SmithsonianJourneys.org Tailor-Made Journeys Custom Travel. Crafted by Experts.
2 SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG/TAILOR-MADE I 855.215.8690 Custom Travel Crafted by Experts Experience the world your way on a Tailor-Made Journey, custom designed just for you and your favorite traveling companions. You decide where and when you want to go, and with whom, and we’ll work with you to build your ideal journey.
3 5 Planning Your Tailor-Made Journey 6 The Tailor-Made Journey Experience The itineraries featured in this catalog are a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you. EUROPE 8 Culture and Cuisine of Italy 9 Southern Italy: Naples, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast 10 France: Paris, Normandy, and the Loire Valley 11 Athens and the Greek Isles 12 Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands 13 Ireland: Traditional Irish Culture and Country Life 14 The Netherlands: Exploring Dutch Culture NEW! 15 Glaciers and Geysers of Iceland’s Southern Coast 16 Portugal and Spain: From Lisbon to Andalusia THE AMERICAS 17 Discovering Hawai’i 18 Along the Alaska Railroad 19 Cliffs and Canyons of the American Southwest 20 Sailing the Galápagos by Yacht 21 Peru: Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley AFRICA 22 Namibia by Air NEW! 23 South Africa and Victoria Falls 24 Kenya Wildlife Safari 25 Wildlife of Tanzania 26 Egypt: Cairo and the Temples of the Nile 27 Morocco from Sea to Sahara ASIA & THE PACIFIC 28 Highlights of Australia 29 New Zealand North and South 30 Thailand’s Enchanting Temples and Culinary Delights NEW! 31 Southeast Asia: Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia 32 Timeless India NEW! 33 Japan Past and Present 34 TAILOR-MADE JOURNEYS FOR FAMILIES Japan for Families New Zealand for Families NEW! Italy for Families NEW! Iceland for Families NEW! 35 MORE DESTINATIONS Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journeys with Audley Travel
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Your Trip, Your Way Now, perhaps more than ever, you may wish 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.
Pace of Your Trip
Hassle-Free From transportation to guides, we’ll take care of all the logistics. And for peace of mind, you’ll have access to a 24-hour phone number so you can reach us anytime.
Tailor-MadeSmithsonian Journeys with Audley Travel
1 It all starts with a conversation. Simply pick up the phone or visit our website to share your travel goals and your interests with us. We’ll connect you with a country specialist who will work with you to create your ideal trip. 2 You’ll receive an itinerary designed to reflect your travel style and your passions—handcrafted just for you. If it’s not perfect, we will fine-tune the details until your trip is just right. Feel free to call whenever you wish with any questions or adjustments. 3 Once you love your itinerary, simply leave it to us. We’ll take care of all the details, from booking your transport to choosing excellent local guides. 4 Leading up to your departure, we will provide helpful information about your destination to make sure you are prepared for your journey. 5 Let the journey begin! You’ll experience the world worry-free, enjoying 24/7 service during your entire trip. Start your conversation now with one of our country specialists. Call 855.215.8690
Knowledgeable Country Specialists Our country specialists are passionate about the regions in which they specialize and have traveled in them extensively. Often, they have lived and worked in these destinations. Plus, they return to explore further, meet local experts and guides, visit hotel properties, and stay on top of exciting changes—all to provide you with the best advice to create your trip.
ExperienceTailor-MadeThe
The pace of your trip is up to you. If you prefer your trip with some spontaneity and time at leisure, we can build in free time so that you can linger in a historic district, catch an impromptu concert, or just sit at a café and people-watch.
Each Itinerary is One of a Kind 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 dayby-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 preferences; and arrange activities and excursions that will be meaningful to you. You’ll find sample itineraries throughout this catalog, but remember, your trip will be a true reflection of you.
Planning Your Tailor-Made Journey
The Smithsonian & Audley Difference — Names You Can Trust Smithsonian has worked hard over the past 175 years to earn its reputation as one of America’s most trusted institutions. And, as you would expect from Smithsonian, our journeys are known for itineraries, service, and on-tour experts and guides of the highest quality. Audley Travel has been a leader in planning handcrafted trips for curious and savvy travelers for more than 25 years. When you travel with Smithsonian and Audley, you can be assured that your experience will be top-notch. Supporting the Smithsonian Mission When you travel with Smithsonian Journeys, your participation benefits the work of the Institution, supporting our educational mission to preserve our heritage, discover new knowledge, and share our resources with the world.
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We don’t want you to simply see a new place, we want you to be immersed in its culture. The excursions and experiences that we suggest for your handcrafted itinerary are based on your interests, but also designed to ignite your curiosity. We’ll make suggestions that you may have never even considered. Eating dinner with a local artisan in their home, visiting a museum after hours with a curator, or talking with a geologist at the crater of a volcano are the types of experiences that bring a place to life and instill new understanding. We have a vast yet carefully curated portfolio of experiences that can be tailored to match your passions and interests.
Expert Guides
Unique Experiences
Regional Cuisine
SMITHSONIAN TAILOR-MADE JOURNEYS
Cuisine is a delightful gateway into local culture—and we make sure it’s a highlight of your journey. You’ll follow our guides into markets on tasting tours, join chefs for private cooking classes, and cook meals with families in their homes. You’ll sample wines with the vintner and chocolates with the chocolatier; and on some trips, you’ll even help procure local specialties, from hunting for truffles with an expert and his dog to harvesting oysters and tasting them straight from the sea.
Our guides are imbued with local knowledge. They may be scholars, esteemed artists, renowned naturalists, or critically acclaimed chefs. Their backgrounds may be diverse, but they all share a passion for the land they call home, a specific area of expertise, and the desire to share their knowledge and passion for their home with you.
Details matter, which is why we have personally visited every property we recommend and have insights that can’t be found online. From fabulous views to congenial staff, excellent location to an authentic sense of place, these accommodations reflect the character of your destination. Whether you seek out local charm or contemporary design—or a little of both— our country specialists will draw upon their firsthand knowledge to make recommendations that match your style.
Distinctive Properties
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The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you. Days 1–3 – Venice, Italy Travel by private boat along the famous Grand Canal to your hotel, located near St. Mark’s Square. The next morning, set out on a private tour of Venice’s most celebrated sites, including St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Enjoy a full day at leisure—your guide will provide plenty of ideas on how to spend it, from visiting the city’s museums to exploring the nearby islands of Murano and Burano.
Days 10–13 – Rome Head south by train to Rome, where a private guide will provide in-depth tours of ancient Rome and the Vatican. Skip the lines at the Colosseum and gain direct entry into this legendary site as your guide explains its architecture and history; then continue to the Roman Forum and learn about its many temples and buildings. Spend a morning at Vatican City where your guide ushers you to the important artwork of the Vatican Museums, the incomparable Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Cap off your time in Rome on a Vespa tour, discovering different perspectives of the Eternal City.
� Go truffle hunting in the Tuscan countryside with a guide and his truffle dog, and sample your bounty in traditional Tuscan dishes.
Days 4–7 – Florence Gaze at Italy’s languid landscapes from a train window as you travel to Florence. Here, join a top chef for a private cooking class. Make a local specialty like pasta or gelato from scratch, then sit down together to taste your creations. Gain insight from a local art expert on a full-day private tour of the Accademia and Uffizi galleries. Spend a day in the woodlands outside Florence, hunting for truffles on a private excursion with an expert and his truffle dog. Your hunting expedition concludes with a lunch of local dishes featuring your truffle bounty.
� Learn to make Italian specialties with a top chef during a private cooking class in Florence.
Days 8 & 9 – Tuscany Settle into a beautiful agriturismo in the heart of Tuscany and discover this fabled region with a private guide. In Siena you’ll see the magnificent facade of the cathedral, and stroll across the vast Piazza del Campo where the medieval bareback horserace known as the Palio takes place every summer. Visit the beautiful hilltop town of San Gimignano and savor a traditional Tuscan farmhouse lunch as you enjoy a panorama of vineyards and olive groves.
� Zip around Rome as the locals do on a guided Vespa tour.
� Get an insider’s view of world-renowned sites on private tours of the Doge’s Palace in Venice, the Roman Colosseum, and Florence’s art museums.
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HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE TO STAY Hotel GiovanelliPalazzo A convertedbeautifullypalazzo in the heart of Venice that overlooks the Grand Canal. Hotel PalaceBernini – A luxury hotel and palazzo,15th-centuryformerjuststeps from the Uffizi and Palazzo Vecchio. Badia Coltibuonoa Hilltop A former monastery that has served as an organic farm and winery for centuries. Crossing Condotti A charming boutique hotel, just one block away from Rome’s Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps. EUROPE
13 days from $9,995 Celebrate Italy on a journey that will have you floating through history in Venice, admiring great art in Florence, tasting wines and olive oils at an agriturismo in Tuscany, and exploring Rome’s magnificent sites with a private guide.
Culture and Cuisine of Italy
Hilton PalaceSorrento – A hilltop property with a rooftop pool and superb views of the sea and Sorrento’s center. Villa Brunella An intimate villa surrounded by gardens that boasts an Capri’sfantasticrestaurantexcellentandviewsofcoast. Covo dei Saraceni A beachfront19th-centuryhotel at the foot of Positano with elegant rooms and a rooftop pool.
Day 3 – Pompeii and Herculaneum Venture to Pompeii and Herculaneum, cities famously buried in ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted in A.D. 79. With your private guide, visit elegant villas adorned in frescoes, explore amphitheaters and Roman boulevards, and encounter haunting scenes of everyday life frozen in time. Between visits, enjoy lunch and a wine tasting at a nearby winery. Return to Sorrento for the evening.
Day 2 – Sorrento Travel by private car to Mount Vesuvius, where you’ll have the opportunity to take a short hike to the volcano’s crater. Then follow the coast to Sorrento and check in to your hotel. Catch the sunset over the Gulf of Naples and enjoy an evening stroll through town.
WHERE TO STAY Grand OrienteHotel – A stylish hotel set in the heart of Naples thepanoramicofferingviewsofcity.
8 days from $7,555 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.
Day 6 – Positano Spend a leisurely morning on Capri before returning to the mainland by private boat. Travel to your hotel in Positano on the Amalfi Coast and enjoy the afternoon to explore this picturesque town.
Day 1 – Naples, Italy Arrive in Naples and meet your private driver. After time to relax at your hotel, join your private guide this evening for a walking tour of Naples. Along the way, sample some of the best street food the city has to offer.
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� Hike Capri’s glorious coast with a private guide, and enjoy a cooking class in a family home.
Days 7 & 8 – Amalfi Coast and Naples Set out with your private guide on a full-day discovery of the Amalfi Coast. Stroll the stunning gardens of historic Villa Rufolo and visit Villa Cimbrone, which offers exceptional views of the coast. Enjoy a final evening on the coast before returning to Naples the next morning.
Southern Italy: Naples, Pompeii, and the Amalfi Coast
� Explore Naples’ delightful street food scene on a guided tour.
� Peer into the crater of Mount Vesuvius, and visit the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum with a private guide.
