2017 FAMILY TRIPS
Dear Traveler, One of the most rewarding moments for a parent is seeing a child filled with wonder at discovering something new. Travel is rich with these moments, whether it’s spotting a first lion in the wild, making a connection with a child from Iceland or Japan, or learning how to snorkel amid brilliant fish in the Galápagos. In the pages that follow, you’ll find a range of inspiring itineraries packed with fun, hands-on activities designed for kids and their families—including our newest trips to Italy, Glacier National Park, and Denmark and Norway. Some are led by National Geographic experts, while others will have you exploring with a whole team of naturalists. Still others feature a Kid to Kid Connection, which links young travelers with pen pals in their destination whom they meet on their expedition. When you travel on any of these trips, you’re taking part in the great National Geographic tradition of exploring our incredible planet. We hope to explore with your family soon! Sincerely,
Lynn Cutter Executive Vice President National Geographic Travel When you travel with us, you make a difference. Your support is vital to National Geographic’s mission to explore and protect our planet.
GIVE THE GIFT OF TRAVEL. The gift of travel inspires, enriches, and makes memories that linger for a lifetime. Surprise your loved ones with an unforgettable family adventure with National Geographic Expeditions, whether it’s a voyage to Alaska or an exploration of Peru. Simply let us know it’s a gift when you make your reservation, and we’ll send a special gift box to share the exciting news with your loved ones. Please allow ten business days for processing and shipping.
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Front cover: Hanging upside down from a tree branch, a two-toed sloth cradles its baby in Costa Rica.
2017 FAMILY EXPEDITIONS
EUROPE
NORTH AMERICA
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Costa Rica
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Alaska Voyage
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Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion National Parks
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Yellowstone and Grand Teton
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Glacier National Park
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Yosemite
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Alaska: Denali to Prince William Sound
Italy Iceland Denmark and Norway Scotland Ireland France
ASIA 10
Japan
AFRICA 12 Tanzania 14
South Africa
SOUTH AMERICA 16
Galรกpagos Odyssey
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Peru
Turn to page 28 to learn about private departures, page 29 for student expeditions, and page 31 for a calendar of all our family trips! CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/FAMILY
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TOP 10 R
TO TRAVEL ON A NATIONAL GEO
1. EXPERT COMPANY Each of our family expeditions is led by a team of talented professionals who are dedicated to making each day of your trip unforgettable. A kids coordinator is on hand to help young explorers get the most out of the places we go; a naturalist or geologist accompanies every national park trip; and all voyages aboard the National Geographic fleet are led by a team of naturalists.
2. INSIDER ACCESS Our itineraries are crafted with the help of our experts—and wherever we can, we meet them in the field.
3. HANDS-ON LEARNING AND FUN Exploring with a knowledgeable expedition team spurs the imagination, inspires curiosity, and brings an element of fun to everything we do.
4. A WORLD OF RESOURCES Plan for your trip with National Geographic resources—including books, maps, and articles about your destination.
5. HOME AWAY FROM HOME
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Whether it’s a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World tucked into the cloud forest beneath Machu Picchu, or a restored 16th-century palace in Venice, our accommodations are comfortable, kid-friendly, and a memorable part of the adventure.
REASONS
OGRAPHIC FAMILY EXPEDITION
6. QUALITY FAMILY TIME Discovering a fascinating place as a family can make for great bonding moments. We’ve built free time and options into each itinerary so that you can make the most of every moment together.
7. NEW FRIENDS Your traveling companions are explorers like you— active, engaged, and curious about the world. Kids bond quickly when they’re experiencing new things together, and many of our travelers leave with lasting friendships.
8. MEMORIES FOR LIFE See an elephant herd for the first time in Tanzania or create pastries with a baker in Paris. The great experiences pile up and make for memories your family will treasure far into the future.
9. KID TO KID CONNECTION A special aspect of many international family expeditions is the Kid to Kid Connection, which links every young traveler with a pen pal of similar age in our destination. We meet up with them in person during the trip to learn about each other’s cultures and everyday lives.
10. SPECIAL SAVINGS When you travel as a family of eight or more, you receive special savings off the expedition cost! Call 1-888-966-8687 for details.
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ITALY
HIGHLIGHTS • Walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans in the Colosseum, explore the enchanting Boboli Gardens in Florence, and visit a traditional mask-making workshop in Venice. • In the Veneto region, visit a prehistoric cave where National Geographic–funded excavations have uncovered fascinating clues about the lives of Neanderthals. • Explore the charming coastal villages of the Cinque Terre. • Try your hand at making pasta at a family-run farm; and sample gelato, focaccia, and other local delicacies.
KID to KID CONNECTION On this family expedition, kids will meet their pen pals in Venice, where the city’s narrow lanes, canals, and bridges provide a backdrop for a fun treasure hunt through the city. Kids will team up with their new friends and follow clues in Italian and English—learning about local legends, famous artists, and other historic highlights of the city.
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10 DAYS
DAY 1 ROME, ITALY
Benvenuti in Italia! Upon arrival in Rome, transfer to our hotel. Our adventure kicks off with a merenda, or afternoon snack, at a local café. Gather for a welcome dinner this evening. NH COLLECTION ROMA PALAZZO CINQUECENTO (D) DAY 2 ROME
Venture into the world of the ancient Romans— including the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the subterranean ruins of the Stadium of Domitian. Head to the medieval neighborhood of Trastevere to search for pizza ingredients, then attend a pizza-making party. (B, D) DAY 3 ROME
Discover Rome’s treasures with an art historian, visiting the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, and the Pantheon. Take a tour of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, and see Michelangelo’s famous frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. (B, L) DAYS 4 AND 5 SIENA/FLORENCE
Travel north to Siena. Explore the Piazza del 6
agriturismo, in the countryside near Parma. Continue north to the Veneto region, home to one of Europe’s most significant prehistoric archaeological sites: Grotta di Fumane. Explore the site and learn about National Geographic– sponsored excavations here. Arrive in Venice and enjoy a private after-hours visit to Basilica di San Marco. VENICE PALAZZO GIOVANELLI (B, L, D) DAY 9 VENICE
Meet our Italian pen pals for a fun treasure hunt through the city. Later, get a hands-on introduction to Venetian mask-making at an artisan studio and visit a squero, or gondola boatyard. Enjoy a special farewell dinner this evening. (B, L, D) Campo and the 13th-century Duomo, then head to the hilltop town of Chiusdino to learn about its history with a poet. Continue to Florence and venture into the city’s charming streets. Gaze up at the iconic Duomo and visit Palazzo Vecchio, enjoying a reenactment of Medici court life. Wander through the Giardino di Boboli and view Michelangelo’s famous “David” at the Accademia. PALAZZO CASTRI 1874 (B, L; B, D)
DAY 10 VENICE
After breakfast, depart for the airport and connect with your flight home. (B)
DAY 6 PISA/LUCCA/LEVANTO
Head toward the Ligurian coast, stopping to climb Pisa’s legendary leaning tower. Continue to Lucca and explore this Tuscan town on your own. Arrive in Levanto this evening. PARK HOTEL ARGENTO (B, L, D) DAY 7 CINQUE TERRE
Take a short train ride to Riomaggiore, one of the five villages that make up the beautiful Cinque Terre, or “five lands.” Visit nearby Manarola, then cruise to picturesque Vernazza. Conclude our excursion in Monterosso al Mare with a gelato treat and freshly made focaccia. (B, L, D) DAY 8 EMILIA ROMAGNA/GROTTA DI FUMANE/VENICE
Learn to make pasta at a family-run farm, or
DAT ES AN D P RICES 2017: June 24–July 3 • July 15–24 July 29–Aug. 7 ADULTS
$6,590
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$6,390
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,100. Airfare to Rome and return from Venice is not included in the expedition cost.
CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/FAMILY
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ICELAND
HIGHLIGHTS • Explore waterfalls, fjords, caves, volcanoes, and rocky islands in the geological wonderland of Iceland. • Visit the soaring Látrabjarg cliffs, Europe’s westernmost point and home to one of the largest colonies of nesting seabirds in Europe. • Go spelunking in a massive cave system formed by lava and water, and meet a leading volcanologist to learn about Iceland’s bubbling, steaming, erupting landscapes. • Hear riveting tales of elves, ghosts, and sea monsters from Iceland’s rich folklore tradition.
KID to KID CONNECTION Kids will meet up with their Icelandic pen pals in the capital of Reykjavík. They’ll play Kubb, an old Viking game, and a friendly round of soccer before sharing ice cream treats as they get to know each other better.
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8 DAYS
DAY 1 REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND
Arrive in Iceland and take a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon. Check in to our Reykjavík hotel and set out on an afternoon walking tour. Photograph colorful houses and the Hallgrímskirkja church, and visit the Reykjavík City Museum. Then meet our pen pals for an afternoon of fun activities before gathering this evening for a welcome dinner. ICELANDAIR HOTEL REYKJAVÍK MARINA (B, D) DAY 2 GOLDEN CIRCLE
Travel to Thingvellir National Park, situated in the rift valley between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. This is the birthplace of the Althing, the world’s oldest and stillgoverning legislative assembly. Here, adults tour the old parliament grounds while kids participate in a project with a park ranger. Continue to Geysir, which shoots water 90 feet into the air. At Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls,” take a ridge-top hike to witness the force of its cascades. (B, L, D)
Or, visit a dairy farm to learn how Icelandic yogurt is made. HOTEL EGILSEN (B, L, D DAILY) DAY 7 SNÆFELLSJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK/ REYKJAVÍK
Head into Snæfellsjökull National Park and listen to local folktales as we hike the ArnarstapiHellnar Trail, with views of lava formations. Go spelunking in a lava-formed cave system to find a secret cavern deep within the Earth. Later, return to Rekjavík for a farewell dinner. HILTON REYKJAVÍK NORDICA (B, L, D) DAY 8 REYKJAVÍK
DAY 3 WESTFJÖRDS PENINSULA
This morning, saddle up for a ride on an Icelandic horse. Or, relax in the village of Hveragerði, with its bubbling and hissing geothermal site located right in the center of town. Transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)
Fly to the Westfjörds Peninsula and discover a pristine landscape of fjords and fishing villages tucked into tiny harbors. Take a guided walk through Ísafjörður and visit the Westfjörds Heritage Museum. Take a boat trip to the island of Vigur, home to thousands of seabirds, and taste traditional treats at a 19th-century farmstead before returning to Ísafjörður. HOTEL HORN (B, L, D) DAY 4 ARNARFJÖRÐUR/PATREKSFJÖRÐUR
Travel to Hrafnseyri, birthplace of Iceland’s national hero, Jón Sigurðsson. Hike to the top of some of Iceland’s striking waterfalls, even slipping behind the Göngufoss falls. After a picnic lunch, continue to Patreksfjörður. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the city. FOSSHOTEL WESTFJORDS (B, L, D) DAYS 5 AND 6 LÁTRABJARG CLIFFS/ STYKKISHÓLMUR
Head to the soaring Látrabjarg cliffs, Europe’s westernmost point. Spot puffins and other resident birds, then take a ferry to Stykkishólmur. The next day, go on a private tour of the Eldfjallasafn Volcano Museum, led by renowned volcanologist and National Geographic grantee Haraldur Sigurðsson. Explore the coast via fishing boat, and enjoy a sushi buffet straight from the sea!
DAT ES AN D P RICES 2017: June 24–July 1 • July 15–22 • July 29–Aug. 5 ADULTS
$6,990
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$6,790
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,000. Airfare to/from Reykjavík and within Iceland is not included in the expedition cost. The group flight within Iceland is $300 (subject to change).
CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/FAMILY
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JAPAN
HIGHLIGHTS • Explore the temples and shrines of Tokyo and ancient Nara, and bicycle through Kyoto’s geisha districts. • Discover the wonders of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, and see a remarkable collection of Picasso’s works at the renowned Hakone Open-Air Museum. • Try your hand at taiko drumming, calligraphy, and handicrafts; and take part in an authentic tea ceremony. • Stay at a traditional ryokan in the 17thcentury town of Takayama, and sit down to a multi-course kaiseki feast.
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9 DAYS
DAY 1 TOKYO, JAPAN
Arrive in Tokyo and transfer to our hotel. Gather tonight for a welcome dinner. HOTEL NEW OTANI (D) DAY 2 TOKYO
Begin the day by exploring Meiji Jingu, a shrine dedicated to the spirit of Emperor Meiji. Travel by private boat along the Sumida River to Asakusa, enjoying lunch on board. Upon arrival, explore the seventh-century Senso Ji—the city’s oldest temple. Then get to know our pen pals during a taiko drumming lesson. (B, L, D)
KID to KID CONNECTION
DAY 3 FUJI-HAKONE-IZU NATIONAL PARK/ TOKYO
Meet our pen pals for a taiko drumming lesson in Tokyo. Discover the ancient roots of taiko in Japanese religion and folklore, and watch a lively demonstration by expert percussionists. Then pick up a pair of bachi (drumsticks) to try your hand at drumming. Learn how to keep the beat while creating big, bold sounds alongside our new friends.
