Welcome to the first step! The first step on your path toward the experience of a lifetime. In the pages that follow, you will find a number of transformative Private Jet itineraries, each designed to provide access to some of the planet’s most incredible destinations. With an extraordinarily high level of service, and National Geographic Experts by your side, our Private Jet trips offer an unparalleled way of seeing the world.
Included in this brochure are new trips, like Around the World by Private Jet: Hidden Marvels Imagine witnessing a special demonstration on traditional South Korean ceremonial attire in Seoul, enjoying a performance of the traditional music and dance of Azerbaijan in Baku, and exploring the natural wonders of Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park on foot—all in one luxurious and unforgettable trip.
For the most up-to-date information, and to reserve your spot, visit our website at natgeoexpeditions.com, or call 1-888-227-7265. When you book right now, you’ll be able to save on select departures. This offer ends October 13, so don’t delay!
As a traveler myself, I have to emphasize that there is nothing quite like a Private Jet trip with National Geographic. From world-class accommodations and cuisine, to our VIP-configured jet, these trips provide the utmost comfort and service, as well as enriching experiences and memories that last a lifetime. hope you’ll join us.
Sincerely,
Nancy Schumacher
Senior Vice President National Geographic Expeditions
When you travel with us, you help further the work of scientists, explorers, and educators around the world. Every year, we distribute a portion of our proceeds to the National Geographic Society, creating more opportunities to work toward a planet in balance. To learn more, visit natgeo.com/giveback
The signature of our private jet expeditions is the extraordinary team of experts that travels with us—anthropologists, ecologists, geographers, and photographers who bring to life the places we visit. You might find yourself observing lions in the Okavango Delta alongside conservationist Steve Boyes, who established the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project; or exploring the temples of Tikal with archaeologist and National Geographic Explorer Bill Saturno, who has excavated important Maya murals in Guatemala.
National Geographic opens doors around the globe. Our relationships with scientists, storytellers, museums, and active research sites allow us special access to places and people—including National Geographic Society grantees, whom we meet in the field whenever we can. Traveling with us, you’ll enjoy a host of specially arranged experiences, whether it’s an Ethiopian feast with traditional music and dancing* (see disclaimer on page 25), or a cruise down the Nile River on board a traditional wooden felucca.
Over the past 134 years, the National Geographic Society has funded scientists, storytellers, educators, and adventurers around the world who help us define some of the critical challenges of our time, drive new knowledge, advance new solutions, and inspire positive, transformative change in an effort to better understand our planet. National Geographic Expeditions grew from this legacy as a way to invite others to explore—to encounter the wonders of the world up close, in depth, right at the source, and to be transformed by the experience.
When you travel with us, you help further the work of National Geographic Explorers—scientists, conservationists, educators, and storytellers around the world. Every year, we distribute a portion of our proceeds to the National Geographic Society, creating more opportunities to illuminate and protect the wonders of our world. The Society funds a diverse, international community of changemakers who are changing how we understand and interact with our planet—people like oceanographer and National Geographic Explorer at Large Sylvia Earle, who established the Mission Blue program to bring awareness to areas of the ocean in need of protection. To learn more, visit natgeo.com/impact
National Geographic Expeditions is committed to sustaining the character and integrity of each place we visit: its natural and cultural heritage, in addition to the well-being of its residents. We are identifying ways to minimize the environmental impact of our travel programs, and are offsetting carbon emissions we cannot eliminate. We strive to support local economies in our choice of services, and we believe that the positive effects of sustainable travel go beyond immediate economic benefits, inspiring passionate stewards of our planet.
Traveling by private jet affords us great flexibility: with our long-range capabilities and the capacity to land at smaller airports, we can fly direct and avoid layovers. This allows us the freedom to make the most of our experiences on land. Most private jet expeditions are operated on a Boeing 757 with a specially customized interior featuring two-by-two, VIP-style seating, handcrafted from the finest European leather and equipped with a center console, leg rest, foldout footrest, and four-way adjustable headrest—offering supreme in-flight comfort as we travel between destinations.
In addition to National Geographic Experts, we will be accompanied by a talented expedition team—experienced travel experts who meticulously attend to logistical details, and ensure your experience is truly exceptional. The flight crew is also specially selected for this trip, chosen for their dedication to safety, attention to detail, and first-rate hospitality.
A physician accompanies our expedition, and is on call 24 hours a day to provide or facilitate healthcare services.
We travel on the jet with a dedicated expedition chef and caterer who design delectable meals inspired by local cuisine in the destinations we visit. They incorporate the freshest ingredients in a wide array of dishes, which are served with top-tier beverages, including fine wines, craft beers, and spirits.
Enjoy the freedom and flexibility to tailor your trip to your interests, choosing from a variety of available excursions in each of the places we visit.
