk

Land Cost From $9,995

among huge colonies of gentoo and chinstrap penguins, and attract the curious eyes of seals and whales. If your time is limited but your desire is strong, come with us on one of life’s most epic adventures.

All photos: ©Steve Allen, Volodymyr Goinyk, Anastasiya Maryankova, MTS Photo File

FOR FULL ITINERARY: Enter Trip Code FLY in the Search Box on www.mtsobek.com

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Day 1: Welcome to Punta Arenas, the world’s southernmost city, with its picturesque views of the Strait of Magellan. Transfer to the Hotel Cabo de Hornos, where you’ll meet your expedition leader and attend a voyage briefing. Join fellow adventurers for a welcome dinner this evening in one of the oldest buildings in Patagonia. Day 2: Your Antarctic adventure begins with a two-hour flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island in the South Shetland Islands. As you exit the airplane, breathe in the clear Antarctic air for the very first time! Explore the area surrounding Chile’s Frei Station and Russia’s Bellingshausen station before boarding a Zodiac to embark your expedition vessel. Days 3–6: Cruise between the South Shetland Islands and the western coast of the Antarctic Peninsula. Sailing along ice-filled fjords and between spectacular icebergs, you’ll enjoy the company of seabirds, penguins, seals, and whales. On Zodiac expeditions you’ll get up close to wildlife as well as landing onshore (conditions permitting).

Landing sites vary based on weather and other conditions, but we have some favorites: Deception Island—one of the few volcanic calderas where large ships can sail and anchor. Here we can explore abandoned whaling stations, view volcanic lakes, and even swim in thermal waters. • Bailey Head—home to over 100,000 chinstrap penguins. • Paradise Bay— make a landing on the Antarctic continent itself! • Orne Island—steep hiking with a 360-degree view of Gerlache Strait. • Cuverville Island— home to a large gentoo penguin colony. Here we can cruise among large icebergs, watching for humpback whales and curious leopard seals • Lemaire Channel—a narrow, breathtaking channel with mountain walls climbing thousands of feet (nicknamed “Kodak Alley”). Day 7: Return to King George Island and disembark. Head to the aerodrome and board your flight to Punta Arenas. Transfer to the Hotel Cabo de Hornos. Day 8: Breakfast at the hotel. Taxi to the airport for your homeward flight. FOR DETAILS, ITINERARIES, AND MORE VISIT WWW.MTSOBEK.COM

POLAR VOYAGES

POLAR VOYAGES to/from Ushuaia

Deception Island

to/from Ushuaia

Deception Island

Lemaire Channel

Antarctic Circle

ANTARCTICA

Land/Sea Travel

Activities Cruising, wildlife viewing, walking, Zodiac cruising

Trip Level Easy to Moderate

Trip Level Easy

Lodging Expedition ship

11-Day Trip Departs Jan–Mar, Dec

14-Day Trip Departs Jan–Mar, Dec

Land Cost From $6,795

Land Cost From $9,295

ANTARCTICA

Antarctic Expedition • MTS-curated expeditions assure the best possible polar experience • Special expedition ships provide the most active experience, allowing you to get up close to phenomenal wildlife • See indescribably spectacular ice formations and soaring mountains in the world’s most vast and pristine wilderness Antarctica is one of the most exciting and spectacular destinations in the world, the last frontier of raw wilderness. During the short austral summer, the Antarctic’s nutrient-rich waters attract thousands of penguins, seals, seabirds, and whales, who come here to breed and raise their young. While crossing the Drake Passage on our wellappointed, state-of-the-art expedition ships, you’ll enjoy educational lectures, slideshows, and presentations to prepare you for a personal encounter with nature as you explore the islands, bays, and channels of the Antarctic Peninsula. Come visit this frozen paradise now while it is still pure, wild, and entirely unspoiled. FOR FULL ITINERARY: Enter Trip Code EXP in the Search Box on www.mtsobek.com

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ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS Day 1: Our ship departs Ushuaia’s harbor. Once on board we’ll gather for a trip briefing and safety drill. Days 2–3: We’ll sail across 620 miles of the Drake Passage and over the Antarctic Convergence, a hotbed of seabird and whale activity. During the voyage, informative presentations will prepare us for our Antarctic experience. Days 4–8: Over the next four days we’ll explore the islands, bays, and channels of the Antarctic Peninsula, venturing ashore by Zodiac or kayak for wildlife viewing or hikes whenever possible. Our goal is to give you the best possible active experience based on prevailing wind, weather, and ice conditions, so every expedition is a unique experience. Landing sites vary, but our favorite places include: Half Moon Island—stunning mountains and numerous bird and seal colonies • Deception Island—one of the world’s few flooded volcanic calderas accessible by ship • Whaler’s

Photo ©Andrey Pavlov

ANTARCTICA Bay—visit abandoned whaling facilities, hike up volcanic slopes, and bathe in steaming thermal waters • Bailey Head—home to more than 100,000 chinstrap penguins • Paradise Bay—hike or go Zodiac cruising to see nesting seabirds, whales, and natural ice sculptures • Cuverville Island— home to the largest penguin colony and significant populations of giant petrels, kelp gulls, and Antarctic terns • Lemaire Channel—an expedition highlight, where we’ll spot minke whales, humpbacks, orcas, and seals.

