Private Expeditions Catalog by National Geographic Expeditions

P R I VAT E

CURATED TRIPS FOR THE INDEPENDENT TRAVELER

TRAVEL CATALOG

2018

Travelers explore Galรกpagos waters by kayak.

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AFRICA 8 Tanzania 10 South Africa 11 Morocco ASIA 12 Thailand

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14 Vietnam and Cambodia 15 Bhutan 16 China 17 Western China and Tibet

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18 Borneo 19 Japan 20 India EUROPE 21 Italy 22 Russia

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24 Ireland 25 Iceland 26 Northern Greece 27 Greek Isles SOUTH AMERICA 28 Patagonia 30 Peru

WIT H A L L T H E B EN EFITS O F E XPLO R I N G W I T H N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C

Our private expeditions are unique itineraries designed to bring you and the traveling companions you choose— whether it’s one, two, or ten—to extraordinary places all over the world. Throughout your trip, you’ll explore with

31 Ecuador 32 Chile and Easter Island

NORTH AMERICA 33 Nicaragua N E W 34 Costa Rica 36 Belize and Tikal 37 Alaska 38 Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks

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39 Yosemite National Park

private guides, enjoy specially arranged visits with local

OCEANIA 40 Australia

people, and sometimes join a small group for a safari or a

41 New Zealand

cruise. And you’ll stay in top accommodations, including

MORE TRIPS 42 Zambia, Bostwana

National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World. Simply select one of our captivating destinations, and decide when you would like to go. We’ll take care of the rest.

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43 Kenya, Madagascar

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44 Switzerland, Portugal and Spain 45 Croatia, Mongolia RESOURCES AND MORE 46 More ways to travel with National Geographic

Front cover: In a powerful display of Earth's natural forces, the Strokkur Geyser bursts from Icelandic soil.

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47 Terms and Conditions

CLOSER THAN YOU'VE EVER IMAGINED

LET THE EXPERTS GUIDE YOU

National Geographic opens doors around the globe: Our relationships

You gain knowledge when you travel with National Geographic—

with scientists, explorers, scholars, and storytellers allow us special access

whether you’re examining newly excavated dinosaur fossils alongside

to places and people. Traveling with us, you go behind the scenes to get

a paleontologist in Mongolia or sailing the Galápagos aboard an

a close-up view of work that’s helping illuminate and protect the world’s

intimate yacht, listening to a naturalist interpret animal behavior.

cultural and natural treasures, from the revival of ancient weaving practices

From the local guides who lead our trips to the experts we meet in the

in the Peruvian Andes to wildlife conservation efforts run in partnership

field, you’ll be surrounded by people who are steeped in knowledge

with the Maasai of Tanzania.

and insights about the places we go. And they’re passionate about sharing that knowledge with you.

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Over the past 130 years, we’ve sent our scientists, storytellers, and adventurers across continents and into remote cultures, down to the oceans’ depths and up the highest mountains in an effort to better understand our planet. National Geographic Expeditions grew from this legacy as a way to invite others to explore: to encounter the wonders of the world up close, in depth, right at the source—and to be transformed by the experience.

WHEN YOU TRAVEL WITH US, YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE When you travel with us, you support the National Geographic Society’s researchers and explorers who work to preserve, protect, and advance our understanding of the planet and its people. Every year, the Society awards more than 575 grants to scientists, educators, innovators, and storytellers around the world. They are changing how we understand and interact with our planet—and helping protect it for future generations. The National Geographic Society receives funds from National Geographic Partners, LLC, funded in part by your purchase. To learn more, visit www.natgeo.com/info.

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CUSTOM TRIPS LET US DESIGN YOUR DREAM TRIP Everyone’s idea of a dream trip is a little different—and we’re happy to design yours. You can modify one of the private expeditions in this catalog by including a destination that wasn’t in the original itinerary. You might extend your Italy expedition in Sicily, for example, or tack a visit to Laos onto the Thailand itinerary. Or you can pick a place on your bucket list and let us craft a trip tailor-made for you. Colombia? France? Jordan? Namibia? You name it. Call 1-888-732-2379 or visit natgeoexpeditions.com/custom to start crafting the trip of your dreams.

Built by King Rama IV of Siam, an ornate pavilion complements the grandeur of Thailand's Phraya Nakhon cave.

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OUR LODGES WHERE SUSTAINABILITY MEETS SPLENDOR

National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World is a collection of handpicked lodges all across the globe that invite guests to experience the planet’s most treasured places while helping to protect them for generations to come. These lodges serve as inspiration when we design our trips, and you can stay at one or more of them on most of our private expeditions. Or, make a lodge your next getaway. You’ll enjoy unparalleled access to unspoiled wild places, genuine interactions with local people from Newfoundland to Australia, and peace of mind. After all, by staying at our lodges, you are contributing to tourism’s positive impact and helping safeguard our planet for the future. Look for featured lodges in the itineraries that follow, and visit natgeolodges.com to see all the properties in our growing collection.

The luxury tents of Longitude 131° offer views of Australia's sacred monolith, Uluru.

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TA N Z A N I A THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENCE • Pay a visit to Noloholo Environmental Center, the brainchild of National Geographic Explorer Laly Lichtenfeld, and learn about the center’s conservation projects, run in partnership with the local Maasai.* • Enjoy an unforgettable picnic on the floor of the massive Ngorongoro Crater, then set out on a game drive to seek out resident zebras, flamingos, lions, and more. • Stay at the elegant Sayari Camp, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World in the remote northern Serengeti, and spot wildlife from your private veranda. • Float above the Serengeti on an optional hot air balloon ride, and touch down on the plain for a privately catered breakfast under the shade of an acacia tree.

Encounter the breathtaking landscapes of Tanzania, from savannas that teem with zebras and wildebeests to the deep caldera of Ngorongoro Crater, where an incredible range of species coexist. Go on safari away from the crowds at Tarangire National Park, home to a large concentration of elephants, and join excellent guides to track lions, leopards, and so much more. Then enjoy an intimate safari experience at Sayari Camp, a National Geographic Unique Lodge located in the remote northern Serengeti, and observe wildlife on a private game drive arranged exclusively for National Geographic guests.

ITINER ARY

DAY 1

9 DAY S

ARUSHA, TANZANIA

Land at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Arusha. Spend the rest of the day relaxing at your lodge, located on the leafy grounds of Tanzania’s largest coffee plantation. Arusha Coffee Lodge

DAY 2

TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK

Travel to Tarangire National Park. If your trip is between June and September, stop for a visit to the Noloholo Environmental Center, located just beyond the borders of Tarangire.* Directed by National Geographic Explorer Laly Lichtenfeld, Noloholo runs educational programs in wildlife conservation and natural resource management for local Maasai people. Attend a presentation on these initiatives and enjoy a rare opportunity to visit one of the projects in the field. After settling

into your elegant safari tent in the heart of the park, enjoy sundowner cocktails while taking in views over the savanna. Oliver's Camp | Meals: B, L, D

DAY 3

TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK

Spend the day exploring Tarangire National Park on game drives. Due to its low volume of visitors, the reserve offers a serene and intimate wildlife-viewing experience. Seek out large herds of zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest, as well as the skulking leopards and cheetahs that prey on them. The park is also home to around 550 species of birds, including dazzling yellowcollared lovebirds and the world’s largest avian species: the stocking-thighed ostrich. Oliver's Camp | Meals: B, L, D

DAY 4 AND 5

NGORONGORO CRATER

Travel to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and settle into your lodge, perched on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. More than 12 miles in diameter, the Ngorongoro Crater is the largest non-flooded caldera in the world and is inhabited by some 25,000 animals. Descend 2,000 feet to the crater floor for an unforgettable

Above: A herd of wildebeest stops traffic on the savanna. 8

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I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round except in April and May. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquires please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Mar., June, Nov.

July–Oct.

4+ people

$8,795

$10,795

2 people

$9,295

$11,295

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to and from Arusha, and airfare within Tanzania, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $640 per person (subject to change). *The visit to Noloholo Environmental Center is offered from June to September. In other months, travelers will transfer directly to Tarangire and enjoy an additional game drive.

Leopard stretches in Serengeti National Park

picnic breakfast against a backdrop of soaring volcanic slopes. Then embark on a safari through this green-walled wildlife paradise. Ride past herds of zebra grazing next to flamingos and crowned cranes, look for lionesses stalking their prey, and try to spot a rare black rhino. Return to the lodge for an afternoon at leisure and catch a dazzling sunset over the caldera. Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge Meals: B, L, D Daily

DAY 6

SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

Fly over the vast plains of the Serengeti and check in to your tented suite at Sayari Camp, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. Sayari is located a short distance from the Mara River, which runs directly through the path of the great wildebeest migration (July to October). Here, it’s not uncommon to see an elephant or hippo saunter past your bedroom window. This afternoon, set out on safari and watch the sun set on the savanna. Return to camp for drinks around the fire, followed by a delicious threecourse meal served under a starlit sky.

remote wilderness as you travel along the banks of the Mara in search of crocodiles and hippos peeking above the water’s surface. As you seek out creatures big and small, learn about the intricacies of this dynamic ecosystem from your expert safari guides. Sayari Camp | Meals: B, L, D

DAY 8

SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

Rise early this morning for a special treat: an elegant catered breakfast in the bush followed by a private game drive—an excursion offered exclusively to National Geographic guests at the lodge. After time at leisure, head out on a final afternoon safari on the lookout for jackals, wildebeests, zebras, and big cats. Sayari Camp | Meals: B, L, D

DAY 9

ARUSHA

Fly to Arusha and relax at your hotel before catching your flight home this evening. Rivertrees Country Inn | Meals: B, L

In the Ngorongoro Crater, upgrade to the Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, an elegant National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World overlooking the crater that combines Maasai and European style. See our website for upgrade pricing.

Stay at Rubondo Island Camp, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World located on an island in Lake Victoria, and encounter aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. Visit our website for details.

SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK

Watch the Serengeti spring to life on an early morning game drive. Or see the majesty of the plains from the sky on an optional hot air balloon ride: As the sun breaks over the horizon, spot wildlife on the sweeping landscapes of the Serengeti before touching down for breakfast under the shade of an acacia tree. On an afternoon safari, delve even deeper into this

Spend three nights in a stunning tented suite at Sayari Camp (pictured above) in the northern Serengeti. Head out on daily safaris and enjoy a specially arranged breakfast in the bush followed by a private game drive.

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

Sayari Camp | Meals: B, L, D

DAY 7

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E S

A herd of elephants in Serengeti National Park

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SOUTH AFRICA T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •T rack lions, leopards, and more through a private game reserve alongside expert safari guides. •S tay at two National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World: Grootbos Private Nature Reserve and one of the four stunning lodges within the Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve. •S pot diverse marine life off Africa's southernmost shores, and discover the flowering fynbos of the Cape Floral Region. •E njoy private tours of Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula, including Robben Island and the Kirstenbosch gardens.

Delve into the wild wonders of South Africa, from the flowering coastlines of the Western Cape to the undulating lowveld where iconic creatures roam.

ITINER ARY

1 0 D AY S

DAYS 4, 5, AND 6

ROOTBOS PRIVATE G NATURE RESERVE

Settle into Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, a breathtaking National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World overlooking wildlife-rich Walker Bay. Then set out to discover the area’s marine wonders and milkwood forests. Descend into ancient seaside caves where early human fossils have been found, go whale-watching (June–September), and take guided birding and nature walks. Hike or ride on horseback across coastal slopes blanketed in the unusual fynbos blooms of the Cape Floral Kingdom. National Geographic travelers are invited to enjoy a private dinner in the lodge’s milkwood forest, where you’ll savor gourmet Cape cuisine under a starry sky. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

DAYS 1, 2, AND 3 I CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA/CAPE PENINSULA Arrive in Cape Town and take a guided drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the most scenic roads in the world. Stop for a hike in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, and see the Cape Point Light House. Continue to Boulders Beach to walk among a colony of African penguins. Visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, and ride a cable car to the summit of Table Mountain. On Robben Island, see Nelson Mandela’s jail cell; and later, explore the multicultural Bo-Kaap neighborhood. Cape Grace Hotel

DAYS 7–10

SABI SABI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE

Fly from Cape Town to the Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, and settle into one of the four Sabi Sabi Luxury Safari Lodges, all members of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection. As one of our travelers, you’ll enjoy an exclusive private dinner and an introduction to South African wines in the wine cellar at the stunning Earth Lodge. Spend three days on safari in search of Africa’s “big five”—lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos—as well as rare creatures like African cheetahs and an array of unusual bird species. In addition to morning and evening game drives, there are opportunities to go on bush walks and visit a nearby Shangaan community. Sabi Sabi Luxury Safari Lodge

Above: Travelers track a pride of lionesses in the Sabi Sand Reserve. 10

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Jan.–Apr. July–Nov.

May–June

6+ people

$7,295

$6,795

4 people

$7,695

$6,995

2 people

$7,995

$7,295

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to Cape Town and from Johannesburg, and airfare within South Africa, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $500 per person (subject to change). For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E S

Stay at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve on the Western Cape (pictured above) and Sabi Sabi Luxury Safari Lodge in the Sabi Sand Reserve.

OPTIONAL EXTENSION Continue your safari at Tswalu Kalahari, a National Geographic Unique Lodge; and spot rare creatures like black-maned lions and pangolins.

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MOROCCO T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •V isit six UNESCO World Heritage sites with a private guide, from the historic city of Meknès to Marrakech’s magical medina and the ancient earthen village of Aït Ben Haddou. •S tay in the Kasbah Du Toubkal, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World built from the ruins of a medieval kasbah. •S ip traditional mint tea in the home of a Berber family living in the High Atlas Mountains. •S et out with a private guide to discover Fez’s ancient center, a maze of colorful markets and mosques.

Walled clay villages and palaces clad in ornate tiles, colorful medinas where piles of spices and barrels of olives beckon, Berbers that carry on a timeless way of life high in the mountains—this is the enchanting mix that is Morocco.

ITINER ARY

9 D AY S

DAYS 4, 5, AND 6 I HIGH ATLAS MOUNTAINS/AÏT BEN HADDOU Journey into the High Atlas Mountains to Kasbah Du Toubkal, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World that celebrates the customs and traditions of the local Berber people. National Geographic guests are offered an exclusive invitation to enjoy a village walk with a local resident, followed by traditional mint tea in his or her home. On a range of hikes, walks, and donkey rides, discover the surrounding landscape of vast plateaus carved by deep ravines, waterfalls, and dramatic cliffs. Meet with a Berber family in the village, and savor local specialties in the lodge’s traditional restaurant. Continue to the deserted fortification of Kasbah Telouet, then explore the ancient village of Aït Ben Haddou.

DAYS 1, 2, AND 3 I CASABLANCA, MOROCCO/FEZ/RABAT Arrive in Casablanca and transfer to Fès elBali—the old walled city of Fez. Join a private guide to tour the medina, the new quarter, the opulent entrance to the Royal Palace, and Al-Karaouine; then take a stroll atop the old town walls. Tour two World Heritage sites with your private guide: the medieval walled city of Meknès, and the partially excavated Roman ruins of Volubilis. Continue to Rabat and see the oceanfront Kasbah of Ouadaya before visiting the marble Mausoleum of Mohamed V. Riad Maison Bleue/Villa Mandarine

I N F O R M AT I O N

DATES This expedition is available January through June and September through December. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Jan.–June Sept.–Dec. 6+ people

$4,595

4 people

$4,895

2 people

$5,595

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to Casablanca and from Marrakech is not included in the expedition cost. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

Kasbah Du Toubkal/Ksar Ighnda Hotel

DAYS 7, 8, AND 9 I MARRAKECH Drive to legendary Marrakech, and immerse yourself in the magic of Djemaa el-Fna, the city’s lively main square. The next day, see the city’s cultural and historic highlights on a private fullday city tour. Begin at Koutoubia Mosque’s iconic minaret tower, then stroll the lavish colonnades and courts of the Bahia Palace. See the Saadian Tombs—the final resting place for the Saadian royal family—and pass through the Bab Agnaou Gate. End your day amid the exotic plants of Majorelle Gardens. Villa des Orangers

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E

Immerse yourself in Berber culture during a twonight stay at Kasbah Du Toubkal, perched amid the peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. Hike through beautiful alpine scenery, soak up the rhythms of rural life, and join a local resident for a tour of the village and tea in a family home—an outing arranged exclusively for National Geographic guests.

