Intrepid - Africa Brochure 2019 by Peregrine Travel Centre Adelaide

AFRICA

SMALL GROUP adventures

LOCAL LEADER knowledge

RESPONSIBLE travel experts

2019

& TH E M IDDLE E A S T

E R O M , No w e h t , r e v e n a th e r o m s d e e N d W or l E L P O E P D I P E R IN T

n e p o e b s u o i r u be c s s e l r be f e a d e g n e l l a h c be d i p e r b e in t

For some, being Intrepid means pushing one step further across a remote mountain range. For others, it’s trying street food for the first time. It’s sitting cross-legged on the floor sharing a meal with a local family, it’s choosing to travel with a bunch of strangers. It’s an attitude. A willingness to take yourself far from home and open up to new experiences. To be curious, challenged, fearless and open. To be alive.

be OPEN

We travel so we can learn something new about the world that we live in, not to confirm what we think we know. By being open, by challenging our beliefs, we can change how we see the world and may just be able to inspire others to do the same.

be CURIOUS

Which do you trust more: an online review or a stranger’s smile? With a wealth of information available at the touch of a button, it’s easy to forget that the best stories often have no formula. Sometimes the best guide is your gut, a hunch beats a recommendation and the biggest changes come from chances.

be FEARLESS

It’s a mix of anticipation, excitement and fear. You’re heading into the unknown. It’s terrifying for some, second nature to others, and it’s healthy. You’re doing something different, something worthwhile, and though you’ll one day look back on it, you’ll never look back.

be challenged

You know that little voice in your head telling you to just give it a go? Listen to it. We all have boundaries and we all have a responsibility to push them, whatever that looks like.

FIND OUT MORE AT

intrepidtravel.com/be-intrepid

SMALL GROUP ADVENTURES Travel should be about more than just ticking boxes. Sure, the highlights take our breath away, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the simple, spontaneous moments away from the crowds that stay with us the most. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exchanging stories at a local homestay or cramming into a tiny restaurant hidden away from the main streets, the real magic happens during moments that can only be experienced as a small group.

5 Benefits OF SMALL GROUPS Real life experiences Travel should deliver moments when you know you’re truly alive and experiencing something special. It could be the first glimpse of something you’ve only ever seen on postcards, but it’s more likely to be finding yourself in the middle of a village football game or sharing laughs with a local family in their home. These kinds of experiences just aren’t possible when travelling with a big group.

Travel like a local We travel the world to keep things local. Wherever we can, we’ll use experienced local leaders, stay in small, locally run accommodation and eat at local restaurants. This means that you’re not only getting a real, authentic experience, but also contributing to the local economy.

Travel made easy The world’s a big place, but we’ve put years of research into our itineraries, operators and accommodation so you can focus on having real life experiences. Travelling in a small group means you can spend more time exploring and leave the details to people who live and breathe your style of travel.

Not too big, not too small Our groups are small enough to feel like you’re exploring a destination independently, but big enough to create a good social vibe. Numbers vary depending on where and how you’re travelling, but the average size of a tour is twelve people, which opens up opportunities for experiences the big groups only dream of.

The right balance Travelling in a small group means leaders can strike the perfect balance between planned activities and ‘you time’. There’s always an itinerary, but there are also opportunities to be spontaneous and make the journey a little more you. With the flexibility afforded by being in a small group, you’ll spend more time connecting with the people and places we visit.

Africa & the Middle East 5

TRIP STYLES Every one of our trips has a particular style. It’s a way to help pick the adventure that best suits you, whether you’re after just the

Look out for these symbols

essentials, a whole bunch of inclusions or a little bit of both.

Each of our trips has a physical

The choice is yours.

Basix: for travellers on a budget These are amazing experiences at a great price. Basix trips use simple, convenient accommodation and local transport where

rating, so you can tell how physically exerting a trip is and how fit you’ll need to be to enjoy it. As a guide:

possible, and include plenty of free time. Pick and choose inclusions to fit your budget.

Original: Intrepid, as it’s always been These are the trips we’ve built our reputation on. Original trips offer a mix of included activities and free time to explore on your own. They use centrally located hotels and come with a few meals along the way.

Comfort: because you deserve it We’ve smoothed away adventure travel’s rougher edges to craft a style of travel that has an added degree of… comfort, really. Enjoy a more relaxed pace, comfortable accommodation and lots of included activities. For more information on our trip styles, visit: intrepidtravel.com/trip-styles

Check out our best-selling trips

TRIP themes Are you chasing a culinary journey, or dreaming of an adventure you and the kids can all enjoy? Think a destination is best seen

These itineraries also run in the opposite direction

from the saddle of a bike, or prefer the deck of a small ship with the ocean breeze in your hair? No matter what kind of traveller you are, we’ve got a variety of themed trips to suit every taste.

Food

Expeditions

Cycling

Short Breaks

Family

Festivals

Adventure Cruising

Overland

Sailing

18 to 29s

A combination of two or more of our adventures

Exciting new additions to our current range of itineraries

Active For more information on our themed trips, visit: intrepidtravel.com/theme

6 Africa & the Middle East

Selected cycling trips include the option to hire an e-bike

local leaders Born and bred in the regions we visit, our leaders are passionate locals who do so much more than just show you the sights. They know the history of a place, as well as its shortcuts, and are full of insider info. They can lead you to cool backstreet bars and suggest the best way to make the most of free time. On top of that, they bridge language barriers, can point you in the direction of a working ATM and generally make your journey as seamless as possible. With our local leaders, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just see a destination, you experience it. FIND OUT MORE AT

intrepidtravel.com/meet-intrepid-leaders

BE RESPONSIBLE With great travel comes great responsibility. The world is an amazing place and we do what we can to keep it that way. That is why at Intrepid everything is done with four principles in mind: be kind, be aware, be sustainable and be fair. For us, the only way to travel is responsibly, and we want to give our travellers the ability to be responsible too. FIND OUT MORE AT

intrepidtravel.com/be-responsible

The Intrepid Foundation was set up to help local organisations improve livelihoods through sustainable travel experiences. It now supports over 35 local, grassroots organisations around the world and empowers travellers to have a positive impact on the communities they visit. Travellers can give back by supporting a range of projects and not-for-profit organisations. Find out how you can help at theintrepidfoundation.org

be KIND Our travellers and staff are a caring bunch, especially when it comes to animal welfare. That’s why we made the decision to ban elephant rides across all our trips – the first global tour operator to do so – after funding some eye-opening research led by World Animal Protection. We’ve also made it our mission to educate the travel industry in the hope they adopt better animal welfare practices – for all animals.

be AWARE The complicated, uncomfortable reality is that orphanage tourism has led to an industry that is forcibly institutionalising children to attract tourist dollars. It may seem counterintuitive, but visits and donations to these sorts of organisations often do more harm than good. After working closely with researchers, we made the decision to stop visiting orphanages on our trips.

be SUSTAINABLE Sustainability has always been at the core of how we travel and is part of our business at every level. We’ve been carbon neutral since 2010, and our business-wide carbon offsetting initiatives, efforts to minimise single-use plastics on trips and emphasis on minimising impact on local communities are all part of our commitment to the UN Global Compact, and also to the world we’re so lucky to explore.

be FAIR At Intrepid, we know our differences are our strength. This is why we’re committed to promoting gender equality, diversity and inclusion across our business. Whether it’s by highlighting positive stories of gender equality like East Africa’s first female truck driver, pushing for a global gender balance of local leaders on trips, or showcasing traveller stories of diversity in our content, we want to make it clear that the future of travel can be fair for everyone.

In 2018, Intrepid celebrated becoming a certified B Corp, making us the largest in the travel industry. More than just a logo, B Corp certification is a rigorous process that helps businesses to be better, and customers to easily identify the difference between good business and good marketing. It demonstrates our commitment to creating positive change for our planet, our people and the local communities we visit. Africa & the Middle East 9

Overland, exploring Africa up close The wide-open plains of Africa are calling you, and one of the best ways to experience them is on an overland trip. Get right to the heart of this incredible continent in purpose-built trucks, and feel its distinct rhythm for yourself.

Your vehicle

Your accommodation

Your experience

Our purpose-built vehicles have been designed for tough African conditions and plenty of game viewing; they all come with seatbelts and are designed to be self-sufficient, with everything you need for your adventure included – right down to the folding chairs for your campsite. Don’t expect Africa to be your traditional touring experience. While it’s certainly our aim to avoid them, the occasional breakdown can happen and they’re best treated as part of the adventure. Wet weather conditions may occasionally mean that we need to take an alternative route, which can result in longer travel times.

The accommodation you stay in depends on the style of overland adventure you choose. Often you’ll be camping out in the wild, but on some adventures you may stay in hotels or lodges. When camping you’ll sometimes stay at official campsites and make use of the facilities, while other times you’ll pitch your tent in the bush, experiencing the immense beauty of Africa up close. Our tents are generous with space, as they are slightly larger than the average two-person tent, and come with built-in mosquito screens. Facilities might be basic or non-existent, so you’ll need to be ready to rough it for a little while.

While overlanding across Africa’s vast and varied landscapes, you’ll really become a part of this amazing continent, experiencing the sights and sounds firsthand. Overlanding is an exciting way to get off the beaten track and make the journey as much a part of the adventure as the destination. You’ll experience life in isolated communities, camp under starry African skies and see the Big Five – buffaloes, rhinos, leopards, elephants and lions – in the company of likeminded travellers. With group size averaging between 12 and 22 people, depending on the trip, it is a bit like travelling with a group of friends.

CHOOSE AN OVERLAND TRIP… YG OT YG O K YXO G YXO D C YXO Q C 10 Africa

Serengeti Trail 8 days, see page 15

Kenya Wildlife Safari 8 days, see page 15

YXORC YXO S C

Gorillas & Game Parks 16 days, see page 27

UXO F

Road to Zanzibar 12 days, see page 18

Zanzibar to Nairobi 12 days, enter YXOQC on our website

YXO F UBO O

Zanzibar to Vic Falls 19 days, See page 19

Vic Falls to Zanzibar 20 days, enter YXOSC on our website

Cape Town to Vic Falls 22 days, see page 43

Vic Falls to Cape Town 22 days, enter YXOF on our website

Okavango Experience 10 days, see page 41

YBOP UBSA YBSB UBOE UBOH

Vic Falls to Kruger 9 days, see page 41

Kruger to Vic Falls 8 days, see page 46

Okavango & Beyond 9 days, see page 46

Kruger & Coast 9 days, see page 44

Garden Route Adventure 14 days, see page 44

Masai Mara NR UGANDA Kampala

Kalinzu Forest NP Queen Elizabeth NP

Lake Nakuru NP Kisii Lake Naivasha

Jinja

Kisoro

Mbarara

YXOG Gorilla Trek

KENYA

Kericho Eldoret

YGO K

Nairobi Loita Hills

Lake Victoria

YGOT

Serengeti NP Ngorongoro Crater

Usambara Mountains

Mto wa Mbu YXOD C YXO Q C

Zanzibar

Dar es Salaam Mikumi NP

TANZANIA Iringa YXORC YXO S C

Chitimba

Lake Malawi South Luangwa NP MOZAMBIQUE

Petauke

ZAMBIA

Lusaka

Victoria Falls

Bagani San Village Chobe NP

Grootfontein

Hwange NP Harare

ZIMBABWE

Etosha NP

Masvingo Okavango Delta

Bulawayo/Matobo NP

Nata

Maun

Spitzkoppe

YBOP

UBSA

Swakopmund

MALAWI

NAMIBIA

Moremi Gorge

BOTSWANA

UBOO Khama Rhino Sanctuary

Sesriem U XO F YXO F

YBSB

Masebe NR

Kruger NP Hlane Royal NP

Johannesburg

Mozambique Beach Camp

SWAZILAND

Fish River Canyon Orange River

Blouberg

St Lucia Estuary

UBOE SOUTH AFRICA

Hermanus Wine Region

UBOH

Durban Drakensberg

Addo Elephant NP

Klawer

Zululand

LESOTHO

Lesotho Highlands Cintsa

Tsitsikamma NP

Cape Town Swellendam

Oudtshoorn

…OR CHOOSE A COMBO TRIP

YGOT

YG OK

= YGOCC The Masai Heartlands 15 days, see page 16

UBOO

YBOP

= UBOQC Explore Southern Africa 18 days, see page 42

UBOE

UBOH

= UBOSC Kruger, Coast & Cape 22 days, see page 45

UBSA

YBSB

= UBSCC Experience Southern Africa 16 days, see page 47

YXOG

YXODC =

YGOK

YXO D C

YXODC

YXO R C =

YXOVC Kenya to Vic Falls 27 days, see page 24

YXO R C =

YXOIC Gorillas to Vic Falls 42 days, see page 30

YXOG

YXODC

YXO R C

YXODC

YXO R C U XO F YXO S C

UBOO

YXOCC Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches 27 days, see page 29

= YXOHC Best of East Africa 20 days, see page 17

YXO F

= YXOEC Africa Encompassed Southbound 63 days, see page 31

YXO F

= YXOAC Kenya to Cape Town 48 days, see page 25

YBOP

= UXOGC Southern Africa Adventure 30 days, enter UXOGC on our website

YXO Q C =

Combo Trips With so much to see and do in Africa, why not combine adventures and get the most out of this incredible continent. Our combo trips offer something for everyone.

UBOAC Johannesburg to Kenya 37 days, enter UBOAC on our website Africa 11

what’s hot

MARRAKECH • TAGHAZOUT • TAFRAOUTE • SIDI IFNI

There’s a lot to cover in this brochure, so here’s a taste of what we’re most excited about for 2019. We’ve got active adventures, once-in-a-lifetime wildlife spotting, journeys through ancient cities, and laidback coastal tours.

1 THE GAMBIA

Cruising Safari: West Africa

Morocco Atlas & Atlantic

Holy Land Highlights

After a new perspective on African safaris? Travel down the coast of Senegal and up the Gambia River on our first West African cruise.

Discover a new side to Morocco as you travel from secluded beach villages to the hidden heart of the Berber.

Wander through the ancient cities, desert landscapes and significant sites that have shaped the world we live in.

YGSG – page 21

XMSG – page 61

ENKI – page 72

Kenyan Parks to Southern Ethiopia

Remarkable Rwanda & Gorillas of Uganda

East Africa Highlights or Cycle Tanzania

A trip for true explorers, travelling north through spectacular landscapes and lesser‑known parks, spotting rare animals.

Gain a new perspective on humanity and history on an enlightening tour through two beautiful countries.

Choose how you travel across East Africa – by bike or safari vehicle – to experience the Serengeti, Masai Mara and the Ngorongoro Crater.

YGSE – page 39

YGSU – page 28

YGSA – page 20 & YTXC – page 21

Madagascar Baobabs & Beyond

Game Parks of Southern Africa

South Africa: Hike, Bike & Kayak

Delve into Madagascar and watch ancient baobab trees turn golden as the sun sets.

Search for the Big Five in Southern Africa’s wildlife hotspots during a memorable trip.

Mix things up and explore South Africa on two feet, two wheels and with two hands on a paddle.

YBSO – page 56

UBKK – page 49

UBXT – page 48

12 Africa

MOROCCO

SENEGAL

JOAL-FADIOUTH • KIANG WEST • BAO BOLONG NP • KUNTAUR

3 TEL AVIV • DEAD SEA • BETHLEHEM • NEGEV DESERT

JORDAN ISRAEL & THE PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES

OL PEJETA CONSERVANCY • MT KENYA • SAMBURU NR ETHIOPIA • KONSO

LAKE KIVU • BWINDI NP • RUHENGERI • KIGALI

UGANDA

5 RWANDA

KENYA

NAIROBI • TANZANIA MASAI MARA NR • SERENGETI NP • NGORONGORO CRATER

AVENUE OF THE BAOBABS • TSIRIBIHINA RIVER • GREAT TSINGY • ANTSIRABE DISTRICT

JOHANNESBURG • KRUGER NP • CAPE TOWN • STELLENBOSCH

ZIMBABWE

SOUTH AFRICA

VICTORIA FALLS • HWANGE NP • MATOBO NP • KRUGER NP

MADAGASCAR

With so many trips on offer it can be hard to keep track of your most wanted. That’s why you can now create an online account and save your favourite trips. Bucket lists are for dreamers, shortlists are for doers, so take the first step towards your next adventure and sign up for an account by visiting:

intrepidtravel.com/shortlist Africa 13

East Africa A herd of giraffes migrating across the golden savanna. The clouded plateau of Mt Kilimanjaro. The striking red dress of the Maasai tribespeople. These iconic images of East Africa seem almost fantastical, caught between imagination and storybook dreams, but let us assure you – this wondrous place is definitely real. See, hear and feel this diverse landscape of soaring mountains, gorilla-filled jungles, vibrant blue coastlines and open plains. It’s a land that must be experienced to be believed.

WEATHER Nairobi Ngorongoro Zanzibar Victoria Falls Kampala Kigali

Monsoon 25-35ºC Hot & dry 25-35ºC Hot & wet 25-35ºC Pleasantly warm 20-30ºC Warm & wet 20-25ºC Cool 15-20ºC

Loita Hills, Kenya

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Serengeti Trail

K E N YA

Kisii

8 DAYS, NAIROBI TO NAIROBI

Lake Victoria

Take a safari across the ﬂoor of the Ngorongoro Crater in an open-roof 4WD for a chance to see the endangered black rhinoceros.

Ngorongoro Crater

YGOT

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (1 nt), cottage (1 nt), camping with facilities (3 nts), camping with basic facilities (2 nts) 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter YGOT on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle

Kenya Wildlife Safari

Lake Nakuru NP

8 DAYS, NAIROBI TO NAIROBI Meet brightly dressed Maasai warriors and experience tribal life on an overnight visit to a village in the Loita Hills.

Lake Naivasha

Day 1 Nairobi Get to know Nairobi’s colourful markets and atmospheric bars. Day 2 Lake Nakuru National Park Pitch tents at a campsite outside the park, then embark on an afternoon game drive. Fringed by acacia trees, Lake Nakuru is home to endless species of birdlife that descend upon it throughout the year. Days 3-4 Lake Naivasha Meet locals on a village visit before reaching Lake Naivasha. Camp by the lake and explore this beautiful area independently. Day 5 Loita Hills Maasai Experience Drive through the Great Rift Valley to Loita Hills for a night of camping with a Maasai community. Days 6-7 Masai Mara National Reserve Spend some more time with your Maasai hosts and learn about their culture. Go on 4WD game drives through Masai Mara National Reserve and see giraffes, zebras and perhaps even a cheetah. Day 8 Nairobi Hit the road and leave the open expanses of the Kenyan bush behind. Travel past Maasai farmlands on the way back to Nairobi.

Selected Saturdays Enter YGOK on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

K E N YA

Nairobi

Masai Mara NR Loita Hills

Head out on safaris through Kenya’s greatest wildlife reserves – Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha and the Masai Mara – in search of Africa’s all-star animal line-up.

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Mto wa Mbu

TAN ZA N IA

Learn about the spectacular annual migration of around two million wildebeest on a visit to the Great Rift Valley. Day 1 Nairobi Arrive in Nairobi. Perhaps explore the city before meeting your group. Day 2 Kisii Travel through the Great Rift Valley to Kisii, stopping for a homestead lunch on the way. Day 3 Lake Victoria Travel into Tanzania and spend the night camping by delightful Lake Victoria. Days 4-5 Serengeti National Park Tanzania’s worldrenowned plains are home to myriad wildlife – lions, leopards, elephants and giraffes, plus a host of other fascinating species. Once tucked up safe and sound at camp, be lulled to sleep by the nocturnal chatter of the remote African wilderness. Day 6 Ngorongoro Crater Camp on the rim of the extraordinary Ngorongoro Crater, with endless views of jagged volcanic peaks and open grasslands below. Day 7 Mto wa Mbu Encounter masses of animals in the wildlife-laden Ngorongoro Crater before driving to Mto wa Mbu. Day 8 Nairobi Travel across open plains and through the regional centre of Arusha on the return journey to the busy streets of Nairobi.

Nairobi

Serengeti NP

YGOK

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (1 nt), camping with facilities (5 nts), camping with basic facilities (1 nt) 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle

Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/africa 15

Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya - Chris Minihane

Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

The Masai Heartlands

Lake Naivasha Lake Nakuru NP Kisii KE N YA Masai Mara NR Nairobi Lake Victoria Loita Hills

15 DAYS, NAIROBI TO NAIROBI Keep your eyes peeled for black and white rhinos on an adventure through Lake Nakuru National Park.

Serengeti NP Ngorongoro Crater

Safari in the wildlife-rich Serengeti National Park with two early morning and two late afternoon game drives in our overland vehicle. Day 1 Nairobi Kick off in Kenya’s capital. Day 2 Lake Nakuru NP Keep your eyes peeled for lions and elephants during an afternoon game drive. Days 3-4 Lake Naivasha Meet locals at a nearby village, then journey to Lake Naivasha. Day 5 Loita Hills Maasai Experience Travel into the heart of Masai country. Camp among the tribespeople and learn about their ancient culture. Days 6-7 Masai Mara National Reserve Visit a Maasai village then tackle the Masai Mara National Reserve in a 4WD vehicle. Day 8 Nairobi Return to Nairobi. Day 9 Kisii Weave through the Great Rift Valley into Kenya’s fertile highlands. Day 10 Lake Victoria Watch soapstone craftsmen at work, then cross into Tanzania. Days 11-12 Serengeti NP Explore the Serengeti’s famous grasslands in search of its appealing inhabitants. Days 13-14 Ngorongoro Crater/Mto wa Mbu Camp on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, then take a mind-blowing safari in its bowl. Day 15 Nairobi Travel through Arusha and return to Nairobi.

YGOCC

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (2 nts), camping with facilities (8 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts), cottage (1 nt) 14 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 12 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter YGOCC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle

Lake Victoria

Masai Mara National Reserve C B

AUG Mara River

East Africa Great Migration Map

OCT

MAY

Grumeti River

Talek River

SEP

JUL

The map opposite gives a general indication of where herds migrate during the year. It also features some of the campsites you may visit on our Basix, Comfort and Cycling trips. Each year, the great migration of nearly two million wildebeest, zebras and gazelles – driven north and back again by shifts in rainfall – turns the plains of the Serengeti and Masai Mara into a theatre like no other. This phenomenon is part of an annual cycle in the region, and can be seen year-round as herds move in a constant clockwise circle. The calving season takes place in the southern Serengeti between January and mid-March, before the migration starts to head west in June. Herds tend to arrive in the Masai Mara in August and remain until November. It’s important to note that this is a guide only, as no year is exactly the same as the last.

Mto wa Mbu

TAN ZA N IA

KENYA NOV

JUN

TAN ZANIA DEC

APR Wildebeest migration Calving season

MAR

Serengeti National Park

Cycling trip camps*

Comfort trip camps*

Basix trip camps*

16 Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/africa

JAN

FEB

Ngorongoro Crater *Subject to availability

The Resilient Women of Kenya Spend a day with inspiring local women who are turning their lives around thanks to a unique social enterprise. Get to know them, hear their stories and gain insight into what it means to be a woman in Kenya. For more info head to urbanadventures.com Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

City, Country - Photographer

Best of East Africa

Lake Nakuru NP Lake Naivasha K E N YA Masai Mara NR Nairobi Loita Hills Serengeti NP

20 DAYS, NAIROBI TO ZANZIBAR The Masai Mara is the quintessential Kenyan experience, with sparse open plains, dramatic skies and some of the world’s most tremendous animals. A huge, perfectly intact volcanic crater, Ngorongoro is home to some 30,000 animals, including lions, leopards, elephants, hippos and endangered black rhinos. Wander around Stone Town’s bustling bazaars and fragrant spice markets, then head to northern Zanzibar’s pristine beaches to end your trip with some proper relaxation. Day 1 Nairobi Get to know this modern city with its colourful markets and atmospheric bars. Day 2 Lake Nakuru National Park Pitch tents at an exclusive camp outside the park, then head out on an afternoon game drive through Lake Nakuru National Park. Days 3-4 Lake Naivasha Explore a birdwatcher’s paradise of floating reed islands and acacia-lined shores. Day 5 Loita Hills Maasai Experience Maasai country awaits as you travel across the Great Rift Valley floor. You’ll camp out tonight, meeting these semi-nomadic tribespeople and learning about their ancient culture from a local elder. Days 6-7 Masai Mara National Reserve See the iconic vast woodlands and plains of the Masai Mara National Reserve, which backs on to the striking Esoit Oloololo Escarpment, from a 4WD vehicle. Days 8-9 Nairobi Swap Maasai farmlands for Nairobi’s urban jungle. Day 10 Mto wa Mbu Hit the

road for a long day of driving towards Mto wa Mbu. Days 11-12 Ngorongoro Crater/Serengeti National Park Descend into the massive volcanic crater of Ngorongoro in search of its abundant wildlife. Then spend two nights within the Serengeti Plains going on safari in search of Africa’s biggest game. Day 13 Mto wa Mbu Enjoy a last game drive in the Serengeti before heading to Mto wa Mbu to learn about local life. Days 14-15 Usambara Mountains Walk through Mshiri village on a tour, discovering the daily lives of the Chagga people. Day 16 Dar es Salaam Set up camp on a beach on the outskirts of tropical Dar es Salaam. Days 17-20 Zanzibar Travel by ferry to Zanzibar and spend a few days enjoying this island’s bazaars, mosques, intricate alleyways and eateries. Soak up some sun on the pristine northern beaches before this trip through East Africa comes to an end.

