2015-2016
Worldwide Adventures Designed by Families for Families a division of Wineland-Thomson Adventures, Inc.
Welcome! Dear Traveling Families, To those of you who are new to Thomson Family Adventures: welcome to our world! More families joined our adventures last year than ever before, and our destinations continue to expand across the globe, as you’ll see in this new 2015-16 brochure. I especially want to thank our returning family travelers. So many of you first traveled with us when your children were small, it’s been incredibly gratifying to welcome you back as they fledge into fine young adults and explore their world with boundless curiosity and enthusiasm. Last year, when we asked you which destinations were at the top of your wish list, you answered resoundingly! We listened, worked closely with our wonderful operators, and are thrilled to introduce four new Thomson Family adventures to our world map— Southern Italy; Alaska; Ireland; and Alberta, Canada—bringing you 20 fascinating destinations from which to choose. Take a look, too, at our Smithsonian Family Adventures, reflecting our collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys since 2011. With experiential learning as a central focus, these trips will broaden your family’s horizons in many astounding ways. New for 2015, we’ve added fascinating South Africa to that collection of trips. Last year’s top travel highlight was the announcement of new diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Cuba. In December, we ran our first family trip there and the kids just loved it—especially the interactions with the outgoing Cuban youngsters. When our families went to watch a Cuban baseball game in Havana, the coach noticed the pitching talents of one of the young boys in our group… and invited him to join the game! The youngster, in his glory, ended up pitching the entire game! These are the kinds of memories—spontaneous, personal cultural connections—that make our trips truly special. And, finally, I’d like to bring your attention to our Core Values to the right. We sat down as a company to define who we are: among ourselves, to our loyal operators around the world, and to you, our friends and travelers. Please have a read and let us know what you think! I hope this new brochure sparks your wanderlust, and that you and your family join us this year for an exciting adventure in our big, beautiful world. Since our most popular trips sell out early, we’re offering an early booking discount of $800 for families who book our memorable Wonders of China adventure by June 30, 2015. Happy Travels! Jim Kackley, General Manager
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Our Core Values We are Family
We consider every person we talk to and do business with as a member of the Thomson Family Adventures family. And we love to have fun—not only among ourselves, but also with our worldwide associates and traveling families.
We are Trustworthy and Reliable
We treat one another with respect and trust, and are committed to extending that relationship to all of our associates, colleagues, and traveling families around the world.
We are Passionate
We care deeply about the relationships we’ve forged with our global associates, and share a passion for the places we visit and the people who live there.
We are Global and Sustainable
We touch the lives of countless people around the globe. Knowing that we have an impact beyond what we can imagine, we make sure we give back to each culture and country we work with and visit.
We are Innovative
As a company we continually strive to see our world with fresh eyes and to create new and unique life-enhancing experiences for family members of all ages.
– Your Friends at Thomson Family
Contents 1 2 3-4 5-6 7-8
Welcome & Core Values Table of Contents Why Thomson for Families? Our Family Travelers Your Family Travel Specialists
9 10 11 12 13
Peru:The Land of the Ancient Inca Cuba: A Cultural Connection for Families Wonders of China Celtic Ireland: Caves, Castles and Connemara Southern Italy: Volcanoes & Islands
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Tanzania Safari: A Smithsonian Family Adventure Treasures of China: A Smithsonian Family Adventure Journey to Costa Rica: A Smithsonian Family Adventure Galápagos & Ecuador: A Smithsonian Family Adventure Discover Panama: A Smithsonian Family Adventure Exploring Peru: A Smithsonian Family Adventure Voices of South Africa: A Smithsonian Family Adventure
Cultures and Civilizations
Smithsonian Journeys 15 16 17 18 19 20
Custom and Private Travel 21 22
Group Travel: Adventures for Today’s Families Custom Travel: Endless Possibilities
23 24 25 26 27
Kilimanjaro Trek: Western Approach Costa Rica:Teen Adventure Peru: Family Trek Thailand: Active Family Adventure Tanzania: Active Safari for Families with Teens
28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35
Brazil: Rio & the Wild Wetlands of the Pantanal Costa Rica: Volcanoes & Beaches Baja: A Whale of an Adventure Ecuador: Enchanted Galápagos & Andean Highlands Tanzania: Family Safari Tanzania: Short Family Safari Alaska: Cruising Glacier Country Panama: A Family Adventure
36 37 38 39 40
Baja: Multi-Sport Adventure Croatia: Mediterranean Multi-Sport Adventure Canadian Rockies: Multi-Sport Adventure Galápagos: Multi-Sport Adventure Costa Rica: Multi-Sport Adventure
41 42
Booking Information Where and When
Families with Teens
Natural Wonders & Wildlife
Multi-sport Adventures
Fine Print
Cover Photo Credits: Top: The McFadden Family Bottom: The Weiss Family This Page: Colinos del Poaz
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Why Thomson for families? Since 1998 families of all ages— from youngsters to grandparents—have been exploring the world on our one-of-a-kind, high quality adventures. We’re always discovering new ways to make family travel more fun, meaningful, and less stressful for busy parents, and to engage kids in the amazing world around them through unique, active, and wonder-restoring experiences. Our award-winning trips—a finely tuned blend of cultural interactions and active adventures—include destinations that span 20 countries. We’ve built our reputation on highly personal attention to detail, from that first getting-to-knowyou phone conversation, to hearing your stories when you return home. And we’ve made it our mission to offer you and your family as many opportunities as possible to discover your world in utmost safety and comfort. As the first family company to design vacations exclusively for families, we look forward to welcoming you— and welcoming you back—on our engaging, educational, fun, and ultimately memorable adventures.
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Photo Credits: Bottom: The Barnard Family
DESTINATIONS NEAR & FAR
RAFIKIS—JUST FOR KIDS
Chances are that you’ve looked at a map of the world dreaming of the places you and your kids or grandchildren can discover together. From Costa Rica, China, and Alaska, to Cuba, Italy and Tanzania, our family adventures include more than 30 family-focused itineraries in 20 destinations around the globe.
For groups of eight or more (except on our teen or 20-somethings itineraries) we send along a rafiki (meaning "friend" in Swahili) who offers engaging activities and organized fun to make sure that youngsters get to know one other. By playing traditional games, discovering local wildlife, or learning to say a few words in another language, your child has the chance to experience his or her new environment in fun and memorable ways.
ACTIVE ADVENTURES & CULTURAL CONNECTIONS FOR ALL AGES We know that interests among family members vary widely. That’s why we’ve designed every trip around the idea that family vacations should be fun for everyone! Our adventures offer the chance to ride horses, bicycles, zip-lines, camels, river rafts, and safari 4x4s; climb mountains, rock walls, sea cliffs, and towers; explore colorful village markets, learn to cook a local specialty, create a piece of pottery, or sing a traditional song. Whichever kind of experience calls to your inner explorer, chances are we have an adventure that’s just right for your family.Take a look at our Table of Contents to find family adventures under these categories:
• Cultures and Civilizations • Families with Teens • Smithsonian Journeys • Multi-Sport Adventures • Natural Wonders and Wildlife
IN-COUNTRY GUIDES We strongly believe that the more time you spend connecting with a country’s culture, the more you’ll gain from your adventure.To that end, we’ve chosen to work only with bilingual, English-speaking guides who are native to the country you are visiting. As expert naturalists and/or historians, their incredible knowledge and insight gives your family the chance to really understand local life; a perspective an outsider simply can’t offer.
SOCIALLY & ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL No matter where we go, we make it our mission to understand, respect, care for, and support the cultures and natural wonders of the places we visit.
OUTSTANDING, ALL-INCLUSIVE VALUE When you book a trip with Thomson Family Adventures, you can be sure you’re getting the best value for your money. There are no hidden costs and no disappointing surprises. Everything that’s part of your trip is included in the price: land transportation, airport transfers, accommodations, most meals, activities, entrance fees, the services of a bilingual guide, and travel insurance.
EARLY BOOKING AND LARGE GROUP DISCOUNTS We like to reward families that plan ahead! Book one of our 2016 adventures before June 30, 2015 and receive a generous early booking discount. (The discount amounts vary by trip and are listed in the Dates & Prices column beside each trip.) If you’re traveling with a large group of family and/or friends, we offer substantial price breaks—as much as one free trip per 10 people in your party!
A trusted name in family travel
FRIENDS ACROSS BORDERS Imagine your youngster making a new friend in a faraway land! Our unique Friends Across Borders experience—part of all our adventures—gives your children the opportunity to meet local kids at a school or community center. Some of our trips even include the chance to correspond with pen pals before your journey begins! Whether it’s playing soccer together in the rainforest, crafting a local souvenir in a remote village, or joining in a rewarding community service project, new friendships will be forged and cultural borders dissolved.
AGE-APPROPRIATE TRAVEL MATES We understand the importance of age matching in a group, especially for kids. Sharing experiences and making new friends is a great way to enhance their adventure, and we do our best to connect your family to a trip with kids of similar ages.
Worldwide Adventures Designed by Families for Families
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Our Family Travelers What our family travelers say about us in their own words... The Steinback Family
“Thomson Family Adventures has provided our
family with wonderful shared adventures. Each trip has given us insights into the country we
visited and an experience for the grandchildren to meet their pen pal and share a cultural day with them. Seeing how others live, what they
eat, and the activities they enjoy has enriched our grandchildren’s lives. The quality of the guides is as superb as the quality of the trip. We look forward to many more Thomson Family Adventures.” Countries visited: Belize and Panama
The Browns
"Thomson Family Adventures has
consistently helped our family create
treasured memories. There is a common theme of excellence in everything
Thomson does, from trip preparation,
to accommodations and itineraries, to
wonderful guides. Travel with Thomson has become part of our family DNA,
helping us grow teens into young adults who have an understanding and
appreciation for the world. You can't Countries visited: Peru, Australia, Galapagos, Turkey, China, Thailand
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go wrong when you let Thomson plan your next adventure!"
The Langerak Family “Our family adventures have
prepared our children to explore
the world, and we encourage them to continue their own adventures!”
Countries visited: Costa Rica, China, Australia
Steven Friedlander
"My daughter Sam and I first traveled with
Thomson when she was 6½ . After
eight trips to ten countries, we have memories
that will last a lifetime. Neither of us will ever forget our hike to a waterfall on the slopes of
Mount Meru in Tanzania, our journey through the
magical medieval town of Obidos in Portugal, or
seeing the sunrise at the still mysterious ruins of
Machu Picchu in Peru. Thomson's meticulous
planning and well-crafted itineraries can't be beat."
Countries visited: Baja, Tanzania, Morocco, Portugal, Galapagos, Alaska, Belize, Costa Rica
The Rosner Family
“Over the past sixteen years, our family has experienced the world in so many
ways: having dinner with a local Peruvian family, watching the stars in Ngorongoro Crater, and even riding elephants in the Thai countryside. Our trips to China,
Peru, Thailand, and Tanzania would not
have been so memorable, or educational, without Thomson Family Adventures.” Countries visited: Thailand, Peru, China
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Your Family Travel Specialists
Jim Kackley
General Manager Where I’ve traveled: Tanzania, Turkey, Egypt, Peru, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Panama, Belize, Guatemala, Alaska, Baja, Cuba, Croatia and many more before my days at TFA
Rick Thomson and Judi Wineland
Moo Bishop
Manager of Sales and Alumni Relations Where I’ve traveled: Alaska, China, Turkey, Portugal, Morocco, Peru, Costa Rica, Ecuador / Galápagos Baja, Thailand, Brazil, France, Spain, Guatemala, India
Owners Rick and Judi have always been passionate about exploring the world; when their daughters, Nicole and Erica, were born, they wanted to share this important part of their lives with them. They discovered that traveling as a family has its own special challenges, so they founded Thomson Family Adventures and made it their mission to make family travel as active, educational, and fun as possible. Where we’ve traveled: Just about everywhere.
