ACTIVE ADVENTURES
TRAVEL CATALOG
I
2017
Dear Traveler, Over the past year, National Geographic travelers have hiked beneath the jagged peaks of Patagonia, circled Mont Blanc on foot, slept like nomads in traditional Mongolian gers and woken up to ride horses across the steppe. Our travelers went kayaking in Croatia, dog-sledding in Sweden, and followed ancient pilgrimage routes in Japan and in Spain. Exploring at ground-level is travel in its purest form. As you walk or hike or paddle through extraordinary places, you learn the landscape, spend time with the locals, discover flora and fauna you would otherwise have missed. You breathe in the air, take in the views, and have time and space to savor it all. Traveling in a small, intimate group on a National Geographic Adventure, you’ll get to know fascinating cultures in Vietnam or the age-old Andean villages of Peru’s Sacred Valley. Embrace a physical challenge—like crossing England on foot or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro—or choose a less strenuous trip to Borneo’s rain forests or the hills of Provence. Our newest trip, the South Africa Safari Adventure, draws together everything that makes these trips such a rewarding way to travel. We start out in Cape Town, exploring the glorious Cape Peninsula and climb up iconic Table Mountain for a picnic and unforgettable views. We’ll bike through the winelands and share a meal in a local home, and we’ll get a close-up look at the traditions and everyday lives of the Xhosa and the Zulu peoples. Then it’s off to the incredible nature reserves of the east, where we’ll take a wildlife cruise, meet local conservationists, and settle into a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World for three days on safari. With top-notch trip leaders and a range of activity levels to choose from, our active adventures take you off the beaten path in some of the world’s most spectacular places. I hope you’ll join us! Sincerely,
Lynn Cutter Executive Vice President National Geographic Travel
Cover: A hiker pauses to take in views of Humantay Lake in Peru.
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ACTIVE ADVENTURES ASIA & THE PACIFIC
Japan Adventure: Tokyo to Sacred Kumano 14 Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia Adventure 16 Nepal: Everest Base Camp Trek 17 China Adventure 18 Mongolian Horse Trek 19 Borneo Wildlife Adventure 20 New Zealand Adventure 21
AFRICA
South Africa Safari Adventure NEW 22 Tanzania: Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari 24 Tanzania Walking Safari 25
NORTH AMERICA
Hiking the National Parks: Glacier, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton 26 Costa Rica Multisport Adventure 28 Costa Rica Wildlife Adventure 29 Alaska Sea Kayaking Adventure 30 Belize Adventure 31
SOUTH AMERICA
Peru: Machu Picchu Inn to Inn Trek 32 Hiking the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu 34 Patagonia Hiking Adventure 35
EUROPE
Hiking England Coast to Coast 36 Scotland Hiking Adventure: From the Highlands to Islands 38 Ireland: Hiking the Emerald Isle 39 Tuscany and Cinque Terre Hiking Adventure 40 Provence Hiking Adventure 41 Portugal Hiking Adventure 42 Spain: Walking El Camino de Santiago 43 Tour du Mont Blanc 44 Switzerland Hiking Adventure 45 Greek Islands Adventure 46 Croatia Island Adventure 47 Slovenian Alps Adventure 48 Vienna to Prague Hiking Adventure 49 Sweden: Dogsledding to the Icehotel 50 Iceland Adventure 51
MORE TRIPS
Private Departures 10 More Ways to Travel with Nat Geo 52
RESOURCES
Activity Levels 7 Photos from our Travelers 12 Terms and Conditions 53 Trip Calendar 54
CALL 1-888-689-2557 OR VISIT NATGEOADVENTURES.COM
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DISCOVER THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENCE
Traveling on a National Geographic Adventure means much more than checking off world-renowned sites. On all of our trips, we delve into each destination and get to know it intimately, following in the spirit of the Society’s explorers and adventurers. We seek out experiences that are meaningful and authentic, that take you to spectacular and little-known places, that give you the rush that comes with achieving a personal quest, and, in the end, that linger as rich and vivid memories.
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NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC OPENS DOORS
One of the beauties of traveling with National Geographic is the access you enjoy to special sites, fascinating people, and private homes. Whenever possible, we arrange visits with experts in the field so you can meet the people whose discoveries you’ve read about in the pages of our magazine. You can expect authentic, immersive experiences.
EXPLORE IN SMALL NUMBERS
A key part of experiencing a place intimately is getting away from the crowds. We keep our group size to a maximum of 16 so that we can move with agility, assimilate easily into local communities, and enjoy every place we visit in depth.
INSPIRED BY OUR EXPLORERS, LED BY TOP GUIDES
When crafting our adventures, we seek inspiration from National Geographic’s intrepid explorers—bold, curious, and boundary-pushing individuals who have ventured to the farthest corners of the planet to uncover its myriad wonders. Our partner in adventure is Mountain Travel Sobek, a pioneering travel company that has brought travelers to some of the world’s most remote places for more than 40 years. Once you’re on the road, you’ll explore alongside some of the best guides in the business.
AN OPPORTUNITY TO CHALLENGE YOURSELF
We don’t call them adventures for nothing! You may find yourself trekking high above a mountain lake, deep into a rain forest, or past little-known archaeological wonders. Maybe you’ll traverse legendary landscapes by camel or on horseback, or kayak the shores of a tropical island. Our adventures range from easy to ultimate challenge: you choose the level of physical activity that best matches your abilities and interests.
SUSTAINING THE WORLD’S TREASURES
We are committed to sustaining the character and integrity of each place we visit—its environment, culture, heritage, and the well-being of its residents. Your participation helps support National Geographic Society’s projects that work to protect indigenous cultures and conserve native habitats and wildlife.
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CHOOSE YOUR
ADVENTURE
Our trips are rated by activity level—from easy to ultimate challenge—so you can choose the one that best suits you. All of our itineraries are well paced and filled with opportunities for you to push your limits, choose the harder trail, or go on the extra hike. And whenever you feel the need, you can opt to take a break and relax at the hotel.
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ACTIVITY LEVELS
Throughout this catalog, the activity level of each itinerary is indicated by the categories below. Several itineraries span two activity levels. EASY/MODERATE trips have mostly EASY activities with MODERATE activities on some days. MODERATE/STRENUOUS trips have mostly MODERATE activities with STRENUOUS activities on some days.
• 1–3 hours of activity per day • Hikes/walks less than 3 miles on mostly flat terrain at altitudes of up to 3,000 feet • Itineraries with kayaking have less than 2 miles of paddling per day.
• 3–6 hours of activity per day • Hikes up to 10 miles on rolling or mountainous terrain with some steep ascents/descents and uneven trails at altitudes of up to 8,000 feet • Itineraries with kayaking have 3–7 miles of paddling per day.
• 5–8 hours of activity per day • Hikes up to 10–12 miles on mountainous, exposed terrain with steep ascents/ descents and uneven trails at altitudes of up to 14,000 feet • Itineraries with kayaking have up to 10 miles of paddling per day. • Prior experience hiking at high elevation and a doctor’s release may be required.
• Designed for very fit and experienced hikers. • 10 or more hours of activity per day • Hikes of 12 or more miles on remote, mountainous, exposed terrain with steep ascents/ descents and uneven trails at altitudes often exceeding 14,000 feet • Prior experience hiking at high elevation and a doctor’s release may be required.
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MEET SOME OF OUR
EXCEPTIONAL GUIDES AND TRIP LEADERS
Our trip leaders are among the finest in the business, chosen for their love of exploration; their welcoming nature; and their deep knowledge of the flora, fauna, geology, and cultures you’ll encounter. Meet some of the dynamic leaders who might accompany your adventure. RODRIGO “RO” BAHAMONDEZ Patagonia Hiking Adventure Ro has been guiding travelers through his homeland of Patagonia since the mid-1990s. From leading sea-kayaking expeditions along coastal waters to heading up mountaineering and skiing trips through Tierra del Fuego, Ro has the full lay of the diverse southern Patagonian landscape. Ro is well prepared and looks forward to to taking adventurers on thrilling journeys through the wildest and most remote parts of Patagonia.
ANNA BEZZOLA Switzerland Hiking Adventure Anna grew up in Italy and Switzerland, and started exploring the Alps with her father as soon as she could walk. After living in the U.S. and leading trips to the Alps each summer, Anna returned to the Swiss canton of Ticino to guide full time. She speaks several languages and is a lifelong student of history and cultures around the world. She is an official guide for two UNESCO World Heritage sites in Ticino and has traveled widely.
HAYLEY SHEPARD New Zealand Adventure An adventurer, writer, and native New Zealander, Hayley began her career as a schoolteacher specializing in environment science and outdoor education before making the outdoors her permanent classroom. She has looked a polar bear in the eye, biked across South America, and kayaked around Vancouver Island. She is the author of South Solo: Kayaking to Save the Albatross, and numerous articles.
ARTUR PEGAS Portugal Hiking Adventure Born and raised in Portugal, Artur has long pursued his passion for adventure, even as he studied agricultural engineering and information management back at home. He has hiked in Patagonia and Yemen, Mongolia and Nepal, and even trekked from the north of New Zealand’s North Island to the south of the South Island. Artur loves travel photography and looks forward to introducing travelers to his country.
“There aren’t enough superlatives to describe Rodrigo. His fount of knowledge was endless, and I learned a great deal from him. He has an amazing personality and sense of humor, and played a large role in making this trip so incredible.” – ERNEST G., TRAVELER, PATAGONIA HIKING ADVENTURE, 2016
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UNIQUE ACCOMMODATIONS ON EVERY ADVENTURE An integral part of each trip is where we rest up after the day’s activities. Our accommodations are chosen for their location, comfort, and the way they reflect the local character, whether it’s a historic monastery along the Route of St. James in northern Spain, a stunning safari camp in the Serengeti, or an otherworldly hotel carved out of snow and ice in Sweden. When we have the opportunity, we stay in properties that are members of National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection—a group of extraordinary properties that offer one-of-a-kind experiences while remaining committed to sustainable tourism. We settle into a charming Andean casitas in the cloud forests beneath Machu Picchu, an an eco-lodge tucked amid the tropical flora and fauna of Borneo, bungalows nestled in a 1,000-acre nature reserve overlooking Costa Rica’s coastline, and a stunning lodge set within a private game reserve in South Africa.
Lapa Rios Eco Lodge, Costa Rica
Sukau Rainforest Lodge, Borneo
Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, South Africa
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru
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PRIVATE DEPARTURES: AN ADVENTURE ALL YOUR OWN
Private departures are a great way to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a memorable adventure with your spouse, your family, or your friends. It’s easy to do: simply select a National Geographic Adventure 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 adventures. In some cases, we can also tailor the itinerary to suit your interests, whether that means a few extra days on safari, a different hiking trail, or an additional stop on our route. Call our Adventure Specialists at 1-888-689-2557 to plan your private departure.
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WHEN YOU TRAVEL WITH US, YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
National Geographic Adventures is committed to sustaining the character and integrity of each place we visit—its environment, culture, and heritage, as well as the well-being of its residents. In providing authentic travel experiences, we strive to support local economies in our choice of services. At the same time, we believe that the powerful positive effects of sustainable travel go beyond the long-term economic benefits, inspiring passionate stewards committed to protecting the places we visit. When you travel with us, you make a difference. Your support is vital to the National Geographic Society’s nonprofit mission to explore and protect the planet. Every year, the Society funds researchers and explorers around the globe who are working to preserve species and ecosystems, protect cultures, and advance understanding of our planet and its inhabitants. The National Geographic Society receives funds from National Geographic Partners LLC (d/b/a National Geographic Adventures), funded in part by your purchase. To learn more, visit natgeo.com/info.
National Geographic's Big Cats Initiative supports scientists and conservationists working to save big cats in the wild.
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Steve Diephuis, @deepice7, Iceland Adventure
Guy Hudson, @dochudson62, Iceland Adventure
PHOTOS FROM OUR TRAVELERS
National Geographic Adventures travelers push their boundaries, explore incredible places, and encounter fascinating cultures—experiences that come together to create memories that will last a lifetime. These photos showcase just a few of our travelers’ favorite adventure moments captured on our trips.Visit our website for even more #natgeoadventures!
Doug Yee, @doug_yee, Sweden Dogsledding Adventure
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Coral Keegan, @ckeegan_foodandfoto, Borneo Wildlife Adventure
Lynn Bryla, Patagonia Hiking Adventure
Bill Mugg, Croatia Island Adventure
Steven Giorgi, Alaska Sea Kayaking Adventure
James Birmingham, Everest Base Camp Trek
Casey Feehan, @caseyfeehan, Ireland: Hiking the Emerald Isle
Kurt Sperling, @kurtsperling, Mongolian Horse Trek
Gareth Tate, @garethjtate, Iceland Adventure
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JAPAN ADVENTURE: TOKYO TO SACRED KUMANO
In Japan, a deep reverence for nature and tradition vies with a fascination of all that is futuristic—and this unique juxtaposition is part of the country’s appeal. Our adventure starts off amid the skyscrapers of Tokyo; then we step back in time in Asuka, one of Japan’s ancient capitals. In the sacred mountains of the Kii Peninsula, embark on the Kumano Kodo, a beautiful pilgrimage route that has drawn emperors and kimono-clad worshippers for more than a thousand years. Delve into Japan’s spiritual traditions as we hike to stunning shrines. Soak in hot springs, stay in traditional mountain inns and ryokans, and experience the diversity of Japan’s fine cuisine—from the lively pubs of Tokyo to locally sourced meals along the Kumano Kodo. Above: Japanese pilgrims in traditional dress hike the Kumano Kodo. Right: A taiko drummer performs at a temple.
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TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Spend three days hiking the
spectacular Kumano Kodo, one of only a few pilgrimage routes in the world designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• E xplore the Philosopher’s Path and
the Zen gardens of beautiful Kyoto.
• Ride electric bikes past burial
mounds and terraced rice paddies in the ancient capital of Asuka.
• Take part in an authentic tea ceremony and discover the intricacies of this important Japanese tradition.
ASIA ITINERARY
| 11 DAYS
DAY 3 ASUKA/OSAKA Journey by train to Asuka, the site of some of Japan’s first Buddhist temples. Small shrines, ancient stone monuments, and the burial mounds of Japan’s first emperors dot the terraced rice fields. Explore the town on a bicycle ride, then watch a private performance by a taiko drummer and try your hand at drumming. Weather permitting, meet a farming family for a picnic lunch. We continue by private coach to Osaka, one of Japan’s culinary capitals. Osaka Marriott Miyako
DAY 4 OSAKA/KUMANO KODO TO TAKAHARA After breakfast, travel by private coach south along the coast to Takijiri, on the Kii Peninsula. Set off on the Nakahechi trail, part of the network of ancient pilgrimage routes known as the Kumano Kodo. The rich spiritual history of the region is evident along our route, which links three important Shinto/Buddhist shrines and is scattered with smaller shrines called ōji. The first challenging leg of our hike brings us to the village of Takahara, where we’ll relax in the hot springs at our Japanese-style hotel. 3 miles hiking (2 hours) Organic Hotel Kiri-no-sato Takahara
DAY 5 KUMANO KODO TO CHIKATSUYU Hike east through lush cedar forests, passing small jizo bodhisattva statues placed by locals to protect travelers, and tea houses, which provided rest to pilgrims until the early 20th century. Descend to the village of Chikatsuyu, and return by bus to our inn in Takahara. 7 miles hiking (4 hours) Organic Hotel Kiri-no-sato Takahara
DAY 6 CHIKATSUYU TO KAWAYU ONSEN The trail ascends to Tsugizakura-ōji, one of more than 100 small shrines along the route where pilgrims leave offerings. Travel from Kobiro-ōji to Hosshinmon-ōji by local bus,
From Tokyo
Kyoto
Osaka Asuka
8 miles hiking (4 hours)
Chikatsuyu Takahara Takijiri
34° 9' N
Tanabe
Fujiya Ryokan
0
DAY 7 KUMANO RIVER/KATSUURA BAY Meet a local Shugendo priest to learn firsthand about this ascetic Buddhist sect that focuses on the connection between humans and nature. Head to the Kumano River for a boat ride. Visit Hayatama Taisha, another one of Kumano Kodo’s shrines of pilgrimage. Then continue to Katsuura, and settle into our hotel, built into the rock on the edge of Katsuura Bay. Soak in the hotel’s hot springs, set within a cave overlooking the water.
MILES
Kum
Kawayu Onsen
o
r ve Ri
Royal Park Shiodome Hotel or Niwa Hotel
Nijo Castle
an
DAYS 1 AND 2 TOKYO, JAPAN Arrive in Tokyo and transfer to our hotel in the modern Shiodome district. Meet for an orientation and welcome dinner. Our first full day starts with a walking tour of Tokyo’s elegant Ginza shopping district and the park around the Imperial Palace. Then stroll through quiet Yanaka, where age-old temples are tucked in among traditional wooden houses. Enjoy an evening on your own to explore Tokyo’s dynamic dining scene.
then hike the final section through ridge-top villages before descending to the Hongu Taisha, one of the grand shrines of the Kumano Sanzan. Explore the shrine and then take a short drive to Kawayu Onsen, one of the oldest hot springs in Japan, just a few steps from the ryokan where we’ll stay the night.
Shingu Nachi Taisha 10 Katsuura
Paci
Tanabe Katsuura
Pacific Ocean 136° 8' E
Boat route Hiking route Motor route Train route 0
20
MILES
Hotel Nakanoshima
DAYS 8 AND 9 NACHI TAISHA/KYOTO After breakfast, pay a visit to Nachi Taisha, another of the three Grand Shrines of Kumano, and see the nearby waterfall, one of the tallest in Japan. Journey by train to Kyoto, and enjoy free time to explore before dinner. The next day, head to Nijo Castle, the former seat of the Tokugawa shoguns in Kyoto. At the castle’s Ninomaru Palace, see work by artists from the Kano school and take note of the “nightingale floors,” designed to squeak when walked upon to ward off intruders. Take a guided tour of the Higashiyama neighborhood, stroll past cherry trees on the Philosopher’s Path, and venture into the Zen gardens of Nanzen-ji temple. Day 9: 1–2 miles walking (2 hours) Royal Park Hotel The Kyoto
DAYS 10 AND 11 KYOTO/OSAKA Experience the complex traditions of the Japanese tea ceremony, a highly stylized ritual that began in the 16th century when tea was first brought to Japan. Later, enjoy a specially arranged visit to a Zen temple normally closed to the public. After time at leisure, meet up for a farewell dinner. The next day, transfer to the Osaka airport for your flight home. Royal Park Hotel The Kyoto
A tunnel of torii (red gates) decorates the Fushimi Inari Temple in Kyoto.
INFORMATION 2017: Apr. 5–15 • Apr. 12–22 • May 10–20
July 12–22 • Sept. 20–30 • Oct. 15–25 Nov. 10–20 • Nov. 17–27
$7,295
COST: Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,600. Airfare to Tokyo and return from Osaka is not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of dinner on day 2 and lunch and dinner on day 9. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE We will hike 2 to 4 hours per day (1–8 miles) on well-worn paths with some steep rocky terrain or stairs. During hikes on the Kumano Kodo trail, vehicle support is limited to paved roads. Vehicle support is provided on all other days. Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. We travel by public train when transferring between major cities. GROUP SIZE: 8–15 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will spend 7 nights in comfortable hotels and 3 nights in a ryokan (traditional Japanese guesthouse). There will be two nights during which we will be without our luggage and will carry what we need in our day packs.
CALL 1-888-689-2557 OR VISIT NATGEOADVENTURES.COM
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VIETNAM, LAOS, AND CAMBODIA ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Kayak from sandy beaches to limestone caves and the remains of floating villages on Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay. • Go biking in Hue, Vietnam, and in the Cambodian countryside. •E xplore four UNESCO World Heritage sites in three different countries: Hue, Ha Long Bay, Louang Phrabang, and Angkor Wat. • Get to know the local people during meals, ceremonies, and visits to schools and homes.
Hanoi
L AO S
Luang Prabang
Ha Long Bay
Gulf of Tonkin
Hue
South China Sea 16° 47' N
THAILAND Angkor Wat
VI ET NAM
Siem Reap Bakong
C A MB ODIA Air route
ITINERARY
| 13 DAYS
DAYS 1–7 HO CHI MINH CITY (SAIGON) HUE/HANOI/HA LONG BAY, VIETNAM Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and gather for a welcome dinner. Go on a walking tour past the city's famous sites, including the old Saigon Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Reunification Palace, and Chinatown. Fly to Hue, and bike past dragon boats and longtailed canoes along the Perfume River to the Phu Mong district. Enjoy a delicious lunch of local specialties at Tha Om before visiting the Imperial City and the citadel. Catch a flight to Hanoi, where we’ll explore the captivating Old Quarter by rickshaw, and visit the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh. Then drive to Ha Long Bay, where our private wooden junk awaits. Set sail into waters dotted with tiny islands and karst formations. After a kayak lesson, venture out to discover “tunnel lakes” and remote lagoons, and paddle to the remains of a floating village. Day 3: 6–8 miles bicycling (1–2 hours); Day 7: 2–6 miles paddling (2–4 hours) Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon, La Résidence Hotel & Spa Hue, Intercontinental Westlake Hanoi, Aphrodite Cruises Traditional Junk
DAYS 8–10 LOUANG PHRABANG, LAOS
Drive back to Hanoi and fly to Louang Phrabang. A World Heritage site, Louang Phrabang is a breathtaking combination of Buddhist temples
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and colonial buildings nestled in jungle-covered hills. Visit some of the city’s many shrines and join a local family for a Buddhist Baci ceremony followed by dinner.
