WHO YOU TRAVEL WITH MAKES A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE
2010 EXPEDITIONS
Meet a Few of Our Scientists and Educators Mark Norell, Chair and Curator in the Division of Paleontology, is co-curator of the upcoming Silk Road exhibition at the Museum, opening in November 2009, and will lead The Ancient Silk Road private jet trip exploring the natural history, art and history of this ancient trade route. Eleanor Sterling, Director of the Center for Biodiversity and Conservation, leads the development of international field projects and conservation materials for universities in tropical countries. Dr. Sterling will lead the Coastal Chile, Patagonia, and Antarctica and Around the World expeditions. Ian Tattersall, Curator in the Division of Anthropology, has curated several popular exhibitions at the Museum, including the permanent Hall of Human Origins. Dr. Tattersall has lectured on over 40 AMNH Expeditions and will accompany Exploring Southern Africa and Spain’s Prehistoric Caves and Atapuerca. Read more about these and other AMNH Expeditions leaders at www.amnhexpeditions.org.
Online Only: Hawaii’s Observatories, January 22-31, 2010 Michael Shara, Curator in the Museum’s Division of Physical Sciences, leads an exciting astrophysics symposium visiting Hawaii’s world-class observatories. Star gaze on the summit of Maui’s Mount Haleakala, enjoy special access to the observatories on The Big Island’s Mauna Kea, survey Mount Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano by helicopter, and observe its geothermal activity with a resident volcanologist. To learn more, visit www.amnhexpeditions.org.
Travel to Cuba
AMNH scientists have been conducting research and cooperating on projects with Cuban scientists and educators since 1985 and were involved in the effort of Cuban and U.S. museums to conduct a joint biological survey to help Cuba identify and manage its rare biological resources. From 2001 to 2003 AMNH Expeditions sent members on cultural exchange programs to Cuba. The lifting of restrictions on Cuban-American travel is the first step in permitting travel for U.S. citizens and we hope to resume offering trips to our membership soon. To receive notice of AMNH Expeditions to Cuba – when legally permitted – please sign up for our e-newsletter at www.amnhexpeditions.org or contact us to join our special Cuba mailing list.
A colorful classic car graces a street of Havana.
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Table of Contents 2 5 8 10 13 14 16
Africa The Americas Asia and the Pacific Europe and Eurasia Private Jet Programs Intimate Modes of Travel Tour Calendar
Who You Travel with Makes a World of Difference Welcome to AMNH Expeditions. For more than 130 years, the American Museum of Natural History has launched thousands of scientific expeditions across seven continents, mapping the origins and progression of life on Earth, and exploring the richness and variety of world cultures. Now, you can embark on your own explorations through AMNH Expeditions, America’s first museum educational travel program. We’ve been pleasing travelers since 1953 with tours that include study, adventure, and leisure. Join AMNH scientists, educators, and curators—experts you will not find anywhere else—as you view prehistoric cave paintings in northern Spain with Dr. Ian Tattersall (p. 10), explore the art and history of the Silk Road with Dr. Mark Norell (p. 13), or marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia and Antarctica with Dr. Eleanor Sterling (p. 7). With Dr. Michael Shara, gain unprecedented access to telescopes at the Keck Observatory at the summit of Mauna Kea in Hawaii, (see website) or visit Gran Sasso National Laboratory in Italy, the world’s largest underground astrophysics facility (p. 12). Designed to enrich and delight all generations, our Family Expeditions let you experience the excitement of discovery together, whether you dig for dinosaur fossils in Colorado (p. 6) or explore rare species in the Galápagos Islands (p. 7). AMNH Expeditions and UNESCO World Heritage Centre have formed a unique partnership to increase the public’s awareness of the need to protect and preserve some of the world’s outstanding cultural and natural sites. Join UNESCO experts at remarkable sites in Turkey (p. 12) or Ethiopia (p. 4). Our study leaders are keen to share their knowledge and passion for these destinations and look forward to welcoming you on an upcoming expedition.
A Moroccan guide leads a camel ride across Saharan dunes.
Please visit us at www.amnhexpeditions.org.
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Africa Africa
Explorers encounter a herd of wildebeest.
Ultimate Safari in Tanzania Featuring Conservation Biologist George Amato 13 days • February 24 – March 8, 2010 Fulfill your lifelong dream of waking on the African plains to the timeless spectacle of Nature at its richest—a lone baobab tree shading a pride of lions, a flash of pink above as flamingo streak the sky, or perhaps a calving wildebeest. On this customized itinerary, experience expert safari guides as you search for spectacular African wildlife (including the Big Five—bull elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and African buffalo), from Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, the Ngorongoro Highlands and Crater, Olduvai Gorge (site of the renowned Leakey family discovery of early human remains) and the majestic Serengeti. Frequent game drives, easy hikes, lectures, carefully chosen deluxe accommodations (such as Tarangire Treetops and Gibbs Farm), and four precious nights in the Serengeti make this journey the ultimate safari. Expedition rates from $8,995. Optional Post Tour Volunteer Extension: Karatu Region, Tanzania.