Antarctic Circle & Beyond • Head south to the ends of the Earth on the most comprehensive trip to the Antarctic Peninsula available • Be captivated by fascinating expert lectures on Antarctic wildlife and geology while crossing the famed Drake Passage on your interactive expedition ship • Experience nature in its rawest form (and in great comfort) as you watch countless penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds—including the wandering albatross Journey to the ends of the earth on the most comprehensive cruise of the Antarctic Peninsula available! Weather-dependent and therefore entirely unique, your expedition ship will take you to the islands, bays, and channels of the Antarctic to see jaw-dropping wildlife

Days 9–10: We’ll return via the Drake Passage to Ushuaia, having traveled the path of the great Antarctic adventurers: Cook, Ross, Scott, and Shackleton.

and nature. You’ll observe rookeries of penguins in the hundreds of

Day 11: After one last breakfast on board the ship, we’ll arrive back in Ushuaia to bid a fond farewell before transferring to the airport.

guides for walks among the wildlife—you may even opt for a night

thousands, watch feeding whales and seals of all kinds, and learn to identify different seabirds. By kayak and Zodiac boat, you’ll be able to navigate grounded icebergs and venture ashore with your expert of camping on a nearby glacier or take a polar plunge! Opportunities like this are once in a lifetime. FOR FULL ITINERARY: Enter Trip Code CIR in the Search Box on www.mtsobek.com

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS Day 1: All aboard! Embark your ship in Ushuaia, Argentina, and enjoy a champagne toast as we set sail for the Drake Passage. Day 2–3: We’ll spend the next two days traveling 620 miles across the Drake Passage to Antarctica. While crossing, we’ll be treated to entertaining lectures, movies, and slide shows on the amazing wildlife and geography that we’ll experience. Day 4–11: We first head south, far south, to the Antarctic Circle, then work our way back up the Antarctic Peninsula, cruising among the islands and into the bays and channels— with Zodiac shore landings as part of the experience. Your voyage will follow a flexible schedule based on the prevailing wind, weather, and ice conditions, allowing us to cruise the Antarctic Peninsula’s islands, bays, and channels like explorers. Landing sites vary, but our favorite places and activities include: watching feeding whales around King George Island and Admiralty Bay; finding fur seals, petrels, and penguins on Half Moon

Photo ©MTS Photo File

Island; seeing Weddell and elephant seals and macaroni penguins on Livingston Island; visiting the volcanic calderas of Deception Island and bathing in the hot springs of Whaler’s Bay; and experiencing awe-inspiring Paradise Bay. Day 12–13: As we leave the Antarctic Peninsula to cross the Drake Passage for Argentina, we’ll stop to see more amazing wildlife and possibly both a Chilean and Russian research station. We’ll sail around Cape Horn from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean, and enjoy a memorable farewell dinner with the captain! Day 14: On our last morning, we’ll reach Ushuaia rather dramatically with the dawn breaking right over the mountains. After breakfast aboard the ship, we’ll disembark for the airport, bid our traveling companions farewell, and return home.

FOR DETAILS, ITINERARIES, AND MORE VISIT WWW.MTSOBEK.COM

POLAR VOYAGES

POLAR VOYAGES to/from Ushuaia

Deception Island

Falkland Islands

Ushuaia

(Argentina)

Lemaire Channel

South Georgia Island

Antarctic Circle

Antarctic Peninsula

ANTARCTICA Land/Sea Travel

Land/Sea Travel

Activities Cruising, wildlife viewing, walking, Zodiac cruising

Trip Level Easy

Lodging Expedition ship

12-Day Trip Departs Jan, Feb, Dec

19-Day Trip Departs Oct–Dec

Land Cost From $10,595

Land Cost From $12,695

ANTARCTICA

Emperor Penguins, Weddell Sea, & the Falkland Islands • Explore the Antarctic Peninsula on this unique itinerary through the Weddell Sea and as far south as Snow Hill Island, culminating with the stunning archipelago of the Falkland Islands • Encounter incredibly diverse wildlife, including elephant seals, skuas, albatrosses, whales, and five penguin species • Follow in the footsteps of the great explorers, including Nordenskjöld and Shackleton This adventurous trip circles the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula and journeys south into icy Weddell Sea. Here you’ll see drifting ice and huge tabular icebergs, and encounter amazing wildlife, including penguins, seals and much more. Weather permitting, the ship will venture as far south as Snow Hill Island, home to a known Emperor penguin colony and century-old refuge huts built during the time of the Swedish Nordenskjöld expedition. The region’s history also includes the epic story of Shackleton and you’ll visit Elephant Island, where the explorer and his men were encamped under upturned life boats. Top off your adventure by charting a northerly course to the Falkland Islands! FOR FULL ITINERARY: Enter Trip Code PEM in the Search Box on www.mtsobek.com 10

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ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS Day 1: Fly from Punta Arenas, Chile, across the Drake Passage to King George Island. Embark the Akademik Sergey Vavilov and enjoy a welcome cocktail! Day 2: We’ll chart a southwesterly course along the dramatic South Shetland Islands. Weather permitting, we’ll visit Deception Island with its sizeable chinstrap penguin rookery at Baily Head. Here, inside the sunken volcanic caldera, you can see rusting remnants from the whaling era. Days 3–4: Today we’ll enter the steely blue waters of Antarctica’s Gerlache Strait. Protected by two large offshore islands, the waterways are home to deep bays, pristine coves and numerous small islands. Enjoy guided wildlife walks on shore and Zodiac cruising among the ice. Days 5–7: Next we’ll sail into the Antarctic Sound and head to the Weddell Sea, witnessing the vast majesty of the Antarctic icecap. We’ll also see huge tabular icebergs and drifting sea ice, making for exciting

Photo ©MTS Photo File

ANTARCTICA navigation! Excursions may include Paulet Island, Brown Bluff and even the southerly Snow Hill Island, where we’ll observe Weddell and elephant seals, an abundance of penguins, and Nordenskjöld’s century-old winter refuge hut. Day 8: Explore Elephant Island and look out for macaroni and gentoo penguins. If conditions are right we’ll attempt a landing at the fabled Point Wild, where Shackleton and his men were encamped under their upturned life boats. Days 9–10: Scan the horizon for marine mammals as you sail to the Falkland Islands and see spectacular seabirds soar overhead. Hear from experts during entertaining interactive presentations. Day 11: Explore the Falkland Islands and enjoy penguin sightings at West Point Island and Saunders Island, with its white-sand beaches. We may even spot the impressive king penguin! Day 12: Depart from Port Stanley and fly back to Punta Arenas.