Gulf of Thailand
Ho ChiMinh City
0
106° 67' E
100
MILES
Day 10: 2–3 hours walking Villa Santi Resort
DAYS 11–13 LOUANG PHRABANG/SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA/ANGKOR WAT Rise early to observe saffron-robed monks walking silently through town to collect offerings. Visit Wat Xieng Thong, a temple protecting Buddhist and royal artifacts. Next, fly to Siem Reap and embark on a cycling excursion to some of the earliest Khmer temples, stopping along the way to sample Khmer pastries at a local home. Encounter the legendary temple of Angkor Wat, covering nearly 500 acres with its extraordinary sculptures and stupas. Examine the 1,000-year-old carvings at the Hindu temple of Banteay Srei, venture into Ta Prohm, and explore the ancient city of Angkor Thom. See the colossal faces of the Bayon Temple and visit the Terrace of the Leper King. Later, transfer to the airport in Siem Reap for your flight home. Day 12: 4–5 miles bicycling (1–2 hours) Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa
INFORMATION 2017: Mar. 4–16 • Mar. 18–30 • Sept. 22–Oct. 4
Oct. 20–Nov. 1 • Nov. 3–15 • Dec. 8–20
$6,495
COST: Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,100. Airfare to Ho Chi Minh City and return from Siem Reap and airfare within Southeast Asia are not included in the cost. The group flights within Southeast Asia are $675 (subject to change). All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of dinner on days 5 and 10. ACTIVITY LEVEL: EASY/MODERATE On kayaking excursions, we will paddle from 2 to 4 hours per day (2 to 6 miles), combined with time to relax or hike. On bicycling excursions, we will bike from 1 to 2 hours per day (4 to 8 miles). Vehicle support is provided on hikes and while biking. Boat support is provided while kayaking. While there is no sustained hiking on this trip, there is ample walking in cities and over uneven terrain in villages and at temple sites. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 10 nights in comfortable hotels and 2 nights in a traditional wooden junk (sailboat).
Above: A Buddhist monk stands among temple ruins at the water’s edge.
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
ASIA
NEPAL: EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Trek to the foot of breathtaking Everest, the world’s highest mountain. • Set out on challenging hikes to Kala Pattar (18,192'), Nangkartshang Peak (16,672'), and Everest Base Camp (17,590'). • Explore Sherpa villages and the ancient Thami and Tengboche Monasteries. • Visit a school established by Sir Edmund Hillary in the mountain village of Khumjung.
CHINA
Everest Base Camp
Mount Everest (29,035 ft)
Lobuje Khumjung Thami
From/to Kathmandu
ITINERARY
| 19 DAYS
DAYS 1–3 KATHMANDU, NEPAL/LUKLA, BEGIN TREK TO PHAKDING Arrive in Kathmandu and spend a day exploring the city. Then fly to Lukla (9,200') in the Khumbu region of the Himalaya. Meet our Sherpa guides and begin our trek, descending 1,500 feet to the Dudh Kosi (River of Milk). Follow the trail to the village of Phakding. Day 3: 5 miles hiking (3 hours) Shangri-La Hotel Kathmandu, Mountain Lodges
DAYS 4–8 NAMCHE BAZAAR/THAMI/ KHUMJUNG/TENGBOCHE/DEBUCHE The trail continues north up the Dudh Kosi valley to Monjo, where it officially enters Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park. A steep climb brings us to Namche Bazaar, where we’ll spend an extra day to acclimatize, then trek to the remote village of Thami. After exploring Thami Monastery (13,000'), hike uphill toward Khumjung to visit a school Sir Edmund Hillary established in 1961. The next day, set out through the Dudh Kosi gorge to Tengboche Monastery, then descend to Debuche. Day 4: 6 miles hiking (5–6 hours); Day 5: 3–4 miles optional hiking (2–3 hours); Day 6: 2–3 miles hiking (4–5 hours); Day 7: 7 miles hiking (5–6 hours); Day 8: 7–8 miles hiking (5–6 hours) Mountain Lodges
DAYS 9–12 DINGBOCHE/LOBUJE/ GORAK SHEP Trek through a beautiful forest on our way to Dingboche, where we will spend two nights camping. Head out on an optional 2,100-foot climb to Nangkartshang Peak (16,672'). Continue along the valley floor to Dughla (15,157') before hiking on to Lobuje. Walk to the edge of the Khumbu Glacier, then hike up to the village of Gorak Shep. Climb up Kala Pattar (18,192') for dramatic views of Everest. Day 9: 6 miles hiking (5 hours); Day 10: 4 miles hiking (5–6 hours); Day 11: 4 miles hiking (5–6 hours); Day 12: 5 miles optional hiking (2–3 hours) Mountain Lodges
DAYS 13–19 EVEREST BASE CAMP/LOBUJE/ DESCENT TO LUKLA/KATHMANDU Weather permitting, embark on the final climb to Everest Base Camp, situated beneath the Khumbu Icefall. Return to Lobuje and retrace your steps to Debuche. Hike down to the Dudh Kosi and climb to Namche Bazaar for the night, followed by a leisurely trek back to Lukla. Fly to Kathmandu and venture to the ancient town of Bhaktapur the next day, exploring the temples and palaces of Durbar Square. Depart from Kathmandu the following day. Day 13: 9 miles hiking (9–10 hours); Day 14: 9–10 miles hiking (6–7 hours); Day 15: 8–9 miles hiking (5–7 hours); Day 16: 9 miles hiking (8 hours) Mountain Lodges, Shangri-La Hotel Kathmandu
27° 49' N
Dudh Kosi
Lukla
Hiking route Air route 0
Dingboche Debuche Namche Bazaar Phakding
N EPA L
10
MILES
86° 43' E
INFORMATION 2017: Apr. 13–May 1 • Oct. 13–31 • Nov. 3–21
$5,795
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $900. Airfare to/from Kathmandu and airfare within Nepal are not included in the adventure cost. The group flight within Nepal is $380 (subject to change). All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of lunch on days 2 and 17, and dinner on days 2, 17, and 18. ACTIVITY LEVEL: ULTIMATE CHALLENGE While on the trek, we will be hiking 4 to 10 hours per day (2 to 10 miles), on moderate to steep grades at elevations ranging from 9,318 feet to a maximum of 18,192 feet. Some days will be rest days with optional hikes to properly acclimatize. Porters and pack animals will transport our gear. Participants should be in excellent health (a signed medical form from your doctor will be required). GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 4 nights in comfortable Nepalese-style hotels, and 14 nights in simple, rustic mountain lodges with shared basic facilities.
Above: A hiker celebrates his trek as he reaches Khumbu Glacier.
CALL 1-888-689-2557 OR VISIT NATGEOADVENTURES.COM
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CHINA ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Hike three different sections of the Great Wall and visit villages built in the fortification’s shadows. • Encounter the terra-cotta warrior army of Emperor Qin Shi Huang in Xi’an. • Float downriver on a bamboo raft past limestone pinnacles near Guilin. • Sit down to a dumpling feast and help cook dinner in a family home.
Great Wall
Datong Yungang Grottoes
NORTH KOREA
Beijing Hanging Monastery Taiyuan
Yellow Sea
Mt. Hua (7,087 ft)
SOUTH KOREA
Xi’an
CHINA
32° 31' N
East China Sea Motor route Air route Train route 0
300
MILES
ITINERARY
| 13 DAYS
DAYS 1–4 BEIJING/GREAT WALL, CHINA Arrive in Beijing and settle into our hotel, located in a traditional hutong neighborhood. Explore the Forbidden City and visit the Lama Temple, home to the largest Buddha statue in the world. Embark on a two-day hike along the Great Wall, walking across three different remote sections and visiting nearby rural villages. Day 3: 6–8 miles hiking (4–5 hours); Day 4: 4–6 miles hiking (3–4 hours) Hotel Kapok, Ramada North Hotel
DAYS 5–7 DATONG/WUTAI MOUNTAIN/ TAIYUAN/JINSHENG Fly to Datong, where we’ll visit the Hanging Monastery and venture into the Yungang Grottoes to examine ancient artwork. Journey to the sacred Wutai Mountain, considered the home of a bodhisattva of wisdom and designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Spend the night in Taiyuan, and travel by bullet train to Xi'an the next morning. From here, we transfer to Hua Shan. Qixiange Hotel, Kempinski Hotel Taiyuan, Huashan Hotel
DAYS 8–10 HUA SHAN/XI’AN/GUILIN/ YANGSHUO Ride a cable car to the North Peak of the sacred Hua Shan mountain and hike a series
18
of routes around the summit. Drive to the medieval capital of Xi’an, and encounter the legendary terra-cotta army of the first emperor, Qin Shi Huang. Enjoy a dumpling banquet and hike or bike atop Xi’an’s old city wall. Stroll through the lively Muslim quarter, which traces its history back to Arab and Persian merchants who settled here after journeying the Silk Road. Fly to Guilin and transfer to charming Yangshuo for an evening water and light show. Day 8: 4–6 miles hiking (4–5 hours) Zuoyouke Hotel, Yangshuo Resort
DAYS 11–13 YANGSHUO/GUILIN Hike up Moon Hill, and then raft down the Yulong River through otherworldly karst scenery. A local family hosts us for a dinner of regional specialties that we’ll help prepare. Enjoy a final day at leisure in Yangshuo, or bike to Fuli village for a visit to workshops where China’s distinctive traditional paper fans are made. Return to Guilin for your flight home. Day 12: 3 miles hiking (1–2 hours) Yangshuo Resort
Guilin Yangshuo
116° 23' E
TAIWAN
INFORMATION 2017: May 15–27 • Sept. 11–23 • Oct. 9–21 COST:
$5,995
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,500. Airfare to Beijing and return from Guilin, and airfare within China are not included in the cost. The group flights within China are estimated at $460 (subject to change). All meals are included between group arrival and departure. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE We will be hiking 1 to 5 hours per day (3 to 8 miles), on moderate to steep grades on four days of this itinerary. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 9 nights in hotels that are ideally located for our days’ activities. We will spend 3 nights in a comfortable resort with excellent amenities.
Above: The Great Wall of China zigzags through the rugged hilltops.
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
ASIA
MONGOLIAN HORSE TREK
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • View the Mongolian countryside from the perspective of a nomad, traveling primarily on horseback. • Listen to khoomii, or throat singing, at the National Dance Ensemble. • Experience the color, passion, and pageantry of a local Naadam festival. • Explore the 16th-century Erdene Zhu Monastery and meet its head lama (his schedule permitting).
Tolgin Butts camp
Mandal Mountain camp
Ulaanbaatar
Lapis Sky camp
47° 12' N
Kharkhorin Khangai Nuruu National Park Blue Lake
MONG OL IA
Mandal Mountain
Motor route Horse trek 0
ITINERARY
| 14 DAYS
DAYS 1–5 ULAANBAATAR/KHARKHORIN/ BULGAN SUM, MONGOLIA Arrive in Ulaanbaatar and spend a day exploring the city, then gather for a traditional Mongolian feast. Visit the National Museum of Mongolia to learn about the country's rich history, and see a traditional dance and throat-singing performance at the National Dance Ensemble. Journey to Kharkhorin to see the ruins of Karakorum, Genghis Khan’s legendary capital. Then venture into the 16th-century Erdene Zhu Monastery to meet with the head lama, as his schedule permits. Settle into the Lapis Sky Ger Camp near Bulgan Sum. Day 5: 9 miles optional horse riding (3 hours) Tuushin Hotel, Ger Camp, Lapis Sky Ger Camp
DAYS 6–10 HORSE TREK Brush up on your horseback skills during a warmup ride, and visit with a nomad family to experience their way of life. Return to Bulgan Sum by horse or jeep and enjoy a day to take photo walks, go fishing, and spend time with nomad families before a Mongolian barbecue. Then set out on horseback across the sweeping steppe to Tolgin Butts, where we’ll camp in a peaceful meadow. An invigorating ride over spectacular
63
MILES
mountain passes brings us to Mandal Mountain, a sacred place for the Mongols. Explore the area on foot, and attend a Buddhist ceremony on top of the mountain.
102° 50' E
Day 7: 9 miles riding (3 hours); Day 8: 12 miles riding (5 hours); Day 9: 3 miles optional riding (1 hour) Camping, Lapis Sky Ger Camp
DAYS 11–14 NAADAM FESTIVAL/ ULAANBAATAR Take part in a once-in-a-lifetime experience at a local Naadam festival near our camp. Naadam takes place every summer throughout Mongolia, pitting men and boys against each other in ageold contests of manliness and physical prowess. Young men train all year to compete in the three events: bareback horseracing, wrestling, and archery. Witness the excitement up close, taking photographs in the middle of the action and even trying your hand at some of the sports after the competition. During a day of leisure at Lapis Sky, opt to set out on a final horseback ride, go hiking or fishing, or practice yoga or archery. The next day, return to Ulaanbaatar for flights home. Lapis Sky Ger Camp, Tuushin Hotel
INFORMATION 2017: June 14–27 • July 1–14 • July 20–Aug. 2
Aug. 9–22
$6,395
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $900. Airfare to/from Ulaanbaatar is not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE This horseback-riding adventure is suitable for beginners and experts alike; no previous experience is necessary. Due to the size of the horses, there is a rider-weight maximum of 195 pounds. We will have a four-day horse trek, riding 1 to 5 hours per day (3 to 12 miles) with options for more, or less, riding on most days. The trek will be supported by jeeps. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 7 nights in traditional Mongolian gers (felt-lined yurts with shared facilities), 3 nights camping in backpacking-style tents, and 3 nights in first-class hotels.
Above: Horsemen in traditional dress on the grasslands of Mongolia.
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19
BORNEO WILDLIFE ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Observe orangutans and Malayan sun bears up close at conservation centers in Sepilok. • Set out on safari in Tabin Wildlife Reserve, home to nine primate species, three cat species, and some 220 species of birds. • Walk through the canopy of a 130 million-year-old virgin rain forest, looking out for orangutans, civets, and exotic birds.
S outh C hina Sea GAYA ISLAND
117° 44' E
Motor route Air route 0
MALAYSIA
Kota Kinabalu
40
MILES
Su lu S e a
Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve
Sandakan Tabin Wildlife Reserve
Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Kinabatangan Rive
r
5° 13' N
ITINERARY
| 11 DAYS
DAYS 1–5 SANDAKAN, MALAYSIA/SEPILOK/ KINABATANGAN RIVER/TABIN WILDLIFE RESERVE Arrive in Sandakan on Malaysian Borneo’s eastern coast. Head to the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve and enjoy a private talk by the CEO of the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Then visit the neighboring orangutan rehabilitation center before continuing to our lodge on the Kinabatangan River. Here, we’ll set out on a variety of day and night hikes and river safaris, looking for orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and much more. Learn about the Orang Sungai’s culture at a local village. Next, journey into the Tabin Wildlife Reserve, home to nine primate species, three cat species, and some 220 species of birds. Hike to a bubbling mud volcano, which attracts many different animals, and learn about Sumatran rhino conservation efforts during a meeting with the executive director of the Borneo Rhino Alliance. Day 2: 1–2 miles hiking (1–2 hours); Day 5: 1–2 miles hiking (2 hours) Sheraton Four Points Sandakan, Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort or Sukau Rainforest Lodge, Tabin Wildlife Resort
DAYS 6–8 DANUM VALLEY CONSERVATION AREA Travel to the valley of the Danum River, known for its 169 square miles of virtually undisturbed
20
primary rain forest. Spend three days exploring the many nature trails. Keep an eye out for rare species, including the reclusive clouded leopard, Bornean gibbon, and maroon langur. Birdlife here is incredibly diverse, with some 275 recorded species. Watch a dazzling sunrise over the valley from atop an observation tower. Hike to a nearby waterfall; go on a canopy walk in the treetops surrounding our lodge; and venture out on night safaris. Day 6: 1–2 miles hiking (2 hours); Day 7: 1–2 miles hiking (2 hours); Day 8: 1–2 miles hiking (2 hours) Borneo Rainforest Lodge
DAYS 9–11 DANUM VALLEY CONSERVATION AREA/GAYA ISLAND/KOTA KINABALU Depart for Lahad Datu and fly to Kota Kinabalu. Take a ferry to Gaya Island and settle into our secluded eco-resort, nestled in the rain forest overlooking the aquamarine shallows of Malohom Bay. Set off on an excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, where we’ll snorkel along a colorful reef comprising more than 170 different species of coral.Explore this underwater world on a morning snorkeling excursion, or opt to relax on the beach, or indulge in a spa treatment or yoga session at the hotel. Enjoy sunset cocktails before our farewell dinner. The following morning, return to Kota Kinabalu via ferry and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Gaya Island Resort
Danum Valley Lahad Datu Conservation Area Borneo Rainforest Lodge
INDONESIA
Tabin Wildlife Resort
C el eb es S e a
INFORMATION 2017: Mar. 1–11 • Mar. 13–23 • Apr. 9–19 • Oct. 1–11
Oct. 15–25 • Oct. 29–Nov. 8
$7,495 OCT.–NOV.: $7,595 COST: MAR.–APR.:
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,300. Airfare to Sandakan and return from Kota Kinabalu is not included in the cost. All meals between group arrival and departure are included. ACTIVITY LEVEL: EASY/MODERATE This is primarily a wildlife viewing trip. We will hike 1 to 2 hours per day (1 to 2 miles) on uneven trails over moderate grades at low elevations. Participants always have the option to rest a day. Some long transfers of up to 3.5 hours will be required. GROUP SIZE: 8–15 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 3 nights in first-class hotels and 7 nights in lodges. On two of the nights in lodges, rooms do not have air conditioning but are equipped with fans.
Above: A baby orangutan makes itself comfortable on its dangling mother.
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
PACIFIC
NEW ZEALAND ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Sea kayak among dolphins and fur seals on the coast of Abel Tasman National Park, and hike along dramatic cliffs and gold-sand beaches. • Visit the Franz Josef area, exploring the maze of crevasses and towering icefalls. • See the towering limestone formation known as the Pancake Rocks, formed over millions of years. • Stargaze and watch for wildlife on an overnight cruise on glorious Milford Sound.
Abel Tasman National Park
Motor route 0
50
MILES
Pacific Ocean Tasman Sea Franz Josef Glacier Haast Mt Aspiring National Park
ITINERARY
| 12 DAYS
DAYS 1–4 NELSON, NEW ZEALAND/ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK/PUNAKAIKI Arrive in Nelson and gather for a welcome dinner. Travel to Kaiteriteri and catch a water taxi into Abel Tasman National Park. Set out on the Abel Tasman Coast Track, hiking through native forests and along gold-sand beaches, and arrive at our eco-lodge on Awaroa Bay. Explore Tonga Island Marine Reserve by sea kayak, keeping an eye out for dolphins and penguins, then hike back to our lodge. Return to Kaiteriteri and follow the Buller River gorge to Punakaiki on the wild western coast. Time permitting, stop at Cape Foulwind to see its fur seal colony. Day 2: 4 miles hiking (3–4 hours); Day 3: 1 mile hiking (1 hour); 4–5 miles paddling (4–5 hours) Rutherford Hotel Nelson, Awaroa Lodge, Punakaiki Resort
DAYS 5–7 PAPAROA NATIONAL PARK/ OKARITO/FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER Set off on a hike along the Pororari River through a valley lined with towering limestone cliffs, and continue into Paparoa National Park. Return to Punakaiki for a visit to Pancake Rocks, then continue to Hokitika. Hit the trail in Okarito, taking in a magnificent panorama. Continue into Westland Tai Poutini National
Day 5: 6 miles hiking (4 hours); Day 6: 5 miles hiking (3 hours); Day 7: 2 miles hiking (2–3 hours) Beachfront Hotel Hokitika, Te Waonui Forest Retreat
DAYS 8–12 SOUTHERN ALPS/WANAKA/ MOUNT ASPIRING NATIONAL PARK/ QUEENSTOWN/MILFORD SOUND Travel into the Southern Alps on our way to the Southern Lakes district. Trace the shores of Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea, stopping for short hikes along our route. Follow the Matukituki River valley into Mount Aspiring National Park, where we’ll hike the Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain tracks. Then continue our journey into Fiordland National Park, where we set sail on the magnificent Milford Sound. Drive to Queenstown and enjoy free time to visit a local winery, go for a hike, or try out an adventure sport. Celebrate our adventure with a farewell dinner. Depart the next day. Day 9: 6 miles hiking (4–6 hours) Milford Mariner or Milford Wanderer, Grand Mecure Oakridge Resort, Scenic Suites Queenstown
Okarito
SOUTH ISLAND Paparoa National Park To Auckland
Aoraki/ Mount Cook National Park Mt Cook (12,316 ft)
Rob Roy Glacier
Wanaka Queenstown
Fiordland National Park
Park, part of southwest New Zealand’s extensive World Heritage area. The next day, explore the Franz Josef area by foot.
Punakaiki Hokitika
43° 25' S
Milford Sound
Cape Foulwind
Onetahuti Kaiteriteri Nelson
Pacific Ocean
170° 21' E
170° 97' E
INFORMATION 2017: Mar. 6–17* • Mar. 20–31 • Nov. 6–17
Nov. 20–Dec. 1* • Dec. 21, 2017–Jan. 1, 2018*
COST: Spring:
$7,695
Fall: $7,895
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,500. An optional helicopter ride on Day 7 is not included in the trip cost, and is approximately $200 per person. Airfare to Nelson and return from Queenstown (or to Queenstown and return from Nelson for reverse itineraries) is not included in the cost. There is a $200 holiday surcharge for the December departure. All meals between group arrival and departure are included, with the exception of dinner on days 7 and 10. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE On this multi-sport adventure, hikes range from 2 to 6 hours (1 to 6 miles) on good trails with moderate elevation gain. On our kayaking excursion, we will paddle stable, two-person kayaks for 4 to 5 hours (4 to 5 miles). No previous kayaking experience is necessary. During hikes, vehicle support is limited while in the national parks. Participants always have the option to rest a day at the hotel. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We stay 10 nights in comfortable eco-lodges and hotels, and 1 night on a traditional sailing boat in Milford Sound. *Follows the itinerary shown, in the reverse order.
Above: Kayakers rest on a sand island in Abel Tasman National Park.
