Smithsonian Journeys Travel Catalog (June 2023)

Travel with Smithsonian Journeys

Our 2024 Travel Collection

The Smithsonian Difference

4 Smithsonian Journeys: A World Apart

5 Eight Reasons to Travel With Us

6 Our Experts

Europe

Southern Europe

17 Inside Sicily NEW!

18 A Circumnavigation of Sicily

19 Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily NEW!

20 Southern Italy and Sicily

21 Highlights of Italy

22 Northern Italy: The Lake District, Tuscany, and the Dolomites

23 Italy's Lake District

24 Italy's Apulia

25 Italy's Amalfi Coast

26 Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea 28 Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean

45 Holiday Markets

47 A River Cruise of Provence

49 Normandy

50 France Through the Ages

51 Paris: The African American Experience

52 Great European Journey

68 New Year's in Vienna: A Deluxe Rail Journey NEW!

68 Old World Europe

Northern Europe

53 County Clare

53 Mystery Lover's England

54 England’s Lake District

55 Smithsonian at Oxford

56 Prehistoric Mysteries of England and Ireland: Stonehenge to the Aran Islands NEW!

57 Heart of Scotland

58 Scotland's Treasures

59 Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage

60 Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea

61 The Emerald Isle

62 Waterways of Holland and Belgium

63 A Stay in Holland: An Art History Journey from Vermeer to Van Gogh NEW!

64 Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea

65 Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

66 Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice

67 Adventure in Iceland

68 Irish Walks: An Active Journey from Dublin to Dingle NEW!

Other Europe

27 Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba NEW!

39 France and Spain's Basque Region

46 Prehistoric Caves of France and Spain

48 D-Day: A Journey from England to France

Commemorating the 80th Anniversary

68 Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea NEW!

The Americas

North America

Central/Western Europe

38 Living in France: Aix-en-Provence

71 Cruising Alaska's Inside Passage

72 A Voyage along the Great Lakes

73 Voyage Along the St. Lawrence: From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes NEW!

74 Alaska's Natural Wonders: Denali to Kenai Fjords

74 The Northern Rockies

75 Seascapes of the Canadian Maritimes

76 African American Culture in the Lowcountry

Africa & the Middle East

108

110

Smithsonian Journeys: A World Apart

The Smithsonian has sought to enrich the lives of Americans since our establishment more than 175 years ago, sharing knowledge about the world through a vibrant ecosystem of museums, publications, media, internationally renowned research programs, and continuing education. Smithsonian Journeys draw on the Institution’s many cultural and scientific endeavors, reflecting the vast knowledge and experience we have gathered over nearly two centuries. And traveling with Smithsonian Journeys Experts offers a deeper dive into a wide variety of subjects, from fine art to natural history.

We founded our first observatory in 1890—and now we invite astronomy aficionados to gaze at the night sky from world-class observatories in South America on our Chile Earth and Sky journey, or join us in the path of totality on a solar eclipse tour in 2024: Astronomy and Nature in the Texas Hill Country. Our scientists have been researching tropical ecosystems in Panama since 1910; now they’ll share their latest findings with travelers on our Panama and Costa Rica by Sea voyage during a visit to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s Punta Culebra Nature Center.

If you’ve enjoyed our museums dedicated to Native American history and culture, get an even closer look at our nation’s rich cultural heritage on our new cruise along Alaska's Inside Passage. If your passion is history, encounter it firsthand with seasoned historians on indepth journeys into the past—from cruises to legendary Greco-Roman ruins across the Mediterranean to a poignant exploration of Normandy in 2024 during the 80th anniversary of D-Day. And for those who treasure lifelong learning, Smithsonian at Oxford is the ultimate continuing education program, offering compelling courses in English literature, archaeology, and more.

For decades, people from all over the country and the world have come to the Smithsonian to nourish their curiosity. Through Smithsonian Journeys, we invite you to come with us to discover the many treasures of the world alongside our experts.

Reasons to Travel With Smithsonian Journeys

1. The Smithsonian Difference

Each itinerary is crafted to provide an in-depth, authentic, and unique experience, and many feature special access to Smithsonian research, people, and facilities around the world. Our journeys are known for their world-class service; commitment to safety; and knowledgeable and experienced trip staff.

2. Travel With Our Experts

Smithsonian Journeys Experts bring meaningful enrichment and an insider perspective to every trip, engaging with our travelers throughout the journey.

3. Small Groups, Big Experiences

Almost all of our land trips feature groups of 12 to 24 people, allowing guests to get up close to renowned sites, and get to know local people and fellow travelers.

4. The Smithsonian Community

Our travelers are intellectually curious and adventurous lifelong learners who share a passion for exploration. The friendships that develop on tour are often a lasting element of the experience.

5. Great Value

Once you add up everything we include—experts, enrichment, most meals, excursions, transfers, most gratuities, and even airfare-inclusive pricing on many trips—you’ll find that our trips offer an exceptional experience at a very good value

6. Supporting the Smithsonian Mission

When you travel with Smithsonian Journeys, your participation supports Smithsonian's mission to preserve natural and cultural heritage, drive research, and engage and inspire people on critical issues affecting our nation and world.

7. Sustaining Our Planet

With Smithsonian Journeys, you have the comfort of knowing that you are traveling with an organization that is committed to sustaining the character and biodiversity of the places we visit by selecting partners and suppliers who meet our standards for responsible travel and supporting regional economies. We believe that Smithsonian's global work in the area of research, engaging the public, and mitigating our carbon footprint and the impact of climate change on our facilities and collections can lead to solutions that make life on this planet more sustainable.

8. Peace of Mind

The well-being of our guests, staff members, and partners has always been our highest priority. We have implemented health and safety measures across all facets of our programs. To learn more, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org/Safety-Protocols.

Dianne's performance was stellar! Her lectures were so thorough and she has a delightful sense of humor. Our trip was so much richer for having her along.”

– Francis and Patricia C.

Travel With Our Experts

Gain In-Depth Understanding and a Sense of Wonder

Among the experts who accompany you on your journey are scholars from around the world who possess an in-depth understanding of their field, whether it’s history, culture, the natural world, geology, astronomy, or the fine arts. They are selected for their expertise in the destination and are eager to share their passion, knowledge, and insights about the places you’re exploring. Our travelers continue to tell us that our experts are a major reason they come back to Smithsonian Journeys again and again. Meet some of our experts here and learn about the tours they will lead in the pages that follow. Visit our website to find a full list of our experts, and read their biographies and accolades shared by our travelers.

1. Solange Ashby – Egyptologist with a specialization in ancient Egyptian language and religion. Her current research explores the roles of women in traditional Egyptian and Nubian religious practices. Solange will join Ancient Egypt and the Nile (see page 89).

2. Mitch Yockelson – professor of military history at Norwich University and the author of many books and articles. Mitch will join one of the special 80th anniversary departures of D-Day: A Journey from England to France Commemorating the 80th Anniversary (see page 48).

3. Aziz Abu Sarah – author and peacemaker. Aziz previously served as the executive director of the Center for World Religions, Diplomacy, and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University. He will join Israel: Unique Perspectives on the Holy Land (see page 96).

4. Don Wilson – curator emeritus of mammals at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History and director of the Smithsonian's biodiversity programs for ten years. Don will join Patagonian Explorer (see page 85) and Around the World by Private Jet (see page 110).

See bios and interviews with Smithsonian

Don was very helpful. He continued to educate and help even after we came home from the trip.

– Smithsonian Journeys traveler

Journeys Experts at SmithsonianJourneys.org/Experts

5. Dianne Konz – expert in Spanish history, culture, and literature; and former professor. Her particular passion is the integration of the cultural arts in the context of their time. Dianne will join Treasures of Southern Spain and Portugal (see page 34) and Across Northern Spain and Portugal (see page 35).

Be at Home in the World

On Land, River, or Sea

Whether you’re immersed in the cultural treasures of Europe or watching wildlife from a deluxe safari tent in East Africa, your accommodations are an integral part of your journey, chosen to enhance your overall experience. Stay in distinctive properties that reflect the character of the local culture while offering service that meets the high standards you expect. Settle into a historic parador in Spain, or an agriturismo estate in Chianti, a palace in Peru, or one of the renowned Serena Safari Lodges in Tanzania. On our ocean voyages, sail aboard a small ship from the PONANT fleet (see pages 12–13 for details); or cruise Europe’s fabled waterways aboard an upscale river ship. On every ship we use, you’ll find attentive and personalized service and an atmosphere that is casual, friendly, and comfortable.

Throughout your trip, enjoy opportunities to feel at home in another culture, sharing a meal with a local family, learning how to make a local specialty during a hands-on cooking class or demonstration, or sampling wines with the vintner who produced them. Our Cultural Stays take immersion to an even deeper level, allowing you to experience your adopted city like a local and to reach new depths of understanding into its history, culture, and people.

Smithsonian Journeys offer the best of all tours. Dynamic locations, great accommodations, and education that bring another dimension to travel.

– Smithsonian Journeys traveler

Our Travel Styles

A World of Possibilities

Discover a journey that speaks to your aspirations and interests! All Smithsonian Journeys feature a unique blend of enriching insights, exceptional quality, engaging experts and travel companions, and personal attention.

Narrow your search—from 130 different itineraries— by using our online Trip Finder. You can discover your perfect trip in just seconds by filtering your interests by travel style (featured on these pages), interests, activity level, destination, dates, and trip duration.

Classic Land Journeys

Our Classic Land Journeys are exciting forays into the history, culture, and natural world of a single country or region. Meticulously planned to include iconic sites and hidden gems, these 10- to 23-day trips often include airfare for even more value. You may travel the full breadth of a country or just one region, but you’ll always see the highlights up close with an intimate group of 12 to 24 travelers.

Cultural Stays

Our Cultural Stays allow you to unpack once and enjoy time to discover a destination’s unique sense of place in more depth. Choose from a single cultural capital or a smaller town that showcases the intrinsic character of the region. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy an insightful experience that features both highlights and lesser-known sites, and opportunities to meet with local people.

Special Interest Tours

Join travelers who share your interest in art to astronomy or military history. Become a student at Oxford, delve into the life and work of van Gogh, or explore prehistoric cave art in Europe. You can also stargaze with astronomers and witness the total solar eclipse of 2024! Whatever your interest, Smithsonian Journeys ensures a unique and top-notch learning experience.

Small-Ship Cruises—Ocean and River

Unpack once and wake up to a brand-new world every day on an ocean or river voyage aboard a fleet of ideal ships that range from a river boat of just 36 guests to small vessels that accommodate up to 264 guests. All of our small upscale cruises share the same hallmark qualities of superb amenities, excellent cuisine, an informal ambiance, and top-notch Smithsonian Journeys Experts who travel with you. Read more about our alliance with PONANT on the next page.

Active Journeys

Our new Active Journeys combine long walks, hiking, or biking with educational enrichment. Stay in convenient and unique accommodations, travel with experienced trip leaders, and learn from local experts along the way.

This was a wonderful tour. Our guides brought D-Day alive for us, giving us a taste of what those men faced in 1944. My only regret is that the tour was not longer.

– Kevin M., D-Day: A Journey

From England to France

Tailor-Made Journeys

Now you can experience the world your way on a Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey, custom designed just for you and your favorite traveling companion(s)—your spouse, your family, or a group of close friends. You decide where and when you want to go, and with whom, and we’ll work with you to build your ideal journey. Read more about our Tailor-Made Journeys on pages 114–115.

Private Jet Journeys

For the ultimate trip of a lifetime, join one of our spectacular Private Jet Journeys. You can visit an incredible array of destinations in one itinerary and in style, made possible by the convenience and comfort of a custom-configured jet. Our knowledgeable experts share their insights during action-packed days filled with iconic sites and engaging activities that allow you to experience firsthand the people, customs, and natural world of each destination. See our Private Jet Journeys on page 110–111.

Our Alliance With PONANT

Enriching Experiences on the Seas

We invite you to awaken your sense of wonder on a voyage with Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT, a leader in small-ship cruises. Together, we continue to create new and unique Smithsonian experiences on each voyage that embrace cultural immersion and discovery. On each of these curated itineraries, you’ll explore with fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers and enjoy an included excursion or activity in every port of call. Each cruise features two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, who enrich your experience with their passion, insight, and in-depth knowledge, and bring you deeper into the history and natural world of the region you’re exploring.

Life on Board a Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Cruise

Aboard the PONANT fleet, you’ll experience the refined elegance of an intimate ship with a relaxed, informal ambiance. Accommodating just 184 to 264 guests, these nimble ships can access small ports, narrow waterways, and remote destinations, while providing guests attentive and personalized service. You’ll unpack once and set off on an unforgettable adventure with like-minded travelers, enjoying a range of amenities and inviting lounges and common spaces. Excellent cuisine can be savored in gracious dining rooms or alfresco on deck, and enlightening lectures and discussions will give you ample food for thought.

Each departure includes:

• Two Smithsonian Journeys Experts

• An included shore excursion or activity in each port of call, as noted in the itinerary

• Airport transfers between the airport and the ship on cruise embarkation and disembarkation days

• Welcome and farewell cocktail receptions

• Complimentary open bar and free Wi-Fi aboard ship

• Gratuities to ship personnel, porters, guides, drivers

Take a look at the Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Cruises for 2023–2024

∙ A Circumnavigation of Sicily – page 18

∙ Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights: Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily NEW! – page 19

∙ Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea – page 26

∙ Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba NEW! – page 27

∙ Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean – page 28

∙ Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal – page 32

∙ Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage – page 59

∙ Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea – page 60

∙ Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea – page 64

∙ Cruising the Norwegian Fjords – page 65

∙ Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice – page 66

∙ Cruising the Mediterranean: Greece, Sicily, and Malta NEW! – page 68

∙ Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea NEW! – page 68

∙ Cruising Alaska's Inside Passage NEW! – page 71

∙ A Voyage Along the Great Lakes – page 72

∙ Voyage Along the St. Lawrence: From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes NEW! – page 73

∙ Cruising the Caribbean’s Windward Islands – page 80

∙ Panama and Costa Rica by Sea – page 81

∙ Ancient Civilizations by Sea: Israel, Egypt, Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey NEW! – page 94

∙ Cruising the Arabian Coast – page 95

∙ Cultural and Natural Treasures of Japan by Sea NEW! – page 99

∙ New Zealand’s South Island by Sea: A Voyage to the Fiordland NEW! – page 105

∙ Antarctica: The White Continent – page 108

Introducing Smithsonian Active Journeys

We are pleased to present our new Active Journeys: small-group trips that seek out the road less traveled and offer engaging adventures in the great outdoors. While these journeys are designed around activities such as hiking, walking, and biking, they bear all the hallmarks of a Smithsonian Journeys travel experience: outstanding local guides, unique enrichment opportunities, and an in-depth exploration of nature and cultural history.

Active Pursuits That Are Energizing, Not Exhausting

From the Alps to the Andes, we’ve selected routes for their spectacular scenery that both occasional and seasoned outdoors people will enjoy. Most hikes and walks range from three to seven miles per day, with low to moderate elevation changes. Some trips also include opportunities to canoe, or bike ride. On certain itineraries, you’ll have the option to take an easier or more challenging route if you wish. After each exhilarating day, you will return to comfortable accommodations chosen for their sense of place and their

unbeatable location—an agriturismo in Italy’s Chianti Hills, for instance, or a historic inn overlooking Loch Ness in Scotland.

A Local Approach to Small-Group Travel

Our Active Journeys are designed for just 12 to 18 travelers, and the small group size allows us to choose local businesses for many activities and meals. You’ll get acquainted with the people and their traditions, and support the economy in a sustainable way, visiting an organic coffee farm in Costa Rica or a family-owned restaurant in Iceland.

Choose the Activity Level That Fits Your Pace

To help you select a journey that suits your pace and ability, we have designated four activity levels: Light, Moderate, Energetic, and Strenuous. For each of these activity levels, the itinerary may also include biking on mostly flat routes and kayaking or canoeing. And on certain trips, you’ll have the option to take longer or shorter hikes.

Enrichment Every Step of the Way

You may find yourself searching for mountain gorillas with a knowledgeable park guide in Rwanda or hiking through history on picturesque segments of Spain’s El Camino pilgrimage route. Wherever our Active Journeys take you, you’ll gain insights into cuisine and music, wildlife and geology, and travel with a local trip leader who knows the area inside and out. You’ll meet with experts in the field and get a closer look at the region’s culture through cooking classes, and traditional music or dance performances.

Active Journeys for 2024:

• Irish Walks: From Dublin to Dingle – see page 68

• Costa Rica Treetops and Trails – see page 87

• Gorillas of Rwanda – see page 97

• Tuscany and the Cinque Terre – see website

• Walking the Camino de Santiago – see website

• Glaciers and Waterfalls: Iceland – see website

• Tour du Mont Blanc – see website

• Scotland by Trail – see website

• Walking and Hiking Inca Trails – see website

• Patagonia Hiking Adventure – see website

Each active journey includes:

• Knowledgeable local guides

• Small group size of 12 to 18 travelers

• Airport transfers upon arrival and departure

• Daily activities and excursions

• Internal flights where applicable

• Most meals, including all breakfasts and welcome and farewell dinners

• Gratuities

Learn more about our new Smithsonian Active Journeys online!

SmithsonianJourneys.org/Active

Europe

There were so many moments to treasure on our journey. The people in our tour were all smart, friendly, great to get to know—we all shared the joy of new experiences and learned so much!

– Suzanne Z., Southern Italy and Sicily

Inside Sicily

12 days from $5,674

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Apr. 7–18, Apr. 25–May 6, Sept. 8–19, Oct. 10–21, 2024

Blanketed in orchards and scattered with vestiges from antiquity, Sicily is home to seven World Heritage sites and one of Europe’s largest active volcanos. Explore the island’s north, south, east, and west, discovering the legacies of the many cultures that ruled here, from the ancient Greeks to the Normans. Encounter unique cuisine and architecture in Palermo, and meander among Doric ruins in the Valley of the Temples. See the breathtaking frescos of the Villa Romana del Casale and cruise the Ionian Sea, admiring views of Ortigia. Sample wines at a family farm on Mount Etna before ending your sojourn in enchanting Taormina.

Palermo: Take guided tours of the World Heritage-listed palaces and cathedrals of Palermo, known for their unique Arab-Norman architectural style, and admire gold-drenched mosaics in the cathedral in Monreale. Visit local markets to experience Palermo’s famous street food scene and enjoy a lunch of local specialties.

Erice and Trapani: Explore the delightful hilltop town of Erice, taking in sweeping views of the coast and the sea beyond. Then descend to the salt pans of Trapani to learn how salt is still harvested using centuries-old techniques.

Agrigento and Villa Romana del Casale: Enjoy a wine tasting and a home-cooked meal at a farm on the way to the World Heritage site of Agrigento. Take an in-depth tour of the legendary Valley of the Temples and cap off the visit at the Museum of Agrigento. Then journey to Villa Romana del Casale to see the stunning decor of this well-preserved 4th-century home.

Syracuse and Ortigia: Discover layers of history at the World Heritage site of Ancient Syracuse, home to both a Greek and a Roman theater as well as the gem-like isle of Ortigia, laden with monuments from antiquity. Set sail on the Ionian Sea, cruising along the tiny islands and caves that dot Sicily’s western coast and taking in views of Ortigia from the sea.

Mount Etna and Taormina: Ascend Mount Etna to see its simmering crater and the evocative lava formations on its slopes. Stop on the way down to enjoy a meal at a family farm accompanied by excellent Sicilian wines. Continue to Taormina for a city tour and free time to explore on your own.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Gary Radke (Apr. 7), Sara James (Sept.), and Lawrence Butler (Oct. 10)––art historians. Allan Langdale (Apr. 25)–art and architectural historian.

Palermo

Agrigento

Villa Romana del Casale

Mount Etna

Taormina Catania

Tyrrhenian Sea

Erice Trapani

Monreale Sicily

Sicilian ceramics

Temple of Concordia, Agrigento

Greek theater, Taormina

A Circumnavigation of Sicily

Round-trip from Valletta Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

9 days from $7,540*

Apr. 14–22, 2024

Step into antiquity as you cruise all the way around Sicily, discovering the extraordinary ruins of cities that flourished in the Greco-Roman era. On a voyage that begins and ends in Malta’s walled capital, explore five World Heritage sites, including the ancient Greek cities of Agrigento and Syracuse. Sample Sicilian wines on the slopes of Mount Etna, and enjoy a range of excursions to choose from along the way.

Highlights Include

Valletta and Gozo, Malta: Sail out of and into one of Europe’s most stunning harbors, the fortified city of Valletta. On the island of Gozo, encounter megalithic sites that predate Stonehenge, or visit the town of Xewkija before sampling island vintages at a local winery.

Sicily, Italy: Encounter captivating towns and important archaeological sites as you circumnavigate Sicily. Explore the ancient temples of Agrigento, a powerful city in antiquity and now a World Heritage site. See the impressive ruins at Segesta, visit medieval Erice, and admire the mosaics in Palermo’s Norman cathedral. Delve into the lively bustle of Taormina, or sample local wines on the slopes of Mount Etna. Make a final stop in Syracuse to stroll amid the stunning architecture of Ortigia.

Lipari and Stromboli, Italy: Tour the Aeolian Island of Lipari, and visit the Aeolian Archaeological Museum to see an excellent exhibit of ancient artifacts. Then cruise by Stromboli in the evening, watching for activity from its active volcano.

Add a one-night extension in Malta.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are historian Charles Ingrao and Allan Langdale, an art and architectural historian.

Cefalù, Sicily

Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights:

Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily

From Valletta to Livorno Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,910* Sept. 8–15, 2024

Voyage from Malta to Tuscany and experience the wonders—and flavors—of Sicily and southern Italy. Gain insight into the ancient past among the Greco-Roman treasures of Syracuse and Rome; explore a delightful fishing village in Calabria and the ruins of Pompeii; and visit family-owned farms. Through culinary tours and classes, savor local cuisine wines.

Highlights Include

Syracuse and Taormina, Sicily: Tour the archaeological sites of Ancient Syracuse and Taormina. Enjoy lunch at an agriturismo or sample wines and local cuisine at a vineyard on Mount Etna.

Calabria: Discover this lesser-known region on Italy’s “toe,” viewing the exquisite Riace Bronzes in Reggio Calabria, exploring a beautiful fishing village, and visiting historic churches.

Paestum and Pompeii: Experience some of Italy’s most remarkable ruins during in-depth tours of two World Heritage sites: the Greek temples of Paestum and the city of Pompeii, buried beneath volcanic ash for nearly 2,000 years.

Naples and Rome: Anchor in Naples and opt for a tour of the city’s famous street food—and its historic center—or head for the hills above Sorrento for a lunch and a cooking lesson at a working farm. Then spend a day discovering incomparable Rome on a VIP visit to the Colosseum, an art-filled excursion at the Vatican, or on a foodie tour.

Culinary Experiences: Sample local delicacies during culinary experiences such as a pizza-making class at a mozzarella-producing dairy. Enjoy the unique flavors of

Sicily and southern Italy, from arancini to sfogliatella Add a one-night extension in Malta or a two-night extension in Tuscany.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are Al Leonard, an archaeologist and an expert in both culinary arts and wine, and author Nancy Harmon Jenkins, a widely recognized authority on Mediterranean cuisines.

Livorno

Adriatic Sea

Tyrrhenian Sea

Ionian Sea

ITAL Y Rome Valetta

Reggio Calabria

Taormina

Agropoli

Naples

Florence Pompeii

Taormina shop

Southern Italy and Sicily

15 days from $6,574 Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 30–Oct. 14, 2023 & Apr. 4–18, Apr. 24–May 8, Sept. 12–26, Sept. 28–Oct. 12, Oct. 18–Nov. 1, 2024

Italy’s southernmost regions present an array of distinct landscapes and cultures—from the Greco-Roman ruins of Sicily to the whitewashed villages of Apulia, Italy’s “boot heel,” to the rugged splendor of the Amalfi Coast. Immerse yourself in these spectacular regions, savoring delightful culinary and architectural traditions, exploring one World Heritage site after the next, and enjoying plenty of free time to soak up the charms of gems like Taormina, Matera, and Capri.

Highlights Include

Sicily: Spend four nights in lovely Taormina and set out on daily excursions to visit some of eastern Sicily’s highlights. Tour the town’s Greek Theater and the World Heritage-listed Valley of the Temples in Agrigento. Enjoy lunch at a family farm on the slopes of Mt. Etna—and a private lesson in making cannoli.

Matera: Take a guided tour of this cliff-top tufa town, venturing into ancient troglodyte churches and sassi cave houses where humans lived as far back as the Paleolithic era. Discover the unique urban plan established centuries ago and learn how Matera was transformed from “the shame of Italy” into a World Heritage site during the late 20th century. Stay in a restored cave dwelling in the heart of the town.

Apulia: Travel down Italy’s “boot heel” visiting remarkable sites such as Alberobello, home to hundreds of cone-shaped trulli houses; the whitewashed hilltop gem of Ostuni; and Lecce, “the Florence of the South,” where you’ll learn about the town’s papier-mâché tradition at a private demonstration. Savor a wine tasting and dinner in the gardens of a palazzo.

Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast: During four nights in the lovely town of Sorrento, learn about ongoing excavations on a tour of the evocative ruins of Pompeii, take a hydrofoil to Capri for time to explore, and wind along the dramatic Amalfi Coast on a breathtaking drive from Sorrento to Amalfi. Take part in a hands-on Neapolitan cooking lesson—and savor your concoctions over dinner.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Allan Langdale (Sept. 30)–art and architectural historian. Sara James (Apr. 4), Gary Radke (Apr. 24), and Rafael Chacón (Oct. 18)–art historians.

Trulli in Alberobello

Naples Sorrento

Agrigento

ITALY Adriatic Sea Overnight Featured Site

Alberobello Pompeii

Tyrrhenian Sea

Catania/ Taormina

Matera Lecce Sicily Ionian Sea

Greek theater, Taormina

Highlights of Italy

16 days from $6,374

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Oct. 26–Nov. 10, 2023 & Apr. 9–24, Apr. 16–May 1, Apr. 30–May 15, May 14–29, Sept. 3–18, Sept. 10–25, Oct. 8–23, Oct. 24–Nov. 8, 2024

Set off on a grand tour of Italy’s most beloved sites, making your way from the spectacular Amalfi Coast to the canals of Venice. Encounter history and world-renowned art in the captivating cities of Rome and Florence, and follow guides into the storied walled towns of Siena and San Gimignano. Along the way, enjoy wine tasting and visits to lesser-known sites; and stay in wonderful lodgings including a stunning resort on the Amalfi Coast, a Tuscan villa in the Chianti hills, and a canal-side hotel in Venice.

Highlights Include

Amalfi Coast and Pompeii: Take a cruise along the Amalfi Coast, explore gem-like hilltop towns overlooking the sea, and enjoy a coastal drive with spectacular views. Tour the stunning Villa Rufolo in Ravello, the excavated city of Pompeii, and the lovely Benedictine abbey of Montecassino.

Rome: Capture the essence of ancient Rome with a tour of the Colosseum and the Forum. Step inside the Borghese Gallery to view masterpieces by Bernini, Titian, Caravaggio, and other major artists. Then spend a day at the Vatican, touring St. Peter’s Basilica; the Sistine Chapel; and the Vatican Museums, featuring works by Michelangelo and Raphael.

Umbria and Tuscany: Stay in enchanting Orvieto, perched high above the surrounding landscape, and delve into art and culture. View Giotto’s renowned frescoes in the basilica at Assisi, and see how the traditions of hand-painted Majolica ceramics continue today in Deruta. In Tuscany, experience the World Heritage site of San Gimignano, and get a close-up look at medieval life at the interactive exhibits of San Gimignano 1300. Continue to Siena to explore the fan-shaped Campo and see works by Michelangelo and Donatello at the Duomo.

Florence: See Michelangelo’s David and other sculptures at the Galleria dell’Accademia and visit the revered Duomo, capped by the stupendous dome by Brunelleschi. Enjoy free time to explore the city’s treasures on your own.

Venice: From your base at a centrally located waterfront hotel, tour St. Mark’s Square and explore the museums and canals of this magical city at leisure.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Andy Becker (Oct. 26)–professor with expertise in ancient Rome. Adam Tanner (Apr. 30)–writer and former foreign correspondent. Allan Langdale (May 14)–architectural historian. Valerie Hedquist (Oct. 8)–art historian.