Beth O’Donnell
Manager of Service and Operations Where I’ve traveled: Japan, Peru, Thailand, Fiji, Spain, Italy, Ireland, Belize, Panama, Costa Rica, Galápagos , China, Canadian Rockies, Egypt, Nicaragua
Our U.S. staff is on the front line, helping you choose and prepare for your adventure. We are a special group of world travelers, many of us parents ourselves, who are there for you every step of the way. We provide personal attention to every detail, and we really do get to know you as individuals. Our culture is the same as yours, so there is no misinterpreting, no need to translate when we communicate. No phone banks, no voice mail, no scripting—just real live people who want your family to have the best adventure possible! 7
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Grace Posluszny
Family Travel Service Advisor Where I’ve traveled: Australia, Bahamas, Canada, Jamaica, Japan, Morocco, New Zealand, Peru, Puerto Rico, Spain, Turkey
Lulu Where I’ve been: Abandoned in New York City, fostered in Connecticut, now living in luxury in Boston
Samantha Gosselin
Christine Bowe
Family Travel Service Advisor
Family Travel Service Advisor
Where I’ve traveled: Costa Rica, South Korea, Japan, China, Hong Kong, Ireland, England, Jamaica, Mexico, Canada
Where I’ve traveled: St. Maarten, St. Thomas, St. Kitts, Bahamas, Cuba
Claudia Dunn
Manager of Smithonsian Family Adventures and Affinity Programs Where I’ve traveled: Alaska, Antarctica, Argentina, Canada, Czech Republic, Guatemala, Tanzania, France, Germany, Hawaii, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jordan, Kenya, Mexico, Netherlands, Rwanda, Scotland, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom
Sarah Hafner
Smithsonian Family Adventures Travel Service Advisor Where I’ve traveled: Costa Rica, Tanzania, England, Scotland, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Netherlands, Canada, Turkey, Ukraine
Nicole Wineland-Thomson
Director of Family Expeditions Where I’ve traveled: Tanzania, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nepal, Costa Rica, Baja, Mexico, Belize, Peru, Turkey, Egypt, Morocco, England, Germany, Australia, Canada, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, Singapore, China, Mongolia, Italy, Denmark, France, Ireland, Ecuador, Turkey, Iceland, Namibia, South Africa, Argentina/Patagonia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Iceland, Scotland
Melinda Sykes
Family Expedition Manager Where I’ve traveled: Honduras, Ireland, Italy, Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, England, Scotland, Costa Rica, Turkey
Andrew King
Marketing Analyst Where I’ve traveled: Germany, Belgium, France, Spain Portugal, Ireland, England, Austria Switzerland, Canada, Italy, Netherlands Luxembourg, Greece, Iceland, Egypt, Turkey, Iran, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Mexico, Peru, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, French Polynesia, Fiji, Japan, Indonesia, Australia, St. Lucia
Rodica Woodbury
Family Expedition Manager Where I’ve traveled: Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Polynesia, Australia, New Zealand, Costa Rica, Peru, Argentina, Romania, Turkey, Italy, France, Alaska
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Peru: The Land of the Ancient Inca
Photo: The Chan Family
The soaring peaks of the Andes create a spectacular backdrop for a magical family vacation. Explore the Sacred Valley on mountain hikes and meet local families and artists. Delight in the charms of ancient Cuzco, the “archaeological capital of the Americas,” and spend a full day in the “lost” city of Machu Picchu Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive Lima, Peru Days 2-4 Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo) / Machu Picchu At the heart of the vast Inca Empire lies Peru’s Sacred Valley, with its gentle mountain slopes, rushing rivers, and farming villages that still maintain a traditional lifestyle. • Meet llamas and alpacas at the Awanacancha Llama Center • Explore the Sun Temple ruins of Pisaq • Visit the adobe village of Chincero to meet Quechuan weavers who demonstrate the craft of back-strap weaving • Hike the dazzling salt terraces of the Maras region • Discover the remarkably preserved ruins of Ollantaytambo • Take a scenic train ride along the Urubamba River to Machu Picchu Pueblo
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Day 5 Machu Picchu Spend the entire day in this sublime mountain-peak site, so well hidden that it wasn’t discovered until 1911, when archaeologist Hiram Bingham literally stumbled upon the astonishing ruins in the mist. • Opt for an early wake-up call for a guided morning walk among the ruins • Hike up to the sacred summit of Huayna Picchu overlooking the entire site of Machu Picchu (ages 8+) Days 6-7 Cuzco Get to know this magical, ancient city whose stone and stucco buildings were once covered in Incan gold. • Meet the pen pals at Picaflor House in rural Oropesa, famous for its bread • Take a guided tour to the Plaza de Armas,the Spanish Cathedral, and the Koriancha Temple • Join a local family for a homemade lunch • Examine the mysterious stone wall on Hatun Rumiyok Street • Enjoy dinner at a famous local restaurant Day 8 Cuzco / Lima / Depart for Home Just outside of Cuzco lies the impressive Incan site of Sacsayhuaman—a massive military complex constructed with stones weighing up to 125 tons apiece. • Learn about the mighty power of the Incas at the great ruins of Sacsayhuaman • Savor a farewell lunch in the artisan neighborhood of San Blas • Fly to Lima and connect with your flight home
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
8 Days / 7 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates
10 or more travelers 07/05 - 07/13 $3,890 08/01 - 08/09 $3,890 12/22 - 12/31 $4,090 12/26 - 01/03/16 Sold out 2016 Dates 03/19 - 03/27 $3,990 04/09 - 04/17 $3,990 06/25 - 07/03 $3,990 07/30 - 08/07 $3,990 12/26 - 01/03/17 $4,290
6-9 travelers $4,090 $4,090 $4,340
2-5 travelers $4,290 $4,290 $4,590
$4,290 $4,290 $4,290 $4,290 $4,540
$4,490 $4,490 $4,490 $4,490 $4,790
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $250 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $500 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Internal Air: $400 per adult & $350 per child (subject to change) Child Discount: $200 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning TFA guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Price includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual guide throughout, area specialists, 7 breakfasts/7 lunches/5 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
Cuba: A Cultural Connection for Families
Photo: The Weiss Family
We’re proud to present the first Cuba itinerary designed exclusively for families! With its tropical landscapes and colorful cultural heritage—from baseball and art to classic cars and music—this remarkable island nation opens its heart and soul to the world. Most memorable of all are the exchanges with the lovely people whose welcomes are as warm as the Caribbean sunshine. Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive Miami Gather with your group in Miami for a trip briefing, and fly to the island the next day. Days 2-4 Havana, Cuba Step back in time to the glory days of Old Havana. Classic automobiles slowly roll down palm-lined streets, past sun-splashed plazas lined with faded pastel architecture. People young and old wave and smile, and the city’s rich artistic heritage is present everywhere, from colorful murals to energetic dance studios. • Join in a local community art project • Take in a real baseball game (and maybe play some too!) • Savor meals in local paladares, newly emerging family-owned restaurants • Take an evening ride in a 1950s vintage car • Learn to play Cuban dominoes with local experts • Enjoy a private rehearsal of energetic Afro-Cuban dance
Days 5-6 Western Cuba & Viñales Valley West of Havana, the rugged Sierra del Rosaio Mountains shelter an incredible array of unique wildlife and botanicals. Just beyond lies the Viñales Valley, a natural wonderland of dramatic cliffs, caves, and rounded hills called mogotes. Meet families, farmers, and artists, who offer the chance to experience a slice of traditional Cuban life. • Visit a jungle restoration project and meet environmental scientists • Take a thrilling zip-line ride across the forest canopy of La Moka • Discover time-honored techniques of tobacco farming in the Viñales Valley • Join the locals for a traditional village pig roast Days 7-8 Varadero Follow the coast eastward to the narrow Hicasos Peninsula, bathed by clear Caribbean waters. The Afro-Cuban culture and heritage here adds a distinctive ambiance to the region and the arts scene is lively and energetic. During two memorable days, bask in the warm sunshine and the generous hospitality of the people. • Visit a potter’s studio and farm and enjoy lunch with his family • Meet young music students and enjoy a performance • Relax at a beautiful local beach • Learn the classic dance steps of the Mambo and other Cuban favorites Days 9 Depart for Home
What to expect: Easy: Up to 3 hours of (generally easy) physical activity a day
9 Days / 8 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates
15 + travelers 06/20 - 06/28 $3,290 12/26 - 01/03/16 $3,990
10-14 travelers $4,390 $5,290
6 -9 2-5 travelers travelers $4,640 $4,890 $5,540 $5,790
2016 Dates 03/12 - 03/19 04/16 - 04/23 12/17 -12/24 12/26 - 01/02/17
$4,640 $4,640 $4,990 $4,990
$5,040 $5,040 $5,590 $5,590
$3,840 $3,840 $4,390 $4,390
$5,440 $5,440 $6,190 $6,190
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $300 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $600 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Miami to Havana Air: $450 (subject to change) Child Discount: $200 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning TFA guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Price includes: All entrance fees and visa to Cuba, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual guide throughout, area specialists, 7 breakfasts/7 lunches/7 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
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Wonders of China
Photo: The Basile Family
With its ancient dynasties, timeless traditions, and spectacular landscapes, China is one of the most fascinating family vacation destinations on Earth. Discover the wonders of Beijing, the life-size Terra Cotta Warriors of Xi’an, and meet the famous pandas of Chengdu. Fall under the spell of Guilin’s magical landscapes, then fast-forward into the future in bright, bold Shanghai. Days 1-2 Depart Home / Arrive Beijing, China Days 3-4 Beijing Discover the architectural marvels and dazzling cultural achievements of China’s thriving capital city. • Stand at the center of vast Tiananmen Square • Explore the Forbidden City, a complex of 980 buildings • Savor an authentic Peking Duck experience • Walk along the Great Wall • Photograph the 2008 Olympic Village with its famous Bird’s Nest stadium • Discover old hutong neighborhoods by pedi-cab • Visit the blue-tiled Temple of Heaven Days 5-6 Xi’an Situated at the eastern end of the fabled Silk Road, Xi’an served as the capital of 11 different ruling dynasties over the course of 4,000 years. Discover the mind-boggling archaeological treasures of this living history museum. 11 800.262.6255
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
• View the famous 2,000 Terra Cotta Warriors • Join in a dumpling-making class and enjoy a delicious feast • Meet young artists for a Friends Across Borders (pen pals) exchange • Ride a bike atop the brick walls of Xi’an
15 Days / 14 Nights
Days 7-9 Chengdu Nearly all of China’s giant pandas live in beautiful Sichuan Province, and Chengdu is home to our internationally renowned breeding center. • Explore the Wenshu Monastery and surrounding markets • Watch a fascinating face-changing performance • Meet the giant pandas at Bifengxia Panda Base D A T E S / P R I C E S
Days 10-12 Yangshuo (Guilin) With its enchanting “gum drop” mountains, terraced rice paddies, caves, and meandering rivers, Yangshuo is often called “the most picturesque landscape in the world.” • Float down the Yulong River on 2-person bamboo rafts • Ride a bike to Moon Hill for magical views • Witness the ancient art of cormorant fishing • Take a morning Tai Chi class with a master Days 13-14 Shanghai Head for the urban metropolis of Shanghai with its eclectic collection of skyscrapers, labyrinthine Old Quarter, and famous international neighborhoods, Bund and Pudong. • Cross the Huangpu River on the underground people mover • Take a riverboat cruise through the heart of Shanghai • Enjoy an evening stroll through the lively Xintiandi neighborhood Days 15 Depart for Home
2015 Dates 06/13 - 06/27 06/27 - 07/11 07/25 - 08/08
10 or more travelers $5,990 $5,990 $5,990
6-9 travelers $6,390 $6,390 $6,390
2-5 travelers $6,790 $6,790 $6,790
2016 Dates 06/25 - 07/09 07/02 - 07/16 07/23 - 08/06
$6,190 $6,190 $6,190
$6,590 $6,590 $6,590
$6,990 $6,990 $6,990
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $400 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $800 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Internal Air: $1,200 Adult/$600 Child (subject to change) Child Discount: $500 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Triple discount: For children under 12 sharing with two adults:$500 (2015) $300 (2016) Price includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual rafiki throughout, area specialists, 13 breakfasts/11 lunches/11 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
NEW
TRIP
Celtic Ireland: Caves, Castles and Connemara
Discover the charms and wild beauty of Ireland, from friendly Dublin to Connemara and the dramatic landscapes of the Burren. Cycle the scenic Great Western Greenway, hike an island once ruled by a pirate queen, explore a medieval castle, and enjoy meeting the locals whose Irish hospitality is legendary. Days 1-3 Depart Home / Dublin, Ireland Ireland’s capital is a picturesque blend of historical architecture, charming neighborhoods, and contemporary culture. Explore highlights and secret gems, from the old bridges across the River Liffey to the unlikely headquarters of a revolution. • Don a Viking helmet and join in the fun of a unique Dublin amphibious tour • Follow your guide through the medieval heart of Dublin, from O’Connell Street to Temple Bar and Trinity College • Watch a delightful performance at the famed Lambert Puppet Theatre Days 4-6 Connemara, County Galway With a lovely country estate as your home base, spend three days exploring the mythical, magical landscapes of Connemara. • Visit Strokestown Park and the fascinating Famine Museum