� Stay in two beloved coastal towns: Sorrento and Positano, and discover the Amalfi Coast.
Days 4 & 5 – Capri Sail by private boat to the beautiful island of Capri. Transfer to your hotel by taxi and enjoy a free afternoon to discover this fabled island. The next day, join a private guide for a hike on the Path of the Forts, which traces Capri’s coast, linking the famous Blue Grotto to the island’s historic forts. Enjoy free time this afternoon before a cooking class in a family home. Learn the secrets of Southern Italian cuisine and dine on the meal you’ve created.
HIGHLIGHTS
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
� Sample France’s legendary flavors on visits to cheesemakers, wineries, and artisanal shops.
� Trace the events of D-Day with a private guide on a visit to the beaches of Normandy.
� Explore the medieval abbey of Mont-SaintMichel and spend a night in enchanting Saint Malo.
12 days from $9,850 Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of France as you make your way from incomparable Paris to Normandy, Brittany, and the châteaux of the Loire Valley.
Day 5 – Giverny and Honfleur Travel to Normandy, stopping to visit the house of Claude Monet at Giverny and the picturesque village of Les Andelys. Venture into the 7th-century Jumièges Abbey before checking in to your hotel in Honfleur.
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE TO STAY Les Jardins du Marais – A peaceful courtyard hotel in the fashionable Marais district of Paris. Hotel le Dauphin les Loges A family-run hotel set in three 17th-century houses in the heart of Honfleur. Hotel Villa Lara An intimate, familyrun property located on a tree-lined square in old Bayeux.
Days 9–12 – Loire Valley and Amboise Continue to the Loire Valley with your private driver, stopping to see the extraordinary Apocalypse Tapestry in Angers and visit the World Heritage-listed Fontevraud Abbey, where Richard the Lionheart and Eleanor of Aquitaine are buried. From your base in Amboise, take guided tours of the Château d’Amboise and Clos Lucé, where da Vinci spent his last three years. At elegant Chenonceau, glide under the archways on a shared boat ride. Visit the private residence of Château de Cheverny and the magnificent Chambord before your final evening in France.
France: Paris, Normandy, and the Loire Valley
Day 4 – Versailles Travel to the Château de Versailles with your driver and guide. Tour this extravagant palace, built by Louis XIV, and explore the vast gardens. Later, head to Paris’s Marché d’Aligre. Stroll past stalls filled with local produce, and enjoy a wine and cheese tasting.
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� Enjoy guided tours of treasured sites, from Le Marais to the Opéra Garnier and Versailles.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you. Days 1–3 – Paris, France Arrive in Paris and transfer by private car to your hotel in Le Marais. Join a private guide for a walking tour of the historic quarter, and stop at epicurean shops to sample their wares. On a private orientation tour of Paris’s Right Bank, see the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Elysées, the Jardin de Tuileries, and the Louvre. Take in views from Montmartre, once the haunt of Picasso, Renoir, and Van Gogh; then enjoy a private tour of the Opéra Garnier. Tour the Louvre or the Musée d’Orsay, and take a private walking tour of Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis.
Days 6–8 – Normandy and Brittany Discover the celebrated flavors of Normandy. Sample the apple brandy called calvados on a guided tour of an apple cider distillery, and taste traditional cheeses at the medieval Domaine Saint-Hippolyte. On a full-day excursion to the D-Day landing sites, stroll Omaha and Utah Beaches, and visit the poignant Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial. Spend the night in Bayeux. Drive to Brittany, stopping en route at MontSaint-Michel, a fortified medieval abbey built on a tidal island. Travel to a seaside town for lunch and a tasting of fresh oysters, and enjoy a free afternoon to discover the walled city of Saint-Malo.
La Maison des Armateurs A stylish boutique hotel within the walls of Saint-Malo’s historic Intra Muros district. Le Clos d’Amboise A 17th-century home offering easy access to the châteaux of the Loire Valley. EUROPE
� Set out on a private geological tour of Milos and delve into the volcanic past of the Cyclades.
Days 1–3 – Athens and Hydra, Greece Arrive in Athens and take a private transfer to your hotel. After time to relax, enjoy dinner and conversation at the home of a native Athenian. Meet your private guide the next morning for a tour of the legendary Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. Then set out by ferry for a day trip to the island of Hydra in the Saronic Gulf. Explore the cobbled lanes and stone architecture of its port town, where no motorized vehicles are allowed.
Salt Suites – A waterfront boutique hotel with Cycladic character and expansive views of the Milos coast.
� Explore Santorini’s interior villages, gaining insight into local life, and stop for lunch at a farm.
Santorini Secret Suites & Spa – An intimate hotel with terraces, perched on the caldera’s edge in the village of Oia.
Athens and the Greek Isles
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
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Days 7–9 – Santorini
12 days from $8,995 Immerse yourself in Greek culture and the tranquil beauty of the Cyclades Islands on a journey that starts in Athens and island-hops to Milos, Santorini, and Mykonos.
� Enjoy a traditional Greek meal in the home of a native Athenian and a cooking class on Mykonos.
� Venture to the archaeological ruins of Delos with a private guide.
HIGHLIGHTS
Days 4–6 – Milos Take the ferry to the Cycladic island of Milos, where you’ll be escorted to your hotel in Pollonia. Enjoy free time to discover the island and its beaches on your own. Venture out on a private tour of Milos the next day, visiting villages and ancient catacombs, and seeing the spot where the Venus de Milo was discovered. Relax this afternoon at Sarakiniko, a stunning moonscape of sun-bleached rocks and turquoise sea. Focus on geology the following morning on a private tour of the island’s volcanic fields, red beaches, and the ghost town of an abandoned sulfur mine right on the water.
Belvedere Hotel – A Mykonos mainstay that blends nostalgia of old Mykonos with modern style and amenities.
WHERE TO STAY NEW Hotel – A stunning reincarnation of a 1950s Athens hotel, incorporating innovative architecture and design.
Your next stop is fabled Santorini, where you’ll be met at the port by a private driver and delivered to your hotel in the cliff-top town of Oia. During a free afternoon, explore the whitewashed alleyways of the town and take in spectacular views of the caldera. Set out the next morning on a private tour of the traditional villages of the interior, and visit a local farm for lunch. After a free morning your final day, join a small-group catamaran cruise around Santorini. You’ll have a chance to swim and take in the sunset from the water.
Days 10–12 – Mykonos Take the ferry to Mykonos Town and relax at your hotel. In the evening, meet with an islander to learn about traditional Mykonian cuisine during a lively cooking class in her home. Embark on an excursion to the World Heritage site of Delos with your private guide. Tour the archaeological ruins of this mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, one of the most sacred places in the ancient Greek world. Enjoy a free afternoon on Mykonos before your departure the following day.
� Fly over Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park in a seaplane.
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Day 1 – Edinburgh, Scotland Arrive in Edinburgh and meet your private driver for the transfer to your hotel.
WHERE TO IntercontinentalSTAYEdinburgh
Loch Lomond Arms – A 17th-century inn with several rooms above its bar and restaurant. Ballachulish Hotel – A traditional stone manor on the shores of Loch Linnhe outside Glencoe Village. Eilean Iarmain – A Victorian pub-style property set on the water’s edge on the Isle of Skye.
• Explore the mystical Isle of Skye on privately guided visits to Dunvegan Castle and the Trotternish Peninsula.
Day 2 – Edinburgh Set off with a private guide on a walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns, learning about the city’s history and seeing some of its celebrated and lesser-known sites. During a free afternoon, consider a tour of Edinburgh Castle or a hike up Arthur’s Seat for great views of the city. Day 3 – Loch Lomond Travel with your private driver to Loch Lomond. Pick up rental bikes for a selfguided cycle around the loch, enjoying sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. End the day with a seaplane ride over beautiful Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park before settling into your lakeside accommodations.
The George A historic property built around five Georgian townhouses that date back to the 18th century.
EUROPE
• Spot wildlife on a Land Rover tour of a private estate in Cairngorms National Park.
Days 8 & 9 – Cairngorms National Park and Edinburgh Explore the Rothiemurchus Estate, a 10,000-hectare Highland estate at the heart of Cairngorms National Park. Venture through its wild landscapes by Land Rover as your ranger regales you with local lore. Take a scenic train trip through the countryside and enjoy a final evening in Edinburgh before your flight home the next day.
Days 5 & 6 – Isle of Skye Board a ferry and cross to the fabled Isle of Skye. Check into your hotel and enjoy two full days of exploring. Encounter the otherworldly landscapes of the Trotternish Peninsula including the Old Man of Storr, Kilt Rock, and the Quiraing. Go flyfishing with a local gillie; then visit Dunvegan Castle, home of the MacLeod clan for more than 800 years. Take a private tour of the castle and its gardens, ride a boat to see the resident seal colony, and join the estate manager for a dram of whisky. Day 7 – Inverness Stop to see the most photographed castle in Scotland, Eilean Donan. Then follow the shore of the famous Loch Ness to Inverness. Check in to your hotel and enjoy free time to explore the city.
• Explore hidden tunnels on a ghost tour of Edinburgh.
HIGHLIGHTS
Glenmoriston Town House Hotel – A stylish property on the River Ness near the heart of Inverness.
After time at leisure, set out on an evening ghosts and ghouls tour, venturing into hidden tunnels beneath the city and learning about Edinburgh’s haunted past.
Day 4 – Glencoe Continue into the Highlands, passing through scenic Glen Etive on your way to Glencoe. In the afternoon, embark on a two-hour guided hike to the intriguing “Lost Valley.”
Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands 9 days from $8,999 Experience the magic of Edinburgh and the mystique of the Scottish Highlands, soaking up history and local culture.
below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you. Day 1 – Dublin, Ireland Fly to Dublin and meet your private driver for the transfer to your hotel. After time to settle in, head out to discover the city on an electric bicycle tour, cycling through historic neighborhoods and past Dublin Castle and the Christchurch Cathedral. Day 2 – Dublin Delve into Ireland’s tumultuous history on a guided visit to Kilmainham Gaol. Continue to St. Patrick’s Cathedral for a “secrets” tour that includes areas not usually accessible to the public.
HIGHLIGHTS
Day 6 – Adare Follow the beaches and cliffs of the Copper Coast on the way to Lismore Castle. Visit its stunning gardens, set within the castle walls. Then travel inland to Adare Manor, a neo-Gothic castle that is one of Ireland’s most prestigious hotels.
Dunbrody Country House – A Georgian manor house owned by a famous chef and known for its restaurant and cooking school. Adare Manor A castle exuberantwithstyle and architectural detail, lovely grounds, and plenty of activities.
Day 5 – County Wexford Spend today discovering the historic sites of County Wexford. Tour the Dunbrody Famine Ship, a fullscale reproduction of a tall ship that transported Irish families fleeing the potato famine. Visit the humble ancestral home of John F. Kennedy, and see the evocative ruins of two Cistercian abbeys. Stroll through the lovely Colclough Walled Garden before continuing to your country manor.
• Enjoy a tasting tour at Ballykeefe Distillery an intimate distillery set on a working farm.