Amalfi

Rome

Venice Assisi Siena

ITALY Adriatic Sea

Orvieto

Pompeii

Montecassino Tyrrhenian Sea

Naples

Florence San Gimignano

Amalfi Coast

Trevi Fountain, Rome

Gondolas in Venice

Northern Italy: The Lake District, Tuscany, and the Dolomites

15 days from $6,674

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Oct. 4–18, 2023 & Apr. 17–May 1, May 18–June 1, 2024

Make your way across five regions of Northern Italy, exploring a plethora of natural and cultural treasures including seven World Heritage sites. Soak up the delights of the Italian Lake District, and sample premier vintages at a winery in Barolo. Stay on the Italian Riviera and cruise the rugged Ligurian coast to Portofino and to the spectacular Cinque Terre. In the Tuscan cities of Florence and Siena, enjoy guided tours of Renaissance masterpieces and plenty of free time. Then get acquainted with the unique culture of South Tyrol, and travel through the mighty Dolomites to end your journey amid the storied canals of Venice.

Highlights Include

Italian Lake District: Spend three nights in Stresa, a haunt of Ernest Hemingway situated on beautiful Lake Maggiore. Cruise to Isola Bella to explore a 17th-century palace and its extravagant gardens. Then travel to nearby Lake Orta to meander through the medieval, cobblestone lanes of lovely Orta San Giulio.

Italian Riviera and Cinque Terre: Stay in the resort town of Santa Margherita and experience the highlights of the Ligurian coast on a morning boat ride to Portofino and a full-day cruise to the villages of the World Heritagelisted Cinque Terre.

Florence and Tuscany: Settle into a palace in the Chianti hills and set out to explore Tuscany. Gain insights into the Renaissance treasures of Florence on a guided tour of the Accademia and the Duomo. Explore the narrow streets of Lucca, fortified by thick medieval walls. In Siena, discover the Piazza del Campo and the unusual Duomo, and learn about the city’s 500-year-old Palio horserace at a contrada museum.

South Tyrol: Soak up the unique, German-influenced culture of South Tyrol during two nights in the captivating city of Bolzano. See the mummy and artifacts of Ötzi the Iceman and take in views of the majestic Dolomites.

The Veneto: Visit the World Heritage site of Verona, renowned for its Roman arena and the setting for three Shakespeare plays. Conclude in Venice with a walking tour of St. Mark’s Square, a visit to a gondola workshop, and free time to explore on your own.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Stephen Clancy (Oct.) and Sara James (May)–art historians. Sanjaya Thakur (Apr.)–expert in the classics.

Vernazza Florence

Santa Margherita

Venice

Stresa

Siena Ligurian Sea

Adriatic Sea Tuscany

Italy’s Lake District

A One-Week Stay Featuring Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, and Lake Orta

9 days from $5,390

Includes $250 special savings / Special air rates available Oct. 3–11, 2023 & May 11–19, June 6–14, Sept. 5–13, Oct. 12–20, 2024

Join us on a unique stay program in Italy’s breathtaking Lake District and experience a region that has inspired painters, writers, and poets as you enjoy la dolce vita. Stay at the lovely Hotel la Palma, located in the lakeside town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore, which features breathtaking lake and mountain views.

Highlights Include

Lake Maggiore: Delight in visits to Isola Madre, Isola Bella, and Isola dei Pescatori. A private boat takes you to Isola Madre, the largest of the Borromean Islands, for a guided tour of the impressive English-style gardens, where exotic peacocks stroll amid lush flowerbeds. Extolled by writers for centuries, Isola Bella comprises a baroque villa with an astounding art collection and exquisite hanging gardens adorned by Greek and Roman statues. Other highlights during your stay in Stresa include an interactive cooking class of regional specialties; presentations on the gardens, arts, and contemporary life of the Lake District; and a day at leisure to explore independently.

Lake Orta: Take a walking tour of the lovely resort town of Orta San Giulio, then board a boat for the enchanting Isola San Giulio and its Romanesque basilica.

Lake Como: Enjoy time on beautiful Lake Como. Explore Bellagio’s charming streets lined with pastel houses and villas built by the region’s noble families. Enjoy lunch at a delightful lakeside restaurant and admire sweeping alpine and lake vistas during a private boat ride to the town of Como.

Milan: See world-famous treasures during a day excursion to cosmopolitan Milan. Highlights include the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, a World Heritage site and home to Leonardo’s The Last Supper; the museum at the legendary La Scala, Italy’s opulent opera house; and the exquisite Duomo, a Gothic masterpiece. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Sheri Shaneyfelt (Oct. 3) and Gary Radke (Sept./Oct. 12)–art historians. Allen Fromherz (June)–professor of Mediterranean and Middle East history.

Italy’s Apulia

A One-Week Stay in Polignano a Mare

9 days from $4,590 Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement / Special air rates available Oct. 11–19, Oct. 25–Nov. 2, 2023 & Apr. 17–25, May 15–23, Sept. 11–19, Oct. 2–10, Oct. 23–31, 2024

Gaining new recognition, Italy’s southeastern Apulia (or Puglia) is a magical landscape of ancient towns with unique architecture, diverse cultural sites, and outstanding culinary traditions. Explore this region during a one-week Cultural Stay in Polignano a Mare at the Hotel Covo dei Saraceni, perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Adriatic.

Highlights Include

Trulli of Alberobello: In the World Heritage site of Alberobello, walk amid iconic trulli, the whitewashed limestone buildings with conical roofs found nowhere else in the world. These ancient and unique dwellings are pieced together without mortar and are decorated with enigmatic Christian and pagan symbols.

Sassi of Matera: Named European Capital of Culture in 2019, Matera (located in nearby Basilicata), is home to the rock-hewn cave dwellings known as sassi, which were carved into the limestone by prehistoric people thought to be the first human settlers in present-day Italy. Experience this unique town during a walking tour, including a visit inside a cave house and rock church.

Greek to Baroque Towns: Explore the presence of early Greeks and Romans at Egnazia, an archaeological site dating back to the 13th century B.C. Stop in the “white town” of Ostuni, with its tightly packed white homes perched on the coastline; and take a tour of Trani, noted for its medieval fort, cathedral, and Jewish neighborhoods. In Lecce, witness the town’s exuberant and minutely

detailed baroque architecture; and wander amid a maze of medieval streets and alleyways in Bari.

Culture and Cuisine: Savor regional specialties and learn about culinary traditions at a family olive mill and a local vineyard. Plus, hear about the rich cultural heritage, slow-paced lifestyle, and architecture of Apulia from local speakers.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Rebecca Schindler (Oct. 11)–professor of classical studies. Elizabeth Molacek (Oct. 25)–art historian. Ross King (Apr.)–art historian.

Polignano a Mare Trulli in Alberobello

Italy’s Amalfi Coast

A One-Week Stay in Vietri sul Mare

9 days from $5,090

Includes $250 special savings / Special air rates available

Sept. 27–Oct. 5, Oct. 25–Nov. 2, 2023 & Apr. 17–25, May 8–16, Sept. 4–12, Oct. 16–24, 2024

Italy’s Amalfi Coast is renowned for its stunning coastline of pastel-colored villages perched on steep cliffs above the Mediterranean. For centuries, writers, artists, and emperors have found inspiration and respite in this stunning region, as have travelers. Join us for a Cultural Stay in Vietri sul Mare, and enjoy a leisurely sojourn that features World Heritage sites, breathtaking landscapes, and luscious cuisine and wine.

Highlights Include

The Amalfi Coast: Explore the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic hairpin curves and stunning views. Visit Ravello, where you’ll discover the exquisite Villa Rufolo, the place that provided German composer Richard Wagner inspiration for his opera Parsifal. Hear about the villa’s history, and then take a walk through the central piazza in the iconic town of Amalfi. Board a boat for a scenic cruise along the coastline to the delightful town of Positano.

Archaeological Sites: Travel to Paestum to see three of the most well-preserved Greek temples in the world. Later, spend a day exploring the ancient Roman towns of Pompeii and Herculaneum with an expert guide. These World Heritage sites were both destroyed by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79, buried and preserved by mud and ash.

Naples: Gaze upon stunning art and artifacts discovered at Pompeii and Herculaneum, now housed at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale. Take in panoramic views of the city and its sites from Posillipo Hill, and enjoy a lunch of Neapolitan pizza.

Capri and Sorrento: Discover the enchanting Isle of Capri, known for its grottoes and rocky promontories,

both by boat and on foot. Sample limoncello as you stroll along Sorrento’s Corso Italia, then continue to the hills above town and visit a farm to see how virgin olive oil and local cheese is produced.

Local Culture: Savor the traditional cuisine of Campania during meals, farm visits, and on your own. Gain insight into contemporary Italy during a discussion with residents, and hear about the wonders of the Naples’

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Stephen Clancy (Oct. 25) and Sara James (Oct. 16)–art historians. Sanjaya Thakur (May/Sept. 4)–expert in the classics.

Amalfi Coast

Amalfi

Vietri sul Mare

Naples Positano

Paestum Tyrrhenian Sea

Isle of Capri

Bay of Naples Pompeii

Herculaneum

Amal Coast

Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea

From Venice to Athens Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $5,890*

July 16–23, 2024

Discover the treasures that lie along the Adriatic’s shores as you sail from Venice to Athens along Croatia’s islandstudded Dalmatian Coast. Encounter an array of World Heritage sites—from the walled town of Dubrovnik to Montenegro’s breathtaking Gulf of Kotor—exploring the legacy of Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and Byzantines across the Balkan Peninsula.

Highlights Include

Hvar: Step into history on a walking tour of the 17th-century squares and monuments of Hvar town; or travel into the countryside to view lavender fields and enjoy an easy hike to the beach.

Mostar and Ston: In Bosnia and Herzegovina, tour the Ottoman outpost of Mostar, now a World Heritage site, and see the famous Stari Most bridge. Or visit the centuries-old saltworks in the walled town of Ston, and cruise in a local boat to see how oysters and mussels are farmed here—and taste the fresh catch.

Dubrovnik: Enjoy a full day in exquisite Dubrovnik to see the famous landmarks of this iconic World Heritage-listed walled city.

Kotor: Sail into Montenegro’s spectacular Bay of Kotor, a World Heritage site surrounded by towering peaks, and tour the historic town of Kotor.

Sarandë and Butrint: In Albania, uncover layers of history at the World Heritage site of Butrint or discover an Ottoman castle and an ancient Illyrian city on a walking tour of Sarandë.

Delphi and the Corinth Canal: Explore ancient Delphi, home to the mythical Oracle, or visit St. Lucas Monastery, a spectacular monument of Middle Byzantine

architecture. Make a thrilling passage through the ultra-narrow Corinth Canal.

Add a one-night extension in Athens or a two-night extension in Venice.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise include art historian Aneta Georgievska-Shine. Visit our website for the additional expert.

Fort Walls, Dubrovnik

Mediterranean Island Voyage:

Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba

From Valletta to Nice Aboard the 184-guest Le Bougainville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,850*

May 15–22, 2024

Step through the centuries on a voyage to the Mediterranean islands of Italy and France, exploring the temples of the ancient Greeks in Sicily, Napoleon’s elegant villa-in-exile on Elba, and the lively harbor towns of Taormina and Cagliari. Make three stops in glorious Sicily, encountering a wealth of World Heritage sites. Then sail on to Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba to discover vestiges of history amid the rugged beauty of these unique islands.

Highlights Include

Syracuse and Ortigia or Noto, Sicily: Venture to Ancient Syracuse, visiting Greek and Roman amphitheaters that still stage events and the beautiful palazzi and temples of Ortigia. Or encounter Sicilian baroque architecture in the 18th-century town of Noto, a World Heritage site.

Taormina: Take a walking tour of Taormina, and visit its Greek amphitheater or the fortified hilltop village of Castelmola. Alternatively, sample local wines on the slopes of Mount Etna, and peer into its volcanic craters.

Palermo: Discover Palermo’s World Heritage-listed Arab-Norman architecture and travel into orchard-covered hills to see the spectacular cathedral of Monreale. Alternatively, delve into the city’s centuries-old markets and sample local street food, or travel to the delightful medieval port of Cefalù for a walking tour.

Sardinia: Tour the capital city of Cagliari from its baroque palazzi to its hilltop fortress and take in views from Monte Urpino. Then explore the remarkable ruins of ancient Nora, once a thriving port under the Carthaginians and the Romans.

Bonifacio, Corsica: Ride a mini train through the oldest parts of cliff-top Bonifacio, enjoying an overview of the town and views as far as Sardinia. Then set off on a walking tour of the medieval Citadel. Or ride a local boat along coastal cliffs to secluded grottos and the beaches of the Lavezzi Islands.

Elba: In historic Portoferraio, visit the Medici fortress and a villa and theater built by Napoleon. Then head to a wine farm to sample local wines, cheeses, and charcuterie. Alternatively, take a scenic drive across Elba to visit Ottone Botanical Garden.

Add a one-night extension in Malta.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are archaeologist and geologist Peter Bobrowsky and Dennis Romano, a historian with expertise in Europe and the Mediterranean.

Portoferraio Nice Sicily

Sardinia

Corsica Tyrrhenian Sea

Adriatic Sea Elba

Portoferraio, Elba

Bonifacio, Corsica

Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean

Round-trip from Athens Aboard the 264-guest L’Austral A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $5,930*

Oct. 3–10, 2024

Strung like gems across the Aegean, the Greek Isles are legendary for their beauty and their importance in the history of Western civilization. Delve into the Classical world and see important World Heritage sites from Patmos to Delos on a voyage to two island groups: the Dodecanese and the Cyclades. Along the way, explore historic sites and delightful villages, get acquainted with local life, and immerse yourself in some of the most spectacular scenery in the Greek Isles.

Highlights Include

Patmos: Explore the World Heritage site of Patmos, from the working 11th-century Monastery of St. John to the Cave of the Apocalypse.

Amorgos: Take a guided tour of the Chora and the cliff-side Monastery of Hozoviotissa. Or visit an olive oil producer and a traditional Cycladic home where essential oils are distilled.

Delos and Mykonos: Tour the evocative ruins of Delos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, then spend a free afternoon exploring beautiful Mykonos.

Rhodes: Delve into the legacy of ancient Greeks, Romans, and the knights of the Crusades as you visit the Acropolis of Lindos or the Street of the Knights, and more.

Santorini: Cruise into the spectacular caldera of Santorini. Visit the ruins at Akrotiri and the Prehistoric Museum, sail a catamaran to Nea Kameni to hike up the volcano, or visit the village of Oia and enjoy a tour and tasting at a local winery.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise include memoirist, critic, and translator Daniel Mendelsohn. Visit our website for the additional expert.

Aegean Sea

GREECE

Patmos Mykonos Delos

Athens

Port of Call Ship

Nafplio

Santorini Rhodes

Mycenae

Amorgos

Santorini caldera Mykonos

Classical Greece

14 days from $7,392

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 7–20, Sept. 14–27, 2023 & Apr. 18–May 1, May 5–18, May 19–June 1, Aug. 29–Sept. 11, Sept. 8–21, Oct. 10–23, 2024

Trace the spark of Greek genius as you explore some of the most consequential sites in antiquity—and soak up contemporary Greek culture. Visit the Acropolis and the excellent museums of Athens, and tour the sacred site of Delphi. On the Peloponnese Peninsula, tour the ancient sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus and enjoy free time to explore charming Nafplio. Roll back the centuries in Crete as you tour the Minoan capital of Knossos and the fortified island of Spinalonga. Then cap off your Greek sojourn on incomparable Santorini, discovering ancient ruins and timeless cliff-top villages.

Highlights Include

Athens and Delphi: Experience the grandeur of the Parthenon and the Acropolis, and see important artifacts at the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum. View a magnificent collection at the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture. At nearby Delphi, explore the ancient Sanctuary of Apollo and visit the superb museum.

The Peloponnese: Trace Greek mythology in two World Heritage sites: Mycenae, the capital of western civilization for hundreds of years, and Epidaurus, home to a 2,300-yearold theater known for its excellent acoustics. Stroll the narrow lanes of picturesque Nafplio and spend a day on the nearby island of Hydra, soaking up a traditional way of life among age-old stone houses and waterfront cafés.

Crete: Venture to the storied Palace of Knossos, the political center of Minoan civilization and legendary home of King Minos. Explore the fortress-turned-leper colony of Spinalonga and the delightful village of Kritsa.

Santorini: Then take a high-speed ferry to spectacular Santorini, where you’ll tour Akrotiri, once a flourishing

Bronze Age Minoan town. During time at leisure, immerse yourself in the Cycladic towns of Thira and Oia.

Local Culture: Stop in at an olive oil factory in the Peloponnese to learn how oils are pressed, and enjoy a tasting and lunch. On Santorini, sample local vintages at a winery high on the cliffs overlooking the caldera. Gather for a special lunch at a women’s cooperative in Kritsa, and enjoy plenty of time to linger in traditional towns and lively waterfronts.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Veronica Kalas (Apr./Sept. 8/Oct. 10)–art historian and field archaeologist. Bella Vivante (May 19/Aug.)–Greek classicist.

Athens

Delphi

Peleponnese

GREECE Kantia

Thira

Corinth Epidaurus

Agios Nikolaos

Crete

Santorini Heraklion

Mycenae Nafplion Hydra Knossos Spinalonga

Oia, Santorini

Legendary Turkey and the Turquoise Coast

15 days from $5,692 Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Oct. 1–15, Oct. 15–29, 2023 & Apr. 5–19, May 7–21, May 31–June 14, Sept. 3–17, Sept. 24–Oct. 8, Oct. 15–29, 2024

Along Turkey’s western shores lie the vestiges of great empires, from the marble cities of the ancient Greeks to the opulent palaces of the Ottomans. Uncover layers of fascinating history as you make your way from captivating Istanbul to the Turquoise Coast, discovering world-renowned mosques, charming harbor towns, and legendary Greco-Roman cities from Ephesus to Pergamum. Venture into local bazaars and visit a rug cooperative; swim in gem-colored coves on a private yacht cruise; and enjoy free time to explore Istanbul, Fethiye, and Antalya on your own.

Highlights Include

Istanbul: Take three full days to discover the many sides of this incomparable city, with guided tours of celebrated sites from Hagia Sophia to Topkapi Palace, visits to lively bazaars and ancient Roman cisterns, and free time to explore on your own. Take in the views on a private Bosphorus cruise.

Gallipoli and Kayakoy: Retrace 20th-century history at two evocative sites: the World War I battlefield of Gallipoli where Ataturk’s forces defeated the Allies in 1915, and the centuries-old ghost town of Kayakoy, abandoned in the 1920s.

Ephesus, Pergamum, and Troy: Explore some of the most storied cities in antiquity. Retrace the tale of Troy, thought to be a mythological city until the 1800s, and venture to the royal city of Pergamum, set spectacularly on a lone hilltop. Spend a full day and a half at fabled Ephesus, visiting the Library of Celsus, the theater, the Terrace Houses, and much more.

Fethiye and the Turquoise Coast: Ride a skiff along intricate waterways from Dalyan to Lake Koycegiz, spotting ancient cliff tombs along the way. From the

lovely harbor town of Fethiye, set sail on a “blue voyage” aboard a private yacht, stopping in secluded coves along the Turquoise Coast to swim or snorkel.

Antalya: Visit the historic church of Demre and the Greco-Roman harbor of Phaselis on the way to Antalya. Stay on the waterfront and set out to discover the city sites, from the enchanting old town of Kaleiçi to the Roman ruins of Perge.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Add a four-night extension in Cappadocia and Konya. Visit our website for details.

Luca Zavagno (Oct. 15)–historian. Janet Duncan Jones (Apr.) and Stephanie Larson (May 7)–experts in the classics. Lawrence Butler (May 31)–art historian. Allan Langdale (Sept. 3)–art and architectural historian. Jodi Magness (Sept. 24)–archaeologist.

Turquoise Coast

TURKEY

Demre

Black Sea Overnight Featured Site Motorcoach Extension (Motorcoach) Perge Konya Cappadocia

Smithsonian

Pearls of Croatia and Slovenia

15 days from $6,484

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees Sept. 21–Oct. 5, Oct. 7–21, 2023 & Apr. 25–May 9, May 13–27, Sept. 5–19, Sept. 23–Oct. 7, Oct. 7–21, 2024

Croatia and Slovenia are at the crossroads of history and culture—influenced by empires from the ancient Greeks to the Habsburgs. Discover relics of the past among the effervescent modern-day cities of Zagreb, Ljubljana, and Split; and explore fabled resort towns on Lake Bled and the Opatija Riviera. Experience the unique heritage of the Istrian Peninsula, and venture to natural highlights such as Slovenia’s Postojna Caves and Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia. Along the way, visit six World Heritage sites, including the fertile plains of Hvar and the walled city of Dubrovnik.

Highlights Include

Lake Bled: In the fairy-tale alpine setting of Lake Bled, tour Bled Castle and enjoy spectacular views during a boat ride on the lake.

Historic Cities: Immerse yourself in the vibrant openair markets of Zagreb on a city tour, then discover lovely Ljubljana, admiring the World Heritage-listed architecture and urban planning of native son Jože Plečnik. In Split, encounter another World Heritage site: the fourth-century Diocletian’s Palace.

Natural Wonders: Venture into a labyrinth of tunnels and cathedral-like chambers on a train ride through Slovenia’s Postojna Caves. Then discover an ethereal web of waterfalls and lakes on a guided walk in Plitvice Lakes National Park—another World Heritage site.

Istrian Peninsula: Stay in the Habsburg retreat of Opatija at the edge of the Istrian Peninsula, and venture to the historic ports of Pula and Rovinj, variously ruled by the Venetians, the Habsburgs, Yugoslavia, and others.

Enjoy a tour and tasting at a family-owned olive farm. Trogir, Hvar, and Dubrovnik: Delight in the many treasures of the Dalmatian Coast. Stay within the medieval walls on the tiny island of Trogir, a World Heritage site. Ferry to Hvar for two nights in Hvar Town and cross the island to Stari Grad for a guided tour. Cap off your journey in Dubrovnik with a guided tour of the Old Town, a full free day to explore on your own, a sunset cruise around the walls, and a festive farewell dinner.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Carol Reynolds (Apr./Sept. 5)–expert in European art, music, and history. Tim Blanning (May)–historian with expertise in Europe.

Lake Bled

Istrian Peninsula Pula Rovinj Opatija

Trogir

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal

From Lisbon to Barcelona Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d’Urville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $5,900* Sept. 30–Oct. 7, 2024

Trace the Iberian coast from Lisbon along the southern shores of Spain, experiencing a rich cultural heritage. Discover the captivating cities of Andalusia, venturing into the World Heritage-listed Alcázar and Alhambra. Then sail to magnificent Mallorca to experience the lively seaside city of Palma. Encounter a wide range of architecture in sophisticated Valencia before concluding your voyage in Barcelona.

Highlights Include

Seville: Admire Mudéjar architecture on a tour of the 14th-century Alcázar, once the residence of Seville’s Moorish and Spanish rulers. Enjoy a lunch of Andalusian tapas, then stroll through the charming Jewish quarter.

Granada: Spend an afternoon in splendid Granada, where the Moors left a priceless architectural legacy: the Alhambra. On a walking tour of the city, see the cathedral where King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella are buried. Take a tour of the Alhambra and the beautifully landscaped Generalife Palace and Gardens.

Mallorca, Balearic Islands: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Mallorca, an island of idyllic coves, soaring limestone cliffs, and almond orchards and vineyards. Step into history in Palma de Mallorca, the cosmopolitan capital of the Balearic Islands, and discover its sandstone cathedral.

Valencia: Admire a wealth of architecture, visiting the 13th-century cathedral, home to paintings by Goya and Maella; the World Heritage-listed La Lonja de la Seda, a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture; and the modern

creations of Santiago Calatrava. Enjoy a Valencian specialty—paella—at a local restaurant, and stroll through the modernist Mercado Central, a gastronomic hub. Add a two-night extension in Lisbon or Barcelona.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are archaeologist and geologist Peter Bobrowsky and Linda Ehrlich, a film and art historian.

Mediterranean Sea

Palma de Mallorca Balearic Islands

Malaga

Seville

Valencia Cadiz

Plaza de España, Seville

Portrait of Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, and Cruising the Douro River

Aboard the 132-guest Amalia Rodrigues

12 days from $5,490 / Includes $250 special savings No Single Supplement / Special air rates available Oct. 3–14, 2023 & May 3–14, Sept. 13–24, Sept. 27–Oct. 8, Oct. 4–15, 2024

Portugal is renowned for the Age of Discovery, Old World towns and centers of learning, rabelo (sail boats) loaded with casks of port plying the Douro, and distinctive blue azulejos (tiles). Encounter all this and much more during our land and river cruise program featuring seven nights aboard an intimate riverboat.

Highlights Include

Lisbon to Coimbra: Explore World Heritage sites in Lisbon, including the Jeronimos Monastery, renowned for its Manueline style of architecture, and the Tower of Belém, part of the city’s defense system as well as a ceremonial gateway. Both sites also reflect the strong maritime impact of the Age of Exploration during the 15th and 16th centuries. You’ll also see the modern Monument to the Discoveries, and later enjoy a performance of traditional Portuguese fado music. The next day, travel to the ancient town of Sintra to tour the palace, a medieval royal residence and World Heritage site, as well as the fishing village of Cascais and the elegant resort of Estoril. After your drive to Coimbra, a center of fine arts and learning, tour the spectacular university library and the Royal Palace, including the Ceremonial Hall. Cruising the Douro: In Porto, embark your riverboat and enjoy a selection of fascinating shore excursions. First, discover Porto during a walking tour or tram tour and savor a taste of the area’s port wine. Then visit the town of Guimarães (a World Heritage site) or take a hike along the river. Cruise along the meandering Douro River to the Spanish border. From here, choose from two excursions

that feature the glories of Salamanca. During two more days on the river, explore historic sites and traditional towns and vineyards along the famous wine trail.

Amalia Rodrigues: This recently built ship features three decks, a spacious lounge with large picture windows, a full-service restaurant, a terrace, an elevator, and a spacious sundeck to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Douro River Valley.

Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Space reserved for 30 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the

Bob Smolik (Oct. 3)–veteran diplomat and scholar. Rafael Chacón (May)–art historian.

of Belém, Lisbon Douro River

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Treasures of Southern Spain and Portugal

Featuring Historic Paradores and Pousadas

15 days from $5,874

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Oct. 9–23, Oct. 23–Nov. 6, 2023 & Mar. 25–Apr. 8, Apr. 18–May 2, May 6–20, Sept. 7–21, Sept. 28–Oct. 12, Oct. 12–26, 2024

A riveting history of Romans and Moors, explorers and invaders is etched across the gentle landscapes of the Iberian Peninsula. The interplay of hilltop citadels, ancient Roman cities, Mudejar palaces, and Gothic cathedrals speak of the many cultures that graced Portugal and southern Spain. Trace the Golden Age of Exploration in Lisbon and spend two nights in the delightful town of Évora. Then cross into Spain, discovering World Heritage sites and enchanting towns from Seville and Ronda to Granada and Toledo.

Highlights Include

Paradores and Pousadas: Experience Iberia’s heritage up close while staying in a medieval convent, a Moorish castle, a stately Renaissance palace, and a medieval town hall overlooking a dramatic gorge.

Lisbon and Évora: Admire the architecture of the World Heritage sites of Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery, and visit the Monument to the Discoveries and the National Palace in nearby Queluz. Cross the Alentejo to the university town of Évora, another World Heritage site, and explore the Roman and Moorish sites from your base at one of Portugal’s finest pousadas.

Mérida, Seville, and Córdoba: Discover some of Spain’s most wellpreserved Roman ruins in Mérida, touring the amphitheater, temple, and aqueduct. From your parador in the charming town of Carmona, venture to Sevilla to tour the magnificent Gothic cathedral and the Alcázar. Then explore the Mezquita of Córdoba, a city where Moorish, Christian, and Jewish cultures flourished.

Ronda and Granada: Stay at the edge of a plunging gorge in cliff-top Ronda, and discover the town’s impressive Moorish architecture on a walking tour. In Granada, take a guided tour of the World Heritagelisted Alhambra, the legendary palace-fortress that epitomizes Moorish architecture.

Toledo and Madrid: Experience medieval Toledo, the city of El Greco, visiting the Gothic cathedral, the exquisite synagogue, and other sites. Then take a city tour of Madrid, including the Plaza Mayor, the Moorish medieval district, and the Royal Palace; and enjoy time at leisure to discover the city as you wish.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Lawrence Butler (Oct. 9)–art historian. Ana Afzali (Mar.) and Dianne Konz (Oct. 12)–experts in Spanish history, culture, and literature. Allen Fromherz (May)–professor of Mediterranean and Middle East history.