In the pages that follow, you’ll find opportunities to adapt the expedition at no additional cost. Some of these alternative options have limited space, or require a minimum number of participants; and reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis. We can also arrange special experiences that are not featured in the itinerary, whether you’d like to go behind the scenes at a world-renowned museum, explore intriguing ruins off the beaten path, or set out on a challenging hike.
For more information and to discuss your preferred itinerary, please contact us.
From the Hotel Charleston Santa Teresa located in the heart of Cartagena’s World Heritage-listed historic center, to the hand-painted traditional gers of Mongolia’s Three Camel Lodge, we stay in some of the world’s finest accommodations. These hotels and lodges have been selected for their exceptional guest service, splendid amenities, and convenient access to the places we explore. In more off-the-beaten-path locations, we have selected the best available accommodations to ensure your comfort. In many destinations, we have also arranged special dining experiences with traditional entertainment, providing a window into local cultures.
Circumnavigate the globe on the adventure of a lifetime, discovering some of the world’s most celebrated treasures with a team of top National Geographic Experts as you travel from Machu Picchu to Marrakech. Explore the architectural marvels of Angkor, Petra, and the Taj Mahal; encounter the incredible creatures of the Great Barrier Reef and the Serengeti Plain; and experience diverse cultures from the island paradise of Fiji to the verdant Himalayan valleys of Bhutan—all in one extraordinary expedition.
A team of National Geographic Experts will accompany this trip, including a National Geographic Photography Expert. See our website for experts and full bios on all Around the World by Private Jet departures.
MARCH 10–APRIL 2, 2024
DAY 1
Your unforgettable journey begins in the nation’s capital with a welcome dinner at your historic hotel just steps from the White House.
The Hay-Adams
DAYS 2, 3, AND 4
Fly by private jet to Lima, and board a charter flight to charming Cusco (11,200 feet). Here, meet National Geographic Explorer and master Andean weaver Nilda Callañaupa Alvarez, who has helped revive traditional Peruvian textiles. Then join National Geographic Explorer Peter Frost or one of his colleagues for a talk on his archaeological expeditions in Peru. Spend a day exploring the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu (8,000 feet), rediscovered in 1911 and excavated with support from the National Geographic Society. Examine the site’s breathtakingly precise stone architecture, and learn about the Inca’s innovative engineering feats. Alternatively, head to the northwestern coast to visit the archaeological site of Trujillo, once home to the Chimú and Moche civilizations. Belmond Palacio Nazarenas, or Wyndham Costa del Sol Trujillo, and Belmond Miraflores Park
DAYS 5 AND 6
Fly to Easter Island, located 2,300 miles off the coast of Chile. Explore the island’s ancient ruins, and delve into the mystery surrounding its colossal moai statues with resident archaeologists Edmundo Edwards, Patricia Vargas Casanova, and Claudio Cristino. Visit the stone village of Orongo, the ceremonial center of the intriguing Birdman cult, and enjoy a traditional performance by the Kari Kari dance troupe.
Nayara Hangaroa
DAYS 7 AND 8
From Easter Island, we continue our journey across the Pacific, crossing the international date line. We lose a day in route, and arrive in Fiji the following evening for overnight and morning sightseeing in this beautiful country in the South Pacific. In the morning, enjoy a Nadi heritage tour where you and your guide will travel past rolling sugar cane fields and local villages to the historic town of Viseisei, where the first Fijians landed. After a tour of the village, set off for the Sleeping Giant Orchid Gardens, a vast botanical park that is home to more than 2,000 varieties of orchids. Next, visit the largest Hindu temple in the southern hemisphere before a stop for morning tea, where you can spend time chatting with the locals at the Fijian market. Fiji Sheraton Beach and Golf Resort or InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa
DAYS 9 AND 10
Encounter the legendary Great Barrier Reef, spanning more than 1,200 miles of islands and coral reefs. Meet National Geographic Explorer Dr. Jamie Seymour or one of his colleagues for an introduction to this fragile and biologically rich UNESCO World Heritage site. Then set out on a privately chartered vessel to explore the reef in a variety of ways. Explore the undersea in a semi-submersible, go snorkeling, and sit down to a lunch at sea. Or head into the Daintree Rainforest with an Aboriginal guide to discover natural wonders and ancient culture within the oldest rainforest on Earth.
Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas
DAYS 11 AND 12
Our next flight brings us to Siem Reap, the gateway to Angkor, the 10th-century capital of the Khmer Empire. Explore Angkor’s vast temple complex, or the lost jungle temple of Beng Mealea. Then opt to participate in a Cambodian cooking class. In the evening, enjoy traditional Cambodian music, and dance during a private dinner on the grounds of a magnificent temple.
Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor
DAYS 13, 14, AND 15
Fly by private jet to Kathmandu. Visit Bodhnath, Nepal’s largest stupa, and the medieval city of Bhaktapur. Then take a private charter flight to Paro (7,200 feet), and settle into a stunning hotel. Meet monks at the fortified monastery of Paro Dzong, and join locals at a festival attended by masked dancers and a high-ranking lama. Opt for a vigorous hike up to the legendary Taktsang Lhakhang, or Tiger’s Nest Temple (10,240 feet), which clings to a cliff high above the valley floor. Or travel to the capital city of Thimphu (7,900 feet) to see one of the largest sitting Buddhas in the world, and view thangkas and other traditional arts at the Royal Textile Academy.
Dwarika’s Hotel; Zhiwa Ling Heritage
DAYS 20 AND 21
Land in Aqaba, Jordan, and continue overland to ancient Petra, the abandoned capital of the Nabataean civilization that is half-built, half-carved into red sandstone cliffs. Wander through the spectacular Siq to the Treasury; and discover the royal tombs, houses, and Monastery of this intriguing city. Gather for a festive dinner, and Bedouin folklore performance. If you wish, rise early the next day to visit Siq al-Barid, known as “Little Petra,” a smaller Nabataean site that harbors rare frescos left by this enigmatic culture.
Mövenpick Resort Petra
DAYS 16 AND 17
Return to Kathmandu by charter flight, and continue by private jet to Agra. Check in to your hotel, which offers a view of the Taj Mahal from every room. Encounter this iconic monument to love up close, strolling its serene gardens, and examining its exquisite architecture and artistry. Later, visit Agra Fort, or join local youth on a walk to the city’s lesser known monuments. Instead of the Taj Mahal, visit the red sandstone city of Fatehpur Sikri, and the stunning tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, also referred to as the “Baby Taj.”
The Oberoi Amarvilas
DAYS 18 AND 19
Fly to Tanzania, and continue by light aircraft to one of two wilderness areas. Head deep into the savanna on safari in Serengeti National Park, one of the world’s greatest wildlife destinations; or descend into Ngorongoro Crater, a massive caldera that harbors some 25,000 animals, including endangered black rhinos. National Geographic Explorer at Large Louise Leakey, another Leakey family member, or one of their colleagues joins us to discuss the family’s historic fossil finds.
Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, or andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
DAYS 22 AND 23
Fly by private jet to marvelous Marrakech. Venture into the bustling medina, and visit palaces and tombs to admire splendid Moroccan architecture, mosaics, and carvings. Stroll through the lush Majorelle Gardens, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent. See artisans at work in the medina, and soak up the lively local atmosphere of Djemaa el-Fna square, where snake charmers, magicians, and musicians entertain passersby. Alternatively, head into the Atlas Mountains to experience Amazigh (Berber) culture, stopping for tea in a local home, and eating a traditional lunch. On the last evening, toast your extraordinary adventure at a celebratory farewell dinner.
La Mamounia
DAY 24
Following breakfast, return by private jet to Washington, D.C., and connect with your commercial flight home. If you wish, enjoy complimentary accommodations at the Hyatt Regency Dulles this evening.
INFORMATION
The National Geographic Society funds research, conservation, and exploration, including archaeological excavations at an Inca ritual site near Cusco; a study on the response of the Great Barrier Reef to environmental stress; and numerous programs of the Big Cats Initiative, including the protection of endangered lions and cheetahs in Tanzania.
March 10–April 2, 2024
COST
DATES 2024: FROM $96,995
Price is per person, double occupancy. Single supplement applies; please see our website. Transportation by private Boeing 757 and other conveyance, as noted in the itinerary, is included in the expedition cost. Airfare to and from Washington, D.C. is not included in the price. All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars and subject to change. For your protection and peace of mind, all payments are protected by a surety bond. This trip will be operated by National Geographic Expeditions on flights operated by Icelandair. For Terms and Conditions, and Operator-Participant Contract, visit nationalgeographic.com/expeditions/terms/private-jet/ atw-mar-04-2024/ for 2024 departures, and pages 30–31 of this catalog for select 2024 departures.
Around the World by Private Jet will be operated on a Boeing 757 customized for 75 guest travelers in two-by-two, VIP-style seats. Visit our website, or call for details.
A team of National Geographic Experts will accompany this trip.
PRIVATE
As you journey from bustling metropolises to remote archipelagos, you’ll discover wonders both natural and human made. And in the end, you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of how the past, present, and future are intertwined.
SEPTEMBER 4 – SEPTEMBER 25, 2024
DAYS 1–2
Arrive in Seattle, and meet your National Geographic Experts, as well as your fellow travelers, during a welcome reception and dinner at the hotel. The next morning, your first flight by private jet takes you to Japan. On the way, you’ll cross the international date line, losing a day in transit.