Situated in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Hakone is renowned for its hot springs and views of nearby Mount Fuji. Visit the famous Hakone Open-Air Museum, which encompasses many beautiful acres of pathways, gardens, and ponds. Discover an array of modern and contemporary sculptures—including masterpieces by Auguste Rodin and Henry Moore—and explore an impressive collection of Pablo Picasso’s works. Climb and play
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the morning discovering ancient Nara. Visit the Todai-ji temple, the world’s largest wooden building, and Kasuga Taisha, Nara’s most celebrated shrine. Wander amid the gardens of Nara Park, home to herds of freely roaming deer. HOTEL GRANVIA KYOTO OR KYOTO TOKYU HOTEL (B, L, D DAILY) DAY 8 KYOTO
Explore Kyoto by bicycle and visit two of its geisha districts. Visit the Imperial Palace and its gardens where nobles once strolled. Don a kimono for a Japanese tea ceremony, then take part in a calligraphy lesson with a local calligrapher. Enjoy some leisure time in the city, followed by a farewell dinner. (B, L, D) amid interactive installations, and cap off your visit by soaking your feet in a soothing hot spring bath. Return to Tokyo for dinner this evening. (B, L, D)
DAY 9 KYOTO/OSAKA
After breakfast, transfer to the airport in Osaka for your flight home. (B)
DAYS 4 AND 5 TAKAYAMA
Board one of Japan’s iconic bullet trains for an unforgettable ride by way of Nagoya and through the Hida mountains to the charming 17th-century town of Takayama. The next day, explore Takayama’s lively market along the Miya River, and meander through the narrow Edo-style streets of the historic district, passing wooden merchant houses and sake breweries. Later, travel to Hida Folk Village, an open-air museum featuring traditional farmhouses and buildings from the region. Watch demonstrations of Japanese handicrafts, and make your own sarubobo, or “monkey baby”—Takayama’s mascot. Sit down to a traditional multi-course kaiseki dinner at our ryokan. HONJIN HIRANOYA BEKKAN (B, L, D DAILY) DAYS 6 AND 7 KYOTO/NARA
Ride the bullet train to Kyoto, which served as the imperial capital of Japan for more than a thousand years. Explore the temples of the Higashiyama district, then test your musical skills during a festive evening of karaoke. The next day, spend
DAT ES AN D P RICES 2017: June 25–July 3 • July 9–17 • July 23–31 ADULTS
$6,390
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$6,190
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $800. Airfare to Tokyo and return from Osaka is not included in the expedition cost.
CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/FAMILY
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TANZANIA
HIGHLIGHTS • Experience the thrill of a wildlife safari during five days in the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater, and discover lions, leopards, elephants, zebras, and colorful birds with local guides. • Get immersed in Maasai culture on visits with warriors, artisans, and schoolchildren, and explore a traditional Maasai boma. • Take bush walks with rangers and examine fossils at the famed Olduvai Gorge. • Hike through the wilderness of a private nature reserve with our rangers for an optional night of authentic bush camping.
KID to KID CONNECTION Spend time in a Maasai village during our adventure and get acquainted with your pen pals at the local school. Learn phrases in Swahili and the language of the Maasai, play a game of soccer, and teach our new friends some traditional American games.
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I T I N E RARY
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9 DAYS
DAY 1 ARUSHA, TANZANIA
Karibu! Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport in Tanzania and transfer to our hotel in Arusha. LAKE DULUTI SERENA HOTEL DAYS 2 AND 3 EASTERN SERENGETI
Take a short flight to the eastern Serengeti and continue to a private nature refuge nicknamed “Giraffic Park.” Explore on foot or by safari vehicle, meet young Maasai warriors, visit a Maasai women’s collaborative, and hear folktales told by a Maasai storyteller. Cap off the day with a a thrilling nighttime safari. The next morning, take a bush walk with a wildlife expert and visit a Maasai village school. Kids will get to know their pen pals, participating in a variety of fun activities. Venture into a typical boma settlement, and “jump” into a traditional Maasai dance. If you wish, hike into the wilderness with our rangers for a night of authentic bush camping under the stars. EASTERN SERENGETI NYUMBA CAMP (B, L, D DAILY)
DAY 9 NGORONGORO HIGHLANDS/ARUSHA
Today, meet an Iraqw storyteller and his artisan wife at their home, visit an art center, and browse local handicrafts. Travel to Arusha and relax in day rooms before heading to the airport for your flight home. MOUNT MERU HOTEL (B, L)
DAYS 4, 5, AND 6 SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
Enjoy three days on safari in the legendary Serengeti, observing a mind-boggling array of animals. Float over the savanna on an optional early-morning hot-air balloon ride, or spot wildlife on a dawn game drive. Learn the game of bao, try Tanzanian cuisine, and identify animal prints with trackers. CENTRAL SERENGETI NYUMBA CAMP (B, L, D DAILY) DAY 7 NGORONGORO HIGHLANDS
Examine fossils at Olduvai Gorge, where Louis and Mary Leakey discovered Homo habilis remains on a National Geographic–sponsored expedition. Then settle into a coffee estate on the outer slopes of the Ngorongoro Crater. Relax on the veranda, visit the farm animals, or ride a bike to the nearby village. GIBB’S FARM (B, L, D) DAY 8 NGORONGORO CRATER
Descend 2,000 feet to the crater floor and spend a full day on safari surrounded by some 25,000 wild animals! Later, gather around a fire to hear tembo (elephant) folktales before our farewell dinner. Enjoy a rare chance to spot nocturnal bush babies tonight. (B, L, D)
DAT ES AN D P RICES 2017: Mar. 12–20 • June 25–July 3 • July 16–24 July 30–Aug. 7 • Dec. 23–31 Dec. 27, 2017–Jan. 4, 2018 ADULTS
$6,590
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$6,390
Prices are per person double occupancy. There is an additional tax of $160 per person, due to changes in Tanzanian VAT regulations. For a single room, add $800. On the December departures, there is an additional holiday surcharge of $300 per person. The optional bush camp accommodations on Day 3 are $300 per person. Airfare to/from Arusha and within Tanzania is not included in the expedition cost. The group flight within Tanzania is $300 (subject to change).
CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/FAMILY
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SOUTH AFRICA
HIGHLIGHTS • Ascend to the top of Table Mountain in a revolving aerial cable car. • Learn about traditional tracking skills and medicinal properties of plants with San hunter-gatherers, and try your hand at painting pottery with local artisans. • Walk among endangered African penguins at Boulders Beach. • Follow trackers on a wildlife identification adventure, and encounter lions, rhinos, giraffes, elephants, and much more in Kruger National Park and Kapama Private Game Reserve.
KID to KID CONNECTION On some departures, the Kid to Kid Connection will take place at a cultural center in Langa and feature traditional music and drumming. On other departures, pen pals will meet at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and explore the garden’s unique flora together.
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9 DAYS
DAY 1 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Welkom! Arrive in Cape Town and gather for a welcome dinner. SOUTHERN SUN THE CULLINAN (L, D) DAY 2 CAPE TOWN
Start the day with an aerial cable car ride to the 3,560-foot summit of Table Mountain. Then visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, where we’ll join a local expert to view some of the more than 7,000 exotic plant species that flourish here. Visit the settlement of Langa to learn about the history of apartheid. Join local artists to paint pottery, and participate in a drumming lesson and performance. (B, L, D) DAY 3 CAPE TOWN
Trace the coast of the Cape Peninsula on a spectacular drive to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, where we’ll look for wildlife like Bontebok antelope and baboons. Hike to the lighthouse at Cape Point, and walk amid hundreds of African penguins at Boulders Beach. (B, L, D)
DAY 8 KAPAMA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
Head off on a morning game drive in search of the “big five” and other species that roam here: giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, hyena, kudu, antelope, the elusive cheetah, and many more. Take a bushwalk to identify signs of wildlife, or relax at the pool. (B, L, D) DAY 9 KAPAMA/JOHANNESBURG
Enjoy a final game drive this morning. After breakfast, transfer to the airport in Hoedspruit for our flight to Johannesburg, where we connect with evening flights home. (B)
DAY 4 CAPE TOWN
At the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds, take a tour of the chick-rearing and rehabilitation areas for a closeup look at African penguins and other species. Meet hunter-gatherer San people at !Khwa ttu, a San culture and education center, and listen to their ancient click language. Shoot a bow and arrow and learn about ancient hunting, tracking, and jewelry-making techniques. (B, L, D) DAYS 5 AND 6 KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
Travel to the greater Kruger National Park and set out with trackers on our first safari, looking for the “big five”: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. The next day, embark on a morning game drive, followed by an afternoon bush walk with a tracker or another game drive. KAMBAKU RIVER SANDS (B, L, D DAILY) DAY 7 KAPAMA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
Drive west to the Kapama Private Game Reserve. En route, pay a visit to the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre to see wildlife that has been injured or abandoned, and learn about the rehabilitation of resident animals. Arrive at Kapama for a late afternoon game drive. KAPAMA SOUTHERN CAMP (B, L, D)
DAT ES AN D P RICES 2017: June 25–July 3 • July 23–31 • Aug. 6–14 Dec. 27, 2017–Jan. 4, 2018 ADULTS
$6,990
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$6,790
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $800. On the December departure, there is an additional holiday surcharge of $300 per person. Airfare to Cape Town and return from Johannesburg and airfare within South Africa are not included in the expedition cost. The group flights within South Africa are $700 (subject to change).
CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/FAMILY
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GALÁPAGOS ODYSSEY
HIGHLIGHTS
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10 DAYS
• Discover the wildlife and geology of the Galápagos Islands on a family adventure aboard the National Geographic Endeavour II or National Geographic Islander.
Arrive in Guayaquil and transfer to our hotel. HILTON COLÓN GUAYAQUIL
• Cruise to pristine islands and walk among animals and birds unfazed by your presence.
DAY 2 GALÁPAGOS
• Snorkel amid sea turtles, quirky penguins, and playful sea lions; gaze into the old eyes of a giant Galápagos tortoise; and sit among a colorful band of marine iguanas. • Participate in special kids’ activities, such as stargazing, scavenger hunts, drawing and poetry workshops, and knot-tying lessons.
EXPEDITION TEAM Our diverse team of experts will be joined by National Geographic Fellow and marine biologist Greg Marshall on the June 24 departure. Greg invented the Crittercam, a system of animal-borne cameras that capture video showing the world through animals’ eyes. 16
DAY 1 GUAYAQUIL, ECUADOR
This morning, fly to the Galápagos Islands and board our comfortable expedition ship. After lunch, we begin our exploration of the islands. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ENDEAVOUR II OR NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ISLANDER (B, L, D) DAYS 3–8 EXPLORING GALÁPAGOS
Our itinerary is flexible, allowing you to take advantage of this extraordinary wildlife sanctuary. You will have the opportunity to go on nature walks with our team of naturalist guides, swim, snorkel, and explore the waters by kayak or Zodiac. (B, L, D DAILY) Itineraries vary and are subject to Galápagos National Park regulations. All expeditions travel between Isla San Cristóbal and Isla Baltra, and include Isla Santa Cruz and a selection of the following islands:
Isla Floreana Snorkel among sea lions, or peer into an underwater world in a glass-bottom Zodiac (Endeavour II only). Those interested can visit Post Office Bay—if you see a letter addressed to someone who lives near you, the tradition is to deliver it by hand. Isla Española See Darwin’s finches, boobies, and waved albatrosses in this birder’s paradise. Walk among vivid green and red marine iguanas, and observe sea lions up close on a pristine white-sand beach. DAY 9 GALÁPAGOS/GUAYAQUIL
Isla Bartolomé Walk to the top of Bartolomé’s volcanic cone for a stunning view of Pinnacle Rock and the surrounding beaches. You may also have the opportunity to swim with Galápagos penguins.
After breakfast, disembark the ship and fly to Guayaquil. The evening is at your leisure. HILTON COLÓN GUAYAQUIL (B) DAY 10 GUAYAQUIL
Depart Guayaquil this morning. (B)
Isla Santiago Explore a series of tide pools and underwater caverns, seeking out Galápagos fur seals, marine iguanas, sea lions, and Sally Lightfoot crabs. Isla Santa Cruz Santa Cruz is home to the Charles Darwin Research Station. Learn about the Darwin Foundation and their giant Galápagos tortoise breeding program. Later, travel into the highlands where wild tortoises forage. Isla Isabela Spend the morning on the lookout for dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and the unusual ocean sunfish, the Mola mola. Explore caves and hidden lagoons by Zodiac, and snorkel among sea turtles. Isla Fernandina Discover the marine iguana haven of Punta Espinoza as we hike over lava flows. Galápagos hawks and sea lion nurseries are also found here.
DATE S A ND P RI C ES 2017: June 24–July 3 • June 30–July 9 July 1–10 • July 22–31 • Aug. 5–14 ADULTS
From $6,960
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
From $6,460
Prices are per person, double occupancy. Airfare to/ from Guayaquil and within Ecuador is not included in the expedition cost. The round-trip group flights between Guayaquil and the Galápagos are $520 for adults and $260 for children under 12 (subject to change). THIS TRIP IS OFFERED IN ASSOCIATION WITH LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS.
CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/FAMILY
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COSTA RICA
HIGHLIGHTS • Enjoy an unforgettable day of adventure in and around the treetops and volcanic canyon landscapes of Río Blanco. • Go floating and zip-lining through tropical forests, surrounded by an astonishing variety of wildlife. • Eat lunch in the National Theatre of Costa Rica, have dinner in a tree house, and visit a coffee plantation. • See Costa Rica’s wild cats at a rescue center established to help orphaned or wounded animals including jaguars and ocelots.
KID to KID CONNECTION In the village of Colonia Libertad, kids will get to know their “tico” pen pals during an afternoon of fun activities. They’ll join artisans to learn how to make soap using local herbs, and teach their new friends how to play basketball at hoops that have been donated to the community. 18
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7 DAYS
DAY 1 SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA
¡Bienvenidos! Your tropical adventure begins! Meet fellow travelers and our expedition leaders—both “ticos,” or native Costa Ricans—at a welcome dinner. INTERCONTINENTAL SAN JOSÉ (D) DAY 2 SAN JOSÉ/MONTEVERDE
Explore the beauty of San José, including the National Theatre of Costa Rica, and have lunch at its lovely restaurant. Then head north to the cloud forests of Monteverde. Go on a twilight forest walk as nocturnal creatures awaken. EL ESTABLO (B, L, D) DAY 3 MONTEVERDE
Hike with a local expert through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Spot some of the 500-plus species of orchids and look for wildlife such as howler monkeys, tapirs, sloths, snakes and frogs, and colorful birds and butterflies. See how coffee is grown and roasted on a coffee plantation, and ride in an ox-drawn cart. Or, if you feel adventurous, ride a zip line through the forest canopy! Have dinner tonight in a tree house. (B, L, D)
and take a tractor-pulled cart ride among macadamia orchards, tropical flowers, and groves of cacao trees. Then spend the afternoon at Colonia Libertad, a farming community that maintains a traditional lifestyle closely connected to nature. Kids meet their pen pals at the local school, play basketball, plant trees together, and forge new friendships. Gather for a farewell dinner tonight. (B, L, D) DAY 7 LIBERIA
Transfer to the airport in Liberia for your flight home this morning. (B)
DAY 4 GUANACASTE
Head to Guanacaste Province, full of fast rivers, volcanic scenery, and deep canyons. Float on the Corobicí River through the tropical dry forest, keeping your eyes peeled for otters, crocodiles, and monkeys. See wild cats up close at the Las Pumas Rescue Center, home to jaguars, pumas, ocelots, and jaguarundis. Our home for the next three nights is hidden away on a river nestled deep in a protected forest. RÍO PERDIDO (B, L, D) DAY 5 RÍO PERDIDO
Spend the day on an excursion in and around the canyons of Río Blanco—a wild, arid landscape of hot springs and age-old rock formations. Go on an aerial adventure amid the forest canopy: clamber on canyon platforms, walk across hanging bridges, zip-line across the rushing river, and swing and hike through the treetops and canyons. After lunch, opt for a scenic hike with opportunities to swim in the river and soak in thermal pools with extraordinary views. (B, L, D) DAY 6 COLONIA LIBERTAD
We’re off to the tropics today. At a sustainabilityfocused ranch, wander through an organic garden
DAT ES AN D P RICES 2017: Mar. 11–17 • June 10–16 • July 8–14 Aug. 5–11 • Dec. 16–22 Dec. 26, 2017–Jan. 1, 2018 ADULTS
$3,890
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$3,690
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $800. On the December 26 departure, there is an additional holiday surcharge of $300 per person. Airfare to San José and return from Liberia is not included in the expedition cost.
CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/FAMILY
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ALASKA VOYAGE
HIGHLIGHTS • Spot black and brown bears and breaching humpback whales while traveling aboard the National Geographic Sea Lion or the new National Geographic Quest. • Glide in an expedition landing craft among icebergs, and explore by kayak. • Learn about Alaska’s vibrant marine life with our undersea specialist. • Participate in kid-friendly activities, such as scavenger hunts and special expedition landing craft excursions, and earn a Junior Ranger Badge in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve.
EXPEDITION TEAM Filmmaker, producer, and scientist Birgit Buhleier will join the July 2 departure. Birgit played an integral role in the evolution of National Geographic’s Crittercam, a video camera system that has provided fascinating insights into the daily lives of hundreds of species. 20
I T I N E RARY
|
8 DAYS
DAY 1 SEATTLE, WASHINGTON/JUNEAU, ALASKA
Fly from Seattle to Juneau and visit the imposing Mendenhall Glacier. Embark the ship this afternoon. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC SEA LION OR NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC QUEST (D) DAY 2 TRACY ARM FJORD—FORDS TERROR WILDERNESS
Enter Tracy Arm, a 22-mile-long fjord where waterfalls cascade from towering, glacially carved walls. We’ll maneuver among large icebergs, watching for feeding bears on the shoreline. (B, L, D) DAY 3 PETERSBURG
Discover the town of Petersburg on Mitkof Island, founded more than 100 years ago by Norwegian fishermen. Later, cruise out to look for whales in Frederick Sound; or explore LeConte Bay, a virtual sculpture garden of grounded icebergs. (B, L, D) DAY 4 EXPLORING FREDERICK SOUND AND CHATHAM STRAIT
These waters often make for great whale watch-
massive brown bear is found, along with perhaps the world’s highest density of nesting bald eagles. If conditions permit, explore the coastlines of some remote islands by kayak. Enjoy a farewell dinner this evening. (B, L, D) DAY 8 SITKA/SEATTLE, WASHINGTON
After breakfast, disembark in Sitka, a unique town with a strong Russian heritage. Visit St. Michael’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral, a striking testament to Alaska’s roots prior to the U.S. purchase of the territory from Russia. In the early afternoon, transfer to the airport for the flight to Seattle. (B)
ing. Look for Steller sea lions hauled out on the rocky islands that dot the channels. Take a walk with naturalists along a quiet forest trail, or kayak in the tiny coves in this area. (B, L, D) DAY 5 ICY STRAIT AND THE INIAN ISLANDS
Explore the Inian Islands, where an abundance of Steller sea lions and sea otters reside. We’ll search for whales in the rich waters of Icy Strait and choose the perfect spot around Chichagof Island to hike and kayak. (B, L, D) DAY 6 GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE
Spend the day exploring magnificent Glacier Bay, where enormous glaciers flow from the ice fields far above. Watch and hear glaciers calving as tons of ice crash into the sea. Venture near islets that are home to seabirds such as puffins and guillemots, and look for humpback whales and orcas. Walk ashore among towering spruce trees and meadows of wildflowers. (B, L, D) DAY 7 EXPLORING ALASKA’S ISLANDS, BAYS, AND FJORDS
Beachcomb, hike forest trails, explore by kayak, or cruise along Admiralty Island, where the
DAT ES AN D P RICES 2017: July 2–9 • July 23–30 • July 29–Aug. 5 ADULTS
From $5,890
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
From $5,390
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For single-cabin pricing, please visit our website. Airfare to/from Seattle and between Seattle and Alaska is not included in the expedition cost. The group flights from Seattle to Juneau and return from Sitka, or vice versa, are $350. THIS TRIP IS OFFERED IN ASSOCIATION WITH LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS.
CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/FAMILY
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GRAND CANYON, BRYCE CANYON, AND ZION NATIONAL PARKS
HIGHLIGHTS Encounter the incredible geological treasures of the American Southwest with your family on an expedition to Grand Canyon, Zion, and Bryce Canyon National Parks. Explore the North Rim of the Grand Canyon on foot or ride mules like the old pioneers. Hike amid Zion’s wonderland of slot canyons, hanging gardens, and waterfalls. And wind your way through Bryce Canyon’s whimsical maze of red rock spires. Stay in historic park lodges with Old West atmosphere, and take part in activities and excursions geared for explorers of all ages.
EXPEDITION TEAM Along with a dynamic expedition team, a National Geographic expert will accompany each departure. Geologist, wilderness guide, and writer Christa Sadler will join the July 29 departure. Christa has appeared in National Geographic magazine in connection with her fossil research in the Grand Canyon and Mongolia. 22
I T I N E RARY
|
8 DAYS
DAY 1 ST. GEORGE, UTAH DAY 2 ST. GEORGE/GRAND CANYON, ARIZONA DAY 3 NORTH RIM OF THE GRAND CANYON DAY 4 GRAND CANYON/ZION NATIONAL PARK, UTAH DAY 5 ZION NATIONAL PARK DAY 6 ZION/BRYCE CANYON DAY 7 BRYCE CANYON DAY 8 BRYCE CANYON/ST. GEORGE
DAT ES AN D P RICES 2017: June 24–July 1 • July 29–Aug. 5 ADULTS
$4,495
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$4,045
Prices are per person, double occupancy. Price does not include a 6.25% Utah state sales tax. For a single room, add $1,050. Airfare to/from St. George is not included in the expedition cost.
YELLOWSTONE AND GRAND TETON
HIGHLIGHTS Explore two of America’s greatest natural wonders: Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. On a variety of excursions designed for families, discover Yellowstone’s mud pots, geysers, and colorful pools, and look for bison, bears, elk, eagles, and coyotes. Hike along the edge of the spectacular Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and witness iconic Old Faithful’s thrilling eruption. Embark on a scavenger hunt in search of wildlife and wildflowers, then head south to the Teton Range. Hop on a boat on Jenny Lake, and enjoy a scenic float on the Snake River.