Discovering Egypt: Past and Present Including 4 nights aboard Tamr Henna 13 Days • March 8 – 20, 2010 A lonely felucca drifting down the Nile at sunset, a lively bazaar bursting in color and spicy aromas, soaring statues of Pharoahs—absorb scenes of everyday Egyptian life as you cruise the Nile aboard the newly renovated, luxurious Tamr Henna. Stand in awe at the magnitude of the Temple of Karnak, view stunning artifacts at the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities and the Luxor Museum; learn of Egypt’s most recent archeological finds from Dr. Zahi Hawass, the Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities; walk along the sand-swept base of the mighty pyramids of Giza; and attend a panel discussion with Egyptian women on modern Egypt. Join us as we weave together past and present, ancient mysteries and contemporary themes on this unforgettable journey. Expedition rates from $6,995.
An Egyptian with camel overlooks the Pyramids at Giza.
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Zebras refresh at a watering hole in Southern Africa.
The Cape of Good Hope to Gibraltar Featuring Evolutionary Biologist Susan Perkins 36 Days • March 17 – April 21, 2010 Following in the wake of early explorers and merchants, discover the natural and cultural diversity along Africa’s Atlantic coast aboard the deluxe Corinthian II. Namibia’s towering dunes, Gabon’s wildlife-rich rain forests, the colorful markets of Ghana and Senegal, and the lively medinas of Morocco await you. On this unique itinerary begin your voyage in Cape Town, South Africa, then set a course for explorations in Namibia, Angola, Republic of Congo, Gabon, São Tomé and Príncipe, Benin, Togo, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Senegal, and Morocco. Visit the historic Rock of Gibraltar and conclude your journey in Seville, Spain. Don’t miss this unprecedented opportunity to experience a variety of ancient cultures, fascinating tribal customs, and captivating landscapes. You may participate in the entire grand voyage, or on one of two shorter trips, either departing or joining the ship at Libreville, Gabon. Expedition rates from $15,995. Dr. Perkins will lead the first segment from Cape Town to Libreville.
Exploring Southern Africa Featuring Evolutionary Biologist Ian Tattersall
17 Days • May 5–21, 2010
Recapture the romance of a bygone era with four nights aboard the luxurious Rovos Rail train while traversing Africa’s captivating landscapes. Begin in Cape Town, an urban gem set between mountain and sea. Learn of Nelson Mandela’s internment at Robben Island from former inmates, marvel at the variety of native plants at Kirstenbosch National Botanic Gardens. Cross wine country and desert, and visit the Big Hole to learn about diamond mining. Delve into the divisive issues of Apartheid in Johannesburg, and take a driving tour of Soweto township. Explore the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, including the Sterkfontein and Drimolean maze caves. End your journey, observing glorious wildlife in Nambiti, Spionkop and Kapama Private Game Reserves. Look for lion, Cape buffalo, giraffe, zebra and more… Expedition rates from $11,490. Optional Extension: Okavango Delta and Victoria Falls.
A traveler admires the vast expanse of the Atlantic coastline from Table Mountain in Cape Town.
Please visit us at www.amnhexpeditions.org.
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An Ethiopian guide looks down upon the Simien mountains.
Ethiopia’s Hidden Treasures A UNESCO World Heritage Expedition 11 Days • October 2 – 22, 2010 Join a UNESCO expert on a journey to seldom-visited Ethiopia—a country that takes your breath away at every turn. From the dramatic Simien Mountains rising over 14,000 feet in the north to the magnificent Rift Valley, the landscape itself is worth the journey. Interact with local villagers, admire unexpected artistic treasures recognized by UNESCO, witness sacred rituals in the dramatic rock churches at Lalibela, and walk through fields of ancient stelae at Axum. Marvel at the inspiring landscape and the rich wildlife of the Simien Mountains that includes Walia Ibex, the Gelada Baboon, and the rare Simien fox. On this special journey, explore the origins of man with a noted paleoanthropologist, see “Salem” who lived nearly 150,000 years before Lucy, and immerse yourself in the history of ancient emperors, the advent of Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity, and the country’s contemporary cultures. Expedition rates from $6,495.
Jordan, Egypt, and the Red Sea Featuring Egyptologist Fetiche Posma-Zaalouk 14 Days • October 23–November 5, 2010 The Red Sea offers unparalleled beauty and riches, which you experience as you board your elegant ship, the Island Sky, in Alexandria, Egypt. Delve into the mysteries of Egyptian history in the Valley of the Kings, at the Temple of Karnak, and at Luxor; experience the elaborate process of transiting the Suez Canal, a historic engineering feat and transportation lifeline between the Mediterranean and the Red Sea; snorkel among a rainbow of fish in delicate coral reefs in Sharm el Sheik; feel weightless as you float upon the waters of the Dead Sea; and absorb the spirituality of St. Catherine’s Monastery at the foot of Mt. Sinai. Discover magnificent Jerash, the best example of a Roman provincial city, and enter the narrow siq to behold the secrets of Petra. Expedition rates from $9,995. Optional Extensions: Cairo or Jerusalem.