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21
SOUTH AFRICA SAFARI ADVENTURE
South Africa is a microcosm of the wonders of the African continent—from its rich cultures and dramatic landscapes to its legendary wildlife. Hike to the summit of Table Mountain in Cape Town and wind your way along dramatic coastal trails in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Cycle among centuriesold vineyards and admire Cape Dutch architecture on a walk through European-influenced Franschhoek. In KwaZulu-Natal, witness colorful Zulu customs and encounter an amazing array of animals. Take a wildlife cruise on a lake teeming with elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Then set out on safari in one of Africa’s top private game reserves, Sabi Sand, and stay at a stunning safari lodge included in the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection. Above: Hikers take in views from atop Table Mountain. Right: Two young elephants play in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
22
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • See the African penguins of the
Cape Peninsula, and meet with a conservationist at the Cape Parrot Project, founded by National Geographic Emerging Explorer Steve Boyes.
• Experience life at a Zulu homestead, and taste the dishes of Nelson Mandela’s childhood.
• Bike through the Cape Winelands, and stop for a tasting.
• Track the “big five” and other
wildlife, and connect with locals working to save Africa’s threatened species.
AFRICA
The Cape Milner
DAY 2 CAPE PENINSULA Enjoy a scenic drive to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Walk along winding coastal trails through flowering shrublands, and hike to the iconic lighthouse at Cape Point. Observe hundreds of African penguins on Boulders beach, then discover the exotic blossoms of the Cape Floral Kingdom at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Later, meet with a representative of the National Geographic-funded Cape Parrot Project, a community–based conservation program founded by National Geographic Emerging Explorer Steve Boyes that aims to reduce threats to the endangered Cape parrot.
1 mile walking, (1 hour); 3–4 hours driving
1–2 miles hiking (2 hours) Ghost Mountain Inn
DAY 3 CAPE TOWN This morning, hike up iconic Table Mountain, and take in incredible views from the top. After lunch, ride the cable car back down to town. Explore the city’s highlights, including the historic Company’s Garden and the bustling cobblestoned plaza of Greenmarket Square. Tonight, join local drummers to try your hand at playing the djembe, one of Africa’s oldest instruments. Then partake in a traditional feast accompanied by singers and puppeteers.
DAY 8 LAKE JOZINI Take a wildlife cruise on sprawling Lake Jozini, a watering hole for elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Later, meet with a local wildlife conservation group to learn about its work preserving southern Africa’s threatened species.
DAY 4 WINELANDS Explore the Winelands by bicycle, starting in oakshaded Stellenbosch. Cycle through a patchwork of verdant farmland, stopping at vineyards and enjoying lunch at a country restaurant. Later, in Franschhoek (Dutch for “French corner”), stroll cafe-lined streets and admire the whitewashed gables of Cape Dutch houses. 3 miles biking (3 hours) Protea Franschhoek
DAY 5 WINELANDS CULTURAL TOUR On a guided walking tour of the Kayamandi township, encounter artists and entrepreneurs and learn about community development projects. Over lunch in the home of a local woman, hear about the customs of the Xhosa people—Nelson Mandela’s ethnic group—and sample traditional dishes. Then, travel over the rugged Helshoogte Pass for wine tastings at two beautiful wine estates.
Johannesburg Mkhuze Game Reserve Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park
28° 21' S
S WA Z I L A N D
Atl. Oc.
Lake Jozini
Zu
LESOTHO
Durban
SOU TH AFRICA
Indian Ocean Cape Town
DAY 7 MKHUZE GAME RESERVE Explore Mkhuze Game Reserve, a wonderland of savanna, riverine forest, and waterholes that is home to abundant wildlife. Accompanied by naturalist guides, track black and white rhinos, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and more with naturalist guides. Go for a walk in the park’s fig forest, where hundreds of bird species have been recorded.
The Cape Milner
The Cape Milner
NAMIBIA
Ghost Mountain Inn
1–2 miles hiking (1 hour); 4 hours driving
2 miles hiking (3 hours)
BOTSWANA
nd
DAY 1 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA Arrive in Cape Town and transfer to our hotel situated at the foot of Table Mountain. Gather for a welcome dinner on the waterfront.
DAY 6 CAPE TOWN/KWAZULU-NATAL Fly to Durban, the largest city of KwaZulu-Natal province, and drive north into Zululand, the 19th-century kingdom of the Zulu people. Settle into our inn below legendary Ghost Mountain. During an afternoon walk in the Lebombo Mountains, visit a homestead to witness everyday life in Zulu country. Stop for a sundowner and experience the rhythmic energy of a Zulu dance performance.
la
| 12 DAYS
lu
ITINERARY
Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve
Motor route Air route 0
26° 48'E
300
MILES
Ghost Mountain Inn
DAY 9 SABI SAND GAME RESERVE Fly to Sabi Sand Game Reserve, adjacent to Kruger National Park, then take 4x4 vehicles to our welcoming safari lodge, part of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection. An incredible array of wildlife can be found on this private reserve, from the “big five” to rare creatures like pangolins and aardvarks. 4 hours driving Sabi Sand Earth Lodge
DAYS 10 AND 11 SABI SAND GAME RESERVE Get immersed in the wild habitat of the lowveld. With a local Shangaan tracker and a game ranger, find leopards lolling in the shade or wild dogs gearing up for the hunt. Go on bushwalks to discover more about the flora and fauna of the savanna, and learn to identify footprints and other traces left by wildlife. End each day with a sundowner and a meal overlooking the bush. Sabi Sand Earth Lodge
DAY 12 JOHANNESBURG After a final morning safari, head to the airstrip and fly to Johannesburg to connect to your overnight flight home.
Penguins congregate on the beach on the Peninsula.
INFORMATION 2017: June 3–14 • July 15–26 • Aug. 16–27
Sept. 11–22
COST:
$6,995
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $600. International airfare to Cape Town and return from Johannesburg, and airfare within South Africa are not included in the cost. The group flight within South Africa is $1,300 (subject to change). All meals are included between group arrival and departure. ACTIVITY LEVEL: EASY/MODERATE Hikes range from 1 to 3 hours per day (2 to 4 miles) on varied terrain. On days with bicycling excursions, we will bike 3 to 4 hours (3 miles). Vehicle support is provided while biking. On game drives, we travel in 4x4 safari vehicles. Transportation is by private bus. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 11 nights in comfortable, ideally situated hotels and lodges, including two nights in a National Geographic Unique Lodge.
Protea Franschhoek
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23
TANZANIA: KILIMANJARO CLIMB AND SAFARI
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Climb the tallest freestanding mountain in the world and sleep on its crater floor. • Explore rain forests, heather moors, lava formations, and glaciers. • Learn about the unique flora and fauna of the mountain with local guides. • Spend four days on safari, spotting lions and leopards, vast herds of zebra and wildebeest, and much more.
KENYA Serengeti National Park Safari camp Olduvai Gorge
Kilimanjaro (19,340 ft) Kilimanjaro National Park
Meru (14,980 ft)
Ngorongoro Crater
3° 04' S
Meru camp
Arusha
TANZ ANIA Motor route
ITINERARY
| 15 DAYS
DAYS 1 AND 2 ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK/ MOUNT MERU, TANZANIA Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, and settle into our camp in Arusha National Park. On a warm-up hike on Mount Meru, watch for bushbucks, duikers, buffaloes, giraffes, rare birds, and perhaps elephants and leopards. Private Deluxe Camp
DAYS 3 AND 4 BEGIN TREK Our trek begins in Kilimanjaro’s montane forests and winds up through jungle where colobus monkeys dangle from branches. The next day, the trail crosses into the sub-alpine hagenia zone, where we take time to acclimate to the altitude. Our camp will be set up before our arrival every afternoon. Day 3: 3–6 hours hiking; Day 4: 6–8 hours hiking Camping
DAYS 5–7 SHIRA PLATEAU/LAVA TOWER/ ARROW GLACIER Trek across the Shira Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage site, then climb through the upper heath zone up the slope of the Kibo massif. Continue along the massif the next day, hiking into the alpine zone. Camp at the base of Lava Tower, a volcanic plug that juts skyward 300 feet. A morning hike brings us near Arrow Glacier,
24
0
where we have an afternoon to relax at our camp above the clouds.
37° E
50
MILES
Day 5: 4–6 hours hiking; Day 6: 5–7 hours hiking; Day 7: 2–3 hours hiking Camping
DAYS 8–10 CRATER CAMP/UHURU PEAK/ ARUSHA Tackle the Western Breach, a wall of rock that rises to the lip of the crater. We camp at 18,500 feet on the crater floor. Rise with the sun and climb 1,000 feet to the summit. From our perch at 19,340 feet, take in the magnificent sweep of sky and peaks. Descend steeply via the Mweka Route. Hike out of the rain forest on our last day, and drive to Arusha for a celebratory dinner. Day 8: 7–10 hours hiking; Day 9: 9–12 hours hiking; Day 10: 3–5 hours hiking Camping, Moivaro Lodge
DAYS 11–15 BEGIN SAFARI/NGORONGORO CRATER/SERENGETI/ARUSHA Set off on safari as we travel into the Ngorongoro Highlands and hike to a Maasai village. Then descend to the Ngorongoro Crater for a spectacular day on safari. See fossils at Olduvai Gorge, then head into the vast Serengeti Plain to encounter more of East Africa’s legendary wildlife. On the final day, return to Arusha for dinner together before flights home. Private Deluxe Camp, Moivaro Lodge
INFORMATION 2017: July 23–Aug. 6 • Dec. 21, 2017–Jan. 4, 2018
$7,995
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room/ tent, add $1,000. Airfare to/from Kilimanjaro International Airport and fees for Tanzania national parks are not included in the cost. Tanzania national park fees are $2,400 (subject to change). All meals are included between group arrival and departure. ACTIVITY LEVEL: ULTIMATE CHALLENGE While on the climb, we will be hiking 2 to 12 hours per day (2 to 12 miles) on moderate to steep grades and at elevations ranging from 7,000 feet to a max of 19,340 feet. Porters will transport our gear. You should come prepared to complete the full climb; however, our staff will assist you down the mountain if you are unable to reach the summit. A signed medical form from your doctor will be required for participation. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 6 nights in deluxe tented camps, 7 nights camping in tents, and 1 night in a comfortable lodge set amid lush gardens. A 10-day Kilimanjaro climb (without safari) is also an option.
Above: Climbers trek above the clouds as they near Kilimanjaro�s summit.
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
AFRICA
TANZANIA WALKING SAFARI
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Spend time with villagers in an authentic Maasai homestead and witness a traditional ceremony. • Hike the volcanic landscapes of the Rift Valley in the company of local Maasai. • Observe lions, elephants, black rhinos, zebras, and much more on game drives in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater. • Go on foraging walks in the bush alongside Hadza bushmen who subsist on what they hunt and gather.
Serengeti National Park
KENYA
Safari camp Olduvai Gorge
Ngorongoro Crater 3° 04' S
Arusha
Lake Eyasi Lake Manyara Hadza encampment
ITINERARY
| 11 DAYS
DAYS 1–5 ARUSHA, TANZANIA/SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK/WALKING SAFARI Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to our hotel. The next day, venture deep into the Serengeti in safari vehicles and continue to our camp, located in an area with a high concentration of wildlife. Set out on game drives to observe the creatures of the Serengeti. Next, drive to the Elwai mobile tented camp, where the Leakey family has made groundbreaking discoveries of early human origins with support from National Geographic. Spend two days hiking through the vast Serengeti Plain, Olduvai Gorge, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Days 4 and 5: 5–8 miles walking (4–6 hours) Moivaro Lodge, Private Deluxe Camp, Private Mobile Camp
DAYS 6–8 NGORONGORO CRATER SAFARI/HIGHLANDS WALKING SAFARI A vigorous uphill hike brings us to the crest of the Ngorongoro highlands. Descend to the land of the Maasai, the iconic pastoralists of the East African savanna. Arrive at a Maasai manyatta, or village, where we’ll be greeted with a high-jumping welcome dance. Meet the village elders, visit homes, and take part in a memorable cultural exchange. Later, hop into 4x4s for the descent into the Ngorongoro Crater—a 102-square-mile caldera teeming
with some 30,000 creatures. Following our safari, join our Maasai neighbors for a traditional feast and go for a sunset hike. The next day, choose from a variety of optional walks and hikes with Maasai guides. Day 6: 4 miles walking (6 hours); Day 7: 2–3 miles optional walking (1 hour); Day 8: 2–5 miles walking (1–3 hours); 12 miles optional summit climb (6 hours) Private Deluxe Camp, Private Mobile Camp
DAYS 9–11 LAKE EYASI/ARUSHA Travel to Lake Eyasi, the home of the Hadza bushmen, one of the last surviving huntergatherer tribes in the world. Make our way to a Hadza encampment, where we will spend a full day living among the Hadza. We’ll break into small groups and join members of the camp as they go about their search for the day’s food. Through our interpreter guides, enjoy a rare chance to talk with some of the world’s last bushmen about the ways they are coping with modern encroachments. Return to Arusha and gather for dinner before transferring to the airport. Day 9: 4–5 miles walking (2–3 hours); Day 10: 10–12 miles walking (5–6 hours) Private Mobile Camp, Dayroom at Moivaro Lodge
Motor route Hiking route
TANZ ANIA
0
23
MILES
35° 34' E
INFORMATION 2017: Aug. 6–16 COST: Spring:
$5,995
Fall: $6,295
Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,100 for March 2017, and add $600 for August 2017. International airfare to/from Arusha and fees for Tanzania national parks are not included in the cost. Fees for Tanzania national parks are $1,600 (subject to change). All meals are included between group arrival and departure. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE This is a moderate walking and hiking trip, with some strenuous sections. Hikes range from 1 to 6 hours per day (2 to 12 miles) on varied terrain. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 4 nights in rustic backcountry camps, 5 nights in deluxe tented camps and 1 night in a comfortable lodge set amid lush gardens. EXTEND YOUR STAY: Extend your visit in Tanzania with a stay at Sayari Camp, a member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection located in the northern Serengeti.
Above: A giraffe tends to her calf in the Serengeti.
CALL 1-888-689-2557 OR VISIT NATGEOADVENTURES.COM
25
HIKING THE NATIONAL PARKS: GLACIER, YELLOWSTONE, AND GRAND TETON
Running south from Canada nearly to Mexico, the soaring Rocky Mountains dominate America’s West. Three iconic national parks—Glacier, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton—frame the awesome, ice-carved summits, rushing rivers, deep glacial lakes, and abundant wildlife of this great range. Explore the valleys of the Grand Tetons on foot and the peaks of Glacier by raft, seeing elk and bison up close and looking for wolves, moose, and bears. Experience Yellowstone’s unique geothermal wonders: geysers, mud pots, and rainbow-hued hot springs. As we make our way north, stop in historic towns including Jackson, Big Fork, and Whitefish, soaking up the atmosphere of the wild West on our national parks adventure. Above: A hiker pauses along the Highline Trail to take in dramatic views of Glacier National Park. Right: American buffalo grazing in Grand Teton National Park.
26
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Raft down the Middle Fork of the
Flathead River through the heart of Glacier National Park.
• Walk the boardwalks and hike the trails of Old Faithful to see the geyser’s regular eruptions, and peer into turquoise hot springs nearby. • Hike the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the Highline Trail along the Continental Divide in Glacier National Park.
NORTH AMERICA ITINERARY
| 8 DAYS
DAY 1 JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING Arrive in Jackson Hole on the edge of Grand Teton National Park, and transfer to our hotel. Gather for an orientation, and get to know our group during a welcome dinner. The Lexington at Jackson Hole
DAY 2 GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK/ YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK Begin the day with a ranger-guided hike to Taggart Lake, taking in views of towering peaks along the way. After a picnic, drive north to Yellowstone National Park—America’s first national park, established in 1872. Most of this pristine wilderness rests atop a slumbering volcano whose magna chamber is the source of the park’s rainbow-colored hot springs, steaming fumaroles, and erupting geysers. Hike the Shoshone Lake Trail this afternoon, keeping an eye out for moose and river otters. 6–8 miles hiking (4 hours) Gray Wolf Inn and Cabins at Flagg Ranch
DAY 3 MIDWAY AND UPPER GEYSER BASINS/GRAND CANYON OF THE YELLOWSTONE After breakfast, explore Midway Geyser Basin, home to the richly hued Grand Prismatic Spring—Yellowstone’s largest hot spring. Witness the spectacular eruptions of Old Faithful geyser and discover the nearby geothermal landscape of mineral pools and steaming vents. After lunch, continue to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where the Yellowstone River tumbles over sheer cliffs, presenting one of the park’s most magnificent sights. Witness the powerful Lower Falls from Artist’s Point, then hike the trail to Sublime Point, enjoying dramatic views of the canyon. 3–5 miles hiking (2–3 hours) Buck’s T-4 Lodge
DAY 4 GALLATIN RIVER CANYON/ LEWIS AND CLARK CAVERNS STATE PARK/MISSOULA Get up and head out for a drive through southwest Montana and the scenic Gallatin River canyon. Set out on a ranger-led hike in the Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, and discover the park’s unique limestone cavern system lined with stalactites and stalagmites. After a picnic lunch, we’ll drive to Missoula and arrive at our hotel in the late afternoon. Explore Missoula’s famous river trail system, or set out on a hike up nearby Mount Sentinel for spectacular views of the of the valley below. Double Tree by Hilton, Missoula Edgewater
DAY 5 NATIONAL BISON RANGE/ BIGFORK/WHITEFISH This morning, visit one the oldest wildlife refuges in the United States: the National Bison Range. View large herds of grazing bison, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife as we explore this vast refuge, established in 1908 by President Theodore Roosevelt. Make our way to the scenic town of Bigfork, situated along the shores of Flathead Lake. Go for a hike along the “wild mile” of Swan River, known for its ferocious rapids during the spring runoff. Enjoy lunch on your own at one of Bigfork’s many restaurants before we continue driving to the northern Rockies town of Whitefish—our base for exploring Glacier National Park.
CANADA
111° 56' W
Glacier National Park
Whitefish Flathead Lake
Big Fork
MONTANA 46° 24' N
Yellowstone National Park
IDAHO Old Faithful Motor route 0
100
MILES
Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone Lake
WYOMING
Jackson
1–2 miles hiking (1 hour) Grouse Mountain Lodge
DAY 6 GLACIER NATIONAL PARK/ MIDDLE FORK OF THE FLATHEAD RIVER Named for the massive ice floes that carved these awe-inspiring valleys roughly 20,000 years ago, Glacier National Park encompasses some 1,800 square miles. Set off on the Trail of the Cedars to Avalanche Lake, passing through hemlock and cedar forests to arrive on the shores of a glassy, emerald-hued lake that mirrors the majestic peaks looming above. Enjoy a picnic lunch while soaking up this stunning backdrop. Later, take to the waters of the Middle Fork of the Flathead River, which forms the southern border of Glacier National Park. Paddle Class II and III rapids, keeping an eye out for bears, bald eagles, osprey, and elk. Return to Whitefish in the late afternoon and have dinner in town.
Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park.
4–5 miles hiking (2–3 hours); 15 miles rafting on Class II and III rapids (5 hours) Grouse Mountain Lodge
DAY 7 GLACIER NATIONAL PARK Head out early to experience one of the most scenic drives in the country: Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 52-mile marvel of engineering that spans the park from east to west and crosses the Continental Divide at the 6,646-foot-high Logan Pass. As we ascend, take in sweeping views of glacier-carved lakes and cedar forests, alpine meadows and snow-dusted peaks. At Logan Pass, set off on the Highline Trail across wildflower-dotted alpine meadows framed by craggy peaks and frequented by mountain goats, marmots, and weasels. Return to Whitefish to celebrate our adventure at a farewell dinner. 6–10 miles hiking (3–5 hours) Grouse Mountain Lodge
DAY 8 WHITEFISH After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
INFORMATION 2017: June 24–July 1 • July 8–15 • July 22–29
Aug. 26–Sept. 2
COST:
$4,795
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,550. Airfare to Jackson Hole, WY, and return from Whitefish, MT, is not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of lunch on day 5. ACTIVITY LEVEL: EASY/ MODERATE We will hike 1 to 5 hours per day (1 to 10 miles) on moderate to steep grades at elevations ranging from 4,000 feet to a maximum of 7,000 feet. We will raft 2 to 3 hours (15 miles) on Class II and III rapids. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 7 nights in hotels and lodges that are ideally situated for each day’s activities. Often our lodging is simple, but comfortable.
CALL 1-888-689-2557 OR VISIT NATGEOADVENTURES.COM
27
COSTA RICA MULTISPORT ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • K ayak through the lush rain forests of Tortuguero National Park and learn about the Atlantic sea turtles that nest here. • Set off on a white-water rafting adventure down the Pacuare River, and spot monkeys, sloths, colorful birds, and more. • Hike into the cloud forest in search of the rare quetzal bird, and sail through the rain forest canopy on a zip line. • Explore the colonial towns and coffee plantations of the Orosi Valley.
Air route Boat route Motor route 0
83° 39' W
Tortuguero Tortuguero National Park
15
MILES
COSTA RICA
uare
ac
10° 04' N
Caribbean Sea
R
r ive
P
Basílica de Los Ángeles
San José
Siquirres
Matina
Rios Tropicales Lodge
Cartago
ITINERARY
| 9 DAYS
DAYS 1–3 SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA/ TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK Arrive in San José and spend the night at a hotel set amid tropical gardens. Begin the next day with a scenic flight to Tortuguero National Park, a lowland tropical wet forest accessible only by water or air. A short boat ride brings us to our hotel perched on the water’s edge. Kayak still waterways that cut through the forest, encountering varied wildlife, from poison dart frogs and spider monkeys to sloths, river otters, caimans, and many lizards and birds. Search for the Atlantic sea turtles for which the park is named. The turtles return here each year to nest, and the hatching of their young is a harrowing but fascinating ritual that dates back millions of years. Day 2: 2–3 miles paddling (3 hours); Day 3: 4–5 miles paddling (4 hours) Xandari Resort & Spa, Tortuga Lodge & Gardens
DAYS 4–6 PACUARE RIVER Travel by boat and by road to the Pacuare River, where we’ll set off on our white-water rafting adventure. Paddle through lush forest and descend several technical drops. Later, arrive at our eco-lodge where we’ll see toucans and other colorful species on a bird-watching hike; swing through the forest canopy on a zip-line; and hike to waterfalls or visit a reforestation project.
