2016-2017 National Geographic Adventures by National Geographic Expeditions

UNIQUE TRIPS FOR THE ACTIVE TRAVELER

2016—2017 CATALOG

Dear Traveler, Venturing to remote places has always been our specialty at National Geographic. Hiram Bingham trekked into the Andes and rediscovered Machu Picchu in 1911. Will Steiger crisscrossed the Arctic by dogsled, reaching the North Pole unassisted in 1986 and then setting his sights on Antarctica. The Society sent an expedition to Tibet at the dawn of the 20th century and shared some of the first published photos of Lhasa in the January 1905 issue of National Geographic. What any of our adventurers would tell you is that traveling by foot, or horse, or kayak, or even dogsled, gives you a rare and wonderful perspective on the world. Next year, we’ll take inspiration from National Geographic’s explorers as we set off on a new hiking adventure in Nepal and Tibet. With the mighty Annapurna range as our backdrop, we’ll trek from lodge to lodge through Nepal’s verdant foothills and valleys, visiting tiny mountain hamlets and taking in spectacular vistas at every turn. Then we fly to Lhasa, Tibet’s sacred capital, to explore historic Buddhist monasteries, mingle with monks and pilgrims, and hike the Tibetan Plateau along paths adorned with prayer flags. We’ll experience the region intimately, reflectively, walking through dramatic mountain landscapes and meeting the people who call them home. On a new adventure in Portugal, we’ll kayak through Douro wine country, climb to the palaces and castles of Sintra, and hike the coastal cliffs and deep beaches along the westernmost edge of Europe. A new trip in Costa Rica will have us exploring the pristine jungles of the Osa Peninsula and soaring on zip lines through the rain forest canopy around Arenal Volcano. Along the way, we’ll stay at eco-friendly retreats nestled within nature reserves—including Lapa Rios Eco Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World. Our new adventure in Peru focuses on the Andean villages and Inca ruins of the Sacred Valley and the lesser-known Lares Valley, and culminates with a day on the Inca Trail and a sunrise visit to Machu Picchu. In the pages that follow, you’ll find plenty of ways to get active and challenge yourself, or simply to experience and appreciate a place from the unique vantage of its footpaths or waterways. There is much to be explored—we hope you’ll join us!

EUROPE

Portugal Hiking Adventure NEW 12 Spain: Walking El Camino de Santiago 13 Vienna to Prague Adventure 14 Hiking Italy's Dolomites 15 Provence Hiking Adventure 16 Hiking Scotland’s Highlands and Islands 17 Ireland: Hiking the Emerald Isle 18 England Coast to Coast 19 Sweden: Dogsledding to the Icehotel 20 Tour du Mont Blanc 21 Tuscany and Cinque Terre Hiking Adventure 22 Greek Islands Adventure 23 Croatia Island Adventure 24 Hungary and the Slovenian Alps 25 Iceland Winter Adventure 26 Iceland Adventure 27 Hiking and Kayaking Norway's Fjords 51

NORTH AMERICA

Costa Rica: Volcanoes and Wildlife NEW 28 Costa Rica Multisport Adventure 29 Hiking the Grand Canyon 30 Hiking the National Parks 31 Belize: Reefs, Rain Forests, and Ruins 32 Salmon River Rafting Adventure 50 Alaska Sea Kayaking Adventure 51

Sincerely,

Lynn Cutter Executive Vice President National Geographic Travel

SOUTH AMERICA

AFRICA

Southern Africa Adventure Morocco Camel Trek and Hiking Adventure Tanzania: Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari Tanzania: Walking Safari with the Maasai Namibia Adventure

36 37 38 39 51

ASIA & THE PACIFIC

Nepal and Tibet: Great Himalayan Hikes NEW 40 Nepal: Everest Base Camp Trek 41 Japan Adventure: Tokyo to Sacred Kumano 42 Bhutan Sacred Valley Adventure 43 Borneo Wildlife Adventure 44 Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia Adventure 45 Thailand and Myanmar Adventure 46 Sri Lanka Adventure 47 Mongolian Horse Trek 48 New Zealand Adventure 49 China Adventure 50

MORE TRIPS

Private Departures 9 Photography Adventures 11 More Ways to Travel with Nat Geo 52

RESOURCES

Activity Levels 7 Terms and Conditions 53 Trip Calendar 54

Hiking Patagonia 33 Peru: Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu NEW 34 Peru: Machu Picchu Inn to Inn 35

Cover: A hiker marvels at the powerful cascades of Iceland's Seljalandsfoss.

When you travel with us, you make a difference. Your support is vital to National Geographic's mission of increasing global understanding through conservation, research, education, and exploration.

DISCOVER The National Geographic Difference

Traveling on a National Geographic Adventure means much more than checking off worldrenowned sites and sticking to the beaten path. On all of our trips, we delve into each destination and get to know it intimately, following in the spirit of the Society’s explorers and adventurers. We seek out experiences that are meaningful and authentic, that take you to spectacular and littleknown places, that give you the rush that comes with achieving a personal quest, and, in the end, that linger as rich and vivid memories.

Our Loyalty Program Once you’ve traveled on three National Geographic Adventures, Expeditions, or Journeys, you’ll qualify for enrollment in our Lifelong Explorer program. As a Lifelong Explorer, you’ll receive discounts on all future trips, invitations to join special trips not available to the public, and more! Learn more at natgeoadventures.com/lle.

National Geographic opens doors

One of the beauties of traveling with National Geographic is the access you enjoy to special sites, fascinating people, and private homes. Whenever possible, we arrange visits with experts in the field so you can meet the people whose discoveries you’ve read about in the pages of our magazine. You can expect authentic, immersive experiences.

AN OPPORTUNITY TO CHALLENGE YOURSELF

A key part of experiencing a place intimately is getting away from the crowds. We keep our group size to a maximum of 16 so that we can move with agility, assimilate easily into local communities, and enjoy every place we visit in depth.

We don’t call them adventures for nothing. You may find yourself trekking high above a mountain lake, deep into a rain forest, or past archaeological wonders. Maybe you’ll traverse legendary landscapes by camel or on horseback, or kayak the shores of a tropical island. Our adventures range from easy to ultimate challenge: you choose the level of physical activity that best matches your abilities and interests.

INSPIRED BY OUR EXPLORERS. GUIDED BY THE BESt.

Sustaining the world’s treasures

Explore in small numbers

When crafting our adventures, we seek inspiration from National Geographic’s intrepid explorers—bold, curious, and boundarypushing individuals who have ventured to the furthest corners of the planet to uncover its myriad wonders. Our partner in adventure is Mountain Travel Sobek, a pioneering travel company that has 4

brought travelers to some of the world’s most remote places for more than 40 years. Once you’re on the road, you’ll explore alongside some of the best guides in the business.

We are committed to sustaining the character and integrity of each place we visit—its environment, culture, heritage, and the wellbeing of its residents. Your participation helps support National Geographic’s projects that work to protect indigenous cultures and conserve native habitats and wildlife. 5

MEET SOME OF OUR EXCEPTIONAL GUIDES AND TRIP LEADERS

Our trip leaders are among the finest in the business, chosen for their love of exploration, their welcoming nature, and their deep knowledge of the flora, fauna, geology, and cultures you’ll encounter. Meet some of the dynamic leaders who might accompany your adventure. Rodrigo "Ro" Bahamondez Hiking Patagonia Ro Bahamondez has been guiding travelers through his homeland of Patagonia for two decades. From leading sea kayaking expeditions to heading up mountaineering and skiing trips through Tierra del Fuego, he has a deep knowledge of the diverse southern Patagonian landscape. Ro looks forward to taking adventurers on thrilling journeys through the wildest and most remote parts of Patagonia.

Florence Simond Tour du Mont Blanc A native of Chamonix, Flo is an avid skier and climber, and loves having the French Alps as her backyard. After traveling abroad to South America and Asia, she returned to her ancestral home, where the mountains now form an integral part of her life. She has led nearly 50 trips in the Alps, and is a member of the Compagnie des Guides. Flo looks forward to introducing travelers to the marvelous landscape she calls home.

Ian Lewis Peru: Machu Picchu Inn to Inn Raised in the foothills of the Peruvian Andes, Ian Lewis has been fascinated with the geography, ecology, and history of the region since childhood. After studying at a British school in Lima, he moved to the U.K. for several years to study and work. His love for South America eventually brought him back to Peru, where he pursued a career in the tourism industry. A professional guide for the past 20 years, Ian enjoys introducing travelers to the cultural and natural wonders of his home country.

Tam Bach Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia Adventure A native of Vietnam, Tam Bach has been guiding trips in Southeast Asia for two decades and has traveled extensively in Asia, Europe, and the United States. She studied economics at Foreign Trade University in Hanoi and later earned a master’s degree in international economics and development from Notre Dame de la Paix University in Belgium. A devout Buddhist, Tam has completed extensive Buddhist studies including translations of Buddhist works. She looks forward to sharing her knowledge of the cultures, traditions, and religions of Southeast Asia.

Choose Your

adventure

Our trips are rated by activity level—from easy to ultimate challenge—so you can choose the one that best suits you. All of our itineraries are well paced and filled with opportunities for you to push your limits, choose the harder trail, or go on the extra hike. And whenever you feel the need, you can opt for a shorter or easier route or take a break and relax at the hotel.

ACTIVITY levels Throughout this catalog, the activity level of each itinerary is noted by the system below. Several itineraries span two activity levels. EASY TO MODERATE trips have mostly EASY activities with MODERATE activities on some days. MODERATE TO STRENUOUS trips have mostly MODERATE activities with STRENUOUS activities on some days.

• 1–3 hours of activity per day • Hikes/walks less than 3 miles on mostly flat terrain at altitudes of up to 3,000 feet. • Itineraries with kayaking will have less than 2 miles of paddling per day.

“Tam is an amazing guide. She is endlessly patient and has loads of knowledge about the region and culture. I could not have had such a wonderful experience without her.”

• 5–8 hours of activity per day • Hikes up to 10–12 miles on mountainous, exposed terrain with steep ascents/descents and uneven trails at altitudes of up to 14,000 feet. • Itineraries with kayaking will have up to 10 miles of paddling per day. • Prior experience hiking at high elevation and a doctor’s release may be required.

• 3–6 hours of activity per day • Hikes up to 10 miles on rolling or mountainous terrain with some steep ascents/descents and uneven trails at altitudes of up to 8,000 feet. • Itineraries with kayaking will have 3–7 miles of paddling per day.

(Designed for very fit and experienced hikers.) • 10 or more hours of activity per day • Hiking 12 or more miles on remote, mountainous, exposed terrain with steep ascents/ descents, and uneven trails at altitudes often exceeding 14,000 feet. • Prior experience hiking at high elevation and a doctor’s release may be required.

– Morgan T., TRAVELER, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, 2015

Unique Accommodations

on Every Adventure

An integral part of each trip is where we rest up after the day’s activities. Our accommodations are chosen for their authenticity, location, comfort, and the way they reflect the local character, whether it’s a historic monastery along the Route of St. James in northern Spain, a stunning safari camp in Namibia run by the local community, or an otherworldly hotel carved out of snow and ice in Sweden. We stay in charming Andean casitas in the rain forests beneath Machu Picchu, an exquisite hotel in Bhutan where you might glimpse Tiger’s Nest monastery while practicing yoga in the Meditation House, and bungalows nestled in a 1,000-acre nature reserve overlooking Costa Rica’s coastline. These properties are part of National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World, a collection of world-class hotels that offer one-of-a-kind experiences while remaining committed to sustainable tourism. For more information about the Unique Lodges collection, visit natgeolodges.com.

Zhiwa Ling Hotel, Bhutan

Private Departures: An adventure all your own

Private departures are a great way to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a memorable adventure with your spouse, your family, or your friends. It’s easy to do: simply select a National Geographic Adventure in this catalog and tell us when you’d like to go. We’ll take care of the rest. Private departures are possible for most of our adventures. In some cases, we can also tailor the itinerary to suit your interests, whether that means a few extra days on safari, a different hiking trail, or an additional stop on our route. Call our Adventure Specialists at 1-888-689-2557 to plan your private departure.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Peru

Lapa Rios Eco Lodge, Costa Rica

Photography

Adventures

Transform your National Geographic Adventure into a traveling photography adventure, honing your techniques as you explore stunning places alongside some of the best photographers in the world. You’ll learn tips and techniques from veteran National Geographic photographers who are passionate about travel and their trade. These trips are designed for photographers of all skill and experience levels. Photography adventures follow the itineraries found elsewhere in this catalog or on our website, with adjustments to the schedule to maximize photographic opportunities.

CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-689-2557

Scotland photo adventure

Tuscany photo adventure

BHUTAN photo adventure

SEPT. 10–17, 2016 (8 days)

SEPT. 27–OCT. 5, 2016 (9 days)

NOV. 21–DEC. 4, 2016 (14 days)

Cost: $5,995

Cost: $6,795

Cost: $7,195

Scotland’s western edge is a picturesque upheaval of geology, where rocky crags jut out of sweeping valleys and islands loom in the sea’s mist. Encounter the untamed Highlands and the Inner Hebrides islands through your camera lens. With guidance from Macduff Everton, photograph glittering lakes and waterfalls, fantastic geologic formations, and ancient sites. Hike to abbeys and castles for photo shoots, document lively street life in Edinburgh, and hike among the Cuillin mountain range to capture its jagged peaks. Macduff is a contributing editor at National Geographic Traveler, where he has photographed more than 20 stories covering places from Paris to Beijing to Big Sur.

Take to the hills of Tuscany and Cinque Terre and capture stunning scenes of the countryside, villages, and everyday life in two of Italy’s most beautiful regions. With guidance from Jay Dickman, photograph the exquisite details of medieval and Renaissance architecture in hilltop towns like Siena and San Gimignano, and frame olive groves as we hike through Chianti. Then head to the seaside slopes of Cinque Terre to photograph stunning views of terraced vineyards and orchards stacked high above the colorful hamlets that cling to the Mediterranean shores. A Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer, Jay has worked in photojournalism for more than 30 years and has completed over 25 assignments for National Geographic.

With age-old temples perched on cliffs and hilltops, villages nestled in lush valleys, and a backdrop of Himalayan peaks, Bhutan is effortlessly photogenic. Exploring this country on foot affords endless photographic opportunities. Alongside Chris Rainier, take portraits of herders you meet in the meadows, document daily life at a family farm, or frame a temple-studded vista from a high mountain pass. From historic dzongs to sacred peaks to the exquisite landscapes of Bumthang, capture the beauty of Bhutan from its winding trails. A contributing editor for National Geographic Traveler, Chris is co-director of the Society's Enduring Voices Project, which documents endangered languages and cultures.

See page 17 for the itinerary.

See page 22 for the itinerary.

See page 43 for the itinerary.

Activity Level: Moderate

Activity Level: Easy to Moderate

Activity Level: Moderate to Strenuous

south africa photo adventure

DOLOMITES photo adventure

sri lanka photo adventure

JULY 20–31, 2016 (12 days)

SEPT. 16–25, 2016 (10 days)

OCT. 17–28, 2016 (12 days)

Cost: $7,795

Cost: $7,695

Southern Africa’s combination of dramatic landscapes, vibrant cultures, and legendary wildlife make it an inspiring photography destination. Join Jeff Mauritzen in Cape Town, framing stunning coastal scenery in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and atop Table Mountain. In KwaZulu-Natal, capture life at a Zulu homestead and on the streets of Durban’s oldest township. Search for the “big five” on game drives in wildlife reserves, hike among the Drakensberg peaks, and document the rugged alpine beauty and Bathoso culture of Lesotho. A naturalist and photography instructor, Jeff’s images have appeared on National Geographic’s website and in numerous publications and books.

The Dolomite mountain range offers a wealth of photographic inspiration—from jagged, skyscraping peaks and snow-flecked spires to wildflowerstrewn meadows. Hit the trails with Dan Westergren and capture the arresting scenery of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Zoom in on colorful blooms while hiking up to high mountain passes, frame electric-blue sky between colossal rock walls, and discover the area's dramatic wartime history and Austrianinfused culture and cuisine. Dan served as senior photo editor for National Geographic Traveler, and has led many photography trips for National Geographic.

See page 36 for the itinerary.

See page 15 for the itinerary.

Activity Level: Easy to Moderate

Activity Level: Moderate

n at i o n a lg e o g r a p h i c a d v e n t u r e s . co m

Cost: $6,995

Fill your camera lens with emerald-green tea plantations and golden beaches, Buddhist temples and wildlife-rich jungles as we journey with Jay Dickman from Sri Lanka’s northern plains to ancient Galle on the southern coast. Photograph the stunning rockfortress of Sigiryia and the cave monastery of Dambulla. Capture daily life in picturesque villages, go behind the scenes at a tea plantation, and shoot portraits of pilgrims in the holy town of Kataragama. Explore four national parks along the way, encountering elephants, leopards, monkeys, sloth bears, and more. A Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer, Jay has worked in photojournalism for more than 30 years and has completed over 25 assignments for National Geographic. See page 47 for the itinerary. Activity Level: Easy to Moderate

EUROPE

Spain: Walking El Camino de Santiago

Tua

Portugal Hiking Adventure

Pinhão

Oporto o D o ur

Peso da Régua

Pedrouzo

O Cebreiro

Atlantic Ocean

Santiago de Compostela

León

Bercianos Sahagún del Camino

SPAIN

SPAIN PORTUGAL

Pena Park Cabo da Roca Praia do Guincho

8° W

Carriòn de los Condes

MILES

Santo Domingo de la Calzads Burgos

Fromista Atapuerca

Pamplona Logroño Navarrete

Monasteries of San Millan de la Cogolia

Motor route Hiking route

Motor route Train route

Lisbon

El Crucero de Santo Toribio

Astorga

42° 37' N

40° N

Bay of Biscay

5° 33' W

MILES

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Itinerary at-a-Glance I t i n e r a ry | 8 days DAYs 1–3 Porto/Douro Valley

Arrive in Porto and take a walking tour of the city’s historic old town. Stroll the picturesque riverfront and linger in the Praça da Ribeira plaza before a festive welcome dinner. Travel by train to Pinhão, a town nestled amid the terraced vineyards of the stunning Douro Valley. Set out to explore these rolling landscapes on foot, hiking along the banks of the serpentine Douro River, then traversing paths that wind through hillside vines. The next day, kayak the river, paddling past charming port wine vineyards and breaking to relax at secluded beaches accessible only by boat. Enjoy a final hike through the region’s vineyards, capped off by a wine tasting. (Day 2: 5 miles hiking, 4 hours; Day 3: 7–8 miles paddling, 4 hours; 3–4 miles hiking, 3 hours) Crowne Plaza Porto, Quinta do Portal (Day 1: L,D; Days 2–3: B,L,D)

DAYs 4–5 Porto/Lisbon

Return to Porto, stopping en route to tour the Museu do Douro and the Casa de Mateus, an ornate baroque manor house. Then delve deeper into the enchanting lanes of Porto’s old town, discovering the neighborhoods south of the river and visiting a port wine cellar to sample the

city’s most famous export. The next day, travel to Lisbon, Portugal’s colorful capital. Climb the steep cobblestone streets of the traditional Alfama neighborhood, explore multicultural Mouraria, and visit the São Jorge Castle— the Moorish stronghold that presides over the city. (Day 5: 4–5 miles hiking, 4–5 hours) Crowne Plaza Porto, Tivoli Liberdade Lisbon (B,L,D daily)

DAYs 6–8 Cabo da Roca/Sintra/Lisbon

Travel from Lisbon to Guincho Beach, the starting point for our coastal hike to Cabo da Roca—the westernmost point of continental Europe. From the sandy shores, climb up to the Abano Fortress and then follow the edge of oceanfront cliffs that lead to the Cabo da Roca lighthouse. The next day, hike through Sintra, beginning in the old town and visiting landmarks that include Santa Maria Church, the former home of Hans Christian Andersen, and the hilltop ramparts of the Castle of the Moors. Then hike up to Sintra’s crown jewel, the Palacio da Pena. Designed by King Fernando II, this 19th-century Romanticist castle is a patchwork of turrets and domes perched above luxuriant gardens. Explore the park paths and tour the opulent palace interiors before returning to Lisbon to depart the following day. (Day 6: 5 miles hiking, 5–6 hours; Day 7: 4–5 miles hiking, 5–6 hours) Tivoli Liberdade Sintra, Tivoli Liberdade Lisbon (Days 6–7: B,L,D; Day 8: B)

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TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore three UNESCO World Heritage sites on foot: historic Porto, the Douro wine region, and the former royal resort town of Sintra.

• Trace the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway (and many a bull) through Pamplona, and explore the spectacular old town of Santiago de Compostela.

• Hike along coastal beaches and cliffs to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of continental Europe.

•V enture into the cathedral of Burgos and the monasteries of San Millan de la Cogolla, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

• Kayak the Douro River, breaking to relax on secluded beaches only accessible by boat.

•E ncounter ancient Roman sites, mountain villages, and the architecture of Antoni Gaudí.

• Discover the cobblestone lanes and colorful neighborhoods of Lisbon, and venture into its Moorish castle.

• Stay in historic monasteries and paradors built centuries ago.

information DATES:

2016: APR. 29–May 6 • JUNE 4–11 • JULY 16–23 • Aug. 6–13 • SEPT. 24–OCT. 1

$4,895

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $600. International airfare to Porto and return from Lisbon is not included in the cost. Activity level: easy to moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: We will hike 3 to 6 hours per day (3 to 5 miles) mostly on level trails but with some steeper grades at times. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points along the way, and participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. There is 1 day of optional kayaking, maximum 4 hours. We will stay 7 nights in ideally located and comfortable hotels that reflect the local character.

Above: Travelers take in views of the Atlantic as they hike along the Cabo Da Roca coastline.

Itinerary at-a-Glance I t i n e r a ry | 10 days DAYs 1–3 Pamplona, Spain/Logroño/Burgos

Arrive in Pamplona and transfer to our hotel, once a haunt of Ernest Hemingway. Walk through the old city and the streets made famous by the running of the bulls. The next day, descend into the wine region of La Rioja. In Logroño, we get the first stamp in our credencial and begin our journey along El Camino, walking through the vineyards to the village of Navarrete. Visit the monasteries of San Millan de la Cogolla, considered the birthplace of the Spanish language. Hike from Atapuerca into the ninth-century heart of Burgos, and take a guided tour. (Day 2: 8 miles hiking, 4 hours; Day 3: 12–13 miles hiking, 5–6 hours) Gran Hotel La Perla, Parador Nacional de Santo Domingo de la Calzada, Hotel NH Palacio de la Merced (Day 1: D; Days 2–3: B,L,D)

DAYs 4–6 Carriõn de los Condes/León/ Villafranca del Bierzo

Ramble across rolling fields to Carriõn de los Condes and spend the night in a monastery. After a morning hike to Bercianos del Camino, explore León’s historic sites and stay in its spectacular parador. Follow country roads and take in the view from El Crucero de Santo Toribio,

information

a stone cross that has marked our trail for centuries. Encounter the diverse architecture of Astorga, from Romanesque and Gothic churches to a palace designed by Antoni Gaudí. Continue west to Villafranca del Bierzo for the night. (Day 4: 11 miles hiking, 5 hours; Day 5: 5–6 miles hiking, 3 hours; Day 6: 11 miles hiking, 5 hours)

DATES:

2016: MAY 2–11 • JunE 6–15 • SepT. 1–10 • SepT. 19–28 • OCT. 17–26

$5,995

Hotel Real Monasterio San Zoilo, Parador Nacional de San Marcos, Parador Nacional, Villafranca del Bierzo (Day 4: B,L,D Day 5: B,L; Day 6: B,L,D)

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,400. International airfare to Pamplona and return from Santiago de Compostela is not included in the cost.

DAYs 7–10 O Cebreiro/Monforte de Lemos/ Santiago de Compostela

Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–16

Hike into the northwestern region of Galicia, known for its Celtic history and rolling hills. Follow forest paths to the hilltop hamlet of O Cebreiro, home to the oldest intact church on El Camino. After a night in Monforte de Lemos, set off on the final leg of our hike, walking from O Pedrouzo to the steps of the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela. The next day, journey to Cabo Fisterra, a continuation of El Camino for many pilgrims. Enjoy free time or a guided tour of historic Santiago before our farewell dinner. (Day 7: 7–8 miles hiking, 3 hours; Day 8: 12 miles hiking, 6 hours) Parador Nacional de Monforte de Lemos; Parador Nacional de los Reyes Catolicos, Santiago de Compostela (Days 7–9: B,L,D; Day 10: B)

TRIP details: We will hike 3 to 6 hours per day (5 to 13 miles) mostly on moderate to steep grades at low elevations. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points along the way, and participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. We will stay 6 nights in ideally located paradors and 3 nights in comfortable hotels that reflect the local character.