Ngorongoro Crater Mto wa Mbu Usambara Mountains

TAN ZA N IA

Zanzibar Dar es Salaam

YXOHC

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (4 nts), camping with facilities (11 nts), camping with basic facilities (2 nts), bungalow (2 nts) 19 breakfasts, 15 lunches, 14 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle, ferry, van DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter YXOHC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices

Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/africa 17

Photo: Thin Green Line

Kenya: Wildlife Ranges Expedition Meet the rangers protecting endangered wildlife, including rhinos and elephants, and spend time with them as they patrol the vast landscapes. Spend your evenings camping and learn about the techniques rangers are using to combat threats to the areas they’re so proud to defend. For more info enter YGST on intrepidtravel.com

Stone Town, Zanzibar

Road to Zanzibar

Nairobi

12 DAYS, NAIROBI TO ZANZIBAR

Ngorongoro Crater

Visit the Usambara Mountains and camp in the grounds of one of the oldest hotels in Africa, in the former German colony of Lushoto.

Embark on a safari across the ﬂoor of the Ngorongoro Crater then spend two nights in the famous Serengeti. the area’s hospitality and local community life, and enjoy sublime views of the vast landscape from Irente Viewpoint. Day 8 Dar es Salaam Travel further south to the coastal city of Dar es Salaam. Set up camp by Kipepeo Beach and make the most of your overnight digs with a long, potentially romantic stroll along the shore. Days 9-12 Zanzibar Catch a ferry to Zanzibar and spend a free afternoon and evening in Stone Town on arrival. Perhaps enjoy a seafood curry and a sunset drink overlooking the seafront, or stroll past markets, shops, mosques and palaces. Then head to Zanzibar’s northern beaches, with the option to take a tour of the many spice plantations en route. On arrival you’ll be greeted with white sand, sparkling blue seas, excellent snorkelling, fresh seafood and a hammock with your name on it. Return to Stone Town on Day 12, when your trip comes to an end.

18 Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/africa

Mto wa Mbu Usambara Mountains

TA N ZA N IA

Explore the markets, shops, mosques, palaces and courtyards of Stone Town, the Old Town of Zanzibar City.

Day 1 Nairobi Kick off the trip in Kenya’s cosmpolitan capital. Day 2 Mto wa Mbu It’s an early start today as you cross into Tanzania and travel to the village of Mto wa Mbu. Stroll around the farming areas then perhaps shop for handicrafts at the nearby market. Days 3-4 Ngorongoro Crater/Serengeti National Park Descend into the massive volcanic crater of Ngorongoro in search of its abundant wildlife. Continue to the Serengeti, and spend two nights on safari looking for Africa’s biggest, most impressive game within the Serengeti Plains. Day 5 Mto wa Mbu Enjoy a last game drive in the Serengeti before heading to Mto wa Mbu to immerse yourself in local life. Days 6-7 Usambara Mountains A long travel day will see you arrive in the Usambara Mountains. Your base will be Lushoto, a former German colony and home to the Wasambaa people. Hike the mountains, experience

K E N YA

Serengeti NP

Zanzibar Dar es Salaam

YXODC

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (2 nts), camping with facilities (5 nts), camping with basic facilities (2 nts), bungalow (2 nts) 11 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle, ferry, van DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Sundays Enter YXODC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices

Victoria Falls, Zambia

Mikumi National Park, Tanzania

Zanzibar to Vic Falls

TAN ZA N IA

19 DAYS, ZANZIBAR TO VICTORIA FALLS

South Luangwa NP

Chill out on the northern beaches of Zanzibar, enjoying the white sand and sparkling blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Jump in a 4WD vehicle and head into South Luangwa National Park for a morning game drive – look out for the leopards that hunt in the dense woodlands. Discover the largest ruins in sub-Saharan Africa – the remnants of a city known as Great Zimbabwe. This World Heritage site was first constructed in the 11th century. Days 1-3 Zanzibar Begin your adventure on the legendary ‘Spice Island’ of Zanzibar. Spend some time lazing on the white sands of the northern beaches, munching seafood and relaxing on the archipelago. Day 4 Stone Town After another idyllic morning on the beach, head to Stone Town for a cruisy afternoon. Day 5 Mikumi National Park Catch a ferry back to the Tanzanian mainland and drive along the edge of Mikumi National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, lions and leopards along the way! Day 6 Iringa Camp out on the grounds of a farmhouse. Day 7 Chitimba Enter Malawi, the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’. Days 8-9 Lake Malawi Enjoy a few peaceful days at a lakefront campsite and soak up idyllic surrounds. Days 10-11 South Luangwa National Park Head over the border into Zambia. The concentration of animals around the Luangwa

River and its lagoons is one of the highest in Africa. Embark on a dawn 4WD vehicle game drive, then perhaps set out at dusk in search of creatures of the night. Day 12 Petauke Travel south to Petauke. Day 13 Lusaka Discover one of southern Africa’s fastestgrowing cities. Day 14 Harare Explore the markets and botanical gardens of Harare. Day 15 Masvingo Spend time exploring the Great Zimbabwe ruins, the remnants of a city first constructed in the 11th century, which is thought to be the former royal residence of the Zimbabwean monarch. Days 16-17 Bulawayo Wander among impeccable colonial architecture, check out the Natural History Museum or perhaps search for the Matobo National Park’s black and white rhinos. Days 18-19 Victoria Falls If you choose, watch rainbows form in the mist that drifts high above these thundering waters, Africa’s highest falls.

Chitimba

Petauke

ZAMBIA

Harare Bulawayo

YXORC

ZANZIBAR Mikumi NP Iringa Lake Malawi

MA LAW I

Lusaka

Victoria Falls

Stone Town

ZIMB A B W E

Masvingo

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (2 nts), camping with facilities (14 nts), bungalow (2 nts) 18 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 13 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle, van, ferry DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Masai Mara National Reserve, Tanzania

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

East Africa Highlights 10 DAYS, NAIROBI TO ARUSHA

Musoma

Explore Serengeti National Park in depth, with two early morning and two late afternoon game drives through this spectacular wildlife arena. Haggle alongside locals for pigs and chickens at the street market, then deliver them to a community in a unique ‘farm to feast’ experience. Take a mind-blowing safari across the ﬂoor of the Ngorongoro Crater in an open-roof 4WD for a chance to see the endangered black rhinoceros. Days 1-2 Nairobi Welcome to Nairobi. Meet your group and take an Urban Adventure where you’ll deliver a supply of chickens and pigs to a local community and find out how a local non-profit is helping to alleviate poverty and malnutrition in Kenya. Days 3-4 Masai Mara National Reserve Travel to the famous Masai Mara, stopping en route in Loita Hills to spend time with the Maasai people. Hear from an elder about how their community blends modern ways with ancient traditions, and enjoy a truly memorable experience exploring the Mara during morning and afternoon game drives. Day 5 Lake Victoria/Musoma Travel to the border separating Kenya and Tanzania and overnight in Musoma, a small town on the shores of Lake Victoria. Days 6-7 Serengeti National Park Take an optional guided bike excursion around Musoma before continuing to Serengeti National Park.

KE N YA

Lake Victoria

You’ll take morning and afternoon game drives in search of the myriad animals that call this place home and camp in an unfenced area in the heart of the action. Day 8 Ngorongoro Crater/Karatu Enjoy a final game drive on your way to Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a World Heritage site that’s home to Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and Cape buffalo. Day 9 Arusha Descend to the floor of Ngorongoro Crater on an unforgettable 4WD excursion. The floor is home to streams, swamps, woodlands and a range of animals that are less wary of humans and vehicles than those in other parks. You may also see the Maasai people walking in and out of the crater as they water their cattle here. Afterwards, travel to Arusha and perhaps enjoy a farewell dinner to celebrate the journey. Day 10 Arusha This trip ends today, with the option of heading back to Nairobi with your crew.

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Masai Mara NR

Serengeti NP Ngorongoro Crater Karatu

Nairobi

Arusha

TA N ZA N IA

YGSA

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (4 nts), lodge (1 nt), permanent tented camp (2 nts), camping with basic facilities (2 nts) 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD safari vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Fridays Enter YGSA on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices

Go West You’ve experienced the open plains, roaming wildlife and ancient cultures of Africa’s east, now switch things up and head west. See a different side of Africa – not just geographically – as you relish in the wonders of this rarely visited region, all from the comfort of a small cruise ship. For more info see below or enter YGSG on intrepidtravel.com Mkuru, Tanzania

Cruising Safari: West Africa

S E N E GAL

Dakar

8 DAYS, DAKAR TO DAKAR

Joal-Fadiouth Djiffere Saloum Delta

While a 4WD game drive is a quintessential image of travel in East Africa, the biodiversity of West Africa is just as rich and awe-inspiring. Spot hyenas, crocodiles, snakes and chimpanzees, on this cruise through waters teeming with wildlife, from bustling Dakar along the Gambia River. Day 1 Dakar Board the Harmony G, enjoy a welcome dinner and sail overnight. Day 2 Djiﬀere Travel to Fadiouth Island, made up of millions of clam shells. Then glide down the Saloum Delta wetlands in a small local boat and let the squawks guide you to ‘Bird Island’. Spend the night anchored in Djiffere. Day 3 Banjul Cruise into The Gambia, where the first stop is in Kunta Kinteh. Spend the night docked on the riverside. Day 4 Tendaba Travel by motorised pirogue (wooden boat) to Tendaba, then continue to the birder’s paradise of Kiang West. Spot clawless otters, hippos and crocodiles in Bao Bolong NP. Day 5 Kuntaur Sail to relaxed Kuntaur and board a local boat to a chimpanzee colony on a nearby island. Visit the Wassu stone circles. Day 6 Kuntaur Visit a Gambian family compound and chat with locals en route to Banjul. Day 7 Banjul Watch as Sengga (palm tree wine) is made, then enjoy a beach barbecue. Day 8 Dakar Savour a farewell breakfast before disembarking in Dakar.

THE GA MB IA Tendaba Kuntaur

Banjul

YGSG

Kunta Kinteh Island

COMFORT

Maximum group size 40 Small cruise ship (7 nts) 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected dates Enter YGSG on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Small cruise ship, pirogue

Cycle Tanzania

Wasso

13 DAYS, ARUSHA TO ARUSHA

Serengeti NP

See the full expanse of shimmering Lake Manyara as you enjoy the long descent into the stunning Great Rift Valley, barely pedalling a single stroke. Finish your adventure with that cornerstone of all cycling adventures – coﬀee. Roast, grind and sip your own brew in the village of Tengeru. Day 1 Arusha Welcome to Tanzania. Day 2 Mkuru Cycle through Arusha National Park. Day 3 Longido Ride downhill to Longido and meet the charismatic Maasai people. Days 4-5 Lake Natron/Ol Doinyo Lengai Today’s ride puts you in the realm of seven volcanoes. Cycle to Saitoti River and cool off in the nearby plunge pools. Day 6 Wasso Climb the valley walls to the Great Rift Valley escarpment. Days 7-8 Serengeti National Park Swap bikes for 4WDs. Search for the Big Five in the Serengeti. Day 9 Ngorongoro Crater Perhaps visit Simba Kopjes, a rocky outcrop favoured by lions. Day 10 Great Rift Valley Escarpment Make a thrilling descent of the Great Rift Valley escarpment after catching breathtaking views from its edge. Day 11 Rift Valley/Lake Manyara Cycle the shores of Lake Manyara, then ride on to a traditional Maasai village. Days 12-13 Lake Manyara/Arusha Drive in search of birdlife and experience local farm life during a coffee stop in Tengeru. Your adventure ends in Arusha. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Sundays Enter YTXC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

TA N ZA N IA

Lake Natron

Karatu Masaai Village Ngorongoro Crater Rift Valley Escarpment Mto wa Mbu

Longido Arusha NP Arusha

Lake Manyara

YTXC

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (3 nts), guesthouse (3 nts), camping (6 nts) 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 10 dinners Bicycle, support vehicle, 4WD vehicle

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Lake Nakuru National Park, Kenya

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Kenya Safari Under Canvas Lake Nakuru NP

8 DAYS, NAIROBI TO NAIROBI Explore Kenya’s premier game parks by day, then settle down in permanent tented camps and lodges at night and tune in to the nocturnal stirrings of the savanna.

KE N YA

Lake Naivasha Masai Mara NR

Nairobi

Spot endangered black and white rhinos stopping for a drink in Lake Nakuru National Park, and watch lions prowling the Masai Mara on a 4WD vehicle game drive. Day 1 Nairobi Touch down in Kenya’s hectic capital, Nairobi. For those arriving early, a visit to the National Museum is recommended. Alternatively, perhaps munch on a mshikaki (grilled shish kebab) while you explore the city. Day 2 Lake Nakuru National Park Head north to the vast Lake Nakuru National Park, located in the heart of the Great Rift Valley. The park is famous for its visiting flocks of birds, such as pelicans, terns and cormorants. Days 3-4 Lake Naivasha Travel south to the serene shores of Lake Naivasha, where it’s common to spot birds and hippos by floating islands of papyrus reeds. Glide across the sparkling lake then trek through the rock formations of Hell’s Gate National Park. Days 5-7 Masai Mara National Reserve One of Africa’s most famous reserves, the iconic Masai Mara plays host to buffaloes, gazelles and various other herbivores. Take multiple game drives and see how each day on the plains reveals a new story. Day 8 Nairobi Finish back in Nairobi. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Tanzania Safari Under Canvas 8 DAYS, ARUSHA TO ARUSHA Prepare for the unusual sight of dozens of rare tree-climbing lions, dangling lazily from trees in Lake Manyara National Park.

YGKE

COMFORT

Maximum group size 15 Hotel (1 nt), permanent tented camp (4 nts), lodge (2 nts) 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle

Serengeti NP

TAN ZA N IA Ngorongoro Crater

Lake Manyara NP Arusha

Encounter the other-worldly baobab trees of Tarangire National Park, an icon of the African savanna and a symbol of life and positivity. Day 1 Arusha Welcome to Arusha, Tanzania’s safari gateway. Day 2 Lake Manyara National Park Spot Lake Manyara’s legendary tree-climbing lions and watch out for herds of zebra, wildebeest and buffalo roaming the surrounding plains of this stunning national park. Days 3-4 Serengeti National Park Travel to the Serengeti, where golden plains stretch as far as the eye can see. Explore the national park at dawn and dusk, when both predators and prey are most active. Days 5-6 Ngorongoro Crater Try to spot big cats lazing in the sun during an early morning game drive and descend to the floor of the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater on a rollicking 4WD safari. Day 7 Tarangire National Park Wind down through the Great Rift Valley to Tarangire National Park. An abundance of species coexist in this area, including gazelle, zebra, buffalo and elephant. Day 8 Arusha Return to Arusha. Perhaps get the group together for a final ugali (savoury Arushan porridge). DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Tarangire NP

YGKZ

COMFORT

Maximum group size 15 Hotel (1 nt), permanent tented camp (6 nts) 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle

A Day with the Maasai Get the total Maasai experience and support a local non-profit dedicated to alleviating poverty. Venture from Nairobi to the stunning Ngong Hills to make Maasai jewellery and discover local song and dance traditions. For more info head to urbanadventures.com City, Country - Photographer

Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

Kenya & Tanzania Safari Under Canvas 15 DAYS, NAIROBI TO ARUSHA

Lake Naivasha Masai Mara NR

Encounter Africa’s spectacular wildlife and mesmerising landscapes on this two-week overland journey, which takes in the big names and some lesser-visited areas. Travel across the endless grasslands of the Serengeti, searching for the large wildebeest and zebra herds that roam the plains. Be astounded by the vast array of wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater, viewed from an open-top 4WD vehicle. Day 1 Nairobi Step out in Nairobi, Kenya’s heady capital. Day 2 Lake Nakuru National Park Travel through the dramatic Great Rift Valley to Lake Nakuru National Park. Thousands of birds regularly descend onto the lake, making for a sensational sight, while buffaloes, white rhinos and other four-legged creatures often venture to the lake’s shores for a drink. Days 3-4 Lake Naivasha Travel south to Lake Naivasha along a road sandwiched between two impressive natural reserves. This vast freshwater lake has floating islands of papyrus reeds and is popular with hippos and birdlife. Glide across it by boat before trekking through the rock formations of Hell’s Gate National Park. Days 5-7 Masai Mara National Reserve On numerous game drives, scan the horizon for myriad wildlife species that graze, scavenge and prey among the sweeping plains. If you’re travelling

Lake Nakuru NP

during the annual migration, you’ll also catch millions of wildebeest, gazelles and zebras swarming the land. Day 8 Nairobi Return to Nairobi for the night before continuing to Tanzania. Day 9 Lake Manyara National Park Head to this haven for zebras, wildebeest, buffaloes and hippos. Days 10-11 Serengeti National Park Witness the epic sweep of the Serengeti’s wideopen plains on a memorable game drive. Venture out at dusk to catch the resident wildlife at their most active before bedding down in comfort back at the tented camp. Days 12-13 Ngorongoro Crater Journey to an epic volcanic caldera where thousands of animals thrive. Day 14 Tarangire National Park The Tarangire River provides vital water to numerous species during the dry season, making for a staggering concentration of wildlife. Day 15 Arusha This trip comes to an end on arrival in Arusha.

K E N YA Nairobi

Serengeti NP

TAN ZA N IA

Arusha

Ngorongoro Crater Lake Manyara NP

YGKEC

Tarangire NP

COMFORT

Maximum group size 15 Hotel (2 nts), permanent tented camp (10 nts), lodge (2 nts) 14 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 12 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Photo: East African Wildlife Society

East African Wildlife Society The East African Wildlife Society works to conserve the incredible wildlife and nature of Kenya. With support from The Intrepid Foundation, their various initiatives aim to safeguard animals and the rangers that protect them, so East Africa can continue to capture hearts and imaginations for generations to come. For more info head to theintrepidfoundation.org

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Kenya to Vic Falls

Ngorongoro Crater Mto wa Mbu Dar es Salaam

27 DAYS, NAIROBI TO VICTORIA FALLS Dusty villages, jungle-clad mountains and sun-drenched beaches – diversity is the name of the game while travelling from Kenya to Victoria Falls. Heed the advice of locals and go ‘polepole’ – slowly – on the relaxed northern beaches of picturesque Zanzibar. Choose to feel the spray and hear the roar of mighty Victoria Falls with an optional visit to the Zimbabwe side of the incredible cascades. Day 1 Nairobi Welcome to Nairobi, home to the National Museum of Kenya, the Karen Blixen Museum and the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s elephant orphanage. Day 2 Mto wa Mbu Stroll around the small town of Mto wa Mbu, perhaps popping into the nearby market for handicrafts. Days 3-4 Ngorongoro Crater/Serengeti National Park Descend into the massive volcanic crater of Ngorongoro in search of wildlife. Then spend two nights within the Serengeti Plains going on safari. Day 5 Mto wa Mbu Enjoy a last game drive before returning to Mto wa Mbu. Days 6-7 Usambara Mountains Drive through ever-changing scenery into the Usambara Mountains. Visit waterfalls, meet the Chagga people and, if weather permits, score great views of Mt Kilimanjaro. Day 8 Dar es Salaam Head to your beachside camp. Days 9-12 Stone Town/ Zanzibar Spend a few days lazing by the beach,

K E N YA

Serengeti NP

touring old forts and wandering spice markets. Day 13 Mikumi National Park Catch a ferry to the mainland, then head to Mikumi NP. Days 14-15 Iringa/Chitimba Camp on the grounds of a farmhouse, then cross into Malawi. Days 16-17 Lake Malawi Chill out along Kande Beach or get involved with some of the optional activities on offer. Days 18-19 South Luangwa National Park Scour the Luangwa River to spot large elephant, crocodile and hippo populations. Day 20 Petauke Stop overnight at the Chimwemwe camp. Day 21 Lusaka Enter a city combining contemporary charm with traditional heritage. Day 22 Harare Chill out in Harare. Day 23 Masvingo Explore the 11thcentury Great Zimbabwe ruins. Days 24-25 Bulawayo Head out in search of the black and white rhinos of Matobo NP. Days 26-27 Victoria Falls Marvel at the roar of Victoria Falls during an optional visit.

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TA N Z A N I A South Luangwa NP

Chitimba

Lusaka

Victoria Falls Bulawayo

YXOVC

Zanzibar Mikumi NP Iringa

Lake Malawi

Petauke

Z A MB I A

Nairobi Usambara Mountains

MA L AWI Z I MB A BWE

Harare Masvingo

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (3 nts), camping with facilities (19 nts), camping with basic facilities (2 nts), bungalow (2 nts) 26 breakfasts, 17 lunches, 20 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle, ferry, van DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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San hunters, Namibia

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Kenya to Cape Town 48 DAYS, NAIROBI TO CAPE TOWN Watch traditional dhows sail past from your spot under a swaying palm tree on Zanzibar’s northern beaches. Spy hippos, zebras and elephants from your mokoro (canoe) or while on a bush walk, and camp out in the lush Okavango Delta. Learn about the hunter-gatherer traditions of the San people, and maybe try to learn some of their unique Khoisan language. Day 1 Nairobi Explore the capital on foot. Day 2 Mto wa Mbu Visit a Tanzanian village. Days 3-4 Ngorongoro Crater/Serengeti NP Seek wildlife during a stay in the Serengeti. Day 5 Mto wa Mbu Enjoy a sunrise game drive in the Serengeti. Days 6-7 Usambara Mountains Spend time in the Usambara Mountains. Day 8 Dar es Salaam Set up camp outside this tropical town. Days 9-12 Zanzibar Relax on the white-sand beaches of the ‘Spice Island’. Day 13 Mikumi Head back to the Tanzanian mainland and look out for elephants. Days 14-15 Iringa/Chitimba Enter Malawi. Days 16-17 Lake Malawi Cruise around the lake. Days 18-19 South Luangwa NP Watch for elephants on the South Luangwa plains. Day 20 Petauke Trade stories around the campfire. Day 21 Lusaka Explore cosmopolitan streets. Day 22 Harare Discover Zimbabwe’s capital’s heritage.

Day 23 Masvingo Wander ancient ruins. Days 24-25 Bulawayo Shop for crafts in the markets. Days 26-28 Victoria Falls Choose to get soaked by Victoria Falls. Days 29-30 Chobe NP Be on the lookout for soaring fish eagles. Day 31 Bagani Community Camp Hang out with locals. Days 32-33 Okavango Delta Cruise downstream in a dugout canoe. Day 34 Bagani Camp out under endless stars. Days 35-36 Grootfontein/San Village Learn the ways of the San people. Days 37-38 Etosha NP Roam Etosha’s plains. Day 39 Spitzkoppe View the ‘Matterhorn of Namibia’. Days 40-42 Swakopmund Get active in Swakopmund. Days 43-44 Sesriem/River Camp Take a 4WD journey through a surreal landscape. Day 45 Fish River Canyon Hike Africa’s largest canyon. Days 46-47 Orange River/ Klawer Laze by a peaceful riverbank. Day 48 Cape Town Finish in scenic Cape Town.

Serengeti NP KEN YA Nairobi Ngorongoro Crater Mto wa Mbu TA N Z A N I A Usambara Mountains Zanzibar Mikumi NP ZAMBIA Dar es Salaam South Iringa Victoria Falls Luangwa NP Chitimba San Village Lake Malawi Petauke M AL AW I Lusaka Etosha NP Z I M BABW E Harare Spitzkoppe Bagani Chobe Masvingo Swakopmund NP Bulawayo River Camp Okavango Sesriem Delta B O T SWAN A Fish River N AM I BI A Orange River S OU T H A F R I C A Klawer Cape Town

YXOAC

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (3 nts), camping with facilities (35 nts), camping with basic facilities (4 nts), bungalow (2 nts), chalet (3 nts) 45 breakfasts, 30 lunches, 36 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle, ferry, mokoro, van DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Gorilla Trekking: What to Know We trek in search of gorillas in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park and in Uganda's Bwindi National Park. The trekking itself can be wet, muddy and uncomfortable – this is the rainforest after all – but the effort involved in reaching these majestic creatures makes the experience all the more special.

You don’t need to be a professional athlete, but you do need to come prepared to hike up and down hills (usually for between 2 and 6 hours). If you’re concerned about your fitness, you may want to hire a porter to carry your bag and help you up the steep parts.

You'll be accompanied on your trek by expert local guides, rangers and porters who'll brief you on what to expect and how to act around the gorillas.

Only eight permits are issued per trekking group, meaning that the time you spend with the gorillas is sure to be intimate. No other groups will be around while you're with them.

Can't imagine one hour with the gorillas will be enough? There is the option of purchasing an additional permit for a second day's trekking (booking in advance is definitely recommended).

Once you've reached a gorilla family, your time with them will last one unforgettable hour. You'll be able to watch the family as they go about their daily routines of feeding, preening, playing, snoozing and raising their young.

The best times to trek in search of gorillas are January–February and June–September. However, the low seasons of April–May and November benefit from fewer tourists and permits are easier to obtain.

The location of local gorilla families is constantly monitored to ensure your group's best chance of finding them. Expert local trackers set out early each morning to radio a location to your guide.