28
San Gerardo de Dota
Return to the river to raft a stunning stretch of white water, past waterfalls and down lush gorges. Stop for a swim, and then take out near Siquirres and journey into the cloud forest. Day 4: 6 miles paddling (3 hours); Day 5: 4–5 miles hiking (4 hours); Day 6: 10 miles paddling (5 hours) Rios Tropicales Lodge, Trogon Lodge
DAYS 7–9 SAN GERARDO DE DOTA/ OROSI VALLEY/SAN JOSÉ Hike into the cloud forest and encounter a wide spectrum of wildlife—including, with luck, the quetzal, a near-threatened bird that is endemic to Mesoamerica. Take advantage of a free afternoon to explore our lodge and its gardens, go on another hike, or enjoy one of the optional activities offered in the area. Next, drive to Orosi Valley, one of the first areas of Costa Rica settled by the Spanish colonists, and have lunch at a coffee plantation. In Cartago, visit the Basilica Nuestra Señora de Los Ángeles, an ornate church honoring Costa Rica’s patron saint. After our farewell dinner in San José, depart the next day for home. Day 7: 4–5 miles hiking (4 hours); Day 8: 1–2 miles hiking (2 hours) Trogon Lodge, Xandari Resort & Spa
INFORMATION 2017: July 15–23 • Aug. 12–20
Dec. 24, 2017–Jan. 1, 2018
$4,395
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,100. Airfare to/from San José and airfare within Costa Rica is not included in the cost. The group flight within Costa Rica is $200 (subject to change). There is a $200 holiday surcharge for the December 2017 departure. All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of dinner on Day 1. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE This trip is suitable for beginner and expert kayakers and rafters alike; no previous experience is necessary. We will be paddling stable, two-person kayaks for an average of 3 to 5 hours, and will be rafting 4 to 5 hours (approximately 8 miles per day) on Class II–IV rapids. We will hike 2 to 4 hours (1 to 5 miles) on some days. GROUP SIZE: 8–14 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 6 nights in comfortable, well-located lodges and resorts. We will stay 2 nights in charming, rustic bungalows at an eco-lodge accessible only by foot or waterway.
Above: Rafters paddle down the Pacuare River in Costa Rica.
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
NORTH AMERICA
COSTA RICA WILDLIFE ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Stay at Lapa Rios Eco Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World nestled within some of Costa Rica’s most pristine rain forests. • Hike to secluded waterfalls in the jungles of the Osa Peninsula, searching for monkeys, sloths, and scarlet macaws. • Go zip-lining in the rain forest canopy surrounding Arenal Volcano, and soak in hot spring pools. • Explore the cloud forest on a variety of nature walks.
NICARAGUA 84° W
Arenal National Park
Caribbean Sea
Fortuna Villa Blanca Cloud Forest
COSTA RICA San José
9° 55' N
Pacific Ocean
ITINERARY
| 9 DAYS
DAYS 1–3 SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA/ OSA PENINSULA Arrive in San José and transfer to our hotel set on an organic coffee plantation. The next morning, fly south to the Osa Peninsula, home to some of the most pristine lowland rain forest on the Pacific coast. At the peninsula’s tip is the 1,000-acre Lapa Rios reserve. Settle into your bungalow at Lapa Rios Eco Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge celebrated for its wildlife conservation efforts in the surrounding region. During our stay here, discover the area's treasures on a variety of excursions. Hike to secluded waterfalls and beaches to go swimming; learn about the medicinal uses of local plants; and experience the magic of the rain forest on a nighttime walk. With the help of a naturalist, spot white-faced capuchin monkeys, poison dart frogs, sloths, and more. Days 2 and 3: 2–4 miles hiking (2–3 hours) Finca Rosa Blanca, Lapa Rios Eco Lodge
DAYS 4 AND 5 ARENAL NATIONAL PARK Fly back to San José and drive into the northern highlands to Arenal National Park, named for the 7,000-year-old volcano that rises above the rain forest canopy. Check into our lodge and head out on a naturalist-led hike in the afternoon to search for monkeys and toucans.
After an optional early-morning birding walk the next day, embark on an aerial adventure soaring from tree to tree on zip lines strung through the rain forest canopy. Later, visit hot spring pools owned and operated by a local family, followed by cocktails and a home-style Costa Rican barbecue.
Air route Motor route 0
50
MILES
Puerto Jiménez Lapa Rios Ecolodge
PANAMA
Day 4: 2–4 miles hiking (2 hours); Day 5: 1–2 miles hiking (1 hour) Mountain Paradise Hotel
DAYS 6–9 ARENAL/VILLA BLANCA CLOUD FOREST/SAN JOSÉ Venture into the rain forest canopy surrounding Arenal Volcano along a network of suspension bridges. Then journey to the Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel and Nature Reserve, a 75-acre mountain retreat. After dinner, enjoy a jungle night walk. Spend the following day experiencing the complex ecosystems of the cloud forest. Hike along lush forest trails, and keep an eye out for butterflies and resident bird species such as trogons, motmots, and toucanets. With luck, we’ll spot the rare resplendent quetzal—a sacred bird in Maya and Aztec cultures. After a final morning nature walk, return to San José and gather for a farewell dinner. Depart the next day. Day 6: 2–4 miles hiking (2–4 hours); Day 7: 2–3 miles hiking (1–3 hours)
INFORMATION 2017: Apr. 16–24 • July 23-31 • Dec. 9-17
$5,295
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,500. Airfare to/from San José and airfare within Costa Rica is not included in the cost. The group flight within Costa Rica is $350 (subject to change). All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of dinner on day 1. ACTIVITY LEVEL: EASY On this wildlife-viewing adventure, we will be walking or hiking on nature trails for 2 to 4 miles (2 to 3 hours) on most days. The maximum elevation is 4,500 feet. GROUP SIZE: 8–14 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will be staying 2 nights in a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, and 6 nights in comfortable, well-equipped hotels with full amenities.
Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel, Finca Rosa Blanca Above: A hiker walks through the lush cloud forest canopy on a hanging bridge.
CALL 1-888-689-2557 OR VISIT NATGEOADVENTURES.COM
29
ALASKA SEA KAYAKING ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • E xperience the thunder of calving glaciers on a three-day kayak expedition into Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. • Observe humpbacks and porpoises up close while kayaking off Point Adolphus. • Camp in the old-growth rain forest of Tongass National Forest. • Explore the Alaskan frontier town of Gustavus, the gateway to Glacier National Park.
UN
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
IT
CA ED
ITINERARY
| 9 DAYS
DAYS 1–3 JUNEAU, ALASKA/GUSTAVUS/ POINT ADOLPHUS/CHICHAGOF ISLAND Arrive in Juneau and take a short air taxi to the small town of Gustavus, where we gather for a briefing with our guides and get outfitted for the trip. The following morning, cruise across Icy Strait to Point Adolphus on the northern tip of Chichagof Island. Set up camp in the shelter of the old-growth forest, and then suit up for our first kayak excursion. Skim along the island’s shores, on the lookout for marine life and the bald eagles that are prevalent here. The entire island is part of the 17-million-acre Tongass National Forest. Continue exploring the wild coastline, discovering stunning rock formations, coves, and beaches. Day 2: 3–6 miles paddling (3–4 hours); Day 3: 3–6 miles paddling (3–4 hours) Annie Mae Lodge, Camping
DAYS 4 AND 5 GUSTAVUS After one last morning on Chichagof Island, return to Gustavus by boat and set out on an afternoon hike on a beach created by the retreat of the glaciers. Spend the following day hiking and exploring Gustavus. Your guides will share some history of the town and offer an array of activity options for the afternoon. Enjoy dinner and a talk by National Geographic
30
writer and photographer Kim Heacox (depending on his availability).
ST
AT
ES
Juneau Gustavus Point Adolphus
Gu lf of Al ask a
NA DA
58° 28' N
CHICHAGOF ISLAND
Boat route Air route 0
20
MILES
135° 70'W
Day 4: 2 miles paddling (1–2 hours), 3–5 miles hiking (3 hours); Day 5: 3–5 miles hiking (3 hours) Annie Mae Lodge
DAYS 6–9 GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE Head out on our kayak expedition into Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Glide into the upper reaches of the park on a charter boat, then switch to sea kayaks and paddle off into the pristine, icy wilderness. The park is home to some seven tidewater glaciers, which descend from the surrounding mountains and shed icebergs of all shapes and sizes into the bay. Witness the dramatic sight of glaciers calving huge slabs of ice that crash into the water below. Kayak along sparkling walls of ice and skirt magnificent icebergs. Hike through meadows on the lookout for brown bears, moose, mountain goats, and more. At night, take in a vast sweep of stars. Enjoy a final morning of paddling, then catch the boat back to Gustavus and depart the next day. Day 6: 5–8 miles paddling (4 hours); Day 7: 4–7 miles paddling (3–4 hours); Day 8: 1–2 miles paddling (1 hour) Camping, Annie Mae Lodge
INFORMATION 2017: June 24–July 2 • June 30–July 8
July 11–19 • July 19–27 • Aug. 5–13
COST:
$4,595
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,000. Airfare to/from Juneau and airfare within Alaska are not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE This trip is suitable for beginners and experts alike. No previous sea kayaking experience is necessary. We will paddle stable, two-person kayaks for an average of 3–5 hours per day. This is a true wilderness experience with limited facilities while camping. Guests should feel comfortable helping with tent set-up, dish washing, and kayak portaging. GROUP SIZE: 8–10 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 4 nights in the frontier town of Gustavus. Rooms are simple but clean and conveniently located for our activities. We will camp 4 nights in the backcountry, sleeping in roomy tents. No showers or flush toilets are available while camping.
Above: Kayakers pause to take in the beauty of Glacier Bay.
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
NORTH AMERICA
BELIZE ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Kayak, snorkel, and swim at Belize’s world-renowned coral reefs, and snorkel the legendary Blue Hole. • By special arrangement, gain access to a sacred Mayan cave and explore its cathedral-like chambers. • Paddle through the jungle on a Sibun River kayaking excursion, and spot tropical birdlife along the way. • Discover the temples and pyramids of incredible Tikal, an ancient Maya city nestled in the jungles of Guatemala.
MEXICO Bird’s Eye View Lodge
17° 25' N
Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary
Belmopan Tikal National Park San Ignacio
Belize City
Sib un R
GUATEMALA
Caribbean Sea TURNEFFE ISLANDS Lighthouse Reef Atoll
r ive
Sibun National Forest Reserve
Half Moon Caye
r ive Sleeping M a c al R Giant Lodge
Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave
ITINERARY
| 10 DAYS
DAYS 1–5 BELIZE CITY, BELIZE/ CROOKED TREE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY/ HALF MOON CAYE Arrive in Belize City and transfer to Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary. Explore the lagoons by boat and spot birds such as kingfishers, ospreys, and Jabiru storks. Depart by boat for Lighthouse Reef Atoll, located at the furthest edge of Belize’s reef system. Settle into our safari-style beach camp on Half Moon Caye, and venture out to explore the coral reefs. Choose from a variety of sea kayaking excursions, set sail in specially outfitted sailing kayaks, and snorkel inside the lagoon amid colorful fish. Snorkel the outer perimeter of the Great Blue Hole, made famous by ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau. In the evenings, enjoy dinners of fresh seafood and a traditional Garifuna music and dance performance. Days 3 and 4: 2–6 miles paddling daily (2–6 hours); Day 5: 3–4 miles paddling (2–3 hours) Bird’s Eye View Lodge, Lighthouse Reef Camp
DAYS 6–8 HALF MOON CAYE/SIBUN RIVER VALLEY/ACTUN TUNICHIL MUKNAL Return to the mainland by boat and travel into the Maya Mountains of southern Belize to our jungle lodge within the Sibun National Forest Reserve. Explore Actun Tunichil Muknal—an
extraordinary cave system in Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve. Swim into the cave’s mouth and follow the subterranean waterway into a Maya underworld of cathedral-like caverns. Climb up into ceremonial chambers, and examine artifacts from Mayan rituals. Next, set off in inflatable kayaks on the Sibun River, spotting birds and wildlife. Pass dramatic geological formations, and navigate Class I and II rapids. Visit a cacao plantation and hike to a hilltop with sweeping views. Day 7: 3–5 miles hiking (4–5 hours); Day 8: 3–4 miles river paddling (2–3 hours), 2–3 miles hiking (1–2 hours) Sleeping Giant Lodge
DAYS 9 AND 10 TIKAL NATIONAL PARK, GUATEMALA/BELIZE CITY Travel into Guatemala to explore the legendary Mayan city of Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore some of the more than 3,000 spectacular stone structures, including pyramids, plazas, and temples. Return to Belize for a farewell dinner. Begin our final day at the Belize Zoo, learning about endemic wildlife, and participate in a jaguar rehabilitation project. Later, transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
BELIZE 88° 18' W
Motor route Boat route 0
20
MILES
INFORMATION 2017: Mar. 10–19 • Apr. 11–20 • Dec. 18–27
$5,595
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,300. Airfare to/from Belize City is not included in the cost. On the December departure, there is an additional holiday surcharge of $300. All meals are included between group arrival and departure. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE This trip is suitable for beginner and expert kayakers alike; no previous experience is necessary. We will be paddling stable, two-person kayaks for an average of 2 to 6 hours per day (2 to 6 miles), which includes snorkeling time. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will camp 4 nights in the heart of a protected marine park, sleeping in cabana-style tents with limited, shared facilities. We will stay 5 nights in comfortable lodges and hotels that combine ideal locations and local charm.
Day 9: 4–6 miles hiking (4–5 hours), 6 hours driving Sleeping Giant Lodge Above: A kayaker paddles to a pristine islet in the waters off Belize.
CALL 1-888-689-2557 OR VISIT NATGEOADVENTURES.COM
31
PERU: MACHU PICCHU INN TO INN TREK
Wind your way from lodge to lodge through the luxuriant forests and snowcapped peaks of Peru’s stunning Cordillera Vilcabamba. Trek among glaciers and alpine lakes, as well as to local villages and lesser known Inca sites tucked into the slopes. Take in views of dazzling 20,000-footers such as Salkantay, the highest summit in the range and one of the most sacred peaks in Inca mythology. Experience the diverse ecosystems of the Andes, from ice-clad slopes to lush cloud forests and tropical orchards. At the end of each day, settle into a picturesque mountain lodge to enjoy a soak in the hot tub, a cozy fire, and a delicious meal. Then venture deep into the mysteries of the Inca as we explore the breathtaking sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Trek high among the majestic peaks of the Cordillera Vilcabamba on the way to Machu Picchu. • Spend a full day exploring the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu. • Delve into the enchanting world of the Inca during an evening with National Geographic grantee Peter Frost, or one of his colleagues. • Relax in beautiful mountain lodges, including Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.
Above: The Inca citadel of Machu Picchu was excavated with support from National Geographic. Top right: The Salkantay Lodge, where we spend the first two nights of our trek. Bottom right: Hikers trek along the lesser known Salkantay route to Machu Picchu.
32
SOUTH AMERICA ITINERARY
| 10 DAYS
DAY 1 CUSCO Arrive in Lima and connect to your flight to Cusco. After lunch on your own, head out on a guided walk through this ancient city, once the capital of the Inca Empire. Later, gather for a welcome dinner and a lecture by either archaeologist and National Geographic grantee Peter Frost or a prominent local anthropologist. Palacio del Inka
DAY 2 SORAYPAMPA Rise early for the drive to our first lodge, stopping along the way to visit the ruins of Tarawasi, an Incan ceremonial center built from precisely carved blocks of granite. Continue to Marcoccasa and set out on an optional hike along the Camino Real. This afternoon, arrive at Salkantay Lodge and take in the breathtaking views. Enjoy some free time, then gather for an evening briefing followed by a hearty meal. 11 miles hiking (4–6 hours) Salkantay Lodge
4 miles hiking (3–4 hours) Salkantay Lodge
DAY 4 HUAYRAQMACHAY Rise early to begin our four-day trek to the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu. Follow the Río Blanco Valley, hiking the girth of Humantay, a snowy peak across from Salkantay. We’ll reach the highest point of our trip at 15,213 feet. Admire a vista of snowcapped peaks, then descend to Wayra Lodge (12,812'), where showers and a hot tub await. 8 miles hiking (5–7 hours) Wayra Lodge
DAY 5 COLLPAPAMPA Enjoy a leisurely morning at Wayra Lodge. Today’s hike takes us into increasingly lush vegetation as we head down into the Collpapampa Valley. Tonight, enjoy a pachamanca, a traditional underground stone barbecue. Collpa Lodge
From/to Lima Machu Picchu Aguas Calientes Lucmabamba Río Santa Teresa
Collpapampa
9 miles hiking (5–6 hours) Lucma Lodge
DAY 7 AGUAS CALIENTES The trail winds uphill toward Llactapata Pass at 8,974 feet, where we’ll catch a glimpse of Machu Picchu in the distance. Explore the ruins of Llactapata, a sacred site for the Inca. Like Machu Picchu, the ruins here were rediscovered by explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911, and National Geographic funded his subsequent excavation. A short train ride brings us to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Settle into our beautiful lodge—a member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection—tucked into the cloud forest beneath towering peaks. 7 miles hiking (5–6 hours)
DAY 3 SORAYPAMPA We’ll spend today acclimating to the altitude. You may opt to go on a half-day hike to a stunning glacial lake. Or relax in a cozy lounge or a hot tub at the lodge. We’ll meet this evening for a briefing on our trek.
6 miles hiking (4 hours)
DAY 6 LUCMABAMBA Continue downhill through the Santa Teresa River Valley. Hike past coffee plantations and tropical fruit orchards as well as dazzling wildflowers of all colors. Stop alongside the river for a picnic lunch. From here it is a short climb to Lucma Lodge, hidden away among avocado trees.
Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
DAY 8 MACHU PICCHU Stacked up a hillside in terraces amid soaring Andean summits, the 15th-century Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. We spend an entire day exploring its breathtaking labyrinth of temples, sanctuaries, and homes. Delve into the site with our guides, learning about the Inca’s sophisticated culture and technology and discovering the secrets of this royal city lost to the wider world for some 500 years. 3–4 miles hiking (3–4 hours) Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
DAY 9 MACHU PICCHU/CUSCO This morning, explore the trails surrounding our lodge, examining orchids and watching for exotic birds. We’ll take the train back to Cusco for a free afternoon. Toast our Andean trek at a farewell dinner. Palacio del Inka
DAY 10 LIMA After breakfast, spend some time exploring charming Cusco on your own. Fly to Lima and head to the Larco Museum for a guided tour. After dinner, transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Vi l ca
Salkantay (20,574 ft) Huayramachay
n ot a
13° 32' S
Soraypampa Cusco
Motor route Hiking route Air route Train route 0
12
PERU 72° 34'W
MILES
“Every day was a new and rich adventure. We left Peru with a tremendous sense of accomplishment and wonderful new friends.” — Renier S., traveler Peru: Machu Picchu Inn to Inn Trek
INFORMATION 2017: Apr. 17–26 • Apr. 30–May 9 • May 21–30
June 11–20 • June 25–July 4 • July 24–Aug. 2 Aug. 7–16 • Aug. 20–29 • Sept. 11–20 Oct. 8–17 • Oct. 30–Nov. 8
COST:
$6,195
Price is per person, double occupancy. Single rooms are not available; all travelers will be paired with a same-gender roommate when available. Otherwise, a single supplement of $2,300 will be charged. International airfare to/from Lima and airfare within Peru are not included in the adventure cost. The group flight within Peru is $400 (subject to change). All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of lunch on days 1 and 10. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE/STRENUOUS While on the trek, we will be hiking 3 to 7 hours per day (4 to 11 miles) on moderate to steep grades and at elevations ranging from 6,200 feet to a maximum of 15,300 feet. Vehicle support is limited while hiking, but horses are available on the trail. GROUP SIZE: 10–12 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 2 nights in city hotels, 5 nights in mountain lodges, and 2 nights in a National Geographic Unique Lodge.
CALL 1-888-689-2557 OR VISIT NATGEOADVENTURES.COM
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HIKING THE SACRED VALLEY AND MACHU PICCHU
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Spend a day and a half exploring Machu Picchu, and opt to climb Huayna Picchu, the iconic peak that presides over the citadel. • Tour the Pisac ruins, and hike a section of the Inca Trail to the towering Ollantaytambo fortress. • Go off the beaten path to explore the traditional villages and Inca ruins of the Lares Valley. • Stay at the stunning Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World.
Motor route Hiking route Train route 0
Aguas Calientes
Machu Picchu
Huacahuasi (12,585 ft)
12
MILES
Lares
Patacancha Cuncani (12,230 ft)
Ollantaytambo
Vo l c anot a Urubamba
13° 18' S
Urquillos
Lamay Pisaq
To Lima
ITINERARY
| 10 DAYS
DAYS 1–2 CUSCO, PERU Arrive in Cusco and tour its historical and archaeological sites, including the Inca fortress of Sacsayhuamán and the Church of Santo Domingo. Then visit the Museo Machu Picchu, and attend a talk on Inca architecture and astronomy. Hotel Palacio del Inka
DAYS 3–4 CHINCHERO/SACRED VALLEY OF THE INCA Journey to the Andean village of Chinchero and explore the colonial church and Inca archaeological site. Then set out on a leisurely walk to the village of Urquillos. The next morning, tackle an invigorating hike between two Sacred Valley communities, or choose to visit Pisac’s famous market. We’ll regroup in Viacha to learn about potato farming and share a traditional pachamanca meal. Later, take an after-hours tour of Pisac’s archaeological site. Day 3: 3 hours hiking; Day 4: 2–3 hours optional hiking Lamay Lodge
DAYS 5–7 LARES VALLEY/INCA TRAIL A short drive brings us to the less-visited Lares Valley. Explore the Inca ruins at Ancasmarca, then visit the weaving village of Choquecancha or hike to the remote community of Huacahuasi.