Above: The image of the scallop shell guides pilgrims along the route.

nationalgeographicaDventures.com

EUROPE

Vienna to Prague Adventure

Prague

Hiking Italy's Dolomites

15° 25'E

AUSTRIA 11° 52'E

CZECH REPUBLIC (CZECHIA)

Tábor Jindrˇichu˚v Telcˇ Hradec

49° 25' N

Treˇ bonˇ

Slavonice ˇížov C

Holašovice Kojákovice Vranov ˇeský C nad Dyjí Krumlov

Zlatá Koruna

AUSTRIA

ITALY

Dolní Veˇstonice Pálava Lednice

46° 32' N

Bozen

Valtice

To Venice

• Hike amid glorious landscapes of pillars, pinnacles, and rock walls in Italy’s Dolomite mountain range, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• S ample Moravia’s renowned wines and discover

• Encounter remnants of World War I, trekking along supply paths past abandoned bunkers and barracks.

• Stroll amid ponds and pine forests in southern

• Discover the little-known culture of the Ladin people, exploring their once-isolated villages and dining in a local farmhouse.

• Encounter an array of UNESCO World Heritage

• Take a behind-the-scenes tour of the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, home to Ötzi the iceman, a natural human mummy.

sites, from Renaissance Telč to fairytale-like Český Krumlov.

Penzion Prinz Valtice or Hotel Besední Dům, Hotel Galant (Day 1: L,D; Days 2–3 B,L,D)

DAYs 4 AND 5 ČÍŽOV/VRANOV/TELČ/ SLAVONICE/JINDŘICHŮV HRADEC

Our next adventure begins in the hamlet of Čížov in Podyjí National Park. Hike down to the Dyje River and cross into the Austrian village of Hardegg, and sample local strudel. Hike back up and tour the cliff-top castle at Vranov nad Dyjí

before driving to Telč. Explore Telč’s historic center, a World Heritage site, and continue south to Slavonice, viewing the sgraffito etched into the town’s Renaissance facades. Hike into the countryside, encountering remnants of World War II fortifications on our way to Landštejn Castle. (Day 4: 6 miles hiking, 3–4 hours; Day 5: 7 miles hiking, 3–4 hours)

information

Hotel Celerin, Hotel Concertino (B,L,D daily)

Cost:

Hotel Bellevue, Hotel Constans (Days 6–8: B,L,D; Day 9: B,L)

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From Venice

• Hike the limestone hills of Pálava, part of a

Bohemia.

Explore Jindřichův Hradec’s lakeside chateau and medieval Třeboň, surrounded by a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of canals and fishponds. Visit the neo-Gothic tomb chapel of the Schwarzenberg family, then hike through the Bohemian landscape to Kojákovice. In Český Krumlov, explore the town’s massive castle, which houses a baroque theater and lavish palaces and courts. Transfer to Zlatá Koruna and hike to the highest peak in the Blanský Forest Nature Reserve. Alternatively, ride a cable car to the summit and hike back down. Visit the village of Holašovice or medieval Tábor (time permitting) on the drive to Prague for our farewell dinner. The following morning, explore Prague’s Old Town and hilltop castle complex before transferring to the airport. (Day 6: 9 miles hiking, 4 hours; Day 7: 10 miles hiking, 4–5 hours)

MILES

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

its enchanting villages, estates, and castles on foot.

DAYs 6–9 JINDŘICHŮV HRADEC/TŘEBOŇ/ ČESKÝ KRUMLOV/PRAGUE

Cortina d’Ampezzo

Motor route 0

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and explore the richly designed landscapes of the Lednice-Valtice area.

Arrive in Vienna and drive into southern Moravia, Czech Republic. Venture into the UNESCO-listed Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape, developed by the princes of Liechtenstein beginning in the 17th century. Explore the baroque-style Château Valtice, then enjoy a wine tasting and a warm-up hike. Next, set out on foot from Valtice to Lednice. Tour Château Lednice before transferring to picturesque Mikulov. In the hills of Pálava, discover the archaeological riches of Dolní Věstonice and the winemaking village of Pavlov, and hike along the sunny slopes. (Day 1: 4 miles hiking, 2 hours; Day 2: 8 miles hiking, 4 hours; Day 3: 8 miles hiking, 4 hours)

Piz Sorega (6,570 ft)

Marmolada Piz Boè (10,968 ft) (10,341 ft)

Vienna 50

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

DAYs 1–3 VIENNA, AUSTRIA/VALTICE, CZECH REPUBLIC/MIKULOV/PÁLAVA HILLS

San Cassiano

Passo Pordoi

Weischnhofen

Hardegg

MILES

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 9 days

Rifugio Bioch Corvara

Mikulov

Motor route 0

Fanes-Senes-Braies Natural Park Rifugio Malga Rifugio Ra Stua Fodara Vedla Rifugio Tre Auronzo Cime di Lavaredo Rifugio Fanes

San Leonardo

DATES:

2016: MAY 7–15 • junE 4–12 • JUlY 9–17 • aug. 6–14 • sepT. 3–11 • oct. 8–16

$4,295

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $700. International airfare to Vienna and return from Prague is not included in the cost. Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: We will be walking 2 to 5 hours per day (4 to 10 miles) on moderate to steep grades at low elevations. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points along the way, and participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. We will be staying 8 nights in comfortable hotels chosen for their charm and access to our daily activities. All lodgings are the best available options in the areas we visit.

Above: Crowned with red roofs, Český Krumlov is one of the world’s best-preserved medieval cities.

Itinerary at-a-Glance I t i n e r a ry | 10 days DAYs 1–3 Venice, Italy/Alpe di Sennes Circuit/Tre Cime di Lavaredo

Arrive in Venice and travel north to Cortina d’Ampezzo. Take to the slopes on our first hike, the western portion of the Alpe di Sennes Circuit, which passes through two nature parks and beneath the Croda Rossa mountains. Set out from Rifugio Malga Ra Stua (5,472') through a varied landscape, reaching an altitude of 6,942 feet. After lunch, we return to our starting point via a World War I mule track. Our next trail begins at remote Rifugio Auronzo (7,650'), winding uphill to Rifugio Pian di Cengia (8,200'). Trek to the foot of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and enjoy lunch and a hike beneath these natural fortifications. (Day 2: 7 miles hiking, 5 hours; Day 3: 8 miles hiking, 6 hours) Hotel Franceschi Cortina (Day 1: D; Days 2-3: B,L,D)

DAYs 4 AND 5 Altopiano di Fanes/Corvara/ Sanctuary of Santa Croce

Hike the landscapes of the Altopiano di Fanes within view of Marmolada, the highest peak in the Dolomites. Transfer to San Cassiano and ride the chairlift up to Piz Sorega (6,570'), following a ridgeline trail to the Rifugio Bioch. Descend to

information

Corvara (5,120'), where the Ladin people still celebrate their ancient culture. The next day, hike past picturesque farmhouse hamlets and ascend to the 15th-century Sanctuary of Santa Croce (6,710'). Enjoy a lunch of Ladin specialties at a nearby farmhouse, then trek down to San Leonardo. (Day 4: 9-11 miles hiking, 5-7 hours; Day 5: 7 miles hiking, 5-6 hours)

DATES:

2016: JUNe 20–29 • JuLy 9–18 • JULy 20–29 • AUG. 30–SEPt. 8 • SEPt. 16–25

$6,395

Posta Zirm Hotel (B,L,D daily)

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $600. International airfare to/from Venice is not included in the cost.

DAYs 6–10 Sella Massif/Rosengarten/ Seiser Alm/Bozen/Venice

Traverse the south face of the Sella Massif from Passo Pordoi (7,345') and up to Forcella Pordoi. Ride the gondola back down after lunch and transfer to Welschnhofen. The next day, catch a gondola to the Paolina Hut (6,972') in the heart of the Rosengarten mountains, named for the rose-colored hues that emanate from their peaks at sunset. Make the circuit around the massive walls of Rotwand and stroll through the Seiser Alm, a high-alpine plateau. In Bozen, enjoy a tour of the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, home to Ötzi the iceman—a 5,000-year-old natural human mummy discovered in the nearby Ötztal Alps. Return to Venice, where we enjoy a walking tour and a final farewell dinner. (Day 6: 7-9 miles hiking, 5-6 hours; Day 7: 4-5 miles hiking, 3 hours; Day 8: 2 miles hiking, 1 hour) Hotel Engel, Hotel Bonvecchiati (Days 6-9: B,L,D; Day 10: B)

Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–15 TRIP details: We will be hiking 5 to 8 hours per day (7 to 11 miles), on moderate to steep grades at elevations ranging from 4,240 feet to a maximum of 10,341 feet. We will stay 9 nights in comfortable hotels chosen for their charm and access to our daily activities This departure is a photo adventure. See page 11 for details and pricing.

Above: Quaint villages abound throughout the countryside in the Dolomites.

nationalgeographicaDventures.com

EUROPE De nt ell es de Mo ntm ira il

Provence Hiking Adventure

Vaison-La-Romaine Séguret Sablet Gigondas

Mont Ventoux (6,263 ft)

Hiking Scotland’s Highlands and Islands

ISLE OF SKYE Cuillin Hills

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Pont d’Avignon

Abbey of Senanque

Avignon Rhô

5° 4' E

Loch ISLE OF KERRERA Linnhe

44° 14' N Gordes Roussillon

ISLE OF MULL

Bonnieux e Rang

Buoux Fort

Motor route Boat route

Motor route Hiking route 0

Cloître Saint-Louis, Hostellerie Le Beffroi (Day 1: D; Days 2-3: B,L,D)

DAYs 4–6 LUBÉRON/GORDES/BONNIEUX/ LACOSTE/ROUSSILLON/ST.-RÉMY-DE-PROVENCE

Artists and writers have long flocked to the Lubéron, a string of mountains dotted with age-old villages, castles, and ancient beehive huts called bories. Hike toward the 12th-century abbey Notre-Dame de Sénanque, then continue to the hilltop village of Gordes. Cross the

Le Mas de Guilles, Hotel Gounod (B,L,D daily)

DAYs 7–9 ALPILLES/LES-BAUX-DE-PROVENCE/ AVIGNON

Set out on the Van Gogh trail, examining reproductions of his works as you walk through the very landscapes they depict. Explore Saint-Rémy, home to the Roman ruins of Glanum. Embark on a hike to Les-Baux-de-Provence, a medieval hamlet in the Alpilles. Discover the ruins of the town’s citadel and see a collection of medieval war machines. Return to Avignon for a farewell dinner. Depart the next day. (Day 7: 5 miles walking, 3 hours; Day 8: 5–6 miles walking, 3 hours) Hotel Gounod, Cloître Saint-Louis (Days 7-8: B,L,D; Day 9: B)

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Edinburgh

5° 10' W

Belmopan

• Approach some of France’s most beautiful villages on foot, enjoying time to explore.

• Explore two islands, two national parks, and Edinburgh on a variety of hikes and walks.

• Hike the Van Gogh trail around St.-Rémy-deProvence, walking through landscapes the artist rendered in paint.

•H ike beneath Ben Nevis with a conservationist and historian from the John Muir Trust. •V enture into ancient castles, and discover Highland culture in remote villages. • Encounter fascinating geology, such as the rock pinnacles of the Isle of Skye.

• Sample world-renowned wines in Chateauneufdu-Pape and Gigondas, and sit down to a farm-totable meal at a local herb farm.

Meet in Avignon and transfer to our hotel. Delve into this enchanting town and walk below the legendary Pont d’Avignon. Travel north to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, hiking up to the castle and into the vineyards that surround the village. Stop for a picnic and sample local vintages. Next, explore Vaison-la-Romaine, a gem of Roman and medieval art and architecture. Head south to hike along the jagged ridge of the Dentelles de Montmirail to the town of Gigondas. Enjoy a wine tasting, visit the 11th-century church and Romanesque chapel, and walk to the village of Sablet. (Day 2: 6 miles walking, 3–4 hours; Day 3: 6 miles walking, 3 hours)

Ben A’an Loch Lomond & (1,488 ft) The Trossachs National Park Lock Katrine

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Meander through an abandoned ochre quarry near Roussillon, where the red glow of the rock creates an otherworldly atmosphere.

DAYs 1–3 AVIGNON, FRANCE/CHÂTEAUNEUFDU-PAPE/DENTELLES DE MONTMIRAIL

MILES

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Lourmarin valley to Bonnieux, which ascends the hillside to its 12th-century Romanesque church. From Lacoste, hike through the Calavon valley to Bonnieux, passing through cherry orchards and lavender fields. Visit a farm where herbes de Provence are grown and enjoy a private farmto-table meal. Follow the trail of the Aiguebrun River into the heart of the Lubéron. Climb up to the 3,000-year-old Buoux Fort. Then transfer to Roussillon, where local houses are painted with ochre sands. Stroll through an abandoned ochre quarry and travel west to St.-Rémy-de-Provence. (Day 4: 6 miles walking, 3–4 hours; Day 5: 5 miles walking, 3 hours; Day 6: 4 miles walking, 3 hours)

56° 82' N

Pitlochry

Ben Nevis (4,409 ft)

Oban JURA

MILES

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 9 days

Cairngorms National Park

Loch Coruisk

Luberon

Les Baux-de-Provence

SC OT L A N D

Fort William

Lacoste

Saint-Rémy

Quiraing Eilean Donan Castle Skye

information dates:

2016: may 8–16 • may 29–junE 6 • junE 12–20 • aug. 28–sepT. 5 • sepT. 11–19 • sepT. 25– oct. 3 • oct. 9–17 Cost:

$5,095

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $900. International airfare to/from Paris, and train to/from Avignon, are not included in the cost. Activity level: EASY TO Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: We will hike 3 to 4 hours per day (4 to 6 miles) on good trails. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points along the way, and participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. We will stay in ideally located inns and hotels that reflect the local character.

Above: The beautiful 12th-century abbey, Notre Dame de Sénanque.

information Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 8 days DAYs 1 AND 2 EDINBURGH, scotland/ THE TROSSACHS

Arrive in Edinburgh and discover the city’s historic Old Town—a UNESCO World Heritage site. Step back in time as we walk along the Royal Mile and wind our way down from Edinburgh Castle past sharp church spires and cobbled alleyways. Start the day with a warm-up hike in Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park—Scotland’s first national park. From the banks of Loch Lamond, our trail descends into the village of Arrochar, where we pause to take in incredible views of a mountain known as The Cobbler. Continue to the West Highlands and settle in to our hotel, then relax and enjoy the wonderful sea views or take a walk in the garden. (Day 2: 5 miles hiking, 3 hours) Bruntsfield Hotel, Loch Melfort Hotel (Day 1: D; Day 2: B,L,D)

DAYs 3–5 THE HIGHLANDS

From our base in Oban, travel to the isle of Kerrera and set off on an intriguing hike through history. Pass Horseshoe Bay, where King Alexander II of Scotland died in 1249, and explore the Gylen Castle, perched dramatically on a cliff’s edge. Take a private catamaran cruise on Loch Craignish and along the coast of Jura in search of minke

DATES:

whales, dolphins, and seals, and to witness the swirling surf of the Corryvreckan Whirlpool. Walk through Kilmartin Glen and stop at the ruins of Dun Add, an Iron Age fort considered by some to be the birthplace of Scotland. Head north, passing the western end of Glen Coe, scene of the historic massacre of the MacDonald clan in 1692. In Fort William, join a conservationist and John Muir historian for a guided hike. (Day 3: 6–7 miles hiking, 4–5 hours; Day 4: 5 miles hiking, 2–3 hours, Day 5: 3–4 miles hiking, 3 hours)

2016: MAY 14–21 • MAY 28–JUNE 4 • JUNE 4–11 • JUNE 11–18 • JUNE 18–25 • JULY 2–9 • JULY 9–16 • JULY 16–23 • JULY 30–AUG. 6 • AUG. 6–13 • AUG. 13–20 • AUG. 20–27 • SEPT. 10–17

$4,995

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $900. International airfare to/from Edinburgh is not included in the cost.

Loch Melfort Hotel, Bosville Hotel (B,L,D daily)

Activity level: Moderate

DAYs 6–8 ISLE OF SKYE, INNER HEBRIDES

Group Size: 8–14

Travel by boat to the otherwise inaccessible Loch Coruisk and hike among the surrounding Cullin Mountains. Explore the spectacular landscapes of northern Skye, where grassy slopes drop off in sheer cliffs and fascinating rock formations spike and curl. Then visit the spectacular Eilean Donan Castle. Enjoy some free time to explore Pitlochry, or take a hike in the woodlands around Blair Castle and Gardens before returning to Edinburgh for your flight home. (Day 6: 6–7 miles hiking, 4–5 hours; Day 7: 7 miles hiking, 6 hours; Day 8: 4 miles hiking, 3 hours) Bosville Hotel, Fonab Hotel (Days 6-7: B,L,D; Day 8: B,L)

TRIP details: We will be hiking 3 to 5 hours per day (2 to 7 miles) on moderate to steep grades at low elevations. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points while in the highlands, but will be limited while on the islands. Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. We will stay in ideally located hotels that reflect the local character. This departure is a photo adventure. See page 11 for details and pricing. Above: A hiker looks out over The Old Man of Storr on the Isle of Skye.

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EUROPE

Ireland: Hiking the Emerald Isle

Galway

IRELAND Glenmalure

Wic klow

Shannon Rock of Cashel Dingle

Moun tains

ARAN ISLANDS

Dublin

England Coast to Coast

Hiking route Motor route 0

Mullacor (2,156 ft) Avoca 52° 37' N

• S et out on one of the ten best long-distance hikes in the world, covering 137 miles of the famous Coast to Coast trail. •S tep back into England’s fascinating history as you explore sites from prehistory to the Roman era to the Tudors and beyond. •V isit the home of poet William Wordsworth in the enchanting Lakeland village of Grasmere.

•G o cycling on Inishmore, and get acquainted with the rich Irish traditions of the Gaeltacht.

Arrive at our hotel in central Dublin and enjoy a free day to explore the city. The next day, visit the elaborate gardens of Powerscourt House, a country estate dating back to 1300. Then hike through lush pine forests as we journey along the beautiful Wicklow Way to Glendalough, a 6thcentury monastic site. In the Vale of Avoca, site of Wicklow’s gold rush, visit the Avoca Handweavers mill. (Day 2: 10 miles hiking, 5 hours; Day 3: 9 miles hiking, 5 hours) Roxford Lodge, Glendalough Hotel (Day 1: D; Days 2-3: B,L,D)

DAYs 4–6 Killarney/Gap of Dunloe/ Ring of Kerry

Travel to the Rock of Cashel, an exquisite example of Ireland's medieval architecture. On the outskirts of Killarney, stroll the gardens of the 19th-century Muckross House. Bike or hike in the Gap of Dunloe, the narrow valley that splits the Purple Mountain Range from Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, and see Ross Castle, site of strong resistance to Oliver Cromwell’s Roundheads during the Irish Confederate Wars. Around the idyllic Ring of Kerry, watch a sheepdog demonstration and

Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa, Dingle Benners Hotel (Day 4: B,L,D; Day 5: B,L; Day 6: B,L,D)

DAYs 7–10 Dingle/The Burren/Aran Islands

Hike along the Dingle Way, tracing the rocky coastline of the Dingle Peninsula. Along the way, see the Gallarus Oratory and ancient beehive huts perched on the windswept green hills. Visit the enigmatic Ballintaggart Ogham Stones, then travel to the dramatic limestone karst landscape of the Burren, where we’ll meet a local farmer to learn about this otherworldly landscape and the traditions of its people. Ferry to the Aran Islands, part of the Gaeltacht, where Gaelic is still the lingua franca. On Inishmore, hike up to Dun Aengus, a mysterious ring fort perched on the edge of a cliff. Explore the island by bicycle before enjoying a farewell dinner in festive Galway. (Day 7: 11 miles hiking, 6 hours; Day 8: 3 miles hiking, 2 hours; Day 9: 2 miles hiking, 1 hour) Dingle Benners Hotel, Park House Hotel (Day 7: B,L,D; Day 8: B,L; Day 9: B,L,D; Day 10: B)

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DATES:

$5,195

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $500. International airfare to Dublin and return from Shannon is not included in the cost. Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: We will be hiking 1 to 6 hours per day (2 to 11 miles) on moderate to steep grades and at elevations ranging from 280 to a maximum of 3,415 feet, in variable weather. Most days will have options for more, or less, hiking. All optional biking excursions are on local roads and are suitable for beginners. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points along the way, and participants always have the option to rest a day. We will stay in hotels that combine comfort, ideal locations, and local charm.

Above: A walker admires the view of the beautiful Irish countryside.

York

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Take to the trails of the spectacular Ring of Kerry, passing ancient forts and monasteries.

2016: MAY 16–25 • may 30–JUNE 8 • JUNE 13–22 • JUNE 27–JULY 6 • JULY 11–20 • AUG. 8–17 • AUG. 22–31 • SEPT. 5–14

Grosmont

2° W

• Hike a portion of the Dingle Way, encountering the beehive huts and cliff-lined coast of the Dingle Peninsula.

information

Reeth

Irish S e a

MILES

• Approach the enchanting valley of Glendalough from above, descending along the beautiful Wicklow Way.

DAYs 1–3 Dublin/Powerscourt/ Glendalough

Rosthwaite

Richmond

ENGL AND

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

visit monasteries and Iron Age forts. Or climb to the summit of Carrauntoohill, Ireland’s highest peak, for incredible views of the Irish countryside. Transfer to the Dingle Peninsula. (Day 4: 3 miles hiking, 2 hours; Day 5: 7 miles hiking or 30+ miles biking, 3 hours; Day 6: 10-12 miles hiking, 6 hours; or 11 miles, 8 hours for the Carrauntoohill climb)

54° 40' N

Shap

Motor route Hiking route Boat route 0

Robin Hood’s Bay

Penrith

St. Bees

8° 11' W

Nor th S e a

Glendalough

Killarney

Gap of Dunloe Killarney National Park Carrauntoohil Ring of (3,415 ft) Kerry

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 10 days

MILES

•S tay in picturesque inns that exemplify the character and charm of the region.

DAYs 1–4 PENRITH, ENGLAND/ST. BEES/ ENNERDALE BRIDGE/HONISTER/GRASMERE/ GLENRIDDING

dates:

2016: may 8–20 • May 22–JunE 3 • JUnE 5–17 • JUnE 19–julY 1 • julY 3–15 • julY 17–29 • julY 31–aug. 12 • aug. 14–26 • aug. 28–sepT. 9 • sepT. 4–16 • sepT. 11–23

The Black Swan (B,L,D daily)

Travel on your own to the Penrith train station, and meet your guide for the transfer to Cleator. Our journey kicks off with a Coast to Coast tradition: dipping a toe in the Irish Sea. Set off along the sandstone cliffs of St. Bee’s Head on our way to Ennerdale Bridge. In Lake District National Park, trace the edge of Ennerdale Water. Near the Black Sail Hut, climb a 2,000-foot pass before continuing to Borrowdale. Visit the home of William Wordsworth and hike over Grisedale Hause (1,936'). (Day 2: 14 miles hiking, 8 hours; Day 3: 10 miles hiking, 7–8 hours; Day 4: 9 miles hiking, 5 hours) Ennerdale Country House Hotel, Inn on the Lake (Day 1: D; Days 2-4: B,L,D)

DAYs 5–7 ULLSWATER/SHAP/ORTON/RAVENSTONEDALE/GUNNERSIDE

information

drive into Yorkshire Dales National Park. Trek along the River Swale. (Day 5: 12 miles hiking, 6–7 hours; Day 6: 8 or 15 miles hiking, 4–9 hours; Day 7: 12 miles hiking, 7 hours)

Itinerary at-a-Glance I t i n e r a ry | 13 days

Enjoy a cruise on Lake Ullswater to Howtown. From here, we cross a Roman road on our way to Bampton. Hike to the 12th-century Shap Abbey, then transfer to Ravenstonedale. Trek amid prehistoric settlements and visit the chocolate shop and factory in Orton. After hiking to Kirkby Stephen,

DAYs 8–10 REETH/RICHMOND/LORD STONES/ CLAY BANK TOP/BLAKEY RIDGE

Trek through the Yorkshire Dales to Richmond. Explore the ruins of Mount Grace Priory and hike toward the Cleveland Hills. Transfer to the North York Moors National Park, and begin hiking across the dramatic landscape. (Day 8: 10 miles hiking, 5–6 hours; Day 9: 4.5 or 11 miles hiking, 2–7 hours; Day 10: 9 or 12.5 miles hiking, 5–7 hours)

Cost:

$5,695

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $600. International airfare to/from London or Manchester and the transfer to Penrith on Day 1 are not included in the cost.

