Explore Adventures 2022 E-Brochure by TakingtheStrainTravel

Unforgettable

adventures

Classic Discovery | Wildlife | Walking | Cycling | Family

We’re so incredibly grateful to our customers for sticking with us through these strange times, but now, as the world reopens, we’re raring and ready to go. We hope you are too! This brochure is bursting with new trips and best sellers, as well as a sprinkling of old favourites. If you don’t find THE ONE, there’s hundreds more on our website too.

Michael

Michael Edwards, Managing Director

2 01252 883 480

Unforgettable experiences From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you’ve really explored. We’ll take you closer to the country, its culture and people, often in spontaneous, impossible-toreplicate ways. You’ll come home having seen and experienced the destination in a way that others might never have.

Expert local guides Chosen for their expertise and passion. Explore leaders use their insider knowledge to make the most of extraordinary and unexpected opportunities. They’re on-hand to make sure your trip goes smoothly and are trained by our team to ensure consistently high standards.

Small groups & private trips Group tours average just 12 people and various private trip options are available too. Group sizes are big enough to meet like-minded people but small enough to get to the heart of a destination. Groups are usually a mix of solos, couples, family and friends, united by an adventurous spirit and a sense of fun.

We do the right thing Our flexible booking policies and sustainable approach set us apart. We continued to offer refunds for trips suspended due to coronavirus, while many others didn’t. Now we’ve gone even further with a refund promise that means you can continue to book with confidence (see page 4). Our trips and flights are Gold Standard carbon offset and we work hard to ensure we impact positively on the communities we visit as part of a commitment to sustainability (see page 10).

Contents Welcome

Walking & Trekking

UK adventures

Cycling

116

Classic Discovery

Self-Guided

NEW Rail adventures

Family

140

Polar voyages

General information

150

114 & 138

Why Explore? Explore

For 40 years we’ve been leading tours to extraordinary destinations all over the world. There’s a reason why 96% of customers say they’d book with us again.

explore.co.uk 3

Book and travel Our flexible booking and safety policies mean you’re protected before and during your travels with us. Read on to find out why you can still book and travel with confidence*.

Guaranteed refund option Receive a refund if your trip is cancelled or you’re required to self-isolate due to Covid. For full details call us or visit our website.

Which? Recommended Which? Recommended Provider for Escorted Tours July 2021.

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with confidence 10 day no-fee flexibility Transfer your trip free of charge up to 10 days before departure†.

Financial security While Explore feels like a small business, we’re actually part of a much bigger co-operative family.

Safety of a guide All small group tours are accompanied by a local leader; they’re on hand to take the hassle out of your travel and keep you safe.

Go flight-inclusive for peace of mind Choose to book your flights with us and you can rest assured that we’ll provide a full refund in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption. Your entire trip will be ATOL-protected and your flights will also be Gold Standard carbon offset.

Travel with confidence Our safety and hygiene protocols are guided by the World Travel & Tourism Council, World Tourism Organisation, the European Commission and local government regulations. So you can travel in confidence, knowing that we’ve ensured the safest possible travelling environment.

“ Explore has one of the very best flexible booking policies available. ” Which?, August 2021

* Please note, flexible terms apply to all trips apart from Polar Voyages which have different terms. †

Cancellation charges depend on how long it is before your planned departure. If you transfer to another trip date, rather than cancel, we can arrange that for you or issue a credit voucher for any monies paid, minus any irrecoverable costs. For full details see explore.co.uk/booking-conditions.

explore.co.uk 5

The all-new Explore

loyalty club JOIN SOONER

CLIMB QUICKER

GET MORE

In our 40th year, we’re excited to be launching our brand new Explore loyalty club to show our gratitude for your ongoing support. As well as loads of new extras, you now receive a loyalty discount sooner and climb to the next level of discount more quickly. If you’re already part of our loyalty scheme, we’ll automatically transfer you to your equivalent tier. So many of our customers return to book with us again, and again - we’ve even got Explorers that have travelled on more than 70 different trips! We can’t wait to welcome you on your next adventure.

Michael

Michael Edwards, Managing Director

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VIP Benefits

Bronze Explorer after completing your 1st trip

Silver Explorer after completing your 2nd trip

5% off off

Trip Trip discount discount - your welcome homewelcome offer Your home offer

Gold Explorer after completing your 4th trip

7% off off

third third and subsequent subsequent bookings* bookings*

fifth fifth and and subsequent subsequent bookings* bookings*

Platinum Explorer after completing your 9th trip

10% 10% offoff

tenth and subsequent tenth and subsequent bookings* bookings*

Save money off your next trip when you refer friends



Get early access to discounts and special offers



Priority access

Receive exclusive discounts with select partners



Dedicated priority phone line



Early access to new trips



Priority access

The chance to provide input on new itineraries



Access to exclusive events



A tree planted in your name after your 10th trip



A different loyalty scheme applies for Family Adventures.

NEW! Our boosted Recommenda-Friend scheme

NEW! Gather up 8 friends and YOU travel FREE

If you know someone who would enjoy our trips just as much as you have, why not introduce them to Explore? For every friend who books, we’ll give you (and them!) a £100 credit** as a thank you.

Considering a trip with a group of friends or a walking or cycling club? Gather up eight friends who are new to Explore and you’ll get the ninth place FREE as long as you are all travelling on the same trip**.

Call 01252 883 480 for details.

Call us to claim your free place.

* The welcome home discount applies to the land only element of your booking and excludes flights. For full Ts&Cs see explore.co.uk/loyalty ** See explore.co.uk/recommend-a-friend for full terms.

explore.co.uk 7

Trip types at 1. Small group adventures - what we’re famous for! Our small group adventure holidays have been running for over 40 years, and Explore is still one of the most trusted travel companies in the UK. Choose from over 500 trips to more than 120 countries; from Classic Discovery and Wildlife adventures to Walking holidays and Cycling trips, active Family adventures, rail tours and even Polar Voyages. You’ll be joined by like-minded travel companions, as well as a local tour leader with in-depth knowledge of your destination. Our average group size is just 12; not so big that you’re lost in a coach-load of people, but big enough to make new friends.

Prefer to travel with people you know? Here’s how...

Once you’ve decided what type of adventure interests you most, turn to the following pages to find out more. In each section you’ll find an overview of what to expect, a list of all the tours we offer and more details of some of our favourites. UK adventures – page 16 Classic Discovery – page 28 NEW Rail tours from London to... – page 34 Walking – page 86 Cycling – page 116 Family – page 140 Polar – page 82

2. Exclusive Groups Gather up five or more friends or family and take over one of our classic trips as your own Exclusive Group. You’ll still have an expert local tour leader on hand, and will follow the itinerary as per the trip page, but the group will be solely made up of your party. To find out more give us a call on 01252 883 480.

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a glance…

3. Private Tours

4. Self-Guided holidays

Our Private Tours give you the flexibility to travel with only those closest to you, at a date and time that suits you. The key difference is that you won’t have a tour leader with you. Instead you’ll have private guides for the various sites and activities, and very often a driver too.

A Self-Guided trip is a walking or cycling holiday on your own terms; our most flexible type of trip. Set your own pace, choose when and where you stop, and enjoy the challenge of navigating yourself. We’ll look after the rest, from routes and maps to luggage and accommodation.

Visit explore.co.uk/private-tours or give us a call to find out more.

You’ll find some of our favourite Self-Guided trips on page 114 and 138.

explore.co.uk 9

“ We want travel

to change us, and

“

not the world

A note from Prue... Putting together the introductory pages of our brochure each year allows a period of reflection – time to sit and really consider which of our initiatives we should talk about, which new policy or award to focus on. This year I wanted to start these pages on a more personal level; talking less about what we have done and more about our hope for the future. For me, sustainability is all about our future. A future much more resilient to global shocks; one that’s receptive to transformation and innovation. One of greater equality and inclusion, more balanced prosperity and opportunity. One of health - individually, in mind, body and community, as well as planetary. This completely holistic concept of sustainability is what excites (and daunts) me most. In many ways my job is easy. The holidays you take with Explore are inherently sustainable. All of our trips will always feature The Local, it’s who we are. We use local agents to help us organise the trips, who know their destination best. We love our local tour leaders, who take you to the heart of your destination. We use local transportation companies and drivers, local hotels and restaurants. We immerse you in the local wildlife, the local cultures and local communities. There are no glossy, whitewashed all-inclusive 5* hotels, and we don’t want there to be. We want travel to change us, and not the world. We want our footsteps to be light, and our communities to welcome us back. We want to be able to take you to these overwhelmingly beautiful places decade after decade. And to do so we also need to change. We all do. There is a climate crisis, and there is a biodiversity crisis. Two threats, inextricably linked, that underpin all elements of our sustainability strategies going forwards. We must reduce our carbon footprint and we must support and regenerate our natural world in partnership with local communities. After all, where would we be without clean water, nutritious food, reliable shelter and, crucially, each other? Please join us on this journey. We aren’t perfect and we’re always looking to learn from others and share our experiences. We have promised to be transparent, honest and collaborative in our efforts as we look to rebuild sustainably, and Explore Responsibly.

Prue Prue Stone, Group Head of Sustainability

For more information on our sustainability strategy, visit explore.co.uk/sustainability If you have any suggestions or would like to speak with us about our sustainability policies and commitments, please drop us a line at sustainability@explore.co.uk

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reasons to try...

Solo travel on a group adventure Travelling solo needn’t mean travelling alone. All of our small group tours are ideal for solo travellers who want to really explore, and who want some good company along the way. In fact, with around 60% of our customers travelling solo on our tours, it’s one of the most popular ways to travel. New to solo travel? Here are five reasons to consider going solo on a small group adventure.

All kinds of people travel solo on our trips A real variety of people, of all ages, choose to travel alone. One big misconception is that you have to be single to travel on your own. Many of our solo travellers have partners and families at home. Some want to fulfil a personal goal or challenge, others are drawn to parts of the world that their partners are less keen on visiting, or they can’t get the same holiday time.

You don’t have to pay a single supplement, unless you want to It’s up to you. We never charge more to travel on your own if you’re happy sharing with someone of the same sex. But if you’d prefer your own space, you can opt to pay a single supplement for your own room. Check the trip itinerary to see where there are single room options available.

You’ll still get time to yourself How much time you get, will depend on the pace of the trip you choose. Our ‘Relaxed’ trips have the most free time; at the other end of the scale, ‘Full On’ trips are packed with all the must-sees and dos, so you don’t have to compromise, but there’s less downtime. Evenings are usually left free to do as you like – choose to eat or explore with members of your group, or opt for a quiet dinner on your own with recommendations from your tour leader.

The groups are a great size Our average group size is just 12; big enough to meet likeminded people and make new friends but small enough to really get under the skin of your destination. Over half the people in our groups are typically travelling solo, so you’ll be in good company.

You’ll feel safer than going it entirely alone The safety of our customers and staff is our top priority. In a small group, you’ll have the extra security and reassurance of travelling with other people, and you’ll have an experienced tour leader with you throughout. As a local, they’ll be able to advise you on local customs and etiquette, common phrases and what to look out for.

There’s lots more information about solo holidays on our website – visit explore.co.uk/solo

explore.co.uk 13

Blaze a

new trail We’re a company of seasoned travellers and, while we might not have been able to travel as much as we wanted to recently, we’ve kept ourselves busy finding new destinations and new once-in-a-lifetime experiences to share.

So, if your feet are itching to travel again and you’re ready for your next adventure, take a look at some of the brand new trips joining our collection.

Don’t miss

NEW

We’ve added 15 new trips (and counting!) for 2022, so make sure you visit explore.co.uk for the latest additions.

London To… rail tours see p.34

North Wales Adventure

The Karakoram Highway

Experience cultural and scenic diversity on this jampacked North Wales adventure. Take a heritage train ride up Snowdon, discover gastronomic delicacies, walk on the wild coastlines of Anglesey and travel in a canal boat along the spectacular Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

Discover Pakistan’s welcoming people and rich history on an overland adventure through show-stopping scenery. Walk amongst alpine forests, crystal clear lakes and wildflower meadows, explore the ancient Kingdom of Hunza and visit the world’s highest border crossing on this ‘Friendship Highway’.

explore.co.uk/NW

explore.co.uk/KKH

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Page 21

Page 65

Active Greece

Walking Scotland’s Orkney Islands

Explore stunning landscapes and traditional villages away from the tourist crowds on this active tour of Northern Greece. Learn to make spanakopita (spinach pie), explore the vast Vikos Gorge, raft on the crystal-clear Voidomatis River and discover the historic monasteries of Meteora.

Discover the beautiful landscapes, world-famous archaeological sites and birdlife of the Orkney Isles. Experience clifftop walks, wildflowers, puffin colonies, fresh seafood and Skara Brae, while enjoying generous Orcadian hospitality and the relaxed pace of island life.

explore.co.uk/MAG

explore.co.uk/ORK

Page 48

Page 27

Explore the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Explore Saudi Arabia, perhaps one of the few places in the world that can be described as outside the reaches of tourism. Images of desert adventures or smoky souks are only one side of this eclectic country. Discover lush mountains, chaotic camel markets, mouthwatering food and a history that spans prehistoric rock art, the ancient spice trade and Lawrence’s Arabian deserts.

explore.co.uk/KSA Page 57

Malta and Gozo Walking

Oman Trekking

A walking holiday in the Mediterranean sunshine on the welcoming islands of Malta and Gozo. Explore the rural beauty and stunning coastline of Gozo and discover Malta’s fascinating heritage including Victoria’s Citadel, medieval Mdina and Roman catacombs and salt pans.

Explore the oldest independent state of the Arab world. Experience Oman’s natural beauty, contrasting landscapes, rich history and welcoming hospitality. Discover dramatic canyons and deep wadis on hiking trails through village oases and sleep under the stars in a spectacular sea of sand.

explore.co.uk/WML

explore.co.uk/WOM

Page 97

Page 106

explore.co.uk 15

SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK | WALES | EXPLORE.CO.UK/WSW

Introduction What to expect from a UK Adventure

Choose your UK Adventure

UK Pembrokeshire

North Wales

Hadrian’s Wall

Lake District

North West Highlands and Skye

Orkney Islands

UK Adventures

Contents

What to expect

from a UK trip

LLANDDWYN ISLAND, ANGLESEY | WALES | EXPLORE.CO.UK/NW

Think you know the UK? Think again. We’ve crafted brand new UK trips, for those keen on an adventure closer-to-home. Showcasing the very best spots of the UK, these trips have the same Explore touch, bringing you unforgettable moments you wouldn’t easily get on your own.

Choosing your UK Adventure From sampling delicious English sparkling wine in the South Downs to ascending Snowdon via a scenic trek away from the main tourist trail, we’ll show you the hidden treasures of the UK. Here’s a summary of all the UK Adventures we offer and where to find out more. We’ve included some of our favourites on the following pages, but you’ll find our full programme on our website.

COUNTY

TRIP NAME

DAYS

FIND OUT MORE

PAGE

CLASSIC DISCOVERY ENGLAND

NORTHUMBERLAND COAST AND CASTLES

EXPLORE.CO.UK/NTH

WALES

 NEW NORTH WALES ADVENTURE

EXPLORE.CO.UK/NW

ENGLAND

WALK NORTHUMBERLAND

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WNU

ENGLAND

WALK THE LAKE DISTRICT

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WLD

ENGLAND

WALK THE SOUTH DOWNS SHORT BREAK

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WSD

SCOTLAND

WALKING SCOTLAND’S ORKNEY ISLANDS

EXPLORE.CO.UK/ORK

SCOTLAND

WALK THE NORTH WEST HIGHLANDS AND SKYE

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WHS

WALES

SNOWDONIA WALKING SHORT BREAK

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WSW

WALES

PEMBROKESHIRE COAST WALKING

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WPM

ENGLAND

CYCLE HADRIAN'S WALL - COAST TO COAST

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CHW

ENGLAND

CYCLING COAST TO COAST

EXPLORE.CO.UK/C2C

WALKING

CYCLING

holiday in every “ Fantastic respect. I’m really pleased

that Explore are now offering UK-based trips and this holiday was well up to the high standard I have experienced on previous overseas trips.

”

Trusted Customer, Aug 2021

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk 19

UK ADVENTURES – WALES

Pembrokeshire Coast Walking

TRIP CODE - WPM | WALES

Explore the magnificent Pembrokeshire Coast in Britain’s only truly coastal National Park. Walking is an ideal way to discover the stunning coastal scenery with towering cliffs, secluded coves and unspoilt beaches. Try your hand at sea kayaking and learn about Welsh culture. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Inspirational landscapes | Wild open spaces and varied coastal scenery Nature | Abundance of seabirds, wild flowers and perfect for spotting Atlantic grey seals St. Davids | Britain’s smallest city with an impressive 12th century cathedral PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£769pp

ITINERARY

trip only

DAY 1: Join trip in Mathry, Pembrokeshire.

day trip

DAY 2: Walk Pembrokeshire Coast Path along clifftops to Carreg Wasted Point, site of a Napoleonic invasion in 1797.

AT A GLANCE WALKING GRADE: Moderate

DAY 3: Hike the Coast Path from Porthgain past picturesque inlets and pristine coves back to our lodge.

ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights simple lodge Optional single rooms from £145

DAY 4: Optional sea kayaking or coasteering followed by an afternoon walk to a 17th century working woollen mill.

MEALS: Breakfast: 5 | Lunch: 4 | Dinner: 5



DAILY DISTANCES

Centre-Based

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 2

17km

5hrs

Day 3

14km

4hrs

Day 4

13km

4hrs

Day 5

16km

4-5hrs

DAY 5: Hike the Coast Path from Abereiddy around the westernmost point of the Pembrokeshire peninsula. Explore St. Davids Britain’s smallest city. DAY 6: Trip ends in Mathry.

Strumble Head Lighthouse Carreg Wasted Point

ST. GEORGE’S CHANNEL

Llanwnda

Optional Sea kayaking Abercastle

Tregwynt woollen mill

Porthgain Abereiddy Bay

MATHRY

Whitesands Bay St. Justinian Ramsey Island

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St Davids

WALES PEMBROKESHIRE COAST NATIONAL PARK

explore.co.uk/WPM

UK ADVENTURES – WALES

North Wales Adventure TRIP CODE - NW | WALES

Centre-based in the harbour town of Caernarfon, experience the cultural and scenic diversity of North Wales. Encounter Snowdonia’s slate-mining heritage, walk on the wild coastlines of Anglesey and the Llyn Peninsula and cross the spectacular Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Snowdonia National Park | Slate mines, Portmeirion village and heritage train ride up Snowdon Anglesey Island | Coastal RIB ride, sea salt farm and 5th century ruins at Llanddwyn Island Llangollen | Canal boat ride, Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal UNESCO heritage site

PRICES FROM

£1549pp

ITINERARY

trip only

DAY 1: Join trip in Caernarfon.

day trip

DAY 2: Visit the slate mine at Blaenau Ffestiniog, the ‘Town that Roofed the World’. Explore the Italianate architecture of Portmeirion village.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On

DAY 3: Explore Anglesey; take a RIB boat ride along the coast and discover protected wildlife habitats and unspoilt beaches on foot.

ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £325

DAY 4: Walk along the Llangollen Canal. Return to Llangollen by canal boat over the awe-inspiring Pontcysyllte Aqueduct.

TRANSPORT: Bus | Boat | Train MEALS: Breakfast: 6

DAY 5: Take in superb coastal views while hiking on the Llyn Peninsula. Taste the local beer on a brewery tour.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAY 6: Board the traditional diesel train for Snowdon past lakes and mountains of the national park; alight at Clogwyn and walk to the summit.

ANGLESEY

DAY 7: Trip ends in Caernarfon. Newborough Beach and Forest walks Llanddwyn Island Llyn Peninsula walk

Trefor

Nefyn Brewery Tour

Menai Bridge RIB boat ride

CAERNARFON Clogwyn Mountain Train Station

Llanberis

Mount Snowdon 1,085m

WALES

Blaenau Ffestiniog Slate mining experience

Portmeirion Italianate Village

Llangollen

01252 883 480

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct Canal boat journey

explore.co.uk/NW 21

UK ADVENTURES – ENGLAND

Cycle Hadrian’s Wall - Coast to Coast

TRIP CODE - CHW | ENGLAND

Hadrian’s Cycleway is a great coast-to coast ride with breathtaking views that explores the living history of Hadrian’s Wall. We ride from the Irish Sea on quiet roads through beautiful hill country, attractive market towns, quaint villages and peaceful river valleys to the North Sea. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Natural beauty | Ride from Solway Firth across the North Pennines Hadrian’s Wall | Roman Army Museum, Birdoswald Fort and Vindolanda settlement Coast to Coast | Sense of achievement crossing England by pedal power PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£570pp

ITINERARY

trip only

day trip

DAY 1:

Join trip in Whitley Bay.

DAY 2:

Drive to Bowness. Start our ride from the Solway Coast AONB to Brampton via Carlisle.

DAY 3:

Cycle to Birdoswald Roman Fort on Hadrian’s Wall. Chance to visit the Roman Army Museum at Greenhead Bank. Continue ride to Haltwhistle.

DAY 4:

More scenic cycling to Corbridge along the South Tyne Valley. Option to discover Vindolanda Roman archaeological site.

DAY 5:

Complete our crossing of England by pedal power to Tynemouth Castle where the trip ends.

AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 4 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £200 MEALS: Breakfast: 4 BIKE: 24 gear Giant Escape or similar hybrid bikes.



Point-to-Point



E-Bike available

DAILY DISTANCES

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 2

45km

Day 3

22km

Day 4

38km

Day 5

50km

SCOTLAND CHEVIOT HILLS

Bowness Solway Firth

BRAMPTON Carlisle

NORTH SEA

Tyn

Birdoswald Roman Fort

Roman Army Museum

Newcastle upon Tyne

Vindolanda

CORBRIDGE

HALTWHISTLE

IRISH SEA

ENGLAND

22 01252 883 480

TYNEMOUTH

Wear

explore.co.uk/CHW

UK ADVENTURES – ENGLAND

Walk the Lake District

TRIP CODE - WLD | ENGLAND

This walking holiday explores the trails and scenery of the beautiful Northern Lake District. From our comfortable 3-star hotel base located in the Borrowdale Valley, we enjoy some of the best walking in Wainwright country such as Scafell Pike, Haystacks and Cat Bells. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Northern Lakes | Superb hiking amongst the rugged hills and mountains All meals included | Excellent dinners with seasonal ingredients In expert hands | Knowledgeable and experienced mountain leader PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1249pp trip only

ITINERARY

day trip

AT A GLANCE WALKING GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel

DAY 1:

Join trip in Seatoller, Borrowdale Valley.

DAY 2:

Hike to Keswick via Cat Bells with fabulous views of Derwent Water and surrounding mountains.

DAY 3:

Walk from Buttermere Lake to Haystacks - Wainwright’s favourite fell-top - with great views across Ennerdale Valley.

DAY 4:

Hike up Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak at 978m. Optional easier guided walk to Sprinkling Tarn.

DAY 5:

Walk from Keswick on the Cumbria Way up Latrigg and Lonscale Craggs for fine views.

DAY 6:

Hike from pretty hamlet of Stonethwaite to Grasmere, inspiration for William Wordsworth.

DAY 7:

Trip ends in Seatoller.

Optional single rooms from £245

MEALS: Breakfast: 6 | Lunch: 5 | Dinner: 6



DAILY DISTANCES

Centre-Based

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 2

14km

6hrs

Day 3

11km

5-6hrs

Day 4

15km

7hrs

Day 5

14km

5-6hrs

Day 6

13km

5-6hrs

ENGLAND

Lonscale Craggs

Keswick Cat Bells

Buttermere Lake

Haystacks

Stonethwaite

Seathwaite

Grasmere Easedale Tarn

Scafell Pike

SEATOLLER LAKE DISTRICT NATIONAL PARK

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/WLD 23

UK ADVENTURES – ENGLAND

Walk Northumberland

TRIP CODE - WNU | ENGLAND

A walking and sightseeing tour that explores the hidden gems and varied beauty of unspoilt Northumberland. Centre-based in Alnwick we walk the rugged coast to ancient castles; discover Roman Britannia on Hadrian’s Wall and scenic beauty in the Simonside Hills. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Holy Island | Walk the Pilgrim’s Path to Lindisfarne Rich cultural heritage | Cragside House, Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh Castles Hike Hadrian’s Wall | Housesteads Fort and Vindolanda Settlement PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£799pp trip only

ITINERARY

day trip

DAY 1:

Join trip in Alnwick.

DAY 2:

Walk Pilgrim’s Path across the sands at low tide to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Chance to visit the Priory and Castle.

DAY 3:

Hike along the Northumberland Coast AONB to Dunstanburgh Castle ruins. Optional visit to Bamburgh Castle.

DAY 4:

Hike alongside Hadrian’s Wall with breathtaking views of the pristine landscape. Visit Vindolanda Roman archaeological site.

DAY 5:

Walk in Northumberland National Park. Visit Cragside House and Gardens - a marvel of the Victorian age.

DAY 6:

Trip ends in Alnwick.

AT A GLANCE WALKING GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £270 MEALS:

DAILY DISTANCES

Breakfast: 5



Centre-Based

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 2

12km

4hrs

Day 3

14km

5hrs

Day 4

13km

4hrs

Day 5

7km

2hrs

Day 6

14km

6hrs

SCOTLAND Optional Walks Lindisfarne Holy Island Bamburgh Castle Dunstanburgh Castle Craster Howick

ALNWICK

Cragside House and Gardens

NORTHUMBERLAND NATIONAL Simonside Hills PARK

NORTHUMBERLAND COAST AONB

Loop Walk

Hadrian’s Wall Vindolanda

NORTH SEA

Housesteads Roman Hill Fort

Newcastle upon Tyne

ENGLAND 24 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/trip explore.co.uk/WNU code

UK ADVENTURES – ENGLAND

Northumberland Coast and Castles TRIP CODE - NTH | ENGLAND

Discover stunning countryside, unspoilt beaches and fascinating cultural heritage in the welcoming county of Northumberland. Centre-based in the port town of Amble we explore imposing castles guarding the dramatic coastline, ancient religious sites and Roman sites along Hadrian’s Wall. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Ancient castles | Bamburgh, Alnwick and the ruins of Dunstanburgh Hadrian’s Wall | Housesteads Fort, Vindolanda Settlement and walk along the wall Holy Island | Lindisfarne Castle and Priory PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£895pp trip only

ITINERARY

day trip

DAY 1:

Join trip in Amble.

DAY 2:

Discover the impressive Norman stronghold at Bamburgh Castle. Scenic coastal stroll to magnificent ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle.

DAY 3:

A full day to explore the fascinating castle and stunning gardens in the charming market town of Alnwick.

DAY 4:

Visit UNESCO Site of Hadrians Wall and Vindolanda Roman archaeological site. Optional walk to Sycamore Gap and Housesteads Fort.

DAY 5:

Drive the causeway to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. Afternoon visit to walled town of Berwickupon-Tweed.

DAY 6:

Trip ends in Amble.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £235

TRANSPORT: Bus MEALS: Breakfast: 5

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

SCOTLAND Berwick-upon-Tweed Castle and Ramparts Lindisfarne Castle and Priory Bamburgh Castle RNLI Museum of Grace Darling Dunstanburgh Castle Craster

Alnwick Castle and Walled Gardens Hulne Park

NORTHUMBERLAND COAST AONB

AMBLE

Hadrian’s Wall (Sill Visitor Centre) Housesteads Roman Hill Fort Vindolanda

NORTH SEA Newcastle upon Tyne

ENGLAND

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/NTH 25

UK ADVENTURES – SCOTLAND

Walk the North West Highlands and Skye

TRIP CODE - WHS | SCOTLAND

This small group walking trip (max. eight guests), showcases the stunning natural beauty and wild nature of Scotland’s North West Highlands and Skye. Enjoy varied walks on glacier-carved mountains, spectacular coastal scenery and the rugged, iconic landscapes of Skye. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

North West Highlands UNESCO Geopark | Climb iconic hills in the Assynt and Inverpolly Gairloch | Explore the coastline with stunning seascapes and pristine white-sand beaches Isle of Skye | Experience the magic of the Cuillin and Quiraing PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1799pp

ITINERARY

trip only

day trip

AT A GLANCE

DAY 1:

Join trip in Inverness. Drive to Ullapool on Loch Broom.

DAY 2:

Discover wild nature in the UNESCO Geopark. Admire breathtaking 360 views from the summit of Cul Mor.

DAY 3:

Back in the Geopark we hike up the distinctive sandstone peak of Stac Pollaidh Mountain. Drive to Gairloch.

DAY 4:

Hike the dramatic coastal scenery on Rua Reidh headland. Eyes peeled for the abundant marine and bird life.

DAY 5:

Hike Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail in UNESCO Wester Ross Biosphere. Drive via 13th century Eilean Donan Castle to the Isle of Skye.

DAY 6:

Explore the stunning Black Cuillin Hills and amazing views on a hike up Bruach Na Frithe.

DAY 7:

Trek through the awe-inspiring landscape of the Quiraing. Discover Portree - the charming and colourful capital of Skye.

DAY 8:

Drive via Loch Ness to Inverness where our trip ends.

WALKING GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 2 nights comfortable guesthouse 2 nights comfortable hotel 3 nights comfortable lodge

DAILY DISTANCES

Optional single rooms from £395

MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 2 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 1

4km

2hrs

Day 2

14km

Day 3

4km

3hrs

Day 4

11km

4-5hrs

Day 5

7km

3-4hrs

Day 6

14km

6-7hrs

Day 7

7km

4-5hrs

5-6hrs

North West Highlands UNESCO Geopark Cul Mor Stac Pollaidh

ULLAPOOL

Rua Reidh Quiraing Trotternish Ridge

EDINBURGH

Portree Inverness

26 01252 883 480

Eilean Donan Castle

Ne s

Cuillin

SCONSER

Bruach Na Frithe

GLASGOW

Beinn Eighe Mountain Trail

ISLE OF SKYE

SCOTLAND

GAIRLOCH

explore.co.uk/WHS

UK ADVENTURES – SCOTLAND

Walking Scotland’s Orkney Islands

TRIP CODE - ORK | SCOTLAND

Discover the beautiful landscapes, world-famous archaeological sites and birdlife of the Orkney Isles. Highlights include clifftop walks, wildflowers, puffin colonies, fresh seafood and Skara Brae - without doubt, the finest Stone Age village in Europe. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Ancient history | Discover Iron Age villages and Neolithic sites including Skara Brae Orcadian and Norse traditions | Unearth the Orkney’s history, heritage and local traditions Breathtaking landscapes | Explore some of Britain’s most pristine regions on foot PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1749pp trip only

ITINERARY

day trip

AT A GLANCE

DAY 1:

Join trip in Inverness. Scenic drive and ferry to reach Kirkwall, Mainland, Orkneys.

DAY 2:

Coastal walk to the Brough of Deerness, a Viking Age settlement atop a sea-stack. Discover Scapa Flow and the Churchill Barriers.

DAY 3:

Ferry to the Isle of Westray for a beautiful coastal walk to Noup Head - second largest seabird colony in British Isles.

DAY 4:

Clifftop hike past impressive sea stacks to 5000-year-old Skara Brae - one of the best preserved Neolithic villages in Europe.

DAY 5:

Explore the Heart of Neolithic Orkney UNESCO Site - Ring and Ness of Brodgar, Stones of Stenness and Maeshowe tomb.

DAY 6:

Discover the Isle of Rousay ‘Egypt of the North’ on a walk between archaeological monuments and through Trumland RSPB Reserve.

DAY 7:

Ferry and drive back to Inverness where the trip ends.

WALKING GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £210



DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

9km

MEALS:

Day 3

8km

Breakfast: 6 | Dinner: 3

Day 4

14km

Day 5

3km

Day 6

10km

Centre-Based

3hrs 3hrs 4-5 hrs 1hr 3-4 hrs

MONTHS OF TRAVEL: Noup Head Seabird Colony

Noltland Castle

WESTRAY

ORKNEY ISLANDS

Rapness

(SCOTLAND)

ROUSAY RSPB Trumland Reserve

Midhowe Cairn and Broch Tower

MAINLAND Skara Brae Ring of Brodgar Ness of Brodgar

Tingwall

KIRKWALL

Yesnaby Maeshowe Stones of Stenness

Ferry to Stromness /from Scapa Flow Scrabster

HOY

01252 883 480

St Magnus’s Cathedral Brough of Deerness Deerness Peninsula Mull Head

Churchill Barriers

explore.co.uk/ORK 27

ANGKOR WAT | CAMBODIA | EXPLORE.CO.UK/VC

Introduction What to expect from a Classic Discovery trip 30–31 Choose your Classic Discovery trip

32–33

NEW Rail Adventures

34–35

Europe Albania

North Macedonia

Bulgaria

Poland

Estonia

Portugal

Greece

45, 47–48

Slovakia

Iceland

Italy

39–41

Latvia

Lithuania

Spain Turkey

38 49–51

Ukraine

Middle East Jordan

Lebanon

Saudi Arabia

54–55

59–60

Africa Botswana

South Africa

Madagascar

Swaziland

Morocco

Zambia

Namibia

57–58

Asia Armenia

Maldives

Burma (Myanmar)

Pakistan

64–65

Georgia

Sri Lanka

India

Uzbekistan

Japan

Vietnam

Cuba

Ecuador

The Americas Argentina Belize

81 73–74

Canada

Galapagos Islands

Chile

Guatemala

Mexico

Peru

Colombia Costa Rica

76–77

73–74

Polar Regions What to expect from a Polar voyage

82–83

Adventures in Antarctica

84–85

Wildlife trips - look out for the paw print

Classic Discovery

Contents

What to expect from a

Classic Discovery holiday Expert local guides Tour leaders are the glue that holds everything together on a group trip, and we believe we’ve got the best in the business! Chosen for their travel experience, passion for their country and their ability to make a truly memorable experience, our leaders go out of their way to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime.

Choose what interests you most Explore Sicily’s ancient history with a specialist guide; experience the colourful Punakha Festival in Bhutan; kayak, walk and cycle on a multi-activity holiday to Turkey; go on safari in Botswana or discover the tastes of Mexico. With cultural, festival, multi-activity, wildlife, and food and drink tours available, we offer hundreds of Classic Discovery holidays to extraordinary destinations all over the world.

30 01252 883 480

Our Classic Discovery and Wildlife small group tours are our bestselling adventures. You’ll get up close and personal with the destinations and communities you travel through, seeing the cultural and historical highlights, natural wonders and wildlife, and local hidden gems.

A good night’s sleep

We hand-pick accommodation that balances comfort with location, and support small, family-run hotels wherever we can. Where you stay will depend on what’s available in the places you visit – we choose each night’s stay to suit the itinerary, not the other way around. We try to include characterful gems too – from stilt houses in Vietnam to Bedouin-style camps in Jordan. Your accommodation will always be clean, comfortable, and well located for your journey.

Trip pace to suit you Everyone travels differently so we’ve graded our trips according to pace. Some like to squeeze everything they can out of each day, while others like to relax and enjoy the view. Our ‘Relaxed’ trips build in plenty of down time, with opportunity to immerse yourself in the local surroundings. ‘Moderate’ trips combine fuller days with some down time too, while ‘Full On’ trips have mostly busy days and some early starts, but all trips are full of amazing experiences.

Small groups of like-minded travellers All sorts of people travel on our small group trips. If you’d like to know the breakdown of the group travelling on a particular trip, we can share some of the detail with you – the number of couples vs solo travellers, for example, and the range of ages. Our average group size is just 12; big enough to meet like-minded people but small enough to get right to the heart of a destination.

explore.co.uk 31

Choosing your Classic Discovery holiday

PETRA | JORDAN | EXPLORE.CO.UK/JD

We offer hundreds of Classic Discovery holidays to extraordinary destinations all over the world; from favourites like India and Italy to more unusual, less-visited destinations like Kazakhstan and Georgia.