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PE RU
The next day, trek between Cuncani and Huacahuasi, or opt for a stroll to a nearby waterfall before meeting back at the lodge for a cooking class. Visit with Huacahuasi villagers, then climb to a high mountain pass to cross into the Sacred Valley. Here, we’ll hike a section of the Inca Trail that will bring us to Ollantaytambo. Day 5: 2–3 hours optional hiking; Day 6: 3 hours optional hiking; Day 7: 5–6 hours hiking Huacahuasi Lodge, Hotel Pakaritampu
DAYS 8–10 OLLANTAYTAMBO/MACHU PICCHU/LIMA Discover Ollantaytambo, making the short hike to Inca storage structures for views of the presiding fortress. Or, stroll the cobbled lanes that still follow the Inca street grid. Enjoy a tour of the main temples before traveling by train to Aguas Calientes. Enjoy the evening in our lodge, a member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection. Rise early the next morning for the ride to Machu Picchu, catching the sunrise over the citadel. After a guided tour of the ruins, opt to climb the Huayna Picchu peak, or explore the site on your own. On our final day, take the train to Cusco and fly to Lima. See pre-Columbian art at the Larco Museum before catching your flight home.
Cusco 17° 7'W
INFORMATION 2017: May 20–29 • June 10–19 • July 20–29
Aug. 19–28 • Sept. 2–11 • Sept. 30–Oct. 9
$5,695
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,300. Airfare to/from Lima and within Peru is not included in the cost. The group flight within Peru is $400 (subject to change). All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of lunch on days 1 and 10, and dinner on day 2. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE Most days we will be hiking 3 to 6 hours per day on moderate grades at elevations ranging from 6,200 feet to a maximum of 14,700 feet. Some days offer the opportunity for more or less hiking. Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 4 nights in remote mountain lodges and 5 nights in deluxe hotels, including 2 nights in a National Geographic Unique Lodge.
Day 9: 2–3 hours optional hiking Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel Above: Hikers pause to take in the view while trekking in the Lares Valley.
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
SOUTH AMERICA
PATAGONIA HIKING ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Hike through Patagonia’s exceptionally scenic national parks: Torres del Paine in Chile and Argentina's Los Glaciares. • Trek to the base of Torres del Paine’s sheer granite walls, and surround yourself with twisting peaks in the French Valley. • Experience up close the power and magnificence of Grey and Perito Moreno Glaciers, two of the most impressive in the world. • Follow trails to serene lakes at the foot of spectacular Cerro Torre and the Fitz Roy massif.
Cerro Torre (10,278 ft)
Monte Fitz Roy (11,073 ft) El Chaltén La Leona Petrified Forest
Los Glaciares National Park
El Calafate
Perito Moreno Glacier
P a c i fi c
50° 17' S
Lago de Grey
Oce
Torres del Paine National Park
ARG E N T INA Puerto Natales
an Motor route
ITINERARY
| 13 DAYS
DAYS 1–6 PUNTA ARENAS, CHILE/TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK Arrive in Punta Arenas and cross the Patagonian plains to Puerto Natales. Explore a pair of caves that have yielded important prehistoric finds.Then travel to Lago de Grey in Torres del Paine National Park. Spend the next four days hiking in the park. Trace the shores of Lago de Grey on foot, taking in spectacular views of Grey Glacier; walk beneath the Cerro Paine in the French Valley; and follow the Paso Los Cuernos trail along the Lago Nordenskjöld. Our stay culminates with an all-day hike to the Torres del Paine. Trek up the slopes below the towers to one of the world’s most magnificent viewpoints. Day 2: 1–2 miles hiking (1–2 hours), 6–7 hours driving; Day 3: 7–8 miles hiking (4 hours); Day 4: 14 miles hiking (10 hours), or optional 7 miles hiking (6 hours); Day 5: 7 miles hiking (4–5 hours); Day 6: 11 miles hiking (8–10 hours) Hotel Cabo de Hornos, Hotel Lago Grey, Refugio Paine Grande, Cabañas en los Cuernos, Hotel Las Torres
DAYS 7–9 EL CALAFATE, ARGENTINA/ PERITO MORENO GLACIER/EL CHALTÉN Depart Torres del Paine National Park and drive to El Calafate, Argentina, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. Head to Perito
Moreno, an active glacier on Lake Argentino, and explore this picturesque area on foot. Then travel north across the steppe, stopping for a hike and a picnic lunch in La Leona Petrified Forest, a surreal maze of ancient tunnels and fossils. Trace the northern edge of Lago Viedma to the town of El Chaltén. Day 7: 7 hours driving; Day 8: 2–3 miles hiking (1 hour), 2–3 hours driving; Day 9: 5 miles hiking (2 hours) Hotel Mirador del Lago, Hotel Destino Sur
DAYS 10–13 LOS GLACIARES NATIONAL PARK/EL CALAFATE Spend three full days exploring Los Glaciares National Park on a variety of hikes. Climb to glacial lakes at the base of Monte Fitz Roy (11,073') and Cerro Torre (10,278'). Discover the Piedras Blancas Glacier and the Huemul Reserve, and take in dramatic views of the north face of Fitz Roy. Return to El Chaltén to celebrate our adventure with a farewell dinner. The next morning, transfer to the airport for your flight home. Day 10: 11 miles hiking (6–7 hours); Day 11: 14 miles hiking (8–9 hours); Day 12: 11 miles hiking (6–7 hours) Hotel Destino Sur
0
80
MILES
C HI L E 72° 17'W
Punta Arenas
INFORMATION 2017: Mar. 12–24 • Oct. 8–20 • Oct. 22–Nov. 3
Nov. 5–17 • Nov. 19–Dec. 1 • Dec. 3–15 Dec. 10–22
$6,395
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,900. International airfare to Punta Arenas and return from Buenos Aires, and airfare within Argentina, are not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE/STRENUOUS We will be hiking 1 to 10 hours per day (2 to 14 miles) on moderate to steep grades at elevations ranging from 200 feet to a maximum of 3,000 feet. Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 11 nights in hotels and small mountain inns and 1 night in a traditional refugio. Note that there are shared bathrooms on two nights while we are trekking in a remote part of the region.
Above: A hiker watches as the setting sun paints the sky and mountain peaks with dazzling colors.
CALL 1-888-689-2557 OR VISIT NATGEOADVENTURES.COM
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HIKING ENGLAND COAST TO COAST
Cross England on foot, trekking from the Irish Sea to the North Sea through three incredible national parks. Immerse yourself in the mystical landscapes of the Lake District, where gem-like lakes reflect England’s highest mountains and poets such as William Wordsworth drew inspiration. In the Yorkshire Dales, hike to storybook villages filled with half-timbered cottages and warmly lit pubs. Then climb into the wild, heather-covered highlands of the North York Moors. Along the way, discover ancient stone circles, medieval castles and monasteries, and the legendary charm of northern England. This is a 132-mile hike designed to take in the most beautiful and historic sections of Alfred Wainwright’s famous 190-mile Coast to Coast Walk.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Set out on one of the ten best long-distance hikes in the world. • Step back into England’s fascinating history as you explore sites from prehistory to the Roman era, the Tudors, and beyond. • Visit the home of poet William Wordsworth in the enchanting Lakeland village of Grasmere. • Stay in cozy inns that exemplify the character and charm of the region.
Above: Travelers take in majestic views of the North Sea as they walk along the cliff-lined coast. Right: A cobblestoned street in the picturesque fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay.
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EUROPE ITINERARY
| 13 DAYS
DAY 1 PENRITH, ENGLAND/ENNERDALE Arrive in London or Manchester and take the train to Penrith, the Roman era, the Tudors, and beyond. We transfer to the village of Cleator and gather for a welcome dinner. Ennerdale Country House Hotel
DAY 2 ST. BEES TO ENNERDALE BRIDGE Our journey kicks off with a coast-to-coast tradition: dipping a toe in the Irish Sea. Then set off along the sandstone cliffs of St. Bee’s Head, looking out for puffins, kittiwakes, and guillemots. Pause for a pub lunch on our way to Ennerdale Bridge at the foot of the Lake District mountains. 14 miles hiking (8 hours) Ennerdale Country House Hotel
DAY 7 RAVENSTONEDALE TO GUNNERSIDE
Hiking route Motor route
Follow a trail to the market town of Kirkby Stephen. After lunch, we drive to the hamlet of Keld in the heart of Yorkshire Dales National Park. Hike along the River Swale, past waterfalls and enchanting hamlets. Pause for afternoon tea before walking on to Gunnerside. 12 miles hiking (7 hours)
0
28
Nor th S e a
MILES
54° 40' N
Shap St. Bees
Rosthwaite
The Black Swan
DAY 8 REETH TO RICHMOND Drive to the nearby village of Reeth. From here, continue through the Yorkshire Dales, hiking along stretches of limestone on the way to historic Richmond. Here, we’ll explore an 11th-century Norman castle.
Robin Hood’s Bay
Penrith Richmond Reeth
E NG L A N D
Grosmont
York
Irish S e a 2° W
10 miles hiking (5–6 hours) The Kings Head Hotel
DAY 3 ENNERDALE BRIDGE TO HONISTER
DAY 9 RICHMOND TO LORD STONES
Today we’ll walk into Lake District National Park. Our splendid ramble traces the southern edge of Ennerdale Water, the park’s most westerly lake. After lunch near the Black Sail Hut, climb a 2,000-foot pass and take in the vista of peaks, lakes, and sheep-speckled pastures. We finish in Borrowdale, a short transfer from our hotel.
Trace the River Swale past the remains of Easby Abbey to the village of Catterick Bridge. A short transfer brings us to Mount Grace Priory. Explore the ruins, and after lunch, hike toward the Cleveland Hills in the heart of the moorland. Return to Richmond for free time.
10 miles hiking (7–8 hours)
5 or 11 miles hiking (2–7 hours)
Inn on the Lake
The Kings Head Hotel
DAY 4 GRASMERE TO GLENRIDDING
DAY 10 CLAY BANK TOP TO BLAKEY RIDGE
After a visit to the Grasmere home of the great poet William Wordsworth, climb over Grisedale Hause (1,936’) and take in spectacular views. Hike down the valley toward Lake Ullswater and spend the night in our lakeside hotel. 9 miles hiking (5 hours)
Transfer to North York Moors National Park, and begin hiking across the dramatic landscape of the moors. Our route offers far-ranging vistas as we hike towards our home for tonight, the 400-year-old Lion Inn. 9 or 13 miles hiking (5–7 hours)
Inn on the Lake
The Lion Inn
DAY 5 LAKE ULLSWATER TO SHAP
DAY 11 BLAKEY RIDGE TO GROSMONT
Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Ullswater to Howtown. From here, we cross a historic Roman road on our way to Bampton. Hike across moorland to the 12th-century Shap Abbey. Then transfer to our hotel in the quintessential English village of Ravenstonedale.
From the inn, descend to Great Fryup Head and into Glaisdale, where we’ll see Beggars Bridge. Then hike along an old trade route to Grosmont, or opt to ride the bus.
12 miles hiking (6–7 hours)
Mallyon Spout Hotel
The Black Swan
DAY 6 SHAP TO ORTON AND RAVENSTONEDALE
9 or 14 miles hiking (5–8 hours)
DAYS 12 AND 13 LITTLEBECK TO ROBIN HOOD’S BAY/YORK
Trek across a limestone plateau dotted with prehistoric sites. Stop for lunch and visit the chocolate factory in the village of Orton. Continue the hike or head back to Ravenstonedale to enjoy some free time and a pint of local ale.
From the hamlet of Littlebeck, our walk takes us into Scarry Wood, past a legendary cave, and up to the waterfall of Falling Foss. Walk along the cliff top to our final destination: the charming fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay. The next morning, head to the airport for your flight home.
8 or 15 miles hiking (4–9 hours)
Day 12: 12 miles hiking (7 hours)
The Black Swan
Victoria Hotel
“We were surprised and delighted by the variety of landscapes, and the chance to feel close to nature . . . what a fantastic feeling of freedom under that sky!” — Alex A., traveler Hiking England Coast to Coast
INFORMATION 2017: May 28–June 9 • June 18–30 • July 2–14
July 16–28 • Aug. 6–18 • Aug. 20–Sept. 1 Sept. 3–15
COST:
$5,995
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $700. Airfare to/from London or Manchester and the transfer to Penrith on Day 1 and from the York train station on day 13 are not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of dinner on day 9. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE/STRENUOUS We will be hiking 2 to 9 hours per day (4 to 15 miles) on moderate to steep grades at low elevations, and in variable weather conditions. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at points along the way, and participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 12 nights in English hotels and inns. Our accommodations range from comfortable hotels to simple family-run inns.
CALL 1-888-689-2557 OR VISIT NATGEOADVENTURES.COM
37
SCOTLAND HIKING ADVENTURE: FROM HIGHLANDS TO ISLANDS
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Explore two islands, two national parks, and Edinburgh on a variety of hikes and walks. • Hike beneath Ben Nevis with a conservationist and historian from the John Muir Trust. • Venture into ancient castles, and discover Highland culture in remote villages. • Encounter fascinating geology, such as the rock pinnacles of the Isle of Skye.
Quiraing
Dunvegan Castle ISLE OF SKYE Cuillin Hills
Skye
SC OT L A N D Cairngorms National Park
Loch Coruisk
Fort William Loch ISLE OF KERRERA Linnhe ISLE OF STAFFA
ITINERARY
| 8 DAYS
DAYS 1 AND 2 EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND/ THE TROSSACHS Arrive in Edinburgh and discover the city’s historic Old Town—a UNESCO World Heritage site. Step back in time as we walk along the Royal Mile and wind our way down past sharp church spires and cobbled alleyways. Start the day with a warm-up hike in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park—Scotland’s first national park. Our trail takes us along the West Highland Way, and we’ll ascend Conic Hill to take in stunning views across Loch Lomand to the peaks of the Arrochar Alps. Continue to the West Highlands and settle in to our hotel, then relax and enjoy the wonderful sea views or take a walk in the garden. Day 2: 4 miles hiking (3 hours) Bruntsfield Hotel, Loch Melfort Hotel
DAYS 3–5 THE HIGHLANDS/ISLE OF SKYE From our base in Oban, travel to the isle of Kerrera and set off on an intriguing hike through history. Pass Horseshoe Bay, where King Alexander II of Scotland died in 1249, and explore the Gylen Castle, perched dramatically on a cliff’s edge. Take a private catamaran cruise on Loch Craignish and along the coast of Jura in search of minke whales, dolphins, and seals, and to witness the swirling surf of
38
the Corryvreckan Whirlpool. Walk through Kilmartin Glen and stop at the ruins of Dun Add, an Iron Age fort considered by some to be the birthplace of Scotland. Head north, passing the western end of Glen Coe, scene of the historic massacre of the MacDonald clan in 1692. In Fort William, join a conservationist and John Muir historian for a guided hike. Cross the sea to Skye, stopping to visit Eilean Donan Castle. Day 3: 6–7 miles hiking (4–5 hours); Day 4: 5 miles hiking (2–3 hours); Day 5: 3–4 miles hiking (3 hours) Loch Melfort Hotel, Bosville Hotel
DAYS 6–8 INNER HEBRIDES/EDINBURGH Explore the spectacular landscapes of northern Skye, where grassy slopes drop off in sheer cliffs and fascinating rock formations spike and curl. Travel by boat to the otherwise inaccessible Loch Coruisk and hike among the surrounding Cuillin Mountains, taking in magnificent views of the peaks that tower over the shores. Enjoy some free time to explore Pitlochry before returning to Edinburgh for your flight home. Day 6: 6–7 miles hiking (3–4 hours); Day 7: 6–7 miles hiking (4–5 hours)
Motor route Boat route 0
40
MILES
56° 82' N
Ben Nevis (4,409 ft)
Oban ISLE OF MULL
IONA
Blair Atholl
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
5° 10' W
Ben A’an (1,488 ft)
Perth
Lock Katrine
Edinburgh
INFORMATION 2017: May 20–27 • June 10–17 • June 17–24
July 1–8 • July 22–29 • July 29–Aug. 5 Aug. 5–12 • Aug. 19–26 • Aug. 26– Sept. 2 Sept. 2–9 • Sept. 9–16
$5,295
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $900. Airfare to/from Edinburgh is not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of dinner on day 6. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE We will be hiking 3 to 5 hours per day (2 to 7 miles) on moderate to steep grades at low elevations. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points while in the highlands, but will be limited while on the islands. Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. Please note that there are some long travel days. Transfer is by private vans along roads in good condition. GROUP SIZE: 8–14 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 7 nights in hotels and smaller inns offering authentic Scottish hospitality.
Bosville Hotel, Fonab Hotel Above: Pausing amid the cairns, a hiker looks out over Scotland’s emerald coast.
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
EUROPE
IRELAND: HIKING THE EMERALD ISLE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Approach the enchanting valley of Glendalough from above, descending along the beautiful Wicklow Way. • Hike a portion of the Dingle Way, and encounter the beehive huts and cliff-lined coast of the Dingle Peninsula. • Take to the trails of the spectacular Ring of Kerry, passing ancient forts and monasteries. • Go cycling on Inishmore, and get acquainted with the rich Irish traditions of the Gaeltacht.
Galway
IRELAND Glenmalure
Wic klow
Shannon Rock of Cashel Dingle
ITINERARY
| 10 DAYS
DAYS 1–3 DUBLIN, IRELAND/ POWERSCOURT/GLENDALOUGH Arrive at our hotel in central Dublin and enjoy a free day to explore the city. The next day, visit the elaborate gardens of Powerscourt House, a country estate dating back to the 1300s. Then hike through lush pine forests as we journey along the beautiful Wicklow Way to Glendalough, a sixth-century monastic site. In the Vale of Avoca, site of Wicklow’s gold rush, visit the Avoca Handweavers mill. Day 2: 10 miles hiking (5 hours); Day 3: 9 miles hiking (5 hours) Buswells Hotel, Glendalough Hotel
DAYS 4–6 KILLARNEY/GAP OF DUNLOE/ RING OF KERRY Travel to the Rock of Cashel, an exquisite example of Ireland’s medieval architecture. On the outskirts of Killarney, stroll the gardens of the 19th-century Muckross House. Bike or hike in the Gap of Dunloe, the narrow valley that splits the Purple Mountain Range from Macgillycuddy’s Reeks; and see Ross Castle, site of strong resistance to Oliver Cromwell’s Roundheads during the Irish Confederate Wars. Around the idyllic Ring of Kerry, watch a sheepdog demonstration and visit monasteries and Iron Age forts. Or climb to the summit of Carrauntoohill,
Ireland’s highest peak, for incredible views of the Irish countryside. Transfer to the Dingle Peninsula.
Moun tains
ARAN ISLANDS
Dublin Mullacor (2,156 ft) Glendalough Avoca 52° 37' N
Killarney
Gap of Dunloe Killarney National Park Carrauntoohil Ring of (3,415 ft) Kerry
Motor route Hiking route Boat route 8° 11' W
0
30
MILES
Day 4: 3 miles hiking (2 hours); Day 5: 7 miles hiking or 30+ miles biking (3 hours); Day 6: 10–12 miles hiking (6 hours) or 11 miles (8 hours) for the Carrauntoohil climb Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa, Dingle Benners Hotel
DAYS 7–10 DINGLE/THE BURREN/ ARAN ISLANDS Hike along the Dingle Way, tracing the rocky coastline of the Dingle Peninsula. Along the way, see the Gallarus Oratory and ancient beehive huts perched on the windswept green hills. Visit the enigmatic Ballintaggart Ogham Stones, then travel to the unusual limestone karst landscape of the Burren, where we’ll meet a local farmer to learn about this otherworldly place and the traditions of its people. Ferry to the Aran Islands, part of the Gaeltacht, where the Gaelic language is still spoken. On Inishmore, hike up to Dun Aengus, a mysterious ring fort perched on the edge of a cliff. Explore the island by bicycle before enjoying a farewell dinner in festive Galway. Depart the next morning for your flight home. Day 7: 11 miles hiking (6 hours); Day 8: 3 miles hiking (2 hours); Day 9: 2 miles hiking (1 hour)
INFORMATION 2017: May 29–June 7 • June 12–21 • June 26–July 5
Aug. 7–16 • Sept. 4–13
$5,495
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $600. Airfare to Dublin and return from Shannon is not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of dinner on days 5 and 8. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE We will be hiking 1 to 6 hours per day (2 to 11 miles) on moderate to steep grades at elevations ranging from 300 to a maximum of 3,500 feet, in variable weather. All optional biking excursions are on local roads and are suitable for beginners. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points along the way, and participants always have the option to rest a day. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 9 nights in comfortable hotels that are conveniently located near each day’s activities.
Dingle Benners Hotel, Park House Hotel Above: Hikers trace the rugged coastline while trekking Ireland’s spectacular Dingle Way.
CALL 1-888-689-2557 OR VISIT NATGEOADVENTURES.COM
39
TUSCANY AND CINQUE TERRE HIKING ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Hike to hilltop towns perched above Chianti’s vineyard-laced valleys, and stay at picturesque farmhouses and villas. • Discover San Gimignano’s soaring towers and Siena’s Gothic architecture, and soak up the charm of these UNESCO World Heritage sites. • Explore the coastal villages of the Cinque Terre on a series of spectacular walks and hikes. • Sample Tuscany’s famed wines and cuisine and the specialties of Liguria.