Four Seasons Hotel Seattle
DAYS 3–5
Land in Osaka, and transfer to Kyoto, a former capital of imperial Japan. Explore this historic city, where ancient wooden temples and exquisite gardens have collectively been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Throughout your trip, you’ll have the option to select from an array of tours and destinations to explore. During your day in Kyoto, you can choose to visit the iconic Kinkakuji, or Golden Pavilion, and gaze at its gleaming reflection in the Mirror Pond as you wander the surrounding garden. Or you may choose to tread carefully across the famed nightingale floors of Nijo Castle, designed to give away intruding enemies. This impressive castle complex is one of the best surviving examples of palace architecture from Japan’s feudal era. Later, you may choose from a variety of excursions, including a visit to the Tenryuji temple for a private Zen meditation lesson, or a tranquil stroll through the Sagano Bamboo Forest.
The next day, venture to ancient Nara, and marvel at the 50-foot-tall Buddha statue in the soaring main hall of Todaiji temple, one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. Alternatively, explore Kyoto further, as you take part in a traditional tea ceremony prior to hands-on activities where you’ll learn techniques of Japanese cooking from a local chef, and discover the art of shibori indigo-dying methods. Or you may opt to visit a local craft center.
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
Archaeologist William (Bill) Saturno is a National Geographic Explorer specializing in early civilizations. He has received numerous grants from the Society to support his ongoing excavations of ancient Maya murals in Guatemala. His breakthrough discovery at San Bartolo, of the oldest intact Maya murals yet found, became the focus of the National Geographic magazine articles “The Sistine Chapel of the Early Maya” in December 2003 and “The Dawn of Maya Gods and Kings” in January 2006. Outside of Mesoamerica, Bill has conducted archaeological research in the American Southwest, Bolivia, Cambodia, and most recently on the North Coast of Peru.
Photojournalist Massimo Bassano has worked for National Geographic since 1990. He’s also had his photos published in numerous worldwide publications. He has traveled extensively to more than 87 countries, performing various assignments involving social and human culture, famine in Africa, wildlife, and even sports, fashion, and advertising. His acclaimed unique photography book, The Colors of Silence details the 12 weeks he spent in a well-known Italian monastery. For almost two decades, Massimo has traveled with National Geographic Expeditions teaching photography worldwide. He regularly leads photography and multimedia workshops, and enjoys teaching and sharing his passion for travel.
Travel writer Don George is an editor-at-large for National Geographic Traveler magazine, as well as host of the National Geographic Live series of conversations with notable authors. In four decades as a travel writer and editor, Don has visited more than 90 countries on five continents. He has traveled throughout—and written extensively about— Europe and Asia. He has also lived in France, Greece, and Japan, working as a translator in Paris, a teacher in Athens, and a television talk show host in Tokyo. Don is the author of The Way of Wanderlust: The Best Travel Writing of Don George and has received dozens of writing awards, including the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalist of the Year Award.
DAYS 6–8
Fly to Da Nang, and drive to Hoi An, an enchanting port city that offers a glimpse into a bygone era when traders from Japan, China, India, and beyond frequented the harbor. The narrow lanes of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed ancient town look much as they have for centuries: lined by merchant houses, strung with silk lanterns, and free of modern vehicles.
Optional tours include a visit to Da Nang including Marble Mountain and Linh Ung pagoda, or a bike ride through rice paddies to local villages. Or travel to Ba Na Hills to ride the cable car, and visit the Golden Bridge, or visit the ancient Hindu temple complex at My Son with a temple preservationist. You may also opt to travel to Hue, a former imperial capital that sat in the crossfire of the north and south during the Vietnam War. Here, you’ll explore the historic citadel, and the imperial tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty. You may also choose to join a chef for a stroll through the delightfully chaotic market, picking out ingredients for a private, hands-on cooking class. Or select a full-day excursion to Cham Island where you’ll visit a local fishing village.
Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An
DAYS 9–10
Fly by private jet to the Indian state of Rajasthan, the “land of kings,” where aristocratic Rajputs channeled their wealth from overland trade into sumptuous palaces and gardens. Land in Udaipur, known as the “city of lakes,” and admire the grand palaces that appear to rise from the waters of Lake Pichola.
Venture into a spectacular labyrinth of courtyards within the City Palace, a soaring creation of marble and granite perched on the lake’s edge. Later, wind your way through the old town and its bustling bazaars, stopping in at an artist’s studio to see Udaipur’s traditional miniature paintings. Visit Sadhna, a handicraft center and social enterprise that has trained women artisans, and helped lift them out of poverty.
Taj Lake Palace, Udaipur
DAYS 11–12
Scattered across the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles Archipelago boasts an exceptionally diverse ecosystem with many endemic species. Internationally recognized as a pioneer in conservation, the country has extended protected status to half the land surface area of its 115 islands. Explore how innovations in satellite imaging, habitat restoration, and species reintroduction—as well as a strong commitment to protecting marine ecosystems—have helped to preserve this remote archipelago.