Small group experiences

FIND OUT MORE

ALBANIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/ALBANIA

AUSTRIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/AUSTRIA

BELARUS

EXPLORE.CO.UK/BELARUS

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/BOSNIA

BULGARIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/BULGARIA

CROATIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CROATIA

CZECH REPUBLIC

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CZECH-REPUBLIC

ESTONIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/ESTONIA

GREECE

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HUNGARY

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ICELAND

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ITALY

EXPLORE.CO.UK/ITALY

KOSOVO

EXPLORE.CO.UK/KOSOVO

LATVIA

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LITHUANIA

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MALTA

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MOLDOVA

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MONTENEGRO

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NORTH MACEDONIA

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POLAND

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PORTUGAL

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ROMANIA

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RUSSIA

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SERBIA

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SLOVAKIA

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SLOVENIA

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SPAIN

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TURKEY

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EXPLORE.CO.UK/UK

UKRAINE

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COUNTRY

FIND OUT MORE

ARMENIA

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AZERBAIJAN

EXPLORE.CO.UK/AZERBAIJAN

BHUTAN

EXPLORE.CO.UK/BHUTAN

BURMA (MYANMAR)

EXPLORE.CO.UK/BURMA

CAMBODIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CAMBODIA

CHINA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CHINA

GEORGIA

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HONG KONG

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INDIA

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INDONESIA

Middle East and Africa

COUNTRY

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BENIN

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BOTSWANA

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EGYPT

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ETHIOPIA

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GHANA

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ISRAEL

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IVORY COAST

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JORDAN

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LEBANON

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MADAGASCAR

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MOROCCO

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NAMIBIA

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OMAN

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PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES

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SAUDI ARABIA

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SENEGAL

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SEYCHELLES

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SOUTH AFRICA

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SUDAN

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SWAZILAND

EXPLORE.CO.UK/SWAZILAND

TANZANIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/TANZANIA

THE GAMBIA

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TOGO

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UGANDA

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ZAMBIA

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ZIMBABWE

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COUNTRY

FIND OUT MORE

ARGENTINA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/ARGENTINA

BELIZE

EXPLORE.CO.UK/BELIZE

BOLIVIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/BOLIVIA

BRAZIL

EXPLORE.CO.UK/BRAZIL

CANADA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CANADA

CHILE

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CHILE

COLOMBIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/COLOMBIA

COSTA RICA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/COSTA-RICA

CUBA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CUBA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/INDONESIA

ECUADOR

EXPLORE.CO.UK/ECUADOR

JAPAN

EXPLORE.CO.UK/JAPAN

EL SALVADOR

EXPLORE.CO.UK/EL-SALVADOR

KAZAKHSTAN

EXPLORE.CO.UK/KAZAKHSTAN

GALAPAGOS

EXPLORE.CO.UK/GALAPAGOS

KYRGYZSTAN

EXPLORE.CO.UK/KYRGYZSTAN

GUATEMALA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/GUATEMALA

LAOS

EXPLORE.CO.UK/LAOS

GUYANA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/GUYANA

MALDIVES

EXPLORE.CO.UK/MALDIVES

HONDURAS

EXPLORE.CO.UK/HONDURAS

MONGOLIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/MONGOLIA

JAMAICA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/JAMAICA

NEPAL

EXPLORE.CO.UK/NEPAL

MEXICO

EXPLORE.CO.UK/MEXICO

NEW ZEALAND

EXPLORE.CO.UK/NEW-ZEALAND

NICARAGUA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/NICARAGUA

PAKISTAN

EXPLORE.CO.UK/PAKISTAN

PANAMA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/PANAMA

PHILIPPINES

EXPLORE.CO.UK/PHILIPPINES

PERU

EXPLORE.CO.UK/PERU

SOUTH KOREA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/SOUTH-KOREA

SURINAME

EXPLORE.CO.UK/SURINAME

SRI LANKA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/SRI-LANKA

USA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/USA

TAJIKISTAN

EXPLORE.CO.UK/TAJIKISTAN

THAILAND

EXPLORE.CO.UK/THAILAND

TURKMENISTAN

EXPLORE.CO.UK/TURKMENISTAN

UZBEKISTAN

EXPLORE.CO.UK/UZBEKISTAN

VIETNAM

EXPLORE.CO.UK/VIETNAM

The Americas

Asia and the Pacific

Europe

Here’s a summary of all the Classic Discovery destinations we offer and where to find out more. We’ve included some of our favourite trips on the following pages, but you’ll find everything on our website too.

explore.co.uk 33

Enjoy the ride

Put the romance back into your travelling plans and rediscover the joy of the journey with our brand new selection of rail adventures from London. From your send off at St. Pancras, you could be in Paris by lunchtime and Bordeaux, Berlin or Milan by dinner. Our rail journeys give you the same small group experience and the same expert tour leaders you’re used to, with all the complex train travel taken care of. We’ll hit the highlights, but, as always, we’ll also throw in a few surprises along the way. We’re planning to add more rail adventures throughout the year, so make sure you visit explore.co.uk for the latest additions.

BERLIN

BELARUS

Poznan

London to Istanbul + Cappadocia extension

POLAND

LONDON

Chernobyl

GERMANY

PARIS

London to Ancient Italy and Athens

AUSTRIA Villach

FRANCE Bordeaux

Marrakech Express London to Morocco

San Sebastian

London to Poland and Ukraine + Chernobyl extension

Segovia

MADRID

SPAIN

34 01252 883 480

Algeciras Tangiers

KRAKOW

UKRAINE HUNGARY

ZAGREB

Milan

Pisa

ITALY

ROME

ROMANIA

BELGRADE

VENICE

Turin

Lviv

Mokra Gora Nis

SOFIA Plovdiv

Bari

GREECE

Patras

MALAGA To Marrakech

KIEV

ISTANBUL ATHENS

Granada

Slow trains to Bordeaux, the Basque Country and the Beach

CZECH REP.

ALGERIA

TURKEY

Cappadocia

Slow trains to Bordeaux, the Basque Country and the Beach

Marrakech Express - London to Morocco

Take the Atlantic route to the Costa del Sol. Taste Bordeaux’s famous wine, walk on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail from San Sebastian, and visit Segovia’s magnificent Roman aqueduct.

Contrast French wine, Spanish tapas and flavour-filled Moroccan tagines on this journey to Marrakech. After arriving in Andalucia from France, discover Moorish architecture and sail across the Med to Morocco’s characteristic souks and minarets.

7 days | explore.co.uk/RLM

19 days | explore.co.uk/RLMO

London to Poland and Ukraine This trip covers Eastern Europe in just a week. Visit Auschwitz, see the USSR’s ‘ideal’ communist town near Krakow, taste delicious Polish food and immerse yourself in nature near Lviv, Ukraine. Extension to Chernobyl is available. 9 days | explore.co.uk/RLK

London to Ancient Italy and Athens

London to Istanbul

Travel to Athens via Pisa, Rome and Puglia. Visit the Leaning Tower and the Colosseum, and sample locallymade cheese and olive oil in the Heel of Italy. Take an overnight boat to Greece, where Athens awaits.

Rediscover the Golden Age of train travel on this journey across Europe. See the canals of Venice and romantic Belgrade, and visit hidden gems in Croatia and Serbia’s rural communities. Extension to Cappadocia in Turkey is available.

11 days | explore.co.uk/RA

15 days | explore.co.uk/RLA

explore.co.uk 35

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Iceland Yurt Adventure TRIP CODE - IHY | ICELAND

On this short break you will stay in the heart of Iceland’s Golden Circle and have the opportunity to see the best of this incredible country. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Nattura Yurtel | Spend three nights sleeping in custom-made Mongolian yurts located on a working horse farm Dramatic scenery | Discover the thundering Seljalandsfoss waterfalls and the black basalt cliffs at Vik I Myrdal Golden Circle | Watch Strokkur Geysir erupt and discover Gullfoss Falls before the crowds arrive

PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£995pp £1260pp trip only (4 days)

DAY 1: Join trip at Keflavik Airport. Explore the city and visit the must-see Lutheran church that dominates the city skyline. Transfer to Nattura Yurtel, our home for the next three nights. On this trip we stay in custom-made yurts. Usually seen in Mongolia, these round felt tents are ideal for Iceland’s climate. Designed with comfort in mind each yurt has twin beds, a simple wash area and underfloor heating to keep things cosy in the winter!

with flights (4 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 3 nights comfortable yurt Optional single rooms from £165

TRANSPORT: Bus MEALS:

DAY 2: Explore Iceland’s south shore and the waterfalls at Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss.

Breakfast: 3

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAY 3: Discover the highlights of the Golden Circle: Gullfoss falls, Strokkur Geysir and Thingvellir National Park. DAY 4: Trip ends at Reykjavik Airport.

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED?

Iceland Northern Lights Adventure Travel in winter and watch the incredible phenomena of the Aurora Borealis lighting up the night sky.

ICELAND

explore.co.uk/INL Reykjavík

Keﬂavík airport

Geysir

NÁTTURÁ YURTEL

Thingvellir National Park

Seljalandsfoss

Skogafoss Vik I Myrdal

36 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/IHY

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Highlights of Portugal TRIP CODE - HOP | PORTUGAL

In the traditional Explore style, this fastpaced trip uses a range of transport and most exploration is done on foot. Travel by boat and train down the Douro Valley and explore Coimbra’s meandering streets. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Lisbon | Try the local sour cherry liqueur, Ginjinha, and discover Alfama Hill on foot Porto | Stroll down the cobbled streets to Cais da Ribeira and along the characterful quayside Douro Valley | Enjoy wine tasting in Peso da Regua and explore the Baroque city of Lamego PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1095pp £1345pp trip only (8 days)

with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE

DAY 1:

Join trip in Lisbon. Chance to take a short evening stroll to get a first impression of this colourful city.

DAY 2:

Explore the viewpoints and atmosphere of Lisbon’s Bairro Alto neighbourhood on foot. Afternoon option to visit the palaces and gardens of Sintra by train.

DAY 3:

Walk through Lisbon’s western neighbourhoods to Belem Tower on the River Tagus. Explore wonderful Lisbon futher in free time. Opportunity to go to a Fado performance this evening.

DAY 4:

Visit the largest monastery in Portugal at Alcobaca with its impressive Gothic architecture. See the ornate unfinished chapels of Batalha Monastery. Arrive in Coimbra.

DAY 5:

Visit Lamego en route to Peso da Regua in the Douro Valley. Enjoy wine tasting. Chance to take a boat trip along the river.

DAY 6:

Train to Porto. Explore the city on foot and have a port tasting. Free afternoon. Opportunity to visit Matosinhos and sample barbecued fish on the seafront.

DAY 7:

Free day in Porto. Perhaps visit the Neoclassical Palacio da Bolsa or nearby Braga or Guimaraes.

DAY 8:

Trip ends in Porto.

TRIP PACE: Full On ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £295

TRANSPORT: Bus | Public Bus | Taxi | Train MEALS:

WHY NOT WALK?

Walks and Wine Tasting in Spain and Portugal Explore on foot instead with our easy grade walking holiday. explore.co.uk/MWW

Breakfast: 7

Braga (optional)

PORTO

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Port tasting

Lamego

PESO DA REGUA

Wine tasting, Douro River boat trip (optional)

COIMBRA

PORTUGAL Batalha Monastery Alcobaca

Sintra Optional visit

LISBON

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/HOP 37

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Moorish Andalucia TRIP CODE - SP | SPAIN

Discover Andalucia’s fascinating history. Explore whitewashed villages, taste delicious tapas and see the beguiling Moorish architecture of Granada, Cordoba and Seville. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Cordoba | Discover the Moorish architecture from the golden era of Al-Andalus at the Mezquita Grazalema | Hike through dramatic limestone scenery from Puerto del Boyar to Benaocaz Seville | Explore this characterful city and the stunning UNESCO-listed Alcazar Palace

PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1299pp £1519pp trip only (10 days)

with flights (10 days)

DAY 1:

Join trip in Malaga.

DAY 2:

Travel to Ronda. Explore on foot to see the iconic Puente Nuevo Bridge. Optional gorge walk.

DAY 3:

Full day hike through the limestone scenery of Grazalema National Park.

DAY 4:

Bus to Seville. Walk in the historic centre, visit the Alcazar Palace.

DAY 5:

Free day to explore Seville.

DAY 6:

Train to Cordoba. Visit the famed Mezquita Mosque and explore the Jewish Quarter.

DAY 7:

Travel to Granada. Walk through the old silk trading area and Moorish Quarter.

DAY 8:

Visit the Alhambra Palace including Nasrid Palace and the beautifully sculpted gardens.

DAY 9:

Free morning in Granada before travelling to Malaga.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 9 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £295

TRANSPORT: Public Bus | Train MEALS: Breakfast: 9

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAY 10: Trip ends in Malaga.

SPAIN CORDOBA

Mezquita & Juderia

SEVILLE

ANDALUCIA

Alcazar

GRANADA

Alhambra Palace Grazalema Benaocaz

RONDA

MALAGA MEDITERRANEAN SEA

38 01252 01252883 883480 480

explore.co.uk/SP

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Highlights of Puglia TRIP CODE - PUL | ITALY

The ‘heel of Italy’ is more densely populated by olive trees than by people; it has a relaxed atmosphere, sunny climate and rolling countryside. This trip offers the perfect balance of culture, food and the Adriatic coastline. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Matera | In Basilicata discover the fascinating UNESCO-listed ancient troglodyte sassi quarter Alberobello | Stay in beehive-shaped trulli houses and sample local wines Delicious food | Taste homemade stone-baked bread, mozzarella and olive oil PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1395pp £1605pp trip only (8 days)

with flights (8 days)

ITINERARY

WHY NOT CYCLE?

Cycle Puglia

DAY 1:

Join trip in Bari. Transfer from Bari Airport to the city centre by train. Free on arrival to discover the old town.

DAY 2:

Try pane di Altamura, a unique stone-baked bread. Visit medieval Castel del Monte.

DAY 3:

Guided tour of Matera’s cave dwellings and rock-carved churches. Chance to go to Gravina and into its underground labyrinth.

DAY 4:

Taste mozzarella at an agriturismo and wine in Cantina Albea. Go for a walk in Alberobello and stay in a trulli round house.

DAY 5:

Free day in Alberobello. Option to take the train to visit Monopoli on the coast or the Castellana Caves.

DAY 6:

Visit a historic underground olive press for a tasting before going to Otranto for a coastal walk. Arrive in the Baroque city of Lecce.

DAY 7:

Guided walking tour of Lecce to see the Basilica di Santa Croce and the cathedral. Free afternoon to visit the Museo Faggiano to learn more about the city’s history.

DAY 8:

Trip ends in Lecce. Transfer by train to Bari Airport.

Explore on two wheels instead with our easy grade cycling holiday.

AT A GLANCE

explore.co.uk/CIP

TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £240

TRANSPORT: Bus | Train MEALS: Breakfast: 7

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Castel del Monte Castel del Monte

BARI BARI

Altamura Altamura

ITALY ITALY

MATERA MATERA

Putignano Putignano

ALBEROBELLO ALBEROBELLO

LECCE LECCE Otranto Otranto Optional coastal walk Optional coastal walk

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/PUL 39

tour. It promised to be ‘full on’ “ Excellent and it certainly was... The guide was outstanding even by Explore’s high standards.

”

TAORMINA THEATRE | SICILY, ITALY

Trusted Customer, Apr 2019

CLASSIC DISCOVERY - EUROPE

Classical Sicily TRIP CODE - CS | ITALY

This all-encompassing one-week trip takes in the highlights of the largest Mediterranean island, Sicily. See its wealth of ancient historical sights, and have the chance to go up Mount Etna. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Agrigento | Visit Sicily’s most famous Classical remains in the Valley of the Temples Erice | Discover this walled medieval hilltop town with its maze of narrow winding streets Villa Romana del Casale | See some of the best-preserved Roman mosaics left in Europe

PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1270pp £1475pp trip only (8 days)

with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On

ITINERARY

COMBINE YOUR TRIP

Malta and Gozo Discovery

DAY 1:

Join trip in Syracusa.

Combine with this trip to make a comprehensive holiday of these varied Mediterranean islands.

DAY 2:

Discover Syracusa’s Neapolis Archaeological Park with a local guide and the beautiful Ortygia Island. Drive to the small town of Piazza Armerina.

DAY 3:

See the colourful and intricately designed mosaic floors at Villa Romana del Casale and the towering columns at Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples. Arrive in Marsala.

DAY 4:

Take in the coastal views from the charming hilltop medieval town of Erice and see the Greek ruins at Segesta. Drive to Palermo, the island’s capital.

DAY 5:

Visit the Palatine Chapel and Monreale Cathedral with a local guide. Free afternoon in Palermo to visit the Botanical Gardens or the extensive catacombs.

DAY 6:

Explore the picturesque fishing village of Cefalu and see the coastal scenery en route to the seaside town of Giardini Naxos.

DAY 7:

Opportunity to go up Mount Etna by cable car and 4WD coach to see its craters and lava fields. Guided walking tour of Taormina including the Greek theatre.

DAY 8:

Trip ends in Giardini Naxos.

explore.co.uk/MLAS

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £195

TRANSPORT: Bus MEALS: Breakfast: 7

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Messina Erice Mountain-top town

PALERMO

Monreale Segesta

MARSALA

Cefalu

SICILY

Agrigento Valley of the Temples

01252 883 480

Taormina

Mt. Etna

GIARDINI NAXOS PIAZZA ARMERINA

Catania Airport

SYRACUSA Ortygia Island

explore.co.uk/CS 41

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Slovakia Winter Adventure TRIP CODE - PSW | POLAND, SLOVAKIA

Explore the natural beauty of Poland and Slovakia’s stunning winter landscape. Try out snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating and even learn about how avalanche rescues take place... a real winter adventure. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Krakow | See Europe’s best-preserved medieval market square Night sledging | Take the funicular to Hrebienok and experience the thrill of a 2.5km sledge Cookery class | Learn how to cook a selection of traditional Slovakian dishes

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1390pp £1575pp trip only (8 days)

DAY 1: Join trip in Krakow and explore the picture-postcard maze of narrow streets on foot.

with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE

DAY 2: Drive over the border to Slovakia, stopping to explore the Tatra Mountains on the way.

TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel

DAY 3: Take a train to Stary Smokovec and then head out on a snowshoe trail through the forests.

Optional single rooms from £250

DAY 4: Cross-country ski in Strbske Pleso followed by an exhilarating ride down a night sledging track.

TRANSPORT: Bus | Train MEALS:

DAY 5: Morning ‘avalanche activity challenge’, with the afternoon free for optional skiing.

Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 2

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

POLAND

To/From

Krakow

KRAKOW

NOVY SMOKOVEC

City tour

BSLOVAKIA jec MO ESKID UNT AIN S na

DAY 6: Try out a traditional Slovak cookery lesson and an optional visit to a wellness centre. DAY 7: Travel back to Krakow with an afternoon free to explore the historic city. DAY 8: Trip ends in Krakow.

Niedzica Reservoir Cerveny Klastor

POLAND

SLOVAKIA Hrebienok Night sledging, cooking lessons Starý Smokovec Snowshoeing

TATRANSKA LOMNICA Avalanche action, ice skating

Štrbské Pleso Cross Country Skiing

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explore.co.uk/trip explore.co.uk/PSW code

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Historic Baltic Republics TRIP CODE - HB | ESTONIA, LATVIA, LITHUANIA

Discover the Baltic States on this comprehensive trip. Explore the three capital cities, and see the red-brick turrets of Turaida Castle, the opulent Rundale Palace, and countless crucifixes on the Hill of Crosses. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Three Baltic Capitals | Explore the historic medieval centres of Tallinn, Riga and Vilnius on foot Saaremaa | See time-worn windmills and juniper groves on Estonia’s largest island Curonian Spit National Park | Search for birdlife and walk among the golden sand dunes PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1760pp £2045pp

DAYS 1–2:

Join trip in Tallinn, Estonia. Chance to visit the Maritime Museum.

DAY 3:

Tour of Saaremaa Island. See Koguva and the Kaali Meteorite Crater.

DAY 4:

Explore Kuressare including Saint Laurentius Church. Chance to visit the Bishop’s Palace.

Optional single rooms from £425

DAY 5:

TRANSPORT: Bus | Ferry

Travel to Tartu, the oldest town in Estonia via the coastal town of Parnu.

DAY 6:

Walking tour of Tartu including Toomemagi Cathedral Hill and the ‘kissing students’ statue.

DAY 7:

Stop in Cesis in the Gauja National Park and Sigulda en route to Riga, Latvia. Visit Turaida Castle.

DAYS 8–9:

Walking tour of Riga’s old town to see the Freedom Monument and the cathedral. Free day in the city.

trip only (15 days)

with flights (15 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 14 nights comfortable hotel

MEALS: Breakfast: 14

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Gulf of Finland

TALLINN

BALTIC SEA

ESTONIA

SAAREMAA KURESSARE

TARTU

Parnu Cesis

RIGA

Sigulda

Rundale Palace

KLAIPEDA Curonian Spit NP

LATVIA

RUSSIA

Hill of Crosses

LITHUANIA

KALININGRAD

KAUNAS Pazaislis Monastery

POLAND

BELARUS

Trakai Castle

VILNIUS

DAY 10: Visit 18th century Rundale Palace and the Hill of Crosses en route to Klaipeda in Lithuania. DAY 11: Explore the Curonian Spit National Park. See the Hill of Witches, twisted trees and amazing sand dunes. DAY 12: Walking tour of Kaunas including the castle ruins. Chance to visit the Holocaust Memorial. DAY 13: Drive to Vilnius via the large Baroque Pazaislis Monastery and red-bricked Trakai Castle, set on an island in a lake. DAYS Walking tour of Vilnius. Trip ends in 14–15: Vilnius, Lithuania.

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/HB 43

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Discover Chernobyl TRIP CODE - KCY | UKRAINE

Spend a long weekend like no other exploring the incredible abandoned sites reclaimed by nature in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, which was created when Reactor 4 exploded back in 1986. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Chernobyl | Discover the ghost town of Pripyat, the Red Forest, and the New Safe Confinement structure around Reactor 4 Reactor visit | Certain departures also include a tour of Reactor 3’s control room Kiev | Experience the city’s highlights and see Mother Motherland and the Chernobyl Museum

PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£695pp trip only (5 days)

ITINERARY

£960pp

with flights (5 days)

DAY 1:

Join trip in Kiev, Ukraine’s capital.

DAY 2:

Explore Kiev on foot to see Mother Motherland and visit the Chernobyl Museum. Explore the extensive catacombs at the ornately decorated Lavra Monastic Complex.

DAY 3:

Explore the abandoned ruins of Pripyat including the fairground and football stadium. See the New Safe Confinement structure around the infamous Reactor 4. Stay overnight in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone.

DAY 4:

Discover the secret Soviet Duga Radar and the military town, visit the children’s summer camp and meet those living in the Exclusion Zone. Return to Kiev.

DAY 5:

Trip ends in Kiev. Our time in Kiev is busy visiting the city’s many highlights, so there is little free time and you may wish to consider extending your stay.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On ACCOMMODATION: 3 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple hotel Optional single rooms from £80 TRANSPORT: Bus MEALS: Breakfast: 4 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 1 BELARUS

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

CHERNOBYL

UKRAINE

NOTE: In order to enter the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone and travel on this trip you must be at least 18 years old. HAVE YOU CONSIDERED?

Winter Chernobyl - Photography Short Break KIEV

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Lavra Monastery Complex

Explore the Exclusion Zone in winter alongside our expert photographer David Short (ARPS). explore.co.uk/KCB

explore.co.uk/KCY

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Ancient Macedonia TRIP CODE - AM | BULGARIA, NORTH MACEDONIA, GREECE

Travel through Bulgaria, Greece and North Macedonia to uncover the stunning and varying scenery in the lost empire of Alexander the Great. This trip is ideal for those interested in ancient history and contrasting cultures. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Lake Ohrid | Explore the monasteries around the lake and the town of Ohrid Rila Monastery | See the distinctive architecture and brightly coloured frescoes Pella | Discover the birthplace of Alexander the Great, with its mythological mosaics PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1425pp £1620pp trip only (15 days)

with flights (15 days)

DAY 1:

Join trip in Sofia, Bulgaria.

DAY 2:

Explore Sofia on foot. Travel to North Macedonia. Stay in Saint Joakim Osogovski Monastery.

DAY 3:

Visit Kratovo in the crater of an extinct volcano. In Skopje, see Kale Fortress.

DAY 4:

Discover the towering sides of the dramatic Matka Gorge. Chance for a boat trip above the dam.

DAY 5:

Scenic drive to Ohrid via Mavrovo National Park. See the carvings at Saint Jovan Bigorski Monastery.

DAYS 6–7:

Walking tour of Ohrid. Take in the view from the Church of Saint John at Kaneo. Free time to relax.

DAY 8:

Boat trip to the Springs of Lake Ohrid. Visit Saint Naum and Heraclea.

DAY 9:

Visit the birthplace of Alexander the Great at Pella and Vergina. Arrive in Thessaloniki, Greece.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 13 nights comfortable hotel 1 night comfortable monastery Optional single rooms from £250 TRANSPORT: Bus | Boat | Ferry MEALS: Breakfast: 14 | Dinner: 1

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

SERBIA

SOFIA

St Joakim Osogovski Monastery MONTENEGRO KRIVA

PALANKA

SKOPJE

BULGARIA Rila Monastery

Kratovo

BANSKO

Matka Gorge

NORTH MACEDONIA

Mavrovo NP

LAKE OHRID PELISTER NP St Naum Monastery

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DAYS 11–12:

Keramoti Philippi

KAVALA

Heraclea

GREECE

DAY 10: Discover Thessaloniki on foot. Free afternoon to visit the Archaeological Museum.

Pella Vergina

THESSALONIKI Rotunda Kastro

Thassos Ouranopoli Mount Athos

Scenic drive on the Halkidiki Peninsula. Boat trip to see Mount Athos. Ferry to Thassos Island.

DAY 13: Explore historical Philippi. Drive on to Bansko in the Pirin Mountains of Bulgaria. DAYS 14–15:

Visit Rila Monastery. Return to Sofia where the trip ends.

explore.co.uk/AM 45

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Highlights of Albania TRIP CODE - AB | ALBANIA

Still emerging from isolation, Albania’s wealth of historic sites, charming rural villages and the colourful capital, Tirana, are all waiting to be discovered. Along the way explore the Adriatic Coast, the White Mountains and the peaceful shores of Lake Ohrid. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Butrint | Discover one of the greatest archaeological sites in the Balkans Llogara National Park | Explore the pristine forests and admire the fantastic views Gjirokastra | Stroll along the cobbled streets and visit its hilltop castle PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£915pp £1135pp trip only (11 days)

with flights (11 days)

DAY 1:

Join trip in Tirana, Albania’s capital.

DAY 2:

Visit Petrela Fortress and Bektashi World Centre. Explore Tirana including the old bazaar.

DAY 3:

Go to Elbasan Fortress. Stop in the fishing village of Lin en route to Pogradec on Lake Ohrid.

DAY 4:

Drive via Voskopoja to Korca. Explore the old town and visit the cathedral and Medieval Museum.

DAY 5:

Drive on one of the most scenic routes in Albania, the Barmash Pass. Countryside walk in Benja.

DAY 6:

Walk to Leusa Church. Drive to UNESCO-listed Gjirokastra. Visit the castle and Ethnographic Museum.

DAY 7:

See the karstic spring, ‘the Blue Eye’, and explore Butrint, one of the great archaeological sites.

DAY 8:

Visit Ali Pasha Fortress en route to Llogara National Park. Afternoon hike and stay in the park.

DAY 9:

See Flag Square and the Muradi Mosque in Vlora. Visit the ancient Roman site of Apollonia.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On ACCOMMODATION: 10 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £170

TRANSPORT: Bus MEALS: Breakfast: 10 | Lunch: 1

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

KRUJA

Durresi Roman Amphitheatre

Explore on foot instead with our moderate grade walking holiday. explore.co.uk/ALW

TIRANA Petrela Fortress Elbasan Fortress

WHY NOT WALK?

Walking Albania

NORTH MACEDONIA

Lake Ohrid

ALBANIA

Gur-i-Topit 2,120m Red Mosque, Fortress

Apollonia

Vlora

POGRADEC

BERAT

KORCA

WHITE MOUNTAINS LLOGARA NP Walks

PERMETI Walks

Barmash Pass 1,757m

GJIROKASTRA Fortress

ADRIATIC SEA SARANDA

GREECE

DAY 10: Discover the fortress and Red Mosque in Berat. Visit the Roman amphitheatre in Durresi. DAY 11: Trip ends in Kruja.

Butrint

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explore.co.uk/trip explore.co.uk/AB code

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Greek Island Wanderer TRIP CODE - GW | GREECE

Our island hopping trip begins in Greece’s capital, Athens, before exploring the gleaming waterfront harbours, rocky coves and long sandy beaches of the Cyclades. Visit the islands of Syros, Paros, Santorini and Naxos by ferry. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Santorini | Discover its volcanic scenery and whitewashed churches with blue-domed roofs Syros | Opportunity to take coastal walks and sample cuisine in authentic seafront tavernas Paros | Chance to walk along an ancient Byzantine road and go snorkelling PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1399pp £1660pp trip only (15 days)

DAY 1:

Join trip in Athens.

DAY 2:

Walking tour of Athens. Chance to visit the Acropolis.

DAYS 3–4:

Ferry to Syros. Opportunity for an easy walk from Galissas to Kini and to join an island tour and sample the sweet, Loukoumi.

DAY 5:

Free time, with the chance to take a number of coastal walks. Evening ferry to Paros.

DAYS 6–7:

explore.co.uk/WAT

Free time on Paros to perhaps walk along the Byzantine road and take a caique boat cruise.

DAY 8:

Ferry to Santorini, with the chance for wine tasting at Avantis Estate in Messaria.

DAY 9:

Opportunity to walk from Fira to Oia. The walk offers great sea views from the lip of a caldera.

with flights (15 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 14 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £395

WHY NOT WALK?

TRANSPORT: Bus | Ferry | Taxi

Greek Islands Walking - Andros and Tinos

MEALS: Breakfast: 14

Explore on foot instead with our moderate grade walking holiday.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL: rry

fro

Ath

AEGEAN SEA

MYKONOS

SYROS GALISSAS

Option of coastal walks

DELOS PAROS

Optional boat trip to Mykonos and Delos

NAXOS TOWN

Paros town

NAXOS

Optional village walk

DRIOS

CYCLADIC Beaches, optional ISLANDS caique trip (GREECE)

DAY 10: Chance to take a boat trip to see an active volcano, swim in warm springs and cruise to Thirassia Island. DAY 11: Opportunity to visit the Minoan ruins at Akrotiri before taking the ferry to Naxos. DAY 12: Free day in Naxos, with the chance to go on a full day boat trip to ancient Delos and Mykonos.

SANTORINI

Fira

KARTERADOS

Optional coastal walks and volcano boat trip

DAY 13: Option to walk from the white village of Kynidaros to Eggares and visit the Olive Press Museum. DAYS 14–15:

01252 883 480

Ferry back to Athens where the trip ends.

explore.co.uk/tripcode explore.co.uk/GW 47

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Active Greece TRIP CODE - MAG | GREECE

Curious travellers seeking traditional villages away from the tourist crowds will relish this active tour. Take part in a cookery class, explore the vast Vikos Gorge and raft on the crystal clear Voidomatis River, as we explore the stunning landscapes of northern Greece. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Meteora | Discover the stone pinnacles and historic Orthodox monasteries Zagori | Walk into the enormous Vikos Gorge and explore stone bridges and paths Greek food | Learn how to make traditional spanakopita (spinach pie)

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1630pp £1885pp trip only (11 days)

with flights (11 days)

DAY 1:

Join trip in Athens.

DAY 2:

Walk on the ancient Skala of Delphi; drive to the small fishing village of Galaxidi.

DAY 3:

Experience honey production at a bee farm; learn how to make spanakopita, a traditional spinach pie.

DAY 4:

Drive to the mountainous Zagori region via Nafpaktos Castle and the ancient theatre of Dodoni.

DAY 5:

Walk the Vradheto steps to viewpoints over the Vikos Gorge; discover Zagori’s famous stone arch bridges.

DAY 6:

Half-day rafting on the Voidomatis river; short walk into the gorge from Vikos village.

DAY 7:

Drive to Kastraki (Meteora) via Ioannina; sunset walk towards the monasteries.

DAY 8:

Free day in Meteora; optional scrambling, hiking, biking or rock climbing tours available.

DAY 9:

Hike to Agia Triada monastery.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel 3 nights premium hotel Optional single rooms from £390

TRANSPORT: Bus MEALS: Breakfast: 10 | Dinner: 1

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

ALBANIA Voidomatis River rafting Vikos Gorge hikes

GREECE

MONODENDRI KASTRAKI

Dodoni ancient theatre

Ioannina Optional boat trip

Meteora UNESCO Heritage Site

DAY 10: Drive to Athens via Thermopylae; enjoy a traditional evening meal. DAY 11: Trip ends in Athens.

Delphi Nafpaktos Castle

GALAXIDI

Walk on the ‘Kaki Skala’ Moka bee & honey farm

Cooking class

ATHENS

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explore.co.uk/MAG

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Active Turkey TRIP CODE - MAT | TURKEY

Spend a week discovering Turkey’s beautiful Turquoise Coast. This active trip is a wonderful way to explore the Mediterranean coastline, its charming villages and impressive mountains. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Kekova Bay | Sea kayak to the sunken city of Kekova and the village of Simena Xanthos | Visit the ancient capital of Lycia and canoe down the river to Patara Beach Taurus Mountains | Cycle and walk among the tree-covered foothills

PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£495pp £785pp trip only (8 days)

with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE

ITINERARY

WHY NOT CYCLE?

Cycle Turkey Explore on two wheels instead with our moderate grade cycling holiday. explore.co.uk/CTT

DAY 1:

Join trip in Kas. Free time to relax by the harbour.

DAY 2:

Trek in the ruggedly beautiful foothills of the Taurus Mountains with a picnic lunch along the way. Take in the views from Bozkava summit.

DAY 3:

Visit ancient Xanthos before canoeing on the river. Stop for a riverside barbecue lunch and swim at Patara Beach.

DAY 4:

Free day to go scuba diving, horse riding or there’s the chance to visit the Greek island of Meis. Alternatively, relax in Kas or beside the hotel pool.

DAY 5:

Early morning sea kayaking in Kekova Bay to view the ruins of the sunken city. Visit to Simena Castle to admire the view over the bay.

DAY 6:

Cycle through the forest-covered foothills of the Taurus Mountains. Stop for a picnic lunch and to cool off at Kaputas Beach.

DAY 7:

Gulet boat trip, with lunch included, around the bays surrounding Kas, with the opportunity to snorkel and swim.

DAY 8:

Trip ends in Kas.

TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £160

TRANSPORT: Bus | Boat | Bike MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 4

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

TURKEY

From/to Dalaman Airport

TAURUS MOUNTAINS

TURKEY

From/to Dalaman Airport

Taurus foothills walk Kuruova

TAURUS MOUNTAINS

Xanthos Oluklar Yaylasi Taurus foothills walk Taurus foothills cycling Kuruova Canoe to Patara Beach

Xanthos

Oluklar Yaylasi Taurus foothills KAS cycling

MEDITERRANEAN Boat trip Snorkeling SEA Canoe to Patara Beach

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

Ucagiz

Meis Island Sea kayaking Simena to KAS Castle Kekova Island Boat(optional) trip Snorkeling Ucagiz Meis Island (optional)

01252 883 480

Simena Castle

Sea kayaking to Kekova Island

explore.co.uk/MAT 49

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Winter in Turkey TRIP CODE - WT | TURKEY

Explore the best of the famous sites as well as discovering some of Turkey’s rural, traditional villages. The temperate climate on the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts, combined with the possibility of snow in the mountains, make Turkey a perfect winter destination. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Ephesus | Walk the marble streets where Saint Paul preached, and see the famous Celsus Library Sagalassos | Discover this mountain-top gem, with one of the most impressive amphitheatre views in Turkey Turquoise Coast | Get some winter sun on the coast at laid back Kas and historic Antalya

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1195pp £1515pp trip only (13 days)

with flights (13 days)

DAY 1:

Join trip in Antalya.

DAY 2:

Discover the ancient city of Perge and the Roman amphitheatre of Aspendos.

DAY 3:

Drive to Burdur via the impressive mountaintop site of Sagalassos and the Insuyu Caves.

DAY 4:

Drive to Pamukkale; visit Hierapolis and the Pamukkale cascades.

DAY 5:

Visit the Greco-Roman site of Aphrodisias.

DAY 6:

Explore the ancient city of Ephesus; walk from the rural village of Sirince to Ikiz Cesmesi.

DAY 7:

Explore lesser-visited Greek and Roman sites around the Aegean coast; drive to Milas.

DAY 8:

Walk from Sultaniye to the ruins of ancient Caunos; continue on foot and by rowing boat to Dalyan.

DAY 9:

Drive to Kas via Kayakoy and Xanthos.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On ACCOMMODATION: 10 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights premium hotel Optional single rooms from £240 TRANSPORT: Bus | Boat MEALS: Breakfast: 12 MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Ephesus

Ikiz Cesme

CAMLIK

Priene Hellenistic temples Didim Temple of Apollo

PAMUKKALE

Sirince Rural town

Vineyard stay

Travertine terraces Hierapolis ancient site

Herakleia Temple of Athena

BURDUR

Euromos Temple of Zeus

Insuyu caves

MILAS

DAY 10: Free day in Kas; chance to hike on the Lycian Way.

Sagalassos Mountain Views

DAY 11: Drive to the rural Ottoman town of Elmali, stopping for a traditional tea in Gomuce.

TURKEY Termessos The ‘Eagles Nest’

Caunos Sultaniye

DALYAN ELMALI

Kayakoy Ghost town

Ottoman town Xanthos

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

Perge ancient city

ANTALYA

Aspendos Roman amphitheatre

DAY 12: Drive to Antalya via the ancient city of Termessos and Gulluk Dagi National Park. DAY 13: Trip ends in Antalya.

KAS

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explore.co.uk/WT

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – EUROPE

Turkey in Depth TRIP CODE - TU | TURKEY

Turkey is a country of contrasting landscapes and cultural riches. This all-encompassing trip takes in Istanbul, ancient Aphrodisias and Ephesus, and the unusual terraces of Pamukkale. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Cappadocia | Explore the fairy-tale chimneys and rock-carved cave dwellings Gallipoli | Discover the poignant World War I memorials including the Lone Pine Cemetery Turquoise Coast | Take a tranquil boat ride to Caunos and swim at Iztuzu Beach

PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1065pp £1320pp trip only (15 days)

with flights (15 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On ACCOMMODATION: 14 nights comfortable hotel

DAYS 1–2:

Join trip in Istanbul. Tour of the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. Chance to visit the Basilica Cistern.

DAYS 3–4:

In Ankara see Ataturk’s Mausoleum and the Museum of Anatolian Civilisations. Visit Kaymakli.

DAY 5:

Explore the remarkable Uchisar Castle and Goreme Open Air Museum in Cappadocia.

DAY 6:

See the home of the Whirling Dervishes in Konya. Continue to the coastal city of Antalya.

DAY 7:

Journey to Kas via ancient Olympos. See the Chimaera – the eternal flame.

DAY 8:

Free time in Kas on the Turquoise Coast, with the chance to sea kayak.