Antarctica, South Georgia & the Falklands • An epic Antarctica journey, from the Falklandss and South Georgia Island to the stunning Antarctic Peninsula • Witness incredible bird-life in the rugged Falkland Islands and experience the culture of colorful Port Stanley • Explore South Georgia’s spectacular mountains, and visit historical sites of the Shackleton rescue Join us for our grandest Antarctic journey! The rugged, windswept Falkland Islands are a pristine haven for waterfowl, shorebirds, and millions of penguins—including the largest population of gentoo penguin on earth—and an array of sea mammals that feed in the rich waters. Eight hundred miles southeast lies the rarely visited South Georgia Island, an ice-crowned oasis home to stunning variety of wildlife, including stately king penguins. Spectacular South Georgia is also where Sir Ernest Shackleton landed in 1916 after completing a 720-nautical-mile voyage across the wild Southern Ocean to seek rescue for the stranded men of his ship, the Endurance. So follow in the footsteps of great explorers and navigate beautiful archipelagos, bays, channels and seas on this epic polar adventure. FOR FULL ITINERARY: Enter Trip Code RRS in the Search Box on www.mtsobek.com

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS Days 1–2: Set sail from Ushuaia with a glass of champagne in hand and head to the Falkland Islands. Enjoy entertaining presentations during the voyage. Days 3–4: Explore the Falkland Islands and visit penguin colonies at Westpoint Island and Carcass Island. Visit the quaint cottages and pubs of colorful Port Stanley. Days 5–7: Sail to South Georgia, a spectacular mountainous island 800 miles southeast of the Falklands. Pass the Antarctic Convergence, where the cold waters of the Antarctic meet the warmer seas of the Atlantic, attracting a variety of seabirds and whales. Days 8–10: Visit beautiful South Georgia Island, with its glaciers and towering, snow-covered mountains. We’ll cruise the island’s more protected eastern, seeking suitable landing spots at Salisbury Plain, St. Andrews Bay, and Albatross Island— where we’ll find nesting wandering albatrosses. We’ll also visit old whaling sites at Grytviken and find the grave of Sir Ernest Shackleton.

Photo ©MTS Photo File

Days 11–16: Next we cross the Scotia Sea to the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands. Many factors play a role in shaping the expedition’s progress. Our goal is to give you the best possible active experience based on prevailing wind, weather, and ice conditions. Landing sites vary but we attempt to leave the ship to explore at least twice a day. Our favorite places include Half Moon Island, Deception Island and Elephant Island, and cruising through the breathtaking Lemaire Channel. Perhaps you’ll feel salt spray on your face as the Zodiac weaves in and around grounded icebergs, or you could scramble to the top of a craggy hill for an unforgettable view of an icy chasm. Days 17–18: Next we’ll sail 620 miles across the Drake Passage, passing back over the Antarctic Convergence on the final leg of our remarkable journey. Day 19: Depart from Ushuaia.

FOR DETAILS, ITINERARIES, AND MORE VISIT WWW.MTSOBEK.COM

EUROPE

POLAR VOYAGES

Arviat

CANADA

Gros Morne National Park

Anticsoti Island

Polar Bear Cabins

St.-Pierre & Miquelon

Churchill

Francois Harbour

Louisbourg

to/from Winnipeg

CANADA

Sable Island

Land/Sea Travel Air Travel

Sea/Land Travel

Activities Cultural journey, wildlife

Activities Wildlife viewing, tundra trekking

Trip Level Easy

Trip Level Moderate

Lodging Expedition ship

Lodging Polar bear cabins

10-Day Trip Departs Jul

Adventure

Land Cost From $2,995

CANADA

NEW Canada’s Atlantic Maritimes • Embark on a fascinating expedition voyage through Canada’s remote Maritime Provinces, including Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Newfoundland • Experience historical port towns, flower-filled villages, and the region’s celebrated Celtic and French heritage • Spot a staggering abundance of wildlife, from puffins and humpback whales to the fabled wild ponies of Sable Island Explore the pristine beauty of enchanted Eastern Canada on this maritime voyage from Cape Breton through the stunning islands and villages of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. Along the way, you’ll experience the scenic, windswept landscapes of Bonaventure Island and Sable Island—one of Canada’s newest national parks—and marvel at the World Heritage-listed Tablelands of Newfoundland. You’ll be charmed by the region’s French and Celtic heritage, dating back over 500 years, as you listen to folk fiddlers and enjoy hearty local fare. This ship-based expedition allows an in-depth look at many hard-to-access places, and it’s all achieved in a manageable 10-day timeframe. So join expert guides as you enjoy a range of wonderful activities, including many chances to spot the lovable Atlantic puffin. FOR FULL ITINERARY: Enter Trip Code CMA in the Search Box on www.mtsobek.com 12

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MTS

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS Day 1: Our adventure begins in the historic port town of Louisburg, Nova Scotia, where we’ll board our expedition vessel, the Akademik Ioffe. Day 2: Explore Sable Island, one of Canada’s newest national parks, and learn about its storied history as a notorious ship graveyard! See the island’s wild ponies and one of the largest grey seal colonies in the world. Day 3: Today we’ll begin our exploration of the Bird Islands, along the coast of Cape Breton, and take an exciting zodiac cruise to spot Atlantic puffins. Day 4: Sculpted from sandstone, the remote islands of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence are home to traditional fishing villages with beautiful waterfront houses and flowing grassy plains. Experience Quebecois and Acadian culture, and enjoy hearty local cuisine. Day 5: We’ll drop anchor near Percé and explore the rich historic and natural heritage of Bonaventure

5-Day Trip Departs Oct, Nov

Photo ©Dalia Kvedaraite

THE ARCTIC | ADVENTURE WEEK Island—home to incredible flora and fauna, including its famous colony of gannets. Day 6: Hike the coastline of Anticosti Island, and look out for a variety of marine wildlife including whales and seals. Day 7: Sail into majestic Bonne Bay in the heart of Gros Morne National Park and enjoy guided walks into the World Heritage-listed Tablelands— a spectacular experience! Day 8: Today we’ll cruise into Francois harbor on the south coast of Newfoundland and navigate a stunning, steep-walled fjord. Day 9: Stroll through the streets of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, see more puffins, and enjoy a farewell dinner with the captain. Day 10: Sail back to the Louisburg and bid farewell to Canada’s Maritime Provinces.