Above: The sun sets on Aït Ben Haddou.

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THAILAND THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENCE •T rack wild elephants through Kui Buri National Park, then visit a wildlife rescue center to interact with these majestic creatures. •B oard a traditional longboat and glide through the floating markets of Don Wai with a Thai chef; then visit her restaurant for a cooking lesson. •R ide a horse cart through the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam and enjoy a picnic lunch beneath the site’s 13th-century ruins. •V isit the home of a family living in the mountains outside Chiang Mai for a firsthand look at daily life in the northern hill tribe communities. •T ake a private tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ayutthaya, a cosmopolitan Siamese capital established in the 14th century.

The lush jungles and misty mountains of Thailand lend an enchanting backdrop to cities where colonial architecture, serene temples, and cacophonous open-air markets exist side by side. Delve into the colorful chaos of Bangkok, and duck into its gilded temples with a private guide for an insider’s take on Theravada Buddhism. In the province of Pran Buri, settle into a beachfront retreat, and head inland to explore forests where wild elephants roam. Then fly to Chiang Mai to celebrate centuries-old traditions in Thailand's cultural epicenter.

ITINER ARY

DAY 1 AND 2

1 1 DAY S

BANGKOK, THAILAND

Arrive in Bangkok and transfer to your hotel. The next morning, journey to Wat Arun, known for its brightly colored ceramic pagoda, then set out on foot to see the golden Buddha statues at Wat Champa. Meet a local matriarch and learn to make banana cakes using ingredients picked from her garden. Tour the city canals in a traditional longboat en route to Baan Silapin, a center for Thai culture and arts. The Siam Hotel | Day 2 Meals: B, L

DAY 3

AYUTTHAYA/BANGKOK

Travel outside the city for a private tour of the 17th-century Bang Pa-In Royal Palace, a summer residence once used by Thai kings. Cruise the Chao Phraya to ancient Ayutthaya—a UNESCO World Heritage site. Once the capital of royal Siam, the city was ransacked by invading

Burmese in 1767. Explore the temple ruins on a private tour, and step into stupas that are still being used today. Return to Bangkok for an evening at leisure. The Siam Hotel | Meals: B, L

DAY 4

BANGKOK

Take a private walking tour of Bangkok’s central Rattanakosin neighborhood, discovering a mix of iconic sites and hidden treasures. Your first stop is Sao Chingcha, a soaring gate once used for acrobatic Brahmanic rituals. Stroll Romaneenart Park, step into Wat Suthat Thepwararam, and wander narrow alleyways harboring ornate spirit houses. Gaze up at the City Pillar Shrine, and visit the 17th-century Wat Pho. Later, discover the Grand Palace, including Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha. End your tour with a restorative foot massage. The Siam Hotel | Meals: B, L

DAY 5

NAKHON PATHOM/PRAN BURI

In the city of Nakhon Pathom, meet a chef for her daily boat trip to the floating markets of Don Wai. Glide between vendor stalls to purchase

Above: Wat Arun gives off a golden glow at twilight. 12

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I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available from November – April. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST

An Asian elephant in Kui Buri National Park

ingredients, then go to her waterfront restaurant and learn to prepare local dishes. After enjoying your meal, continue to the coastal district of Pran Buri. Settle into your beachfront villa and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Aleenta Hua Hin Resort and Spa | Meals: B, L

DAY 6

Aleenta Hua Hin Resort and Spa | Meals: B, L

PRAN BURI

Spend the day at Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT), an animal rescue and rehabilitation center. Take a private tour of the Wildlife Rescue Center to see the resident species, then lunch with the center’s staff and volunteers. This afternoon, visit WFFT’s Elephant Refuge and Education Center, where you’ll take a walk with a rescued elephant and give it a shower. Then join volunteers in feeding gibbons and Malayan sun bears. Aleenta Hua Hin Resort and Spa | Meals: B, L

DAY 8

Nov.–Dec.

6+ people

$5,195

$5,495

4 people

$5,595

$5,895

2 people

$5,995

$6,295

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. Internal flight between Bangkok and Chiang Mai is an additional $140 per person (subject to change). International airfare to Bangkok and return from Chiang Mai is not included in the expedition cost. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals.

137 Pillars House | Meals: B, D

PRAN BURI

Visit Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park. Opt to explore the park’s tropical coastlines or inland caves with a private guide. Continue inland to Kui Buri National Park, one of the best places in Thailand to spot elephants in the wild. Join a ranger to track these majestic pachyderms, as well as golden jackals, bantengs, and langur monkeys.

DAY 7

village on the outskirts of town and visit with a local family. Get a glimpse into their daily life, watch a bamboo basket-weaving demonstration, and help cook a northern Thai meal in their teak home. Sit down to lunch with your hosts before returning to the city center.

Jan.–Apr.

CHIANG MAI

Return to Bangkok and fly to Chiang Mai, the cultural heart of Thailand. Venture to a hill tribe

DAY 9

CHIANG MAI

Set out on a private excursion to Doi SuthepPui National Park. Walk to the golden Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, one of Thailand’s most sacred temples. Reached by a staircase flanked by an ornate balustrade, the monastery was founded in 1383 to house a relic of Buddha. Visit a tree nursery tended by the Forest Restoration Research Unit of Chiang Mai University and hear about their ongoing projects; then take a guided interpretive walk to the Monthathan waterfall. 137 Pillars House | Meals: B, L

DAY 10 AND 11

CHIANG MAI

Phraya Nakhon Cave in Khao Sam Roi Yot National Park

Visit Chiang Mai’s bustling Gate Market where monks come to take their morning alms. Ride a songthaew truck to the Warorot Market, and see Tha Pae Gate, one of the four original gates of the city. Climb aboard a rickshaw for a private tour of Chiang Mai’s old city, then meet with an English-speaking monk. Later, venture to the ancient city of Wiang Kum Kam, the earliest settlement in the region. Explore by horse cart and picnic among the ruins. 137 Pillars House Day 10 Meals: B, D; Day 11 Meals: B Golden Buddhas offer a blessing outside Wat Phra That Doi Suthep

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VIETNAM AND CAMBODIA T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •G et an insider's view of magnificent Angkor Wat during a private tour with a Khmer scholar. • Practice tai chi on the deck of an intimate traditional-style junk sailing vessel as the sun rises over Ha Long Bay. • C ruise the Mekong in a sampan boat, and discover the farming villages of the surrounding delta via xe loi, or Vietnamese bicycle rickshaw. • E xperience the contrast between cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City and charming Hanoi on private city tours.

From the temples of Angkor to the karst peaks of Ha Long Bay and the colorful corridors of old Hanoi, experience the diverse landscapes and intriguing cultural heritage of Indochina.

ITINER ARY

1 0 D AY S

DAYS 5, 6, AND 7

HANOI/HA LONG BAY

Visit the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university. Take a walking tour of Hanoi’s lively Old Quarter, where vendors hawk flowers, colorful trinkets, and steaming noodle concoctions; then enjoy an evening water-puppet performance. Travel to Ha Long Bay and set sail on a traditional-style junk, navigating caves, soaring karst peaks, and floating villages. Prepare local dishes with the boat’s chef, and practice tai chi on deck at sunrise. Return to Hanoi and fly to Siem Reap. Sofitel Legend Metrople Hanoi

DAYS 8, 9, AND 10 I SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA/ANGKOR

DAYS 1–4

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM/MEKONG DELTA

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s pulsating urban hub. Set out on a private tour to see traces of the country’s French colonial period, including stops at the Opera House, the Hôtel de Ville, and the Central Post Office. Visit Reunification Palace, left untouched since the city fell to the North. Spend a day in the Mekong Delta, known as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam. Float along area waterways on a traditional wooden sampan boat, and explore the shores by bicycle rickshaw. Venture into the Cu Chi tunnels, an intricate subterranean city used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. Later, fly to Hanoi.

Enjoy two full days to explore the immense Angkor Archaeological Park, spanning nearly 100,000 acres and once home to several capitals of the Khmer Empire. Visit the tree-rootshrouded Ta Prohm and the pink-sandstone temple of Banteay Srei, and wander the walled city of Angkor Thom. Join a Khmer scholar for a private tour of the magnificent Angkor Wat temple complex. On your final day, witness Khmer craftsmen plying their trades at a studio in Siem Reap, then catch your flight home.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available January through March and October through December. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Jan.–Mar. Oct.–Dec. 4+ people

$5,295

2 people

$5,495

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to Ho Chi Minh City and from Siem Reap, and airfare within Vietnam and Cambodia, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $550 per person (subject to change). For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

Belmond La Résidence D’Angkor

Caravelle Saigon Traditional junks cruise Ha Long Bay. Above: Buddhist monks explore a temple in the Angkor Archaeological Park. 14

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B H U TA N T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •G limpse rural Bhutanese life during a visit to a local farmstead in the Paro valley. • Stay at Zhiwa Ling Hotel, and admire the exquisite Bhutanese architecture and artistry of this National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. • V isit the Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup temple in Punakha and receive a blessing from the resident nuns. • D ecorate ritual cakes to offer to deities, and participate in a butter-lamp offering with monks.

Amid verdant Himalayan valleys dotted with historic fortresses and shrines, delve into Bhutan’s rich culture, discovering how everyday life is intertwined with Mahayana Buddhism.

ITINER ARY

9 D AY S

DAYS 4 AND 5

THIMPHU/PUNAKHA

Visit Thimphu’s Royal Textile Academy, then travel to Punakha by way of the Dochu La pass, where 108 shortens are set against a majestic Himalayan backdrop. Upon arrival in Punakha, walk through rice paddies to the Chimi Lhakhang temple, and hike to the colorful Khamsum Yulley Namgyal chorten, poised on a mountain ridge overlooking the Punakha valley. Explore the elaborately designed fortress of Punakha Dzong, beautifully set at the confluence of the Mo and Pho Rivers; and receive blessings from the resident nuns at Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup. Zhingkham Resort

DAYS 6–9 DAYS 1, 2, AND 3 I BANGKOK, THAILAND/ PARO, BHUTAN/THIMPHU After an overnight stop in Bangkok, arrive in Paro and continue overland to Thimpu. Meet your private Bhutanese guide, who will travel with you throughout your stay; then set out together on a full-day city tour. Gain insight into rural Bhutanese life at the Folk Heritage Museum, and observe the artistry involved in creating handmade paper at the Jungshi Paper Factory. Visit the 12th-century Changangkha Lhakhang Monastery, and end your day at a wildlife sanctuary for the taken, an unusual ox-like species that is Bhutan’s national animal.

PARO/BANGKOK, THAILAND

Travel to Paro and explore the Jangtsa Dumtseg Lhakhang temple, the imposing Paro Dzong, and the National Museum of Bhutan. Settle into Zhiwa Ling Hotel, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, where you’ll get an exclusive look at Bhutanese traditions. Learn how ritual cakes are baked and decorated to offer the deities, and participate in a butter-lamp offering with monks. Make the steep hike to the iconic Taktsang Lhakhang—the Tiger’s Nest Monastery—or see it from a scenic viewpoint; and enjoy lunch in the home of a local farmer. Fly home via Bangkok. Zhiwa Ling Hotel

Novotel Suvarnabhumi Airport Hotel/ Taj Tashi Thimphu

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round except June, July, and August. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Jan.–May Sept.–Dec. 2+ people

$5,695

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to and from Bangkok, and between Bangkok and Paro, are not included in the expedition cost. The round-trip flight between Bangkok and Para is $850 per person (subject to change). For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E

Spend three nights at Zhiwa Ling Hotel, intricately constructed by artisans and set amid lush gardens near Paro. Immerse yourself in the customs of the Bhutanese as you linger in the lodge’s temple and meditation house. As a National Geographic guest, you’ll have a special invitation to participate in Mahayana Buddhist rituals with local monks.

Above: The iconic Takstang Lhakhang, or Tiger’s Nest Monastery

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CHINA T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •C limb the watchtowers on a less-visited section of the Great Wall, and encounter the legendary terra-cotta warriors at Xi’an. •W ork alongside local masters to learn traditional Chinese kitemaking, tai chi, and calligraphy. •G ain insider knowledge of Chinese history and culture on private tours of Beijing, Xi’an, and Shanghai. •V isit a family home in one of Beijing’s hutong neighborhoods, and help prepare traditional dumplings in a Xi’an household.

Beneath expanding skylines, the ancient heart of China endures—a testament to a vibrant history. Uncover the legacy of imperial China, and delve into the culture of the past and present.

ITINER ARY

DAYS 5, 6, AND 7

1 0 D AY S

XI'AN/CHENGDU

On a private tour of Xi’an, encounter the legendary terra-cotta warriors, and practice calligraphy with an expert at the Forest of Steles. Prepare dumplings in the home of a local family, then enjoy the festive evening atmosphere at Daming Palace National Heritage Park. The next day, walk or bike atop the city’s ancient ramparts before flying to Chengdu. Observe giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and learn to play mah-jong in Wangjianglou Park. Sofitel Xi'an on Renmin Square/ The St. Regis Chengdu

DAYS 8, 9, AND 10

DAYS 1–4

BEIJING, CHINA

Settle into your hotel in Beijing’s historic quarter, and enjoy a succulent Peking duck dinner. Explore the cultural heart of the city on a private tour that includes Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City. Step into a typical hutong courtyard to visit with a family, and meet a local artisan to try your hand at traditional kitemaking. Spend a day conquering the less-visited Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, and enjoy an evening dance performance at the Red Theater. After a private tai chi lesson at the Temple of Heaven, fly to Xi’an. The St. Regis Beijing/Sofitel Xi'an on Renmin Square

SHANGHAI

Fly to Shanghai and enjoy an afternoon to explore this bustling city at your own pace. The next day, set out on a private full-day tour. Peruse the exquisite collections of bronzes, jade, calligraphy, and other cultural treasures at the Shanghai Museum. In the heart of the old city, discover a calm oasis at the classical Yu Garden, then stroll the Old Shanghai Bazaar. Spend your final morning in the intimate Tianzifang neighborhood—an enchanting maze of art galleries and cafés. Then ride the exhilarating Maglev train to the airport and catch your flight home.

I INNFFOORRMMAATTI IOONN

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST 6+ people

$4,395

4 people

$4,795

2 people

$4,995

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to Beijing and from Shanghai, and airfare within China, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $750 per person (subject to change). For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

The Peninsula Shanghai

Giant pandas near Chengdu

Above: The Great Wall 16

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WESTERN CHINA AND TIBET T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •E xplore three UNESCO World Heritage sites with private guides: Lijiang, Potala Palace, and the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan. •G et immersed in Tibetan culture in fabled Shangri-La and sky-high Lhasa. •R ide a cable car up Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to visit the highaltitude home of National Geographic contributor Joseph Rock. •E ncounter the diverse cultural traditions of Yunnan, including tie-dying and weaving, pictograph script, and a mélange of boldly flavored foods.

Journey to Yunnan’s soaring Hengduan mountains to explore the time-locked towns of Dali and Lijang. Explore the lush valleys of fabled Shangri-La, and delve into Tibetan traditions in sky-high Lhasa.