Lisbon

Alcázar, Seville

Across Northern Spain and Portugal

Featuring Historic Paradores and Pousadas

17 days from $6,974

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Oct. 3–19, Oct. 22–Nov. 7, 2023 & Apr. 12–28, May 10–26, May 31–June 16, Sept. 15–Oct. 1, Oct. 6–22, Oct. 20–Nov. 5, 2024

Travel the breadth of the Iberian Peninsula, crossing Portugal and northern Spain and encountering captivating cities such as Porto and Barcelona, fortified villages and fishing harbors, stunning coastlines and soaring mountain peaks. Visit stops along the legendary Way of St. James pilgrimage route, and explore an array of World Heritage sites. Admire the architecture of Gehry and Gaudí. Spend a day ensconced in Basque Country, and discover the hidden villages and valleys of the Pyrenees. Throughout the trip, stay in historic pousadas and paradores

Highlights Include

Paradores and Pousadas: Stay in three historic accommodations, including a seaside palace in Porto, a 15th-century hostel established by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, and a mountain lodge in the Pyrenees.

Lisbon and Porto: Discover the treasures of Lisbon including the rococo-style Queluz Palace, and visit the fortified village of Óbidos and seaside Nazare. In Porto, take a city tour and short cruise on the Douro River, and enjoy a special tasting tour at a traditional port lodge.

Santiago de Compostela: Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims who walked the Way of St. James on a tour of the city’s magnificent cathedral, now a World Heritage site.

León and Bilbao: Visit León’s 12th-century basilica and Casa Botines, a fairy-tale building designed by Antoni Gaudí. In Bilbao, stroll through the medieval Old City and see the cathedral. Tour the Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Gehry, and admire Spanish and Basque art at the Fine Arts Museum.

Basque Country and the Pyrenees: Stop in poignant Gernika, the town razed during the Spanish

Civil War, and visit seaside villages that reflect Basque culture. Travel through Pamplona on your way to the Pyrenees and spend a day exploring the mountains.

Barcelona: Trace the life and works of architect Antoni Gaudí at Casa Mila, Parc Güell, and his surreal cathedral, La Sagrada Familia. Stroll through the Gothic Quarter and bustling Las Ramblas and enjoy time at leisure to

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Dianne Konz (Oct. 3/May 31), David Gies (May 10), and Ana Afzali (Sept.)–experts in Spanish history, culture, and literature. Cameron Watson (Oct. 22/Oct. 20)–historian.

Lisbon

León Bilbao

Barcelona

Bielsa

Oporto

Overnight Featured Site Motorcoach

Pamplona

Santiago de Compostela

Bay of Biscay

SPAIN

PORTUGAL

Atlantic Ocean

Mediterranean Sea

Pyrenees

Santiago de Compostela Cathedral

Lisbon

Living In...

Immersive Three-Week Stays

Fulfill your dream of living abroad during one of our three-week immersion programs. Become immersed in the culture, history, and language of your chosen destination. You’ll explore many of the must-see sites as well as off-the-beatenpath treasures with a local expert, and enjoy time on your own (or with new friends!) to pursue personal interests.

Special Enrichment Tracks: Personalize your experience with any (or all) of the enrichment tracks in your destination, at an additional cost.

Italy: Language lessons, from $990; Culinary, from $620; Art and architecture, from $550.

France: Language lessons, from $1,250; Culinary, from $650; Art and culture, from $990.

Spain: Language lessons, from $525; Food and traditions, from $560; Active discovery, from $560.

Local Experts: Enjoy learning from local experts who share their knowledge of art, history, and culture and join you on select excursions.

Resident Director: An engaging and resourceful resident director handles logistics and helps you plan your free time.

Social Connection: In addition to group activities, you’ll enjoy the camaraderie of convivial gatherings of Smithsonian Journeys travelers, with some group meals included. (Note that the majority of meals are not included on these programs.)

Accommodations: Stay in a residential hotel located near the historic city center. Studio and one-bedroom apartments offer convenient amenities, plus hotel services such as friendly, helpful staff.

Each departure is limited to 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience with their Living in France program. The resident director was exceptional and excursions were hosted by knowledgeable local experts. Plus, the accommodations were perfect for a long stay. I will be going on another Smithsonian tour!

– Deborah W., Living in France

Living in Italy: Florence

A Three-Week Stay

23 days from $5,890

Includes $250 special savings

Special air rates available

Oct. 27–Nov. 28, Nov. 24–Dec. 16, 2023 & Apr. 30–May 22, May 21–June 12, June 11–July 3, Aug. 27–Sept. 18, Sept. 17–Oct. 9, Oct. 8–30, 2024

Florence—the city where Brunelleschi, Leonardo, and Michelangelo all lived for a time—boasts a wealth of Renaissance splendors, yet many of its riches elude all but the most experienced travelers. During our threeweek immersive cultural stay, you’ll soon feel at home and enjoy the time and opportunity to reach new depths of understanding into Italy’s arts, history, and culture. Walking tours and museum visits plus day trips into greater Tuscany provide insight into this favorite Italian destination. You’ll enjoy la dolce vita (the sweet life) as you meet new friends and find yourself irresistibly lulled into the unhurried pace of daily life, sipping espresso at a local outdoor café, getting to know vendors at the market, and savoring Tuscan specialties at neighborhood restaurants. Reside in the modern and beautifully appointed, PopArtment, a spacious apartment-hotel located in a residential area with close proximity to the heart of the city center.

Highlights Include

Florence Excursions: Take an in-depth walking tour of Florence led by an expert local guide. Visit the famous Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, whose red

dome is an iconic symbol of Florence, and marvel at the bronze doors of the Baptistery of John. Walk along the Ponte Vecchio, the bridge over the Arno River known for its gold and jewelry shops. Enjoy a tour of the Accademia galleries to see Michelangelo’s David and other remarkable museum collections; and visit the Uffizi Gallery, home to one of the most remarkable art collections in the world.

Day Trips: Learn more about Tuscany during day trips to Chianti, Lucca, Colle di Val d’Elsa, and Cortona. Explore the historic hill town of San Gimignano, a World Heritage site that is renowned for its 14 stunning medieval towers; and admire Siena’s renowned Piazza del Campo, one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Italy.

Presentations: Attend sessions by a local expert on Renaissance art and contemporary life. Enjoy a cooking demonstration and lunch, featuring Tuscan specialties, as well as a wine tasting.

Duomo of Florence

Living in France: Aix-en-Provence

A Three-Week Stay

23 days from $5,590

Includes $250 special savings

Special air rates available

Oct. 18–Nov. 9, 2023 & Apr. 17–May 9, May 8–30, Aug. 7–29, Aug. 28–Sept. 19, 2024

Provence—the very name evokes images of idyllic days of dazzling light illuminating the countryside’s lush olive groves and sloping vineyards. It was the same colorful scenery and light that drew artists such as Cézanne, Chagall, and van Gogh to this region. On this special immersive cultural stay in Aix-en-Provence, let this charming small city, which boasts a 600-year-old university and numerous art and cooking schools, become your home for three weeks. Stroll cobblestone streets on your way to an outdoor market, and explore medieval hilltop villages and Roman ruins. Linger over a glass of wine at a neighborhood café and dine in restaurants that few tourists could hope to find. Stay in a modern apartment at the Adagio Aix-en-Provence Centre, a residential hotel located on a peaceful street near the shops along Cours Mirabeau.

Highlights Include

Excursions, Day Trips, Presentations: Take an indepth walking tour of Aix-en-Provence led by an expert guide. Learn about the region’s history as you explore greater Provence during day trips to Avignon and the Pont du Gard, Marseille, and the Luberon Valley. Plus, enjoy a wine tasting and attend sessions on history and art by a local expert during your stay.

Living in Spain: Andalusia A Three-Week Stay

23 days from $6,290

Includes $250 special savings

Special air rates available Oct. 22–Nov. 13, 2023 & Mar. 31–Apr. 22, Apr. 21–May 13, May 12–June 3, Oct. 6–28, Oct. 27–Nov. 18, 2024

Whitewashed villages laced with bougainvillea, the seductive rhythms of flamenco, historic cities filled with delicate Moorish architecture, scalloped beaches and rugged mountains: Andalusia is a place to savor. Settle into your apartment in the inviting town of Marbella, perched on the Mediterranean Sea, and spend three weeks immersed in sun-kissed southern Spain. Burnish your Spanish skills, learn a few steps of flamenco, or cook authentic paella with a local chef. Trace the history and enduring influence of the Moors, and then see that influence firsthand on guided excursions to beautiful mountain villages and world-class cities like Granada and Málaga. Watch the sunset from the beach or while sipping sangria on a town square, and revel in the unhurried pace of life on Spain’s Costa del Sol.

Highlights Include

Excursions, Day Trips, Presentations: Discover seaside Marbella on a walking tour and venture to the nearby caves of Nerja and the Moorish village of Frigiliana. Learn about Andalusia’s unique cultural heritage from local experts, and enjoy an evening of flamenco and a wine tasting. Delve deeper into the region’s history and character on day trips to Granada, Málaga, Ronda, the White Villages, and more; and opt for a weekend escapade to Seville and Cordobá.

Lavender field, Provence

Marbella

France and Spain’s Basque Region

A One-Week Stay at the Parador de Hondarribia

9 days from $4,890

Includes $250 special savings / Special air rates available Apr. 20–28, May 11–19, Sept. 14–22, Oct. 5–13, Oct. 12–20, 2024

Delve into the wide-ranging soul of the Basque region in both France and Spain. Settle in for a week and explore the cultural traditions of art havens and resorts as well as gem-like villages dotting the Bay of Biscay and nestled amid the Pyrenees. You’ll reside in the seaside village of Hondarribia, with its charming medieval Old Town known as a Basque mecca for foodies, and be fully immersed in quintessential Spanish Basque culture.

Highlights Include

Spain: A walking tour of Hondarribia’s Old Town provides insight into your home for the week. From here, it’s easy to explore the Basque region. You’ll venture to Bilbao to visit the renowned Guggenheim Museum, designed by architect Frank Gehry; explore nearby San Sebastian, a world-famous resort on the Bay of Biscay; and discover legendary Pamplona, a charming city located in the foothills of the Pyrenees.

France: Learn about the heritage of Bayonne, capital of the French Basque region and designated a “Town of Art and History.” Spend time in the fashionable seaside resort of Biarritz and explore smaller gems in the shadow of the Pyrenees. Visit Espelette, where strands of red peppers adorn traditional Basque homes.

Culture and Cuisine: Meet with Spanish residents in Hondarribia and French residents in Sare to discuss Basque history and culture. Visit a wine cellar to learn about and taste local French vintages. Plus, savor delicious Basque cuisine, renowned for its blend of tradition and creativity. You’ll have the opportunity to try out a

(a Basque members-only dining society), a traditional cider house, and local pintxos bars and fine-dining restaurants. Parador de Hondarribia: Enjoy a one-week stay at this historic upscale Spanish property. Located in the medieval center of Hondarribia, the fortified parador is also known as the Castle of Charles V and dates from the 10th century. Here, stone walls and public spaces decorated with tapestries and fine antiques remind guests of the while the terrace offers panoramic vistas of the bay. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert (Sept.)–historian.

Spain’s Andalusia

A One-Week Stay in Antequera

9 days from $4,290

Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement

Special air rates available

Oct. 19–27, 2023 & Apr. 11–19, May 2–10, Sept. 12–20, Oct. 3–11, 2024

Immerse yourself in the heart of Andalusia and explore the influence of Moorish, Christian, and Jewish cultures as reflected in its art and architecture, cuisine, and culture. Settle into the lovely white hill town of Antequera and the Parador de Antequera, ideal settings for exploring the region.

Highlights Include

Antequera: Take delight in this classic medieval town, where you’ll also find the largest megalithic tomb in Europe, a 14th-century fortress that watches over the city, and more than 30 churches and cathedrals.

Granada, Seville, Ronda, and Córdoba: Gaze at the elaborate Moorish design of Granada’s Alhambra, a palace with ornate buildings, courtyards, and gardens. In Seville, admire the tile work at the Plaza de España and visit the immense Gothic cathedral and Alcázar. Explore the smaller towns of Ronda, dramatically perched on the El Tajo Gorge, and Córdoba, with its grand La Mezquita (mosque) later transformed into a cathedral. And in Málaga, take in the art of native son Pablo Picasso at the Museo Picasso.

Cultural Traditions: Admire the passionate music and dance of flamenco and savor the region’s culinary specialties, including a wine tasting.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Visit our website for the expert on this tour.

Europe’s Great Rivers

Featuring the Danube, Main, and Rhine Rivers Aboard the 168-guest Amadeus Silver III

16 days from $6,790 Includes $250 special savings

No Single Supplement—Limited Availability Special air rates & services available

Oct. 14–29, 2023 & Oct. 15–30, 2024

Explore the cultural landscapes of five European countries and three legendary rivers on this cruise, featuring a choice of excursions and many World Heritage sites.

Highlights Include

Hungary: Begin your river voyage in Budapest as you discover the city’s highlights. See the city illuminated from the waters of the Danube as our ship sails this evening.

Slovakia: Learn about Slovakia’s history in Bratislava and then choose a tour featuring its musical heritage, medieval architecture, or local wines.

Austria: Enjoy a choice of activities in elegant Vienna. Cruise along the beautiful Wachau Valley and stop in Dürnstein before continuing to the Benedictine abbey at Melk.

Germany: Cruise along the Danube to lovely Passau and Regensburg. Dock in Nuremberg and visit the medieval towns of Bavarian Bamberg, Wurzburg, Miltenberg, and Cologne. Marvel at hilltop castles as you sail through the breathtaking Rhine Gorge and enjoy a guided walk through historic Koblenz.

The Netherlands: In Amsterdam, take in the impressive collection of Dutch art at the Rijksmuseum, or embark on a guided walking tour of the canal district. Alternatively, enjoy a guided bicycle tour among rural historic villages. Space reserved for 55 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Port charges are an additional $495 per person.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Carol Reynolds (Oct. 14)–expert in European art, music, and history. Tim Blanning (Oct. 15)–historian with expertise in modern Europe.

El Tajo Gorge

A Seine River Cruise

Aboard the 148-guest Amadeus Diamond

9 days from $4,690

Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement

Special air rates available

May 7–15, Sept. 24–Oct. 2, 2024

Cruise the legendary River Seine and discover the historic, artistic, and cultural highlights of Ile-de-France and Normandy.

Highlights Include

Conflans-Sainte-Honorine and Versailles: Tour the iconic Palace of Versailles. Then learn about Conflans-Sainte-Honorine’s history on a walking tour.

Rouen: Explore the nearby abbeys of Jumièges and Wandrille, then visit the Rouen cathedral.

Normandy Coastline: Stroll cliff-top paths to view impressive chalk formations and dramatic cliffs along the coast of Normandy.

Honfleur: Explore the charming old port, which dates to the 17th century and served as a favorite subject of the Impressionist painters, and enjoy a choice of activities.

Caen and D-Day Beaches: Focus on modern history at the Caen Memorial Museum and visits to Omaha Beach and the American Military Cemetery.

Giverny: Trace Monet’s passion for gardening to his artistic genius while touring his house and gardens.

Paris: Enjoy a scenic cruise in the “City of Light,” followed by a walking tour focused on the city’s history and architecture.

Space reserved for 35 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Learn more about the Amadeus Diamond on our website.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Stephen Clancy (May)–art and architectural historian.

The Life and Work of Van Gogh in France

7 days from $5,790

Oct. 4–10, 2023 & Apr. 24–30, May 29–June 4, Sept. 18–24, 2024

Retrace the life and works of Vincent van Gogh, exploring his haunts from Paris to Remy-de-Provence in the south of France and enjoying private tours of renowned collections and exhibitions.

Highlights Include

Paris and Auvers-Sur-Oise: Immerse yourself in the great works of the Impressionists at the Musée d’Orsay, home to many works by van Gogh, and explore his haunts in hilltop Montmartre. Then journey to Auvers-Sur-Oise and visit the inn where he died and the home of Dr. Gachet.

Avignon and Arles: Join a local guide for a walking tour of Avignon. Stay in central Arles and discover the city sites associated with van Gogh. Meet a curator at the Fondation van Gogh to discuss the artist’s influence on contemporary art.

St.-Rémy-de-Provence: Stroll the Van Gogh Trail, seeing the very landscapes the artist immortalized during his year in the asylum of Saint Paul de Mausole. Visit the Romanesque monastery where he lived and painted.

Private Tours and Museum Visits: Enjoy private tours of world-renowned museums and specially arranged visits to acclaimed collections from the Auberge Ravoux in Auvers-sur-Oise to the Musée d’Orsay in Paris.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Martha Easton (Oct.), Mary O’Neill (Apr.), Janetta Rebold Benton (May), and Vivien Green Fryd (Sept.)–art historians.

CRUISE

Paris and the Seine River

Saint Paul de Mausole Asylum

Cruising the Rhine and Moselle Rivers

Aboard the 162-guest Amadeus Cara

9 days from $3,990 Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement / Special air rates available May 17–25, 2024

The Moselle and Rhine Rivers link enchanting towns and cities across western Europe—from Amsterdam and Cologne to Heidelberg and Strasbourg. They also weave through renowned wine regions and valleys dotted with castles and medieval villages. Set sail from Amsterdam to discover the culture, folklore, and history of two rivers and four countries. In many ports along the way, enjoy your choice of excursion—be it a bike ride from village to village in Holland, a wine tasting in the Rheingau, or a cruise along the canals of Strasbourg. With your Smithsonian Journeys Expert and local experts on board, delve deep into local culture, discovering the rich legends of the Moselle River Valley, the Rhine Gorge, and beyond.

Highlights Include

Amadeus Cara: With an elegant river ship as your base, you unpack just once and settle into life onboard. Sit down to meals inspired by the cuisines along the Moselle and Rhine, and enjoy culinary traditions such as a Frühschoppen. You’ll travel with a Smithsonian Journeys Expert as well as local experts.

Amsterdam: Enjoy a private cruise on the city’s World Heritagelisted canals, and choose from three excursions: a visit to the Rijksmuseum, a bike ride to rural villages, or a foodie tour of the lively Jordaan district.

Cologne and Cochem: Visit the extraordinary Dom Cathedral of Cologne, the largest Gothic cathedral in Germany and a World Heritage site. In Cochem, explore a historic castle and the terraced vineyards of the Moselle River Valley.

The Rhine Gorge and the Rheingau: Cruise the Rhine Gorge, hearing the lore of the villages and castles along the riverbanks. Then visit Rüdesheim in the Rheingau wine country and sample wines or visit an eclectic music “cabinet” full of antique automatic instruments. Heidelberg and Strasbourg: Discover two centuries-old university towns. In the baroque gem of Heidelberg, explore the old town and the Renaissance castle, or hike the Philosopher’s Way for breathtaking views. In Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace, visit the historic center and its cathedral, take a canal cruise through Petite France, or savor Alsatian delicacies on a food and wine tour.

Space reserved for 45 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Learn more about the Amadeus Cara on our website.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Carol Reynolds–expert in European art, music, and history.

Cologne Cathedral

Heidelberg

Treasures of the Alps

Swiss Trains and Italy’s Lake District

14 days from $7,492

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 9–22, 2023 & May 27–June 9, June 20–July 3, Aug. 8–21, Aug. 29–Sept. 11, Sept. 12–25, Sept. 28–Oct. 11, 2024

With their multitude of craggy, snow-dusted peaks and sweeping valleys dotted with timeless villages, the Alps inspire a sense of awe and a sense of peace. Experience some of the gems of these legendary mountains as you travel by train, ferry, coach, and cable car to charming medieval towns, historic medieval resorts, and sky-high summits in Switzerland, Italy, and Austria. Ride the Glacier Express to Zermatt and cruise to isolated villages on the shores of Lake Lugano. Wind through the lovely Italian Lake District on a scenic drive, spend a morning exploring German World War II sites, and attend a concert in an ornate palace in Salzburg.

Highlights Include

Legendary Swiss Trains: Gaze upon extraordinary mountain views from the legendary Glacier Express and the Pilatus Railway. Riding along the Gornergrat Bahn, Europe’s highest open-air railway, take in dramatic vistas of 29 Alpine peaks, including the majestic Matterhorn.

Charming Swiss Towns: Stay in lakeside Lucerne, with its medieval old town and distinctive covered bridge, and the alpine retreat of Zermatt, gateway to the Matterhorn.

Ticino and the Italian Lake District: During three days on Lake Lugano, visit castles and gardens, cruise to remote villages, and set off on a scenic drive to Stresa and Lake Maggiore in the Italian Lake District.

Innsbruck and Salzburg, Austria: Enjoy a walking tour of charming Innsbruck, and take a cable car into the mountains for a panoramic view of the city and the

surrounding Alps. Then travel through the stunning Tyrolean countryside to Salzburg and spend three nights in the hometown of Mozart. Explore the city’s historic sites, and attend a chamber music concert in the Marble Room of Mirabell Palace. Your final day features a trip to the clifftop Eagle’s Nest, the Nazi Party’s Bavarian retreat. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Hugh Neighbour (May)–former diplomat. Tim Blanning (Sept. 12)–historian with expertise in modern Europe.

Gornergrat Bahn, Switzerland

A Danube River Cruise

From Prague to Sofia Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Silver III, Riva, or Queen

15 days from $6,790

Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement—Limited availability / Special air rates available

May 18–June 1, May 27–June 11,* Aug. 9–24, Oct. 6–20,* 2024

The fabled Danube River flows through the heart of Central and Eastern Europe—an evocative landscape of ancient capitals; lovely villages; and magnificent churches, palaces, and castles. This unique itinerary showcases eight countries and many World Heritage sites, plus features a choice of specialty excursions.

Highlights Include

Czech Republic: Your journey begins in Prague, the capital of Old World Europe. During a three-night hotel stay, you’ll enjoy tours of the Charles Bridge and the historic district; a choice of excursions, including Lobkowicz Palace, the Jewish Quarter, or Prague’s architectural treasures; and some time at leisure.

Germany and Austria: Travel to Passau, located at the confluence of three rivers—the Danube, Inn, and Ilz. Before boarding your ship, visit magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral, among other sites. Then sail through the beautiful Wachau Valley, a World Heritage site, stopping at the Benedictine abbey at Melk and lovely Dürnstein. In Vienna, tour the lavish Imperial Apartments of the Hofburg Palace, Schönbrunn Palace, or Klosterneuburg Monastery; and enjoy an evening of Viennese waltz.

Slovakia and Hungary: In Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital, view St. Michael’s Gate and the Primate’s Palace during a walking tour, bike along the storied Slovak-Austrian border, or explore sites associated with renowned composers. Cruise into the heart of Hungary’s Budapest, one of Europe’s most striking capitals, nestled along the banks of the Danube. Visit the Great Market Hall, tour the old Jewish Quarter, or explore both the Buda and the Pest sides of the Danube. Later, see Ottoman mosques in Pécs.

Croatia, Serbia, and Romania: Visit the small towns of Kopacevo, Osijek, and Vukovar, plus enjoy a wine tasting. In Belgrade, a choice of excursions features the Nikola

Tesla Museum, a culinary tour, or a highlights tour with a stop at Kalemegdan Park. Then sail through the Iron Gate Gorge, a remarkable passage just 530 feet wide along the Serbian-Romanian border.

Bulgaria: Visit a historic church in Vidin. Then continue to Sofia for a two-night hotel stay, where you’ll learn about the city’s history and culture during a tour featuring the Royal Palace and Battenberg Square.

Space reserved for 35 to 75 Smithsonian Journeys guests, depending on departure. Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Learn more about the ships on our website.

*The May 27 and October departures will run in the reverse.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Stephen Clancy (May 18)–art historian. Tim Blanning (Aug.)–historian. Carol Reynolds (Oct.)–expert in European art, music, and history.

Holiday Markets

A Rhine River Cruise Aboard the 168-guest Amadeus Silver III or Imperial and Featuring a Stay in Alpine Interlaken

11 days from $3,990 / Includes $250 special savings

No Single Supplement Limited Availability / Special air rates available

Nov. 24–Dec. 4, Dec. 4–14,* Dec. 9–19, 2023 & Dec. 2–12, Dec. 3–13,* Dec. 8–18, 2024

Welcome the start of the holiday season during a delightful river cruise as towns along the Rhine open their cheerful Christkindlmarkts (Christmas markets) with holiday food specialties, hot mulled wine, and beautifully crafted holiday decorations. Personalize your cruise with a choice of excursions in select ports of call and visit many World Heritage sites.

Highlights Include

Heart of the Swiss Alps: Enjoy a two-night hotel stay in Interlaken, situated in the Bernese Oberland. Explore the charming town of Interlaken at leisure, and take a tour of nearby Bern with its historic Old Town en route to the ship.

Alsace and Germany: From Basel, cruise north along the Rhine, the border between France and Germany. See the highlights of the historic German town of Freiburg and stroll through the charming holiday market. In the afternoon, choose between two tours of lovely French towns: the 16th-century town of Riquewihr with its Alsatian wines, or Colmar with its many holiday markets and 14th-century Dominican church. Then spend a day in the principal Alsatian city of Strasbourg, and discover its history and architecture or culinary heritage, in addition to time to peruse the city market and a presentation about local family holiday traditions.

Heidelberg, Rüdesheim, and the Rhine Gorge: Take a walking tour of Heidelberg, showcasing the imposing hillside castle and the cathedral, and enjoy a special afternoon musical performance. The next day, choose from two tours around Rüdesheim: take in the Old Town and its special Christmas Market of the Nations, or visit the Abbey of St. Hildegard and enjoy a wine tasting. Then enjoy a leisurely afternoon cruising one of the most scenic sections of the Rhine, considered a World Heritage site, which features the famous Lorelei Rock and hillside castles around every bend.

Cologne, Düsseldorf, and Aachen: Join a walking tour of Cologne’s Old Town, Cathedral Square, and the magnificent Gothic Dom, a World Heritage site and one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe. Then choose to explore either Düsseldorf, with its mix of old and new architecture, or Aachen, the city of Charlemagne with its World Heritage site cathedral and “Throne of Charlemagne.” The afternoons are at leisure to discover the various Christmas markets.

Space reserved for 35 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Learn more about the ships

Aachen

Düsseldorf

Cologne

Rhine Gorge

Rüdesheim

Riquewihr

Colmar

Bern

Interlaken

Freiburg

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Tim Blanning (Nov. 24) and Christopher Brennan (Dec. 4)–historians with expertise in modern Europe. Carol Reynolds (Dec. 9/Dec. 2)–expert in European arts, culture, and music history. Stephen Clancy (Dec. 8)–art and architectural historian.

Strasbourg

Bernese Oberland village

FRANCE

Prehistoric Caves of France and Spain

10 days from $6,995 Sept. 30–Oct. 9, 2023 & Apr. 13–22, May 4–13, May 11–20, Oct. 12–21, Oct. 19–28, 2024

Tucked into rolling countryside from southwestern France to Spain’s northern coast lies a treasure trove of artifacts and art left by early humans tens of thousands of years ago. Gain insights into these Stone Age civilizations as you make your way from the stunning Dordogne region into the Basque country of France and Spain, exploring World Heritage-listed prehistoric sites both celebrated and little-known. Witness some of the oldest art in the world in caves from Lascaux to El Castillo, and marvel at the artistic skill and sensitivity of our early ancestors.

Highlights Include

Dordogne: Spend three days immersed in a fairy-tale landscape of spectacular karst cliffs and castles along the Dordogne River. Settle into the charming village of Les Eyzies-de-Tayac, built into the cliffs in the heart of the Vézère Valley.

Cave Art: Visit a fascinating range of prehistoric cave art sites, from the celebrated caves of Lascaux IV and Altamira to lesser-known sites such as Font-de-Gaume and Puente Viesgo.

Local Archaeology Experts: Gain insights from leading archaeologists and anthropologists working in the field who join us for private lectures and tours of important paleontological sites.

Atapuerca: Venture into the World Heritage site of Atapuerca with an archaeologist and learn about the incredible range of fossils and artifacts that continue to be unearthed here, including 1.2-millionyear-old hominin fossils—the oldest ever found in Europe.

Basque Country: Explore the superimposed caves of Isturitz and Oxocelhaya in France’s Basque region, and get acquainted with Basque culture during a free afternoon in Bilbao, the largest city in Spain’s Basque country.

Unique Accommodations: Stay in a cliff-side village on the Vézère River, a historic monastery on Toulouse’s main square, an 18th-century mansion in the heart of medieval Santillana del Mar, and a contemporary boutique hotel just steps from Frank Gehry’s Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.

Exceptional Cuisine: Try out Neanderthal cuisine during a prehistoric lunch and enjoy gastronomic dining experiences and excellent French and Spanish wines throughout your journey. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Beebe Bahrami (Sept.)–writer and anthropologist. April Nowell (May 4/Oct. 19)–Paleolithic archaeologist and professor of anthropology.