Enjoy a full-day catamaran excursion to Praslin and La Digue. At La Digue, spend time on the island of L’Union Estate, followed by a visit to Anse Source d’Argent. At Praslin, visit the National Park, and relax on Anse Lazio Beach. For travelers that don’t want to go on the catamaran excursion, there is an optional visit to either the Mahé Island botanical gardens or Victoria Market.
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles
DAYS 13–15
Fly west to Nairobi, and continue by private charter to the legendary Masai Mara wilderness, through which the spectacular wildebeest migration passes. Settle into the elegant tented camp located on the border of the reserve. Then set out on morning and afternoon safaris to discover an incomparable variety of wildlife amid Kenya’s spectacular landscapes. Keep an eye out for lions, wildebeests, leopards, elephants, and other wildlife that call the savanna home. Also keep an eye out for endangered black rhinos, stately giraffes, and more than 500 species of birds. Between wildlife drives, you’ll have free time to relax and enjoy the amenities at the camp, or head out on bush walks with a guide to identify smaller flora and fauna.
DAYS 16–17
On the evening of your arrival, head to the historic center of Cairo, and visit the Khan el-Khalili market where you’ll enjoy a meal and then explore the rows of stalls. The next day, visit the medieval Citadel of Saladin, an Islamic-era fortification containing the Mosque of Muhammad Ali. Next, transfer to the Pyramids of Giza, where you’ll have the opportunity to enter the Cheops Pyramid. Then go to the Great Sphinx of Giza, carved from a single piece of limestone and one of the world’s largest sculptures. Enjoy a Nile River cruise aboard a felucca— a traditional wooden sailing boat used in the protected waters of the Red Sea and eastern Mediterranean. Later, visit the Grand Egyptian Museum where you’ll have dinner.
The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Cairo
DAYS 18–20
Start with a special evening of dinner and a flamenco show. In the morning, tour the Prado Museum, home to one of the world’s greatest collections of paintings, including the largest collections of Bosch, Titian, El Greco, Rubens, and Velazquez, along with over 100 works by Francisco Goya. You will also visit Madrid’s Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, which houses Pablo Picasso’s masterpiece “Guernica.” Activity options include a Spanish Cooking Class, Wine Tasting, and a Historic Walking Tour of Madrid.
You will also have the option of a full-day tour to Toledo or Segovia. In Toledo, you’ll experience many sites of interest like the Gothic Cathedral, and the church of Santo Tomé. In Segovia, you’ll see outstanding architectural monuments, including the Roman aqueduct, the 16th-century Gothic-style cathedral, and the Alcázar of Segovia—a medieval fortress and castle.
Rosewood Villa Magna
DAY 21
Upon arrival in Washington, D.C., transfer to your connecting flight home, or enjoy dinner and complimentary accommodations at the Hyatt Dulles International Airport.
Hyatt Regency Dulles
INFORMATION
DATE September 4–25, 2024
COST $99,995
The National Geographic Society funds research, conservation, and exploration, including a study of fossilized coral reefs in Western Australia to determine the effects of an ancient sea level rise; research on how island ecosystems in Oceania recover from mammal eradication; and the development of low-cost systems for monitoring water quality in traditional Maori fishing areas.
Price is per person, double occupancy. Single supplement applies; please see our website. Transportation by private Boeing 757 and other conveyance, as noted in the itinerary, is included in the expedition cost. Airfare to Seattle, Washington and return from Washington, D.C. is not included in the cost. For your protection and peace of mind, all payments are protected by a surety bond. This trip will be operated by National Geographic Expeditions on flights operated by Icelandair. For Terms and Conditions and OperatorParticipant Contract, visit nationalgeographic.com/expeditions/terms/ private-jet/atw-ancient-traditions-natural-wonders/.
Ashnil Mara CampExperience diversity of both the geographic and cultural kind—from vast deserts to arctic archipelagos, bustling cities to charming villages. Along the way, you’ll visit spectacular monasteries, mosques, temples, and churches. You’ll walk in the footsteps of some of the most famous—and infamous—rulers and conquerors of all time. And not only will you encounter the historically significant, but also the unique and the unusual—such as chapels carved out of rock salt, a global seed vault, and the world’s second oldest underground tunnel. This is truly one of the most unforgettable journeys you could ever undertake.
22 DAYS | JUNE 10–JULY 1, 2024
COST: $99,995
• Encounter world-famous landmarks, from Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion to the vibrant Grand Bazaar of Istanbul.
• Meet with desert nomads in Mongolia, and Arctic farmers in Svalbard, to learn how they interact with their environments.
• Delve into history in Kraków’s World Heritage-listed old town, and the Silk Road city of Samarkand.
• Gain unique insights into history, culture, ecology, and geography from world-renowned National Geographic Experts.