ITINER ARY

1 3 D AY S

DAYS 5–8

LIJIANG/SHANGRI-LA

Explore Lijiang’s enchanting town center, and visit the Museum of Naxi Dongba Culture to see artifacts displaying Dongba pictographic script. Ride a cable car to the glacier park on Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Here, visit the high-altitude home of explorer Joseph Rock, one of National Geographic’s intrepid early reporters for National Geographic; and see the Baisha murals, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Visit the village of the Stone Drum on the banks of the Yangtze River, and hike the famed Tiger Leaping Gorge. Continue to your lodge, nestled in a secluded valley in fabled Shangri-La. See the massive Songzanlin Monastery, and explore the wildlife sanctuaries of Pudacuo National Park, home to nearly 100 endangered species. The Bivou/Banyan Tree Ringha

DAYS 1–4

SHANGHAI, CHINA/DALI

Enjoy a day to explore Shanghai at your leisure, then fly to the Yunnan province. Visit the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, and explore the stone streets of Dali’s old town, surrounded by ancient city walls. Continue to Xizhou and settle into your authentic courtyard estate. Visit Jinsuo Island, home to a Bai ethnic minority community; then delve deeper into Bai culture in Zhoucheng village, where you’ll witness ancient tie-dying techniques and visit the Benzhu temple. Ride a cable car up Cangshan Mountain, and stroll the Xizhou market with a local chef to select ingredients for your cooking class.

DAYS 9–13 CHINA

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available from April through November. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Apr.–Nov. 6+ people

$5,795

4 people

$6,295

2 people

$6,795

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. International airfare to Shanghai and return from Beijing, and internal airfare, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are an $1,255 per person (subject to change). A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

LHASA, TIBET/BEIJING,

Fly to Lhasa and tour the iconic Potala Palace. Later, visit Jokhang, Tibet’s holiest temple; and delve into the timeless atmosphere of old Tibet at Barkhor, Lhasa’s traditional market. Head outside the city to visit Norbulingka, the onetime summer residence for the Dalai Lama. Get a firsthand look at Tibetan culture while spending time with a local family. Fly home via Beijing. St. Regis Lhasa Resort/Hilton Beijing Capital Airport Hotel

Shanghai Fairmont Peace Hotel/ Linden Centre

Above: Erhai Lake at sunset

Three pagodas of Chongsheng Temple CALL 1-888-732-2379 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/PRIVATE

BORNEO T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •G et up close to Malayan sun bears on a behind-the-scenes visit to a conservation center in Sepilok. • Stay at Sukau Rainforest Lodge—a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World on the Kinabatangan River—and explore jungle waterways by boat. • S earch for pygmy elephants, gibbons, langurs, and rare birds in the primary rain forests of Danum Valley Conservation Area. • M arvel at otherworldly limestone formations and unusual flora while exploring the vast cave network of Gunung Mulu National Park.

Misty mountains and jungle-shrouded rivers, spectacular cave systems and rain forests teeming with rare species: few places on Earth offer such a bounty of natural wonders as Borneo.

ITINER ARY

DAYS 4, 5, AND 6 I SEPILOK/ KINABATANGAN RIVER

1 0 D AY S

Fly to Sandakan and venture into the KabiliSepilok Forest Reserve, where you’ll visit the orangutan rehabilitation center and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the nearby Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Center. Board a boat bound for Sukau Rainforest Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World on the Kinabatangan River. As a National Geographic guest, you’ll have the exclusive opportunity to meet one-on-one with the lodge’s inhouse orangutan expert. Set out to explore jungle waterways by electric boat, in search of orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and more. Four Points by Sheraton Sandakan/ Sukau Rainforest Lodge

DAYS 1, 2, AND 3 I KOTA KINABALU, MALAYSIA/GUNUNG MULU NATIONAL PARK Arrive in Kota Kinabalu and fly to Gunung Mulu National Park. Enter one of the largest known cave passages in the world to explore the enormous Deer Cave, harboring unusual subterranean flora and limestone formations. Return to the cave at dusk to witness the spectacle of over a million bats exiting its mouth in swirling black clouds. Venture into Clearwater Cave and the Cave of the Winds, and visit a village of the forest-dwelling Penan people to learn about their ancient way of life. Observe the forest’s nocturnal inhabitants on a guided nighttime walk. Hyatt Regency Kota Kinabalu/Mulu Marriott Resort & Spa

DAYS 7–10 I DANUM VALLEY CONSERVATION AREA/KOTA KINABALU Take a guided walk through Gomantong Caves, home to thousands of bats and swiftlets. Continue to the Danum Valley and explore some of the many nature trails that wind through its primary rain forest. Seek out rare species, including the Bornean gibbon, clouded leopard, and maroon langur. Walk jungle canopy bridges, hike to a waterfall for a refreshing swim, and set out on guided night hikes. Return to Kota Kinabalu to catch your flight home. Borneo Rainforest Lodge/Hyatt Regency Kota Kinabalu

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST 6+ people

$6,995

4 people

$7,995

2 people

$8,995

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to and from Kota Kinabalu, and airfare within Borneo, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $360 per person (subject to change). For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E

Settle into Sukau Rainforest Lodge for two nights on the banks of the Kinabatangan River. Cruise jungle waterways in search of rare orangutans, pygmy elephants, and proboscis monkeys. Walk the elevated boardwalks that weave through the lodge property, and meet one-on-one with the in-house orangutan expert—an experience specially arranged for National Geographic guests.

Above: A large male orangutan in the rainforests of Borneo 18

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JA PA N T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •P ick out fresh tuna and wasabi and learn to roll sushi like a master chef at Tokyo’s bustling Tsukiji fish market. • B ike between the temples and shrines of old Kyoto, and delve into the rituals of Zen Buddhism during an exclusive tea ceremony at the Korin-in Temple. • G aze at the soaring summit of Mount Fuji on a private tour of Fuji Hakone-Izu National Park. • E at your way through Osaka on a guided gastronomy tour, tasting regional specialties such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.

Navigate old and new Japan with a private guide, discovering enduring symbols of its centuries-old traditions intermingled with bold expressions of modern culture.

ITINER ARY

1 0 D AY S

and take a private tour of Hakone. Cruise Lake Ashinoko on a replica pirate ship, ride a cable car up Mount Komagatake, and visit the Hakone Open Air Museum and its sculpture garden. Park Hotel/Aura Tachibana

DAYS 6, 7, AND 8

DAYS 1–5 I TOKYO, JAPAN/NIKKO/ FUJI-HAKONE-IZU NATIONAL PARK Join your guide for a private tour of old Tokyo. Explore the Asakusa geisha district, the 7thcentury Senso-ji Temple, and the traditional Yanaka neighborhood; and step into the former workshop of Fumio Asakusa, the father of modern Japanese sculpture. Travel outside the city with your private guide to the sacred hills of Nikko National Park. Here, visit the Toshogu shrine complex, explore lavishly decorated Shinto and Buddhist buildings nestled into oldgrowth forest, and soak up the serenity of Lake Yu. Learn to roll sushi at Tokyo’s bustling Tsukiji fish market. Then transfer to your ryokan—or traditional Japanese inn—amid the volcanic landscapes of Fuji Hakone-Izu National Park,

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST

KYOTO/NARA

Ride the bullet train to Kyoto, which served as Japan’s imperial capital for more than a thousand years. Participate in a Japanese tea ceremony at the Korin-in Temple, then spend a day discovering the city by bike. Cycle between Nishi Honganji Temple, the ornamental Nijo Castle, the iconic Golden Pavilion, Arashiyama’s serene bamboo groves, and Togetsukyo Bridge. With a private guide, spend a day in nearby Nara, where you’ll discover the enchanting Isui-en Garden, Todai-ji Temple, the Kasuga Taisha Shinto shrine, and the historic merchant district of Naramachi.

Mar.–May Sept.–Nov.

June–Aug. Dec.

4+ people

$8,495

$7,995

2 people

$11,495

$10,995

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to Toyko and from Osaka is not included in the expedition cost. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

Hotel Granvia

DAYS 9 AND 10

OSAKA

Transfer to Osaka, a Japanese culinary capital. Visit the tiered Osaka castle, and then eat your way down Dontonbori Street on a guided gastronomy tour featuring regional specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Later, peruse the traditional shops along the stone-paved Hozenji Alley. Fly home the following day. Swissotel Nankai

Above: Cherry blossoms frame Mount Fuji

I N F O R M AT I O N

CALL 1-888-732-2379 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/PRIVATE

The bamboo groves of Kyoto’s Arashiyama district

INDIA T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •W atch the sun rise over the exquisite Taj Mahal, and then see this world wonder under new light at sunset. • J oin a cultural historian on a private tour of Delhi, learning about the diverse human heritage of this storied city. •T rack leopards, sloth bears, and tigers alongside an expert naturalist while on safari in Ranthambore National Park. •T ake in views over Jaipur from the Amber Fort, and then tour this magnificent complex of palaces, temples, and gardens with a private guide.

Celebrate the rich heritage of India on a journey through the cultural heart of the country, from historic Delhi and Jaipur to Ranthambore National Park and the magnificent Taj Mahal.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S ITINER ARY

Spend a morning discovering the magnificent Amber Fort and its manicured gardens with your private guide. At Sanganer village, learn papermaking and textile block printing from a master craftsman.

9 D AY S

This expedition is available year-round except from July through September. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST

The Imperial Hotel/Taj Jai Mahal

DAYS 5 AND 6

RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK

Drive to Ranthambore National Park, a former private hunting reserve for the maharajas of Jaipur that has recently seen a revival of its tiger population. Spend the next two days on naturalist-led safaris, venturing out in search of these majestic felines, as well as jackals, mongooses, sloth bears, and leopards. Vivanta Hotel

DAYS 7, 8, AND 9 DAYS 1–4

DELHI, INDIA/JAIPUR

Arrive in Delhi and explore the bustling bazaars and narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk market by pedicab. Examine the sandstone Humayun’s Tomb with a private guide, then join cultural historian Navina Jafa for your choice between a history- or culture-focused tour of Delhi’s highlights. Fly to Jaipur, known as the “Pink City” for its colorful old quarter, which was painted in shades of rose in preparation for a visit by the Prince of Wales in 1876. Settle into your hotel, a former maharaja’s residence. Opt to tour the property, then set out to explore the city with a private guide. Visit the City Palace, the Sileh Khana royal weaponry, Hawa Mahal palace, and the Jantar Mantar royal observatory. Above: A woman takes a stroll near the Taj Mahal. 20

KEOLADEO NATIONAL PARK/AGRA

Jan–May Oct.–Dec. 4+ people

$6,095

2 people

$6,695

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. International airfare to and from Delhi, and airfare within India, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $165 per person (subject to change). A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays and festivals. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

Join a naturalist to explore Keoladeo Ghana National Park, home to more than 380 bird species, including kingfishers, parakeets, and red-vented bulbuls. Continue to Agra and catch the sunrise over the Taj Mahal. The most iconic site in all of India, this palace was built by the Emperor Shah Jahan as a tribute to his favorite wife after her death. Tour the palace interiors and stroll the gardens; then visit the marble inlay workshop for a demonstration on how the palace’s intricate stonework was carved. Later, travel outside the city to visit the impressive Fatepuhr Sikri, once a Mughal capital. Travel home via Delhi. ITC Mughal/Radisson Blu Plaza New Delhi (day room) Tigers prowl Ranthambore National Park. CALL 1-888-732-2379 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/PRIVATE

I TA LY T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E • Join private guides to tour five UNESCO World Heritage cities, including Venice, Rome, and Florence. •G et an in-depth look at Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio, site of a National Geographic-funded search for Leonardo da Vinci’s lost masterpiece, The Battle of Anghiari. •E njoy a private after-hours visit to the gilded galleries of Scuola Grande di San Rocco in Venice •S tay at a 14th-century castello in the Tuscan countryside and dine at its Michelin-starred restaurant.

Get an intimate look at Italian classics on a journey from Venice through the heart of Tuscany to Rome.

ITINER ARY

9 D AY S

a local wine bar serving cicchetti—small snacks unique to the city. Board the high-speed train to Florence, and take a private walking tour. Learn about da Vinci’s famous painting The Battle of Anghiari, and see the epicenter of a National Geographic-funded search for this misplaced masterpiece. Pick ingredients from the Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio for a private cooking class with a Florentine chef. Antica Torre di Via Tornabuoni

DAYS 5 AND 6

DAYS 1 AND 2

VENICE, ITALY

Arrive in Venice and take a private water taxi to your hotel overlooking the Grand Canal. Set out on a private walking tour of the surrounding promenades and canals, and step into the iconic Basilica di San Marco. The next day, stop by a squero, or boatyard, to learn about the art and science of traditional gondola construction from a local craftsman. Then enjoy a private after-hours visit to the gilded galleries of Scuola Grande di San Rocco. Hotel L'Orologio Venezia

DAYS 3 AND 4

VENICE/FLORENCE

Explore Venice’s little-known parks and gardens with a private guide, then lunch at

TUSCANY

Visit the walled hilltop gem of San Gimignano, then opt to take a bike ride through the surrounding vineyards. Continue to your 14th-century castello, and enjoy dinner in its Michelin-starred restaurant. Spend an afternoon soaking in the medieval splendor of Siena with a private guide. Visit the Piazza Salimbeni and the colorful, marble-clad Basilica di San Domenico; then savor a cappuccino at the historic Caffe Nannini. Continue to the Piazza del Campo, one of Italy’s most beautiful squares and host to the thrilling Palio bareback horse races.

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST 6+ people

$6,495

4 people

$7,495

2 people

$8,495

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. International airfare to Venice and from Rome is not included in the expedition cost. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays and festivals. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

Castello di Spaltenna

DAYS 7, 8, AND 9

ORVIETO/ROME

Travel to Orvieto to visit the town’s Gothic cathedral and see St. Patrick’s Well; then cap off your visit with lunch and wine pairings at a local winery. Head to Rome for a private walking tour, and stop in at one of the city’s most famous coffee shops. Spend a morning exploring Vatican City, then step into ancient Rome at the Arch of Constantine and the iconic Colosseum. Hotel Splendide Royal

Above: A gondolier naviages Venice's Grand Canal.

I N F O R M AT I O N

CALL 1-888-732-2379 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/PRIVATE

The medieval Tuscan Village of San Gimignano

RUSSIA THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENCE • J oin a private guide for an in-depth tour of the Kremlin in Moscow, and learn about the history of Russian space exploration during a specially arranged visit with a cosmonaut. •S et out on a private driving tour of the famed Golden Ring that includes guided visits to several UNESCO World Heritage sites. •E xperience the unique culture of vacationing Russian urbanites during a traditional dinner at a dacha—or rural cottage. •D iscover stunning St. Petersburg, known as the “Venice of the North,” with a private guide, and explore the country estates of Catherine and Peter the Great.

Step into a riveting history of tsars and Bolsheviks, architects and spies, and encounter Russia’s fascinating contemporary culture. Alongside private guides, discover the urban treasure troves of Moscow and St. Petersburg, resplendent with gilded domes and pastel palaces. Venture into the countryside to explore the Golden Ring, a loop of enchanting towns lined with gingerbread houses and crowned by whimsical onion domes; and glimpse dacha culture in the Karelia region.

ITINER ARY

DAYS 1 AND 2

1 1 DAY S

MOSCOW, RUSSIA

imperial treasures at the Armory; and marvel at the crown jewels housed in the state Diamond Fund. Later, descend into the Moscow Metro to tour some of its opulent stations. Then ride the train to the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics for a specially arranged visit with a Russian cosmonaut.