Levanto
Monterosso Vernazza
Carrara
Corniglia Manarola Riomaggiore
Mediterranean Sea 43° 77' N
Pisa
I TA LY
Florence
San Casciano di Valpesa San Pancrazio
Motor route Hiking route
ITINERARY
| 9 DAYS
DAYS 1–3 FLORENCE, ITALY/SAN CASCIANO IN VAL DI PESA/GREVE IN CHIANTI/VOLPAIA Arrive in Florence and visit the Benedictine church of San Miniato al Monte, perched high above the city. Travel south along an ancient Roman road, Via Cassia, to San Casciano. Set out on our first hike, to a 15th-century Tuscan home, where we’ll enjoy a country dinner. The next day, drive into the hills of Chianti. We’ll embark on a hike through rolling vineyards, past a medieval fortified town with an exquisite church, and the formidable Castello di San Polo. End the day with a tasting of Chianti wines. Day 1: 3–4 miles hiking (2 hours); Day 2: 4–5 miles hiking (3 hours); Day 3: 4–5 miles hiking (3 hours) Hotel Executive Florence, Palazzo Leopoldo Radda
DAYS 4 AND 5 SIENA/COLLE DI VAL D’ELSA/ SAN GIMIGNANO In enchanting Siena, learn about the city’s competitive contrade, or districts, and explore the great central square, Il Campo. Then visit the fortified village of Monteriggioni, featured in Dante’s Inferno; and Colle di Val d’Elsa, where crystal and glassware have been produced since the 17th century. Embark on a spectacular hike to San Gimignano, one of
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Tuscany’s most beautiful hill towns. Explore the city’s fresco-adorned Duomo, or climb one of its many towers.
0
8
MILES
Greve in Chianti Lamole Panzano San Gimignano Volpaia Radda Colle Val d’Elsa 10° 50' E Monteriggioni Siena
Day 4: 2–3 miles walking (4 hours); Day 5: 6 miles hiking (4–5 hours) Hotel Villa San Lucchese
DAYS 6–9 CARRARA/LEVANTO/CINQUE TERRE/PISA Discover the ancient marble quarries of Carrara on our way to the seaside town of Levanto. Take a short train ride to Monterosso al Mare, one of the five villages that make up the Cinque Terre, or “five lands.” Clinging to cliffs above the Mediterranean, these hamlets dazzle with pastel-hued homes overlooking picturesque harbors. Embark on a more challenging hike along the trail that links the villages of Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Next, set out from our hotel on a scenic coastal trail to Monterosso that meanders past lemon groves. Return to Levanto by train, and transfer to Pisa the next day to connect with your flight home. Day 7: 5–6 miles hiking (5 hours); Day 8: 3–4 miles hiking (3–4 hours) Hotel La Giada del Mesco
INFORMATION 2017: Apr. 17–25 • May 8–16 • May 22–30
Sept. 4–12 • Sept. 25–Oct. 3 Oct. 5–13
$5,995
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,000. Airfare to Florence and return from Pisa is not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of lunch on days 4 and 8, and dinner on days 3 and 7. ACTIVITY LEVEL: EASY/MODERATE We will be hiking 2 to 5 hours per day (2 to 6 miles) on moderate to steep grades at low elevations. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points along the way, except while hiking in Cinque Terre (which is a car-free zone). Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 8 nights in comfortable, ideally located hotels.
Above: A view of the colorful houses of Vernazza, as seen from the Cinque Terre trail.
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
EUROPE
PROVENCE HIKING ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Approach some of France’s most beautiful villages on foot, enjoying time to explore Provence in depth. • Hike the Van Gogh trail around St.-Rémy-de-Provence, walking through landscapes the artist rendered in paint. • Meander through an abandoned ochre quarry near Roussillon, where the red glow of the rock creates an otherworldly atmosphere.
De nt ell es de Mo ntm ira il
• Sample world-renowned wines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Gigondas, and sit down to a farm-to-table meal at a local herb farm. Vaison-La-Romaine Séguret Sablet Gigondas
Mont Ventoux (6,263 ft)
Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Pont d’Avignon
Notre-Dame de Sénanque
Avignon Rhô
ne
Lacoste
Saint-Rémy
| 9 DAYS
DAYS 1–3 AVIGNON, FRANCE/ CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE/DENTELLES DE MONTMIRAIL Meet in Avignon and transfer to our hotel. Delve into this enchanting town and walk below the legendary Pont d’Avignon. Travel north to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, hiking up to the castle and into the vineyards that surround the village. Stop for a picnic and sample local vintages. Next, explore Vaison-la-Romaine, a gem of Roman and medieval art and architecture. Head south to hike along the jagged ridge of the Dentelles de Montmirail to the town of Gigondas. Enjoy a wine tasting, visit the 11th-century church and Romanesque chapel, and walk to the village of Sablet. Day 2: 6 miles walking (3–4 hours); Day 3: 6 miles walking (3 hours) Cloître Saint-Louis, Hostellerie Le Beffroi or Hôtel La Fête en Provence
DAYS 4–6 LUBÉRON/GORDES/BONNIEUX LACOSTE/ROUSSILLON/ST.-RÉMY-DEPROVENCE Artists and writers have long flocked to the Lubéron, a string of mountains dotted with ageold villages, castles, and ancient beehive huts called bories. Hike toward the 12th-century abbey Notre-Dame de Sénanque, then continue to the hilltop village of Gordes. Cross the Lourmarin
valley to Bonnieux, which ascends the hillside to its 12th-century Romanesque church. From Lacoste, hike through the Calavon River valley to Bonnieux, passing through cherry orchards and lavender fields. Visit a farm where herbes de Provence are grown and enjoy a private farm-to-table meal. Follow the trail of the Aiguebrun River into the heart of the Lubéron. Climb up to the 3,000-year-old Buoux Fort. Then travel to Roussillon, where local houses are painted with ochre sands. Stroll through an abandoned ochre quarry and continue west to St.-Rémy-de-Provence. Day 4: 5 miles walking (3 hours); Day 5: 6 miles walking (3–4 hours); Day 6: 4 miles walking (3 hours) Le Mas de Guilles, Hotel Gounod
DAYS 7–9 ALPILLES/LES-BAUX-DEPROVENCE/AVIGNON Set out on the Van Gogh trail, examining reproductions of his works as you walk through the very landscapes they depict. Explore Saint-Rémy, home to the Roman ruins of Glanum. Embark on a hike into the Alpilles to the medieval hamlet of Les-Baux-de-Provence. Discover the ruins of the town’s citadel and see a collection of medieval war machines. Return to Avignon for a farewell dinner, and depart the next day.
Bonnieux e Rang
Lubéron
Buoux Fort
Les Baux-de-Provence
ITINERARY
44° 14' N Gordes Roussillon
5° 4' E
Motor route Hiking route 0
10
MILES
INFORMATION 2017: May 14–22 • June 4–12 • June 18–26
Sept. 10–18 • Oct. 8–16
$5,295
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $900. Airfare to/from Paris, and train to/from Avignon, are not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of dinner on day 7. ACTIVITY LEVEL: EASY/MODERATE We will hike 3 to 4 hours per day (4 to 6 miles) on good trails. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points along the way, and participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 8 nights in very comfortable, well-appointed hotels and inns with full amenities in locations ideally located to our activities.
Day 7: 5 miles walking (3 hours); Day 8: 5–6 miles walking (3 hours) Hotel Gounod, Cloître Saint-Louis
Above: The beautiful 12th-century abbey, Notre-Dame de Sénanque.
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41
PORTUGAL HIKING ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Explore three UNESCO World Heritage sites on foot: historic Porto, the Douro wine region, and the former royal resort town of Sintra. • Hike along beaches and coastal cliffs to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe. • Kayak the Douro River, breaking to relax on secluded beaches accessible only by boat.
Tua
• Discover the cobblestoned lanes and colorful neighborhoods of Lisbon, and venture into its Moorish castle.
Pinhão
Oporto o D o ur
Peso da Régua
Atlantic Ocean 40° N
SPAIN
PORTUGAL
Pena Park
ITINERARY
| 8 DAYS
DAYS 1–3 PORTO/DOURO VALLEY Arrive in Porto and take a walking tour of the city’s historic Old Town. Stroll the picturesque riverfront and linger in the Praça da Ribeira plaza before a festive welcome dinner. Travel by bus to Peso da Régua, following the Douro River to the terraced vineyards of the stunning Douro Valley, where some of Portugal’s best wines and ports are produced. Visit the Douro Museum for an introduction to the region. After a picnic lunch, we’ll set out on a hike through the rolling landscape, taking in vistas of vine-striped slopes and the meandering river below. The next day, kayak the river, paddling past vineyards and stopping to relax at secluded beaches accessible only by boat. Enjoy a final hike through the region’s vineyards, capped off by a wine tasting. Day 2: 5 miles hiking (4 hours); Day 3: 7–8 miles paddling (4 hours), 2–3 miles hiking (2 hours) Crowne Plaza Porto, Quinta do Portal
DAYS 4–5 PORTO/LISBON Return to Porto, and delve deeper into the enchanting lanes of the Old Town, discovering the neighborhoods south of the river and visiting a port wine cellar to sample the city’s most famous export. The next day, travel by train to Lisbon, Portugal’s colorful capital. Climb the steep cobblestoned streets of the traditional Alfama neighborhood,
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explore multicultural Mouraria, and visit the São Jorge Castle—the Moorish stronghold that presides over the city.
Cabo da Roca Praia do Guincho
Motor route Train route
Lisbon 8° W
0
50
MILES
Day 5: 4–5 miles hiking (4–5 hours) Crowne Plaza Porto, Hotel Altis Avenida
DAYS 6–8 CABO DA ROCA/SINTRA/LISBON Travel from Lisbon to Guincho Beach, the starting point for our coastal hike to Cabo da Roca—the westernmost point of continental Europe. From the sandy shores, climb up to the Abano Fortress and then follow the edge of oceanfront cliffs that lead to the Cabo da Roca lighthouse. The next day, hike through Sintra, beginning in the Old Town and visiting landmarks that include Santa Maria Church, the former home of Hans Christian Andersen, and the hilltop ramparts of the Castle of the Moors. Then hike over to Sintra’s crown jewel, the Palacio da Pena. Designed by King Fernando II, this 19th-century Romanticist castle is a patchwork of turrets and domes perched above luxuriant gardens. Explore the park paths and tour the opulent palace interiors before returning to Lisbon to depart the following day. Day 6: 5 miles hiking (5–6 hours); Day 7: 4–5 miles hiking (5–6 hours)
INFORMATION 2017: June 7–14 • Aug. 5–12 • Aug. 19–26
Sept. 16–23
COST:
$4,995
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $700. Airfare to Porto and return from Lisbon is not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure. ACTIVITY LEVEL: EASY/MODERATE We will hike 3 to 6 hours per day (3 to 5 miles) mostly on level trails but with some steeper grades at times. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points along the way, and participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. There is one day of optional kayaking, for a maximum of 4 hours. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 7 nights in ideally located, well-appointed hotels with many amenities.
Tivoli Palácio de Seteais, Hotel Altis Avenida
Above: Travelers take in views of the Atlantic as they hike along the Cabo Da Roca coastline.
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
EUROPE
SPAIN: WALKING EL CAMINO DE SANTIAGO
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Trace the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway (and many a bull) through Pamplona, and explore the spectacular Old Town of Santiago de Compostela. • Venture into the cathedral of Burgos and the monasteries of San Millan de la Cogolla, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. • Encounter ancient Roman sites, mountain villages, and the architecture of Antoni Gaudí. • Stay in historic monasteries and paradors built centuries ago.
Pedrouzo
O Cebreiro Santiago de Compostela
Bay of Biscay El Crucero de Santo Toribio León
Astorga
42° 37' N
Bercianos Sahagún del Camino
SPAIN
| 10 DAYS
DAYS 1–3 PAMPLONA, SPAIN/LOGROÑO/ BURGOS Arrive in Pamplona and transfer to our hotel, once a haunt of Ernest Hemingway. Walk through the old city and the streets made famous by the running of the bulls. The next day, descend into the wine region of La Rioja. In Logroño, we get the first stamp in our credencial and begin our journey along El Camino, walking through the vineyards to the village of Navarrete. Visit the monasteries of San Millan de la Cogolla, considered the birthplace of the Spanish language. Hike from Atapuerca into the ninth-century heart of Burgos, and take a guided tour. Day 2: 8 miles hiking (4 hours); Day 3: 12–13 miles hiking (5–6 hours) Gran Hotel La Perla, Parador Nacional de Santo Domingo de la Calzada, Hotel NH Palacio de la Merced
DAYS 4–6 CARRIÕN DE LOS CONDES/ LEÓN/VILLAFRANCA DEL BIERZO Ramble across rolling fields to Carriõn de los Condes and spend the night in a monastery. After a morning hike to Bercianos del Camino, explore León’s historic sites and stay in its spectacular parador. Follow country roads and take in the view from El Crucero de Santo Toribio, a stone cross that has marked our trail for centuries. Encounter the diverse architecture of Astorga, from Romanesque
and Gothic churches to a palace designed by Antoni Gaudí. Continue west to Villafranca del Bierzo for the night.
0
50
MILES
Santo Domingo de la Calzads Burgos
Fromista Atapuerca
Pamplona Logroño Navarrete
Monasteries of San Millan de la Cogolia
Motor route Hiking route
ITINERARY
Carriòn de los Condes
5° 33' W
Day 4: 11 miles hiking (5 hours); Day 5: 5–6 miles hiking (3 hours); Day 6: 11 miles hiking (5 hours) Hotel Real Monasterio San Zoilo, Parador Nacional de San Marcos, Parador de Villafranca del Bierzo
DAYS 7–10 O CEBREIRO/MONFORTE DE LEMOS/SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA Hike into the northwestern region of Galicia, known for its Celtic history and rolling hills. Follow forest paths to the hilltop hamlet of O Cebreiro, home to the oldest intact church on El Camino. After a night in Monforte de Lemos, set off on the final leg of our hike, walking from O Pedrouzo to the steps of the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. The next day, journey to Cabo Fisterra, a continuation of El Camino for many pilgrims. Enjoy free time or a guided tour of historic Santiago before our farewell dinner. Depart the next morning for your flight home. Day 7: 7–8 miles hiking (4 hours); Day 8: 12 miles hiking (6 hours) Parador de Monforte de Lemos Parador De los Reyes Catolicos Santiago de Compostela
INFORMATION 2017: May 1–10 • June 12–21 • Sept. 11–20
Oct. 16–25 • Oct. 26–Nov. 4
$5,995
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,400. Airfare to Pamplona and return from Santiago de Compostela is not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of dinner on day 5. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE We will hike 3 to 6 hours per day (5 to 13 miles) mostly on moderate grades at low elevations. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points along the way, and participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 6 nights in ideally located paradors and 3 nights in comfortable hotels that reflect Spanish charm.
Above: The symbol of the scallop shell guides pilgrims along the route.
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TOUR DU MONT BLANC
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Make a classic circuit of western Europe’s highest mountain, crossing the borders of France, Italy, and Switzerland on foot. • Hike through stunning terrain of mountain passes, verdant meadows, lush forests, and glacial valleys. • Discover the charming cultures and delicious cuisines of secluded Alpine villages in three different countries.
From/to Geneva
Col de la Forclaz
FRANCE
Champex
Col de Balme
Tré-le-Champ Mont Dolent (12,533 ft) Chamonix Les Houches
Les ContaminesMontjoie
ITINERARY
| 10 DAYS
DAYS 1–3 GENEVA, SWITZERLAND/ CHAMONIX, FRANCE/LES CONTAMINESMONTJOIE Arrive in Geneva and transfer to our hotel in Chamonix at the foot of Mont Blanc. We begin our hike from our hotel, entering the forest to reach a steep trail. Pass through farmlands on our way to the “Grand Balcon,” which affords fabulous views of the Chamonix Aiguilles. Traverse below these towering peaks and return to Chamonix by cog railway. Our next ascent skirts the Bionnassay Glacier to Col du Tricot. Wind our way to Miage before descending to the picturesque village of Les Contamines-Montjoie. Day 2: 6–8 miles hiking (5–6 hours); Day 3: 8 miles hiking (6 hours) Grand Hotel des Alpes, Hôtel la Chemenaz
DAYS 4–6 VILLE DES GLACIERS/ COURMAYEUR/MONT DE LA SAXE Visit the pilgrimage site of Notre Dame de la Gorge, then follow an ancient Roman route up to Col du Bonhomme. Transfer to Ville des Glaciers, where Beaufort cheese is produced. Cross into Italy and descend to Miage Glacier, which snakes down from the Mont Blanc massif. Then drive to Courmayeur in Italy’s Valle d’Aosta. From here, follow a varied trail through Alpine vegetation to Mont de la Saxe and Rifugio Bertone, where we
44
take in sweeping views. A short, steep climb leads to a crest overlooking the pinnacles of Mont Blanc. Continue hiking to Lavachey, our home for the night.
Lac de Roselend
SWITZERLAND
La Fouly
45° 89' N
Mont Blanc (15,774 ft)
Rifugio Bonatti (6,027 ft) Rifugio Bertone Miage (6,532 ft) Glacier Courmayeur
ITALY
Les Contamines Nature Reserve La Ville des Glaciers 6° 51' E
Motor route Hiking route 0
8
MILES
Day 4: 10 miles hiking (8 hours); Day 5: 10 miles hiking (6 hours); Day 6: 10 miles hiking (8 hours) Hôtel L’Autantic, Hôtel Croux
DAYS 7–10 LA FOULY/ARGENTIÈRE/ TRÉ-LE-CHAMP/CHAMONIX Ascend to the Grand Col Ferret, marking the Swiss-Italian border, and stay in the village of La Fouly. Follow the Bovine route, named for the cattle that graze in these meadows. Climb up to a spectacular viewpoint and enjoy a picnic overlooking the Rhône Valley, then descend to Col de la Forclaz and transfer to Argentière. Our final hike reaches Col de Balme, high above the Trient Glacier, then crosses the Swiss-French border, and descends to the French hamlet of Tré-Le-Champ. Return to Chamonix for a farewell dinner, and depart from Geneva the next day. Day 7: 10 miles hiking (7 hours); Day 8: 12 miles hiking (6 hours); Day 9: 7 miles hiking (7 hours) Hôtel des Glaciers, Hôtel de la Couronne, Grand Hotel des Alpes
INFORMATION 2017: June 3–12 • July 1–10 • July 29–Aug. 7
Aug. 19–28 • Sept. 2–11 • Sept. 16–25
COST:
$5,395
Price is per person, double occupancy. Single rooms are not available on a request basis; all travelers will be paired with a same-gender roommate when a roommate is available. If a roommate is not available, a $700 mandatory single supplement will be charged. Airfare to/from Geneva is not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of dinner on days 2 and 6. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE/STRENUOUS While on the trek, we will be hiking 6 to 8 hours per day (7 to 12 miles) on moderate to steep grades at elevations ranging from 4,000 feet to a maximum of 8,800 feet. GROUP SIZE: 8–14 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 9 nights in hotels, lodges, and simple inns combining ideal locations and local Alpine charm.
Above: Hikers trek through grassy fields against the backdrop of Mont Blanc�s peaks.
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
EUROPE
SWITZERLAND HIKING ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Hike in the Bernese Oberland amid soaring peaks, Alpine meadows, and glacial lakes, and explore traditional Swiss villages along the way. • Trek below the north face of the Eiger, skirting rock walls and hanging glaciers. • Ascend to a summit above Zermatt aboard a cogwheel train for a spectacular hike overlooking the legendary Matterhorn.
Hiking route Motor route Train route 0
S WITZERL AN D
30
Bern
MILES
Eigergletcher 46° 37' N
Geneva
Lauterbrunnan Valley Rinderhorn (11,312 ft) Leukerbad
| 9 DAYS
DAYS 1–3 GENEVA, SWITZERLAND/ GRINDELWALD/KANDERSTEG Arrive in Geneva and transfer to our hotel in Grindelwald, where we set out on an optional warm-up hike. The next day, ride the cogwheel Jungfrau Railway to our first trailhead. Hike along the base of the infamous north face of the Eiger, and picnic beneath vertical rock walls and hanging glaciers. Next, transfer to the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Lauterbrunnen Valley. Board an aerial tramway to Grütschalp and follow a trail through Alpine pastures and forests, reaching higher altitudes. Explore the enchanting town of Mürren before descending to Gimmelwald. Day 1: 2–3 hours optional hiking; Day 2: 6–7 miles hiking (4 hours); Day 3: 7 miles hiking (4 hours) Sunstar Hotel, Belle Epoque Hotel Victoria
DAYS 4–6 KANDERSTEG/OESCHINEN LAKE/GEMMI PASS/ZERMATT Follow a trail from our hotel into a beautiful glacial valley, then catch a gondola to Oeschinen Lake. A short hike will take us to the lake through wildflower-strewn meadows. Keep an eye out for ibexes, chamois, and marmots. Our next hike takes us across the historic Gemmi Pass and into the canton of Valais, flanked by the peaks of the Weisshorn, Dom, and Matterhorn. Wind our way down to Leukerbad along a cliffside trail, or
descend by aerial tram. From Zermatt, embark on a pleasant hike to the foot of the Matterhorn, arriving at a small glacial lake. After descending by gondola, explore the town on your own.
F R ANC E
Sion
7° 5' E
Mürren Kandersteg
Matterhorn (14,692 ft)
ITINERARY
Grindelwald
Eiger
Gornergrat (10,138 ft)
Zermatt Monte Rosa (15,203 ft)
ITALY
Day 4: 7 miles hiking (4–5 hours); Day 5: 8 miles hiking (4 hours); Day 6: 8 miles hiking (6 hours) Belle Epoque Hotel Victoria, Hotel Alpenhof
DAYS 7–9 ZERMATT/CHEMIN DU VIGNOBLE/SION Ride the Gornergrat Bahn—one of Europe’s highest cogwheel railways—above Zermatt, then hike to the rocky ridge of Gornergrat. An immense glaciated world opens up before us, with outstanding views of Monte Rosa and the Matterhorn. Descend along the Gorner Glacier and return by cogwheel train. The following day, set out on a leisurely hike along a portion of the Chemin du Vignoble, or “path of the vineyards.” Skirt the bisse, the historic irrigation canals of the Valais region. Stop at a winery for lunch and a wine tasting, followed by a visit to Sion and its fortress-like basilica. Gather for a farewell dinner and depart from Geneva the next day. Day 7: 8 miles hiking (5 hours); Day 8: 5 miles hiking (3 hours ) Hotel des Vignes
INFORMATION 2017: June 24–July 2 • July 14–22
Sept. 9–17 • Sept. 17–25
$7,795
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,300. International airfare to/from Geneva is not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of dinner on Days 2, 6, and 7. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE/STRENUOUS We will hike up to 5 hours a day in an alpine environment across varied terrain with some steep ascents and descents. Weather is unpredictable, with sun, wind, rain, and snow possible. Guests should be strong hikers in good physical condition. Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 8 nights in comfortable inns and hotels that are ideallly located to each day’s activities.