Circle the northern realms of the globe by private jet, exploring rich cultures from Kyoto to Kraków and frontier communities from Mongolia to the Faroe Islands. Experience the desert landscapes of the Gobi, and watch for whales among the ice floes of Svalbard. Visit Taxim Square—the Times Square of Istanbul—the mosaic-covered mosques of Samarkand, and Edinburgh’s medieval castle; and venture into exquisite chambers inside 700-year-old salt mines in Poland, and much more. With a variety of excursions in each destination, discover culinary, musical, and artistic traditions across the Northern Hemisphere.
Visit our website for complete details and dates.
A team of National Geographic Experts will accompany this expedition.
From left, geographer, educator and author Stephen Cunha photographer Annie Griffiths and professor of geography Jan Nijman.
See our website for full bios.
Price is per person, double occupancy. Single supplement applies; please see our website. Transportation by private Boeing 757 and other conveyance, as noted in the itinerary, is included in the expedition cost. Airfare to Seattle, Washington and return from Boston, Massachusetts is not included in the cost. For your protection and peace of mind, all payments are protected by a surety bond. This trip will be operated by National Geographic Expeditions, on flights operated by Icelandair. For Terms and Conditions and OperatorParticipant Contract, visit nationalgeographic.com/ expeditions/terms/private-jet/atw-n-jun-10-2024/.
Journey across Central and South America—from the glacier-carved landscapes of Patagonia to the jungle-shrouded temples of Guatemala—experiencing the wonders of seven countries in the comfort of a private jet. Stand atop the ancient ruins of the Inca and the Maya; encounter the spray of Iguaçu Falls and the engineering marvels of the Panama Canal; and revel in the delights of vibrant cities such as Cartagena, Rio de Janeiro, and Buenos Aires—all in one extraordinary journey.
22 DAYS | FEBRUARY 22–MARCH 14, 2024
COST: $87,995
• Visit the lab of a National Geographic Grantee at Rio de Janeiro’s incomparable Botanical Garden.
• Hike among the soaring peaks and turquoise lakes of Patagonia, and experience the power of Iguaçu Falls.
• Witness vibrant cultural traditions from an Argentine tango performance to a demonstration of Andean weaving.
• Dine in the otherworldly atrium of Frank Gehry’s Biomuseo, and explore the Panama Canal in a private boat.
Journey across Central and South America—from the jungle-shrouded temples of Guatemala to the glacier-carved landscapes of Patagonia—experiencing the wonders of an entire continent in the comfort of a private jet. Stand atop the ancient ruins of the Inca and the Maya, encounter the spray of Iguaçu Falls and the engineering marvels of the Panama Canal, and revel in the delights of vibrant cities such as Cartagena, Rio de Janeiro, and Buenos Aires—all in one extraordinary journey.
Visit our website for complete details and dates.
A team of National Geographic Experts will accompany this expedition.
From left, ethnographer, writer, photographer and filmmaker Wade Davis; documentary photographer Tamara Merino and educator, archaeologist William (Bill) Saturno See our website for full bios.
Price is per person, double occupancy. Single supplement applies; please see our website. Transportation by private Boeing 757 and other conveyance, as noted in the itinerary, is included in the expedition cost. Airfare to Washington, D.C. and return from Miami, Florida is not included in the cost. For your protection and peace of mind, all payments are protected by a surety bond. This trip will be operated by National Geographic Expeditions, on flights operated by Icelandair. For Terms and Conditions and Operator-Participant Contract, visit nationalgeographic.com/expeditions/terms/privatejet/central-south-america-private-jet-terms-2024/.
Experience the astonishing diversity of Africa on an expedition by private jet that will bring us from Egypt’s temples to spectacular Cape Town, and from the wildlife-rich isle of Madagascar to the timeless medinas of Marrakech. Come face to face with history in the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs, at Nelson Mandela’s island prison, and on Senegal’s Gorée Island. Delve into rich and ancient cultures in the sacred sites of Ethiopia* and Benin. As we follow the continent’s contour through nine countries, get a close-up view of iconic wildlife, venture to tropical islands and desert dunes, and meet artists and entrepreneurs defining contemporary culture across Africa.
MAY 8–MAY 30, 2024
DAYS 1–3
Arrive in London, and enjoy a welcome dinner in the historic UN Ballroom. The next day, fly by private jet to Luxor, Egypt. Visit the temple of Karnak, and venture to the Valley of the Kings to see the tombs of Tutankhamun and Seti I. Admire the murals in Nefertari’s tomb, and stop at the temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square; Luxor Hilton
DAYS 4–5
In Addis Ababa, get acquainted with Ethiopia’s cultural heritage and natural history on a visit to Unity Park. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lalibela, where 11 subterranean churches were carved out of the bedrock in the 12th century, and still draw worshippers today.