Land in Moscow and transfer to your historic hotel in the heart of the city. Set out on a private tour, beginning at the iconic St. Basil’s Cathedral, known for its multi-colored onion domes. See the State Duma building; the Bolshoi Theater; and the notorious Lubyanka prison, former headquarters of the KGB. Step into the grand Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and the 16thcentury Novodevichy Convent, and gaze up at the war monuments in Victory Park. This afternoon, peruse Russian art at the world-class State Tretyakov Gallery.

Pushkarskaya Sloboda | Meal: B

Hotel Baltschug Kempinski or similar Day 2 Meal: B

Pushkarskaya Sloboda | Meal: B

DAY 3

MOSCOW

Begin the day at the mighty Kremlin, the locus of Russian and Soviet power since the 13th century. See its three cathedrals where tsars were baptized, crowned, and buried; examine

DAY 4

GOLDEN RING

Embark on a private driving tour of the famed Golden Ring, a loop of enchanting medieval towns. Your first stop is Sergiev Posad, home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius—known as the pearl of Russian religious architecture. Visit the Gefsimansky Chernigovsky Skit convent before continuing on to the picturesque villages of Pereslavl-Zalesskiy and Yuryev-Polskiy. Settle into your hotel in the heart of Suzdal.

DAY 5

SUZDAL

Founded in 1024, Suzdal is brimming with well-preserved monuments, churches, and traditional Russian architecture. Explore the city with a private guide, beginning at the Suzdal Kremlin. Then step into the Savior Monastery

Above: Colorful onion domes crown St. Basil's Cathedral in Moscow. 22

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I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available from April through October. This expedition will not be offered from June 8-July 17, 2018, due to the FIFA World Cup in Russia. For 2019 inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Apr., Aug.–Oct.

May

6+ people

$7,495

$7,995

4 people

$8,495

$8,995

2 people

$9,495

$9,995

The gardens of Peterhof were designed to rival those surrounding Versailles.

of St. Euthymius, and tour the Museum of Wooden Architecture and Peasant Life. Travel outside the city to visit the ancient church of Saints Boris and Gleb. Pushkarskaya Sloboda | Meal: B

DAY 6

VLADIMIR/ST. PETERSBURG

Visit Vladimir, known for its carved white-stone buildings. Examine the intricate engravings on the façade of the Cathedral of Saint Demetrius. Then, depending on the day of your visit, you’ll either see the Museum of Crystal, Lacquer Miniatures and Embroidery or the Old Vladimir Museum. Continue to Moscow and board the high-speed train to St. Petersburg. Hotel Astoria | Meal: B

DAY 7

ST. PETERSBURG

Designed by Peter the Great’s favorite European architects, St. Petersburg was conceived as Russia’s link to the western world. Begin your exploration at St. Isaac’s Cathedral, whose glittering dome is covered in 220 pounds of gold; then see the famous Bronze Horseman statue and tiny Vasilievski Island. Tour the Peter and Paul Fortress, the city’s original citadel and burial site for many of Russia’s tsars. Peruse the art at the State Russian Museum, and tour the Fabergé Museum. Hotel Astoria | Meal: B

DAY 8

PUSHKIN/ST. PETERSBURG

Venture to Pushkin, home to the country estate of Catherine the Great. Alongside your private

guide, discover the renowned Amber Room, clad with dazzling panels of amber. Enjoy a traditional Russian lunch before returning to St. Petersburg. This afternoon, visit the Monument to Heroic Defenders of Leningrad and the Church of the Savior on the Spilled Blood, built as a tribute to Tsar Alexander II. Hotel Astoria | Meals: B, L

DAY 9

ST. PETERSBURG/KARELIA

Take a thrilling hydrofoil ride (weather permitting) to Peter the Great’s country estate, Peterhof. Stroll the vast palace gardens, brimming with statuary and more than 150 fountains, and tour Monplaisir Palace, the first structure built on the estate. This afternoon, venture into the Karelia region to visit the Kronstadt naval fortress. Then glimpse dacha culture—the holiday country cottage lifestyle of city-dwellers. Visit historically significant cottages, and savor a traditional Russian dinner in the dacha of a St. Petersburg resident.

Matryoshka, or Russian nesting dolls

Hotel Astoria | Meals: B, D

DAY 10 AND 11

ST. PETERSBURG

Enjoy a full day to explore the world-renowned State Hermitage Museum with a private guide. Originally a small, private palace gallery established by Catherine the Great, the Hermitage is now home to one of the largest art collections in the world. This evening, enjoy a performance at one of St. Petersburg’s premier theaters.

Traditional architecture in Suzdal

Hotel Astoria | Meals: B Daily

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IRELAND T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •E xplore the stunning Irish countryside during private tours of the Burren, Connemara, County Kerry, and more. •W ake up amid the regal splendor of Ashford Castle, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, and take an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the property with the resident historian. •W atch sheepherding and turf-cutting demonstrations, chat with chocolate-makers, and meet a breeder of racing stallions. •W alk atop the iconic Cliffs of Moher and pop into a nearby pub to hear traditional Irish music.

Delve into the intriguing history and vibrant culture of Ireland on a journey from Dublin to the far, rugged reaches of the western coast.

ITINER ARY

day with a private factory tour at the House of Waterford Crystal, followed by a visit to Blarney Castle to kiss its famous stone. Or choose to start your day at Blarney Castle, then continue west to Killarney National Park and explore its lush landscapes in a horse-drawn jaunting car. The next day, set out on a full-day private excursion along one of two scenic driving routes: the Ring of Kerry or the Dingle Peninsula. Drive through the limestone karst landscapes of The Burren National Park en route to the Cliffs of Moher. Trace this dramatic coastline on foot, then continue to tiny Doolin and pop into a pub for a festive “trad” music session.

9 D AY S

The Malton/Gregan's Castle

DAYS 7, 8, AND 9

DAYS 1, 2, AND 3

DUBLIN, IRELAND/ KILKENNY

Land in Dublin and enjoy a day at leisure. Set out with a private guide to visit Trinity College and its Book of Kells, the Georgian squares, the National Museum of Archaeology, and Sweny’s Pharmacy. Meet with a horse breeder and stroll the stalls at the Irish National Stud, then continue to medieval Kilkenny for a private city and castle tour. The Dylan Hotel/Pembroke Hotel

DAYS 4, 5, AND 6

OUNTY KERRY/ C COUNTY CLARE

Today, travelers may choose from two possible itineraries on the road to Killarney. Start the

ALWAY/COUNTY G MAYO/SHANNON

Visit a family-owned chocolate shop in The Burren and take a private excursion to lively Galway before continuing to Ashford Castle—a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World set amid the wild landscapes of County Mayo. Enjoy an exclusive opportunity to explore this 800-year-old castle with the on-site historian. The next day, head to the enchanting Connemara with a guide, stopping for a private tour of the Dan O’Hara Homestead to get a feel for traditional farm life across the centuries. Continue along the Sky Road—a scenic route that follows the spectacular Irish coast past vertical cliffs and long beaches—and stop for a sheepherding demonstration. Transfer to the airport in Shannon the following morning to catch your flight home. Ashford Castle

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST 6+ people

$5,995

4 people

$6,795

2 people

$7,995

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to Dublin and from Shannon is not included in the expedition cost. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E

Revel in the regal splendor of historic Ashford Castle during a two-night stay in County Mayo. Practice falconry in the surrounding woodlands, sample wines with the sommelier in a secret passageway, and shoot pool in the lavish billiards room. National Geographic guests are invited to stroll the castle corridors with a historian, who will share tales from the property’s long and colorful history.

Above: The towering Cliffs of Moher 24

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ICELAND T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •S et out on a private 4x4 driving tour of the celebrated Golden Circle, and veer off the tourist track to explore hidden geothermal pools. •S tay at Hotel Húsafell, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, and enjoy unlimited access to the on-site geothermal baths. •D iscover rugged fjords, fascinating lava formations, and a glaciercapped volcano in one of Iceland’s wildest regions—the Snæfellsnes Peninsula. •T raverse crackling glacial landscapes on foot and in an all-terrain vehicle; and step into the ice tunnels inside the Langjökull glacier.

Journey to Iceland to experience jaw-dropping geology and encounter the rich traditions and local folklore that infuse the country’s mystical landscapes.

ITINER ARY

DAYS 1, 2, AND 3

7 D AY S

REYKJANES, ICELAND/ GOLDEN CIRCLE

Take a private tour of the Reykjanes Peninsula that includes stops at Iceland’s oldest lighthouse; the geothermal landscapes of Gunnuhver; the world-famous Blue Lagoon; charming Álftanes; and the presidential residence at Bessastaðir. Tour the Hellisheidi Geothermal Plant, and lunch on thermally grown produce at the Fridheimar Greenhouse. Then take an excursion by 4x4 around the celebrated Golden Circle to see the Strokkur geyser and Gullfoss waterfall. Hike atop the Solheimajökull glacial tongue, and soak up the majesty of the Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls. Hotel Apotek/Hótel Rangá

DAYS 4 AND 5 I HVALFJÖRÐUR/ SNÆFELLSNES PENINSULA Continue with your private guide to Hvalfjörður to explore the powerful Deildartunguhver hot spring, and watch the Barnafoss and Hraunfossar waterfalls rush through lava fields. Pile into an all-terrain vehicle for a spin on the Langjökull Glacier, and walk deep into the glacier to an ethereal ice cave. Settle into Hotel Húsafell, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World nestled amid the rolling hills of the highlands. As a National Geographic traveler, you’re invited on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the lodge and its geothermal plant. Hear local folklore as you explore the grounds and stop by a nearby sheep farm. Head to the Snæfellsnes Peninsula the next day and visit the Eldborg Crater, Búðir’s lava fields, the fishing village of Arnarstapi, and the black beach at Djúpalónssandur.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST 6+ people

$5,995

4 people

$7,495

2 people

$11,995

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to and from Reykjavík is not included in the expedition cost. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E

Hotel Húsafell

DAYS 6 AND 7

REYKJAVÍIK

Drive past the soaring mountains along Hvalfjördur fjord, within sight of the Snaefellsjökull glacier—perched atop a dormant volcano and made famous by author Jules Verne as the gateway to the center of the Earth. Return to Reykjavík, and opt to join a walking tour of this colorful capital. See towering Hallgrimskirkja church, guarded by a statue of Viking explorer Leif Eriksson; and peruse quirky street art and avant-garde architecture as you stroll the city. Depart the following day. Hotel Apotek

Amid the hills of east Iceland's highlands, Hotel Húsafell is a hub of Nordic design within easy reach of the island's geological drama: volcanoes, enormous glaciers, lava caves, and the gorgeous Snæfellsnes peninsula. During a two-night stay, get an in-depth look at these wonders, setting out on a range of active and immersive excursions, including a behind-the-scenes walkabout across the property.

Above: The Strokkur Geyser spouts water nearly 200 feet in the air.

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NORTHERN GREECE T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •T aste your way through Thessaloníki during a culinary tour of its centuries-old markets and charming tavernas. • Settle into Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World with views of the spectacular Vikos Gorge. • J oin a private guide to explore the incredible Meteora monasteries and the well-preserved ruins at ancient Delphi. •E xplore enchanting centuries-old villages nestled into the peaks of the Pindus and, by special permission, step into a 16th-century mountain monastery.

Go beyond the islands to see a lesser-known side of Greece, where mighty mountains soar and myriad civilizations have left their marks on both land and culture. and settle into Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. Explore the region’s cobbled villages, including Dilofo, Kipi, Koukouli, and Vradeto; and see the breathtaking Vikos Gorge from several perspectives. Then take a private tour of a 16th-century mountain monastery that is closed to the public—an experience reserved exclusively for National Geographic travelers. Spend a morning at a vineyard in the Zitsa wine region, or opt to join a guided trek, followed by a rafting excursion along the Voidomatis River (additional cost).

9 D AY S

ITINER ARY

Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas

DAYS 6–9

DAYS 1 AND 2

THESSALONÍKI, GREECE

Arrive in Thessaloníki and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. The next day, take a culinary tour of the city, widely recognized as Greece’s gastronomic captial. Stroll a centuries-old market abuzz with vendors and shoppers, and sample the bounty of edibles before continuing to a nearby restaurant for a lunch of local specialties. Electra Palace Hotel Thessaloniki

DAYS 3, 4, AND 5

VERGINA/ZAGORI

After a private tour of Thessaloníki’s highlights, travel to Vergína, site of ancient Aigai—the first capital of the kingdom of Macedonia. Explore the site and descend into its royal tombs to see unearthed treasures buried with former kings. Continue to Zagori in the Pindus Mountains,

METEORA/DELPHI/ATHENS

Take a private half-day tour of the incredible Meteora monasteries, built atop sandstone megaliths that rise some 1,200 feet from the valley floor. Continue to Delphi, the center of the Earth according to Greek mythology. During a private tour, explore the breathtaking ruins of the theater, stadium, treasuries, and altars—all perched dramatically on the forested slopes of Mount Parnassós. Take a private tour of the archaeological site of Eleusis before heading to Athens for an afternoon at leisure. Depart for the airport the next day. Dellas Boutique Hotel/Elafivolia Arahova Suites/Electra Palace Athens

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquires, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST 4+ people

$5,995

2 people

$6,995

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays, as well as local events and festivals. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E

During three nights at Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas, discover the enchanting peaks and villages of Zagori, one of Greece’s best-kept secrets. Trace the legacy of Ottoman traders across ancient mountain footpaths, explore the dramatic cliffs and chasms of the world’s deepest gorge, and savor the region’s distinctive seasonal cuisine.

Above: A gondolier naviages Venice's Grand Canal. 26

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GREEK ISLES T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •E xplore ancient Athenian ruins and Cape Sóunio’s spectacular Temple of Poseidon with a private guide. •S tay in stunning cave dwellings at Kapari Natural Resort, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World perched high above Santorini’s caldera. •A longside a private guide, visit the Palace of Knossos, the ancient capital of Minoan Crete. •T ake to the Aegean aboard a sailboat to see Santorini’s sugar-cube villages and an epic sunset from the shimmering sea.

Myths come to life among the ancient ruins of Greece. Join a private guide to explore Athenian temples, Crete’s Minoan history, and incomparable Santorini.

9 D AY S

ITINER ARY

and browse the Minoan art at its Archaeological Museum. Settle into your seaside resort in Agios Nikolaos. Opt to visit a nearby village for a cooking class, where you’ll prepare Cretan specialties as you nibble on local cheeses and sip on wines from area vineyards. Take a traditional wooden fishing vessel to the island of Spinalonga and tour this fascinating former leper colony with a private guide. St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas

DAYS 6–9

DAYS 1 AND 2

ATHENS, GREECE

Arrive in Athens and take a private tour that includes the Temple of Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, the Panathenaic Stadium, and the iconic Acropolis. Then visit the new Acropolis Museum, home to nearly 4,000 artifacts. After a free morning to explore the city at your own pace, discover the ancient ruins of Cape Sóunio’s Temple of Poseidon with a private guide.

SANTORINI

Take the ferry to Santorini, and settle into Kapari Natural Resort, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World perched high above the island’s caldera. As a National Geographic guest, you’ll enjoy a private outing to a local farm to meet the owner and taste freshly plucked produce. The next day, take a guided tour of the island, with stops at the lighthouse in Akrotiri, the charming hilltop town of Pyrgos, and enchanting Oia. Spend the next morning at leisure, and then join a sailing excursion on the Aegean. Stop to snorkel and swim in inviting waters, and dine on deck as you watch one of Santorini's famous sunsets. Transfer to the airport and fly home.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available May through October. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST May–Oct. 6+ people

$6,795

4 people

$6,995

2 people

$7,495

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to Athens and from Santorini, and airfare within Greece, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $200 per person (subject to change). For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E

Kapari Natural Resort

Electra Palace Hotel Athens

DAYS 3, 4, AND 5

CRETE

At Kapari Natural Resort on Santorini, settle into an age-old cave dwelling with extraordinary views. During your three-night stay, enjoy a specially arranged visit to a local farm.