Bay of Biscay

Les Eyziesde-Tayac

Bordeaux

Lascaux IV

Pech Merle Atapuerca

Puente Viesgo caves

Toulouse

Santillana del Mar

Altamira Cave art

Atapuerca archaeological site

A River Cruise of Provence

Aboard the 140-guest Amadeus Provence

9 days from $5,090 / Includes $250 early booking savings

No Single Supplement / Special air rates available

Oct. 4–12, 2023 & May 1–9, Sept. 18–26, Oct. 23–31, 2024

Feel the essence of sun-drenched Provence and historic Burgundy as you cruise along the Rhône and Saône Rivers on a round-trip journey from Lyon. Trace the history of the Romans in southern France, hear stories of medieval popes, see many World Heritage sites, savor Burgundy and Beaujolais wines, and appreciate the landscapes and ambiance that drew famous artists.

Highlights Include

Historic Sites: In Arles, explore the magnificently restored Roman amphitheater, built in the first century B.C., and the Romanesque Cathédrale de St. Trophime. In Avignon, visit the 14th-century Palais des Papes, a World Heritage site. Choose to see other ancient sites such as the Pont du Gard aqueduct or the Roman theater and Triumphal Arch in Orange, and medieval sites such as Vieux Lyon. Plus, everyone explores the Benedictine Abbey of Cluny, once home to 10,000 monks, and the World Heritage site of Beaune with its 15th-century Hôtel Dieu.

Rhône and Saône Wines: Visit the historic wine regions of the Beaujolais and Mâconnais, which produce some of the finest wines in the world. Enjoy a morning tour through peaceful vineyards, followed by a wine tasting. Tour the Côte de Beaune region and its famed winegrowing villages, and drive the Route des Grands Crus (Road of Great Wines)—one of the oldest and most celebrated wine routes in France.

Memorable Landscapes: View the horses, pink flamingos, egrets, and herons that make their home in the marshy fields of the coastal Camargue, a nationally

designated protected wetland, and visit the nearby coastal town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. Choose other nature excursions such as a tour to the Ardèche Gorges and a cycling tour along the Rhône River.

Space reserved for 35 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Learn more about the

Journeys Experts

Madeline Díaz (Oct. 4)–expert in art history and museum studies. Charles Ingrao (Sept.)–historian.

Smithsonian

Avignon

D-Day: A Journey from England to France Commemorating the 80th Anniversary

9 days from $7,795

May 31–June 8, 2024

Accompanied by a military historian, gain a deeper understanding of the monumental feat of Operation Overlord. In England, learn about the “behind-thescenes” preparations for D-Day, then cross the channel to France and visit the beaches and villages of Normandy where brave soldiers changed the course of the war.

Highlights Include

80th Anniversary: Attend a private after-hours visit and welcome dinner at Winston Churchill’s Cabinet War Rooms and Museum, exclusive to Smithsonian Journeys travelers. On this major anniversary, witness the D-Day ceremonies* on June 6th at the American Military Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, which will likely be attended by heads of state and other dignitaries.

England: Learn about the behind-the-scenes preparations necessary to stage the largest amphibian landing in history. In London, visit Winston Churchill’s underground Cabinet War Rooms, then continue to the Thames River and step aboard the HMS Belfast, the most significant surviving Royal Navy warship of World War II. You’ll also travel to Bletchley Park where you will hear the story behind the Enigma code breakers, credited with shortening the war by successfully deciphering the encryption used by the Wehrmacht to safeguard its messages.

Portsmouth and the Channel: Travel to Portsmouth to tour the D-Day Museum. Just outside the city, visit the Supreme Headquarters of the Allied Expeditionary Force by special arrangement. Then take a ferry to Normandy.

France: Stand atop the dramatic bluffs of Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Rangers scaled hundred-foot cliffs to knock out the gun emplacements. Visit the village of Sainte-MèreÉglise, where paratroopers dropped from the sky in a hail

of gunfire. With your expert historian, walk along Utah Beach, site of one of two American amphibious landings in the early hours of D-Day. Stop at Arromanches, where the prefabricated concrete harbors (or mulberries) still dot the water, and visit the Arromanches Landing Museum. During your time in Normandy, you’ll also visit museums that provide further insight into D-Day, including the Overlord Museum and the Pegasus Memorial Bridge and Museum. Spend time at Omaha Beach, site of the bloodiest fighting of the invasion day, and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests per departure.

Journeys Experts

Smithsonian

Mitch Yockelson, Steven Mrozek, Flint Whitlock, and Paul Sanders–military historians.

Normandy A One-Week Stay in France

9 days from $4,890

Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement / Special air rates available

Oct. 14–22, 2023 & Apr. 20–28, May 24–June 1,* June 7–15,* Aug. 31–Sept. 8, Oct. 5–13, 2024

Normandy is renowned as a center of Impressionism and for its charming towns and fine cuisine. It’s also remembered for major military efforts, from the Norman Conquest to the D-Day invasion of World War II. Join us for a one-week stay at the centrally located Hotel Mercure in Honfleur, the ideal base to explore this region.

Highlights Include

Battle of Normandy: Visit the beaches where World War II’s Operation Overlord took place. Stirring sites include Omaha Beach; Arromanches; and Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Rangers scaled the cliffs to take out the German gun emplacement. You’ll visit the Caen Memorial and Museum, which focuses on World War II, the D-Day landings, and the Cold War through a variety of exhibitions; as well as the Arromanches Museum. To honor the many brave soldiers who gave their lives, you’ll also visit the U.S. Military Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer.

Artistic Legacy: Travel to Bayeux to view the embroidered story of William the Conqueror’s victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. The Bayeux Tapestry, nearly 230 feet in length, offers historians insight into the battle as well as the weapons, clothing, food, and other details of daily life in that age. During a walking tour of Honfleur, see why artists like Claude Monet, Gustave Courbet, and native son Eugène Boudin were in awe of this charming seaside town.

Mont St. Michel: Discover this breathtaking tidal island with its iconic abbey and historic church, one of the most

remarkable sites in France and a World Heritage site.

Cultural Traditions: Savor traditional culinary products such as Calvados (apple brandy), and visit a nearby estate farm to sample Norman cheeses. At the Château du Bec, attend a presentation on local cooking traditions by Chef Régine, a local chef, who will proceed with the preparation of your lunch.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

*The May 24 and June 7, 2024 departures will stay in the

Robert Dalessandro (Oct. 14/May) and Steve Mrozek (Apr.)–military historians.

Pointe du Hoc

Paris

FRANC E

English Channel Seine River

Overnight Featured Site

Bayeux

Mont St. Michel

Omaha Beach

Caen

Arromanches Le Havre Étretat Honfleur

Honfleur

France Through the Ages

15 days from $6,997

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Oct. 2–16, 2023 & Apr. 22–May 6, May 17–31, Sept. 9–23, Sept. 30–Oct. 14, 2024

Immerse yourself in many facets of France—from cuisine and history to architecture and geology—on a journey to five distinct regions. Explore the ramparts of Carcassonne and Albi, and delve into prehistory among the cliffside villages and caves of the Dordogne region. Then venture to the Loire Valley to encounter the sumptuous Renaissance châteaux built by kings and nobility. Trace centuries of history in Normandy, visiting the medieval abbey of Mont St. Michel as well as the poignant World War II sites along the coast. Enjoy an inside perspective on the delightful cities of Paris and Toulouse on guided tours, and experience the hospitality and gastronomy of provincial France.

Highlights Include

Southern Treasures: Stay in the historic heart of Toulouse, and explore the fortified town of Carcassonne, surrounded by some of the longest medieval city walls in Europe. Venture to the market town of Albi, birthplace of artist Henri Toulouse-Lautrec.

Dordogne River Valley: See world-renowned prehistoric cave art at the International Center for Cave Art at Lascaux IV, and visit the cliffside pilgrimage site of Rocamadour. Tour medieval Sarlat, and cruise the Dordogne River past dramatic karst formations and cliff-top castles. Enjoy a private, guided tour of the Château de Milandes, once the home of American entertainer Josephine Baker.

Loire Valley: From your base at an 18th-century manor in Saumur, discover a romantic landscape dotted with historic châteaux. Tour the Château de Chenonceau, a Renaissance masterpiece that spans the River Cher; the Château du Clos Lucé, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years; and the World Heritage site of Fontevraud Abbey. Normandy: Ascend cobblestone streets to the fortified abbey of Mont St. Michel, and see the renowned Bayeux Tapestry. Then gain insight into the extraordinary events of D-Day while visiting Utah Beach, Sainte-Mère-Église, Pointe du Hoc, the American cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach, and Le Mémorial museum in Caen.

Along the Seine: Stroll through Monet’s gardens at Giverny, the artist’s country estate, and end your journey in Paris with a highlights tour.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Lisa Passaglia Bauman (May)–art historian.

Mont St. Michel

Village in Dordogne

Paris: The African American Experience

9 days from $5,290

Includes $250 special savings Special air rates available Apr. 13–21, June 22–30, Oct. 12–20, 2024

In the early 20th century, Paris became a center for creative spirits seeking a welcoming artistic milieu. After both World Wars, African Americans turned to Paris to embrace the open French culture, and in the process made a lasting impact on the cultural world through their music, writing, and art. During this cultural stay at the centrally located Hotel Les Jardins du Marais, immerse yourself in the “City of Light” and see it through the lens of the African American experience.

Highlights Include

African American Experience: Discover neighborhoods related to W.E.B. Dubois, Langston Hughes, James Baldwin, Eugene Bullard, and Richard Wright. During walking tours, trace the impact of the Harlem Renaissance and jazz on Paris, from the early 1920s through post World War II. Visit the memorials and statues in Paris’ north end that celebrate three generations of Alexandre Dumas’ family and how they illustrate France’s relationship with slavery and race.

Jazz Age in Paris: Learn about the dawn of the Jazz Age in Paris and black musicians like the Harlem Hellfighters; World War I flying ace and drummer Eugene Bullard; and later musicians Miles Davis and Bud Powell. See how their influence continues during a live jazz concert. Visit the sites of famous nightclubs run by the singer Ada “Bricktop” Smith, and gain insight into entertainer and activist Josephine Baker.

Special Insider’s View: Meet with award-winning novelist and journalist Jake Lamar, an American expatriate who discusses his experience in modern Paris. Enjoy an exclusive screening of the film, Paris Noir: African

Americans in the City of Light, and then participate in a question and answer session with the filmmakers.

Other Highlights: Enjoy special tours of cultural Paris, such as a tour of the National Museum of the History of Immigration, a culinary walking tour, and an excursion to Versailles. Enjoy a cruise along the River Seine, viewing legendary Paris attractions such as Notre Dame Cathedral, and pass beneath elegant bridges like the Pont Neuf. Enjoy the delights of French gastronomy throughout the program and on a special food tour.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Paris Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Thomas Doughton (June)–lecturer and former Paris resident with expertise in African American history. Kaiama Glover (Oct.)–professor of French and Africana studies.

Jazz concert in Paris

Eiffel Tower

FRANCE

Charles de Gaulle Airport

Seine River

EUROPE / SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS

Great European Journey

A River Cruise and Train Trip from Holland to Switzerland

Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Queen and Featuring Three Historic Swiss Railways

12 days from $4,315

June 28–July 9, July 10–21, 2024

Reminiscent of the 19th-century “Grand Tour,” this unique and popular journey features the heart of Western Europe—with both river cruising and train travel. In Amsterdam, board your deluxe riverboat for a five-night cruise through Holland, Germany, and France; then enjoy panoramic vistas of the Swiss Alps from the windows of historic trains.

Highlights Include

Holland: Take a private cruise along Amsterdam’s legendary canals, with their 16th- and 17th-century gabled row houses, designated a World Heritage site.

Germany and the Rhine River: Visit Cologne’s Old Town and the historic Gothic cathedral. Follow the Mosel River to the charming medieval town of Cochem. Then cruise through the most scenic section of the Rhine River Valley, a World Heritage site where each bend in the river features a medieval castle and tranquil village. Travel to a vineyard renowned for its Riesling where you’ll enjoy a private wine tasting. And in Heidelberg, visit the magnificent 13th-century castle perched above the river.

France: Arrive in Alsace, a region whose ownership has moved between Germany and France for generations. In lovely Strasbourg, visit the Old City, a World Heritage site featuring medieval houses and covered bridges spanning picturesque canals.

The Swiss Alps and Legendary Railways: Cross the rolling Swiss countryside to Bern, the capital and a World Heritage site. Travel through the spectacular Bernese Oberland to the snowcapped mountain peaks of the Alps and the towering Jungfrau. Enjoy two nights each in Lucerne and Zermatt, dramatically set beneath the iconic

Matterhorn. Explore these charming towns and experience the soaring majesty of the Swiss Alps from three legendary railways: the Gornergrat Bahn, the Glacier Express, and the Pilatus Railway, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway.

Space reserved for 60 Smithsonian Journeys guests, depending on the departure. Port charges are an additional $55 per person. Learn more about the Amadeus Queen on our website.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Carol Reynolds (July)–expert in European art, music, and history.

Port of Call/Overnight Featured Site Ship

Zermatt and the Matterhorn

An Amadeus ship near Cologne

County Clare

A One-Week Stay in Western Ireland

9 days from $4,990

Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement

Special air rates available

June 8–16, Sept. 7–15, Sept. 21–29, 2024

Experience the essence of Irish culture in Ennis, County Clare, where you’ll view Ireland through the eyes of its people. The Old Ground Hotel, situated in the heart of Ennis, provides the perfect base for your discoveries.

Highlights Include

Music: Listen to live music throughout your stay in Ennis, a stronghold of traditional Irish music. Enjoy exclusive performances and more informal gatherings in charming local pubs. Plus, meet a musician in his home to hear more about Irish musical history.

Other Cultural Traditions: Gain insight into the Irish game of hurling, dating back 2,000 years, and learn about Irish history and genealogy from a local expert.

Dramatic Landscapes: Enjoy walking along the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren, special areas of outstanding geology and beauty. You’ll also drive along the Wild Atlantic Way and the scenic Loop Head Peninsula.

Aran Islands: Travel to Inis Mór, inhabited since ancient times and a center for the Irish language. Learn about its history and meet a family who are modern purveyors of culinary seaweed.

Castles and Gardens: Learn about Irish castles, gardens, history, and science at Birr Castle and Bunratty Folk Park. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Hilary Lennon (June/Sept. 7) and Christopher Griffin (Sept. 21)–experts in Irish literature.

Mystery Lover’s England

9 days from $6,995 Sept. 30–Oct. 8, Oct. 14–22, 2023 & Sept. 28–Oct. 6, 2024

Our one-of-a-kind British mystery tour features peaceful Devon, academic Oxford, and cosmopolitan London, all of which have served as settings for stories by mystery and detective writers. Gain insight into the lives and works of famous detective novelists from our expert and, by special arrangement, from contemporary authors.

Highlights Include

Exclusive Meetings: Enjoy insider meetings with contemporary mystery writers who offer a glimpse into their work and lives. Plus, attend an exclusive reception featuring a discussion with a London-based mystery writer.

Devon and Dartmoor: Experience the landscapes and sites associated with Agatha Christie, including her beloved holiday home Greenway. Then set off through mysterious Dartmoor, with its enormous granite tors, wild ponies, mist, and rain, which Sir Arthur Conan Doyle used for inspiration.

The Cotswolds and Oxford: Step into a Dick Francis mystery during an excursion focused on horse racing. Discover the ancient towers and hidden quads of Oxford, a mystery lover’s paradise given the abundance of crime writers who have used it as a setting, including Dorothy Sayers, P.D. James, and Colin Dexter.

London: Conclude in cosmopolitan London, where you’ll explore the legal district at the Inns of Court, featured as a favorite backdrop in the works of James and Sayers.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Michael Jecks (all dates)–professional crime writer, author of more than 40 novels, and teacher.

Irish musicians

London SPECIALTY

England’s Lake District

A One-Week Stay in Historic Cumbria

9 days from $6,090

Includes $250 special savings

Special air rates available

June 4–12, July 9–17, Aug. 6–14, Sept. 10–18, 2024

Experience the evocative beauty of England’s Lake District, settling in for a full week to explore the region in depth. On excursions by foot, boat, and road, discover silver lakes and sweeping emerald slopes that have inspired poets and artists over the centuries. Visit castles, ancient ruins, and timeless villages. Venture up breathtaking mountain passes and take in views of Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England. Then venture out of the park to explore Hadrian’s Wall and the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. Highlights Include

Bowness-on-Windermere: Explore the Lake District from your base at a waterfront hotel in Bowness-onWindermere. Admire views of Lake Windermere and the surrounding mountains, and enjoy free time during the week to discover the hidden gems of this Victorian village.

Northern Lake District: Take in stunning vistas on a driving tour through the northern reaches of Lake District National Park. Visit picturesque Grasmere, admire panoramic views at a 5,000-year-old stone circle, and stop for a bistro lunch and a tasting tour at a renowned whisky distillery. From the town of Keswick, cruise beautiful Derwentwater, one of the region’s largest lakes.

Hadrian’s Wall: Head north on a full-day excursion to Hadrian’s Wall, an ancient Roman fortification that stretches 73 miles from coast to coast. Explore turrets and observation towers of this World Heritage site, follow the wall on foot, and visit the Roman Army Museum.

Castles and Gardens: Tour Muncaster Castle, a 14thcentury family home surrounded by lovely gardens and parklands, and visit its Hawk and Owl Centre. Later, hike

along the shores of Lake Windermere to Wray Castle, or meander through Holehird Gardens, home to the Lake District Horticultural Society.

Lake District Literary Tour: Set out with a guide to discover the haunts of the writers who settled here. Take a private garden tour at William Wordsworth’s house at Rydal Mount, and visit the homes of John Ruskin and Beatrix Potter.

Yorkshire Dales: Encounter waterfalls and expansive moors on a morning excursion to the Yorkshire Dales. Go on a hike, sample local cheeses at a creamery, and take a walk through the charming village of Grassington.

Lake District National Park

Derwentwater, Lake District

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Roff Smith (June/Sept.)–geologist and archaeologist.

Smithsonian at Oxford

8 days from $5,850 Book early—course capacity is limited!

Sept. 16–23, 2023 & June 29–July 6, Sept. 14–21, 2024

Join fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers who share a deep and unbridled love of learning and wish to study a subject in depth. Immerse yourself in the intellectual and cultural environment of Oxford University—one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the world, where Smithsonian Journeys travelers have congregated since 1979.

We return to Oxford University—a renowned academic institution that has produced multiple Nobel laureates and cultural giants such as J.R.R. Tolkien and T.S. Eliot. Here, you’ll explore the libraries and grounds, dine in the college hall, sample life as an Oxford student, and study with Oxford tutors after choosing a course from fascinating themes.

Highlights Include

Courses of Study: Stimulate your mind in pursuit of knowledge as you spend your mornings learning from an Oxford tutor. Visit our website for course selections.

Excursions: During a tour of Oxford, learn about this historic city, the British educational system, and the connection between James Smithson (founding donor of the Smithsonian Institution) and the university, which he attended as a student. Plus, take an excursion tailored to your specific course. Find details on our website.

Optional Activities: Tour staff will help arrange alternative afternoon outings, including punting, a guided tour to the Ashmolean Art Museum, and a walking tour based on the popular British drama, Inspector Morse

Lifestyle: Stay at a historic college and sample life as an Oxford student. Live in a dormitory room (with en suite bathroom), dine in the college hall (including High Table—a privileged tradition, subject to availability), and enjoy the use of Oxford’s common rooms and gardens. Explore the charming town of Oxford, take tea at local eateries, and enjoy Evensong at Christ Church College.

The average course size is 14 to 16 guests. Book early to ensure your preferred choice. See our website for information on a four-day extension in London.

Oxford Tutors

Historians, authors, and heritage professionals from the Oxford community will serve as Smithsonian faculty. See our website for more information.

Smithsonian Journeys traveler on campus

Prehistoric Mysteries of England and Ireland: Stonehenge to the Aran Islands

9 days from $6,335 Sept. 21–29, 2023 & Apr. 18–26, Sept. 19–27 2024

Venture back in time to an age of Celts and ancient kings as you make your way from England’s Neolithic standing stones to the prehistoric sites of Ireland’s west coast. In the company of local archaeologists and authors, delve into the mystical origins of Avebury and Stonehenge. Venture to Ireland’s glorious west coast, discovering a Celtic ring fort on the cliffs of the Aran Islands and prehistoric relics scattered across County Clare.

Highlights Include

Avebury and Stonehenge: Enjoy a closer look at the famous stone circles of Avebury and Stonehenge—and the people who built them—as you explore these World Heritage sites with a local expert. Visit the adjacent sites of Woodhenge and Durrington Walls, and examine artifacts found among these prehistoric monuments.

National Museum of Ireland: On a visit to the acclaimed archaeology wing of Ireland’s premier museum with an archaeology expert, view the Cashel Man, stunningly preserved for millennia six feet deep in a peat bog.

Newgrange and Knowth: Journey to Brú na Bóinne, a World Heritage site brimming with intriguing ruins that date back 6,000 years. Delve into the symbolism of the Hill of Tara and venture into the passage tombs of Newgrange and Knowth.

Rathcroghan and Galway: Learn about ongoing excavations at Rathcroghan and discover the site’s connection with Halloween. Then spend two nights in lively Galway, soaking up the traditional arts and music scene during free time.

Aran Islands: Take a ferry to Inishmore for a visit to the Celtic ring fort of Dun Aonghosa, perched at the edge of a sea cliff. Learn about traditional Irish culture as you explore the island’s quaint villages.

County Clare: Discover Bronze Age monuments scattered across the otherworldly limestone landscapes of the Burren on a walk with a local author. Then see the famous Cliffs of Moher, a five-mile ribbon of vertical cliffs that drop some 700 feet to the Atlantic Ocean below.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. The internal flight is an additional cost of $320 per person.

Basingstoke

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Michael Parker Pearson (Apr.)–archaeologist with specialty in British prehistory. Cassandra Potts

Hannahs (Sept. 19)–historian.

Stonehenge Avebury

Rathcroghan

Limerick

Galway

Cliffs of Moher

Heart of Scotland

A One-Week Stay Featuring the Edinburgh Military Tattoo

9 days from $4,990 Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement / Special air rates available July 29–Aug. 6, Aug. 12–20, 2024

Immerse yourself in the ancient heart of Scotland, getting acquainted with its history, natural beauty, and contemporary culture during a weeklong stay. From your base in the medieval old town of Stirling, discover the legacy of Scottish heroes King Robert the Bruce and Sir William Wallace, the subjects of the movie Braveheart. Explore the childhood home of Mary, Queen of Scots, and tour the majestic cathedral ruins in seaside St Andrews. During a full day in Edinburgh, experience the enchanting Military Tattoo, staged on the castle grounds. Enjoy a wide variety of activities, from a distillery visit to a cruise on Loch Lomond, as well as free time to explore Scotland’s enchanting towns and cities.

Highlights Include

Stirling: Stay in a Victorian landmark within the medieval walls of Stirling, and explore the history of this royal town and its region—where both William Wallace and Robert the Bruce defeated the English in the wars for Scottish independence. Venture to famous battlefields, and take a guided tour of the town’s castle, once the home of Mary, Queen of Scots.

Edinburgh and the Military Tattoo: excursion to this World Heritage-listed city, take a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile as well as the Georgian New Town. Experience the Military Tattoo, a thrilling annual spectacle of military bands from around the world and traditional Highland dancing set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle.

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park: Spend a day discovering this vast and wild landscape of lochs and Munros, or mountains over 3,000 feet. Set out

on a scenic cruise on Loch Lomond and enjoy a lakeshore lunch in charming Luss. Admire the stunning views on a drive through Queen Elizabeth Forest Park.

St Andrews: Take a day trip to seaside St Andrews, a pilgrimage destination and Scotland’s oldest university town. Meander among the evocative ruins of the town’s castle and its 12th-century cathedral, once one of the most

St Andrews North Sea

Stirling Loch Lomond and the Trossachs Perth Crieff Overnight Featured Site

SCOTLAND

Scotland’s Treasures

Featuring the Royal Military Tattoo*

12 days from $7,296

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

May 18–29, July 27–Aug. 7,* Aug. 10–21,*

Aug. 31–Sept. 11, 2024

Experience the enduring appeal of Scotland on a journey from the sweeping Highlands to Edinburgh’s storied Royal Mile. Delve into history and architecture in the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh. Hear the tales of the Highlands clans in Glencoe and Culloden, and visit important castles and battlefields. Soak up the mystique of the Isle of Skye, then make your way east to seaside St Andrews. Delve deeper into Scottish culture, getting a firsthand view of traditions such as falconry, whisky distilling, and sheepdog training.

Highlights Include

Glasgow: Discover Glasgow’s distinctive architectural style and visit the remarkable Kelvingrove Art Gallery. Enjoy a curator-led tour of Pollok House, home of the Maxwell clan, and see the Riverside Museum, designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid.

The Highlands: Take a scenic cruise on Loch Lomond and see historic Glencoe and Glenfinnan Monument. Follow the shores of fabled Loch Ness and explore the ruins of the 13th-century Urquhart Castle. Visit Culloden Moor, site of the last battle of the Jacobite Rising; discover prehistoric sites along the Pictish Trail; then witness a falconry demonstration on a tour of Dunrobin Castle and Gardens.

Isle of Skye: Set off on a full-day excursion to the Isle of Skye, known for its strong Gaelic influence. Enjoy a traditional pub lunch in Portree and explore the mystical Black Cuillin mountains.

Kincraig, Pitlochry, and St Andrews: Cross Scotland, gaining insight into local traditions. Watch a sheepdog demonstration in Kincraig; sample handcrafted single malt at a 150-year-old distillery in Pitlochry; and explore St Andrews, renowned for Scotland’s oldest university and as the birthplace of golf.

Edinburgh: Explore the “Old Town” on a castle visit and a walk along the Royal Mile to Holyrood House. Then tour the 18th-century Georgian “New Town.” Meet an ambassador from the Scotch Malt Whisky Society for a private whisky tasting.

Edinburgh Military Tattoo:* On select departures in July and August, attend an evening performance of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a spectacular annual pageant set in the esplanade of Edinburgh Castle.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Rab Houston (July/Aug. 31)–expert in modern Scottish history. Jennifer Paxton (Aug. 10)–historian with expertise in the British Isles and Ireland.

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Urquhart Castle

Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage

From Bergen to Glasgow

Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,800* June 8–15, June 15–22,† 2024

Follow in the wake of ancient seafarers on a voyage from Norway’s spectacular coast to the far-flung archipelagos of Scotland. Experience the Norwegian fjords by train and cable car, encountering glaciers, traditional fishing villages, and breathtaking vistas. Then sail to the Shetland and Orkney Islands to explore prehistoric sites and the legacy of the Vikings, and observe vast colonies of breeding seabirds. Learn local legends on the mystical Isle of Skye, and end your journey in the Scottish Highlands.

Highlights Include

Norwegian Fjords and Glaciers: Embark on a thrilling—and spectacular—train journey aboard the Flåm Railway. From the fjordside village of Olden, encounter continental Europe’s largest ice cap by exploring the edge of a glacier or riding a cable car for a panoramic view of the ice.

Shetland Islands: At the crossroads where Scotland meets Scandinavia, discover the extraordinary settlement of Jarlshof, inhabited for 5,000 years; trace history and local culture on an in-depth tour of Lerwick; or go hiking on the Island of Mousa to encounter seabirds and marine life.

Orkney Islands: Visit the World Heritage-listed settlement of Skara Brae, and see the Neolithic Stones of Stenness and the Ring of Brodgar.

Isle of Skye and Scottish Highlands: Visit Eilean Donan Castle and Armadale Castle; or discover the rugged Isle of Skye from the Trotternish Peninsula to Dunvegan Castle. From Fort William, take a scenic drive into the Scottish Highlands, tour Fort Augustus, and cruise fabled Loch Ness.

Add a one-night extension in Bergen and/or a two-night extension in Edinburgh. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

†The June 15 departure runs in the reverse and follows a slightly modified itinerary. Visit our website for details.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on the June 8 departure are field geologist and geophysicist Carola Stearns and Colleen Batey, an expert on the Viking Age.

SCOTLAND

NORWAY Lerwick Bergen Orkney Islands

Sogne ord

North Sea Kirkwall Glasgow

Fort William

Shetland Islands

Port of Call Ship

Kyle of Lochalsh

Flåm

Olden

Isle of Skye

Ring of Brodgar, Orkney Islands

Traditional boats along Sognefjord

Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea

From London to Glasgow Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d’Urville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

9 days from $6,460* May 21–29, 2024

Delve into a realm of legends and lore among the historic sites and breathtaking landscapes of the British Isles and Ireland. Walk atop the White Cliffs of Dover, and spot seabirds and rare plants on the Isles of Scilly. Experience the charming port of Kinsale and effervescent Cork; then get acquainted with timeless Welsh culture in North Wales. Tour the intriguing sites of Belfast or the natural wonders of North Ireland’s coast, and cap off the voyage in the magical Scottish Hebrides.

Highlights Include

Dover: Admire the iconic White Cliffs of Dover from above on a cliff-top walk or explore Dover Castle, which played an important role in the rescue of soldiers from Dunkirk during World War II.