Land Cost From $9,325

Week

NEW Polar Bear Migration Safari • Experience close encounters with the Arctic’s renowned Churchill polar bears and camp in comfortable cabins situated on their migration route—a truly epic experience! • Learn about the bears and their behavior from our safetyminded, expert Inuit guides who live among them • Take advantage of a special safety fence to get behind your camera in perfect peace, surrounded by pristine wilderness Hey there, amateur photographers! Yeah, we’re talking to you. When was the last time you were able to go behind the lens of a camera without having any other distractions? Our Polar Bear Migration Safari is the expedition you’ve been waiting a lifetime for. This Arctic adventure brings you to the tundra, where our cabins are strategically situated right on a polar bear migration route. Drawing upon the expertise of our expert guides (and the safety of the invisible electric fence surrounding our camp), you’ll get to know polar bears, Arctic foxes, caribou, and snowy owls and their behavioral patterns from up close. With the Northern Lights in season, you’ll be delighted to have your camera poised and ready. FOR FULL ITINERARY: Enter Trip Code PBM in the Search Box on www.mtsobek.com

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS Day 1: Arrive in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and transfer to Churchill, where you’ll board a private charter aircraft to the cabins, situated halfway between Churchill, Manitoba, and Arviat, Nunavut, on the Hudson Bay coast. The camp is strategically situated on a polar bear migration route to enjoy optimal encounters and photograph the bears while they wait for the surrounding waters to freeze up. Days 2–4: We’ll spend the next few days observing the Churchill polar bears in the wild and admiring the stunning natural landscapes. Tripods will be set up along the inside of the protective electric fence perimeter, waiting for the perfect close-up shot. Our local Inuit guides will ensure the best opportunities. They know these polar bears intimately after generations of living among them, and will only allow the bears to approach us as close as they deem safe. Our Inuit guides will also lead us on daily hikes just outside our complex to explore. Knowing that your guides will keep you out of

Photo ©David Briggs

harm’s way, you’ll be able to approach polar bears up close to photograph them—as close as 100 feet! While often fearful of humans, there may be a curious polar bear who will come toward us, yet our guides will keep us at a safe distance at all times. Because of the timing of our Arctic adventure and our location, you will also be able to delight in the magical Aurora Borealis, or the “Northern Lights.” Day 5: Spend some time this morning taking photos or doing a bit of last-minute exploring before we leave camp for our noontime charter flight back to Churchill, where our Arctic adventure will conclude. If you’re not ready to go home just yet, feel free to fly back to Winnipeg or stay on in Churchill.

FOR DETAILS, ITINERARIES, AND MORE VISIT WWW.MTSOBEK.COM

EUROPE

POLAR REGIONS

POLAR VOYAGES Bylot Island

Phippsoya

Pond Inlet

Krossfjorden

BAFFIN ISLAND

Hinlopen Strait Longyearbyen

to/from Ottawa

SPITSBERGEN Iqaluit

Land/Sea Travel Air Travel

Land/Sea Travel

Activities Wildlife viewing, snowmobiling, kayaking, snorkeling

Activities Cruising, wildlife viewing, walking, Zodiac cruising

Trip Level Moderate

Lodging Expedition ship

Trip Level Easy

Lodging Premium yurt camp

11-Day Trip Departs Jun, Jul

8-Day Trip Departs May, Jun

Land Cost From $5,095

Land Cost From $12,355

THE ARCTIC

NEW Narwhal & Polar Bear Safari • Observe narwhal, the famed “unicorns of the sea,” resting and feeding just yards away on this unique Arctic adventure • Snorkel (yes, snorkel!) and kayak among harp seals, bearded seals, ring seals, and bowhead and beluga whales—and of course, narwhals! • Ride qamutik like the traditional Inuits, camp like explorers, and immerse yourself in the “Land of the Midnight Sun” Once you’ve seen Canada’s Northwestern Passage, wildlife viewing may never be the same. Nestled between the towering mountains of Baffin and Bylot Islands, our Arctic camp takes Arctic adventure to the next level. Starting and ending our voyage in the picturesque hamlet of Pond Inlet, we’ll journey some 435 miles north of the Arctic Circle, where playful and majestic wildlife thrive. In addition to providing the perfect playground for polar bears, seals, and whales, this awe-inspiring land is also home to the narwhal, “the unicorn of the sea.” After heading out from base camp every day to snorkel, kayak, snowmobile, and ride traditional Inuit wooden sleds, you’ll have successfully tapped into your inner explorer. FOR FULL ITINERARY: Enter Trip Code NRW in the Search Box on www.mtsobek.com

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ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS Day 1: Arrive in Ottawa, Canada, and take a connecting flight to Iqaluit in the Northwestern Passage and then on to Pond Inlet on the northern tip of Baffin Island to meet your guide and the rest of your group. We’ll spend the night in Pond Inlet before heading out to camp tomorrow. Day 2: Travel across fields of snow by qamutik, a traditional Inuit wooden sled, to Arctic Safari Camp on the floe edge, and then settle into camp. The camp is divided into separate yurts, each equipped with comfortable cots, a table and chairs, and a heater. Days 3–6: Over the next few days, we will leave camp and head out to the floe edge to explore. Depending on the weather, we’ll have the chance to observe the tusked narwhal, polar bears, seals of all kinds, and bowhead and beluga whales while we snorkel (in drysuits) and kayak among icebergs. We’ll also snowmobile and ride sleds to traditional Inuit hunting grounds,

Photo ©Michelle Valberg

THE ARCTIC watch birds feeding at the Bylot Island Migratory Bird Sanctuary (home to 200,000 birds), and enjoy authentic encounters with the native Inuit people. Be prepared for lots of surprises! Day 7: We’ll leave camp today by qamutik and return to the Arctic hamlet of Pond Inlet. The rest of the day and evening is yours to explore on your own and discover why Pond Inlet is referred to as one of Canada’s “jewels of the north.” Consider a visit to Sirmilik National Park or Tamaarvik Territorial Park for more wildlife viewing. Day 8: Bid farewell to your fellow explorers and prepare yourself for warmer climes as we transfer to the airport for our southbound flights to Iqaluit, Ottawa, and then home.