EXPEDITION TEAM National Geographic expert Jeremy Schmidt has worked in and around Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons for more than 30 years, including stints as a park ranger; a naturalist; a photographer; and an author, writing books and articles for National Geographic. Jeremy will join both July departures.
I T I N E RARY
|
8 DAYS
DAY 1 BOZEMAN, MONTANA DAY 2 BOZEMAN/MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, WYOMING DAY 3 LAMAR VALLEY DAY 4 GRAND CANYON OF THE YELLOWSTONE DAY 5 UPPER, MIDWAY, AND LOWER GEYSER BASINS DAY 6 GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK/ JACKSON DAY 7 GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK DAY 8 SNAKE RIVER/JACKSON
DAT ES AN D P RICES 2017: June 24–July 1 • July 15–22 July 29–Aug. 5 • Aug. 5–12 ADULTS
$4,650
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$4,185
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,200. Airfare to Bozeman and return from Jackson is not included in the expedition cost.
CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/FAMILY
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MORE FAMILY TRIPS
Visit our website to see detailed itineraries for these and even more trips.
YOSEMITE
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK Discover the wonders of Glacier National Park on a variety of excursions designed for all ages. Seek out wildlife like elk, wolverines, and black bears; and stay in historic lodges. Then head north into the Canadian Rockies and spend a day exploring Waterton Lakes National Park. We’ll cap off the trip along the Flathead River on a rafting adventure the whole family will love.
California’s Sierra Nevadas split into fantastic formations at Yosemite National Park. Astonish your family with all that is colossal here: from the soaring wall of El Capitan to ancient sequoias that reach into the sky. Discover the park with naturalists, and learn about the native people who once inhabited this region. Hear the stories of photographer Ansel Adams and conservationist John Muir, two legendary men who cherished— and helped protect—the wonders of Yosemite. DAT ES AN D P RICES
DATES A ND PR IC ES
7 DAYS � 2017: July 26–Aug. 1 • Aug. 9–15
7 DAYS � 2017: July 17–23 • Aug. 7–13 ADULTS
$4,895
ADULTS
$4,995
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$4,405
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$4,495
EXPEDITION TEAM Photographer Drew Rush joins the August 7 departure. Drew has worked in America’s national parks and has produced photographic projects for National Geographic magazine. 24
EXPEDITION TEAM Geographer, educator, and author Stephen F. Cunha joins the August 9 departure. Stephen spent ten years as a national park ranger in Yosemite and Alaska.
NOTE: All prices are per person, double occupancy. Single rates are also available. Airfare is not included.
ALASKA: DENALI TO PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND In the shadow of Denali, set out on a family expedition into the heart of Alaska’s untouched wilderness. Go hiking with naturalists in Denali National Park and Preserve to search for moose, bears, caribou, wolves, and Dall sheep; and look for wildflowers and animals on a scavenger hunt. Stroll through old frontier towns, visit a wildlife conservation center, and spot whales and other marine life on a cruise through Prince William Sound. This trip operates under a Special Use Permit in the Chugach National Forest. Backroads is an Equal Opportunity Provider.
DATES A ND PR IC ES
PERU Introduce your family to the mysteries of the Inca and the vibrant traditions of the Andes. Venture into Inca fortresses and towns built of giant boulders, and experience the colorful swirl of a village market. Ride a paso horse, try your hand at weaving, and go hiking among ancient ruins. A spectacular train ride brings us deep into the Andean peaks to Machu Picchu. Spend a full day exploring this sacred Inca citadel, which was lost to history until it was rediscovered by Hiram Bingham in 1911 and excavated with support from the National Geographic Society. DATE S A ND P RI C ES
8 DAYS � 2017: June 30–July 7 • July 11–18 Aug. 11–18 ADULTS
$6,250
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$5,625
7 DAYS � 2017: June 24–30 • July 15–21 Aug. 5–11 • Dec. 22–28 Dec. 27, 2017–Jan. 2, 2018 ADULTS
From $4,690
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
From $4,490
EXPEDITION TEAM Naturalist Carl Tobin joins the July 11 departure. Carl is a writer and associate professor of environmental science and outdoor studies at Alaska Pacific University, Anchorage.
KID to KID CONNECTION Meet our pen pals at a weaving center in Chinchero, and work together on a creative art project, sharing phrases in Spanish, Quecha, and English. Then head outside for a fun game of soccer.
CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/FAMILY
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MORE FAMILY TRIPS
Visit our website to see detailed itineraries for these and even more trips.
DENMARK & NORWAY
SCOTLAND
From majestic mountains and fjords to lively seafaring cities, discover the Nordic charms of Denmark and Norway. In Copenhagen, trace the legacy of fairy-tale writer Hans Christian Andersen, and meet a National Geographic grantee who is using science and art to create replicas of prehistoric creatures. Examine ancient Viking ships in Oslo, ride the world-famous Flåm Railway past thundering waterfalls, and go biking in Bergen’s mountains.
Birthplace of John Muir, and home to the fictional school Hogwarts of Harry Potter fame, Scotland intrigues with legend and myth, mystical landscapes, and enchanting castles. Paddle a canoe on Loch Tay and sail on Loch Ness, hearing tales about its legendary monster. Kayak with seals, visit present-day Highlander villages, and follow park rangers through the glens and gorges of three beautiful parks. DAT ES AN D P RICES
DATES A ND PR IC ES 9 DAYS � 2017: June 24–July 2 � July 15–23 July 29–Aug. 6
8 DAYS � 2017: June 18–25 • July 16–23 July 30–Aug. 6
ADULTS
$6,590
ADULTS
$5,690
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$6,390
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$5,490
KID to KID CONNECTION
KID to KID CONNECTION
Meet our pen pals at Oslo’s famous Frogner Park—a wonderland of giant sculptures, fountains, ponds, and gardens. We’ll learn about Norwegian culture as we explore the park together and enjoy a game of soccer in Norway’s largest playground.
Kids will meet their pen pals in Pitlochry and celebrate Scottish culture through Highland games specially arranged for kids, including a haggis toss, a welly (gum boot) hurl, tug-owar, and races. Top off the experience with bagpipe music and Scottish dancing!
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NOTE: All prices are per person, double occupancy. Single rates are also available. Airfare is not included.
IRELAND
FRANCE
Delve into the verdant landscapes of Ireland’s west coast as we explore mountains and serene lakes, spectacular cliffs and beaches, and fishing villages and castles from Sligo to Connemara. Hear stories of legendary pirates and Celtic heroes, meet lively musicians, and discover prehistoric ruins on hikes and bike rides along the coast. Try your hand at deep-sea fishing, falconry, and pottery. From windswept isles to beautiful green valleys, immerse yourselves in the myths, magic, and vivid culture of Ireland’s wild west.
Iconic and intimate, full of history and vibrant with modern life, France is an enchanting destination to explore as a family. Go beyond the wellworn tourist track to discover this magical place, from the engine room at the Eiffel Tower to a private lavender farm in Provence. Glide down the Seine in a glass-enclosed boat, viewing the iconic sites of Paris. Take a family-friendly tour of the Louvre, visit the studio of Paul Cézanne in Aix-en-Provence, and walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans across the Pont du Gard.