Rock hewn buildings withstand over two millennia of desert exposure.
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The Americas
Prasmatic Springs provides a kaleidoscope to contrast with snowy mountains.
Yellowstone in Winter Featuring Educator and Geologist Jay Holmes
6 Days • February 8-13, 2010
Winter is Yellowstone’s most magical season, when visitors are few and wildlife viewing is superb. Chill air combines with astounding thermal features to create unforgettable scenes: bubbling mud pots and gushing geysers eerily veiled in steam. Aboard special snow vehicles, journey into the heart of the park tin search of elk, bison, and moose as they graze and browse for scant vegetation. Witness scavenging coyote and elegant trumpeter swan, and view the icy waterfalls of the great Yellowstone River. On a special excursion to the Lamar Valley search for gray wolf. Trek the boardwalks among geyser basins, head out on crosscounty skis or snowshoes, and relax each evening in front of a roaring fire in your comfortable lodge. Expedition rates from $2,995.
Discovering Newfoundland and Labrador Featuring Wildlife Artist Steve Quinn 10 Days • May 29 - June 7, 2010 Americans often overlook the stunning beauty of our northern neighbor. Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada’s easternmost provinces, delight visitors with dramatic landscapes, crystalline icebergs, Viking heritage, hardy fishing lore, unique geologic features, and abundant marine and bird life. Aboard Clelia II, begin your circumnavigation of Newfoundland in St. John’s then behold the largest colony of puffin in North America at Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. Scan the horizon for humpback and minke whale, orca, and dolphin while cruising Bonavista Bay; hike in Terra Nova National Park; enjoy Norse tales at L’Anse aux Meadows; uncover Basque heritage in Red Bay; and study the landscape of the Tablelands. Stop in St-Pierre, France’s last possession in North America, and end your journey at St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve, where kittiwake, razorbill, murre and other birds greet you. Expedition rates from $6,595.
A whale breaches amid the icebergs of the Labrador Sea.
Please visit us at www.amnhexpeditions.org.
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A fossilized skeleton provides essential clues about this dinosaur’s appearance.
Digging for Dinosaurs: A Colorado Family Adventure Featuring Paleontologist Jonathan Cooley 7 Days • July 24 – 30, 2010 and July 31 – August 6, 2010 The almost supernatural characteristics of dinosaurs have always captured the imaginations of the very young and not-so-young alike. On this very popular, interactive family program, discover some of North America’s intriguing prehistoric residents. In the company our paleontologist, search for fossilized bones on hikes through the desert country and dig for dinosaur remains in Mygatt-Moore quarry, where Apatosaurus and Allosaurus have been found. Kids and adults alike can make a rubbing of actual dinosaur tracks and create their own special dinosaur bone cast to take home. Enjoy the breathtaking views during a visit to the high plateau of the Colorado National Monument. Spend a morning horseback riding, an evening at a lively local rodeo, and a relaxing day floating the Colorado River. Join dinosaur expert Jonathan Cooley as he takes your family on a fun-filled trip through pre-history, including the interactive Dinosaur Journey Museum. Expedition rates from $2,795.
Amazon River: The Greatest Voyage in Natural History Featuring Conservation Biologist Felicity Arroyo 10 Days • February 26 – March 7, 2010 The mighty Amazon River courses 4,000 miles from the high mountains of Peru to its mouth in Brazil at the Atlantic Ocean. The Amazon Basin is an amazing network of forests, rivers, and lakes with an exceptional variety of wildlife: Capuchin and squirrel monkey, gray and pink river dolphin, and more than 100 species of birds. Spend seven nights aboard the comfortable and charming La Amatista, cruising leisurely along the upper reaches of the Amazon amid Peru’s lush rain forests. Gain privileged access to the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve for the best chance of rare wildlife sightings, and meet the people whose lives are inextricably linked to the river. Daily excursions include pre-dawn birding, school visits in local villages, forest walks, and fishing for piranha! Local expert naturalists accompany you throughout, ensuring a deep understanding of this wilderness. Expedition rates from $4,395. Optional Extension: Machu Picchu.
An alert Capuchin monkey looks over the Amazon rainforest.
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A giant tortoise meanders through the Galápagos flora.
Family Journey to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands Featuring Herpetologist Carol Simon and Animal Behaviorist Howard Topoff 12 Days • June 30 – July 11, 2010 Imagine a world where Nature and its creatures rule and humans are mere guests. Embark on a family adventure to the Galápagos Islands and enjoy playful sea lion, watch for migrating whale and dolphin, stroll through colonies of booby and albatross, photograph colorful marine iguana, ponderous land tortoise, and see the only species of penguin found north of the Equator. During this intimate cruise aboard the Evolution, go ashore to discover the flora and fauna so devotedly studied by Charles Darwin. Snorkel and kayak over reefs teeming with fish and hike inland to view more wildlife. Your tour includes a visit to Quito, Ecuador’s capital, high in the Andean sierras, and Otavalo, with its vibrant market and traditional culture. Expedition rates from $6,445. Optional Extension: Machu Picchu.