DAY 9:

Boat ride to the rock-carved tombs at Caunos. Chance to swim at the beautiful Iztuzu Beach.

Optional single rooms from £260

TRANSPORT: Bus | Boat | Ferry MEALS: Breakfast: 14

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Topkapi Palace Blue Mosque

ISTANBUL

Gallipoli Troy

CANAKKALE Pergamon Acropolis

SELCUK

Museum of Anatolian Civilisations

ANKARA

TURKEY

Goreme Valley

PAMUKKALE Ephesus

DALYAN

Caunos Iztuzu Beach

Kaymakli

Aphrodisias

ANTALYA KAS

Olympos

Optional boat trip

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

01252 883 480

URGUP

Konya Mevlana Museum

DAY 10: Visit the amazing white terraces of Pamukkale and the ancient Roman spa town of Hierapolis. DAYS 11–12:

Discover the famed Greco-Roman sites of Aphrodisias and Ephesus, including the Temple of Artemis.

DAY 13: See Pergamon Acropolis in the typical Turkish town of Bergama and the ruins at Troy. DAY 14: Ferry to the World War I battlefields at Gallipoli, including Anzac Cove and the Lone Pine Cemetery. DAY 15: Trip ends in Istanbul.

explore.co.uk/TU 51

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – MIDDLE EAST

Jordan Discovery TRIP CODE - JD | JORDAN

Discover the rugged beauty, delicious food and rich heritage of Jordan. Explore Petra in depth, sleep like a Bedouin in Wadi Rum and float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Mount Nebo | Learn about Jordan’s biblical heritage as we travel in the footsteps of Moses Petra | Spend two full days discovering the historic and remarkable ‘Rose Red City’ Wadi Rum | Eat a traditional Bedouin barbecue, sit around the camp fire and sleep under a blanket of stars

PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£899pp

trip only (9 days)

£1519pp

with flights (9 days)

AT A GLANCE

ITINERARY

WHY NOT WALK?

Walking Jordan’s Spice Trails

DAY 1:

Join trip in Amman.

Discover on foot instead with our moderate grade walking holiday.

DAY 2:

explore.co.uk/TP

Visit Jerash, a wonderfully preserved Roman town, before a guided tour of Amman’s ancient citadel.

TRIP PACE: Full On ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel

DAY 3:

Explore Mount Nebo and the mosaics at Madaba before travelling to Petra. Take a chance to see Petra at night, lit by hundreds of candles.

DAY 4:

Take a guided tour of ancient Petra, a city carved into rock by the Nabataeans, including the famous facade of the Treasury.

DAY 5:

Free time to discover Petra. Trek to the Monastery or High Place of Sacrifice for views over the Negev Desert.

DAY 6:

Travel through Wadi Rum in a 4WD. Spend the night in a Bedouin camp in the desert.

DAY 7:

Travel to Aqaba for a relaxing day. Opportunities to snorkel, swim and take a boat trip on the Red Sea.

DAY 8:

Leave Aqaba and descend to the lowest point on earth for time to float in the salty waters of the Dead Sea.

DAY 9:

Trip ends in Amman.

1 night simple tented camp Optional single rooms from £210

TRANSPORT: Bus | 4WD MEALS: Breakfast: 8 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 2 SYRIA

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

SYRIA Jerash Ancient Roman city Jerash Ancient Roman city

AMMAN

Dead Sea Dead Sea

ISRAEL ISRAEL

MtAMMAN Nebo Madaba Mt Nebo Madaba

Kerak Crusader castle Kerak Crusader castle

JORDAN JORDAN

PETRA Rock-carved city PETRA Rock-carved city

WADI RUM Desert camp WADI RUM Desert camp

AQABA AQABA

52 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/JD

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – MIDDLE EAST

Highlights of Lebanon TRIP CODE - LL | LEBANON

Uncover Lebanon’s fascinating history on this one-week holiday. Stand in front of the vast Roman ruins at Baalbek, discover Crusader castles and walk along Beirut’s Green Line on a guided city tour. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Cedars of God | See the 1000-year-old Lebanon Cedars set high above the Qadisha Valley Coastal cities | Uncover the rich heritage and maritime histories of Byblos and Batroun on the Mediterranean coast Lebanese cuisine | Taste red wine in the Bekaa Valley and feast on fresh hummus, labneh and falafel in the narrow streets of the souk PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1290pp trip only (8 days)

ITINERARY

£1825pp

with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE

DAY 1:

Join trip in Beirut, Lebanon's cosmopolitan capital city.

DAY 2:

Explore Beirut, follow the city’s symbolic Green Line and join locals for a stroll along the corniche.

TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple monastery Optional single rooms from £270

DAY 3:

Visit Sidon's Phoenician sea castle, explore the narrow souks and drive into the Chouf Mountains.

DAY 4:

Discover Beiteddine Palace. Have lunch at Tawlet Ammiq community project and sample some Bekaa Valley wine in the afternoon.

DAY 5:

Morning visit to the vast Roman ruins at Baalbek. Drive up into the Qadisha Valley, walk among ancient Cedar trees and sleep in a working monastery.

TRANSPORT: Bus MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 2

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

QOZHAYA DAY 6: QADISHA VALLEY

Batroun

Cedars Forest

BYBLOS

Batroun

Jeitta Caves

BEIRUT

DAY 7: QOZHAYA QADISHA VALLEY LEBANON Cedars Forest

Baalbek

DAY 8:

Opportunity to attend morning prayers and walk in the scenic valley before driving down to the Mediterranean Coast. Relax by the sea in Byblos before an afternoon visit to Jeitta Caves. Traditional mezze dinner in Beirut. Trips ends in Beirut.

BYBLOS BAALBEK

Jeitta Caves

BEIRUT

DEIR EL QAMAR LEBANON Sidon

DEIR EL QAMAR Beiteddine Palace

Sidon

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/LL 53

this Saudi Arabia trip has been “ Designing a real labour of love. I’ve been constantly

awestruck by the country’s diverse natural beauty and rich history, and I can’t wait to do the trip myself!

HEGRA | SAUDI ARABIA

Carmel Hendry, Product Manager

”

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – MIDDLE EAST

Explore the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia TRIP CODE - KSA | SAUDI ARABIA

If tourism has a ‘last frontier’, Saudi Arabia may well be it. This trip introduces a land of contrasts, where rich history and ancient desert civilisations collide with lush mountains, chaotic camel markets and mouth-watering food. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Hegra (Mada’in Saleh) | Discover this ancient Nabatean city and sleep in a desert camp Jeddah | Explore the scented souks and alleyways of the UNESCO Old Town Lush mountains | Visit Al Bahah, a region of hidden villages and hairpin roads

PRICES FROM

£3450pp

trip only (13 days)

£4050pp

with flights (14 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 10 nights comfortable hotel

ITINERARY

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED?

Journey through Arabia - Saudi to Jordan Discover ancient Nabatean cities and desert oases on this 12 day highlights trip.

DAY 1:

Join trip in Riyadh.

DAY 2:

Witness the diversity of Riyadh. Take a 4WD trip to the Edge of the World.

explore.co.uk/KSJD

2 nights comfortable camp Optional single rooms from £845 TRANSPORT: Bus | 4WD | Train MEALS:

DAY 3:

Visit the Al Diriyah UNESCO Site, where the first Saudi state was created. Drive to Buraidah.

DAY 4:

Experience the clamour of the Buraidah camel market. Train journey to Ha’il.

DAY 5:

Find prehistoric rock art in Jubbah. Drive to Al’Ula and camp in the desert.

DAY 6:

Explore the ancient Nabatean city of Hegra (Mada’in Saleh) and the recognisable Elephant Rock.

DAY 7:

Drive to the holy city of Medina through Lawrence of Arabia country.

DAY 8:

Walk at the Al Wahbah crater. Drive to Ta’if.

DAY 9:

Walking tour of the ‘City of Roses’. Continue into the mountains, towards Al Bahah.

Breakfast: 12 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 2

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Hegra (Mada’in Saleh) Ancient City & UNESCO Heritage Site

Jubbah UNESCO rock carvings

HA’IL

Al-Qashalah mud fortress

Elephant Rock

AL’ULA

Desert camp

BURAIDAH

Camel market

Ushayqer Heritage Village

Abandoned Hejaz Railway

MEDINA

The Edge of the World 4x4 drive & sunset views

City tour

RIYADH

Masmak Fortress & Murabba Palace Al Wahbah crater picnic & dramatic views

JEDDAH

UNESCO Heritage old town & souqs Mecca

TA’IF

City of Roses

Red Sea coastal drive

AL BAHAH

SAUDI ARABIA

DAY 10: Visit the unexpected mountain village of Thee Ain and explore the forest parks of Al Bahah. DAY 11: Drive along the Red Sea to Jeddah. Walk along the lively corniche (sea front). DAY 12: Walking tour of the UNESCOlisted old town. Try Kabsa, Saudi Arabia’s national dish, this evening. DAY 13: Trip ends in Jeddah.

Mountain scenery Thee Ain ancient village

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/KSA 55

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – AFRICA

Best of Morocco TRIP CODE - MR | MOROCCO

Enter the world of ancient Morocco on this journey through the country’s imperial cities: Rabat, Meknes, Fes and Marrakech. Travel through the mountainous land of Berbers to the edge of Africa where we relax in the tranquil port town of Essaouira. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Atmospheric medinas | Get lost in the colourful alleyways of the cities’ old towns Todra Gorge | Walk in Morocco’s Grand Canyon through spectacular rock formations Essaouira | Relax in the traditional and charming port town on the Atlantic coast PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£999pp £1295pp trip only (15 days)

with flights (15 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate

ITINERARY

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED?

Grand Tour of Morocco

DAY 1:

Join trip in Casablanca.

Take more time to explore the culture and scenery of Morocco on our 20-day trip.

DAY 2:

Visit the extraordinary Hassan II Mosque. Take a city tour of Rabat and continue to Meknes.

explore.co.uk/MGT

DAY 3:

Discover the imperial city of Meknes and visit the ancient Roman site of Volubilis, Morocco’s former capital.

DAY 4:

Explore Fes, the artisan capital of Morocco with its maze of narrow streets and vibrant markets.

DAY 5:

Drive over the Middle Atlas Mountain range and discover rich Berber culture and heritage.

DAY 6:

Travel into the desert by 4WD and sleep under the stars in a Berber camp.

DAYS 7–8:

Watch sunrise over the dunes and experience a camel ride. Explore the magnificent Todra Gorge on foot.

DAY 9:

Visit the UNESCO fortified Berber settlement of Ait Ben Haddou and the Valley of 1,000 Kasbahs.

ACCOMMODATION: 12 nights comfortable hotel 1 night premium hotel 1 night simple camp Optional single rooms from £170

TRANSPORT: Bus | 4WD MEALS: Breakfast: 14 | Dinner: 1

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Volubilis Rabat

CASABLANCA

FES

MEKNES

HIGH ATLAS

Midelt

MOROCCO

ESSAOUIRA MARRAKECH OUIRGANE

TODRA GORGE

AIT BEN HADDOU

ERFOUD

Valley of 1000 Kasbahs

SAHARA DESERT

ERG CHEBBI

Desert Experience

ALGERIA

DAY 10: Cross the highest pass in Morocco through the Atlas Mountains. Join a family for mint tea. DAYS 11–12:

Stroll around the 15th century coastal town of Essaouira, or relax on the beach.

DAYS 13–14:

Discover the incredible city of Marrakech. Explore markets, souks and mosques.

DAY 15: Trip ends in Marrakech.

56 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/MR

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – AFRICA

Namibia Lodge Safari TRIP CODE - NL | NAMIBIA

Take the journey across Namibia’s contrasting landscapes, including dramatic canyons, towering sand dunes and magnificent national parks in search of wildlife, and by night enjoy a sundowner in lodges located perfectly for exploring. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Sossusvlei | The world’s highest sand dunes in the world’s oldest desert Damaraland | See ancient Bushmen rock art and meet the Himba people National parks | Home to the Big Five and the largest population of cheetah in Africa PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£2450pp £3405pp trip only (12 days)

DAY 1:

with flights (14 days)

DAY 2: Travel to Sesriem via the Namib Desert, the oldest on the planet.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On ACCOMMODATION: 2 nights comfortable hotel 7 nights comfortable lodge 1 night simple lodge 1 night premium lodge Optional single rooms from £215 TRANSPORT: Truck | 4WD MEALS:

DAY 3:

Explore the Sesriem Canyon. See the magnificent sand dunes of Sossusvlei.

DAY 4:

Drive to Swakopmund, stopping at Walvis Bay to look for flamingo and pelican.

DAY 5:

Free day to explore the colonial town of Swakopmund. Learn about Namibia’s intriguing history.

DAY 6:

Drive via Cape Cross Seal Reserve to Damaraland. Discover rock art of the San Bushmen.

DAY 7:

Visit the indigenous Himba village. Make our way to the salt pans of Etosha National Park.

DAY 8:

Game drives in Etosha. Stay up to spot a rhino having a late night drink at the watering hole.

DAY 9:

Search for lion, cheetah, elephant, leopard, springbok, hyena and giraffe in Etosha.

ETOSHA NP Game drives

Breakfast: 11 | Lunch: 9 | Dinner: 4

Lake Otjikoto

ETOSHA NP

TOSHARI

Game drives

Lake Otjikoto

Twyfelfontein Rock art

WATERBERG TOSHARI PLATEAU NP

Twyfelfontein Brandberg UIS 2573m Rock art

WATERBERG PLATEAU NP KALAHARI DESERT

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Brandberg 2573m Cape Cross Seal Reserve Cape Cross Seal Reserve Walvis Bay Lagoon Walvis Bay

ATLANTIC Lagoon OCEAN

NAMIBIA UIS

KALAHARI DESERT SWAKOPMUND NAMIBIA WINDHOEK Capital city

Kuiseb

SWAKOPMUND Canyon WINDHOEK Capital city

Kuiseb

NAMIB Canyon DESERT

Highest dunes on NAMIB Earth

ATLANTIC OCEAN

DESERT Sossusvlei

Highest dunes on Earth Sossusvlei

01252 883 480

Join trip in Windhoek.

SESRIEM CANYON SESRIEM CANYON

DAY 10: Visit the Cheetah Conservation Foundation. Drive to the Waterberg Plateau. DAY 11: Free morning to explore on foot or take an extra game drive. Visit a local craft market, before returning to Windhoek. DAY 12: Trip ends in Windhoek.

explore.co.uk/NL 57

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – AFRICA

Botswana Wildlife Safari TRIP CODE - BW | BOTSWANA, ZAMBIA, NAMIBIA

A trip through Botswana’s remote wilderness to track Africa’s greatest animals. Stay on a houseboat on the delta, sleep under canvas in the bush and visit the Smoke that Thunders Victoria Falls. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Game viewing | Explore Botswana’s finest game reserves during seven days of safari Okavango Delta Panhandle | Search for waterdwelling wildlife and exotic birds Chobe National Park | A remarkable wildlife sanctuary, world famous for its huge elephant population PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£2425pp £3440pp trip only (15 days)

DAYS 1–2:

with flights (17 days)

AT A GLANCE

Join trip in Maun. Scenic journey to private houseboat in the Okavango Delta Panhandle region.

DAY 3: Take boat trips around the Okavango Delta Panhandle, for fantastic bird and hippo sightings.

TRIP PACE: Full On ACCOMMODATION: 3 nights comfortable boat

DAY 4: Discover San Bushman art in Tsodilo Hills, viewing 24,000 year-old paintings at a UNESCO Site.

7 nights simple camping 2 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights comfortable lodge Optional single rooms from £165

DAY 5: Journey from Botswana to Zambia, via Namibia, in one day through the Caprivi Strip.

TRANSPORT: 4WD | Boat

DAY 6: Explore Victoria Falls, one of the seven natural Wonders of the World.

MEALS:

DAYS 7–8:

Breakfast: 14 | Lunch: 11 | Dinner: 10

DAY 9: Safari through the wetlands of Savuti Marsh, a region known for large lion prides.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

ZAMBIA ANGOLA

NAMIBIA

LIVINGSTONE

Zambezi River crossing

Game drives

OKAVANGO HOUSEBOAT XAKANAXA Game drives

Moremi Game Reserve

MAUN

CHOBE NP SAVUTI

Game drives

KHWAI RIVER

Victoria Falls ZIMBABWE

Tsodilo Hills rock paintings

CHOBE RIVER AREAS

Take game drives in Chobe National Park, famous for its huge numbers of elephant.

BOTSWANA Makgadikgadi Salt Pans

DAYS Explore the pans, floodplains, 10–11: lagoons and deep mopane forest of Moremi Game Reserve. DAY 12: Venture deeper into the delta to Xakanaxa hoping to see the herds of lechwe and big cats. DAY 13: Full day safari. The area is home to many different birds including fish eagle and bee-eater. DAY 14: Return to Maun. Afternoon opportunity to take a flight over the Okavango Delta. DAY 15: Trip ends in Maun.

58 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/BW

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – AFRICA

South Africa’s Garden Route TRIP CODE - SGR | SOUTH AFRICA

Discover South Africa’s most iconic road trip, The Garden Route. Vibrant Cape Town, African penguin colonies, worldrenowned wine-tasting and spotting herds of elephant are just some of the highlights. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Stellenbosch | Taste wines among rolling vineyards in the Cape Winelands National parks | Explore Tsitsikamma National Park and safari in Addo Elephant National Park Hermanus | Spot the migrating mammals in the whale watching capital of the world (July - November) PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1450pp £2370pp trip only (12 days)

with flights (14 days)

AT A GLANCE

ITINERARY

WHY NOT CYCLE?

Cycle South Africa

DAY 1: Join trip in Cape Town.

Explore on two wheels instead with our moderate grade cycling holiday.

DAY 2: Visit Cape Peninsular National Park, including a chance to visit Seal Island by boat.

explore.co.uk/CTC

TRIP PACE: Moderate

DAY 3: Free day to ascend Table Mountain, visit Robben Island or explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.

ACCOMMODATION: 3 nights comfortable cabin

DAY 4: Meet the producers of some of South Africa’s famous wines in the world renowned vineyards of Stellenbosch.

6 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights comfortable lodge Optional single rooms from £375

DAY 5: Scenic drive to Hermanus, via Stony Point to see the African penguin colony.

TRANSPORT: Bus | 4WD MEALS:

DAY 6: Visit Cape Agulhas, Africa’s southernmost tip. Spend the night in a bush camp on the banks of the Breede River.

Breakfast: 11 | Dinner: 2

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAY 7: Relax in the rural setting or try rafting on the Breede River. Drive through the Little Karoo to Oudtshoorn. DAY 8: Walk inside the Cango Caves, an underground wonderland. Take in the views at Knysna Heads.

SOUTH AFRICA ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK

OUDTSHOORN Cango Caves

TSITSIKAMMA NATIONAL PARK

CAPE TOWN STELLENBOSCH

Game drive

SWELLENDAM PLETTENBERG BAY

HERMANUS

Seasonal Whale watching Cape Agulhas

ATLANTIC OCEAN

INDIAN OCEAN

Port Elizabeth

DAY 9: Explore the walking trails of Robberg Nature Reserve. Free time in Plettenberg Bay. DAY 10: Discover Tsitsikamma National Park, with an opportunity to explore the canopy walkways and zip wires. DAY 11: Game drives in search of elephant, lion, zebra and buffalo at Addo Elephant National Park. DAY 12: Optional sunrise safari. Trip ends in Addo Elephant Park.

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/SGR 59

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – AFRICA

South Africa and Swaziland

TRIP CODE - ZK | SOUTH AFRICA, SWAZILAND

Visit the great game reserves of South Africa and Swaziland. Search for the Big Five, learn about the history of the Zulu battlefields, explore the wetlands of St Lucia and discover the last absolute monarchy in Africa. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Kruger | Explore the most iconic national park in South Africa, home to the Big Five Hluhluwe-iMfolozi | Discover the home of the biggest rhino population in Africa Mlilwane | Take a walking safari in this secluded wildlife sanctuary beneath the Nyonyane Mountains PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1590pp £2230pp trip only (10 days)

with flights (12 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On

ITINERARY

WHY NOT WALK?

Walking and Wildlife in South Africa

DAY 1:

Join trip in Johannesburg. Drive to the Drakensberg Mountains.

Discover on foot with our moderate grade walking holiday.

DAY 2:

explore.co.uk/WSA

Walk and discover the beauty of the Drakensberg Mountains. Free afternoon or walk to nearby San Bushman paintings.

ACCOMMODATION: 1 night simple bungalow

DAY 3:

Visit the battlefields of the Zulu War at Isandlwana and then drive to our coastal home for the next three nights, St Lucia.

DAY 4:

Game drives in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve amongst the densest rhino population in Africa and over 500 bird species.

DAY 5:

Free day to enjoy St Lucia Wetland Park. Walks, game drives, beaches and boat trips are on offer.

DAY 6:

Enter Swaziland, the last remaining monarchy in Africa. Sleep in dome shaped rondavels.

DAY 7:

Walking safaris in Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary looking for zebra, wildebeest and impala.

DAY 8:

Travel to Kruger National Park. Afternoon game drive in safari vehicles for great wildlife sightings.

DAY 9:

Game drives to spot lion, elephant, cheetah, leopard, hyena and abundant bird species.

6 nights comfortable lodge 2 nights comfortable rondavel Optional single rooms from £155

TRANSPORT: Bus | 4WD MEALS: Breakfast: 9 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 2

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

KRUGER NP

Blyde River Canyon

GRASKOP KRUGER NP

Blyde River Canyon

JOHANNESBURG

GRASKOP MLILWANE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

JOHANNESBURG

SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH AFRICA DRAKENSBERG Royal Natal NP

DRAKENSBERG LESOTHO Royal Natal NP

Walking safari

MLILWANE

SWAZILAND WILDLIFE

SANCTUARY Walking safari

SWAZILANDCape Vidal

Isandlwana & Rorke’s Drift battlefields

(optional)

ST Cape LUCIA Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Vidal IsandlwanaPark & (optional) Rorke’s Drift battlefields Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

ST LUCIA

DAY 10: Beautiful drive along the Panorama Route to Johannesburg Airport where the trip ends.

LESOTHO

60 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/ZK

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – AFRICA

Madagascar: The Lost Continent TRIP CODE - MD | MADAGASCAR

Travel to The Lost Continent in search of exotic wildlife, contrasting cultures and spectacular scenery. Africa meets Asia in the lively Malagasy capital of Antananarivo, while lemur hide in the wild, remote forests. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Andasibe Reserve | Track the indri lemur at sunrise to hear their morning call Highland scenery | See the rice paddies and isolated villages Ranomafana | Walk in the rainforest and observe various species of lemur, chameleon and amphibian PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1999pp

trip only (15 days)

£2699pp

with flights (17 days)

AT A GLANCE

ITINERARY

WHY NOT WALK?

Madagascar Wilderness Trek

DAY 1:

Join trip in Antananarivo.

Discover on foot instead with our moderate grade walking holiday.

DAY 2:

Nature walks in Andasibe Reserve, searching for the indri, the largest living lemur.

explore.co.uk/MF

TRIP PACE: Full On ACCOMMODATION: 1 night simple community house 8 nights comfortable hotel 3 nights simple hotel 2 nights comfortable lodge Optional single rooms from £325

DAY 3:

Spend the morning looking for black and white ruffed lemur and a variety of birds.

DAY 4:

Explore the colonial architecture and churches of the spa town of Antsirabe.

DAY 5:

Walk around the stunning crater at Lake Tritriva. Enjoy a night of traditional Malagasy food and dancing.

DAYS 6–7:

Journey to Ranomafana National Park, looking for rare golden bamboo lemur.

DAYS 8–9:

Two days to travel to and explore Madagascar’s Grand Canyon in Isalo National Park.

TRANSPORT: Bus | Boat | Flight MEALS: Breakfast: 14 | Lunch: 4 | Dinner: 7

MONTHS OF TRAVEL: ANDASIBE

Analamazoatra & Mitsinjo Reserves

ANTANANARIVO Ambatolampy Valley

ANTSIRABE AMBOSITRA

RANOMAFANA

Walking in Isalo NP Ihosy

TOLIARA ANAKAO

RANOHIRA

MADAGASCAR

Relaxing beach Optional snorkelling

Rainforest wildlife

INDIAN OCEAN

DAY 10: Cross the cactus-filled spiny desert and visit the Mahafaly Tombs on the way to Toliara on the coast. DAYS 11–12:

Free time by the rich turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Boat trip to the reefs of Nosy Ve.

DAY 13: Take a boat to Toliara and fly back to Antananarivo. DAY 14: Visit Ambohimanga, an ancient palace and fort beautifully located on a forested hill. DAY 15: Trip ends in Antananarivo.

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/MD 61

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – ASIA

The Best of Georgia and Armenia TRIP CODE - GF | ARMENIA, GEORGIA

Travel through the Caucasus region and discover the diversity of a land straddling two continents. Explore lively cities, discover ancient cultures, walk through spectacular mountain scenery and indulge in hearty local cuisine on this journey through the ages. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Yerevan | Wander through ancient monasteries and stay in the shadow of Mount Ararat Tbilisi | Explore the narrow medieval streets of the Old Town where East meets West Gudauri | Walk in the foothills of the Greater Caucasus and visit Gergeti Trinity Church PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1845pp £2320pp trip only (16 days)

EXTEND YOUR TRIP The Best of Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan

with flights (16 days)

Spend three days exploring Azerbaijan, a fascinating contrast to Georgia and Armenia.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On

explore.co.uk/GFA

ACCOMMODATION: 3 nights simple guesthouse 12 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £370 TRANSPORT: Bus

ITINERARY DAY 1:

Join trip in Yerevan.

DAY 2:

Explore Yerevan, lying in the shadow of Mount Ararat. Visit the Holy City of Echmiadzin.

DAY 3:

Discover the Hellenistic temple at Garni before continuing to the UNESCO-listed Geghard Monastery.

DAYS 4–5:

Marvel at the imposing Amberd Fortress and sample some Armenian wine in the village of Areni.

DAY 6:

Explore the dramatic monastery of Haghpat, then cross into Georgia and continue onto its medieval capital, Tbilisi.

DAYS 7–8:

Drive onto Kutaisi to explore this ancient city. Take a day trip to the Black Sea coastal town of Batumi.

DAY 9:

Visit the UNESCO-listed monastery at Gelati and discover some of the area’s underground caves.

MEALS: Breakfast: 15 | Lunch: 5 | Dinner: 6

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Mt Kazbeg 5033m

GUDAURI

Gelati & Motsameta Monasteries

Ananuri

Uplistsikhe cave town Gori Stalin museum

KUTAISI

GEORGIA

Gremi Fort

RUSSIA

TELAVI

Mtskheta

Wine factory and wine tasting

TBILISI AKHALTSIKHE

Batumi Black Sea Coast

DAY 10: Walk through the tunnels and stairways of the remarkable cave town of Vardzia. DAYS 11–12:

Stop off at the birthplace of Stalin before taking a gentle walk in the Kazbegi Mountains.

DAYS 13–14:

Explore the atmospheric city of Tbilisi with its narrow streets, churches, synagogues and mosques.

Vardzia Cave town Haghpat Monastery

ARMENIA

Dilijan

AZERBAIJAN

LAKE SEVAN TURKEY

YEREVAN Amberd Fortress Echmiadzin Holy City

Garni and Geghard

Khor Virap Monastery Mt Ararat 5137

62 01252 883 480

Lake Sevan Selim Caravanserai The Silk Road Noravank Monastery

DAY 15: Stroll around the farmers’ market in Telavi and gain an insight into local wine production. DAY 16: Trip ends in Tbilisi.

explore.co.uk/GF explore.co.uk/GF 62

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – ASIA

The Silk Road of Uzbekistan TRIP CODE - UZ | UZBEKISTAN

Travel along the Silk Road past caravanserais and across the remote Central Asian landscape on this trip that takes in the highlights of Uzbekistan. Marvel at incredible Islamic architecture and learn about a history that crosses cultures and spans millennia. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Khiva | Step back in time as you walk the streets of this ‘open air museum’ Yurt stay | Sample nomadic life when sleeping in a traditional felt tent Samarkand | Discover the ornate turquoise mosaics of Registan Square PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1495pp £2185pp trip only (11 days)

with flights (12 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel

ITINERARY

COMBINE YOUR TRIP The Silk Road of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan

DAY 1:

Contrast Uzbek deserts with Kyrgyzstan’s lush meadows on our three-week combination trip.

Join trip in Tashkent. Explore the city and its eccentric metro stations.

DAY 2:

Fly to Urgench in western Uzbekistan. Drive to ancient Khiva.

DAY 3:

Step back in time discovering the ancient and well-preserved city of Khiva.

DAY 4:

Travel along the old Silk Road and take in the wide open scenery on the drive to Bokhara.

DAY 5:

Learn about the rich and extensive history of the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bokhara.

DAY 6:

A free day in Bokhara to allow for further discovery of this beautiful city.

DAY 7:

Take a camel ride across the desert and stay overnight in a traditional yurt.

DAY 8:

Drive onto the fabled city of Samarkand and view the madrassahs of Registan Square.

DAY 9:

Follow in the footsteps of Genghis Khan and Alexander the Great discovering Samarkand.

explore.co.uk/KRU

2 nights simple hotel 1 night simple yurt Optional single rooms from £330

TRANSPORT: Bus | Flight | Train MEALS: Breakfast: 10 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 1

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

UZBEKISTAN Urgench

KAZAKHSTAN

Yurt stay and Camel riding

KYZYLKUM DESERT DESERT TASHKENT KHIVA CAMP Chorsu Ancient Yangikasgan walled city

Karmana

BOKHARA Ark Citadel Emir’s Palace

TURKMENISTAN

01252 883 480

Aydarkul Lake

Bazaar

SAMARKAND

Ulugh Beg Observatory TAJIKISTAN Registan Square

DAY 10: Free time to explore before catching the high-speed train to Tashkent. DAY 11: Trip ends in Tashkent.

ZERAFSHAN MOUNTAINS

explore.co.uk/UZ 63

trip travels through remote landscapes with “ This plenty of opportunities for walking and to meet

Pakistan’s warm and welcoming people along the way. The allure of Pakistan has never left us, and we’re thrilled to now be able to re-introduce a trip to this fascinating country.

HUNZA VALLEY | PAKISTAN

Chris Ellis, Product Manager

”

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – ASIA

Pakistan's Karakoram Highway TRIP CODE - KKH | PAKISTAN

This overland adventure carves through lush valleys, snakes across mountain passes and journeys alongside creaking glaciers. Stunning scenery aside, prepare to be inspired by the warm, welcoming people and rich tapestry of history. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Fairy Meadows | Walk amongst alpine forests, crystal clear lakes and meadows of wildflowers Hunza Valley | Explore the forts, castles and bazaars of the ancient Kingdom of Hunza Khunjerab Pass | Visit the highest border crossing in the world

PRICES FROM

£2299pp

trip only (14 days)

ITINERARY

£2960pp

with flights (15 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On

DAY 1:

Trip starts in Islamabad with an afternoon orientation tour of the capital.

DAY 2:

Fly to Skardu to explore the mountain village of Shigar and Kharpocho Fort.

ACCOMMODATION: 10 nights comfortable hotel

DAY 3:

A full day discovering the towering forts and remote villages of the Skardu Valley.

DAY 4:

Drive across the Deosai Plateau, stopping at the turquoise waters of Satpura Lake.

DAYS 5–6:

Breakfast: 13

Walk up to Nanga Parbat Base Camp. Join the Karakoram Highway and drive to Gilgit.

DAY 7:

Travel to Karimabad to discover the mighty Baltit Fort and take in the sunset over the Hunza Valley.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAY 8:

A full day exploring the Hunza Valley with a walk out on the Hoper Glacier.

DAY 9:

Drive up to the Khunjerab Pass, the highest point on the Karakoram Highway.

2 nights simple mountain hut 1 night simple guesthouse Optional single rooms from £325

TRANSPORT: Bus | 4WD | Flight MEALS:

Khunjerab Pass CHINA

PASSU

Hoper Glacier Hussaini Bridge

KARIMABAD GILGIT

Kargah Buddha NANGA PARBAT

AFGHANISTAN

PAKISTAN

NARAN Bazaar

ISLAMABAD Taxila Faisal Mosque

01252 883 480

Hunza Valley Baltit fort

ASTORE VALLEY SKARDU

FAIRY MEADOWS

Kharpocho Fort

Deosai Alpine walks National Park

DAY 10: Ride a local Jeep up mountain roads, then continue on foot to the beautiful Fairy Meadows. DAY 11: Explore Fairy Meadows with a walk in the mountains. Stay overnight in rustic log cabins. DAYS 12–13:

INDIA

Cross the Babusar Pass and return to Islamabad, stopping via Lulsar Lake and Naran.

DAY 14: Trip ends in Islamabad.

explore.co.uk/KKH 65

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – ASIA

The Golden Triangle TRIP CODE - GTI | INDIA

Explore the cultural heart of Northern India on this week-long circuit of the Golden Triangle. Wind through Old Delhi's narrow lanes in a rickshaw and test Jaipur's intricate sun dials for accuracy. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Agra | See the Taj Mahal up close and watch as the sun rises over the iconic building Karauli | Visit the imposing royal palace and sleep like a Maharajah in heritage accommodation Jaipur | Explore the historical Amber Fort, the Observatory and the Palace of the Winds PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£595pp

trip only (8 days)

£1165pp

with flights (9 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On

ITINERARY

EXTEND YOUR TRIP Ranthambore Wildlife Extension Take three Jeep safaris in Ranthambore National Park searching for the Bengal tiger. explore.co.uk/RTE

ACCOMMODATION: 2 nights premium hotel 5 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £200

DAY 1:

Join trip in Delhi and explore Old Delhi's narrow lanes by metro and rickshaw.

DAY 2:

See a different side to the capital in New Delhi, including Qutub Minar and India Gate. Drive to Agra.

DAY 3:

Watch the sun rise over the Taj Mahal. Visit Agra Fort and Itimad-ud-Daulah, known as the baby Taj. Chance to join a cooking class at a local, family home this evening.

DAY 4:

Explore the abandoned city of Fatehpur Sikri and drive to Karauli. In the evening, visit the aarti ceremony at the local Hindu temple, a ceremony in which devotees give offerings to the gods.

DAY 5:

Visit Chand Baori stepwell and drive to Jaipur to see the phenomenal Observatory and the City Palace.

DAY 6:

Discover Jaipur's Palace of the Winds and Amber Fort, a hill-top palace complex with intricate Mughal architecture and carvings inside its beautiful courtyards.

DAY 7:

Drive back to Delhi via India's Heritage Transport Museum.

DAY 8:

Tour ends in Delhi.

TRANSPORT: Bus | Rickshaw MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 1

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DELHI

Chandni Chowk Qutub Minar Heritage Transport Museum

INDIA JAIPUR

Chand Baori Stepwell

Amber Fort Palace of the Winds Observatory

KARAULI

Rural Life & Old Palace stay

66 01252 883 480

AGRA

Fort & Taj Mahal Fatehpur Sikri

explore.co.uk/GTI

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – ASIA

Sri Lanka in Depth TRIP CODE - SL | SRI LANKA

Uncover the highlights of the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’. This exploration of spiritual Sri Lanka features a mix of ancient cities, gilded Buddhist temples and wildlife-filled national parks. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Wildlife | Search for leopard, elephant, sambar deer and sloth bear by Jeep Ancient capitals and temples | Wander through Sri Lanka's first kingdoms, hillside Buddhist temples and climb the dramatic Sigiriya Rock Fortress Hill country | Explore the Temple of the Tooth and the lush tea plantations in cooler climates PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1675pp £2485pp trip only (15 days)

with flights (16 days)

AT A GLANCE

ITINERARY

COMBINE YOUR TRIP Maldive Dhoni Cruise This trip can be combined to end your break with a relaxing cruise. explore.co.uk/SLM

DAY 1:

Join trip in Negombo.

DAY 2:

Take a Jeep safari in Wilpattu National Park.

DAY 3:

Explore the UNESCO Site of Anuradhapura and the sacred peak at Mihintale.

DAY 4:

See the giant Standing Buddha at Aukana and explore Dambulla’s painted cave temples.

DAY 5:

Discover the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and drive to Sigiriya.

DAY 6:

Climb the dramatic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Lion's Rock.

DAY 7:

Explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth and the colourful Peradeniya Botanical Gardens in Kandy.

DAYS 8–9:

Join pilgrims for an ascent of Adam's Peak. Drive to Nuwara Eliya via a tea plantation.

TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 1 night simple guesthouse

WHY NOT CYCLE?

12 nights comfortable hotel 1 night comfortable tented camp

Explore on two wheels instead with our moderate grade cycling holiday.

Optional single rooms from £490

explore.co.uk/CSL

Cycle Sri Lanka

TRANSPORT: Bus | 4WD MEALS: Breakfast: 14 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 2

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

ANURADHAPURA

Wilpattu National Park game drive

Bodhi Tree Aukana Buddha Dambulla

NEGOMBO Fishing Port

COLOMBO

Bay of Bengal

SRI LANKA Adam’s Peak

INDIAN OCEAN Galle Old Dutch port

UNAWATUNA Relaxing beach

GIRITALE

Polonnaruwa Ancient capital

SIGIRIYA

Lion's Rock

KANDY DALHOUSIE ELLA

NUWARA ELIYA

Buduruvagala Rockface carvings

UDAWALAWE

Elephant transit home and National Park

Mirissa Optional whale watching (Dec/Apr)

DAY 10: Travel through picturesque mountain scenery to Ella. DAY 11: Visit Ella Falls and drive to Udawalawe for a safari in the national park. DAYS 12–13:

Drive to Unawatuna, discover the fascinating churches and old houses of Galle Fort and relax on the beach.