• Ride an electric bicycle along the Great Western Greenway • Join in an evening of traditional Irish music and dancing • Take a full-day adventure to Clare Island to hike along high sea cliffs, visit a sunken forest, and learn about its famous pirate queen, Grace O’Malley • Join the locals for dinner in a village pub • Explore beautiful Delphi Valley: Visit and hear the stories of local famers Days 7-8 County Clare Head south to County Clare, where the stark limestone landscapes of the Burren are contrasted by the famous warm welcomes of its residents, and discover the rich roots of Celtic history. • Wander through exquisite Brigit’s Gardens and learn about Celtic heritage and mythology • Meet an artisan family and watch a traditional crystal-making demonstration • Join a talented storyteller for a round of captivating Irish tales • Descend into the magical underworld of Aillwee Cave, and discover its chasms, waterfalls, and fanciful rock formations • Visit the Burren Birds of Prey Centre and its fascinating flying display • Explore Bunratty Castle, one of the most authentic and complete medieval fortresses in Ireland Days 9 Depart for Home
What to expect: Easy: Up to three hours of (generally easy) physical activity a day
9 Days / 8 Nights Clare Island
Connemara
DUBLIN
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non
A ir po rt
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/27 - 07/05 07/25 - 08/02
10 or more travelers $4,990 $4,990
6-9 travelers $5,490 $5,490
2-5 travelers $5,990 $5,990
2016 Dates 06/18 - 06/26 07/23 - 07/31
$5,290 $5,290
$5,790 $5,790
$6,290 $6,290
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $300 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $600 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Child Discount: $200 per child under 12 Alumni discoun: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Triple discount: For children under 12 sharing with two adults:$300 Price includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private English-speaking guide throughout, area specialists, 7 breakfasts/7 lunches/6 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance. Prices are based on number of people in your party
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NEW
Southern Italy: Volcanoes and Islands
TRIP
Discover the volcanic heart of southern Italy on this new family adventure! Climb four fabled volcanoes and explore coastal jewels, from Amalfi and enchanted Capri to the rugged Aeolian Islands and ancient Sicily. Travel by hydrofoil and kayak, hike to crater rims, swim in lava-warmed waters, and savor the world-famous flavors of the local pizza and pastries. Days 1-2 Depart Home / Arrive Naples, Italy Day 3 Amalfi The pastel architecture of Amalfi—a trade port in medieval times—clings to a steep mountainside fronted by the dazzling Mediterranean. • Visit the fascinating Paper Museum and learn about this ancient craft • Kayak along the coast for unforgettable views • Discover the dining delights of Amalfi with your family Day 4 Capri Magical Capri has been the resort of choice for Roman emperors, poets, princes, and Hollywood glitterati. • Wander whitewashed lanes through tiny piazzas with breathtaking sea views • Visit the famed sunlit Blue Grotto Day 5 Vesuvius & Pompeii / Messina, Sicily Photogenic Mount Vesuvius rises 4,203 feet above the Bay of Naples. Its most famous legacy is the cataclysmic eruption of 79 A.D., resulting in the extraordinary ruins of Pompeii. 13 800.262.6255
• Hike up the gentle slopes of Vesuvius for a lesson in volcanology • Enjoy lunch in a volcano-based winery and visit the lava-carved wine cave • Explore impressive and moving Pompeii • Enjoy an authentic pizza dinner • Take an overnight boat to Messina Days 6-8 Vulcano, Aeolian Islands Four active volcanoes crown Vulcano Island; your home base—famous Stromboli “erupts” every 20 minutes! • Climb a scenic trail to the Vulcano crater • Kayak to Vulcano’s hidden caves and secret beaches • Take a mud bath in the volcanic earth • Taste local island wines • Take a boat ride to Stromboli and stop to swim in picturesque coves • Walk to Stromboli’s “Stairway of Fire” to view the lava’s path to the sea • Enjoy a picnic dinner and watch the volcano “sparklers” against the evening sky Days 9 Catania, Sicily Spreading out beneath the shadow of Mount Etna, Catania has literally risen from above the volcanic ashes, and rebuilt itself into Sicily’s second-largest city. • Discover the tastes, and secrets, of famous Sicilan pastries • Meet community volunteer students and families, learn about daily life on the island, play games, and enjoy dinner together Day 10 Mount Etna Europe’s highest volcano, iconic Mount Etna, dominates the Sicilian landscape • Walk up the slopes of Mount Etna, past cinder cones and extinct craters • Enjoy a farewell dinner in Catania Day 11 Depart for Home
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
11 Days / 10 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2016 Dates 06/24 - 07/04 07/21 - 07/31
10 or more travelers $3,790 $3,890
6-9 travelers $4,090 $4,190
2-5 travelers $4,390 $4,490
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $300 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $600 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Child Discount: $100 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Triple discount: For children under 12 sharing with two adults:$100 Price includes: All conservation, park and entrance fees, accomodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual rafiki throughout, local area specialists, 9 breakfasts/8 lunches/ 8 dinners, bottled water & snacks, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
Tanzania Safari: A Smithsonian Family Adventure
For families fascinated by the natural world, Tanzania offers an unparalleled experience. Explore iconic Serengeti National Park and The Ngorongoro Conservation Area (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites), and enjoy breathtaking wildlife viewing experiences. Spend two days in a private nature refuge far off the beaten path, and meet the hospitable Maasai people in their traditional boma communities. Days 1-2 Depart Home / Arrive Arusha, Tanzania Days 3-4 Eastern Serengeti Ecosystem This remote and naturally pristine 12,000-acre refuge is one of the tangible results of conservation efforts in the Serengeti region. In addition to outstanding wildlife viewing, enjoy personal encounters with the Maasai people. • Fly to the Eastern Serengeti Ecosystem • Head out for a wildlife safari and watch for giraffes, elands, dik dik, leopards, and mongoose • Join a wildlife scout for morning and afternoon walks through the refuge • Meet the Maasai artisans of the Enjipai Women’s Group • Gather round for stories told by a captivating Maasai grandmother • Take to the wilds for an unforgettable nighttime wildlife safari
Days 5-7 Serengeti National Park With its open grasslands, kopjes, hills, woodlands, and numerous river systems, Serengeti National Park is not only the setting for the world’s largest wildlife migration, but also the best place on the planet to witness predator and prey interactions. • Visit a Maasai village school, and meet the students and your pen pals for games and a soccer match • Head out for a full day of wildlife viewing; watch for lions, leopards, buffalo, rhino, and elephants • Keep a lookout for cheetah, hyenas, wildebeest, giraffes, jackals, and gazelles Day 8 Ngorongoro Conservation Area Travel along the edge of the ancient Great Rift Valley to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, containing the fabled Ngorongoro Crater, home to both wildlife and the seminomadic Maasai. • Learn about Shifting Sands, a huge crescent of volcanic ash and debris that “wanders” about 225 feet every year • Visit the Olduvai Gorge, site of the Leakeys’ discoveries of hominid fossils Days 9-10 Ngorongoro Highlands Relax in the verdant setting of historic Gibb’s Farm, a sustainable estate filled with coffee fields and fruit and vegetable gardens. • Enjoy a full day in the Ngorongoro Crater; watch for all the big cats and the elusive black rhino • Take a guided bike tour from Gibb’s Farm to Tloma Village, a community of Iraqw people • Enjoy two farm-to-table dining experiences Days 11-12 Arusha / Depart for Home • Stop at the Cultural Heritage Center to peruse Tanzanian crafts • Relax in a day room in Arusha, then transfer to the airport
What to expect: Easy: Up to three hours of (generally easy) physical activity a day
12 Days / 11 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/17 07/24 12/19 12/22
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06/28 08/04 12/30 01/02/2016
Adult Price $6,990 $6,990 $7,190 $7,190
Child Price $5,990 $5,990 $6,190 $6,190
Minimum of six participants required Single supplement: $700 Alumni Discount: $500 per family for returning Thomson and Smithsonian Family Adventures guests Includes: All entrance and game park fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, internal airfare, private bilingual guide throughout, area specialists, 9 breakfasts/9 lunches, /8 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance
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Treasures of China:
A Smithsonian Family Adventure
Experience the kaleidoscopic wonders of China on this enriching family adventure. From Beijing’s dazzling monuments to the Terra Cotta Warriors of Xi’an, and from the beloved pandas of Chengdu to traditional Xizhou on the ancient Silk Road, enjoy behindthe-scenes cultural encounters as you discover China’s ancient past and bold-spirited future. Days 1-2 Depart Home / Arrive Beijing, China Days 3-5 Beijing Scale-defying architecture, neighborhoods laced with winding lanes, and exquisite temples and gardens are the hallmark of this 500-year-old capital. • Walk through Tiananmen Square, built to accommodate a million people • Explore the opulent palace complex of the Forbidden City • Participate in a restoration project at the Great Wall • Watch a professional Kung Fu show • Discover the secrets of the Echo Wall at the sublime Temple of Heaven • Take a Tai Chi lesson from a master • Ride a pedi-cab through the hutongs of Old Beijing Days 6-7 Xi’an Home to the stupendous life-size army of Terra Cotta Warriors and countless other archaeological treasures, Xi’an’s storied past reaches back 4,000 years. • Visit the Terra Cotta Warriors 15 800.262.6255
• Learn the ancient art of paper cutting, a UNESCO-endowed art form • Meet local Xi’an children and pen pals and teach each other a few words in English and Chinese • Visit the fascinating Underground Museum, the Hanyang Tomb • Fly to Chengdu Day 8 Chengdu Situated in the Sichuan Province, Chengdu is home to nearly all of China’s giant pandas. • Spend time at the renowned Giant Panda Research Base and enjoy delightful personal encounters • Witness a dazzling face-changing performance Days 9-11 Xizhou The gracious white architecture of Xizhou reflects the artistry and tradition of the Bai people, an ethnic minority who live in the Yunnan Province. The southern Silk Road once ran though town, and you’ll enjoy a stay in a former merchant villa. • Bicycle through timeless vistas of rice paddies, fishing villages, and farms • Visit the morning market, a noodle factory, and a Dali cheesemaker • Ride a sculling boat on Er’hai Lake to watch traditional fishing with cormorants • Take a cooking lesson in Yunnan cuisine • Experience the tea culture of Dali Days 12-14 Shanghai / Depart for Home With its iconic urban skyline, historic Old Quarter, and lively waterfront, Shanghai is a feast for the senses. • Visit the Yuyuan Garden and Old Town Bazaar on a city tour • Take in city views from the top of the Pearl Tower • Walk through the riverside neighborhood, the Bund • Watch a mesmerizing acrobatics show
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
14 Days / 13 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/20 - 07/03 07/18 - 07/31
Adult Price $5,790 $5,790
Child Price $5,290 $5,290
Internal Air $1,400 $1,400
Minimum of six participants required Internal Air Discount: Children under 12 subtract $200 Single supplement: $2,000 Alumni Discount: $500 per family for returning Thomson and Smithsonian Family Adventures guests Triple discount (child under 12 sharing with two adults): $200 Includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual rafiki throughout, area specialists, 12 breakfasts/ 10 lunches/11 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance.
Journey to Costa Rica:
A Smithsonian Family Adventure
Explore rainforests, volcanoes, and the northern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. With special access to unique activities, experience a dazzling variety of wildlife, birds, and botanicals on hikes, by river raft, and by bicycle. Join local students in a meaningful community project, learn how an eco-farm operates on a daily basis, and listen to the fascinating history of chocolate, from bean to bar. Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive San José, Costa Rica Days 2-3 Sarapiqui Journey into the lush, verdant, and incredibly diverse Sarapiqui Region, a mosaic of volcanoes, forests, lakes, fruit farms, and cattle ranches. • Explore the slopes of the Poas Volcano and its ethereal blue crater lake • Hike the trails through La Paz Waterfall Gardens and visit a rescued wildlife preserve • Ride the rapids of the Sarapiqui River; watch for toucans, bitterns, and green macaws • Cross a suspension bridge to a former cacao-growing plot to learn about chocolate • Meet the students at a local school and participate in a community project Days 4-5 Arenal / Central Highlands La Meseta Central, or Central Highlands, is a vast, fertile plateau ringed by forested mountains and dramatic volcanoes. The perfectly symmetrical Arenal, fuming and spouting until just a few years ago, rises 5,357 feet above the landscape.