Ireland: Traditional Irish Culture and Country Life
• Glide beneath the iconic Cliffs of Moher on a private boat tour, on the lookout for seabirds.
Days 7 & 8 – Cliffs of Moher and Shannon Head for the coast of County Clare with a knowledgeable guide. Explore the otherworldly landscape of the Burren, where glaciers have left the countryside covered in an unusual limestone karst pavement. Then get an astonishing view of the Cliffs of Moher—and the seabirds they harbor—on a private boat tour. Return to Adare Manor for your final evening. Transfer to the airport in Shannon the following morning.
� Step behind the scenes on a private tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin.
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Stay in historic country manors across southern Ireland 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.
WHERE TO STAY The HotelFitzwilliamDublin A boutique luxury hotel stylishGreen,Dublin’soverlookingSt.Stephen’sfeaturingrooms. Mount Juliet A time capsule of Georgian decor, with elegant rooms, a trails.extensiverestaurant,Michelin-starredandwalking
Days 3 & 4 – Kilkenny Travel south to Kilkenny and take a walking tour along the city’s Medieval Mile. Then sample local spirits at Ballykeefe Distillery, set on a working farm. The next day, watch a sheepdog demonstration, and explore the intriguing 12th-century ruins of Newtown Jerpoint. The rest of the afternoon is yours to take advantage of the many amenities at your hotel. Go fishing on the River Nore, play a round of golf, visit the state-ofthe-art Equestrian Centre, or go on a private walk with falconers.
• Stay in renowned country manors and castles rich in history and tradition.
8 days from $7,995
Hotel Indigo – A 19th-century bank building in the heart of The Hague with a riveting wartime history, evocative original features, and a chic, retro atmosphere.
� Tour the Royal Delft Factory and create your own piece of Delftware pottery.
WHERE TO STAY
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Suite Hotel Pincoffs – An intimate boutique hotel on Rotterdam’s trendy Left Bank, housed in a former customs building with a range of elegant rooms and a sustainable ethos. HIGHLIGHTS
Ambassade Hotel – A canal-side hotel spread across ten of Amsterdam’s distinctive canal houses featuring individually designed rooms, the owner’s personal library, and a collection of original art.
below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
� Delve into Dutch traditions on visits to timeless villages, and encounter the historic windmills of Zaanse Schans.
Day 7 – Delft and The Hague Explore the medieval gem of Delft on foot with your private guide. After free time over lunch, tour Royal Delft, the factory where renowned Delftware pottery has been produced since the 17th century. Then try your hand at creating your own piece during a tile-painting workshop. Days 8–10 – The Hague and Rotterdam After a free day to explore nearby towns of Utrecht or Leiden or visit the Keukenhof Gardens, depart for Rotterdam. The next morning, discover the city’s Cube Houses and historic harbor on a lively bicycle tour, stopping along the way to sample culinary delights. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to visit one of the city’s museums. Depart the following Theday. ExploringNetherlands:DutchCulture 10 days from $5,610 Immerse yourself in Dutch culture of the past and present as you explore world-famous art, handicraft traditions, and local delicacies from the historic canals of Amsterdam to avant-garde Rotterdam.
On an outing with your private guide, meander among the centuries-old wooden houses of the Zaanse Schans, a recreated typical Dutch village. Stop at workshops where cheese and clogs are made and visit a working windmill. Return to Amsterdam for a free afternoon. Days 5 & 6 – The Hague Travel to The Hague, the seaside seat of government. Your private walking tour ends at the Mauritshuis Museum, a 17th-century mansion that houses a fabulous collection of works by the Dutch Masters, including little-known paintings by Rembrandt and Vermeer’s iconic Girl With a Pearl Earring. Take advantage of a day at leisure to explore the city and its environs.
Days 1 & 2 – Amsterdam, The Netherlands Arrive in Amsterdam and settle into your hotel in the city center. Take an introductory walking tour with your private guide and join a sunset cruise along the city’s canals. Then enjoy a full day to experience Amsterdam as you wish. Delve into a world of art at the world-renowned Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, or the Rembrandt House Museum. Trace World War II history at the Anne Frank Museum or the Dutch Resistance Museum, or explore the city by bike, as the locals do.
Day 4 – Zaanse Schans and Amsterdam
Day 3 – Edam, Marken, and Volendam Set out on a full-day excursion to towns on the shores of the Markermeer reservoir. Take a guided walk in Edam and learn about the town’s history of cheese making. Ride the ferry to Marken to discover stilted houses and rural customs, then explore the labyrinthine fishery district and thriving port of Volendam.
� Sample traditional Dutch snacks on a private bike tour of innovative Rotterdam. EUROPE
� Take a sunset canal cruise in Amsterdam, and gaze at the works of the Old Masters in the stunning Mauritshuis Museum in The Hague.
• Snorkel between two tectonic plates in Thingvellir National Park.
Day 5 – South Coast Make your way back along the south coast. Walk on black-sand beaches and see jagged sea stacks and famous volcanoes. Encounter waterfalls both powerful and picturesque, and enjoy ample opportunities for hiking. This afternoon, you’ll have a chance to go for a horseback ride along Iceland’s dramatic south coast.
Day 1 – Keflavik, Iceland After arriving in Keflavik, meet your private driver for the transfer to the Blue Lagoon. Unwind after your flight with a relaxing soak in these geothermal hot springs. Later, continue with your driver to your hotel.
• Go horseback riding on one of Iceland’s iconic black-sand beaches.
Day 3 – Thórsmörk Nature Reserve Embark on a shared Superjeep adventure to the beautiful Thórsmörk nature reserve, inaccessible by most vehicles. Cross rivers and lava fields before ending in an area surrounded by glaciers and mountains.
Day 2 – Golden Circle Set off on a private tour of the Golden Circle, including the two-tiered Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir, an active geyser that shoots water high into the air at regular intervals. Enjoy a memorable lunch at a tomato farm and then visit Thingvellir National Park, site of the oldest parliament in the world. Here, you’ll have a once-in-alifetime opportunity to snorkel between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
Days 6–8 – Reykjavík Travel to Reykjavík and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Head into the city center to see the distinctive architecture of Harpa Concert Hall, or visit Aurora Reykjavík, which recreates the experience of viewing the northern lights. The next day, join a group cooking class. Learn how to make traditional Icelandic dishes, and hear how the island’s cuisine is intertwined with its folklore and the Icelandic sagas. The following morning, transfer to the airport for your flight home.
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• Ride a Superjeep on a guided tour across lava fields and rivers to glacier-covered mountains.
WHERE TO STAY Hotel Grimsborgir A contemporary hotel with 29 geothermal hot tubs on the Golden Circle route. Hotel Laekur A family-run country hotel near the southern coast with a sauna and outdoor hot tub. Fosshotel Glacier Lagoon – A remote and stylish property offering sweeping views. Stracta Hotel A family-run hotel offering a range of activities, from kayaking to horseback riding.
Day 4 – Skaftafell and Jökulsárlón Travel east with your private driver to Skaftafell, where you’ll strap on crampons and a harness for a smallgroup hiking excursion on the Vatnajökull Glacier. Continue to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and join a guided Zodiac boat ride among floating icebergs.
HIGHLIGHTS � Take a guided glacier hike on Vatnajökull, Iceland’s largest ice cap.
ResidenceReykjavík Hotel Chic apartments in Reykjavík’s central 101 district.
Glaciers and Geysers of Iceland’s Southern Coast 8 days from $9,200 Trace Iceland’s southern coast from the Blue Lagoon to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, discovering an incredible range of geological phenomena, from glaciers and waterfalls to volcanoes and geysers.
Days 9 & 10 – Ronda and Granada Journey to Ronda, set dramatically above plunging gorges. Visit its Roman bridge and its historic center before continuing east to Granada, the last stronghold of the Moors. Explore the Alhambra up close on a private guided tour and enjoy lunch on the palace grounds. Then descend into the city center to tour its highlights, from the baroque cathedral to the old Muslim quarter of Albaicín.
Hotel Palacio de Santa Paula – A historic hotel built around a convent and a Moorish home in central Granada, with a sauna and a Turkish bath.
Days 6–8 – Córdoba, Coastal Andalusia, and Seville On a full-day excursion to Córdoba, visit La Mezquita, a sprawling mosque with a Roman Catholic cathedral built right at its center. Continue to the hilltop Almodóvar Castle, originally built in 760. The next day, head to the coast, visiting a prestigious equestrian school to witness a traditional Andalusian horse-riding exhibition. Stop for lunch by the sea; then sample local sherry in Jerez. On your last day in Seville, enjoy an Andalusian cooking class followed by a free afternoon.
below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you. Days 1–3 – Lisbon and Sintra, Portugal Arrive in Portugal’s capital, Lisbon, and set out to explore the city’s picturesque hills on a tour by tuk-tuk. The next day, venture to Sintra, a town of misty forests and lavish palaces that tells the story of Portugal’s past. Explore the sites of the town as you wish today: some of your options include the mystical Quinta da Regaleira, surrounded with hidden grottos and lush gardens; the National Palace; or Peña Palace, a whimsical confection of Romanticist architecture. Or hike to the ruins of the Moorish castle. Tonight, enjoy a special dinner accompanied by a live performance of traditional fado music. Spend your final day in Lisbon at leisure before a sunset cruise on the River Tagus, accompanied by wine and canapés.
• Attend a traditional Andalusian horse-riding demonstration, and sample sherry at its source.
Days 11 & 12 – Sierra Nevada Mountains and Málaga
WHERE TO STAY H10 Duque de Loulé – A stylish hotel housed within an 18th-century building, with a rooftop bar looking out over Lisbon. Hospes las Casas del Rey de Baeza A whitewashed 18th-century home with a rooftop bar and pool offering views of Seville.
12 days from $11,815 Follow in the footsteps of explorers, monarchs, and Moors as you travel from the hills of lovely Lisbon to the whitewashed towns of Andalusia, experiencing centuries-old traditions of art, music, architecture, and cuisine along the way.
Gran Hotel Miramar – A historic waterfront hotel featuring gardens that lead to Málaga’s beach, a pool, a spa, and a hammam.
• Set out on a tapas tour in Seville, and cap off the evening with a flamenco performance.
• Go hiking in the Alpujarras before spending a relaxing evening on the Costa del Sol.
HIGHLIGHTS
� Ride a tuk-tuk through the picturesque hills of Lisbon on a city tour.
Days 4 & 5 – Seville, Spain Stop for lunch and a visit in lovely Évora on the way to Seville. On a walking tour of Seville’s highlights, visit the World Heritage sites of La Giralda and Real Alcázar. After a free afternoon, take a tapas tour of the city, ending with a special flamenco performance.
Portugal and Spain: From Lisbon to Andalusia
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Take to the trails today, hiking through the Alpujarras, part of the Sierra Nevada mountain range. After your hike, continue on to the seaside town of Málaga to spend your final night at leisure.
EUROPE
Discoveringday.
WHERE TO STAY
Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort
Hawai’i
A contemporary oasis just steps from Waikiki Beach and within walking distance of Honolulu’s attractions, featuring an exclusive beachfront spa.
Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
Days 9–12 – Maui Fly to Maui, where you’ll pick up a rental car and head to your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to stretch out on the beach or by the pool, or head to the former whaling port of Lahaina. Sail a catamaran to the partially sunken volcanic caldera of Molokini for a snorkeling excursion among myriad species of tropical fish. Then enjoy two free days to relax on Maui. Consider taking a road trip along the Hana Highway, winding past emerald cliffs, rain forest waterfalls, and red- and black-sand beaches. Fly home the next
A beachfront haven set on the Big Island’s west coast, with two championship golf courses, two pools, and a spa.
� Take a guided tour of Pearl Harbor and ride a boat to the USS Arizona Memorial.
� Go snorkeling in the volcanic caldera of Molokini and enjoy a guided night snorkeling experience.
Royal Lahaina Resort – A comfortable hotel set on the golden sands of Maui’s Ka’anapali Beach, with three pools and a spa.
� Experience the beauty of Kauai’s dramatic Na Pali coastline on a sunset dinner cruise.
Days 7 & 8 – Big Island of Hawai’i Join a small group tour to sacred Mauna Kea, and savor breathtaking sunset views from the summit. Then descend to the Visitor’s Information Station for dinner and stargazing using a powerful telescope. During a day at leisure, consider a visit to Volcanoes National Park, where you can follow Chain of Craters Road until it ends, swallowed by an old lava flow. In the evening, don snorkel gear for an unforgettable guided night swim in an area where manta rays come to feed.
AMERICASTHE
history
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
A beachfront resort set amid a century-old coconut grove, featuring private balconies for all rooms.
� Stargaze from the summit of sacred Mauna Kea using powerful telescopes.
HIGHLIGHTS
Day 6 – Kauai and Big Island of Hawai’i Enjoy one last day to explore Kauai before your evening flight to the Big Island. Settle into your beachfront resort upon arrival.
Days 1–3 – Oahu, Hawai’i Arrive in Honolulu on the island of Oahu, and settle into your hotel in Waikiki. Take a guided tour of Pearl Harbor, including a boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, built over the destroyed battleship. Enjoy a full day to explore the island further. While here, you’ll also experience Polynesian culture during a traditional luau, featuring hula dances, fire shows, and a delicious meal.
Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of Hawai’i as you explore four islands, venturing to emerald jungles and volcanic peaks and experiencing the islands’ and cultural heritage firsthand.
12 days from $5,400 (Self Drive)
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Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
Days 4 & 5 – Kauai Fly to Kauai, Hawai’i’s “Garden Isle.” Embark on a sunset cruise, enjoying dinner and drinks as you glide past the magnificent green slopes of the Na Pali coast. Meet a local guide for a scenic hike on a trail of your choice. From canyons and hidden beaches to rugged mountains and jungle waterfalls, there is much to discover on the island.
8 days from $4,375 Get acquainted with the culture and character of Alaska—and its magnificent landscapes—on a journey from Fairbanks to Anchorage aboard the Alaska Railroad that includes three days in Denali National Park and Preserve.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you. Day 1 – Fairbanks, Alaska Fly to Fairbanks, in the heart of Alaska’s interior, and transfer to your downtown hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to discover the town and its surroundings. You might delve into the gold mining history of the region at a nearby gold dredge, or visit the SS Nenana National Historic Landmark—a sternwheeler ship built in the 1930s that allowed access to the Alaskan wilderness before roads were built.
A historic log-cabin lodge in the heart of Denali that offers a true hiking,experience,backcountrywithbiking, fishing, dogsled demonstrations, and insight into local Athabascan culture. Hotel Captain Cook A celebrated hotel in downtown Anchorage offering views of the Cook Inlet or the Chugach Mountains from every room.
Day 2 – Fairbanks Board a sternwheeler riverboat for a shared cruise on the rivers surrounding Fairbanks. Step into history as you learn about the gold rush days at the start of the 20th century, and get acquainted with local life and the native cultures of the region.
� Ride the legendary Alaska Railroad through spectacular scenery, traveling from Fairbanks to Anchorage.
� Take a sternwheeler river cruise on the rivers of Fairbanks to learn about local history and culture.
A comfortable hotel with spacious suites that feature separate sitting areas, located next to the Chena River in Fairbanks.downtown RoadhouseKantishna
AMERICASTHE
� Learn about native Alaskan culture throughout the trip, during presentations and demonstrations, and in the cultural hub of Anchorage.
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Day 3 – Alaska Railroad to Denali Set off on a scenic train journey aboard the Alaska Railroad, wending through magnificent landscapes on your way to Denali National Park and Preserve. A guide meets you for the transfer to your lodge, deep within the park’s wilderness. Keep your eye out for wildlife along the way. Settle into your cozy wooden cabin and explore the lovely grounds of your lodge.
Along the Alaska Railroad
Day 6 – Alaska Railroad to Anchorage Watch for wildlife as you drive with your guide out of the park, then board the Alaska Railroad for the second leg of your train journey. Admire everchanging views of the Alaska wilderness as you travel south to Anchorage.
WHERE TO STAY Springhill Suites Fairbanks
HIGHLIGHTS
Days 4 & 5 – Denali National Park and Preserve Spend two full days exploring the heart of the park. Your lodge offers a range of naturalist programs to choose from, including guided hikes, a visit to Wonder Lake, cultural presentations by native Alaskans, mountain biking, fly-fishing, gold panning, and wildlife viewing. You can also opt to take a light aircraft flight around the soaring Denali mountain.
Days 7 & 8 – Anchorage Enjoy a free day to explore Alaska’s largest city as you wish. Visit one of the city’s museums, such as the Alaska Native Heritage Center, rent a bike for a ride along the shores of the Cook Inlet, or meander among cafés and shops selling local art and handicrafts. Return home on your final day.
� Explore incomparable Denali National Park and Preserve on a variety of guided excursions and activities.
Day 3 – Lake Powell, Arizona Travel to Page, Arizona, on the shores of Lake Powell. During a free afternoon, consider taking a boat tour on Lake Powell to see its spectacular flooded canyons and sandstone formations. Alternatively, go snorkeling or sea kayaking, or just relax on the beach.
� Explore Zion and Grand Canyon National Parks on guided hikes of your choice.
WHERE TO STAY Cliffrose Lodge – An upscale lodge set in the heart of Zion Canyon, with a heated pool, hot tubs, and a riverside beach.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
HIGHLIGHTS
� Venture to ancient cliff dwellings tucked into the canyons of Arizona and Utah.
� Set off on a thrilling 4x4 adventure to discover the hidden gems of Sedona’s red-rock country.
Day 2 – Zion National Park Spend a full day discovering Zion National Park. You can see the highlights of the park on a six-mile scenic drive, but we recommend trying out some of the park’s walking and hiking trails. Venture into the Narrows on a leisurely hike with a private guide and admire Zion’s towering sandstone walls from the Virgin River. More strenuous hikes are also available.
Days 4 & 5 – Monument Valley and Grand Canyon National Park Continue east to iconic Monument Valley, and enjoy a free afternoon to explore this desert and its vertical sandstone buttes. Tour the valley with a Navajo guide the next morning. Visit ancient Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and enjoy a Navajo perspective on the history, geology, flora, and fauna of Monument Valley. This afternoon, follow the Colorado River on your way to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.
Days 7–9 – Sedona Drive to the red rock region of Sedona, stopping at Flagstaff en route if you wish. Head into red-rock country on a 4x4 adventure the next day, discovering deep gorges and impossibly narrow pinnacles. This afternoon, relax at the hotel or continue your explorations with a visit to the well-preserved ancient cliff dwellings of Boynton Canyon, birthplace of the Yavapai Apache. Spend your last evening gazing at the sensuous colors of the cliffs and mesas of red-rock country at sunset.
� Join a Navajo guide to learn about flora, fauna, and local lore on a tour of Monument Valley.
Day 1 – Las Vegas and Zion National Park, Utah Fly into Las Vegas and pick up your rental car. Wind your way towards Zion National Park and settle into your hotel in Springdale, set within view of Zion’s striped red-rock peaks.
Day 6 – Grand Canyon National Park Explore Grand Canyon National Park with a private guide today. Choose from a variety of trails, from easy walks to a rigorous trek to the canyon floor. Late this afternoon, find a good spot to witness the sunset illuminating the canyon’s mile-high cliffs.
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Gouldings Lodge – A former 1920s trading post, now a destination lodge with sweeping views of the buttes of Monument Valley.
Lake Powell Resort – A full-service resort on Lake Powell, with lots of outdoor activities that can be arranged.
Best Western Premier Squire Inn – A large hotel located in Tusayan, just two miles from the South Rim gate.
Cliffs and Canyons of the American Southwest
Orchards Inn – A secluded oasis near Sedona with views of the cliffs and mesas.
9 days from $3,900 (Self Drive) Discover the highlights of the American Southwest from the gorges of Zion to the Grand Canyon and Sedona, exploring national parks and natural treasures.
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Day 10 – Daphne Island and depart for home Head to Daphne Island for a final glimpse of blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and finches before transferring to the airport.
WHERE TO STAY Yolita II – Built in 2007, the Yolita II was designed specifically for the Galápagos and offers a comfortable 16-passenger motor yacht experience. The eight guest cabins offer simple but comfortable accommodations with full-size windows, twin or double bed layouts, ample storage space, and private bathrooms. The main deck features an indoor dining room and a comfortable lounge area while the upper deck and sun deck offer space to relax in the sun while keeping an eye out for passing wildlife.
Hilton Colon Quito – Modern Hilton hotel located near a museum and nightly craft market in Parque El Ejido, within 15 minutes of Quito’s Old Town.
Day 4 – Genovesa Island Genovesa Island is a collapsed volcano with large populations of frigatebirds and boobies. Keep an eye out for the rare red-footed booby and myriad other species as you explore the trails around Darwin Bay and El Barranco. Then go snorkeling in the sunken caldera.
below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
Day 3 – The Galápagos Islands, Santa Cruz Island Fly to the Galápagos Islands. Upon arrival, you’ll be met by members of the Yolita II crew who will escort you to the yacht. Get settled in your cabin and set sail to Las Bachas, a beautiful beach on Santa Cruz Island. Observe wildlife on a walk with your naturalist guide.
Days 6–8 – Isabela Island Travel to Isabela Island’s tortoise breeding center to see hatchlings and adults and learn about efforts to protect the rare Galápagos tortoise. Stop at Elizabeth Bay for a panga ride into the mangroves to spot sea turtles, penguins, and flightless cormorants. Spend an afternoon at Urbina Bay, exploring the unusual uplifted coral reef, and go hiking or snorkeling. Land in Tagus Cove, a former haunt of whalers and pirates, and see the islands’ largest marine iguana colony at Punta Espinoza. Day 9 – Rábida Island On Rábida Island, walk along red-sand beaches, watching for sea lions and marine iguanas, as well as blue-footed and Nazca boobies. Follow trails through palo santo trees to the island’s saltwater lagoon, where flamingos sometimes come to feed. After lunch, you’ll be able to relax on the beach or go snorkeling.