DAY 14: Drive to Colombo for a city tour of the capital. DAY 15: Trip ends in Colombo. NOTE: Departures from July to December will visit Horton Plains instead of climbing Adam's Peak.

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/SL 67

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – ASIA

Maldive Dhoni Cruise TRIP CODE - MC | MALDIVES

Board a traditional Maldivian dhoni and sail through the clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Passing small atolls and islands, we stop at remote fishing communities, admire beautiful coral reefs and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Unspoilt Maldives | Visit small idyllic islands, far away from the tourist resorts Snorkelling and swimming | Swim in warm, clear water and snorkel for opportunities to spot manta ray, turtle and a variety of tropical fish Traditional fishing villages | Spend time with the local people and learn about their way of life PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1195pp £2020pp trip only (8 days)

with flights (9 days)

AT A GLANCE

COMBINE YOUR TRIP Sri Lanka in Depth This trip can be combined with our two-week exploration of Sri Lanka. explore.co.uk/SLM

ITINERARY DAY 1:

Join trip in Male. Take an afternoon walk around the town.

DAY 2:

Board the dhoni and cruise to the South Male Atoll. Explore idyllic Kuda Anbaraa Island.

TRIP PACE: Relaxed ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights simple boat 1 night comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £690

DAY 3:

Relax on board or snorkel in the clear waters of the Meemu Atoll seeking out the colourful sea life.

DAY 4:

Cruise to Dhiggaru Island for a display of Bodu Beru – the indigenous drum music of the islands.

DAY 5:

Discover how the islanders live at the traditional village of Felidhoo.

DAY 6:

Witness the exotic underwater life of Hulhidhoo reef before sailing back to Fulidhoo.

DAY 7:

Sail back to Male, stopping en route to snorkel at Emboodhoo Reef.

DAY 8:

Trip ends in Male.

TRANSPORT: Boat MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 7 | Dinner: 7

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

NORTH MALE ATOLL NORTH MALE MALE ATOLL MALE SOUTH MALE SOUTH ATOLL MALE ATOLL

MALDIVES MALDIVES FELIDHOO ATOLL FELIDHOO ATOLL

KUDA ANBARAA KUDA

Emboodhoo Lagoon Emboodhoo Lagoon

GURAIDHOO GURAIDHOO FULIDHOO INDIAN FULIDHOO OCEAN INDIAN FELIDHOO OCEAN FELIDHOO

Uninhabitated ANBARAA Island Uninhabitated Island

FENBOA FINOLHU FENBOA FINOLHU MEEMU ATOLL MEEMU ATOLL

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DHIGGARU Fishing village DHIGGARU Bodu Beru Fishing village performance Bodu Beru performance

explore.co.uk/MC

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – ASIA

Burma Highlights TRIP CODE - BUH | BURMA (MYANMAR)

With its plethora of glittering temples and towering stupas, it’s no wonder this mystical country has been dubbed the ‘Golden Land’. On this two-week trip we explore Burma’s stand-out highlights, along with some of its lesser-visited gems. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Inle Lake | Discover floating gardens, stilted villages and leg-rowing fishermen Mandalay | Cruise on the Irrawaddy River and visit nearby U-Bein Bridge Bagan | Explore this vast plain studded with thousands of ancient temples PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1545pp £2360pp trip only (14 days)

with flights (16 days)

AT A GLANCE

ITINERARY

EXTEND YOUR TRIP Burma Highlights and Ngapali Beach Spend three days relaxing on the tropical sands of Ngapali Beach. explore.co.uk/BUHB

Join trip in Rangoon (Yangon).

DAY 2:

Discover the sights and temples of Rangoon before flying north to Inle Lake.

TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 13 nights comfortable hotel

WHY NOT CYCLE?

Optional single rooms from £330

Explore on two wheels instead with our moderate grade cycling holiday.

TRANSPORT: Bus | Boat | Flight | Train

DAY 1:

Cycle Burma

explore.co.uk/CBUR

DAY 3:

Cruise Inle Lake by longtail boat and witness the unique rowing style of the local fisherman.

DAY 4:

Explore the sprawling complex of over 1,000 stupas that lie outside the village of Indein.

DAY 5:

Ride a local train through the Shan Highlands and drive to the hill station of Kalaw.

DAY 6:

Explore the tribal Shan Highlands on foot and discover the Buddha images in Myinmathi Cave.

DAY 7:

Take a scenic drive down from the mountains as we continue to Kipling’s Mandalay.

DAYS 8–9:

Uncover the ancient cities of Inwa and Amarapura. Watch the sunset over U-Bein Bridge.

MEALS: Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 4 Traditional handicrafts

Mingun

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Vast plains with 3000 temples

BAGAN

MANDALAY

Amarapura Fly Inwa U-Bein bridge (MaySept)

SHAN PLATEAU

Heho

KALAW

Hill station trekking

Nyaung Shwe

INLE LAKE

Leg rowing ﬁsherman, stilted villages

ARAKAN RANGE

DAY 10: Witness river life on a gentle cruise down the Irrawaddy River to Bagan.

PEGU RANGE

BURMA

(MYANMAR)

RANGOON (YANGON)

Shwedagon Pagoda Colonial architecture

01252 883 480

THAILAND

DAYS 11–12:

Visit the iconic temples of Bagan and watch the sunset over the pagodas.

DAY 13: Return to Rangoon for a last visit to the markets and temples of this unique Asian city. DAY 14: Trip ends in Rangoon (Yangon).

explore.co.uk/BUH 69

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – ASIA

Simply Vietnam TRIP CODE - QVN | VIETNAM

This short break encompasses the best of Vietnam in just 10 days. Using local transport and staying in simple hotels, we experience lush landscapes, discover harrowing history and sample incredible fresh food. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Hanoi | Wander through the bustling narrow streets of the Old Quarter Hoi An | Take a cookery course or try out traditional lantern making Mekong Delta | Meander along palm-lined canals and barter for exotic fruit PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£845pp

trip only (10 days)

£1475pp

with flights (12 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple hotel 1 night simple overnight train Optional single rooms from £120 TRANSPORT: Bus | Boat | Flight | Train | Taxi

ITINERARY

COMBINE YOUR TRIP Simply Bangkok to Hanoi For those with more time, add on a journey through Thailand and Cambodia. explore.co.uk/QBV

DAY 1:

Join trip in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 2:

Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels and learn about Vietnam’s history at the War Remnants Museum.

DAY 3:

Fly up to Hoi An and discover Chinese temples and wooden houses in this old trading port.

DAY 4:

A free day in Hoi An with the option for a cookery class, fishing lesson or more time to explore.

DAY 5:

Embark on a scenic drive along the coast on the stunning Hai Van Pass to Hue.

DAY 6:

Explore the Imperial Citadel of Hue and cruise along the Perfume River. Take an overnight train north to Hanoi.

DAY 7:

Travel through the towering limestone cliffs of Halong Bay by traditional wooden junk boat.

DAY 8:

Uncover the charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter on a tour of its narrow streets.

DAY 9:

A free day in Hanoi with the option to explore the French Quarter by bicycle.

CHINA CHINA

HALONG BAY Junk BAY HALONG

HANOI Old Quarter HANOI

Cruise Junk Limestone cliﬀs Cruise Limestone cliﬀs

Chi Minh’s OldHoi Quarter mausoleum Hoi Chi Minh’s mausoleum

Gulf of GulfTonkin of Tonkin

MEALS: Breakfast: 8 | Lunch: 1 Perfume River Imperial Perfume RiverCity Imperial City HUE

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

HUE

LAOS LAOS

Danang Danang HOI AN Old merchants HOI AN houses Old merchants Bike rides houses Tailors shops Bike rides Tailors shops

CAMBODIA

CAMBODIA Cu Chi Tunnels Cu Chi Tunnels

VIETNAM VIETNAM

DAY 10: Trip ends in Hanoi.

HO CHI MINH CITY Old Saigon walking tour HO CHI MINH CITY Optional My Thotour Old Saigon walking SOUTH Mekong Delta Optional My Tho boat trip CHINA SEA SOUTH Mekong Delta boat trip CHINA SEA

70 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/QVN

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – ASIA

Simply Japan TRIP CODE - QJS | JAPAN

Travel from super-modern Tokyo to villages, castles and temples unchanged from the times of the Shogun and Samurai. Stay in a Buddhist temple and a family-run ryokan, meet snow monkey and tame deer, and experience modern and ancient Japan. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Tokyo | Explore ultra-modern Tokyo, with the option to visit nearby Mount Fuji Kyoto | Experience traditional Japan with temples, Zen gardens and geishas Kanazawa | Discover the Samurai district and the secrets of the Ninja Temple PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£3350pp £4010pp trip only (14 days)

with flights (15 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 11 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple temple 1 night simple ryokan Optional single rooms from £250

TRANSPORT: Train | Bus | Boat MEALS:

DAY 1:

Join trip in Tokyo.

DAYS 2–3:

Explore Tokyo with the option to visit Hakone National Park for views of Mount Fuji.

DAY 4:

Travel by train to Matsumoto and discover the impressive Crow Castle.

DAY 5:

Meet the snow monkey of Jigokudani and spend the night in a temple.

DAY 6:

Join the monks for morning prayers and explore the Samurai district of Kanazawa.

DAY 7:

Free time in Kanazawa to try sushi at the Omichi Fish Market or discover the ‘Ninja Temple’.

DAY 8:

Try Sake in the old town of Takayama and stay in a familyrun ryokan.

DAY 9:

Travel by train to Hiroshima and experience the poignant Peace Park and Peace Museum.

Breakfast: 13

MONTHS OF TRAVEL: NAGANO

KANAZAWA

Temple stay

Kenrokuen gardens, samurai district

JIGOKUDANI Snow monkeys

KANAZAWA

TAKAYAMA

Kenrokuen gardens, samurai district

NAGANO Temple stay

Ryokan stay

MATSUMOTO Matsumoto Castle

TAKAYAMA Ryokan stay

JAPAN

KYOTO

HIROSHIMA

Imperial capital,

Peace Park

JAPAN SEA ND

INLA

OSAKA Temples and Zen gardens

Osaka airport

MIYAJIMA HIROSHIMA

KYOTO

Imperial capital,

OSAKA Temples and

PeaceFloating Park gate

INLA

MIYAJIMA Floating gate

01252 883 480

MATSUMOTO Matsumoto Castle

SEA

Zen gardens

Osaka airport

TOKYO JIGOKUDANI City tour Snow monkeys

TOKYO City tour

DAY 10: Take the ferry to Miyajima Island, meet the tame deer and see the floating torii gate. DAYS 11–12:

Take the bullet train to Kyoto. Free time to explore the Zen gardens, temples and geisha district.

DAY 13: Continue to explore Kyoto before travelling to Osaka for a final night among neon lights. DAY 14: Trip ends in Osaka.

explore.co.uk/QJS 71

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – THE AMERICAS

Canadian Rockies and Pacific Coast TRIP CODE - RK | CANADA

An awe-inspiring journey combining the jagged mountains, emerald lakes and glaciers of the Rockies with the rugged rainforest found on Vancouver Island. Spot wildlife including bear, moose and whale in Canada’s magnificent national parks and waterways. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Banff National Park | Including picture-postcard Lake Louise, Banff’s scenery is hard to beat Icefields Parkway | This epic drive is packed full of glaciers, lakes, waterfalls and bears Pacific Rim National Park | Hike in temperate rainforest on Vancouver Island PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£3150pp £3970pp trip only (15 days)

with flights (16 days)

AT A GLANCE

ITINERARY

WHY NOT WALK?

Walking in the Canadian Rockies Explore on foot instead with our moderate grade walking holiday. explore.co.uk/WRK

DAYS 1–2:

Join trip in Calgary. Head to Canmore, the gateway to the Rockies.

DAY 3:

Explore the lakes and pine forests of Banff National Park. Optional hot springs.

DAY 4:

Visit world-famous Lake Louise – one of Canada’s most photographed natural features.

DAY 5:

Scenic drive along Icefields Parkway to Jasper. Discover the Columbia Icefields and the Athabasca Glacier.

DAY 6:

Spend a full day in Jasper National Park. Explore Maligne Canyon and look out for bear, elk and moose.

DAY 7:

Drive via Spahats Falls and Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Rocky Mountains, to Clearwater.

DAY 8:

Discover Wells Gray Provincial Park including Helmcken Falls. Spot wildlife, or go canoeing on the lakes.

DAYS 9–10:

Journey to the pretty alpine village of Whistler. Take a cable car ride or go hiking on mountain trails.

TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 10 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights comfortable lodge 2 nights comfortable cabins Optional single rooms from £1085

TRANSPORT: Ferry | Minibus MEALS: No meals are included

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Mount Robson 3954m

Wells Gray PP Crook Meadows Helmcken Falls

CLEARWATER

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USA

VICTORIA

VANCOUVER

rk Pa

PACIFIC OCEAN

Nanaimo

Horseshoe Bay

lds

Coastal hikes Optional whale watching or sea kayaking

ALBERTA

ﬁe

PACIFIC RIM NP

Lake Louise

INS TA UN

CANADA

Mount Columbia 3750m

Cheakamus Lake

C RO

WHISTLER MacMillan PP Douglas Firs

Lake Maligne

Ice

Spahats Creek Walk

VANCOUVER ISLAND

JASPER NP

Walks and wildlife

Athabasca Falls

Banﬀ NP Sulphur Mountain 2451m

CALGARY

CANMORE Visit Kananaskis Country

DAY 11: Take a ferry to Vancouver Island and drive to the Pacific Rim National Park’s wild rainforests. DAY 12: Free day on Vancouver Island for optional sea kayaking, whale watching or black bear spotting. DAY 13: Spend a day in coastal Victoria, exploring British Columbia’s provincial capital. DAYS Walking tour of Vancouver, including 14–15: Stanley Park. Trip ends in Vancouver.

explore.co.uk/RK

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – THE AMERICAS

Contrasts of Mexico TRIP CODE - MX | MEXICO, GUATEMALA, BELIZE

A diverse journey through the ancient Maya and Aztec heartland. Travel by boat up jungle-clad rivers and listen for the call of howler monkeys, sample traditional food in Oaxaca, cool off in refreshing waterfalls and discover magnificent ancient sites. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Palenque | Uncover Maya history at these mysterious ruins, shrouded in dense jungle Oaxaca | Wander the streets and markets of this delightful UNESCO World Heritage City Day of the Dead | Experience this iconic festival, with special departures available PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1599pp £2380pp trip only (15 days)

ITINERARY

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

with flights (16 days)

Contrasts of Mexico and Yucatan Peninsula Extension

DAY 1:

Join trip in Mexico City.

DAYS 2–3:

See the city’s highlights including the Anthropological Museum. Visit the Teotihuacan Pyramids.

explore.co.uk/MXY

DAYS 4–5:

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED?

Walking tour of the colonial city of Oaxaca, and the ancient complex of pyramids at Monte Alban.

DAY 6:

Visit the Zapotec site, Mitla, and the 2,000 year old Tule tree en route to the isthmus of Tehuantepec.

DAY 7:

Take a boat trip through the vast Sumidero Canyon. Continue to the highland town of San Cristobal.

DAY 8:

Discover the indigenous village of San Juan Chamula on foot. Explore the colourful markets.

DAYS 9–10:

Travel to the important Maya site of Palenque, covered in rainforest, and bathe in waterfalls.

Spend two nights on idyllic Caye Caulker, Belize, and visit Chichen Itza on the Yucatan Peninsula.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On ACCOMMODATION: 13 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple lodge Optional single rooms from £325

Tastes of Mexico Try homemade tamales and mezcal on this foodie tour of Mexico’s highlights.

TRANSPORT: Bus | Boat

explore.co.uk/MXF

MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 1

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAY 11: Explore Bonampak and Yaxchilan ruins. Discover the well-preserved Maya murals and carvings.

‘Place of the Gods’ Teotihuacan

DAY 12: Continue by bus and boat to the Guatemalan rainforest. Optional boat trip on Lake Peten Itza.

GULF OF MEXICO

MEXICO CITY

Anthropology Museum

MEXICO OAXACA

Mixtec & Zapotec site Mitla

SAN IGNACIO Belize City

Sumidero Canyon

Monte Alban

TEHUANTEPEC PACIFIC OCEAN

01252 883 480

Maya Ruins

PALENQUE

Tikal

SAN CRISTOBAL

Bonampak & Yaxchilan

FLORES

GUATEMALA

BELIZE

DAY 13: Discover the magnificent Maya metropolis of Tikal with its 20 storey high temples and pyramids. DAY 14: Cross the Belize border to San Ignacio and explore the Xunantunich ruins. DAY 15: Drive to Belize City Airport where the trip ends.

explore.co.uk/MX 73

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – THE AMERICAS

Discover Belize TRIP CODE - BL | BELIZE, GUATEMALA

Rich in exotic wildlife, tropical forests, white-sand beaches and lost civilisations, Belize is a diverse pocket of overlooked beauty. Food lovers, wildlife spotters, jungle hikers and beach junkies alike will all find something to love here. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Maya sites | Visit the lesser-known ruins of Xunantunich and Lamanai, and explore the temples of Tikal Belize Barrier Reef | Snorkel in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea Wildlife | Find monkey, toucan, crocodile and many more in diverse natural habitats PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£2099pp £2760pp trip only (13 days)

with flights (14 days)

AT A GLANCE

DAY 1:

Join trip in Belize City.

DAY 2:

Visit the Maya site of Altun Ha and drive to Crooked Tree wetlands for a sunset bird watching cruise.

TRIP PACE: Moderate

DAY 3:

Boat journey along the river to explore the remote jungle ruins of Lamanai, bird watching en route.

4 nights comfortable lodge Optional single rooms from £495

DAYS 4–5:

TRANSPORT: Bus | Boat

Visit a baboon sanctuary before continuing to Placencia. Free time to snorkel off tropical islands.

DAY 6:

Walk the trails of the Cockscomb Jaguar Sanctuary then drive to San Ignacio. Swim at the Blue Hole.

DAY 7:

Explore the Xunantunich archaeological site including the massive pyramid of El Castillo.

DAY 8:

Free day. Visit the impressive botanical gardens, go canoeing or explore the Cahal Pech ruins.

DAYS 9–10:

Discover the great Maya temples of Tikal, Guatemala, that pierce the dense jungle canopy.

ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights comfortable hotel

MEALS: Breakfast: 10 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 2

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

MEXICO

Lamanai Boat to Maya Jungle site

Altun Ha Temple of the Sun

CAYE CAULKER

CROOKED TREE

Coral reef

Wildlife Sanctuary

Maya city

TIKAL

Community Baboon Sanctuary

SAN IGNACIO

bird watching Xunantunich ‘El Castillo’

GUATEMALA Caracol

Hu m Higmingb hw ird ay Cockscomb Jaguar Reserve Forest trails

BELIZE

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BELIZE CITY

Blue Hole

DAY 11: Return to Belize City. Take a short boat ride to the idyllic Caribbean island of Caye Caulker. DAY 12: Relax on the island. Spot manatee at Goff’s Caye, or take a trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, one of the best snorkelling spots in Belize. DAY 13: Trip ends on Caye Caulker.

PLACENCIA

Beach

explore.co.uk/BL

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – THE AMERICAS

Cuba Libre! TRIP CODE - CL | CUBA

In timeless Cuba, fifties-style American cadillacs roll through faded colonial streets, while in the music halls rum flows freely. Beyond the island’s cities, find wild landscapes as well as the endless blue of the Caribbean Sea. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Trinidad | Music bursts from every corner of this colonial town; explore it from a homestay Escambray Mountains | Swim in fresh water pools and camp out under the stars Revolutionary history | Visit Castro’s mountain hideout and the Bay of Pigs museum PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1575pp £2260pp trip only (15 days)

ITINERARY

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED?

The Best of Western Cuba

with flights (16 days)

If you’re short on time, this eight-day trip covers the highlights of Havana, Trinidad and the coast.

AT A GLANCE

explore.co.uk/CN

TRIP PACE: Full On ACCOMMODATION: 10 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights comfortable casa particular 2 nights simple camping Optional single rooms from £370

TRANSPORT: Bus MEALS: Breakfast: 14 | Lunch: 3 | Dinner: 2

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

HAVANA City tour

VINALES

Caves, walks & tobacco farms

ATLANTIC OCEAN SANTA CLARA

Soroa

CUBA

Visit Che’s Mausoleum

Cueva de los Peces

Hikes in the Guamuhaya Massif Bay of Pigs

TRINIDAD TOPES DE Colonial COLLANTES architecture

SANTA LUCIA

Golden sand beaches

CAMAGUEY

Lively colonial town

CARIBBEAN SEA

Holguin Santo Domingo Comandancia de la Plata Castro’s & Che’s refuge

SANTIAGO DE CUBA City tour

01252 883 480

DAYS 1–2:

Join trip in Havana and experience the faded colonial splendour of Cuba’s capital.

DAY 3:

Drive to Vinales and explore the dramatic limestone landscape and tobacco fields on foot.

DAY 4:

Visit the paradise orchid gardens at Soroa and continue to Santa Clara via the Che Memorial.

DAY 5:

Travel to Camaguey via Che Guevara’s Mausoleum.

DAY 6:

Free time to explore Camaguey before driving to the picturesque Sierra Maestra Mountains.

DAY 7:

Trek through the jungle to the site of Castro’s rebel headquarters, Comandancia de la Plata.

DAYS 8–9:

Explore Santiago de Cuba on foot and drive to Trinidad via the beach at Santa Lucia.

DAY 10: Walking tour through the narrow streets and twisting alleyways of colonial Trinidad. DAY 11: Drive to the Escambray Mountains and walk to waterfalls, stopping for a dip. Camp out in haciendas. DAY 12: Walk to La Batata and El Altar caves, spotting bird en route. Overnight camp. DAY 13: Visit the museum dedicated to the Bay of Pigs and swim in a cenote (limestone cave). DAYS 14–15:

Free day to explore Havana where the trip ends.

explore.co.uk/CL 75

everywhere! Beautiful hummingbirds “ Birds in the cloud forest – amazing being in the clouds as the mist filtered through the forest trees. Trusted Customer, Feb 2020

RED-EYED TREE FROG | COSTA RICA

”

76 01252 000 000

explore.co.uk

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – THE AMERICAS

Costa Rica Wildlife Tour TRIP CODE - CC | COSTA RICA

For a tiny country, Costa Rica packs a huge wildlife punch. Spot sloth lounging in the forest and take a beach walk on the lookout for turtles. Taste local food at a finca, tour a chocolate plantation, and peer into the Poas Volcano. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Tortuguero | Cruise the jungle waterways and explore the rainforest of this ‘mini Amazon’ Rafting | Whitewater raft through rainforest on the Pacuare River Manuel Antonio | Share the white-sand beaches with capuchin monkey and iguana PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£2099pp £2719pp trip only (15 days)

with flights (16 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate

ITINERARY

WHY NOT CYCLE?

Cycle Costa Rica

DAY 1: Join trip in San Jose.

Explore on two wheels instead with our easy to moderate grade cycling holiday.

DAY 2: Walk to the volcanic crater of Poas and try out traditional oxcart painting.

explore.co.uk/CCR

DAYS 3–4:

Discover the Savegre Cloud Forest and spend time searching for the famous quetzal on the forest trails.

DAYS 5–6:

Drive to Turrialba. Eat at a traditional finca and whitewater raft on the forest-covered Pacuare River.

ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable lodge 5 nights comfortable hotel 3 nights premium hotel Optional single rooms from £665

DAY 7: Journey by bus and boat to Tortuguero National Park wetlands, often described as a ‘mini Amazon’.

TRANSPORT: Bus | Boat MEALS: Breakfast: 14 | Lunch: 4 | Dinner: 3 CARIBBEAN SEA

NICARAGUA

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

TORTUGUERO NP

LA FORTUNA

SARAPIQUI

Arenal 1633m

NICARAGUA COSTA RICA

Arenal 1633m

CARIBBEAN SEA

TORTUGUERO NP

Poás

2707m LA FORTUNA

SARAPIQUI

SAN JOSÉ

COSTA RICA

Sea turtles

Rainforest and night walk TURRIALBA

Poás 2707m

MANUEL ANTONIO NP

Sandy SAN beaches JOSÉ

PACIFIC OCEAN

MANUEL ANTONIO NP Sandy beaches

PACIFIC OCEAN

01252 883 480

Sea turtles

Rainforest and night walk

DAY 8: Cruise the jungle waterways searching for wildlife including monkey and toucan. DAY 9: Return by boat to Cano Blanco and drive to Sarapiqui. Take a night walk through the forest. DAY 10: Take a nature walk in the Selva Verde Rainforest Reserve. Drive to Arenal. DAY 11: Free day to explore Arenal’s National Park. Discover waterfalls and wildlife in the shadow of Arenal’s conical volcano.

Cloud forest and quetzal spotting

DAY 12: Walk the beautiful trails of the Carara Biological Reserve and drive to Manuel Antonio.

SAN GERARDO DE DOTA

DAYS Relax on the white-sand beaches 13–14: of Manuel Antonio National Park, snorkel or look for sloth in the park.

SAN GERARDO DE DOTA TURRIALBA

Cloud forest and quetzal spotting

DAY 15: Drive back to San Jose International Airport where the trip ends.

explore.co.uk/CC 77

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – THE AMERICAS

Contrasts of Colombia TRIP CODE - BCO | COLOMBIA

Rich in culture, with vast biodiversity and a notoriously friendly population, a journey through Colombia is full of contrasts. Sampling traditional Andean dishes in Salento, discovering Cartagena’s cobbled backstreets and sailing on Lake Guatape are all part of this diverse trip. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Cocora Valley | Walk amid giant wax palms and take a cooking class with a local chef Medellin | Discover how this diverse city has emerged from its dangerous past Tayrona National Park | Hike through vivid green forest to beautiful Caribbean beaches PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£2299pp £3065pp trip only (13 days)

with flights (15 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 9 nights comfortable hotel

ITINERARY

FESTIVAL DEPARTURE

Medellin Flower Festival

DAY 1:

Join trip in Bogota.

Travel in August and experience the Silleteros Parade, where enormous, colourful flower arrangements are carried through the city.

DAY 2:

Visit the Gold Museum, taste tropical fruits at Paloquemao market and take a cable car up Mount Monserrate.

For more details please refer to our website.

3 nights comfortable hacienda Optional single rooms from £475 TRANSPORT: Bus | Flight | Boat | 4WD

SANTA MARTA

MEALS: Breakfast: 12 | Lunch: 3 | Dinner: 1

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Colonial gem

CARIBBEAN SEA

COLOMBIA

Boat trip on the Lake

Cartel history and modern design

ARMENIA

‘The Coﬀee Region’

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Fly to Armenia, in the heart of the coffee region.

DAY 4:

Walk amid the wax palms of the Cocora Valley and eat a typical lunch in colourful Salento.

DAY 5:

Create traditional Andean dishes with a local chef and sample Colombian coffee at a nearby plantation.

DAY 6:

Fly to Medellin and explore this exciting and diverse city on foot and by cable car.

DAY 7:

Free day in Medellin. Choose to discover the city’s street art scene.

DAY 8:

Discover the colourful lakeside town of Guatape and climb El Penol for magnificent views of the lake.

DAY 9:

Fly to Santa Marta on the Caribbean coast.

DAY 10: Full day visit to Tayrona National Park. Hike through lush forest to Caribbean beaches.

GUATAPE

Walks in the Cocora Valley

DAY 3:

Tayrona National Park Forest and Coastal Hikes

CARTAGENA

MEDELLIN

BOGOTA

Gold museum and cable car

DAY 11: Drive to colonial Cartagena, home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. DAYS 12–13:

Explore the cobbled streets by bus and on foot. Trip ends in Cartagena.

explore.co.uk/BCO

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – THE AMERICAS

Volcanoes and Galapagos TRIP CODE - GPS | ECUADOR, THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

Discover the spectacular highlights and fascinating cultural blend of mainland Ecuador, before exploring the ‘enchanted isles’ of the Galapagos. Experience this wildlife paradise from a different perspective, staying on land on Santa Cruz and Isabela islands. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Avenue of the Volcanoes | Hike under the snow-capped cone of Cotopaxi Volcano Mindo Cloud Forest | Spot hummingbird and visit a community project Galapagos | Get up close to Darwinian wildlife on these paradise islands PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£2799pp £3699pp trip only (15 days)

with flights (17 days)

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 9 nights comfortable hotel

ITINERARY

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

Ecuador Amazon Extension

DAY 1:

Spend three nights in a jungle lodge spotting wildlife and learning about Ecuador’s indigenous Quichua community.

Join trip in Tumbaco, near Quito’s airport.

DAY 2:

Drive into rural Ecuador. Experience bustling Otavalo Market and see condor at a sanctuary.

explore.co.uk/AE

DAY 3:

Walk around Cuicocha Lake and share a traditional lunch in an indigenous community.

DAYS 4–5:

Spot butterfly, orchid and hummingbird at the Mindo Cloud Forest Reserve.

DAY 6:

Return to Quito and discover the colonial capital with its splendid churches and cobbled plazas.

DAYS 7–8:

Hike in the Cotopaxi National Park before flying to the Galapagos. Search for giant tortoise in Santa Cruz.

DAY 9:

Sail to volcanic Isabela Island. Walk through wetlands to a turtle breeding centre.

4 nights comfortable lodge 1 night comfortable hostel Optional single rooms from £380

TRANSPORT: Bus | Boat | Flight MEALS: Breakfast: 14 | Lunch: 3

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Peguche Laguna Cuicocha

GALAPAGOS

OTAVALO

Indigenous Market

MINDO

ECUADOR

GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

ECUADOR

(ECUADOR)

Cloudforest & hummingbirds

ISLA BALTRA

Sierra Negra Volcano hike

PUERTO VILLAMIL Snorkelling

01252 883 480

Lake Limpiopungo Cotopaxi 5897m

ISLA NORTH SEYMOUR

ISLA ISABELA

QUITO

ISLA SANTA CRUZ

From Quito to Guayaquil Plaza Sur Sea lions

PUERTO AYORA

Charles Darwin !;v;-u1_ "|-ঞom

DAY 10: Hike the Sierra Negra Volcano to admire panoramas of the islands. Afternoon snorkelling excursion. DAYS 11–12:

DAY 13: View the turtle nesting ground at Tortuga Bay and the Charles Darwin Research Station. DAYS 14–15:

From

GALAPAGOS

Yachting trips to spot wildlife such as land iguana, sea lion, Galapagos penguin and blue-footed booby.

Return to the mainland. Choose to take a guided city tour of Guayaquil where the trip ends.

GUAYAQUIL

explore.co.uk/GPS 79

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – THE AMERICAS

Classic Peru TRIP CODE - PS | PERU

The awe-inspiring Machu Picchu is Peru’s major draw, but there is much more to this diverse country. Sail on the vast Lake Titicaca, watch condor wheel over the Colca Canyon and share a home-cooked meal in the Sacred Valley on this journey through ancient lands. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Lake Titicaca | Enjoy local hospitality in a homestay on this magnificent lake Misminay | Stargaze with this indigenous community in the Sacred Valley Inti Raymi | Witness the Inca Festival of the Sun on our special June departure PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1699pp £2660pp trip only (14 days)

ITINERARY

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

Peru Amazon Extension

with flights (16 days)

Take a boat into the Peruvian Amazon and spend three nights at a jungle lodge.

AT A GLANCE

explore.co.uk/AMZ

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

LIMA Apurim ac

PERU

Sacred Valley of the Incas

AGUAS Madre de Dio s CALIENTES OLLANTAYTAMBO

Machu Picchu

THE ANDES

CUSCO

Andahuaylillas

La Raya 4321m Cruz del Condor

Colca n Canyo

CHIVAY

Juliaca

AREQUIPA

Fly to Arequipa. Free afternoon to explore the cobbled streets of this beautiful colonial city.

DAY 3:

Visit the fascinating 500 yearold Santa Catalina Convent, an enormous citadel within the city.

DAYS 4–5:

Drive north to the altiplano. Visit Colca Canyon and spot the Andean condor flying overhead.

DAY 6:

Boat trip on Lake Titicaca to explore the floating Uros islands. Homestay on Taquile island.

DAY 7:

Visit the nearby Inca ruins before returning to Puno by boat and taking a trip to the local markets.

DAY 8:

Journey over high Andean passes and past Inca sites to reach the Sacred Valley.

DAY 9:

Free day. Go whitewater rafting or visit the Maras and Moray salt terraces. Dinner and stargazing evening in the Sacred Valley.

DAY 11: Free time in Aguas Calientes. Opt to revisit the site or hike up Huayna Picchu. Train and bus to Cusco.

Raqchi

PACIFIC OCEAN

Join trip in Lima.

DAY 2:

DAY 10: Travel to the ancient mystical site of Machu Picchu by train and bus. Explore on foot with a local guide.

Sacred Valley

Walking tour

DAY 1:

TAQUILE ISLAND

Lake Titicaca

PUNO Uros

Islands

DAYS Walking tour of the city. Visit the 12–13 : Sacsayhuaman Fortress and the Inca Temple of the Sun. DAY 14: Trip ends in Cusco.

Santa Catalina Convent

80 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/PS

CLASSIC DISCOVERY – THE AMERICAS

Adventures in Patagonia TRIP CODE - PA | ARGENTINA, CHILE

Patagonia is home to some of the most spectacular landscapes on earth, full of emerald lakes fed by icy glaciers and towering mountain ranges home to guanaco and vicuna. End your day with a glass of malbec surrounded by the region’s towering scenery. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Perito Moreno | Witness the might of nature at this magnificent glacier Torres del Paine | Walk among the glacial lakes of this immense national park Iguazu Falls | Extend your trip and spend two days at these mighty waterfalls PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£2999pp £3845pp trip only (14 days)

ITINERARY

WHY NOT WALK?

Trek Patagonia - Fitz Roy and Torres del Paine

with flights (16 days)

Explore on foot instead with our moderate to challenging grade walking holiday.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate

DAY 1:

Join trip in Buenos Aires.

DAY 2:

Tour of Argentina’s eclectic capital, including La Recoleta Cemetery. Optional tango show.

explore.co.uk/TPF

ACCOMMODATION: 13 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £1035

TRANSPORT: Bus | Ferry | Flight MEALS:

DAY 3:

Fly to Ushuaia. Free afternoon. Set sail to see glaciers or penguin in the Beagle Channel.

DAY 4:

Walk coastal trails in Tierra del Fuego National Park. Discover its forests, lakes and wildlife.

DAYS 5–6:

Travel by bus and ferry to Punta Arenas in Chile. Continue to Torres del Paine National Park.

DAY 7:

Experience breathtaking glaciers, waterfalls, lakes and jagged mountain peaks.

DAY 8:

Nature walks with stunning views of Lake Pehoe. Zodiac trip to Serrano Glacier available.

DAY 9:

Drive to El Calafate, gateway to Los Glaciares National Park.

Breakfast: 13 | Dinner: 3

PACIFIC OCEAN

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

ARGENTINA

CHILE

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Mt Fitzroy 3375m

EL CHALTEN CALAFATE TORRES DEL PAINE NP TIERRA DEL FUEGO PUNTA ARENAS USHUAIA CAPE HORN

01252 883 480

URUGUAY

BUENOS AIRES

DAY 10: View the incredible Perito Moreno Glacier. Opportunity to trek on the ice or take a boat ride up close to the glacier face. DAY 11: Drive to El Chalten. Spot wildlife in the Huemul Reserve, or hike to the Vespignani Glacier lookout. DAY 12: Hike to the base of the Fitz Roy Massif for spectacular views. DAYS 13–14:

Fly to Buenos Aires where the trip ends.

explore.co.uk/PA 81

Introducing

Polar voyages Responsible sailing We select partners who subscribe to the highest environmental and safety guidelines. Our Polar voyage partners lead the way in operating ships and shore excursions in full compliance with the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) guidelines, as well as the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO). On board, you will find strong emphasis placed on environmental guidelines and wider discussions facing these fragile environments. Sustainability lies at our heart and these Polar expeditions are no exception. For more information on our sustainability strategy, visit explore.co.uk/sustainability

Travel with specialists While you’re in the Arctic or Antarctica, you’ll be wowed by the wildlife, scenery and history of the region. All of our polar ships have a team of on-board expedition staff who’ll make this incredible journey with you, bringing nature to life and sharing their expert knowledge and years of experience in the polar regions. In addition, some of our voyages have a specific photography focus, with one-to-one tuition and photography workshops available, to give you tips on how to deal with the tricky light conditions in these regions.

82 01252 883 480

These are the most awe-inspiring and rewarding journeys you will ever make. If you enjoy wildlife and wilderness, and you’re looking for an experience unlike any other, the polar regions should not be missed. Choose from the Arctic – home to polar bear and walrus – or Antarctica, for its towering icebergs and busy penguin rookeries. To view our full range of Polar voyages go to www.explore.co.uk/polar

Small ships Travelling on a small ship means you’ll spend less time waiting to embark or disembark and can get much closer to the shoreline. Life on board is relaxed and informal; you’ll receive a more personalised service from expert guides and get to know your like-minded fellow passengers.

Life on-board Your day will generally start with a breakfast wake-up call at around 7am. We aim to make two landings a day and your captain will ensure the schedule, landings and Zodiac excursions are in tune with the wildlife, your route and variable weather conditions. During your voyage you can spend time on the bridge, talking to the ship’s crew about polar navigation, observe the passing scenery on deck, read in the library, or, where there is one, exercise in the on-board gym. Lunch and dinner are served in the dining room, and there’s usually an after-dinner lecture before you retire to your cabin or the bar.

explore.co.uk 83

to Antarctica Welcome to the pinnacle of expedition travel – Antarctica. It’s a place of extremes, where the wildlife and landscape paint a picture like nowhere else in the world. This year we have four new Polar voyages joining our collection of adventures. So grab your jacket, it’s time to explore Antarctica aboard the M/S Ocean Endeavour.