The Kings Head Hotel; The Lion Inn (Day 8: B,L,D; Day 9: B,L; Day 10: B,L,D)

Activity level: MODERATE TO STRENUOUS

DAYs 11–13 GROSMONT/LITTLEBECK/ROBIN HOOD’S BAY/YORK

Group Size: 8–16

Descend to Great Fryup Head and into Glaisdale where we’ll see Beggars Bridge. Hike along an old trade route to Grosmont. From Littlebeck, walk into Scarry Wood and up to the Falling Foss waterfall. Continue to our final destination: the fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay. Depart from York the next morning. (Day 11: 9 or 14 miles hiking, 5–8 hours; Day 12: 12 miles hiking, 7 hours) Mallyon Spout Hotel; Victoria Hotel (Days 11-12: B,L,D; Day 13: B)

TRIP details: We will be hiking 4 to 9 hours per day (7 to 15 miles) on moderate to steep grades at low elevations, and in variable weather conditions. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points along the way, and participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. We will stay 12 nights in ideally located inns and hotels that reflect the local character. Above: Travelers take in majestic views of the North Sea as they walk along the cliff-lined coast.

nationalgeographicaDventures.com

EUROPE

Sweden: Dogsledding to the Icehotel

NORWAY

Dogsledding route Air route Motor route Nor we g i an

Sea

200

MILES

Arct

ic Circ le

Tour du Mont Blanc

From/to Geneva

Tré-le-Champ

SWEDEN

Mont Dolent (12,533 ft) Chamonix Les Houches

Sevuvuoma

Kiruna From/to Stockholm

Övre Soppero

65° 49' N

Jukkasjärvi Icehotel

Les ContaminesMontjoie

MILES

12° 41' E

Lac de Roselend

Stockholm

SWITZERLAND

La Fouly

45° 89' N

Mont Blanc (15,774 ft)

Rifugio Bonatti (6,027 ft) Rifugio Bertone Miage (6,532 ft) Glacier Courmayeur

FINLAND 0

Champex

Col de Balme

Kiruna

Vittangivaara (2,011 ft) Lake Väkkärä

Col de la Forclaz

FRANCE

ITALY

Les Contamines Nature Reserve La Ville des Glaciers 6° 51' E

Motor route Hiking route 0

MILES

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Drive your own team of Alaskan huskies on a sledding expedition through Sweden’s Lapland wilderness.

• M ake a classic circuit of western Europe’s highest mountain, crossing the borders of France, Italy, and Switzerland on foot.

• Relax in cozy cabins ideally situated for viewing one of nature’s most dazzling displays: the aurora borealis, or northern lights.

• Hike through stunning terrain of mountain passes, verdant meadows, lush forests, and glacial valleys. •D iscover the charming cultures and delicious cuisines of secluded Alpine villages.

• Spend time with Sami herders and try your hand at driving a reindeer sled.

•S tay in cozy inns perched on the soaring Mont Blanc massif.

• Stay at the famed Icehotel, with the option of sleeping in one of its sculpted ice rooms.

information Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 9 days DAYs 1 AND 2 STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN

Arrive in Stockholm and gather for a welcome dinner. The next day, we’ll be joined by a representative from National Geographic’s Global Exploration Fund-Northern Europe who will share insights as we explore Stockholm. Examine a 17th-century royal warship at the Vasa Museum, and stroll the city’s charming streets. First Hotel Reisen (Day 1: D; Day 2: B,L,D)

DAYs 3 AND 4 KIRUNA/ÖVRE SOPPERO/ LAKE VÄKKÄRÄ

Fly to Sweden’s northernmost city, Kiruna, and explore this outpost in the heart of the Lapland region—a vast wilderness of alpine peaks, ancient forests, and pristine lakes and rivers. Get outfitted for our sledding adventure before heading to Övre Soppero, where we’ll discover the reindeer-herding culture of Lapland’s indigenous people, the Sami. Try your hand at lassoing reindeer before embarking on a sled ride to a nearby lavu, or traditional Sami tepee, and enjoy lunch by a fire. Later, settle into our cabins at Väkkärä Wilderness Lodge. (Day 4: 6 miles reindeer sledding, 2–3 hours) Övre Soppero Homestead, Väkkärä Wilderness Lodge (B,L,D daily)

DAYs 5 AND 6 LAKE VÄKKÄRÄ/SEVUVUOMA

Meet your team of Alaskan huskies, and learn the basics of harnesses, lines, and mushing. Then experience the thrill of driving your own team through snow-clad forests and across frozen lakes and rivers, keeping an eye out for wildlife. At Sevuvuoma Lodge, unwind in the sauna and enjoy a hearty dinner. Head off the next morning on a trail where few travelers have set foot, arriving back at Väkkärä Wilderness Lodge. Meet a renowned reindeer herder, who will prepare a traditional Sami meal. (Day 5: 18 miles dogsledding, 5–6 hours; Day 6: 18 miles dogsledding, 5–6 hours) Sevuvuoma Lodge, Väkkärä Wilderness Lodge (B,L,D daily)

DAYs 7–9 LAKE VÄKKÄRÄ/JUKKASJÄRVI/ STOCKHOLM

After a final morning of mushing, transfer to Jukkasjärvi and check into the Icehotel, the world’s largest hotel made solely of snow and ice. Enjoy a farewell dinner and a drink in the famous Icebar. Tonight, sleep in a heated room, or opt for one of the hotel’s ice or snow rooms, where you will be outfitted in a thermal sleeping bag. Then return to Kiruna and fly back to Stockholm. Depart the following morning. (Day 7: 15 miles dogsledding, 4–5 hours) Icehotel, First Hotel Reisen (Day 7: B,L,D; Day 8: B,L; Day 9: B)

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dates:

2017: Mar. 3–11 • MAR. 10–18 • Mar. 17–25 • Mar. 24–APR. 1 Cost:

$8,795

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room (available only in Stockholm and at the Icehotel), add $950. International airfare to/from Stockholm and airfare within Sweden is not included in the cost. The group flight within Sweden is $800 (subject to change). Upgrade to an Ice Suite at the Icehotel for $400 per person (double occupancy) and $500 per person (single occupancy). Activity level: MODERATE To STRENUOUS Group Size: 8–15 TRIP details: While on the dogsledding expedition, we will be mushing for 4 to 6 hours per day (15 to 18 miles) on moderate to steep grades. No previous experience is necessary, although you should have good balance and the stamina to endure full days in the snow, and be willing to participate in the feeding and harnessing of the dogs. A snowmobile will support the group (from a distance) while dogsledding to aid in case of an emergency. We will stay 4 nights in rustic homesteads and wilderness cabins, 3 nights in first-class hotels, and 1 night at the Icehotel, where you will have the option to sleep in the hotel’s warm or cold accommodations. Above: A team of huskies leads a sled through Sweden’s Lapland.

Itinerary at-a-Glance I t i n e r a ry | 10 days DAYs 1–3 GENEVA, SWITZERLAND/CHAMONIX, FRANCE/LES CONTAMINES-MONTJOIE

Arrive in Geneva and transfer to our hotel in Chamonix at the foot of Mont Blanc. We begin our hike from our hotel, entering the forest to reach a steep trail. Pass through farmlands on our way to the “Grand Balcon,” which affords fabulous views of the Chamonix Aiguilles. Traverse below these towering peaks and return to Chamonix by cog railway. Our next ascent skirts the Bionnassay Glacier to Col du Tricot. Wind our way to Miage before descending to the picturesque village of Les Contamines-Montjoie. (Day 2: 6–8 miles hiking, 5–6 hours; Day 3: 8 miles hiking, 6 hours) Grand Hotel des Alpes, Hôtel la Chemenaz (Day 1: D; Day 2: B,L; Day 3: B,L,D)

DAYs 4–6 VILLE DES GLACIERS/COURMAYEUR/ MONT DE LA SAXE

Visit the pilgrimage site of Notre Dame de la Gorge, then follow an ancient Roman route up to Col du Bonhomme. Transfer to Ville des Glaciers, where Beaufort cheese is produced. Cross into Italy and descend to Miage Glacier, which snakes down from the Mont Blanc massif. Then drive

to Courmayeur in Italy’s Valle d’Aosta. From here, follow a varied trail through Alpine vegetation to Mont de la Saxe and Rifugio Bertone, where we take in sweeping views. A short, steep climb leads to a crest overlooking the pinnacles of Mont Blanc. Continue hiking to Lavachey, our home for the night. (Day 4: 10 miles hiking, 7.5 hours; Day 5: 10 miles hiking, 6 hours; Day 6: 10 miles hiking, 7.5 hours)

information

Hôtel L’Autantic, Hôtel Croux (Days 4-5: B,L,D; Day 6: B,L)

Price is per person, double occupancy. Single rooms are not available on a request basis; all travelers will be paired with a same-gender roommate when a roommate is available. If a roommate is not available, a $700 mandatory single supplement will be charged. International airfare to/from Geneva is not included in the cost.

DATES:

2016: JunE 4–13 • JulY 2–11 • July 30–Aug. 8 •

$5,195

Cost:

DAYs 7–10 LA FOULY/ARGENTIÈRE/ TRÉ-LE-CHAMP/CHAMONIX

Ascend to the Grand Col Ferret, marking the Swiss-Italian border, and stay in the village of La Fouly. Follow the Bovine route named for the cattle that graze in these meadows. Climb up to a spectacular viewpoint and enjoy a picnic overlooking the Rhône Valley, then descend to Col de la Forclaz and transfer to Argentière. Our final hike reaches Col de Balme, high above the Trient Glacier, then cross the Swiss-French border, and descend to the French hamlet of Tré-Le-Champ. Return to Chamonix for a farewell dinner, and depart from Geneva the next day. (Day 7: 10 miles hiking, 7 hours; Day 8: 12 miles hiking, 6 hours; Day 9: 7 miles hiking, 6.5 hours) Hôtel des Glaciers, Hôtel de la Couronne, Grand Hotel des Alpes (Days 7–9: B,L,D; Day 10: B)

Aug. 20–29 • SepT. 3–12 • SepT. 17–26

Activity level: Moderate TO STRENUOUS Group Size: 8–14 TRIP details: While on the trek, we will be hiking 6 to 8 hours per day (7 to 12 miles) on moderate to steep grades and at elevations ranging from 4,000 feet to a maximum of 8,800 feet. We will stay 9 nights in hotels, lodges, and inns combining ideal locations and local Alpine charm.

Above: Hikers trek through grassy fields against the backdrop of Mont Blanc�s peaks.

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EUROPE

Tuscany and Cinque Terre Hiking Adventure

Greek Islands Adventure

Levanto Monterosso al Mare Vernazza

Levanto Carrara

MILES

Mediterranean Sea 43° 47' N

Boat route Hiking route Motor route Train route 0

MILES

Air route Boat route Hiking route Motor route

Oía

ITALY

THIRAS

San Casciano en Val di Pesa Greve Panzano Lamole San Gimignano Volpaia Radda Colle di Val d’Elsa in Chianti Monteriggioni 10° 40' E Siena San Pancrazio

Hotel Executive, Palazzo Leopoldo Radda (Day 1: D; Days 2-3: B,L,D)

DAYs 4 AND 5 SIENA/COLLE DI VAL D’ELSA/ SAN GIMIGNANO

In enchanting Siena, learn about the city’s competitive contrade, or districts, and explore the great central square, Il Campo. Then visit the fortified village of Monteriggioni, which Dante wrote about in Inferno, and Colle

DAYs 6–9 CARRARA/LEVANTO/CINQUE TERRE/ PISA

Discover the ancient marble quarries of Carrara on our way to the seaside town of Levanto. Take a short train ride to Monterosso al Mare, one of the five villages that make up the Cinque Terre, or “five lands.” Clinging to cliffs above the Mediterranean, these hamlets dazzle with pastel-hued homes overlooking picturesque harbors. Embark on a more challenging hike along the trail that links the neighboring villages of Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Next, set out from our hotel on a scenic coastal trail to Monterosso that meanders past lemon groves. Return to Levanto by train, and transfer to Pisa the next day to connect with your flight home. (Day 7: 5–6 miles hiking, 5 hours; Day 8: 3–4 miles hiking, 3–4 hours) Hotel La Giada del Mesco (Day 6: B,L,D; Day 7: B,L; Day 8: B,D; Day 9: B)

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information DATES:

2016: apr. 5–13 • apr. 19–27 • may 3–11 • may 31–junE 8 • sepT. 6–14 • sepT. 20–28 • sepT. 27–oct. 5 • oct. 4–12

$5,695

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,000. International airfare to Florence and return from Pisa is not included in the cost. Activity level: Easy to Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: We will be hiking 2 to 5 hours per day (2 to 6 miles), on moderate to steep grades at low elevations. During hikes, vehicle support is provided at various points along the way, except while hiking in Cinque Terre (which is a car-free zone). Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. We will stay 8 nights in ideally located hotels that reflect the local character. This departure is a photo adventure. See page 11 for details and pricing. Above: The view of the colorful houses of Vernazza, as seen from the Cinque Terre trail. .

Sea MILES of Crete

SCHOINOUSA

Fíra SANTORÍNI

Mediterranean S ea Oía Fíra SANTORÍNI Kamari Akrotiri

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Climb Mount Zeus, the Cyclades’ highest peak, and hike the cliffs ringing Santoríni’s caldera. • Set off from Náxos on a daylong sailing excursion, and anchor at secluded beaches and inlets. • Explore whitewashed villages and volcanic seascapes while kayaking Santoríni’s coast. • Trace the history of legendary civilizations at the Acropolis in Athens and ancient Thíra on Santoríni.

• Sample Tuscany’s famed wines and cuisine and the specialties of Liguria.

Hotel Villa San Lucchese (Day 4: B,D; Day 5: B,L,D)

Mt. Zeus (3,284 ft)

Pyrgos Kamari Ancient Thira Akrotiri

• Embark on one of Italy’s most dramatic hikes to the coastal villages of the Cinque Terre.

Arrive in Florence and travel south along the ancient Roman road, Via Cassia, to San Casciano. Set out on our first hike to a 15th-century Tuscan home, where we’ll enjoy a country dinner. In Florence, visit the Benedictine church of San Miniato al Monte, perched high above the city. Then drive into the hills of Chianti to Gaiole. From this medieval fortified town built around a Romanesque parish church, hike to the Badia a Coltibuono, a Vallombrosan Abbey now known for its wine and olive oil production. Head back to Radda for a tasting of Chianti wines. (Day 1: 3–4 miles hiking, 2 hours; Day 2: 4–5 miles hiking, 3 hours; Day 3: 4–5 miles hiking, 3 hours)

NÁXOS

36° 45' N

Florence

• Discover San Gimignano’s soaring towers and Siena’s Gothic architecture, and soak up the charm of these UNESCO World Heritage sites.

DAYs 1–3 FLORENCE, ITALY/SAN CASCIANO IN VAL DI PESA/GREVE IN CHIANTI/VOLPAIA

To Athens

Náxos

Riomaggiore

• Hike to hilltop towns perched above Chianti’s vineyard-laced valleys, and stay at picturesque farmhouses and villas.

di Val d’Elsa, where crystal and glassware have been produced since the 17th century. Embark on a spectacular hike to San Gimignano, one of Tuscany’s most beautiful hill towns. Explore the city’s fresco-adorned Duomo, or climb one of its many towers. (Day 4: 2–3 miles walking, 4 hours; Day 5: 6 miles hiking, 4–5 hours)

From Athens

MILES

Corniglia Manarola

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 9 days

25° 22' E

To Athens

Pisa

From Athens

Itinerary at-a-Glance I t i n e r a ry | 9 days DAYs 1–3 ATHENS, GREECE/NÁXOS/MOUNT ZEUS

Arrive in Athens and enjoy a guided walk through the city followed by a welcome dinner. Spend the following morning at the hilltop complex of the Acropolis. Explore the Parthenon, the New Acropolis Museum, and the Panathenaic Stadium. Then travel by ferry to the lush island of Náxos, the largest of the Cyclades. Take to the sea on a sailing excursion, exploring secluded beaches and tiny islands. Next, hike from the foot of Mount Zeus (3,290’), passing ancient stone walls and olive groves to reach the rocky summit. Transfer to Apiranthos for lunch and a free afternoon. Take an evening stroll through the town of Náxos. (Day 4: 5 miles hiking, 4 hours) Hotel Divani Acropolis, Porto Naxos Hotel (Day 1: D; Days 2-4: B,L,D)

DAYs 5 AND 6 SANTORÍNI/AKROTIRI

Catch a ferry to Santoríni, an archipelago formed from a volcanic cone that erupted in the second millennium B.C. Hike along the rim of the caldera, following the trail to the blue-domed village of Oia. Explore the town and take in the island sunset. The next morning, discover the ruins of ancient Akrotiri, an important Minoan Bronze Age settlement that was buried by volcanic ash around

information

1450 B.C. Then, gear up for a leisurely kayak excursion. After an introductory lesson for beginners, set out from Akrotiri Beach and round the dramatic crags on the southwest coast. Stop to snorkel within view of the crimson cliffs of Red Beach. (Day 5: 5 miles hiking, 3 hours; Day 6: 6 miles paddling, 4 hours)

DATES:

2016: MAY 21–29 • junE 4–12 • JUNE 20–28 • JUNE 25–july 3 • aug. 27–sepT. 4 • sepT. 3–11 • sepT. 17–25 • oct. 1–9

Rocabella Santoríni Resort and Spa (B,L,D daily)

$6,195

Cost:

DAYs 7–9 SANTORÍNI/ANCIENT THIRA/ATHENS

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $600. International airfare to/from Athens and airfare within Greece is not included in the cost. The group flight within Greece is $300 (subject to change).

Launch your kayak from Balos Beach, tracing the inside of the caldera. Take out at the beach below the village of Megalochori. A short climb brings us to a church carved into the rock face that offers incredible views. After a picnic lunch, paddle back to Balos Beach. At Pyrgos, explore labyrinthine streets encircling the ruins of a Venetian castle. Hike to the island’s highest peak, Profítis Ilías (1,857’), home to an 18th-century monastery. Continue on foot to ancient Thíra, a fascinating cluster of Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine ruins. Descend to a nearby beach to swim. Later, fly back to Athens for a farewell dinner and depart the following day. (Day 7: 6 miles paddling, 4 hours; Day 8: 4–5 miles hiking, 3 hours)

Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: This trip is suitable for beginner and expert kayakers; no previous experience is needed. We will be paddling stable, two-person kayaks for an average of 4 hours per day (6 miles), and will be hiking 3 to 5 hours (up to 5 miles) per day on moderate to steep grades at low elevations. While kayaking, boat support will not be available. Participants always have the option to rest a day. We will stay in ideally located hotels that reflect the local character.

Rocabella Santoríni Resort and Spa, Hotel Divani Acropolis (Days 7-8: B,L,D; Day 9: B)

Above: One of Santoríni’s magical sunsets

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EUROPE

Croatia Island Adventure

Hungary and the Slovenian Alps

Detailed Map goes here

Split

Hvar

MILES

Triglav National Park

HVAR ISLAND

•H ike Slovenia’s stunning Alpine scenery: from snow-covered peaks and glacially carved valleys to pristine Lake Bled. •D iscover medieval history at a floating grain mill and amid herders’ cone-roofed huts.

• Walk atop Dubrovnik’s ramparts, and explore the white-stoned palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian in Split.

Le Méridien Lav, Hotel Adriana (Day 1: D; Day 2: L,D)

Days 3 and 4 Hvar/Pakleni Islands/Brač

Kayak in the Pakleni Islands, pausing to enjoy a beach picnic. Tour the charming town of Hvar, then visit Brač Island, famous for the white limestone used since ancient Roman times. Our private boat anchors in the hidden bay of Blaca. From here, hike up to the 450-year-old hermitage and feast on local specialties. Continue to the top of Mount Vidova, the highest peak in the Dalmatian islands. (Day 3: 5 miles paddling, 4 hours; Day 4: 6 miles hiking, 3 hours)

Hotel Indijan (B,L,D daily)

Days 7 and 8 Ston/Dubrovnik

In Ston, visit a family of oyster farmers. As a grand finale, explore Dubrovnik, a major maritime power in the 14th century, with marble streets and baroque architecture surrounded by medieval walls. Take a kayaking tour before our farewell dinner. (Day 7: 4 miles hiking, 1–2 hours)

information DATES:

2016: JUNE 4–11 • sepT. 9–16 • SEPT. 17–24

$4,995

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room add $1,100. International airfare to Split and return from Dubrovnik is not included in the cost. Activity level: easy to Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: This trip is suitable for beginner and expert kayakers alike; no previous experience is necessary. During kayaking excursions, we will be paddling stable, two-person sit-on-top kayaks for an average of 2 to 4 hours (5 miles). Our hikes range from 1 to 3 hours (4 to 6 miles) on good trails, at elevations ranging from 600 feet to 1,700 feet. We will stay 7 nights in comfortable hotels and villas infused with local character.

Hotel Dubrovnik Palace or Grand Villa Argentina (Day 7: B,L,D; Day 8: B)

Hotel Adriana (Day 3: B,L,D; Day 4: B,L)

Above: Kayakers paddle through the crystal-clear water of the Adriatic.

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• Stroll vineyard-striped hillsides and taste wines from Hungary’s Lake Balaton to Goriška Brda in Slovenia.

• Swim in Korčula’s coves, then visit the island’s walled town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Arrive in Split, and gather for a tour of the Roman-era palace of Diocletian, exploring this beguiling maze of marble streets, churches, and fortified walls. The next day, take a boat to Hvar, an island of vineyards, limestone cliffs, and emerald-green coves. Explore small villages and join a local artist on her estate for an olive oil tasting. Hike across the island to the deserted stone village of Malo Grablje. (Day 2: 6 miles hiking, 3 hours)

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Climb Vidova Gora, the highest peak on the Adriatic.

Days 1 and 2 Split, Croatia/Hvar

45° 32' N

MILES

• Kayak and explore the wooded islands, lush inlets, and beaches of Croatia’s stunning coast.

Days 5 and 6 Korčula/Pelješac Peninsula

CROATIA

Motor route

17° 23' E

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Cruise to Korčula Island, passing craggy cliffs, and swim in the sapphire-blue Adriatic. Hike to the home of a producer of Korčula’s renowned Pošip white wine, and explore the medieval city of Korčula, Marco Polo’s hometown. Next, head to Orebič, home to Croatia’s best red wine, oranges, pomegranates, and figs. Hike to a 15thcentury monastery, then follow the footpath past stone houses and ancient chapels to the coast for a swim. Visit a traditional tavern to taste homemade salamis, bread, and freshly caught fish. (Day 5: 4 miles hiking, 2 hours; Day 6: 4 miles hiking, 2–3 hours)

Ljubljana

Adriatic Sea

Dubrovnik

MILES

Itinerary | 8 days

R iv e

Logarska Dolina

Balaton Uplands National Park

Škocjan Caves

42° 55' N

Ston

Lake Balaton M

SLOVENIA

Piran

KORCULA ISLAND

Boat route Hiking route Motor route 0

ITALY

CROATIA

Peljesac Peninsula Orebic

Bled Kobarid

Bad Gleichenberg

Lake Bohinj

HVAR ISLAND

Budapest

HUNGARY

BRAC ISLAND

Adri ati c Sea

14° 56' E

AUSTRIA

e Rive r Danu b

BRAC ISLAND Dolina Mt. Vidova Blaca (2,552 ft) PAKLENI Bol ISLAND

• Delve into the otherworldly limestone cathedrals of Škocjan Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

DAYs 1–3 Budapest, Hungary/Lake Balaton/ Prekmurje, Slovenia/Styria, Austria

Arrive in Budapest, and head to the beech forests and aquamarine waters of Lake Balaton. Hike in Balaton Uplands National Park, then sample some local vintages at a winery. Hike the floodplain of the Mura River and visit a floating grain mill. Cross into Austria’s Styria region, known for its rolling hills and vineyards, and enjoy a special wine tasting. (Day 2: 4 miles hiking, 2 hours; Day 3: 3–4 miles hiking, 2 hours) Hotel Kempinski Corvinus, Anna Grand Hotel, Schlössl Hotel Kindl (Day 1: D; Days 2–3: B,L,D daily)

DAYs 4–6 Logarska Valley, Slovenia/ Velika Planina

DATES:

Hike from Lake Bohinj along the Mostnica River, past gorges filled with blue-green pools and waterfalls. Visit the 1,000-year-old Bled Castle, and take in views of Lake Bled at sunset. Admire breathtaking vistas from Vršič Pass, then drive to the Soča River Valley and follow the emarald-hued river as we hike the Alpe-Adria trail to a hidden waterfall. Settle into the countryside villa of one of Slovenia’s best chefs. (Day 7: 5 miles hiking, 4 hours; Day 8: 5–6 miles hiking, 3–4 hours)

2016: may 22–31 • junE 5–14 • junE 26–julY 5 • JUlY 17–26 • aug. 21–30 • sepT. 1–10 • sepT. 11–20

$5,495

Cost:

Activity level: Moderate Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,400. International airfare to Budapest and return from Ljubljana is not included in the cost.