� Snorkel the volcanic caldera on remote Genovesa Island, and see huge colonies of boobies and frigatebirds.
� Explore the World Heritage-listed Old Town of Quito with your own private guide.
Days 1 & 2 – Quito, Ecuador Arrive in Quito and enjoy the rest of the afternoon to relax. Set off the next day to discover this World Heritage-listed city on a morning walking tour of the Old Town with your private guide. In the afternoon, continue exploring Quito at your leisure.
Sailing the Galápagos by Yacht 10 days from $5,445 Explore six of the Galápagos Islands aboard an intimate yacht and encounter incomparable wildlife and volcanic landscapes with a naturalist.
HIGHLIGHTS
� Sail from island to island aboard the nimble 16-guest yacht, Yolita II, stopping to hike among incredible wildlife.
AMERICASTHE
� Float into the mangroves of Isabela Island aboard a panga, watching for sea turtles and flightless cormorants.
Day 5 – Bartolomé Island On Bartolomé Island today, go on a short hike to its summit for phenomenal views. Continue to Sullivan Bay, where Sally Lightfoot crabs scamper over black lava flows and sea lions frolic on a white coral-sand beach.
� Embark on private guided tours of important Inca sites, from Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
Peru: Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley
� Explore the history of enchanting Cusco—and its lively street food scene—with a private guide.
8 days from $6,325 Journey into the realm of the ancient Inca to discover the fortresses and temples—and the present-day culture—of Cusco and the Sacred Valley, and encounter the extraordinary citadel of Machu Picchu.
HIGHLIGHTS
Days 4 & 5 – Sacred Valley Travel into the beautiful Sacred Valley with your private guide today. Venture into Pisac, known for its immense Sunday market, and also home to impressive Inca ruins. View the agricultural terraces of Moray and the pre-Inca salt pans at Maras. From your lodge, you’ll have a range of options for exploring the valley the next day, from hikes to mountain biking or horseback riding. We recommend joining a guide on a spectacular fullday hike from Chinchero to Urquillos. Alternatively, enjoy a morning walk followed by a shared visit to an Andean weaving workshop. Day 6 – Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu Tour Ollantaytambo with your private guide, exploring Inca defenses and temples as well as the charming town. Then set off on a scenic train journey, following the Urubamba River into the mountains and spotting Inca sites along the way. Disembark in Aguas Calientes and spend the afternoon discovering the mystical citadel of Machu Picchu with your private guide. Settle into your casita in the cloud forest this evening. Days 7 & 8 – Machu Picchu, Cusco, and Lima During a free morning, return to the citadel or join a lodge naturalist for a birding walk or a tour of the many orchid species growing wild on the property. Take the train back to Ollantaytambo and return by private car to Cusco for your final night. Fly home via Lima the next day.
� Stay in a 16th-century manor house in Cusco and a charming casita in the cloud forests below Machu Picchu.
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WHERE TO STAY Belmond Miraflores Park Hotel – A luxury hotel overlooking the Pacific Ocean in one of Lima’s most stylish districts. Palacio del Inka Luxury Collection A stunning colonial manor house in Cusco. Sol y Luna Lodge and Spa – A Relais & Chateaux property in the heart of the Sacred Valley, featuring individual casitas. Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel – A unique property Picchu.atcloudtuckedcharmingfeaturingcasitasintoaprivateforestreservethefootofMachu
Days 1 & 2 – Lima and Cusco, Peru Arrive in Lima and enjoy an evening at leisure. If time permits, head out with a private guide the next morning to discover the city. Fly to Cusco and settle into a 16thcentury manor house. The rest of the day will be yours to relax and acclimatize to the high altitude (11,200 feet). Day 3 – Cusco Explore Cusco, the capital of the Inca, on a full-day tour with a private guide. Visit baroque cathedrals, and see remnants of Inca walls and temples, including the Koricancha. Wander through the fortress of Sacsayhuaman to admire its stunning stone masonry. Then delve into the street food scene, trying out Andean favorites from cuy to chicha with your guide.
� Experience the beautiful Sacred Valley by bike, on horseback, or on a variety of hikes.
Days 1 & 2 – Windhoek, Namibia/Sossusvlei and Sesriem
Desert Rhino Camp – An intimate tented camp in a wide river valley in the Palmwag Conservancy where guests can track rhinos with Save the Rhino Trust monitors. Ongava Desert Camp – A classic safari camp with just eight elegant, Meru-style tents in a private game reserve bordering Etosha National Park.
Arrive in Windhoek, where you will be met and escorted to a light aircraft for your flight to Sossusvlei. Land in an otherworldly desert landscape of clay pans and sand dunes, and enjoy a scenic drive to your lodge. Sossusvlei is part of the Namib Desert, and your lodge here is set within a wilderness reserve at the foot of immense sand dunes, known for their vibrant shades of orange and red. Explore the reserve in 4x4 vehicles, watching for desert-adapted species such as oryx, springbok, ostriches, and hyenas, as well as unusual reptiles and insects. Learn about the area’s geology on a hike through Sesriem Canyon, or encounter the eerie skeletons of camelthorn trees in Dead Vlei. Sip a sundowner with stunning views of the dunes at sunset.
Namibia by Air 8 days from $10,365 Soar across Namibia’s evocative landscapes by light aircraft, exploring three spectacular wilderness areas: the orange dunes and clay pans of Sossusvlei, the basalt plains of Damaraland, and wildlife-rich Etosha National Park.
Days 5–8 – Ongava Game Reserve and Etosha National Park Your next flight by light aircraft brings you to the Ongava Game Reserve, a private reserve adjacent to Etosha National Park. Head out with the camp’s expert guides on an afternoon game drive in the reserve or in Etosha itself. Then enjoy two full days to discover Ongava and Etosha by open-vehicle safari. The park harbors a wide range of flora and fauna, including a hundred distinct mammal species. Watch for blackfaced impala, lions, and black and white rhinos; and learn about local research and habitat restoration efforts. Relax back at your camp, keeping an eye on the nearby waterhole where animals often pass for a drink. Return to Windhoek by light aircraft on your final morning and connect to your onward flights.
22 SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG/TAILOR-MADE I 855.215.8690Theitinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
HIGHLIGHTS � Take in spectacular aerial views while flying by light aircraft over Namibia’s coastal deserts.
� Climb the towering dunes of Sossusvlei and explore the eerie, tree-studded clay pan of Dead Vlei.
Your light aircraft whisks you north to Damaraland today, where you’ll settle into an elegant tented camp in the Palmwag Concession. This vast basalt landscape was created by ancient volcanic eruptions and harbors unusually lush plant life, nourished by the Atlantic mists. Set out to track free-roaming, desert-adapted black rhinos with monitors from Save the Rhino Trust, searching for this critically endangered species by vehicle and by foot. Seek out Hartman’s mountain zebras, giraffes, and lions, as well as rare plant and bird species on game drives or a guided nature walk.
WHERE TO STAY Kulala Desert Lodge – Thatched-roof clay bungalows set against a backdrop of Sossusvlei’s dunes, with flat roofs for sleeping under the stars.
� Spend two full days on safari in Etosha National Park, seeking out desert-adapted lions, elephants, giraffes, oryx, and more.
AFRICA
Days 3 & 4 – Damaraland
� Track critically endangered black rhinos and other unusual wildlife with Save the Rhino Trust monitors in Damaraland’s Palmwag Conservancy.
Travel to the airport by private car and fly to Kruger National Park. Transfer to the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, a private reserve within the Greater Kruger region. During two full days, set out on morning and afternoon game drives with fellow guests and a knowledgeable tracker and guide. Watch for the “Big Five”—lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and Cape buffalo—as well as wild dogs, monkeys, numerous ungulates, and colorful birds. Join a guided bush walk and enjoy nightly sundowner cocktails as the sun sets, and then watch for nocturnal species.
Days 5–7 – Sabi Sands Game Reserve
� Spend a day in the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater, observing wildlife with your private guide.
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10 days from $9,485
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 the mist and thunder of Victoria Falls.
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE TO STAY
One&Only Cape Town – A luxury hotel set on the fashionable V&A Waterfront area, with spacious rooms facing Table Mountain or the marina and the world-famous Nobu restaurant. Lion Sands River Lodge – An elegant safari lodge with thatched bungalows and a boma in a private game reserve adjacent to Kruger National Park. Royal Livingstone Hotel – A grand hotel that combines local design and Old World style, close enough to Victoria Falls that you can hear the thundering water.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
� Spot the “Big Five” during two full days on safari in the central Serengeti.
� Stay in the remote reaches of Tarangire National Park and enjoy private game drives and walking safaris.
Days 1 & 2 – Cape Town, South Africa
Days 8–10 – Livingstone and Victoria Falls, Zambia Catch a flight to Livingstone, the gateway to the Zambian side of Victoria Falls. Settle into your hotel on the banks of the Zambezi River and consider joining a guided sunset wildlife cruise. Enjoy a full day to discover Victoria Falls. You’ll have a range of opportunities to explore this World Heritage site as you wish, from a guided walk into the chasm, to canoeing, fishing, whitewater rafting, and much more. Hike in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, or meander through the bustling market and a fascinating museum in Livingstone. On your final day, fly back to Johannesburg and connect to your international flight home.
� Venture into a local market in Arusha with your private guide and learn to barter in Swahili.
Arrive in Cape Town and transfer to your hotel with your private driver. Ascend Table Mountain in a rotating cable car, taking in 360˚ views of the city. Walk the mountaintop, looking for flora and fauna including endemic fynbos species. Then catch the ferry to Robben Island for a shared tour of the prison where Nelson Mandela was held. Day 3 – Cape Peninsula and Cape Winelands Set out on a full-day guided excursion to the Cape Peninsula. Stop at world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and see the resident penguins of Boulders Bay. Ride the funicular to the wild and windswept Cape Point. The next day, head into the Cape Winelands region for tasting tours of wineries in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl.
South Africa and Victoria Falls
WHERE TO STAY Macushla House A swimmingandrooms,decoratedjustguesthouseowner-runcharming,Nairobiwithsixindividuallyguestaveranda,anattractivepool.
Days 4 & 5 – Meru National Park During two days in this beautiful wilderness area, set out on game drives and guided walks, watching for the “Big Five” and much more, including unusual species such as Grevy’s zebras and reticulated giraffes. Learn about rhino conservation efforts in this area.
9 days from $8,950 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.
• Stay in deluxe safari camps and explore on guided game drives, night safaris, and bush walks.
Days 6–9 – Masai Mara National Reserve
Return to Nairobi by light aircraft and fly on to the sweeping landscapes of the Masai Mara National Reserve. Transfer to your intimate tented camp, set within the private Mara Naboisho Conservancy adjacent to the Masai Mara. Spend two full days discovering the wildlife of this legendary park with knowledgeable guides on private game drives, guided walks, and elegant meals in the bush. The Masai Mara is big cat country, so keep your eyes peeled for lions, cheetahs, and elusive leopards. Over the summer months, it also hosts the legendary wildebeest migration, where well over a million wildebeests and zebras tramp through the savanna, on the search for green pastures. During your free time, relax at the pool or read a book in the library, or pay a visit to a nearby Maasai village to learn about this ancient pastoralist culture. Return to Nairobi by light aircraft the final day.