• Option: Take an exhilarating Sky Adventure zip-line ride across the treetops along a course of eight cables • Option: For a more leisurely-paced canopy tour, ride the Sky Tram gondolas, with breathtaking views of the Arenal volcano and its shimmering lake • Join farmer Don Juan on his eco-farm to learn about rare, exotic fruits and the special properties of sugar cane • For early risers, take a morning forest hike(perfect for bird lovers) • Option: Ride a mountain bike through the rugged Arenal landscapes • Option: Explore the primary neo-tropical rainforest from the spectacular Hanging Bridges trails • Relax amid lush foliage in the waters of volcano-heated Eco Termales Hot Springs Days 6-8 Guanacaste Travel westward into Guanacaste, renowned for its cattle-ranching country and stunning Pacific beaches. The province is rich in national parklands, which shelter a profusion of wildlife and birds, including jaguarundis, anteaters, armadillos, Capuchin and howler monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, iguanas, pelicans, spoonbills, and toucans. • Take a float trip on the calm waters of the Bebedero River and admire the scenery and wildlife • Spend a day at your leisure at your coastal resort • Option: Take a surfing lesson at famous Tamarindo Beach (at additional expense)
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
9 Days / 8 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/20 07/25 11/21 12/19 12/26
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06/28 08/02 11/29 12/27 01/03/16
Adult Price $3,790 $3,790 $3,790 $3,990 $3,990
Child Price $3,590 $3,590 $3,590 $3,790 $3,790
Minimum of six participants required Single supplement: $1,500 Alumni discount: $500 per family for returning Thomson and Smithsonian Family Adventures guests Triple discount (child under 12 sharing with two adults): $400 Includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual guide throughout, area specialists, 8 breakfasts/ 6 lunches/7 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance
• Swim and snorkel in the crystal-blue waters and explore reefs and tropical aquatic life on a boat • Enjoy a delicious farewell dinner Day 9: Guanacaste / Depart for Home
www.familyadventures.com 16
Galápagos & Ecuador:
A Smithsonian Family Adventure
Photo; The Weiss Family
Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive Guayaquil, Ecuador Day 2 Cuenca Situated in a lovely valley, Cuenca is surrounded by the Andean Highlands and the ruins of lost civilizations. • Ride a boat through Guayaquil’s Churute Mangrove Reserve, home to a spectacular variety of birds and lush botanicals • Drive over the Andes, through coffee and banana plantations, to Cuenca Days 3-4 Cuenca / Andean Highlands Preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the colonial center of Cuenca is a multicentury blend of European and ancient Incan design. Just outside the city, Cojitambo Mountain and picturesque villages offer an incredible array of adventures. • Meet your pen pals at a local school near Cojitambo Mountain and play a friendly game of “futbol” (soccer) • Active Option: Join a local expert for a lesson in rock climbing at Cojitambo Mountain • Cultural Option: Visit the town of Biblián and meet local “Panama hat” weavers 17 800.262.6255
• Active Option: Take a horseback ride through the unique Andean moorlands ecosystem • Cultural Option: Join a local family to learn about the traditional ingredients of Ecuadorian cuisine Days 5-6 Isabela Island, Galápagos Fly to Isabela, the largest island in the Galápagos and a wonderland of lava fields, sandy beaches, and mangroves (all home to vast numbers of wildlife). • Hike to the Tortoise Breeding Center, dedicated to repopulating the island with the near-extinct giant tortoise • Cruise to Los Tuneles (the tunnels) and snorkel past lava formations and underwater arches and caves • Ride a local panga boat to Tintoreras Island, hike to view marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies, and watch for reef sharks and the Galápagos penguin • Swim/snorkel with curious sea lions at Lobería Chica Days 7-8 Santa Cruz Island Home to the world-renowned Darwin Research Station, Santa Cruz is distinguished by bizarre lava formations, wild highlands, and fertile farms. • Observe marine turtles and shore birds, and go for a swim in the Daphne Islands • Active Option: Visit Bahia Ballena (Whale Bay) to observe sea lions, basking marine iguanas, Darwin’s finches, frigate birds, and a multi-colored array of tropical fish among the rocks • Active Option: Cruise to local fishing grounds and try your hand at catching dinner • Relaxing Option: Enjoy time at Garrapatero Beach and spend the afternoon exploring the shops and galleries of Puerto Ayora Days 9-10 Guayaquil / Depart for Home Return to the mainland for your final night in Ecuador.
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
10 Days / 9 Nights
CUE NCA
From ancient archaeological sites and traditional villages, to unforgettable close-up wildlife encounters, discover the natural and cultural wonders of the two sides of Ecuador—the Andean Highlands and the fabled Galápagos Islands. Family members of all generations will enjoy the chance to choose from active and cultural adventures.
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates
Adult Price 06/19 - 06/28 $6,390 07/31 - 08/09 $6,390 12/26 - 01/04/16 $6,790
Child Price $6,190 $6,190 $6,590
Internal Air $1,000 $1,000 $1,000
Minimum of six participants required Internal Air Discount for Children under 12: $100 Single supplement: $2,000 Alumni Discount: $500 per family for returning Thomson and Smithsonian Family Adventures guests Triple discount (child under 12 sharing with two adults): $100 Includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual guide throughout, area specialists, 9 breakfasts/ 8 lunches/8 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance
Discover Panama:
A Smithsonian Family Adventure
Photo: The Kowalski Family
From lush rainforests to a tropical island archipelago, from the international delights of Panama City to the colorful community of Boquete, and from the artistic traditions of the Embera people to the engineering feat of the Panama Canal—discover the multi-faceted marvels of this stunning, hospitable Central American country.
Days 4-5 Panama City / Chiriqui Highlands The cool cloud forest and rushing rivers of Chiriqui surround Volcán Barú, Panama’s only volcano and highest peak. • Visit the Biomuseo, designed by Frank Gehry, and learn about Panama’s extraordinary biodiversity • Witness the operation of the Panama Canal’s massive Miraflores Locks • Fly to the Chiriqui Highlands • Active Option: Ride the rapids of the Chiriqui River, and enjoy amazing wildlife sightings • Cultural Option: Take the scenic Boquete Panoramic Tour and visit the lovely town to see how the locals live and work
Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive Panama City Day 2 Panama City / Panama Canal Among the most complex projects of its time, the Panama Canal is an impressive achievement. The 51-mile cut connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, giving safe passage for more than 14,000 ships per year. • Voyage across Gatun Lake on a jungle boat, passing giant cargo and passenger ships • Observe iguanas, crocodiles, tamarins, and howler and white-faced monkeys • Meet Ricardo Moreno, Panama’s renowned wildcat researcher, and help set camera traps along nature trails Day 3 Panama City / Embera Village Indigenous ethnic tribes live in the most remote regions of the isthmus, retaining a timehonored way of life. Warm welcomes, intricate body tattoos, and exquisite handcrafts are all part of today’s privileged encounter with the proud Embera people. • Ride a motorized piragua (dugout canoe) into Soberania National Park, a birding paradise • Visit an Embera village, be greeted by dancing and music, and learn about their customs and rich artistic heritage
Days 6-7 Bocas del Toro Situated off the Caribbean coast, the Bocas del Toro archipelago is comprised of nine islands, 52 keys, and 200 uninhabited islets, all covered with tropical rainforests. Its beaches are nesting grounds for four species of sea turtles. • Active Option: Zip-line across the treetops of the Chiriqui cloud forest • Cultural Option: Join a fascinating coffee tour at the famous Rio Cristal • Spend two nights at a beach resort on Colón Island • Visit Bastimentos National Park and the indigenous village of Salt Creek • View sloths, monkeys, caimans, poison dart frogs and remarkable bird species on a forest hike • Snorkel among coral reefs and mangroves • Visit Finca Los Monos Botanical Gardens; children meet their Panamanian pen pals and join together for a lesson in tropical biology • Fly to Panama City, enjoy a farewell dinner Day 9 Panama City /Depart for Home
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
9 Days / 8 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates
Adult Price 06/20 - 06/28 $4,790 07/25 - 08/02 $4,790 12/26 - 01/03/16 $5,290
Child Price $4,590 $4,590 $5,090
Internal Air $300 $300 $300
Minimum of six participants required Single supplement: $2,000 Alumni Discount: $500 per family for returning Thomson and Smithsonian Family Adventures guests Triple discount (child under 12 sharing with two adults): $300 Includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual guide throughout, area specialists, 8 breakfasts/ 7 lunches/7 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance
www.familyadventures.com 18
Exploring Peru:
A Smithsonian Family Adventure
Photo:The DiGiovanni Family
Embark on a grand-scale adventure through the spellbinding landscapes of the Andes, the floating reed islands of Lake Titicaca, and the fabled ruins of Machu Picchu. Through highly personal encounters, meet Quechua weavers, local families, a renowned ceramics artist, and the native Uros people for an enlightening glimpse into the daily life, history, and traditions of Peru. Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive Lima, Peru Days 2-3 Ollantaytambo / Machu Picchu With its timeless beauty and countless hidden ruins, the Sacred Valley is a microcosm of the vast Incan empire that stretched across the heart of South America. • Fly to Cuzco and set out into the Sacred Valley • Visit the Awanacancha Llama Center to learn about llamas and alpacas • Take a walk through the Pisaq Ruins and Sun Temple • Learn the techniques of a renowned ceramicist who is dedicated to preserving ancient Peruvian culture • Explore the remarkably preserved archaeological site of Ollantaytambo • Ride the train to Aguas Caliente at the base of Machu Picchu Day 4 Machu Picchu Spend a full day exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the world’s most exquisite and enigmatic sites. 19 800.262.6255
• Option: Rise before dawn for the chance to photograph the “Lost City” in the early morning light • Take a guided walk among the iconic ruins • Option: Hike to the sacred summit of Huayna Picchu overlooking the entire site of Machu Picchu (ages 8+) Days 5-6 Cuzco History comes to life in the cobblestone lanes, sun-splashed plazas, and architecture of Cuzco, which blends Incan and Spanish characteristics. • Explore the fascinating salt terraces of the Maras region • Visit the village of Chincero, hailed as the birthplace of the rainbow • Meet Quechua weavers who demonstrate time-honored techniques • Investigate the massive stone ruins of Sacsayhuaman, with its zig-zagging double wall • Visit the Koriancha Temple, once covered in golden panels • Meander the steep, narrow streets of San Blas and discover the tempting treasures in the neighborhood shops Days 7-8 Puno & Lake Titicaca The highest navigable lake in the world sits at 12,500 feet and straddles the border of Peru and Bolivia. The native Uros people live on hand-constructed reed islands. • Take a small boat cruise among the floating islands of Lake Titicaca and visit an island Uros community • Experience the Pago a la Tierra ceremony, dedicated to Pachamama (Mother Earth) Days 9-10 Lima / Depart for Home Fly to Lima, Peru’s intriguing seaside capital city. • Relax for the afternoon or discover the gardens and parks of your lovely Miraflores neighborhood
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
10 Days / 9 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/21 - 06/30 07/25 - 08/03 12/19 - 12/28
Adult Price $4,890 $4,890 $5,190
Child Price $4,690 $4,690 $4,990
Internal Air $700 $700 $700
Minimum of six participants required Single supplement: $2,000 Alumni Discount: $500 per family for returning Thomson and Smithsonian Family Adventures guests Triple discount (child under 12 sharing with two adults): $200 Includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual guide throughout, area specialists, 8 breakfasts/ 7 lunches/7 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance
Voices of South Africa:
A Smithsonian Family Adventure
Photo: Nicole Wineland-Thomson
From Cape Town–a sunny, exuberant city graced with the most spectacular setting in the world-to the magnificent wilderness of Kruger National Park and its countless varieties of wildlife, South Africa offers an extraordinary array of experiences and a family adventure beyond compare. Days 1-2 Depart Home / Arrive Cape Town Welcome to Cape Town, a rich tapestry of South Africa’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. • Join your guides for an introduction to South Africa • Stroll through the historic“Company's Garden” Day 3 Cape Town / Langa From the magnificent views atop Table Mountain to a former apartheid township, discover two distinct sides of Cape Town. • Ride a revolving cable car to the summit of Table Mountain • Tour the former apartheid township of Langa • Option: Meet the children of the Happy Feet Youth Project • Option: Visit Hoops/Soccer 4 Hope Day 4 Cape Peninsula Day The ultimate road trip, your Cape Peninsula adventure traces the southern coast toward the Cape of Good Hope. • Explore Hout Bay, once home to hunter-gather people • Walk to Cape Point, near the tip of South Africa • Walk beach trails for close-up views of the resident African penguin colonies
Days 5-6 Stellenbosch Valley / Kirstenbosch Gardens Once cultivated with produce to supply the Dutch East India Company, today’s winelands thrive in the sun-soaked soil of this famed valley. • Visit the Cheetah Outreach Center • Adults: Visit wine farm Middelvlei and taste local vintages • Kids: Meet the potbellied pigs, pygmy goats and wallabies of Middelvlei • Tour the Two Oceans Aquarium • Take a boat tour to watch for dolphins, seals, and whales • Visit the home of a local Cape Town family, meet your pen pals, and savor a traditional braai (barbecue) Day 7 Cape Town / Robben Island From whaling station to maximum-security prison, Robben Island has been in continual use for 400 years. • Option: Take the ferry to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned • Option: Visit the Springbok Experience, an interactive rugby museum Days 8-10 Cape Town / Kruger National Park A UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Kruger National Park offers unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, tracking walks, and photography. • Fly to Hoedspruit, transfer to Kambaku Safari Lodge • Head out for an exciting night wildlife viewing drive • View wildlife for a full day; witness lions, elephants, giraffes, kudu, wildebeest, zebras, hyena, birds, and more • Drive at daybreak to observe morning wildlife • Option: Join tracker guides and learn to identify animal prints Day 11 Hoedspruit to Johannesburg / Depart for Home
What to expect: Easy: Up to three hours of (generally easy) physical activity a day
12 Days / 11 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/27 - 07/08 07/25 - 08/05 12/26 - 01/06/16
Adult Price $6,490 $6,490 $7,290
Child Price $5,990 $5,990 $6,790
Minimum of six participants required Single supplement: $1,500 Triple discount (child under 12 sharing with two adults): $100 Alumni Discount: $500 per family for returning Thomson and Smithsonian Family Adventures guests Includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, area specialists, safari ranger, 9 breakfasts/9 lunches/9 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance
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Group Travel: Adventures for Today’s Families
We know that many of you have always considered yourselves independent travelers. And now that you have a family, you want to continue exploring this big beautiful world, together. But planning a family vacation is a big project. It takes a lot of time to get the details right—hotels, meals, activities, sights, transportation, etc. And you have to make sure everyone’s happy, including you! That’s when you realize that family travel experts, like Thomson, just might hold the key to the vacation you’ve always imagined. That a well-balanced itinerary includes time and activities to connect with your kids in fun, stress-free ways. And the group of people traveling with you? They’re families too, which gives you common ground right from the start. Everyone has the chance to make friends, recharge, and experience the world from their own unique perspective. Which just might make this family vacation the best one ever!