Sheraton Addis Ababa
DAYS 6–8
Fly by private jet to Kigali, and travel to Volcanoes National Park. During a full day of gorilla trekking, experience the thrill of observing these endangered creatures up close. Search for golden monkeys with a biologist, and hear from a researcher at the Karisoke Research Center. Or stay in Kigali to visit the inspiring Akilah Institute and the Ethnographic Museum, and meet with survivors at the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
Amakoro Songa Lodge, Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, Virunga Lodge, or One&Only Gorilla’s Nest; Kigali Marriott Hotel
A team of National Geographic Experts will accompany this trip.
Jason Edwards has been at the forefront of natural history photography for three decades. Since starting his career at the Royal Melbourne Zoo, Jason has been recognized globally for his contributions to science, the environment, and the arts. He is a three-time winner of the Communication Arts Photography Annual, and recipient of the Australian Geographic Society’s Pursuit of Excellence Award. As the face of the National Geographic Channel’s Pure Photography, Jason has taken his storytelling to every continent. His imagery has appeared in everything from environmental campaigns to Hollywood blockbusters.
A longtime professor of geography at the University of Amsterdam, Jan Nijman is both Distinguished University Professor in Geosciences and Director of the Urban Studies Institute at Georgia State University. Jan has been affiliated with National Geographic for more than 15 years, as a member of the Society’s Committee for Research & Exploration and Chair of its Global Exploration Fund in Northern Europe. He has traveled the globe in support of Society-funded projects in research, conservation, and exploration. The author of five books and more than a hundred other publications, his expertise is in urban and regional development, and the history of world cities. A Dutch native, Jan speaks five languages, and has received numerous awards including the Nystrom Prize and a Guggenheim Fellowship. Jan lives in Atlanta and Amsterdam.
Tara Roberts spent the last few years following, diving with, and telling stories about a group of Black scuba divers as they search for slave shipwrecks around the world. Her journey was turned into a National Geographic–produced podcast called “Into the Depths,” and a cover story for the March 2022 issue of the magazine. Roberts has worked as an editor for CosmoGirl , Essence AOL Ebony , and Heart & Soul magazines, edited several books for girls, and founded her own magazine for women. Roberts has served as a fellow at the MIT Open Documentary Lab, and graduated cum laude from Mount Holyoke College.
DAYS 9–10
On the island of Nosy Be, take a guided walk in Lemuria Land, a nature reserve that harbors endemic lemurs, lizards, chameleons, orchids, and more; and visit a ylang ylang distillery. Travel to Lokobe Reserve for a hike in wildlife-rich lowland rainforests.
Ravintsara Wellness Hotel
DAYS 11–12
From beautiful Cape Town, ride a cable car up Table Mountain, explore Cape Peninsula National Park, and see the penguins of Boulders Beach. Or examine South Africa’s complex history and heritage on an excursion to Robben Island, the District Six Museum, and the Bo-Kaap neighborhood. Alternatively, head to the Cape Winelands for tastings at renowned wine estates.
One&Only Cape Town
DAYS 13–15
Touch down in Maun, and continue by light aircraft to one of several intimate camps nestled amid these lush floodplains. Enjoy two full days to explore these wetlands, on the lookout for elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, wild dogs, and much more on morning and afternoon game drives, excursions by boat or mokoro (dugout canoe), and bush walks.
Camp Moremi, Camp Xakanaxa, Xugana Island Lodge, Shinde Camp, or Kanana
DAYS 16–17
Arrive in Cotonou, and drive to Ouidah, a center of the animist Vodun, or “voodoo,” religion. Meet an elder to learn about this ancient belief system, and visit sacred Vodun sites. Tour a museum housed in a Portuguese fort that was once a transit point for enslaved Africans. Ride boats across Lake Nokoué to the fascinating stilt village of Ganvié.
Novotel Orisha CotonouDAYS 18–19
Fly by private jet to Dakar and take a city tour. Ride the ferry to the World Heritage-listed Gorée Island, once a notorious hub for the slave trade. See an excellent collection of West African art at Dakar’s IFAN Museum, and meet local artists in their studios. Or travel to Lake Retba, known as the “Pink Lake,” and visit a Peul (Fulani) village.
DAYS 20–23
In Marrakech, stroll Majorelle Garden and its museum; see stunning madrasas, palaces, and mosques; and explore the medina. Alternatively, enjoy a Moroccan cooking class or head into the Atlas Mountains to visit timeless Amazigh (Berber) villages. Soak up the lively atmosphere of Djemaa el Fna before a farewell dinner. A final flight brings you to London, where you’ll catch commercial flights home the next day.
La Mamounia; Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square
The National Geographic Society funds research, conservation, and exploration, including the Okavango Wilderness Project—a multinational collaboration led by National Geographic Fellow Steve Boyes to survey the biodiversity of the vast Okavango Delta, and protect its unique ecosystems and wildlife populations for future generations.
INFORMATION
DATE May 8–May 30, 2024
COST $99,995
*Please note: We are closely monitoring the current situation in Ethiopia. If travel to Ethiopia cannot move forward, we will visit Zanzibar instead.