Hotel Jezero, Hiša Franko (B,L,D daily)

DAYs 9 and 10 Kobarid/Piran/Škocjan Caves/Ljubljana

Travel to Logarska Dolina—a dazzling glacial valley backed by soaring peaks. Hike on gentle terrain through meadows beneath the Kamnisko-Savinjske Alps. The next day, follow a forested trail to the sparkling Rinka waterfall. Hike through the pasturelands of Velika Planina, and break to taste locally made cheese. (Day 4: 6 miles hiking, 4 hours; Day 5: 6–8 miles hiking, 3–4 hours; Day 6: 5 miles hiking, 3–4 hours) Hotel Plesnik, Hotel Jezero (B,L,D daily)

information

DAYs 7 and 8 Lake Bohinj/Lake Bled/ Vršič Pass/SočA River Valley

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 10 days

Group Size: 8–16

Trace the turbulent history of WWI’s Isonzo Front at the Kobarid Museum, described in Ernest Hemingway's A Farewell to Arms. Follow the scenic wine route of the Goriška Brda, stopping to taste local wines. Continue to the picturesque town of Piran on the Adriatic coast. Discover landscapes of eroded limestone formations in the Kras region, and venture into the otherworldly underground passages of the Škocjan Caves. Transfer to the airport in Ljubljana for your flight home. (Day 9: 1 mile hiking, 1 hour; Day 10: 1 mile hiking, 2 hours) Hotel Piran (Day 9: B,L,D; Day 10: B,L)

TRIP details: We will hike 1 to 4 hours per day (1 to 8 miles) on moderate grades and at elevations ranging from 900 feet to a maximum of 5,330 feet. We will stay in ideally located hotels and resorts that reflect the local character.

Above: Slovenia�s Lake Bled shines copper and violet in the sunset.

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EUROPE

Iceland Winter Adventure

Stykkishólmur

Snæfellsjökull National Park

Eiriksstadir Living Museum

Iceland Adventure Akureyri

Dimmuborgir

ICELAND Grundarfjordur

Borgarnes

Djupalonssandur

Thingvellir National Park

64° 24' N

64° 21' N

Thingvallavatn

Mt. Hestfjall (763 ft)

Motor route Air route

MILES

22° 3' W

• Experience the raw power of Iceland’s icecapped volcanoes, thundering waterfalls, glaciers, and geysers.

• Learn about Vikings at the Eiriksstaðir Living Museum, at the site of the former home of Erik the Red and Leif Eriksson.

• Learn about the creation of Europe’s largest national park, Vatnajökull, in a special meeting with a park director.

• Experience volcanism, exploring the Eldborg spatter cone and the Vatnshellir lava cave, and witness the geothermal wonders of the Golden Circle.

• Explore bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and lava castles around Lake Mývatn. •H ike up Reynisfjall mountain, one of the most beautiful coastal walks in southern Iceland.

• Stay in Stykkishólmur, an Icelandic fishing village, and go whale watching in coastal waters.

Days 1–3 Reykjavík/Golden Circle/ West Iceland

Arrive in Reykjavík and delve into this colorful capital on a guided walk through the Old Town. Then get introduced to the Icelandic countryside on the celebrated Golden Circle tour. Begin at Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to Althing, the world’s oldest parliament. Continue to Geysir, the hot-water jet stream for which all other geysers are named, and finish your tour at the powerful Gullfoss waterfall. Travel through West Iceland to climb the slopes of Mount Hestfjall, see the impressive Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, and walk across the steam-shrouded geothermal fields at Deildartunguhver— Europe’s most powerful hot spring. Learn about the discovery and settlement of Iceland at the Borgarnes Settlement Centre. (Day 3: 2–3 miles hiking, 2–3 hours) Centerhotel Arnarhvoll, Icelandair Hotel Hamar (Day 1: B,D; Day 2: B,L; Day 3: B,L,D)

Days 4–6 Snæfellsnes Peninsula

Our exploration of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula begins at Snæfellsjökull National Park, a remote and otherworldly

Hotel Búðir, Hotel Egilsen (B,L,D daily)

Days 7 AND 8 Reykjavík

information DATES:

2016: NOV. 6–13 • nov. 20–27 2017: feb. 12–19 • feb. 19–26 • FEB. 26–MAR. 5 Cost:

$6,995

Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $800. International airfare to/from Reykjavík is not included in the cost. Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: We will be hiking 1 to 3 hours per day (1 to 3 miles) on moderate to steep grades, in variable weather conditions. Most days will have options for more, or less, hiking. We will stay 7 nights in ideally located hotels that combine comfort, and local charm.

Return to Reykjavík and opt to go horseback riding on a smooth-gaited Icelandic horse or visit Árbæjarsafn, an outdoor museum exhibiting aspects of historical life in Iceland. Have a relaxing soak in the famous Blue Lagoon before transferring to the airport for your flight home. Centerhotel Arnarhvoll (Day 7: B,L,D; Day 8: B)

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Above: The northern lights glow above the Atlantic Ocean.

19° 00' W

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• See the northern lights at their brightest, weather permitting, far from civilization’s glow.

geothermal landscape with a glacier-capped volcano at its center. Trek across the Eldborgarhraun lava field to the Eldborg spatter cone, and travel to Vatnshellir cave, where we’ll descend into a cavern of fascinating lava formations. Hike along Djúpalónssandur’s dramatic coastal cliffs and black-pebble beaches to Dritvík cove, and then embark from Grundarfjörður on a two-hour whale-watching tour. Stay in the heart of Stykkishólmur, a charming Icelandic fishing village, and visit the town’s Volcano Museum— owned by the renowned volcanologist and National Geographic grantee Dr. Haraldur Sigurdsson. Tackle the short, steep hike to the summit of Mount Helgafell to enjoy views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks. Visit the Eiríksstaðir Living Museum, once home to Erik the Red and birthplace of Leif Eriksson. (Day 4: 2 miles hiking, 1 hour; Day 6: 1 mile hiking, 1 hour)

MILES

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 8 days

Vatnajökull Laki National Höfn (5,659 ft) Park Jökulsárlón Ingólfshöfdi Eyjafjallajökull Headland (5,466 ft) Kirkjubæjarklaustur Mýrdalssandur Vík

Geysir

Reykjavík

Motor route 0

ICELAND

Thingvellir National Park

Gullfoss Waterfall Geysir

Reykjavík

Lake Mývatn Námafjall

DAYs 1 and 2 REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND/ THINGVELLIR/GEYSIR/GULLFOSS

Arrive in Reykjavík and transfer to our hotel, then take a guided walk of the city. Drive to Thingvellir National Park the next day, and hike along Lake Thingvallavatn. See the site of the world’s oldest still extant parliament, visit the geothermal area of Geysir, and hike to the massive double-cascade Gullfoss. (Day 2: 3–4 miles hiking, 2 hours; 3 hours driving) Hótel Óðinsvé, Icelandair Hotel Flúðir (Day 1: B,D; Day 2: B,L,D)

DAYs 3 and 4 EYJAFJALLAJÖKULL/ REYNISFJALL/VÍK/LAKI VOLCANO

DATES:

Learn about the creation of Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest national park, in a special meeting with a park director. Trek across Svínafellsjökull, the tongue of Europe’s largest glacier. Hike up to Svartifoss waterfall, walk the isolated Ingólfshöfdi headland, and explore the spectacular Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon by boat. (Day 5: 6 miles hiking, 3–4 hours; Day 6: 2–3 miles hiking, 1 hour)

2016: JUNE 24–julY 3 • JULY 1–10 • julY 15–24 • JULY 22–31 • AUG. 5–14 • aug. 12–21 • aug. 19–28 • sepT. 2–11 • sepT. 9–18

$7,895

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,100. International airfare to/from Reykjavík and airfare within Iceland is not included in the cost. The group flight within Iceland is $400 (subject to change).

Fosshótel Vatnajökull (Day 5: B,L,D; Day 6: B,L)

DAYs 7–10 HÖFN/LAKE MÝVATN/NÁMASKARÐ/ NÁMAFJALL/DIMMUBORGIR/REYKJAVÍK

Drive toward the mighty Eyjafjallajökull volcano, stopping at the Seljalandsfoss waterfall and Þorvaldseyri farm to learn how the locals have adapted to living next to an active volcano. Visit the black sand beach of Reynisfjara, then hike up the Reynisfjall mountain and cross to the village of Vík. In the southern highlands, walk across the Eldhraun lava field, climb to the top of Laki volcano, and explore Tjarnargígur crater. (Day 3: 3–5 miles hiking, 3–4 hours; Day 4: 2–4 miles hiking, 2–3 hours) Icelandair Hotel Klaustur (B,L,D daily)

information

DAYs 5 AND 6 VATNAJÖKULL NATIONAL PARK/ INGÓLFSHÖFÐI HEADLAND/JÖKULSÁRLÓN

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 10 days

Activity level: Moderate

Visit the Gamlabúð Folk Museum in Höfn, then set out for Lake Mývatn, rich with lava pillars, volcanic cones, and bubbling mud pits. Hike to Víti crater and the mudpools and fumaroles of the Námaskarð area. After exploring the geothermal landscape of Námafjall, trek across a lava desert to a crater. Then delve into Icelandic folklore with a visit to Dimmuborgir, or “Dark Castles.” Fly back to Reykjavík for a farewell dinner, and soak in the Blue Lagoon before flying home. (Day 8: 7–8 miles hiking, 6 hours; Day 9: 3–4 miles hiking, 3–4 hours)

Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: We will be hiking 2 to 6 hours per day (2 to 8 miles) on moderate to steep grades, in variable weather conditions. Most days will have options for more, or less, hiking. During hikes, vehicle support is provided on most days, except while in the national parks. Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. Some long transfers of up to 7 hours will be required. We will stay in hotels that combine comfort, ideal locations, and local charm.

Hótel Laxá, Hótel Óðinsvé ( Days 7–9: B,L,D; Day 10: B) Above: A hiker marvels at the powerful cascades of Seljalandsfoss.

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NORTH AMERICA

Costa Rica Multisport Adventure

84° W

Caribbean Sea

COSTA RICA

Caribbean Sea

Siquirres

Matina

Rios Tropicales Lodge

Cartago

Air route Motor route 50

Basílica de Los Ángeles

San José

Pacific Ocean

MILES

r ive

9° 55' N

10° 04' N

Tortuguero Tortuguero National Park

MILES

COSTA RICA San José

83° 39' W

Fortuna Villa Blanca Cloud Forest

Air route Boat route Motor route

uare

Arenal National Park

Costa Rica: Volcanoes and Wildlife

NICARAGUA

Puerto Jiménez Lapa Rios Ecolodge

PANAMA

San Gerardo de Dota

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Stay at Lapa Rios Eco Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World nestled within some of Costa Rica’s most pristine rain forests.

• K ayak through Tortuguero National Park and look for howler and capuchin monkeys, caimans, and toucans. •P addle the rapids of the Pacuare River and spot wildlife along the way.

• Hike to secluded waterfalls in the jungles of the Osa Peninsula, searching for monkeys, sloths, and scarlet macaws.

•H ike into the cloud forest in search of the rare quetzal bird, and sail through the forest canopy on a zip line.

• Go zip-lining in the rain forest canopy surrounding Arenal Volcano, and soak in hot spring pools.

• Stay in eco-lodges and hotels nestled within pristine forests.

• Explore the cloud forest on a variety of nature walks. Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 9 days DAYs 1–3 SAN JOSÉ/OSA Peninsula

Arrive in San José and transfer to our hotel. The next morning, fly south to the Osa Peninsula, home to some of the most pristine lowland rain forest on the Pacific coast. At the peninsula’s tip is the 1,000-acre Lapa Rios reserve. Settle into your bungalow at Lapa Rios Eco Lodge, a National Geographic Unique Lodge celebrated for its wildlife conservation efforts in the surrounding region. During our stay here, discover the area's treasures on a variety of excursions. Hike to secluded waterfalls and beaches to go swimming, learn about the medicinal uses of local plants, and experience the magic of the rain forest on a nighttime walk. With the help of a naturalist, spot white-faced capuchin monkeys, poison dart frogs, sloths, and more. (Days 2 and 3: 2–4 miles hiking, 2–3 hours) Xandari Resort & Spa, Lapa Rios Eco Lodge (Days 2-3: B,L,D)

DAYs 4 AND 5 ARENAL NATIONAL PARK

Fly back to San José and drive into the northern highlands to Arenal National Park, named for the 7,000-year-old volcano that rises above the rain forest canopy. Check into our lodge and head out on a naturalist-led hike in the afternoon to search for monkeys, tapirs, and toucans. After an optional

early birding walk, embark on an aerial adventure and soar from tree to tree on zip lines strung through the rain forest canopy. Later, visit thermal hot spring pools owned and operated by a local family, followed by cocktails and a home-style Costa Rican barbecue. (Day 4: 2–4 miles hiking, 2 hours. Day 5: 1–2 miles hiking, 1 hour)

information

Arenal Manoa (B,L,D daily)

Cost:

DAYs 6–9 ARENAL/ VILLA BLANCA CLOUD FOREST /SAN JOSÉ

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,500. Airfare to/from San José, and airfare within Costa Rica, is not included in the cost. The group flight within Costa Rica is $350 (subject to change).

Venture into the rain forest canopy surrounding Arenal Volcano along a network of suspension bridges. Then journey to the Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel and Nature Reserve, a 75-acre mountain retreat. After dinner, enjoy a jungle night walk. Spend the following day experiencing the complex ecosystems of the cloud forest. Hike along lush forest trails, and keep an eye out for butterflies and resident bird species such as trogons, motmots, and toucanets. With luck, we’ll spot the rare resplendent quetzal—a sacred bird in Maya and Aztec cultures. After a final morning nature walk, return to San José. Depart the next day. (Day 6: 2–4 miles hiking, 2–4 hours; Day 7: 2–3 miles hiking, 1–3 hours) Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel, Xandari Resort & Spa (Days 6-8: B,L,D; Day 9: B)

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DATES:

2017: Jan. 22–30 • Feb. 26–Mar. 6 • Mar. 26–Apr. 3 • Apr. 16–24

$5,295

Activity level: easy to moderate Group Size: 8–14 TRIP details: On this wildlife viewing adventure, we will be walking or hiking on nature trails for 2 to 4 miles (2 to 3 hours) on most days. The maximum elevation is 4,500 feet. We will be staying 2 nights in a luxury eco-lodge and 6 nights in comfortable, well-equipped hotels with full amenities.

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 9 days DAYs 1–3 San José, Costa Rica/Tortuguero National Park

Arrive in San José and spend the night at a hotel set amid tropical gardens. Begin the next day with a scenic flight to Tortuguero National Park, a lowland tropical wet forest accessible only by water or air. A short boat ride brings us to our hotel, perched on the water’s edge. Kayak still waterways that cut through the forest, encountering varied wildlife, from poison dart frogs and spider monkeys to sloths, river otters, caimans, and many lizards and birds. During summer departures, search for the Atlantic sea turtles for which the park is named. The turtles return here each year to nest, and the hatching of their young is a harrowing but fascinating ritual that dates back millions of years. (Day 2: 2–3 miles paddling, 3 hours; Day 3: 4–5 miles paddling, 4 hours) Xandari Resort & Spa, Tortuga Lodge & Gardens (Days 2–3: B,L,D)

DAYs 4–6 Pacuare River

Above: A hiker walks through the lush cloud forest canopy.

Travel by boat and by road to the Pacuare River, where we’ll set off on our white-water rafting adventure. Paddle through lush forest and descend several technical drops. Arrive at our award-winning riverside eco-lodge, which

information

offers many adventures: see toucans and other colorful species on a bird-watching hike; swing through the forest canopy on a zip line; hike to waterfalls or visit a reforestation project. Return to the river to raft a stunning stretch of white water past waterfalls and down lush gorges. Stop for a swim, then journey into the cloud forest. (Day 4: 6 miles paddling, 3 hours; Day 5: 4–5 miles hiking, 4 hours; Day 6: 10 miles paddling, 5 hours)

DATES:

2016: mar. 22–30 • julY 23–31 • aug. 13–21 • dec. 24–jan. 1, 2017 • dec. 30–jan. 7, 2017 2017: JAN. 14–22 • feb. 18–26 • mar. 18–26 • apr. 8–16

Rios Tropicales Lodge, Trogon Lodge (B,L,D daily)

Cost: 2016:

DAYs 7–9 Savegre/San José

$4,195 2017: $4,395

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,000 in 2016 and $1,100 in 2017. International airfare to/from San José, and airfare within Costa Rica, is not included in the cost. The group flight within Costa Rica is $195 in 2016 and $200 in 2017 (subject to change).

Hike into the cloud forest and encounter a wide spectrum of wildlife, including, with luck, the quetzal, a near-threatened bird that is endemic to Mesoamerica. Take advantage of a free afternoon to explore our lodge and its gardens, go on another hike, or enjoy one of the optional activities offered in the area. Next, drive to the Orosi Valley, one of the first areas of Costa Rica settled by the Spanish colonists, and have lunch at a coffee plantation. Visit the Basilica Nuestra Señora de Los Ángeles, an ornate church honoring Costa Rica’s patron saint. After our farewell dinner in San José, depart the next day for home. (Day 7: 4–5 miles hiking, 4 hours; Day 8: 1–2 miles hiking, 2 hours)

Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–14 TRIP details: This trip is suitable for beginner and expert kayakers and rafters alike; no previous experience is necessary. We will be paddling stable, two-person kayaks for an average of 3 to 5 hours, and will be rafting 4 to 5 hours (approximately 8 miles per day) on Class II-IV rapids. We will hike 2 to 4 hours (1 to 5 miles) on some days. We will stay 8 nights in ideally located lodges that reflect the local character.

Trogon Lodge, Xandari Resort & Spa (Days 7–8: B,L,D; Day 9: B)

Above: Rafters paddle down the Pacuare River in Costa Rica.

nationalgeographicaDventures.com

National Monument

Hiking the Grand Canyon

Horseshoe Bend Overlook Vermillion Cliﬀs National Monument

From Las Vegas

Havasu Falls

North Rim Grand Canyon National Park

Supai

d o Ri

Hiking the National Parks: Glacier, Yellowstone, and Teton

Glacier National Park

Whitefish Flathead Lake

Big Fork

6°

Point Imperial North Kaibab Trail v er

46° 24' N

Yellowstone National Park

Roaring Springs South Kaibab Trail

Virginia City

IDAHO

South Rim

Old Faithful Motor route

Hiking route Motor route

° 'W

100

MILES MILES

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

DAYs 1–3 Las Vegas/Grand Canyon North Rim

Arrive in Las Vegas and gather for a welcome dinner. Travel to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, where higher altitudes support forests of pine, fir, and aspen—a striking contrast to the arid landscapes of the South Rim. Enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the canyon at Point Imperial, and then embark on a short warm-up hike to our lodge. The next morning, descend below the canyon rim on the North Kaibab Trail, hiking beneath a dramatic Redwall Limestone cliff to the Supai Tunnel. Later travel to the southernmost point of the North Rim, taking in incredible views of the Walhalla Plateau and going on short hikes in the area. (Day 2: 2 miles hiking, 1 hour; Day 3: 5–10 miles hiking, 2–5 hours) Hyatt Place Las Vegas, Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim (Day 1: D; Days 2–3: B,L,D)

DAYs 4–5 Grand Canyon South Rim

Drive to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, stopping en route at the scenic Vermillion Cliffs and at Antelope Canyon to explore its stunning sandstone ripples with a Navajo guide. We’ll also take a short hike to Horse-

Thunderbird Lodge (Day 4: B,L; Day 5: L,D)

DAYs 6–9 Havasu Canyon/Las Vegas

Travel to Hualapai Hilltop and embark on a 10-mile hike into Havasu Canyon. Visit the village of Supai, home to both the Havasupai tribe and the only U.S. post office that still uses pack mules. Arrive at our base camp situated on the banks of Havasu Creek, and spend the next three days exploring this remote section of the park. Hike to magnificent Mooney Falls, seek out fossils among the narrow slots of Carbonate Canyon, and take optional hikes to secluded waterfalls. On our final day, ascend the canyon on foot, or take an optional helicopter or horseback ride to the rim. Return to Las Vegas for your flight home. (Day 6: 10 miles hiking, 4–5 hours; Day 7: 3–9 miles hiking, 2–5 hours; Day 8: 2–6 miles hiking, 2–3 hours; Day 9: 10 miles hiking, 4–5 hours) Camping (Days 6–8: B,L,D daily; Day 9: B,L)

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Yellowstone Lake

WYOMING

Jackson

• Hike into the Grand Canyon’s spectacular chasm on the less traveled trails of the North Rim.

• Trek through glacier-carved valleys to Phelps Lake, deep within Grand Teton National Park.

• Explore Havasu Canyon and its spectacular red-rock formations while camping for three nights beside a tranquil creek.

• Raft down the Flathead River through the heart of Glacier National Park. • Stroll the boardwalks of Old Faithful and peer into turquoise hot springs nearby. •H ike the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the Highline Trail along the Continental Divide.

• Hike into a slot canyon with a Navajo guide, and meet members of the Havasupai tribe.

shoe Bend overlook, where the Colorado River makes a spectacular loop below red cliffs. The following day, we’ll have two hiking options. Descend the steep switchbacks of the South Kaibab Trail, passing ancient strata layers on our way to Cedar Ridge. Or hike the West Rim Trail skirting the South Rim. Tonight, capture the canyon at sunset on a photographic walk. (Day 4: 2–4 miles hiking, 3 hours; Day 5: 3–7 miles hiking, 2–4 hours)

Grand Teton National Park

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Swim in turquoise pools at the foot of gushing waterfalls, surrounded by sandstone cliffs.

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 9 days

CANADA

111° 56' W

MONTANA

Grand Canyon Village

From Grand Canyon Village/ To Las Vegas To Hualapai Hilltop

Horseshoe Bend Overlook

Grand Canyon Lodge

Hualapai Hilltop (5,197 ft)

yon Can su Hava

Grand CanyonParashant National Monument

NORTH AMERICA

information DATES:

2016: May 21–29 • May 28–JUNE 5 • JUne 11–19 • Sept. 3–11 • Sept. 17–25

$4,595

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room/ tent, add $700. Airfare to/from Las Vegas is not included in the cost. Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: We will be hiking 1 to 5 hours per day (2 to 10 miles) on moderate to steep grades and at elevations ranging from 3,000 feet to a maximum of 8,200 feet. Most days have options for more, or less, hiking.

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 8 days DAYs 1–3 Grand Teton National Park/ Yellowstone National Park

Arrive in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and gather for a welcome dinner. Enjoy a guided hike through the heart of Grand Teton National Park to Phelps Lake. After a lakeside picnic, drive north to Yellowstone National Park and spend the afternoon kayaking on Yellowstone Lake. The next day, explore the sulfur-scented Mud Volcano area. Continue to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where the Yellowstone River tumbles over sheer cliffs, presenting one of the park’s most magnificent sights. Then explore Midway Geyser Basin and witness the clockwork eruptions of Old Faithful geyser before discovering nearby mineral pools. (Day 2: 3–5 miles hiking, 3 hours; 2–3 miles kayaking, 2 hours; Day 3: 3–5 miles hiking, 2–3 hours) The Lexington at Jackson Hole, Headwaters Lodge and Cabins at Flagg Ranch (Day 1: D; Days 2–3: B,L,D)

DAYs 4 AND 5 Old Faithful/Bigfork

Above: Havasu Falls cascades into the clear pools below.

Travel through historic southwest Montana on a scenic drive to the ghost town of Bannack, and learn about its vigilante past. Explore the Nez Perce battlefield of 1877, then drive through the remote countryside to a site where

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the Lewis and Clark Expedition camped for two days. The next day, visit the National Bison Range to view large herds of grazing bison, elk, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife. Travel to the scenic town of Bigfork and go for a hike along the “wild mile” of Swan River, known for its ferocious rapids during the spring runoff. Then drive to the town of Whitefish—our base for exploring Glacier National Park. (Day 5: 1–2 miles hiking, 1 hour)

DATES:

2016: JUnE 25–julY 2 • JulY 9–16 • julY 23–30 • aug. 6–13 • aug. 27–sepT. 3 • sepT. 10–17

$4,595

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,400. Airfare to Jackson Hole, WY, and return from Whitefish, MT, is not included in the cost.

Double Tree by Hilton, Missoula Edgewater; Grouse Mountain Lodge (Day 4: B,L,D; Day 5: B,D)

Activity level: easy to moderate

DAYs 6–8 Glacier National Park

Group Size: 8–16

In Glacier National Park, set off on the Trail of the Cedars to Avalanche Lake and enjoy a lakeside picnic lunch. Later, take to the waters of the Middle Fork of the Flathead River and paddle Class II and III rapids, keeping an eye out for bears, bald eagles, osprey, and elk. Experience the Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of America’s most scenic drives. Upon reaching Logan Pass, hike the Highline Trail that runs along the Continental Divide. Celebrate our adventure at a farewell dinner in Whitefish before transferring to the airport the next day. (Day 6: 4–5 miles hiking, 2–3 hours; 15 miles rafting on Class II & III rapids, 5 hours; Day 7: 6–10 miles hiking, 3–5 hours) Grouse Mountain Lodge (Days 6–7: B,L,D; Day 8: B)

TRIP details: We will paddle kayaks for an average of 2 to 3 hours, and will raft 2 to 3 hours (15 miles) on Class II-III rapids. We will hike 1 to 5 hours per day (1 to 10 miles) on moderate to steep grades and at elevations ranging from 4,000 feet to a maximum of 7,000 feet. We will stay 7 nights in hotels and lodges that reflect the local character.