UGANDA

Lake Victoria

RWANDA

VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK We trek here on YGAR

BWINDI NATIONAL PARK TANZANIA

We trek here – or a nearby Ugandan NP – on all group trips and YGAG

What to pack }} Comfortable boots or trainers that you don’t mind getting wet and muddy. }} A pair of gardening gloves to prevent your hands from getting scratched when grabbing trees, branches and vines. }} A light rain jacket Bwindi and Virunga are both tropical rainforests, so there’s a good chance of rain year-round. }} Energy snacks The trekking can be tough. Pack a few snacks like chocolate or muesli bars to help you power through. }} Water It can get hot and humid in the mountains. Make sure to bring along a bottle of water (preferably in a reusable bottle). }} Long pants and shirts It’s best not to expose too much skin during the jungle trek. Wear long sleeves and tuck your trousers into your socks to prevent safari ants from getting into areas where you really don't want them. }} Extra camera batteries and plenty of memory space You don’t want to get all that way and not be able to capture it! 26 Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/africa

Jinja, Uganda

Bwindi National Park, Uganda

Gorillas & Game Parks

U GA N D A

16 DAYS, NAIROBI TO NAIROBI

Kalinzu Forest NP

Take game drives in a 4WD vehicle through the sparse open plains and wildlife-rich savanna wilderness of Masai Mara National Park.

Kampala

Jinja Eldoret

K E N YA

Queen Elizabeth NP Kisoro

Lake Nakuru NP Mbarara Nairobi Kericho Gorilla Trek Masai Mara NR

Seek out rare mountain gorillas on a trek through Uganda’s steamy forests and spend an unforgettable hour in their presence. Experience the two sides of Jinja, a riverside retreat at the source of the Nile that doubles as the adventure capital of Uganda. Day 1 Nairobi Get ready for an animal-spotting extravaganza through East Africa. If arriving early, the renowned National Museum is a great place to get some background on this frenetic city. Day 2 Lake Nakuru National Park Take in spectacular views of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Naivasha and Elementaita on the way to Lake Nakuru. Take an evening game drive and keep your eyes peeled for rhinos. Day 3 Eldoret Head to the border, stopping in Eldoret – famous as the home of many of Kenya’s most successful long-distance runners. Day 4 Kampala Cross to the Ugandan capital. Be rewarded with a night at a hotel after a long travel day. Day 5 Kalinzu Forest National Park Journey to the ridges and valleys of Kalinzu Forest National Park, famous for its chimpanzee inhabitants. Day 6 Queen Elizabeth National Park Perhaps see chimpanzees in the morning and take a

cruise along the Kazinga Channel in the afternoon. Day 7 Kisoro Take a morning game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park on your way to Kisoro, your base for the gorilla trek. Days 8-9 Gorilla Trek Accompanied by a local guide and trackers, hike through rugged terrain to come face-to-face with rare mountain gorillas – the sight of these gentle giants is unforgettable. Day 10 Mbarara Travel to the small town of Mbarara for the night. Days 11-12 Jinja Stop at the equator en route to Jinja, a scenic riverside retreat renowned for its adventure activities. Day 13 Kericho Leave Uganda and begin the journey to Masai Mara, stopping overnight at the town of Kericho. Days 14-15 Masai Mara National Reserve Learn about tea growing in Kenya. Go on game drives through Masai Mara to see giraffes, zebras, lions, cheetahs and more. Day 16 Nairobi Return to bustling Nairobi.

YXOG

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (2 nts), camping with facilities (13 nts) 15 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 14 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Bwindi National Park, Uganda

Remarkable Rwanda & Gorillas of Uganda

Bwindi NP

9 DAYS, KIGALI TO KIGALI With gorilla permits included in the trip price, take the chance to spend an hour observing rare mountain gorillas during a trek through Uganda’s forests. Learn about Rwanda’s devastating history with visits to genocide museums and churches of significance. Spend two nights in Gisenyi on the north shore of Lake Kivu. Enjoy free time hiking, taking a boat cruise, touring the town or simply walking the lakeside. Day 1 Kigali Meet your group in Rwanda’s capital. Day 2 Kigali Take a tour of Kigali including the Genocide Memorial Centre, the craft market and the lively Nyamirambo neighbourhood. Day 3 Gisenyi Spend a sobering day visiting Nyamata and Ntarama churches, both genocide sites, and the Murambi Genocide Museum. Spend the evening in Gisenyi, a town on the shore of Lake Kivu. Day 4 Gisenyi Enjoy a free day in Gisenyi to choose from optional activities including a boat cruise on the lake, hiking on Napoleon Island or simply checking out the action in town. Day 5 Kisoro Transfer across the border to Uganda and the town of Kisoro. In the afternoon, visit the village of Mikozi and the local markets, speak with a Ugandan healer and enjoy a drink at the local bar. Day 6 Kisoro/Gorilla Trek Join a local guide and trackers on a trek through the dense forest of Bwindi

National Park in search of mountain gorillas. Spend a mesmerising hour with these incredible creatures as the great silverback gorilla watches over the scene, then return to the lodge for dinner. Day 7 Ruhengeri Travel to Ruhengeri after an early breakfast. In the afternoon, enjoy a cycling tour around Rwanda’s twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo. Pedal through the spectacular countryside surrounded by mountains, and stop in at small towns and villages to spend time interacting with the community. Day 8 Ruhengeri During a free day, consider heading to Volcanoes National Park with a local ranger in search of golden monkeys, or maybe walk in the footsteps of gorilla researcher Dian Fossey, trekking through the jungle to her grave and the house in which she was mysteriously murdered. Day 9 Kigali Transfer back to Kigali after breakfast, where this incredible adventure ends.

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Gisenyi

U G AN D A Kisoro Ruhengeri

RWAN D A

YGSU

Kigali

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (8 nts) 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners 4WD vehicle, bicycle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Zanzibar

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Gorillas, Game Parks & Beaches 27 DAYS, NAIROBI TO STONE TOWN Seek out rare mountain gorillas on a trek through the Ugandan mountains and spend an hour in the presence of these incredible gentle giants.

U GA N D A

Kampala Jinja K E N YA Kalinzu Forest NP Eldoret Queen Elizabeth NP Lake Nakuru NP Kericho Kisoro Mbarara Gorilla Trek Nairobi Serengeti NP Masai Mara NR Ngorongoro Crater Mto wa Mbu Usambara Mountains

The open plains of the Serengeti – green after the rains, brown and burnt in the dry season – are perhaps the quintessential image of Africa. After a day exploring Stone Town’s bazaars, enjoy a sundowner from a bar overlooking the seafront before trying a local seafood curry. Day 1 Nairobi Begin this African adventure in Kenya’s rambunctious capital. Day 2 Lake Nakuru National Park Arrive in Lake Nakuru in time for a rhino-spotting game drive. Day 3 Eldoret Journey to a city famous for producing many of Kenya’s elite runners. Day 4 Kampala A long day of travel to Uganda’s capital is rewarded with a night at a hotel. Day 5 Kalinzu Forest National Park Head to a forest famous for its chimpanzees. Day 6 Queen Elizabeth National Park Perhaps see chimpanzees in the morning and take a cruise along the Kazinga Channel in the afternoon. Day 7 Kisoro Take a morning game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park on your way to Kisoro, your base for gorilla treks. Days 8-9 Gorilla Trek Climb through rugged mountain terrain to see rare silverback gorillas. Day 10 Mbarara Travel to the small town of Mbarara for the night. Days 11-12 Jinja Opt

for a spot of whitewater rafting. Day 13 Kericho Leave Uganda and begin the journey to Masai Mara National Reserve. Days 14-15 Masai Mara National Reserve Learn about tea growing in Kenya. Go on game drives through the famous Masai Mara National Reserve. Day 16 Nairobi Return to bustling Nairobi. Day 17 Mto wa Mbu Stop in at Mto wa Mbu to uncover life in a Tanzanian village. Days 18-19 Ngorongoro Crater/ Serengeti National Park Seek wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater before a stay in the Serengeti. Day 20 Mto wa Mbu Enjoy a final game drive in the Serengeti. Days 21-22 Usambara Mountains Travel to the rarely visited Usambara Mountains to hike through beautiful rainforests and meet the hospitable locals. Day 23 Dar es Salaam Camp by the beach in this coastal city. Days 24-27 Stone Town End your adventure on a beautiful island in the Zanzibar Archipelago.

TA N ZA N IA

Stone Town

Dar es Salaam ZANZIBAR

YXOCC

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (3 nts), camping with facilities (19 nts), camping with basic facilities (2 nts), bungalow (2 nts) 26 breakfasts, 17 lunches, 21 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle, ferry, private vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Nairobi by Night And you thought Kenya was all giraffes and national parks! Trade wildlife for nightlife on this evening tour that takes you round some of the hottest spots in Nairobi after dark. Make friends with the city’s other locals over a beer and local nosh. For more info head to urbanadventures.com Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Gorillas to Vic Falls 42 DAYS, NAIROBI TO VICTORIA FALLS The most endangered of the Big Five, rhinos can be hard to see in the wild – not so in Lake Nakuru National Park, which is home to more than 150 white and black rhinos. See fishermen hauling in their catch from dugout canoes, and net makers repairing their wares along the shores of Lake Malawi. Venture into the incredible Masai Mara National Reserve, a quintessential African experience, and spend a full day on a 4WD game drive. Day 1 Nairobi Your adventure begins in Kenya’s capital. Day 2 Lake Nakuru NP Look for rhinos on a game drive. Day 3 Eldoret Travel through tea plantations to Eldoret. Day 4 Kampala Spend the night in the Ugandan capital. Day 5 Kalinzu Forest NP Get ready to search for chimps. Day 6 Queen Elizabeth NP Perhaps take a channel cruise. Day 7 Kisoro After a morning game drive, leave for Kisoro. Days 8-9 Gorilla Trek Climb through mountain terrain to spend time with rare silverback gorillas. Day 10 Mbarara Travel to Mbarara for the night. Days 11-12 Jinja Opt to go whitewater rafting. Day 13 Kericho Begin the journey to Masai Mara. Days 14-15 Masai Mara National Reserve Go on game drives through this famous reserve. Day 16 Nairobi Return to Nairobi. Day 17 Mto wa Mbu Uncover East African village life. Days 18-19 Ngorongoro Crater/Serengeti NP Go

in search of wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater before a stay in the Serengeti. Day 20 Mto wa Mbu Enjoy a last Serengeti game drive. Days 21-22 Usambara Mountains Head into the mountains and hike over green slopes and through forests. Day 23 Dar es Salaam Hit the coast. Days 24-27 Zanzibar Discover ‘Spice Island’. Days 28-29 Mikumi/Iringa Cross the vast plains of Mikumi NP. Day 30 Chitimba Enter Malawi, the ‘Warm Heart of Africa’. Days 31-32 Lake Malawi Relax beachside. Days 33-34 South Luangwa NP Spot elephants, crocs and hippos. Day 35 Petauke See crocs swimming in the Luanga River. Day 36 Lusaka Enjoy a fusion of cosmopolitan and traditional. Day 37 Harare Explore Zimbabwe’s capital. Day 38 Masvingo Discover a World Heritage site. Days 39-40 Bulawayo Track rare rhinos on foot. Days 41-42 Victoria Falls Maybe finish this journey by feeling the power of Victoria Falls.

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UGANDA

Kalinzu Forest NP Kampala Jinja K E N YA Queen Elizabeth NP Eldoret Mbarara Lake Nakuru NP Gorilla Trek Kericho Nairobi Serengeti NP Masai Mara NR Ngorongoro Crater Mto wa Mbu Dar es Salaam Usambara Mountains Stone Town

TANZ ANI A

Chitimba South Luangwa NP

Z AMBI A

Petauke

Lake Malawi

M A L AW I

Lusaka

Victoria Falls Bulawayo

YXOIC

Mikumi NP Iringa

Harare Masvingo

Z I MBA B W E

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (4 nts), camping with facilities (33 nts), camping with basic facilities (2 nts), bungalow (2 nts) 41 breakfasts, 28 lunches, 34 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle, ferry, van DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya

Chobe National Park, Botswana

Africa Encompassed Southbound 63 DAYS, NAIROBI TO CAPE TOWN Don’t pass up the chance to spot and get close to all of the Big Five – lions, elephants, buﬀalo, leopards and rhinos – in Masai Mara National Reserve. With endless golden beaches, crystalline blue waters and tantalising spice plantations, Zanzibar is a feast for the senses. Meet the San people of the Kalahari and observe their age-old traditions on a hunting and gathering trip through the desert. Days 1-3 Kenya Journey out from Nairobi towards Lake Nakuru National Park and Eldoret. Days 4-7 Uganda Camp near Kampala. Maybe visit the chimps of Kalinzu Forest, or take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. Embark on a short safari through Queen Elizabeth National Park on your way to Kisoro, your base for gorilla treks. Days 8-9 Gorilla Trek Go in search of mountain gorillas and perhaps visit the golden monkeys. Days 10-12 Uganda Stop at the equator before joining thrillseekers in Jinja. Days 13-16 Kenya Head back to Nairobi via Masai Mara National Reserve. Days 17-29 Tanzania Safari through the Serengeti, spot rhinos and elephants in the Ngorongoro Crater, meet local villagers in Mto wa Mbu and enjoy unforgettable sunsets on the beaches of Zanzibar. Days 30-32 Malawi Enjoy free time to soak up the idyllic surrounds of beautiful Lake

Malawi. Days 33-36 Zambia Discover a stunning array of wildlife in South Luangwa National Park. The river is known for its sizeable populations of elephants and crocodiles. Days 37-43 Zimbabwe Visit ancient ruins, browse the markets in Bulawayo and get drenched by Victoria Falls, known as the ‘Smoke that Thunders’. Days 44-48 Botswana Watch for hippos on an optional Chobe River cruise, then explore the waterways of the Okavango Delta by mokoro and camp on a remote island. Days 49-61 Namibia Go gathering with San elders, seek out the Big Five in Etosha National Park and feel dwarfed by the rock formations of Spitzkoppe. Later, take a safari through the desert landscape of Sossusvlei, hike around the Fish River Canyon and travel the Orange River by canoe. Days 62-63 South Africa Say cheers to a successful tour as you wrap up this journey in Cape Town.

U GAN D A Kampala Jinja Kalinzu Forest Eldoret Queen Elizabeth NP Kericho Lake Nakuru Kisoro KEN YA Gorilla Trek Nairobi RWA N D A Mto wa Mbu Mbarara Usambra Mountains Masai Mara NR Zanzibar Serengeti NP Dar es Salaam Ngorongoro Crater ZAMBIA Mikumi NP South Luagwa NP Iringa TAN Z AN I A Petauke Chitimba NAMIBIA Lusaka Lake Malawi M ALAW I Etosha NP Harare Spitzkoppe Masvingo Z I M BABW E Swakopmund Bulawayo River Camp Victoria Falls Sesriem Chobe NP Fish River Canyon BOT SWAN A Okavango Delta Orange River Bagani Klawer San Village SOU T H AF R I C A Cape Town

YXOEC

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (4 nts), camping with facilities (49 nts), camping with basic facilities (4 nts), bungalow (2 nts), chalet (3 nts) 60 breakfasts, 41 lunches, 50 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle, ferry, mokoro, van DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project Those who tackle Mt Kilimanjaro quickly realise porters are the heart, soul and backbone of the trek. With support from The Intrepid Foundation, the Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project is working to make sure porters are compensated fairly and their rights are protected at work. For more info head to theintrepidfoundation.org

Kilimanjaro: Marangu Route

Kibo Hut 4703m

Uhuru Peak 5895m

8 DAYS, MARANGU TO MARANGU

Mawenzi Tarn 4330m Horombo Hut 3700m

Trek beneath the stars, using lamplight to guide you through the climactic final stretch to Uhuru Peak, reaching Africa’s highest point shortly after sunrise.

Marangu

Taking the Marangu route to climb Mt Kilimanjaro allows you to stay in the comfort of mountain huts and take shelter from the elements.

Mandara Hut 2700m

Day 1 Marangu Welcome to Tanzania! You’ll meet your group tonight. Day 2 Mandara Hut Set off with a hike through lush rainforest, possibly spotting monkeys and birds in the canopy. Days 3-4 Horombo Hut Trek to Horombo Hut. Once out of the forest canopy, the twin snow-tipped peaks of Kibo and Mawenzi lie directly ahead. Spend an extra evening acclimatising. Day 5 Kibo Hut The air starts to feel thin and the landscape transitions into a moonscape. Marvel at giant groundsels and lobelias while you travel across the sparse moorland. Day 6 Uhuru Peak/Summit Wake close to midnight before zigzagging up a scree slope by lamplight. Watch the sun rise from behind Mawenzi Peak and continue the final trek upwards, passing along the rim of a crater to reach Africa’s highest point. Days 7-8 Marangu Descend through alpine meadows and lush rainforests to Marangu and celebrate the end of a memorable Kilimanjaro trek with a warm, hearty meal and a hot shower.

YKXM

TA N ZA N IA

BASIX

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (2 nts), mountain hut (5 nts) 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Minibus

Rongai Gate

First Caves 2600m

Uhuru Peak 5895m

Mt Kilimanjaro

Kikelewa Caves 3600m

Shira Camp 3840m

Climbing to the summit of mighty Mt Kilimanjaro

Stella Point 5732m

is a challenge, but the rewards for those who conquer the ascent are unrivalled. It’s a personal

Machame Camp 3000m

victory of the highest order, and the views from

TA NZA NIA

Gilman’s Point 5680m Kibo Hut 4703m

Lava Tower 4600m

Barranco Camp 3950m

Mawenzi Tarn 4330m Barafu Camp 4703m

Karanga Valley Camp 4000m

the peak simply accentuate the euphoria.

Mawenzi Peak 5149m

Millenium Camp 3800m

Mweka Camp 3110m

Horombo Hut 3700m

Mandara Hut 2700m

Machame Gate

Machame Route Marangu Route Rongai Route

Mweka Gate

*Subject to availability

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Marangu Park HQ

Mt Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Kilimanjaro: Rongai Route 8 DAYS, MARANGU TO MARANGU Approach Kili from the north for the chance to see animals on the mountainside. Keep eyes peeled for monkeys and even the occasional elephant.

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Kilimanjaro: Machame Route 9 DAYS, MARANGU TO MARANGU The Machame route oﬀers incredible scenery and allows acclimatisation at an easier pace. The ascents are challenging, but the views from the summit are unrivalled. Spend a night camped out on the Shira Plateau and marvel at the Heim, Kersten and Rebmann glaciers. Day 1 Marangu Nestled on the slopes of mighty Mt Kilimanjaro, this lively town is a great base for exploring the surrounding area. Day 2 Machame Camp Start with a pleasant stroll through the rainforest before setting up camp at Machame. Day 3 Shira Camp Watch as the vegetation becomes sparse on the path to the Shira Plateau. Day 4 Barranco Camp Continue through the rolling landscape and deep river valleys. Day 5 Karanga Valley Prepare your body for the summit climb ahead with an acclimatisation day in Karanga Valley. Day 6 Barafu Camp Trek through fascinating desert terrain and ascend further to Barafu Camp. Day 7 Uhuru Peak/Summit Grab a midnight snack and head off before dawn to watch the sunrise. Make the final push to the summit and be rewarded with incredible views from the peak of Africa’s highest mountain. Days 8-9 Marangu Trek back down to Marangu, where this adventure comes to an end. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter YKXA on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Kikelewa Caves 3600m

Kibo Hut 4703m Horombo Camp

Witness the stark beauty of the jagged peaks of Mawenzi as the stunning 5149-metre summit towers above you. Day 1 Marangu Spend a day acclimatising to the altitude in Mt Kilimanjaro’s foothills. Day 2 Simba Camp Set off for a few hours of gradual uphill hiking through the forests of the mountain’s north-eastern flank. Day 3 Kikelewa Caves Today’s trek is a long but rewarding day with a climb to 1000 metres altitude. Day 4 Mawenzi Tarn Continue along a path that climbs up a steep ridge directly towards Mawenzi. Traverse a rocky landscape before descending to tonight’s camp in Tarn Valley. Day 5 Kibo Hut Descend into the ‘Saddle’ between Mawenzi and Kibo peaks. The grey, desert-like landscape contrasts with the dense rainforest scenery of the past few days. Day 6 Uhuru Peak/ Horombo Camp In the dark of night it’s a steep, zigzagging ascent but one worth every step. Passing Gilman’s Point, take in the views from Uhuru Peak (5895 metres) – the world’s tallest freestanding volcano. Days 7-8 Marangu Return to the creature comforts of the hotel. Perhaps toast your accomplishment with a final dinner.

Mawenzi Tarn 4330m

Uhuru Peak 5895m

Simba Camp

TA N ZA N IA Marangu

YKXR

BASIX

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (2 nts), camping with facilities (5 nts) 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners Overland vehicle

Uhuru Peak 5895m Shira Camp 3840m

Machame Camp 3000m

Barafu Camp 4703m

Barranco Camp 3950m Karanga Valley 4000m

TA N ZA N IA

YKXA

Marangu

BASIX

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (2 nts), camping with basic facilities (6 nts) 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 8 dinners Overland vehicle

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Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Mt Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Serengeti & Kilimanjaro 15 DAYS, NAIROBI TO MARANGU

Kisii Nairobi

Lake Victoria

Jump in a 4WD vehicle and embark on a mind-blowing safari across the ﬂoor of the Ngorongoro Crater.

Mto wa Mbu Ngorongoro Crater

Camp right in the heart of Serengeti National Park, which gets its name from the Maasai word ‘siringet’, meaning ‘the place where the land moves on forever’. trek with a walk to the town centre. Day 9 Mandara Hut Get to know the team of guides and porters and set off hiking through lush rainforest. Day 10 Horombo Hut Get your muscles pumping as rainforest gives way to rolling alpine meadows and the path crosses several ravines. Spend the night in the shadow of twin snow-tipped peaks, Kibo and Mawenzi. Day 11 Horombo Hut Walk towards Mawenzi Hut, passing the unusual Zebra Rocks on the way. Day 12 Kibo Hut Hike up progressively more rugged terrain as the air starts to feel thin. Day 13 Uhuru Peak/Summit Wake close to midnight and set off by lamplight. Watch the sun rise from behind Mawenzi Peak, then pass along the rim of a crater to reach the highest point in Africa. At 5895 metres, the peak of Kilimanjaro offers unforgettable views. Day 14-15 Marangu Trek back down to Marangu, where this journey ends.

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Mt Kilimanjaro

TAN ZA N IA

Conquer Africa’s highest peak. With one guide for every two climbers, plus experienced porters, you’re in good hands.

Day 1 Nairobi Explore the bustling streets of Nairobi. Day 2 Kisii Board a safari truck and weave through the breathtaking Great Rift Valley into Kenya’s fertile highlands. Day 3 Lake Victoria Travel into Tanzania and stay on a tranquil stretch of shoreline beside Lake Victoria. Days 4-5 Serengeti National Park Watch as the famous grasslands and valleys of the Serengeti unfold on safari. Tanzania’s world-renowned plains are home to elephants, giraffes, hippos, zebras, wildebeest and more. Day 6 Ngorongoro Crater With endless views and open grasslands below, the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most spectacular camping spots in the world. Day 7 Ngorongoro Crater/ Mto wa Mbu Jump in a 4WD vehicle and embark on a safari across the crater floor. Take a guided walk through the local community and then set up camp in Mto wa Mbu. Day 8 Marangu Perhaps warm up for the

KE N YA

Serengeti NP

Marangu

YGOMC

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (3 nts), dormitory (1 nt), camping with facilities (3 nts), camping with basic facilities (2 nts), mountain hut (5 nts) 14 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 13 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle, minibus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Short Break Adventures

Masai Mara Walk

Zanzibar Beach Break

3 DAYS, NAIROBI TO NAIROBI

4 DAYS, STONE TOWN TO STONE TOWN

YGAE-O

Enter YGAE on intrepidtravel.com for dates & prices

Day 1 Nairobi/Masai Mara National Reserve Journey west across the Great Rift Valley to the town of Narok in the land of the Maasai. Along the way, look for colourfully dressed Maasai people tending to their herds. On arrival, take a guided walk around the area and visit a Maasai homestead. Day 2 Masai Mara National Reserve After an early breakfast, head out on a game drive through Masai Mara National Reserve. The Masai Mara has a very high population of plains animals, such as wildebeest and zebras, which in turn are preyed upon by lions, leopards and hyenas. Elephants are also a common sight, while hippos and crocodiles are plentiful in the Mara River. After a full day, return to camp in time for a delicious dinner. Day 3 Masai Mara National Reserve/ Nairobi Return to Nairobi, where this Masai Mara adventure comes to an end.

YGAB-O

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Day 1 Stone Town Begin this laidback trip in historic Stone Town, a maze of winding alleys, atmospheric bazaars, elegant mosques, coral stone buildings and finely decorated wooden doors. Visit the House of Wonders and the Old Fort. Days 2-3 Beach Resort Transfer to your beach resort. Settle in to the accommodation, situated right on the palm-fringed coastline, where a sandy beach stretches out to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Explore the island and its hidden treasures at a relaxed pace. See the fragrant spice plantations, where the intoxicating aromas of fresh cardamom, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg will delight the senses and stimulate appetites. Be sure to sample the tropical fruits and zesty curries that Zanzibar is famous for. Day 4 Stone Town Return to Stone Town, where this trip comes to an end.

Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda Uganda Gorilla Short Break 4 DAYS, KIGALI TO KIGALI

4 DAYS, KAMPALA TO KAMPALA

YGAR-C

YGAG-B

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Day 1 Kigali Visit the Genocide Museum, a moving testament to one of humanity’s darkest chapters, then set off to Volcanoes National Park for a night in an eco-lodge on the slopes of a volcano. Day 2 Ruhengeri/Gorilla Trek Scramble through the thick undergrowth of the Virunga Mountains in search of Rwanda’s mountain gorillas, the world’s largest apes. The trekking can be tough, but the encounter is well worth it. Day 3 Optional Trek/Kigali Depending on choices made when booking, visit another gorilla family, head out to spot the country’s rare golden monkeys, or take a hike up to the grave of Dian Fossey and the remains of her old research station. Day 4 Kigali Embark on a city tour of Kigali before this Rwandan adventure finishes up with a departure transfer to the airport.

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Day 1 Kampala/Lake Mburo National Park Travel to Lake Mburo National Park, one of East Africa’s lesser-known reserves. Survey the landscape for zebras, antelopes and buffaloes, then enjoy a boat safari on Lake Mburo, scanning for crocodiles, waterbirds and hippos. Days 2-3 Bwindi Impenetrable Forest/Gorilla Trek Head to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to about half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and famous for its remarkable biodiversity. Trek into the forest of the Virunga Mountains in search of these magnificent beasts. Muddy, undulating, densely vegetated and at altitude, the going might get tough at some stages, but the hour you spend in the company of these gentle giants is well worth the effort. Day 4 Kampala Journey through dense jungle scenery back to Kampala.

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Ethiopia & Djibouti Embrace the road less travelled in Africa’s east. Ethiopia’s tourism industry still pales in comparison to many of its neighbours, a fact that those who have experienced its ancient rock-hewn churches, 500-year-old monastery islands and the majestic Simien Mountains may struggle to understand. Perched on Ethiopia’s shoulder, Djibouti is sure to reward intrepid travellers with its limestone chimneys, volcanoes, saline lakes and old-world towns.

WEATHER Addis Ababa Djibouti City

Very hot & dry 35ºC+ Monsoon 25-35ºC Hot & dry 25-35ºC Pleasantly warm 20-30ºC Warm & wet 20-25ºC

Lalibela, Ethiopia

Hamer Village, Ethiopia Aksum

Incredible Ethiopia

Simien Mountains NP/ Debark

13 DAYS, ADDIS ABABA TO LALIBELA

Mekele

Gondar

Trek the majestic series of undulating amethyst peaks that make up the Simien Mountains, looking out for the distinctive red-hearted gelada monkey.

Lalibela Bahir Dar

ETH I O PI A

Explore Lalibela’s unique churches – astonishing constructions sculpted from huge slabs of stone – that make up one of the world’s greatest historical and religious sites. Day 1 Addis Ababa Welcome to Ethiopia’s capital. Days 2-3 Bahir Dar Fly to Bahir Dar and cruise around the numerous islands of Lake Tana, many of which house venerable monasteries. Days 4-5 Gondar Travel to Gondar, home to medieval buildings unlike any others in Africa. Explore the stunning churches and castles over two days. Day 6 Simien Mountains NP/Debark In the home of Ethiopia’s highest peak, take in stunning mountain views and meet the gelada monkey. Days 7-8 Aksum Journey to the fabled city of Aksum, once the capital of Africa’s oldest empire. Opt to tour the ruins of the Queen of Sheba’s palace. Day 9 Mekele See the spectacular Adwa Mountains, the pagan temple at Yeha and the church of Medhane Alem Adi Kesho, carved into the rock wall. Days 10-13 Lalibela Discover the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. Trek to Asheten Mariam, a church that sits 3150 metres above the city, and enjoy a dinner in an open-air restaurant overlooking the valley.

Addis Ababa

YOZE

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (12 nts) 12 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Saturdays Enter YOZE on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Plane, boat, private vehicle

Ethiopia Untouched

Addis Ababa

7 DAYS, ADDIS ABABA TO ADDIS ABABA Take a boat trip on Lake Chamo to see the resident hippos, thousands of Nile crocodiles, rich bird life and local ﬁshermen.

Jinka

Travel to the rarely visited Hamer villages and, if you’re lucky, witness a bull-jumping initiation ceremony. Day 1 Addis Ababa Arrive in Ethiopia’s capital. Day 2 Konso Fly to Arba Minch and drive to Konso. Learn about the unusual wooden grave markers before relaxing at Kanta Lodge. Day 3 Jinka Call in at a ‘mora’, a communal social space used by men and boys, then travel to Jinka and visit an ethnographic museum dedicated to the South Omo region. Day 4 Turmi Spend some time with the local Ari people outside of Jinka, then visit a Hamer village where you may be able to witness a bull-jumping ceremony. Stay overnight in Turmi. Day 5 Turmi Travel to Omorate and spend some time with the Daasanach people who live there, then return to Turmi for the evening. Day 6 Arba Minch Drive north to Arba Minch, bordered by Nechisar National Park and two of Ethiopia’s largest lakes. Take a boat across Lake Chamo in search of hippos and Nile crocodiles and watch the local fishermen at work. Day 7 Addis Ababa Return to Addis Ababa where this trip ends. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Thursdays & Saturdays Enter YOSE on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

ETH IOP IA

Arba Minch

Turmi

YOSE

Konso

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (2 nts), lodge (3 nts), basic resort (1 nt) 6 breakfasts Plane, 4WD vehicle, boat

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Ouidah Market, Benin

Benin, Togo & Ghana Expedition This expedition offers a glimpse into the fascinating history of these three nations. Learn about the Ashanti kings of Ghana and Benin’s Voodoo religion, which spread to Haiti as a result of the slave trade. Several departures line up with Ouidah’s Voodoo Festival and the Akwasidae Festival in Kumasi. For more info enter DWWA on intrepidtravel.com

Blue Nile Falls, Ethiopia

Best of Ethiopia 19 DAYS, ADDIS ABABA TO LALIBELA

Simien Mountains NP/ Aksum Debark Mekele Gondar Lalibela Bahir Dar

The full story of the ancient city of Aksum is yet to reveal itself, but the incredible ruins and immense obelisks leave no doubt of it’s former glory. Be amazed at Ethiopia’s vast and unspoiled natural beauty, visiting Lake Chamo, Blue Nile Falls and the stunning Simien Mountains National Park. Explore Lalibela’s monolithic churches, thought to have been constructed in the 12th and 13th century in an attempt to forge a ‘New Jerusalem’. Day 1 Addis Ababa Touch down in frenetic Addis Ababa. Day 2 Konso Travel to Konso and spend the evening in a traditional village dotted with anthropomorphic statues. Day 3 Jinka Travel to Jinka and visit an ethnographic museum. Day 4 Turmi Get to know some Ari locals in Jinka’s lush surrounds, then visit a Hamer village in Turmi. Day 5 Turmi Travel to Omorate and meet the Daasanach people who live on the banks of the Omo River. Day 6 Arba Minch Drive north to Arba Minch, bordered by Nechisar National Park and two of Ethiopia’s largest lakes. Take a boat across Lake Chamo in search of hippos and crocodiles, and watch the local fishermen working their trade. Day 7 Addis Ababa Spend a long day on the road to Addis Ababa. Days 8-9 Bahir Dar Fly to Bahir Dar and cruise around the islands of Lake Tana, many of which house venerated monasteries. Hike Blue Nile Falls and

spend a free afternoon in town to shop at the open-air market or take a tuk-tuk tour. Days 10-11 Gondar Travel to Gondar, home to medieval buildings the likes of which you won’t see elsewhere in Africa. Explore stunning churches and castles over two days and enjoy free time by the pool. Day 12 Simien Mountains NP/ Debark Head to the home of Ethiopia’s highest peak, taking in expansive mountain views and meeting the gelada monkey. Days 13-14 Aksum Journey to Aksum, once the capital of Africa’s oldest empire. Opt to tour the Queen of Sheba’s (alleged) palace ruins. Day 15 Mekele See the spectacular Adwa Mountains, the pagan temple at Yeha and the rock-hewn church of Medhane Alem Adi Kesho. Days 16-19 Lalibela Take your time exploring Lalibela, one of the world’s greatest historical and religious sites, before your journey through Ethiopia comes to an end on Day 19.

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Addis Ababa

E TH IOP IA

Arba Minch Jinka Turmi

YOXEC

Konso

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (14 nts), basic resort (1 nt), lodge (3 nts) 17 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners Plane, private vehicle, boat, 4WD vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected dates Enter YOXEC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices

Northern Kenya & Untouched Ethiopia See both Northern Kenya and Ethiopia on this two-week trip, taking in views of exotic wildlife backlit by breathtaking sunsets and encountering locals who live in harmony with harsh environments. For more info enter YGSOC on intrepidtravel.com Samburu National Reserve, Kenya

Lac Assal, Djibouti CHAD

Kenyan Parks to Southern Ethiopia

Ndjamena

ETH IOP IA Konso

9 DAYS, NAIROBI TO KONSO Enjoy a game drive though Samburu National Reserve, a region home to both the ancient Samburu people and a range of animals known as the Special Five. Get up close to Mt Kenya, the second-highest mountain in Africa, with a hike up to Old Moses Camp at 3000 metres in altitude. Day 1 Nairobi Welcome to Kenya’s capital: meet your group in the evening. Days 2-3 Nanyuki Travel to the Mt Kenya region, home to Africa’s second-highest mountain. Embark on a game drive in a rhino conservancy and hike to Old Moses Camp on Mt Kenya (3000 m). Days 4-5 Samburu NR Drive to Samburu National Reserve for some of the best game-viewing in the country. This area is home to a unique variety of animals known as the Special Five: beisa oryx and gerenuk antelopes, reticulated giraffes, Grevy’s zebras, and Somali ostriches. Search for them during multiple game drives over two days. Day 6 Marsabit Head to Marsabit, a small town bordered by a national park, visiting Lake Paradise en route. Day 7 Moyale Cross the border into Ethiopia after driving through the spectacular Kenyan highlands. Days 8-9 Konso Drive to Konso. Be sure to walk around town and check out the area’s wooden grave markers before the trip comes to an end.

Selected Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays Enter YGSE on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Nanyuki

Samburu NR Mt Kenya Nairobi

YGSE

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (3 nts), lodge (3 nts), permanent tented camp (2 nts)

Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle

Djibouti’s Footsteps of the Afar 11 DAYS, DJIBOUTI CITY TO DJIBOUTI CITY

D JIBOU TI

E TH IOP IA

Plage des Sables Blancs Obock

Foret du Day NP

Sleep overnight in a traditional Afar hut at Campement Touristique d’Asboley, perched on a hill with spectacular, surreal views. Watch sunrise from the shores of Lac Abbe, which was featured in the original Planet of the Apes movie thanks to its famous chimneys, salt ﬂats and hot springs. Days 1-2 Djibouti City Enjoy a traditional dinner before spending a day searching for whale sharks at Arta Beach. Day 3 Lac Abbe Take a 4WD through the Grand Bara Desert to Lake Abbe. Enjoy a traditional dance performance and sleep in a traditional Afar hut. Day 4 Lac Assal This crater lake is one of the world’s saltiest lakes and the lowest point on land in Africa. Admire salt-crusted shore and aquamarine water before camping under the stars. Day 5 Bay of Ghoubbet Hike to Ardoukoba Volcano, then continue to Ghoubbet at the entrance to the Red Sea for a free night by the beach. Day 6 Foret du Day National Park Hike through the forest to camp then visit Day Village. Day 7 Obock Spend an evening at Obock’s Red Sea Village Camp. Days 8-9 Plage des Sables Blancs Visit the Godoria Mangroves then spend some free time at one of the country’s best beaches. Days 10-11 Djibouti City Return to Djibouti City by ferry for a free afternoon and perhaps a farewell dinner before the trip ends.

Selected Sundays Enter YGSD on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Ol Pejeta Conservancy

Moyale Marsabit

6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

K E N YA

Lac Assal

Djibouti City Arta Plage Bay of Ghoubbet

Lac Abbe

YGSD

Ardoukoba

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (3 nts), bush camp with no facilities (1 nt), camping with basic facilities (3 nts), bungalow (3 nts) 10 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners 4WD vehicle, ferry

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southern Africa Southern Africa overflows with the unforgettable. The wildlife-spotting is world-class – from the unrivalled diversity of Kruger to the elephants of Chobe to the wild herds of Swaziland – while the range of environments is mind-boggling. Trudge up the vast desert dunes of Namibia, whip along the wild coastline of South Africa by bike or navigate the inland lagoons of the Okavango Delta. In this part of Africa the ways to explore are as varied as the landscape itself.

WEATHER Johannesburg Cape Town Victoria Falls Windhoek Okavango Delta

Monsoon 25-35ºC Hot & dry 25-35ºC Hot & wet 25-35ºC Pleasantly warm 20-30ºC Warm & wet 20-25ºC Cool 15-20ºC Cold & dry 0-15ºC Cold & wet 0-15ºC

Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

Okavango Experience 10 DAYS, JOHANNESBURG TO VICTORIA FALLS Camping out on a remote island in the heart of the Okavango Delta, tuned into the sounds of the African night, is an experience you’ll never forget.

Chobe NP Okavango Delta Maun

B OTSWA N A

Johannesburg

SOU TH A FR ICA

UBOO

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (1 nt), camping with facilities (6 nts), bush camp with no facilities (2 nts)

Overland vehicle, mokoro, 4WD safari vehicle, boat

Every Friday and selected Sundays Enter UBOO on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Vic Falls to Kruger

Victoria Falls Hwange NP

9 DAYS, VICTORIA FALLS TO JOHANNESBURG

ZIMB A B W E

Matobo NP/Bulawayo

Track rhinos on foot with an expert local guide in Matobo National Park – the best way to experience the wildlife of Zimbabwe. Marvel at the famous elephants, lions, giraffes and zebras of Hwange National Park from an open-air 4WD vehicle. Day 1 Victoria Falls Kick off this adventure in Zimbabwe’s adrenaline capital. If you arrive early, don’t miss the sight of thundering Victoria Falls. Day 2 Hwange National Park Set out on a 4WD safari through the plains and wetlands of Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve. Days 3-4 Bulawayo/Matobo National Park Detour through the colonial buildings of Bulawayo, then set out on foot in search of black and white rhinos in Matobo National Park. See ancient cave paintings on Day 4 and learn about the history of the San people before visiting a traditional village. Day 5 Moremi Gorge Cross into Botswana and head to your cosy camp. Day 6 Blouberg Visit a Hanawa family in a small village and enjoy a home-cooked meal. Days 7-8 Kruger National Park Look out for white rhinos, giraffes, zebras, lions and elands on an included game drive as you head south through the park. Day 9 Johannesburg Take in panoramas of the incredible Blyde River Canyon before ending in Jo’burg.

Selected Sundays Enter YBOP on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

BASIX

9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

ZIMBA B W E Nata

Khama Rhino Sanctuary

The magnificent Makgadikgadi Pans, some of the largest salt ﬂats in the world, make for some magical photo opportunities. Day 1 Johannesburg Begin this overland journey in Johannesburg. Day 2 Khama Rhino Sanctuary Cross into Botswana to visit the Khama Rhino Sanctuary, a haven for endangered black and white rhinos. Day 3 Maun Make tracks to Maun, a small town that serves as the gateway to the Okavango Delta – an aquatic wonderland. Days 4-5 Okavango Delta With the help of a friendly local ‘poler’, traverse the waterways of the delta in a mokoro (dugout canoe). Disembark to explore the area’s lagoons and streams on foot and camp under starry skies. Day 6 Maun Experience life in a rural village, then head back to Maun. Day 7 Nata Drive out to the small town of Nata and explore the eerie landscape of the Makgadikgadi Pans. Day 8 Chobe National Park Famous for its elephant herds, Chobe also shelters lions, hippos and African fish eagles. Days 9-10 Victoria Falls Enter Zimbabwe for a chance to witness the awesome spectacle that is Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls

Moremi Gorge

Blouberg

BOTSWA N A

Kruger NP

Johannesburg

SOU TH A FR IC A

YBOP

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Camping with facilities (7 nts), camping with shared facilities (1 nt) 8 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle

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Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe

Chobe National Park, Botswana

Explore Southern Africa 18 DAYS, JOHANNESBURG TO JOHANNESBURG Play your own small part in helping to save the rhinos with a stop at the inspirational Khama Rhino Sanctuary. Look for elephants swimming across rivers in Chobe National Park, home of the world’s highest concentration of wild African elephants. Camp out in the bush under clear African skies within Kruger National Park – you can’t get much closer to nature than this. Day 1 Johannesburg Arrive in Johannesburg and prepare for the ultimate overland adventure. Day 2 Khama Rhino Sanctuary Cross into Botswana and visit the Khama Rhino Sanctuary to learn about these majestic creatures. At dusk, head out on a game drive. Day 3 Maun Journey on to Maun, gateway to the famous Okavango Delta. Days 4-5 Okavango Delta See the abundance of animals that live here while travelling in a mokoro (dugout canoe). Disembark to explore the area’s surrounding lagoons and streams on foot. Day 6 Maun Head back to Maun and perhaps opt for a flight over this amazing area. Day 7 Nata Continue on to Nata and set up camp on the edge of the Makgadikgadi Pans. Day 8 Chobe National Park Look out for elephants and hippos as they wallow in the Chobe River, then take a relaxing safari cruise at sunset. Days 9-10 Victoria Falls Admire the incredible torrent

of white water at Victoria Falls and perhaps try some of the activities on offer. Day 11 Hwange National Park Once a royal hunting ground, Hwange National Park is home to approximately 400 bird and 100 mammal species. Days 12-13 Matobo National Park/Bulawayo Track black and white rhinos in Matobo National Park. Learn about San culture and visit a traditional village. Day 14 Moremi Gorge Break up the drive with a stop at Moremi Gorge and perhaps go for a short hike. Day 15 Blouberg Head towards Blouberg and camp in South Africa’s Limpopo province. Meet the villagers and enjoy a meal at a local’s house. Days 16-17 Kruger National Park Travel to this spectacular national park filled with lions, white rhinos, giraffes, zebras, leopards, cheetahs and elands. Day 18 Johannesburg This Southern Africa adventure ends today back in sprawling Jo’burg.

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Victoria Falls

Okavango Delta

Chobe NP

Maun

ZIMB A B W E Hwange NP Matobo NP/ Bulawayo

Nata

B OTSWA N A

Moremi Gorge Blouberg

Khama Rhino Sanctuary

Kruger NP

SOU TH A FR IC A

UBOQC

Johannesburg

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (1 nt), camping with facilities (14 nts), bush camp with no facilities (2 nts) 17 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 14 dinners Overland vehicle, mokoro, 4WD vehicle, boat DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Every Friday and selected Sundays Enter UBOQC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices

Photo: Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust

Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust Dramatic wildlife is one of South Africa’s big draws for visitors. But predators and large game can have a devastating effect on crops and livestock, which often leads to humanwildlife conflict. Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust is working with The Intrepid Foundation to address this and keep both animals and humans safe. For more info head to theintrepidfoundation.org City, Country - Photographer

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town to Vic Falls 22 DAYS, CAPE TOWN TO VICTORIA FALLS Make a dawn scramble to the top of the world’s highest sand dunes in Namib-Naukluft National Park and watch the sunrise over undulating desert. Get right to the heart of the Okavango Delta by taking mokoros (dugout canoes) to an isolated island and spending the night camped out under the stars. Hear the roar of the mighty Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side, choosing whether to see them up close or simply feel their power from afar. Day 1 Cape Town With vineyards, restaurants and adventure activities on offer, Cape Town is the perfect starting point to your adventure. Days 2-3 Klawer/ Orange River Stay at Highlanders, a working farm and campsite on the banks of the Orange River. Day 4 Fish River Canyon Travel to Fish River Canyon in time to watch the sun setting over the surrounds. Days 5-6 Sesriem/Bush Camp Wake early to witness the sunrise over the golden desert from the top of one of the world’s highest sand dunes in the NamibNaukluft National Park. Days 7-9 Swakopmund Enjoy adventure activities in Swakopmund, an oasis midway between the desert and the beach. Day 10 Spitzkoppe View thousands of seals basking on the shores of Cape Cross before setting up camp near the base of Spitzkoppe. Days 11-12 Etosha NP With big carnivores, black rhinos, zebras and more, there’s

always plenty to spot on this adventure through Etosha’s vast parklands. Days 13-14 Grootfontein/ San Village Head out tracking and gathering with the San people. The San have a deep understanding of nature and ecology, living in total harmony with their environment. Day 15 Bagani Head to Bagani for a night’s camping. Days 16-17 Okavango Delta Make tracks for the expansive Okavango Delta in Botswana. Explore the maze of reed beds and waterways in a mokoro (traditional dugout canoe). Day 18 Bagani Community Camp Unwind in laidback Bagani, perhaps making the most of optional activities such as fishing, hiking and boat tours. Days 19-20 Chobe NP Try to spy swimming elephants, wallowing hippos or sunbaking crocs on an optional cruise along the Chobe River. Days 21-22 Victoria Falls Cross into Zimbabwe and perhaps admire its spectacular waterfall.

San Village Bagani Grootfontein Victoria Falls Etosha NP Chobe NP Spitzkoppe Okavango Delta ZIMB A B W E Swakopmund B OTSWA N A Bush Camp Sesriem Fish River Canyon N AMIB IA Orange River Klawer Cape Town

UXOF

S OU TH A FR IC A

BASIX

Maximum group size 22 Hotel (1 nt), camping with facilities (14 nts), cabin (3 nts), camping with basic facilities (3 nts) 19 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 16 dinners Overland vehicle, mokoro, 4WD vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Sundays Enter UXOF on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices

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Zululand, South Africa

Drakensberg, Lesotho

Kruger & Coast

Kruger NP MOZA MB IQU E

9 DAYS, JOHANNESBURG TO DURBAN Discover the unspoilt wilderness of the Elephant Coast, a tropical paradise featuring crystal-clear waters, coastal forest, marshland and swamp.

Johannesburg

SOU TH A FR IC A Durban

Enter the Valley of a Thousand Hills, the heartland of the Zulu people, and spend the night at a traditional homestay. Day 1 Johannesburg Jo’burg is a sprawling city of remarkable contrasts. Days 2-3 Kruger National Park Travel along the stunning scenery of the famous Panorama Route. Spend the day game-viewing and birdwatching at various waterholes and viewpoints. Track nocturnal predators on an optional night drive. Day 4 Swaziland/ Hlane Royal National Park Explore the home of lions, elephants, vultures and marabou storks on a guided game walk. Days 5-6 Mozambique Beach Camp Journey to Ponta Malongane, a pristine stretch of coastline where you can snorkel, take a dolphin-spotting cruise or just sip coconut water on the beach. Day 7 St Lucia Estuary Perhaps take a boat cruise and be enchanted by the thousands of varieties of birds, mammals and reptiles that inhabit the estuary. Day 8 Zululand Get an insight into the daily life of the rural Zulu people with a night at a traditional homestay. Day 9 Durban Finish amid the sandy beaches and glitzy nightlife of Durban. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter UBOE on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

UBOE

BASIX

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (1 nt), homestay (1 nt), camping with basic facilities (2 nts), camping with facilities (4 nts) 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle

Garden Route Adventure

S OU TH AFR IC A

Drakensberg

14 DAYS, DURBAN TO CAPE TOWN Set out on a half-day guided walk in the mighty Drakensberg Range and embark on independent hikes along the Garden Route. Travel to South Africa’s southernmost point, Cape Agulhas, then cruise the classic R320 (Hermanus) wine route and stop for a tipple or two. Day 1 Durban Arrive in Durban. If you arrive early, relax along the Golden Mile. Days 2-3 Drakensberg These sun-kissed valleys and dramatic cliffs are perfect for hiking. Days 4-5 Lesotho Highlands Hike through the ‘Kingdom in the Sky’. Days 6-7 Wild Coast/Cintsa Explore Cintsa’s beaches and quiet streets. Experience traditional Xhosa life and choose between optional activities. Day 8 Addo Elephant NP Encounter elephants and endangered rhinos. Days 9-10 Garden Route/Tsitsikamma NP Travel along the breathtaking Garden Route, soaking up ancient forests and dramatic coastline. Day 11 Oudtshoorn Stop at the quaint town of Knysna, check out the stalactites of the Cango Caves and take a tour of an ostrich camp in the world’s ostrich capital. Day 12 Swellendam Raft down the Breede River. Day 13 Hermanus Wine Region Visit the continent’s southernmost point before hitting some wineries. Day 14 Cape Town Look out for whales in Hermanus, then end in Cape Town. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Hlane Royal NP Mozambique Beach Camp St Lucia Estuary Zululand

S WA ZILAN D

LES OTH O

Addo Elephant NP

Oudtshoorn Cape Town

Swellendam Hermanus Wine Region

UBOH

Durban Lesotho Highlands Cintsa Wild Coast

Tsitsikamma NP Garden Route

BASIX

Maximum group size 16 Camping with facilities (8 nts), dormitory (3 nts), lodge (2 nts) 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 12 dinners Overland vehicle

CYCLE SOWETO Cycle into the soul of South Africa on this Johannesburg tour through the streets of Soweto. See the place Mandela once called home, cycle past Desmond Tutu's current digs, and hit a shebeen for a cool drink and some pool. For more info head to urbanadventures.com City, Country - Photographer

Tugela Waterfall, South Africa

Kruger, Coast & Cape

MOZAMBIQU E

22 DAYS, JOHANNESBURG TO CAPE TOWN See the best of South Africa’s diverse wildlife with visits to Kruger, Hlane Royal, Addo Elephant and Tsitsikamma national parks. Take in stunning alpine scenes en route to Swellendam, then ride the cool and calm waters of Breede River on a rafting adventure. Discover South Africa’s Wild Coast and home of the Xhosa people, whose lifestyle is deeply rooted in ritual and tradition. Day 1 Johannesburg Begin this adventure in Jo’burg. Days 2-3 Kruger National Park Travel the Panorama Route and search for the Big Five on a game drive through Kruger National Park. Day 4 Swaziland/Hlane Royal National Park Perhaps visit a local village to learn about Swazi culture before tracking rare rhinos in Hlane. Days 5-6 Mozambique Beach Camp Journey to Ponta Malongane, a pristine stretch of coastline in Mozambique. Day 7 St Lucia Estuary Search for birds and animals in this diverse ecosystem, home to thousands of different species, the most popular being hippos and crocs. Day 8 Zululand Be treated to traditional food and rousing song and dance on a homestay. Day 9 Durban Catch some sun and relax in South Africa’s beachside playground. Days 10-11 Drakensberg Hike through the dramatic cliffs, valleys and plateaux of this stunning range. Days 12-13 Lesotho

Kruger NP Hlane Royal NP Mozambique SWA ZILAN D Beach Camp S OU TH Lesotho Drakensberg AFR IC A St Lucia Highlands Estuary Addo Zululand Swellendam Elephant NP Durban Oudtshoorn Cape Town Cintsa LE S OTH O Wild Coast Hermanus Tsitsikamma NP Wine Region Garden Route Johannesburg

Highlands Be charmed by the warmth of Lesotho’s people and majestic mountain scenery. Visit highland villages and colourful markets. Days 14-15 Wild Coast/ Cintsa Head to South Africa’s Wild Coast, where the local Xhosa people live a traditional lifestyle. Day 16 Addo Elephant National Park This conservation success story boasts a spectacular array of animals. Days 17-18 Garden Route/Tsitsikamma National Park Discover a mesmerising pocket of the Garden Route, looking out for Cape clawless otters and southern right whales. Day 19 Oudtshoorn Explore Knysna and the Cango Caves. Tour an ostrich camp in the world’s ostrich capital. Day 20 Swellendam Drive through the mountains to Swellendam and go rafting. Day 21 Hermanus Wine Region Travel to Hermanus via Africa’s southernmost point. Day 22 Cape Town Relax in South Africa’s most glamorous city as this trip winds up.