VOUR

/S OC M

END EA

N A E

high staff to passenger ratios dual gangway for quick disembarkation large deck with 360° views

ANTARCTIC PENINSULA | ANTARCTICA | EXPLORE.CO.UK/OECA

Adventures

ARGENTINA AND ANTARCTICA

Antarctic Circle Join a team of Antarctic experts and WWF-Australia scientists as they share their insights into whale conservation while conducting cutting edge research on these underwater giants. Explore on foot and by Zodiac, to encounter penguin rookeries and spot leopard seal.

explore.co.uk/OEAC

ARGENTINA AND ANTARCTICA

Classic Antarctica Amid the Antarctic’s barren beauty you may well encounter orca, humpback whale, seal and penguin. Explore the ice-filled waters by Zodiac, then set foot on the rock and ice that makes up this mysterious continent.

explore.co.uk/OECA

ARGENTINA AND ANTARCTICA

The Antarctic Peninsula and Weddell Sea Sail through sweeping landscapes and channels navigated only a few times per year. Marvel at giant tabular icebergs, before returning to the more familiar shores of the western coastline.

explore.co.uk.uk/OEWS

ARGENTINA, ANTARCTICA , FALKLANDS AND SOUTH GEORGIA

Antarctica, Falklands and South Georgia An epic adventure across the depths of the Drake Passage awaits. The destination? The awe-inspiring Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. Discover just how impressive Shackleton’s journey was and expect some memorable wildlife encounters along the way.

explore.co.uk.uk/OESG

To view our full range of exciting Polar expeditions and offers, visit explore.co.uk/polar

86 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk

WADI SHAB | OMAN | EXPLORE.CO.UK/WOM

Contents Introduction What to expect from a Walking holiday

88–89

Choose your Walking grade and trip

90–91

Europe Croatia

101

Cyprus

103

Malta

99 97

Northern Cyprus

102

Poland

100

Portugal

92–94

Spain

95–96

Turkey

104

Middle East Jordan

105

Oman

106

Africa Morocco

107

Tanzania

108

Asia Azerbaijan

110

Georgia

109

Nepal

111

The Americas Argentina

113

Chile

113

Peru

112

Self-Guided Walking trips Choose to go Self-Guided

01252 883 480

114–115

Walking

Italy

explore.co.uk 87

What to expect from a

Walking Nothing gets you closer to a country than walking through it, and we’ve got trips to suit walkers of all levels and interests.

How fit do I need to be? All our Walking holidays are graded from ‘Easy’ through to ‘Challenging to Tough’. On our online trip pages you’ll find a chart showing the daily walk distances, timings and information on the route including the terrain, ascents and descents. Generally, no specific training is needed but you might feel more comfortable if you’ve got out walking a few times in the lead-up to your trip. For more information on walking grades, see page 90.

What will the group be like? As with all our trips, every group is different but the ‘average’ group consists of roughly half couples and half solo travellers - all sharing a passion for exploring the world on foot. You’ll always have someone to keep you company along the route, but you don’t always have to walk together. Wherever possible your Explore leader will allow everyone to walk at their own pace, regrouping regularly along the route.

88 01252 883 480

holiday Will I need to walk every day? Typically, we select the very best walks in a country or region, include any must-see sights along the way and also build in some free time. Some of our most popular European trips are Centre-Based. This relaxed style of holiday involves staying in one place and getting to know the area in greater depth. It’s very flexible and you can choose to do as many (or few) of the walks as you like. We also have Point-toPoint trips where almost the entire journey is on foot and you’ll need to take part in all the walks.

What about the logistics? On nearly all our Walking trips, your main luggage will be transported for you, so you’re free to walk with a light rucksack. We recommend you carry water, snacks, a camera, a small first aid kit and any extra clothing or sun protection. On more remote or challenging treks, additional guides are there to assist the leader and provide support to the group.

explore.co.uk 89

Choosing your

Walking holiday Our walks and treks are all graded by difficulty taking into consideration the daily distances covered, the terrain, ascents and descents, climate and altitude. The Trip Notes on our website contain detailed information about what to expect to help you choose a trip which suits your fitness and experience level.

Walking grades 1

EASY

EASY TO MODERATE

MODERATE

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING

CHALLENGING

CHALLENGING TO TOUGH

Good paths, low altitude and undemanding terrain, with plenty of non-walking time in the itinerary. Ideal for those in good health who can walk three to five hours in a day. Previous walking experience is not necessary.

Expect a mix of easy and moderate walks on fairly good paths at low altitude, with some more demanding ascents and descents to spice it up just a little.

With generally good paths at low altitude (mainly below 2,500m), this is best for fit and active people who can walk three to seven hours a day with some demanding ascents and descents.

Combining moderate walks with some challenging hikes and demanding treks on difficult terrain or at higher altitudes, this is perfect for fit walkers who want to challenge themselves.

Trekking days are generally between six to eight hours, with some long, steep ascents and descents, sometimes at high altitude and on difficult terrain. A good fitness level and previous trekking experience is recommended.

Difficult terrain often at high altitudes and long trekking days (sometimes over nine hours). Requires a high level of fitness and you should be a confident, experienced trekker.

Small group experiences Here’s a summary of all the Walking trips we offer and where to find out more. We’ve included some of our favourites on the following pages, but you’ll find our full programme on our website. COUNTRIES

TRIP NAME

POINT-TOPOINT

CENTREBASED

DAYS

FIND OUT MORE

EXPLORE.CO.UK/SCU

EASY CUBA

WALKING IN CUBA

ESTONIA - LATVIA - LITHUANIA

WALK ESTONIA, LATVIA AND LITHUANIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/ELL

INDONESIA

WALK INDONESIA - JAVA AND BALI

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WJB

ITALY

A TASTE OF ITALY - WALKING IN EMILIA ROMAGNA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/TOER

ITALY

A TASTE OF ITALY - WALKING IN PUGLIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/TOP

MOROCCO

WALKING IN MOROCCO - ATLAS TO ATLANTIC

EXPLORE.CO.UK/MAA

NEW ZEALAND

WALKING IN NEW ZEALAND

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WZN

PORTUGAL

 BEST SELLER WALKING IN PORTUGAL - EASTERN ALGARVE

SPAIN - PORTUGAL

WALKS AND WINE TASTING IN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL

90 01252 883 480



EXPLORE.CO.UK/WIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/MWW

PAGE

COUNTRIES

TRIP NAME

POINT-TOPOINT

CENTREBASED

DAYS

FIND OUT MORE

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WAM

PAGE

EASY TO MODERATE ARMENIA

WALKING IN ARMENIA

AZERBAIJAN

AZERBAIJAN CAUCASUS WALKING

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WAZ

GREECE

GREEK CRUISE AND ISLAND WALKING

EXPLORE.CO.UK/GCW

INDIA

WALKING IN RAJASTHAN

EXPLORE.CO.UK/RVT

ITALY

LAKE COMO WALKING

ITALY

SOUTHERN TUSCANY WALKING AND WINE



EXPLORE.CO.UK/LC

EXPLORE.CO.UK/LTY

ITALY

 BEST SELLER AMALFI COAST WALKING



EXPLORE.CO.UK/NAW

ITALY

WALKING IN SICILY



EXPLORE.CO.UK/SIT

MONTENEGRO - CROATIA

WALKING MONTENEGRO AND THE CROATIAN ISLANDS

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WCM

NEPAL - BHUTAN

WALKING IN BHUTAN

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WBHU

NORTH CYPRUS

 BEST SELLER WALKING IN NORTHERN CYPRUS

PORTUGAL (AZORES)

 BEST SELLER WALKING IN THE AZORES

PORTUGAL

 BEST SELLER WALKING IN PORTUGAL - REMOTE COASTAL TRAILS

SLOVENIA SPAIN (CANARY ISLANDS)

110

EXPLORE.CO.UK/LNC

EXPLORE.CO.UK/AZ



EXPLORE.CO.UK/POR

WALKING IN SLOVENIA



EXPLORE.CO.UK/WSO

CANARY ISLANDS WALKING - LANZAROTE



EXPLORE.CO.UK/LZT

TURKEY

WALKING TURKEY’S TURQUOISE COAST



EXPLORE.CO.UK/WTC

VIETNAM

WALKING IN VIETNAM

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WVN

UNITED KINGDOM

WALK NORTHUMBERLAND



EXPLORE.CO.UK/WNU

UNITED KINGDOM

WALKING SCOTLAND’S ORKNEY ISLANDS



EXPLORE.CO.UK/ORK



102

MODERATE ALBANIA

WALKING ALBANIA

ANDORRA

WALKING IN THE ANDORRAN PYRENEES

CANADA CHINA COSTA RICA - NICARAGUA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/ALW

EXPLORE.CO.UK/PAW

WALKING IN THE CANADIAN ROCKIES

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WRK

 BEST SELLER WALK THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/WG

HIKING IN COSTA RICA AND NICARAGUA

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MODERATE TO CHALLENGING ARGENTINA - CHILE

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CHALLENGING TO TOUGH TANZANIA

explore.co.uk 91

WALKING – EUROPE

Walking in the Azores

TRIP CODE - AZ | PORTUGAL (AZORES)

Discover the best of five unspoilt Azores islands; Sao Miguel, Terceira, Sao Jorge, Flores and Faial. This gentle walking holiday explores the beautiful and varied landscapes; crater lakes, extinct volcanoes, vineyards, thermal springs and craggy coastlines. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Sete Cidades | Crater walk with stunning views of the twin blue and green lakes Whale watching | Opportunity to take a boat trip alongside whales and dolphins Faja dos Cubres | Follow a hydrangea lined path down to this unique lagoon PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

DAILY DISTANCES

£1980pp £2360pp trip only (14 days)

Day 2

with flights (14 days)

ITINERARY

8km

2.5hrs

DAY 1:

6.5km

2.5hrs

DAY 2: Walk around Sete Cidades colourful crater lakes.

Day 3 Day 4

AT A GLANCE

Day 5 Day 6

WALKING GRADE:

13km

5hrs

Day 8

12.5km

4hrs

Day 9

7.5km

Day 10

12km

Day 11

12.5km

3.5hrs

Day 12

3.5km

1.5hrs

Day 13

5.5km

2.5hrs

Day 7

Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 9 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights premium hotel 2 nights simple hotel Optional single rooms from £520 MEALS: Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 1

Optional Walks

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Visit the natural ovens, hot springs and botanical garden of Furnas.

DAY 4:

Free day to explore more of the island on and off shore. Optional whale watching.

DAY 5:

Fly to Santa Cruz, Flores Island.

DAY 6: Full day walk from Lajedo to Fajo Gorge. DAY 7: Fly to Terceira Island. Visit the old town of Angra do Heroismo. Option to visit Algar do Carvao caves. DAY 8: Walk to Biscoitos. Chance to swim in lava rock pools and visit the wine museum. DAY 9: Fly to Sao Jorge Island. Explore the small harbour town of Velas.

FLORES ISLAND ATLANTIC OCEAN

DAY 10: Walk down Caldeira de Cima Gorge and follow the coastline to Faja dos Cubres.

Quatro Ribeiras

Biscoitos

PRAIA DA VITORIA

Caves

Caldeira 1043m

DAY 3:

2.5hrs 4hrs

Join trip in Ponta Delgada.

VELAS FAIAL

Optional Walk

SAO JORGE

AZORES

DAY 11: Free day to explore the island. DAY 12: Take the ferry to Faial Island.

Angra

TERCEIRA

DAY 13: Walk at the caldeira of Capelinhos volcano.

(Portugal)

HORTA SAO MIGUEL Sete Cidades Crater lakes

DAY 14: Trip ends in Horta, Faial Island.

Furnas Lake

PONTA DELGADA

92 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/AZ

WALKING – EUROPE

Walking in Madeira

TRIP CODE - TM | PORTUGAL (MADEIRA)

Following Madeira’s unique network of levadas and ancient footpaths, this trip discovers the many different sides to this beautiful volcanic island. Walk through laurel forest, along cliff tops to the Ponta de São Lourenço and past alluring waterfalls. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Levada paths | Variety of picturesque walks along irrigation channels Spectacular mountain views | Walking the path between the peaks of Arieiro and Ruivo Funchal | Absorb the delights of the laid-back capital PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£775pp

ITINERARY

£985pp

trip only (8 days)

DAY 1: J oin trip in Funchal, Madeira’s capital on the island’s south coast.

with flights (8 days)

xplore the spectacular volcanic cliff DAY 2: E paths along São Lourenço Peninsula.

AT A GLANCE

alk through UNESCO-protected DAY 3: W forest along a levada to Caldeira Verde waterfall. Descend to Ilha. Overnight at Porto Moniz on the north coast.

WALKING GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £185

MEALS: Breakfast: 7

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

8km

0.5km

3hrs/20min

Day 3

12.5km

5hrs

Day 4

12km

5hrs

Day 5

10km

4.5hrs

11km

5.5hrs

Day 6 Day 7

PORTO MONIZ Faja da Ovelha

MADEIRA Optional Walks (Portugal)

SANTANA

Baia d’Abra

MADEIRA Ilha

Machico (Portugal) PORTO MONIZQueimadas PAUL Achada do DO Rabaçal Baia Teixeira Faja da SANTANA MAR d’Abra 1542m Ovelha Ariero São Ilha Pico Ruivo Prazeres 1818m Lourenço Machico 1862m Boca PAUL Queimadas Peninsula Achada do Corrida DO Rabaçal Teixeira Airport MARATLANTIC 1542m Ariero São FUNCHAL Pico Ruivo Prazeres 1818m OCEAN Lourenço

Boca Corrida

ATLANTIC OCEAN

01252 883 480

1862m

ollow Levada do Alecrim from DAY 4: F Rabaçal to Risco Waterfall. njoy stunning coastal views DAY 5: E on a walk along Calheta Levada and descend on historic path to Paul do Mar. rientation tour of Funchal. DAY 6: O Opportunity to go whale and dolphin spotting, wine tasting or relax and explore the old town further. alk from Pico Arieiro via part DAY 7: W of the Balcony Walk to the summit of Pico Ruivo (1,862m). DAY 8: Trip ends in Funchal.

Peninsula

Airport

FUNCHAL

explore.co.uk/TM 93

WALKING – EUROPE

Walking in Portugal - Remote Coastal Trails

TRIP CODE - POR | PORTUGAL

Based in the small town of Sagres, this holiday explores an unspoilt corner of Portugal. Follow coastal paths to discover impressive cliff tops and quiet sandy beaches. Sample delicious seafood and crisp wines in the evening. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Cabo Sao Vicente | Walk the long distance Rota Vicentina path Ponta de Piedade | Dramatic rocky coastline, rock arch and turquoise seas Seven Hanging Valleys trail | Explore hidden beaches, coves and limestone stacks on this coastal walk PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£830pp

trip only (8 days)

ITINERARY

£1075pp

DAY 1:

with flights (8 days)

DAY 2: Hike from Carrapateira along the coast and inland through the hills to pretty Bordeira.

AT A GLANCE WALKING GRADE: Easy to Moderate

DAY 3: Walk along the coast path from Marinha to Carvoeiro beach. Take a dip in the sea to cool off after the walk.

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £120 MEALS:

DAILY DISTANCES

DAY 4:

Day 2

13km

4hrs

Day 3

12km

3.5hrs

Centre-Based

Day 4

14km

4.5hrs

Day 5

9km

3.5hrs

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 6

16km

4.5hrs

Day 7

10km

3hrs

Breakfast: 7



Optional Walks

Carrapateira

Praia Castelejo Cabo de Sao Vicente

SAGRES

94 01252 883 480

Join trip in Sagres, a small historic coastal town in southwest Portugal.

Follow the last section of Rota Vicentina to Cabo de Sao Vicente, Europe’s most southwesterly point.

DAY 5: Free day. Opportunity to go dolphin watching, explore further on foot or relax on a local beach. DAY 6:

Coastal walk from Burgau to Lagos via the interesting rock formations at Ponta da Piedade.

DAY 7:

Walk along the coast to the beautiful and quiet beach of Praia do Zavial.

DAY 8:

Trip ends in Sagres.

Bordeira

PORTUGAL Vila do Bispo

Praia da Ingrina

Seven Hanging Valley’s walk To/From Faro Airport

Lagos Burgau

Farol da Ponta da Piedade

Seven Hanging Valley’s walk

explore.co.uk/POR

WALKING – EUROPE

Canary Islands Walking - La Gomera & Tenerife

TRIP CODE - OC | SPAIN (CANARY ISLANDS)

This twin-island walking trip in the Canaries explores lesser-known La Gomera and Tenerife’s volcano, Mount Teide. Walk through varied and dramatic scenery including beautiful steep-sided valleys, quiet villages, black sand beaches and verdant cloud forests. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Garajonay National Park | Explore La Gomera’s lush landscape of dense laurel forest Mount Teide | Admire this iconic cone volcano Agulo | Ascend to this charming town perched on a jagged cliff with undisrupted views PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1055pp

ITINERARY

£1290pp

trip only (8 days)

DAY 1:

with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE

DAY 2: Drive to Vallehermoso. Walk through palm groves, past the magnificent Roque Cano to Agulo.

WALKING GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel

DAY 3:

Ascend Alto de Garajonay (1,484m). Hike through the cloud forest of Garajonay National Park.

DAY 4:

alk to Chejelipes via La Laja W village. Views to Los Roques. Free afternoon in San Sebastian.

Optional single rooms from £195

DAILY DISTANCES

MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 1

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 2

15km

4.5hrs

Day 3

15km

4.5hrs

Day 4

12km

3.5hrs

Day 5 Day 6

11km

5hrs

Day 7

11km

3.5hrs

WESTERN CANARY ISLANDS Playa Caleta

Pico de Teide 3,718m Roques de Garcia

LA GOMERA

01252 883 480

alk from Hermigua to the black W volcanic sand beach of Playa Caleta.

Trip ends in San Miguel de Abona.

El Teide National Park

Mount Guajara 2,726m Vilaﬂor

Vallehermosa

Hermigua Alto de SAN SEBASTIAN Garajonay 1,484m El Cedro La Laja Collada Chejelipes de Peraza

DAY 6:

DAY 8:

TENERIFE

Agulo

DAY 5: Free day to relax, explore San Sebastian or enjoy an optional walk to Cabrito Beach.

DAY 7: Ferry back to Tenerife. Scenic hike on Mount Teide around the Roques de Garcia. Drive to coastal hotel.

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Roque Cano

J oin trip in Los Cristianos and take the ferry to the verdant island of La Gomera.

Los Cristianos

Tenerife South Airport

SAN MIGUEL DE ABONA

explore.co.uk/OC 95

WALKING – EUROPE

Walking the Camino de Santiago

TRIP CODE - CDS | SPAIN

Follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims, walking the legendary Camino Frances (French Way) from Leon to Santiago de Compostela. Walk through beautiful scenery and historic towns along the best parts of the route to claim a pilgrim’s certificate. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Cruz de Ferro | The famous Iron Cross at the highest point of the Camino O Cebreiro | Charming mountain village with cobbled streets and valley views Santiago De Compostela | Mix with other pilgrims in this lively historic town PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1395pp £1590pp trip only (12 days)

with flights (12 days)

AT A GLANCE WALKING GRADE: Moderate

Optional single rooms from £310 Breakfast: 11

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

PORTUGAL Vila Real �isit Mateus �alace �optional�

Miranda do Douro

Cape Finisterre Optional excursion

Day 3

16km

4hrs

Day 4

19km

5hrs

Day 5

9km

3hrs

Day 6

El Toro 22km

Day 7

22km

Fornillos

Historic �illage

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Medieval Town �ine �asting

17.5km SPAIN

EL AMENAL

Sepulveda Duraton River Natural Park

7.5hrs 5hrs

DAY 3:

alk the first section of the trail W from Hospital de Orbigo to Astorga.

SARRIA

Ruitelan

MADRID VILLAFRANCA DEL BIERZO Iron Cross

Molinaseca Foncebadon

Cathedral

LEON From Madrid Hospital de Orbigo

Continue through the verdant Galician hills, passing the famous 100km marker.

DAY 7: Cross the last high pass (722m) and descend to Palas de Rei, an important pilgrim town. DAY 8: Continue through rural Galicia. Stop for lunch in Melide, famous for delicious seafood. DAY 9:

Cross the River Iso to Arzua, where the Camino Frances is joined by another camino, the Primitivo.

DAY 10: Get your first view of Santiago Cathedral from Monte Gozo. Walk into the city and claim your pilgrim certificate.

Samos O Cebreiro Monastery

ASTORGA

96 01252 883 480

6hrs

SPAIN

PORTOMARIN PALAS DE REI

6hrs

PEÑAFIEL

Zamora

�ine �asting Arribes del Duero Day 10 Natural Park

LAMEGO

CASTANEDA

5.5hrs

�ine �asting

Day 8 22.5km FERMOSELLE Day 9 27.5km

�ine �asting

SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

rive to the historic city of Leon D and collect pilgrim’s passports.

DAY 6:

DAILY DISTANCES

Point-to-Point

Peso da R�gua

DAY 2:

DAY 5: Walk through the Galician Mountains to the historic village of O Cebreiro.

MEALS:

PORTO

Join trip in Madrid.

DAY 4: Following scallop shell waymarkings, climb to Iron Cross (1,482m), the highest point of the trail.

ACCOMMODATION: 11 nights comfortable hotel



DAY 1:

DAY 11: Guided tour of cathedral. Free time to explore the city’s magnificent architecture. DAY 12: Trip ends in Santiago de Compostela.

explore.co.uk/CDS

WALKING – EUROPE

Malta and Gozo Walking

TRIP CODE - WML | MALTA

A walking holiday on the welcoming islands of Malta and Gozo. Never far from the sea, we hike through a rugged scrub landscape beside dramatic cliffs, past idyllic bays, and along rural inland paths. Discover Malta’s fascinating heritage including medieval Mdina, Roman catacombs and salt pans. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Gozo | Explore the rural beauty and stunning coastline of Malta’s unspoilt sister island Valletta | Admire impressive fortifications, imposing churches and the bustling harbour Megalithic temple | Visit the remarkable bronze-age, UNESCO-listed Hagar Qim temple

PRICES FROM

£895pp

trip only (8 days)

ITINERARY

£1135pp

DAY 1:

with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE

DAY 2: Visit the island’s tiny capital Victoria with its ancient citadel. Coastal walk from Gharb to Marsalforn along limestone cliffs, past pebble-strewn beaches and salt pans.

WALKING GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £85

DAY 3:

MEALS: Breakfast: 7

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

J oin trip at Malta Airport before travelling by bus and ferry to the island of Gozo.

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

15km

5-6hrs

Day 3

14km

5hrs

Day 4

10km

4hrs

Day 6

16km

6hrs

Day 7

16km

6hrs

Day 5

DAY 4: Visit the walled city of Mdina and Roman catacombs at Rabat. Coastal walk ending at the incredible Hagar Qim Megalithic temple complex. DAY 5: Explore UNESCO-listed Valletta and the Three Cities on foot and cruise by traditional Dghajsa boat in the Grand Harbour. DAY 6:

alk from Mgarr to Selmun. W Tower among endemic flora in the garrigue habitat of Majjistral Nature Park.

DAY 7:

ike through seaside villages from H Marsaskala to Birzebbuga with the chance to stop off for a refreshing swim along the way.

DAY 8:

rip ends in the coastal resort of T Sliema.

MARSALFORN

GOZO

Victoria

Mgarr Harbour

Cirkewwa

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

MALTA

SLIEMA Mdina

Valletta Walled Cities of Vittoriosa Cospicua & Senglea

ike from the seaside village of H Xlendi to Mgarr passing ancient sites en route. Ferry back to Malta.

Hagar Qim Temple

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/WML 97

hikes with breathtaking “ Incredible scenery...This was one of the best trips I’ve taken in a long time.

POSITANO | ITALY

Trusted Customer, Apr 2019

”

WALKING – EUROPE

Amalfi Coast Walking

TRIP CODE - NAW | ITALY

A relaxed walking holiday along spectacular Amalfi Coast trails from clifftop hikes to woodland walks. There’s time to discover Amalfi, Positano and the island of Capri. Stay on a peaceful farm overlooking the Mediterranean and enjoy tasty home-cooked meals. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Coastal trails | Five walks including the spectacular ‘Walk of the Gods’ Food and drink | Chance to make your own pizza and sample homemade organic wine Optional trips | Visit Pompeii and climb Mount Vesuvius PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£999pp

trip only (8 days)

ITINERARY

£1275pp

DAY 1:

with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE

DAY 2: Hike along a ridge above the Agerola Plateau, enjoy views of Vesuvius and the Amalfi Coast.

WALKING GRADE: Easy to Moderate

DAY 3:

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable agriturismo Optional single rooms from £275 Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 3 | Dinner: 5

Centre-Based

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

11km

6hrs

Day 3

6km

2.5hrs

Day 4

10km

4hrs

Day 5

13km

6hrs

11km

5hrs

Day 6 Day 7

ITALY

Naples Airport

From Naples airport Optional visit to Vesuvius & Pompeii Amalﬁ Coast

‘Walk of the Gods’ Gulf of Naples Positano

SORRENTO PENINSULA

Capri

01252 883 480

TYRRHENIAN SEA

ITALY

Ferriere Valley National Reserve Pogerola

AGEROLA PLATEAU Bomerano

SAN LAZZARO

Descend on ancient steps through vineyards and lemon groves to the historic port of Amalfi.

DAY 4: Take a ferry to enchanting Capri, walk to a viewpoint and explore the town’s narrow streets.

MEALS:



Join trip at Naples Airport before driving to our family-run agriturismo.

DAY 5: Walk through the Ferriere Natural Park passing waterfalls, rivers and unusual plantlife. DAY 6:

A free day, with the chance to visit the ancient site of Pompeii and climb Mount Vesuvius.

DAY 7: Hike along the ‘Walk of the Gods’, to the colourful cliffside village of Positano. DAY 8:

Trip ends at Naples Airport.

Amalﬁ

ACCOMMODATION Family-run agriturismo Luna d’Agerola is an intimate farm-stay run by three generations of the Acampora family. Located on the cliffs above the Amalfi Coast, it has beautiful en suite rooms with sea views from either a balcony, terrace or window. There’s a lovely terrace where you can relax after a day out on the trail.

explore.co.uk/NAW 99

WALKING – EUROPE

Hiking in the Polish Carpathians

TRIP CODE - WPS | POLAND

This walking holiday visits both the Tatra Mountain range in Poland’s south and the outer Carpathian Mountains in Babia Gora National Park. Explore the dramatic peaks and valleys, turquoise lakes and highlander folk culture of this stunning country. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Krakow | Home to Europe’s largest medieval market square, explore on foot Tatra Mountains | Hike in the stunning Valley of the Five Polish Lakes UNESCO Dunajec Gorge | Walk the Pieniny Way, a spectacular cliff-cut path PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£820pp

ITINERARY

£1035pp

trip only (8 days)

DAY 1: J oin trip in the medieval city of Krakow.

with flights (8 days)

DAY 2: Walking tour of Krakow. Head to Zawoja in the UNESCO-listed Babia Gora National Park. Optional afternoon walk.

AT A GLANCE WALKING GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel

DAILY DISTANCES

1 night comfortable chalet Optional single rooms from £225

MEALS: Breakfast: 7

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 2

2km

1hr

Day 3

14km

Day 4

15km

Day 5

18km

Day 6

14km

3.5hrs

Day 7

15km

5.5hrs

6.5hrs 7.5hrs 4km

Optional Walks

KRAKOW

(Guided walking tour)

Return to

KRAKOW

Babia Gora 1,725m

6/3hrs

DAY 4: D rive to Zverovka in Slovakia, trek though pretty villages and valleys of the Tatra Mountains, crossing back into Poland. Travel on to Zakopane. DAY 5: Walk to Wielki Staw, a natural glacial lake. Option to continue to Kozi Wierch (2,291m) with a mountain guide. DAY 6: Drive to UNESCO-listed Dunajec Gorge. Hike the Pieniny Way through the gorge. Option to travel the route by traditional wooden raft.

From

ZAWOJA

DAY 3: Trek through spruce and pine forests to the summit of Babia Gora ‘witches’ mountain’ (1,725m).

POLAND

SZCZAWNICA Kroscienko Three Crowns viewpoint

DAY 7: Walk to Trzy Korony – the Three Crowns (982m), with stunning views of Dunajec Gorge. Drive to Krakow. DAY 8: Trip ends in Krakow.

Dunajec Gorge

Zverovka

Bobrovecka Pass

ZAKOPANE Palenica Bialczanska

SLOVAKIA

Wielki Staw Lake Kozi Wierch 2,291m

100 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/WPS

WALKING – EUROPE

Walks and Coastal Towns of Croatia

TRIP CODE - CO | CROATIA

Explore Croatia’s national parks on foot; the jagged peaks of Dalmatia, plunging gorges in Paklenica and spectacular waterfalls in Plitvice. Stay in the capital Zagreb and coastal Spilt, wander the maze of cobbled streets past ancient sites. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Plitvice National Park | UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking aquamarine lakes Paklenica National Park | Spectacular coastal and mountain walking Trogir | One of the oldest cities in Croatia, discover its diverse architecture PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£995pp

trip only (8 days)

£1280pp

with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE WALKING GRADE: Moderate

DAILY DISTANCES

ITINERARY

Day 3

14km

5hrs

Day 4

16km

5.5hrs

Day 5

10km

Day 6

18km

5/2hrs

8km

7hrs

Optional Walks

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £210

DAY 1: Join trip in the capital Zagreb. DAY 2: W alking tour of Zagreb. Drive to the beautiful Plitvice National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. njoy walking around breathtaking DAY 3: E lakes and waterfalls in Plitvice. Experience the rich variety of flora in this region.

ZAGREB City tour

rive to Zavizan and walk the DAY 4: D Premuziceva Trail, a hiker’s highlight accessing the most hidden and beautiful parts of Velebit.

MEALS: Breakfast: 7

xplore Paklenica National DAY 5: E Park on foot with a stunning coastal walk. Option to extend the walk into the foothills of the Velebit Mountains.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

CROATIA PLITVICE NATIONAL PARK Lakes and waterfalls walk

Zavizan Premuziceva Trail

BOSNIA HERZEGOVINA

VELIKA PLANA Gorge walk

PAKLENICA NATIONAL PARK Coastal walk

full-day hike in the dramatic DAY 6: A Paklenica Gorge. Lunch at a traditional mountain hut. isit Trogir, one of the oldest cities DAY 7: V in Croatia. Drive to Split, discover the Roman Palace concealed within its modern streets. DAY 8: Trip ends in Split.

Trogir

SPLIT

City tour

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/CO 101

WALKING – EUROPE

Walking in Northern Cyprus

TRIP CODE - LNC | NORTH CYPRUS

Explore one of the most unspoilt regions of the Mediterranean on this walking trip through North Cyprus’ beautiful Besparmak Mountains. Follow quiet, flower-rich mountain trails and discover imposing ruined castles, with stunning cobalt sea backdrops. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Bellapais | Explore the famous 12th century Crusader abbey Mediterranean food | Enjoy the fresh flavours of mezes at local restaurants Buffavento | Spectacular views from this less visited castle PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£595pp

ITINERARY

£885pp

trip only (8 days)

DAY 1: Join trip in Bellapais, near Kyrenia.

with flights (8 days)

DAY 2: V isit Incirli Cave and the Crusader Castle of Kantara. Descend to the coast and Kaplica Beach.

AT A GLANCE

alk through the Besparmak DAY 3: W Mountains to the ruins of Bellapais Abbey. Opportunity to explore Kyrenia town.

WALKING GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £125

isit St. Hilarion Castle. Walk DAY 4: V through the western Besparmak Mountains to the village of Lapta.

MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 5



DAILY DISTANCES

Centre-Based

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 2

7.5km

2hrs

Day 3

12.5km

4hrs

Day 4

10km

4hrs

Day 6

13.5km

4hrs

Day 7

13km

4hrs

MORFU BAY

Day 5

Guzelyurt

Kaplica Beach

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

ree day. Optional trip to Famagusta DAY 5: F including Othello’s Tower and the historical site of Salamis. alk on historic trails from Kalkanli DAY 6: W village through ancient olive groves to the remote west coast. scend to Buffavento Castle with DAY 7: A spectacular views of the island. Walk through the Besparmak Mountain range past ‘The Five Fingered Mountain’. DAY 8: Trip ends in Bellapais.

Gecitkoy

Kyrenia Lapta Kozan Kyparissovouno BELLAPAIS Abbey 1024m St Hilarion Buﬀavento Castle Kalkanli Castle

954m

Panayia Plataniotissa

Olympus 740m

Kantara Castle

Incirli Cave

BESPARMAK MOUNTAIN RANGE

CYPRUS

102 01252 883 480

Airport

CYPRUS (NORTH)

Salamis Optional visit Famagusta Optional visit

explore.co.uk/LNC

WALKING – EUROPE

Walking in Cyprus

TRIP CODE - CY | CYPRUS

Cyprus is a beautiful island to visit year round. Discover its varied landscapes, rich cultural heritage and colourful wild flowers while hiking in the Troodos Mountains and on the remote coastal Akamas Peninsula. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Troodos Mountains | Traditional mountain villages and pine scented forests Wildlife | Over 300 species of bird have been recorded in Cyprus Archaeological sites | Discover 12th century Byzantine churches and explore the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos

PRICES FROM

£749pp

ITINERARY

£1049pp

trip only (8 days)

DAY 1:

with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE

DAY 2: Explore the walled city of Lefkosia (Nicosia) before heading into the Troodos Mountains for a forest walk.

WALKING GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel

DAY 3:

1 night simple hotel Optional single rooms from £130

DAILY DISTANCES

MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 2



Point-to-Point

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 2

5km

1.5hrs

Day 3

20km

6.5hrs

Day 4

14km

Day 5

12km

4hrs

Day 6

18km

6hrs

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

4hrs

Asinou

PEDOULAS Kathikas

Tombs of the Kings Pafos House of Dionysos

01252 883 480

Milikouri Mt Olympus 1951m

Agios Theodoros

DAY 5: Walk through the protected wilderness of the unspoilt Akamas Peninsula and follow a nature trail around the Baths of Aphrodite. DAY 6:

ike quiet tracks on the Laona H Plateau to the rugged west coast, stopping at Avagas Gorge en route.

DAY 7:

isit the ancient necropolis of Nea V Pafos, Roman mosaics at the House of Dionysis and ancient Kourion before heading back to Larnaka.

DAY 8:

Trip ends in Larnaka.

TROODOS

CYPRUS Aphrodite’s birthplace

ike to Pedoulas village in the H heart of the Troodos with great views of mountain villages.

DAY 4: Walk to Milikouri via the Platy Valley. Visit Kykkos Monastery and a mouflon breeding enclosure.

Lefkosia (Nicosia) Visit Old Town

BATHS OF APHRODITE AGIOS GEORGIOS TIS PEGEIAS

J oin trip in Larnaka, a busy seafront town with a palm-fringed promenade.

LARNAKA

Kourion

explore.co.uk/CY 103

WALKING – EUROPE

Hiking Turkey’s Lycian Way

TRIP CODE - LW | TURKEY

This trip follows Turkey’s spectacular Lycian Way, walking along scenic coastal trails between little-visited ancient ruins and time-forgotten villages. Experience traditional hospitality and home-cooked meals staying in rural village guesthouses. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Butterfly Valley | Stay in a village house overlooking the lush canyon and pristine beach Patara | Explore Roman ruins and the stunning golden sand beach Turquoise Coast | Take a boat trip over sunken ruins and swim in secluded bays PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£495pp

trip only (8 days)

ITINERARY

£769pp

DAY 1: J oin trip in Kayakoy, site of the deserted Greek village.

with flights (8 days)

ike through forests and remote DAY 2: H villages to Faralya. Stay in a village guesthouse overlooking Butterfly Valley with views to Oludeniz Beach.

AT A GLANCE WALKING GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple guesthouse 1 night simple village house Optional single rooms from £135 MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 3 | Dinner: 3



Point-to-Point

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

rek through pine forests, farmland DAY 3: T and hill villages to Gey. Stunning coastal views.

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

13km

5hrs

Day 3

18km

7hrs

Day 4

12km

5hrs

Day 5

8km

Day 6

16km

6hrs

Day 7

10km

3hrs

3.5hrs

From/To Dalaman Airport Fethiye

GEY

Baba Dagi

TURKEY

FARALYA Butterﬂy Valley

Patara Beach

PATARA

Patara ruins

ollow the trail through the Taurus DAY 6: F foothills to Mount Felen ridge. Overnight in Kas.

DAY 8: Trip ends at Dalaman Airport.

Sidyma Kalkan

Aqueduct

MEDITERRANEAN SEA

104 01252 883 480

ike to Patara Beach, an ancient DAY 5: H Roman stronghold and birthplace of Saint Nicholas.

rek to the ancient port of Aperlae. DAY 7: T Explore the sunken city of Kekova by boat with BBQ lunch and visit Simena’s medieval castle.

KAYAKOY Oludeniz

alk to the ancient city of Sidyma. DAY 4: W Join the locals for a glass of tea.