Fly to Crete, and join a private guide for a visit to the ancient Palace of Knossos. The ruins here mark the spot of the island’s Minoan capital, once the center of Europe’s oldest known civilization. Take a private tour of Heraklion,

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

Above: A white-walled village on Santorini

Stay at Aristi Mountain Resort & Villas, set amid the dramatic gorges of Greece’s Pindos Mountains.

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PATAG O N I A THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENCE • J oin a private guide for a hike beneath the iconic Fitz Roy Massif in Argentina’s Los Glaciares National Park, and enjoy a picnic on the shores of dazzling Laguna de los Tres. •S tay at the stunning Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World at the edge of Torres del Paine National Park. •A ccompanied by a gaucho, ride on horseback through ancient forests to a lookout point with panoramic views of the Paine Massif. •W itness the powerful calving of the Perito Moreno Glacier from multiple perspectives, strolling nearby walkways and joining a cruise for up-close views.

The wilds of Patagonia stretch from the ice fields of Argentina to the fjords of Chile, spanning twisted granite peaks, sweeping steppe, and pristine glacial valleys. On a variety of excursions by foot, horseback, and 4x4, encounter the region’s most spectacular sites: the imposing spires of Monte Fitz Roy, the Paine Massif, the calving Perito Moreno Glacier and its iceberg-dotted laguna, and more. Delve deeper into these unspoiled landscapes to discover hidden turquoise lakes and rushing waterfalls, and get to know the culture of the horsemen who call Patagonia home.

ITINER ARY

DAY 1

1 0 DAY S

BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA

Arrive in Buenos Aires and transfer to your hotel in the heart of the fashionable Recoleta district. Spend the day at leisure, exploring the area’s galleries and museums or relaxing at an inviting sidewalk café. Alternatively, go on an optional private tour of the city that takes you through the Plaza de Maya in the center of the historical district, into the antique shops of the traditional San Telmo neighborhood, and along the rainbow-colored houses of La Boca. Mio Buenos Aires

DAY 2

EL CHALTÉN

Fly to El Calafate in the southern Andes and take a scenic drive to the frontier town of El Chaltén, situated at the northern edge of Los Glaciares National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage site and part of South America’s largest ice field.

El Chaltén is a popular starting point for treks into the surrounding mountains and serves as the base for your first hiking excursion. Enjoy a free evening to explore the colorful village center at your own pace. Hosteria Senderos | Meals: B, L

DAY 3

MONTE FITZ ROY

Take to the surrounding mountains with a private guide on a trek beneath the dramatic ice-clad spires of the Fitz Roy Massif. Watch for rare bird species like the Patagonian parrot and red-crested woodpecker while passing through lenga forests, and take in spectacular views over the glacially carved valley of the Vueltas River. Your destination is the Laguna de los Tres, a turquoise lake framed by the jagged granite peaks of Monte Fitz Roy. Circle the shoreline for views over the nearby Laguna Súcia, and then enjoy a picnic lunch before heading back to El Chaltén for an evening at leisure. Hosteria Senderos | Meals: B, L

DAY 4

EL CALAFATE

Return to El Calafate and enjoy time to explore the charming town center on your own. Design Suites Calafate | Meals: B, L

Above: The craggy peaks of Torres del Paine National Park 28

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I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available October through March. April dates are subject to availability. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST

PERITO MORENO GLACIER

Spend a full day witnessing the magnificent natural displays of the Perito Moreno Glacier. This continually advancing mass regularly calves great chunks of ice into Lake Argentino, the enormous freshwater reserve at its base. View the glacier’s rugged face from nearby walkways, and then join a cruise on the lake for a different perspective. Design Suites Calafate | Meals: B, L

DAY 6

ORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL T PARK, CHILE

A scenic drive brings you to Torres del Paine National Park, where you’ll settle into Tierra Patagonia, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World perched at the edge of Lake Sarmiento. National Geographic travelers will receive a book about the property and take an exclusive architecture tour of this award-winning structure, getting an insider’s perspective on the cutting-edge design techniques used to merge its form with the surrounding landscape. This evening, savor a delicious dinner, complete with views of the towering Paine massif. Tierra Patagonia | Meals: B, L, D

DAY 7

ORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL T PARK, CHILE

Venture into Torres del Paine National Park today and choose from a variety of ways to explore, including hiking, walking, and 4x4 or horseback-riding excursions. Encounter the sapphire waters of Laguna Azul and the rushing cascade of the Salto Grande waterfall, and trek

Nov.– Mar. 2019

4+ people

$8,995

$8,795

2 people

$9,495

$9,295

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to Buenos Aires, Argentina and from Punta Arenas, Chile, and airfare within Argentina, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $385 per person (subject to change).

A guest of Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa soaks in views of Torres del Paine.

DAY 5

Oct.

to a mountaintop for vistas of the twisting pinnacles of the Torres del Paine. Along the way, keep an eye out for some of the area’s resident creatures, including eagles, condors, foxes, and ñandú, an indigenous type of ostrich.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E

Tierra Patagonia | Meals: B, L, D

DAY 8

ORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL T PARK, CHILE

Delve further into the park on an excursion of your choosing. Hike to iceberg-dotted Grey Lake, climb rocky peaks for spectacular views of karst cornices, or take a leisurely walk through the heart of the park’s carved terrain. Ride horseback alongside local gauchos across sweeping glacial valleys, enjoying views of the iconic Paine Massif along the way. Or visit a nearby working estancia, or ranch, and tour the property to learn about everyday life in Patagonia. Tierra Patagonia | Meals: B, L, D

DAY 9

ORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL T PARK, CHILE

During four nights at Tierra Patagonia, explore the spectacular Torres del Paine National Park with top guides, enjoy excellent cuisine and a worldclass spa, and learn about the lodge’s cutting-edge design on a private behind-the-scenes tour.

OPTIONAL EXTENSION Stay at Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, and discover the otherworldly moonscapes and volcanoes of the Atacama Desert.

Spend a final day exploring Torres del Paine, setting out on one last excursion into the wilds of Patagonia. Or just enjoy the comfort of your lodge, relaxing in its state-of-the-art spa while taking in stunning views of the sparkling Lake Sarmiento, framed by snow-dusted peaks. Tierra Patagonia | Meals: B, L, D

DAY 10

PUNTAS ARENAS

This morning transfer to Punta Arenas, where you’ll catch your flight home. Meals: B

CALL 1-888-732-2379 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/PRIVATE

Travelers explore Torres del Paine National Park on foot.

PERU T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •D iscover the secrets of Machu Picchu with a private guide. • Stay in three spectacular National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World: Inkaterra La Casona, Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, and Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. • Watch a demonstration of traditional Andean weaving—a practice revived by National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa. • Enjoy an exclusive lesson in making traditional corn beer, and go behind the scenes at a Cusco colonial manor.

Still shrouded in the mysteries of the ancient Inca, Peru’s Sacred Valley is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, dramatic landscapes, and Andean villages that still cling to age-old traditions. At the Center of Traditional Textiles of Cusco, attend a private demonstration on Andean weaving and wool-dying—practices revived in the Sacred Valley by National Geographic grantee Nilda Callañaupa. Stop in Awanacancha to learn about the history of llamas and other camelids that call this region home. Stroll Pisac’s famous market and visit an art studio to see ancient Peruvian ceramics. See the terraced Inca agriculture systems at Chinchero and Moray, then visit the white salt mines stacked on the slopes of Maras. Explore Ollantaytambo, and learn about everyday life in the Andean village of Patakancha.

9 D AY S

ITINER ARY

Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba

DAYS 6–9

DAYS 1 AND 2

CUSCO, PERU

Fly to Cusco and settle into Inkaterra La Casona, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. Go behind the scenes at this 16th-century colonial manor, once home to Simón Bolívar. The next day, take a private city tour that includes the Iglesia de Santo Domingo, La Catedral, the ruins of Sacsayhuaman, and the Plaza de Armas. Inkaterra La Casona

DAYS 3, 4, AND 5

ACRED VALLEY OF S THE INCA

Explore the Sacred Valley from your base at Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. Settle in and join the lodge bartender for an exclusive lesson in brewing chicha de jora, or corn beer.

ACHU PICCHU/CUSCO/ M LIMA

Travel to Machu Picchu, taking the scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, or disembarking early for an optional trek on the Inca Trail with a private guide (reserve in advance). Settle into Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World in a private cloud forest reserve. Soak in the stillness of Machu Picchu in the early morning hours, then tour the ruins with a private guide. See orchids and tropical birds on a guided nature walk through the lush trails around the lodge, and enjoy a private visit to the the property's spectacled bear rehabilitation program. Return to Cusco for an afternoon at leisure. Fly to Lima to tour the historic center and examine pre-Columbian treasures at the Larco Herrera Museum. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel/ Inkaterra La Casona

Above: Huayna Picchu rises behind the ruins of Machu Picchu. 30

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round. Choose the dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST 6+ people

$5,195

4 people

$5,395

2 people

$6,295

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to and from Lima, and airfare between Lima and Cusco, are not included in the expedition cost. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E S

Spend every night of your trip at a National Geographic Unique Lodge: Inkaterra La Casona, Inkaterra Hacienda Urubamba (pictured above), and Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel.

OPTIONAL EXTENSION Extend your trip at Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World located in the Amazon rain forest. Visit our website for details.

CALL 1-888-732-2379 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/PRIVATE

ECUADOR T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •S ail the Galápagos by yacht, disembarking for encounters with sea lions, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and more. • Stay at two spectacular National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World: Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel and Mashpi Lodge. • R ide an aerial bike through the Chocó rain forest canopy, and let bioluminescent flora guide you on a nighttime jungle walk. • Take a private tour of Quito’s well-preserved colonial old town, the first city in the world to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Blanketed by lush tropical forests and home to one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife sanctuaries, Ecuador is a small country that packs a big punch when it comes to biodiversity.

ITINER ARY

1 0 D AY S

Spend three days exploring the wild wonders of the archipelago with lodge naturalists. Sail aboard the lodge yacht, disembarking to seek out blue-footed boobies and frigate birds on North Seymour Island, or spot Sally Lightfoot crabs and land iguanas on Isla Plaza Sur. Snorkel with sea lions off Santa Fe, and spot Galápagos hawks and Nazca boobies flying overhead. On Isla Bartolomé, visit Pinnacle Rock, and walk with Galápagos penguins. Swim in Santa Cruz’s dramatic crevices known as Las Grietas, then visit the Charles Darwin Research Station to watch its tortoise-rearing program in action. National Geographic travelers are exclusively invited to a private ceviche-making class with a lodge chef. Casa Gangotena/ Hotel

DAYS 1–6

UITO, ECUADOR/ Q GALÁPAGOS

Land in Quito and take a private tour of the colonial Old Town, which earned the city distinction as the first UNESCO-designated world capital. Discover grand colonial buildings and plazas, and step through the doors of Quito’s most beautiful churches: the Iglesia de la Compañia de Jesús and the Iglesia y Monasterio de San Francisco. Fly to Isla Baltra in the Galápagos, and meet a naturalist at the airport for your first wildlife excursion: a visit to the Giant Tortoise Reserve on Isla Santa Cruz. Later, transfer to Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World tucked into one of Santa Cruz’s secluded bays.

DAYS 7–10

Finch Bay Galapagos

QUITO/MASHPI RESERVE

Fly to Quito for an evening at leisure. Visit the archaeological site of Tulipe en route to Mashpi Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World set in a jungle reserve. Set out on interpretive day and nighttime walks through the surrounding cloud forest, seeking out howler monkeys, kaleidoscopic birds, neon frogs, and much more. Join a biologist at the Life Centre— the lodge’s research station—for a behind-thescenes tour reserved exclusively for National Geographic travelers. Survey the canopy from the observation tower, and ride an aerial bicycle through the treetops. On your return trip to Quito, stop at the “Middle of the World”—a monument to the Equator. Casa Gangotena/

Mashpi Lodge

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST 4 people

$7,395

2 people

$7,695

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. International airfare to and from Quito, and airfare between Quito and the Galápagos, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $600 per person (subject to change). For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E S

Settle into Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel and Mashpi Lodge (pictured above) in the Ecuadorian Chocó.

M O R E WAY S T O E X P L O R E National Geographic also offers the option to travel to the Galápagos Islands aboard the National Geographic Endeavour II or National Geographic Islander. See our website for more information.

Above: Sea lions in the Galápagos

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CHILE AND EASTER ISLAND T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •C ome face to face with the mysterious moai of Easter Island and hike to the volcanic quarry where these stone statues originated. • E xplore the fascinating capital of Santiago with a private guide, and spend time in Valparaíso, the “jewel of the Pacific.” • G et immersed in the surreal, windswept landscapes of the Atacama Desert during a stay at Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. • S ample local vintages amid the lush hills of the Casablanca Valley, Chile’s fastest-growing wine region.

From the colossal moai statues of Easter Island to the candy-hued buildings of seaside Valparaíso, from vine-covered hills to lava-sculpted deserts—Chile exhilarates the senses with a carousel of fascinating experiences.

ITINER ARY

1 0 D AY S

excursions offered through our hotel. Visit a quarry, and see statues that were never erected at Ahu Hang Tetenga; then walk in the footsteps of the ancient Rapa Nui people along the path they took to transport the stone behemoths. Explore Rano Raraku National Park, and venture inside its volcanic crater. Marvel at the restored moai at Mahatua Ovahe, or join an excursion to Ahu Akivi, the only spot where the statues face the sea. Step into a lava cave at Ana Kakenga, and see the unique moai at Hanga Roa, which still have their original coral eyes in place. Explora Rapa Nui/Holiday Inn SantiagoAirport Terminal

DAYS 7–10

DAYS 1 AND 2

ANTIAGO, CHILE/ S PACIFIC COAST

Land in Santiago and take a private city tour that includes the lively main plaza, ornate cathedral, the presidential palace, and more. The next day, join a private guide for a day trip along the Pacific coast. Begin in Valparaíso and discover its colorful old quarter; then go wine tasting in the Casablanca Valley. Ritz Carlton Santiago

DAYS 3–6

EASTER ISLAND

Fly to Easter Island, famous for its colossal moai statues. Choose from a variety of

ATACAMA DESERT

From Santiago, fly to the Atacama Desert and visit the oasis village of San Pedro de Atacama en route to Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa—a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. Over the next three days, set out on your choice of guided excursions. Spot flamingos on shimmering salt flats, meet a local artisan family in Toconao, and explore the surreal Moon Valley with a guide. Bathe in natural hot springs, or go on a nature walk to spot vicuñas and vizcachas. See the El Tatio geysers, and pay a visit to Machuca, where roofs are made of cactus and straw. Or, ride an Atacameñan horse or mountain bike to the salt-encrusted Cejar Lagoon. On your final day, fly to Santiago to catch your flight home. Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST 2+ people

$7,995

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. International airfare to and from Santiago, and airfare within Chile, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $1,300 per person (subject to change). A holiday surcharge and restrictions may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays and festivals. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E

Spend three nights at Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa, and set out by foot, mountain bike, 4x4, or on horseback to discover the surreal landscapes of the Atacama desert. As a National Geographic guest, you're invited to go behind the scenes at this cutting-edge property, crafted from the natural materials of the Atacama.