• Travel by light aircraft, enjoying aerial views of the bush and avoiding lengthy drives.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Visit the renowned Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and the Nairobi Giraffe Centre.
Day 1 – Nairobi, Kenya On arrival into Nairobi, a driver will be waiting to take you to the charming Macushla House. Enjoy the rest of the day to relax and stroll the quiet grounds, home to many species of birds. Day 2 – Nairobi This morning, visit the nearby Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, run by the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, which has been rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned elephants since 1977. Get a close-up view of this endangered species as you meet caregivers and watch them feed and interact with young elephants. Then head to the Nairobi Giraffe Centre and the Karen Blixen Museum, the setting for the celebrated author’s book, Out of Africa Day 3 – Meru National Park Fly by light aircraft flight to Meru National Park. Your home here is a cottage at Elsa’s Kopje, built into a hillside overlooking the site where Joy and George Adamson rescued lion cubs in the 1950s—a story made famous by the book and movie Born Free. Set out on your first safari after lunch, encountering a wide range of creatures with your seasoned guide.
Elsa’s Kopje An elegant hilltop safari camp with ten cottages and an inviting pool set within 215,000 acres of wilderness in Meru National Park. Hemingways Ol Seki Mara Camp A stunning tented camp in the heart of the decks.tentsfeaturingoftheConservancyNaboishoonnortheastedgetheMasaiMara,tensafariwithprivate
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The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
Kenya Wildlife Safari
� Encounter an astonishing array of species at two of Kenya’s top national parks.
AFRICA
� Spot the “Big Five” during two full days on safari in the central Serengeti.
� Venture into a local market in Arusha with your private guide and learn to barter in Swahili. nocturnal game drives, which are often not possible in other national parks. Day 4 – Lake Manyara National Park and Ngorongoro Highlands Journey into the Great Rift Valley to Lake Manyara National Park, home to hippos, Cape buffalo, and Tanzania’s only tree-climbing lions. Also keep an eye out for colorful birds, including flamingos, feeding in the shallows as you drive through the park with your private guide. Ascend to the Ngorongoro Highlands in the afternoon. Day 5 – Ngorongoro Crater Awaken early to be on the floor of Ngorongoro Crater in the quiet of dawn, when the wildlife is busy with morning routines. This is the world’s largest intact and unfilled caldera, and it’s teeming with dense populations of predators and herbivores. Spend up to six hours on safari in the crater, observing a wide range of wildlife, from marabou storks and crowned cranes to cheetahs and rare black rhinos.
Days 6–9 – Serengeti National Park and Arusha Fly to the central Serengeti and settle into a mobile tented camp, which changes location to offer optimum viewing of the legendary wildebeest migration. During your time in the Serengeti, set out on game drives in search of the “Big Five” (lion, Cape buffalo, elephant, rhino, and leopard), along with wildebeest, zebra, gazelle and other plains animals, and some 500 species of birds. Take a break at midday for a leisurely lunch and time to unwind. In the late afternoons, participate in the safari tradition of the sundowner, pausing your game drive to raise a toast as the sun sinks below the horizon. Fly back to Kilimanjaro on your final day.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you. Day 1 – Arusha, Tanzania Land at Kilimanjaro International Airport and meet your private guide for your transfer to Arusha. In the afternoon, visit an open-air market with your guide, taking in the sights and sounds as you meander among the stalls.
HIGHLIGHTS
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.
WHERE TO STAY Katambuga House A small, intimate lodge on the outskirts of Arusha, with views of Mount Meru. Kuro Tarangire A small, comfortable tented camp set in the heart of Tarangire National Park. The Highlands A stylized, modern tented camp set on the slopes of the ConservationtheVolcano,OlmotiinsideNgorongoroArea.
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� Stay in the remote reaches of Tarangire National Park and enjoy private game drives and walking safaris.
� Spend a day in the spectacular Ngorongoro Crater, observing wildlife with your private guide.
Serengeti Safari Camp – A small, nomadic tented camp for a maximum of 12 guests, which changes location around the Serengeti for the best game opportunities.viewing
Days 2 & 3 – Tarangire National Park Travel to Tarangire National Park, a vast wilderness area known for large herds of elephants, as well as wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, and unusual species like the gerenuk and fringe-eared oryx. Spend two days on safari in this often-overlooked park. Watch wildlife with your guide from your private vehicle, and stop for picnic lunches in scenic spots. Explore open plains, swamps, majestic baobab trees, and riverine forest, with the dramatic backdrop of the Ol Doinyo Lengai Volcano in the distance. Take part in walking safaris and Wildlife of Tanzania
� Enjoy a four-night Nile cruise, stopping at the temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Philae.
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� Venture into the Temple of Karnak and the tombs of the Valley of the Kings.
WHERE TO STAY Marriott Mena House – A 19thcentury hunting lodge in Giza with an illustrious history, set in the shadow of the Great Pyramids. M.S. Oberoi Philae A modern vessel styled to resemble a vintage paddle steamer, with 22 spacious cabins and suites and plenty of amenities to enhance your experience on the Nile.
� Encounter the colossal statues and temples of Abu Simbel with a private guide.
Sofitel Legend The Old Cataract A historic Victorian hotel in Aswan with a range of restaurants and bars, a spa and hammam, and an indoor pool. AFRICA
Day 4 – Luxor and Nile River Cruise Fly to Luxor, the starting point for your Nile cruise. Take a guided tour of the spectacular temples of Karnak and Luxor before boarding the M.S. Oberoi Philae this afternoon.
Days 7 & 8 – Aswan Visit Aswan High Dam and take a local boat to the Temple of Philae. Disembark your riverboat the next morning and enjoy the day to discover the area on your own. We suggest a visit to the Nubian Museum, or a stroll in the botanical gardens of Kitchener Island.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you. Day 1 – Cairo and Giza, Egypt Upon arrival in Cairo, you will be escorted to your historic hotel in Giza. Enjoy the rest of the day to relax and take in views of the legendary Pyramids of Giza.
Day 6 – Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan Explore the beautifully preserved Temple of Horus in Edfu, then sail on to Kom Ombo, home to an unusual double temple. Continue south to Aswan for the night.
Day 2 – Dahshur, Sakkara, and Giza Spend your day south of Cairo, discovering pyramids of many shapes and sizes with your private guide. You’ll have the opportunity to enter several of them to see the burial chambers within. Visit the Bent Pyramid at Dahshur and the stepped pyramid of Sakkara (Egypt’s oldest), then explore the Great Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the remarkable solar boat of Khufu. Day 3 – Cairo Delve into bustling Cairo with a private guide. See the treasures of the Egyptian Museum and explore the medieval Citadel and Coptic Cairo.
Egypt: Cairo and the Temples of the Nile 10 days from $6,705 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.
HIGHLIGHTS
Day 10 – Cairo Fly to Cairo and continue on your flight home.
Day 9 – Abu Simbel Set off on a full-day excursion to extraordinary Abu Simbel, known for the four colossi that guard the site. Venture into the two temples here with your private guide, and examine the elaborate carvings and statues that line the interior. Return to Aswan for your final night.
� Join a private guide on an excursion to the Pyramids of Giza, Sakkara, and Dahshur.
Day 5 – Luxor’s West Bank In the Valley of the Kings, descend into tombs covered with intricate hieroglyphics. Continue to the Valley of the Queens to see the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon. Set sail after lunch, enjoying views of life on the banks of the Nile.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
HIGHLIGHTS
Ryad Salama (Fez), Ryad Watier (Essaouira), and Riad Ilayka (Marrakech) – Intimate guesthouses with traditional character and amenities.
� Stay in a lovely riad in the Fez medina, and discover this medieval city with a private guide.
Villa Mandarine – A lovely estate located in the heart of Rabat. Gold Sand Camp – A luxury tented camp set among the dunes of the Sahara desert.
� Ride a camel amid the sand dunes of the Sahara at sunset, and sleep in a Berber-style camp.
Le Doge Hotel & Spa – A stylish boutique hotel housed in a 1930s mansion, nestled in the heart of Casablanca’s Art Deco district.
Kasbah Ait Ben Moro (Skoura) and Kasbah Bab Ourika (High Atlas Mountains) Traditional kasbah properties set among gardens and courtyards.
Days 6 & 7 – Todra Gorge and Skoura Travel the “Road of a Thousand Kasbahs,” stopping for a walk in Dades Gorge or Todra Gorge. Enjoy a day at leisure to relax by the pool at your hotel in Skoura.
Days 3 & 4 – Meknes, Volubilis, and Fez Depart for Fez with your driver today, stopping in the imperial city of Meknes to see the impressive 17th-century Royal Stables. Explore the Roman city of Volubilis, then continue to your traditional riad in the Fez medina. Delve into enchanting Fez on a full-day tour. See magnificent mosques and madrassahs and watch artisans plying timeless trades. At sunset, sip mint tea on the rooftop terrace at your riad, listening to the call to prayer. Day 5 – The Sahara Drive through cedar forests on the way to the Sahara. Ride a 4x4 vehicle to a Berberstyle tented camp amid the dunes, then set out on a short camel trek at sunset. Stargaze under dark desert skies tonight.
Day 2 – Rabat Travel by private car to Rabat and tour this World Heritage-listed walled city with your private guide. In the picturesque kasbah, wander a maze of lanes and whitewashed houses.
Day 1 – Casablanca, Morocco Arrive in Casablanca and join a private guide for a visit to the Hassan II Mosque, which combines stunning Moorish architecture with technological innovation.
Days 12–15 – Marrakech In fabled Marrakech, join your guide for a private tour of the sites, including Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs. Venture into the souk and learn how to cook Moroccan dishes during a cooking class with a chef. You’ll have a full free day to explore the city as you Moroccowish. from Sea to Sahara 15 days from $4,425 Discover Morocco from its Atlantic shores to the Sahara, exploring the imperial cities of Marrakech, Meknes, Rabat, and Fez, and venturing to ancient kasbahs and everyday villages in the Atlas Mountains.
WHERE TO STAY
Days 8 & 9 – Ait Ben Haddou and High Atlas Mountains Explore the 11th-century World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village known for its earthen architecture. Ride in a 4x4 vehicle past dramatic geological formations and centuries-old kasbahs before arriving at your charming guesthouse in the mountains. Go hiking or relax in the gardens during a free day.
� Admire innovative architecture at Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque and the remarkable Royal Stables in Medina.
� Visit the fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou, and spend three nights in magical Marrakech.
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Days 10 & 11 – Essaouira Drive to seaside Essaouira and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Spend the next day discovering this welcoming beach town with your private guide.
Day 8 – Daintree Rainforest Venture into the Daintree Rainforest on a full-day small-group tour. Learn about the ecology of this ancient rain forest, and hear about the unique symbiotic relationship between the Daintree and the local indigenous people.