Above: A hiker pauses along the Highline Trail to take in dramatic views.

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NORTH AMERICA

Hiking Patagonia

MEXICO Bird’s Eye View Lodge

GUATEMALA 17° 25' N

Belize City

Sibun National Forest Reserve

BELIZE

Motor route Air route

Motor route Boat route 0

88° 18' W

Arrive in Belize City and transfer to Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary. Explore the lagoons by boat and spot birds such as kingfishers, ospreys, and Jabiru storks. Depart by boat for Lighthouse Reef Atoll, located at the furthest edge of Belize’s reef system. Settle into our safari-style beach camp on Half Moon Caye, and venture out to explore the coral reefs. Choose from a variety of sea kayaking excursions, set sail in specially outfitted sailing kayaks, and snorkel inside the lagoon amid colorful fish. Snorkel the outer perimeter of the Great Blue Hole, made famous by Jacques Cousteau. In the evenings, enjoy dinners of fresh seafood and a traditional Garifuna performance. (Days 3 and 4: 2–6 miles paddling daily, 2–6 hours; Day 5: 3–4 miles paddling, 2–3 hours) Bird’s Eye View Lodge, Lighthouse Reef Camp (Day 1: D; Days 2-5: B,L,D)

DAYs 6–8 HALF MOON CAYE/SIBUN RIVER VALLEY/ACTUN TUNICHIL MUKNAL

Return to the mainland by boat and travel into the Maya Mountains of southern Belize to our jungle lodge within the Sibun National Forest Reserve. Explore Actun Tunichil

Sleeping Giant Lodge (B,L,D daily)

DAYs 9 and 10 TIKAL NATIONAL PARK, GUATEMALA/BELIZE CITY

Travel into Guatemala to explore the legendary Maya city of Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore some of the more than 3,000 spectacular stone structures, including pyramids, plazas, and temples. Return to Belize for a farewell dinner. Begin the next day at the Belize Zoo, getting better acquainted with endemic wildlife, and participate in a jaguar rehabilitation project. Later, transfer to the airport for your return flight home. (Day 9: 4–6 miles hiking, 4–5 hours; 6 hours driving). Sleeping Giant Lodge (Day 9: B,L,D; Day 10: B)

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C H I LE 72° 17' W

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Glacier Bay National Park Preserve •and Trek to the

Punta Arenas

Juneau

base of Torres del Paine’s granite walls and surround yourself with twisting peaks in the French Valley.

• By special arrangement, gain access to a sacred Mayan cave and explore its cathedral-like chambers.

• Experience close-up the power and magnificence of Grey and Perito Moreno Glaciers, two of the most impressive in the world.

• Paddle through the jungle on a Sibun River kayaking excursion, and spot tropical birdlife along the way.

•H ike to serene lakes at the foot of spectacular Cerro Torre and the Fitz Roy massif. • Stay in cozy mountain lodges, hotels, eco-camps, and refugios.

• Discover the temples and pyramids of incredible Tikal, an ancient Maya city nestled in the jungles of Guatemala.

DAYs 1–5 BELIZE CITY, BELIZE/CROOKED TREE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY/HALF MOON CAYE

MILES

• Kayak, snorkel, and swim at Belize’s worldrenowned coral reefs and snorkel the legendary Blue Hole.

Muknal—an extraordinary cave system in Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve. Swim into the cave’s mouth and follow the subterranean waterway into a Maya underworld of cathedral-like caverns. Climb up into ceremonial chambers, and examine artifacts from Mayan rituals. After dark, embark on a jungle night walk. Next, set off in inflatable kayaks on the Sibun River, spotting birds and wildlife. Pass dramatic geological formations, and navigate Class I and II rapids. Visit a cacao plantation and hike to a hilltop with sweeping views. (Day 7: 3–5 miles hiking, 4–5 hours; Day 8: 4–5 miles river paddling, 3–5 hours; 1–2 miles hiking, 1–2 hours)

ARGEN TI NA Puerto Natales

MILES

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 10 days

Torres del Paine National Park

50° 17' S

r ive Sleeping M a c al R Giant Lodge

Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave

El Calafate

Lago de Grey

Oce

Half Moon Caye

To Buenos Aires

La Leona Petrified Forest

Perito Moreno Glacier

TURNEFFE ISLANDS Lighthouse Reef Atoll

r ive

Monte Fitz Roy (11,073 ft) El Chaltén

Los Glaciares National Park

P a c i fi c

Belmopan Tikal National Park San Ignacio

Cerro Torre (10,278 ft)

Caribbean Sea

Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary Sib un R

Belize: Reefs, Rain Forests, and Ruins

SOUTH AMERICA

information DATES:

2016: mar. 11–20 • mar. 25–apr. 3 • apr. 22–MAY 1 • DEC. 17–26 • dec. 25–jan. 3, 2017 2017: JAN. 13–22 • JAN. 27–FEB. 5 • FEB. 14–23 •

mar. 10–19 • apr. 11–20

Cost: 2016:

$5,495

2017: $5,595

Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,200 in 2016 and $1,300 in 2017. International airfare to/ from Belize City is not included in the cost. On the December departures, there is an additional holiday surcharge of $300. Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: This trip is suitable for beginner and expert kayakers alike; no previous experience is necessary. We will be paddling stable, two-person kayaks for an average of 2 to 6 hours a day (2 to 6 miles), which includes snorkeling time. We will camp 4 nights in cabana-style tents with limited, shared facilities, located in the heart of a protected marine park. We will stay 5 nights in comfortable lodges and hotels that combine ideal locations and local charm. Above: A kayaker paddles on the clear blue waters of Belize.

DAYs 1–6 PUNTA ARENAS, CHILE/TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK

Arrive in Punta Arenas and cross the Patagonian plains to Puerto Natales. Explore a pair of prehistoric caves, then travel to Lago de Grey in Torres del Paine National Park. Spend the next four days hiking in the park, and stay at a variety of quaint lodges and hotels. Trace the shores of Lago de Grey, taking in spectacular views of Grey Glacier; walk beneath the Cerro Paine in the French Valley; and follow the Paso Los Cuernos trail along the Lago Nordenskjöld. Our stay culminates with an all-day hike to the Torres del Paine. Trek up the slopes below the towers to one of the world’s most magnificent viewpoints. (Day 2: 1 mile hiking, 1 hour; 6–7 hours driving; Day 3: 7–8 miles hiking, 4 hours; Day 4: 14 miles hiking, 10 hours; or optional 7 miles hiking, 6 hours; Day 5: 7 miles hiking, 4–5 hours; Day 6: 11 miles hiking, 8–10 hours) Hotel Cabo de Hornos, Hotel Lago Grey, Lodge Paine Grande, Cabañas en los Cuernos, Hotel Las Torres (Day 1: D; Days 2-6: B,L,D)

information

DAYs 7–9 EL CALAFATE, ARGENTINA/PERITO MORENO GLACIER/el CHALTÉN

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 14 days

DATES:

Depart Torres del Paine National Park and drive to El Calafate, Argentina, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. Head to Perito Moreno, an active glacier on Lake Argentino, and explore this picturesque area on foot. Then travel north across the steppe, stopping for a hike and a picnic lunch in La Leona Petrified Forest. Trace the northern edge of Lago Viedma to El Chaltén. (Day 7: 7 hours driving; Day 8: 2–3 miles hiking, 1 hour; 2–3 hours driving; Day 9: 5 miles hiking, 2 hours)

2016: oct. 23–nov. 5 • nov. 6–19 • nov. 20–dec. 3 • dec. 4–17 • dec. 11–24 2017: jan. 8–21 • jan. 15–28 • feb. 5–18 • feb. 12–25 • mar. 5–18 • mar. 12–25 Cost:

Hotel Mirador del Lago, Cabañas Fitz Roy (B,L,D daily)

DAYs 10–14 LOS GLACIARES NATIONAL PARK/EL CALAFATE/BUENOS AIRES

Activity level: Moderate to Strenuous Group Size: 8–16

Spend three full days exploring this ice-laden park on a variety of hikes. Climb to glacial lakes at the base of Monte Fitz Roy (11,073') and Cerro Torre (10,278'). Discover the Piedras Blancas Glacier or head to Piedra del Fraile, which overlooks the north face of Fitz Roy. Return to El Chaltén for a farewell dinner and depart the next day. (Day 10: 14 miles hiking, 8–10 hours; Day 11: 11 miles hiking, 8 hours; Day 12: 13 miles hiking, 6–7 hours) Cabañas Fitz Roy, Hotel Destino Sur, Loi Suites (Days 10-12: B,L,D; Day 13: B,L; Day 14: B)

$6,395

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,900. International airfare to Punta Arenas and return from Buenos Aires and airfare within Argentina is not included in the cost. The group flight within Argentina is $400 (subject to change).

TRIP details: We will be hiking 1 to 10 hours per day (2 to 14 miles) on moderate to steep grades and at elevations ranging from 200 feet to a maximum of 3,000 feet. Most days have options for more, or less, hiking. Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. We will stay 4 nights in cozy mountain cabins, 1 night in a refugio, and 8 nights in lodges and hotels that combine comfort, ideal location, and local charm. Above: A hiker watches as the setting sun paints the sky and mountain peaks with dazzling colors.

nationalgeographicaDventures.com

SOUTH AMERICA

Peru: Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu

Motor route Hiking route Train route 0

Aguas Calientes

Machu Picchu

Huacahuasi (12,585 ft)

Peru: Machu Picchu Inn to Inn

From/to Lima Machu Picchu

Aguas Calientes

MILES

Lares

Lucmabamba

Patacancha

Río Santa Teresa

Cuncani (12,230 ft)

Ollantaytambo

Collpapampa

Vo l c anot a Urubamba

13° 18' S

Urquillos

n ot a

13° 32' S

Soraypampa

Lamay Pisaq

PE RU

Vi l ca

Salkantay (20,574 ft) Huayraqmachay

Cusco

Motor route Hiking route Air route Train route

Cusco 0

17° 7'W

MILES

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

PERU 72° 34' W

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Trek high among the majestic peaks of the Cordillera Vilcabamba to Machu Picchu.

• Spend a day and a half exploring Machu Picchu, and opt to climb Huayna Picchu—the iconic peak that presides over the citadel.

• Spend a full day and a half exploring the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu.

• Enjoy a traditional pachamanca lunch in the remote Sacred Valley farming village of Viacha.

• Delve into the world of the Inca during an evening with National Geographic grantee Peter Frost or a prominent local anthropologist.

• Tour the Pisac ruins, and hike a section of the Inca Trail to the towering Ollantaytambo fortress.

• Relax in mountain lodges set amid beautiful scenery, including one member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection.

• Go off the beaten path to explore the traditional villages and Inca ruins of the Lares Valley.

information DATES:

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 10 days DAYs 1–2 Cusco

Arrive in Cusco and tour its historical and archaeological sites, including the Inca fortress of Sacsayhuamán and the Church of Santo Domingo. Then visit the Museo Machu Picchu, and attend a talk on Inca architecture and astronomy. Hotel Palacio del Inka (Day 1: D; Day 2: B,L)

DAYs 3–4 Chinchero/Sacred Valley of the Inca

Journey to the Andean village of Chinchero and explore the colonial church and Inca archaeological site, then set out on a leisurely walk to the village of Urquillos. The next morning, tackle an invigorating hike between two Sacred Valley communities, or visit Pisac’s famous market. We’ll regroup in Viacha to learn about potato farming and for a traditional pachamanca meal. Later, take an afterhours tour of the Pisac archaeological site. (Day 3: 3 hours hiking; Day 4: 2–3 hours optional hiking) Lamay Lodge (B,L,D daily)

DAYs 5–7 Lares Valley/Inca Trail

A short drive brings us to the lesser-visited Lares Valley.

Explore the Inca ruins at Ancasmarca, then visit the weaving village of Choquecancha or hike to the remote community of Huacahuasi. The next day, trek between Cuncani and Huacahuasi, or opt for a stroll to a nearby waterfall before meeting back at the lodge for a cooking class. Visit with Huacahuasi villagers, then climb to a high mountain pass to cross into the Sacred Valley. Here, we’ll hike a section of the Inca Trail which will bring us to Ollantaytambo. (Day 5: 5–6 hours optional hiking; Day 6: 3 hours optional hiking; Day 7: 5–6 hours hiking) Huacahuasi Lodge, Hotel Pakaritampu (B,L,D daily)

DAYs 8–10 Ollantaytambo/Machu Picchu/ Lima

Discover Ollantaytambo, making the short hike to Inca storage structures for views of the presiding fortress. Or, stroll the cobbled lanes that still follow the Inca street grid. Enjoy a tour of the main temples before traveling by train to Aguas Calientes. Rise early the next morning for the ride to Machu Picchu, catching the sunrise over the citadel. After a guided tour of the ruins, opt to climb the Huayna Picchu peak, or explore the site on your own. On our final day, fly to Lima and see pre-Columbian art at the Larco Museum before catching your flight home. (Day 9: 2–3 hours optional hiking) Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (Days 8-9: B,L,D; Day 10: B,D)

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information DATES:

2016: MAY 12–21 • JUNE 22–July 1 • JULY 18–27 • Aug. 2–11 • SEPT. 6–15 • OCT. 5–14

$5,395

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,100. International airfare to/from Lima and airfare within Peru is not included in the cost. The group flight within Peru is $400 (subject to change). Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: Most days we will be hiking 3 to 6 hours per day on moderate grades at elevations ranging from 6,200 feet to a maximum of 14,650 feet. Some days offer the opportunity for more or less hiking. Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. We will stay 5 nights in remote mountain lodges and 4 nights in deluxe hotels. Optional Extension: Extend your trip with a stay at Inkaterra Hacienda Concepción, a member of our Unique Lodges of the World collection. Visit our website for more information. Above: Hikers follow a winding path in the Sacred Valley.

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 10 days DAYs 1–3 Cusco, Peru/Soraypampa

Arrive in Cusco and head out on a guided walk through this ancient city. Later, gather for a welcome dinner and a talk by archaeologist and National Geographic grantee Peter Frost, or a prominent local anthropologist. Drive to our first lodge, stopping along the way to visit the ruins of Tarawasi and go on an optional hike along the Camino Real. We’ll spend the following day acclimating to the altitude, with options to embark on a half-day hike or relax at the lodge. (Day 2: 7 miles hiking, 4-6 hours; Day 3: optional 4 miles hiking, 3-4 hours) Hotel Palacio del Inka, Salkantay Lodge (Day 1: D; Days 2-3: B,L,D)

DAYs 4–7 Huaraqmachay/Collpapampa/ Lucmabamba/Aguas Calientes

Set out on our four-day trek to Machu Picchu. Follow the Río Blanco Valley, hiking the girth of Humantay to reach the highest point of our trip at 15,213 feet. Descend to Wayra Lodge (12,812'), where showers and a hot tub await. Next, hike down into the Collpapampa Valley and enjoy a traditional pachamanca barbecue. Continue through the verdant Santa Teresa River Valley before winding uphill toward Llactapata Pass (8,974’), where we’ll explore the

2016: apr. 20–29 • apr. 24–may 3 • MAY 1–10 • junE 5–14 • junE 19–28 • JULY 3–12 • juLY 24– AUG. 2 • AUG. 14–23 • AUG. 28–SEPT. 6 • SEPT. 11–20 • sepT. 25–oct. 4 • oct. 9–18 2017: apr. 3–12 • apr. 17–26 • apr. 24–may 3 • may 1–10 • may 22–31 • JUne 12–21 • june 26– july 5 • july 17–26 • july 24–aug. 2 • AUG. 7–16 • aug. 21–30 • sepT. 4–13 • sept. 12–21 • oct. 9–18 • ocT. 31–nov. 9

sacred site of Llactapata. Like Machu Picchu, these ruins were rediscovered by explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911 and National Geographic funded his subsequent excavation. Later, a short train ride brings us to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. (Day 4: 9 miles hiking, 7 hours; Day 5: 6 miles hiking, 4 hours; Day 6: 10 miles hiking, 5-6 hours; Day 7: 7 miles hiking; 5-6 hours) Wayra Lodge, Collpa Lodge, Lucma Lodge, Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel (B,L,D daily)

DAYs 8–10 Machu Picchu/Cusco/Lima

Cost: 2016:

Spend an entire day exploring Machu Picchu’s breathtaking labyrinth of temples, sanctuaries, and homes. Delve into the site with our guides, learning about the Inca’s sophisticated culture and discovering the secrets of this royal city lost to the wider world for some 500 years. Later, take the train from Aguas Calientes to the Sacred Valley. Visit a women’s weaving cooperative on our way back to Cusco, and toast our adventure at a farewell dinner. Spend some time exploring Cusco on your own. Then fly to Lima and head to the Larco Herrera Museum for a guided tour. Enjoy a final dinner together before transferring to the airport. (Day 8: optional 3-4 miles hiking, 3-4 hours) Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel, Hotel Palacio del Inka (Days 8-9: B,L,D; Day 10: B,D

$5,995 2017: $6,195

Prices are per person, double occupancy. Single rooms are not available; all travelers will be paired with a same-gender roommate when available. Otherwise, a single supplement of $2,300 will be charged. International airfare to/from Lima and airfare within Peru is not included in the cost. The group flight within Peru is $400 (subject to change). Activity level: MODERATE to STRENUOUS Group Size: 10–12 TRIP details: While on the trek, we will be hiking 3 to 7 hours per day (4 to 11 miles) on moderate to steep grades and at elevations ranging from 6,232 feet to 15,213 feet. Vehicle support is limited on hikes, but horses are available on the trail. We will stay 5 nights in remote mountain lodges and 4 nights in deluxe hotels. Porters and pack animals will transport our gear. Above: The Inca citadel of Machu Picchu glows in the sunlight.

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AFRICA

Southern Africa Adventure

BOTSWANA

MOZAMBIQUE

Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park Johannesburg SWAZILAND Golden Gate Highlands National Park Mkhuze Game Clarens Reserve 28° 21' S Ts’ehlanyane Zu National Park Durban

Motor route Hiking route Camel Trek 0 MILES

Volubilis

Rabat Meknès Casablanca

Fès

NAMIBIA

Morocco Camel Trek and Hiking Adventure

Atl. Oc.

LESOTHO SOU TH AFRICA

Marrakech

Indian Ocean

Cape Town Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve

300

• Venture into the Sahara on a three-day trek, and watch the sun rise and set over the dunes. •H ike to traditional mountain villages to learn about Berber culture. • Explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis and the ancient village of Aït Ben Haddou, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.

• Search for the “big five” in Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park, and meet a National Geographic Emerging Explorer to learn about endangered birds.

• Discover the striking architecture and enchanting medinas of Morocco’s imperial cities.

• Discover Lesotho’s Basotho culture and the wilderness of Ts’ehlanyane National Park.

Days 1–3 CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA/CAPE PENINSULA

Arrive in Cape Town and gather for a welcome dinner. Trace the coast of the Cape Peninsula on a breathtaking drive to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Hike to the lighthouse at Cape Point, observe African penguins on Boulders Beach, and visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Later, meet with conservation biologist and National Geographic Emerging Explorer Steve Boyes or one of his colleagues to learn about the National Geographic-funded Cape Parrot Project. Climb to the highest point on Table Mountain and explore Cape Town’s highlights, including the historic Company’s Garden, Greenmarket Square, and the colorful Bo-Kaap district. Enjoy a djembe drumming session followed by a traditional feast. (Day 2: 1–2 miles hiking, 1 hour; 4 hours driving; Day 3: 2 miles hiking, 3 hours). The Cape Milner (Day 1: D; Days 2-3: B,L,D)

Days 4–7 CAPE TOWN/KWAZULU-NATAL/MKHUZE GAME RESERVE/HLUHLUWE-UMFOLOZI PARK

Fly to Durban and drive north into Zululand, the 19th-century kingdom of the Zulu people. Walk to a local homestead in the Lebombo Mountains and, later, experience a Zulu

Ghost Mountain Inn (B,L,D daily)

Days 8–12 DURBAN/CLARENS/DRAKENSBERG/ LESOTHO/JOHANNESBURG

Follow in the footsteps of Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela while exploring Durban’s Kwa-Mashu township. Then journey through KwaZulu-Natal, stopping at the site where Mandela was arrested in 1962 before being imprisoned on Robben Island. Cross into the Free State province to Clarens. Go hiking in Golden Gate Highlands National Park, and climb to the top of the sheer-faced Amphitheatre for stunning views of Tugela Falls. In the mountainous nation of Lesotho, visit a traditional Basotho village and explore the magnificent landscapes of Ts’ehlanyane National Park. The next morning, transfer to the airport in Johannesburg. (Day 9: 4 hours driving; Day 10: 7–9 miles hiking, 6–7 hours; Day 11: 3–4 miles hiking, 2–3 hours; Day 12: 4 hours driving) The Oyster Box, Protea Hotel Clarens (Days 8-11: B,L,D; Day 12: B)

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information 2016: Apr. 6–17 • JUNE 8–19 • July 20–31 Aug. 10–21 • Nov. 9–20

Itinerary | 14 days •

$6,495

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $750. International airfare to Cape Town and return from Johannesburg, and airfare within South Africa is not included in the cost. The group flight within South Africa is $175 (subject to change). Activity level: Easy to Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: We will be hiking 1 to 7 hours per day (1 to 9 miles), on most days. We will stay 11 nights in comfortable, ideally situated hotels and lodges. Transportation is by private bus. On game drives, we travel in 4x4 safari vehicles. This departure is a photo adventure. See page 11 for details and pricing.

Above: Hikers gaze at the dramatic sandstone ridge of the Amphitheatre in the Drakensberg.

Erg Chebbi

Remlia

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Experience life at a Zulu homestead and trace the footsteps of historic leaders in Durban.

DATES:

Erfoud Alnif

5° 56' W

•H ike to the top of the Drakensberg’s rock Amphitheatre, climbing chain ladders to view one of the world’s highest waterfalls.

dance performance. In Mkhuze Game Reserve, track black and white rhinos, leopards, giraffes, and zebras, and go for a walk in the park’s fig forest. Next, embark on a game drive in Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park, home to the legendary “big five.” Enjoy a wildlife cruise on Lake Jozini and meet with a wildlife conservation group. (Day 4: 1 mile walking, 1 hour; 3–4 hours driving; Day 5: 1–2 miles hiking, 2 hours)

Boumalne Dadès

Vallée des Roses

MILES

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 12 days

Bou Tharar

Aït Ben Haddou Ouarzazate

Motor route Air route 26° 48'E

32° 03' N

MOROCCO

Days 1–4 Casablanca, Morocco/Rabat/ Meknès/Fez

Arrive in Casablanca and gather for a welcome dinner. Visit the Hassan II Mosque the next morning. Then travel to Rabat and discover its architectural treasures on a walking tour. In Meknès, Morocco’s 17th-century capital, we encounter grand gateways and mosaic-adorned mausoleums. Explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis before transferring to Fez. Wander the souks, visit the Jewish quarter, and tour the Dar Batha Museum. Hotel Novotel Casablanca, Golden Tulip Farah Rabat, Hôtel Les Mérinides (Day 1: D; Days 2–4: B,L,D daily)

Days 5–8 Ziz Valley/Erfoud/Camel Trek/ Boumalne Dadès

Hike in the Atlas Mountains and visit French colonial Ifrane. On our way to Erfoud, descend into the Ziz Valley and its lush oases of date palms. The following day, explore the dunes of Erg Chebbi by 4x4. After learning about camel riding from Berber cameleers, embark on our Saharan trek across the dunes. Arrive at our tented camp and dine under a star-studded sky. In the morning, set out across varied desert terrain to our next camp near Merdani. After

information

our final trek, take 4x4s to Todra Gorge and continue to Boumalne Dadès in the semi-desert. (Day 5: 2–3 miles hiking, 1 hour; Day 6: 3 miles camel riding and walking, 2–3 hours; Day 7: 6 miles camel riding and walking, 3–4 hours; Day 8: 1–2 miles camel riding and walking, 1 hour)

DATES:

2016: apr. 2–15 • oct. 9–22 • oct. 23–nov. 5 • Nov. 13–26 • dec. 18–31 2017: FEB. 21–MAR. 6 • MAR. 13–26 • apr. 3–16

Kasbah Hotel Chergui, Camping, Hôtel Xaluca Dadès (B,L,D daily)

$5,895

Days 9–11 Dadès Valley/Aït Ben Haddou/ High Atlas

Travel the “valley of 1,000 casbahs” between the Atlas and Sahara, passing oases, rose plantations, and casbahs. Hike the terraces of Dadès Valley and visit the Berber village of Bou Tharar. Hike the Skoura oasis, enjoy a traditional lunch with a Berber family, then stroll the fortified village of Aït Ben Haddou. Cross the picturesque High Atlas Mountains. Walk in stunning Ounila Valley before continuing to Marrakech. (Day 9: 4–5 miles hiking, 3 hours; Day 10: 3–4 miles hiking, 3 hours; Day 11: 2–3 miles hiking, 1–2 hours)

Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: While on our camel trek, we will be riding camels (and/or walking, if you wish) for 1 to 5 hours per day (1 to 8 miles). No previous experience is necessary. Our hikes range from 1 to 5 hours per day (2 to 7 miles). Vehicle support is limited on hikes and during the camel trek. Participants have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. We will stay 2 nights in spacious tents and 11 nights in Moroccan-style hotels that reflect the local character.