Above: Moai statues on Easter Island 32

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NIC AR AGUA T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •S tay at Jicaro Island Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World perched on a tiny isleta in Lake Nicaragua. • H ike with a private guide into the La Calera Natural Reserve and cool off with a swim in secluded hot springs. • E xplore the Spanish-colonial history of Granada on a guided tour by car or bike. • V isit an artisan workshop that makes masks for El Güegüense satirical drama, recognized by UNESCO as a masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Immerse yourself in the land of lakes and volcanoes on a private journey from the shores of shimmering Lake Nicaragua to colonial Granada, Managua, and the pristine Pacific coast.

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9 D AY S

colonial Granada by car or bike. At dusk, peer over the edge of the smoking crater of Masaya Volcano and learn about the unique lava formations of this national park and active volcano. If you’d like, take a sustainability tour of the lodge to learn how Jicaro engages locals on nearby islands in their eco-initiatives.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Jan.–Apr. 30

May– Nov. 14

6+ people

$4,795

$3,995

4 people

$4,995

$4,295

2 people

$5,295

$4,795

Jicaro Island Lodge

DAYS 5, 6, AND 7

DAYS 1–4

JICARO ISLAND, NICARAGUA

Travel to Jicaro Island Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World perched on an isleta in Lake Nicaragua. Enjoy an experience exclusively reserved for our travelers: a private guided hike through La Calera Natural Reserve at the base of the Mombacho Volcano, followed by a kayaking excursion and a swim in secluded hot springs. During a visit to the village of Masaya, step into artisan workshops and family homes. Stroll the traditional town of Catarina, and visit a pottery school in San Juan de Oriente to learn about acclaimed local artist José Ortiz Bracamonte. Spend a morning with a private guide, discovering

MORGAN'S ROCK

This morning, head toward the Pacific Coast, stopping en route for a hiking and zip-lining adventure in the jungles of San Juan del Sur. Continue to your eco-lodge, nestled in a private coastal rain forest reserve. During your stay, enjoy a guided tour of your choosing. Take a surfing lesson, go on a hike through the jungle, kayak the mangroves, watch for tropical birds, or ride across white-sand beaches on horseback. If you’d like, visit the lodge farm to learn about the property's sustainable farming practices. Morgan’s Rock Hacienda and EcoLodge

DAYS 8 AND 9

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. International airfare to and from Managua are not included in the expedition cost. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E

DIRIAMBA/MANAGUA

Hear about coffee cultivation during a private naturalist-led walk through D’Santos Private Reserve. Then head to the city of Diriamba, where you’ll learn about El Güegüense, a traditional satirical drama recognized by UNESCO as a masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Continue to Managua for a brief city tour and a visit to the National Historic Park Loma de Tiscapa. Elements Hotel

Perched on one of the tiny isles known as Las Isletas in Central America’s largest freshwater lake, the tropical tree houses of Jicaro Island Lodge are your gateway to exploring volcanoes, colonial towns, cloud forests, and the tranquil rhythms of life on the lake.

Above: Granada’s brightly colored cathedral presides over the colonial center.

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CO S TA R I C A THE NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENCE •E xplore the unsurpassed biodiversity of the Osa Peninsula with naturalists, and hike to a waterfall for a magical meal high in the canopy. •S tay at Lapa Rios Lodge and Pacuare Lodge, both National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World tucked within pristine Costa Rican rain forests. •T rek into the jungle with a private guide to meet with a family of Cabécar Indians, Costa Rica’s largest and most isolated indigenous tribe. •C onquer white-water rapids en route your thatched jungle lodge, and take a private interpretive canopy walk in the lush forests surrounding the mighty Arenal Volcano.

The flourishing jungles of Costa Rica are serene and untouched, punctuated by the iridescent blue flash of a morpho butterfly, the mist of a waterfall, and the rhythmic call of a howler monkey. Discover the incredible biodiversity hidden under the canopies of three distinct rain forests, exploring with top naturalist guides. Ride white water through lush river canyons. Survey leafy treetops from the peak of a dormant volcano in the northern highlands. Then head into the coastal primary forests of the Osa Peninsula to discover a magnificent array of wild species.

ITINER ARY

DAY 1

9 DAY S

SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA

Arrive in San José and transfer to your downtown hotel, a historic Victorian mansion that has been converted into a luxury inn. On this evening at leisure, consider visiting the old town for a look at the city’s colonial architecture. Or stay close to home and relax in the hot tub on the hotel’s rooftop deck. Hotel Grano de Oro

DAY 2

PACUARE RIVER

Venture into the Costa Rican jungle on your way to the secluded Pacuare Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge accessible only via the Pacuare River. Conquer the rapids with fellow lodge guests on a rafting trip through black-rock canyons blanketed in emerald-green ferns and mosses. Or opt to cross the river via hanging gondola and hike to your palm-thatched bungalow. Unwind and unplug in a true jungle

sanctuary, where dinners are lit by candle and travel is done by boat or foot. Pacuare Lodge | Meals: B, L, D

DAY 3

PACUARE RIVER

Join an early morning birding walk in the rain forest to spot toucans, bright hummingbirds, and many other species in the leafy canopy. This afternoon, go on a rain forest hike to a Cabécar rancho (thatched house) and meet with the son of a traditional shaman. Pacuare Lodge | Meals: B, L, D

DAY 4

PACUARE RIVER/ARENAL VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK

This morning, head out on one last white-water rafting adventure. Or depart for the northern highlands right after breakfast, allowing for an evening at leisure in the rain forests surrounding Arenal Volcano National Park. Lost Iguana Resort & Spa | Meals: B

DAY 5

ARENAL VOLCANO NATIONAL PARK

Get a monkey’s-eye view of the rain forest on a guided two-mile walk through the treetops. Traverse a series of hanging bridges, getting

Above: A sloth hangs languidly from a tree at Lapa Rios Eco Lodge. 34

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I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Jan.–Apr. Nov.–Dec.

May–Oct.

4+ people

$5,195

$4,495

2 people

$5,495

$4,795

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to and from San José, and airfare within Costa Rica, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $360 per person (subject to change).

Arenal Volcano

close-up views of the unique ecosystem of the jungle canopy. Then head to La Fortuna Waterfall, which tumbles some 200 feet into a gem-colored natural pool. Take a refreshing dip before returning to your hotel for an evening at leisure. Lost Iguana Resort & Spa | Meals: B, L

DAY 6

SAN JOSÉ/OSA PENINSULA

Transfer to the San José airport and catch a flight to the Osa Peninsula. Your home for the next three nights is Lapa Rios Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World celebrated for its wildlife conservation efforts in the surrounding region. From your bungalow, perched on a ridgeline in a private nature reserve, enjoy spectacular views of the shimmering waters where the Pacific Ocean meets the Golfo Dulce. Lapa Rios Lodge | Meals: B, L, D

DAY 7

OSA PENINSULA

Explore the unmatched biodiversity of the Osa Peninsula’s rain forests, beaches, and waters on a variety of naturalist-led group excursions. Swim beneath rushing waterfalls, learn about the medicinal uses of local plants, discover diverse marine life in one of the world’s only tropical fjords, or follow the sounds of nocturnal wildlife through the nighttime jungle. Spot white-faced capuchin monkeys, poison dart frogs, sloths, and the occasional coati.

DAY 8

OSA PENINSULA

Enjoy a full day to explore the area on a variety of excursions. Learn about the lodge’s innovative sustainability efforts with naturalists. Visit a local school built with lodge funding. Plant a seedling in an area of secondary rain forest growth, or simply relax with a book in a hammock on your terrace. As a National Geographic traveler, you’ll be invited to join a naturalist on a private hike along a forest stream to a stunning waterfall. Swim in the fall’s crystalclear natural pool and then enjoy a memorable lunch in the forest canopy, overlooking the waterfall from high above. You may also choose to take an optional day trip to nearby Corcovado National Park. Lapa Rios Lodge | Meals: B, L, D

DAY 9

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G E O G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E S

Raft into the jungle to Pacuare Lodge and spend two nights in a thatched bungalow. Explore with top guides and enjoy an exclusive visit with members of an isolated indigenous culture. On the Osa Peninsula, Lapa Rios Lodge (pictured above) offers access to pristine rain forest and remote beaches. During a three-night stay, you’ll be treated to a private waterfall hike and a special lunch among the treetops.

OSA PENINSULA/SAN JOSÉ

Rise with the sun to catch a vivid display of bird activity in the budding light of dawn. The endemic black-cheeked ant tanager and the scarlet macaw are but two of the area’s 300-plus avian species. Later, drive to Puerto Jiménez and fly to San José to connect with your flight home. Meals: B

Lapa Rios Lodge | Meals: B, L, D

A tree frog peeks out from its leafy shelter.

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BELIZE AND TIK AL T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •S norkel the spectacular sunken gardens of the Belize Barrier Reef, and go diving in the Great Blue Hole if you wish. •T ake a private daylong tour of the ancient Mayan ruins of Tikal, Guatemala. •D elve into Mayan culture at Copal Tree Lodge—a National Geographic Unique Lodge nestled among the remote coastal jungles of southern Belize. •C anoe past calcite crystal formations in Barton Creek Cave, and learn how the ancient Maya used these caverns for ceremonies.

Just beyond the reefs and pristine beaches of the Belizean coast, lush jungles harbor fascinating wildlife, ancient Mayan ruins, and a mélange of Caribbean and Latin American cultures.

ITINER ARY

9 D AY S

DAYS 4 AND 5

CAYO DISTRICT/TIKAL, GUATEMALA

Fly to Belize City and visit the Belize Zoo, an animal rehabilitation sanctuary that is home to more than 170 animals native to the area. Continue to your lodge, nestled in the jungles near the country’s western border. Cross the border into Guatemala for a full-day private tour of the ancient Mayan city of Tikal. Explore iconic courtyards and temples, and watch for the howler monkeys and toucans that inhabit the surrounding jungle. Chaa Creek

DAYS 6–9

DAYS 1, 2, AND 3

PUNTA GORDA, BELIZE

Travel to Copal Tree Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World near the southern town of Punta Gorda. Upon arrival, National Geographic guests are invited to participate in an exclusive chocolate-making class, followed by an in-depth coffee tasting. The next day, snorkel pristine cayes, seek out the endangered West Indian manatee, and meet park rangers at the Port Honduras Marine Reserve. Visit a family in the Kek’chi Maya village and help prepare traditional Mayan dishes before sitting down to lunch with your hosts. Try your hand at weaving baskets and fabrics, and go for a guided walk to discover traditional uses of regional plants and herbs.

AMBERGRIS CAYE

Paddle a canoe through Barton Creek Cave, and learn about the ancient Mayan belief that these subterranean passageways were a gateway to the underworld. Then fly to stunning Ambergris Caye, bordering the Barrier Reef, and settle into your waterfront hotel. Swim among the sharks, sting rays, and brightly colored corals that inhabit Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, and opt to dive into the sapphire depths of Belize’s Great Blue Hole. Enjoy plenty of free time to relax on the beach and stroll the sandy streets of colorful San Pedro town. Fly home via Belize City.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round except September and October. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Jan.–Apr.

May–Aug. Nov.–Dec.

6+ people

$4,795

$4,295

4 people

$4,995

$4,495

2 people

$5,495

$5,095

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to and from Belize City, and airfare within Belize, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $620 per person (subject to change). For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E

Victoria House

Copal Tree Lodge

Spend three nights at Copal Tree Lodge, nestled among coastal rain forests. Explore the meandering Rio Grande by kayak, canoe, or on a guided fishing excursion; and visit nearby Maya villages. National Geographic guests are invited to participate in a chocolate-making class and coffee tasting at the lodge, which specializes in sustainable agritourism.

Above: A snorkeler swims after a sea turtle. 36

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ALASKA T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •B oard a first-class cabin on the Denali Star, and ride the rails through the majestic valleys and old-growth forests of the Alaska Range. •S tay at Winterlake Lodge—a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World set along the historic Iditarod Trail—and enjoy an exclusive early morning photo walk with a guide. •H ike or bike through Denali National Park and Preserve’s backcountry with a naturalist guide. •F ly above the tundra on a floatplane for a bird’s-eye view of the majestic Alaskan wilderness.

Venture into the heart of Alaska, searching out grizzlies and discovering backcountry culture in the remote corners of the far north.

ITINER ARY

9 D AY S

DAYS 1–4 I FAIRBANKS, ALASKA/DENALI NATIONAL PARK AND PRESERVE Arrive in Fairbanks and visit the University of Alaska’s Museum of the North, which features exhibitions on Alaska’s biological diversity and cultural traditions. The next day, travel deep into the heart of Denali National Park and Preserve, and settle into your lodge in Kantishna. Enjoy two full days to explore the park’s backcountry on the excursions of your choice. Options include hiking the Kantishna Hills tundra with a naturalist, biking along old mining roads to Wonder Lake, fly-fishing, panning for gold, and wildlife viewing.

DAYS 5, 6, AND 7 I DENALI STAR/ SOUTH-CENTRAL ALASKA WILDERNESS Board the Denali Star and settle into a first-class cabin for a scenic train ride through the Alaska wilderness. Through the domed panoramic windows of the top deck, take in views of spruce forests and fireweed fields intersected by shimmering salmon streams. In Talkeetna, hop on a floatplane bound for Winterlake Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World perched on the edge of a remote backcountry lake. Join a guide for an early morning photo walk along the neighboring Iditarod Trail (weather permitting). After lunch, take a flyfishing lesson, forage for wild edibles, or relax by the lake. Enjoy an evening wine tasting, followed by a dinner featuring the awardwinning cuisine of chef and lodge owner Kirsten Dixon. The next day, seek out grizzly bears and wolves during a guided hike to Wolverine Ridge. Return to the lodge for a frontier-fusion cooking demonstration. Later, go kayaking or canoeing on Finger Lake, or attend a naturalist talk.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available June 3 through September 11. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Jun.–Sept. 4 people

$8,695

2 people

$9,495

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. Airfare to Fairbanks and from Anchorage, and within Alaska, are not included in the expedition cost. Flights within Alaska are $965 per person. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E

Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge/ Winterlake Lodge

DAYS 8 AND 9

ANCHORAGE

Fly to Anchorage and take a private city tour, including a stop at the acclaimed Alaska Native Heritage Center. Fly home the following day. Hotel Captain Cook

Enjoy an authentic Alaskan backcountry experience during two nights at Winterlake Lodge.

Pike’s Waterfront Lodge/Kantishna Roadhouse or Denali Backcountry Lodge

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

Above: Denali, the highest peak in North America

Stay at Tutka Bay Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, located on the shores of the Kenai Peninsula. Kayak into fjords, explore lush forests, and join a chef in the kitchen.

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YELLOWS TO N E A N D G R A N D TE TO N N AT I O N A L PA R K S T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •G o on safari with a private guide to seek out bison, grizzlies, and wolves in the Lamar Valley, known as the “Serengeti of North America.” • S ettle into Bentwood Inn, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World near the base of the towering Tetons. • R aft the Snake River on a leisurely float or on a thrilling white-water adventure. • E xplore Yellowstone’s otherworldly geyser basins, bubbling mud pots, and kaleidoscopic mineral pools with your private guide.

Venture into Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, where sapphire lakes reflect snowcapped peaks, grizzlies and moose forage in the tall grasses, and the Earth steams and spurts with geothermal activity.

ITINER ARY

“Serengeti of North America.” Peer through a spotting scope to find some of the bison, elk, moose, grizzly bears, and gray wolves that inhabit this sweeping landscape. Get insights into Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders during guided visits to the Norris, Upper, and West Thumb Geyser Basins, and take in the clockwork eruption of Old Faithful. Travel to Hayden Valley for more wildlife viewing, then hike to the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to view waterfalls tumbling over colorful cliffs.