� Dive or snorkel the Great Barrier Reef and explore the Daintree Rainforest.
HIGHLIGHTS
below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you. Days 1–3 – Sydney, Australia Arrive in Sydney and enjoy the rest of the day leisure. The next day, board a catamaran for a shared cruise of Sydney Harbour. Hear about the city’s history and enjoy a buffet lunch as you sail past Darling Harbour and the magnificent Sydney Opera House. Enjoy a full day to explore Sydney and its environs as you wish. Or take an excursion to the Blue Mountains, a World Heritage-listed wilderness of canyons, waterfalls, and eucalyptus forests.
After a leisurely morning, fly to Cairns and transfer to Port Douglas, your beachfront base for the next four nights as you explore two World Heritage sites: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Day 7 – Great Barrier Reef Board a reef cruiser and set out on a full-day snorkel or dive trip on the Great Barrier Reef. Gain insights into this natural wonder from a marine biologist and enjoy lunch with fellow passengers on board.
Days 4 & 5 – Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Fly to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in Australia’s Red Centre. After free time to explore, enjoy an outback dining experience under the stars followed by stargazing with a local astronomer. Rise early to catch the sunrise over the Kata Tjuta (the cluster of domed rocks also known as the Olgas) and join a guide for a small-group tour of Uluru. Witness the sunset on this sacred site.
Day 9 – Port Douglas Enjoy a full day at leisure in this tropical paradise. Spend it at one of the area’s beaches, explore galleries and boutiques in the village, or go for a walk in the surrounding parks.
Days 10–12 – Atherton Tablelands Pick up your rental car and drive to the Atherton Tablelands, home to World Heritagelisted rain forests, old mining towns, and serene lakes. Settle into your treehouse in the jungle and enjoy two days to discover the treasures of this unspoiled area.
� Stay in a treehouse in the Atherton Tablelands, home to World Heritagelisted rain forests.
Day 6 – Cairns and Port Douglas
Highlights of Australia
ASIA & THE PACIFIC
12 days from $5,875 Discover the highlights of Australia on a journey that combines sophisticated Sydney, the sacred sites of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, and the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
28 SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG/TAILOR-MADE I 855.215.8690Theitinerary
WHERE TO STAY Harbour Rocks Hotel – A historic property within walking distance from the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Desert Gardens Hotel – A comfortable and contemporary resort, set within an oasis of native gardens and featuring views of Uluru. Shantara Resort & Spa – A luxurious and serene resort superbly positioned on Davidson Street in the center of Port Douglas.
� Sail a catamaran in Sydney Harbour, enjoying lunch as you pass iconic sites.
� Watch the sunset on Uluru before an outback dining experience, and stargaze with an astronomer.
Rose Gums Wilderness Retreat – A familyoperated retreat featuring treehouse rooms, set in the Cairns Highlands/Atherton Tablelands amid rain forests, wildlife, and 160 bird species.
� Enjoy a full-day winery tour in the lovely Marlborough region.
HIGHLIGHTS
� Explore Arthur’s Pass National Park with a guide, and embark on a wilderness safari near Queenstown.
New Zealand North and South 17 days from $8,800 Experience New Zealand from north to south as you journey from Auckland to Queenstown, visiting winelands, fjords, volcanic landscapes, and the Southern Alps.
Days 12–17 – Queenstown and Doubtful Sound
Arrive in Auckland and head out on a half-day private city tour. Enjoy a day at leisure to settle into the relaxed pace of life in New Zealand. Then embark the ferry to lovely Waiheke Island for a small-group winery tour.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
Days 1–3 – Auckland, New Zealand
Fly to Queenstown and enjoy free time to explore. Then head out on a Dart River Wilderness Safari that includes a thrilling jet boat ride, a short hike with a naturalist, and a 4x4 wilderness drive. Travel by private car into Fiordland National Park and meet fellow passengers for your overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound. Settle into your private cabin aboard the Fiordland Navigator, a three-masted scow, and set sail, watching for wildlife, kayaking along shore, and enjoying a magical evening on the silent sound. Take advantage of a final free day to explore Queenstown and the surrounding mountains before heading home.
Enter Waitomo Caves, which are illuminated by thousands of glowworms, duing an exhilarating boat ride. Stop in Hobbiton to visit the beautiful farm that was transformed into the Shire for The Lord of the Rings movies. Discover the steaming volcanic landscapes of Rotorua on a private tour, encountering geysers and boiling mud pools, and explore enchanting Whirinaki rain forest. Fly to Wellington and enjoy free time.
Days 7 & 8 – Blenheim Board a ferry to cross Cook Strait to the South Island, cruising through the surreal Marlborough Sounds. Settle in at Blenheim in the heart of New Zealand’s winelands. Spend a day on a private gourmet tour of Marlborough’s best wineries, tasting fine wines and other local delicacies.
Days 4–6 – Rotorua and Wellington
Days 9–11 – Kaikoura and Christchurch
Take the train to Kaikoura, following the spectacular coast. During a free afternoon, consider setting out on one of the outstanding hiking trails that begin in the town center. After a leisurely morning, travel by rail to Christchurch. Visit the city on your own, opting to punt on the River Avon or see innovative efforts to rebuild after the 2011 earthquake. Join a small group for a full-day excursion to Arthur’s Pass National Park, a stunning section of the Southern Alps.
� Float through glowworm caves and discover the geysers and mud pools of Rotorua.
� Spend the night aboard a three-masted sailboat on the serene Doubtful Sound. WHERE TO STAY Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbor A chic waterfront hotel. Regent of Rotorua An intimate boutique hotel with an awardwinning restaurant. Orari – An intimate B&B in a home.VictorianChiristchurchheritage Hidden – A stunning lodge overlooking Lake Wakatipu outside of Queenstown. Fiordland Navigator A sailingthree-mastedvesselfor 72 guests, with modern comforts.
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12 days from $4,850 Delve into Thailand’s rich culture and cuisine as you explore temples and floating markets, enjoy tasting tours and cooking classes, and soak up local traditions from Bangkok and Chiang Mai to Phuket.
EnchantingThailand’s Temples and Culinary Delights
Days 9–12 — Phuket Fly to the island of Phuket via Bangkok and settle into a boutique beach hotel. Meet your guide for a tour of Phuket’s street food, which draws on flavors from China, Malaysia, and Singapore. During two afternoons and a full day at leisure, discover new beaches and explore Phuket Town on your own. You’ll also have options for snorkeling and sea kayaking arranged by your resort. Return to Bangkok for your flight home the final day.
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Twinpalms Phuket – A beach resort set amid water gardens, with secluded suites and rooms, a range of restaurants, and access to three spectacular beaches.
HIGHLIGHTS
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
Days 1 & 2 – Bangkok, Thailand Arrive in Bangkok and the next day, set off on a private city tour using multiple forms of transportation: from the Skytrain to a longtail boat, a public boat taxi, and a tuk-tuk. Visit the Grand Palace and see the immense, gold-covered Reclining Buddha at Wat Po. After a free afternoon, consider a meal at your hotel’s own Michelin-starred restaurant, Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin.
� Explore the floating markets of Tha Kha and enjoy a leisurely bike ride to the farming communities.
WHERE TO STAY Siam Kempinski – A garden retreat in the heart of Bangkok’s premier shopping and entertainment district. Asita Eco Resort – A canal-side eco-resort that offers traditional Thai houses or villas with locally inspired design. Anantara Chiang Mai Resort – A city sanctuary that blends contemporary, Thai, and colonial style and offers spa treatments, cooking lessons, and sunset river cruises.
Days 6–8 – Chiang Mai Board a flight to Chiang Mai, nestled within the mountains of northern Thailand. In the evening, witness monks performing their nightly rituals. Dine at an acclaimed restaurant before an evening stroll with your guide through the night market. The next day is at your leisure. Spend your final day in Chiang Mai enjoying a cooking class with a renowned chef, learning about ingredients, concocting various dishes, and savoring them together.
� Spend two days on the beaches of Phuket and discover the island’s distinctive cuisine on a tasting tour.
� Experience Bangkok’s colorful chaos on a street food tour, and witness the nightly rituals at a temple in Chiang Mai.
� Prepare delightful Thai dishes during a cooking class with a renowned chef.
Days 3 & 4 – Bangkok Dig into Bangkok’s street food scene on a tour with a local guide, sampling a variety of dishes at popular food stalls. The next day is yours to spend as you wish. Consider rising early to visit the temple of Wat Arun before the crowds arrive. In the evening, go for a guided walk in Suan Plu to visit cottage industries and an amulet market. Enjoy a delicious meal followed by a drink at a jazz bar.
Day 5 – Amphawa Travel to the picturesque village of Amphawa to see the Tha Kha floating market, where merchants sell produce in boats clustered on the village canals. After lunch, set off on an easy bike ride to the organic farms of Ban Bang Phlap. Pedal among the plantations, stopping to meet farmers and taste the fruits grown here. Tonight, stay at a riverside eco-retreat.
� Visit with ceramic artisans in Laos, and enjoy a picnic at a waterfall near Luang Prabang.
Asia: Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia 14 days from $5,990
WHERE TO STAY
Montra Nivesha – A boutique hotel built and furnished in the style of a traditional Khmer home near Angkor.
Day 1 – Luang Prabang, Laos Arrive in Luang Prabang and get an overview of the city en route to your hotel with your private guide. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore at your leisure.
From the shrines of Luang Prabang to the temples of Angkor, experience Southeast Asia on a journey to historic towns and timeless villages in Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Days 12–14 – Siem Reap Venture to the ruins of Ta Prohm to see its evocative temples engulfed by vegetation. Continue to Angkor Wat for an in-depth exploration with your private guide. Visit a traditional village to learn about rural life, then cruise the Tonle Sap lake and walk or bike through community Southeastfarms.
Ride a tuk-tuk to a village known for its ceramics, and make your own pot. Rise early to witness monks collecting the morning alms before heading to Kuang Si Falls for a picnic breakfast and a swim. Later, take a cooking class at a popular restaurant.
Return to Hanoi for your flight to the World Heritage site of Hoi An. Tour this historic trading post with your private guide, and enjoy time at leisure to explore further or relax on the beach. Travel into the mountains to visit the Hindu temples of My Son, the capital of the 4th-century Champa Kingdom.
Days 6 & 7 – Ha Long Bay
Transfer to Haiphong and board a traditional junk boat for a cruise on the World Heritage-listed Ha Long Bay. Glide among thousands of karst islets and mountains in the lesser-known Lan Ha section of the bay. Go kayaking the next day, and take a bike ride around traditional villages. In the afternoon, participate in a cooking class on board.
Day 11 – Hoi An and Siem Reap, Cambodia After a leisurely day to bike to neighboring villages or enjoy the beach in Hoi An, board an evening flight to Siem Reap, gateway to the temples of Angkor.
Days 8–10 – Hoi An and My Son
Le Bel Air Resort – A French colonial retreat in Luang Prabang offering majestic river views.