Hôtel Xaluca Dadès, Riad Ksar Ighnda, Hotel Es Saadi (B,L,D daily)

Days 12–14 Marrakech

Enjoy a full day exploring the city and its colorful central plaza and bustling markets. Venture outside the medina to visit the beautiful Majorelle Garden. Depart the next day. Hotel Es Saadi (Days 12–13: B,L,D; Day 14: B)

$6,095

Cost: 2016: 2017: Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room/tent, add $1,100. On the December departures, there is an additional holiday surcharge of $300. International airfare to Casablanca and return from Marrakech is not included in the cost.

Above: A Berber cameleer guides a traveler near Erg Chebbi.

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Lake Victoria

Tanzania: Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari

KENYA Serengeti National Park Safari camp Olduvai Gorge

Kilimanjaro (19,340 ft)

Tanzania: Walking Safari with the Maasai

Serengeti National Park

Olduvai Gorge Ngorongoro Crater

3° 04' S

Meru camp

Arusha

KENYA

Safari camp

Kilimanjaro National Park

Meru (14,980 ft)

Ngorongoro Crater

AFRICA

Arusha

Lake Eyasi Lake Manyara Hadza encampment

TANZ ANIA Motor route 0

37° E

Motor route Hiking route

TANZ ANIA

MILES

35° 34' E

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

MILES

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Climb the tallest freestanding mountain in the world and sleep on its crater floor.

• Spend time with villagers in an authentic Maasai homestead and witness a traditional ceremony.

• Explore rain forests, heather moors, lava formations, and glaciers.

• Hike the volcanic landscapes of the Rift Valley in the company of local Maasai.

• Learn about the unique flora and fauna of the mountain with local naturalists.

• Observe lions, elephants, black rhinos, zebras, and much more on game drives in Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater.

• Spend four days on safari, spotting vast herds of zebra and wildebeest, lions and leopards, and much more.

• Go on foraging walks in the bush alongside Hadza bushmen who subsist on what they hunt and gather.

information DATES:

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 15 days Days 1 and 2 Arusha National Park/Mt Meru

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport, and settle into our camp in Arusha National Park. On a warm-up hike on Mount Meru, watch for bushbucks, duikers, buffaloes, giraffes, rare birds, and perhaps elephants and leopards. Private Deluxe Camp (Day 1: D; Day 2: B,L,D)

Days 3 And 4 Begin Trek

Our trek begins in Kilimanjaro’s montane forests and winds up through jungle where colobus monkeys dangle from branches. The next day, the trail crosses into the sub-alpine hagenia zone, where we take time to acclimate to the altitude. Our camp will be set up before our arrival every afternoon. (Day 3: 3–6 hours hiking; Day 4: 6–8 hours hiking) Camping (B,L,D daily)

Days 5–7 Shira Plateau/Lava Tower/Arrow Glacier

Trek across the Shira Plateau, a UNESCO World Heritage site, then climb through the upper heath zone up the slope of the Kibo massif. Continue along the massif the next day, hiking into the alpine zone. Camp at the base of Lava Tower, a volcanic plug that juts skyward 300 feet. A morning hike

brings us near Arrow Glacier, where we have an afternoon to relax at our camp above the clouds. (Day 5: 4–6 hours hiking; Day 6: 5–7 hours hiking; Day 7: 2–3 hours hiking) Camping (B,L,D daily)

Days 8–10 Crater Camp/Uhuru Peak/Arusha

Tackle the Western Breach, a wall of rock that rises to the lip of the crater. We camp at 18,500 feet on the crater floor. Rise with the sun and climb 1,000 feet to the summit. From our perch at 19,340 feet, take in the magnificent sweep of sky and peaks. Descend steeply via the Mweka Route. Hike out of the rain forest on our last day, and drive to Arusha for a celebratory dinner. (Day 8: 7–10 hours hiking; Day 9: 9–12 hours hiking; Day 10: 3–5 hours hiking) Camping, Moivaro Lodge (B,L,D daily)

Days 11–15 begin safari/Ngorongoro Crater/Serengeti/Arusha

Travel into the Ngorongoro highlands and hike to a Maasai village. Then descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a spectacular day on safari. See fossils at Olduvai Gorge, and then head into the vast Serengeti Plain to encounter East Africa’s legendary wildlife. On the final day, return to Arusha for dinner together before flights home. Private Deluxe Camp, Moivaro Lodge (B,L,D daily)

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2016: junE 20–julY 4 • julY 23–aug. 6 • aug. 27–sept. 10 2017: JAN. 28–FEB. 11 • FEB. 25–MAR 11 • MAR. 19–APR. 2

$7,695

$7,995

Cost: 2016: 2017: Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room/ tent, add $1,000. International airfare to/from Arusha and fees for Tanzania National Parks are not included in the cost. Tanzania National Park fees are $1,940 (subject to change). Activity level: ultimate challenge

Group Size: 8–16

TRIP details: While on the climb, we will be hiking 2 to 12 hours per day (2 to 12 miles) on moderate to steep grades and at elevations ranging from 7,000 feet to a max of 19,340 feet. We will stay 6 nights in deluxe tented camps, 7 nights camping in tents, and 1 night in a comfortable hotel set amid lush gardens. Porters will transport our gear. You should come prepared to complete the full climb; however, our staff will assist you down the mountain if you are unable to reach the summit. A signed medical form from your doctor will be required for participation. Optional Extension: Extend your visit in Tanzania with a stay at Rubondo Island Camp, a member of our Unique Lodges of the World collection. Visit our website for more information. A 10-day Kilimanjaro climb (without safari) is also an option. See our website for details. Above: Climbers trek above the clouds as they near Kilimanjaro�s summit.

Itinerary | 11 days Days 1–5 Arusha, Tanzania/Serengeti National Park/Walking Safari

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport and transfer to our hotel. The next day, venture deep into the Serengeti in safari vehicles and continue to our camp, located in an area with a high concentration of wildlife. Set out on game drives to observe the legendary creatures of the Serengeti. Next, drive to the Elwai mobile tented camp, where the Leakey family has made groundbreaking discoveries of early human origins with support from National Geographic. Spend two days hiking through the vast Serengeti Plain, Olduvai Gorge, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. (Days 4 and 5: 5–8 miles walking, 4–6 hours) Moivaro Lodge, Private Deluxe Camp, Private Mobile Camp (Day 1: D; Days 2-5 B,L,D)

Days 6–8 Ngorongoro Crater Safari/ Highlands Walking Safari

A vigorous uphill hike brings us to the crest of the Ngorongoro highlands. Descend to the land of the Maasai, the iconic pastoralists of the East African savanna. Visit a Maasai manyatta, or village, where we’ll be greeted with a high-jumping welcome dance. Meet the village elders, visit

information

homes, and take part in a memorable cultural exchange. Later, hop into 4x4s for the descent into Ngorongoro Crater—a 102-square-mile caldera teeming with some 30,000 creatures. Following our safari, join our Maasai neighbors for a traditional feast and go for a sunset hike. The next day, choose from a variety of optional walks and hikes with Maasai guides. (Day 6: 4 miles walking, 6 hours; Day 7: 2–3 miles optional walking, 1 hour; Day 8: 2–5 miles walking, 1–3 hours; 12 miles optional summit climb, 6 hours)

DATES:

2016: june. 18–28 • JULY 4–14 • aug. 6–16 • dec. 17–27 2017: JAN. 6–16 • FEB. 4–14 • MAR. 4–14

$5,645

$5,995

Cost: 2016: 2017: Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,100. International airfare to/from Arusha and fees for Tanzania National Parks are not included in the cost. Fees for Tanzania National Parks are $1,350 (subject to change).

Private Deluxe Camp, Private Mobile Camp (B,L,D daily)

Days 9–11 Lake Eyasi/Arusha

Travel to Lake Eyasi, the home of the Hadza bushmen, one of the last surviving hunter-gatherer tribes in the world. Make our way to a Hadza encampment, where we will spend a full day living among the Hadza. We’ll break into small groups and join members of the camp as they go about their search for the day’s food. Through our interpreter guides, enjoy a rare chance to talk with some of the world’s last bushmen about the ways they are coping with modern encroachments. Return to Arusha and gather for dinner before transferring to the airport. (Day 9: 4–5 miles walking, 2–3 hours; Day 10: 10–12 miles walking, 5–6 hours)

Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: This is an easy to moderate walking and hiking trip, with some strenuous options. Hikes range from 1 to 6 hours per day (2 to 12 miles). We will stay 4 nights in rustic backcountry camps, 5 nights in deluxe tented camps and 1 night in a comfortable hotel set amid lush gardens. Optional Extension: Extend your visit in Tanzania with a stay at Sayari Camp, a member of our Unique Lodges of the World collection. Visit our website for more information.

Private Mobile Camp, Dayroom at Moivaro Lodge (Days 9-11: B,L,D) Above: A Maasai tribesman looks out over Tanzania�s rolling grasslands.

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ASIA

Nepal and Tibet: Great Himalayan Hikes

Tsedang

TIBET

Nepal: Everest Base Camp Trek

CHINA

Nedong Lhasa

Lumle Pokhara

Gongkar Airport

Tanchok

Everest Base Camp

Lobuje Khumjung Thami

Samye Monastery 28° 45' N

BHUTAN

NEPAL

Kathmandu

INDIA

Air route Motor route 100

MILES

87° 29' E

From/to Kathmandu

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

NEPA L

MILES

BENGLADESH

27° 49' N

Lukla

Hiking route Air route 0

Dingboche Debuche Namche Bazaar Phakding

Dudh Kosi

Kathmandu

Mount Everest (29,035 ft)

86° 43' E

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Trek to the foot of breathtaking Everest, the world’s highest mountain.

• Hike through the foothills of the Annapurna range, exploring traditional Nepali villages and staying in cozy lodges overlooking the mountains.

• Set out on challenging hikes to Kala Pattar (18,192'), Nangkartshang Peak (16,672'), and Everest Base Camp (17,590').

• Visit Kathmandu’s grand Bodhnath, the largest Buddhist stupa in Nepal, and the sacred Swayambhunath temple.

• Explore Sherpa villages and the ancient Thami and Tengboche monasteries.

• Venture into the legendary Potala Palace in Lhasa, and ferry across the Yarlung River to explore Tibet’s first Buddhist monastery.

• Visit a school established by Sir Edmund Hillary in the mountain village of Khumjung.

• Walk along Tibetan pilgrimage circuits, or kora, through spectacular scenery.

Itinerary | 14 days Days 1–6 KATHMANDU, NEPAL/POKHARA/ MODI RIVER VALLEY/MAJGAUN/DHAMPUS

Arrive in Kathmandu and gather for a welcome dinner. Explore the medieval city of Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then fly to Pokhara and drive to Lumle, the starting point of our trek. Hit the trails along a ridgeline through the lower foothills of the Annapurna range. Our route descends to the lush Modi River valley, passing through farming hamlets, traditional villages, and forests blooming with rhododendrons and magnolias. Ascend through varied terrain to take in views of spectacular peaks and valleys. Unwind each evening in cozy mountain lodges. After our final hike, return to Pokhara. (Day 3: 4 miles hiking, 3–4 hours; Day 4: 3 miles hiking, 3–4 hours; Day 5: 6.5 miles hiking, 4.5 hours; Day 6: 2 miles hiking, 1.5 hours) Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, Sanctuary Lodge, Gurung or Mala Lodge, Basanta Lodge, Temple Tree Hotel (Day 1: D; Day 2: B,L; Days 3–6: B,L,D)

Days 7–9 KATHMANDU/TSEDANG, TIBET

Fly back to Kathmandu and explore the 2,500-year-old temple and World Heritage site of Swayambhunath. Then head to Patan, known as the “town with a thousand golden roofs.” Delve into Buddhist and Hindu art and beliefs at the

Patan Museum. Next, enjoy a scenic flight to Lhasa and drive to Tsedang, considered the mythical birthplace of the Tibetan people. Drive along the Yarlung River to visit Samye Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery to be founded in Tibet. Hike up a nearby hill that offers sweeping views of the countryside. (Day 9: 3 miles hiking, 2 hours)

information

Hyatt Regency Kathmandu, Tsedang Hotel (Day 7: B,L; Days 8–9: B,L,D)

Cost:

Days 10–14 LHASA/KATHMANDU

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room add $1,500. International airfare to/from Kathmandu, flights within Nepal, is not included in the cost. The group flights within Nepal are $1,550 (subject to change).

Drive to Lhasa, located on one of the world’s highest plateaus. Explore Barkhor, the old market. Visit the seventhcentury Jokhang, the holiest temple in Tibet, and the Norbulingka, the summer palace of the Dalai Lama. Venture into the grand rooms of Potala Palace, adorned with thangka paintings, frescoes, and statuary. At the historic Ganden Monastery, walk the monastery’s pilgrimage circuit, passing prayer flags and shrines. At Sera Monastery, one of Lhasa’s most important monasteries, watch monks engage in debate and hike along the pilgrims’ kora, which winds above the monastery. Fly back to Kathmandu and depart the next day. (Day 11: 3 miles hiking, 2 hours; Day 12: 6 miles hiking, 4–5 hours)

DATES:

2016: APR. 16–29 • MAY 14–27 • SEPT. 3–16 SEPT. 17–30 • OCT. 29–NOV. 11

$5,795

Activity level: MODERATE to Strenuous Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: Most days we will be hiking 2 to 7 hours per day (2 to 6 miles) on moderate grades at elevations ranging from 3,500 feet to a maximum of 12,500 feet. Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. We will spend 10 nights in comfortably equipped hotels and 3 nights in Nepalese-style lodges.

Shangri-la Hotel, Hyatt Regency Kathmandu (Days 10-12: B,L,D; Day 13: B,D; Day 14: B) Above: Tibet's Potala Palace was once home to the Dalai Lama.

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Days 1–3 Kathmandu, Nepal/Lukla/Begin Trek/Phakding

Arrive in Kathmandu and spend a day exploring the city. Then fly to Lukla (9,200') in the Khumbu region of the Himalaya. Meet our Sherpa guides and begin our trek, descending 1,500 feet to the Dudh Kosi (River of Milk). Follow the trail to the village of Phakding. Shangri-La Hotel, Mountain Lodge (Day 1: D; Day 2: B; Day 3: B,L,D)

Days 4–8 Namche Bazaar/Thami/ Khumjung/Tengboche/Debuche

Trek through a beautiful forest on our way to Dingboche, where we will spend two nights camping. Head out on an optional 2,100-foot climb to Nangkartshang Peak (16,672'). Continue along the valley floor to Dughla (15,157') before hiking on to Lobuje. Walk to the edge of the Khumbu Glacier then hike up to the village of Gorak Shep. Climb up Kala Pattar (18,192') for dramatic views of Everest. (Day 9: 6 miles hiking, 5 hours; Day 10: 4 miles hiking, 5-6 hours; Day 11: 4 miles hiking, 5-6 hours; Day 12: 5 miles optional hiking, 2-3 hours)

DATES:

2016: apr. 13–May 1 • May 10–28 • OCT. 13–31 • NOV. 3–21

$5,795

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $900. International airfare to/from Kathmandu and airfare within Nepal is not included in the adventure cost. The group flight within Nepal is $350 (subject to change).

Mountain Lodges (B,L,D daily)

The trail continues north up the Dudh Kosi valley to Monjo, where it officially enters Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park. A steep climb brings us to Namche Bazaar, where we’ll spend an extra day to acclimatize, then trek to the remote village of Thami. After exploring Thami Monastery (13,000'), hike uphill toward Khumjung to visit a school Sir Edmund Hillary established in 1961. The next day, set out through the Dudh Kosi gorge to Tengboche Monastery, then descend to Debuche. (Day 4: 6 miles hiking, 5-6 hours; Day 5: 3-4 miles optional hiking, 2-2.5 hours; Day 6: 2-3 miles hiking; 4-5 hours; Day 7: 7 miles hiking; 5-6 hours; Day 8: 7-8 miles; 5-6 hours) Mountain Lodges (B,L,D daily)

information

Days 9–12 Dingboche/Lobuje/Gorak Shep

I tinerary | 19 days

Activity level: Ultimate Challenge

Days 13–19 Everest Base Camp/Lobuje/ Descent to Lukla/Kathmandu

Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: While on the trek, we will be hiking 4 to 10 hours per day (2 to 10 miles), on moderate to steep grades and at elevations ranging from 9,318 feet to a maximum of 18,192 feet. Some days will be rest days with optional hikes to properly acclimatize. We will stay in Nepalese-style hotels and mountain lodges. Porters and pack animals will transport our gear. Participants should be in excellent health (a signed medical form from your doctor will be required).

Weather permitting, embark on the final climb to Everest Base Camp, situated beneath the Khumbu Icefall. Return to Lobuje and retrace your steps to Debuche. Hike down to the Dudh Kosi and climb to Namche Bazaar for the night, followed by a leisurely trek back to Lukla. Fly to Kathmandu and venture to the ancient town of Bhaktapur the next day, exploring the temples and palaces of Durbar Square. Depart from Kathmandu the following day. (Day 13: 9 miles hiking; 9-10 hours; Day 14: 9-10 miles hiking, 6-7 hours; Day 15: 8-9 miles hiking, 5-7 hours; Day 16: 9 miles hiking, 8 hours) Mountain Lodges, Shangri-La Hotel (Days 13–16: B,L,D; Days 17–19: B)

Above: Tengboche Monastery, among some of the world's highest peaks.

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Japan Adventure: Tokyo to Sacred Kumano

Nijo castle

From Tokyo

Kyoto

ASIA 28°

Bhutan Sacred Valley Adventure

Osaka

BHU TAN

Chomo Lhari (23,997 ft)

Asuka

Tanabe 0

Yunomine Onsen

Bumthang Punakha

r ve Ri

34° 9' N

Cheri Goemba

Kum an

Chikatsuyu Takahara Takijiri

Thimphu

Shingu Nachi Taisha 10 Katsuura

Paro

Punakha Dzong

Tang

Phobjikha

Gangtey Goemba

Trongsa 27° 26' N

MILES

Tanabe Katsuura

Pacific Ocean 136° 8' E

MILES

• Spend four days hiking the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, and stay in traditional mountain inns and ryokans along the way.

•T rek across high mountain passes, through alpine forests, and among the lush farmlands of Bhutan’s most sacred valley.

• S troll through charming Yanaka, an old quarter of Tokyo that has survived wars and earthquakes.

•H ike to magnificent dzongs, or fortressmonasteries, and discover their extraordinary histories. •M eet traditional Himalayan highlanders: farmers, villagers, and monks.

•T ake part in an authentic tea ceremony and discover the intricacies of this Japanese tradition.

DAYs 1–4 TOKYO, JAPAN/ASUKA/OSAKA/ KUMANO KODO TO TAKAHARA

Arrive in Tokyo and transfer to our hotel. Enjoy a walking tour of Tokyo’s Ginza shopping district, the Imperial Palace, and the age-old temples of Yanaka. Journey by train to Asuka, the site of some of Japan’s first Buddhist temples. Explore by bicycle and watch a taiko drumming performance. Continue by coach to Osaka, one of Japan’s culinary capitals, and south to Tanabe on the Kii Peninsula. Set off on the Nakahechi trail, part of the network of ancient pilgrimage routes known as the Kumano Kodo. The first leg of our hike brings us to Takahara, where we’ll relax in the hot springs at our Japanese-style hotel. (Day 4: 3 miles hiking, 2 hours) Royal Park Shiodome Hotel or Niwa Hotel, Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka, Organic Hotel Kiri-no-sato Takahara (Day 1: D; Day 2: B,L; Days 3-4: B,L,D)

DAYs 5–7 KUMANO KODO/CHIKATSUYU/ KAWAYU ONSEN/KATSUURA BAY

Hike east through cedar forests, passing jizo bodhisattva statues and old cha-ya (tea houses). The trail ascends to Tsugizakura-ōji, one of more than 100 small shrines along the route where pilgrims leave offerings. Travel from

Organic Hotel Kiri-no-sato Takahara, Fujiya Ryokan, Hotel Nakamoshima (B,L,D daily)

DAYS 8–11 NACHI TAISHA/KYOTO/OSAKA

Pay a visit to the Nachi Taisha shrine and see the nearby waterfall. Then take a train to Kyoto, home to the impressive Nijo Castle. Explore the castle’s Ninomaru Palace, known for its beautiful wall paintings and its “nightingale floors,” designed to squeak when walked upon to ward off intruders. Tour the Higashiyama neighborhood, stroll past cherry trees on the Philosopher’s Path, and venture into the Zen gardens of the Nanzen-ji temple. Experience the complex traditions of the Japanese tea ceremony. Later, enjoy a private visit to a Zen temple. Gather for a farewell dinner and depart the next day. (Day 9: 1-2 miles walking, 2 hours) Kyoto Royal Hotel & Spa (Day 8: B,L,D; Day 9: B; Day 10: B,L,D; Day 11: B)

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89° 54' E

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride a bike past burial mounds and rice paddies in the ancient capital of Asuka.

Kobiro-ōji to Hosshinmon-ōji by bus, then hike the final section through ridge-top villages before descending to the grand shrine of Hongu Taisha. Drive to Yunomine Onsen, one of the oldest hot springs in Japan, situated near the ryokan where we’ll stay overnight. Meet a local Shugendo priest before heading to the Kumano River for a boat ride to Doro-kyo Gorge. Continue to our hotel overlooking Katsuura Bay. (Day 5: 7 miles hiking, 4 hours; Day 6: 8 miles hiking, 4 hours)

MILES

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 11 days

From/to Bangkok, Thailand

Motor route Air route Hiking route

Boat route Hiking route Motor route Train route

information DATES:

2016:

apr. 6–16 • APR. 13–23 • APR. 20–30 • may 11–21 • MAY 18–28 • sepT. 21–oct. 1 • oct. 9–19 • oct. 16–26 • oct. 19–29 • nov. 6–16 • nov. 13–23 • nov. 18–28

Cost:

$6,595

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $900. International airfare to Tokyo and return from Osaka is not included in the cost. Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–15 TRIP details: We will hike 2 to 4 hours per day (1–8 miles) on well-worn paths with some rocky terrain or stairs. During hikes on the Kumano Kodo trail, vehicle support is limited to paved roads. Vehicle support is provided on all other days. Participants always have the option to rest a day and ride to the next hotel. We travel by public train when transferring between major cities. There will be two nights during which we will be without our luggage and we carry what we need in our day packs. We will spend 7 nights in comfortable hotels and 3 nights in a ryokan (traditional Japanese guesthouse). Above: Japanese pilgrims in traditional dress hike the Kumano Kodo

•E xperience Bhutan’s thriving Buddhist culture on visits to museums, monasteries, and local homes.

I t i n e r a ry | 14 days Days 1–6 Paro, bhutan/Thimphu/Punakha

Arrive in Paro via Bangkok, Thailand, and visit the Paro Dzong—a medieval fortress perched on a hillside. The next day, we’ll set out on our first hike to Cheli La, a mountain pass with incredible views of the Haa Valley and the sacred peak of Jhomolhari. Travel west through spectacular landscapes to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital. After a day hike to the 12th-century monastery Tango Goemba, enjoy a traditional music and dance performance. Continue over the Dochu La pass to Punakha, Bhutan’s ancient capital. Visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong and take a walk to a nearby fertility temple. Hike into the countryside for lunch at a family farm, visit a rural school, and attend a special blessing service at the Dho Jhaga Lhakhang temple. (Day 4: 4-5 miles hiking, 3-4 hours; Day 5: 2 miles hiking, 1 hour; Day 6: 3-4 miles hiking, 3-4 hours) Novotel Bangkok Airport Hotel, Zhiwa Ling Hotel, Druk Hotel, Kunzangzhing Hotel (Day 2: L,D; Days 3–6: B,L,D)

Days 7–10 Phobjikha/Bumthang

Continue to the beautiful Phobjikha valley, and trek through the pine and rhododendron forests of the Black Mountains to meet with a family at a local farmhouse. Venture into the

exquisite Gangtey Goempa, one of the oldest Nyingmapa monasteries in Bhutan, and explore a dzong perched over the town of Trongsa. Visit a local weaving center, and continue to the sacred valley of Bumthang. Here we’ll go on a variety of hikes and walks to see important Buddhist temples, including the Tamzhing Monastery—a UNESCO World Heritage site. The next day, hike to the Pedseling Monastery, and enjoy a picnic on the grounds before descending the other side of the mountain into the stunning Tang Valley. (Day 7: 2 miles hiking, 1 hour; Day 9: 3 miles hiking, 2 hours; Day 10: 9–11 miles hiking, 4–5 hours)

information DATES:

2016: MAR. 31–APR. 13 • APR. 18–May 1 • Oct. 1–14 • oct. 22–nov. 4 • NOV. 21–DEC. 4 2017: apr. 3–16 • apr. 20–MAY 3 Cost: 2016:

$6,095 2017: $6,195

Dewachen Lodge, Yugharling Resort (B,L,D daily)

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,200 in 2016 and $1,300 in 2017. International airfare to/from Bangkok and airfare between Bangkok and Paro is not included in the cost. The group flight between Bangkok and Paro is $1,140 (subject to change).