8 D AY S

Dreamcatcher Tipi Hotel/Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins

DAYS 6, 7, AND 8

DAY 1

BOZEMAN, MONTANA

Arrive in Bozeman and independently transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure in this lively mountain town. Hilton Garden Inn Bozeman

DAYS 2–5

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

Meet your private guide and drive to Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone National Park. Stroll amid these otherworldly travertine terraces; then settle into a luxurious furnished tipi for two nights of glamping. Set out on a private safari in the Lamar Valley, known as the

RAND TETON G NATIONAL PARK

Take in views of the towering Tetons during a picnic lunch in Colter Bay Village. Continue along the scenic Moose-Wilson Road to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, and ride the aerial tram to the summit of Rendezvous Mountain for some high-altitude hiking. Settle into Bentwood Inn—a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World tucked into old-growth forests outside of Jackson—and gather with guests for wine and cheese, followed by a four-course gourmet dinner. Choose to join one of two rafting trips along the scenic Snake River: a leisurely float through Grand Teton National Park or a thrilling white-water ride. Meet a lodge naturalist for an interpretive nature walk in the forests and fields surrounding the lodge—an experience reserved exclusively for National Geographic travelers. Bentwood Inn

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available from May 15 through October 1. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST May–Oct. 6+ people

$5,995

4 people

$6,995

2 people

$8,995

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. Airfare to Bozeman and from Jackson are not included in the expedition cost. A surcharge may apply to certain travel dates based upon local events and festivals. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E

Spend two nights at the intimate Bentwood Inn, situated between the town of Jackson and Grand Teton National Park, and surrounded by wilderness trails and pristine rivers. Savor locally sourced gourmet meals, and take an exclusive interpretive walk with a naturalist guide.

Above: Yellowstone’s Grand Prismatic Spring 38

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YO S EM I T E T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •H ike amid a spectacular landscape of high-mountain meadows, pristine lakes, and waterfalls in the company of a private guide. • I n Mariposa Grove, walk in the shadows of giant sequoias, possibly the largest living organisms on Earth by volume. • D elve into the geological history of Yosemite and learn about the lives of John Muir and Ansel Adams, two of the park’s greatest champions. • S earch for the park’s wild denizens, including black bears, bighorn sheep, foxes, and a variety of birds.

Venture into Yosemite National Park to explore its geological wonderland of emerald lakes, dramatic granite domes, and waterfall-laced cliffs.

ITINER ARY

7 D AY S

DAYS 4–7 I YOSEMITE VALLEY/ TUOLUMNE MEADOWS/HETCH HETCHY Head north to Yosemite Valley, and take in the polished granite domes of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Sentinel Dome. Embark on some spectacular hikes with your private guide, selecting trails that suit your pace. As you explore the valley, learn about the legacy of naturalist John Muir and visit some of his favorite locations. The next day, choose between two options: explore Yosemite’s high country, including stops at Tuolumne Meadows, Mono Lake, and Olmsted Point; or go hiking in the beautiful Hetch Hetchy Valley.

DAYS 1, 2, AND 3 I FRESNO, CALIFORNIA/ YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK/MARIPOSA GROVE After a night in Fresno, travel into the Sierra Nevada foothills to your Victorian-style lodge in Yosemite National Park. On the way, stop and enjoy some moderate hikes with your private guide, getting introduced to the park’s glacially formed landscapes and ecology. Spend a day exploring Mariposa Grove, home to the giant sequoia. Choose from a variety of trails, hiking in the shadow of these majestic trees, which can grow to more than 200 feet in height.

Return to Yosemite Valley for your final day. Depending on the weather, hiking choices may include the Mist Trail to Vernal Falls, the John Muir Trail, or Cook’s Meadow Loop. Along the way, keep an eye out for the park’s resident wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, coyotes, and mule deer. Visit the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center to learn how this distinctive landscape was formed. Then stop in at the Ansel Adams Gallery, where classic Ansel Adams prints are on display alongside the work of contemporary photographers. Later, enjoy a private tour of the historic Ahwahnee Hotel, now called the Majestic Yosemite Hotel, which has counted presidents, queens, and movie stars among its guests.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available from April through October. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Apr.–Oct. 6+ people

$4,995

4 people

$5,995

2 people

$7,995

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. Airfare to and from Fresno are not included in the expedition cost. A surcharge may apply to certain travel dates based upon local events and festivals. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

Yosemite Valley Lodge or Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite

Best Western Plus Airport Fresno/ Big Trees Lodge

Above: Mist shrouds the floor of Yosemite Valley.

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Sky-high giant sequoias soar above Mariposa Grove.

AUSTR ALIA T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •W ake up to views of the sunrise over Uluru, and examine its inner crevices and ancient rock paintings with a guide. • Stay in three spectacular National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World: Lizard Island, Longitude 131°, and Southern Ocean Lodge. • S ip sundowners alongside grazing kangaroos and wallabies on Kangaroo Island, known as “Australia’s Galápagos.” • D iscover the Great Barrier Reef’s aquatic world of sea turtles and schooling fish while snorkeling, diving, or glass-bottom boating.

From the rock domes of its the outback to the intricate corals of the Great Barrier Reef, enjoy an intimate perspective on some of Australia’s grandest treasures.

ITINER ARY

1 3 D AY S

DAYS 6, 7, AND 8

CAIRNS/ULURU

Fly to the outback via Cairns. Settle into your luxury tented pavilion at Longitude 131°, a National Geographic Unique Lodge that offers spectacular views of Uluru, once known as Ayers Rock. In Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, circumnavigate Uluru, examining ancient rock paintings, and walk between the soaring rock domes of Walpa Gorge. If you like, take an optional excursion to Kantuju Gorge in Uluru’s interior crevices to sip champagne at sunset. National Geographic guests will enjoy an exclusive introduction to outback cuisine in the lodge kitchen. Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina/ Longitude 131°

DAYS 9–13 DAYS 1–5

YDNEY, AUSTRALIA/LIZARD S ISLAND

Land in Sydney, and set out to explore the waterfront area with a private guide, capping off your tour with a visit to the famed Sydney Opera House. The next day, join a boating excursion on Sydney Harbor. Fly to Lizard Island, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World set on the Great Barrier Reef. Explore the reef by snorkel, catamaran, motorized dinghy, and glassbottom water ski; hike inland nature trails; and enjoy a sunset cruise exclusively for National Geographic travelers. Shangri-La Sydney/

Lizard Island

ANGAROO ISLAND/ K SYDNEY

Fly to Kangaroo Island and settle into Southern Ocean Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge perched on rugged coastal cliffs. Enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of this magnificent property, followed by a private dinner in the wine cellar. Explore the island on a variety of naturalist-led activities. Walk coastal trails, learn about the local maritime history, observe hundreds of sea lions on Seal Bay, discover unique geology, and more. Enjoy sundowners and canapés within sight of grazing kangaroos and wallabies. Fly home via Sydney. Southern Ocean Lodge/Shangri-La Sydney

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Apr.–Dec. 4 people

$12,995

2 people

$13,595

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to and from Sydney, and airfare within Australia, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $1,800–$2,500 per person (subject to change). For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

F E AT U R E D N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C U N I Q U E LO D G E S

Stay in three National Geographic Unique Lodges: Lizard Island, Longitude 131° (pictured above), and Southern Ocean Lodge.

OPTIONAL EXTENSION

Above: Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef near Lizard Island 40

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Stay at Capella Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World located on idyllic Lord Howe Island. Hike beneath dramatic peaks, spot rare birds, and swim in aqua lagoons.

NEW ZEALAND T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E •C ruise stunning Milford Sound, and float through the glittering glowworm caves of Te Anau. • Enjoy a private tour of a kiwi hatchery to learn how conservationists prepare the birds for introduction to the wild. • Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the Hobbiton farm in Matamata, used as the Shire filming site for The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy. • S et out on a private food and wine tour of Waiheke Island that showcases its award-winning olive oils, fresh oysters, and local wines.

Geysers and glowworm caves, snowcapped peaks and serene fjords—New Zealand’s otherworldly landscapes delight with their incredible natural diversity.

ITINER ARY

1 1 D AY S

to gushing geysers, steaming hot springs, and silica terraces on a private tour of the Orakei Korako Geothermal Park and Cave and settle in at your hotel overlooking Lake Taupo. Feed wild trout at the National Trout Centre in Turangi and visit the historic Chateau Tongariro before a thrilling jet boat ride along the Waikato River.

I N F O R M AT I O N

DAT E S This expedition is available October through April. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

2018 EXPEDITION COST Oct.–Apr., 2019

Sofitel Viaduct Harbor/Hilton Lake Taupo

DAYS 5–8 TE ANAU

DAYS 1–4

UCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND/ A LAKE TAUPO

Land in Auckland and embark on an optional sailing excursion across the harbor in an America’s Cup racing yacht (additional cost). Ferry to Waiheke Island and sample its culinary delights on a food and wine tour. Taste olive oil at an award-winning mill; enjoy fresh oysters straight from Matuku Cove (seasonal); and sample green herb spread, an island specialty. Enjoy a behind-the-scenes visit to the Hobbiton farm in Matamata, filming site for the Shire in The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy. Get up close

ROTORUA/DUNEDIN/

Travel to Rotorua to meet with conservationists at a kiwi hatchery, and delve into Maori culture at Whakarewarewa Thermal Village. Fly to Dunedin on the South Island. Set out on a scenic drive along the Otago Peninsula, stopping at Larnach Castle, the Royal Albatross Centre, and the Otakou Marae Maori settlement. Take a private tour of a working sheep farm, and join a boat ride through the glittering Te Anau glowworm caves. Explore stunning Milford Sound on a cruise, and visit the floating Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory.

$6,995

4 people

$7,995

2 people

$9,495

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single-traveler prices are available upon request. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates. International airfare to Auckland and from Queenstown, and airfare within New Zealand, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $300 per person (subject to change). For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

Hotel St. Clair/Distinction Te Anau Hotel

DAYS 9–11

QUEENSTOWN

Sip wine at a vineyard on Lake Hayes, and join a private guide for an interpretive walk highlighting the edible and medicinal plants of the Southern Alps. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure in Queenstown, known as the “adventure capital of the world.” Fly home the following day. Hotel St. Moritz

Waiheke Island

Above: Milford Sound

6+ people

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MORE TRIPS

ZAMBIA

BOTSWANA

1 0 DAYS

The untamed wilderness of Zambia is one of Africa’s lesser known treasures, home to a stunning array of creatures and habitats. Venture deep into South Luangwa National Park, and feel the thrill of tracking wildlife on foot. Then journey to Lower Zambezi National Park to explore by canoe and riverboat. Your trip culminates further downstream, amid the plunging cascades of Victoria Falls.

Botswana’s Okavango Delta is the ideal wildlife sanctuary: a farreaching network of flood plains and glistening lagoons nearly devoid of human presence. Discover the region on openvehicle game drives and canoe safaris, seeking out rare and endangered species, including African wild dogs and blue wildebeests. Cap off your visit exploring thunderous Victoria Falls with a private guide.

T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E

• Join a ranger to track the diverse wildlife of South Luangwa National Park on foot.

•G o on safari in two conservancies featured in wildlife films produced by National Geographic Explorers-in-Residence Dereck and Beverly Joubert.

•S tay at The Bushcamp Company, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World designed to showcase the distinct landscapes of South Luangwa. •E xplore the Zambezi River by canoe and riverboat, spotting elephants, hippos, and lions along the shoreline. • Enjoy a private tour of thundering Victoria Falls.

• Encounter the lion prides of Duba Plains, unique for their swimming abilities and daytime hunting practices. • Witness some of Africa’s largest elephant and buffalo herds, drawn to the area’s prolific aquatic habitats. • Take a private tour of breathtaking Victoria Falls.

DAT E S

This expedition is available from April through October. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

COST

Apr.–May

June, Oct.

July–Sept.

COST

Apr. – May Nov. – Dec.

June–Oct.

2+ people

$7,995

$8,995

$9,695

4+ people 2 people

$10,995 $11,495

$15,995 $16,195

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. International airfare to Lusaka and return from Livingstone, amd airfare within Zambia, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal airfare is $1250 per person (subject to change). A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays and festivals.

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. International airfare to Johannesburg and return from Livingstone, and airfare within Africa, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal airfare is $1,100 per person depending on the season (subject to change).

For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

Above: Guests of the Bushcamp Company spot a giraffe while on safari.

Above: At Duba Expedition Camp, lions rest in the grasses.

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K E N YA

MADAGASCAR

8 DAYS

1 2 DAYS

The rolling plains of Kenya are the essence of East Africa— teeming with herds of zebra and wildebeest, dotted with acacia trees, and inhabited by the intriguing Maasai people. In two protected areas—Chyulu Hills and the Olare Motorogi Conservancy—discover a breathtaking array of animals far from the crowds and learn firsthand about efforts to protect them.

Encounter Madagascar’s curious creatures, 80 percent of which are found nowhere else on Earth. Seek out leaping lemurs and a kaleidoscope of chameleons and orchids in Ankarana Special Reserve and Amber Mountain National Park, and watch for humpbacks and whale sharks in the Nosy Be archipelago. Along the way, delve into the country’s intriguing multiethnic culture while exploring colorful towns and villages.

T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E

•E xplore two private nature conservancies run in partnership with local Maasai communities.

•T ake a private excursion through Ankarana Special Reserve, and seek out its 11 resident lemur species.

• Stay in two National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World: ol Donyo Lodge and Mara Plains Camp.

•F rom Tsara Komba—a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World in the Nosy Be archipelago—snorkel waters teeming with wildlife.

• Ride horseback in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, and encounter diverse wildlife on safaris and bushwalks.

•D elve into Madagascar’s rich cultural amalgam on private tours of traditional farms and French colonial cities.

• Delve into the vibrant culture of the Maasai on village visits.

•S py camouflaged chameleons and fluttering hummingbirds alongside private guides in Amber Mountain National Park.

DAT E S

This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

This expedition is available year-round, except from January through March. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

COST

Apr. – May; Nov. 1 – Dec. 19

June, Oct., Dec. 20 – Jan. 10, 2019

$7,995

$12,495

2+ people

4+ people 2 people

Apr. – Dec.

$4,995 $5,495

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. International airfare to and from Nairobi, and airfare within Kenya, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $850 per person (subject to change). A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays and festivals.

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request.International airfare to and from Antananarivo, and airfare within Madagascare, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal flights are $665 per person (subject to change). A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays and festivals.

For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

Above: An African elephant in the Chyulu Hills

Above: A chameleon sports a rainbow of colors.

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MORE TRIPS

SWITZERLAND

P O RT U G A L A N D S PA I N

8 DAYS

1 1 DAYS

Amid Switzerland’s emerald meadows and majestic mountains, the everyday is made extraordinary, with aweinspiring backdrops framing nearly every scene. Take in some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes from Gruyères to Zermatt, zip through the Alps on the legendary Glacier Express, and explore Alpine villages and historic

From Paleolithic rock engravings and Moorish fortresses to opulent basilicas and Modernist landmarks, Spain and Portugal preserve centuries of art and enlightenment. Journey across the Iberian Peninsula to follow in the footsteps of Portuguese explorers, wander the galleries of the world-famous Prado, and sample culinary splendors while sipping on port in Porto and tasting tapas in Spanish markets.

towns with a private guide.

T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E

•W ind through stunning Alpine landscapes aboard two scenic railways—the Goldenpass Panoramic and the Glacier Express.

•S et out on private tours of four UNESCO World Heritage sites, from enchanting Sintra to Gaudí's whimsical architectural works in Barcelona.

•A scend the Mont Blanc massif via cable car, and witness the iconic Matterhorn towering over Zermatt.

•G ain exclusive access to the artisan workshops at Lisbon’s Museum of Portuguese Decorative Arts.

•D escend into underground bunkers below the Sasso San Gottardo, a oncesecret World War II-era fortification.