Spitsbergen Explorer • Cruise the spectacular fjords of the Svalbard Archipelago on a well-appointed expedition ship • Sail to the edge of the polar pack ice, crossing 80 degrees north latitude! • Take advantage of long daylight hours to spot polar bears, walruses, reindeer, and other wildlife Discover the realm of the polar bear, a savagely beautiful land of ice and snow, glassy fjords, and expansive tundra. On this exciting adventure you’ll cruise the Svalbard Archipelago aboard a comfortable, ice-strengthened expedition vessel, getting as close as 621 miles from the North Pole! As you explore the cliffs and waterways by ship and Zodiac (or sea kayak, if you choose), watch for polar bears hunting along the ice edge and herds of walruses sunning themselves beneath massive glaciers. You’ll see nesting puffins, flocks of kittiwakes, and perhaps a cunning Arctic fox or pod of beluga. No two trips are alike, but each one offers rare opportunities to experience the wild and wonderful Arctic. FOR FULL ITINERARY: Enter Trip Code SVA in the Search Box on www.mtsobek.com

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

Day 1: Fly from Oslo to Longyearbyen, the main settlement on Spitsbergen. Board your ship, the Akademik Sergey Vavilov, in late afternoon and set sail into Isfjorden. Note: specific sites visited on this cruise are dependent on ice and weather conditions, and the itinerary will be adjusted accordingly.

Days 6–8: Head south into the strait separating Svalbard’s two main islands, Spitsbergen and Nordaustlandet. The cliffs at Alkefjellet in Hinlopen Strait are home to hundreds of thousands of nesting birds. At Murchison Fjord we’ll cruise through the waterways and hike to spectacular viewpoints.

Days 2–3: Anchor off of Krossfjorden and board Zodiacs to cruise the bird cliffs near the 14th of July Glacier. Look for puffins, kittiwakes, and murres. You’ll also see Lilliehook Glacier at the head of the fjord. Next, we’ll round the northwestern tip of Spitsbergen to Smeerenburgfjorden, which still bears remnants of its 400-year whaling history.

Day 9: Sailing toward Liefdefjorden and Monaco Glacier, keep an eye out for beluga whales. Monaco Glacier is a fantastic backdrop for a Zodiac cruise followed by a hike on the tundra.

Days 4–5: Continue north and east into the ice, heading for 80° north. All eyes will be on the lookout for bears along the ice edge, plus bearded seals, ringed seals, and walruses hauled out on the ice. At 81° north, Phippsoya, one of the Seven Islands, offers prime polar bear viewing.

Day 10: Alkehornet, at the mouth of Isfjord, offers stunning views and excellent tundra walks. Arctic foxes and reindeer are often spotted here. Towering above the beach is a sheer, pyramid-shaped cliff covered with swooping, crying birds. Day 11: Return to Longyearbyen. Disembark after breakfast.

FOR DETAILS, ITINERARIES, AND MORE VISIT WWW.MTSOBEK.COM

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

EUROPE

POLAR VOYAGES

Prince of Wales Island

Beechey Island

IT’S EASY TO SIGN UP!

GREENLAND Devon Island

Pond Inlet Cambridge Bay

Call us at 1-888-MTSOBEK (687-6235) and reserve your spot. You can also book online at www.mtsobek.com. If you have a favorite travel agent, we are happy to work with them, but he or she must make the booking directly with Mountain Travel Sobek. Bookings made by a client cannot be picked up retroactively for travel agent commission.

Ilulissat

Kangerlussuaq

Note: Terms and conditions are subject to change.

Baffin Island

Payment Schedule

Based on Land/Cruise Cost*, per person Regular Trip Departures (1), (2), (3), (4) Sea/Land Travel

CANADA

At time of reservation................................$400 65 days prior to trip departure............ Balance (1) Gorilla trips require a non-refundable deposit to cover the cost of each gorilla permit ($750 per permit). (2) The Machu Picchu Inn to Inn Express trip requires a $500 non-refundable deposit at time of booking. (3) All Botswana, Congo, South Africa and Zimbabwe trips incur a 100% cancellation fee at 60 days or less prior to departure. (4) The Brazil: Voyage to the Heart of the Amazon trip requires a $400 nonrefundable deposit at time of booking.

Activities Cruising, wildlife viewing, walking, Zodiac cruising Trip Level Easy Lodging Expedition ship

Galápagos, Greece, Turkey, John Muir Trail, Patagonia Explorer, Cuba, Panama: Journey Beyond the Seas and Glacier Bay Historic Ship Adventure Trip Departures

13-Day Trip Departs Aug Land Cost From $8,395

THE ARCTIC

Northwest Passage— Westbound Explorer • Cruise above the Arctic Circle from Greenland to Nunavut, discovering the beautiful bays and inlets—and amazing wildlife—of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago • Trace the history of explorers on their quest to find a shipping routes between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans • Explore remote Inuit communities by foot and kayak For centuries, the Northwest Passage has enticed epic feats of exploration, as seafarers and explorers sought a navigable route through the frozen waterways that connect the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Today, the ice-strengthened Akademik Ioffe is one of the few expedition ships to navigate the iconic passage, tracing Sir John Franklin’s illfated expedition over 150 years ago and Roald Amundsen’s successful traverse of the passage in 1906. Following in the footsteps of these great explorers, you’ll discover a stunning archipelago of islands and channels that create Canada’s high Arctic. Look out for amazing wildlife, from polar bears to grizzlies, musk oxen to caribou, and hear fascinating tales from the passage’s haunting past. FOR FULL ITINERARY: Enter Trip Code NWP in the Search Box on www.mtsobek.com