Felen

Simena hilltop castle

KAS Aperlae Ancient port

Kekova Island Sunken city

explore.co.uk/LW

WALKING – MIDDLE EAST

Walking Jordan’s Spice Trails

TRIP CODE - TP | JORDAN

Explore some of the world’s most magnificent historic and natural sites on foot. Retrace the steps of the ancient Nabateans along old spice trails, trek across wild plateaus to the rock-carved city of Petra and into the breathtaking canyons of Wadi Rum. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Wadi Rum | Walks through the majestic desert scenery staying in a Bedouin camp Petra | Two days to explore this spectacular ‘Rose Red City’, entering via the Monastery Dead Sea | Float in the saline waters at the lowest point on Earth PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£999pp

trip only (8 days)

ITINERARY

£1499pp

DAY 1: Join trip in Jordan’s capital, Amman.

with flights (8 days)

DAY 2: D rive along the Desert Highway to Wadi Rum. Walk through desert landscape to the campsite.

AT A GLANCE WALKING GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 4 nights simple camping

DAILY DISTANCES

3 nights comfortable hotel

Day 2

6.5km

Optional single rooms from £100

Day 3

17km

MEALS:

Day 4

13km

Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 4 | Dinner: 4

Day 5

18km

Day 6

3km

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

2hrs 7hrs 5/2hrs

9km*

7hrs 45mins

*Optional camel trek Jerash Roman city

SYRIA

AMMAN Dead Sea Float/relax Dead Sea

Mt Nebo

MADABA St George’s Church

Kin gs

WADI RUM

ike to Little Petra, an ancient DAY 6: H caravan station. Visit Kerak Castle and Madaba, the ‘City of Mosaics’. rive via the Dead Sea to Jerash DAY 7: D an impressive Roman city.

hwa

DAY 8: Trip ends in Amman.

JORDAN

Little Petra Petra Rock-carved city

rek along ancient spice trails to DAY 5: T enter via the Monastery, one of Petra’s greatest monuments.

Des ert

Hig

ISRAEL

ptional camel ride through DAY 4: O sandstone canyons. Travel to Petra and explore the Treasury on foot.

Hig

hwa

Kerak Castle

ike among the sandy gorges and DAY 3: H canyons of Wadi Rum, following in the footsteps of the early Nabatean traders.

WADI SHAMASSAT Private camp

Private Desert Camp Walks and optional camel ride

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/TP 105

WALKING – MIDDLE EAST

Oman Trekking

TRIP CODE - WOM | OMAN

Explore Oman’s remarkable natural beauty and contrasting landscapes on a trekking adventure to the Arab world’s oldest independent state. Discover spectacular canyons and deep wadis, hiking trails through remote village oases. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Mountain scenery | Trek through stunning landscapes in the remote Hajar Mountains Wahiba Sands | Sleep under the stars in a spectacular sea of sand Omani culture | Discover a rich history, proud culture, traditions and a friendly welcome

PRICES FROM

£1999pp

trip only (10 days)

£2589pp

with flights (10 days)

AT A GLANCE WALKING GRADE: Moderate to Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights simple camping 4 nights comfortable hotel

DAILY DISTANCES

ITINERARY

Day 1

3km

1.5hrs

Day 2

6km

4hrs

Day 3

9km

Day 4

13km

Day 5

8km

4hrs

Day 6

4km

2hrs

Day 7

15km

8hrs

Day 8

15km

7hrs

Day 9

8km

4hrs

DAY 1:

6hrs 6-7hrs

Optional single rooms from £330

DAY 2: Visit the impressive Grand Mosque. Journey into the Hajar Mountains and hike the spectacular Grand Canyon Balcony Trail. DAY 3:

cenic trek around the rim of the S Grand Canyon before a steady ascent of the Jebel Shams massif.

DAY 4: Trek ancient donkey trails with dramatic views from the mountain oasis of Misfat al Abriyyin.

MEALS: Breakfast: 9 | Lunch: 6 | Dinner: 5

DAY 5: Explore Nizwa and mingle among locals at the Friday livestock market. Hike in the Jebel Akhdar.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAY 6:

alk through traditional villages on W the Saiq Plateau. Camp among the Wahiba Sands dunes.

DAY 7:

tart a challenging 2-day hike from S Wadi Bani Khalid in the Eastern Hajr Mountains.

DAY 8:

escend into the stunning Wadi D Tiwi with coastal views.

DAY 9:

ike in the beautiful Wadi Shab H gorge to turquoise rock pools with a chance to swim.

GULF OF OMAN JEBEL SHAMS 3004m

NIZWA

WESTERN HAJAR RANGE

MUSCAT

JEBEL AKHDAR WADI SHAB

OMAN

WADI BANI KHALID EASTERN HAJAR RANGE

WAHIBA SANDS

106 01252 883 480

J oin trip in Muscat. Guided city tour and short walk from Riyam Park to Muttrah.

rip ends in the Omani capital DAY 10: T Muscat.

ARABIAN SEA

explore.co.uk/WOM

WALKING – AFRICA

Toubkal Climb

TRIP CODE - MJ | MOROCCO

This week-long trekking trip in Morocco culminates in an ascent of North Africa’s highest peak, Jebel Toubkal (4,167m). Trek through the valley of Imlil, past Berber villages and over beautiful passes surrounded by panoramic views of the High Atlas Mountains. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Atlas Mountains | Get away from it all trekking through untouched landscapes Berber villages | Stay in village houses, learning about the culture of these friendly people Marrakech | Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Djemma el-Fna Square PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£545pp

trip only (8 days)

ITINERARY

£789pp

DAY 1: J oin trip in Marrakech, a lively city famous for its souks.

with flights (8 days)

DAY 2: Walk from the Berber village of Aguersioual (1,600m) through the Azaden Valley to Tizi Oussem (1,850m).

AT A GLANCE WALKING GRADE: Moderate to Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 2 nights comfortable hotel



DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

8.5km

6hrs

2 nights simple mountain refuge 3 nights simple village house Optional single rooms from £40

Day 3

7km

5hrs

Day 4

9.5km

5hrs

Day 5

4.5km

6hrs

MEALS:

Day 6

7km

Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 5 | Dinner: 5

Day 7

1.5km

Point-to-Point

4/3/6.5hrs

6.5/8.5km

45mins

From/To

MARRAKECH Optional city tour

Aguersioual Tizi n‘Oudite 2200m Id Aissa

TIZI OUSSEM

1850m

DAY 4: Walk through the High Atlas past the holy site Sidi Chamharouch to the base of Toubkal at Neltner (3,207m). DAY 5: Early morning Jebel Toubkal (4,167m) summit trek. Views over the High Atlas Mountains. Descend back to refuge.

Optional Walks

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAY 3: Ascend steadily to Tizi Mzik Pass (2,489m) then descend to the mountain village of Aremd (1,900m).

Imlil

AREMD

Tizi Mzik Pass 2489m Sidi Chamharouch

DAY 6: In the morning, option to climb Ouanoukrim (4,089m) or Ouanoums (3,650m). Walk back to Aremd for the final night in the mountains. DAY 7: Walk from Aremd to the village of Imlil. Return to explore the souks and medinas of Marrakech. DAY 8: Trip ends in Marrakech.

HIGH ATLAS RANGE NELTNER REFUGE

MOROCCO

3207m

Jebel Toubkal 4167m Tizi Ouanoums 3650m (optional summit) Ouanoukrim to 4089m (optional summit) Lake Ifni

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/MJ 107

WALKING – AFRICA

Kilimanjaro - Lemosho Trek

TRIP CODE - KC | TANZANIA

Challenge yourself on this iconic trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m), the highest mountain in Africa. Following the less-used and scenic Lemosho Route, pass through varied climatic regions, admiring changing plant and animal life. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

7-day ascent | Climb slowly and acclimatise to maximise your chance of summit success Wild camps | Enjoy wild camping in magnificent, scenic locations Trek crew | Climb with some of the best and most experienced guides on the mountain PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£2595pp £3245pp trip only (10 days)

with flights (12 days)

AT A GLANCE WALKING GRADE: Challenging to Tough ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights simple camping 2 nights comfortable lodge Optional single rooms from £95

DAILY DISTANCES

ITINERARY

Day 2

7km

3.5hrs

Day 3

8.5km

4.5hrs

Day 4

8km

Day 5

10km

7.5hrs

Day 6

6km

4.5hrs

Day 7

6km

4.5hrs

Day 8

19.5km

Day 9

12km

4.5/2hrs

3.5km

14hrs 5.5hrs

Point-to-Point

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Lemosho Glades 2100m

SHIRA ONE

3500m

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

KENYA

2780m

SHIRA TWO

BARRANCO

Uhuru Peak 5895m

3960m

KILIMANJARO KARANGA NP 4035m

TANZANIA Mweka Gate 1630m

explore.co.uk/ZI

Safari Extension

limb the Barranco Wall before DAY 6: C reaching our camp in the Karanga Valley (4,035m). ike across a barren lunar-like DAY 7: H landscape to our camp at Barafu (4,640m).

BIG TREE CAMP

3900m

Zanzibar Island Extension

Spend three days on safari in some of Tanzania’s finest national parks - Tarangire, Lake Manyara and the stunning Ngorongoro Crater.

ike across wild heath to the camp DAY 3: H at Shira One (3,500m) enjoying views of Mount Meru.

ross volcanic landscapes to the DAY 5: C Lava Tower before the descent to Barranco Valley (3,960m).

Breakfast: 9 | Lunch: 8 | Dinner: 9

Relax after your trek with four days on the exotic island of Zanzibar spending time at the beach and in fascinating Stone Town.

scend on a trail through beautiful DAY 2: A rainforest from Lemosho Glades to Big Tree Camp (2,780m).

rek below the ice fields of Kibo to DAY 4: T our campsite at Shira Two (3,900m).

Optional Walks

MEALS:



DAY 1: J oin trip in Moshi, a country town with great views of Mount Kilimanjaro.

BARAFU 4640m

MILLENIUM CAMP

3790m

MOSHI

rek to the summit at Uhuru Peak DAY 8: T (5,895m) before the long descent to Millenium Camp (3,790m). eturn to verdant forest where the DAY 9: R trek ends at Mweka Gate (1,630m) before driving back to Moshi. DAY 10: Opportunity to take an optional game drive in the morning before the trip ends in Moshi.

Kilimanjaro Airport

explore.co.uk/KCS

108 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/KC

WALKING – ASIA

Hiking in the Georgian Caucasus

TRIP CODE - WGEO | GEORGIA

Trek in Georgia’s Svaneti, a region with a unique history and culture lying among the craggy snow-capped peaks and deep gorges of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. Stay in remote villages with distinctive medieval defensive stone towers. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Caucasus hikes | Trek to the foot of Mount Ushba, Mount Guro and the Shkhara Glacier Ushguli | Travel back in time at this remote village where oxen still plough the fields Food and drink | Enjoy hearty home-cooked local dishes and Georgian wines PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£985pp

trip only (9 days)

ITINERARY

£1575pp

DAY 1: J oin trip in Batumi, a lively port city on the shores of the Caspian Sea.

with flights (9 days)

rive to the village of Becho in the DAY 2: D Greater Caucasus Mountains.

AT A GLANCE

ike through forest to the waterfall DAY 3: H at the base of Mount Ushba. Option to trek to the top of the falls. Drive to Mestia.

WALKING GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 3 nights simple guesthouse 3 nights simple hotel 2 nights comfortable hotel

ike from Jvari to the beautiful DAY 4: H mountain lakes of Koruldi.

DAILY DISTANCES

Optional single rooms from £160

Day 3

11km

6hrs

MEALS:

Day 4

8km

3hrs

Breakfast: 8 | Lunch: 5 | Dinner: 6

Day 5

10km

6hrs

Day 6

18km

6hrs

Day 7

14km

4.5hrs

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Koruldi Mt Ushba Lakes MESTIA Mulakhi

BECHO USHGULI

Zugdidi

Mt Shkhara Mt Guro

GEORGIA

rive to the dramatically sited DAY 5: D village of Ushguli. Climb Mount Guro for incredible views. ike to the glacier at the base DAY 6: H of Mount Shkhara with fantastic views of this snow-covered peak (5,068m). rive part-way back to Mestia, DAY 7: D completing the journey on foot, hiking from the village of Mulakhi into the Mestia Valley. the mountains behind, DAY 8: Leaving drive back to Batumi with time to explore the city in the late afternoon. DAY 9: Trip ends in Batumi.

BATUMI TURKEY

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/WGEO 109

WALKING – ASIA

Azerbaijan Caucasus Walking

TRIP CODE - WAZ | AZERBAIJAN

A walking holiday that discovers the wild landscapes, history and contemporary culture of little-known Azerbaijan. On the easternmost fringes of Europe, flanked by the Caucasus Mountains and Caspian Sea, it’s a fascinating place to visit. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Xinaliq | Azerbaijan’s highest inhabited village, spectacularly sited at 2,350m Caucasus hikes | Enjoy nature and observe rural life up close Baku | Cosmopolitan capital with a rich architectural heritage

PRICES FROM

£1045pp trip only (9 days)

ITINERARY

£1599pp

DAY 1: J oin trip in Baku, Azerbaijan’s cosmopolitan capital on the shores of the Caspian Sea.

with flights (9 days)

AT A GLANCE

DAY 2: Walking tour in Baku’s Old City before driving to the mountain village of Lahic, famous for its coppersmiths.

WALKING GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights comfortable hotel 3 nights simple hotel

DAILY DISTANCES

Optional single rooms from £320

MEALS: Breakfast: 8 | Lunch: 1 | Dinner: 3

Day 3

4km

Day 4

7km

Day 5

6.5km

1.5hrs 3hrs 2.5hrs

Day 6

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 7

9km

3hrs

Day 8

9km

3hrs

Lekit Ilisu valley

SHEKI

Quba Qala Xudat

Khan’s Palace

DAY 4: Hike through Kish via its ancient Church to the ruined fortress of Gelersen Goresen. DAY 5: Walk from Lekit to the ruins of Yeddi Kilsa Monastery and follow a bubbling river to Mamirli Waterfall. DAY 6: Drive through mountain and desert landscapes to Quba region in northern Azerbaijan.

RUSSIA

Kish

DAY 3: Enjoy a walk around Lahic before travelling along the southern flanks of the Caucasus to Sheki where we explore the Khan’s Palace and city sights on foot.

CASPIAN SEA

QIRIZDENE

Xinaliq

LAHIC

(Coppersmiths village)

DAY 8: Hike in the Shahdag National Park to the Atesgah natural gas flame. Return to Baku.

Shamakha Mosque

AZERBAIJAN

DAY 7: Spectacular drive through Cloudcatcher Canyon to Xinaliq (2,350m), Azerbaijan’s highest permanently inhabited village. Enjoy lunch with a local family before hiking to Qala Xudat.

DAY 9:

Trips ends in Baku.

BAKU

Walking tour

110 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/WAZ

WALKING – ASIA

Annapurna Sanctuary Trek

TRIP CODE - AS | NEPAL

A challenging nine-day trek to the vast natural amphitheatre of the Annapurna Sanctuary. Leaving the terraced fields and forests of the foothills behind, arrive at Annapurna Base Camp to find yourself surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of some of the world’s highest mountains. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Teahouses | Enjoy Nepali hospitality in cosy mountain lodges Pokhara | Post trek relaxation by the lakeside Kathmandu | Wander Durbar Square and explore some of the capital’s many temples PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1295pp £1885pp trip only (15 days)

DAY 1: J oin trip in the fascinating Nepalese capital, Kathmandu.

with flights (16 days)

DAY 2: Discover the city’s bustling bazaars and fascinating temples on foot.

AT A GLANCE

DAY 3: Drive to the peaceful lakeside town of Pokhara and prepare for the trek.

WALKING GRADE: Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel 8 nights simple teahouse

Day 4

2km

Day 5

12km

6hrs

MEALS:

Day 6

10km

7hrs

Breakfast: 14 | Lunch: 9 | Dinner: 8

Day 7

5km

3.5hrs

Day 8

5km

3.5hrs

Day 9

5km

3.5hrs

Day 10

12km

6hrs

Day 11

12km

6hrs

Day 12

6km

4hrs

Optional single rooms from £160



DAILY DISTANCES

Point-to-Point

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

45mins

Annapurna I Annapurna III 8091m 7855m Gangapurna 7454m Annapurna II Fang 7937m 7647m Annapurna MACHHAPUCHHRE 7273m Sanctuary Base Camp Annapurna Machhapuchhre South 6993m DEURALI Annapurna IV 7525m BAMBOO DOVAN

GHANDRUK

CHHOMRONG JHINNU DANDA

Simai Kimche

NEPAL

Nayapul Kande

Lake Phewa Tal

POKHARA

To/from

KATHMANDU

DAY 4: Trek along stone pathways, through forests and terraces to the village of Ghandruk. DAY 5: Cross the Kimrong Khola by bridge before ascending then descending, to Chhomrong, the final settlement before the Sanctuary. DAY 6: A steep climb to the ridge at Sinuwa for fine views of Machhapuchhre, the ‘Fishtail’ Mountain. DAY 7: Trek through Bamboo to Hinku Cave and on to Deurali. DAY 8: Enter the Sanctuary ‘gates’ between Machhapuchhre and Huinchuli and trek to Base Camp (3,720m). DAY 9: Hike to the Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m) for views of the glacier. DAY 10: Descend through forests of bamboo to the village of Bamboo. DAY 11: W alk through rhododendron forests full of birds to Jhinnu Danda. DAYS Continue walking to Simai where 12–13: the trek ends. Drive to Pokhara for some post-trek relaxation. DAY 14: Drive back to Kathmandu where the time is left free to explore or shop in the bazaars. DAY 15: Trip ends in Kathmandu.

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/AS 111

WALKING – THE AMERICAS

Inca Trail Trek

TRIP CODE - PQ | PERU

Walk along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Take in the spectacular views following rivers through the dramatic Andes Mountains, trekking past impressive Inca ruins and through diverse cloud forests. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Classic Inca Trail | Fully supported four-day trek camping away from the crowds Machu Picchu | Get your first glimpse arriving at the Sun Gate on foot Cusco | Wander the cobbled streets of the ancient Inca capital PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1085pp £2099pp trip only (9 days)

with flights (11 days)

AT A GLANCE

DAY 1:

Join trip in Cusco, the ancient capital city of the Incas. Relax and acclimatise to the altitude.

DAY 2:

Explore the fascinating city of Cusco on foot. Visit Qoricancha, the most important temple of the Inca Empire.

WALKING GRADE: Moderate to Challenging

ACCOMMODATION: 3 nights simple camping

DAY 3:

Option to trek to Moray, stand up paddle board on Piuray Lagoon or take a brewery tour.

DAY 4:

Drive via Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley to the start of the Inca Trail. Walk to first campsite – Llaqtapata (2,625m), opposite Inca ruins.

DAY 5:

Follow the Inca trail along the river to Wayllabamba, and Llulluchapampa (3,800m). Views to snowy peaks of the Veronica Mountain range.

DAY 6:

Cross Dead Woman’s Pass (4,200m). Walk through cloud forest and ruins to Phuyupatamarca (3,579m).

DAY 7:

Visit the Winay-Wayna ruins. Arrive in the ‘Lost City’ of Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (2,438m).

DAY 8:

Guided tour of Machu Picchu. Opportunity to climb Wayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountains. Train to Sacred Valley.

DAY 9:

Trip ends in Cusco.

5 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £165

MEALS: Breakfast: 8 | Lunch: 4 | Dinner: 3



Point-to-Point

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAILY DISTANCES Day 4

6km

Day 5

10km

2.5hrs

Day 6

15km

8hrs

Day 7

14km

6hrs

Day 8

1/1.5km

6hrs

2/3hrs

Optional Walks

Veronica 5750m

AGUAS CALIENTES

Machu Picchu

To Ollantaytambo/ Piuray Lake Cusco

Inti Punku Winay-Wayna

PHUYUPATAMARCA

Inca Tunnel Sayaqmarka Warmiwanusca Pass 4200m

Salkantay 6271m Wamantay 5917m

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Piscacucho 82km

Runkuraqay Pass 3950m

LLULLUCHAPAMPA

LLAQTAPATA Wayllabamba

Paucarkancha Ocobamba 5126m

explore.co.uk/PQ

WALKING – THE AMERICAS

Trek Patagonia - Fitz Roy & Torres del Paine

TRIP CODE - TPF | ARGENTINA, CHILE

On this trekking holiday in Patagonia explore the spectacular mountain areas of Fitz Roy and Torres del Paine. Trek through the heart of Los Glaciares National Park to the magnificent Fitz Roy Massif, and hike the ‘W Trek’ from Lago Grey to the iconic Paine Towers. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

’W’ Trek | Complete the most famous hiking route in Patagonia Perito Moreno Glacier | Discover this towering ice wall Mount Fitz Roy | View the striking Fitz Roy skyline from Laguna de los Tres PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£3999pp £4799pp trip only (14 days)

with flights (16 days)

AT A GLANCE WALKING GRADE: Moderate to Challenging ACCOMMODATION: 5 nights simple camping 6 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights comfortable guesthouse Optional single rooms from £485 MEALS: Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 7 | Dinner: 5

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAILY DISTANCES Day 1 Day 2 Day 3

10km

Day 4

18km

6/3hrs 7hrs

4km

2hrs

6km

Day 6

Day 8

6km

Day 9

21km

4/1hrs 8hrs

Day 10

17km

7/2hrs

Day 11

19km

7hrs

Day 12

15km

6hrs

4km

2hrs

2km

4km

Day 13 Day 14

Guided walking tour ARGENTINA

SANTIAGO

CHILE

Guided walking tour

TORRESLago DEL PAINE Grey NP

Nordenskjola Lago Pehoe

TORRES DEL PAINE NP

Lago Pehoe

TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK

01252 883 480

To Puerto Natales From/To Puerto Natales

PACIFIC PACIFIC OCEAN OCEAN

r r cie cie Gla y Gla ey e Gr Gr

SANTIAGO

REFUGIO CHILENO Los Torres FRANCES base camp Los Torres From/To DOMES REFUGIO El Calafate REFUGIO CHILENO GREY FRANCES Lago DOMES Nordenskjola REFUGIO Lago GREY Grey Lago

Join trip in the lively city of Buenos Aires.

DAY 2:

Fly to El Calafate. Continue by bus to El Chalten, a small border town close to Mount Fitz Roy.

DAY 3:

Hike from El Pilar to Laguna de los Tres. Camp among the stunning mountain scenery.

DAY 4:

Follow the Madre e Hija Trail to Laguna Torre, and back to El Chalten. Views to the Torres Massif and glaciers.

DAYS 5–6:

Drive to El Calafate. Visit to the impressive Perito Moreno Glacier.

DAYS 7–8:

Journey south to Puerto Natales. Continue to Torres del Paine National Park. Walk to Grey Glacier viewpoint.

DAYS 9–10:

Continue on ‘W Trek’ to Frances Domes Refuge. Trek up ‘French Valley’ surrounded by high peaks.

DAY 11:

Follow the trail of ‘Los Cuernos’, passing under dramatic mountains and along the shoreline of Lake Nordenskjodd.

DAY 12:

Reach the base of Los Torres, with incredible views of the iconic Paine Towers. Drive to Puerto Natales.

DAY 13:

Drive to Punta Arenas and fly to Santiago, Chile’s dynamic capital.

DAY 14:

Morning walking tour of the city. Trip ends at Santiago Airport.

Day 7

Optional Walks

Los Torres

DAY 1:

Day 5

ARGENTINA

Los Torres CHILEbase camp

ITINERARY

ARGENTINA ARGENTINA CHILE Mt Fitz Roy CHILE 3359m

POINCENOT Mt Fitz Roy CAMP 3359m EL CHALTEN POINCENOT Perito EL CALAFATE CAMP Moreno EL CHALTEN PUERTO Glacier Perito EL CALAFATE NATALES TORRES DEL PAINE Moreno PUERTOARENAS Glacier NATIONAL PARK PUNTO NATALES TORRES DEL PAINE NATIONAL PARK PUNTO ARENAS

BUENOS AIRES BUENOS AIRES

explore.co.uk/TPF 113

Choose to go

Self-Guided A Self-Guided walking trip offers maximum flexibility. Set your own pace, choose when and where you stop and enjoy the challenge of navigating yourself. We’ll look after the rest, from routes and maps to luggage and accommodation. For more information, and to see the full range of Self-Guided holidays, visit explore.co.uk/self-guided

Coastal Trails of Portugal

Walking in Madeira

Walk the Rota Vicentina, a well-marked trail along cliff tops, amongst dunes and beside dramatic rocky shorelines to Cabo Sao Vicente, the south-western most point of Portugal and continental Europe.

Discover some of Madeira’s best walking trails, from the footpaths that follow its ‘levadas’ (Madeira’s unique network of narrow irrigation channels) to coastal paths overlooking the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean.

9 days | explore.co.uk/WSPO

8 days | explore.co.uk/WSMP

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Walking in Gran Canaria

Amalfi Coast Trails

Ascend Gran Canaria’s highest peak, Pico do las Nieves, walk through dramatic volcanic scenery and follow ‘Camino Reales’, the ancient paths between hillside villages.

Visit the panoramic Amalfi Coast and the magnificent Bay of Naples. Walk on the beautiful island of Capri, hike along the scenic coastal Path of the Gods to Positano and enjoy mouthwatering seafood.

8 days | explore.co.uk/WSGC

8 days | explore.co.uk/WSAC

Walk Sicily and the Aeolian Islands Walk on active volcanoes including Vulcano, Stromboli and the lava-strewn slopes of Mount Etna. Hop by boat between the tiny Aeolian Islands, discover wonderful beaches and explore picturesque Mediterranean fishing villages. 8 days | explore.co.uk/WSSI

Walking in South-West Crete

Walking Turkey’s Lycian Way West

Explore south-west Crete’s impressive coastline, the beautiful White Mountains and the famous Samaria Gorge. Hike at your own pace and enjoy the changing scenery of beaches, fir forests, mountains and gorges.

Follow Turkey’s spectacular Lycian Way, walking along scenic coastal trails between little-visited ancient ruins and time-forgotten villages. Enjoy traditional hospitality staying in rural village guesthouses.

8 days | explore.co.uk/WSCR

8 days | explore.co.uk/WSLW

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WADI RUM | JORDAN | EXPLORE.CO.UK/CJP

Contents Introduction What to expect from a Cycling holiday

118–119

Choose your Cycling grade and holiday 120–121

Croatia

126–127

Estonia

128

France

122

Italy

125

Latvia

128

Lithuania

128

Poland

129

Portugal

123

Spain

124

Middle East Jordan

130

Africa Morocco

131

Asia Cambodia

134

Georgia

132

India

133

Thailand

134

Vietnam

134–135

The Americas Cuba

137

Mexico

136

Self-Guided Cycling trips Choose to go Self-Guided

01252 883 480

138–139

Cycling

Europe

explore.co.uk 117

Cycling What to expect from a

Our Cycling trips are a great way to see more of a country. We’ve got holidays to suit all levels of ability; from occasional weekend riders to keen regular cyclists.

How fit do I need to be? It depends on the trip and cycle grade you choose. Although an active holiday, our trips are not a race! We regularly stop and regroup along the ride with planned rest breaks. If in any doubt, choose a grade within your comfort zone. We advise doing some training rides leading up to the holiday. On most trips a support vehicle will be nearby to provide back-up if needed.

What will the group be like? As with all our trips, every group is different but the ‘average’ group consists of roughly half couples and half solo travellers. Don’t worry too much about keeping up with the group; wherever possible your Explore leader will allow everyone to cycle at their own pace, regrouping along the route.

118 01252 883 480

holiday What kind of bike is included? Every one of our Cycling trips includes the cost of bike hire; we choose good-quality hybrid touring bikes or mountain bikes – whichever is best-suited to the terrain – and we have experienced bike mechanics on hand to resolve any problems. If you’d prefer a bit of extra power, on most trips you can choose to hire an electric bike (e-bike) for an additional fee at the time of booking.

Cycle grade, route and terrain All our Cycling holidays are graded, from ‘Easy’ (with flatter, shorter rides and plenty of reststops) to ‘Challenging’ (more time in the saddle and more hill-climbs). Our cycle routes are designed to follow quieter back roads or cycle paths wherever possible, with some off-road sections on fine gravel or dirt tracks. You’ll find the grade and a daily distance chart included on all trip pages and there is detailed information about the route and terrain online.

explore.co.uk 119

Choosing your

Cycling holiday Our Cycling trips are all graded by difficulty, taking into consideration the daily distances covered, the terrain, ascents and descents and climate. The Trip Notes on our website contain detailed information about what to expect, to help you choose a trip that suits your fitness and experience level.

Cycling grades 1

EASY Relatively short rides on flat or gently undulating terrain, our Easy grade is ideal if you want to explore, but at a relaxed pace. Approximately 2-4 hours in the saddle for each day of cycling.

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EASY TO MODERATE A mix of Easy and Moderate rides cycling through flat or gently undulating terrain with the occasional energetic ascent.

MODERATE Perfect for cyclists used to undulating routes with occasional energetic climbs, and those who have a reasonable level of fitness. Approximately 4-6 hours in the saddle for each day of cycling.

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING Combining Moderate rides with Challenging ones, this grade is perfect for reasonably fit cyclists who want to challenge themselves.

CHALLENGING This grade is for longer, more demanding trips, suiting cyclists who enjoy hilly terrain and challenging ascents, and who have a good fitness level. Approximately 6+ hours in the saddle for each day of cycling.

Small group experiences Here’s a summary of all the Cycling trips we offer and where to find out more. We’ve included some of our favourites on the following pages, but you’ll find our full programme on our website. COUNTRIES

TRIP NAME

POINT-TO-POINT*

E-BIKE OPTION** 

DAYS

FIND OUT MORE

PAGE

EASY CZECH REPUBLIC - GERMANY

CYCLE CZECH REPUBLIC AND GERMANY



FRANCE

CYCLE CANAL DU MIDI



FRANCE

LOIRE VALLEY CYCLING



INDIA

 BEST SELLER CYCLE KERALA

ITALY

CYCLE DOLOMITES, LAKE GARDA AND VENICE



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CCZ

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CCM

EXPLORE.CO.UK/LV

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CKB

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CDV

122 133

ITALY

CYCLE PUGLIA



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CIP

125

LITHUANIA - LATVIA - ESTONIA

 BEST SELLER CYCLING THE BALTIC STATES



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CBS

128 136

MEXICO

 BEST SELLER CYCLE MEXICO - THE YUCATÁN PENINSULA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CMX

VIETNAM

CYCLE VIETNAM



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CVN

VIETNAM - CAMBODIA

 BEST SELLER CYCLE VIETNAM AND CAMBODIA



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CVE EXPLORE.CO.UK/CCR

EASY TO MODERATE COSTA RICA

CYCLE COSTA RICA

CUBA

HIGHLIGHTS OF CUBA BY BICYCLE

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CSC

NORTH CYPRUS

CYCLING NORTH CYPRUS

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CNC

POLAND

 NEW CYCLE POLAND - GDANSK AND THE BALTIC COAST



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CPB

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA MONTENEGRO

 NEW CYCLE BOSNIA AND MONTENEGRO



BURMA (MYANMAR)

CYCLE BURMA

CROATIA

 BEST SELLER CYCLE THE DALMATIAN COAST

CUBA

 BEST SELLER CYCLE CUBA!

FRANCE

CYCLE PROVENCE



129

MODERATE



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CBM

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CBUR

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CCD

126-127

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CCC

137

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CVP

FRANCE - SPAIN

CYCLE MARSEILLE TO BARCELONA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CFS

GEORGIA

 BEST SELLER CYCLING IN GEORGIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CGE

INDIA

CYCLE INDIA - THE GOLDEN TRIANGLE

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CIR

ITALY

CYCLING IN ITALY - CILENTO TO THE AMALFI COAST



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CAC

JAPAN

CYCLE JAPAN



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CJA

JORDAN

 BEST SELLER CYCLE JORDAN

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CJP

130

MOROCCO

CYCLE MOROCCO - ATLAS TO THE SAHARA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CSO

131



PORTUGAL

CYCLING PORTUGAL - PORTO TO LISBON



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CPL

PORTUGAL

CYCLE PORTUGAL - LISBON TO ALGARVE



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CAL

ROMANIA

CYCLE ROMANIA



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CRT

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CTC

SOUTH AFRICA

CYCLE SOUTH AFRICA

SPAIN

 NEW CYCLE ANDALUCIA - CADIZ TO JEREZ



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CCJ

SPAIN

 BEST SELLER CYCLE SOUTHERN SPAIN - MURCIA



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CMU

SRI LANKA

CYCLE SRI LANKA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CSL

THAILAND - CAMBODIA - VIETNAM

 BEST SELLER BANGKOK TO SAIGON BY BIKE

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CTV

TURKEY

CYCLE TURKEY

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CTT

VIETNAM

 BEST SELLER CYCLE SAIGON TO HANOI

UNITED KINGDOM

CYCLE HADRIAN’S WALL - COAST TO COAST



132

123

124 134



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CVIE

135



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CHW

MODERATE TO CHALLENGING ALBANIA

CYCLE ALBANIA

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CAB

NICARAGUA - COSTA RICA - PANAMA

CYCLE NICARAGUA TO THE PANAMA CANAL

EXPLORE.CO.UK/CNCP

SPAIN - PORTUGAL

CYCLE SEVILLE TO PORTO



EXPLORE.CO.UK/CEX

CYCLING COAST TO COAST



EXPLORE.CO.UK/C2C

CHALLENGING UNITED KINGDOM

*POINT-TO-POINT: On a point-to-point cycling holiday, your entire journey is made by pedal power so you won’t be using any other methods of transportation. **E-BIKE: If you’re interested in using an electric bike on these trips, just enquire at the time of booking and we can let you know the cost and availability.

explore.co.uk 121

CYCLING – EUROPE

Cycle Canal du Midi

TRIP CODE - CCM | FRANCE

A cycling holiday along France’s historic Canal du Midi and surrounding countryside. Explore medieval walled towns, Cathar Castles, local markets and refuel on delicious French cuisine en route. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Canal du Midi | One of the greatest works of civil engineering of the 17th century Discover rich histories | Béziers and the walled fortress town of Carcassonne Carcassonne | Discover this fascinating and impressively preserved walled fortress PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£945pp

ITINERARY

£1149pp

DAY 1:

Join trip at Montpellier Airport then drive to historic Béziers.

DAY 2:

Optional ride to Valras Plage. Circular route back to Béziers.

CYCLE GRADE: Easy

DAY 3:

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £305

Cycle south along waterways and country lanes. Ride to Narbonne.

DAY 4:

isit Narbonne or take a circular V cycle route via Gruissan back to Narbonne.

DAY 5:

isit Narbonne’s 100 year old V market. Circular ride though vineyards to Bages.

DAY 6:

Cycle the vineyards, farms and towpaths. Ride to Carcassonne.

DAY 7:

View the walled fortress of Carcassonne; cycle locally.

DAY 8:

Trip ends at Montpellier Airport.

trip only (8 days)

with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE

MEALS: Breakfast: 7

DAILY DISTANCES

BIKE:

21 gear RTE 520 hybrid bike with front suspension



Point-to-Point

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 2

45km

Day 3

35km

Day 4

30/46km

Day 5

37km

Day 6

55km

Day 7

35/70km

Optional Rides

To Montpellier Airport

FRANCE Villepinte Optional rides

BÉZIERS

Château de Lastours

Bram

CARCASSONNE

Oppidium d’Ensérun

Ecluse de L’Aiguille

Canal du Midi

LEZIGNANCORBIÈRES

Étang de Thau 9 Locks of Fonserannes

Valras Plage

NARBONNE

Narbonne Plage Optional rides Mediterranean Étang de Sea Peyriac Bages

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explore.co.uk/CCM

CYCLING – EUROPE

Cycle Portugal - Lisbon to Algarve

TRIP CODE - CAL | PORTUGAL

From the cobbled streets of Lisbon we cycle south through wild coastal landscapes, past fishing villages, pristine coves and superb beaches, to the remote south-westerly corner of Europe. Discover the Costa Vicentina - Europe’s largest coastal natural park. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Lisbon | Explore Portugal’s charming capital Costa Vicentina Natural Park | Cycle the entire length of this wild and unspoilt corner of Europe Food and drink | Try great local cuisine and Alentejo wines PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1049pp £1259pp trip only (8 days)

with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate

Choose to explore this itinerary at your own pace with a Self-Guided option. Visit explore.co.uk/CSPO for more details.

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £210 MEALS: Breakfast: 7

BIKE:

27 gear Stevens Galant or similar hybrid bike



ITINERARY

GO SELF-GUIDED?

DAILY DISTANCES Day 3

59km

Day 4

35km

Day 5

27km

Day 6

66km

Day 7

54km

E-Bike available Sintra Sintra (optional) (optional)

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

LISBON

Trafaria Trafaria Lagoa Lagoa de de Albufeira Albufeira Cape Cape Espichel Espichel Lighthouse Lighthouse

SETÚBAL

DAY 1:

Join trip in Lisbon.

DAY 2:

xplore Lisbon. Afternoon optional E visit to Sintra by train.

DAY 3:

Ferry across the Tagus and follow the Caparica coast on our ride to Cape Espichel.

DAY 4:

Cycle through the rolling hills, beaches and bays of Arrabida Natural Park to Setúbal.

DAY 5: Drive south into the Alentejo region for our cycle to Vila Nova de Milfontes. DAY 6: Continue cycling south through the Costa Vicentina Natural Park to historic Aljezur village. DAY 7:

ycle past great wild beaches to C end ride in Sagres. Drive to Faro.

DAY 8:

Trip ends in Faro.