Isles of Scilly and Wight: Venture to Queen Victoria’s summer residence on the Isle of Wight, and spot seabirds on a wildlife cruise in the Isles of Scilly.

Ireland: Soak up the lively spirit of Cork, visiting its fortress or its historic old town.

Wales: Experience North Wales, where old traditions linger and Welsh remains the mother tongue. Tour the 13th-century Caernarfon Castle, or meander through a stunning collection of rare plants from around the world at Bodnant Garden.

Northern Ireland: Sail to Belfast to explore the Titanic Belfast Museum; or travel along Northern Ireland’s coast to the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Giant’s Causeway, and Dunluce Castle.

Scotland’s Hebrides: On tiny Iona, tour the early Christian monastery and its Celtic crosses. See the

vividly painted houses of Tobermory on the Isle of Mull, and delve into the intriguing history of the Clan MacLean at Duart Castle.

Add a two-night extension in the Scottish Highlands.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are Miriam Davis, an expert in early British history, and Carol Ann Lloyd, a speaker and author who specializes in early modern history.

Giant’s Causeway

Iona Abbey

Cliffs of Moher

13 days from $6,892

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 28–Oct. 10, 2023 & May 12–24, June 16–28, July 7–19, Aug. 11–23, Sept. 8–20, 2024

From the lively streets of Dublin to the windswept Aran Islands, Ireland is a land where prehistoric and medieval monuments seem to appear around every corner and age-old traditions mingle with a vibrant contemporary culture. Immerse yourself in the magic of the Emerald Isle, exploring the interplay of past and present in the captivating cities of Dublin, Killarney, and Kilkenny. Experience ethereal landscapes rich in legend as you explore Connemara, Inishmore, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Ring of Kerry; and venture into castles and abbeys that tell the dramatic tales of Ireland’s history.

Highlights Include

Dublin: During a day in Dublin, take a guided tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and visit the library at Trinity College to view the medieval illuminated manuscript known as the Book of Kells. Later, visit the interactive EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum.

Aran Islands and Galway: Enjoy a personal perspective on the Aran Islands, exploring local life in traditional Ireland on a tour of Inishmore with an islander. In the artistic hub of Galway, sit down to dinner accompanied by spirited Irish music.

Natural Wonders: Explore the enchanting boglands and mountains of Connemara and visit its stunning Kylemore Abbey. View the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, and visit a prehistoric dolmen on your way through the Burren’s craggy lunar landscape. Then spend a day discovering the spectacular Ring of Kerry, including a stop at the Kerry Bog Village, where thatched homes and traditional farming equipment show everyday life in 19th-century Ireland.

Killarney: Explore the vibrant town and Ross Castle by traditional jaunting car, and watch traditional weavers and

Trinity College Library, Dublin

potters at work on a tour of fascinating Muckross House. Witness a sheepdog demonstration and enjoy a dinner in a family-run guesthouse.

Blarney, Cashel, and Kilkenny: Visit well-known castles and historic sites such as Blarney and the Rock of Cashel, once home to the High Kings of Munster. In medieval Kilkenny, explore the 12th-century castle on a walking tour and enjoy time at leisure to discover the town. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Cassandra Potts Hannahs (Sept. 28)–historian.

Christopher Griffin (June)–expert in Irish literature.

Carol Ann Lloyd-Stanger (Sept. 8)–speaker and author who specializes in early modern history.

Galway

Ocean

Dublin

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Waterways of Holland and Belgium

From Amsterdam to Antwerp Aboard the 160-guest Amadeus Queen or Riva

9 days from $3,890

Includes $250 special savings

No single supplement

Special air rates available

Apr. 6–14, Apr. 10–18, Apr. 13–21,* Apr. 17–25,* 2024

Our popular cruise from Holland to Belgium showcases magnificent art and architecture, spellbinding gardens, and enchanting medieval villages. Cruise along delightful canals and rivers from Amsterdam to Antwerp, observing windmills, fields of spring flowers, and local traditions while you enjoy a choice of included excursions.

Highlights Include

Amsterdam: Take a private cruise along Amsterdam’s historic canals, lined with 16th- and 17th-century gabled row houses, which have been designated a World Heritage site. Stroll through the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens, where more than seven million tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers are expected to be in bloom.

Kampen: Rich in history, Kampen is known for its former prominence as a Hanseatic town. Enjoy a walking tour of the city that includes either a visit to a historic Hanseatic ship or a brewery tour, or embark on a Giethoorn cruise.

The Hague, Delft, or Gouda: Choose from three compelling excursions. In The Hague, see sites associated with the seat of Dutch government during a city tour, then visit the Mauritshuis museum to view paintings by Vermeer and other Dutch Masters. Or travel to the charming town of Delft to stroll through Market Square and visit the Royal Delft Porcelain Factory. Alternatively, stroll through Gouda’s Market Square; visit Sint Jan Church, the longest church of the Netherlands; and enjoy a cheese tasting.

Zeeland Coast: Come to understand the country’s continuous battle with the sea at the educational Delta Expo, then visit one of the storm surge barriers.

Bruges and Antwerp: The World Heritage site of Bruges features treasured 15th-century architecture, picturesque canals, and arched footbridges. Following a walking tour, choose from three excursions that focus on Flemish art, Belgian chocolate, or Belgian beer. Your cruise concludes in Antwerp with a walking tour of this medieval city. Space reserved for up to 75 Smithsonian Journeys guests, depending on departure. Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Visit our website for information on both ships.

*The April 13 and April 17 departures will run in the reverse.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Mary O’Neill (Apr. 13) and Valerie Hedquist (Apr. 17)–art historians.

Bruges canal

Holland tulip field

A Stay in Holland: An Art History Journey from Vermeer to Van Gogh

9 days from $5,240

Includes $250 Special savings / Special air rates available Apr. 16–24, Apr. 23–May 1, Apr. 30–May 8, Sept. 10–18, Oct. 1–9, 2024

Across the Netherlands, centuries-old art remains a palpable part of contemporary culture. World-class museums from the Mauritshuis to the Rijksmuseum house spectacular collections of the Dutch Masters, and painters like Frans Hals and Johannes Vermeer are integral to the identity of their hometowns. From your base in picturesque Haarlem, immerse yourself in the world of Dutch fine arts, viewing iconic works such as Rembrandt’s Night Watch, Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring, and van Gogh’s Sunflowers—along with a host of lesser-known gems. Explore the museums of the Hague and Delft, the architecture of Rotterdam, and the cheesemakers of Gouda; and discover an enormous van Gogh collection inside a national park.

Highlights Include

Haarlem: Settle into the rhythms of everyday life in Haarlem, a picturesque Dutch town of gabled houses, windmills, and cobbled streets that is just 15 minutes by train from Amsterdam. Enjoy a guided tour of the Frans Hals Museum, dedicated to Haarlem’s native son, and experience another side of Dutch culture during an Indonesian “rice table” dinner.

Amsterdam: Surround yourself with phenomenal art at the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum; and the Rembrandt House Museum. Experience Keukenhof Gardens in full bloom on spring departures, or trace the city’s colorful history at the Amsterdam Museum in the fall. Take advantage of free time to explore this delightful city as you wish.

The Hague and Delft: Admire the work of Rembrandt, Bruegel, and Rubens on a guided tour of the Mauritshuis, home to one of the largest collections of Dutch and Flemish Masters. In Delft, hometown of Vermeer, see

its namesake pottery and trace the town’s history at the Museum Prinsenhof Delft.

Hoge Veluwe National Park: Traverse grasslands, heath, and woods to the Kröller-Müller Museum, where a stunning array of 19th- and 20th-century European art includes paintings by Monet and Picasso and the second-largest van Gogh collection. Stroll through lovely sculpture gardens.

Gouda and Rotterdam: On a tour of Gouda, examine the famous stained-glass windows of Sint Jan Church and enjoy a tasting and history lesson about the city’s namesake cheese. In Rotterdam, encounter the innovative architecture and set sail on a harbor cruise.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Haarlem windmill

Amsterdam Haarlem

The Hague

Delft Gouda

Rotterdam

Hoge Veluwe National Park

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Henry Luttikhuizen (Apr. 23)–art historian.

Vermeer’s The Milkmaid

Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea

From Stockholm to Copenhagen Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d’Urville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $7,570* July 18–25, 2024

Discover the rich history and culture of the Baltic Sea region as you cruise to some of northern Europe’s most intriguing cities. Experience the innovative architecture and design of Helsinki, and step into the past in the medieval old towns of Tallinn and Visby. Trace 20th-century history in Gdansk, during an exclusive presentation by Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Lech Walesa. Soak up local culture in seaside Klaipeda, Lithuania, and explore the islands of Gotland and Bornholm.

Highlights Include

Helsinki: Discover Helsinki’s renowned architecture and innovative design aesthetic on a city tour that includes Temppeliaukio Church, and meander through Market Square at leisure. Or take the ferry to Suomenlinna Island for a tour of its World Heritage-listed fortress.

Tallinn: Revel in the medieval charms of Tallinn’s World Heritage-listed Old Town. Visit Toompea Castle and the only intact Gothic-style Town Hall in northern Europe. Or delve into Estonia’s 20th-century history at Maarjamäe Palace, where an interactive exhibit traces the hardships of the Communist era.

Visby: On the Swedish island of Gotland, venture to Visby, a fortified center of the medieval Hanseatic League. Retrace the history of Vikings and merchants at the excellent Gotland Museum, and take a walking tour of the picturesque walled old city.

Klaipeda, Lithuania: Stroll among half-timbered houses in seaside Klaipeda and listen to traditional Lithuanian songs. Alternatively, venture to the World Heritagelisted Curonian Spit to explore a fishing village and the legendary Hill of Witches, or travel into the countryside to a family-owned bee farm.

Gdansk, Poland: Meet Polish statesman Lech Walesa to learn firsthand about the Solidarity movement that

changed the course of history in eastern Europe.

Bornholm, Denmark: Spend today on the island of Bornholm, once a Viking stronghold. Choose to explore cliff-top Hammershus Castle, the fishing village of Allinge, a glassblowing workshop in Gudhjem, and the Østerlars round church.

Add a one-night extension in Stockholm or Copenhagen.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are Professor of Russian and East European History Nadia Kizenko and Hugh Neighbour, a former diplomat with expertise in history, culture, and current affairs.

Gdansk, Poland

Stockholm, Sweden

Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

From Bergen to Oslo Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $7,185* July 20–27, 2024

Sail into the heart of the Norwegian fjords, discovering extraordinary landscapes of sheer cliffs, snowcapped peaks, jewel-toned lakes, and picturesque villages. See natural wonders from the Jostedal ice cap to precipitous Pulpit Rock, and venture to historic sites from Viking settlements to centuries-old ironworks. Opt for active excursions by electric bike or Nordic walking, and explore local music, art, and cuisine.

Highlights Include

Alesund: Admire Art Nouveau architecture on a city tour, encounter the marine life of the region on an excursion to the Atlantic Ocean Park, or explore this stunning city of islands by electric bike.

Norwegian Fjords and Glaciers: Venture deep into the fjord lands to the spectacular Geirangerfjord, and set out to explore a dramatic landscape of snowcapped mountains, verdant valleys, and glittering lakes. Then encounter continental Europe’s largest ice cap, exploring the edge of a glacier or riding a cable car for a panoramic view of the ice. Stavanger and Lysefjord: Explore Norway’s history at the important Viking site of Ullandhaug and the oil town of Stavanger, hear a recital at the 13th-century Utstein Monastery, or discover Stavanger the Norwegian way—on a guided Nordic walking excursion. Then sail the magnificent Lysefjord along iconic Pulpit Rock, rising nearly 2,000 feet above the water.

Arendal: Explore the fascinating Naes Ironworks Museum to see equipment that dates back to the 1600s and learn about the evolution of iron and steel production. Then visit picturesque Tvedestrand and enjoy free time to meander among the wooden houses of this “international book town.” Or opt to hike along the coast in beautiful Raet National Park.

Gothenburg, Sweden: During a day in Sweden, discover lively Gothenburg on a panoramic tour, and visit either the world-renowned Museum of Fine Art—one of the best in Northern Europe—or the Volvo Museum, where every model since 1927 is on display.

Add a one-night extension in Bergen.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on the number of staterooms available at the time of printing. See our website for current pricing and details on the ship and deck plan. Book early for higher savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are archaeologist and geologist Peter Bobrowsky and Terje Leiren, a professor emeritus of Scandinavian studies and history.

A PONANT ship navigates Nordfjord

Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice

Round-trip from Reykjavík Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $7,910*

June 15–22, 2024

Encounter the geological extremes of Iceland, where glaciers and still-warm lava fields coexist, and emerald mountains give way to bursting geysers and waterfalls. On a voyage that includes some of Iceland’s most remote corners—including the Arctic island of Grimsey—discover spectacular landscapes imbued with mythology, encounter sea birds and whales, and learn about the resilient people who have made their life in these rugged lands.

Highlights Include

Southern Islands: At Heimaey Island, witness one of Iceland’s largest puffin colonies; see Mount Eldfell, with its still-warm lava fields; and view Surtsey, the youngest island in the world. Or observe belugas in a private sanctuary and learn about efforts to protect puffins. Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Arrive at the iconic cone-shaped peak of Kirkjufell and explore this mystical peninsula, from black-pebble beaches to charming villages set amid stunning lava landscapes.

Grimsey: Spend an afternoon in the Arctic on Grimsey Island, a birdwatcher’s paradise that straddles the Arctic Circle. Enjoy the often-mild weather to watch for auks, puffins, and more.

Lake Myvatn: Spend a day near cerulean Lake Myvatn, where volcanic activity—both past and current—is seen in the steaming geothermal field of Namaskard, the unique pseudo-craters Skútustaðir, and the surreal lava formations of Dimmuborgir. Another highlight is legendary Godafoss, “Waterfall of the Gods.”

Westfjords: Experience the beauty of this rugged region of mountains and fjords as you explore fishing villages and the town of Isafjördur. Learn about the area’s rich maritime history and fishing traditions at the Heritage Museum, and explore the turf-roofed fishing shacks of Osvör Maritime Museum. Or visit the abandoned whaling village of Hesteyri, set on the edge of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve.

Golden Circle and Reykjavík: Encounter some of Iceland’s most iconic sites: Thingvellir, home of shifting tectonic plates and the world’s first legislative body; the two-tiered waterfall of Gullfoss; and the geothermal landscape of Geysir. Then take in panoramic views of Reykjavík from the viewing deck of the Pearl.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are astrophysicist Michelle Thaller and Elisabeth Ward, an expert in Scandinavian literature.

Island

Arctic Circle

Godafoss

Puffins

Adventure in Iceland

11 days from $6,292

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 30–Oct. 10, Oct. 10–20, 2023 & May 21–31, June 13–23, July 4–14, Aug. 1–11, Aug. 24–Sept. 3, Sept. 12–22, Oct. 15–25, 2024

Experience Earth’s incredible power and diversity, exploring fascinating geological phenomena as you make your way from the black-sand beaches of the south to the glacier-covered volcanoes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Along the way, admire five of the island’s most impressive waterfalls; watch for seabirds or whales; and enjoy free time to soak up the character and charm of cities and towns.

Highlights Include

Dramatic Waterfalls: Encounter Iceland’s iconic waterfalls, each one breathtaking in its own way. See twotiered Gullfoss, and admire Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss along the southern coast. Witness the thundering cascades of Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, and behold of Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.”

Lake Myvatn: Venture to the bubbling, steaming, lavacrusted landscapes of Lake Myvatn, discovering massive explosion craters, craggy lava sculptures, popping mud pools, and more. Venture into dramatic canyons in Vatnajoküll National Park and, from Husavik, go whale-watching or take a bird-watching cruise to Puffin Island (depending on the season).

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Walk along the shell-sand beach at the abandoned fishing village of Budir, surrounded by a vast lava field. Explore the caves and bizarre basalt rock formations near Arnarstapi, site of thousands of nesting cliff birds. Then stroll the black-pebble beach of Djupalonssandur.

Southern Iceland: At Thingvellir National Park, witness the spot where the world’s oldest Parliament met and walk the rift valley between the North American and European tectonic plates. Watch geysers erupt at Geysir

and walk the black-sand beach at Reynisfjara to caves lined with basalt columns. Stop in lovely Vik, and visit the interactive Lava Centre for a close encounter with Iceland’s geological forces. Enjoy time at leisure to explore Reykjavík, or take an optional tour to the Blue Lagoon.

The Northern Lights: Iceland is an ideal place to view the aurora borealis. You’ll have the best chance of experiencing this celestial phenomenon on the September or October departures.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Pat Dickerson (Oct. 10) and Katryn Wiese (Aug. 1)–geologists. Carola Stearns (July)–field geologist and geophysicist. Peter Bobrowsky (Oct. 15)–archaeologist and geologist.

Seljalandsfoss

Borgarbyggo

Reykjavik

Akureyri

Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Lake Myvatn Godafoss

Selfoss

Thingvellir Nat’l Park Gullfoss Vik Skogafoss

Pu n Island Siglufjordur

More Ways to Explore Europe

Find details—including full itineraries, special savings, photos galleries, and more—for these and additional tours in Europe at SmithsonianJourneys.org.

Palermo and Taormina: A Stay in Sicily

10 days from $5,940

Oct. 25–Nov. 3, 2023

Explore Italy’s fascinating island of Sicily in depth from two locations on the island during this special Cultural Stay, and discover a unique blend of cultural influences.

The Italian Riviera: A One-Week Stay on the Ligurian Coast

9 days from $5,190

Oct. 21–29, 2023

Savor the enchanting Italian Riviera during a week in beautiful Sestri Levante, and set out on day trips to discover northern Italy’s highlights, from Lucca to the Cinque Terre.

Southern France and the Italian Riviera by Sea NEW!

9 days from $6,580

Oct. 8–16, 2023

Cruise the Mediterranean coasts of France and Italy, exploring Provence, the Côte d’Azur, the Italian Riviera, and Cinque Terre. Venture to the medieval walled towns and trace the legacies of great artists.

Cruising the Mediterranean: Greece, Sicily, and Malta NEW!

8 days from $5,920 Sept. 26–Oct. 3, 2023

Experience an astonishing sweep of Mediterranean history as you sail from the Greek Isles to Malta, encountering prehistoric sites, ancient Greek and Roman ruins, and seven World Heritage sites.

Walking the Camino de Santiago

11 days from $6,995

Sept. 20–30, Oct. 18–28, 2023

Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims since the Middle Ages as you walk along the famous Camino de Santiago from Pamplona to Santiago de Compostela.

New Year’s in Vienna: A Deluxe Rail Journey NEW!

10 days from $13,995

Dec. 27, 2023–Jan. 5, 2024

Climb aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express and journey through four Central European countries during the holiday season. Discover architectural gems, layers of history, and festive Christmas Markets.

Old World Europe

16 days from $6,297

Sept. 19–Oct. 4, 2023 & Apr. 9–24, May 7–22, Aug. 27–Sept. 11, Sept. 17–Oct. 2, 2024

Make your way through five distinctly different countries in Central and Eastern Europe, encountering capitals of history and culture and exploring World Heritage sites from Krakow to Prague.

Irish Walks: An Active Journey from Dublin to Dingle NEW!

11 days from $5,299

May 11–21, June 15–25, July 13–23, Sept. 7–17, 2024

Experience Ireland’s natural treasures, discovering the spectacular landscapes and traditional villages of the Burren, the Dingle Peninsula, and Killarney National Park on a range of hikes, walks, and bike rides.

Portugal’s Historic Cities: Lisbon and Porto

A Tailor-Made Journey handcrafted just for you.* Suggested itinerary: 7 days from $4,960

Experience Portugal from two perspectives on a journey to the vibrant cities of Lisbon and Porto, and get a taste of history—and wine—on excursions to Sintra and the Douro River Valley.

*Tailor-Made Journeys are private, customized experiences designed for you and your traveling companions. See pages 114–115 for more information.

Vienna, Austria

Delphi, Greece

Cinque Terra, Italy

The Irish Coast

Hydra, Greece

Camino de Santiago, Spain

The Americas

Alaska reawakened in me the childlike wonder at nature. I often realized I was holding my breath…the unbroken expanses, the perfect stillness!

– Connie A., Alaska’s Natural Wonders

Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage

From Vancouver to Sitka Aboard the 264-guest Le Soléal

9 Days from $6,330*

Includes one-way air from Sitka to Vancouver

July 5–13, July 20–28, 2024

Against a backdrop of snow-covered peaks and steep-sided fjords, discover a wealth of wildlife and a unique cultural heritage as you sail the fabled Inside Passage from Vancouver to Sitka, Alaska. Transit British Columbia’s stunning Johnstone Strait, where orcas and dolphins teem, and watch for brown bears and bald eagles on the lush, wooded islands of the Tongass National Forest. Following a flexible schedule, take advantage of opportunities that arise, whether you’re navigating spectacular icebergs at the foot of Dawes Glacier, following a pod of dolphins, or watching humpbacks breach off Chichagof Island. In remote outposts and coastal towns, delve into the region’s diverse cultural heritage, getting acquainted with the traditions of the native Tsimshian and Tlingit peoples as well as local fishermen, and discovering the Norwegian and Russian roots of Petersburg and Sitka.

Highlights Include

Majestic Scenery: Immerse yourself in Alaska’s splendor, encountering soaring cliffs laced with waterfalls at Misty Fjords, and a labyrinth of serene waterways and lush islands backed by snowcapped mountains. Hike through temperate rainforest on the lookout for wildlife, and listen to the thunder of Dawes Glacier calving icebergs into Endicott Arm.

Wildlife: Discover the astonishing flora and fauna of the Inside Passage, gaining insights into the region’s biodiversity from naturalists and two Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Search for humpback whales feeding off the ship’s bow, orca and dolphins swimming in pods, Steller sea lions and sea otters frolicking in and out of the water, and brown bears foraging for their next meal. Look to the sky to watch for bald eagles soaring overhead, as well as herons, guillemots, Arctic terns, and much more.

Cultural Experiences: Learn about the native Tsimshian and Tlingit cultures during visits with community members in Metlakatla, Kake, and Sitka. View one of the world’s largest totem poles, witness traditional Tsimshian dances, and stroll through Sitka National Historical Park, where trails are lined with intricately carved totem poles. Hear firsthand about life in a remote fishing community from a local resident, and encounter Scandinavian customs in Petersburg and Russian Orthodox icons in Sitka’s onion-domed St. Michael’s Cathedral.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on the July 5 departure are natural history filmmaker John Grabowska and Scott Burns, an environmental and engineering geologist.

Grizzly bear cubs

Totem pole in Sitka National Park

A Voyage Along the Great Lakes

From Toronto to Milwaukee Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d’Urville or Le Champlain

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,980*

Oct. 9–16, 2023 & Aug. 28–Sept. 4, Oct. 11–18,† 2024

Straddling the shores of the United States and Canada, the Great Lakes are a freshwater treasure trove of wild islands, unusual geology, and legendary waterfalls. Cruise four of the five Great Lakes, discovering a wealth of natural wonders and historic sites and getting to know an intriguing cultural heritage.

Highlights Include

Niagara Falls: Cross Lake Ontario and travel to the Welland Canal, known for its 1,377-foot lock, one of the world’s longest. Enjoy a scenic drive to legendary Niagara Falls, then take a thrilling boat right up to the spray of Horseshoe Falls, the largest of Niagara’s three falls.

Georgian Bay: Navigate the bays, islets, and inlets of “The Ten Thousand Islands” on a local cruise on Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay. Or venture into Killbear Provincial Park, a World Heritage Biosphere Reserve, and discover the beaches, lush forests, and unusual geology.

Manitoulin Island: On the world’s largest freshwater island, learn about the local First Nations traditions at the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation, take part in a cleansing ceremony, and witness a typical pow-wow. Alternatively, hike the Cup and Saucer Trail or kayak on the Kagawong River.

Sault Ste. Marie: Visit Tahquamenon Falls State Park and trace maritime history at the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum. Or experience the engineering marvel of the Soo Locks, explore an authentic freighter at the Valley Camp Museum Ship, and navigate the locks on a local cruise.

Mackinac Island: Tour this timeless island in a horsedrawn carriage, viewing the iconic Grand Hotel and

visiting Fort Mackinac, a 19th-century army outpost; then cruise Lake Michigan to Milwaukee.

Add a one-night extension in Toronto.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys

Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on the August departure are maritime history author Frederick Stonehouse and geology and oceanography professor Katryn Wiese.

Niagara Falls

Voyage Along the St. Lawrence: From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes

From Toronto to Boston Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

12 days from $10,860* Oct. 18–29, 2024

Experience the beauty of Québec and Canada’s Atlantic seaboard when autumn colors are at their finest. Immerse yourself in unique cultures that have evolved from strong European roots, and see evidence of the tug of war between the British and the French that led to the creation of Canada. Revel in the charms of Montréal and Québec City and explore stunning landscapes including the red cliffs of the Îles de la Madeleine. Visit centuries-old fishing towns on Nova Scotia before ending your voyage in the historic fishing town of Eastport, Maine.

Highlights Include

Montréal and Québec City: In Montréal, an effervescent hub of culture and cuisine with a distinctly French character, take a walking tour and enjoy a choice of excursions. Stroll cobbled lanes steeped in Old World charm on a guided tour of Québec City. Then explore Battlefields Park or choose to see the impressive Montmorency Falls.

Whale-watching: Go whale-watching in the rich waters off Tadoussac. The salty, rich waters here draw 13 cetacean species that come to feed from May to October, including minkes, belugas, humpbacks, and blue whales.

Canadian Maritimes: Get acquainted with French-derived Acadian culture in Cap-aux-Meules on the remote Îles de la Madeleine.

Nova Scotia: Spend a day in lovely Lunenburg, a World Heritage site and home to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic.

Eastport, Maine: Explore the quaint shops and colorful galleries of historic Eastport. Visit the Tides Institute & Museum of Art and chat with an artist-in-residence, or admirefall foliage on a scenic hike at Shackford Head State Park.

Add a one-night extension in Toronto.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys

Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. The experts on this cruise include naturalist and educator David Catlin. Visit our website for the additional expert.

Symphony on the St. Lawrence

15 days from $13,810* / Oct. 16–30, 2023

On this special cruise, attend intimate concerts curated by Boston Pops Conductor Keith Lockhart.

Lunenburg

ANOTHER ST. LAWRENCE RIVER CRUISE

Alaska’s Natural Wonders: Denali to Kenai Fjords

11 days from $8,197

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees June 4–14, July 9–19, Aug. 6–16, Aug. 25–Sept. 4, 2024

Experience the natural wonders of Alaska in three national parks—featuring plentiful wildlife, majestic snow-covered mountains, and dramatic glistening glaciers—and gain a better understanding of the Alaskan way of life.

Highlights Include

Denali National Park: Traveling into the park to Eielson Visitor Center, listen to your expert ranger talk about the forests, alpine tundra, and snow-covered Denali mountain, as well as wildlife such as grizzly bears, moose, and caribou, which you’ll likely see along the road. Plus, enjoy an easy walk through the tundra.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: Journey by coach to remote Chitina, then board a plane for a scenic flight to Wrangell-St. Elias, the largest park in the U.S. and a World Heritage site. Take a half-day hike out to icefields, cascading waterfalls, and deep canyons, and spend time exploring Kennecott, once a bustling copper mine.

Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park: An exciting day cruise features close-up views of this park’s glaciers and pristine fjords, along with plenty of marine wildlife such as whales, harbor seals, and sea lions; memorable puffins and other bird species; as well as bears, mountain goats, and moose along the shore.

Anchorage: Learn more about the Alaskan experience at the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum with its Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center, and the Wildlife Conservation Center, plus a tour of the historic downtown. Limited to 23 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

John Grabowska (June)–natural history filmmaker.

Allen Glazer (Aug. 6)–geologist. Carola Sterns (Aug. 25)–field geologist and geophysicist.

The Northern Rockies

Featuring Glacier, Banff, and Jasper National Parks

11 days from $6,851

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

June 15–25, July 3–13, Aug. 24–Sept. 3, 2024

Discover the spectacular landscapes of the Northern Rocky Mountains during leisurely hikes and drives through Glacier, Banff, and Jasper National Parks—all World Heritage sites.

Highlights Include

Waterton Lakes National Park: Surround yourself with dramatic peaks on a drive through Waterton Lakes, and stop for lunch at the historic Prince of Wales Hotel.

Glacier National Park: Hike along St. Mary Lake before a lake cruise. Ride a historic “Red Jammer” up the Goingto-the-Sun Road and go for a hike in Whitefish, Montana. Banff National Park: Hike along emerald Lake Louise and rise early to see the lake in the morning light. Then explore the southern reaches of the park: ride a gondola up 8,000-foot Sulphur Mountain and drive Tunnel Mountain Road to the Hoodoos and Bow Falls. At the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, take a painting lesson from a local artist.