WWW.MTSOBEK.COM | 1-888-687-6235

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS Day 1: Fly from Ottawa to Kangerlussuaq in western Greenland and board your expedition vessel. Sail down the incredible Sondre Stromfjord, one of the world’s longest fjords and cross the Arctic Circle. Day 2: Explore the fjord near Sisimiut and meet traditional Greenlandic kayakers. Day 3: See the amazing Jacobshavn Icefjord, which pours massive tabular icebergs into Disko Bay. Days 4–5: Cross Baffin Bay and keep an eye out for whales, seals and seabirds. Our time at sea will be determined by the extent of the ice and amount of wildlife. Day 6: Today we’ll visit Pond Inlet and the Natinnak Centre, which showcases Inuit crafts. We’ll also see a demonstration of feats from the Inuit Games. Days 7–8: Cruise the “wildlife superhighway” of Lancaster Sound. Day 9: Explore Beechey Island, where Franklin spent a winter before his

At time of reservation..........................................................$400 120 days prior to trip departure.......................................$1,200 90 days prior to trip departure...................................... Balance

expedition disappeared into the icy vastness in 1845. Next we sail south toward Prince Regent Inlet, stopping to view bird cliffs at Prince Leopold Island. Day 10: If ice conditions permit, we’ll sail south through Prince Regent Inlet and see old trading posts at Fort Ross on Somerset Island. Day 11: We’ll then cross the broad Victoria Strait and arrive at Conningham Bay on the eastern shore of Prince Edward Island. Spot polar bears! Day 12: Finally, we’ll visit Victory Point on King William Island and reflect on the quest for exploration that opened up the Arctic, while sacrificing some of its bravest explorers. Day 13: Today we’ll drop anchor in Cambridge Bay, Nunavut, before flying to Edmonton and home.

Scheduled Departures Involving Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya At time of reservation..........................................................$400 105 days prior to trip departure.................................... Balance Custom Departures Involving Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya At time of reservation...................... 25% of Land/Cruise Cost 105 days prior to trip departure.................................... Balance Antarctica and Arctic Cruise Departures

At time of reservation........................................ $1,500–$2,500

(varies based on ship and trip departure—see detailed itinerary)

120 days prior to trip departure..................................... Balance Private Adventures, Custom Adventures and Special Trip Departures

At time of reservation ......$800 or 25% of Land/Cruise Cost, whichever is greater 120 days prior to trip departure...... 25% of Land/Cruise Cost 90 days prior to trip departure...................................... Balance

Extensions & Extra Services (including extra hotel nights) At time of reservation...................................................... $100 (4) (non-refundable) The balance will be added to the cost of your trip, and payment will follow the applicable schedule above. Requests made 29 days or less prior to trip departure are subject to a $100 late booking fee. Once booked, each change is subject to a $50 change fee. (4) Some exceptions apply and deposits may be higher.

After we receive your deposit, we will provide you with detailed pre-trip information including a packing list, visa information (if required), statement of account, and travel insurance information. We will also send you a link to access and complete the required forms including a Release from Liability form, Assumption of Risk and Binding Arbitration clause which is required for participation on any trip. Certain trips including those designated as “Ultimate Challenge” require participants to have their physician complete and sign a Physician Certificate. We will also provide you with rendezvous instructions and final trip details approximately three weeks prior to trip departure.

What Your Trip Includes

The Land and/or Cruise Cost* for most trips includes: Expert leadership • Accommodations in hotels, inns, or lodges in cities and villages, or aboard boat or ship • Field arrangements, including camp and cook staffs, tents, kitchen and dining tents (on most trips), group camping and commissary equipment, necessary trip equipment (e.g. sea kayaks, rafts, personal flotation devices, etc.) • Meals as noted in the trip itinerary • Sightseeing as noted in the trip itinerary • Group airport transfers • Ground transportation and support vehicles • Additional guides and porters if needed • Entrance fees and permits • Basic medical and emergency medical evacuation insurance. *Note—“Land/Cruise Cost” includes the cost of the trip, internal airfare, park fees, permits, single supplements, and taxes may be included in the price, or broken out separately. Unless otherwise noted, payment and cancellation policies apply to the total Land/Cruise Cost, inclusive of internal airfare, park fees, permits, and taxes, even when broken out separately. Travel agent commission is calculated from base Land/Cruise Cost only and excludes tier charges. Each trip varies slightly, so please call and speak with one of our Regional Specialists or ask for a detailed trip itinerary for the specifics (you can also download itineraries at www.mtsobek.com). International airfare, optional gratuities, and personal items are not included.

Tier Pricing

Group adventure travel works best with a small group of people. In order to operate these small groups, our trips are priced according to the number of full-price travelers on the trip. Mountain Travel Sobek staff, trip doctors, and other discounted travelers are excluded from the count for this purpose. Not all trips have tier pricing, but for those trips that do your statements will reflect the highest tier price (the smallest group size we can operate) until final payment is due. If the price drops due to an increase in group size before your trip departs, you will be refunded the difference.

Solo Travelers

Accommodations (hotels, tents, and cruise cabins) are priced on a double occupancy basis. If you prefer single accommodations, you may, where available, arrange for them with payment of a single supplement fee, which is listed in the trip itinerary. If you are traveling alone and wish to share accommodations, we will try our best to find you a roommate of the same gender. If there is no one with whom you can share, we charge a “forced” single supplement fee, which varies by trip and ranges from half to the same fee as the “requested” single supplement, and is listed in the trip itinerary. Shared accommodations are guaranteed on some trips. On a few trips, single accommodations are not available.