Essence Hanoi Hotel – A boutique hotel located in the heart of Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter.
� Enjoy a cooking class in Luang Prabang and a street food tour in historic Hoi An.
� Encounter the majestic temples of Angkor, and visit villages on Cambodia’s Tonle Sap lake.
After a free morning, fly to Hanoi and transfer to your hotel in the heart of the old quarter. Join a local blogger the next morning for a street food tour of Hanoi’s eateries. After a plentiful brunch, your tour continues to some of the city’s major sites, including Ho Chi Minh’s stilt home, the Temple of Literature, and the Fine Arts Museum.
Days 2 & 3 – Luang Prabang Set out on a private tour of this World Heritage-listed city, visiting the stunning Wat Xieng Thong temple, and learning about Laos’s ethnic minorities at the TEAC Centre.
La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa – A luxurious retreat set in tropical gardens overlooking paddy fields, within easy reach of old Hoi An.
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Days 4 & 5 – Hanoi, Vietnam
Orchid Cruise – A traditional-style Vietnamese junk boat equipped with kayaks and bamboo boats.
HIGHLIGHTS
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
� Spend two nights on a traditional junk, floating amid the ethereal landscapes of Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay.
Days 8 & 9 – Jodhpur Continue with your driver to the “Blue City” of Jodhpur, where you’ll enjoy a leisurely afternoon. Then take a private tour including Mehrangarh Fort, the blue houses of the old city, and the colorful bazaars around the clock tower.
� Experience Jaipur’s palaces with a private guide and climb the ramparts of Jodhpur’s Mehrangarh Fort.
Coral Tree Homestay – An intimate, familyowned hotel with spacious rooms and private verandas situated amid bird-filled gardens, just a few minutes’ walk from the Taj Mahal.
Days 10 & 11 – Chanoud Travel to the oasis of Chanoud, where your home is a family-owned 300-year-old palace. Set off with local guides the next day to visit surrounding villages. Learn about rural life and meet the pastoralist Rabari people, known for their vibrant clothing and jewelry. Cap off your stay with a drink while watching the sun set on a salt lake.
� Stay in two historic palaces, owned by families that descend from the maharajas of old.
Days 1 & 2 – Delhi, India Arrive in Delhi and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Then set out to discover the contrasts of Old and New Delhi with a private guide.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
The Imperial New Delhi – One of Delhi’s finest heritage hotels, built in 1931 by a renowned architect during the colonial period and furnished with art and antiques.
� Set sail on Udaipur’s Lake Pichola at sunset and take in views of shimmering Lake Palace.
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WHERE TO STAY
Timeless India 14 days from $4,335 Immerse yourself in India, from Delhi to the Taj Mahal to enchanting Rajasthan, where you’ll explore Jaipur and Udaipur, stay in family-owned palaces, and get acquainted with the rhythms of rural life.
� Watch the sunrise at the Taj Mahal on a privately guided tour.
Days 12–14 – Udaipur and Delhi or Mumbai On your way south, visit the 15th-century fortress of Kumbhalgarh and the marble Jain temples of Chaumukha Mandir. Arrive in Udaipur, the “City of Lakes,” poised between the mountains and Lake Pichola. Take a private tour that includes the City Palace. Then set sail on Lake Pichola on a sunset cruise, taking in views of the iconic Lake Palace. The next day, fly to Delhi or Mumbai to catch your flight home.
Days 3–5 – Agra and Jaipur Travel to Agra by private car or by train and explore the city and its Red Fort with your guide. Experience the Taj Mahal at sunrise on a private guided tour, and enjoy free time to stroll the surrounding gardens. After breakfast, visit the abandoned Mughal capital of Fatehpur Sikri, now a World Heritage site. Continue to Jaipur and spend a full day discovering this enchanting “Pink City” with your private guide. Venture into the Amber Palace and the City Palace, and admire the intricate facade of the Palace of the Winds. Then see 17th-century astronomical instruments at the Jantar Mantar Observatory. Days 6 & 7 – Barli Travel to the rural village of Barli, making sightseeing stops along the way. Settle into your hotel, a historic fortress-palace, and explore its spectacular grounds. During a free day, choose from a variety of activities: go birding on a 4-wheel-drive excursion, tour the historic fort, visit the spa, or ride a bullock cart to nearby villages.
Dera Mandawa – A lovely example of Rajasthani architecture in Jaipur with the ambiance of an authentic Indian home, offering cooking classes and temple ceremonies.
Fort Barli – A rural fortress-palace owned by the descendants of Rajput warriors for 16 generations, surrounded by gardens and a pool. HIGHLIGHTS
� Step into Kyoto’s geisha district with a private guide to learn about this tradition.
Days 1–3 – Tokyo, Japan Arrive in Tokyo and enjoy time at leisure. The next day, head out on a guided tour of the historic Asakusa neighborhood and the Buddhist temple of Senso-ji. Stroll the Hama Rikyu gardens, then join a private guide for a tasting tour of local cuisine in the vibrant district of Ebisu. During a free day, consider taking the train to the coastal town of Kamakura, replete with Buddhist and Shinto temples and shrines.
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Days 8 & 9 – Hakone Travel by bullet train to Hakone, set beneath the conical peak of Mount Fuji. Settle into your contemporary ryokan and opt for an onsen hot springs experience. Spend the next day exploring Hakone and its national park from many perspectives. Get an aerial view of this beautiful area from the gondolas of the Hakone Ropeway, and meander among the sculptures of the Hakone Open-air Museum. Take a picturesque train ride into the mountains to the village of Góra, or ride the ferry across the lake. Days 10 & 11 – Tokyo Return to Tokyo by private line train this morning and enjoy free time to soak up the ambiance of Japan’s effervescent capital city before your flight home the next day.
Japan Past and Present 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.
� Enjoy an onsen hot springs experience at a ryokan in Hakone.
The itinerary below is a sample of what’s possible. Your Smithsonian Tailor-Made Journey will be handcrafted just for you.
� Take a private tour of Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district, and sample Japanese delicacies on a foodie tour in Kyoto.
HIGHLIGHTS
Days 4–7 – Kyoto Zoom to Kyoto on the high-speed bullet train and set out to explore the surrounding Higashiyama district on your own. Tonight, join a guide for a fascinating tour of Kyoto’s food scene, sampling local specialties and admiring the artistry of local cuisine. During an unscheduled morning, discover the temples and imperial sites of this culturally rich city, whose entire ancient city has been named a World Heritage site. Later, meet a local expert for a private tour of Gion, the geisha district. As you stroll the cobblestone streets, learn about the life of a geisha, and their role in Japanese culture. In the nearby Shiga prefecture, set on the shores of Lake Biwa, you’re invited into a family home for a cooking lesson and a sukiyaki hot pot lunch. Back in Kyoto late this afternoon, attend a memorable kabuki theater performance. Then take advantage of a free day to discover nearby sites such as Nara or the Fushimi Inari Taisha temple.
� Travel by Japan’s world-renowned bullet train, using your own rail pass during free time.
WHERE TO STAY Park Hotel Tokyo A modern hotel infused with Japanese art that begins at the 25th floor of the Shiodome Media Tower. Noku Kyoto A comfortable hotel located across from Kyoto Geon National Garden and a short walk to the Kyoto Imperial Palace. Hakone Kowakien Tenyu – A modern ryokan with beautiful gardens and magnificent views, where each room features a veranda and a private, openair bath.
ItalyJapanIcelandSmithsonian Tailor-Made Journeys provided me and my son with a once-in-a-lifetime, unforgettable adventure. We did and saw things that we never would have managed to plan on our own.
Suggested Itinerary: 15 days from $6,170 Venture to New Zealand’s North and South Islands, taking part in a wide range of enriching activities for travelers of all ages. Encounter kiwis, penguins, and fur seals; go kayaking; and ride a 4x4 on a thrilling off-road adventure.
Italy for Families
– Valli T.
Japan for Families
Customize Any Journey for Your Family
Dreaming of a family adventure? Any of the itineraries in this catalog can be customized to fit your family. Whether you’re looking for a memorable reunion with extended family, an exciting opportunity to introduce your kids to the wonders of travel, or a unique way to celebrate a special anniversary, we’ll work with you to create a tailor-made experience that will be engaging and fun for all ages. Find inspiration for your family’s ideal trip within this catalog, and visit our website for a closer look at the suggested family itineraries below. Simply call 855-215-8690 to start designing your custom family adventure with us!
34 SMITHSONIANJOURNEYS.ORG/TAILOR-MADE I 855.215.8690
Experience Japan with your family, traveling by bullet train from Kyoto and Tokyo to the lively towns of northern Honshu, and encountering the timeless ways of samurai warriors, geisha, and ninjas—as well the modern arts of anime and manga.
Suggested Itinerary: 8 days from $7,780 Encounter Iceland’s awe-inspiring geology on a family journey to volcanoes, geysers, glaciers, and lava caves from the legend-filled Snaefellsnes Peninsula to the waterfalls and black-sand beaches of the southern coast.
Suggested Itinerary: 10 days from $7,960 Embark on a journey to three spectacular cities—Rome, Florence, and Venice—and offer your family a fascinating encounter with the ancient ruins, Renaissance art, and historic architecture that they’ve read about in their schoolbooks.
Iceland for Families
New Zealand for Families
Suggested Itinerary: 11 days from $6,950
• Winter in Yellowstone and Grand Tetons
• Costa Rica Coast to Coast Treasures of Ancient Greece Spain: Madrid, Barcelona, and Basque Country
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RETURN TO TRAVEL
Patagonia
The well-being of our guests, staff members, and partners around the world has always been our highest priority. We continue to follow the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of State to develop extra health and safety measures across all facets of our programs. To learn more about our health and safety protocols for Tailor-Made Journeys, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org/safety-protocols.
PHOTOGRAPHY CREDITS: Dreamstime, Getty Images, iStock, Shutterstock. Front cover/Namib Desert: Getty Images/Buena Vista Images; Back cover/Marrakech market: iStock/Florian Fritsch. Audley Travel: pp.6,7. New Zealand Tourism: p.29. Printed July 2022.
35 Dubrovnik, CroatiaBanff, Canada Rwanda • Peaks and Glaciers of Patagonia • Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies by Rail • Swiss Alps Sojourn • Israel: The Holy Land from Antiquity to Today • Gems of Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast The Possibilities Are Endless We’ve showcased some of our most popular sample itineraries in this brochure, but you’ll find many more on our website. Whether you’re looking to spot sloths and macaws in Costa Rica, experience Yellowstone in the quiet of winter, or soak up history in Jerusalem’s Old City, remember that these itineraries are here to inspire you—you can adapt them as you wish. And if you don’t find what you’re looking for, give us a call. We’ll create a custom-made trip that fits your vision to any one of 80 countries! Call 855-215-8690 to get started.
• Gorilla Trekking and the Masai Mara
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Cover: Namib Desert | Back Cover: Marrakech market Let the Journey Begin SmithsonianJourneys.org/Tailor-Made | 855.215.8690 Smithsonian Institution P.O. Box 23182 Washington, DC 20026