Coastal Chile, Patagonia, and Antarctica Featuring Conservation Biologist Eleanor Sterling 25 Days • November 17 – December 11, 2010 Venture to the remote regions of Chile’s Southern Lake District and Patagonia and cruise the seas to the Antarctic Peninsula, during this exciting journey amid magnificent mountain ranges, thundering waterfalls, primeval forests, and vast expanses of unspoiled habitats. Join us aboard Clelia II, with all the comforts of a private yacht, as we search for Weddell seal, humpback whale, and numerous seabirds, among other species. Our exploration is enriched by cultural visits along the way, including the Museum of Pre-Colombian Art in Santiago, 16thcentury churches, and a vibrant handicraft market in Castro. Cruise Chile’s Inside Passage, 1,000 miles of pristine islands and dramatic fjords, and explore the serrated mountain peaks and sheer walls of stone rising dramatically from the Patagonian plain of the Torres del Paine National Park. Spend five days in Antarctica, a world of massive glaciers, icebergs, snowfields and rocky shorelines teeming with playful penguins. Expedition rates from $14,995.
The breathtaking peaks of Torres del Paine are reflected in the water.
Please visit us at www.amnhexpeditions.org.
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Asia and the Pacific
Travelers observe geothermal springs near Rotorua.
The Wild Preserved: New Zealand Featuring Paleontologist Richard Holdaway 13 Days • February 23 – March 7, 2010 Join us as we discover the best of New Zealand’s North and South Islands. Begin in Auckland and experience a traditional Maori welcome ceremony. Travel north to the Bay of Islands’ beach and coastline, where Maori have lived since the 10th century. Discover the Waimangu Volcanic Valley on an adventure outside of Rotorua. See Maori rock art paintings, craters, steaming cliffs, and lakes teeming with native birds. Continue to the South Island, known as one of the world’s greatest wilderness areas: snow-capped mountains, rivers of ice, deep lakes, unbroken forests and tussock grasslands. Some wildlife and plants, once found on the ancient super-continent of Gondwana, still exist here. Meet with a marine biologist at the Marine Studies Center, observe Royal Albatross soar above you, learn about efforts to conserve the Yellow-Eyed Penguin, and cruise the inspiring Doubtful Sound. Expedition rates from $6,995.
Japan By Land and Sea Including 9 nights aboard Clipper Odyssey 14 Days • April 30 – May 13, 2010 On this extraordinary exploration of the Land of the Rising Sun, discover a Japan that few visitors see. During behind-the-scenes visits, attendance at private performances, and hands-on workshops, we meet with a kabuki actor in Tokyo and witness sumo wrestlers at practice. A sensei teaches us how to make soba noodles on Sado Island, and a modern-day geisha discusses her life and training in Kanazawa. Visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum in Hiroshima, stop by artisan kilns, and go for an optional dip in traditional Japanese hot spring baths at Miyajima. The cruise affords quicker access to remote places and unmatched views of Japan’s dramatic island coastlines and also features a visit to Kyongju, South Korea. Visits to Kyoto’s sacred temples, and celebrated gardens round out the journey and enhance our understanding of Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Expedition rates from $9,290. Optional Extension: Kyoto and Nara.
The ornate bridge brings colorful grace to this Japanese garden.
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This panda’s gaze suggests conentment.
China Revealed Including 3 nights aboard the Victoria Anna 14 Days • October 11 - 24, 2010 Huanyin! Welcome! China beckons with all its glory and rich cultural heritage. In Beijing, discover the secrets hidden in the Forbidden City on a walking tour led by an expert, wind through the city’s endangered hutong neighborhoods with a local preservationist, and climb a more remote, less-visited section of the Great Wall. In Xi’an, enjoy special access to the Terracotta Warriors Museum and view exquisite Tang Dynasty tomb murals off limits to the public. Fly to Chongqing and meet some pandas on a private tour of the zoo. Drive through the lush Sichuan countryside and visit the Dazu Buddhist Grottoes. Cruise the mighty Yangtze River for three days aboard the Victoria Anna, through the renowned Three Gorges and past the massive hydroelectric dam. Concluding in Shanghai, visit the world-class Shanghai Museum and enjoy some time discovering China’s city of the future. Expedition rates from $6,995.
Bhutan: Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon Featuring Anthropologist Laila Williamson 11 Days • October 18 – 28, 2010 Venture to the remote mountain kingdom of Bhutan, home to 770 species of birds, 5,400 species of plants, and rich wildlife (including tiger, Himalayan black bear, red panda, squirrel, sambar, wild pig and barking deer, among others!). Explore the Paro Valley with its magical “Tiger’s Nest,” a venerated monastery clinging to vertical granite 2,000 feet above the valley floor. Take in the sights, sounds and smells of the weekend market at Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital and largest city. Visit the local archery grounds, a unique textile museum, and Tashichho Dzong, a vast complex constructed entirely by hand without a single nail. Meet artisans and monks, and learn firsthand from experts on site. The elegance of the Bhutanese culture, experienced amidst the unspeakable grandeur of the Himalaya, will forever change the way you view our own culture. Expedition rates from $5,995.