DATES A ND PR IC ES
DAT ES AN D P RICES
8 DAYS � 2017: Mar. 12–19 • June 18–25 July 9–16 • July 30–Aug. 6
7 DAYS � 2017: June 18–24 • July 16–22 July 30–Aug. 5
ADULTS
$5,390
ADULTS
$5,390
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$5,190
CHILDREN (AGES 7–17)
$5,190
KID to KID CONNECTION
KID to KID CONNECTION
Kids will meet their pen pals at the Coleman Irish Music and Cultural Centre in County Sligo and kick up their heels together as they take part in an interactive Irish step dancing demonstration.
Join our pen pals at a local bakery for a hands-on baking experience. Work together to make typical French specialties like baguettes or macarons, and design— and bake—your very own creations!
CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/FAMILY
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PRIVATE DEPARTURES
AN ADVENTURE ALL YOUR OWN
Private departures are a great way to enjoy a memorable adventure or celebrate a special occasion—whether you’re traveling with your family of three or your extended family of fifteen. It’s easy to do: simply select a National Geographic family expedition in this catalog and tell us when you’d like to go. We’ll take care of the rest. Private departures are possible for most of our family trips. In some cases, we can also tailor the itinerary to suit your interests, whether that means adding a few extra days on safari, exploring a different hiking trail, or traveling to a destination that wasn’t on the original program. Call our family travel specialists at 1-855-662-8436 to plan your private departure.
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STUDENT EXPEDITIONS
FOR HIGH SCHOOL & MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS
Next summer, our student travelers will snorkel with marine biologists in Belize, learn photography from the pros, get involved in community service projects in Tanzania and Thailand, and more. Our expeditions for high school and middle school students ages 13 and older combine adventure and hands-on exploration— conducted alongside a National Geographic expert—in some of the most amazing parts of the world. Each of these programs is designed to inspire and empower young travelers, deepening their interests and helping them discover new passions along the way. Ecuador and the Galápagos • Costa Rica • Namibia • Australia India • Iceland • Yellowstone • Spain • Hawaii • and many more! For more information about National Geographic Student Expeditions, call 1-877-877-8759 or visit natgeostudentexpeditions.com.
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TERMS AND CONDITIONS RESPONSIBILITY National Geographic Expeditions (as defined herein) will provide educational enrichment for expeditions as outlined in its catalog and on its website (natgeoexpeditions.com) and has licensed qualified professional tour operators to organize and administer such expeditions (“Expeditions”). The designated tour operator, in turn, acts only as an agent for any transportation carrier, hotel, ground operator, or other suppliers of services connected with specific Expeditions (“Other Providers”), and the Other Providers are solely responsible and liable for providing their respective services. The passenger tickets in use by the carriers shall constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the passenger; the carriers are not responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time participants are not aboard their conveyances. National Geographic Partners, LLC d/b/a National Geographic Expeditions, its parent, subsidiaries, and their respective employees, affiliates, officers, directors, successors, representatives, assigns (collectively “National Geographic”) and its designated tour operator shall not be held liable for (A) any damage to, or loss of, property or injury to, or death of, persons occasioned directly or indirectly by an act or omission of any other provider, including but not limited to any defect in any aircraft, watercraft, or vehicle operated or provided by such other provider; and (B) any loss or damage due to delay, cancellation, or disruption in any manner caused by the laws, regulations, acts or failures to act, demands, orders, or interpositions of any government or any subdivision or agent thereof, or by acts of God, strikes, fire, flood, war, rebellion, terrorism, insurrection, sickness, quarantine, epidemics, theft, or any other cause(s) beyond their control. The participant waives any claim against National Geographic and/or its designated tour operator for any such loss, damage, injury, or death. By registering for an Expedition, the participant certifies that he/she does not have any mental, physical, or other condition or disability that would create a hazard for himself or herself or other participants. National Geographic and its designated tour operator reserve the right in their sole discretion to accept, decline to accept, or remove any participant on an Expedition. National Geographic and the tour operator reserve the right, without penalty, to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their judgment, conditions warrant or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of participants. Neither National Geographic nor its designated tour operator shall be liable for any air carrier’s cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable ticket to or from the participant’s Expedition departure city. Baggage and personal effects are at all times the sole responsibility of the participant.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS Basis of Rates: All prices are per person based on two persons sharing a room or cabin. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars. The rates are based on tariffs, currency values, airfares, and third-party charges as of catalog publication date and are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. While National Geographic will do everything possible to maintain the listed prices, if it is necessary to levy a surcharge, National Geographic reserves the right to do so, and notification will be given at the time of final invoicing. Eligibility: Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire Expedition. Some itineraries have minimum age requirements—call for more information. Included in Expedition Cost: Accommodations and meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner); educational materials; pre-departure information; entrance fees, excursions, and sightseeing noted as included in the itinerary; all gratuities except those for train or ship’s crew, unless otherwise noted on the itinerary page; ground transportation during the Expedition; transfers to and from group flights where applicable; services of National Geographic experts and/or local guides, lecturers, Expedition leaders, and any other staff; and taxes, port charges, baggage handling, and service charges. Please note: the “B, L, D” notations apply to the period during the Expedition only and do not include any meals on flights to/from the Expedition. Internal airfare is included on some international Expeditions as indicated in the itinerary. Not Included: Air transportation and related fees (except as indicated in the itinerary); activities noted as optional in the itinerary; gratuities for train or ship’s crew, unless otherwise noted on the itinerary page; passport, visa, and permit expenses; medical expenses and immunizations; baggage/accident/cancellation insurance; personal expenses, such as laundry, telephone calls, and alcoholic beverages; and any other items not specifically noted as included. Single/Shared Accommodations: A limited number of single rooms/cabins are available at an extra cost on a first-come, first-served basis. We will assist persons requesting a roommate. Participants will be notified if a suitable roommate is not available, in which case the single rate will be charged. Payments, Cancellations, and Refunds: To reserve space on an Expedition, a $500 per-person deposit is required for Expeditions that are nine days or less; a $750 per-person deposit is required for Expeditions that are ten to 15 days; and a $2,000 per-person deposit is required for Expeditions that are 16 days or more except if noted on the itinerary page. Final payment is due no later than 90 days prior to departure. Payments must be made by credit card. A participant’s reservation may be canceled if full payment has not been received by 90 days prior to departure. For reservations made within 90 days of the departure date, full payment is required when the reservation is accepted. All cancellation notices must be received in writing and will become effective as of the date of the postmark. If a participant cancels 120 days or more prior to departure, a refund less an administrative fee of 50% of the deposit will be made. Perperson charges for cancellations that occur less than 120 days prior to departure (“Cancellation Penalty Period”) are as follows: 91–119 days prior to departure: 100% of the deposit amount; 45–90 days prior to departure: 50% of the Expedition cost; 44 or fewer days prior to departure: 100% of the Expedition cost. This policy also applies to pre- and post-Expedition extensions. Any revisions made within the Cancellation Penalty Period, such as a change in departure date or choice of Expedition, are subject