Cancellations & Refunds

Based on Land/Cruise Cost*, per person At the time we receive written notice that you must cancel your trip, the following fees will apply (all dates are from departure date): Regular Trip Departures (1), (2), (3), (4) From time of reservation until 90 days prior to trip departure.................................................................. $150 89 to 61 days prior to trip departure...................................$400 60 to 46 days prior to trip departure............50% of Land Cost 45 days or less prior to trip departure...........100% of Land Cost

Galápagos, Greece, Turkey, John Muir Trail, Patagonia Explorer, Cuba, Panama: Journey Beyond the Seas and Glacier Bay Historic Ship Adventure Trip Departures From time of reservation until 120 days prior to trip departure.....................................................$400 119 to 90 days prior to trip departure............................. 25% of Land/Cruise Cost 89 to 60 days prior to trip departure..............................50% of Land/Cruise Cost 59 days or less prior to trip departure...............................100% of Land/Cruise Cost Scheduled Departures Involving Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya From time of reservation until 96 days prior to trip departure.................................... Loss of first deposit 95 days or less prior to trip departure.............................100% of Land/Cruise Cost Custom Departures Involving Uganda, Namibia, and Kenya From time of reservation until 96 days prior to trip departure.......................... 25% of Land/Cruise Cost 95 days or less prior to trip departure.............................100% of Land/Cruise Cost Antarctica & Arctic Cruise Trip Departures From time of reservation until 120 days prior to trip departure............................................ Loss of deposit 119 days or less prior to trip departure............................100% of Cruise Cost Private Adventures, Custom Adventures and Special Trip Departures From time of reservation until 90 days prior to trip departure...............$800 or 25% of Land/Cruise Cost, whichever is greater 89-60 day prior to trip departure....50% of Land/Cruise Cost 59 days or less.................................100% of Land/Cruise Cost Extensions & Extra Services (including extra hotel nights) At time of reservation until 60 days prior to trip departure................................................. $100 (5) 59 to 30 days......................................................................50% of Extension Cost 29 days or less.................................................................100% of Extension Cost (5) Some exceptions apply and cancellation fees may be higher.

No refunds will be given for unused hotel rooms, meals, sightseeing trips, or trek arrangements for any reason whatsoever. Land/Cruise Cost is quoted as a package and credits are not given for services not used. (Note—Extra hotel nights cancelled within 60 days of trip departure are subject to 100% of the hotel cost or $35, whichever is greater.) Internal airfare, once purchased, is non-refundable. Cancellation and refund policy applies to entire Land/Cruise cost of trip, including trip cost, internal airfare, park fees, permits, and taxes. We recommend you purchase the Optional Travel Insurance Plan to protect yourself in case of an unexpected medical emergency. Refunds in excess of $500 will be remitted by check.

(Continued on following page)

(1) Gorilla trips require a non-refundable deposit to cover the cost of each gorilla permit ($750 per permit). (2) The Machu Picchu Inn to Inn Express trip requires a $500 non-refundable deposit at time of booking. (3) All Botswana, Congo, South Africa, and Zimbabwe trips incur a 100% cancellation fee at 60 days or less prior to departure (4) The Brazil: Voyage to the Heart of the Amazon trip requires a $400 nonrefundable deposit at time of booking.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW (Continued from page 17)

Travel Insurance

For your protection, we offer an Optional Travel Insurance Plan. It combines trip cancellation and interruption coverage (for covered reasons only), baggage loss protection, and medical coverage along with additional emergency medical evacuation coverage. For complete terms and conditions go to www.mtsobek.com/faq#insurance. To review the Optional Travel Insurance Plan details go to www.tripmate.com/wpF485s. With the exception of those trips operated in the United States and Cuba, we include the cost of this optional insurance coverage as an item on your statement. It is effective the day we receive your designated payment for the insurance or the day your final balance is paid. Please note that deposits are not applied toward your insurance premium. If you do not wish this optional insurance, you need only notify Mountain Travel Sobek in writing by time of final payment and we will remove the charge from the invoice. Participants traveling on trips in the United States or Cuba who wish to obtain the optional insurance—the details of which are available at www.tripmate.com/wpF485s—please contact your Adventure Coordinator for pricing. Note: A Basic Medical and Evacuation Insurance Plan is purchased on your behalf. However, we recommend you purchase the Optional Travel Insurance Plan outlined above to ensure protection from trip cancellation fees for covered reasons and to increase your medical and emergency medical evacuation coverage.

Transfers

With the exception of those trips noted otherwise within this section, you may transfer to another trip without a fee up to 90 days before trip departure on most trips. If you transfer from one trip to another within 89 days of trip departure, however, you are subject to the usual Cancellation Fees outlined above (appropriate to the date you notify us in writing of your wish to transfer). No transfers are allowed on: Galápagos, Turkey, Patagonia Explorer, Mountains to Sea: Denali & Kenai Fjords, Antarctica, and Arctic cruises; John Muir Trail, Private Adventures, Custom Adventures, or Special Departures. For Machu Picchu Inn to Inn Express departures you are subject to the following transfer fees: 60 or more days prior to departure...................................$250 59 to 30 days prior to departure..................................$25% of Land Cost 29 days or less prior to departure.................................50% of Land Cost

Cancelled Trips

Mountain Travel Sobek reserves the right to cancel any trip due to inadequate sign-up or other cause that makes the trip unfeasible for us to operate, but we will inform you at least 45 days prior to trip departure. In such a case, a full refund of Land/Cruise Cost is given, but Mountain Travel Sobek is not responsible for additional expenses incurred by members preparing for the trip (e.g. non-refundable “Advance Purchase” air tickets, visa fees if applicable, clothing, equipment, medical expenses). Do not purchase your air tickets before speaking with your Adventure Coordinator.

Baggage

Mountain Travel Sobek assumes no liability for loss or damage to baggage in transit to and from a Mountain Travel Sobek trip or while on a Mountain Travel Sobek trip. We recommend purchasing the supplemental travel insurance package.

Delays & Cost Increases

The cost of delays is not included if any trip is delayed due to bad weather, trail conditions, river levels, road conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, sickness or other contingency for which Mountain Travel Sobek or its third 18

party operators cannot make provision. Land/Cruise Costs are subject to increase without prior notice, even after you have signed up on the trip. We often publish our prices more than a year in advance. Between that time and the time of the trip’s actual departure, we are occasionally faced with significant cost increases that we cannot absorb (i.e. international currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, or increases in cost of services). We regret this situation, and we do everything we can to avoid raising prices, but sometimes it is unavoidable. We will do our best to limit such increases and will notify you at least two months before trip departure.