UBOSC

BASIX

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (1 nt), camping with facilities (12 nts), camping with basic facilities (2 nts), homestay (1 nt), dormitory (3 nts), lodge (2 nts) 21 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 17 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Bourke’s Luck Potholes, South Africa

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Kruger to Vic Falls

Victoria Falls Nata

8 DAYS, JOHANNESBURG TO VICTORIA FALLS Commence your adventure with a scenic drive that takes in Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the God’s Window viewpoint – an amazing introduction to Southern Africa. Aside from one of the world’s most dazzling waterfalls, Victoria Falls offers a range of exciting activities, from nature walks to helicopter ﬂights. Day 1 Johannesburg Perhaps spend some time coming to terms with the history of Soweto township by touring one of Johannesburg’s many museums. Days 2-3 Kruger National Park Travel along the stunning Panorama Route, making stops at Bourke’s Luck Potholes and God’s Window en route to Kruger. Discover the thrill of game drives and keep your eyes peeled for the incredible wildlife living within the park’s boundaries. Day 4 Masebe Nature Reserve After an early morning game drive, head to the unique rock formations, ancient San rock art and rich wildlife of Masebe Nature Reserve. Day 5 Moremi Gorge Hit the road for Moremi Gorge. Day 6 Nata Spend an afternoon exploring the mind-bending Makgadikgadi Pans, followed by an evening by the pool. Days 7-8 Victoria Falls Make tracks to Zimbabwe and the ‘Smoke that Thunders’ – Victoria Falls. Take the chance to explore the falls from all angles and perhaps take a helicopter ride for breathtaking views. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Sundays Enter UBSA on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Okavango & Beyond 9 DAYS, VICTORIA FALLS TO JOHANNESBURG A sunset cruise is the ultimate way to soak up the Chobe River ambience. Keep an eye out – and a camera ready – for elephants, cheetahs and lions frolicking on the shore.

Moremi Gorge

BOTSWANA

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Masebe Nature Reserve Kruger NP Johannesburg

S OU TH A FR IC A

UBSA

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Camping with facilities (6 nts), hotel (1 nt) 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 6 dinners Overland vehicle, 4WD vehicle

Chobe NP Okavango Delta Maun

Victoria Falls

ZIMBA B W E

BOTSWAN A

Khama Rhino Sanctuary Johannesburg

Experience the Okavango Delta’s untouched wilderness by staying on a remote island bush camp. At night, fall asleep to the unique sounds of the wild. Day 1 Victoria Falls Get soaked by the powerful sheet of spray rising from Africa’s largest falls and choose from a long list of optional adventure activities if you arrive early. Day 2 Chobe National Park Travel into Botswana and take a cruise along the Chobe River. Keep a look out for crocs, elephants and hippos chilling in the waters. Day 3 Maun After an optional early morning game drive, travel on to Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. Days 4-6 Okavango Delta/Maun Guided by local ‘polers’, explore the delta’s snaking waterways in a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe), heading to shore to search for wildlife on foot. Spend a night camped on a remote island before returning to Maun. Day 7 Khama Rhino Sanctuary Founded to protect Botswana’s endangered black and white rhinos, Khama is an inspiring place that also helps the local community. Days 8-9 Johannesburg Explore the streets of Soweto on a bicycle tour and learn about its turbulent history.

ZIMB A B WE

SOU TH A FR IC A

YBSB

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Camping with facilities (5 nts), bush camp with no facilities (2 nts), guesthouse (1 nt) 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners Overland vehicle, boat, mokoro, 4WD vehicle

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Chobe River, Botswana

Experience Southern Africa 16 DAYS, JOHANNESBURG TO JOHANNESBURG You don’t get much closer to nature than camping under the star-studded sky after a game drive through Kruger National Park. Visit the inspiring Khama Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Botswana you can see endangered black and white rhinoceroses. Cycle through the colourful streets of Soweto with a local and hear firsthand about the township’s rough but stirring history. Day 1 Johannesburg Discover the electric beat of Johannesburg. Days 2-3 Kruger National Park Take in the stunning views along the Panorama Route before embarking on game drives across Kruger National Park. Day 4 Masebe Nature Reserve After a final game drive in Kruger National Park, make tracks for Masebe Nature Reserve. Day 5 Moremi Gorge Tour ancient San rock art hidden within Masebe’s sandstone cliffs, then hit the road for Moremi Gorge, camping at Palapye. Day 6 Nata Explore the eerie Makgadikgadi Pans, located on the edge of the Kalahari Desert, then pitch camp under endless night skies. Days 7-8 Victoria Falls Choose to visit Victoria Falls and be awestruck by its enormity. See torrents of water roaring into a deep chasm, admire rainbows formed by the rising spray, and perhaps take advantage of a range of adventure outings on offer. Day 9 Kasane

Keep an eye out for crocs, hippos and elephants on a sunset cruise along the Chobe River. Day 10 Maun After an optional early morning game drive, make the journey to Maun, the gateway to the Okavango Delta. Days 11-12 Okavango Delta Guided by local ‘polers’, explore the delta’s snaking waterways in a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe), then spend the night camped out on a remote island. Day 13 Maun Perhaps check out the Nhabe Museum if there’s time. Day 14 Khama Rhino Sanctuary Founded to protect Botswana’s endangered black and white rhino populations, the sanctuary is not only a great way to see a huge number of animals up close on a game drive, the project also benefits the local community. Days 15-16 Johannesburg Jump on a bike and learn about the tumultuous history of Soweto, an infamous neighbourhood in the heart of Johannesburg.

Kasane

Victoria Falls

ZIMB A B W E

Nata Moremi Gorge Maun Masebe Nature Reserve BOTSWANA

Okavango Delta

Kruger NP

Khama Rhino Sanctuary

Johannesburg

S OU TH A FR IC A

UBSCC

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (1 nt), camping with facilities (11 nts), bush camp with no facilities (2 nts), guesthouse (1 nt) 15 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 12 dinners Overland vehicle, boat, mokoro, 4WD vehicle, bicycle DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Boulders Beach, Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa: Hike, Bike & Kayak

Greater Kruger NP Johannesburg

11 DAYS, JOHANNESBURG TO CAPE TOWN

S OU TH A FR IC A

Rise early for an unforgettable hike up the iconic Table Mountain of Cape Town. Enjoy spectacular panoramas over the ‘City Bowl’ before catching the cable car down. Head off in search of the Big Five on a full-day game drive through Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves in Southern Africa. Day 1 Johannesburg Welcome to South Africa! Days 2-3 Greater Kruger National Park Travel to Greater Kruger and spend two days enjoying game drives within private reserves and the national park. Day 4 Johannesburg Perhaps search for elephants and lions on a morning walking safari, then return to Jo’burg. Day 5 Overnight Train Jump on the train for an overnight journey across South Africa among ever-changing scenery. Days 6-7 Cape Town Arrive in Cape Town. Enjoy a free evening, then take a morning hike up Table Mountain for views over the city and ocean. Get involved in an optional activity on your return before an evening cooking class. Days 8-9 Stellenbosch Start your day with a kayak to see the Cape fur seals and penguins of Boulders Beach then transfer to Stellenbosch for a cycling tour of the region’s vineyards. Days 10-11 Cape Town Choose to explore Cape Peninsula by bike then return to town for an optional farewell dinner. This trip ends on Day 11.

Overnight Train Cape Town Stellenbosch

UBXT

Maximum group size 12 Hostel (2 nts), private room hostel (3 nts), guesthouse (2 nts), camping with facilities (2 nts), overnight (1 nt) 10 breakfasts, 2 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Train, private vehicle, bicycle, 4WD safari vehicle, cable car, kayak

Selected Tuesdays Enter UBXT on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Cycle Cape Town & Winelands 12 DAYS, CAPE TOWN TO CAPE TOWN Swap water bottles for wine glasses at the famous vineyards of Stellenbosch, refuelling with some delicious South African delicacies. Cycle the dramatic coastline scenery of South Africa, from the whale-filled waters of Hermanus all the way to the Cape Peninsula, where the mountains meet the sea. Day 1 Cape Town Perhaps sample the nightlife of trendy Long and Kloof streets. Days 2-3 Stellenbosch Drive to iconic Table Mountain, then indulge in the Paarl winelands and Spice Route. Cycle hairpin turns on Bain’s Kloof Pass en route to Stellenbosch. Enjoy a full-day wine tasting bike tour. Day 4 Little Karoo/Barrydale Ride along the edges of the Marloth Nature Reserve’s striking mountain scenery. Day 5 Bontebok NP The twisting climb through the rugged Cape Folded Mountains is breathtaking. Day 6 Cape Agulhas/Arniston Cycle the coastline en route to the small seaside town of Arniston. Days 7-8 Hermanus Ride through classic farmland and up one of the country’s oldest passes to a local microbrewery. On a free day, look for passing whales from the shore. Day 9 Gordon’s Bay/ Simon’s Town The coastal ride to Gordon’s Bay is simply magical. Day 10 Cape Peninsula Meet cheeky penguins at Boulders Beach. Days 11-12 Cape Town Ride part of the prestigious (and beautiful) Cape Argus cycle route. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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ORIGINAL

SOU TH A FR IC A Bain’s Kloof Pass Stellenbosch

Cape Town

Table Mountain Cape Peninsula

Little Karoo Barrydale Bontebok NP

Hermanus Arniston

Simon’s Town

Cape Agulhas

UBXC

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (7 nts), apartment (2 nts), chalet (1 nt), cottage (1 nt) 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner Bicycle, support vehicle

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Botswana Highlights

Chobe NP

9 DAYS, VICTORIA FALLS TO VICTORIA FALLS

Caprivi

Boasting the world’s largest salt pans, inland delta and elephant population, Botswana’s natural attractions are up there with the very best.

ZIMB A B W E

Okavango Delta Maun

N AMIB IA

Paddle your way through the wildlife-filled waterways of the Okavango Delta in a mokoro – a traditional dugout canoe. Day 1 Victoria Falls Arrive in Southern Africa. Day 2 Elephant Sands Cross into Botswana and stay in a lodge overlooking a watering hole frequented by elephants. Day 3 Maun Drive to Maun. Days 4-5 Okavango Delta Panhandle Stay in a permanent tented camp on the edge of the Guma Lagoon. Hop into mokoros for a waterlevel exploration of the delta – look out for elephants, hippos, antelope and warthogs. Day 6 Caprivi Relax on the banks of the Kavango River. In the afternoon, visit the villages of the Hambukushu and Xwe people. Days 7-8 Chobe National Park Continue the journey along the Caprivi Strip in the newly formed KavangoZambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area. Back in Botswana, head to Chobe National Park. Explore the park on a sunrise game drive, looking out for elephants, birdlife, pods of wallowing hippos and more. Day 9 Victoria Falls Take an optional morning game drive. Drive back to Vic Falls, arriving mid-afternoon.

Victoria Falls

Elephant Sands

BOTSWA N A

UBSZ

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (2 nts), lodge (3 nts), basic lodge (3 nts) 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Wednesdays Enter UBSZ on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Van, 4WD safari vehicle, mokoro

Game Parks of Southern Africa

Victoria Falls

ZIMB A B WE Hwange NP

9 DAYS, VICTORIA FALLS TO JOHANNESBURG

Matobo NP

Track rhinos on foot with an expert local guide in Matobo National Park, then witness ancient rock paintings and learn about the history of the San people. Experience the famous Kruger area in an open-top vehicle and search for the Big Five, both in private game reserves and Kruger National Park itself. Day 1 Victoria Falls Start your adventure at Victoria Falls. Day 2 Hwange NP Travel to a national park famous for its large elephant population. Take an afternoon game drive in an open 4WD vehicle. Days 3-4 Matobo NP Stop in at Bulawayo on the way to Matobo National Park, a culturally and spiritually significant place for the San people and home to a large rhino population. Track rhinos on foot with guides then visit ancient rock paintings and some nearby villages to interact with the local community. Day 5 Johannesburg Fly to Johannesburg, then get under the skin of this evolving city with an included walking tour. Days 6-7 Kruger NP Transfer to the Greater Kruger region and its famous national park. Spend two days based at a lodge, going on exhilarating game drives in search of the Big Five. Days 8-9 Johannesburg Travel back to Johannesburg via Blyde River Canyon, a stunning geological marvel. Freshen up and join your group for an optional farewell dinner before the trip ends on Day 9. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter UBKK on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Kruger NP

S OU TH AFR IC A

UBKK

Johannesburg

COMFORT

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (3 nts), lodge (5 nts) 8 breakfasts, 4 dinners Plane, 4WD safari vehicle, minivan

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Sossusvlei, Namibia

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Namibia Discovery 13 DAYS, CAPE TOWN TO WINDHOEK The sheer scale of the site is staggering enough, but the array of birdlife found here makes Fish River Canyon so much more than just one of the world’s largest gorges.

Etosha NP Damaraland

Sossusvlei

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter UBKN on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

N A MIB IA

Fish River Canyon Orange River

Etosha National Park is one of the best places in the world for wildlife-spotting, and you’ll enjoy a full day of game drives here. Day 1 Cape Town Begin in South Africa’s second most populous, and arguably most spectacular city. Day 2 Lambert’s Bay Enjoy a seafood feast in Lambert’s Bay. Day 3 Orange River Stay on the banks of the Orange River. Day 4 Fish River Canyon Hop in a canoe for a paddle down the Orange River. Days 5-6 Sossusvlei After visiting one of the world’s largest canyons, travel to a spectacular land of sand and stone. Trek up the dunes to enjoy stunning views, then explore Sesriem Gorge. Days 7-8 Swakopmund Spend some time in the small beach town of Swakopmund, Namibia’s centre of adventure. Days 9-10 Damaraland Explore this fascinating region of raw beauty and intriguing cultural edifices, including ancient rock paintings and a petrified forest where 280-millionyear-old fossilised tree trunks lie. Days 11-12 Etosha National Park Enjoy game drives in Etosha National Park and try to spot rare wildlife. Day 13 Windhoek End your trip in this German colonial-era town.

Windhoek

Swakopmund

SOU TH A FR IC A

Lambert’s Bay

Cape Town

UBKN

COMFORT

Maximum group size 13 Hotel (4 nts), lodge (5 nts), cabin (1 nt), guest farm (2 nts) 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 9 dinners Overland vehicle, canoe

Botswana Adventure 10 DAYS, WINDHOEK TO VICTORIA FALLS Two nights drifting through the Okavango Delta on a houseboat is the perfect way to experience this watery wonderland.

Maun Okavango Delta

N AMIB IA Windhoek

Travel along the Elephant Highway in Botswana and watch for Africa’s most iconic beasts lumbering across the road. Day 1 Windhoek Admire the gorgeous German architecture and charming atmosphere of Windhoek. Day 2 Ghanzi/Central Kalahari Be treated to a fantastic cultural experience with the San people in Ghanzi, a town otherwise known as the ‘Capital of the Kalahari’. Days 3-4 Okavango Delta Explore the delta’s intricate network of waterways, green islands and lush plains by mokoro (dugout canoe). Spend the next two nights on a houseboat drifting through these serene surrounds. Day 5 Maun Travel on to Maun. Day 6 Makgadikgadi Pans Venture out to the magnificent Makgadikgadi Pans, one of the largest salt flats in the world. Enjoy a sundowner by the baobabs and spot the resident family of meerkats. Days 7-8 Chobe National Park Take a cruise down the Chobe River at sunset and see if you can spot elephants splashing about. Days 9-10 Victoria Falls Stare up in wonder at the magnificent Victoria Falls before finishing this adventure with a Zimbabwean barbecue dinner. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Victoria Falls Chobe NP

ZIMB A B W E

Makgadikgadi Pans Ghanzi/ Central Kalahari

B OTSWA N A

UBKF

COMFORT

Maximum group size 13 Hotel (1 nt), houseboat (2 nts), lodge (5 nts), homestay (1 nt) 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 8 dinners Overland vehicle, mokoro, 4WD vehicle, speedboat, houseboat

Amazing Southern Africa 22 DAYS, CAPE TOWN TO VICTORIA FALLS

Swakopmund

Canoe along the picturesque Orange River on a half-day excursion – an incredible contrast to the sea of sand that is the vast Sossusvlei dunes. Spend an evening with the Kalahari people, witnessing traditional dancing and listening to stories around a camp fire. Safari through Chobe National Park, a nature reserve known for its high concentration of elephants, hippos, crocs, buffalo and impala. Day 1 Cape Town Begin the adventure in Cape Town. Day 2 Lambert’s Bay Sit down to a seafood feast in an open-air restaurant. Day 3 Orange River Cross the border into Namibia and relax by the Orange River. Day 4 Fish River Canyon Take to the river on a canoeing adventure before making tracks to Fish River Canyon, one of the largest – and most breathtaking – canyons in the world. Days 5-6 Sossusvlei Meaning ‘dead end marsh’, Sossusvlei is the ultimate place to experience the stillness of desert life. Encounter ancient lakebeds and the atmospheric Deadvlei clay pan. Days 7-8 Swakopmund Travel on to German-influenced Swakopmund. Days 9-10 Damaraland Encounter Damaraland’s incredible scenery in its petrified forest and search for ancient rock engravings. Days 11-12 Etosha National Park The numerous waterholes and sparse vegetation of

Makgadikgadi Pans Okavango Delta Chobe NP Etosha NP Victoria Falls Damaraland ZIMB A B W E

Etosha National Park makes spotting Africa’s unique wildlife easy. Day 13 Windhoek Wander about the Germanic architecture of Windhoek. Day 14 Ghanzi/ Central Kalahari Spend a memorable evening learning about the culture and customs of the Kalahari people. Days 15-16 Okavango Delta Travel in a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) to see animals of all sorts, before falling asleep on a houseboat surrounded by the peaceful ambience of the delta. Day 17 Maun Spend the night in Maun. Day 18 Makgadikgadi Pans Travel across the sparse salt flats of the Makgadikgadi Pans. Days 19-20 Chobe National Park Witness animals galore in the captivating surrounds of Chobe National Park on a safari boat ride. Days 21-22 Victoria Falls Sit down to lunch on the banks of the Zambezi and marvel at the great spectacle of Victoria Falls, the famous ‘Smoke that Thunders’.

Windhoek

Sossusvlei Fish River Canyon Orange River

B OTS WA N A N AMIB IA

Lambert’s Bay Cape Town

UBKEC

Maun Ghanzi/Central Kalahari

S OU TH A FR IC A

COMFORT

Maximum group size 13 Hotel (5 nts), cabin (1 nt), lodge (10 nts), guest farm (2 nts), houseboat (2 nts), homestay (1 nt) 21 breakfasts, 17 lunches, 17 dinners Overland vehicle, canoe, mokoro, 4WD vehicle, speedboat, houseboat DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter UBKEC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices

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Short Break Adventures

Vic Falls Short Break

Chobe National Park Short Break

4 DAYS, VICTORIA FALLS TO VICTORIA FALLS

3 DAYS, KASANE TO KASANE

UBAV-O

UBCH-O

Enter UBAV on intrepidtravel.com for dates & prices

Enter UBCH on intrepidtravel.com for dates & prices

Day 1 Victoria Falls Arrive at Victoria Falls, or ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’ (The Smoke That Thunders), and spend the afternoon getting acquainted with your surroundings. A mile wide, 108 metres tall, and roughly twice the height of Niagara Falls, this is the world’s largest waterfall. Day 2 Victoria Falls Take a short tour of Victoria Falls and watch rainbows form in the delicate mists that drift hundreds of metres above the gorge. Afterwards, check out some of the many activities that are on offer – there’s a whole host of outings to take up your time here. Your leader can assist with any bookings. Day 3 Victoria Falls Spend the day as you wish. Head back to the falls, enjoy a leisurely day cruising about town, or sign up for another adventure outing. Day 4 Victoria Falls Transfer to the airport for your onward travel.

Day 1 Kasane/Chobe National Park Arrive at Kasane, which sits at the edge of the incredible Chobe National Park in northern Botswana. Day 2 Chobe National Park Enjoy a full day exploring the park. Herds of buffalo and elephants are often seen roaming the savanna, matched by the size of the local lion prides. There’s also the chance to see zebras, impalas, giraffes, lions, leopards, wild dogs, warthogs and more than 440 species of birds. Begin with a morning game drive to see the animals at their most active, followed by downtime at the lodge while the sun is high. Later, board a boat and travel down the Chobe River to hopefully catch wildlife like hippos, crocodiles, elephants and buffalo cooling off. Day 3 Chobe National Park/Kasane In the morning take an optional game drive before this short adventure ends.

Cape Town & Winelands

Namibia Dunes

5 DAYS, CAPE TOWN TO CAPE TOWN

3 DAYS, WINDHOEK TO WINDHOEK

UBAP-C

Enter UBAP on intrepidtravel.com for dates & prices

Day 1 Cape Town Welcome to Cape Town, where rugged wilderness meets fun-loving people in a unique cosmopolitan atmosphere. Day 2 Cape Town Take a city walking tour along roads that hold over 350 years of history. Learn about slavery, apartheid, and the freedom movement led by the likes of Mandela, Tutu and De Klerk. In the afternoon, travel down the spectacular coast to Cape Peninsula. Highlights of the drive include Camps Bay, Cape Point Nature Reserve and the Cape of Good Hope. Day 3 Cape Town/Cape Point Peninsula/Winelands Indulge in South Africa’s premier wine region and see why this country is renowned for its viticulture. Visit both old and new estates and sample some of the area’s finest drops on a full-day winery tour. Days 4-5 Cape Town Pick and choose from the best activities in the city.

UBAS-C

Enter UBAS on intrepidtravel.com for dates & prices

Day 1 Windhoek/Sesriem/Solitaire Begin this Namibian adventure in Windhoek. Set off early for the epic red landscapes that lie in store. Day 2 Sesriem/Solitaire/Sossusvlei Journey by 4WD to the high red ridges of the Soussusvlei Dunes, an astounding landscape used as the backdrop for the most recent Mad Max instalment. Many of the dunes here are over 200 metres high, and the highest – affectionately known as ‘Big Daddy’ – towers at 380 metres. Spend a day exploring the dunes, looking out for ostriches, oryxes and springboks, and perhaps climb up the dunes for sweeping views and great photo opportunities. Stop by renowned ancient lakebeds like Deadvlei, which is scattered with skeletons of camel thorn trees that date back over 1000 years. Day 3 Windhoek Return to the German colonial town of Windhoek.

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Kruger National Park

Kruger & Cape Town by Train

Our Kruger National Park breaks are short in duration but offer some of the finest and most in-depth wildlife experiences in Africa.

11 DAYS, JOHANNESBURG TO CAPE TOWN

Spend evenings either bush camping or sleeping in comfortable permanent tents at the beautifully equipped Bundox Bush Lodge. Located in Guernsey Private Game Reserve, it’s the perfect base for Kruger exploration. Offering a diverse selection of activities within Kruger, our trips are led by incredible local guides who will ensure you get the most out of your safaris. For those who wish to stay on a little longer, booking additional accommodation is as easy as spotting a zebra in a pack of lions.