Athabasca Glacier and Columbia Icefield: Take an “ice coach” tour of Athabasca Glacier and venture out onto the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, an observation deck with a transparent floor suspended nearly 1,000 feet above the valley.

Jasper National Park: Discover the fascinating geology of Maligne Canyon and cruise past Spirit Island. Soar into the peaks on the Jasper Skytram, and drive along the Columbia Icefields Parkway, watching for bears, moose, elk, and mountain goats.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Howard Topoff and Carol Simon (June)–biologists. Allen Glazner (Aug.)–geologist and author.

Banff National Park

Denali

Seascapes of the Canadian Maritimes

12 days from $6,997

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

June 9–20, July 28–Aug. 8, Sept. 4–15, 2024

Experience history and natural splendor in Canada’s maritime provinces on a journey to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island. Venture to the charming fishing village of Lunenburg and the iconic lighthouse at Peggy’s Cove. Trace Canada’s road from colonialism to independence at the Fortress of Louisbourg and the statehouses of Charlottetown, and learn about the early French Acadian settlers who deeply influenced local culture. Encounter incredible feats of nature from the wave-battered Hopewell Rocks to the stunning landscapes of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. As you travel between the islands and the mainland, get acquainted with contemporary life in the lobster capital of Shediac and the compelling cities of Halifax and Saint John.

Highlights Include

Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island: Discover the historic sites of British Lunenburg and French Acadian Grand-Pré, and visit picturesque Mahone Bay and Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse. On Cape Breton Island, see the inventions of Alexander Graham Bell at his estate in Baddeck, and tour the living museum within the 18th-century French fortress in Louisbourg. Then set off on a magnificent drive along the river canyons and coastal cliffs of Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

New Brunswick: Cross the Bay of Fundy by ferry to visit historic Saint John and take a tour of the oldest city in North America. Make your way down the coast to St. Andrew’s-by-the-Sea and set out on a whalewatching cruise to search for some of the bay’s 12 cetacean species. Explore the unusual Hopewell Rocks, where the water level changes 45 feet with the tides, and then visit Shediac, a charming vacation town with Acadian roots.

Prince Edward Island: In Charlottetown, learn about Canada’s early political history and discover the musical traditions of the Acadian people. Travel to the island’s scenic North Shore to discover the red cliffs, white-sand beaches, gentle dunes, and green fields of Prince Edward Island National Park. Stop in at the Green Gables Heritage Place, where the author of Anne of Green Gables set her stories.

Culinary Traditions: Enjoy a lobster dinner aboard a working lobster boat as you learn about this vital regional industry, visit Canada’s longest running farmer’s market, and savor a lunch of specialty scallops in Digby.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

David Catlin–naturalist and educator.

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

African American Culture in the Lowcountry

From Charleston to Savannah

6 days from $5,250 Mar. 17–22, 2024

From stately homes to moss-covered oaks, South Carolina’s Lowcountry is among America’s must-visit destinations. But charm must reconcile with history— and historical boom economies were built from the toil of enslaved people. Delve into the compelling histories of African American culture in the Lowcountry. Curated visits provide deeper interpretation of family histories; the experiences and accomplishments of those who lived through and emerged from slavery to freedom; appreciation for the area’s unique natural history and wetlands; and insight into Gullah Geechee cultural heritage.

Highlights Include

Charleston: Take a guided tour of the newly opened International African American Museum, built intentionally at Gadsden’s Wharf, a major destination for slave ships coming to South Carolina; and enjoy a private talk at Mother Emmanuel Church. Immerse yourself in the history of the McLeod Plantation Historic Site, devoted to understanding the experiences of historically enslaved people and their descendants. Travel to Wadmalaw Island to learn about one of South Carolina’s early cash crops—indigo—and meet with an artist for an indigo workshop demonstration.

Beaufort and Hilton Head: In Beaufort, enjoy a guided carriage tour beneath moss-covered live oak trees and past historic homes and churches. On Hilton Head Island, visit historic Gullah neighborhoods, known for their preservation of African, Caribbean, and distinctive African American linguistic and cultural heritage. Tour Historic

Mitchelville Freedom Park—the setting for the first self-governed town of formerly enslaved people. Delve into Gullah Geechee traditions with a demonstration focusing on cuisine or sweetgrass basketweaving.

Savannah: Take a private guided tour of the OwensThomas House and Slave Quarters to learn about the intertwined lives of enslaved families, slaveowners, and free people of color at this 1819 mansion. Travel via pontoon boat to Ossabaw Island Heritage Preserve to learn about African American communities that inhabited the island for more than 200 years.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

African American History and Culture.

Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters

Smithsonian Journeys travelers on tour

Solar Eclipse 2024: Astronomy and Nature in the Texas Hill Country

Featuring a Deluxe Retreat

5 days from $5,395 Apr. 5–9, 2024

On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will occur over Texas—the first to be seen in North America since 2017. We invite you to join us in the path of totality to experience this rare celestial event on a five-day sojourn in Texas Hill Country. From your base at a Tuscan villa-style retreat near Austin, delve into the region’s natural bounty and its local culture. Immerse yourself in fields of wildflowers on the famous Bluebonnet Trail, and learn about native flora and fauna at an inspiring Hill Country ranch. Enjoy a stargazing party with astronomers and learn about the latest research during a visit to the Department of Astronomy at the University of Texas at Austin. Taste the flavors of Texas during a hands-on taco-making workshop and celebratory barbecue, and experience the total eclipse during a winetasting lunch in a beautiful vineyard.

Highlights Include

Total Solar Eclipse: Witness the eclipse amid the vineyards of a renowned Hill Country winery located in the path of totality. Take an exclusive tasting tour, enjoy panoramic views of Texas Hill Country, then enjoy a private watch party and lunch among the vines as the total eclipse darkens the sky.

Wildflowers: Travel Texas’ Bluebonnet Trail in the peak of the season and learn about the importance of native habitat conservation from the president and founder of Wildseed Farms, the nation’s largest wildflower farm. Surround yourself with bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and other blooms on a guided tour and catered lunch at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Discovery Center in Austin, and learn about efforts to conserve native species. Texas Hill Country: Explore the inspiring Selah, Bamberger Ranch Preserve, where a major habitat

restoration project transformed barren ranch land into a haven of native flora and fauna. Encounter innovations designed to enhance the ranch’s sustainability, from a manmade bat cave to a rain machine.

Astronomy: Discuss the importance of preserving our nation’s dark skies at a private star party with astronomers. During an afternoon at the University of Texas at Austin, learn about cutting-edge research on a visit to the Department of Astronomy and join the museum directors for a tour of the paleontology collection at the newly renovated Texas Memorial Museum of Science and Natural History.

Smithsonian Journeys guests will be divided into groups of no more than 40 travelers.

TEXAS

River Becker Vineyards Bamberger Ranch Preserve

Wildseed Farms

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Visit our website for the expert on this tour.

Solar Eclipse

Texas Hill Country in bloom

Bryce, Zion, and the Grand Canyon

11 days from $5,395

Oct. 4–14, 2023 & Apr. 21–May 1, May 15–25, Sept. 4–14, Oct. 6–16, 2024

Experience the majesty of Arizona and Utah’s canyon country on a journey to three iconic national parks— Bryce, Zion, and the Grand Canyon—and enjoy outdoor adventures in Sedona and Lake Powell.

Highlights Include

Sedona: Venture off road on a jeep excursion, traveling into the red-rock landscapes of Sedona. Take in panoramic views of rock towers and arches, and visit the Honanki Heritage Site, a 700-year-old Sinagua cliff dwelling.

Grand Canyon National Park: Spend a full day in this awe-inspiring park, learning about the canyon’s cultural and geological history on a guided hike/walk, and enjoying free time for hikes or walks on the South Rim.

Lake Powell and Upper Antelope Canyon: Explore the canyons of Lake Powell by motorized raft and walk between the sinuous, red walls of Upper Antelope Canyon.

Bryce Canyon National Park: Encounter thousands of red, orange, and pink dramatically sculpted stone spires. Learn about Bryce Canyon’s unusual geology at the visitor center, then visit scenic overlooks or hike into the canyon during a day at leisure in the park.

Zion National Park: Discover the diverse landscapes of this wondrous park, from river valleys to natural arches. Go on a guided hike among colorful sandstone cliffs, then enjoy ample free time to experience Zion as you wish.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Howard Topoff and Carol Simon (Apr.)–biologists. Allen Glazner (Oct. 6)–geologist.

Treasures of Yosemite

7 days from $4,995

May 11–17, June 1–7, Oct. 5–11, 2024

Yosemite National Park is home to some of the most magnificent scenery in the American West. During leisurely hikes, discover imposing sequoia trees, towering cliffs, expansive vistas, and cascading waterfalls that comprise this World Heritage site, located in northern California.

Highlights Include

Classic Sites: Walk amid the giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove, home to some 500 giant trees hundreds of feet tall. Then travel into the heart of Yosemite to witness the classic features of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Sentinel Peak. For many, Half Dome is the park’s signature landmark, with walls etched by vertical joints and the trails of past glaciers. Take off on the best hikes based on weather and trail conditions, which may include Bridalveil Fall and Lower Yosemite Fall.

John Muir and Ansel Adams: Learn about the legacies of the important naturalist and photographer and their roles in preserving California’s Sierra Nevada. Plus, hear about conservation efforts to protect the park’s majestic character and visit the Pioneer History Museum.

Yosemite’s High Country: Drive over Tioga Pass Road and take easy hikes with incredible views of the valley below or explore Hetch Hetchy Valley. Depending on weather, highlights could include Mono Lake, Tuolumne Meadows, Tenaya Lake, and Olmsted Point. Hike to Wapama Falls along a quiet trail leading to the 1,000-foot two-part cascade.

Historic Lodges: Stay at the National Historic Landmark Wawona Hotel and Yosemite Valley Lodge, both located within the park. Plus, enjoy a tour of the historic Ahwahnee hotel, followed by a festive farewell dinner in the dining room.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Visit our website for the expert on this tour.

Grand Canyon National Park

Yosemite National Park

Yellowstone in Winter

6 days from $5,295

Jan. 3–8, Jan. 24–29, Feb. 19–24, 2024

When winter comes, Yellowstone National Park is transformed into a snowy wonderland. Wildlife is easier to spot and the park is open only to vehicles that can travel on snow, keeping the crowds at bay. Discover this national treasure from the comfort of heated snow coaches, and explore by snowshoe and on foot.

Highlights Include

Mammoth Hot Springs: Stay in the historic Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, and take walks among Mammoth’s travertine terraces edged in snow and ice. Enjoy the opportunity to photograph this ethereal site without the daytime crowds.

Wildlife: Spend a day with naturalists in the wild expanse of the Lamar Valley, watching for bison, elk, pronghorns, and perhaps wolves; and learn about the effort to reintroduce wolves to the valley. Meet with wildlife photographers Dan and Cindy Hartman to hear their tales from many years of exploring Yellowstone and photographing its creatures.

Geysers, Waterfalls, Mud Pots, and Mineral Pools: Take in extraordinary views of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the ice created by its waterfall. Watch Old Faithful erupt, spraying the landscape with frozen mist, and explore the surrounding wilderness by cross-country ski or snowshoe.

Montana’s Paradise Valley: Immerse yourself in the splendor of Montana’s Paradise Valley on a scenic drive along the Yellowstone River, and soak in the therapeutic waters of Chico Hot Springs.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert

Visit our website for the expert on this tour.

Yellowstone and the Tetons

7 days from $6,250

July 6–12, Aug. 31–Sept. 6, Sept. 16–22, 2024

Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, is the cornerstone of America’s national park system. Discover the wonders of Wyoming’s historic Yellowstone and the nearby Grand Teton National Park. Enjoy leisurely walks or more strenuous hikes in both parks; learn about geology; and observe plentiful wildlife, including wolves, coyotes, grizzly and black bears, moose, bison, and more.

Highlights Include

Yellowstone National Park: Watch for bears, bison, bald eagles, coyotes, and elusive wolf packs in the wildliferich Hayden Valley and Lamar Valley, often called the “American Serengeti.” Learn about geology as you marvel at the awesome Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone; and walk around the geysers, hot pools, and mud pots at Norris Geyser Basin, Old Faithful, and Mammoth Hot Springs. You’ll also visit with renowned landscape and nature photographer Dan Hartman at his home studio.

Grand Teton National Park: Enjoy a calm-water float trip along the Snake River, offering spectacular vistas and wildlife viewing. Take a boat ride across jewel-like Jenny Lake and visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art. Plus, enjoy the lively town of Jackson during your two-night stay.

Lodgings: Spend two nights at a hotel located on the banks of the Yellowstone River in Gardiner; two nights at a lodge within Yellowstone National Park; and two nights at an upscale boutique property just a short walk from the heart of downtown Jackson.

Limited to 18 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Visit our website for the expert on this tour.

Yellowstone National Park

Coyote

Cruising the Caribbean’s Windward Islands

Round-trip from St. Lucia Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT 9 days from $5,790* Jan. 28–Feb. 5, 2024

From the lush rainforests of Dominica to the World Heritage-listed architecture of Barbados, discover history, culture, and natural wonders as we make our way across the eastern Caribbean. Sail by catamaran to remote islands in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and enjoy plenty of opportunities to swim and snorkel or dive amid colorful reefs and rich marine life.

Highlights Include

Dominica: Experience the lush beauty of the Caribbean’s “Nature Island” on a hike to spectacular viewpoints; a boat ride through enchanting, tangled forests; or a tour and tasting at a family-owned chocolate factory.

Les Saintes: In this mostly uninhabited French archipelago, go island-hopping in a local boat, watching for wildlife and swimming and snorkeling. Or visit a historic French fortress with incredible island views.

Bequia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines: On a jeep tour, explore the lively town of Port Elizabeth, enjoying views of Admiralty Bay from the 18thcentury Hamilton Fort; and visit the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary to hear about efforts to raise and release endangered hawksbill turtles. Or set off on a catamaran cruise around Bequia and its neighboring isles, and drop anchor off a tiny island to snorkel the reefs and swim.

Grenada: Dubbed the “Spice Island,” visit this hilly island of unspoiled beauty and the southernmost isle of the Lesser Antilles. Grenada is home to Grand Etang National Park, which you may choose to visit.

Mayreau and Tobago Cays Marine Park: During a day on tiny Mayreau, stroll along the beach, go swimming and snorkeling, and enjoy a beach barbecue. Then head for the turquoise lagoons of Tobago Cays Marine Park for excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.

World Heritage sites: Experience two very different World Heritage sites—the dramatic, jungle-clad peaks

of St. Lucia’s Pitons and the colonial architecture of Bridgetown in Barbados.

Add a two-night extension in St. Lucia.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise include Franklin Knight, a professor and lecturer with expertise in the Caribbean, and Ed Smith, a former biologist at the Smithsonian National Zoo.

Port of Call Ship

ST. LUCIA BARBADOS Tobago Cays

Vieux Fort Bridgetown

Caribbean Sea Windward Islands

Bequia Mayreau

DOMINICA

GUADELOUPE Portsmouth Les Saintes

St. George's GRENADA

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES

Bridgetown, Barbados Pitons, St. Lucia

Panama and Costa Rica by Sea

From Colón to Puntarenas Aboard the 184-guest Dumont-d’Urville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,525* Feb. 10–17, 2024

Discover the rare tropical ecosystems of Panama and Costa Rica on a voyage that features a full daylight transit of the Panama Canal. Venture to Panama’s pristine Caribbean islands, then cross the historic canal to the Pacific Coast. Gain insight from today’s scientists on an exclusive visit to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s Punta Culebra Nature Center. Visit Darién National Park, and cruise to Costa Rica to explore the tropical habitats of Quepos.

Highlights Include

San Blas Islands: Go snorkeling among coral reefs, walk white-sand beaches, and meet the indigenous Kuna people in this remote archipelago.

Panama Canal: Make a full daylight transit of the Panama Canal, one of the greatest wonders of engineering in history. Delve into the dramatic history of its construction and engineering as you pass through three levels of locks.

Darién National Park: Within this World Heritagelisted park, ride Zodiacs to a traditional village of the indigenous Emberà people, who have maintained their timeless lifestyle. Learn about their rich culture, from their excellent craftwork to their music and dance traditions.

Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute and Panama City: On a specially arranged tour of the Smithsonian’s Punta Culebra Nature Center guided by scientists, hear about the latest studies, observe marine species up close, and explore the unique flora and fauna of the tropical dry forest. Then take a guided tour of the Biomuseo, designed by architect Frank Gehry. The museum’s interactive biodiversity exhibitions were created by scientists from the Smithsonian Institution and the University of Panama. Enjoy lunch and a walking tour in the charming colonial center of Casco Antiguo.

Costa Rica: Dock in Quepos and choose from a guided nature walk in Manuel Antonio National Park, a wildlife cruise through the thick mangroves, or a rafting adventure on the Savegre River.

Add a three-night extension in Costa Rica.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are Steven Paton, director of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute’s physical monitoring program, and Ralph Nurnberger, an expert in international relations.

Gulf of Panama

COSTA

Puntarenas

Manuel Antonio National Park STRI

Quepos San Blas Islands Darién National Park

Playa Muerto

Panama Canal

Scarlet macaw San Blas Islands

Legendary Peru: Andean Culture and Inca Treasures

World of the Inca and Machu Picchu

11 days from $5,287

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 20–30, Nov. 27–Dec. 7, 2023 & Mar. 4–14, May 13–23, Sept. 18–28, 2024

Amid the soaring flanks of the Peruvian Andes lie the treasures of a once-great empire and villages where age-old traditions endure. Explore the legacy of rich pre-Columbian cultures and the marvelous creations of the Inca as you travel from Cusco through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, visiting artisans and ancient ruins. Then head higher into the Andes, getting acquainted with everyday life in the altiplano. Cap off your journey on the shores of Lake Titicaca, where contemporary communities live on islands woven from reeds.

Highlights Include

Lima: Begin your odyssey with a tour of colonial Lima that includes the wonderful Museo Larco, where a renowned collection of pre-Inca ceramics is housed in an 18th-century manor.

Sacred Valley: Soak up Andean culture during two nights in the majestic Sacred Valley. Browse the colorful wares of the market in Pisac and visit the awe-inspiring Inca ruins at Ollantaytambo. Witness an indigenous ceremony, and watch the ancient techniques of traditional Andean weavers in the farming village of Chinchero.

Machu Picchu: Experience the beauty and mystery of the “Lost City of the Inca” during two visits with an expert guide. Gain insight into the engineering and significance of the ruins on an afternoon visit. Stay in casitas nestled in the cloud forest below the site and return to visit the citadel again in the morning light— before the crowds arrive.

Cusco: Visit the excellent Pre-Columbian Art Museum and admire the incredible stone masonry of the Inca on visits to the evocative ruins of Sacsayhuaman and Korikancha. Enjoy a traditional meal in the home of a local family and take advantage of free time to explore on your own.

Lake Titicaca: Travel through the rugged altiplano, stopping to visit remote villages and the Llama and Alpaca Research Center. Stay in a stunning property on an island in Lake Titicaca and explore artisan villages and the reed islands of the Uros people by boat. On nearby Lake Umayo, examine the Sillustani chullpas, mysterious pre-Inca burial towers set on the lake’s shores. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Bill Sapp (both Sept.) and Anita Cook (Mar.)–archaeologists with expertise in the Andes.

Peruvian woman

(Amazon)

Machu Picchu and the Galápagos

16 days from $9,993

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 23–Oct. 8, Oct. 21–Nov. 5, 2023 & Feb. 24–Mar. 10, Mar. 16–31, May 4–19, May 18–June 2, June 1–16, July 13–28, Aug. 24–Sept. 8, Sept. 21–Oct. 6, 2024

Experience two of South America’s most celebrated destinations on a journey that combines the Inca treasures of Peru with the natural wonders of the Galápagos. Venture into the realm of the Inca, exploring a string of World Heritage sites, including historic Cusco, the sites of the Sacred Valley, and the “lost city” of Machu Picchu. Then spend three magical days in the Galápagos, discovering the unique endemic wildlife that Darwin once studied. Encounter giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, and much more on nature walks, yacht cruises, and snorkeling excursions. Along the way, stay in a stunning hotel adjacent to Machu Picchu’s ruins and plant native trees from your lodge in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island.

Highlights Include

Cusco and the Sacred Valley: In the World Heritage site of Cusco, examine a fascinating collection of indigenous artifacts at the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, or MAP, housed in a historic mansion. Witness the cut-stone building style of the Inca on a visit the fortress of Sacsayhuaman. Gain insights into Inca history and Andean culture during excursions to Pisac, Chinchero, and Ollantaytambo.

Machu Picchu: Enjoy two guided visits to the “Lost City of the Inca,” exploring with a nimble small group; and stay overnight nearby to experience the spirit of Machu Picchu once the crowds are gone.

The Galápagos Islands: Stay in the lush highlands of Santa Cruz Island and immerse yourself in the incredible natural phenomena of the Galápagos. Explore lava tubes and local farms, plant endemic trees to help maintain the island’s natural balance, and set out by privately chartered yacht to explore neighboring islands, including North Seymour and Santa Fe.

Active Adventure: Experience the natural wonders of the Galápagos while swimming and snorkeling and during nature walks and yacht cruises.

Wildlife: Observe a wide range of endemic animals with naturalists, including giant Galápagos tortoises, sea lions, iguanas, colorful marine life, blue-footed and red-footed boobies, and frigate birds. Limited to 19 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Wayne Ranney (Aug.)–geologist. Regina Harrison (Feb./July)–expert in the language and literature of South America. Katryn Wiese (June)–expert in geology and oceanography. Bill Sapp (May 4) and Anita Cook (Sept. 21)–archaeologists with expertise in the Andes.

Machu Picchu

Blue-footed boobies

Chile Earth and Sky

A Stargazing Journey from Santiago to the Atacama Desert

13 days from $9,990

Oct. 5–17, 2023 & Jan. 3–15, Mar. 1–13, Oct. 23–Nov. 4, 2024

Delve into the world of astronomy beneath the clear skies of northern Chile, enjoying exclusive access and behindthe-scenes tours of major observatories on a journey that balances culture, food and wine, and stargazing under the dark skies of the new moon—from Santiago to the luxurious Explora Lodge in the Atacama Desert.

Highlights Include

World-class Observatories: Visit three cuttingedge observatories and learn about the innovative optical instruments that promise to revolutionize our understanding of the universe. Gaze through telescopes at El Pangue Observatory in Elqui Valley—the world’s first International Dark Skies Sanctuary. Then enjoy exclusive access to the Las Campanas Observatory and its five optical reflecting telescopes, and the Paranal Observatory—the largest optic-infrared observatory in the Southern Hemisphere.

Casablanca Valley and Santiago: Sample local wines during a premium tour and tasting at the Kingston Family Vineyard, known for producing award-winning red wines in a valley known for its whites. Enjoy the art museums, cafés, and restaurants of Santiago’s historic Lastarria neighborhood, and discover the city’s highlights such as the Chilean Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, Parque Forestal, and the Plaza de Armas.

La Serena and Elqui Valley: Stay in the heart of La Serena, an appealing beach town that dates back to the 16th century. Venture into the picturesque Elqui Valley, visiting tiny villages tucked among vineyards and stopping at a distillery to taste Chilean pisco made from the valley’s grapes.

Atacama Desert: From your base at the beautiful Explora Lodge, spend two full days discovering the otherworldly wonders of the Atacama Desert. Witness the El Tatio geysers and fumaroles steam against a dramatic mountain landscape, observe flamingos on salt-encrusted lakes, visit sapphire lagoons set among simmering volcanoes, sip an unforgettable sundowner overlooking the Valle De Luna, and marvel at the celestial constellations under the new moon with the lodge’s private advanced optics telescope.

Limited to 24 Smi

Valparaiso

Santiago

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Richard Miller (Oct. 5) and Trae Winter (Mar.)–astrophysicists. Steven Williams (Jan.)–expert in solar system science.

Pacific Ocean

La Serena

ARGENTINA

San Pedro de Atacama

Antofagasta

Atacama Desert night sky

Patagonian Explorer

Argentina and Chile by Land and Sea

Featuring a Four-Night Cruise Aboard the 210-guest Ventus Australis or Stella Australis

16 days from $11,082 / Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Nov. 4–19, Dec. 2–17, 2023 & Jan. 7–22, Feb. 8–23, Mar. 11–26, Oct. 31–Nov. 15, Dec. 2–7, 2024

Venture to the southernmost reaches of South America, exploring the spectacular landscapes of Patagonia. Board a comfortable expedition ship to encounter the glaciers and wild islands of the Chilean fjords on a four-night cruise. Then spend two days in the heart of Torres del Paine National Park, discovering gem-like lakes and stunning mountain vistas. Bookend your experience with visits to three wonderful cities: Buenos Aires, Santiago, and the World Heritage site of Valparaiso.

Highlights Include

Buenos Aires: Capture the essence of Argentina’s capital while spending time in captivating neighborhoods, visiting a renowned tango house, and taking a backstage tour of the Teatro Colón.

Cruising the Chilean Fjords: From Ushuaia, Argentina, cruise the Beagle Channel and Cape Horn National Park, as well as remote fjords and bays. Watch for sea lions, Antarctic fur seals, and Magellanic penguins; and go ashore to explore glaciers and forests.

Torres del Paine National Park: Spend two days immersed in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, renowned for its twisting mountain peaks, glaciers, turquoise lakes, and thunderous waterfalls. Explore the park on a variety of walks and hikes, and keep your eye out for some of the park’s 106 species of birds and 26 species of mammals.

Santiago: Take a city tour of this sophisticated Chilean capital. See an excellent collection of indigenous art and artifacts at the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art.

Valparaiso and Chile’s Wine Country: Enjoy a private tour and tasting at a renowned winery in Chile’s Casablanca wine country. Continue to the culture hub of Valparaiso and stroll the historic port, a World Heritage site.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Don Wilson (Jan.)–senior scientist and curator emeritus at Smithsonian’s Natural History Museum. Allen Glazner (Feb.) and Wayne Ranney (Mar.)–geologists.

Paci c Ocean

(Air) Cape Horn

Santiago Buenos Aires

CHILE

Ocean

ARGENTINA

Iguazu Falls

Torres del Paine Punta Arenas Ushuaia

Torres del Paine National Park

Amazon River Cruise

Featuring Lima and a Round-trip Cruise from Nauta Aboard the 36-guest Zafiro

9 days from $5,495 Oct. 7–15, 2023 & Feb. 10–18, Mar. 2–10, 2024

Exploring the mysterious Amazon River Basin—one of Earth’s most exotic natural realms and our planet’s largest rainforest ecosystem—is an unforgettable and once-in-alifetime experience. Witness a spectacular variety of lush flora and extraordinary fauna during daily expeditions by excursion boat and on nature walks. As you discover this enthralling world of verdant tropical waterways and rainforests, learn about the relationship the local villagers have with their environment as well as the critical global issues of biodiversity and sustainability.

Highlights Include

Lima and Iquitos: Tour the historic center of Peru’s capital city, a World Heritage site, and vibrant Iquitos, an important rubber boom city in the 19th century.

River Exploration: In an authentic atmosphere of exploration, cruise past the confluence of the Río Ucayali and Río Marañón—the legendary inception of the Amazon River—where the primeval calls of birds and wildlife echo across the rainforest. Far removed from civilization, cross into the Pacaya-Samiria Reserve, the largest wetlands refuge in the world. Here, cruise along sinuous tributaries and serpentine blackwater rivers and see rare indigenous wildlife as well as the Victoria amazonica waterlilies, which can grow nine feet in diameter.

Tropical Wildlife: Gain close-up views of gray and pink Amazon River dolphins, red howler and squirrel monkeys, monk sakis, sloths, and other animals. Walk through forests where the number of butterfly species climbs into the thousands, and see colorful large-billed toucans, blue-and-gold and scarlet macaws, kites, hawks, jabiru storks, and the distinctive hoatzin.

River Villages: Visit villages along the shore, accompanied by your local guides. You’ll learn about the ribereño people

who live here and their special relationship with the Amazon, meet a local shaman who explains indigenous medicinal plants, and watch preparations of a traditional meal.

Zafiro: Launched in 2015, this deluxe small river ship is ideal for traveling on the Amazon with its modern comforts (including air-conditioned cabins), spacious public areas, and superb service. The delightful top deck features a lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, which serves as a hub for lectures, while the outdoor bar is ideal for stargazing. Find more details on our website.

Port charges are an additional $395 per person. Space reserved for 36 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Nina Zitani (Oct.)–naturalist with expertise in biodiversity and conservation. Ed Smith (Feb./Mar.)–former biologist at the Smithsonian National Zoo.