Arrabida Arrabida Natural Natural Park Park

SESIMBRA

PORTUGAL

Sines Sines

ATLANTIC OCEAN

VILA NOVA DE MILFONTES

Costa Costa Vicentina Vicentina Natural Natural Park Park

ALJEZUR

Sagres Sagres

01252 883 480

FARO

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CYCLING – EUROPE

Cycle Southern Spain - Murcia

TRIP CODE - CMU | SPAIN

On this cycling adventure in southern Spain we discover Murcia’s whitewashed villages and Moorish towers, endless orchards, ancient irrigation channels and layers of history. Murcia enjoys mild winters, a semi-arid climate and averages more than 320 days of sun per year. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Peaceful cycling | Ride on scenic and quiet backroads and cycle paths Whitewashed villages | Typical Spanish villages with Moorish roots Tapas y Vino | Reward yourself and refuel on delicious Spanish food and wine PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£749pp trip only (7 days)

ITINERARY

£929pp

with flights (7 days)

AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £150

DAILY DISTANCES

MEALS: Breakfast: 6

BIKE:

27 gear Bergamont Horizon hybrid bike with front suspension



Point-to-Point



E-Bike available

Day 1

18km

Day 2

39km

Day 3

45km

Day 4

44km

Day 5

33/46km

Day 6

57km

SPAIN

Optional Rides

MURCIA

DAY 1:

Join trip in Murcia. Optional loop ride to Fuensanta Sanctuary.

DAY 2:

Follow ‘via verde’ cycle path to Caravaca de la Cruz, one of the Vatican’s five Holy cities.

DAY 3:

A circular bike route from Caravaca past historic irrigation channels, elm groves and tiny villages.

DAY 4:

Cycle on ‘via verde’ cycle path to Calasparra via the 15th century fortress in Moratalla.

DAY 5: Ride along peaceful country roads, past almond and apricot orchards, to the lively town of Cieza. DAY 6:

Complete our circuit with a cycle through the deep and scenic Ricote Valley back into Murcia.

DAY 7:

Trip ends in Murcia.

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

CALASPARRA Moratalla

SPAIN

CIEZA

MURCIA CARAVACA DE LA CRUZ

Archivel

Bullas

CALASPARRA

Moratalla

GO SELF-GUIDED? Choose to explore this itinerary at your own pace with a Self-Guided option.

CIEZA

CARAVACA DE LA CRUZ Archivel

Bullas

MURCIA

SPAIN MURCIA

Visit explore.co.uk/CSSM for more details.

SPAIN

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explore.co.uk/CMU

CYCLING – EUROPE

Cycle Puglia

TRIP CODE - CIP | ITALY

Discover the ‘heel’ of Italy on easy cycle rides through the sun-drenched region of Puglia. Along the way we sample the superb Pugliese cuisine with cheeses from a local ‘caseificio’, a visit to a family-run bakery and wine tasting. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Alberobello and Monopoli | Whitewashed towns with the fairytale-like ‘trulli’ dwellings Matera | Ancient city ‘sassi’ cave dwellings, one of Europe’s oldest settlements Monopoli | Bustling historic fishing town on the Adriatic coast PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1299pp £1499pp trip only (8 days)

DAY 1:

with flights (8 days)

DAY 2: Ride across wide open vistas under blue skies to the unique troglodyte settlement of Matera.

AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy

DAY 3:

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £195

Discover wonderful Matera. Optional ride to San Giuliano Lake.

DAY 4:

Cycle past olive groves to the distinctive dry stone conical trulli buildings of Alberobello.

MEALS:

DAILY DISTANCES

Breakfast: 7

BIKE:

27 gear Velo de Ville L200 hybrid bike



Join trip in Altamura.

E-Bike available

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 2

30km

Day 3

0/50km

Day 4

35/45km

Day 5

44km

Day 6

35km

Day 7

45km

Optional Rides

DAY 5: A circular ride that explores beautiful villages. Enjoy a local wine tasting. DAY 6:

Cycle past ochre fields and the Adriatic coast to Monopoli. Sample local cheeses.

DAY 7:

A coastal ride past inviting clear waters to the bronze age site of Egnazia.

DAY 8:

Trip ends in Monopoli.

ADRIATIC SEA

Bari Airport

MONOPOLI ALTAMURA

local bakery visit

ALBEROBELLO

ITALY GO SELF-GUIDED? Choose to explore this itinerary at your own pace with a Self-Guided option.

San Giuliano Lake

Trulli town, Caseiﬁcio

MATERA cheese tasting Troglodyte Town

Egnazia Bronze-age site

Cisternino Locorotondo Vineyard visit

Visit explore.co.uk/CSIP for more details.

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/CIP 125

leadership from a local “ Superb guide... Wonderful scenery and glorious coastline.

”

CAVTAT VILLAGE | CROATIA

Trusted Customer, Aug 2019

CYCLING – EUROPE

Cycle the Dalmatian Coast

TRIP CODE - CCD | CROATIA

Explore the beautiful Dalmatian Coast by bike from Split to Dubrovnik. Visit medieval towns, fishing villages and plenty of vineyards while island hopping along Croatia’s coast. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Dubrovnik and Split | Spend time in the historic hearts of the region’s oldest cities Hvar Island | Cycle through the beautiful countryside of one of Croatia’s scenic gems Korcula Island | Explore the villages and vineyards of this historic island

PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£995pp trip only (8 days)

ITINERARY

£1195pp with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 4 nights simple hotel 3 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £195 MEALS: Breakfast: 7

BIKE:

21 gear Polar or Mirage hybrid bike



E-Bike available

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAY 1:

Join trip in the coastal town of Kastel Kambelovac.

DAY 2:

Morning sightseeing in Split. Ferry to Hvar Island and explore by bike.

DAY 3:

Cycle the old streets and abandoned villages on the beautiful island of Hvar.

DAY 4:

Ferry to Korcula. Ride around the red terracotta roofed villages and limestone streets.

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

32km

Day 3

32km

Day 4

12km

Day 5

62km

Day 6

30km

Day 7

35km

Optional Rides

DAY 5: Full day’s cycling on Korcula. Experience the rural elegance of the island. DAY 6:

Morning ferry to Orebić. Cycle to Zuljana, then drive to Dubrovnik.

DAY 7: Opportunity to cycle through the villages of the Dalmatian Coast or explore Dubrovnik. DAY 8:

Trip ends Dubrovnik.

KASTEL KAMBELOVAC Sightseeing Split

CROATIA

Stari Grad Hvar

JESLA

BOSNIA HERZEGOVINA

KORCULA

DUBROVNIK

Cavtat

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/CCD 127

CYCLING – EUROPE

Cycling the Baltic States

TRIP CODE - CBS | LITHUANIA, LATVIA, ESTONIA

Explore the Baltic States by bicycle on this guided route through Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. Cycle through national parks, coastal scenes and medieval towns; past feudal castles and picturesque fishing villages. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Three Baltic capitals | Explore Vilnius, Riga and Tallinn Coastal scenery | Discover Lahemaa and Curonian Spit National Parks Trakai Castle | Cycle around the historical national park PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£995pp trip only (9 days)

£1295pp with flights (9 days)

AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £240

DAILY DISTANCES

ITINERARY

Day 2

13km

Day 3

39km

Day 4

36/22km

Day 5

37km

Day 6

12/25km

Day 7

41km

Day 8

37km

Optional Rides

DAY 1: Join trip in Vilnius, capital of Lithuania. DAY 2:

ycle around the lake to explore C Trakai’s historic island castle.

DAY 3:

Cycle through fishing villages to the Curonian Lagoon and on to the Baltic port of Klaipeda.

DAY 4:

xplore the peaceful and beautiful E Curonian Spit National Park on cycle paths and forest trails.

DAY 5:

Cycle through the Giruliai forest to Palanga Botanical Park and the Amber Museum.

DAY 6:

ycle on Jurmala’s white sand C beach and explore Riga, capital of Latvia.

DAY 7:

iscover the beauty of Lahemaa D National Park by bike.

DAY 8:

inal ride in Lahemaa. Explore F Tallinn, the picturesque capital of Estonia.

DAY 9:

Trip ends in Tallinn.

MEALS: Breakfast: 8

BIKE:

21 gear Merida Crossway hybrid bike with front suspension



E-Bike available

Gulf of Finland

TALLINN

BALTIC SEA

Medieval walled city

LAHEMAA National Park

ESTONIA

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Gulf of Riga

LATVIA Jurmala

RIGA

Art nouveau architecture

Palanga

KLAIPEDA

LITHUANIA

Nida Kintai KALININGRAD

UNESCO Old Town

TRAKAI

VILNIUS

Island Castle

128 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/CBS

CYCLING – EUROPE

Cycle Poland - Gdansk and the Baltic Coast

TRIP CODE - CPB | POLAND

An exploration of Poland’s Baltic Coast on two wheels. Cycle along dedicated cycle paths and quiet country roads through charming medieval towns, past pristine beaches and along the Hel Peninsula sand bar. Visit the giant Teutonic castle of Malbork. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Gdansk | Beautiful maritime city rich with history Slowinski National Park | Cycle with views of giant shifting sand dunes Elblag canal | Take a short cruise on this unique engineering achievement

PRICES FROM

£849pp trip only (8 days)

ITINERARY

£1099pp with flights (8 days)

DAY 1:

Join trip in Gdansk.

DAY 2:

rive to Leba, gateway to Slowinski D National Park. Short cycle ride past huge, shifting sand dunes.

DAY 3:

ide through the Coastal R Landscape Park along part of EuroVelo 10, an international cycle route that encircles the entire Baltic Sea. Overnight in Jastrzebia Gora.

DAY 4:

ollow a dedicated cycle path with F wonderful views of sandy beaches along the 35km-long sand bar Hel Peninsula. Water tram ride back to Gdansk for a city tour.

AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy to Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £260 MEALS: Breakfast: 7

BIKE:

28 gear Kross Trans 2 hybrid bike



DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

10km

Day 3

62km

Day 4

47km

Day 5

65km

Day 6

55km

Day 7

44km

E-Bike available

MONTHS OF TRAVEL: ŁEBA

JASTRZEBIA GORA

DAY 5: Cycle south to Malbork, visit the 13th century fortress - the main seat of the Teutonic Knights and considered to be the world’s biggest castle. DAY 6: Morning cycle through countryside to Buczyniec Lock. Cruise along the Elblag Canal and see the extraordinary system of locks and rail tracks.

GDANSK

Frombork

Tczew

DAY 7:

oastal ride along the GreenVelo C cycle path to Frombork, a small town where the astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus spent most of his life. Drive to Gdansk.

DAY 8:

Trip ends in Gdansk.

ELBLAG

(Elblag Canal)

MALBORK

Malbork Castle

POLAND

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/CPB 129

CYCLING – MIDDLE EAST

Cycle Jordan

TRIP CODE - CJP | JORDAN

Cycle through some of the most spectacular scenery and sites of Jordan. Float in the Dead Sea at the lowest place on earth and camp in Wadi Rum desert under a blanket of stars. Visit the ancient city of Petra - a World Heritage Site. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Madaba and Mount Nebo | Discover Jordan’s biblical heritage Wadi Rum desert camp | A night under the stars in our Bedouin camp in a secluded spot Red Sea | Relax on the beaches and swim among the coral and fish PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1165pp trip only (9 days)

ITINERARY

£1695pp

DAY 1:

with flights (9 days)

DAY 2: Visit Madaba and cycle to Mount Nebo. Descend to the Dead Sea for a dip.

AT A GLANCE

DAY 3:

CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel 1 night simple tented camp MEALS:

Day 2

36km

Breakfast: 8 | Lunch: 4 | Dinner: 1

Day 3

42km

BIKE:

Day 4

0km

Day 5

20km

Day 6

58km SYRIA

Day 7

MONTHS OF TRAVEL: AMMAN MADABA

Cycle from Shobak crusader castle to Petra.

DAY 4: Explore Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Optional Bedouin cookery demonstration and meal.

DAILY DISTANCES

Optional single rooms from £240

21 gear Trek 7.1 FX or Trek 7.2 FX hybrid bike

Join trip in Madaba.

35km

DAY 5:

Free time in Petra. Cycle to Little Petra and Al Beidha.

DAY 6:

Cycle to Wadi Rum and overnight under the stars in a desert camp.

DAY 7:

Cycle from Wadi Rum and continue on to Aqaba by bus.

DAY 8: Free day to relax by the Red Sea in Aqaba. Return to Amman in the evening. DAY 9:

Trip ends at Amman airport.

PETRA

AQABA

g’s H ighw a

Shobak Crusader castle Little Petra

JORDAN

Kin

ISRAEL

Dead Sea

ASH SHOBAK

WADI RUM Desert Camp

Red Sea port

130 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/CJP

CYCLING – AFRICA

Cycle Morocco - Atlas to the Sahara

TRIP CODE - CSO | MOROCCO

Discover the kasbahs, tribal villages and cool oases of the Draa Valley on this cycling holiday in Morocco. Cycle through the remote hamada desert of the Sahara and enjoy an exhilarating High Atlas descent through the Berber heartland. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Overnight Sahara camp | Ride camels through Saharan sand dunes Thrilling descent | Scenic descent from the stunning High Atlas mountain pass of Tizi N’Fedrhate Marrakech | Discover the atmospheric medina and lively Djemaa el-Fna Square PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£799pp

trip only (8 days)

ITINERARY

£999pp

DAY 1: Join trip in Marrakech. Take in the sunset from the lively Djemaa el-Fna Square.

with flights (8 days)

AT A GLANCE

DAY 2:

CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel

DAY 3: Cycle in the Draa Valley. Drive to Alnif.

1 night simple camping Optional single rooms from £100

MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Dinner: 1

BIKE:

DAILY DISTANCES

27 gear Cannondale Off Road or Trail mountain bike with front suspension (or similar)

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 2

38km

Day 3

42km

Day 4

37km

Day 5

54km

Day 6 Day 7

Demnate

Tizi n’Outfi 2,180m Ighil M’Goun MARRAKECH Demnate 4,071m Toufrine Tizi n’Tichka 2,260m EL KALAAT Tizi 2,180m Jebel Tizin’Outfi n’Fedrhate ’ Ighil M’Goun MARRAKECH Toubkal 2,180m Toufrine M’GOUNA HS 4,071m Tizi n’Tichka BA 4,167m s AS 2,260m Assermo ade K D 0 HIGH ATLAS EL KALAA 00 Jebel Tizi n’Fedrhate Skoura F 1 JEBEL SARHRO M’GOUNA S’ Taourirt Kasbah Toubkal 2,180m YO AH E L 4,167m SB L Assermo es A A d a K ‘V D OUARZAZATE Skoura 0 HIGH ATLAS 00 Tazzarine Agdz F 1 JEBEL SARHRO Anmiter O Tinififte PassLEY Telouet Kasbah L 1,660m ‘VA Tansikht AIT BEN HADDOU Agdz Dr DRAA aa Tinififte Pass VALLEY 1,660m DRAA VALLEY

01252 883 480

Drive into the High Atlas. Cycle down to spectacular fortified city of Ait Ben Haddou.

DAY 4:

Cycle the foothills of Jebel Sahro. Camel trek to Sahara camp.

DAY 5:

Enjoy the sunrise in the sand dunes then pedal to Erfoud.

DAY 6:

Bike through local villages en route to El Kalaat M’Gouna.

DAY 7:

Ride down through the Atlas Mountains and return to Marrakech.

DAY 8:

Trip ends in Marrakech.

43km

MOROCCO

34km

Walk in Todra Gorge

MOROCCO

Tinerhir

Optional visit Maadid

Rhettaras

ERFOUD

Todra Gorge Rissani

Tinerhir

Oasis

Tawrirt n’ghil

ALNIF ALNIF

SAHARA

ERFOUD ERG CHEBBI SAND DUNESOasis Rissani Camel ride

Merzouga

ERG CHEBBI SAND DUNES ALGERIA Camel ride and overnight camp ALGERIA

explore.co.uk/CSO 131

CYCLING – ASIA

Cycling in Georgia

TRIP CODE - CGE | GEORGIA

A cycling adventure in the Caucasus a beautiful land steeped in history that straddles two continents. Travelling by bus and bike, we explore ancient Silk Road cave towns and the wine producing region of Kakheti to visit local farms, vineyards and try the delicious cuisine. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cycle Georgia | Discover beautiful landscapes and countryside from the saddle Tbilisi | Discover the picturesque Old Town of Georgia’s capital Georgian food and wine | Superb food and the birthplace of wine PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1490pp £1899pp trip only (10 days)

with flights (10 days)

DAY 1:

Join trip in Tbilisi.

DAY 2:

Explore Old Tbilisi on foot. Afternoon cable car ride to Narika Fort and the sulphur baths.

DAY 3:

Visit the ancient capital Mtskheta. Cycle to the great Silk Road cave town of Uplistsikhe.

AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 6 nights comfortable hotel 3 nights comfortable guesthouse Optional single rooms from £220

DAILY DISTANCES

MEALS:

Day 3

61km

Breakfast: 9 | Lunch: 6 | Dinner: 3

Day 4

65km

Day 5

46km

BIKE:

21 gear Ghost mountain bike

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 6

74km

DAY 5: Scenic cycle amid mountain foothills and via Khertvisi fortress then up the valley to Akhalkalaki.

Day 7

39km

DAY 6:

Day 8

45km

Day 9

31km

Pedal past Lake Paravani and across Georgian ‘Siberia’. Continue by bus back to Tbilisi.

DAY 7:

nice challenging cycle up over A Gombori Pass, then a great descent into the Kakheti wine region – rich with history and culture.

DAY 8:

iscover the birthplace of wine on D a ride alongside vineyards. Sample local wines, learn about the Qvevri technique and try Chacha grape spirit firewater!

DAY 9:

ycle past more vineyards with C a backdrop of the Caucasus Mountains. Visit a family farm for typical Georgian sweet making. Delicious family hosted lunch.

Mt Kazbeg 5033m

GEORGIA

TELAVI

Food market

Uplistsikhe Cave Town

Gremi fort

KVARELI

Wine tasting

Mtskheta ancient capital

TBILISI

AKHALTSIKHE Rabati Castle

DAY 4: Stunning ride from Akhaltsikhe to the ancient cave town of Vardzia which is cut into the side of the mountain.

Gavazi walnut sweet making

Gombori Pass

Velistsikhe wine tasting

Tsalka

AKHALKALAKI VARDZIA

AZERBAIJAN

Cave town

DAY 10: Trip ends in Tbilisi. GEORGIA

ARMENIA

132 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/CGE

CYCLING – ASIA

Cycle Kerala

TRIP CODE - CKB | INDIA

This cycling holiday in southern India travels along Kerala’s backroads through a landscape of tropical forests, spice, tea and rubber plantations. Discover village life, search for wildlife in Periyar National Park and relax on Indian Ocean beaches. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Varied cycling | Pedal along beautiful coastlines, through plantations and tropical forests Kochi | Explore this fascinating colonial coastal town Kovalam | Relax on the stunning beaches of the Malabar Coast PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1749pp £2349pp trip only (13 days)

with flights (14 days)

AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 10 nights comfortable hotel 2 nights simple homestay Optional single rooms from £390 MEALS:

DAILY DISTANCES

ITINERARY

Day 2

10/32km

Day 3

37km

Day 4

36km

Day 5

39km

Day 6

35km

Day 7

33km

Day 8

9/32km

Day 9

36km

Day 10

0km

Day 11

30km

Day 12

10km

DAY 1:

Join trip in Kovalam.

DAY 2:

Morning cycle ride. Afternoon free to relax on the Malabar Coast.

DAY 3:

Drive to Veli Lagoon. Visit Anjengo Fort and cycle to Varkala.

DAY 4:

Cycle through traditional Keralan villages to Kollam.

DAY 5:

Boat trip along backwaters. Cycle to Mancombu.

DAY 6:

Full day cycling through backwater villages. Afternoon canoe trip.

DAY 7:

Drive and cycle to Vagamon. Stay at Planter’s Homestay.

DAY 8:

Free to explore Vagamon on foot. Optional cycle rides available.

DAY 9:

Drive and cycle to Thekkady. Visit plantations and a tea factory.

Breakfast: 12 | Lunch: 3 | Dinner: 2

BIKE:

Optional Rides

21 or 24 gear Trek or Merida mountain bike with lockable front suspension

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

THEKKADY

KOCHI

Idukki Reservoir

Sunset cruise

PLANTER’S HOMESTAY Tea & spice plantations

Alleppey

MANCOMBU

Cruise backwaters Canoe trip

Ashtamudi Lake

KOLLAM

INDIA

DAY 11: Drive to Kuttikkanam. Cycle to Malayattoor. Drive to Kochi.

CARDAMOM HILLS

DAY 12: Tour of Kochi by bike. Evening boat cruise. DAY 13: Trip ends in Kochi.

VARKALA

FESTIVAL DEPARTURES Diwali Festival A special Diwali Festival departure is available for this trip. See date and prices on our website.

01252 883 480

INDIAN OCEAN

DAY 10: Walk Periyar National Park forest in search of wildlife. Explore the spice gardens of Thekkady.

Veli Trivandrum

KOVALAM

explore.co.uk/CKB 133

CYCLING – ASIA

Bangkok to Saigon by Bike

TRIP CODE - CTV | THAILAND, CAMBODIA, VIETNAM

A cycle trip that explores the classic highlights of South East Asia in an active way. Travel by bike, bus and boat to discover cultural diversity, natural beauty and fascinating history. Along the way we visit Angkor, the Killing Fields and silk weaving villages on the Mekong Delta. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Khao Yai National Park | Cycle amid beautiful scenery and waterfalls Temples of Angkor | Cycle through the jungle between Khmer temples Cycle the Mekong Delta | Boat and bike along the labyrinthine waterways PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1795pp £2430pp trip only (14 days)

DAY 1: Join trip in Bangkok. Optional long-tail canal trip.

with flights (16 days)

DAY 2: Cycle Bangkok’s hidden urban oasis. Night bike ride with food tour.

AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate

DAILY DISTANCES

ACCOMMODATION: 12 nights comfortable hotel

Day 2

40km

1 night simple homestay

Day 3

53km

Optional single rooms from £310

Day 4

51km

MEALS:

Day 5

0km

Day 6

25km

Day 7

56km

Day 8

37km

Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 2

BIKE:

24 gear Giant or ATX mountain bike with front suspension

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 9

0km

Day 10

20km

Day 11

50km

Day 12

50km

Day 13

30km

Khao Yai National Park

ARANYAPRATHET BANGKOK Night ride

NAKHON NAYOK

THAILAND

Poi Pet

Angkor Wat temple complex Kompong Phluk (ﬂoating village trip)

CAMBODIA

Choeung Ek “Killing Fields”

PHNOM PENH

CHAU DOC HA TIEN

VIETNAM Binh Hoa Phuoc

DAY 4:

Cycle past typical scenes of rural Thailand to the Cambodian border.

DAY 5:

Silk farm visit and drive to Siem Reap in Cambodia. Sunset visit to Angkor temples.

DAY 6:

Explore the magnificent temples of Angkor by bike including Angkor Wat, the Bayon and Ta Prohm.

DAY 7:

Visit Tonle Sap floating village by boat. See Banteay Srey temple and try a home hosted lunch.

DAY 8:

Drive and cycle to Phnom Penh via Koh Dach silk weaving village.

DAY 9:

Explore Phnom Penh. Visit National Museum, Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the Killing Fields.

DAY 11: Cycle the canal between Vietnam and Cambodia to Chau Doc.

Royal Palace Silver Pagoda Wat Phnom Gulf of Thailand

Explore Khao Yai National Park by bike.

DAY 10: Cross the border to Vietnam. Cycle around Ha Tien on the Mekong Delta.

SIEM REAP

Lake Tonle Sap

DAY 3:

HO CHI MINH CITY

DAY 12: Rural village cycling. Homestay with traditional Vietnamese dinner included. DAY 13: Cycling on Binh Hoa Phuoc Island then drive to Ho Chi Minh City. DAY 14: Trip ends in Ho Chi Minh City.

134 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/CTV

CYCLING – ASIA

Cycle Saigon to Hanoi

TRIP CODE - CVIE | VIETNAM

On this adventurous and active trip we experience Vietnam on two wheels. Along the way we discover Saigon, Hoi An, Hué, Hanoi and the majestic beauty of Halong Bay on an overnight cruise. What better way to fuel your ride than with the delicious Vietnamese cuisine. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cycle the Central Highlands | Explore the hill country and cycle over Hon Giao Pass Saigon | Cycle out to the Cu Chi Tunnels and explore the Mekong Delta Hoi An | Visit the beautiful World Heritage town PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

£1399pp £2079pp trip only (14 days)

with flights (16 days)

AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate ACCOMMODATION: 11 nights comfortable hotel 1 night comfortable junk boat 1 night simple overnight train Optional single rooms from £305

MEALS: Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 1

DAILY DISTANCES Day 2

50km

Day 3

51km

Day 4

30km

Day 5

80km

Day 6

0km

Day 7

60km

Day 8

59km

Day 9

0km

Day 10

80km

Day 11

20km CHINA

VIETNAM

HALONG BAY

HANOI

BIKE:

DAY 1:

Join trip in Ho Chi Minh City with an afternoon orientation tour of Old Saigon.

DAY 2:

Cycle to Cu Chi Tunnels. Late afternoon free to explore Old Saigon.

DAY 3:

Drive to Mekong Delta. Cycle the backroads to Cai Be.

DAY 4: Explore Vietnam’s Central Highlands. Stay in the old French city of Dalat. DAYS 5–6:

Cycle over Hon Giao Pass to Nha Trang. Rest day from the bikes. To relax, take a boat trip to tropical islands.

DAY 7:

Cycle and drive from Nha Trang to Quy Nhon.

DAY 8:

Pedal over the Thi Nai sea bridge. Drive to historic Hoi An.

DAY 9:

Morning walking tour of Hoi An’s traditional wooden houses and Chinese temples. Free afternoon.

DAYS 10–11:

Cycle and drive to Hué via the Hai Van Pass. Cycle around Hué then overnight train to Hanoi.

Cruise through clear waters, caves & Kayaking

24 gear Giant or ATX mountain bike with front suspension



ITINERARY

GULF OF TONKIN

E-Bike available Perfume River Royal tombs

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

HUÉ

Cycle the citadel & Tu Doc Mausoleum LAOS

Hai Van Pass

HOI AN

L TRA DS CENHLAN HIG

Quy Nhon

CAMBODIA Khanh Vinh Colonial hill station

DALAT

Cu Chi Tunnels Can Duoc

CAI BE

Mekong Delta

01252 883 480

NHA TRANG Oﬀshore islands day trip

HO CHI MINH CITY Old Saigon Mekong Delta cruise Explore waterways

DAY 12: Arrive in Hanoi. Drive to Halong Bay for overnight cruise amid stunning karst scenery. DAY 13: Morning cruise of the bay. Drive to Hanoi for a tour of the city. DAY 14: Trip ends in Hanoi.

SOUTH CHINA SEA

explore.co.uk/CVIE 135

CYCLING – THE AMERICAS

Cycle Mexico - The Yucatán Peninsula

TRIP CODE - CMX | MEXICO

Discover the beaches, Mayan temples and colourful villages of the Yucatan Peninsula by bike. After Cozumel Island, visit the colonial towns of Merida and Valladolid and cycle through colourful Mayan villages on quiet roads with chances to swim from beautiful beaches. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Chichen Itza, Coba and Tulum | Explore amazing Mayan sites Easy Yucatan cycling | Pedal on quiet backroads on the flat Swim | From idyllic white sand beaches and in freshwater cenotes PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1249pp £1899pp trip only (9 days)

DAY 1:

with flights (10 days)

DAY 2: Boat to Cozumel Island. Explore this quiet island by bike with a chance to swim.

AT A GLANCE

DAY 3: Visit Chichen Itza Mayan site. Swim in Ik Kil cenote. Early evening ride in historic Mérida. Included Mexican dinner.

CYCLE GRADE: Easy ACCOMMODATION: 8 nights comfortable hotel Optional single rooms from £230

DAILY DISTANCES

MEALS:

Day 2

Breakfast: 8 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 1

BIKE:

10 gear Specialized hybrid bike with front suspension

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

DAY 4:

Cycle to the beach. Enjoy a seafood lunch grill and learn to make cocktails.

DAY 5:

Ride to colonial Spanish convent of Izamal. Visit interesting Mayan villages. Tamales for lunch.

DAY 6:

Ride sand paths to coastal towns and colourful pink lagoons. Taste and learn all about tequila.

40/60km

Day 3

10km

Day 4

35km

Day 5

25km

Day 6

23km

Day 7

35km

Optional Rides

DAY 7: Ride and explore the impressive temples at Coba ruins. Drive to Tulum.

Las Coloradas San Felipe Progreso

San Crisanto beach

Pink lagoons

DAY 8:

orning guided visit to incredible M Tulum Mayan temple on white sand beach. Afternoon free at beach or optional ride to Punta Laguna Nature Reserve for jungle tour.

DAY 9:

Trip ends in Tulum.

Dzilam de Bravo

MÉRIDA

City ride and Tacos dinner

Join trip in Playa del Carmen.

Cancún

Cacalchén Izamal Colonial convent Chichen Itza

PLAYA DEL CARMEN

VALLADOLID Coba

MEXICO

TULUM

Cozumel Island

CARIBBEAN SEA

136 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/CMX

CYCLING – THE AMERICAS

Cycle Cuba!

TRIP CODE - CCC | CUBA

Explore the scenic beauty and cultural highlights of Cuba on two wheels. Cycle on quiet roads along the Caribbean coast to historic Trinidad, past striking limestone landscapes in Viñales and through tropical forests in Topes de Collantes. OTHER HIGHLIGHTS Cycle Cuba | With very little traffic this is the ideal way to see the island Casas Particulares | Stay in private homestays in colonial Trinidad and Viñales Havana | Explore this atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage Site PRODUCT RATING:

PRICES FROM

ITINERARY

£1799pp £2429pp trip only (15 days)

DAY 1:

with flights (16 days)

DAY 2: Walking tour of Old Havana. Drive to forested mountain setting of Soroa.

AT A GLANCE CYCLE GRADE: Moderate

DAILY DISTANCES

ACCOMMODATION: 9 nights simple casas particulares

Day 3

21km

5 nights comfortable hotel

Day 4

58km

Optional single rooms from £310

Day 5

43/58km

Day 6

25km

Day 7

20/45km

Day 8

0km

MEALS: Breakfast: 14 | Dinner: 1

BIKE:

24 or 27 gear Conor Avenue or Stevens Galant SX hybrid bike with front suspension

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Day 9

41km

Day 10

37km

Day 11

0km

Day 12

35km

Day 13

17km

Day 14

23km

Optional Rides

Cayo Jutías Optional visit

VIÑALES Santo Tomas Cave Optional visit

Valle Yumurí

Las Terrazas

CUBA

SOROA SAN DIEGO DE LOS BAÑOS

DAY 3:

Cycle through tropical forests to San Juan river for a refreshing dip.

DAY 4:

Ride to the spa town of San Diego de los Baños.

DAYS 5–6:

Explore the stunning limestone scenery of Viñales by bike.

DAY 7:

Free day to relax, cycle some more or explore the island of Cayo Levisa.

DAY 8:

Drive to colonial Cienfuegos past the infamous Bay of Pigs.

DAY 9:

ycle to the beautifully preserved C colonial town of Trinidad.

through the beautiful scenic DAY 10: Ride ‘valley of the sugar mills’. Return to Trinidad. free day to explore the cobbled DAY 11: A streets of Trinidad or take a catamaran trip to Las Iguanas Island.

HAVANA Historical capital

Join trip in Havana.

CIENFUEGOS SANTA CLARA

Cueva de los Peces swimming

Manicaragua Playa Girón

Topes de Collantes

Guajimico

TRINIDAD

Playa Ancon

Colonial architecture

downhill ride in Escambray DAY 12: Scenic Mountains. Visit Che Guevara’s tomb in Santa Clara. DAY 13: Cycle through the quiet Yumuri Valley and try Cuba’s best piña colada at Bacunayagua canyon. the old capital of Havana DAY 14: Explore on foot or by bike. DAY 15: Trip ends in Havana.

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/CCC 137

Choose to go

Self-Guided A Self-Guided cycling trip offers maximum flexibility. Set your own pace, choose when and where you stop and enjoy the challenge of navigating yourself. All you’ll need to bring is your own helmet, we’ll supply the rest, including a good quality bike suitable for the route and terrain. We take care of the logistics, from route notes and maps to luggage and accommodation, so all that’s left for you to do is enjoy your trip. For more information, and to see the full range of SelfGuided holidays, visit explore.co.uk/self-guided

Danube Cycling - Vienna to Budapest

Cycling Canal de la Garonne

Cycle through Austria, Slovakia and Hungary following the Danube on Europe’s most famous cycle path. Experience unspoilt nature, hidden artistic treasures, charming monuments and peaceful cycling.

From Bordeaux, cycle through winelands over gently rolling hills before joining the historic Canal de la Garonne, which leads you to Toulouse. Sample regional delicacies accompanied by a glass of Bordeaux along the way.

8 days | explore.co.uk/CSVB

7 days | explore.co.uk/CSVP

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Cycle South Portugal

Cycle Camino de Santiago

Discover unspoilt beaches, rolling dunes and dramatic cliffs as you follow Portugal’s beautiful coastline from the Algarve into Alentejo. Pedal your way along dirt roads, crossing pastures and open vistas to Cape Sao Vicente.

Cycle the legendary pilgrimage trail from Leon to Santiago de Compostela. On this scenic ride through northern Spain pass historical monuments and pretty villages along the way, often in the company of other pilgrims.

8 days | explore.co.uk/CSPO

10 days | explore.co.uk/CSCS

Cycling in Murcia, Southern Spain Ride past white-washed villages and Moorish towers, endless orchards, ancient irrigation channels and layers of history on this self-guided cycling holiday in Murcia. Pedal along country lanes, peaceful cycle paths and quiet roads, enjoying historic towns and a striking variety of landscapes. 7 days | explore.co.uk/CSSM

Puglia Cycling

Cycling in Sicily

Cycle around the ‘heel’ of Italy, in the sun-drenched region of Puglia. Experience beautiful sandy beaches and turquoise seas, explore the Baroque city of Lecce, see the famous Trulli houses, and taste local delicacies.

Cycle along Sicily’s western coast, discover vibrant landscapes as you ride on quiet coastal roads through the countryside. Explore imposing Greek ruins and Favignana Island, a hidden gem in the Mediterranean.

7 days | explore.co.uk/CSIP

7 days | explore.co.uk/CSSI

explore.co.uk 139

BUFFARDELLO PARK | ITALY | EXPLORE.CO.UK/FTY

Contents Introduction What to expect from a Family trip

142–143

School holiday planner

144–145

Europe Italy

146

Africa Morocco

147

Cambodia

148

Thailand

148

Vietnam

148

The Americas Costa Rica

149

Family

Asia

The perfect family holiday formula

All of the fun, none of the hassle Our Family Adventures are all about fun. We do the research and planning, so you don’t have to. All of our holidays are organised around school holiday dates with additional special dates in early July for teenagers who’ve just finished exams.

Widen your horizons, learn more We’re big believers in the role that travel plays in introducing children to a vast new world. Step away from the textbook and learn about the ancient Egyptians as you cruise down the Nile, take-in the biodiversity of Costa Rica’s continental divide and experience different cultures and religions in India and beyond.

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Kids usually set the tempo of a holiday, so we have different paces of trip to suit your family. Our ‘Relaxed’ holidays have chilled mornings and dedicated pool days, with plenty of time to see the sights. ‘Moderate’ trips have fuller days with downtime built-in, while ‘Full-On’ trips are busier, with some early starts and longer travelling days. If you’d like to opt-out of a day’s activity, you’re free to do your thing.

The right pace for your family

Shared experiences and new friends

A major highlight of travelling on a smallgroup Family Adventure holiday is sharing your experiences with other families, and having your children make new friends. The average age of children travelling on our trips is 13, though it will depend on the trip you choose. To get an idea about who’s travelling on a particular trip date, please get in touch to find out the number of travellers and general ages of the children.

A good night’s sleep

We use a mix of homestays, characterful lodges and locallyowned hotels. Wherever possible, we try to have at least two nights in each place. We always try to find family-friendly accommodation with pools and some of the places are really special too – you can stay in tree tents, houseboats or beehive huts. Whether you all want to stay together in one room or prefer a different configuration, we’ll work to accommodate you.

explore.co.uk 143

School

holiday planner All of our family adventures have been planned around school holiday dates. Whether you fancy snorkelling Belize’s barrier reef over Christmas or sleeping under the stars in Jordan’s Wadi Rum at Easter, we’ve got

ANGKOR WAT | CAMBODIA | EXPLORE.CO.UK/FQBK

dozens of adventures for you to choose from.