Days 11–14 PARO/BANGKOK

Activity level: Moderate TO STRENUOUS

Fly back to Paro and visit the National Museum to see its displays of spectacular bronze statues, elaborate stamps, and religious scroll paintings. Cap off your Bhutan adventure with a strenuous hike to a teahouse overlooking the legendary Taktshang Lhakhang, or Tiger’s Nest Temple. After a traditional archery display and hands-on demonstration, enjoy a farewell dinner and return home via Bangkok. (Day 12: 4 miles hiking, 4-5 hours)

Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: Most days, we will be hiking 1 to 5 hours per day (2 to 11 miles) on moderate to steep grades and at elevations ranging from 8,000 feet to a maximum of 11,000 feet. We will spend 7 nights in first-class hotels, and 6 nights in Bhutanese-style hotels and lodges. Vans will transport our gear. This departure is a photo adventure. See page 11 for details and pricing.

Zhiwa Ling Hotel, Novotel Bangkok Airport Hotel (Days 11–12: B,L,D; Days 13–14: B)

Above: The Tiger’s Nest Temple, perched 2,700 feet above the Paro Valley.

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ASIA

Borneo Wildlife Adventure

S outh C hina Sea GAYA ISLAND

117° 44' E

Motor route Air route 0

MALAYSIA

Kota Kinabalu

MILES

Su lu S e a

Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve

Sandakan Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park

Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia Adventure

Hanoi

L AO S Louangphrabang

Ha Long Bay

Gulf of Tonkin

Hue

Tabin Wildlife Reserve

South China Sea 16° 47' N

THAILAND

Kinabatangan Rive

5° 13' N

Danum Valley Lahad Datu Conservation Area Borneo Rainforest Lodge

Tabin Wildlife Resort

Angkor Wat

V I ET NAM

Siem Reap Bakong

C AM B ODIA Air route

INDONESIA

Gulf of Thailand

C el eb es S e a

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Ho ChiMinh City

106° 67' E

100

MILES

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Observe orangutans and Malayan sun bears up close at conservation centers in Sepilok.

• Kayak from pristine beaches to limestone caves and floating villages on Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay.

• Set out on safari in Tabin Wildlife Reserve, home to nine primate species, three cat species, and some 220 species of birds.

• Go biking in Hue, Vietnam, and in the Cambodian countryside. • Explore four UNESCO World Heritage sites in three different countries: Hue, Ha Long Bay, Louangphrabang, and Angkor.

• Explore the primary rain forests of Danum Valley Conservation Area, hiking and observing flora and fauna.

• Get to know the local people during meals, ceremonies, and visits to schools and homes.

• Snorkel the vibrant reefs of Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

information Itinerary | 11 days Days 1–5 SANDAKAN, MALAYSIA/SEPILOK/ KINABATANGAN RIVER/TABIN WILDLIFE RESERVE

Arrive in Sandakan on Malaysian Borneo’s eastern coast. Head to the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve and visit the orangutan rehabilitation center. Then take a behind-the scenes tour of the nearby Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Continue to our lodge on the Kinabatangan River. Here, we’ll set out on a variety of day and night hikes and river safaris, looking for orangutans, proboscis monkeys, and much more. Learn about the Orang Sungai’s culture at a local village. Next, journey into the Tabin Wildlife Reserve, home to nine primate species, three cat species, and some 220 species of birds. Hike to a bubbling mud volcano, which attracts many different animals, and learn about Sumatran rhino conservation efforts during a meeting with the executive director of the Borneo Rhino Alliance. (Day 2: 1–2 miles hiking, 1–2 hours; Day 5: 1–2 miles hiking, 2 hours) Sheraton Four Points Sandakan, Kinabatangan Wetlands Resort or Sukau Rainforest Lodge, Tabin Wildlife Resort (Day 1: D; Days 2-5: B,L,D)

Days 6–8 DANUM VALLEY CONSERVATION AREA

Travel to the valley of the Danum River, known for its 169 square miles of virtually undisturbed primary rain forest.

Spend three days exploring the many nature trails. Keep an eye out for rare species, including the rarely seen clouded leopard, Bornean gibbon, and maroon langur. Bird life is equally diverse, with some 275 recorded species. Watch a dazzling sunrise over the valley from atop an observation tower. Hike to a nearby waterfall; go on a canopy walk in the treetops surrounding our lodge; and venture out on night safaris. (Day 6: 1–2 miles hiking, 2 hours; Day 7: 1–2 miles hiking, 2 hours; Day 8: 1–2 miles hiking, 2 hours) Borneo Rainforest Lodge (B,L,D daily)

Days 9–11 DANUM VALLEY CONSERVATION AREA/GAYA ISLAND/KOTA KINABALU

Depart for Lahad Datu and fly to Kota Kinabalu. Take a ferry to Gaya Island and settle into our secluded eco-resort, nestled in the rain forest overlooking the aquamarine shallows of Malohom Bay. Set off on an excursion to Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park where we’ll snorkel along a colorful reef comprised of more than 170 different species of coral. Explore this underwater wonderland, home to sea turtles, an astonishing array of fish, and whale sharks (March–April). Enjoy sunset cocktails before our farewell dinner. The following morning, return to Kota Kinabalu via ferry and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Gaya Island Resort (Days 9-10: B,L,D; Day 11: B)

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information dates:

2016: 2017: Cost:

Mar. 27–Apr.6 • Apr. 15–25 • sepT. 18–28 • oct. 2–12 • oct. 16–26 • oct. 30–nov. 9 Mar. 1–11 • Mar. 13–23 • Mar. 27–Apr. 6 • Apr. 9–19

$7,495

Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,300. International airfare to Sandakan and return from Kota Kinabalu is not included in the cost. Activity level: Easy to Moderate Group Size: 8–15 TRIP details: We will hike 1 to 2 hours per day (1 to 2 miles) on uneven trails over moderate grades at low elevations. Participants always have the option to rest a day. Some long transfers of up to 3.5 hours will be required. We will stay in ideally located lodges and resorts that combine comfort and local charm.

Above: An orangutan dangles effortlessly from a branch while her baby makes itself comfortable.

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 13 days DAYs 1–7 HO CHI MINH CITY (SAIGON), VIETNAM/HUE/HANOI/HA LONG BAY

Arrive in Ho Chi Minh City and gather for a welcome dinner. See the old Saigon Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, Reunification Palace, and Chinatown. Fly to Hue, and bike along the Perfume River to the Phu Mong district. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Tha Om before visiting the Imperial City and the citadel. Catch a flight to Hanoi, where we’ll explore the captivating Old Quarter, the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh, One Pillar Pagoda, and more. Then drive to Ha Long Bay, where our private wooden junk awaits. Set sail into waters dotted with tiny islands and karst formations. After a kayak lesson, venture out to discover “tunnel lakes” and remote lagoons, and paddle to the remains of a floating village. (Day 3: 6–8 miles bicycling, 1–2 hours; Day 7: 2–6 miles paddling, 2–4 hours) Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon, La Résidence Hotel & Spa, Intercontinental Westlake Hanoi, Syrena Junk (Day 1: D; Days 2-4: B,L,D; Day 5: B,L; Days 6-7: B,L,D)

DAYs 8–10 LOUANGPHRABANG, LAOS

Drive back to Hanoi and fly to Louangphrabang. A World

DATES:

Heritage site, Louangphrabang is a breathtaking combination of Buddhist temples and colonial buildings nestled in jungle-covered hills. Visit some of the city’s many shrines and join a local family for a Buddhist Baci ceremony followed by dinner. (Day 10: 3–4 miles hiking, 1–2 hours)

2016: sepT. 24–oct. 6 • oct. 8–20 • oct. 22– nov. 3 • nov. 5–17 • nov. 19–dec. 1 • dec. 17–29 2017: jan. 14–26 • feb. 4–16 • feb. 18– mar. 2 • mar. 4–16 • mar. 18–30

Villa Santi Resort (B,L,D daily)

DAYS 11–13 LOUANGPHRABANG/SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA/ANGKOR

Cost: 2016:

Rise early to observe saffron-robed monks walking silently through town to collect offerings. Visit Wat Xieng Thong, a temple protecting Buddhist and royal artifacts. Next, fly to Siem Reap and embark on a cycling excursion to some of the earliest Khmer temples, stopping along the way to sample Khmer pastries at a local home. Encounter the legendary temple of Angkor Wat, covering nearly 500 acres with its extraordinary sculptures and stupas. Examine the 1,000-year-old carvings at the Hindu temple of Banteay Srei, venture into Ta Prohm, and explore the ancient city of Angkor Thom. See the colossal faces of the Bayon Temple and visit the Terrace of the Leper King. Later, transfer to the airport in Siem Reap for your flight home. (Day 11: 4–5 miles bicycling, 1–2 hours) Victoria Angkor Resort & Spa (Days 11-12 B,L,D; Day 13: B,L)

$6,395 2017: $6,495

Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,100. International airfare to Ho Chi Minh City and return from Siem Reap and airfare within Southeast Asia is not included in the cost. The group flights within Southeast Asia are $725 in 2016 and $675 in 2017 (subject to change). Activity level: Easy to moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: On kayaking excursions, we will paddle from 2 to 4 hours per day (2 to 6 miles), combined with time to relax or hike. On bicycling excursions, we will bike from 1 to 2 hours per day (4 to 8 miles). Vehicle support is provided on hikes and while biking. Boat support is provided while kayaking. While there is no sustained hiking on this trip, there is ample walking in cities and over uneven terrain in villages and at temple sites. We will stay 10 nights in comfortable hotels and 2 nights in a traditional wooden junk (sailboat). Above: A Buddhist monk stands among temple ruins at the water’s edge.

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ASIA

Thailand and Myanmar Adventure

INDIA

96° 39' E

MYANMAR (BURMA)

CHINA

Sri Lanka Adventure

INDIA

Golden Palace Monastery Mandalay Ananda Temple Bagan

Heho

Inle Lake

80° 25'E

Gulf of Mannar

Kandy Peradeniya

7° 48' N

B ay of B enga l

Wat Chedi Luang Chiang Mai

18° 31' N

Yangon (Rangoon)

Colombo

THAILAND

Galle

Motor route 0

200

MILES

Arrive in Yangon (formerly Rangoon) and gather for a welcome dinner. Set out on foot to discover the old town and its many cultural influences. Then board a local train to visit Yangon’s legendary Shwedagon Pagoda at sunset. Hear a talk on Burma’s current political climate given by a local journalist or a former political prisoner. Fly to Heho and transfer to Inle Lake, where we’ll embark on a cruise to see its floating villages, monasteries, and gardens, as well as the iconic Intha fishermen. Next, take a boat to Taungtoe and wander through the Five-Day market. Visit a Pa’O village to meet with students, teachers, and monks, and watch silk weavers in Innpaw Kone. Sail to Myaynigone to visit with villagers, and hike along the lake to Tan Tuang. Later, catch a flight to Bagan. (Day 5: 2–3 miles hiking, 2 hours) Chatrium Royal Lake Hotel, Villa Inle Resort, Tharabar Gate Hotel (Day 1: D; Days 2-5: B,L,D)

Days 6–9 BAGAN/MANDALAY/CHIANG MAI, THAILAND

Spend two days exploring the Bagan Archaeological

Tharabar Gate Hotel, Rupar Mandalar Hotel, Siripana Villa Resort & Spa (Day 6: B,L; Days 7-8: B,L,D; Day 9: B,D)

Days 10–12 CHIANG MAI

At Wat Suthep temple, witness the monks’ daily almsgiving ceremony and climb the Golden Naga staircase to reach the temple’s golden pagodas. Visit the nearby Wat Umong and take part in your own private blessing ceremony. Then journey by rickshaw to Chiang Mai’s old city and explore its ancient temples and monuments on foot. At the Ruam Chok market, select fresh ingredients with a local chef for a hands-on cooking demonstration at his farmhouse. Depart the next day. (Day 10: 2–3 miles walking, 1–2 hours) Siripana Village Resort & Spa (Days 10-11: B,L,D; Day 12: B)

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Indian Ocean

• Explore five UNESCO World Heritage sites including ancient Sigiriya, the Golden Temple of Dambulla, and the fortified town of Galle.

• Go biking through Bagan’s incredible temple complex, and enjoy dinner amid its candlelit shrines.

Days 1–5 YANGON, MYANMAR/INLE LAKE/ BAGAN

Udawalawe National Park

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Hike the shores of Inle Lake, passing stupas and the famous leg-rowing fishermen.

Zone, which contains over 2,500 Buddhist temples, stupas, and monasteries. Discover this magical area by bike, foot, and long-tail boat, visiting sites such as the Ananda Temple and the Shwezigon Pagoda. On our final night, enjoy a traditional music and dance performance. Fly to Mandalay and visit a local nunnery, the ornate Golden Palace Monastery, and the Kuthodaw Pagoda. Experience the thrill of the local jade market, where vendors try their luck at buying raw jade stone. Then fly to Chiang Mai. (Day 6: 4 miles biking, 1–2 hours; Day 7: 2–3 miles walking, 3 hours; 4 miles biking, 1–2 hours)

Weligama 100

MILES

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Itinerary | 12 days

Minneriya Sigiriya Golden Temple of Dambulla Temple of the Tooth Relic Nuwara Eliya

Yala National Park Kataragama

Air route

And aman Sea

SRI L ANKA Habarana Dambulla

LAOS

Bay of Bengal

• Track elephants, leopards, monkeys, sloth bears, and more on a variety of safaris.

• Join a chef at Chiang Mai’s Ruam Chok market and select ingredients for a hands-on Thai cooking demonstration.

• Visit a tea plantation in the hill town of Nuwara Eliya and hike through the emerald green terraced fields.

• Get to know local people during visits to their homes, schools, and monasteries.

• Join throngs of pilgrims in Kataragama to experience the ritual of the evening puja.

information DATES:

2016: Oct. 26–Nov. 6 • NOV. 9–20 • Dec. 7–18 2017: JAN. 11–22 • feb. 1–12 Cost: 2016:

$6,495 2017: $6,695

Prices are per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,450. International airfare to Yangon and return from Chiang Mai, and airfare within Thailand and Myanmar is not included in the cost. The group flight is $815 in 2016 and $895 in 2017 (subject to change). Activity level: Easy to Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: We will be walking or hiking 2 to 3 miles (1 to 2 hours) on many days, and biking 4 miles (1 hour) on two days. We will stay 11 nights in deluxe hotels that reflect the local character and charm. The maximum elevation is 3,000 feet.

Above: Temples are silhouetted against a dramatic sky in Bagan.

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 12 days DAYs 1–5 COLOMBO, SRI LANKA/HABARANA/ SIGIRIYA/DAMBULLA/KANDY

Arrive in Colombo and transfer to our hotel. Explore the historic Fort district, the markets of the Pettah neighborhood, Gangaramaya Temple, and the Colombo National Museum. Drive to Habarana and venture into Minneriya National Park to search for elephants, toque macaques, and purple-faced langurs. Hike through rice paddies and villages on the way to the rock fortress of Sigiriya. Climb to the top and explore the fortified palace at the summit. Travel to the Golden Temple of Dambulla, an extraordinary rock sanctuary which has drawn Buddhist pilgrims for centuries. Continue to the former royal capital of Kandy, home to one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred sites: the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Visit the temple complex and the Peradeniya Royal Botanic Gardens. (Day 2: 3–4 hours driving; Day 3: 3–4 miles hiking, 3–4 hours) Mount Lavinia Hotel, Cinnamon Lodge Habarana (Day 1: L,D; Days 2-5: B,L,D)

DAYs 6–9 NUWARA ELIYA/HORTON PLAINS NATIONAL PARK/UDAWALAWE NATIONAL PARK/ KATARAGAMA

Drive into Sri Lanka’s tea country, winding among mountains

information

carpeted with emerald-green tea plantations. In Nuwara Eliya, learn about the growing and harvesting of tea as we hike the terraced fields of a tea estate, and visit a tea processing center. Trek the highland plateau of Horton Plains National Park en route to the dramatic World’s End overlook. Head south to Udawalawe National Park and embark on a game drive to spot elephants, monkeys, and water buffaloes. Journey east to Kataragama, an important religious site for Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims. Experience the evening puja, which draws throngs of pilgrims. (Day 6: 1 mile hiking, 1 hour; Day 7: 3–4 miles hiking, 3–4 hours)

DATES:

• 2016: Aug. 13–24 • SepT. 19–30 • Oct. 17–28 Nov. 20–Dec. 1 2017: jan. 16–27 • feb. 20–mar. 3 • mar. 20–31 Cost:

Grand Hotel Golf Wing, Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort, Mandara Rosen (B,L,D daily)

Activity level: EASY TO Moderate Group Size: 8–16

DAYS 10–12 YALA NATIONAL PARK/WELIGAMA GALLE

Set out in 4x4s in Yala National Park to encounter one of the world’s highest concentration of leopards, along with sloth bears, spotted deer, and peacocks. In Weligama Bay, witness the Sri Lankan tradition of stilt fishing. Next, transfer to the ancient seaport of Galle. Explore the UNESCO-listed fortified city and its charming alleyways and courtyards. On our final morning, enjoy a wildlife cruise on the Madu River. Then return to Colombo and connect with your flight home. Weligama Bay Resort, Jetwing Lighthouse (Days 10-11: B,L,D; Day 12: B,L)

$5,995

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,800. International airfare to/from Colombo is not included in the cost.

TRIP details: We will be hiking 1 to 4 hours per day (1 to 4 miles) on most days. We will travel by jeep and bus. Some longer transfers of up to 3 or 4 hours will be required, and a 1-hour ride in a bullock cart may be bumpy. We will stay 11 nights in distinctive local or boutique hotels. This departure is a photo adventure. See page 11 for details and pricing. Above: Sri Lankan tea pickers amid the greenery and rushing waterfalls of a tea plantation.

nationalgeographica D v ent u res . com

ASIA

Mongolian Horse Trek

PACIFIC

New Zealand Adventure

Abel Tasman National Park

Motor route 0

MILES

Mongolia Points 0: Kharkorin 1: Lapis sky camp 2: 1st Camp 3: 2nd Camp 4: Mandal Mountain 5: Blue Lake

Tolgin Butts camp Mandal Lapis Sky Mountain camp camp

Pacific Ocean

Ulaanbaatar

Tasman Sea

Cape Foulwind

Punakaiki Hokitika

47° 12' N

Kharkhorin Khangai Nuruu National Park

43° 25' S

Franz Josef Glacier Haast Mt Aspiring National Park Milford Wanaka Sound

MONGOLIA

Mandal Mountain

Motor route Horse trek 0

Okarito

Fiordland National Park

MILES

102° 50' E

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

SOUTH ISLAND Paparoa National Park To Auckland

Aoraki/ Mount Cook National Park Mt Cook (12,316 ft)

Rob Roy Glacier

Queenstown

Onetahuti Kaiteriteri Nelson

Pacific Ocean

170° 21' E

170° 97' E

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• View the Mongolian countryside from the perspective of a nomad, traveling primarily on horseback.

• Sea kayak among dolphins and fur seals on the coast of Abel Tasman National Park, and hike along dramatic cliffs and gold-sand beaches.

• Watch a tsam-mask dance and listen to khoomii, or throat singing.

• Visit the Franz Josef area, exploring the maze of crevasses and towering icefalls.

• Experience the color, passion, and pageantry of a local Naadam festival.

• See the towering limestone formation known as the Pancake Rocks, formed over millions of years.

• Explore the 16th-century Erdene Zhu Monastery and meet its head lama (his schedule permitting).

• Stargaze and watch for wildlife on an overnight cruise in glorious Milford Sound.

information DATES:

Itinerary | 14 days Days 1–5 Ulaanbaatar/Kharkhorin/ Bulgan Sum

Arrive in Ulaanbaatar, and spend a day exploring the city. Visit the National Museum of Mongolia History, and see a traditional tsam-mask dance and throat-singing performance at the Choijin Lama Temple. Journey to Kharkhorin to see Karakorum, Genghis Khan’s legendary capital, and venture into the 16th-century Erdene Zhu Monastery to meet with the head lama, as his schedule permits. Settle into Lapis Sky ger camp near Bulgan Sum. (Day 5: 9 miles optional horse riding, 3 hours) Tuushin Hotel, Ger Camp, Lapis Sky Ger Camp (Day 1: D; Day 2: B,L; Days 3–5: B,L,D)

Days 6–10 Horse Trek

Brush up on your horseback skills during a warm-up ride, and visit with a nomad family to experience their way of life. Later, learn photo tips with National Geographic photographer Thomas Kelly. Then set out on horseback across the sweeping steppe to Tolgin Butts, where we’ll camp in a peaceful meadow. An invigorating ride over spectacular mountain passes brings us to Mandal Mountain, a sacred place for the Mongols. Explore the

area on foot, and attend a Buddhist ceremony on top of the mountain. You can also take an optional ride to visit with nomads. Return to Bulgan Sum by horse or jeep and enjoy a day to go on photo walks, go fishing, and spend time with nomad families before a Mongolian barbecue. (Day 6: 9 miles horse riding, 3 hours; Day 7: 12 miles horse riding, 5 hours; Day 8: 3 miles optional horse riding, 1 hour) Camping, Lapis Sky Ger Camp (B,L,D daily)

Days 11–14 Naadam Festival/Ulaanbaatar

Take part in a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the local Naadam festival near our camp. Naadam takes place every summer throughout Mongolia, pitting men and boys against each other in age-old contests of manliness and physical prowess. Young men train all year to compete in the three events: bareback horseracing, wrestling, and archery. Witness the excitement close-up, taking photographs in the middle of the action and even trying your hand at some of the sports after the competition. After a final day of leisure at Lapis Sky, return to Ulaanbaatar for flights home.

information DATES:

2016: JunE 14–27 • July 1–14 • july 20–AUG. 2 • aug. 9–22

$5,995

Cost:

Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $900. International airfare to/from Ulaanbaatar is not included in the cost. Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: This horse-riding adventure is suitable for beginners and experts alike; no previous experience is necessary. Due to the size of the horses, there is a rider weight limit of 195 pounds. We will have a four-day horse trek, riding 1 to 5 hours per day (3 to 12 miles) with options for more, or less, riding on most days. The trek will be supported by jeeps. We will stay 7 nights in traditional Mongolian gers (felt-lined yurts), 3 nights camping in spacious tents, and 3 nights in first-class hotels.

Lapis Sky Ger Camp, Tuushin Hotel (Days 11–12: B,L,D; Day 13: B,L; Day 14: B) Above: Horsemen in traditional dress on the grasslands of Mongolia.

CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-689-2557

Itinerary at-a-Glance Itinerary | 12 days DAYs 1–4 Nelson, New Zealand/Abel Tasman National Park/Punakaiki

Arrive in Nelson and gather for a welcome dinner. Travel to Kaiteriteri and catch a water taxi into Abel Tasman National Park. Set out on the Abel Tasman Coast Track, hiking through native forests and along gold-sand beaches, and arrive at our eco-lodge on Awaroa Bay. Explore Tonga Island Marine Reserve by sea kayak, keeping an eye out for dolphins and penguins, then hike back to our lodge. Return to Kaiteriteri and follow the Buller River gorge to the wild west coast. Time permitting, stop at Cape Foulwind to see its fur seal colony. (Day 2: 4 miles hiking, 3–4 hours; Day 3: 1 mile hiking, 1 hour; 4–5 miles paddling, 4–5 hours) Rutherford Hotel Nelson, Awaroa Lodge, Punakaiki Resort (Day 1: D; Days 2-4: B,L,D)

DAYs 5–7 Paparoa National Park/Okarito/ Franz Josef Glacier

Set off on a hike along the Pororari River through a valley lined with towering limestone cliffs, and continue into the Paparoa National Park. Return to Punakaiki for a visit to Pancake Rocks, then continue to Hokitika. Hit the trail in

Okarito, taking in a magnificent panorama. Continue into Westland Tai Poutini National Park, part of southwest New Zealand’s extensive World Heritage area. The next day, explore the Franz Josef area by foot. (Day 6: 3 miles hiking, 2–3 hours; Day 7: 2 miles hiking, 2–3 hours)

2016: nov. 7–18 • nov. 21–dec. 2* •dec. 5–16 • dec. 21–jan. 1, 2017* 2017: jan. 9–20* • jan. 23–feb. 3 • feb. 6–17* • feb. 20–mar. 3 • mar. 6–17* • mar. 20–31

Beachfront Hotel Hokitika, Te Waonui Forest Retreat (Days 5-6: B,L,D; Day 7: B,L)

Cost: Price is per person, double occupancy. For a single room, add $1,500. An optional helicopter ride on Day 7 is not included in the trip cost, and is approximately $200 per person. Add a $300 holiday surcharge for the Dec. 21 departure. International airfare to Nelson and return from Queenstown is not included in the cost.