Photo: The Ritter Family
Great reasons to travel on our family group departures: • At Your Service: Person-to-person Not sure where to travel with your family or how group dynamics work with your own interests and needs? Our staff is a special team of world travelers, many of us parents ourselves. When you call, we ask questions, get to know you, and help prepare your family for the best vacation possible.
• Small Groups: Like minds, new friends Our maximum group size is 25—large enough that your kids can find friends of similar ages and interests, and small enough that you’ll never feel like you’re part of a herd.
• Scheduled Trip Dates: During your vacation times Because family travel is all we do, our group departure dates correspond to school breaks and summer vacations.
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• Guaranteed departures: We don’t speak “cancellation” Once you book one of our group departures, we won’t cancel your trip. If other families don’t join, you can choose to defer your departure without penalty.* (Please see Terms & Conditions) *Smithsonian Family Adventures do not include this feature.
• Our Costs: Your savings Every cent you spend on a Thomson Family Adventure is used to create the ultimate family travel experience. Everything’s included, right down to snacks and bottled water.
• Trust: We built it, they came Some of the top universities and organizations in America have reached out to us to operate their family group trips. We’re proud that our hard work and trustworthy ethics have led to many wonderful associations, including National Geographic Expeditions, Smithsonian Journeys, Princeton Journeys, and Cornell’s Adult University.
Custom Travel:
Endless Possibilities While group travel is largely what we do, we’re experts in customized family vacations, too! Maybe you’re traveling with grandparents or friends, and prefer your own private departure. Maybe you want to add a few days in a place you’ve always dreamed of seeing. Or maybe you’re celebrating a special occasion. Not a problem—with Thomson, the customized possibilities are endless! Our Family Travel Specialists work closely with you every step of the way to make sure your private family vacation is even better than how you envisioned it—and completely worry-free!
How we can turn group adventures into private ones: • Private Departure Dates: Whatever works for you If you’re excited about one of our adventures, but the dates just don’t work for your family’s busy agenda; if you want to bring along children younger than age 6; if you prefer to travel only with your family; then we’re happy to create a private departure just for you.
• Custom Itineraries & Activities: Details, details We know that every family is unique and particular. Because of our close, longtime association with our in-country operators and guides, we can easily help you create a personalized itinerary—from hotels and special interest activities to that just-right pacing—to make your family vacation fun and worry-free for everyone.
• Special Occasions & Family Reunions: Wishing you could spend more time with your extended family—of all generations? Celebrating a special birthday or graduation? Our custom family adventures are the perfect way for the whole clan, near and far, to get together and make memories you’ll be talking about for years to come.
• Private Villa Rentals: Settle in and go Renting a villa in a special destination is a wonderful, carefree way to enjoy a family vacation. Enjoy the local insight and expertise of our local guides, and get to know the neighborhood on all kinds of adventures, from hikes and bicycle rides to cooking lessons and cultural events.
• Larger groups: 10 or more pay less When your private group trip includes 10 or more people, your cost goes down. Just ask when you call, and we’ll help figure out your savings!
Photo: The Chan Family
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NEW
TRIP
Kilimanjaro Trek: Western Approach
Photo: Erik Andrews
Climb “Kili” with us for the ultimate family bonding adventure! Expert guides lead you up the less-traveled Western Approach to experience an incredible diversity of landscapes and views that defy the imagination. Make the final push to Uhuru Peak at 19,341 feet during the daylight hours and celebrate your momentous achievement! Days 1-2 Depart Home/ Arrive Arusha, Tanzania Day 3 Kilimanjaro Foothills (4,200 feet) Acclimatize to the elevation in the diverse and scenic terrain of the Kilimanjaros foothills. Spend the night in a comfortable permanent tented camp and begin your thrilling journey refreshed, fully equipped, and expertly briefed. • Explore the ranch property, home to 350 bird and 65 animal species • Spy on local wildlife from a forest “tree house” Day 4 Kili Trek Begins / Forest Ridge (9,281 feet) Wake up to morning birdsong and prepare for your rainforest trek beneath a canopy of mossy vines. • Trek 3-4 hours to Forest Camp Day 5 Shira 1 (11,499 feet) Leave the forest for heather-clad scrublands and look for glimpses of Uhuru Peak as the clouds part.
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• Trek 5-6 hours to Shira Camp 1 Day 6 Shira 2 (12,795 feet) Explore the Shira Plateau, one of the planet’s highest plateaus, on this acclimatization day, and cross a misted terrain of volcanic rock into the moorlands. • Trek 3-4 hours to Shira Camp 2 Day 7 Lava Tower (15,213 feet) Continue pole pole (slowly) up into the alpine desert, the lunar-like landscape, crowned by impressive Lava Tower. • Trek 4-6 hours to Lava Tower Camp Day 8 Great Barranco Valley (13,231 feet) Descend into a world of giant groundsel trees. Climb the steep Barranco Wall for views of glacier-cloaked Kibo, the tallest of Mt. Kilimanjaro’s volcanic cones. • Trek 6-7 hours to Karanga Camp Day 9 Barafu (15,331 feet) The air thins and cools and views are stupendous as you climb to the edge of the alpine desert. • Trek 3-4 hours to Barafu Camp Day 10 To the Summit! (19,341 feet) Continue through stark alpine desert and into the arctic zone, following switchbacks and snow-packed trails. This afternoon, reach Uhuru Peak! • 8-10 hours to Uhuru Peak / down to Barafu Camp Day 11 Mweka (10,065 feet) After a celebratory breakfast, begin your descent and celebrate your last night on the mountain. • Trek 4-7 hours to Mweka Camp Day 12 Complete Trek / Depart Tanzania Complete your journey at Mweka Gate. • Trek 4-6 hours • Celebrate with your guides and crew over a farewell lunch • Enjoy a day room in Arusha before transferring to the airport
What to expect: More Challenging: 7+ hours of activity and/or involving high levels of technical ability and stamina; involves long days and distances, extended camping, high altitude or ascent for extensive days
12 Days / 11 Nights Forest
Shira 1 Shira 2 Crater Lava Tower Karanga
Barafu
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Depart North America
Trek Only
+5 Day Safari
+7 Day Safari
05/28 - 06/09 06/09 - 06/21 06/20 - 07/02 06/27 - 07/09 07/09 - 07/21 07/16 - 07/28 07/22 - 08/03 08/02 - 08/14 08/09 - 08/21 08/16 - 08/28 08/21 - 09/02 08/29 - 09/10 12/21 - 01/02 12/26 - 01/07
$5,690 $5,990 $5,690 $5,690 $5,990 $5,690 $5,990 $5,690 $5,690 $5,690 $5,990 $5,990 $5,690 $5,690
(06/14)$8,980 (06/26)$9,280 (07/07)$8,980 (07/14)$9,280 (07/26)$9,280 (08/02)$8,980 (08/08)$9,280 (08/19)$8,980 (08/26)$8,980 (09/02)$8,980 (09/07)$9,280 (09/15)$9,280 (01/07)$8,980 (01/12)$8,980
(06/16) $9,980 (06/16) $10,280 (06/16) $9,980 (07/16) $10,280 (07/28) $10,280 (08/04) $9,980 (08/10) $10,280 (08/21) $9,980 (08/28) $9,980 (09/04) $9,980 (09/09) $10,280 (09/17) $10,280 (01/09) $9,980 (01/14) $9,980
2016 Dates 03/05 - 03/17 $5,690 (03/22)$8,980 (03/24) $9,980 03/16 - 03/28 $5,690 (05/02)$8,980 (05/04) $9,980
OTHER 2016 DATES, PLEASE CALL FOR DETAILS EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your summer 2016+ adventure before April 30, 2015 and receive a $500 per person discount off this trek. Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Price includes: All Kilimanjaro National Park fees, accommodations based on double occupancy, group airport and mountain transfers, Wilderness First Responder mountain guide(s), camping equipment (excluding personal gear), porters for 33lbs of each hiker's luggage, 10 breakfasts/10 lunches/9 dinners, 1 farewell snack, and lodging pre/post trek as noted.
Costa Rica:
Teen Adventure
Photo: The Taylor Family
From lush rainforests and volcanoes to the pristine beaches of the Pacific coast, Costa Rica’s magical landscapes offer a unique chance for parents and teens to play and bond in a special way. Challenge your inner adventurer to canyoning, jungle trekking, and white-water rafting expeditions; relax in superb eco-lodges; and meet the delightful local people, proud to call this paradise home. Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive San José, Costa Rica Days 2 & 3 Turrialba Situated east of San José, the Turrialba region is often called “Little Switzerland” for its stunning mountain scenery, rushing rivers, and fertile farmlands. The Irazu Volcano rises 11,260 feet above the picturesque landscape, and rich Arabica coffee beans thrive on its slopes. • Visit a local farmer’s market in scenic Turrialba • Take on the Class III and IV rapids of the Pacuare River on a full-day whitewater rafting adventure Days 4 Cerro de la Muerte An exciting drive through the central Talamanca Mountain range brings you across the highest point of the Pan-American Highway. Discover the Cerro de la Muerte region, with its dazzling array of plant, animal, and bird species found nowhere else.