Price is per person, double occupancy. Single supplement applies; please see our website. Transportation by private Boeing 757 jet and other conveyance, as noted in the itinerary, is included in the expedition cost. Airfare to and from London, England is not included in the cost. This trip will be operated by National Geographic Expeditions on flights operated by Icelandair. Visit nationalgeographic.com/ expeditions/terms/private-jet/cultural-wonders-africa-by-private-jet/ to view the Terms and Conditions and Operator-Participant contract for this trip.
Cultural Wonders of Africa: A Journey by Private Jet will be operated on a Boeing 757 customized for 57 guest travelers in two-by-two, VIP-style seats. Visit our website, or call for details.
Take off in search of some of the planet’s most fascinating wildlife. Learn about efforts to protect, and replenish endangered species as you visit key conservation centers and reserves throughout Asia and Africa. Encounter a wide variety of indigenous creatures up close in their natural habitats as you venture out into rainforests, grasslands, and jungles, and dive down below ocean’s surface. As part of your journey, you will also get to know the professionals who dedicate their lives to the well-being of these magnificent creatures, as well as meet local people who consider conservation to be an essential part of community life.
24 DAYS | APRIL 11–MAY 4, 2024
COST: $107,995
• Seek out orangutans in Borneo, lemurs in Madagascar, and marine life in the Maldives.
• Observe gorillas in Rwanda, and track Bengal tigers in India’s Ranthambore National Park.
• Spot legendary creatures on safari in the wildlife reserves of Sri Lanka and South Africa.
Acrobatic orangutans and beautiful Bengal tigers, wide-eyed lemurs and mighty silverback gorillas—the planet is full of rare and remarkable creatures that National Geographic has photographed and studied for decades. On an extraordinary journey by private jet, travel with a team of inspiring National Geographic wildlife experts to biodiversity hotspots across Asia and Africa. Venture into rainforests and wetlands, hike volcanoes, and dive into turquoise seas in search of some of the world’s most iconic animals. Along the way, gain insights from local communities, naturalists, and scientists on the critical work being done to protect them.
Visit our website for complete details and dates.
A team of National Geographic Experts will accompany this trip.
From left, photographer Jay Dickman conservationist Mireya Mayor and filmmaker Malaika Vaz.
See our website for full bios.
Prices are per person, double occupancy. Single supplement applies; please see our website. Transportation by private Boeing 757 jet and other conveyance, as noted in the itinerary, is included in the expedition cost. Airfare to Singapore and return from Rome, Italy is not included in the cost. This trip will be operated by National Geographic Expeditions, on flights operated by Icelandair. For Terms and Conditions and Operator-Participant Contract, visit nationalgeographic.com/ expeditions/terms/private-jet/wildlife-of-theworld-by-private-jet-2024/.
Take the path less traveled, and explore some of the most captivating places on the planet. From deserts and jungles to fjords and volcanic mountains, you’ll experience the diversity of nature as you also encounter cultures rich in history and tradition. Few people experience such an amazing collection of destinations in a lifetime, much less in a single, unforgettable journey.
21 DAYS | MAY 11–31, 2024
COST: $99,995
EXPEDITION OVERVIEW
• Embark on a full-day gorilla trek in Rwanda where you’ll search for these magnificent primates in their natural habitat.
• Venture out to the Korean Demilitarized Zone, a 160-mile buffer zone that is also a haven for wildlife.
• Explore the architectural wonders of Azerbaijan’s capital city, Baku, featuring stunning skyscrapers and medieval palaces and mosques.
Embark on an extraordinary adventure to exotic destinations throughout the world via the comfort and luxury of a private jet. Your trip will take you from the Gobi, where you’ll stay in a traditional ger tent and visit the magnificent Flaming Cliffs, to the ancient mosques and modern architectural marvels of Azerbaijan. You’ll go to the DMZ, the strip of land that separates South Korea and North Korea, and to Rwanda’s Volcano National Park—along with so many other spectacular places on this unforgettable trip.
Visit our website for complete details and dates.
A team of National Geographic Experts will accompany this expedition.
From left, educator and archaeologist William (Bill) Saturno; educator, marine biologist and biologist Tierney Thys and photographer Nevada Wier
See our website for full bios.
Price is per person, double occupancy. Single supplement applies; please see our website. Transportation by private Boeing 757 and other conveyance, as noted in the itinerary, is included in the expedition cost. Airfare to Seattle, Washington and return from Washington, D.C. is not included in the cost. For your protection and peace of mind, all payments are protected by a surety bond. This trip will be operated by National Geographic Expeditions, on flights operated by Icelandair. For Terms and Conditions and Operator-Participant Contract, visit nationalgeographic.com/expeditions/terms/privatejet/atw-hidden-marvels/.