Prayer flags flutter in the breeze at “Tiger’s Nest.”
Please visit us at www.amnhexpeditions.org.
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Europe & Eurasia
The golden Edinburgh skyline glistens at twilight.
The Origins of Charles Darwin Featuring Darwin Scholar David Kohn 9 Days • May 20 -28, 2010 Join David Kohn as we trace Darwin’s footsteps on this customized itinerary. Begin in Edinburgh, where he studied medicine at age 16, and continue to his childhood home and school in Shrewsbury. Enjoy a tour of the Cambridge University Botanic Garden, founded by Darwin’s mentor, John Henslow. Study Sedgwick Museum’s new exhibition “Darwin the Geologist” and gain an insider’s view at the recently opened Darwin Centre at London’s Natural History Museum. Discover the world’s oldest biological society, the Linnaean Society, during a special tour, topped off with a traditional English tea. Ride the train into the Kent countryside to reach Down House, Darwin’s private home for 40 years where he wrote On the Origin of Species, and where the garden will be in full bloom, demonstrating the inspiration that his natural environment provided. Expedition rates from $6,995.
Spain’s Prehistoric Caves and Atapuerca Featuring Evolutionary Biologist Ian Tattersall 12 Days • June 2 – 13, 2010 Learn about early man from gifted lecturer, writer, and curator Ian Tattersall on this exploration of northern Spain. Visit the region’s wondrous prehistoric caves, with their unparalleled paintings and exquisitely preserved Hominid fossils. Admire treasures at the Altamira Museum and the Guggenheim Bilbao. Learn of ongoing excavations at Sierra de Atapuerca, a UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for its fossils and stone tools of the earliest known Hominids in Western Europe. Travel across Spain’s most dramatic landscape, from rugged mountains through emerald pastures, past towering cliffs, and the great central plateau of Castilla y Leon. Discover the medieval village of Santillana del Mar, Oviedo’s pre-Romanesque architecture, and the historic Castilian capital of Burgos. Celebrate your journey at an exclusive tasting of one of the nation’s legendary wines in the Ribera del Duero region. Expedition rates from $7,495.
The Cantabrian coastline sharply meets the sea.
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The ruins of the Palace at Knossos reflect its colorful past.
Fabled Islands of the Mediterranean Featuring Geologist and Art Historian Bruce Loeffler 12 Days • May 22 – June 2, 2010 Cruise aboard Corinthian II to the beautiful islands of the Mediterranean Sea— from Cyprus, to Rhodes, Crete, Malta, Sicily, Sardinia and Corsica. Steeped in history, these islands abound in legend and natural beauty. Begin with three days in Cyprus to explore the Greek, Roman and Byzantine monuments at Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In Rhodes, learn about the Knights of Saint John and admire the beauty of its medieval Old Town. Cruising west, tour the excavations at the ruins of Knossos on Crete. Sail into the majestic harbor of Valletta in Malta, take in the best of Sicily’s classic sites at Erice and Segesta, and learn of the nuraghi prehistoric monuments on Sardinia. End your Mediterranean odyssey in Corsica to step into the Roman world of Aleria and relax amid the enduring charm of Bonifacio. Expedition rates from $6,995.
World Leaders Symposium: Russia and the Black Sea Featuring Former U.S. Secretary of Defense William J. Perry 17 Days • August 28–September 13, 2010 Here is your chance to engage and interact with prominent figures in U.S. international policy aboard the luxurious all-suite Silver Wind, traveling from Moscow, Russia to Georgia, the Ukraine, and ending in Istanbul, Turkey. During informal lectures with scholars and AMNH scientists, compelling panel discussions, and private meetings with world leaders and distinguished dignitaries, explore such topics as Russia’s evolving relationship with the West, nuclear weapons policy, and the importance of mineral and energy resources in the Caucasus. Experience behind-the-scenes access paired with an educational program that offers unparalleled insight, and enjoy specially arranged performances and gala events. Expedition rates from approximately $24,995. Optional Extensions: St. Petersburg and Istanbul.
The onion domes of Cathedral Square overlook the walls of the Kremlin.
Please visit us at www.amnhexpeditions.org.
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The minarets of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia glow in the Turkish dusk.
Turkish Odyssey A UNESCO World Heritage Expedition with a 4 night yacht cruise 13 days • September 22 – October 4, 2010 Have you ever wondered why and how UNESCO selects its World Heritage sites? Combining both land and sea travel elements, this specially designed program, enhanced by guest lecturers and local experts, reveals this and much more in the context of the nation that straddles Europe and Asia: Turkey. Travel to Istanbul, the crossroads of East and West, where we visit the incomparable Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque, Chora Church and Grand Bazaar. In the Cappadocia region, explore Byzantine cave churches, enlivened by colorful frescoes, and maze-like underground cities. Board a private gulet (Turkish yacht) exclusively chartered for your pleasure and sail to the rarelyvisited ancient cities of Myra, Letoon, and Xanthos. Meet local people, savor delicious cuisine, and bargain for treasures at lively bazaars. Gain a unique perspective and insights from local curators and specialists at UNESCO sites throughout. Expedition rates from $6,595. Optional Extension: Ephesus.