UBAT-C

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Day 1 Johannesburg Travel to Greater Kruger and head out on your first game drive in the afternoon. Day 2 Kruger National Park Start early for game drives through a park that’s home to over 150 mammal species. Days 3-4 Kruger National Park/Greater Kruger Travel up the breathtaking Drakensburg Escarpment via the Three Rondavels. Day 5 Johannesburg Venture out on a sunrise walk to learn about the African bush. Return to Johannesburg. Day 6 Overnight Train Travel unaccompanied by public train to Cape Town. Days 7-11 Cape Town Retrace Cape Town’s dramatic history on a three-hour walking tour. Travel down the coastline to the Cape of Good Hope and explore the rolling hills of the Winelands. Wander the boulevards of Stellenbosch, then head to the hills for a spectacular view of the vineyards.

Wild Kruger Camping

Kruger Lodge Experience

4 DAYS, JOHANNESBURG TO JOHANNESBURG

UBAC-B

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Day 1 Johannesburg/Kruger National Park Depart the urban sprawl of Johannesburg and discover the vast plains of Kruger National Park, stomping ground of the Big Five. Grab the camera, jump aboard an open-top vehicle and set out into Balule Reserve for a sunset safari drive in search of some night-time predators. Days 2-3 Kruger National Park Enjoy two full days of game viewing. Depart at first light each morning – this is the time when animals are most likely to be at their most active. With a bit of luck there’ll be lions, leopards, elephants and maybe a giraffe or two to be seen. In the evenings, enjoy the tranquillity of the bush around the campfire. Day 4 Johannesburg Drive along the Drakensberg Escarpment, stopping en route to see the Three Rondavels and Blyde River Canyon.

UBAD-C

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Day 1 Johannesburg/Kruger National Park Travel out of Johannesburg and spend the afternoon on game drives through a private reserve in open 4WD vehicles. There’s plenty to see here, so keep an eye out for Africa’s Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos and buffaloes. Day 2 Kruger National Park Embark on a thrilling safari through Kruger National Park. Seek out lions and elephants, and see colourful birdlife darting through the trees. Afterwards, spend the evening relaxing at the lodge. Day 3 Kruger National Park Today is a free day. Why not head out on more game drives or cruise along the Panorama Route to viewpoints such as God’s Window. Day 4 Johannesburg Take a morning nature walk with a local guide before heading back to Johannesburg, taking in spectacular views of Blyde River Canyon en route.

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madagascar A few hundred clicks off East Africa’s coastline sits an island whose very name, thanks in part to a famous animated movie, summons to mind all sorts of fantastical creatures: leaping lemurs, flat‑tailed geckos, iridescent chameleons, freaky-looking aye-ayes and – most amusing of all – the dancing sifaka. Off the silver screen, Madagascar is just as magical. This is a land of pristine rainforests, shipwreck-dotted coastlines, mist-cloaked mountains, chubby baobab trees and some famously friendly locals.

WEATHER Antananarivo

Monsoon 25-35ºC Pleasantly warm 20-30ºC Cool 15-20ºC

Fianarantsoa, Madagascar

Madagascar Adventure 13 DAYS, ANTANANARIVO TO ANTANANARIVO

MA D A GAS C A R Andasibe NP Mozambique Channel

Antananarivo Antsirabe

In the depths of Ranomafana National Park, stay in a cottage surrounded by lush rainforest and see how many of Madagascar’s 33 lemur species you can spot. Explore the sandstone formations, deep canyons, swaying palms and vast grasslands of Isalo National Park – just a few of Madagascar’s incredibly varied landscapes. Relax on beaches of white sand and swim in the mild waters of the Indian Ocean – Anakao is a reef-rimmed paradise. Day 1 Antananarivo With cobbled streets, wooden houses and impressive churches, Madagascar’s capital has a distinctly romantic air. Days 2-3 Andasibe National Park Travel to Andasibe National Park. Stay at a lodge on the outskirts of the park and set oﬀ on guided forest walks. Day 4 Antsirabe Take in breathtaking mountain scenery on the way to Antsirabe’s famed thermal springs, gemstone merchants and elegant French architecture. Perhaps head out on a pousse-pousse (rickshaw) to explore the town’s quaint streets. Day 5 Ambositra Travel to Ambositra, home of the Betsileo people. This is a fantastic place to explore the local people’s craft workshops. Days 6-7 Ranomafana National Park Spot some of the 13 diﬀerent species of lemur that call Ranomafana National Park home on a guided walking tour. Also keep a look out for the elusive golden bamboo, a

native lemur. Day 8 Fianarantsoa Explore heritagerich Fianarantsoa. Soak up the 19th-century charm of the town, walk along labyrinthine paths and admire the flower-studded balconies of local houses. Visit the surrounding countryside, dotted with rice paddies and vineyards, and spend some time at a Betsileo village to gain an insight into rural life in Madagascar. Days 9-10 Isalo National Park Visit a community reserve then adventure through Isalo National Park. Spot unusual sandstone formations, enjoy vast open grasslands, explore the deep canyons and revel in the abundant wildlife including birds, reptiles and mammals. Days 11-12 Anakao Transfer by boat to Anakao, where perfect beaches and turquoise waters await. Spend a couple of days in this laidback fishing town. Day 13 Antananarivo Fly back to Antananarivo, where this adventure comes to an end.

Toliara

Ambositra Ranomafana NP Fianarantsoa Isalo NP

Anakao

YBSN

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (5 nts), cottage (2 nts), lodge (2 nts), bungalow (3 nts) 10 breakfasts, 2 lunch, 1 dinner Plane, minibus, boat DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays from March to November Enter YBSN on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices

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Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

Madagascar Baobabs & Beyond 11 DAYS, ANTANANARIVO TO ANTANANARIVO Watch the sky turn pink and yellow behind towering, 800-year-old trees during a sunset over the Avenue of the Baobabs. Travel along the Tsiribihina River in a traditional barge, stopping to walk to hidden waterfalls, explore villages and camp on the banks. Trek through a forest of limestone karsts and cross a sheer drop on a suspended bridge in Bemaraha National Park. Day 1 Antananarivo Welcome to Antananarivo, Madagascar’s crowded but charming capital. Day 2 Miandrivazo Begin the long journey west to Miandrivazo, a small city that will act as the starting point for your adventure down the Tsiribihina River. Days 3-4 Tsiribihina River Excursion Board a traditional barge called a chaland. Over the next few days, you’ll have the chance to spot wildlife on the banks and in the water, enjoy walks to hidden waterfalls and stop oﬀ in rural villages. Day 5 Bekopaka Drive to Bekopaka and check in to your hotel. Perhaps enjoy a swim before resting up for tomorrow. Day 6 Bekopaka/ Small Tsingy Spend between four and five hours trekking through the Small Tsingy in Bemaraha National Park. Scramble and navigate through a labyrinth of limestone formations that resemble a forest made of rock. In the afternoon, unwind with a float down the

Manambolo River on a pirogue (wooden dugout canoe) and venture into cool caves on a spelunking walk. Day 7 Bekopaka/Great Tsingy Feel your heart stop as you pass over a sheer drop via a suspended bridge that separates two sections of the karst forest. Day 8 Morondava Arrive in relaxed Morondava in time for a spectacular sunset over the Avenue of the Baobabs. Day 9 Antsirabe It’s a long day of travel as you make your way to the capital of the Vakinankaratra region. Get acquainted with Antsirabe on a guided walk, followed by a group dinner. Day 10 Antananarivo Hit the lakes region on a soft trek. Discover Tritiva Lake, an extinct crater filled with emerald water surrounded by verdant forest. Perhaps spend your last evening on this trip indulging in some fine Malagasy food with your fellow travellers. Day 11 Antananarivo This adventure comes to an end today after breakfast.

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Tsingy de Bemaraha NP

Antananarivo

Tsiribihina River Excursion

Bekopaka Belo Sur

Miandrivazo Antsirabe

Morondava Avenue of the Baobabs

YBSO

MAD A GAS C A R

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (8 nts), camping (2 nts) 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Private minibus, 4WD vehicle, ferry, dugout canoe DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Wednesdays from June to October Enter YBSO on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices

Ile Sainte-Marie Extension Just south of Ile Sainte-Marie, Ile aux Nattes has all the makings of a tropical paradise – think swaying palms, whitesand beaches and a turquoise lagoon ripe with coral. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a Madagascan adventure. For more info enter UBAE on intrepidtravel.com Ile Sainte-Marie, Madagascar

Madagascar: Hike & Bike

MA D A GAS C A R

14 DAYS, ANTANANARIVO TO TULEAR Lush eucalypt forests, volcanic lakes, mountainous ‘moon’ trails and wonderfully bizarre baobab trees make this a winning destination for nature buffs. This is more than a trekking adventure. Explore Antsirabe by pousse-pousse (rickshaw), take to the countryside by bicycle, and perhaps cruise the Matsiatra River by canoe. Day 1 Antananarivo Welcome to Madagascar! Day 2 Antsirabe Discover Antsirabe on foot and by poussepousse (rickshaw). Day 3 Ambositra Cycle to lakes Andrononobe and Andraikiba. Days 4-5 Zafimaniry Country Embark on a 10 km trek amid eucalyptus forest. Camp under canvas and doze off in the ambience of the wild. Enjoy a full day of trekking among rice fields and typical wooden Zafimaniry houses, then tour villages and meet local woodcarvers. Days 6-7 Sahambavy Cross through quaint villages to Sahambavy. Days 8-10 Andringitra National Park Be dazzled by views from Peak Boby, then descend via the stunning ‘moon trail’. Camp at Lantaranomby, then trek to Tsara Camp, gazing over the valley from the Tsaranoro cliff along the way. Days 11-12 Isalo National Park See Isalo National Park’s golden plains and spot lemurs and Verreaux’s sifakas at the forested canyon entrance. Days 13-14 Tulear Visit Zombitse National Park and its bizarre baobab trees.

Ambositra Sahambavy Isalo NP

Zafimaniry Country Andringitra NP Peak Boby Trek

Tulear

YBXA

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (8 nts), camping (4 nts), tented lodge (1 nt)

Minibus, bicycle, private vehicle, dugout canoe

Selected Sundays Enter YBXA on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Madagascar in Depth 23 DAYS, ANTANANARIVO TO ANTANANARIVO See how many species of lemur you can spot as you spend time in a number of national parks and community reserves. Take in a variety of scenes including tropical rainforest, limestone and sandstone formations, pristine beaches and highland towns. Day 1 Antananarivo Welcome! Day 2 Miandrivazo Travel to Tsiribihina River. Days 3-4 Tsiribihina River Hop in a chaland (traditional barge) for a two-day river journey. Days 5-6 Bekopaka/Small Tsingy See limestone formations and caves. Day 7 Bekopaka/Great Tsingy Tackle the bridge separating the karst forest. Day 8 Morondava Witness the Avenue of the Baobabs at sunset. Day 9 Antsirabe Discover Antsirabe on a guided walk. Days 10-11 Antananarivo Trek the lakes region. Days 12-13 Andasibe NP Spot lemurs on a forest night walk. Day 14 Antsirabe Perhaps tour the town on a pousse-pousse (rickshaw). Day 15 Ambositra Enjoy a local lunch in the home of the Betsileo people. Days 16-17 Ranomafana NP Spot wildlife on guided walks. Day 18 Fianarantsoa Witness local life in this heritage town. Days 19-20 Isalo NP Explore Isalo’s wildlife-filled rainforests and deep canyons. Days 21-22 Anakao Perfect beaches await. Day 23 Antananarivo Farewell your adventure.

Selected Saturdays from June to October Enter YBSCC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Antsirabe

13 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 7 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Antananarivo

Mozambique Channel

Tsiribihina River Camping Miandrivazo Tsingy de Andasibe NP Bemaraha NP Antananarivo Bekopaka Antsirabe

Belo Sur Morondava Avenue of the Baobabs Tulear Anakao

YBSCC

Ambositra Ranomafana NP Fianarantsoa Isalo NP

MAD A GAS C A R

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (13 nts), camping (2 nts), lodge (2 nts), bungalow (3 nts), cottage (2 nts) 21 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners Plane, minibus, 4WD vehicle, boat, ferry

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morocco Aromatic tajines, palm-spotted landscapes and limitless generosity define the home of the Maghreb. It doesn’t matter if you stay for one week or more, any visit will give you a glimpse of the friendliness, vibrancy and flavour of this Berber-Arab-Spanish-Portuguese-French melting pot. Whether you want to take it slow and wander through the country’s many splendid medinas or pick up the pace with an energetic adventure through the Atlas Mountains, Morocco has it all.

WEATHER Marrakech Fes Essaouira Casablanca Sahara Aroumd Sidi Ifni

Very hot & dry 35ºC+ Hot & dry 25-35ºC Pleasantly warm 20-30ºC Warm & wet 20-25ºC Cool 15-20ºC

Sahara, Morocco

Best of Morocco 15 DAYS, CASABLANCA TO MARRAKECH Journey through the Sahara on a camel, snuggle down to a campﬁre-lit evening of Bedouin tales and fall asleep beneath the starry North African sky. Trek through scenic countryside and learn about the traditions of the Berber people during a homestay in the Atlas Mountains. Get caught up in the frenetic energy and splendour of Marrakech. At sunset, watch as Djemaa el-Fna transforms into a food-lover’s paradise. Day 1 Casablanca Arrive to the palm-lined boulevards and Art Deco architecture of Casablanca. Day 2 Rabat/Meknes Stroll through Rabat’s serene kasbah before journeying to Meknes, the site of Sultan Moulay Ismail’s palace. Days 3-4 Volubilis/Fes Travel back to the days of the Roman Empire on a guided tour of the ruins of Volubilis. Wander the narrow alleyways of the medina in medieval Fes as the call to prayer rings through Fes el-Bali at dusk. Day 5 Midelt Journey through Morocco’s cedar forests in the Middle Atlas Mountains to the peaceful rural village of Midelt. Day 6 Sahara Camp After a camel ride into the Sahara, attempt a climb of the towering dunes. Later, fall asleep in a desert camp under a blanket of stars. Days 7-8 Todra Gorge Wake early and watch a golden sunrise over the desert before heading to the Todra Gorge to go hiking. Day 9 Ait Benhaddou

Pass through Morocco’s film capital, Ouarzazate, on the way to the ancient fortified city of Ait Benhaddou. After exploring the streets of this clay kasbah at a relaxed pace, why not finish off the day with a meal of delicious couscous. Day 10 Aroumd Today, head to the hills. Perched on a rocky outcrop, remote Aroumd offers stunning views across Morocco. This is the perfect base for exploring the High Atlas Mountains and a chance to experience traditional Berber culture up close. Days 11-12 Essaouira With its Norfolk Island pines and colourful fishing boats, relaxed Essaouira is a gem. Get acquainted with the town’s history on a guided walking tour. Days 13-15 Marrakech Explore the spice market in Marrakech and feast at a food stall in Djemaa el-Fna, or escape the buzz of the city in the Palais de la Bahia. Perhaps farewell Morocco with a final dinner with your group.

Fes

Volubilis

Rabat Casablanca

Meknes

MOR OC C O Midelt

Essaouira

Marrakech Aroumd

High Atlas Mountains

XMSC

Todra Gorge

Ait Benhaddou

Sahara Camp

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (8 nts), guesthouse (2 nts), desert camp (1 nt), gite (1 nt), riad (2 nts) 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners Private vehicle, train, camel, public bus, taxi DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays. Enter XMSC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

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Morocco Encompassed Hike through the Atlas Mountains, then recharge along the tranquil coast. Explore medieval medinas and spend an unforgettable night in the Sahara camping beneath the stars. Discover the many thrilling contrasts of Morocco’s north and south on an 18-day combination trip.

For more info enter XMSQC on intrepidtravel.com

Chefchaouen, Morocco

City, Country - Photographer

North Morocco Adventure

Tangier

9 DAYS, CASABLANCA TO MARRAKECH Experience a homestay with a charming local family at Moulay Idriss, a hilltop town widely considered to be Morocco’s holiest place.

Casablanca

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays Enter XMSB on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Fes Moulay Idriss/Volubilis Marrakech

Visit the picturesque and vividly blue houses of Chefchaouen, one of Morocco’s prettiest towns. Wander the medina and the memorable kasbah. Day 1 Casablanca Perhaps ease into the Moroccan way of life with a glass of sweet mint tea at one of the city’s many cafes. Day 2 Rabat/Moulay Idriss Travel to Rabat to see monuments spanning the history of Morocco. Spend the night in the sacred hilltop town of Moulay Idriss at a homestay with a local family. Days 3-4 Volubilis/ Fes Discover remarkable mosaics on a tour of the Volubilis ruins and visit the imposing gates and walls of Meknes. Head to Fes for a wander through the maze-like alleyways of the city’s atmospheric medina. Days 5-7 Chefchaouen/Tangier Watch the blue-tinged world go by in Chefchaouen, the perfect place to relax. Head north to the coastal town of Tangier and perhaps indulge in fresh seafood before making the journey to Marrakech aboard an overnight train. Days 8-9 Marrakech This North Morocco Adventure finishes among the sights, scents and sounds of Marrakech. Go souvenir shopping in the many souqs and enjoy a day of free time.

Chefchaouen

Rabat

MOR OC C O

XMSB

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (6 nts), guesthouse (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt) 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner Train, taxi, private vehicle, public bus, overnight train

South Morocco Discovery

MOR O C C O

10 DAYS, MARRAKECH TO MARRAKECH Negotiate your way through the winding alleys of Ait Benhaddou’s World Heritagelisted kasbah, a superb example of Moroccan architecture that is rich in history.

Essaouira

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays & Sundays Enter XMSF on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices 60 Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/morocco

Aroumd Ait Benhaddou

Taroudant

Zagora Sahara Camp

Travel through the Sahara, enjoy an evening beside the campﬁre listening to Bedouin tales, and sleep under the North African stars. Day 1 Marrakech Get acquainted with Marrakech. Have your fortune told at Djemaa el-Fna or dine alfresco, savouring local flavours served at aromatic night stalls. Day 2 Aroumd Journey towards the High Atlas Mountains to your traditional Berber homestay in a mountain gite. Day 3 Ait Benhaddou Explore the ksar (fort) of Ait Benhaddou and discover the rich history behind Morocco’s internationally acclaimed film set. Day 4 Zagora Embark on a journey towards the Sahara, through the lush Draa Valley and on to Zagora. Day 5 Sahara Camp Enjoy a camel expedition across the Sahara at dusk and spend the night under the stars. Day 6 Taroudant Look out for the unusual sight of goats atop argan trees on the way to the market town of Taroudant. Days 7-8 Essaouira Travel to the seaside town of Essaouira. Browse its shops and intriguing art galleries or simply relax by the beach. Days 9-10 Marrakech Leave the coast behind and lose yourself in Marrakech’s many souqs.

Marrakech

High Atlas Mountains

XMSF

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (4 nts), gite (1 nt), riad (3 nts), desert camp (1 nt) 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners Private vehicle, public bus, taxi

Morocco: Women’s Expedition Featuring all the hallmarks of a classic Intrepid adventure – local leadership, private transport, real life experiences – with a focus on female empowerment, this is a unique opportunity for women to blaze the trail in an incredible but often conservative country. For more info enter XMRW on intrepidtravel.com

Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca, Morocco

Morocco Uncovered

Chefchaouen Rabat

13 DAYS, CASABLANCA TO MARRAKECH

Casablanca

Appreciate the intricate artisanship and impressive architecture of the grand Hassan II Mosque, which boasts the world’s tallest minaret. Encounter the Morocco of old in medieval Fes – a vibrant medina of carpet sellers, metal workers and leather tanneries. Days 1-2 Casablanca/Meknes Welcome to Morocco’s most contemporary city. Pay a visit to the Hassan II Mosque and discover the old ways of Morocco’s imperial society in Rabat and Meknes. Day 3 Chefchaouen Explore the striking blue and whitewashed houses of Chefchaouen. Days 4-5 Fes Step back into the Middle Ages exploring the labyrinthine Fes medina, which is alive with craftsmen, markets and mosques. Day 6 Midelt Visit the Berber village of Midelt and stretch your legs with a hike around a Bremmen village. Day 7 Sahara Camp Saddle up for a camel ride through the Sahara. Taste local cuisine as an open fire warms the night, then camp out in the desert beneath the North African sky. Days 8-9 M’Goun Valley Enjoy an overnight stay in a traditional Berber house. Day 10 Ait Benhaddou Take a stroll around the fortified city of Ait Benhaddou, Morocco’s red jewel. Days 11-13 Marrakech Explore Marrakech’s spice markets and feast on local cuisine at a food stall in Djemaa el-Fna.

Meknes

Fes

MOR OC C O

Midelt

Mt M’Goun

Marrakech

Sahara Camp

Ait Benhaddou

M’Goun Valley

XMKC

COMFORT

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (6 nts), desert camp (1 nt), gite (2 nts), riad (3 nts) 12 breakfasts, 6 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays & Saturdays Enter XMKC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Private vehicle, camel, taxi

Morocco Atlas & Atlantic 8 DAYS, MARRAKECH TO MARRAKECH

Marrakech Taghazout

Explore the pristine, secluded beaches of southern Morocco and pick up the basics of surﬁng with an included lesson.

MOROC C O

Tafraoute Sidi Ifni

Join the nightly carnival of acrobats, fortune tellers, dancers and medicine men that colour Marrakech’s Djemaa el-Fna square. Day 1 Marrakech Witness the mayhem and splendour of Djemaa el-Fna square. Days 2-3 Taghazout Travel to Taghazout, a sleepy surf village on Morocco’s coast. Take part in a surfing class and later stretch out with a relaxing yoga lesson. Day 4 Tafraoute Travel to a hidden town revered for its hospitality and Berber traditions. Gain insight into this charming location on a walking tour through the streets and the surrounding countryside, then witness Belgian artist Jean Veran’s painted rocks in the desert. Days 5-6 Sidi Ifni Visit the former Spanish port city of Sidi Ifni and enjoy a guided walk through the Old Town. Stroll across the pristine sands of Legzira beach and witness natural arches stretching off the land into the sea as you tuck into a fresh fish lunch. Days 7-8 Marrakech Return to Marrakech and make the most of a final afternoon exploring, or perhaps pick up some lastminute souvenirs before this adventure comes to an end on the morning of Day 8. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays from March to October Enter XMSG on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

XMSG

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (5 nts), surf camp (2 nts) 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners Private vehicle

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Morocco Expedition: Walking with Berber Nomads Walk with the Berbers over the blazing sands of south-east Morocco on an off-themap adventure. Camp with a nomadic Ait Atta family, visit tiny villages and help with daily chores as you follow 4000-year-old routes through the Atlas Mountains.

Mt Toubkal, Morocco

For more info enter XMSM on intrepidtravel.com

Mt Toubkal, Morocco

Mount Toubkal Trek 7 DAYS, MARRAKECH TO MARRAKECH

Marrakech

MOR OC C O

Ascend the dizzying heights of mighty Mt Toubkal – the highest peak in North Africa – and enjoy its unparalleled views of the Moroccan landscape.

Aroumd Neltner

Experience a homestay with a Berber family in the Atlas Mountains, a great way to learn about the way of life of a people who have lived in North Africa for over 10,000 years. Day 1 Marrakech Encounter ancient medina lanes, mosques and riads in Marrakech. Day 2 Aroumd Marvel at the High Atlas’s peaks as you leave Marrakech for the village of Aroumd. Experience local culture on a homestay in a typical Berber house. Acclimatise to the altitude with a scenic hike in the surrounding mountains. Days 3-4 Neltner Hut/Mt Toubkal Summit Conquer Mt Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, on a challenging two-day hike. The trail begins in Aroumd, where it weaves through the Ait Mizane Valley and into the base camp at Neltner Hut. After scrambling up the final climb, be rewarded with some spectacular views of the entire Atlas range. Days 5-7 Marrakech Polish up your bargaining skills and hit the souqs for leather goods, pottery and jewellery. Discover Marrakech’s many attractions, including Djemaa el-Fna, Jardin de Secret, the traditional baths and the Museum of Moroccan Arts. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays from March to November Enter XMXO on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Mt Toubkal

XMXO

Surrounded by amazing scenery and the scent of a wood-ﬁred oven, help prepare a Berber-style tajine at a traditional gite in the High Atlas Mountains.

Hotel (3 nts), gite (1 nt), mountain refuge (2 nts) 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners Private vehicle

Chefchaouen Moulay Idriss Meknes Casablanca

MOR OC C O

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Fridays from March to December Enter XMZF on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices 62 Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/morocco

Fes

Midelt

Marrakech

Discover the wide world of bread – from khobz and msmen to tafarnout and simit – which forms an essential part of every Moroccan meal. Day 1 Casablanca Get acquainted with your travel crew over a Friday feast. Day 2 Meknes/Moulay Idriss Wake up to a breakfast of msmen (Moroccan flatbread) and mint tea. Sample chewy nougat, tour an olive oil press and watch a couscous rolling demonstration. Day 3 Chefchaoeun Perhaps explore the blue-washed medina before joining a local family for a home-cooked meal. Days 4-5 Fes Savour the aromas of Fes’s medina on a guided tour before learning about traditional pottery methods at a ceramics factory. Day 6 Midelt Pay a visit to the village of Bremmem to glimpse local farming life. Day 7 Merzouga Enjoy a local lunch of bread stuffed with meat, herbs and spices with Berber nomads of the High Atlas before continuing to your campsite in the Sahara. Days 8-9 M’Goun Valley Perhaps rise early for a spectacular Sahara sunrise. Learn traditional bread-making methods in a M’Goun village. Days 10-12 Marrakech Visit ancient spice markets and street food bazaars before an optional final feast.