$7,695

DAYS 8–12 Southern Alps/Wanaka/Mount Aspiring National Park/Queenstown/ Milford Sound

Travel into the Southern Alps on our way to the Southern Lakes district. Trace the shores of Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea, stopping for short hikes along our route. Follow the Matukituki River valley into Mount Aspiring National Park, where we’ll hike the Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain tracks. Drive to Queenstown and enjoy free time to visit a local winery or try out an adventure sport. Then continue our journey into Fiordland National Park, where we set sail on the Milford Mariner on the magnificent Milford Sound. Celebrate our adventure with a farewell dinner on board. Depart the next day. (Day 9: 6 miles hiking, 4–6 hours)

Activity level: Moderate Group Size: 8–16 TRIP details: On this multi-sport adventure, hikes range from 2 to 6 hours (2 to 6 miles) on good trails with moderate elevation gain. On our kayaking excursion, we will paddle stable, two-person kayaks for 4 to 5 hours (4 to 5 miles). No previous kayaking experience is necessary. During hikes, vehicle support is limited while in the national parks. Participants always have the option to rest a day at the hotel. We stay 10 nights in comfortable eco-lodges and hotels, and 1 night on a traditional sailing boat in Milford Sound. *This departure follows the itinerary shown, but in the reverse order.

Grand Mecure Oakridge Resort, Scenic Suites Queenstown, Milford Mariner (Days 8-9: B,L,D; Day 10: B,L; Day 11: B,L,D; Day 12: B,L)

Above: Kayakers rest on a small island in Abel Tasman National Park.

n at i o n al g eo g ra p h i ca D v e n t u re s . co m

4 9.

More Adventures

Online

See detailed itineraries for more extraordinary trips at natgeoadventures.com.

Salmon River Rafting China Adventure Adventure

Hiking and Kayaking Norway’s Fjords

Namibia Adventure

Alaska Sea Kayaking Adventure

National Geographic Traveler dubbed the Middle Fork of the Salmon River one of the top three white-water rafting trips in the world. Spend six unforgettable days on the river, sliding down its chutes in the midst of true wilderness while cathedral-like stands of fir, pine, and spruce rise on the canyon slopes above you. Follow in the footsteps of prospectors and hermits, exploring the biggest wilderness area in America’s lower 48, hiking and paddling along the way. Experience unparalleled access to amazing wilderness scenery, wildlife habitats, and Native American rock art sites.

Discover the dramatic landscapes of western Norway, where glacially carved fjords cut deep into the mountainous coast and seals, porpoises, and eagles hunt for fish in the waters. Narrow green valleys dotted with cozy farms and charming villages of red and white wooden houses interrupt the steep shorelines. This world, rich in folklore and history, is the stage for our seven-day adventure by paddle and foot. Experience fjords by kayak, stroll through historic villages, visit centuriesold farms and churches, and hike up mountainsides for breathtaking views of waterfalls and snow-capped peaks.

With deserts that reach all the way to the sea, twinkling salt pans, and lunarlike red-rock landscapes, Namibia is stark, wild, and spectacular. On a variety of safaris and wildlife walks, track animals of all sorts, including cheetahs, desert-adapted elephants and rhinos, and the kudu, zebra, and oryx of Etosha National Park. Meet with scientists to learn firsthand about efforts to preserve Namibia’s cheetahs, leopards, and rhinos. Spend time in San and Himba settlements and get acquainted with the fascinating ancient cultures that make their home in this harsh and mystical land.

Take to the sea in a kayak in one of the wildest places on Earth. Along Alaska’s southeastern coast, little is accessible by road. Glaciers scatter icebergs across inlets and bays. Ferns and moss carpet the floor of the ancient Tongass Forest, and waters rich with salmon and nutrients lure wildlife of every sort, from humpback whales and sea otters to brown bears. Exploring from the perspective of your kayak, encounter the forests and shores of beautiful Chichagof Island close up. Venture far into Glacier Bay and spend three days paddling through this otherworldly wilderness of ice and mountains.

information

8 days

13 days

7 days

14 days

9 days

DATES:

2016: JUNE 22–29 • JULY 24–31 • AUG. 9–16 • AUG. 17—24

$2,895

Land of red dragons and Buddhist monks, massive fortifications and delicate arts, modern skyscrapers and ancient villages, China and its contrasts mystify and enchant. Delve into the legacy of China’s myriad dynasties, hiking three remote sections of the Great Wall and exploring imperial sites in Beijing and Xi’an. Venture into the Forbidden City and the ancient caves of Yungang, encounter Xi’an’s ancient terra-cotta warriors, and climb the peaks of the holy mountain of Hua Shan. Then raft down the Yulong river through otherworldly karst landscapes of southerly Guilin.

DATES:

2016: SEPT. 5–17 • SEPT. 12–24 • OCT. 9–24 • OCT. 17–29

$5,695

DATES:

2016: JULY 24–30 • AUG. 7–13 • AUG. 21–27 • SEPT. 4–10 • SEPT. 18–24

$6,995

Cost:

Activity level: EASY

Activity level: MODERATE

Group Size: 8–16

Group Size: 8–15

CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-689-2557

DATES:

2016: JUNE 21–JULY 4 • JULY 20–AUG. 2 • AUG. 24–SEPT. 6 • SEPT. 21–OCT. 4 • OCT. 26–NOV. 8 • dec. 21–JAN. 3

$7,695

DATES:

2016: JUNE 24–JULY 2 • JUNE 30–JULY 8 • JULY 6–14 • JULY 18–26 • JULY 29–AUG. 6 • AUG. 4–12

$4,495

Cost:

Activity level: EASY

Activity level: MODERATE

Group Size: 8–16

Group Size: 8–10

nat i o na l ge o gra p h i ca D v ent u res . c o m

See the World Your Way

Our range of travel experiences is truly panoramic. In addition to wildlife safaris, archaeology-focused expeditions, and other land-based trips, we offer many different ways to see the world with National Geographic. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer, an avid explorer, or a parent looking for a way to make your family vacation unforgettable, you’ll find a wide array of opportunities to nourish your wanderlust. And no matter how you travel with us, you’ll delve into local traditions, learn about habitats, and meet fascinating people—exploring in the tradition of National Geographic. Below are just a few of the ways to explore with us. Visit natgeoexpeditions.com to view all of our travel offerings.

SMALL-SHIP VOYAGES Take to the sea aboard one of the six ships of the National Geographic–Lindblad fleet and explore the Galápagos, Alaska, and more with a team of experts.

PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS AND WORKSHOPS Improve your photography skills with guidance from a National Geographic photographer on a photography trip or an intensive weekend workshop.

FAMILY EXPEDITIONS Introduce your family to the magic of travel on trips designed for travelers of all ages that combine learning, discovery, and fun.

Terms and conditions Responsibility Statement, Binding Arbitration, Assumption of Risk, and Terms and Conditions RESPONSIBILITY National Geographic Adventures will provide educational enrichment as outlined in its catalog or website (nationalgeographicadventures.com) and has licensed Mountain Travel, its owners, directors, officers and employees (“MT”) to organize and administer National Geographic Adventures programs (“Trips”). With the exception of certain transportation and other equipment in Alaska and Idaho owned and operated by MT, as well as certain personnel employed by MT on trips operated in the United States, all suppliers of services connected with these Trips (“other providers”), are third-party contractors and are solely responsible and liable for providing their respective services. The passenger tickets in use by the carriers and/or other suppliers shall constitute the sole contract between them and the passenger; the carriers are not responsible for any act, omission, or event during the time participants are not aboard their conveyances. National Geographic Partners, LLC, its parent, subsidiaries and their respective employees, affiliates, officers, directors, successors, representatives, assigns (for purposes of this Responsibility statement, Binding Arbitration, Assumption of Risk, and the Terms and Conditions, collectively “NG”) and the designated tour operator, MT (collectively “we”, “us”, or “our”) are not liable for any negligent or willful act or failure to act of any third party, such as hotels or other lodging facilities, airline, vessel, bus, van or other transportation companies, local ground operators, providers or organizers of optional excursions, food service or entertainment providers etc. Without limitation, we are not responsible for any injury, loss, or damage to personal property, death, delay or inconvenience in connection with the provision of any goods or services occasioned by or resulting from, but not limited to, acts of God, acts of government, weather, force majeure, acts of war or civil unrest, insurrection or revolt, strikes or other labor activities, criminal or terrorist activities or the threat thereof, of any kind, epidemics or the threat thereof, illness, overbooking or downgrading of accommodations, structural or other defective conditions in hotels or other lodging facilities, mechanical or other failure of airplanes or other means of transportation or for any failure of any transportation mechanism to arrive or depart timely or safely, dangers associated with or bites from animals, pests or insects, marine life or vegetation of any sort, dangers incident to recreational activities such as scuba diving, zip lining, snorkeling, paddle boarding, surfing, swimming, kayaking, sailing, canoeing, rafting, hiking, bicycling, rock climbing, etc., sanitation problems, food poisoning, lack of, access to or quality of medical care, difficulty in evacuation in case of medical or other emergency, negligence of shipboard or other physicians or medical personnel of for any cause beyond our direct control. In addition, the participant releases NG and MT from their own negligence and assumes all risk thereof. Neither NG nor MT shall be liable for any air carrier’s cancellation penalty or change fee incurred by the purchase of a nonrefundable ticket to or from the participant’s departure city. Baggage and personal effects are at all times the sole responsibility of the participant. BINDING ARBITRATION Any dispute concerning, relating or referring to this contract, the catalog or website, or any other literature concerning the Trip, or the Trip itself shall be resolved exclusively by binding arbitration in San Francisco, California, according to the then existing commercial rules of the American Arbitration Association. Such proceeding will be governed by substantive California law without regard to the California Arbitration Act. The arbitrator(s) and not any federal, state, or local court or agency shall have exclusive authority to resolve any dispute relating to the interpretation, applicability, enforceability, conscionability, or formation of this contract, including but not limited to any claim that all or any part of this contract is void or voidable. ASSUMPTION OF RISK By registering for a Trip, the participant acknowledges that he/she is aware that adventure travel such as the Trip he/she is undertaking involves potentially dangerous activities, some in remote areas of the world, with a risk of illness, injury or death which may be caused by forces of nature, illness, or by willful or criminal conduct of third parties or by terrorism. The participant further acknowledges that weather conditions may be severe, adverse and/or unpleasant and that medical services or facilities may not be readily available or accessible or consistent with standards in the United States during some or all of the time during which he/she is participating on the Trip and that when available may not be of the quality which exists in the United States. TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Unique Lodges of the World Stay at one of the world-class hotels in our hand-picked collection, and enjoy unique experiences and genuine interactions with the local environment and culture. 52

Private Jet Experience fascinating places as farflung as Easter Island and Marrakech on one epic journey, traveling with a team of experts in the comfort of a VIPconfigured jet.

New! National Geographic Journeys Our newest line of trips offers fun, hands-on exploration, meaningful encounters with cultures and people, and more free time and choices.

ELIGIBILITY Anyone under 18 years of age at the time of the Trip departure must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for the entire journey. VOLUNTARY PARTICIPATION By registering for a National Geographic Adventure Trip, the participant acknowledges that he/she has voluntarily applied to participate on this Trip and that he/she has read the description of the Trip as it appears in the current National Geographic Adventure catalog or website. PAYMENTS, CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS To reserve space on a National Geographic Adventure, a $750 per-person deposit is required. Final payment of the balance is due at 95 days prior to departure. Private Departures and Custom Journeys require a nonrefundable per-person deposit of $1,000 or 20% of the Trip cost, whichever is greater. A $100 deposit is required for any extension. Deposits and all remaining payments must be made by major credit card (Visa, MasterCard, or American Express). Prices are in U.S. dollars and all payments are to be made in U.S. dollars. A reservation may be cancelled if full payment has not been received at least 90 days prior to departure. For reservations made within 90 days of the departure date, full payment is required when the reservation is accepted.

All cancellation notices must be received in writing and will become effective as of the date of the postmark. If a participant cancels 120 days or more prior to departure, a refund less an administrative fee of 50% of the deposit will be made. Private Departures and Custom Journeys carry a nonrefundable deposit. Per-person charges for cancellations that occur less than 120 days prior to departure (“Cancellation Penalty Period”) are as follows: 91-119 days prior to departure: 100% of the deposit amount; 45-90 days prior to departure: 50% of the Trip cost; 44 or fewer days prior to departure: 100% of the Trip cost. This policy also applies to pre- and post- Trip extensions. Any revisions requested by the participant within the Cancellation Penalty Period, are subject to this cancellation policy. Any airline tickets issued are subject to the carrier’s refund policy. Arriving late or leaving a Trip in progress, for any reason whatsoever, will not result in a refund, and no refunds will be made for any unused portions of a Trip. Any airline tickets issued are subject to the carrier’s refund policy. No refunds will be made for any unused portions of a Trip. We reserve the right to cancel any Trip because of inadequate enrollment that makes the Trip economically infeasible to operate or because of our concerns with respect to the safety, health, or welfare of the participants. If a Trip is canceled by us prior to departure, MT will provide the participant with a full refund of monies paid to them; except in the event cancellation is due to a significant event that makes it infeasible to operate the Trip as planned, in which case MT will provide the participant with a refund or credit toward a future National Geographic Adventure Trip equivalent to monies paid to them. If we cancel the Trip in progress, the participant will receive a prorated refund and/or a credit based on the number of days not completed on the Trip. If we cancel a Trip, we will not be responsible for any additional expenses incurred by participant in his/her preparation for the Trip (e.g. nonrefundable airline tickets, visa fees, if applicable, clothing, equipment and medical expenses, etc.). ITINERARY CHANGES The itineraries and staff presented in this catalog are subject to modification and change by NG or MT. We reserve the right, without penalty, to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in our judgment, conditions warrant, or if we deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of participants. Every reasonable effort will be made to operate programs as planned, but alterations may still occur after final itineraries are sent. WHAT YOUR TRIP INCLUDES Your Trip includes accommodations and meals as indicated in the itinerary (B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner); pre-departure information; entrance fees, excursions, and sightseeing noted as included in the itinerary; ground transportation during the Trip; transfers to and from group flights where applicable; services of a Trip leader and support staff, taxes, port charges, baggage handling, and service charges. Trips designated as “Photography” departures will, in addition to the above, include a National Geographic Photographer. For itineraries that include camping, camp and cook staffs, tents, and dining tents and necessary Trip equipment (e.g. sea kayaks, rafts, personal floatation devices, etc.) are provided. Please note: The “B, L, D” notations apply to the period during the Trip only and do not include any meals on flights to/from the Trip. Internal airfare is included on some international Trips as indicated in the itinerary. WHAT YOUR TRIP DOES NOT INCLUDE Air transportation and related fees (except as indicated in the itinerary); activities noted as optional in the itinerary; optional gratuities for the Trip leader; passport, visa, and permit expenses; medical expenses and immunizations; baggage/accident/cancellation insurance; personal expenses, such as laundry, telephone calls, and alcoholic beverages; and any other items not specifically noted as included. SINGLE TRAVELERS Accommodations (hotels, tents, and cruise cabins) are based on double occupancy. If the participant prefers single accommodations, and if such are available, he/ she must pay a single supplement fee, which is listed in the Trip Itinerary. If the participant is traveling alone and wishes to share accommodations, we will assign him/ her a roommate of the same gender. If there is no one with whom the participant can share, he/she is required to pay the single supplement fee. TRAVEL PROTECTION Basic medical and evacuation travel protection is purchased on your behalf (trip cancellation is not included in this plan). To view the plan details, please visit, http://www.tripmate.com/wpF485m. Optional trip-cancellation protection is available at an additional cost and is strongly recommended. For more information about and to enroll in the option available through Travel Insurance Services, visit the “Travel Insurance” section of our website at www.nationalgeographicadventures.com. DOCUMENTS After making a reservation, the participant will receive detailed pre-Trip information with a clothing and equipment list, visa information (if required), a statement reflecting Trip costs, insurance information, physicians certificate (if required), Traveler Information Form which includes a Responsibility Statement, Binding Arbitration, Assumption of Risk and Terms and Conditions document each participant is required to sign and return to us, and other information needed to prepare for the Trip. Final Trip details will be sent three weeks prior to departure. TRANSFERS Transfers for Private Departures and Custom Journeys are subject to the Cancellation policies described above. For all other trips, the participant may transfer to another Trip without a fee up to 90 days before departure. If the

participant transfers from one Trip to another within 89 days of departure, however, he/she is subject to the usual Cancellation Fees outlined above (appropriate to the date the participant notifies us in writing of his/her wish to transfer). DELAYS & COST INCREASES We will not be responsible for providing any reimbursement for delays in the Trip due to bad weather, trail conditions, river levels, road conditions, transportation delays, or government intervention. The rates are based on tariffs, currency values, airfares and third-party charges as of catalog publication date and are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. While we will do everything possible to maintain the listed prices, if it is necessary to levy a surcharge, as permitted by law, we reserve the right to do so, and notification will be given at the time of final invoicing. MEDICAL & HEALTH By registering for a National Geographic Adventure, the participant certifies that he/she is physically fit and does not have a condition that would limit mobility. Participant further certifies that he/she does not have any mental, physical, or other condition or disability that would create a hazard for him/ herself or other participants. For Trips that take place at higher elevations (above 5,000 feet), participant certifies that he/she does not suffer from a respiratory, cardiac or circulatory disorder. Participant must notify us of any medical issues well before departure. We reserve the right in our sole discretion to accept, decline to accept, or remove any participant on a Trip at any time during the Trip. In the event of removal from a Trip, refunds are not given. Hospital facilities or appropriate medical facilities or doctors are often unavailable and evacuation can be prolonged, difficult, and expensive. We assume no liability regarding provision of medical care. Participants will receive appropriate health information and a Medical Certificate to be filled out and returned to us. On certain designated Trips, the Medical Certificate must be signed by the participant’s physician and returned to us within 30 days after the participant receives it. MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION & COVERAGE In the event participant becomes sufficiently incapacitated as to be unable to direct his or her own care, the participant authorizes any medical treatment deemed necessary in the event of any injury or illness while participating on the Trip whether or not administered by medical or non-medical personnel. In addition, the participant certifies that he or she has medical insurance which will cover personal accidents, medical expenses, medical evacuation, air ambulance, loss of effects, repatriation costs and all other expenses which might arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience occurring to the participant, or that in the absence of this medical insurance coverage, the participant agrees to pay all costs of rescue and/or medical services as may be incurred on the participant’s behalf. PHOTOGRAPHY We reserve the right to take photographs or videos during the operation of any Trip or part thereof and to use the resulting photography, videos, or recordings for promotional or commercial use. By making a reservation on a Trip, participant agrees to allow his/her likeness to be used by NG, NG-authorized third parties, and MT without compensation to participant. If participant prefers that his/her likeness not be used, he/she must notify us in writing prior to departure of the Trip. Copyright in all photographs, video, and related materials created by participant (“Adventure Materials”) shall belong to the participant upon creation. Participant grants to NG, NG-authorized third parties, and MT a non-exclusive, worldwide, irrevocable license to use any Adventure Materials provided to NG and/or MT or taken on NG and/or MT supplied equipment, in any media now existing or subsequently developed for the following limited purposes: editorial use, promotion of the editorial use, promotion of National Geographic’s travel programs or promotion of the mission of the National Geographic Society. RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARTICIPANTS Participant is responsible for understanding the conditions as described in the Trip Itinerary and selecting a Trip in consultation with us that is appropriate to his/her interests and abilities. In addition, participant should prepare for the Trip by reading the Trip Itinerary and supplemental Trip information in the pre-Trip materials and for bringing the appropriate clothing and equipment as advised in those materials. Participant should also consult his or her physician to determine his or her suitability for the trip and to discuss any over the counter or prescription medicines he or she should consider taking in the case of trips which travel to higher altitudes. Screening for fitness (for Trips rated “Strenuous” or “Ultimate Challenge”) is made by MT during the confirmation of booking. MAILING LIST If you are receiving duplicate catalogs, have address updates, or would like to be removed from future National Geographic Adventures mailings, please call toll-free 1-888-689-2557. OTHER Additional Terms and Conditions may apply to some Trips and will be provided with pre-Trip mailings. By registering for a National Geographic Adventure Trip, the participant agrees to the Responsibility statement, Binding Arbitration, Assumption of Risk, and the Terms and Conditions published in the catalog and on the website. See our most complete and up to date terms at http://www.nationalgeographicexpeditions.com/information/terms. Please Note: See our website to review Terms and Conditions for other National Geographic travel programs, including National Geographic Expeditions, National Geographic Journeys, and Private Expeditions.

D E PA R T U R E DAT E S

D E PA R T U R E DAT E S PAGE

ACTIVITY LEVEL

GROUP SIZE

NO. OF DAYS

2017

2016 APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEPT

OCT

NOV

DEC

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

EUROPE

PAGE

ACTIVITY LEVEL

GROUP SIZE

NO. OF DAYS

Hiking Patagonia

M-S

8–16

MAY

2016 APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

2017 SEPT

OCT

NOV

DEC

JAN

FEB

MAR

6, 20

4, 11

8, 15

5, 12

APR

MAY

3, 17, 24

1, 22

SOUTH AMERICA

Portugal Hiking Adventure NEW

E-M

8–16

Spain: Walking El Camino de Santiago

8–16

Vienna to Prague Adventure

8–16

Hiking Italy’s Dolomites

8–15

9, 20

Provence Hiking Adventure

E-M

8–16

8, 29

Hiking Scotland’s Highlands and Islands

8–14

14, 28

4, 11, 18

Ireland: Hiking the Emerald Isle

8–16

16, 30

England Coast to Coast

M-S

8–16

8, 22

Sweden: Dogsledding to the Icehotel

m-s

8–15

Tour du Mont Blanc

M-S

8–14

Tuscany and Cinque Terre Hiking Adventure

E-M

8–16

Greek Islands Adventure

8–16

Croatia Island Adventure

E-M

8–16

Hungary and the Slovenian Alps

8–16

Iceland Winter Adventure

8–16

Iceland Adventure

8–16

Hiking and Kayaking Norway’s Fjords

8–15

24 1, 19

Peru: Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu NEW

8–16

Peru: Machu Picchu Inn to Inn

M-S

10-12

20, 24

16*

11, 25

Southern Africa Adventure

E-M

8–16

2, 9, 16, 30

6, 13, 20

10*

Morocco Camel Trek and Hiking Adventure

8–16

13, 27

8, 22

Tanzania: Kilimanjaro Climb and Safari

8–16

5, 19

3, 17, 31

14, 28

4, 11

Tanzania: Walking Safari with the Maasai

8–16

Namibia Adventure

8–16

5, 19

2, 30

3, 31 21

4, 20, 25

4 22

5, 26

8–16

9, 17

Japan Adventure: Tokyo to Sacred Kumano

8–15

6, 13, 20

11, 18

1, 11

Bhutan Sacred Valley Adventure

M-S

8–16

Borneo Wildlife Adventure

E-M

8–15

12, 19, 26

E-M

8–16

Sri Lanka Adventure

E-M

8–16

NORTH AMERICA

8–16

Hiking the National Parks

E-M

8–16

Belize: Reefs, Rain Forests, and Ruins

8–16

Salmon River Rafting Adventure

8–16

9, 17

Alaska Sea Kayaking Adventure

8–10

24, 30

6, 18, 29

21, 28

11 25

24, 30

Mongolian Horse Trek

8–16

New Zealand Adventure

8–16

China Hiking Adventure

8–16

3, 17 9, 23

6, 27

9 9, 23

Nepal: Everest Base Camp Trek

Thailand and Myanmar Adventure

Hiking the Grand Canyon

20*

4, 18

3, 17

7, 21

8–14

11, 25

14, 28

8–16

3, 24

8–16

E-M

Costa Rica Multisport Adventure

5, 19

M-S

Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia Adventure

8–14

Nepal and Tibet: Great Himalayan Hikes NEW

2, 9

e-M

5, 12, 19

6, 20, 27*

1, 15, 22

Costa Rica: Volcanoes and Wildlife NEW

17 21

3, 17

ASIA & THE PACIFIC

3, 17

6, 20 24

AFRICA

3, 10, 17, 24 4

13 14

1, 20

9, 16, 19

6, 13, 18

1, 22

21*

3, 20

2, 16, 30

8, 22

5, 19

4, 18

17*

9, 23

6, 20

1, 13, 27

4, 18

9 7, 21 5, 12

5, 21

9, 17

Please see page 7 for full descriptions of the activity levels. 22

17, 25

13, 27

Activity level key: E = Easy

e–m = easy to moderate

M = Moderate

m–s = moderate to strenuous

S = Strenuous

UC = Ultimate Challenge

*Denotes photography Adventure departure. See page 11 for details. Back Cover: Elephants in Southern Africa are silhouetted against a dramatic sunset.

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5952-16

National Geographic Adventures

Join us on one of these extraordinary adventures: •

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Grand Canyon

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•

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Africa

• Spain •

Sweden

• Tanzania • Thailand • and

more . . .

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