Astrophysics in Italy: Galileo to Gran Sasso Featuring Astrophysicist Michael Shara 9 days • October 3 – 11, 2010 Inspired by the 400th anniversary of Galileo’s invention of the telescope in 2009, this specially designed program highlights places associated with the Tuscan man who changed our way of regarding the universe forever and focuses on current ground-breaking astrophysics research. In Florence, view Galileo’s compass, telescope and microscope at the newly renovated History of Science Museum. Pay your respects at his tomb in the Church of Santa Croce, and, by special arrangement, spend an evening star-gazing at the Arcetri Observatory. During three days in Rome, visit the Gran Sasso National Laboratory for special access to cutting-edge experiments and tour the Planetarium and the Astrological Museum in the company of physics and astrophysics graduate students. Enjoy comprehensive morning lectures and delight in the culinary arts of Italy at lunch and dinner. Expedition rates from approximately $6,495.
The Duomo dominates the Florence skyline.
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Private Jet Programs A young Mongolian boy shows his horsemanship while tending his flock.
Let us whisk you to far away lands of beauty and mystery, without the delays and hassle of commercial travel. Our specially outfitted Boeing 757 is designed to provide extraordinary comfort and convenience to just 72 travelers. Travel by private jet minimizes travel time and maximizes safety, time to explore, and opportunities to learn from world-class scholars during in-flight lectures. There is, quite simply, no easier way to see and learn about the world.
The Ancient Silk Road Featuring Paleontologist Mark Norell 15 Days • April 20 – May 4, 2010 Follow in the footsteps of monks and ancient caravans. In Xi’an, the gateway to the Silk Road, stand in awe before the Terra-Cotta Warriors of Emperor, ride camels in the Gobi Desert, and go fossil-hunting at the Flaming Cliffs of Roy Chapman Andrews fame. Observe Buddhist tales from the 4th to 11thcentury paintings in the grottoes of Dunhuang. Explore the Silk Road outpost of Samarkand, and then visit Armenia where villagers invite us to a picnic. Celebrate your journey in the legendary crossroads of East and West in Istanbul, after exploring Izmir and Ephesus. Expedition rates from $29,950. Optional Extension: China and Tibet. This trip is third in our trio of Hidden Corners of the World interconnected journeys.
Around the World Featuring Conservation Biologist Eleanor Sterling 22 Days • September 29 – October 20, 2010 Explore the world’s greatest treasures and legendary places. Begin in Peru at Machu Picchu, moving on to Easter Island where a local archeologist elucidates the moai statues. In Samoa, witness a traditional welcome dance before you head to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef to snorkel. In Asia, the serenity of Angkor Wat, Cambodia can be contrasted with the translucent beauty of the Taj Mahal in India. Travel to Africa for a safari adventure in the Serengeti, then stand in awe of Egypt’s glories at Luxor, Giza, and the Valley of the Kings. Marrakech, Morocco tops off this extraordinary adventure. Expedition rates from $54,950.
Fifteen Tongariki moais stand at attention on Easter Island.
Please visit us at To reserve a Private Jet Expedition: callwww.amnhexpeditions.org. 1-800-454-4149 or visit www.amnhexpeditions.org.
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Intimate Modes of Travel
Corinthian II sails Antarctic waters.
Whether navigating iconic rivers or ancient seas, riding the rails, or flying by private jet, these vessels and transport enhance your travel experience by minimizing hotel changes and reliance on commercial travel. Our small ships offer accessibility to waters which would be off-limits to larger vessels while providing comfortable accommodations. Their intimate sizes allow for quality personal service and single-seating dining. Additional descriptions, deck plans, and photos may be found on our website at www.amnhexpeditions.org.
La Amatista
Corinthian II
28 passengers Page 6
114 passengers Pages 3 and 17
When on the Amazon, enjoy incredible wildlife viewing from a spacious openair observation deck, or indoor comfort in air-conditioned staterooms. Comfortable cabins offer ample storage, writing desks, and en-suite bathrooms with showers. The dining room serves Peruvian cuisine using the freshest fruits, vegetables, fish and other local produce.
Clipper Odyssey
Evolution
110 passengers Page 8
32 passengers Page 7
More intimate than many cruise ships in the Galápagos, yet you will find ample public space and plenty of comfort onboard. There is an observation deck, a canopied bar on the roof deck, and weather permitting, some meals will be served outdoors. Two-person kayaks are available, and naturalist guides share their knowledge of the natural history of the Galápagos.
Clelia II
Cruising is an ideal way to explore Japan, and this intimate vessel accommodates guests in cabins with ocean views, wellappointed bathrooms, comfortable sitting areas, the option for twin or queen beds, and individual temperature controls. There are two lounges, a bar, and a dining room, and facilities include a jogging track, pool, gym, massage room, and library/game room.