Airlines

The airlines are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board their planes or conveyance. The passage contract in use by the airlines concerned, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the airlines and such purchasers of these tours and/or passenger. Such conveyance, etc. is subject to the laws of the countries involved. Airlines used vary in degree of safety and risk. Many air carriers have an unknown safety and maintenance record. Mountain Travel Sobek is not liable for incidents involving airline safety, cancellations, service, risk, delays, etc.; or incidents that result in injury, delay or death. Please read the conditions on the back of your airline tickets.

Medical & Health

It is vital that persons with medical problems make them known to us well before trip departure. The trip leader has the right to disqualify anyone at any time during the trip if he or she feels the trip member is physically or mentally incapable or if a trip member’s continued participation will jeopardize the individual involved or the group. Refunds are not given under such circumstances. Hospital facilities are often unavailable and evacuation can be prolonged, difficult, and expensive. Mountain Travel Sobek assumes no liability regarding provision of medical care. You will need to provide us with your medical history and any dietary restrictions, as requested in the required documentation. If you participate on certain designated trips including those with an activity level of “Ultimate Challenge,” the Physician Certificate must be completed and signed by your physician. Once you have been confirmed on a trip, normal cancellation fees apply if your doctor does not approve the Physician Certificate. We can send you this form prior to making your reservation so your doctor can pre-approve you. The State Department (www.travel.state.gov) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) periodically issue statements, advisories and warnings about risks to travelers. These statements are country-specific and contain important information. Mountain Travel Sobek urges all participants to review these sites.

Photography

Mountain Travel Sobek may take photographs and/or video of its trips, and trip participants grant Mountain Travel Sobek permission to do so and for it to use same for promotional or commercial use without payment of any compensation to participant.

Trip Alteration

Mountain Travel Sobek reserves the right to change hotels or other features of the trip if Mountain Travel Sobek believes it will enhance the safety, comfort, or enjoyment of the trip.

Responsibilities of Trip Members

Trip members have certain responsibilities to Mountain Travel Sobek and to other trip members. Trip members are responsible for understanding the conditions implied in the Trip Itinerary and selecting a trip in consultation with Mountain Travel Sobek that is appropriate to their interests and abilities, and for preparing for the trip by studying the Trip Itinerary and supplemental trip information sent by Mountain Travel Sobek. Screening for fitness (for trips rated “Strenuous” or “Ultimate Challenge”) is made by our Regional Specialists

at the time of booking. At the trip leader’s discretion, a member may be removed from the trip, without the right of refund, if the leader feels that the person’s further participation may be detrimental to the individual or to other trip members.

So Much More to Explore! With over 45 years of innovation and exploration under our belt, we’ve built an unparalleled set of active, authentic adventures in every corner of the globe. Discover over 200 amazing trips at www.mtsobek.com!

Limitations of Liability

Except for certain equipment in Alaska, Idaho, Portugal, and Patagonia, Mountain Travel, Mountain Travel Sobek, Alaska Discovery, Inc., their owners, directors, officers, employees, and affiliates (collectively “Mountain Travel Sobek”) does not own or operate any entity which is to or does provide goods or services for your trip including, for example, ownership or control over hotels or other lodging facilities, airline, vessel, bus, van, or other transportation companies, local ground operators, providers or organizers of optional or included excursions or equipment used thereon (even if same utilize the Mountain Travel Sobek name), food service, or entertainment providers, etc. All such persons and entities are independent contractors. As a result, Mountain Travel Sobek is not liable for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any such person or entity, or of any third party. Without limitation, Mountain Travel Sobek is not responsible for any injury, loss or damage to person or property, death, delay or inconvenience in connection with the provision of any goods or services occasioned by or resulting from, but not limited to, acts of God, acts of government, force majeur, acts of war or civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist activities of any kind, or the threat thereof, overbooking or downgrading of accommodations, structural or other defective conditions in hotels or other lodging facilities, mechanical or other failure of airplanes or other means of transportation or for any failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart timely or safely, dangers associated with or bites from animals, pests or insects, marine life or vegetation of any sort, dangers incident to recreational activities such as scuba diving, zip lining, snorkeling, paddle boarding, surfing, swimming, kayaking, sailing, canoeing, rafting, hiking, bicycling, rock climbing, etc., sanitation problems, food poisoning, lack of access to or quality of medical care, difficulty in evacuation in case of a medical or other emergency, illness, epidemics or the threat thereof or for any other cause beyond the direct control of Mountain Travel Sobek. In addition, participants release Mountain Travel Sobek from its own negligence and assume all risk thereof. On advancement of deposit to Mountain Travel Sobek, the depositor therefore agrees to be bound by the above recited terms and conditions, and the binding arbitration clause below. These are partial conditions. Your participation is contingent on your signature on the full list of terms specified in the document entitled “Participant Information Form, Booking Verification, Medical History, and Release from Liability,” which you can find on our website at www.mtsobek.com/pdf/ participant_info.pdf (or call us at 1-888-687-6235 and request a copy). Additionally, some independent contractors may require participants to sign their liability release or indemnity form.

Binding Arbitration

AFRICA

ALASKA & NORTH AMERICA

ASIA

EUROPE

GALÁPAGOS

MEXICO & CENTRAL AMERICA

THE PACIFIC

SOUTH AMERICA

Any dispute concerning, relating or referring to these Terms and Conditions, to any literature concerning the trip, or the trip itself, shall be resolved exclusively by binding arbitration in San Francisco, California, according to the then existing commercial rules of the American Arbitration Association. Such proceedings will be governed by substantive (but not procedural) California law and without regard to the California Arbitration Act. The arbitrator and not any federal, state, or local court or agency shall have exclusive authority to resolve any dispute relating to the interpretation, applicability, enforceability, conscionability, or formation of this contract, including but not limited to any claim that all or any part of this contract is void or voidable.

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