BASIX

Maximum group size 12

Morocco Real Food Adventure 12 DAYS, CASABLANCA TO MARRAKECH

Imlil

M’Goun Valley

XMZF

Merzouga

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (7 nts), guesthouse (1 nt), desert camp (1 nt), gite (2 nt) 9 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 8 dinners Train, private vehicle, taxi

Marrakech, Morocco

Atlas Mountains, Morocco

Morocco: Hike, Bike & Horse Ride

Marrakech Essaouira

7 DAYS, MARRAKECH TO MARRAKECH Discover the vibrant city of Marrakech from a diﬀerent perspective – bike through the main sites and enjoy a freshly squeezed orange juice at the end of your ride.

MOR OC C O

Imlil Aroumd

Ride on horseback through the sandy beaches and mimosa forests of Morocco’s spectacular coastline. Day 1 Marrakech Kick off your active adventure in Marrakech. Come face-to-face with fortune-tellers, henna painters, medicine men and street performers at Djemaa el-Fna. Day 2 Marrakech Enjoy a leisurely bike ride across Marrakech, where you’ll encounter the King’s Palace, Medina Market and the Koutoubia Mosque. Day 3 Aroumd Following a thrilling day spent mountain bike riding in the Atlas Mountains, enjoy the hospitality of a local Berber family during a homestay. Day 4 Essaouira Go trekking in the Atlas Mountains, descending into the valley behind the village of Imlil, then make tracks for the beautiful whitewashed town of Essaouira. Day 5 Marrakech Head to Essaouira’s white-sand beach and saddle up for a scenic a horseback ride along the coast. Tuck into a succulent seafood lunch before returning to Marrakech. Day 6 Marrakech After a big week, recharge with a steam at a traditional Moroccan hamman. Day 7 Marrakech The adventure comes to an end this morning.

XMXA

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (5 nts), gite (1 nt) 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Private vehicle, taxi, bicycle, horseback, public bus

Selected Saturdays from March to June & August to November Enter XMXA on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Cycle Morocco

Tangier Chefchaouen

14 DAYS, MARRAKECH TO MARRAKECH End rewarding days in the saddle with Moroccan feasts in Djemaa el-Fna, a traditional dinner in the mountains and a Berber banquet. Ride both bikes and camels into the Sahara to a starlit camp and spend the night with Berber nomads – the ultimate desert experience. Days 1-2 Marrakech Start this active adventure by cycling along the frenetic streets of Marrakech. Day 3 Tangier Ride out to the legendary Cave of Hercules. Days 4-5 Chefchaouen Cycle the steep hills to the ‘Blue City’ of Chefchaouen. Days 6-7 Fes Ride through the Rif to Fes. Day 8 Midelt Enjoy a picnic beside the placid waters of Aguelmame Sidi Ali Lake. Day 9 Merzouga/Desert Camp Pass the harsh but beautiful sand dunes of Erg Chebbi on the back of a camel before spending a night with Berber nomads beneath starry desert skies. Day 10 Todra Gorge Ride beside the Todra River before dismounting for a trek along limestone stacks into the heart of the chasm. Day 11 Dades Gorge/Mountain Gite Conquer the hairpin turns of the Dades Gorge on one of the journey’s most memorable rides. Day 12 Ait Benhaddou Ride past kasbah ruins, military outposts, and palmdotted valleys. Days 13-14 Marrakech Drive the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka Pass high up in the Atlas Mountains. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Sundays Enter XMXC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Fes

MOR OC C O

Midelt Marrakech

Mountain Stay Merzouga

Ait Benhaddou

Todra Gorge

XMXC

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (10 nts), overnight train (1 nt), desert camp (1 nt), gite (1 nt) 12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners Bicycle, support vehicle, train, camel

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egypt & the middle east Welcome to the cradle of civilisation, an enchanting world of archaeological wonders, cosmopolitan cities, first-rate beaches and truly epic landscapes. Feel history reverberate in Jerusalem’s timeworn walls, get lost in the ‘Rose City’ of Petra, cruise down the Nile by felucca or venture across Abu Dhabi’s desert dunes. With every step, around every corner, you’ll find that Egypt and the Middle East are living proof of an old maxim: you don’t know, until you go.

WEATHER Cairo Luxor Istanbul Petra Amman Tel Aviv

Very hot & dry 35ºC+ Hot & dry 25-35ºC Pleasantly warm 20-30ºC Cool 15-20ºC Cold & dry 0-15ºC Cold & wet 0-15ºC

Egypt Experience: Abu Simbel Sun Festival See for yourself a spectacle 3000 years in the making – the biannual Sun Festival at Abu Simbel, where the sun’s rays enter the Ramses Temple yet leave Ptah, the god of the underworld, in darkness. This trip starts in Cairo and journeys to Alexandria, Aswan and Luxor.

Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

For more info enter XEKIS on intrepidtravel.com

Abu Simbel, Egypt

Egypt Experience

Alexandria Cairo

12 DAYS, CAIRO TO CAIRO

EGYP T

Delve into the marvels and mythologies of Ancient Egypt on guided tours through the Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings.

Luxor

Nile Cruise Aswan

Stand at the feet of Abu Simbel’s monumental temples, marvelling at the sheer scale of these impressive structures. Days 1-2 Cairo Visit the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World – the Pyramids of Giza – and the Sphinx. Take in thousands of treasures on display while wandering the corridors of the Egyptian Museum. Days 3-4 Alexandria Head underground and delve into the mysteries of Egypt’s largest Roman burial site, the catacombs of Kom Ash Shuqqafa. Day 5 Aswan Join a local Nubian family for dinner and a chance to learn about local life. Days 6-8 Nile Cruise Take a short flight to the temples of Abu Simbel built by Ramses II. Set oﬀ on an unforgettable multi-day cruise down the Nile River. Take a felucca ride to see fishermen casting their nets along lush riverbanks surrounded by desert hills and watch the sun set over the Nile from the deck of the ship. Stop to visit the ancient temple site of Kom Ombo. Days 9-10 Luxor Explore the Temples of Karnak and the Valley of Kings burial site. Days 11-12 Cairo Experience the hustle and bustle of the Khan al-Khalili bazaar back in Cairo.

Abu Simbel

XEKI

COMFORT

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (7 nts), overnight sleeper train (1 nt), cruise ship (3 nts) 11 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Plane, private vehicle, overnight sleeper train, cruise ship, felucca

Selected Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays Enter XEKI on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Explore Egypt

Alexandria

Cairo

15 DAYS, CAIRO TO CAIRO Unwind in the vibrant beach resort of Hurghada and explore the extraordinary ecosystem of Giftun Island in the Red Sea.

Hurghada

E GYP T

Nile Felucca

Set sail on one of the most iconic rivers of the world, the Nile, on an overnight felucca trip. See local life unfold as you drift along the riverbank. Days 1-2 Cairo Colourful Cairo overflows with character. Visit the legendary Pyramids and Sphinx of Giza, then explore the Egyptian Museum. Days 3-4 Aswan The Nile, Elephantine Island and white-sailed feluccas: welcome to Aswan, Egypt’s southernmost city. Day 5 Nubian Homestay Join a local Nubian family to experience a slice of Nile culture firsthand. Day 6 Nile Felucca Be treated to food and song on a traditional felucca journey down the Nile with a local crew. Days 7-8 Luxor Visit an animal welfare project, wander through the temple complex of Karnak, and explore the Valley of the Kings. Days 9-10 Hurghada Venture out by boat to the island of Mahmya for a full day of world-class snorkelling. Day 11 Cairo Return to Cairo and head to the warren of alleys of the Khan al-Khalili bazaar. Days 12-13 Alexandria Explore this vibrant city, then reflect on the past at El Alamein and its museum. Days 14-15 Cairo Delve into the mysteries of the Kom Ash Shuqqafa catacombs in Alexandria before returning to Cairo. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter XERA on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Luxor Aswan

XERA

BASIX

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (11 nts), overnight train (1 nt), felucca (1 nt), homestay (1 nt) 14 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners Overnight train, felucca, private minibus

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Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Dead Sea, Jordan

Egypt Adventure

Cairo

8 DAYS, CAIRO TO CAIRO Whether you’re losing yourself in Cairo’s colourful Khan al-Khalili bazaar or dining with villagers in Aswan and Luxor, this trip oﬀers plenty of opportunity for local interaction.

Luxor

E GYP T

Nile Felucca

Visit Animal Care in Egypt, an excellent project dedicated to promoting the welfare of camels, donkeys and other working animals. Days 1-2 Cairo/Overnight Train Be immersed in Cairo’s chaos, colour and culture with a trip to Khan al-Khalili, Egypt’s most famous bazaar. For a change of pace, head into the desert and visit the impressive Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza. Later on, board an overnight train heading south. Days 3-5 Aswan/Nile Felucca Join a local Nubian family for dinner to experience a slice of Nile hospitality. There is also time for an optional day trip to Abu Simbel. Later, set sail down the Nile on an overnight felucca journey, sleeping on deck under a starry sky. Days 6-7 Luxor Known as Thebes in ancient times, Luxor conceals amazing treasures. Pay a visit to an animal care project supported by The Intrepid Foundation and wander the amazing Karnak temple complex. Head into the Valley of the Kings to visit three of the best-preserved pharaonic tombs, then join a local family for a traditional home-cooked lunch. Day 8 Cairo Return to Cairo, Egypt’s where this adventure comes to an end.

Aswan

XESB

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (4 nts), overnight train (2 nts), felucca (1 nt) 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Mondays & Saturdays Enter XESB on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Van, overnight train, felucca

Jordan & Egypt Express

Dead Sea

9 DAYS, AMMAN TO CAIRO

Amman

J OR D A N

Spend a day uncovering the mystery and majesty of Petra. The first glimpse of the Treasury from the narrow path of the Siq is unforgettable. Enjoy an effortless float in the super-salty waters of the Dead Sea, a body of water unlike any other. Day 1 Amman Explore the city or venture out to the Jerash ruins to soak up some history in spare time before meeting your travel group at an evening welcome meeting. Days 2-3 Petra Enjoy a buoyant dip in the salty Dead Sea before travelling to Petra – this spectacular ancient Nabataean city hewn out of rose-coloured rock is one of the Middle East’s must-see sites. Day 4 Wadi Rum Spend a memorable night sleeping in a Bedouin-style camp or head outside to sleep under a twinkling canopy of stars. Day 5 Nuweiba Cross the Gulf of Aqaba and travel to a seaside camp by the glistening Red Sea. Days 6-7 Dahab It’s a short drive to Dahab, where you’ll have plenty of free time to take in its many spoils. Snorkel over beautiful reefs, kick back on golden sands or join new Bedouin friends for a seafood feast. Days 8-9 Cairo With its treasure-filled museums, flavoursome cuisine and famous pyramids, Cairo provides the perfect end to this express adventure. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter EERJ on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices 66 Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/middle-east

Petra

Cairo

Wadi Rum

EGYP T

EERJ

Nuweiba Dahab

BASIX

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (6 nts), desert camp (1 nt), beach hut (1 nt) 7 breakfasts, 1 dinner Plane, ferry, minibus, 4WD vehicle

Wadi Rum, Jordan

Nile River, Egypt

Explore Egypt & Jordan 19 DAYS, CAIRO TO AMMAN

Dead Sea Alexandria Cairo

From the Great Pyramid and Valley of the Kings to the mind-boggling city of ancient Petra, this adventure is steeped in history, mythology and mystique. Take a three-night cruise down the one and only Nile River. Relax in comfort as scenes of everyday Egyptian life stream by. Be awed by the incredible rock formations at Wadi Rum – Jordan’s famous ‘Valley of the Moon’ – and sleep under the stars in a Bedouin desert camp. Days 1-2 Cairo Colourful Cairo overflows with character and there is plenty of time to soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Visit the majestic Sphinx and a surviving Wonder of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid of Giza. Days 3-4 Alexandria Head underground and delve into the mysteries of the catacombs of Kom Ash Shuqqafa. This Roman burial site is the largest of its kind in Egypt. Day 5 Aswan Use free time to learn about Nubian culture at Aswan’s excellent museum or wander the market to pick up some souvenirs, then head to a nearby village to have dinner with a local Nubian family. Days 6-8 Abu Simbel/Nile Cruise Take a flight to the impressive Abu Simbel temples, the ancient entrance to Egypt. Embark on a cruise down the Nile River, stopping along the way to explore the ancient temple site of Kom Ombo. Days 9-10 Luxor Discover some of the many wonders

of ancient Thebes, including the Colossi of Memnon, two 17-metre-high granite statues on Luxor’s west bank, and the spectacular royal burial site of the Valley of the Kings. Day 11 Cairo Fly back to Cairo and plunge into the hustle and bustle of the Khan al-Khalili bazaar. Day 12 Amman Fly to Amman and meet your new group and leader. Day 13 Aqaba Use a free day to explore at your leisure. Visit the small Ottoman fort beside the beach or simply relax on the sand. Day 14 Wadi Rum Meet your Bedouin hosts and ride through sweeping swathes of sand to a desert camp. Days 15-16 Petra A regular contender for the ‘Eight Wonder of the World’ title, the Treasury’s glorious facade is arguably the region’s most striking sight. Days 17-19 Amman Explore the colonnaded streets of ancient Jerash, once a grand Roman city. Visit the Dead Sea before the trip ends in historic Amman.

EGYPT

Aqaba

Jerash Amman JORDAN Dana Petra Wadi Rum

Luxor Nile Cruise Aswan

Abu Simbel

XEKJC

COMFORT

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (13 nts), overnight train (1 nt), desert camp (1 nt), cruise ship (3 nts) 18 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 8 dinners Plane, 4WD vehicle, boat, felucca, overnight train, van DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Jordan: Women’s Expedition What’s life really like for women in Jordan? Join us on this all-woman, 8-day adventure as we break the barriers of traditional tourism and discover sisterhood in this tiny desert nation in places that, culturally, mixed gender groups don’t have access to. For more info enter EESF on intrepidtravel.com

Wadi Rum, Jordan

Explore Jordan

Jerash Amman

8 DAYS, AMMAN TO MADABA

Madaba

Hop in a jeep and experience the extraordinary desert scenery of Wadi Rum, a rugged moonscape of huge sandstone mountains.

JOR D A N Petra

Cover yourself in mud and test its supposed healing properties while enjoying an eﬀortless soak in the super-salty waters of the Dead Sea. Day 1 Amman Jordan’s cosmopolitan capital is the starting point of this exciting tour. A visit to the Roman Theatre or National Archaeological Museum oﬀers great insight into the city’s past. Days 2-3 Wadi Rum Head out on a jeep safari through Wadi Rum’s stark but spectacular desert scenery. Enjoy dinner cooked in a traditional earthen oven, then bed down in a Bedouin-style tent beneath a twinkling canopy of stars. In the morning, a 12–15 km trek is sure to yield some awesome photo opportunities. Days 4-5 Petra Tour Petra’s ancient temples, tombs, amphitheatres and monasteries. The challenging walk up to the stunning Monastery is well rewarded with dramatic vistas of the canyons below. Days 6-8 Jerash/Madaba Visit the ancient Crusader castle of Karak and enjoy a float in the famous Dead Sea. Stop by legendary Mt Nebo, where the prophet Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land, then explore the well-preserved Roman ruins of Jerash before finishing in Madaba. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays Enter EESJ on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Wadi Rum

EESJ

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (5 nts), desert camp (2 nts) 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners Van, 4WD vehicle

Jordan Discovery

Jerash Amman

8 DAYS, AMMAN TO AMMAN

Madaba Dead Sea

Be awed by the towering, windswept rock formations at Wadi Rum, watching how the colours change as the sun crosses the sky.

Petra

Get to know your Bedouin hosts while staying at a traditional desert camp – glimpse their way of life and enjoy a memorable night under the stars. Day 1 Amman Begin this adventure in Jordan’s easy-going capital. Day 2 Wadi Rum Discover the delights of the desert. Journey past sandstone mountains, befriend local Bedouin people, and watch the hues of the desert landscape change at sunset. Day 3 Aqaba Journey out to the seaside town of Aqaba, famed for its diving and snorkelling. The small Ottoman Mamluk Fort, which dates back to the 16th century, is a haven for history buﬀs. Days 4-5 Petra Travel to Petra and be entranced by the ethereal beauty of this ancient site. Stroll around age-old tombs, follow the Siq to catch your first glimpse of the Treasury, see the impressive Amphitheatre and climb up to the majestic Monastery. Days 6-8 Amman Visit the ancient Crusader castle of Shobak before heading back to Amman. Explore the Roman city of Jerash, then drive to the Dead Sea for a swim. Return to Amman and maybe plan a farewell dinner with the rest of your group before this adventure comes to an end. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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JOR D A N

Aqaba

ELKD

Wadi Rum

COMFORT

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (6 nts), desert camp (1 nt) 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners Jeep, private vehicle

Jordan Valley, Jordan

Petra, Jordan

Trek Jordan

Dead Sea

Amman

8 DAYS, AMMAN TO MADABA

Madaba Mukawir

Hike the back-road into Petra – explore desert canyons, scale sand dunes and camp out with the Bedouins on this active adventure.

Petra

Be dazzled by panoramic views across the ocean and the West Bank as you make your way down the scenic shepherd’s trail of Mukawir. Day 1 Amman Spend free time checking out the Roman Theatre or the Citadel. Day 2 Dead Sea Start the trek by journeying to Mukawir. The winding shepherd’s trail yields stunning panoramic views over the Dead Sea and West Bank. Head down to the famously salty sea for a float. Days 3-4 Petra Make your way to Petra and the iconic Treasury and explore its tombs, dwellings and ornate carvings. Hike to Little Petra on Day 4, taking back-trails through an ever-changing landscape of sandy plateaus, Bedouin campsites and stone staircases, before arriving at the eight-metre-high door of the Monastery. Days 5-6 Wadi Rum Continue to Wadi Rum, where incredible gnarled rock scenery and legendary Bedouin hospitality make for one extraordinary camping trip. Scale dunes during a 15-km trek and doze oﬀ under the stars. Days 7-8 Madaba Take an exhilarating 6-km canyon trek. Travel to Madaba, where Ottoman-style houses and Byzantine mosaics abound.

Wadi Rum

EESA

Selected Saturdays Enter EESA on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (5 nts), desert camp (2 nts)

Van, 4WD vehicle

Cycle Jordan (Petra & Wadi Rum) 9 DAYS, MADABA TO MADABA Cycle through the amazing scenery of Jordan where you often share the road with more camels than cars!

Day 1 Madaba Arrive in Madaba, a contemporary city steeped in biblical history. Day 2 Dead Sea/Madaba Depart for Jerash, then cycle below sea level through the Jordan Valley towards Amman Beach. Take a dip in the Dead Sea before returning to Madaba. Day 3 Dana Nature Reserve Visit Mt Nebo, where Moses witnessed the Promised Land, then ride onwards to Mukawir and the castle of Herod the Great. Transfer to Dana Nature Reserve for the night. Day 4 Little Petra/Bedouin Camp After visiting Shobak Castle, hop back on your bike and continue towards Little Petra. Spend an unforgettable night camping with the Bedouin. Day 5 Petra Enjoy a full day oﬀ the saddle exploring Jordan’s famous ‘Red Rose City’. Day 6 Aqaba Pedal through the Jordan Valley towards the port city of Aqaba. Day 7 Wadi Rum Ride the mountainous descent to Wadi Rum. Embark on a jeep safari and tuck into a campfire dinner with Bedouin hosts. Days 8-9 Madaba Cycle through the haunting Q’disi Salt Flats.

Jerash

Dead Sea

Madaba Mukawir Dana Biosphere

JOR D A N

Little Petra Petra

Sleep under the stars in a desert camp in the far-out destination of Wadi Rum, then spend a whole day uncovering the majesty and mystery of Petra.

Selected Saturdays from March to October Enter EEXC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

ORIGINAL

7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

J OR D A N

Disi

Wadi Rum Aqaba

EEXC

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (6 nts), desert camp (2 nts) 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners Bicycle, support vehicle, 4WD vehicle

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Pyramids of Giza, Egypt

Jordan & Egypt Uncovered 22 DAYS, AMMAN TO CAIRO

Amman Alexandria

Cairo

Sleep under a blanket of stars, meet the Bedouin locals and learn about their way of life in a desert camp in far-out Wadi Rum. Set sail down one of the world’s most iconic rivers, soaking up incredible landscapes and everyday scenes of Egyptian life on a felucca journey down the Nile. Uncover Alexandria, a place considered one of the greatest cities of antiquity, now Egypt’s unoﬃcial ‘alternative’ capital. Day 1 Amman Venture out to the Jerash ruins or perhaps pay a visit to the National Archaeological Museum. Days 2-3 Petra Consider taking a float in the Dead Sea, then set out exploring spectacular Petra – an ancient site hewn from rose-coloured rock. Day 4 Wadi Rum Discover why an excursion across Wadi Rum’s spectacular landscape is a highlight for many travellers. Spend an evening camped out with Bedouin hosts and be treated to a traditionally cooked meal. Day 5 Nuweiba Cross the sparkling Gulf of Aqaba and continue on to a seaside camp beside the Red Sea. Days 6-7 Dahab Explore the pristine coast, splash about in warm waters and mingle with laidback locals in beachside Dahab. Days 8-9 Cairo A never-ending stream of life and noise make Cairo a captivating city to explore. Gaze in wonder at the Sphinx and Great Pyramid of Giza, then board a sleeper train for the

overnight journey to Aswan. Days 10-11 Aswan An important market town situated by the banks of the Nile, Aswan is awash with attractions. Day 12 Nubian Homestay Join a local family to experience a slice of Nile culture firsthand. Day 13 Nile Felucca Watch Nubian life unfold while drifting down this legendary river. Days 14-15 Luxor Travel though the Valley of the Kings to uncover the secrets of the 63 tombs that line this famous passageway, then wander through the temples of Karnak. Days 16-17 Hurghada Venture out by boat to the island of Mahmya for a full day of worldclass snorkelling. Day 18 Cairo Plunge into the hustle and bustle of the Khan al-Khalili bazaar. Days 19-20 Alexandria Get lost among the shelves of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina or visit the catacombs of Kom Ash Shuqqafa. Days 21-22 Cairo Head back to Egypt’s capital for some final sightseeing.

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E GYP T

EERCC

Petra JORD A N Wadi Rum Nuweiba Dahab Hurghada Luxor

Aswan

Nile Felucca

BASIX

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (16 nts), desert camp (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt), felucca (1 nt), homestay (1 nt), beach hut (1 nt) 21 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 6 dinners Plane, ferry, minibus, 4WD vehicle, overnight train, felucca, van DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter EERCC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices

Valley of the Kings, Egypt

Petra, Jordan

Discover Egypt & Jordan 15 DAYS, CAIRO TO MADABA

Madaba Amman Cairo

Petra

JORD A N Wadi Rum

Ride a camel out to the Pyramids, explore the Egyptian Museum, and venture to the Valley of the Kings to see the tombs of pharaohs and nobles. After a day spent exploring Aswan’s Nubian Bazaar and the Temple of Isis, retire to a nearby village and experience Nubian hospitality with a home-cooked meal. Marvel at the interplay of soft morning light and ancient red rock on an early visit to Petra, a city carved right into the mountains of Jordan. Days 1-2 Cairo Head out on camels to behold the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids of Giza. Discover King Tutankhamun’s treasures at the Egyptian Museum. Later, climb aboard an overnight train to Aswan. Days 3-5 Aswan/Nile Felucca Pick up a souvenir in Aswan’s chaotic bazaar, visit a Nubian village and join a local family for dinner, then cruise Egypt’s iconic Nile River on a memorable felucca ride. Settle in and be gently rocked to sleep as the boat bobs under a starry night sky. Days 6-7 Luxor Arrive in Luxor and head out to explore the monumental Karnak temples. Make the journey through the desert to the epic tombs of the Valley of the Kings. Later, enjoy a traditional homecooked meal with some locals before boarding an overnight train. Day 8 Amman Cross into Jordan with a flight to Amman in the morning. Days 9-10 Wadi Rum Experience a memorable night with Bedouin

hosts and eat dinner cooked in an earthen oven. Tour through the breathtaking landscape of Wadi Rum in a jeep, admiring the ancient rock formations and towering sand dunes. Drift oﬀ to sleep counting stars in the night sky. Days 11-12 Petra Ancient pink-hued buildings carved into the rock of the surrounding mountains make visiting this ancient city a unique experience. Your first glimpse of the Treasury after emerging from the Siq Canyon is an unforgettable experience. Those feeling energetic can walk up the steps to the magnificent Monastery for incredible views of the area. Days 13-15 Madaba Cover yourself in mud and float on the surface of the Dead Sea, then continue to the historic town of Madaba. Stroll amid beautiful Byzantine mosaics and Ottoman-style houses. Drive out to Jerash to see its Greco-Roman ruins before wrapping up the trip back in Madaba.

E GYP T

XESPC

Luxor Nile Felucca Aswan

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (8 nts), overnight train (2 nts), felucca (1 nt), desert camp (2 nts), homestay (1 nt) 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 6 dinners Plane, van, camel, overnight train, felucca, 4WD vehicle, ferry DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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West Jerusalem, Israel & the Palestinian Territories

Wailing Wall, Jerusalem, Israel & the Palestinian Territories

Discover Israel & the Palestinian Territories

Sea of Galilee Tiberias

Akko Haifa

8 DAYS, JERUSALEM TO TEL AVIV

Nazareth Tel Aviv

Take a stroll through West Jerusalem and get an insight into local life from an Israeli guide, ﬁnishing at the lively Machane Yehuda market. Explore the famous towns of Jericho, Bethlehem and Nazareth and witness daily life on the streets of Jerusalem.