Island Sky
100 passengers Pages 5 and 7
116 passengers Page 4
Explore Artic or Antarctic waters aboard this ice-strengthened vessel, equipped with Zodiac craft for forays ashore. Comfortable ocean view suites have sitting areas or living rooms, air-conditioning, minirefrigerators, audio-visual equipment and marble bathrooms. There is a restaurant, two lounges, a library with Internet access, gym, elevator, and sun deck with Jacuzzi.
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Whether traversing Africa’s western coast or a myriad selection of Mediterranean isles, this deluxe ship offers suites with sea views, sitting areas, air-conditioning, minirefrigerator, audio-visual equipment, and marble bathrooms with showers. There is also a library with Internet access, a restaurant, two lounges, exercise area, elevator, and a sun deck with Jacuzzi.
Sail the magnificent Red Sea, visiting Egypt and Jordan from your newly renovated yachtlike vessel. Passengers are accommodated in spacious and well-designed suites featuring views with portholes, large picture windows, or balconies. Public areas include a lounge, elegant bar, library, spa, a dining room with international cuisine, an outdoor café and bar, and the ship is fully air-conditioned.
Please call us at 1-800-462-8687.
Rovos Rail
Victoria Anna
72 passengers Page 3
308 passengers Page 9
Considered to be one of the most luxurious trains in the world, Rovos Rail is comprised of pre-1970 South African Railway locomotives and meticulously restored coaches. Each sleeping car has a variety of compartment sizes, all which offer en-suite bathrooms, individual temperature controls, and sitting areas. While aboard, experience worldclass dining, and enjoy sightseeing from the Observation car, complete with large picture windows and open-air balconies. Complimentary bar service is included, and meals feature the finest international cuisine and wines.
Tamr Henna
Experience the wonder of the Three Gorges aboard one of the few five-star river cruisers on the Yangtze. Featuring spacious cabins with private balconies, guest rooms also have televisions and en suite baths. A limited number of suites are available upon request on a first-come, first-served basis. Dining options include two restaurants, two lounges, and three bars. The ship offers a sundeck, a gym, a business center with Internet access, a clinic, a beauty salon, massage service, and a gift shop. An attentive staff is dedicated to ensuring your comfort and enjoyment of your cruise along the iconic Yangtze.
Boeing 757 Jet
102 passengers Page 2
72 passengers Page 13
Cruise the Nile on this five-star river boat featuring cabins with private balconies. Additionally, guest rooms offer large panoramic windows, plasma screen televisions, air-conditioning, and spacious en suite bathrooms. Relax on the sun deck, enjoying the swimming pool or café with bar. Public areas also include an elegant dinning room, a restful library, a piano bar, health club and spa, and a game lounge. Onboard staff is available 24 hours for the utmost in service and care.
Silver Wind
Our custom-designed jet is ideally suited for visiting many far-flung destinations in one expedition, with its long-range capability and 99 percent reliability rate for operating without mechanical delays. VIPclass leather seating, 50-52 inches of pitch, leg rests, 45-degree seat recline, and a flight attendant-to-traveler ratio of 1:9 ensures your comfort. The jet also has in-seat power outlets and storage for personal electronics; an onboard library of destination books and DVDs; and a bright new interior.
Turkish Gulets
298 passengers Page 11
12 to 14 passengers Page 12
Explore the Black Sea aboard one of the highest rated luxurious small ships afloat. Spacious all-suite accommodations range in size from 240 to 1,315 square feet. Many have private verandahs; all have ocean views and a wide range of features, from walk-in closets to marble baths with terrycloth robes to 24-hour steward service. There are three restaurants and lounges, two bars, a spa, fitness center, heated pool, and a beauty salon. The crew provides impeccable service, and there is a long list of amenities. Complimentary bar service is included, and meals feature the finest international cuisine and wines.
Gulets are traditional, small motorized wooden vessels designed originally for fisherman and sponge divers. The vessels stay close to the shore, and provide a wonderful opportunity to explore the archaeological sites, small towns, and villages along the Turkish coast. Our gulets will have either 6 or 8 cabins; each cabin is small, but an en suite bath with shower. Time on board is spent on the spacious sun deck, or relaxing in the covered lounge area, highlighted by delicious meals prepared by the crew with provisions purchased daily in nearby markets and cooked in the local tradition.
Please visit us at www.amnhexpeditions.org.
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Tour Calendar
Keck Observatory telescopes reach to the skies at the summit of Mauna Kea.