Zafiro Squirrel monkey

More Ways to Explore the Americas

Find details—including full itineraries, special savings, photos galleries, and more—for these and additional tours (and others!) in the Americas at SmithsonianJourneys.org.

Astronomy and Natural Wonders of Hawai’i

8 days from $8,635

Nov. 8–15, 2023

Discover the wonders of the universe and marvel at Earth’s immense geological forces and the undersea world during this unique tour of the Hawaiian islands of Maui and Hawai’i.

Costa Rica Treetops and Trails: An Active Journey NEW!

8 days from $3,349 Feb. 17–24, Mar. 16–23, May 11–18, July 13–20, Dec. 14–21, 2024

Join naturalists on hikes from the base of Arenal Volcano to the beach-lined jungles of Manuel Antonio National Park. Along the way, indulge your sense of adventure on canyoneering, zip-lining, and hanging bridge excursions.

Galápagos Islands Cruise

9 days from $7,995

Oct. 12–20, 2023

Experience an adventure that will provide memories to last a lifetime. Learn about Darwin, geology, and unique wildlife and enjoy snorkeling, excursions by glass-bottom boat, and nature walks as you visit six of the Galapágos Islands.

Peaks and Glaciers of Patagonia

A Tailor-Made Journey handcrafted just for you.*

Suggested itinerary: 11 days from $6,435

Explore the spectacular landscapes of Patagonia from both the Chilean and Argentinian sides, discovering Torres del Paine National Park and the Perito Moreno Glacier with naturalist guides.

*Tailor-Made Journeys are private, customized experiences designed for you and your traveling companions. See pages 114–115 for more information.

Galápagos Tortoise

Hawai’i

Africa & the Middle East

This was truly the trip of a lifetime! Great experts, great company, great accommodations, and amazing wildlife! I cannot recommend this trip more.

– Grace C., Safari in Kenya and Tanzania

Ancient Egypt and the Nile

Featuring Abu Simbel

14 days from $6,597

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Oct. 26–Nov. 8, Nov. 25–Dec. 8, Dec. 2–15, 2023 & Jan. 11–24, Jan. 13–26, Jan. 20–Feb. 2, Jan. 25–Feb. 7, Feb. 1–14, Feb. 3–16, Feb. 8–21, Feb. 15–28, Feb. 22–Mar. 6, Mar. 2–15, Mar. 9–22, Mar. 16–29, Mar. 23–Apr. 5, Apr. 6–19, Sept. 28–Oct. 11, Oct. 5–18, Oct. 12–25, Oct. 19–Nov. 1, Oct. 26–Nov. 8, Nov. 2–15, Nov. 9–23, Nov. 16–29, Nov. 23–Dec. 6, Nov. 30–Dec. 13, Dec. 7–20, 2024

From intricately carved temples to the legendary pyramids, the wonders of ancient Egypt have astonished visitors for millennia. Venture into a world of pharaohs and gods, discovering temples and tombs adorned with elaborate hieroglyphs and colossal statues that have stood the test of time. Unravel the mysteries of Egypt as you explore Cairo, Giza, and Abu Simbel and sail the mighty Nile from Aswan to Luxor.

Highlights Include

Cairo and Giza: See treasured artifacts from the tombs of the pharaohs at the Egyptian Museum and visit the famous mummies in their new home: the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. In Giza, encounter the Pyramids and the Sphinx, and see the intact Solar Boat of King Khufu excavated near the Great Pyramid. Explore Memphis, Egypt’s first capital; the step pyramid of Imhotep at Sakkara; and the lesser-known pyramids of Dahshur—precursors to those at Giza.

Aswan and Abu Simbel: At Abu Simbel, stand before the immense statues of Ramses II and his wife Nefertari, who guard temples housing incredibly well-preserved murals. Visit the Aswan High Dam, considered a marvel of engineering when completed in 1965; tour the temples of Philae; and see the Unfinished Obelisk in the Aswan Quarry. Sail in a traditional felucca past Elephantine Island and the botanical gardens on Kitchener’s Island.

Nile River Cruise: Take in timeless scenes along the banks of the Nile during a three-night cruise. Visit Kom Ombo, with its unusual double temple, and Edfu, the largest temple dedicated to Horus.

Luxor: In the Valley of the Kings, visit royal tombs, the stunning Temple of Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon. Venture to the village of Deir-el-Medina, home to the artisans who worked on the pharaohs’ tombs. See the influence of generations of pharaohs at the extraordinary temple complex at Karnak, and tour the lovely Luxor Temple and the Luxor Museum.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests. See our website for information on a five-day extension to Jordan.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

David Price Williams (Nov. 25)–archaeologist. Jacquelyn

Williamson (Dec. 2), Solange Ashby (Mar. 23), and Rozenn

Bailleul-LeSuer (Sept.)–Egyptologists. Rafael Chacón (Mar. 2) and Annie Shanley (Nov. 2)–art historians. Debora Heard (Mar. 9)–anthropologist specializing in Nubian archaeology. Janet Duncan Jones (Nov. 30)–expert in the classics.

Pyramids and Sphinx at Giza

Ramses II statues at Abu Simbel

African Safari: A Wildlife Adventure

South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, and Victoria Falls

14 days from $9,184 / Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees Sept. 25–Oct. 8, Oct. 29–Nov. 11, 2023 & Mar. 31–Apr. 13, June 2–15, June 30–July 13, July 31–Aug. 13, Aug. 21–Sept. 3, Sept. 23–Oct. 6, Oct. 27–Nov. 9, 2024

Embark on thrilling wildlife drives in search of the “Big Five,” marvel at magnificent Victoria Falls, and trace the life of Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg on one of our “Top 10” tours. Observe elephants and hippos on the banks of Botswana’s Chobe River, and explore a private game reserve known for its black rhino conservation program in Zimbabwe. Then head to South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, an unspoiled wilderness that harbors one of Africa’s highest concentrations of wildlife. You’ll stay in stylish boutique hotels and stunning safari lodges, and learn from local experts about the history, ecology, and culture that define southern Africa.

Highlights Include

Victoria Falls: Spend three days on the Zimbabwe side of this World Heritage site, taking in views of the thundering falls from different perspectives. Set out on wildlife drives in Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve, on the lookout for hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and the elusive black rhino. Learn about the region’s history as you stroll the catwalks of Victoria Falls Bridge, and cap off your stay with a “sundowner” dinner cruise on the Zambezi River.

Botswana’s Chobe National Park: During your three-day stay, take early morning game drives and boat safaris that provide abundant opportunities to view wildlife, including the world’s largest elephant population (120,000), along with zebras, lions, giraffes, impalas, and some of the park’s 450 species of birds.

South Luangwa National Park: Enjoy two days of exceptional wildlife viewing on open-vehicle drives and bushwalks. This remote park boasts one of Africa’s highest concentrations of wildlife, from Cape buffalo and leopards to wild dogs and the endemic Crawshay’s zebra. Get acquainted with everyday life on a visit to the local community.

South Africa: Delve into South Africa’s turbulent 20th-century history during a special tour of Johannesburg’s Soweto district. See the home of revered peacemaker Desmond Tutu and visit Nelson Mandela’s home. At the Hector Pieterson Museum, learn about the pivotal Soweto youth uprising, and meet a local resident to hear stories of contemporary life in this township.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Grant Nel (both Sept./Mar./June 2)–naturalist. Robyn Keene-Young (June 30)–travel and nature writer on Southern Africa.

Lusaka

South Luangwa National Park ZAMBIA

ZIMBABWE

Chobe Nat’l Park

Johannesburg

Indian Ocean

Livingstone/ Victoria Falls

SOUTH AFRICA Atlantic Ocean

Cape Town

BOTSWANA

Elephant calf with mother

Cheetah

Safari in Kenya and Tanzania

From the Serengeti to the Masai Mara

16 days from $10,996

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Oct. 19–Nov. 3, 2023 & July 2–17, Aug. 6–21, Aug. 27–Sept. 11, Oct. 24–Nov. 8, 2024

Encounter a stunning diversity of wildlife and landscapes on safari in five national parks. In the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, discover the elephants of Amboseli. Beneath a dramatic escarpment in the Rift Valley, watch for tree-climbing lions in Lake Manyara. Descend into the extraordinary Ngorongoro Crater for a chance to spot all of the “Big Five.” Then head for the Serengeti and the Masai Mara, one large contiguous region of vast plains teeming with wildlife. Throughout your journey, stay in deluxe lodges and tented camps that enhance your classic safari experience.

Highlights Include

The Serengeti and Masai Mara: Home to the annual wildebeest migration, Tanzania’s Serengeti and the adjacent Masai Mara in Kenya offer tens of thousands of square miles of diverse and pristine wildlife habitat—and some of the best safari experiences in Africa. Spend four days exploring these two iconic parks on game drives with knowledgeable wildlife guides.

Amboseli: In the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, Kenya’s Amboseli National Park is known for its dry plains and large elephant population. Meet a researcher at the Elephant Research Center to learn about these creatures, and observe their behavior on morning and afternoon wildlife drives. Then visit a nearby Maasai village to see everyday life up close, meeting with villagers and stopping by a school.

Lake Manyara: See abundant birdlife, tree-climbing lions, and hippos during game drives in one of Tanzania’s smallest and most diverse parks.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area: This World Heritage site is home to the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, measuring 100 square miles. On the crater’s floor is Africa in microcosm: grassland, swampland, lakes, forest,

mountains, and unparalleled wildlife. Descend into the crater to see all of Africa’s “Big Five”—lion, elephant, rhino, Cape buffalo and leopard—in one place!

Nairobi: Tour the Karen Blixen Museum, former home of the author of Out of Africa (as Isak Dinesen) and see the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe at the Giraffe Centre.

Extension to Mount Kenya: During an optional three-day extension, spend a day at Mpala Research Centre, where Smithsonian fellows and research staff lead important studies. You’ll also visit the Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Sanctuary.

Limited to 17 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Grant Nel (both Oct./July/Aug.)–naturalist. Robyn Keene-Young (Aug. 27)–travel and nature writer on Southern Africa.

Lion pride

Lake Manyara

Lake Victoria Serengeti National Park

Ngorongoro Crater

Indian Ocean

Masai Mara Game Reserve

Zebras

Tanzania and Zanzibar

Featuring the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater

14 days from $8,697

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 24–Oct. 7, 2023 & Feb. 18–Mar. 2, Mar. 17–30, July 14–27, Sept. 22–Oct. 5, 2024

Journey to the depths of Ngorongoro Crater and the vast plains of the Serengeti, then to exotic Zanzibar. Experience the thrill of seeing wildlife up close, learn about the “Cradle of Humanity,” and encounter varied cultures.

Highlights Include

Arusha National Park: With a backdrop of snowcapped Mt. Kilimanjaro, take a game drive in search of leopards, zebras, and giraffes.

Ngorongoro Crater: Descend to the floor of the crater, home to some 25,000 mammals. Plus, visit a local Maasai village to learn about their traditional lifestyle.

Olduvai Gorge: Stop at one of the world’s most important prehistoric sites where in 1959, anthropologist Mary Leakey discovered the 1.8 million-year-old skull of Australopithecus boisei.

Serengeti National Park: Take exciting game drives through the Serengeti’s treeless plains teeming with Africa’s “Big Five” of lion, elephant, leopard, Cape buffalo, and rhino.

Zanzibar: Fly to tropical Zanzibar and explore its ancient capital. Tour a spice plantation to learn about Zanzibar’s centuries-old reputation as the “Spice Island.”

Safari Comfort: Stay in deluxe Serena safari lodges that put you where the largest concentration of wildlife flourishes. Limited to 18 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Robyn Keene-Young (Sept. 24/July)–travel and nature writer. Mark Geraghty (Mar. 17/Sept. 22)–expert on African wildlife and history.

Treasures of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana

Featuring Rovos Rail

16 days from $10,290

Includes $250 early booking savings

Special air rates & services available Oct. 10–25, 2023 & Mar. 5–20, Aug. 13–28, Sept. 17–Oct. 2, 2024

This extraordinary adventure features the heritage of South Africa, a rail journey aboard the legendary Rovos Rail, safaris in three important parks, and a stay at dramatic Victoria Falls. Highlights Include

South Africa: Enjoy a comprehensive overview of Cape Town and a tour of Robben Island prison where Nelson Mandela and other important leaders made strides in attaining equal rights. In Soweto township, visit other sites associated with the anti-apartheid movement.

Safari Adventures: Experience the thrill of seeing animals in the wild during safaris at three important parks. Spot the “Big Five” on game drives during a three-night stay at South Africa’s Kapama Southern Camp. Stop at Zimbabwe’s Hwange National Park and see the renowned elephant herds at Chobe National Park.

Rovos Rail: Savor the romance of the Golden Age of train travel during a three-night rail journey from Pretoria to Victoria Falls. Ride in vintage carriages restored to mint condition and take in sweeping landscapes and wildlife from the observation car. Find more details on our website.

Victoria Falls: Feel the power of Victoria Falls, a World Heritage site and one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, during a two-night stay at the Victoria Falls Hotel. Space reserved for 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Robert Schrire (Oct./Mar.)–South African political analyst. Mark Geraghty (Aug.)–expert on African wildlife and history. Robyn Keene-Young (Sept.)–travel and nature writer.

Watching wildlife from Rovos Rail

On safari in Tanzania

Splendors of Morocco

From Imperial Cities to the Sahara

14 days from $6,679

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 22–Oct. 5, Oct. 8–21, Nov. 24–Dec. 7, 2023 & Feb. 2–15, Mar. 3–16, Mar. 31–Apr. 13, Apr. 14–27, Sept. 10–23, Sept. 29–Oct. 12, Oct. 13–26, Dec. 1–14, 2024

Morocco is a land of dramatic contrasts—desert dunes and snowcapped mountains, Roman ruins and sacred mosques, ancient adobe fortresses and spirited souks. Explore four imperial cities from Rabat to Marrakech, encountering incomparable Moroccan artistry in palaces and madrassas covered in intricate mosaics and stucco work. Step back in time in the enchanting alleyways of Fez’s medieval medina, where artisans ply their age-old crafts. Between your city stays, venture to red-rock gorges, fortified kasbahs, and oasis towns, and watch the sunset over the Saharan dunes.

Highlights Include

Imperial Capitals of Rabat, Meknes, and Fez: Explore Morocco’s ancient imperial capitals, each now a World Heritage site. Venture into the Kasbah of the Oudaias in Rabat and enjoy lunch in a family home. Visit the Bab el Mansour gateway and the imperial stables in Meknes, then admire mosaics at the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Spend two days in Fez, discovering artisans’ quarters and madrassas in the medina. Visit a 17th-century synagogue and the home of 12th-century Jewish scholar Maimonides in the old Jewish quarter.

High Atlas Mountains and Sahara Desert: Travel through the cedar forests of the Atlas Mountains to the edge of the Sahara in a single day. Ride a camel to watch the sunset over the dunes and stay in a kasbah-style hotel. Witness everyday life in Berber villages and palm oases as you make your way along the “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs,” and explore dramatic Todra Gorge and the World Heritage–listed adobe village of Ait ben-Haddou.

Marrakech and Casablanca: Experience marvelous Marrakech and its architectural gems such as Koutoubia Mosque and El Bahia Palace. Stroll the lively square of Djemaa el-Fna, watching snake charmers, acrobats, and merchants vie for attention. Tour the Majorelle Garden and its excellent Berber Museum, and enjoy a free afternoon to explore. Conclude the trip in Casablanca with a tour featuring the magnificent Hassan II Mosque.

Cultural Experiences: Meet a family for dinner in their riad in Fez, and enjoy a discussion on Islam with an imam in Marrakech. Watch artisans craft pottery and attend a concert of enchanting gnaoua music. Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Alia Kate (Sept. 22/Sept. 29)–expert in international relations. Wil Rollman (Nov.)–historian with expertise in northern African, Middle Eastern, and Islamic history. Carola Stearns (Mar. 31)–field geologist and geophysicist.

Doorway in Fez

Sand dunes of the Sahara

Ancient Civilizations by Sea: Israel, Egypt, Cyprus, Greece, and Turkey

From Aqaba to Valletta Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

13 days from $10,920*

Apr. 2–14, 2024

Experience a vast sweep of history on a voyage from the Red Sea to Malta, encountering the palaces of the Bronze Age Minoans on Crete, the Pyramids of Giza, and the Greco-Roman city of Ephesus. Explore the holy sites of three world religions in Jerusalem’s Old City, and discover the legacy of the knights of the Crusades in Rhodes. Along the way, float in the Dead Sea, sail the Suez Canal, and enjoy a delectable culinary adventure in the charming villages of Cyprus.

Highlights Include

The Holy Land: Explore the ancient mountaintop fortress of Masada, then descend to the Dead Sea for lunch and a swim. Or discover the archaeological site of King Solomon’s copper mines and see the marine life of the Red Sea at an underwater aquarium. Spend a day discovering the sacred sites of Jerusalem’s Old City.

Giza, Egypt and the Suez Canal: Encounter the extraordinary Pyramids and the Sphinx on a guided visit. Gain insights into ancient Egypt during a talk by a renowned professor, then see King Tut’s treasures— and much more—at the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum.

Cyprus: On a culinary tour of western Cyprus, learn how halloumi is made and knead your own Cypriot sourdough. Taste wine made from the island’s varietal grapes, and savor a traditional mezze lunch. In Paphos, discover the underground Tombs of the Kings and the stunning mosaics of the House of Dionysos.

Rhodes and Ephesus: Explore the legacy of ancient Greeks, Romans, and the knights of the Crusades as you visit the Street of the Knights and the Palace of the Grand Masters. Travel to beautiful Lindos to visit its hilltop Acropolis and its temples. Then sail to the Turkish coast for a visit to the World Heritage site of Ephesus.

Crete: Venture to the storied Palace of Knossos, the political center of Minoan civilization and legendary home of King Minos and the Minotaur. Then browse an impressive collection of ancient Greek artifacts at the Archaeology Museum in Heraklion.

Add a three-night extension in Jordan or a one-night extension in Malta.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are journalist Adam Tanner and Gillian Hovell, an ancient historian and an archaeologist.

Egypt’s Pyramids

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,400* Jan. 26–Feb. 2, 2024

Trace the northern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, discovering world-class cities and ancient cultures, desert islands and dramatic fjords, from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Doha and Muscat. Experience some of the most architecturally exciting cities in the world, and venture back in time in bustling souks.

Highlights Include

Architecture and Design: Delve into an enthralling concoction of futuristic design and Arabian tradition. Ascend Dubai’s iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and admire the craftsmanship of the Qasr al Watan in Abu Dhabi. In Doha, Qatar, visit museums and other buildings built by renowned architects.

Dubai: Meander through the aromatic spice souk and the glittering gold souk, and visit the Dubai Museum, housed within a historic fort. Then explore Emirati culture at the Sheikh Mohammed Center of Cultural Understanding, and sit down to a Bedouin-style lunch.

Qatar: Visit the exquisite Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, designed by IM Pei, or take a city tour and sail a dhow off the coast. Then delve into the colorful bustle of Souk Waqif, learning about falconry and traditional handicrafts.

United Arab Emirates: In cosmopolitan Abu Dhabi, enjoy high tea at the presidential palace, trace the evolution of world art the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and stroll beneath archways and marble domes on an evening visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Later, visit the 16thcentury fort and museum of Fujairah, and see a mud-andstone mosque in the Al Bithna oasis.

Oman: From Khasab, Oman, sail a traditional dhow into the fjords of the Musandam Peninsula, and end your voyage in the enchanting capital of Muscat.

Add a one-night extension in Dubai or a two-night extension in Muscat.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise include Benjamin Sutherland, a reporter for The Economist. Visit our website for the additional expert.

Fujairah

Persian Gulf

Doha Gulf of Oman

Muscat

Cruising the Arabian Coast

Doha

Israel: Unique Perspectives on the Holy Land

11 days from $6,995

Feb. 27–Mar. 8, Apr. 30–May 10, Sept. 3–13, Nov. 12–22, 2024

Experience the Holy Land through the unique and varied viewpoints of the people who call it home. Inspired by Geraldine Brooks’ 2019 Smithsonian magazine article, “Two Tour Guides—One Israeli, One Palestinian—Offer a New Way to See the Holy Land,” this trip brings together the knowledge and perspectives of both Israeli and Palestinian guides as we make our way from Jerusalem to Haifa, the Galilee, and beyond. Hear from voices across the political and cultural spectrum, visiting a kibbutz and a West Bank settlement and meeting representatives of Arab and Jewish community centers and peace-building organizations. Go wine tasting, spend time with local families, float in the Dead Sea, and enjoy unparalleled access to local experts and thought leaders.

Highlights Include

Unique Perspectives: Retrace the recent history of the Holy Land with both Israeli and Palestinian guides. Engaging in dynamic discussions and hearing sometimes divergent viewpoints on the events and conflicts that have made world headlines for decades.

Jerusalem: Stay in the heart of Jerusalem and experience the fascinating cultural blend of the Old City, examine the Dead Sea Scrolls at the Israel Museum, and spend time in the poignant Holocaust remembrance halls of Yad Vashem.

Family Visits: Try your hand at making challah during a joyous Shabbat dinner in the home of a Jewish family, and enjoy a festive evening of food and traditional music at the home of a Palestinian family. In the Golan Heights, sit down to lunch with a Druze family and learn about their traditions and beliefs.

Sacred Monuments: Meet with a rabbi, a pastor, and an imam, and experience some of the most sacred sites of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity, including the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. In Haifa, learn about the Bahá’í faith at its World Heritage-listed center.

Archaeological Sites: Explore evocative archaeological sites that tell thousands of years of history, from King Herod’s fortress atop Masada to early churches and synagogues in the Galilee, to the once-thriving Roman port city of Caesarea.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Dome of the Rock, Jerusalem

Jaffa

Haifa Tiberias

Golan Heights Acre Sea of Galilee

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Aziz Abu Sarah (Feb.)–peace activist and journalist.

More Ways to Explore Africa & the Middle East

Find details—including full itineraries, special savings, photos galleries, and more—for these and additional tours (and others!) in Africa and the Middle East at SmithsonianJourneys.org.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi: A Stay in the United Arab Emirates

10 days from $5,490

Nov. 28–Dec. 7, 2023

Venture into centuries-old souks and zoom to the top of the world’s tallest skyscraper, exploring the past, present, and future of the United Arab Emirates as you make your way from Dubai to Abu Dhabi.

Gorillas of Rwanda: An Active Journey NEW!

8 days from $8,999

May 24–31, Aug. 2–9, Sept. 6–13, 2024

Encounter mountain gorillas and experience Rwandan culture on an active journey that combines three days of trekking in Volcanoes National Park with visits with local communities in Kigali.

South Africa and Victoria Falls: A Tailor-Made Journey

A Tailor-Made Journey handcrafted just for you.*

Suggested itinerary: 10 days from $9,995

Experience southern Africa from three unique perspectives as you explore Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula, observe wildlife on safari in Greater Kruger National Park, and encounter incomparable Victoria Falls.

Kenya Wildlife Safari: A Tailor-Made Journey

A Tailor-Made Journey handcrafted just for you.*

Suggested itinerary: 9 days from $9,995

Venture to deluxe camps in two of Kenya’s top wilderness areas—the Masai Mara and Meru National Park—for an intimate safari experience away from the crowds.

*Tailor-Made Journeys are private, customized experiences designed for you and your traveling companions. See pages 114–115 for more information.

Lion Victoria Falls

Asia & the Pacific

There was something new and wonderful to experience every day… it truly was a trip of a lifetime, and our memories of it will last for years to come.

– Marcia and Bill L., Splendors of Australia and New Zealand

Cultural and Natural Treasures of

Japan by Sea

From Maizuru to Hakodate Aboard the 264-guest Le Soléal A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $7,580* May 21–28, 2024

Sail the Sea of Japan along the coast of Honshu, discovering lesserknown towns and villages that harbor the hallmarks of Japan’s rich culture: from traditional arts and gardens to historic castles and shrines. Visit intimate art museums and stroll through world-renowned Japanese gardens. Venture into lush mountains to find revered shrines and timeless thatched villages. Participate in a gold leaf or a washi papermaking workshop, and witness fishing traditions on Sato Island. Spend a day in South Korea visiting the temples and markets of Busan or the World Heritage site of Gyeongju.

Highlights Include

Matsue and Yasugi: Admire a phenomenal collection of Japanese modern art, including many works by Yokoyama Taikan, at the Adachi Museum of Art, then visit the lovely Yushien Garden; explore Matsue Castle and learn about washi, the Japanese art of papermaking; or surround yourself with blossoms at the Tottori Hanakairo Flower Park before a visit to a castle where traditional sweets are sold.

South Korea: Spend a day in the dynamic port city of Busan, exploring the Busan Museum of Art, the lively fish market, historic temples, and more. Or travel to World Heritage-listed Gyeongju and see the glorious sites of the cradle of the eighth-century Silla Kingdom.

Kanazawa: Explore the Edo-period Higashi Chayagai geisha district, and choose to visit a gold leaf workshop or tour the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden and a samurai home. Alternatively, travel to the World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama to discover timeless thatched-roof villages and a unique way of life.

Sado Island: Encounter age-old fishing traditions and an interesting history on Sato Island, where political prisoners were once exiled. Visit the charming village of Shukunegi and the Ogi Folk Museum, or explore the beautiful coast and venture into a once-prolific gold mine.

Sakata and Yamagata: Admire lacquerware and ceramics at the stunning Honma Museum of Art, set in an Edo-period home, and see post-war images at the Ken Domon Museum of Photography. Visit the Sankyo Rice Storehouse, gaze at hundreds of ethereal jellyfish at the Kamo Aquarium, or explore the serene mountains of Yamagata and the shrines they shelter.

Add a four-night extension in Tokyo and Kyoto.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are John Freedman, an Asian studies expert, and Timon Screech, a Japanese art historian.

Tea ceremony

Gyeongju

Eternal Japan

13 days from $8,284

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Sept. 13–25, Sept. 18–30, 2023 & Apr. 1–13, Apr. 20–May 2, May 4–16, May 15–27, Sept. 16–28, Oct. 7–19, Oct. 26–Nov. 7, 2024

From the neon lights of Tokyo to the misty peak of Mt. Fuji, and from the winding lanes of Kanazawa to the shimmering temples of Kyoto, delve into the essence of Japan. Step into spectacular temples and stroll world-renowned gardens, explore the palaces of shoguns and thatched homes of remote farmers, and encounter artisans of gold leaf and ceramics. Along the way, meet local people, stay in a ryokan (traditional inn), and experience age-old traditions, including a tea ceremony and a sake tasting.

Highlights Include

Tokyo: Visit the Shinto Meiji Shrine; stroll the gardens of the Imperial Palace; and venture into Tokyo’s oldest temple, the Asakusa Kannon, or Senso-ji.

Mt. Fuji: Take in majestic views of Mt. Fuji, learn about local conservation efforts, and enjoy a relaxing cruise on nearby Ashi Lake. Japanese Alps: Go off the beaten path in lovely Takayama, nestled among high mountain peaks. Spend a day exploring the World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama, where farming families in thatched-roof villages maintain a unique lifestyle adapted to their remote setting.

Kanazawa: Tour the breathtaking Kenrokuen Garden, visit a museum celebrating the art and craft of gold leaf technology; and meander through the Edo-period Higashi Chayagai tea house and geisha area.

Kyoto and Nara: Enjoy two days to explore Kyoto’s many temples, shrines, gardens, and well-preserved architecture. Highlights include visits to the gold-covered Kinkaku-ji temple and Nijo-jo Castle, the lavish seat of the shoguns. During a day trip to nearby Nara, Japan’s ancient capital, take a walking tour that features Todai-ji temple, the Kasuga Taisha shrine, Nara National Museum, and the treasures of the eighth-century Kofuku-ji temple.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Carol Morland (Apr. 20)–Japanese art historian. Constantine Vaporis (May 4)–expert in Japanese history. Jonathan Hall (May 15/Oct. 26)–expert in Japanese history, culture, film, and literature. Geeta Mehta (Sept. 16/Oct. 7)–expert in Japanese architecture.

Ashi Lake and Mt. Fuji

Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto

The Silk Road: A Journey to Central Asia

Featuring the Five “Stans” of Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan

17 days from $8,695

Sept. 27–Oct. 13, 2023 & Apr. 10–26, May 8–24, Sept. 11–27, Sept. 25–Oct. 11, Oct. 9–25, 2024

Central Asia is the exotic heart of the Silk Road—ancient caravan routes used for the silk and spice trade between East and West. Experience the past and present of five Central Asian countries as you explore legendary cities, visit religious sites and museums, attend cultural programs, and meet local experts.

Highlights Include

Turkmenistan: Beginning in Ashgabat, visit the National Museum of History and Ethnography, then tour the ancient site of nearby Nisa with an archaeologist.