Europe MIN. AGE*

FEB HALF TERM

EASTER BREAK

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM



CHRISTMAS BREAK

FIND OUT MORE

COUNTRIES

TRIP NAME

ICELAND

ICELAND YURT ADVENTURE

CROATIA

DUBROVNIK AND CROATIAN ISLANDS ADVENTURE



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FDI

GREECE

GREEK COAST CAIQUE CRUISE



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FGC

ITALY

SICILY MULTI-ACTIVITY ADVENTURE

ITALY

 BEST SELLER TUSCANY MULTI-ACTIVITY ADVENTURE



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FSI



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FTY

POLAND - SLOVAKIA

SLOVAKIA WINTER ADVENTURE

SPAIN

 BEST SELLER PYRENEES MULTI-ACTIVITY ADVENTURE

TURKEY

 BEST SELLER TURKEY COASTAL ACTIVE ADVENTURE

TURKEY

CRUISING THE TURQUOISE COAST



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FCE

TURKEY

 BEST SELLER TURKEY COASTAL ACTIVE ADVENTURE AND CRUISE



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FLLC



146

EXPLORE.CO.UK/FPW EXPLORE.CO.UK/FPY

 

PAGE

EXPLORE.CO.UK/FHY

EXPLORE.CO.UK/FLL



Middle East and Africa MIN. AGE*

FEB HALF TERM

EASTER BREAK

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FJD



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FAT



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FMA

 BEST SELLER SOUTH AFRICA SAFARI AND BEACH ADVENTURE



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FZK

SOUTH AFRICA

SOUTH AFRICA’S GARDEN ROUTE AND SAFARI



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FCP

TANZANIA

ZANZIBAR, SERENGETI & NGORONGORO SAFARI



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FTZ

ZAMBIA - NAMIBIA BOTSWANA

 BEST SELLER BOTSWANA AND ZAMBIA SAFARI ADVENTURE



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FOA

COUNTRIES

TRIP NAME

EGYPT

EGYPTIAN SPHINX, PYRAMIDS AND NILE RIVER



JORDAN

 BEST SELLER JORDAN, PETRA AND DESERT ADVENTURE



MOROCCO

 BEST SELLER ATLAS MOUNTAIN AND SAHARA ADVENTURE

MOROCCO

MARRAKECH, ATLAS & ESSAOUIRA ADVENTURE

SOUTH AFRICA – SWAZILAND



MAY HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS BREAK

FIND OUT MORE

PAGE

EXPLORE.CO.UK/FNF

147

Asia COUNTRIES

TRIP NAME

CHINA

CHINA IN DEPTH

MIN. AGE*

FEB HALF TERM

EASTER BREAK

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

OCTOBER HALF TERM

CHRISTMAS BREAK

INDIA

INDIAN DISCOVERY



 BEST SELLER INDIA GOLDEN TRIANGLE ADVENTURE



INDONESIA

DRAGONS AND ISLANDS OF INDONESIA

SRI LANKA

HIGHLIGHTS OF SRI LANKA



SRI LANKA – MALDIVES

 BEST SELLER SRI LANKA AND MALDIVES ADVENTURE



THAILAND

 BEST SELLER THAILAND ACTIVE JUNGLE AND BEACH ADVENTURE

THAILAND

THAILAND BEACH, JUNGLE AND WILDLIFE ADVENTURE

VIETNAM

VIETNAM IN DEPTH



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FKB



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FMG



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FSS



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FSL



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FOT



PAGE

EXPLORE.CO.UK/FQCH



INDIA

FIND OUT MORE

EXPLORE.CO.UK/FKM



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FTT EXPLORE.CO.UK/FVN

VIETNAM

 BEST SELLER DISCOVER VIETNAM



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FQVN

VIETNAM - CAMBODIA THAILAND

VIETNAM, CAMBODIA AND THAILAND JOURNEY



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FQBK

148

CHRISTMAS BREAK

FIND OUT MORE

PAGE

The Americas MIN. AGE*

FEB HALF TERM

EASTER BREAK

MAY HALF TERM

SUMMER HOLIDAYS

COUNTRIES

TRIP NAME

BELIZE

BELIZE WILDLIFE ADVENTURE



CANADA

CANADIAN ADVENTURE



COSTA RICA

 BEST SELLER COSTA RICA RAINFOREST AND WILDLIFE ADVENTURE

 

CUBA

 BEST SELLER CUBA DISCOVERY

NICARAGUA

NICARAGUA MULTI-ACTIVITY ADVENTURE

OCTOBER HALF TERM



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FBZ EXPLORE.CO.UK/FCN



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FCC



EXPLORE.CO.UK/FCLT



149

EXPLORE.CO.UK/FNI

* Minimum age on date of departure.

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk 145

FAMILY – EUROPE

Tuscany Multi-Activity Adventure TRIP CODE - FTY | ITALY

This trip combines one of the regions hidden gems, Luca; with the beautiful Garfagnana Valley. Packed full of activities including kayaking, rafting, zip lines, stand up paddle boarding and walking the stunning Cinque Terre coastal path, it’s a packed week of adventure. MAGIC MOMENTS

Get active | Kayaking, trekking, high ropes, canyoning and zip wires Characterful accommodation | Relax by the pool with views of the Garfagnana Valley Cinque Terre | Walk the UNESCO World Heritage landscapes of the Tuscan Riviera PRODUCT RATING:

ADULT PRICE FROM

£1195pp trip only (8 days)

£1435pp

with flights (8 days)

CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM

£1075*pp £1305*pp trip only

with flights

ITINERARY DAY 1:

Join trip in Lucca.

DAY 2:

Tour of Luca old town and surrounding countryside on foot and by bike. Free afternoon to further explore Lucca.

DAY 3:

Stand up paddle board and zip wire adventure park at Bagni di Lucca. Afternoon rafting.

DAY 4:

Kayaking and paddle boarding on Lake Gramolazzo.

DAY 5:

ree morning. Afternoon F canyoning in the Turrite Valley.

DAY 6:

Exploring the backstreets of Monterosso on the stunning Cinque Terre coast. Walk along the famed coastal trail.

DAY 7:

Walking in the Orecchiella National Park.

DAY 8:

Trip ends at Pisa Airport.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

15 16 17

ACCOMMODATION: 7 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 3 | Dinner: 4 APEN

NINE

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Orecchiella National Park walk to Pania del Corﬁno (1610m) San Tree climbing in Pellegrino Buﬀardello Park Villetta Kayaking on Lake Gramolazzo

Rio Maggiore ‘Cinque Terre’ trails

CASTELNUOVO DI GARFAGNANA

Ser

chio

Canyoning Ligurian Sea

ITALY Walled town

LUCCA

Ar no Pisa Leaning Tower

CASTELNUOVO DI GARFAGNANA Florence

ITALY

*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 145 and page 150 for more information.

146 01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/FTY

FAMILY – AFRICA

Atlas Mountain and Sahara Adventure TRIP CODE - FAT | MOROCCO

An active adventure in the Moroccan wilderness exploring North Africa’s mountains and desert. Ride mules in the High Atlas and cycle the southern mountain slopes. Explore the great Sahara by camel, sleeping in a traditional Berber tent among the dunes. MAGIC MOMENTS

Atlas Mountains | Enjoy local hospitality in a traditional Berber gite Sahara Desert | Spend a night camping under the stars Marrakech | Explore the captivating medina with its market and food stalls PRODUCT RATING:

ADULT PRICE FROM

£695pp

trip only (8 days)

£955pp

with flights (8 days)

CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM

£625*pp

£870*pp

trip only

with flights

ITINERARY DAY 1:

Join trip in Marrakech.

DAY 2:

Drive to the High Atlas mountains and take a mule trek to the remote village of Tighza.

DAY 3:

Hike in the valleys of the southern Atlas. Visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

DAY 4:

Cycle to Ouarzazate and visit the Atlas Film Studios. Drive south to the oasis of Tamnougalt.

DAY 5:

Camel ride to the remote oasis of Tiraf Dunes. Camp Berber-style under the stars.

DAY 6:

Camel trek back to the road head. Visit the desert oasis town of Zagora. Continue to Ouarzazate.

DAY 7:

Return to Marrakech and experience the sights of the souks and medina with a local guide.

DAY 8:

Trip ends in Marrakech.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12

14 15 16 17

ACCOMMODATION: 1 night simple camping 1 night simple gite 4 nights comfortable hotel 1 night comfortable kasbah MEALS: Breakfast: 7 | Lunch: 4 | Dinner: 2

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

Mule ride & valley hike

Tizi-n-Tichka

TIGHZA

AÏT BEN HADDOU

TAMNOUGALT KASBAH

OUARZAZATE Atlas Film Studios

és

Ou e

HIGH ATLAS

MOROCCO

City tour

MARRAKECH

ANTI ATLAS

Tagounite

OULED DRISS Camel ride & desert camp

SAHARA DESERT

*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 145 and page 150 for more information.

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/FAT 147

FAMILY – ASIA

Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand Journey TRIP CODE - FQBK | VIETNAM, CAMBODIA, THAILAND

This action-packed grand tour travels across Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand. Explore floating markets of the Mekong Delta, discover temples of ancient Angkor and witness fast moving cities and dense jungles. We finish on golden sand beaches on the Gulf of Thailand. MAGIC MOMENTS

Ho Chi Minh City | Visit an underground weapons bunker in Saigon’s bustling back alleys Phnom Penh | Take part in a cookery lesson in a Khmer restaurant Bangkok | Explore the beautiful temple of the Reclining Buddha and Grand Palace (optional) PRODUCT RATING:

ADULT PRICE FROM

CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM

£1390pp £2449pp trip only (14 days)

with flights (16 days)

£1195*pp £2070*pp trip only

with flights

ITINERARY DAY 1:

Join trip in Ho Chi Minh City.

DAY 2:

Discover the Cu Chi Tunnels used in the Vietnam war and travel around Old Saigon on a cyclo.

DAY 3:

Cycle on the Mekong Delta pathways. Drive to Can Tho border town via the floating markets.

DAY 4:

Cruise on sampans, offering an in depth view of Cai Rang’s floating market from the delta.

DAY 5:

Exhilarating speedboat ride to Phnom Penh.

DAY 6:

Put your culinary skills to the test with a cookery lesson in Phnom Penh. Visit a local school in the afternoon.

DAY 7:

Drive to lively Siem Reap, home to Angkor Wat, enjoying the verdant Cambodian countryside en route.

DAYS 8–9:

Two full days to explore the world famous temples of Angkor. Full guided tour on first day by tuk-tuk.

AT A GLANCE TRIP PACE: Full On AVERAGE AGE: 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

15 16 17

ACCOMMODATION: 13 nights comfortable hotel MEALS: Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 2 | Dinner: 1

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

THAILAND

BANGKOK

THAILAND BURMA

PRANBURI BANGKOK

SIEM REAP Lake Tonle Sap

SIEM REAP

Visit Temples of Angkor by tuk tuk

CAMBODIA Visit Temples of Angkor by tuk tuk

PHNOM PENH Lake

HUA HIN BURMA

Poipet

Gulf of Thailand

Cooking lesson, Tonle school visit Sap

VIETNAM Cu Chi Tunnels

CAMBODIA

CHAU DOC PHNOM PENH

Cai Be Floating Market

Cooking lesson, school visit

HO CHI MINH CITY VIETNAM

Cu Chi Tunnels Vinh Long

Cycle tour

HO CHI CAN THOCai Be MEKONG MINH CITY Cai Rang Floating CHAU DOC Cycle tour Floating Market, Market DELTA cycle ride, boat trip

CAN THO

Vinh Long

MEKONG Cai Rang Floating Market, DELTA cycle ride, boat trip

DAY 10: Morning flight to Bangkok, Thailand. Free afternoon to explore the capital. DAY 11: Option to visit many of the city’s famous sights including the Grand Palace. Afternoon transfer to beach resort. DAYS 12–13:

Enjoy two days relaxing on the tranquil palm-fringed tropical beaches of Hua Hin.

DAY 14: Trip ends in Bangkok.

*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 145 and page 150 for more information.

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explore.co.uk/FQBK

FAMILY – THE AMERICAS

Costa Rica Rainforest and Wildlife Adventure TRIP CODE - FCC | COSTA RICA

Journey from the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean through one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world. Discover cloud forest, home to the magnificent resplendent quetzal, learn how to make chocolate and zip wire through the forest canopy. MAGIC MOMENTS

Wildlife | Look out for howler monkey, sloth and beautifully-coloured birds Jungle | Cruise along the waterways of the Tortuguero ‘mini Amazon’ Golden beaches | Share the beach with sun-bathing iguana and capuchin monkey PRODUCT RATING:

ADULT PRICE FROM

£2295pp £2855pp trip only (14 days)

with flights (16 days)

CHILD PRICE (7-11 YEARS) FROM

£1765*pp £2275*pp

trip only

with flights

AT A GLANCE

ITINERARY DAY 1:

Join tour in San Jose.

DAY 2:

Drive to Turrialba via the former capital Cartago and Irazu Volcano.

DAY 3:

Turrialba. Free morning with optional whitewater rafting. Afternoon visit to a local farm for cheese making tour.

DAY 4:

Bus/boat to Tortuguero National Park. Keep an eye out for wildlife as we cruise through the narrow waterways.

DAY 5:

Full day in the park searching for wildlife including howler monkey and parrot.

DAY 6:

Boat transfer to Cano Blanco, drive to Sarapiqui. Visit La Tirimbina for a chocolate tour.

DAYS 7–8:

Continue to La Fortuna via a nature reserve at the foot of Arenal Volcano.

DAY 9:

Monteverde cloud forest. Prepare a traditional dish and visit a conservation project.

TRIP PACE: Moderate AVERAGE AGE 7 8 9 10 11 12

14 15 16 17

ACCOMMODATION 4 nights comfortable hotel 3 nights premium hotel 2 nights comfortable lodge 4 nights premium lodge MEALS: Breakfast: 13 | Lunch: 4 | Dinner: 2

Lake Nicaragua

CARIBBEAN SEA NICARAGUA

MONTHS OF TRAVEL:

PUERTO VIEJO SARAPIQUI Chocolate tour

FORTUNA Arenal 1633m

Sea turtles

TORTUGUERO NP

MONTEVERDE RESERVE

Irazu 3432m Cooking lesson Guápiles Cloud Forest Poás Optional 2707m Guayabo Zip-wiring Canopy tour

SAN JOSÉ Coﬀee plantation

Quepos Optional conservation centre

PACIFIC OCEAN

Cartago

TURRIALBA

Optional rafting

COSTA RICA MANUEL ANTONIO NP Sandy beaches

DAY 10: Visit Santa Elena Reserve with free time to try a canopy tour or wire walkways. DAY 11: Drive to Manuel Antonio National Park along the Pacific coast. DAY 12: Full day on the Pacific coast at Manuel Antonio. DAY 13: Free day to relax on the beaches of the Pacific Ocean. DAY 14: Tour ends in Manuel Antonio.

*Age limits apply. Please see the table on page 145 and page 150 for more information.

01252 883 480

explore.co.uk/FCC 149

Essential information about our Classic Discovery, Walking, Cycling, Family and Self-Guided Tours Please carefully read through the following information about booking an Explore trip. When you book (whether by phone, travel agent or online), you will be asked to confirm that you have read and understood these pages, as well as our Trip Notes and Booking Conditions (www.explore.co.uk/booking-conditions). The combination of travel services offered to you is a package within the meaning of the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations. Therefore, you will benefit from all rights applying to packages. Explore will be fully responsible for the proper performance of the package as a whole. Additionally, as required by UK law for bookings made in the UK and Europe, Explore has protection in place to refund your payments and, where transport is included in the package, to ensure your repatriation in the event that it becomes/they become insolvent. More information on your key rights under the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 can be found here: www.explore.co.uk/travel-regulations.

Guaranteed departures

We guarantee that the advertised trip-only itinerary will not be cancelled or significantly changed once the first booking is confirmed unless we are forced to do so by a “force majeure” (as defined in our Booking Conditions). There is no minimum group size. This guarantee does not apply to international or UK domestic flights, which may be subject to change or cancellation in accordance with our Booking Conditions.

Itineraries

From time to time, some elements of our trips may change from those that have been published. This could be the result of inclement weather, a change in the local political situation or in flight or train schedules or other circumstances beyond our control. We will keep you as well informed as possible about these changes. Significant changes to your holiday will be notified as soon as we feasibly can. Minor amendments to your trip will be detailed on your final trip documentation, although our website will be regularly updated should you wish to check the information at any time. You will be provided with a provisional list of your accommodation shortly after booking. Whilst we expect to stay at the accommodation stated, please note that this is subject to change to an equivalent or higher standard at any time.

Group size

The size of the group on group trips ranges from between 6 to 18 people; the average group size is usually 12 people, depending on the type of trip, the transport and accommodation used, and activities included. Whilst every group make up is different, we occasionally have groups that are smaller than six people.

Eligibility for Family adventures

For our purposes, a family is defined as having a minimum of two people, with at least one adult over the age of 18 and one person 18 years or younger.

Age limits

The minimum age on most group trips featured in this brochure is 14. Our minimum age limit for trips travelling at high altitude is 16 years old. Because of the active nature of our Family Adventures, we provide guidelines regarding the minimum age that we feel is most suitable for each Family trip. This starts at 7 years of age, at the time of travel depending on the level of activity involved and overall suitability. On

150 01252 883 480

certain trips there may be some flexibility to accept children from the age of 5. Please speak to our Sales team for details. Trips to certain destinations (for example, Chernobyl) have a higher age limit. Please refer to individual Trip Notes and our website for further information where applicable. A parent or guardian must book for and accompany anyone under the age of 18. Fitness and stamina are more important than age and we often find that some of our older travellers are the fittest in the group. Whilst we do not have a maximum age, we do recognise that at some point during our customers’ journey with us they will reach an age where we will have to review the fitness and ability to participate in the trips they’ve chosen to book. Should you be 80 years old or older at the time of travel, we will discuss the itinerary with you before booking you on the trip and may ask you additional questions about your health and fitness.

Fitness and trip participation

All our trips require some level of active participation. It is in the interests of all members of the group that everyone should be capable of fully participating in the activities of their chosen trip. With this in mind, please be aware that (as detailed in our Booking Conditions) if it is felt that any customer is not able to participate in a trip without endangering the health or safety of themselves or any other person (including other group members), or that the presence of the customer on the trip means we will be unable to provide the trip, in whole or part, to other members of the group as advertised and contracted, the Explore Leader has the right to require them to leave the trip at any stage. To ensure that this is never necessary, please make sure that you have fully understood the level of fitness and ability required to complete the trip on which you are booking. It is your responsibility to let us know if you have any concerns related to this subject. If you have any medical condition or disability which may affect your trip arrangements in any way, you must provide us with full details at the time of booking. In certain circumstances, usually on more strenuous trips, we may require you to provide proof of medical fitness before travelling. On some of our trips, there will be waterbased activities, boat excursions or swimming opportunities. For your own personal safety and enjoyment, an ability to swim is therefore strongly recommended. Several trips reach elevations of 2,500 metres or more. We allow time for acclimatisation and usually the body acclimatises well to spending extended periods of time above this altitude. It is difficult to predict who is at risk from altitude sickness but if you have a heart or respiratory problem we advise you not to risk extended travel or trekking at high altitudes.

Trip prices

The prices shown for group tours in this brochure are for guidance only. For family trips, the guide price shown already includes any applicable reduction of the Air Passenger Duty (APD) for children. Self-guided prices are based on two people travelling. Prices represent the basic per person cost of the trip at the time of publication of this brochure. The price at the time of booking

may be different. The latest guide prices for each trip departure can be found on our website: www.explore.co.uk.

NO SURCHARGE PRICE GUARANTEE

Once we have confirmed your booking we guarantee the price of your confirmed services won’t change: we will not pass on surcharges of any kind. Unlike most other tour operators we will not pass on unexpected additional costs like fuel surcharges and tax increases.

What is included?

 Transport, meals and accommodation: all details are outlined in the individual Trip Notes.  Explore Leader (not applicable to self-guided trips): the services of an Explore Leader are included on nearly all group trips. In most cases they will accompany you for the full duration of the trip. On some group trips a local representative may be provided instead (this will be outlined in the individual Trip Notes).  Local crew: as well as drivers and local guides, interpreters, cooks, helpers and porters may be provided on some trips (details will be outlined in the individual Trip Notes).  Bike hire is included on all cycling trips. Your included bike will be the correct frame size for your height. All bikes have a maximum rider’s weight limit which varies but is usually around 120kg. Should you exceed this weight you must mention this to us at the time of booking to enable us to try to source a suitable alternative. E-Bikes can be hired locally (subject to availability) on some trips for an additional charge. See Trip Notes for details.  Activities, equipment, sightseeing and visits: please see individual Trip Notes for details.

INCLUDED TRANSFERS

We are pleased to be able to include airport transfers for customers booking a flight inclusive or land only trip where the flight arrives on the same day the trip starts and departs on the day the trip ends. Where trips join and end at the designated overseas airport or train station, one arrival and one departure transfer will be provided for the whole group. In order to be included in this transfer please ensure that you arrive at the designated airport or train station for the joining time and book flights departing after the given ending time. Please refer to your Trip Notes or joining information for further details and visit www.explore.co.uk/transfers. You are responsible for telling us your flight details and keeping us updated with any changes.

Responsibility for your children and parental consent on our Family Adventures

Please note that Explore Leaders are not expected to be child-minders. Parents and guardians booking on Explore Family Adventures agree to take full responsibility for any children travelling with them at all times. Any child under the age of 16 wishing to participate in the activities can do so only with the full consent of their parent or guardian.

What’s not included?

The price of the trip does not include: visa fees, vaccination charges, passport costs, international departure taxes, insurance premiums, excess baggage charges, optional trips and excursions, hotel porters or meals (other than those we list as included). We also do not include items of a personal nature such as laundry, room service charges, drinks or phone calls. Tips for personal service are not included and are usually expected. If you book on a land only basis we do not include flights or trains from the UK or departure taxes.

Accommodation grades We know that finding the right place to stay is just as important as the destination and activities. All our accommodation is carefully chosen for location and character. Countries have varying standards and on some holidays a range of grades are used.

Simple These are often small, family run establishments or campsites which provide a no-frills experience with adequate amenities and service standards. Sleeping arrangements are simple, sometimes with en suite facilities.

Comfortable Our comfortable, mid-range accommodation offers a good level of service, often with other amenities such as a restaurant, bar, garden or swimming pool. Generally rooms will have en suite facilities and heating or air-conditioning.

Premium Our premium accommodation is handpicked for its character, location or local importance. These properties have excellent facilities and a higher level of comfort and service.

Single rooms

Most trips are based on customers sharing twinbedded rooms. If you book a group trip as an individual, you will share a room with someone of the same sex. On rare occasions mixed sex rooms may be necessary. If applicable, this will be stated on the relevant Trip Notes. However, on many trips we offer the opportunity to pay a supplement to pre-book a single room. On some of these trips a single room will be provided every night, on others it will be provided on some nights, but for logistical reasons not all. Individual Trip Notes clarify this. Please note that on rare occasions it may be necessary for customers in single rooms to share bathroom facilities. Please note that due to the nature of the accommodation we use, the single room supplement will guarantee you sole occupancy of the room, however single rooms may differ in configuration and may be smaller than a standard twin/double room.

Accommodation and rooming arrangements on Family Adventures

We will room your family in the most appropriate way using a mixture of twin, triple, double and single rooms as necessary. Please note that sometimes a triple room may be a twin room with an additional bed added. We will leave it to you to decide who shares with whom in your family group. We will do our very best to give you rooms next to each other but we can’t promise this. In exceptional cases, where accommodation is limited, for example on boat-based trips, one or more of you may need to share with members of another family.

Preparing for your holiday

Travelling to far-flung corners of the earth involves adapting to living conditions that are often very different from your own. Please be prepared for unusual situations, local differences and unpredictable events. The very nature of adventure holidays means your most enjoyable moments are likely to come from the unexpected. You need to be sure you are happy to swap luxury for experience when joining an Explore trip. If you are someone who prefers things to go as planned and enjoys some pampering along the way, then maybe think twice about an adventure holiday. You should also be aware that some countries around the world have security problems. Unsavoury characters are likely to be active in big cities and street markets and certain areas may be considered ‘out-of-bounds’ for tourists. However, most crime is opportunistic. Using your common sense will reduce the risks. Unfortunately, no destination can be guaranteed to be safe from terrorism. We constantly monitor the political situation in the regions we visit and will re-route or cancel a trip if we feel it is necessary. Whilst we endeavour to provide as much information as possible in our brochure and individual Trip Notes regarding the areas our trips travel to, we would always recommend that you undertake some background research about the places you will be visiting and the type of climate and local conditions you can expect in order to get the most from your holiday.

Foreign Office travel advice

Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice Unit – www.gov. uk/foreign-travel-advice – provides detailed information about your destination including current entry requirements. We strongly recommend that you read their comments about the country you are planning to visit, both when you book and again just before you leave, and that you sign up to the government travel alert service. For the UK, the FCDO alert service can be found here: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/email-signup. We monitor FCDO travel warnings and advice, and based on them, may cancel trips before departure, or re-route or make other changes to trips operating in or throughout the country concerned. Any decision we take about whether to operate or cancel a trip or make other changes will always be in the interests of your safety and security. We will make these decisions at least four weeks before departure, unless we believe that local conditions will improve before the start of the trip.

Travel insurance and pre-existing medical conditions

You must have valid travel insurance. You will need to confirm to your Explore Leader that you are covered by a travel insurance policy at the start of the trip. Please ensure that your documentation shows you as the named policyholder and that the cover is valid for the entire period of travel. It must also indicate that you have cover for (at least) Medical Expenses and Emergency Repatriation in the event of illness or injury. Please ensure that a 24 hour contact telephone number for your Insurance Company is written on your documentation in case of an emergency. If you are unable to provide this information at the start of the trip you will not be able to continue with us unless you purchase a suitable insurance policy. If you, your travelling companions, or anyone upon whom your travel depends (such as a friend or family member) have a pre-existing medical condition, you must disclose this to your travel insurer’s medical screening helpline when you purchase your insurance policy. Failure to do so may result in your claim being declined. Please

ensure that you receive written confirmation from them that the condition is covered. You must take this written confirmation with you on the trip, in addition to the insurance policy itself. If you don’t, you may not have appropriate cover. We reserve the right to cancel your booking at any point if you do not fully insure your pre-existing medical condition. Please also tell us about any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of booking.

Changes to flight information

When you book a flight-inclusive trip with Explore, your holiday confirmation will contain provisional flight details. The timings, flight numbers or route could change several times before departure. We will confirm final timings with your final documents. We will notify you immediately of any significant airline schedule change which occurs after your tickets have been issued. We recommend that you defer booking any connecting travel to the airport or arrangements such as car parking or overnight hotels until you have received your final documents, with confirmed travel times. Where Explore is arranging domestic regional flights, these will be automatically rebooked to connect with your international flights. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible, non-refundable connecting rail, air or bus tickets, as they usually incur cancellation or penalty charges in the event of a change to the departure time or date.

EU banned airlines

At the time of going to press, we are awaiting guidance from the UK Government as to whether this piece of EU legislation will be adopted by the UK following our exit from the EU. In accordance with EU Directive (EC) No 2111/2005 Article 9, we are required to bring to your attention the existence of a “Community List” which contains details of air carriers which are subject to an operating ban within the EU. The Community List is available for inspection at https://ec.europa.eu/ transport/modes/air/safety/air-ban/search_en. In accordance with EU Regulations we are required to advise you of the actual carrier(s) (or, if the actual carrier(s) is not known, the likely carrier(s)) that will operate your international flight(s) to and from an EU airport at the time of booking. Where we are only able to inform you of the likely carrier(s) at the time of booking, we shall inform you of the identity of the actual carrier(s) as soon as we become aware of this. Any change to the operating carrier(s) after your booking has been confirmed will be notified to you as soon as possible. If the carrier with whom you have a confirmed reservation becomes subject to an operating ban and, as a result, we or the carrier are unable to offer you a suitable alternative, the provisions of our Booking Conditions “If we change or cancel your trip” will apply. Please note that we will not book our customers onto banned airlines whose flights may be available for general sale and accessible to the public.

Aircraft weight restrictions

For the purposes of flight safety, it is essential that you adhere to the luggage weight restrictions imposed by the airline you are flying with, particularly when flying on internal flights on smaller aircraft.

Land only packages

Our land only packages start and finish at the designated overseas joining and ending point. Land only packages do not include any connecting flights to or from the joining or ending point. If you are planning to book a land only package on one of our trips, then we strongly recommend that you only purchase flights/train/ bus tickets that are totally flexible and refundable. This is because by their very nature, adventure

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holiday itineraries can change and it’s important that you’re able to amend your connecting travel arrangements should the need arise. In the event of a trip being cancelled, it is important that you are able to get a refund if you no longer wish to use the associated flight, bus or train. We regret that we cannot accept liability for any connecting travel arrangements that you make (including any cancellation or amendment charges) in the event of any change to, or cancellation of, our trip; or for any other reason that makes you unable to use your booked travel arrangements.

Consumer peace of mind Explore is delighted to again have been named a Which? Recommended Provider in the Escorted Tour Operator category in July 2021. Explore is proud to be the first tour operator to be approved by Trading Standards. 2595 Explore is a fully bonded Tour Operator licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and by ABTOT. We hold an Air Travel Organiser’s Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 2595).

All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays* in this brochure or on our website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay, you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate. Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to www.atol.org.uk/ ATOLCertificate. *The flights and flight-inclusive holidays we arrange are ATOL protected providing they are made available in the UK. The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited Member 5207 (ABTOT) provides financial protection under The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 for Explore Worldwide Ltd, and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: non-flight packages. You can access The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 here: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ ukdsi/2018/9780111168479/contents.

call ABTOT on 020 7065 5311 (during office hours Mon – Fri) or alternatively call their 24/7 helpline on 01702 811397 and advise you are a customer of an ABTOT protected travel company.

Brochure / Website / Advertising material accuracy

The information contained in our brochure, on our website and in our other advertising material is believed correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of printing or publication. However, errors may occasionally occur and information may subsequently change. You must therefore ensure you check all details of your chosen trip (including the price) with us or your travel agent at the time of booking. Explore Worldwide Ltd. Registered Office: Nelson House, 55 Victoria Road, Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 7PA, UK. VAT No. 358 7552 13.

ABTOT cover provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled or repatriation if you are abroad. In the unlikely event that you require assistance whilst abroad due to our financial failure, please

The Association of Independent Tour Operators AITO is the Association for independent and specialist holiday companies. Its member companies, usually owner-managed, strive to create overseas holidays with high levels of professionalism and a shared concern for quality and personal service. The Association encourages the highest standards in all aspects of tour operating.

Professional Service and Continual Improvements

Exclusive Membership

Monitoring Standards

AITO sets criteria regarding ownership, finance and quality which must be satisfied before new companies are admitted to membership. All members are required to adhere to a Code of Business Practice which encourages high operational standards and conduct.

Financial Security

An AITO member is required to arrange financial protection for all holidays and other arrangements (including accommodation only) booked by customers with the member under the AITO logo. This financial protection applies to customers who are resident in the UK at the time of booking and to most overseas customers who have booked directly with the member. In doing so, the member must comply with UK Government regulations. Members are required to submit details of their financial protection arrangements to AITO on a regular basis.

Accurate Brochures / Websites

All members do their utmost to ensure that all their brochures and other publications, print or electronic, clearly and accurately describe the holidays and services offered.

All members are committed to high standards of service and believe in regular and thorough training of employees. Members continually seek to review and improve their holidays. They listen to their customers and always welcome suggestions for improving standards. AITO endeavours to monitor quality standards regularly. All customers should receive a post-holiday questionnaire, the results of which are scrutinised by the Association.

Sustainable Tourism

All members acknowledge the importance of AITO’s Sustainable Tourism guidelines, which recognise the social, economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating.

Customer Relations

All members endeavour to deal swiftly and fairly with any issues their customers may raise. In the unlikely event that a dispute between an AITO member and a customer cannot be settled amicably, AITO’s lowcost Independent Dispute Settlement Service may be called upon by either side to bring the matter to a speedy and acceptable conclusion. Explore is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators. To contact the association visit www.aito.com.

Passport, Visa and Entry Requirements Passport information

Please note it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct, current information in good time before departure and that you act on it. Please ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity and appropriate number of blank pages for your chosen destination. You must also have all visas and vaccination certificates that are necessary to enter or pass through any countries involved in the journey or trip.

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Visas

Many countries require a visa to be obtained before travel or on arrival. A summary of requirements for British passport holders can be found on the individual Trip Notes but please note that visa and passport information is subject to change at any time. If required, visas can be obtained through a Visa Service or the relevant Embassy or Consular Office.

General Note

Some countries refuse admission to travellers not meeting their accepted standards of dress or

appearance (even if they hold a visa). Entry may also be refused to some countries if your passport bears stamps or visas (valid or expired) from certain countries. Please bear this in mind when booking/travelling to these destinations as it can negatively affect your future travel plans. Further information can be found on our Trip Notes where applicable.

Travcour

We have partnered with Travcour; a company who specialise in visa processing. Please visit their website to download visa application forms,

follow links to important embassy websites or make general enquiries about their visa service.

for your destination and home country, to ensure your travel plans run smoothly.

Please call 020 8543 1846 for more information or visit www.travcour.com.

Vaccinations

Entry Requirements

Covid 19 has led to many countries revising their entry requirements, often at short notice. Requirements can include the need to have received a full course of Covid 19 vaccine or proof of a negative test recognised by your destination country. We strongly recommend reviewing entry requirements frequently, both

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the

correct vaccinations required for all countries that you will visit on your trip. Explore Trip Notes detail the recommended vaccinations for each trip but you must consult with your doctor or a travel health clinic to ensure you have the most up to date advice. Please note that some inoculation programmes require two injections, administered four weeks apart. You should leave plenty of time for this. As a general rule, please note that health

requirements and recommendations may change and you must check the current requirements in good time before departure. Further information can be found at www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk. For country-specific advice http://nathnac.net is an excellent source of information on health risks.

Under 18 immigration guidance

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.

Your Privacy Explore takes your privacy extremely seriously. We are committed to doing everything we can to protect any personal information provided to us when you enquire about or book a holiday or another travel service with us, when you visit our website, or when you engage with us by other means. This equally applies if someone else makes arrangements on your behalf. For full details of what, why and how we collect and use your personal information, how we protect it and how you can contact us, see our online Privacy Centre at www.explore.co.uk/privacy-policy or call us on 01252 379438 so that we can send the details to you. If you handle the arrangements for other travellers, please ensure they are aware of the information contained within our Privacy Centre and they consent to you acting on their behalf in your dealings with us. To enable us to make holiday arrangements for you, we may ask you to provide information such as: • y our name, gender, date of birth, contact details; • your preferred rooming arrangements and other special requests (including special categories of personal data such as dietary requirements, which may disclose health matters or your religious or philosophical beliefs, and information about any disability or medical condition which may affect the chosen holiday arrangements.); • the name and telephone number of an emergency contact person (whom we will only contact in urgent circumstances while you are away); • your passport and travel insurance details; • details of your payment card or your bank account (this information is processed using a third party payment services provider and is not stored by us). When you call us or correspond with us about your booking, we may record the call for training and quality control purposes and/or keep information on why you contacted us, and the advice we gave you. On your return from holiday we email or post a satisfaction questionnaire to you. This gives us specific feedback on any issue you may have experienced, and statistical data we can amalgamate in order to monitor the quality of our holidays. We may share your holiday feedback with third party review companies. We will need to share your data with third party service providers, used in the delivery of your purchased holiday arrangements, some of which may be based outside the EEA. These providers include accommodation, restaurants

and transport providers; local ground partners and agents, where we use them; equipment hire operators, including our cycling partners and guides, tutors and local attractions where booked on your behalf. We keep the information related to your booking for a period which enables us to handle or respond to any complaints or queries and to fulfil our obligations to our third party suppliers who provided your holiday arrangements. The information may also be retained so that we can continue to improve your experience with us while you engage with and purchase from us. By law we have to keep basic information about our customers for legal and tax purposes for up to 7 years after they cease being customers.

If you fail to provide personal information

Should you fail to provide data required either by law, or necessary to provide your chosen travel arrangements, we will not be able to provide the services you have booked or are attempting to book. This may result in Explore being unable to process your booking and being forced to cancel the booking. In this case, we will treat this as a ‘cancellation by you’ in accordance with the relevant Booking Terms & Conditions and notify you accordingly.

Marketing communications

We may use your information to provide you with brochures, newsletters and other communications if you have provided your prior consent or we are permitted under an identified and assessed legitimate interest. We sell our holidays directly to customers and so sending out brochures and other marketing communications by post from time-to-time is very important to the way we do business. We use data we have collected from bookings, brochure requests and other forms of engagement to decide what marketing information our customers may like to receive, and we have identified this as in our legitimate interest. We do provide an opportunity to opt-out of this direct marketing during the booking or enquiry process and in subsequent communications, or you may contact us at any time to do so.

Images

From time-to-time, our staff, customers and suppliers may take photographs and video footage of trips in progress, including photos and video footage of our customers. You will be invited to sign a model release form to consent to this. These images may be used in future marketing materials and stored physically and digitally. If you do not wish to be filmed or for your pictures to be taken or used in this manner, please advise your Explore Leader and/or the photographer at the start of your trip.

Website use

In order for us to provide you with the optimum service, we use ‘Cookies’ on our website. Cookies are small text files sent to your computer when you access our site. Cookies used on our site are anonymous and contain no personal information, but do identify your computer so that you can navigate our site more easily and our website can remember your preferences. For more information about what cookies we use and how to manage them please refer to our Cookie Policy at www.explore.co.uk/privacy/cookies.

It is important that the personal data we hold about you is accurate and current. Please keep us informed if any of the details you provide to us should change during the course of your relationship with us. If you need further assistance, would like to make a comment or update your marketing preferences, you can contact us: • By telephone on 01252 379438 • By email: Dataprivacy@explore.co.uk • By mail to Data Privacy Manager, Explore, Nelson House, 55 Victoria Road, Farnborough, Hampshire, GU14 7PA, UK. You also have the right to make a complaint at any time to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). You can contact them on 0303 123 1113 or go online to www.ico.org.uk/concerns.

We have found over the years that the majority of people welcome these communications and, those who do not are happy to let us know so we can ensure no more are sent. If you ask us to stop sending marketing information, you may continue to receive communications for up to 4 weeks after your requested change while our systems are fully updated.

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2595

PEFC Certified

Head office: Explore Worldwide Ltd, Nelson House, 55 Victoria Road, Farnborough, Hants, GU14 7PA.

Member

This product is from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources

5207 PEFC/16-33-254