to this cancellation policy. Any airline tickets issued are subject to the carrier’s refund policy. Arriving late or leaving an Expedition in progress, for any reason whatsoever, will not result in a refund, and no refunds will be made for any unused portions of an Expedition. National Geographic reserves the right to cancel any Expedition because of inadequate enrollment that makes the Expedition economically infeasible to operate or because of good-faith concerns with respect to the safety, health, or welfare of the participants. If an Expedition is canceled prior to departure, the tour operator will provide participants with a full refund of monies paid to the tour operator, except in the event that the cancellation is due to a significant event that makes it infeasible to operate the Expedition as planned, in which case the tour operator will provide participants with a refund and/or credit toward a future Expedition equivalent to monies paid to the tour operator. If National Geographic cancels the Expedition in progress, participants will receive a prorated refund based on the number of days not completed on the Expedition. Except as outlined above when National Geographic cancels an Expedition, National Geographic and its designated tour operator have no responsibility for any expenses, including any non-refundable expenses, incurred by participants in preparing for a cancelled Expedition or for any additional arrangements should participants embark prior to the scheduled group departure date. Trip-cancellation insurance is available at an additional cost and is strongly recommended. For more information about and to enroll in an option available through Travel Insurance Services, visit the “Travel Insurance” section of our website at natgeoexpeditions.com. Itinerary Changes: The itineraries and staff presented in the catalog or on the website are subject to modification and change by National Geographic or its designated tour operator. Every reasonable effort will be made to operate programs as planned, but alterations may still occur after final itineraries are sent. Documentation: Participants are responsible for obtaining any documents required for their participation in the Expedition, such as a valid passport, all visas, vaccination certificates, and any other documents. Failure to obtain documents does not negate the Terms and Conditions, and any extra costs incurred for rerouting due to travel without the necessary documents will be the participant’s responsibility. Health Requirements: Participants must be in good physical and mental health. Any physical condition, diet, or treatment requiring special attention must be reported in writing when the reservation is made. National Geographic encourages participants to consult a doctor for specific medical advice about any activities or destinations. Certain Expeditions may require that the participant obtain medical consent prior to departure as a condition of participation. Medical Authorization and Coverage: In the event a participant becomes sufficiently incapacitated as to be unable to direct his or her own care, and there is no one on the Expedition who can direct the participant’s care, and National Geographic is unable or does not have time to contact the participant’s emergency contact, the participant, by registering and paying a deposit for an Expedition, authorizes any medical treatment deemed necessary in the event of any injury or illness while participating in the activity, including, but not limited to, X-ray, examination, anesthetic, medical or surgical diagnosis, or treatment and hospital care which is deemed advisable by, and is to be rendered under the general or specific supervision of, any physician and/or surgeon licensed in the United States; or, if in a foreign country and no physician licensed to practice in the United States is reasonably available, by a duly licensed physician deemed competent to render the necessary care. In addition, the participant certifies that he or she has medical insurance that will cover personal accidents, medical expenses, medical evacuation, air ambulance, loss of effects, repatriation costs, and all other expenses that might arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay, or inconvenience occurring to the participant; or that in the absence of this medical insurance coverage, the participant agrees to pay all costs of rescue and/or medical services as may be incurred on the participant’s behalf. Photography: National Geographic and its designated tour operator and Expedition leader reserve the right to take photographs or videos during the operation of any Expedition or part thereof and to use the resulting photography, videos, or recordings for promotional or commercial use. By making a reservation on a National Geographic Expedition, the participant agrees to allow his/her likeness to be used by National Geographic, National Geographic–authorized third parties, and the tour operator without compensation to the participant. If the participant prefers that his/her likeness not be used, he/she must notify us in writing prior to departure of the Expedition. Copyright in all photographs, video, and related materials created by the participant (“Expedition Materials”) shall belong to the participant upon creation. The participant grants to National Geographic a non-exclusive, worldwide, irrevocable license to use any Expedition Materials provided to National Geographic and/or the tour operator in any media for the following limited purposes: editorial use, promotion of this editorial use, promotion of National Geographic’s travel programs, or promotion of the mission of National Geographic. Dispute Resolution: Dispute Resolution policy and process is available at natgeoexpeditions.com/terms. Mailing List: If you are receiving duplicate catalogs, have address updates, or would like to be removed from future National Geographic Expeditions mailings, please call toll-free 1-888-966-8687. Other: Additional Terms and Conditions may apply to some Expeditions and will be provided with pre-Expedition mailings. By registering for an Expedition, the participant agrees to the Responsibility Statement and the Terms and Conditions published in the catalog and on the website. Please Note: See our website to review Terms and Conditions for other National Geographic travel programs, including National Geographic Adventures, National Geographic Journeys, and Private Expeditions. See more at: natgeoexpeditions.com/terms PHOTO CREDITS: Key: t=top, c=center, b=bottom, l=left, r=right: Stewart Cohen (sea lion front cover, 16tl); Doug Gould (20tr); Mike Greenfelder (3tr); Greer family (28tl); Ralph Lee Hopkins (17 cl); Michael Jarosky (5c); Scott Kish (13tl); Sven-Olaf Lindblad (20tl); Michael S. Nolan (17tr, 21); Barbara Pace (8c); Luke Partridge (4l); Steve Pickard (4bl, 5t, 23br); Lily Smith (4ct); Melinda Sykes (19tr); Rodica Woodbury (5b, 11); Joseph Yates (18tl)
Copyright © 2016 National Geographic Partners w Recycled Paper NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPEDITIONS and the Yellow Border Design are registered trademarks of the National Geographic Society.
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# OF DAYS
PAGE
FAMILY EXPEDITIONS CALENDAR
2017 MAR
APR
MAY
JUNE
JULY
AUG
SEPT
OCT
NOV
DEC
EUROPE Italy
6
10
24
15, 29
Iceland
8
8
24
15, 29
Denmark and Norway
26
9
24
15, 29
Scotland
26
8
18
16, 30
Ireland
27
8
18
9, 30
France
27
7
18
16, 30
Greece
Web
10
17
15
10
9
25
9, 23
12
9
12
5
ASIA Japan AFRICA Tanzania South Africa
12
25
16, 30 23
6
23, 27
14
9
25
27
Galรกpagos Odyssey
16
10
24, 30
1, 22
5
Peru
25
7
24
15
5
22, 27
Costa Rica
18
7
10
8
5
16, 26
Alaska Voyage
20
8
Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion
22
8
24
29
Yellowstone and Grand Teton
23
8
24
15, 29
5
Glacier National Park
24
7
17
7
Yosemite
24
7
26
9
Alaska: Denali to Prince William Sound
25
8
30
11
11
10
26
17
SOUTH AMERICA
NORTH AMERICA 11
2, 23, 29
AUSTRALIA AND THE PACIFIC Australia
Web
CALL 1-888-966-8687 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/FAMILY
18
31
1145 17th Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036
“
We brought five grown children and four grandchildren, and everyone agreed that this was the best trip they had ever been on.
—Bob D., Alaska Family Voyage
It was an unforgettable experience for our entire family.
”
To reserve your space, call 1-888-966-8687 or go to natgeoexpeditions.com/family
6946–16F