Uzbekistan: Explore the legendary cities of Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand, and Tashkent, with their noble squares and breathtaking architecture. Highlights feature religious sites, including madrassas and important mosques such as the 20th-century Tillya Sheikh Mosque, home to the oldest Koran in the world, and Bibi Khanum Mosque, built by Tamerlane to be the largest mosque in the world. You’ll meet with the scientific advisor of the Ark Citadel, artists at a renowned ceramics studio, and other local experts. Tour one of the ancient world’s most advanced observatories, drive across the Red Sands Desert, and enjoy performances of traditional music and dance.

Tajikistan: Penjikent is an isolated city of 130,000 that was built in the fifth century and is most famous for its past as an important Sogdian trade center. Visit the site of an archaeological dig at Old Penjikent, where excavations began over 50 years ago. Tour the remains of Shakristan, two Zoroastrian temples, the citadel, and the Rudaki Museum of History and Regional Studies—named after the founder of Tajik and Persian poetry.

Kyrgyzstan: In the capital of Bishkek, tour the central square, the National History Museum, and the State

Museum of Fine Arts, and meet with a Kyrgyz resident who participated in the 2010 revolution. In a nearby village, enjoy lunch with a family in their home and watch a demonstration of Kyrgyz horse games. Later, delight in a Kyrgyz Manas folk performance.

Kazakhstan: Highlights in Almaty include the Zenkov Cathedral, the delightful Museum of Musical Instruments, and the State Central Museum. Outside the city, visit a traditional Kazakh falcon farm.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Adam Tanner (Sept. 27)–writer and former foreign correspondent. Pamela Spratlen (Sept. 25)–former diplomat.

Registan complex, Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Treasures of Southeast Asia

Featuring Bali, Singapore, Thailand, and Angkor Wat

16 days from $7,690

Includes $250 special savings / Special air rates & services available Oct. 17– Nov. 1, 2023 & Feb. 6–21, 2024

Take an exotic journey to East Asia that showcases a vast array of ancient histories, diverse cultures, and many World Heritage sites. Fly between four countries, enjoying unforgettable experiences such as listening to an Indonesian gamelan to exploring the ancient temples of Angkor Wat.

Highlights Include

Bali: Enjoy a variety of options to experience traditional Balinese life that include visiting a local school or learning about the traditional irrigation system used in rice fields. Travel inland to the artist community of Ubud and discover Balinese painting, listen to an Indonesian gamelan, and visit the colorful local market.

Singapore: Explore the fascinating medley of Chinese, Indian, and Malay culture, architecture, and cuisine in this historic city-state. An introductory tour takes you from the iconic Merlion Park to the city’s oldest Chinese temple. Discover the landmark Gardens by the Bay, featuring vertical “Supertree” gardens, the largest glass greenhouse in the world, and aerial walkways. You’ll also enjoy visits to the Malay enclave of Kampong Glam, bustling Chinatown, and Little India’s exotic flower and spice market.

Bangkok: During two full days of excursions, highlights include the Grand Palace with its Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the famous Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho, and the World Heritage site of Ayutthaya—Thailand’s ancient capital. You’ll also enjoy a cruise along the Chao Phraya River, a tuk-tuk ride through the city, a sampling of Thai cuisine, and a captivating Thai dance performance.

Angkor Wat: Fly to Cambodia’s Siem Reap for a threenight stay to explore the Angkor Archaeological Park, a World Heritage site. Enjoy time for in-depth visits to

the enthralling temples of Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Ta Prohm, and Thommanon, each site a unique and fascinating experience. Traditional performances and a visit with local artisans complement your stay.

Local Cuisine: Throughout your journey, indulge in the culinary specialties of each country you visit. Browse the spice-laden markets of Bali, learn the secrets of making Chinese dumplings in Singapore, savor an array of flavors and textures during a Thai feast, and learn to make noodles in a Cambodian family home.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Sandra Cate (Oct.)–anthropologist and folklorist with expertise in Southeast Asia.

Angkor Wat

Discovering Vietnam

15 days from $5,497 Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees Oct. 19–Nov. 2, Nov. 27–Dec. 11, 2023 & Jan. 11–25, Feb. 17–Mar. 2, Oct. 17–31, Dec. 2–16, 2024

Against a backdrop of breathtaking beauty, Vietnam’s traditions endure, rewarding travelers with a glimpse of the past amid modern changes. Make your way from the delightful Old Quarter of Hanoi to villages of the lush Mekong Delta, where local farmers still sell their produce in floating markets. Explore history amid the World Heritage sites of Hue’s Imperial City and Hoi An, glide among otherworldly karst formations on Ha Long Bay, and get acquainted with the timeless rhythms of rural life on a visit to a farming village.

Highlights Include

Hanoi and Ha Long Bay: Discover historic Hanoi on a guided tour that includes the ancient Temple of Literature and the One-Pillar Pagoda as well as more recent sites such as the “Hanoi Hilton” prison. Then enjoy a full-day boat excursion on breathtaking Ha Long Bay, a World Heritage site known for its mystical karst cliffs and some 3,000 islands.

Da Nang and Hoi An: Delve into ancient Cham culture in Da Nang, and spend a full day exploring the World Heritage site of Hoi An, a beautifully preserved medieval trading port.

Hue: Experience the grandeur of the imperial Hue, cruising the Perfume River to the peaceful Thien Mu Pagoda, visiting the palatial and diverse tombs of the Nguyen emperors, and meeting with residents at a Buddhist nunnery.

Mekong River: Spend two days on the fabled Mekong, riding local boats along small tributaries and inlets to the bustling floating market at Cai Rang and to other traditional villages.

Ho Chi Minh City: On a city tour, visit Reunification Palace, kept as it was when Saigon fell in 1975, and learn

about Vietnam’s cultural history and fine arts at the city’s renowned museums. Venture into the Cu Chi Tunnels, used by the Viet Cong during the war.

Cultural Experiences: Learn to prepare local dishes during a private cooking lesson, visit a farming settlement to get acquainted with everyday life in rural Vietnam, experience the sensory feast of a floating market, and sit down to lunch in the home of a local historian.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts Sharon Ullman (Oct. 19)–historian. Dana Sachs (Jan.)–writer. Elvira Masson (Feb.)–professor of Asian history.

Ha Long Bay

Rice fields

Journey Through New Zealand

From Auckland to Queenstown

16 days from $8,574 Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Oct. 19–Nov. 3, Nov. 9–24, 2023 & Feb. 22–Mar. 8, Mar. 28–Apr. 12, Oct. 17–Nov. 1, Nov. 7–22, 2024

Encounter bubbling volcanic landscapes and glaciers, rainforests and magnificent fjords on an unforgettable adventure through New Zealand’s North and South Islands. Get to know the local culture, meeting sheep farmers and winemakers and experiencing the traditions of the indigenous Maori people. Explore exciting cities from Auckland to Christchurch and encounter spectacular feats of nature as you make your way from the geothermal landscapes of the North Island to Doubtful Sound.

Highlights Include

Auckland and Rotorua: Cruise Auckland’s glittering harbor and browse a stunning collection of Maori and Polynesian artifacts at the Auckland Museum. Then travel to Rotorua to get acquainted with Maori culture during a traditional hangi feast and performance at Te Puai. Discover New Zealand’s biodiversity at Paradise Valley Springs and visit a kiwi rescue center.

Napier and Wellington: In seaside Napier, take a guided tour of one of the world’s most authentic Art Deco city centers. Then visit the acclaimed Te Papa National Museum and the Parliament House in Wellington and enjoy a free afternoon to discover this enchanting city on your own.

Christchurch and Queenstown: On the South Island, explore the “Garden City” of Christchurch, known for its innovative rebuilding after the devastating earthquake of 2011.

Natural Treasures of the South Island: Experience one of the world’s great rail journeys, riding the TranzAlpine train through the Southern Alps to Arthur’s Pass. In Westland National Park, encounter the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier, take a walk through the Glacial Valley, and see rare kiwis at a wildlife center. Then set out on a

full-day excursion to World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park and take an exhilarating, three-hour catamaran cruise on Doubtful Sound.

Wineries and Rural Life: Stop for a wine tasting and lunch at a renowned winery in the North Island’s Hawke’s Bay wine region. Meet local farmers at their sheep farm near Wellington for a sheepdog demonstration and a barbecue. In the Central Otago wine region near Queensland, visit the award-winning Gibbston Valley Vineyard for a private tour and tasting Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Lori Blanc (Oct. 19)–expert in conservation biology and avian ecology. Carola Stearns (Feb.)–field geologist and geophysicist. Don Wilson (Mar.)–senior scientist and curator emeritus at Smithsonian’s Natural History Museum.

Maori sculpture

Ocean

Josef

Southern Alps

New Zealand’s South Island by Sea: A Voyage to the Fiordland

From Wellington to Dunedin Aboard the 184-guest Le Laperouse

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,480*

Feb. 15–22, 2024

New Zealand’s South Island is edged with spectacular coastlines, where mountains rise dramatically just beyond the shore; pristine fjords cut between towering cliffs; and whales, fur seals, and penguins are drawn by unspoiled marine habitats. Sail from Wellington to the World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park, stopping to watch sperm whales in seaside Kaikoura and discover Hector’s dolphin in Akaroa. Then venture to the glaciercarved waterways of the Fiordland, exploring four glorious sounds: Dusky, Doubtful, Thomson, and the extraordinary Milford Sound.

Highlights Include

Kaikoura: Explore this attractive small town, poised on a narrow peninsula between dramatic mountains and the sea. Then set out on a wildlife cruise to observe the diverse creatures drawn here by nutrient-rich waters: sea lions, dolphins, and several species of whales—including sperm whales, which can be found off Kaikoura year-round.

Akaroa: Dock in lovely Akaroa and set off on a harbor cruise, on the lookout for seabirds and Hector’s dolphin— the smallest and rarest marine dolphin species in the world—as well as the prolific birdlife that comes to roost on the towering sea walls known as Cathedral Cave.

Dusky and Doubtful Sounds: In remote Dusky Sound, encounter rich wildlife such as New Zealand fur seals and Fiordland crested penguins. Glide into the narrow Doubtful Sound—named by Captain James Cook, who was unsure it was navigable—and discover spectacular waterfalls.

Milford Sound: Experience the majesty of Milford Sound, taking in a cathedral of vertical cliffs and peaks that tower above the serene waters. Ride Zodiacs for a closer view of wildlife and scenery along the shores.

Ulva Island: Take a guided walking tour on Ulva Island, a predator-free haven for bird and plant species that are rarely found on New Zealand’s main islands. Watch for the flightless Stewart Island weka and the South Island saddleback, and meander through an unspoiled podocarp forest. Add a four-night extension in New Zealand’s North Island. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are archaeologist and geologist Peter Bobrowsky and Geoff Cox, an expert in the natural sciences, the environment, and marine biology.

Milford Sound

Fiordland penguin

Splendors of Australia and New Zealand

22 days from $11,284 / Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

Oct. 28–Nov. 18, 2023 & Jan. 13–Feb. 3, Feb. 12–Mar. 4, Mar. 11–Apr. 1, Apr. 8–29, 2024

Explore a host of wonders across Australia and New Zealand—from the Great Barrier Reef to Milford Sound. Snorkel the world’s largest reef system and soar through Queensland’s rainforest canopy in a gondola. Experience the sacred monolith of Uluru as well as stunning Aoraki Mount Cook in New Zealand’s Southern Alps—and gain insights into the ancient cultures of Australian Aboriginal people and the Maori. Cruise the extraordinary Milford Sound, and delve into the dynamic cities of Sydney, Churchill, and Auckland. Along the way, encounter rare endemic wildlife and visit renowned wineries.

Highlights Include

Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef: Ride the historic Kuranda Railway through spectacular landscapes, and soar through the canopy of Queensland’s World Heritage-listed rainforests on the world’s longest gondola cableway. Gain insights about the Great Barrier Reef from a marine biologist, and see the reef up close as you swim, snorkel, or view it from a glass-bottomed boat.

Uluru and the Australian Outback: Watch the sun set over the sacred site of Uluru (formerly known as Ayers Rock). Savor a traditional “bush” dinner around a campfire under the southern constellations, and learn about the Walpiri Aboriginal people during a Dreamtime tour.

Sydney: Spend two full days exploring fascinating Sydney. Tour the iconic Sydney Opera House; enjoy a luncheon cruise on Sydney Harbour; and see koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, and more at Featherdale Wildlife Park.

New Zealand’s South Island: In the stunning Southern Alps, visit sites associated with Sir Edmund Hillary, the

first to summit Mount Cook’s south face. Take an afternoon cruise to breathtaking Milford Sound, and savor local wines at a renowned winery near Queenstown.

The North Island: In Rotorua, meet with members of the Maori community, and enjoy a traditional hangi dinner and a cultural performance. Witness geysers and other geothermal features, and venture into a glowworm cave. In Auckland, tour the War Memorial Museum, Auckland Harbour, and the America’s Cup Village.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Expert Ed Smith (Apr.)–former biologist at the Smithsonian National Zoo.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

More Ways to Explore Asia

Find details—including full itineraries, special savings, photos galleries, and more—for these and additional tours (and others!) in the Asia at SmithsonianJourneys.org.

Exploring Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia

17 days from $8,495

Oct. 4–20, 2023

Wedged between the Caspian and Black Seas, the less visited countries of Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan showcase a wealth of cultural and historical treasures. Discover these special gems on this unique journey.

Timeless India

A Tailor-Made Journey handcrafted just for you.*

Suggested itinerary: 14 days from $3,900

Visit the sites of Delhi and the incomparable Taj Mahal, and then experience Rajasthan. Explore fabled cities from Jaipur to Udaipur, and step into world-renowned palaces, fortresses, and temples.

Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan

A Tailor-Made Journey handcrafted just for you.*

Suggested itinerary: 8 days from $4,995

Venture to the remote kingdom of Bhutan to discover Himalayan villages, historic monasteries and dzongs, and a rich culture that has remained largely unchanged over the centuries.

Thailand’s Enchanting Temples and Culinary Delights

A Tailor-Made Journey handcrafted just for you.*

Suggested itinerary: 12 days from $4,850

Experience the cultural traditions, cuisine, and natural beauty of Thailand as you discover Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.

*Tailor-Made Journeys are private, customized experiences designed for you and your traveling companions. See pages 114–115 for more information.

Taj Mahal Georgian cuisine

Antarctica: The White Continent

Round-trip from Ushuaia Aboard the 244-guest Le Boreal A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

12 days from $12,950*

Includes round-trip air between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia and one hotel night in Buenos Aires

Feb. 25–Mar. 7, 2024

Venture to a magnificent realm of ice and intriguing wildlife on an unforgettable 12-day voyage to Antarctica. During the lingering light of the austral summer, encounter fantastically shaped icebergs, dramatic rocky promontories, and immense glaciers that rise hundreds of feet above the sea. Take walks on volcanic islands alive with seals, seabirds, and penguins, and set out by Zodiac to discover firsthand how a diverse array of marine wildlife flourishes in this seemingly harsh environment.

Highlights Include

Tierra del Fuego and the Beagle Channel: Fly to Ushuaia, Argentina and enjoy an excursion to Tierra del Fuego National Park. Discover the park’s flora and sub-Antarctic landscapes with our guides, and with luck, encounter beavers, birds, wild orchids, and more. Embark the ship and set sail on the Beagle Channel, named after the ship that carried Charles Darwin on his South American voyages.

Exploring Antarctica: Cross the legendary Drake Passage en route to the outer shores and islands of the Antarctic Peninsula. Spend four days exploring this landscape, where abrupt mountains create precipitous

coastlines and massive glaciers calve icebergs of all shapes and sizes. In this seemingly harsh environment, a vast array of wildlife flourishes, including millions of penguins and seabirds, as well as numerous species of seals and whales. Cruise past tabular icebergs that dwarf the ship, ice floes where Weddell seals loll, and icebergs that glow ethereal shades of turquoise. Along the way, learn about the history of Antarctic exploration, from Sir Ernest Shackleton’s ill-fated expedition to the ventures of explorers such as Jean-Baptiste Charcot and Adrien de Gerlache. Keep in mind that your course is dependent on weather, sea, and ice conditions. Every cruise is unique, and your seasoned captain and crew are expert at making the most of the conditions at hand.

Wildlife: At this time of year, we may get the chance to observe humpback and minke whales, pods of orcas, elephant and leopard seals, giant petrels, and great skuas. Go ashore on volcanic islands to walk among fur seals and gentoo and chinstrap penguins and their newly hatched chicks. Continue further south into the realm of ice, encountering playful Adélie penguins and unusual marine life.

Travelers hiking

Zodiac and Land Excursions: Embark on sturdy Zodiacs with expert naturalists for unforgettable excursions to islands, among ice floes and icebergs, and, conditions permitting, to the continent itself. During shore excursions, walk among wildlife on rugged islands and black-sand beaches, and witness how volcanic activity has played a pivotal role in Antarctica’s natural history. Learn about the work of scientists at a research station and hear tales of the whalers and spies who made their base here.

Add a two-night extension in Buenos Aires.

Limited to 200 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are astrophysicist Richard Miller and Wayne Ranney, a geologist and writer.

Gentoo penguins

Adélie penguins

Marine life abounds

Around the World by Private Jet: A Classic Journey

24 or 25 days from $135,950 Feb. 15–Mar. 9, Oct. 6–29, Oct. 31–Nov. 23, 2024; Dec. 30, 2024–Jan. 22, 2025 & Jan. 23–Feb. 16, 2025

Join our breathtaking Around the World journey and explore cultural and natural treasures that have inspired and captured the imagination of humankind for centuries. Experience the sights, sounds, and cultures of some of the world’s most iconic and remote places. You’ll learn firsthand about the people, customs, and natural world of many World Heritage sites all in one trip as you travel aboard the private jet, which has been custom configured with 52 flatbed seats.

Highlights Include

Machu Picchu: Climb the terraced steps of the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and examine its artfully cut stone altars, temples, fountains, and terraced gardens. If you’ve already visited this iconic site, then explore Peru’s lesser-known North Coast (2024 departures) or Pisco (2025 departure).

Easter Island: Feel the protective gaze of the moai statues on Easter Island as you trace the history of a lost civilization with your archaeologist guides.

Fiji or Tahiti: Spend a quick overnight on the tropical paradise of Fiji (2024 departures) or Tahiti (2025 departure) during a logistical, non-touring stop.

Great Barrier Reef: Immerse yourself in the underwater splendor of the Great Barrier Reef with its vibrant collection of coral and tropical fish. Or opt to venture into the Daintree Rainforest, one of Australia’s truly wild areas.

Angkor Wat: Explore the mystifying site of Angkor, including the enigmatic Bayon Temple, the captivating overgrown remains of Ta Prohm, and majestic Angkor Wat.

Taj Mahal and Jaipur: Watch the play of light on the magnificent, beloved Taj Mahal, one of the world’s greatest architectural wonders. And, on all 2024 departures, discover the royal architecture and vibrant markets of Jaipur, fabled home of the maharajas.

Serengeti Plain or Ngorongoro Crater: Spot iconic African wildlife on game drives in Tanzania’s Serengeti Plain or the Ngorongoro Crater.

Egypt or Jordan: Trace Egyptian history in Luxor, venture into the tomb of Tutankhamun, and marvel at the Pyramids of Giza and Sphinx in Cairo (February, October 6, December, and January departures). Or, discover the Lost City of Petra, half built and half carved into red sandstone cliffs by the Nabataeans more than 2,000 years ago (October 31 departure).

Marrakech: Immerse yourself in the exotic ambiance of Marrakech as you stroll through the winding pathways of the medina, see the spectacle of Djemaa el-Fna Square, and savor the lovely views of the Majorelle Garden.

Limited to no more than 52 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Katryn Wiese (Feb.)–geologist. Allan Langdale (Oct. 6)–art and architectural historian. Don Wilson (Dec.)–senior scientist and curator emeritus at the Smithsonian Natural History Museum.

This private jet tour is operated by TCS World Travel and uses aircraft operated by Titan Airways Limited.

Machu Picchu

Petra

Angkor Wat

SERENGETI PLAIN OR NGORONGORO CRATER, TANZANIA

ANGKOR WAT, CAMBODIA

GREAT BARRIER REEF, AUSTRALIA

NADI, FIJI OR PAPEETE, TAHITI

CUSCO AND MACHU PICCHU, NORTH COAST, OR PISCO, PERU

EASTER ISLAND, CHILE

MIAMI OR ORLANDO, FLORIDA

PETRA, JORDAN OR LUXOR AND CAIRO, EGYPT MARRAKECH, MOROCCO

TAJ MAHAL T AND JAIPUR, INDIA BEGIN AND END

Serengeti Plain

Besides the very special places we were privileged to see, the staff were amazing... prepared, thoughtful, and caring. It was a trip I’ll remember forever! – Ron R.

Taj Mahal

Great Barrier Reef

Easter Island

Smithsonian Journeys Calendar 2024

For additional trips and more details on what’s featured in this catalog go to SmithsonianJourneys.org.

Inside Sicily NEW! A Circumnavigation of Sicily

Ancient Wonders and Culinary Delights NEW!

Southern Italy and Sicily

Highlights of Italy

Northern Italy Lake District, Tuscany, and the Dolomites

Italy’s Lake District

Italy’s Apulia

Italy’s Amalfi Coast

Cruising the Dalmatian Coast and the Ionian Sea

Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean

Classical Greece

Legendary Turkey and the Turquoise Coast NEW!

Pearls of Croatia and Slovenia

Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal

Portrait of Portugal

Treasures of Southern Spain and Portugal

Across Northern Spain and Portugal

Living in Italy: Florence

Living in Spain: Andalusia

Spain’s Andalusia

Central/Western Europe

Living in France: Aix-en-Provence

Europe’s Great Rivers

A Seine River Cruise

The Life and Work of van Gogh in France NEW!

Cruising the Rhine and Moselle Rivers NEW!

Treasures of the Alps

A Danube River Cruise

Holiday Markets

A River Cruise of Provence

Normandy

France Through the Ages

Paris: The African American Experience

Great European Journey

Old World Europe

County Clare

Mystery Lover’s England

England’s Lake District

Smithsonian at Oxford

Prehistoric Mysteries of England and Ireland NEW!

Heart of Scotland

Scotland’s Treasures

Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords Voyage

Celtic Voyage: The Hebrides and the Irish Sea

The Emerald Isle

Waterways of Holland and Belgium

A Stay in Holland: An Art History Journey NEW!

Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea

Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice

Adventure in Iceland

Irish Walks: An Active Journey to Dingle NEW!

PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS: Alamy, Getty, iStock, Dreamstime, Shutterstock, Adobe Stock. Front cover: Santorini–Getty/Murat Taner. Back cover: Patagonia travelers–Alex Maureira. Additional photos courtesy of the following: p.9/Zodiac–Sharon Boyle; p.9/weavers–Richard Stanoss; p.55/both–Wade Jennings; p.76/both–Wade Jennings; p.80/Pitons–St. Lucia Tourism Bureau; p.95/mosque–Andrew Dawson. PONANT Studio: p.9/ship deck–Nicolas Matheus; p.10/whale tail–Lorraine Turci; p.11/snow hikers–Olivier Blaud; p.12/spa–Nick

Mike Louagie;

Adelie penguins–L.Pauli; p.109/whale Zodiac–Lorraine Turci; p.109/gentoo penguins–Olivier Blaud. Additional Photos: Smithsonian Institution Museums and Research Stations, Smithsonian

Journeys Experts, staff, tour operators, and providers. Printed May 2023.

Rains; p.12/table–Tim McKenna; p.12/ship–Mike Louagie; p.13/ship–Nicolas Matheus; p.13/kayakers–Vu Theara Kham; p.65–Violette Vauchelle; p.108/ship–Ragnar Axelsson; p.109/lounge–

p.109/

More Europe

Mediterranean Island Voyage NEW!

France and Spain’s Basque Region

Prehistoric Caves of France and Spain

D-Day: A Journey from England to France

North America

Cruising Alaska’s Inside Passage

A Voyage Along the Great Lakes

Voyage Along the St. Lawrence NEW!

Alaska’s Natural Wonders: Denali to Kenai Fjords

The Northern Rockies

Seascapes of the Canadian Maritimes

African American Culture in the Lowcountry

Solar Eclipse 2024: Texas Hill Country NEW!

Bryce, Zion, and the Grand Canyon

Treasures of Yosemite

Yellowstone in Winter

Yellowstone and the Tetons

Cruising the Caribbean’s Windward Islands

Panama and Costa Rica by Sea

Costa Rica Treetops & Trails: An Active Journey NEW!

Legendary Peru: Andean Culture and Inca Treasures

Machu Picchu and the Galápagos

Ancient Egypt and the Nile African Safari: A Wildlife Adventure

Safari in Kenya and Tanzania

Tanzania and Zanzibar

Treasures of South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana

Splendors of Morocco

Ancient Civilizations by Sea: Israel to Turkey NEW!

Cruising the Arabian Coast

Israel: Unique Perspectives on the Holy Land NEW! Rwanda: An Active Journey NEW!

Cultural and Natural Treasures of Japan by Sea NEW!

Eternal Japan

The Silk Road: A Journey to Central Asia

Treasures of Southeast Asia

Discovering Vietnam

Journey Through New Zealand

Antarctica

Antarctica: The White Continent

Private Jet

Around the World by Private Jet

TOUR TYPE: A–Active, C–Cruise, L–Land, PJ–Private Jet, ST–Stay, SP–Specialty, T–Train

Terms and Conditions

See full Terms and Conditions online at SmithsonianJourneys.org/Terms-Conditions. Please note: airfare is not included in the price unless specified on the itinerary page.

Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journeys

with Audley Travel

Your Trip, Your Way

If you prefer to travel with just those close to you— your spouse or your extended family, a favorite travel partner, or a group of close friends—we invite you to discover a place you’ve always dreamed about on a trip designed just for you and the traveling companions you choose.

You’ll be paired with a country specialist with firsthand knowledge of the region you’d like to visit. Simply share your travel aspirations and we’ll curate a day-by-day itinerary that matches your interests, your pace, and your budget. We’ll hand select every route, hotel, and guide; choose accommodations based on your style; and arrange activities and excursions that will be meaningful to you. A few sample itineraries are listed at right, but you can customize any of these to truly reflect your interests.

Our Smithsonian Tailor-Made trip was exceptional, our country specialist superb, and the memories and experiences will forever be with us.

– Roisin A., Peaks and Glaciers of Patagonia

Ireland Traditional Irish Culture and Country Life

Suggested Itinerary: 8 days from $7,995

Stay in historic country manors and experience Irish traditions from falconry to whiskey distilling on a journey that begins in the lively streets of Dublin and ends among the geological wonders of County Clare.

Wildlife of Tanzania

Suggested Itinerary: 9 days from $9,900

Encounter an incredible array of wildlife on safari in four of Tanzania’s national parks and observe the “Big Five” with a private guide.

France: Paris, Normandy, and the Loire Valley

Suggested Itinerary: 12 days from $9,850

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of France as you make your way from incomparable Paris to the important sites of Normandy and Brittany, to the châteaux of the Loire Valley.

Naples, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast

Suggested Itinerary: 8 days from $6,420

Encounter stunning scenery and vivid history from Naples to the Amalfi Coast, discovering legendary sites like Pompeii and the Roman villas of Capri and staying in the seaside gems of Sorrento and Positano.

Call 855.215.8690 to speak with a country specialist or visit our website for more Tailor-Made Journeys destinations.

SmithsonianJourneys.org/Tailor-Made

Japan Past and Present

Suggested Itinerary: 11 days from $6,995

Immerse yourself in the captivating culture of Japan as you encounter vestiges of its imperial past and the dynamism of contemporary life on a journey to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone.

Treasures of Vietnam

Suggested Itinerary: 14 days from $5,995

Experience Vietnam on a journey that takes you from cosmopolitan Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to enchanting Hoi An and Hué, from the timeless Mekong Delta and Ha Long Bay to the tropical island of Phu Quoc.

Morocco from Sea to Sahara

Suggested Itinerary: 15 days from $5,995

Discover Morocco from its Atlantic shores to the Sahara Desert. Explore the imperial cities of Marrakech, Meknes, Rabat, and Fez; and venture to ancient kasbahs and everyday villages in the Atlas Mountains.

Egypt: Cairo and the Temples of the Nile

Suggested Itinerary: 10 days from $7,945

Step back thousands of years in time among the treasures of ancient Egypt, exploring temples, tombs, and the mighty Pyramids of Giza on a journey that includes a four-night Nile River cruise

New Zealand for Families

Suggested Itinerary: 15 days from $6,475

Immerse your family in New Zealand’s vibrant cities and enchanting landscapes on a journey from Auckland to Queenstown that includes the Abel Tasman National Park, the Milford Sound, and sites featured in the Lord of the Rings trilogy.