•E xamine the Paleolithic rock art of Foz Côa during a private tour with a local archaeologist.

• Set out on private tours of Geneva, Zermatt, and Lucerne.

• Sip on vintage ports during a private tasting in one of Porto’s premier wine cellars.

DAT E S

This expedition is available June 15 through October. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

This expedition is available year-round. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists

COST

June – Oct.

4+ people 2 people

$5,995 $7,995

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. International airfare to Geneva and from Zurich is not included in the expedition cost. A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays and festivals. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

6+ people 4 people 2 people

$6,995 $7,995 $9,995

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. International airfare to Lisbon and from Barcelona is not included in the expedition cost, and the flight between Porto and Madrid is an additional $200 per person (subject to change). A holiday surcharge may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays and festivals. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

Above: The mighty Matterhorn soars toward the sun. 44

Above: Parc Guell, Barcelona CALL 1-888-732-2379 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/PRIVATE

C R OAT I A

MONGOLIA

1 0 DAYS

Discover Croatia’s enchanting mix of imperial influences, where conquests by Roman emperors and Venetian doges, Ottomans and Austro-Hungarians have left their mark on land and culture. Cruise to picturesque islands just off the coast, meander along gem-like pools in Plitvice Lakes National Park, and cross the border into Montenegro to explore the magical medieval villages on the Gulf of Kotor.

Embrace the intriguing way of life of Mongolia’s nomads as you explore the soaring Altay Mountains, spot wild horses on the steppe, and traverse the Gobi’s undulating dunes. In Ulaanbaatar, go behind the scenes at a paleontology lab, and visit museums and monasteries with a private guide. Then head into the countryside to sleep in a traditional ger tent and spend time with nomadic families.

T H E N AT I O N A L G EO G R A P H I C D I F F E R E N C E

•S et out on private tours of four UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Old City of Dubrovnik and the Palace of Diocletian.

• Get a firsthand look at the life of Mongolian nomads at a Gobi camel-herding camp.

• In coastal Ston, board a boat for a private tasting of oysters plucked straight from the Adriatic Sea. • Kayak to the islet of Lokrum, taking in views of Dubrovnik from the water. • Sample Croatian wines during a tasting on the enchanting isle of Hvar.

•S tay in a ger—a traditional Mongolian tent—at Three Camel Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World set in the vast Gobi desert. •V isit the Flaming Cliffs, and examine newly excavated dinosaur fossils alongside paleontologists at a lab in Ulaanbaatar. •L isten to the mesmerizing sounds of khoomi throat singing during a traditional dance performance.

DAT E S

DAT E S This expedition is available May 1-October 31. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

COST

May 1 – Oct. 31

6+ people 4 people 2 people

$4,995 $5,995 $6,995

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability.Single traveler prices are available upon request. International airfare to Zagreb and return from Dubrovnik are not included in the expedition cost. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

This expedition is available May 15 through October 25. Mongolia's National Naadam festival takes place from July 11 - 15, 2018 in Ulaanbaatar. Local Naadam festivals near Three Camel Lodge will take place on June 16, August 11 and September 11, 2018. Choose any dates that work for you. For 2019 price inquiries, please call our travel specialists.

COST 6+ people 4 people 2 people

May 15 – Oct. 25

$7,995 $8,395 $8,595

Prices are per person, double occupancy and are subject to availability. Single traveler prices are available upon request. International airfare to and from Ulaanbaatar, and airfare within Mongolia, are not included in the expedition cost. Internal airfare is $450 per person (subject to change). A holidy surcharge may apply to certain travel dates based upon international or local holidays and festivals; there is a $900 surcharge for travel during Naadam. For the detailed itinerary and meals included, please visit our website.

Above: Dubrovnik, known as the Pearl of the Adriatic

Above: The traditional ger tents of Three Camel Lodge dot the sunlit scrub of the Gobi.

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MORE WAYS TO TRAVEL WITH NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Our range of travel experiences is truly panoramic. In addition to National Geographic Private Expeditions, we offer many different ways to see the world—from wildlife safaris, archaeology-focused expeditions, and active trips to expedition cruises and much more. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer, an avid hiker, 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. Learn more at natgeoexpeditions.com.

Land

Expedition cruise

Our land trips are designed to immerse you in fascinating places and draw out the uniqueness of each destination through enriching and authentic experiences. Led by a National Geographic expert, these trips celebrate the history, culture, and natural heritage of a destination.

Take to the sea aboard one of the eight ships of the National Geographic– Lindblad fleet, and explore wild places from the Galápagos to Antarctica with an expedition team of naturalists, historians, photographers, and more.

train

family

photography

Glide through epic landscapes by classic train, experiencing the sense of nostalgia that comes with train travel. With a National Geographic expert on board, the places that you pass through take on a whole new depth and meaning.

Introduce your family to the magic of travel on trips designed for travelers of all ages. Our expedition leaders and local experts enrich your understanding of each incredible destination, and on many of our family trips, a Young Explorer leader facilitates fun learning activities for kids.

Improve your photography skills with the guidance of a National Geographic photographer—whether you’re traveling through Japan or framing wildlife on the Galapágos Islands. These expeditions are designed to maximize photographic opportunities and capture the best light.

Ply the fabled rivers of Europe and Asia aboard spacious, world-class riverboats on all-inclusive voyages operated in partnership with Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours. A National Geographic expert accompanies each voyage and one of our photographers is aboard all European sailings.

active

p r i va t e j e t

student

Journeys

Explore by foot, by kayak, or even by dogsled on an active expedition. Led by dynamic adventure guides, these trips combine spectacular places, physical challenge, and cultural interaction.

Experience fascinating places as far-flung as Easter Island and Marrakech on one epic journey, traveling with a team of National Geographic experts in the comfort of a VIP-configured private jet.

Send your high school or middle school student on assignment with National Geographic to explore inspiring destinations in depth alongside our experts and trip leaders.

We’ve partnered with G Adventures to offer small-group trips that combine knowledgeable local guides, meaningful encounters with people and places, and more free time and choices—all at an incredible value.

CALL 1-888-732-2379 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/PRIVATE

river cruise

P R I VAT E

RESPONSIBILITY National Geographic Expeditions (as defined herein) will provide educational enrichment for private expeditions as outlined in its catalog and on its website (natgeoexpeditions.com) (each a “Private Expedition”) and has licensed qualified professional tour operators to organize and administer such “Private Expeditions”. The designated tour operator, in turn, acts only as an agent for any transportation carrier, hotel, ground operator, or other suppliers of services connected with specific Private Expeditions (“Other Providers”), and the Other Providers are solely responsible and liable for providing their respective services. The passenger tickets in use by the carriers will constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the passenger; the carriers are not responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time the participants are not aboard their conveyances.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS BASIS OF RATES: All prices are per person based on two persons sharing a room (unless otherwise noted). All prices and fares are quoted in U.S. dollars. The rates are based on tariffs, currency values, airfares and third-party charges as of the publication date, and are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. While National Geographic will do everything possible to maintain the listed prices, if it is necessary to levy a surcharge, National Geographic reserves the right to do so, and notification will be given at the time of final invoicing. ELIGIBILITY: Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire Private Expedition. Some itineraries have minimum age requirements—call for more information. INCLUDED IN EXPEDITION COST: Accommodations and meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner); educational materials; pre-departure information; entrance fees, excursions, and sightseeing noted as included in the itinerary; ground transportation during the Private Expedition; transfers; services of guides and any other staff; and taxes and service charges. Please note: the “B, L, D” notations apply to the period during the Private Expedition portion of the itinerary only and do not include any meals on flights to/from the Private Expedition. NOT INCLUDED IN PRIVATE EXPEDITION COST: Air transportation and related fees (except as indicated in the itinerary); activities noted as optional in the itinerary; gratuities (tipping guidelines vary by destination and will be provided in pre-expedition materials); passport and visa expenses; medical expenses and immunizations; baggage/accident/cancellation insurance; personal expenses, such as laundry, telephone calls, and alcoholic beverages; and any other items not specifically noted as included. SINGLE/SHARED ACCOMMODATIONS: A limited number of single rooms/cabins are available at an extra cost on a first-come, first-served basis. National Geographic Expeditions and/or the tour operator will assist persons requesting a roommate. The participants will be notified if a suitable roommate is not available, in which case the single rate will be charged. PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS, AND REFUNDS: To reserve space on a Private Expedition, a USD$1,000 per-person non-refundable deposit is required (a USD$1,500 per-person non-refundable deposit is required for the Chile and Easter Island Private Expedition). For some Private Expeditions, there may be additional non-refundable payments required at the time of reservation to secure permits or internal airfare. Final payment is due no later than 90 days prior to departure. Payments must be made by credit card. National Geographic Expeditions and the tour operator reserve the right to cancel a participant’s reservation if full payment has not been received by 90 days prior to departure. For reservations made within 90 days of the departure date, full payment is required when the reservation is accepted. All cancellation notices must be received in writing and will become effective as of the date of the postmark. Perperson charges for cancellations that occur less than 90 days prior to departure (“Cancellation Penalty Period”) are as follows: 45-90 days prior to departure: 50% of the Private Expedition cost; 44 or fewer days prior to departure: 100% of the Private Expedition cost. This policy also applies to pre- and post-Private Expedition extensions. Any revisions made within the Cancellation Penalty Period, such as a change in departure date or choice of expedition, are subject to

National Geographic Partners, LLC, d/b/a National Geographic Expeditions, its parent, subsidiaries and their respective employees, affiliates, officers, directors, successors, representatives, assigns (collectively “National Geographic”) and the tour operator will not be held liable for (A) any damage to, or loss of, property or injury to, or death of, persons occasioned directly or indirectly by an act or omission of any Other Provider, including but not limited to any defect in any aircraft, watercraft, or vehicle operated or provided by such Other Provider; and (B) any loss or damage due to delay, cancellation, or disruption in any manner caused by the laws, regulations, acts or failures to act, demands, orders, or interpositions of any government or any subdivision or agent thereof, or by acts of God, strikes, fire, flood, war, rebellion, terrorism, insurrection, sickness, quarantine, epidemics, theft, or any other cause(s) beyond their control. The participant waives any claim against National Geographic and/or the tour operator for any such loss, damage, injury, or death.

By registering for a Private Expedition, the participant certifies that he/she does not have any mental, physical, or other condition or disability that would create a hazard for himself or herself or other participants. National Geographic Expeditions and the tour operator reserve the right in their sole discretion to accept, decline to accept, or remove any participant on a Private Expedition. National Geographic Expeditions and the tour operator reserve the right, without penalty, to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in their judgment, conditions warrant or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of the participants.

this cancellation policy. Any airline tickets issued are subject to the carrier’s refund policy. Arriving late or leaving a Private Expedition in progress, for any reason whatsoever, will not result in a refund, and no refunds will be made for any unused portions of a Private Expedition. National Geographic Expeditions reserves the right to cancel any Private Expedition because of good-faith concerns with respect to the safety, health, or welfare of the participants. If a Private Expedition is canceled prior to departure, the tour operator will provide participants with a full refund of monies paid to the tour operator; except in the event that the cancellation is due to a significant event that makes it infeasible to operate the Private Expedition as planned, in which case the tour operator will provide participants with a refund and/or credit toward a future Private Expedition equivalent to the amount paid to the tour operator. If National Geographic Expeditions cancels the Private Expedition in progress, participants will receive a prorated refund based on the number of days not completed on the Private Expedition. Except as outlined above when National Geographic Expeditions cancels a Private Expedition, National Geographic and the tour operator has no responsibility for any expenses, including any non-refundable expenses incurred by participants in preparing for a cancelled Private Expedition or for any additional arrangements should the participants embark prior to the scheduled departure date.

is deemed advisable by, and is to be rendered under the general or specific supervision of, any physician and/or surgeon licensed in the United States, or, if in a foreign country and no physician licensed to practice in the United States is reasonably available, by a duly licensed physician deemed competent to render the necessary care. In addition, the participant certifies that they have 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.

Trip-cancellation insurance is available at an additional cost and is strongly recommended. For more information about and to enroll in an option available through Travel Insurance Services, visit the “Travel Insurance” section of our website at natgeoexpeditions.com. ITINERARY CHANGES: The itineraries, accommodations, and staff presented in the Private Expedition documentation are subject to modification and change by National Geographic Expeditions or the tour operator. Every reasonable effort will be made to operate Private Expeditions as planned, but alterations may still occur after final itineraries are sent. DOCUMENTATION: Participants are responsible for obtaining any documents required for their participation in the Private Expedition such as a valid passport, all visas, vaccination certificates, and any other documents. Failure to obtain documents does not negate the terms and conditions, and any extra costs incurred for rerouting due to travel without the necessary documents will be the participant’s responsibility. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: Participants must be in good physical and mental health. Any physical condition, diet, or treatment requiring special attention must be reported in writing when the reservation is made. National Geographic Expeditions encourages participants to consult a doctor for specific medical advice about any activities or destinations. Certain Private Expeditions may require that the participant obtain medical consent prior to departure as a condition of participation. MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION AND COVERAGE: In the event a participant becomes sufficiently incapacitated as to be unable to direct his or her own care, there is no one on the Private Expedition who can direct the participant’s care, and National Geographic Expeditions is unable or does not have time to contact the participant’s emergency contact, the participant, by registering and paying a deposit for a Private Expedition, authorizes any medical treatment deemed necessary in the event of any injury or illness while participating in the activity including, but not limited to, X-ray, examination, anesthetic, medical or surgical diagnosis, or treatment and hospital care which

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CALL 1-888-732-2379 OR VISIT NATGEOEXPEDITIONS.COM/PRIVATE

Neither National Geographic, nor the tour operator, will be liable for any air carrier's cancellation penalty incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable ticket to or from the participant's Private Expedition departure city. Baggage and personal effects are at all times the sole responsibility of the participant.

PHOTOGRAPHY: National Geographic Expeditions, the tour operator, and the Private Expedition leader reserve the right to take photographs or videos during the operation of any Private Expedition or part thereof and to use the resulting photography, videos, or recordings for promotional or commercial use. By making a reservation on a Private Expedition, the participant agrees to allow his/her likeness to be used by National Geographic, National Geographic-authorized third parties, and the tour operator without compensation to the participant. If the participant prefers that his/her likeness not be used, he/she must notify National Geographic Expeditions and/or the tour operator in writing prior to departure of the Private Expedition. Copyright in all photographs, video, and related materials created by the participant (“Expedition Materials”) will belong to the participant upon creation. The participant grants to National Geographic a non-exclusive, worldwide, irrevocable license to use any Expedition Materials provided to National Geographic and/or the tour operator in any media for the following limited purposes: editorial use, promotion of this editorial use, promotion of National Geographic’s travel programs, or promotion of the mission of National Geographic. ASSUMPTION OF RISK: By registering for a Private Expedition, the participant acknowledges that he/she is aware that travel such as the Private Expedition 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 Private Expedition and that when available may not be of the quality which exists in the United States. ARBITRATION AGREEMENT: Arbitration Agreement policy and process is available at natgeoexpeditions.com/terms PRIVACY POLICY: Our privacy policy can be found at nationalgeographic.com/community/privacy/ MAILING LIST: If you are receiving duplicate catalogs, have address updates, or would like to be removed from future National Geographic Expeditions mailings, please call toll-free 1-888-966-8687. OTHER: The applicable Terms and Conditions may vary from those listed above based upon the specific Expedition selected by the participant. Please see our website to review the most up-to-date Terms and Conditions for each Expedition. A copy of the final Terms and Conditions applicable to each participant will be sent in preExpedition communications. COMPLETE TERMS: For the most complete and up-to-date Terms and Conditions, please see natgeoexpeditions.com/terms

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