• Option: Canoeing, rappel down waterfalls, zip-line through canyons, and cross a 132 foot hanging bridge in a lush rainforest setting • Option: Take a memorable bike trip through CATIE, an agricultural research and learning center Days 5-7 Corcovado Costa Rica’s largest national park is the ultimate nature-lover’s experience. Its natural diversity statistics are breathtaking; more than 500 species of tree shelter approximately 140 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, 6,000 species of insects, 220 species of butterflies, and 116 species of amphibians and reptiles. • Take a full-day adventure to Caño Island • Snorkel over colorful reefs teeming with marine life, including mantas and whitetip reef sharks • Ride a boat to Corcovado National Park and watch for whales, dolphins, and turtles • Hike through lowland Pacific rainforest in search of sloths, tapirs, scarlet macaws, and howler, spider, and white-faced capuchin monkeys Days 8-9 San José Enjoy a day filled with memorable adventures on your way back to Costa Rica’s capital city. • Take a 2-hour boat ride to the mainland; drive to Palmar Sur; fly to San José • Tour the Doka Estate to see how coffee is picked, milled, and ground, and savor a delicious cup • Farewell dinner Days 9 Depart for Home
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
9 Days / 8 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/13 07/18 08/22 12/20
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06/21 07/26 08/29 12/28
2016 Dates 03/26 - 04/03 06/25 - 07/03 08/20 - 08/28 12/23 - 12/31/17 12/26 - 01/03/17
10 or more travelers $3,490 $3,490 $3,490 $3,890
6-9 travelers $3,690 $3,690 $3,690 $4,090
2-5 travelers $3,890 $3,890 $3,890 $4,290
$3,590 $3,590 $3,590 $3,890 $3,890
$3,790 $3,790 $3,790 $4,090 $4,090
$3,990 $3,990 $3,990 $4,290 $4,290
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $200 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $400 discount per person for groups of 6 or more Internal Air: $300 (subject to change) Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Price includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual guide throughout, area specialists, 8 breakfasts/7 lunches/7 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
www.familyadventures.com 24
Peru: Family Trek
Photo: The Burrows Family
Take an unforgettable, active family vacation in the most scenic mountain range on the planet– the Andes! Trek to remote ruins and camp for a night among ancient Incan foundations, spend an entire day hiking at fabled Machu Picchu, and experience a slice of traditional rural life around the table of a welcoming local family. Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive Lima, Peru Days 2 Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo) The Sacred Valley and surrounding Andes once lay at the center of the Incan empire. • Take a walking tour of the amazingly preserved Ollantaytambo ruins and Sun Temple • Follow the Urubamba River on a train ride to Machu Picchu Pueblo Lodge Day 3 Machu Picchu Sitting at 7,900 feet in the Andes, the evermysterious site of Machu Picchu looks across an exquisite panorama of cloud-piercing peaks and tropical forest. • Wander among the more than 200 structures connected via stone terraces • Opt for the early morning shuttle for a guided ruins walk • Climb to the sacred summit of Huayna Picchu (ages 8+, intrepid hikers) • Follow the famous Inca Trail to Inti Punku, the Sun Gate (moderate hikers)
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Days 4-5 Ollantaytambo Nestled in the northwestern corner of the Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo is surrounded by sublime scenery. Hike to your remote, sky-high campsite beside an ancient quarry. • Join a family for lunch in their homeoperated restaurant in Kuchawasi • Meet the local weavers of Patakancha village for a demonstration of traditional backstrap weaving • Trek to your campsite at Qachikata Quarry (4-5 hours) • Camp overnight at 11,562 feet • Wake early for a sunrise hike • Explore Sacsayhuaman, the massive Inca military complex Days 6-7 Cuzco Called the “archaeological capital of the Americas,” beautiful Cuzco was built on the foundations of the ancient capital of the Incan empire. • Join your guide for a tour of Koricancha, the Temple of the Sun • Savor lunch with a local family and learn about daily life in Cuzco • Explore the Plaza de Armas and the San Blas neighborhood • Follow Hatun Rumiyoq Street to examine the mysterious stone wall Days 8 Cuzco / Lima / Depart for Home Peru’s seaside capital of Lima is a study in contrasts, from high-rise glass towers to charming neighborhoods bedecked in flowers. • Farewell lunch in San Blas • Fly to Lima and connect with your flight home
What to expect: Challenging: 5-7 hours of sustained physical activity, good levels of fitness and technical ability required
9 Days /8 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 07/04 - 07/12
10 or more travelers $4,090
6-9 travelers $4,290
2-5 travelers $4,390
2016 Dates 03/19 - 03/27
$4,090
$4,290
$4,490
Private departures are available on the dates of your choice. Please call to book your adventure.
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $200 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $400 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Internal Air: $400 per adult & $350 per child (subject to change) Child Discount: $200 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Triple discount: For children under 12 sharing with two adults:$400 Price includes: All entrance and park fees, accommodations based on two to a room, trail duffel, Thermarest sleeping pad, sleeping bag with sheet liner, all community camping gear, land transportation, private bilingual guide throughout, area specialists, 8 breakfasts/7 lunches/6 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, treated water while camping, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
Thailand: Active Family Adventure
From kaleidoscopic Bangkok to remote Hmong villages and ancient Chiang Mai, discover an exotic paradise of gold-gilded temples and lush jungle habitats. Make lasting family memories as you experience this magical world by boat and bicycle, on hikes and river-rafts, by zip-line and on elephant-back. And meet the lovely, hospitable people, so proud to introduce you to the wonders of Thailand. Days 1-2 Depart Home / Arrive Bangkok, Thailand Days 3-4 Bangkok The “City of Angels” is one of Asia’s most intriguing capitals. From the bustling klongs (canals) to spectacular temples and palace complexes, and from energetic marketplaces to family-filled parks, Bangkok delights all ages with its non-stop activity. • Explore the Grand Palace with its dazzling spires and glittering mosaics • View the Emerald Buddha, seated atop a gold altar • Ride a longtail boat through the city’s klongs and witness the scenes of local life • Fly through a 1,500-year-old rainforest canopy on a thrilling tree-to-tree zip-line trek • Bicycle through the heart of Bangkok
Days 5-8 Chiang Mai Founded more than 700 years ago, the heart of Chiang Mai’s Old Town still beats strong. During four days in this gracious northern city, explore both its cultural treasures and the spectacular surrounding wilderness. • Sample the regional cuisine at a favorite local restaurant • Meet pen pals at a neighborhood school • Learn about traditional Thai flavors during a hands-on cooking class • Uncover a special treasure at the huge night market • Hike to waterfalls and ruins in Doi Inthanon National Park, observing animals, botanicals, and birds • Meet Hmong people in a traditional hill tribe village • Learn how to be a mahout, an elephant caretaker, and feed and bathe the animals • Take an adrenaline-filled river-rafting trip down the Mae Tang River • Opt for a tour of Chiang Mai’s elegant temples, and ride a rickshaw through Old Town • Participate in an ancient Chiang Mai custom— the khom loy (paper lantern lighting) and make a wish as they float skyward! Day 9-10 Bangkok / Depart for Home Buddhist monks are ever-present throughout Thailand, and their belief in detachment from worldly goods means they must rely on the generosity of the local community, especially for food. • Participate in a traditional alms-giving offering with your family, a profound and meaningful experience • Visit the mountaintop Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Thailand • Depart for home from Bangkok the next day
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
10 Days / 9 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates
10 or more travelers 06/27 - 07/06 $4,390 07/25 - 08/03 $4,390 12/19 - 12/28 $4,890 12/26 - 01/04/16 $5,090
6-9 travelers $4,690 $4,690 $5,190 $5,390
2-5 travelers $4,990 $4,990 $5,490 $5,690
2016 Dates 03/19 - 03/28 06/25 - 07/04 07/23 - 08/01 12/23 - 01/01/17 12/26 - 01/04/17
$4,990 $4,790 $4,790 $5,490 $5,490
$5,290 $5,090 $5,090 $5,790 $5,790
$4,690 $4,490 $4,490 $5,190 $5,190
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $300 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $600 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Internal Air: $400 (subject to change) Child Discount: $500 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Triple discount: For children under 12 sharing with two adults:$300 Price includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual guide throughout, area specialists, 8 breakfasts/7 lunches/4 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
www.familyadventures.com 26
Tanzania: Active Safari for Families with Teens
Photo: Danny BlitzPhoto:
Welcome to Tanzania—the beautiful heart of Africa—and an active family dream vacation! From Arusha National Park to the Ngorongoro Crater and the golden savannahs of the Serengeti, hike, trek, camp, and meet the nomadic Maasai people. Wildlife viewing—lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, elephants, rhinos, and hundreds more—is the ultimate highlight. Days 1-3 Depart Home / Arrive Arusha Back-dropped by Mount Meru, the town of Arusha is a lively blend of world cultures. • Explore the community of Ilkiding’a Days 4-5 Mount Meru Overnight Trek The dormant volcano, Mount Meru, soars to 14,980 feet, making it Tanzania’s second highest mountain after Kilimanjaro. • Hike to the Njeku waterfalls for a picnic with views of Mount Meru’s ash cone • Cut across the crater floor, surrounded by 5,000-foot-highcliffs • Arrive at the Mirikamba Hut, situated at 8,250 feet, and enjoy dinner and a good sleep • Descend through mountain meadows and woodlands Days 6-8 Ngorongoro Highlands Formed millions of years ago, the Great Rift Valley encompasses a mind-boggling array of wildlife. Your base here is lovely Gibb’s Farm, with its lush gardens and luxurious accommodations. • Arrive at Gibb’s Farm for lunch and a tour of the gardens 27 800.262.6255
• Enjoy activities, from birding to a traditional English tea • View wildlife on the Ngorongoro Crater floor and watch for lion, cheetah, baboons, elephants, mountain reedbuck and many more species • Enjoy an evening tembo fire, tell stories, and stargaze • Visit a secondary school in the Highlands; teens meet their peers, exchange life stories, and play a game of soccer • Bicycle to Tloma Village Days 9-10 Serengeti National Park Head for the spectacular Serengeti: 6,000 square miles of pristine wilderness, dozens of ecosystems and habitats, and seasonal host to the largest wildlife migration on the planet. • Stop at Olduvai Gorge, site of the Leakeys’ discoveries of hominid fossils • View wildlife on the savannah such as big cats, buffalo, topi, ostrich, gazelles, jackals, elephants, and more • Optional Serengeti hot air balloon excursion (at additional expense) Days 11-12 Eastern Serengeti Ecosystem Travel across rugged terrain and head eastward into the peaceful wilderness of a private nature reserve. • Visit an authentic boma, a traditional Maasai homestead • Enjoy wildlife viewing drives and animal tracking hikes • Meet the enterprising women of the Enjipai Collective • Thrill to the sights and sounds of a nighttime wilderness adventure Day 13 Depart for Home Return to Arusha and prepare for your trip home
What to expect: Challenging: 5-7 hours of sustained physical activity, good levels of fitness and technical ability required
13 Days / 12 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/07 - 06/20 07/26 - 08/08 08/05 - 08/18 12/19 - 01/01 2016 Dates 03/15 - 03/28 06/17 - 06/30 06/29 - 07/12* 07/15 - 07/28* 08/12 - 08/25 12/18 - 12/31*
Adult Price $6,990 $8,390 $8,390 $8,390
Teen Price (12-15) $6,690 $8,090 $8,090 $8,090
$6,990 $7,890 $8,690 $8,690 $7,890 $8,690
$6,690 $7,590 $8,390 $8,390 $7,590 $8,390
*EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book this 2016 adventure before June 30th, 2015 and receive a $300 discount per person. Groups of 6 or more will receive an additional $1,000 discount for the group. Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Price includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual guide throughout, area specialists, 11 breakfasts/11 lunches/11 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