Month
Expedition
Type
January
Hawaii’s Observatories
Land
website
February
Ultimate Safari in Tanzania
Land
2
Yellowstone in Winter
Land
5
Amazon River: The Greatest Voyage in Natural History
Cruise
6
The Wild Preserved: New Zealand
Land
8
Discovering Egypt: Past and Present
Land & Cruise
2
The Cape of Good Hope to Gibraltar
Cruise
3
Japan by Land and Sea
Land & Cruise
8
The Ancient Silk Road
Private Jet
Exploring Southern Africa
Land & Train
3
Discovering Newfoundland and Labrador
Cruise
5
The Origins of Charles Darwin
Land
10
Fabled Islands of the Mediterranean
Cruise
11
Family Journey to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands
Family, Land & Cruise
Spain’s Prehistoric Caves and Atapuerca
Land
July
Digging for Dinosaurs: A Colorado Family Adventure
Family Land
August
World Leaders Symposium: Russia and the Black Sea
Cruise
September
China Revealed
Land & Cruise
9
Turkish Odyssey
Land & Cruise
12
Around the World
Private Jet
13
Jordan, Egypt, and the Red Sea
Cruise
4
Ethiopia’s Hidden Treasures
Land
4
Bhutan: Kingdom of the Thunder Dragon
Land
9
Astrophysics in Italy: Galileo to Gran Sasso
Land
10
Coastal Chile, Patagonia, and Antarctica
Cruise
7
March April May
June
October
November
Page
13
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The American Museum of Natural History, a world leader in scientific exploration, established AMNH Expeditions, the first museum educational travel program in the country, in 1953. The goal of AMNH Expeditions is to present educational travel programs that reflect past and current areas of interest and exploration by the American Museum of Natural History. The tours provide a combination of study, adventure, and leisure activities. “American Museum of Natural History Expeditions” is a registered service mark of the American Museum of Natural History. AMNH Expeditions are managed and operated by Academic Travel Abroad, a professional tour operator, hired as an independent contractor. ATA also may sub-contract with and appoint partner Tour Operators to operate AMNH Expeditions. Terms and Conditions for each tour are available on our website, www.amnhexpeditions.org, and will be included in individual tour brochures. Photo credits: W. Rangel, Brittak, V. Kreinacke, P. Betts, A. Brown, M. Korzynski, Hanis, K. Leigh, J. Len, Newfoundland & Labrador Tourism, B.G. Smith, A.W.C., B. Sanchez, P. Cocks, Savetrev, Matejay, B. Ckchan, shutrbug, B. Zuidema, Spannagal, C. Hepburn, J. Cameron, C. Max, J. M. Benito, K. Gallas, Dontsov, A. Kduygu, J. Sustermans, photomorphic, R. Montoya, TDI © 2009 AMNH Expeditions
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Please call us at 1-800-462-8687.
Last Chance to Cruise with AMNH Expeditions in 2009! • Check online for special offers • • Request or download brochures • Sign up for AMNHE-news • • Read about AMNH Expeditions study leaders •
1-800-462-8687 www.amnhexpeditions.org
The Great Lakes Aboard Clelia II 8 Days • September 5-12, 2009 With vistas of lonely lighthouses on cliff tops, lush forested islands, Victorian villages, and Niagara Falls, cruising the Great Lakes with AMNH Geologist Sidney Horenstein is an ideal way to enjoy the pleasures of a grand voyage without having to venture far from home. Expedition rates from $5,595.
Treasures of the Black Sea Aboard Le Levant 10 Days • October 7 – 16, 2009 Join retired navy captain Fred McLaren in exploring the myriad cultures along the Black Sea coast (visiting Istanbul, Odesa, Yalta, and more) and discuss the wonders of its depths-both native marine life and ancient shipwrecks. Expedition rates from $5,995.
Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River Aboard Mekong Pandaw 16 Days • October 20 – November 4, 2009 Journey with fellow Museum travelers and Ambassador Sichan Siv as we explore the classical French architecture of Hanoi, cruise the Mekong River, seeing colorful floating marketplaces, and marvel at the magnificence of Angkor Wat. Expedition rates from $8,395.
South Georgia and Antarctica Expedition Aboard Clelia II 23 Days • November 21 – December 13, 2009 Join us as we retrace the route of Shackleton in South Georgia and Antarctica, experiencing for ourselves the untamed grandeur of this frozen landscape – its jagged mountain peaks, glaciers tumbling to the sea, and breathtaking inlets – that was the setting for one of the most heroic rescue missions in the history of exploration. Expedition rates from $15,995.
Family Holiday in Egypt Aboard Nile Adventurer 12 Days • December 26, 2009 – January 6, 2010 Adventure into the heart of ancient Egypt – a land of pyramids and pharaohs, gods and goddesses, hidden tombs and golden treasures – with Egyptologist Fetiche PosmaZaalouk on an expedition designed to bring one of the greatest civilizations of antiquity to life for travelers and explorers of all ages. Expedition rates from $6,990. Additional tours online including Arabian Gulf, Indonesia, or the Grand Safari. Cover Photo Credits: Bhutanese Monk, by Anthony Asael, danitadelimont.com. African Elephants beneath Kilimanjaro, by Oversnap. Cuba photo by Christian Bernfeld
Please visit us at www.amnhexpeditions.org.
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In addition to enjoying unique experiences such as these, your participation in AMNH Expeditions helps to support the Museum’s mission to discover, interpret, and disseminate – through scientific research and education – knowledge about human cultures, the natural world, and the universe.
• Learn from AMNH scientists, educators, and guest scholars; • Marvel at Ethiopia’s ancient rock-hewn churches at Lalibela; or • Enjoy your child’s excitement when digging for dinosaur bones in Colorado?
Did you know that on an AMNH Expedition you can…
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