Above: Hiking near Zermatt offers spectacular views of the Matterhorn.
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45
GREEK ISLANDS ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Climb Mount Zeus, the Cyclades’ highest peak, and hike the cliffs ringing Santoríni’s caldera. • Set off from Náxos on a daylong sailing excursion, and anchor at secluded beaches and inlets. • Explore whitewashed villages and volcanic seascapes while kayaking Santoríni’s coast. • Trace the history of legendary civilizations at the Acropolis in Athens and ancient Thíra on Santorini.
Air route Boat route Hiking route Motor route
From
25° 22' E Athens
From Athens
12
0
0
Sea MILES of Crete
Náxos
NÁXOS
Mt. Zeus (3,284 ft)
MILES
Oía
To Athens To Athens
4
SCHOINOUSA 36° 45' N
THIRAS
Fíra SANTORINI Pyrgos Kamari Ancient Thira Akrotiri
ITINERARY
| 9 DAYS
DAYS 1–4 ATHENS, GREECE/NÁXOS/ MOUNT ZEUS Arrive in Athens and enjoy a guided walk through the city, followed by a welcome dinner. Spend the next morning at the hilltop complex of the Acropolis. Explore the Parthenon, the New Acropolis Museum, and the Panathenaic Stadium. Then travel by ferry to the lush island of Náxos, the largest of the Cyclades. Take to the sea on a sailing excursion, exploring secluded beaches and tiny islands. Next, hike from the foot of Mount Zeus (3,290'), passing ancient stone walls and olive groves to reach the rocky summit. Transfer to Apiranthos for lunch and a free afternoon. Take an evening stroll through the town of Náxos. Day 4: 5 miles hiking (4 hours) Electra Palace Hotel, Porto Naxos Hotel
DAYS 5 AND 6 SANTORINI/AKROTIRI Catch a ferry to Santorini, an archipelago formed from a volcanic cone that erupted in the second millennium B.C. Hike along the rim of the caldera, following the trail to the bluedomed village of Oia. Explore the town and take in the island sunset. The next morning, discover the ruins of ancient Akrotiri, an important Minoan Bronze Age settlement that
46
was buried by volcanic ash around 1450 B.C. Then, gear up for a leisurely kayak excursion. After an introductory lesson for beginners, set out from Akrotiri Beach and round the dramatic crags on the southwest coast. Stop to snorkel within view of the crimson cliffs of Red Beach. Day 5: 5 miles hiking (3 hours); Day 6: 6 miles paddling (4 hours) Rocabella Santoríni Resort and Spa
DAYS 7–9 SANTORINI/ANCIENT THÍRA/ ATHENS Set out in your kayak to explore black lava caves and the lighthouse of Fanari. Paddle to a caldera beach and snorkel or relax before enjoying a picnic lunch overlooking volcanic islands. At Pyrgos, explore labyrinthine streets encircling the ruins of a Venetian castle. Hike to the island’s highest peak, Profítis Ilías (1,857’), home to an 18th-century monastery. Continue on foot to ancient Thíra, a fascinating cluster of Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine ruins. Transfer to a nearby beach to swim. Later, fly back to Athens for a farewell dinner, and depart the following day. Day 7: 6 miles paddling (4 hours); Day 8: 4–5 miles hiking (3 hours)
Mediterranean Sea Oía Fíra SANTORINI Kamari Akrotiri
INFORMATION 2017: May 20–28 • June 17–25 • June 24–July 2
Sept. 9–17 • Sept. 23–Oct. 1
COST:
$6,595
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $900. International airfare to/from Athens and airfare within Greece are not included in the cost. The group flight within Greece is $300 (subject to change). All meals are included between group arrival and departure. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE This trip is suitable for beginner and expert kayakers; no previous experience is needed. We will paddle stable, two-person kayaks for an average of 4 hours per day (6 miles), and will hike 3 to 5 hours (up to 5 miles) per day on moderate to steep grades at low elevations. While kayaking, boat support will not be available. Participants always have the option to rest a day. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 8 nights in very comfortable, well-appointed hotels with many amenities.
Rocabella Santoríni Resort and Spa, Electra Palace Hotel
Above: One of Santoríni’s magical sunsets.
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
EUROPE
CROATIA ISLAND ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Kayak and explore the wooded islands, lush inlets, and pristine beaches of Croatia’s stunning coast. • Climb Vidova Gora, the highest peak on the Adriatic. • Swim in Korčula’s coves, then visit the island’s walled town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. • Walk atop Dubrovnik’s ramparts, and explore the white-stoned palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian in Split.
Dolina Blaca
BRAC ISLAND Mt. Vidova (2,552 ft) Bol
Detailed Map goes here
PAKLENI ISLAND
Split
BRAC ISLAND
0
4
Hvar
MILES
HVAR ISLAND
HVAR ISLAND
Adri ati c Sea
ITINERARY
| 8 DAYS
DAYS 1 AND 2 SPLIT, CROATIA/HVAR Arrive in Split, and gather for a tour of the Roman-era palace of Diocletian, exploring this beguiling maze of marble streets, churches, and fortified walls. The next day, take a boat to Hvar, an island of vineyards, limestone cliffs, and emerald-green coves. Explore small villages and join a local artist on her estate for an olive oil tasting. Hike across the island to the deserted stone village of Malo Grablje. Day 2: 6 miles hiking (3 hours) Le Méridien Lav, Hotel Adriana
DAYS 5 AND 6 KORČULA/PELJEŠAC PENINSULA Cruise to Korčula Island, passing craggy cliffs, and swim in the sapphire-blue Adriatic. Hike to the home of a producer of Korčula’s renowned Pošip white wine. After another short hike, enjoy lunch and explore the medieval city of Korčula, Marco Polo’s birthplace. Next, head to Orebič, home to Croatia’s best red wine, oranges, pomegranates, and figs. Hike to a 15th-century monastery, then follow the footpath past stone houses and ancient chapels to the coast for a swim. Visit a traditional tavern to taste homemade salamis, bread, and freshly caught fish.
DAYS 3 AND 4 HVAR/PAKLENI ISLANDS/ BRAČ Kayak in the Pakleni Islands, pausing to enjoy a beach picnic. Tour the charming town of Hvar, then visit Brač Island, famous for its white limestone used since ancient Roman times. Our private boat anchors in the hidden bay of Blaca. From here, hike up to the 450-year-old hermitage and feast on local specialties. Continue to the top of Mount Vidova, the highest peak in the Dalmatian islands.
Day 5: 4 miles hiking (2 hours); Day 6: 4 miles hiking (2–3 hours)
Day 3: 5 miles paddling (4 hours); Day 4: 6 miles hiking (3 hours)
Day 7: 4 miles hiking (1–2 hours)
Hotel Indijan
DAYS 7 AND 8 STON/DUBROVNIK In Ston, visit a family of oyster farmers. As a grand finale, explore Dubrovnik, a major maritime power in the 14th century, with marble streets and baroque architecture surrounded by medieval walls. Take a kayaking tour before our farewell dinner. Hotel Dubrovnik Palace or Grand Villa Argentina
KORCULA ISLAND
42° 55' N
Ston
Boat route Hiking route Motor route 0
CROATIA
Peljesac Peninsula Orebic
20
Dubrovnik 17° 23' E
MILES
INFORMATION 2017: June 11–18 • July 1–8 • Sept. 13–20
$4,995
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,100. Airfare to Split and return from Dubrovnik is not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of dinner on day 4. ACTIVITY LEVEL: EASY/MODERATE This trip is suitable for beginner and expert kayakers alike; no previous experience is necessary. During kayaking excursions, we will be paddling stable, two-person sit-on-top kayaks for an average of 2 to 4 hours (5 miles). Our hikes range from 1 to 3 hours (4 to 6 miles) on good trails, at elevations ranging from 600 feet to 1,700 feet. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 7 nights in a combination of quaint inns and larger, comfortable hotels. All lodging is conveniently located near each day’s activities.
Hotel Adriana
Above: Fishing boats moored in the crystal clear waters of Hvar
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47
SLOVENIAN ALPS ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Stroll vineyard-laced hillsides and taste wines from Hungary’s Lake Balaton to Goriška Brda in Slovenia. • Hike Slovenia’s stunning Alpine scenery: from snow-covered peaks and glacially carved valleys to pristine Lake Bled. • Discover medieval history at a floating grain mill and amid herders’ cone-roofed huts. • Delve into the otherworldly limestone cathedrals of the Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
14° 56' E
Budapest
AUSTRIA Triglav National Park
Ljubljana
SLOVENIA
Piran
R iv e
Logarska Dolina
CROATIA
DAYS 1–3 BUDAPEST, HUNGARY/LAKE BALATON/PREKMURJE, SLOVENIA/STYRIA, AUSTRIA Arrive in Budapest, and head to the beech forests and aquamarine waters of Lake Balaton. Hike in Balaton Uplands National Park, then sample some local vintages at a winery. Hike the floodplain of the Mura River and visit a floating grain mill. Cross into Austria’s Styria region, known for its rolling hills and vineyards, and enjoy a special wine tasting.
DAYS 7 AND 8 LAKE BOHINJ/LAKE BLED/ VRŠIČ PASS/SOČA RIVER VALLEY Hike from Lake Bohinj along the Mostnica River, past gorges filled with blue-green pools and waterfalls. Visit the 1,000-year-old Bled Castle, and take in views of Lake Bled at sunset. As we traverse the Julian Alps, stop to admire the breathtaking vista from Vršič Pass with a hike to Sleme Peak. After the hike, drive to the Soča Valley and walk to the hidden waterfall of Kozjak. This evening, settle into the countryside villa of one of Slovenia’s best chefs, near the town of Kobarid.
Day 2: 5–6 miles hiking (3 hours); Day 3: 3–4 miles hiking (2 hours)
Day 7: 5 miles hiking (4 hours); Day 8: 5–6 miles hiking (5–6 hours)
Hotel Kempinski Corvinus, Anna Grand Hotel, Hotel im Park
Hotel Jezero, Hiša Franko
| 10 DAYS
DAYS 4–6 LOGARSKA VALLEY, SLOVENIA/ VELIKA PLANINA Travel to Logarska Dolina—a dazzling glacial valley backed by soaring peaks. Hike on gentle terrain through meadows beneath the KamniskoSavinjske Alps. The next day, follow a forested trail to the sparkling Rinka waterfall. Hike through the pasturelands of Velika Planina, and break to taste locally made cheese. Day 4: 6 miles hiking (3 hours); Day 5: 6–8 miles hiking (3–4 hours); Day 6: 5 miles hiking (4 hours) Hotel Plesnik, Hotel Jezero
DAYS 9 AND 10 KOBARID/PIRAN/ ŠKOCJAN CAVES/LJUBLJANA At the Kobarid Museum, trace the turbulent history of World War I’s Isonzo Front at the Kobarid Museum, described in Ernest Hemingway's A Farewell to Arms. Follow the scenic wine route of the Goriška Brda, stopping to taste local wines. Continue to the picturesque town of Piran on the Adriatic coast. Discover landscapes of eroded limestone formations in the Kras region, and venture into the otherworldly underground passages of the Škocjan Caves. Transfer to the airport in Ljubljana for your flight home.
Motor route 0
45° 32' N
Škocjan Caves
Adriatic Sea
ITINERARY
Balaton Uplands National Park
r
ITALY
Bled Kobarid
Lake Balaton
M
ur
Lake Bohinj
Bad Gleichenberg
e Rive r Danu b
ˇ
HUNGARY
BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
60
MILES
INFORMATION 2017: May 31–June 9 • June 27–July 6
Aug. 31–Sept. 9
COST:
$5,595
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,400. International airfare to Budapest and return from Ljubljana is not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE We will hike 1 to 4 hours per day (1 to 8 miles) on moderate grades and at elevations ranging from 900 feet to a maximum of 5,500 feet. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 9 nights in comfortable hotels and resorts that are ideally located near each day’s activities.
Day 9: 1 mile hiking (1 hour); Day 10: 1 mile hiking (2 hours) Hotel Piran
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Above: Slovenia�s Lake Bled shines copper and violet in the sunset.
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
EUROPE
VIENNA TO PRAGUE HIKING ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Hike the limestone hills of Pálava, part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and explore the richly designed landscapes of the Lednice-Valtice area. • Sample Moravia’s renowned wines and discover its enchanting villages, estates, and castles on foot. • Stroll amid ponds and pine forests in southern Bohemia. • Encounter an array of UNESCO World Heritage sites, from Renaissance Telč to fairytale-like Český Krumlov.
Prague
15° 25'E
CZECH REPUBLIC (CZECHIA)
Tábor Jindrˇichu˚v Telcˇ Hradec
49° 25' N
Treˇ bonˇ
Slavonice ˇížov C
Holašovice Kojákovice Vranov ˇeský C nad Dyjí Krumlov
Zlatá Koruna
AUSTRIA ITINERARY
| 9 DAYS
DAYS 1–3 VIENNA, AUSTRIA/VALTICE, CZECH REPUBLIC/MIKULOV/PÁLAVA HILLS Arrive in Vienna and drive into southern Moravia, Czech Republic. Venture into the UNESCO-listed Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, developed by the princes of Liechtenstein beginning in the 17th century. Explore the baroque-style Château Valtice, then enjoy a wine tasting and a warm-up hike. Next, set out on foot from Valtice to Lednice. Tour Château Lednice before transferring to picturesque Mikulov. In the hills of Pálava, discover the archaeological riches of Dolní Věstonice and the winemaking village of Pavlov, and hike along the sunny slopes. Day 1: 4 miles hiking (2 hours); Day 2: 8 miles hiking (4 hours); Day 3: 8 miles hiking (4 hours) Hotel Besední Dům, Hotel Galant
DAYS 4 AND 5 ČÍŽOV/VRANOV/TELČ/ SLAVONICE/JINDŘICHŮV HRADEC Our next adventure begins in the hamlet of Čížov in Podyjí National Park. Hike down to the Dyje River and cross into the Austrian village of Hardegg, where we'll sample local strudel. Hike back up and tour the cliff-top castle at Vranov nad Dyjí before driving to Telč. Explore Telč’s historic center, a World Heritage site, and continue south to Slavonice, viewing the sgraffito etched into the town’s Renaissance facades. Hike into
the countryside, encountering remnants of World War II fortifications on our way to Landštejn Castle.
Mikulov Valtice
Hardegg
Vienna
Motor route 0
Dolní Veˇstonice Pálava Lednice
50
MILES
Day 4: 6 miles hiking (3–4 hours); Day 5: 7 miles hiking (3–4 hours) Hotel Celerin, Hotel Concertino
DAYS 6–9 JINDŘICHŮV HRADEC/TŘEBOŇ/ ČESKÝ KRUMLOV/PRAGUE Explore Jindřichův Hradec’s lakeside chateau and medieval Třeboň, surrounded by a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of canals and fishponds. Visit the neo-Gothic tomb chapel of the Schwarzenberg family, then hike through the Bohemian landscape to Kojákovice. In Český Krumlov, explore the town’s massive castle, which houses a baroque theater and lavish palaces and courts. Transfer to Zlatá Koruna and hike to the highest peak in the Blanský Forest Nature Reserve. Alternatively, ride a cable car to the summit and hike back down. Visit the village of Holašovice or medieval Tábor (time permitting) on the drive to Prague for our farewell dinner. The following morning, explore Prague’s Old Town and hilltop castle complex before transferring to the airport.
INFORMATION 2017: June 8–16 • July 6–14 • Sept. 14–22
Oct. 5–13
$4,695
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $700. Airfare to Vienna and return from Prague is not included in the cost. All meals are included between group arrival and departure. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE We will be walking 2 to 5 hours per day (4 to 10 miles) on moderate to steep grades at low elevations. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points along the way, and participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will be staying 8 nights in comfortable hotels chosen for their charm and access to our daily activities. While some inns are simple, all lodgings are the best available options in the towns we visit.
Day 6: 9 miles hiking (4 hours); Day 7: 10 miles hiking (4–5 hours) Hotel Bellevue, Hotel Constans Above: Crowned with red roofs, Český Krumlov is one of the world’s best-preserved medieval cities.
CALL 1-888-689-2557 OR VISIT NATGEOADVENTURES.COM
49
SWEDEN: DOGSLEDDING TO THE ICEHOTEL
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Drive your own team of huskies on a sledding expedition through Sweden’s Lapland wilderness. • Relax in cabins ideally situated for the chance to view one of nature’s most dazzling displays: the aurora borealis, or northern lights. • Spend time with Sami herders and try your hand at driving a reindeer sled. • Stay at the famed ICEHOTEL, with the option of sleeping in one of its sculpted ice rooms.
NORWAY FINLAND
Dogsledding route Air route Motor route Nor weg i an
NORWAY 0
Sea
200
Arct SWEDEN ic Circ le
MILES
L
A
P
N
A
L
D
Kiruna
SWEDEN
Vittangivaara (2,011 ft) 68° 04' N
Sevuvuoma Lake Väkkärä
From/to Stockholm
ITINERARY
| 9 DAYS
DAYS 1 AND 2 STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN Arrive in Stockholm and gather for a welcome dinner. The next day, we’ll explore Stockholm. At the Vasa Museum, examine a 17th-century royal warship that was much celebrated until it sank in front of crowds of onlookers on its maiden voyage. Then stroll the city’s charming streets where regal architecture mixes with a vibrant contemporary culture. First Hotel Reisen
DAYS 3 AND 4 KIRUNA/ÖVRE SOPPERO/ LAKE VÄKKÄRÄ Fly to Sweden’s northernmost city, Kiruna, and explore this outpost in the heart of the Lapland region—a vast wilderness of soaring peaks, ancient forests, and pristine lakes and rivers. Get outfitted for our sledding adventure before heading to Övre Soppero, where we’ll discover the reindeer-herding culture of Lapland’s indigenous people, the Sami. Try your hand at lassoing reindeer before embarking on a sled ride to a nearby lavu, or traditional Sami tepee, and enjoy lunch by a fire. Later, settle into our cabins at Väkkärä Wilderness Lodge. Day 4: 6 miles reindeer sledding (2–3 hours) Övre Soppero Homestead, Väkkärä Wilderness Lodge
DAYS 5 AND 6 LAKE VÄKKÄRÄ/ SEVUVUOMA Meet your team of Alaskan huskies, and learn the basics of harnesses, lines, and mushing. Then experience the thrill of driving your own team through snow-clad forests and across frozen lakes and rivers, keeping an eye out for wildlife. At Sevuvuoma Lodge, unwind in the sauna and enjoy a hearty dinner. Head off the next morning on a trail where few travelers have set foot, arriving back at Väkkärä Wilderness Lodge. Meet a renowned reindeer herder, who will prepare a traditional Sami meal. Day 5: 18 miles dogsledding (5–6 hours); Day 6: 18 miles dogsledding (5–6 hours) Sevuvuoma Lodge, Väkkärä Wilderness Lodge
DAYS 7–9 LAKE VÄKKÄRÄ/JUKKASJÄRVI/ STOCKHOLM After a final morning of mushing, transfer to Jukkasjärvi and check into the ICEHOTEL, the world’s largest hotel made solely of snow and ice. Enjoy a farewell dinner and a drink in the famous Icebar. Tonight, sleep in a heated room, or opt for one of the hotel’s ice or snow rooms, where you will be outfitted in a thermal sleeping bag. Then return to Kiruna and fly back to Stockholm. Depart the following morning. Day 7: 15 miles dogsledding (4–5 hours)
FINLAND
Jukkasjärvi
Kiruna
65° 49' N
Övre Soppero
Icehotel
0
10
MILES
21° 22' E 12° 41' E
Stockholm
INFORMATION 2017: Mar. 3–11 • Mar. 17–25
Mar. 24–Apr. 1
COST:
$8,795
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room (available only in Stockholm and at the ICEHOTEL), add $950. Airfare to/from Stockholm and within Sweden is not included in the cost. The group flight within Sweden is $800 (subject to change). Upgrade to an Ice Suite at the ICEHOTEL for an additional $400 per person (double occupancy) or $500 per person (single occupancy). All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of dinner on day 8. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE/STRENUOUS While on the dogsledding expedition, we will be mushing for 4 to 6 hours per day (15 to 18 miles) on moderate to steep grades. No previous experience is necessary, although you should have good balance and the stamina to endure full days in the snow, and be willing to participate in feeding and harnessing the dogs. A snowmobile will support the group (from a distance) while dogsledding to aid in case of an emergency. GROUP SIZE: 8–15 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 4 nights in rustic homesteads and wilderness cabins, 3 nights in first-class hotels, and 1 night at the ICEHOTEL in the hotel's warm rooms. Guests may upgrade to a cold suite for an additional fee.
ICEHOTEL, First Hotel Reisen Above: A team of huskies leads a sled through Sweden’s Lapland.
50
SEE WEBSITE FOR FULL ITINERARIES
EUROPE
ICELAND ADVENTURE
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Experience the raw power of Iceland’s ice-capped volcanoes, thundering waterfalls, glaciers, and geysers. • Learn about the creation of Europe’s largest national park, Vatnajökull, in a special meeting with a park director. • Explore bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and lava castles around Lake Mývatn. • Hike up Reynisfjall mountain, one of the most beautiful coastal walks in southern Iceland.