Brazil: Rio & the Wild
Wetlands of the Pantanel
Introduce your nature-loving family to the wild side of Brazil! Explore the world’s largest wetlands–the Pantanal–where pristine grasslands, forests, and waterways offer unforgettable wildlife sightings, from giant river otters and jabiru storks, to caimans, anteaters, and the elusive jaguar. Then, head for irresistible Rio de Janeiro with its dazzling geography, cultural diversity, and famously friendly locals, the Carioca. Days 1-2 Depart Home / Arrive Cuiaba, Brazil Day 3 Cuiaba / The Pantanal Located at the geographic center of Brazil, the city of Cuiaba is surrounded by nearly 80,000 square miles of pristine wilderness—a world biosphere reserve. • Take a fascinating 3-hour drive to your lodge, stopping for wildlife sightings Days 4-5 The Pantanal Blend the Amazon rainforest with Serengeti savannah and the Florida Everglades, and you’ll just begin to appreciate the extraordinary biodiversity of the Pantanal! • Discover local botanicals and wildlife on morning safaris • Canoe the Cuiabá River to watch for Capuchin and howler monkeys, giant river otters, caimans and a colorful rainbow of birds • Try your hand at piranha fishing, and enjoy a Brazilian barbecue lunch • Visit the Bichos da Mata Bird Rescue Center
• Head out for nighttime wildlife safaris; watch for capybaras, tapirs, and nightjars • Hike to observation towers for a birds-eye view • Take a scenic horseback ride on sturdy Pantanal horses Days 6 & 7 Rio de Janeiro A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city of Rio deJaniero reaches from the top of Sugar Loaf and Corcovado to the famous beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana. • Transfer from your Pantanal lodge back to Cuiaba; fly to Rio • Enjoy a unique pizza dinner—rodizzio de pizza • Ride the train to the 2,300-foot-high peak of Corcovado Hill and the statue of Christ the Redeemer • Head for the beach, take a samba class, or watch a soccer game during a free afternoon in Rio • Optional:Visit Sugarloaf Mountain and ride the glassed-in cable car to the peak of Pão de Açúcar Day 8 Golden Lion Tamarin Project Only about 1,500 golden lion tamarins remain in the wild, living in Rio’s Atlantic Forest one of the planet’s most biodiverse, (and most threatened) areas. • Visit the Golden Lion Tamarin Association and meet dedicated conservationists who rescue and protect the endangered primates • Walk through the Atlantic Forest with a biologist to look for the animals • Visit a nearby ranch for lunch and a presentation on the golden lion tamarin Day 9 Rio de Janeiro Local fruits and root vegetables are key ingredients in the cuisine of Brazil a delicious fusion of many cultures. • Join a local chef for a hands-on Brazilian cooking class and lunch Day 10 Rio / Depart for Home
What to expect: Easy: Up to three hours of (generally easy) physical activity a day
10 Days / 9 Nights
Iguassu Falls
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/27 - 07/06 07/11 - 07/20
10 or more travelers $4,490 $4,490
6-9 travelers $4,990 $4,990
2-5 travelers $5,490 $5,490
2016 Dates 06/24 - 07/03 07/08 - 07/17
$4,990 $4,990
$5,490 $5,490
$5,990 $5,990
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $500 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5; a $1000 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Internal Air: $300 (subject to change) Child Discount: $200 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Triple discount: For children under 12 sharing with two adults:$200 Price includes: All conservation, park and entrance fees, accomodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bi-lingual rafiki throughout, local area specialists, 8 breakfasts/6 lunches/5 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
www.familyadventures.com 28
Costa Rica:
Volcanoes & Beaches
Photo: Chris Gamel
Experience two unique regions of this tropical, close-to-home paradise: the lush rainforests of Arenal volcano, and the gorgeous Pacific beaches of Guanacaste. With a focus on family fun, spend your days hiking, ziplining through the forest canopy, floating down a beautiful river, kayaking along stunning coastline, and making new friends in charming local villages. Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive San José, Costa Rica Days 2-3 The Arenal Dramatic volcanoes ring Costa Rica’s central highlands. Enjoy a scenic drive northward into the Arenal region, whose namesake volcano rises 5,357 feet above the fertile landscape with a perfectly symmetrical silhouette. During your exciting adventure here, you’re sure to see numerous bird and animal species sheltering in the lush foliage that carpets the slopes. • Hike the trails of La Paz Waterfall Gardens on the slopes of the Poas Volano; look for tiny frogs and monkeys; and visit one of the largest butterfly observatories in the world
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• Ride the Sky Tram gondolas through the rainforest for breathtaking views of the volcano and its emerald green lake • Take an exhilarating zip-line ride across the treetops, along a course of eight cables • Walk the series of hanging bridge trails through protected neo-tropical rainforest, crossing suspension bridges over deep chasms • Soak in the volcano-heated Eco Termales Hot Springs amid lush foliage Days 4-6 Guanacaste Head northward to the Pacific coast, to Guanacaste where cowboy culture still defines the personality of the province. Costa Rica’s driest region is also famous for its beautiful beaches, tiny hamlets, and vast cattle-grazing plains. Unique Rincon de la Vieja National Park is a rich haven for birds and wildlife, including pumas, jaguars, sloths, tapirs, agouti, coati, Capuchin and squirrel monkeys, boa constrictors, and many more! • Paddle your sea kayak along beautiful coastline for swimming and beachcombing • Meet pen pals at a local community center • Spend a day at leisure beach-hopping, sightseeing, or relaxing poolside • Take an optional surfing lesson at Tamarindo, a famous Costa Rican surfspot • Savor a delicious farewell dinner in the company of your new friends Day 7 Depart for Home
What to expect: Easy: Up to three hours of (generally easy) physical activity a day
7 Days / 6 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2016 Dates 03/27 04/17 11/20 12/26
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04/02 04/23 11/26 01/04
10 or more travelers $3,590 $3,190 $3,390 $3,390
6-9 travelers $3,790 $3,390 $3,590 $3,590
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
2-5 travelers $3,990 $3,590 $3,790 $3,790
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $200 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5; a $400 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Child Discount: $200 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Triple discount: For children under 12 sharing with two adults $300 Price includes: All conservation, park and entrance fees, accomodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual rafiki throughout, local area specialists, 6 breakfasts/4 lunches/ 4 dinners, bottled water & snacks, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
Baja: A Whale of an Adventure
Photo: Colin Ruggiero
Head south to the Baja Peninsula in February and experience thrilling encounters with majestic gray whales. Ride boats through warm lagoons to observe, photograph, and maybe even touch these graceful, intelligent mammals. Our adventure-filled family vacation includes horseback riding on the beach, hiking cactusstudded landscapes, learning to surf, kayaking, and swimming with playful sea lions. Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive Todos Santos, Baja, Mexico Days 2-4 Todos Santos Stunning beaches, lush gardens, and warm, friendly people make this lovely little town an off-the-beaten-path gem. • Take a surfing lesson at famous Los Cerritos—all ages and levels welcome! • Take a dream-come-true horseback ride on an endless ribbon of sand • Tour the highlights of Todos Santos, an artists’ haven • Meet the pen pals at the Palapa Society; volunteer as an English language mentor • Hike dramatic, cactus-capped cliffs, watching for birds, whales and sea lions • Swim, play games, and picnic on the beach • Take a hands-on cooking lesson and prepare local specialties
Days 5-6 La Paz Spend the next two days based in this lovely, laidback coastal town with colonial architecture and colorful markets. Explore the shores and waters of the Sea of Cortez, which Jacques Cousteau called “the aquarium of the world.” • Drive across the peninsula, from the Pacific to the Sea of Cortez • Kayak through calm Balandra Bay surrounded by huge rock formations • Put on mask and snorkel for an unforgettable swim with the curious sea lions of Los Islotes diving and spining around you, popping up to see who’s come to play Days 7-8 Magdalena Bay / Todos Santos One of the best places on the North American continent to view the migration of gray whales, 35-mile-long Magdalena Bay is sheltered from the turbulent Pacific waters by long sand barrier islands. Two magical boat excursions put your family front and center for unforgettable, close encounters with these gentle marine giants. • Take a boat ride through the Bay to view mother gray whales and calves, and watch for elegant flukes, flips, and breaches • Explore a different region of Magdalena Bay, and make eye contact as the whales spy-hop to get a better look at you! • Take enviable close-up photos of the mammals, and keep a lookout for resident sea lions and schools of dolphin Day 9 Depart Todos Santos / Depart for Home
What to expect: Easy: Up to three hours of (generally easy) physical activity a day
9 Days / 8 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2016 Dates 02/13 – 02/21
10 or more travelers $2,990
6-9 travelers $3,290
2-5 travelers $3,590
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $200 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5; a $400 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Child Discount: $200 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Triple discount: For children under 12 sharing with two adults:$300 Price include: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private Englishspeaking guide throughout, area specialists, 8 breakfasts/7 lunches/8 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
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Ecuador: Enchanted Galápagos & Andean Highlands
Photo:Earl Hirshfield
Small in size but huge in natural diversity, Ecuador welcomes your family with an endless array of breathtaking surprises. From the remote, life-rich Galápagos Islands to the soaring peaks of the Andes, our land and sea combination is a favorite for multi-generational adventures or private family reunions. Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive Guayaquil, Ecuador Days 2-4 Guayquil / Santa Cruz or San Cristobal Island, Galápagos Fly to the Galápagos and your island base of exploration. (Island stay dependent on departure date.) Discover the natural wonders of the surrounding islands on hiking, swimming, and snorkeling adventures and enjoy magical close-up encounters with numerous endemic marine, bird and wildlife species. • Ride a speedboat to Daphne Island and snorkel off Borrero Beach • Delight in the antics of the blue-footed boobies and observe the famous Darwin’s finches • Explore the coast of North Seymour Island to see marine iguanas
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• Hike Santa Fé Island, home to endemic land iguanas and sea lion colonies • Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station and Tortoise Center to meet the famous giant tortoises Days 5-7 Andean Highlands / Cuenca Trade the islands for the remote Andean Highlands, a ruggedly beautiful region of rolling hills, picturesque valleys, Incan ruins, and timeless villages. • Hike famous Andean trails surrounded by stunning Andean vistas • Choose from active or cultural options, including rock climbing, hiking, a cooking demo, or visiting local weavers • Search for hidden treasure among Incan ruins at Pumapungo Archaeological Park • Explore the cobblestone plazas, whitewashed architecture, and colorful markets of colonial Cuenca • Meet pen pals and play games together at a Cojitambo Mountain village school Day 8 Cuenca / Guayaquil Cross the Andes and drive to Ecuador’s bustling commercial center of Guayaquil, with its distinct tropical lifestyle, riverfront boardwalk, and unique markets. • Take a boat journey through the Manglares-Churute Mangrove Reserve • Enjoy a farewell dinner in Guayaquil Day 9 Guayaquil / Depart for Home
What to expect: Easy: Up to three hours of (generally easy) physical activity a day
9 Days / 8 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 12/19 - 12/27* 12/19 - 12/27* 12/26 - 01/03* 12/26 - 01/03* *each itinerary is
10 or more 6-9 travelers travelers $4,990 $5,390 $5,190 $5,590 $5,290 $5,690 $5,090 $5,490 unique. Call for details.