Jericho

Jerusalem Bethlehem

Dead Sea Masada

IS R A E L & TH E PA LE S TIN IA N TER R ITOR IE S

Days 1-4 Jerusalem Welcome to Jerusalem, a city steeped in spirituality and legend. Head out to the Mount of Olives and enter the Garden of Gethsemane. Take a walking tour of West Jerusalem and explore Machane Yenuda Market. In Bethlehem, visit the Church of the Nativity, check out local street art and sample top-notch local falafel. Visit the Yad Vashem – the World Holocaust Remembrance Center. Take a cable car to ancient Masada and enjoy a swim in the Dead Sea. Days 5-6 Nazareth Stop in the Jordan Valley on the way to the ancient fishing village of Capernaum. Travel to Tiberias, on the western shores of the Sea of Galilee, then swing by the holy city of Safad before arriving at Nazareth, the birthplace of Jesus. Visit the ancient port of Acre, explore the secret tunnel of the Templars and view the immaculate Baha’i Gardens. Days 7-8 Haifa/Tel Aviv Journey along the coast via Caesarea and Haifa, then farewell this trip after a day and night in Tel Aviv. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter ENSI on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

ENSI

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (7 nts) 7 breakfasts Minibus

Holy Land Highlights

Tiberias

Haifa

Nazareth

8 DAYS, TEL AVIV TO TEL AVIV

Tel Aviv

Walk the ‘Way of Sorrows’, the biblical path Jesus took to the cruciﬁxion, and see the empty tomb he is said to have risen from. Stargaze in the Negev Desert, spotting constellations unimpeded by light pollution while camping on the edge of the Ramon Crater. Day 1 Tel Aviv Get your first taste of Tel Aviv, sampling hummus and falafel. Day 2 Nazareth Make like a wise man for Nazareth, stopping at Port Jaﬀa and Port Acre. Day 3 Jerusalem Explore significant Christian sites, beginning with the basilica where Mary is said to have received news of the Immaculate Conception, continuing to the birthplace of Jesus and the hill where he fed the masses. Day 4 Jerusalem Explore the Old City on a guided walking tour. Soak up the spiritual significance of one of the holiest sites in the world on a visit to the Wailing Wall. Continue along the ‘Way of Sorrows’, following the biblical path of Jesus to the crucifixion. Day 5 Ein Gedi Take a cable car to Masada Fortress, a symbol of Jewish resistance built by King Herod in 35 BC, then travel to the Dead Sea for a float. Day 6 Negev Desert Explore the Ramon Crater in a 4WD vehicle. Set up camp and spend the night perched at its edge in the desert. Days 7-8 Tel Aviv Take a tour of Be’er Sheva before returning to Tel Aviv. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Jerusalem Bethlehem Dead Sea Masada

Be’er Sheva Ramon Crater

ENKI

ISR A E L & TH E PA LE S TIN IA N TE R R ITOR IE S

COMFORT

Maximum group size 12 Comfortable hotel (6 nts), desert camp (1 nt) 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners Private vehicle, 4WD vehicle

Petra, Jordan

Explore Jordan, Israel & the Palestinian Territories 15 DAYS, AMMAN TO TEL AVIV Hop in a jeep and drive across the rugged moonscape of Wadi Rum, then get to know your Bedouin hosts at a traditional desert camp. Spend a day exploring the great lost city of Petra. The Treasury, with its rose-coloured, stone-carved grandeur, is arguably Jordan’s most impressive sight. Day 1 Amman Arrive in Jordan’s modern capital. Days 2-3 Wadi Rum Journey through Wadi Rum’s unreal lunar landscape. Swap stories and share a traditional meal while camping with Bedouin hosts. Days 4-5 Petra The biblical Nabatean city is an impressive series of tombs and dwellings hidden behind ornate facades carved directly into the rock. Days 6-7 Madaba The historical town of Madaba is famous for its Ottoman-style houses and beautiful Byzantine-era mosaics. Days 8-11 Jerusalem Climb the Mount of Olives for panoramic views over the Old City, delve into the Garden of Gethsemane, visit the Church of the Nativity, stop in at the Shrine of Nabi Musa, then enjoy a float in the Dead Sea. Join the faithful at the Wailing Wall. Days 12-13 Nazareth Visit the ancient port-city of Acre and make a stop at the Church of the Annunciation. Days 14-15 Tel Aviv Arrive in Tel Aviv and spend your last night exploring this cosmopolitan city.

Tiberias

Akko Haifa

Nazareth J OR D A N Nabi Musa

Tel Aviv Jerusalem Bethlehem

Amman

Jerash/Madaba

Masada

ISRAEL & THE PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES

Petra

Wadi Rum

EESRC

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (12 nts), desert camp (2 nts) 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter EESRC on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

4WD vehicle, van

Jordan Real Food Adventure

Amman

6 DAYS, AMMAN TO AMMAN From the ﬁrst bite into a piece of crispy falafel to chewing on khobz (pita) dipped in smooth, tangy hummus, learn what makes Jordanian cuisine so shareable.

Dead Sea

Day 1 Amman Welcome to Jordan. Savour the first crunch of falafel, creamy hummus and zesty moutabel. Day 2 Petra Tuck into a hot sesame bread sandwich before heading to the Dead Sea. Consider an optional swim, then enjoy a meze-style picnic with kibbeh, manakish and more. Arrive in Petra for a filling dinner with locals. Day 3 Petra Meet a Jordanian shepherd for a herding demonstration before tucking in to galayah bandoora (spiced and fire-cooked tomatoes). Explore ancient Petra, visiting the iconic Treasury, the museum and the Roman amphitheatre. Day 4 Wadi Rum After a jeep ride in the desert, share some zarb (a meat dish cooked beneath the earth) with Bedouin locals. Days 5-6 Amman For breakfast sample the subtle bite of labneh, a rich yoghurt cheese, salty zait with za’atar (olive oil and herbs), along with jebneh (cheese pastries) and tomatoes. End in Amman, learning to cook maqluba (an upside-down casserole) in a local home.

Selected Fridays from March to November Enter EEZF on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

J OR D A N

Petra

Meet a Jordanian shepherd over an outdoor breakfast in Petra. Drink ﬁre-warmed sheep’s milk, then scoop bread into a pot of rich, tomato-based galayah.

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Dead Sea

Wadi Rum

EEZF

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (4 nts), desert camp (1nt) 5 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners Private vehicle, 4WD vehicle

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Jerusalem, Israel & the Palestinian Territories

Israel & the Palestinian Territories Real Food Adventure

Buq’ata Tiberias Nazareth

Haifa

Nablus Jericho Jerusalem

Tel Aviv

9 DAYS, TEL AVIV TO JERUSALEM Feast on classic dishes in Israel’s legendary local eateries, from shakshouka in Tel Aviv to a beloved hummus institution in the Old City of Jerusalem. Get behind the scenes at both farm and factory level. Tour a Samaritan-run tahini producer in Mt Gerizim and see how goat’s cheese is made in the Negev Desert. Day 1 Tel Aviv Be welcomed with a plate of shakshouka at a local institution. Day 2 Haifa Visit the wine region of Zikhron Ya’akov for a tasting and a picnic among the vines. Day 3 Nazareth Dine with a Druze family in Buq’ata, then transfer to the Church of the Annunciation in Nazareth. Day 4 Jericho Learn about tahini from the Samaritans of Mt Gerizim, then join a slow-food Palestinian cooking class. Day 5 Dead Sea Float on the Dead Sea, then follow pilgrims up the Mount of Olives. Day 6 Jerusalem Snack on kaek and falafel, tour the Old City, and hit the Machane Yehuda food market. Day 7 Negev Desert Learn about Jewish food in a local home, visit an ancient Nabatean-era winery, and stop by the tomb of David Ben-Gurion. Day 8 Bethlehem Tuck into breakfast at a hummus hotspot before a final feast at a celebrated barbecue restaurant. Day 9 Jerusalem Finish in the Holy City. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Wednesdays from March to December Enter EUZF on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Egypt, Jordan, Israel & the Palestinian Territories

Dead Sea

ISRAEL & THE PA L E S T I N I A N TERRITORIES

EUZF

Bethlehem Negev Desert

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (8 nts) 8 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 1 dinner Private vehicle, taxi

IS R A E L & TH E PA LE S TIN IA N TE R R ITOR IE S

Nazareth Jerusalem Amman Madaba

Tel Aviv

Cairo

22 DAYS, CAIRO TO TEL AVIV

Petra Wadi Rum

A felucca sailing trip is not only the perfect way to take in the Nile and its gorgeous surrounds, it also means experiencing unsurpassed Nubian hospitality. View the spectacular Rosh HaNikra grottoes located at the furthest point of Israel’s Mediterranean coastline. Days 1-2 Cairo Climb aboard a camel and visit the Sphinx and Pyramids of Giza. Days 3-5 Aswan/Nile Felucca Join a Nubian family for dinner, then set oﬀ down the Nile by felucca. Days 6-7 Luxor See the Temples of Karnak, the Colossi of Memnon and enter the Valley of the Kings. Day 8 Amman Fly to Jordan. Days 9-10 Wadi Rum Head into the desert on a jeep safari to see amazing rock formations carved by the elements. Go trekking with your Bedouin hosts the following day. Days 11-12 Petra Explore Jordan’s spectacular Rose City. Days 13-14 Madaba Visit Crusader castles and go for a float in the Dead Sea. Days 15-18 Jerusalem Take a walking tour of the Old City and visit the Mount of Olives. Days 19-20 Nazareth Discover Tiberias, Safad, and Acre’s Templar tunnels. Days 21-22 Tel Aviv Explore this buzzing city before the trip comes to an end. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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JOR D A N

Luxor

EGYP T

XESIC

Nile Felucca Aswan

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (16 nts), overnight train (2 nts), felucca (1 nt), desert camp (2 nts) 21 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners Plane, van, overnight train, felucca, 4WD vehicle, ferry

Iran: Women’s Expedition Join Intrepid on our first ever female-only, female-led expedition through Iran. Go inside the hidden world of an Iranian beauty salon, wander through a women’s park and travel by public transport in the women’s carriage of the metro, local buses and an overnight train. Discover the beauty of Iran while experiencing its culture from a female perspective. For more info enter HPSF on intrepidtravel.com City, Country - Photographer

Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Esfahan, Iran

Iran Adventure

Tehran

IR A N

14 DAYS, TEHRAN TO TEHRAN Esfahan

Explore the rich history told in the ancient ruins that lie across the country. Modern Iran is a great fusion of many ancient civilisations.

Eghlid Village Homestay Shiraz

Immerse yourself in rural nomadic life during a beautifully remote homestay with the Qashqai people. Discover an Iran beyond the media portrayals of a repressive and dour regime – this is a country full of warm, lively and friendly people. Day 1 Tehran Get acquainted with Iran’s exciting capital in free time before meeting your fellow travellers in the evening. Day 2 Tehran/Overnight Train Set out on a guided walking tour, stopping in at the Golestan Palace, an opulent masterpiece of the Qajar era. Swing past the Imam Khomeini Mosque and wander the labyrinthian Tehran Grand Bazaar before boarding an overnight train to Shiraz in the evening. Day 3 Shiraz Explore the ‘Pearl of Persia’ on foot, stopping first at glittering Shahcheragh – the holiest site in Shiraz. Visit the Jame Atiq Mosque and finish the tour at a traditional teahouse in bustling Vakil Bazaar. Day 4 Shiraz/Persepolis Take the morning to discover the secrets of Persepolis, one of the ancient world’s great cities. In the evening, enjoy an optional dinner with some Shirazi locals. Day 5 Nomad Homestay Spend the evening with a Qashqai family,

Turkic-speaking pastoral nomads who winter near the Persian Gulf and summer on the central Iranian Plateau. Day 6 Eghlid Explore the ruins of the Sassanid Empire, including the shrine of Eghlid and the ‘Towers of Silence’. Days 7-8 Yazd Marvel at the ingenious design and myriad sights of Yazd, including the Jameh Mosque and a mud-brick Old Town that scholars believe is the oldest adobe (earthen material) city on earth. Day 9 Zein-o-din Caravanserai Spend the night in a classic caravanserai (desert inn) built during the 16th century. Days 10-12 Esfahan Soak up the atmosphere of Esfahan during a half-day tour, gaining an insight into life under Shah Abbas during the 16th century. Explore the historic Christian-Armenian quarter of the city and its famous shaking minarets. Days 13-14 Tehran Return to Tehran by public bus. Perhaps head out for a final orange blossom tea with your group to say farewell.

Yazd

HPSN

Zein-o-din Caravanserai

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (9 nts), guesthouse (2 nts), homestay (1 nt), overnight train (1 nt) 13 breakfasts, 4 dinners Public bus, overnight train, private minibus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Tuesdays & Saturdays from March to November. Enter HPSN on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices

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United Arab Emirates Expedition Thoughts of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates usually conjure up images of gold-covered grandeur, but delve beyond the glitz and you’ll discover a rich history, vibrant Bedouin heritage and stunning desert landscape. See it all on our immersive 6-day UAE expedition. For more info enter EESB on intrepidtravel.com

Iran Express

Tehran

9 DAYS, TEHRAN TO TEHRAN

IR A N Esfahan

Be enchanted by Iran in winter. Fewer crowds means a more immersive experience of ancient Persian sites, and the weather can be delightfully mild as you head south. Surround yourself with beautiful landscapes and architecture – from breathtaking mosques to stepped hillside villages to the macabre Zoroastrian Towers of Silence. Day 1 Tehran Get your first taste of Iranian cuisine and traditional music with a group dinner at a local restaurant. Days 2-3 Yazd Travel to Yazd, the Zoroastrian heart of Iran. Learn about this ancient religion with visits to the Fire Temple, whose flame is said to have burned continuously since AD470, and Towers of Silence. Gaze at the high minarets of the Jameh Mosque and visit the Yazd Water Museum. Days 4-5 Shiraz Whip up your own dinner at a cooking class. Take a morning drive to the ruins of Persepolis, an ancient city destroyed by Alexander the Great, for a guided tour. Return to Shiraz to admire Nasir al-Mulk Mosque and its beautiful rose-coloured tiles and visit the Shah-e Cheragh shrine. Days 6-7 Esfahan After sharing a home-cooked meal with a local family, discover the striking frescos and wooden pillars of Kakh-e Chehel, once an elegant palace, and visit an Armenian cathedral. Days 8-9 Tehran Return to Tehran and perhaps enjoy a final dinner with the group before the trip ends. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter HPSW on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Yazd

Shiraz

HPSW

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (8 nts) 8 breakfasts, 2 dinners Public bus, private vehicle

Iran Real Food Adventure

Tehran

IR AN

10 DAYS, TEHRAN TO TEHRAN

Kashan

Experience legendary Iranian hospitality while learning to cook classic biryanis and stews in the private homes of locals.

Esfahan

Sample regional delicacies at some of the ﬁnest sweet stores in Iran during a visit to Yazd, snacking on crunchy almond qottab or chewy baklava as you go. Days 1-2 Tehran Get to know your fellow travellers over a juicy Iranian kebab. Meet a passionate cook at the market, gather ingredients, then learn to prepare a classic baked rice cake called tah chin. Days 3-4 Esfahan Take a guided walk before learning the secrets of delicious Persian biryani. Later, get lost in one of the oldest and largest bazaars in the Middle East. Days 5-6 Yazd Dig into gheimeh yazdi, a fragrant stew of turmeric, onions, peas and meat (lamb or beef). Days 7-8 Shiraz Get a feel for Shiraz on a guided walk. Stop by the Karim Khan Citadel, then snack on Iranian ice cream and sweet, citrusy faloudeh at the Vakil Bazaar. Visit a workshop that uses rose, mint and musk to create unique beverages and explore World Heritage-listed Persepolis before travelling to the ancient necropolis of Naqsh-e Rustam. Days 9-10 Tehran Fly back to Tehran, where a final meal of fesenjan – a true Iranian favourite – awaits. Lap up a bowl of this tangy stew in the comfort of a private home. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

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Yazd

Shiraz

HPZF

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (9 nts) 9 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners Plane, private vehicle, public bus

Zoroastrian Tower of Silence, Yazd, Iran

Muttrah, Oman

Cycle Iran

Tehran Qom Kashan Abyaneh

16 DAYS, TEHRAN TO TEHRAN Discover the hidden world of Iran – its reﬁned Islamic cities, colourful bazaars and ancient ruins – all from the unique perspective of two wheels.

Esfahan Izad Khast

Yazd

Pasargadae

Cycle to Persepolis and explore the remains of the ancient capital – the scale and grandeur will leave you in no doubt that this was once the centre of the known world. Day 1 Tehran Arrive in Iran’s capital. Day 2 Qom Explore Tehran’s historic bazaar before driving to the traditional city of Qom. Days 3-4 Kashan Cycle through mountainous countryside. Enjoy breathtaking vistas en route to the oasis town of Kashan. Day 5 Abyaneh Ride up to your homestay in the ancient, mud-brick townscape of Abyaneh. Days 6-7 Esfahan Explore Esfahan at your leisure, perhaps taking in the striking blue-tiled mosaics of Masjed-e Shah. Day 8 Izad Khast Pedal to Izad Khast. Marvel at its castle complex and treat yourself to a fresh kebab. Day 9 Pasargadae See the tomb of Cyrus the Great at the World Heritage-listed site of Pasargadae. Day 10 Persepolis Cycle along the foot of a mountain to the cliﬀ-cut necropolis of Naqsh-e Rustam. Days 11-12 Shiraz Tour the ruins of Persepolis on foot, then ride to Shiraz and visit its mirrored mosque. Days 13-14 Yazd Get acquainted with Iran’s Zoroastrian heart. Days 15-16 Tehran Return to Tehran where this adventure ends.

IR A N

Persepolis Shiraz

HPXI

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 16 Hotel (13 nts), local homes (2 nts) 15 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 9 dinners

DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays from April to October Enter HPXI on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Bicycle, support vehicle

Discover Oman

Muscat

8 DAYS, MUSCAT TO MUSCAT

Jebel Shams

Experience some traditional Omani hospitality with a night camping under the stars in Wahiba Sands. Explore the busy ﬁshing harbour of Muttrah and mine the bustling souq for hidden treasures – anything from unique silverware to frankincense. Days 1-2 Muscat Soak up the atmosphere of Oman’s capital. Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and browse silver and spice shops in the bazaar. See the 16th-century Portuguese forts, Jalali and Mirani. Day 3 Ras Al Jinz Drive through rugged landscapes to Hawiyat Najm Park. Dip your toes in the Bimmah Sinkhole, then continue to Wadi Shab and Wadi Tiwi. Take a late afternoon swim at Turtle Beach before visiting a turtle sanctuary. Day 4 Wahiba Sands An exhilarating drive over the sand dunes leads you to your desert camp. Spend the night under the stars and enjoy a campfire dinner. Day 5 Nizwa Check out Ibra’s old houses, Jabrin Castle and the ruins of Bahla. Day 6 Jebel Shams Visit Nizwa Souq, then see the mud brick houses of Al Hamra and Misfat Al Abyreen. Enjoy a traditional lunch before heading to Jebel Shams. Days 7-8 Muscat Explore Jebel Shams in the morning and then visit the ‘snake gorges’ of Wadi Bani Awf. Drive to Nakhal to see its fully restored fort before returning to Muscat. DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected dates Enter ELSO on intrepidtravel.com. See inside cover for prices

Ras Al Jinz

Nizwa

OMA N

ELSO

Wahiba Sands

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (6 nts), desert camp (1 nt) 7 breakfasts, 2 dinners Private vehicle, 4WD vehicle

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Wadi Rum, Jordan

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat, Oman

Oman & Jordan Discovery 15 DAYS, MUSCAT TO MADABA From the stunning Islamic architecture of Oman to the blazing colours of Jordan’s remote desert dunes, this Middle Eastern adventure has both adventure and grandeur. Take in the sights and aromas of Muscat’s fish market and spice bazaar before venturing to the mountains, where canyons and gorges dramatically cut through cliffs. Spend a day uncovering the majesty and mystery of ancient Petra. The first glimpse of the Treasury from the narrow Siq is simply unforgettable. Days 1-2 Muscat Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Natural History Museum, Muttrah Fish Market and the spice-filled bazaar. Day 3 Ras Al Jinz Visit the turtle sanctuary at Ras Al Jinz where turtles come from miles away to lay their eggs. Day 4 Wahiba Sands Make a stop in Sur, before driving to the palm-lined Wadi Bani Khalid for a refreshing dip. Later on, head to your camp where you’ll learn about local Bedouin culture and enjoy a campfire dinner. Day 5 Nizwa After breakfast, continue to one of the country’s finest forts – Jabrin – visiting the ruins of Bahla en route. Day 6 Jebel Shams Drive to traditional Al Hamra and Misfat Al Abyreen to see 400-year-old mud houses that people still live in, then head to Jebel Shams. Day 7 Muscat Visit the ‘Grand Canyon of Oman’, then head to Wadi Bani Awf, where the breathtaking ‘snake gorge’ cuts through the cliffs. Day 8 Amman Travel to

Jordan’s modern capital. Check out the Roman Theatre or the Citadel for superb views of the sophisticated city of Amman. Days 9-10 Wadi Rum Spend another night out in the desert with your Bedouin hosts. Along the way, take in Wadi Rum’s stark desert scenery, full of unique rock formations featuring inscriptions carved by people in prehistoric times. Days 11-12 Petra Travel to ancient Petra, Jordan’s enigmatic wonder, carved from rose-coloured stone. Those feeling energetic can walk up the steps to the magnificent Monastery for incredible views of the area. Days 13-15 Madaba Visit an ancient Crusader castle, then take a dip in the salty, mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea. Continue to Mt Nebo, the spot where Moses is said to have seen the ‘Promised Land’. Walk the colonnaded streets of ancient Jerash, once one of the grandest Roman cities in the world.

78 Discover more trips, detailed destination information and the latest prices at intrepidtravel.com/middle-east

Jerash/Madaba Amman

JOR D AN

Petra Wadi Rum

Flight Not Included

ELSJC

Muscat Jebel Shams Nizwa Wahiba Sands Ras Al Jinz

OMA N

ORIGINAL

Maximum group size 12 Hotel (11 nts), desert camp (3 nts) 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners Private vehicle, 4WD vehicle, public bus DEPARTURE GUARANTEED

Selected Saturdays Enter ELSJC on intrepidtravel.com See inside cover for prices

Short Break Adventures

Petra Uncovered 3 DAYS, AMMAN TO AMMAN

EEAV-O

Enter EEAV on intrepidtravel.com for dates & prices

Day 1 Amman/Dead Sea/Petra Begin this adventure with a pick up and transfer to Mt Nebo, where Moses is said to have sighted the Promised Land. Float your worries away in the salty waters of the Dead Sea and don’t pass up a wallow in the mud – it’s said to have healing properties. Feast on a buﬀet lunch before travelling through mountainous terrain to Petra. Day 2 Petra Rise early to avoid the heat, miss the crowds and see the eﬀects the morning light has on this magical city. With a local guide, continue to the Amphitheatre and enjoy spectacular views of this ancient site. Later, explore the Monastery, the evocative Royal Tombs and the Temple of the Winged Lions. Day 3 Petra/Amman Take one last opportunity to wander captivating Petra before returning to modern civilisation in Jordan’s cosmopolitan capital of Amman.

Abu Dhabi Discovery

Dubai Discovery

3 DAYS, ABU DHABI TO ABU DHABI

3 DAYS, DUBAI TO DUBAI

ESAD-O

ESSD-O

Enter ESAD on intrepidtravel.com for dates & prices

Day 1 Abu Dhabi Welcome to this spectacular capital city. Indulge in some retail therapy or take a dip at the city beach. Day 2 Abu Dhabi Enjoy a free morning, perhaps visiting the white marble Grand Mosque or wandering the perfectly manicured waterfront of the Corniche. In the afternoon, join safari guides and experience the thrill of a lifetime as you set off on a 4WD adventure into the golden sand dunes of Arabia. Arrive at a Bedouin campsite where you can enjoy henna design, Arabic coffee, a Hubbly Bubbly (hookah) and a delicious barbecue buffet. Adding to the atmosphere of the night is an enchanting belly dancer performing to Arabic rhythms. Once this desert adventure finishes, return to your Abu Dhabi hotel. Day 3 Abu Dhabi Depart Abu Dhabi with an included shuttle transfer to the airport.

Enter ESSD on intrepidtravel.com for dates & prices

Day 1 Dubai Welcome to the jewel of the United Arab Emirates. The largest city in the UAE is well known for its wealth and opulence (a vending machine for gold, anyone?), but it also boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. Your arrival day is free to spend as you wish. Perhaps engage in some retail therapy or jump on the complimentary bus to the beach. Day 2 Dubai Discover the history of Dubai on a half-day city walking tour. Visit the ornate Al Fahidi Fort and the attached Dubai Museum, learn the local history of coﬀee and try the aromatic Arabic brew, then cross the Dubai Creek to the colourful spice souq and gold market. In the afternoon, why not head out for an optional desert safari to a Bedouin campsite, where you’ll experience Bedouin culture and a delicious feast. Day 3 Dubai Your trip ends after breakfast this morning.

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