Akureyri
Lake Mývatn Námafjall
Dimmuborgir
ICELAND
Thingvellir National Park 64° 21' N
Thingvallavatn
ITINERARY
| 10 DAYS
DAYS 1 AND 2 REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND/ THINGVELLIR/GEYSIR/GULLFOSS Arrive in Reykjavík and transfer to our hotel, then take a guided walk of the city. Drive to Thingvellir National Park the next day, and hike along Lake Thingvallavatn. See the site of the world’s oldest extant parliament, visit the geothermal area of Geysir, and hike to the massive double-cascade Gullfoss. Day 2: 3–4 miles hiking (2–3 hours) Fosshótel Reykjavík, Icelandair Hotel Flúðir or Fosshotel Hekla
DAYS 3 AND 4 EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL/ REYNISFJALL/VÍK/LAKI VOLCANO Drive toward the mighty Eyjafjallajökull volcano, stopping at the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and Þorvaldseyri farm to learn how the locals have adapted to living next to an active volcano. Visit the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara, then hike up the Reynisfjall mountain and cross to the village of Vík. In the southern highlands, walk across the Eldhraun lava field, climb to the top of the Laki volcano, and explore Tjarnargígur crater. Day 3: 3–5 miles hiking (3–4 hours); Day 4: 2–4 miles hiking (2–3 hours) Icelandair Hotel Klaustur
DAYS 5 AND 6 VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK/INGÓLFSHÖFÐI HEADLAND/ JÖKULSÁRLÓN Learn about the creation of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest national park, in a special meeting with a park director. Trek across Svínafellsjökull, the tongue of Europe’s largest glacier. Hike up to the Svartifoss waterfall, walk the isolated Ingólfshöfdi headland, and explore the spectacular Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon by boat. Day 5: 6 miles hiking (3–4 hours); Day 6: 2–3 miles hiking (1 hour) Hotel Skaftafell or Fosshotel Jokulsarlon, Hotel Glacier or Hotel Hofn
DAYS 7–10 HÖFN/LAKE MÝVATN/ NÁMASKARÐ/NÁMAFJALL/ DIMMUBORGIR/REYKJAVÍK Visit the Gamlabúð Folk Museum in Höfn, then set out for Lake Mývatn, rich with lava pillars, volcanic cones, and bubbling mud pits. Hike to Víti crater and the mudpools and fumaroles of the Námaskarð area. After exploring the geothermal landscape of Námafjall, trek across a lava desert to a crater. Then delve into Icelandic folklore with a visit to Dimmuborgir, or “Dark Castles.” Fly back to Reykjavík for a farewell dinner, and soak in the Blue Lagoon before flying home.
Vatnajökull Laki National Höfn (5,659 ft) Park Jökulsárlón Ingólfshöfdi Eyjafjallajökull Headland (5,466 ft) Kirkjubæjarklaustur Mýrdalssandur Vík
Geysir
Reykjavík
Motor route Air route 0
50
19° 00' W
MILES
INFORMATION 2017: June 30–July 9 • July 14–23 • July 21–30
Aug. 4–13 • Aug. 11–20 • Aug. 18–27 Sept. 8–17
$8,195
COST:
Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,200. Airfare to/from Reykjavík and airfare within Iceland are not included in the cost. The group flight within Iceland is $400 (subject to change). All meals are included between group arrival and departure, with the exception of lunch on day 1 and dinner on day 6. ACTIVITY LEVEL: MODERATE We will be hiking 2 to 6 hours per day (2 to 8 miles) on moderate to steep grades, in variable weather conditions. Most days will have options for more, or less, hiking. During hikes, vehicle support is provided on most days, except while in the national parks. Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. Some long transfers of up to 7 hours will be required. GROUP SIZE: 8–16 ACCOMMODATIONS: We will stay 9 nights in ideally located hotels. While Iceland hotels tend to be on the small side, all lodgings are comfortable and conveniently located near each day’s activities.
Day 8: 7–8 miles hiking (6 hours); Day 9: 3–4 miles hiking (3–4 hours) Fosshótel Myvatn, Fosshótel Reykjavík
Above: A hiker marvels at the powerful cascades of Seljalandsfoss.
CALL 1-888-689-2557 OR VISIT NATGEOADVENTURES.COM
51
SEE THE WORLD YOUR WAY
Our range of travel experiences is truly panoramic. In addition to wildlife safaris, archaeology-focused expeditions, and other land-based trips, we offer many different ways to see the world with National Geographic. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer, an avid explorer, or a parent looking for a way to make your family vacation unforgettable, you’ll find a wide array of opportunities to nourish your wanderlust. And no matter how you travel with us, you’ll delve into local traditions, learn about habitats, and meet fascinating people—exploring in the tradition of National Geographic. Below are just a few of the ways to explore with us. Visit natgeoexpeditions.com to view all of our travel offerings.
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52
PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS AND WORKSHOPS
Improve your photography skills with guidance from a National Geographic photographer on a photography trip or an intensive weekend workshop.
PRIVATE JET
Experience fascinating places as far-flung as Easter Island and Marrakech on one epic journey, traveling with a team of experts in the comfort of a VIP-configured jet.
FAMILY EXPEDITIONS
Introduce your family to the magic of travel on trips designed for travelers of all ages that combine learning, discovery, and fun.
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We’ve partnered with G Adventures to offer small-group trips that combine knowledgeable local guides, meaningful encounters, and more free time and choices—all at an incredible value.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT, BINDING ARBITRATION, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND TERMS AND CONDITIONS RESPONSIBILITY National Geographic Adventures (as defined herein) will provide educational enrichment as outlined in its catalog or website (natgeoadventures.com) and has licensed Mountain Travel, its owners, directors, officers, employees, parents, subsidiaries and affiliates (“MT”) to organize and administer National Geographic Adventures programs (“Trips”). With the exception of certain transportation and other equipment in Alaska and Idaho owned and operated by MT, as well as certain personnel employed by MT on trips operated in the United States, all suppliers of services connected with these Trips (“other providers”), are third-party contractors and are solely responsible and liable for providing their respective services. The passenger tickets in use by the carriers and/or other suppliers shall constitute the sole contract between them 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 Adventures, its parents, subsidiaries and their respective employees, affiliates, officers, directors, successors, representatives, assigns (for purposes of this Responsibility Statement, Binding Arbitration, Assumption of Risk, and the Terms and Conditions, collectively “NG”) and the designated tour operator, MT (for purposes of this Responsibility Statement, Binding Arbitration, Assumption of Risk, and the Terms and Conditions, NG and MT may be collectively be referred to as “we”, “us”, or “our”) are not liable for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any third party, such as hotels or other lodging facilities, airline, vessel, bus, van or other transportation companies, local ground operators, providers, or organizers of optional excursions, food service or entertainment providers etc. Without limitation, we are not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage to personal property, death, delay, or inconvenience in connection with the provision of any goods or services occasioned by or resulting from, but not limited to, acts of God, acts of government, weather, force majeure, acts of war or civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist activities, or the threat thereof of any kind, epidemics or the threat thereof, illness, overbooking or downgrading of accommodations, structural or other defective conditions in hotels or other lodging facilities, mechanical or other failure of airplanes or other means of transportation, or for any failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart in a timely or safe manner, dangers associated with or bites from animals, pests or insects, marine life, or vegetation of any sort, dangers incident to recreational activities such as scuba diving, zip-lining, snorkeling, paddleboarding, surfing, swimming, kayaking, sailing, canoeing, rafting, hiking, bicycling, rock climbing, etc., sanitation problems, food poisoning, lack of, access to or quality of medical care, difficulty in evacuation in case of medical or other emergency, negligence of shipboard or other physicians or medical personnel of for any cause beyond our direct control. In addition, the participant releases NG and MT from their own negligence and assumes all risk thereof. Neither NG nor MT shall be liable for any air carrier’s cancellation penalty or change fee incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable ticket to or from the participant’s departure city. Baggage and personal effects are at all times the sole responsibility of the participant. BINDING ARBITRATION Binding Arbitration policy and process is available at www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com/information/terms/ngadventures or you can call 1-888-689-2557 and request a copy be sent to you. ASSUMPTION OF RISK By registering for a Trip, the participant acknowledges that he/she is aware that adventure travel such as the Trip he/she is undertaking involves potentially dangerous activities, some in remote areas of the world, with a risk of illness, injury or death which may be caused by forces of nature, illness, or by willful or criminal conduct of third parties or by terrorism. The participant further acknowledges that weather conditions may be severe, adverse and/or unpleasant and that medical services or facilities may not be readily available or accessible or consistent with standards in the United States during some or all of the time during which he/she is participating on the Trip and that when available may not be of the quality which exists in the United States. TERMS AND CONDITIONS ELIGIBILITY Anyone under 18 years of age at the time of the Trip departure must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire journey. VOLUNTARY PARTICIPATION By registering for a Trip, the participant acknowledges that he/she has voluntarily applied to participate on this Trip and that he/she has read the description of the Trip as it appears in the current National Geographic Adventure catalog or website. RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARTICIPANTS Participant is responsible for understanding the conditions as described in the Trip Itinerary and selecting a Trip in consultation with us that is appropriate to his/her interests and abilities. In addition, participant should prepare for the Trip by reading the Trip Itinerary and supplemental Trip information in the pre-Trip materials and for bringing the appropriate clothing and equipment as advised in those materials. Participant should also consult his or her physician to determine his or her suitability for the trip and to discuss any over the counter or prescription medicines he or she should consider taking relative to the demands of the Trip (e.g. in the case of trips which travel to higher altitudes). Screening for fitness (for Trips rated “Strenuous” or “Ultimate Challenge”) is made by MT during the confirmation of booking. We reserve the right in our sole discretion to accept, decline to accept, or remove any participant on a Trip at any time during the Trip. In the event of removal from a Trip, refunds are not given.
PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS To reserve space on a Trip, a $750 per-person deposit is required. Final payment of the balance is due 95 days prior to departure. Private Departures and Custom Trips require a nonrefundable per-person deposit of $1,000 or 20% of the Trip cost, whichever is greater. A $100 deposit is required for any extension. Deposits and all remaining payments must be made by major credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or American Express). Prices are in U.S. dollars and all payments are to be made in U.S. dollars. A reservation may be cancelled if full payment has not been received at least 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. Private Departures and Custom Trips carry a nonrefundable deposit. Per-person 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 Trip cost; 44 or fewer days prior to departure: 100% of the Trip cost. This policy also applies to pre- and post- Trip extensions. Any revisions requested by the participant within the Cancellation Penalty Period, are subject to this cancellation policy. Any airline tickets issued are subject to the carrier’s refund policy. Arriving late or leaving a Trip in progress, for any reason whatsoever, will not result in a refund, and no refunds will be made for any unused portions of a Trip. Any airline tickets issued are subject to the carrier’s refund policy. No refunds will be made for any unused portions of a Trip. We reserve the right to cancel any Trip because of inadequate enrollment or because of our concerns with respect to the safety, health, or welfare of the participants. If a Trip is canceled by us prior to departure, MT will provide the participant with a full refund of monies paid to them; except in the event cancellation is due to a significant event that makes it infeasible to operate the Trip as planned, in which case MT will provide the participant with a refund or credit toward a future Trip equivalent to monies paid to them. If we cancel the Trip in progress, the participant will receive a prorated refund and/or a credit based on the number of days not completed on the Trip. If we cancel a Trip, we will not be responsible for any additional expenses incurred by participant in his/her preparation for the Trip (e.g. nonrefundable airline tickets, visa fees, if applicable, clothing, equipment and medical expenses, etc.). ITINERARY CHANGES The itineraries and staff detailed in this catalog are subject to modification and change by NG or MT. We reserve the right, without penalty, to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in our judgment, conditions warrant, or if we deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of participants. Every reasonable effort will be made to operate programs as planned, but alterations may still occur after final itineraries are sent. WHAT YOUR TRIP INCLUDES Your Trip includes accommodations and meals as indicated in the itinerary; pre-departure information; entrance fees, excursions, and sightseeing noted as included in the itinerary; ground transportation during the Trip; transfers to and from group flights where applicable; services of a Trip leader and support staff, taxes, port charges, baggage handling, and service charges. Trips designated as “Photography” departures will, in addition to the above, include a National Geographic Photographer. For itineraries that include camping, camp and cook staff tents, and dining tents and necessary Trip equipment (e.g. sea kayaks, rafts, personal floatation devices, etc.) are provided. Please note: The meal notations apply to the period during the Trip only and do not include any meals on flights to/from the Trip. Internal airfare is included on some international Trips as indicated in the itinerary. WHAT YOUR TRIP DOES NOT INCLUDE Air transportation and related fees (except as indicated in the itinerary); activities noted as optional in the itinerary; optional gratuities for the Trip leader(s); 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 TRAVELERS Accommodations (hotels, tents, and cruise cabins) are based on double occupancy. If the participant prefers single accommodations, and if such are available, he/she must pay a single supplement fee, which is listed in the Trip Itinerary. If the participant is traveling alone and wishes to share accommodations, we will assign him/her a roommate of the same gender. If there is no one with whom the participant can share, he/she is required to pay the single supplement fee. TRAVEL PROTECTION Basic medical and evacuation travel protection is purchased on your behalf (trip cancellation is not included in this plan). To view the plan details, please visit: www.tripmate.com/wpF485m. Optional trip-cancellation protection is available at an additional cost and is strongly recommended. For more information about and to enroll in the option available through Travel Insurance Services, visit the “Travel Insurance” section of our website at natgeoadventures.com. DOCUMENTS After making a reservation, the participant will receive detailed preTrip information with a clothing and equipment list, visa information
(if required), a statement reflecting Trip costs, insurance information, physicians certificate (if required), Traveler Information Form which includes a Responsibility Statement, Binding Arbitration, Assumption of Risk and Terms and Conditions document each participant is required to sign and return to us, and other information needed to prepare for the Trip. Final Trip details will be sent three weeks prior to departure. TRANSFERS Transfers for Private Departures and Custom Trips are subject to the Cancellation policies described above. For all other trips, the participant may transfer to another Trip without a fee up to 90 days before departure. If the participant transfers from one Trip to another within 89 days of departure, however, he/she is subject to the usual Cancellation Fees outlined above (appropriate to the date the participant notifies us in writing of his/her wish to transfer). DELAYS & COST INCREASES We will not be responsible for providing any reimbursement for delays in the Trip due to bad weather, trail conditions, river levels, road conditions, transportation delays, or government intervention. 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 we will do everything possible to maintain the listed prices, if it is necessary to levy a surcharge, as permitted by law, we reserve the right to do so, and notification will be given at the time of final invoicing. MEDICAL & HEALTH By registering for a Trip, the participant certifies that he/she is physically fit and does not have a condition that would limit mobility. Participant further certifies that he/she does not have any mental, physical, or other condition or disability that would create a hazard for him/herself or other participants. Participant must notify us of any medical issues well before departure. We reserve the right in our sole discretion to accept, decline to accept, or remove any participant on a Trip at any time during the Trip. In the event of removal from a Trip, refunds are not given. Hospital facilities or appropriate medical facilities or doctors are often unavailable and evacuation can be prolonged, difficult, and expensive. We assume no liability regarding provision of medical care. Participants will receive appropriate health information and provide us with his/her medical history and any dietary restrictions as requested on the Traveler Information Form. On certain designated Trips, a Physician Certificate must be signed by the participant’s physician and returned to us within 30 days after the participant receives it. The State Department (www. travel.state.gov) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov) periodically issue statements, advisories and warnings about risks to travelers. These statements are country specific and contain important information. We urge all participants to review these sites. MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION & COVERAGE In the event participant becomes sufficiently incapacitated as to be unable to direct his or her own care, the participant authorizes any medical treatment deemed necessary in the event of any injury or illness while participating on the Trip whether or not administered by medical or non-medical personnel. In addition, the participant certifies that he or she has medical insurance which will cover personal accidents, medical expenses, medical evacuation, air ambulance, loss of effects, repatriation costs and all other expenses which 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 We reserve the right to take photographs or videos during the operation of any Trip or part thereof and to use the resulting photography, videos, or recordings for promotional or commercial use. By making a reservation on a Trip, participant agrees to allow his/her likeness to be used by NG, NG-authorized third parties, and MT without compensation to participant. If participant prefers that his/her likeness not be used, he/she must notify us in writing prior to departure of the Trip. Copyright in all photographs, video, and related materials created by participant (“Adventure Materials”) shall belong to the participant upon creation. Participant grants to NG, NG-authorized third parties, and MT a non-exclusive, worldwide, irrevocable license to use any Adventure Materials provided to NG and/or MT or taken on NG and/or MT supplied equipment, in any media now existing or subsequently developed for the following limited purposes: editorial use, promotion of the editorial use, promotion of National Geographic’s travel programs or promotion of the mission of the National Geographic Society. MAILING LIST If you are receiving duplicate catalogs, have address updates, or would like to be removed from future National Geographic Adventures mailings, please call toll-free 1-888-689-2557. OTHER Additional Terms and Conditions may apply to some Trips and will be provided with pre-Trip mailings. By registering for a Trip, the participant agrees to the Responsibility Statement, Binding Arbitration, Assumption of Risk, and the Terms and Conditions published in the catalog and on the website. See our most complete and up to date terms at: www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com/information/terms/ ngadventures. Please Note: See our website to review Terms and Conditions for other National Geographic travel programs, including National Geographic Expeditions, National Geographic Journeys, and Private Expeditions.
© 2017 National Geographic Partners LLC. NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ADVENTURES and the Yellow Border Design are registered trademarks of the National Geographic Society, used under license. w Recycled paper
53
2017 CALENDAR D E PA R T U R E DAT E S PAGE
ACTIVITY
LEVEL
GROUP SIZE
NO. OF DAYS
2017 MAR
APR
MAY
5, 12
10
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEPT
OCT
NOV
20
15
10, 17
22
20
3
13
3
DEC
ASIA & THE PACIFIC Japan Adventure: Tokyo to Sacred Kumano
14
M
8–15
11
Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia Adventure
16
E/M
8–16
13
Nepal: Everest Base Camp Trek
17
UC
8–16
19
China Adventure
18
M
8–16
13
Mongolian Horse Trek
19
M
8–16
14
Borneo Wildlife Adventure
20
E/M
8–15
11
1, 13
New Zealand Adventure
21
M
8–16
12
6*, 20
South Africa Safari Adventure NEW
22
E/M
8–16
12
Tanzania: Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari
24
UC
8–16
15
Tanzania Walking Safari
25
M
8–16
11
Hiking the National Parks
26
E/M
8–16
8
Costa Rica Multisport Adventure
28
M
8–14
9
Costa Rica Wildlife Adventure
29
E
8–14
9
Alaska Sea Kayaking Adventure
30
M
8–10
9
Belize Adventure
31
M
8–16
10
12
4, 18 13 15
11 14
1, 20
8
9
9
9
1, 15, 29 6, 20*
21*
AFRICA 3
15
16
23
11 21
6
NORTH AMERICA 24
16
26
15
12
23 24, 30
10
8, 22
11, 19
24 9
5
11
18
Please see page 7 for full descriptions of the activity levels. ACTIVITY LEVEL KEY: E = EASY
54
E/M = EASY/MODERATE
M = MODERATE
M/S = MODERATE/STRENUOUS
S = STRENUOUS
UC = ULTIMATE CHALLENGE
D E PA R T U R E DAT E S PAGE
ACTIVITY
LEVEL
GROUP SIZE
NO. OF DAYS
2017 MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEPT
OCT
17, 30
21
11, 25
24
7, 20
11
8, 30
20
10
20
19
2, 30
NOV
DEC
5, 19
3, 10
SOUTH AMERICA Peru: Machu Picchu Inn to Inn Trek
32
M/S
10-12
10
Hiking the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu
34
M
8–16
10
Patagonia Hiking Adventure
35
M/S
8–16
13
Hiking England Coast to Coast
36
M/S
8–16
13
28
18
2, 16
6, 20
3
Scotland Hiking Adventure: From Highlands to Islands
38
M
8–14
8
20
10, 17
1, 22, 29
5, 19, 26
2, 9
Ireland: Hiking the Emerald Isle
39
M
8–16
10
29
12, 26
7
4
Tuscany and Cinque Terre Hiking Adventure
40
E/M
8–16
9
Provence Hiking Adventure
41
E/M
8–16
9
Portugal Hiking Adventure
42
E/M
8–16
8
Spain: Walking El Camino de Santiago
43
M
8–16
10
Tour du Mont Blanc
44
M/S
8–14
10
3
1, 29
Switzerland Hiking Adventure
45
M/S
8–16
9
24
14
Greek Islands Adventure
46
M
8–16
9
Croatia Island Adventure
47
E/M
8–16
8
Slovenian Alps Adventure
48
M
8–16
10
Vienna to Prague Hiking Adventure
49
M
8–16
9
Sweden: Dogsledding to the Icehotel
50
M/S
8–15
9
Iceland Adventure
51
M
8–16
10
12
8, 22
EUROPE
17
8, 22 14
4, 18 7
1
20
12
5
10
8
16 11
19
16, 26
2, 16 9, 17
17, 24 11
31
5, 19
4, 25
9, 23 1
27
13 31
8
6
30
14, 21
14
5
3, 17, 24 4, 11, 18
8
55
1145 17th Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036
7952-17F
I THE WORLD THROUGH THE LENSES OF NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ADVENTURES TRAVELERS:
Gareth Tate, @garethjtate, New Zealand Adventure
Jessica S., @j_sems, Tanzania: Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari
Charles Young, @charlesgyoung, Japan Adventure
Fred Bryla, Hiking Patagonia
Laura Farrell, @laurakfarrell, Slovenian Alps Adventure
Jonathan Irish, @jonathan_irish, Peru: Machu Picchu Inn to Inn Trek
Join the adventure on Facebook and Instagram @natgeoexpeditions and get inspired for your next trip! To reserve your space on an active adventure with National Geographic, call 1-888-689-2557 or visit natgeoadventures.com.