2-5 travelers $5,790 $5,990 $6,090 $5,890
Internal Air: $700 subject to change Child Discount: $200 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Triple discount: For children under 12 sharing with two adults $300 Price includes: All entrance and park fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual guide while on the mainland and a Galápagos National Park guide on the cruise, area specialists, 8 breakfasts/7 lunches/7 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
Tanzania: Family Safari
Photo top: The Cohen Family
Discover the fabled landscapes of Tanzania on this unforgettable adventure, perfect for families of all ages. Explore the lush rainforests of Mount Meru and photograph huge numbers of elephants in Tarangire National Park. Visit traditional Maasai villages, drive into the Ngorongoro Crater, and experience unparalleled wildlife encounters in the Serengeti. Days 1-2 Depart Home / Arrive Arusha, Tanzania Day 3 Arusha National Park Rural farms and plantations surround the thriving town of Arusha. Behind it rises Mount Meru Volcano, its slopes home to numerous wildlife and bird species. • Visit Arusha National Park, watching for buffalo, red duiker, colobus monkeys, and flamingoes Days 4-5 Tarangire National Park Towering baobab trees crown the landscapes of this small, exquisite park, and vast numbers of elephants are the extraordinary highlight. Enjoy the unique setting of your tented Nyumba camp. • Head to the Tarangire River to observe elephant families • Watch for baboons and vervet monkeys in the woodlands • Join a tracking walk to decipher animal prints • Search for wildebeest, giraffe, eland, leopard, cheetah and birds • Learn to play traditional Tanzanian games
Days 6-7 Ngorongoro Highlands From your lovely base at Gibb’s Farm, explore the wildlife wonders of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. • Take your choice of activities, from birding to a traditional English Tea • Drive into the Ngorongoro Crater— watch for hyenas, warthogs, eland, jackals, lions, and even rhino • Gather round the tembo tire in Gibb’s Farm’s gardens for stories and stargazing Days 8-9 Serengeti National Park Wide-open savannah, umbrella-like acacias, and hundreds of bird and wildlife species are hallmarks of the iconic 6,000-square-mile UNESCO World Heritage Site. • Visit Olduvai Gorge, site of the Leakeys’ discoveries of hominid fossils • Watch for lions and leopards drowsing in the sun • Optional Serengeti hot air balloon excursion (at additional expense) • Explore woodlands, kopjes (rocky hills), riverine forests, and grasslands in search of buffalo, ostrich, gazelles, jackals, and the big cats Days 10-11 Eastern Serengeti Ecosystem Head eastward into the peaceful wilderness of a 12,000-acre private nature reserve. • Take an exploratory hike, following tracks and watching for wildlife • Visit a Maasai village school; meet the students and pen pals for a round of games, arts and crafts, and a soccer match • Visit a boma, a traditional Maasai homestead • Hear fantastic folktales from a Maasai grandmother Day 12 Arusha / Depart for Home Fly back to Arusha and prepare for your trip home. • Peruse Tanzanian crafts at the Cultural Heritage Center • Relax in a day room in Arusha before, transferring to the airport
What to expect: Easy: Up to three hours of (generally easy) physical activity a day
12 Days / 11 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/11 - 06/23 06/13 - 06/25 06/18 - 06/30 06/23 - 07/05 07/12 - 07/24 07/17 - 07/29 07/29 - 08/10 08/17 - 08/29 12/18 - 12/30 12/23 - 01/04 2016 Dates 03/11 - 03/23 03/18 - 03/30 06/10 - 06/22 06/20 - 07/02 07/02 - 07/14* 07/07 - 07/19* 07/21 - 08/02* 08/05 - 08/17* 08/19 - 08/31 12/21 - 01/02* 12/23 - 01/04* 2017 Dates 03/11 - 03/23 03/18 - 03/30
Adult Price $6,490 $6,490 $6,490 $7,690 $7,690 $7,690 $7,690 $6,490 $7,690 $7,690
Teen Price (12-15) $6,190 $6,190 $6,190 $7,390 $7,390 $7,390 $7,390 $6,190 $7,390 $7,390
Child Price $5,490 $5,490 $5,490 $6,690 $6,690 $6,690 $6,690 $5,490 $6,690 $6,690
$6,490 $6,490 $6,990 $6,990 $7,990 $7,990 $7,990 $7,990 $6,990 $7,990 $7,990
$6,190 $6,190 $6,690 $6,690 $7,690 $7,690 $7,690 $7,690 $6,690 $7,690 $7,690
$5,490 $5,490 $5,990 $5,990 $6,990 $6,990 $6,990 $6,990 $5,990 $6,990 $6,990
$6,490 $6,490
$6,190 $6,190
$5,490 $5,490
*EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book this 2016 adventure before June 30th, 2015 and receive a $300 discount per person. Groups of 6 or more will receive an additional $1,000 discount for the group. Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Price includes: All entrance and game park fees, accomodations based on two to a room, land transportation, internal airfare; private bilingual guide throughout, area specialists, 10 breakfasts/ 10 lunches/9 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
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Tanzania: Short Family Safari
Photo: Andy Biggs
Perfect for busy families, this exceptional short safari includes three iconic parks with all of the wildlife thrills! Observe large herds of elephants in Tarangire. Descend to the crater floor of the Ngorongoro Crater where countless species live out the circle of life. And experience a mind-boggling diversity of wildlife and habitats across the vast plains of the Serengeti. Days 1-2 Depart Home / Arrive Arusha, Tanzania Days 3-4 Tarangire National Park Small and exquisitely beautiful, Tarangire is crowned with huge, ancient baobab trees and is home to nearly 3,000 elephants in peak season. Spend two days in a lovely tented Nyumba camp. • Drive to the Tarangire River to observe elephant families • Watch for baboons and vervet monkeys in the woodlands • Join a tracking walk to identify animal prints • Search for wildebeest, giraffe, eland, leopard, cheetah and birds • Learn to play traditional Tanzanian games Days 5-6 Ngorongoro Conservation Area Follow the road along the edge of the eonsold Great Rift Valley, with its expansive views. It was here that Louis and Mary Leakey made their anthropological discoveries of some of our earliest hominid ancestors. From your comfortable, tented camp at the edge of the
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crater rim, explore the wonders of the Ngorongoro Crater—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—on a thrilling full-day adventure. • Visit a village school; meet the students and pen pals for a round of games • Enjoy lunch at Gibb’s Farm—everything on your table comes from the property • Drive into the Ngorongoro Crater; watch for hyenas, warthogs, eland, jackals, lions, and even rhino Day 7-9 Serengeti National Park Tanzania’s first national park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wide-open savannah, umbrella-like acacias, and hundreds of wildlife and bird species are hallmarks of the 6,000-square-mile wonderland, host to the largest mammal migration on Earth. • Visit Olduvai Gorge, site of the Leakeys’ discoveries of hominid fossils • Watch for lions and leopards drowsing in the sun • Optional Serengeti hot air balloon excursion (at additional expense) • Explore woodlands, kopjes, riverine forests, and grasslands in search of buffalo, impala, wildebeest, gazelles, jackals, and the big cats • Relax at your Nyumba; learn to play the game of Bao Day 10 Serengeti / Arusha / Depart for Home Spend a few final hours in the Serengeti before returning to Arusha. • Head into the savannah for one last wildlife viewing experience • Fly to Arusha • Peruse fine Tanzanian crafts at the Cultural Heritage Center • Enjoy a farewell lunch at the River House • Relax in a day room in Arusha then transfer to the airport
What to expect: Easy: Up to three hours of (generally easy) physical activity a day
10 Days / 9 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/11 - 06/21 06/26 - 07/06 06/30 - 07/10 07/15 - 07/25 08/01 - 08/11 08/07 - 08/17 11/19 - 11/29 12/17 - 12/27 12/23 - 01/02 2016 Dates 02/12 - 02/22 03/11 - 03/21 06/14 - 06/24 06/28 - 07/08* 07/03 - 07/13* 07/19 - 07/29* 08/04 - 08/14* 12/20 - 12/30* 12/23 - 01/02* 12/27 - 01/06* 2017 Dates 02/10 - 02/20* 02/17 - 02/27*
Adult Price $5,290 $6,290 $6,290 $6,290 $6,290 $6,290 $5,290 $6,290 $6,290
Teen Price (12-15) $4,990 $5,990 $5,990 $5,990 $5,990 $5,990 $4,990 $5,990 $5,990
Child Price $4,290 $5,290 $5,290 $5,290 $5,290 $5,290 $4,290 $5,290 $5,290
$6,290 $5,290 $5,990 $6,590 $6,590 $6,590 $6,590 $6,590 $6,590 $6,590
$5,990 $4,990 $5,690 $6,290 $6,290 $6,290 $6,290 $6,290 $6,290 $6,290
$5,290 $4,290 $4,990 $5,590 $5,590 $5,590 $5,590 $5,590 $5,590 $5,590
$6,590 $6,590
$6,290 $6,290
$5,590 $5,590
*EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book this 2016 adventure before June 30th, 2015 and receive a $300 discount per person. Groups of 6 or more will receive an additional $1,000 discount for the group. Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Price include: All entrance and game park fees, accomodations based on two to a room, land transportation, internal airfare; private bilingual guide throughout, area specialists, 8 breakfasts/8 lunches/ 7 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
Alaska: Cruising Glacier Country
Photo: The Sagan Family
Cruise waterfall-laced fjords, experience calving glaciers, and photograph the local wildlife close-up as you explore spectacular Glacier Bay National Park in the long daylight hours of summer. Our small, comfortable ship carries everything necessary for the ultimate Alaskan family vacation: kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and inflatable skiffs. Days 1-2 Depart Home / Juneau Original Gold Rush-era buildings and fascinating native heritage sites are hallmark of Alaska’s capital city. • Explore historic Juneau at your leisure • Embark upon your ship late in the afternoon Days 3-4 Glacier Bay National Park Spend two glorious days cruising from the bay to the tidewater glaciers, Grand Pacific and Margerie. Hike remote shorelines and watch for resident marine and wildlife. • Board inflatable skiffs and maneuver around glittering, sculpted icebergs • Watch the slow-motion freefall of blue ice as it calves from the glacier face • Keep cameras ready for puffin, moose, sunbathing seals, grizzly bear, and eagle sightings • Paddle a kayak through glassy morning waters Day 5 Icy Strait Head for the chilled waters of Icy Strait, home to the Huna people, a Tlingit tribe. This is also southeastern Alaska’s summer feeding grounds for humpback whales and orca
• Join your captain on the bridge to watch the waters for marine life • Ride a skiff or kayak along the coastline keeping a lookout for bear • Relax under the stars and enjoy the upperdeck hot tub Day 6 Chicagof & Baranof Islands Named for a Russian explorer who never laid eyes on Alaska, Chicagof is home to the world’s largest population of brown bears. • Sail along a waterfall-laced coastline and explore winding fjords • Ride the skiffs to shore for beachcombing or hiking • Kayak the inlets to watch for foraging brown bears and playful sea otters • Drop anchor for the night near Baranof Island Day 7 Frederick Sound & Stephens Passage Explore the waters of these beautiful wide passages, the primary marine highways for the migratory humpback whales. • Stay on deck to view humpbacks, orcas, porpoises, and seals • Cruise into picturesque bays and watch for Sitka black-tailed deer, moose, and bear Day 8 Endicott Arm and Ford’s Terror Wilderness Area Cruise the most beautiful region in Alaska today. Sail between soaring granite cliffs and experience the power of Dawes Glacier. • Drop anchor in this majestic wilderness and explore by kayak or skiff • Witness the dramatic calving action of Dawes Glacier Day 9 Depart for Home
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
9 Days / 8 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/20 – 06/28
10 or more travelers $5,895
6-9 travelers $6,095
2-5 travelers $6,695
2016 Dates Call for details
Upgraded cabins available. Call for details. Child Discount: $1200 per child under 12 (Commander cabins only) Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Price includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual rafiki throughout, area specialists, 8 breakfasts/ 7 lunches/6 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
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Panama: A Family Adventure
Photo: Amory Carhart
Discover Panama’s rainforests, teeming with tropical birds and wildlife; its secluded islands and palm-fanned beaches; the fascinating traditions of the indigenous Embera people; and the grand achievement of the Panama Canal. Hike, raft, zip-line, swim, and travel by dugout canoe on this close-to-home adventure for active families who share a love of exploration. Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive Panama City Welcome to lively, cosmopolitan Panama City! Day 2 Panama City / Embera Village Day Panama’s indigenous people retain a timehonored way of life in remote corners of the country. The warm welcomes, intricate body tattoos, authentic dress, and exquisite handicrafts are all part of today’s privileged encounter with the proud Embera people. • Ride a piragua (dugout canoe) through Chagres National Park • Visit an Embera village be greeted by dancing and music, and learn about Embera customs and artistry • Experience Friends Across Borders, a unique chance for kids to meet their Embera peers and play games together
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Day 3 Panama Canal / Chiriquí Highlands Head to Gatun Lake to the Panama Canal, an engineering marvel that raises ships 85 feet above sea level and carries them between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. • Take a jungle boat adventure across Gatun Lake, passing giant cargo and passenger ships • Spy on iguanas, crocodiles, tamarins, and howler and white-faced monkeys • Continue to the mile-long Miraflores Locks and watch ships pass through Days 4-6 Chiriquí Highlands From fertile farmlands and dense rainforests to swift rivers and stunning beaches, the Chiriquí region—known as the Valley of the Moon—is Panama’s playground for all kinds of eco-adventures. • Take on Class II or III rapids on a whitewater expedition, complete with wildlife viewing and swimming • Enjoy the country life on a local finca (farm), and learn to make traditional tamales, rare tropical fruit jam, and sugar can candies • Ride a boat to the uninhabited island of Gámes Days 7-8 Chiriquí Highlands / Panama City / Depart for Home With a natural paradise at its doorstep, Panama City is a bustling trade center and home to people from around the globe. • Zip-line through emerald canopy, above rivers and waterfalls • Option: Join a coffee tour at the famous Rio Cristal estate • Explore the historic neighborhood of Casco Antiguo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
What to expect: Easy: Up to three hours of (generally easy) physical activity a day
8 Days / 7 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 06/27 - 07/04 12/20 - 12/27
10 or more travelers $3,490 $3,790
6-9 travelers $3,740 $4,040
2-5 travelers $3,990 $4,290
2016 Dates 03/12 - 03/19 04/02 - 04/09 07/02 - 07/09 07/30 - 08/06 12/21 - 12/28
$3,690 $3,690 $3,690 $3,690 $3,990
$3,940 $3,940 $3,940 $3,940 $4,240
$4,190 $4,190 $4,190 $4,190 $4,490
2015 Dates
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $250 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $500 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Internal Air: $300 (subject to change) Child Discount: $200 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Triple discount: For children under 12 sharing with two adults:$200 Price includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual guide throughout, 7 breakfasts/6 lunches/ 6 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
Baja: Multi-Sport Adventure
Photo: Colin Ruggiero
Welcome to Mexico’s Baja peninsula—a desert-and-sea wonderland that’s perfect for an active family vacation. Discover gorgeous scenery, from cactus forests to white sand beaches bathed by turquoise waters; encounter an amazing variety of exotic plants, birds, and animals; and meet the warm, friendly people eager to share their hospitality, traditions, and the unexpected delights of Baja. Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive Todos Santos • Savor a delicious welcome dinner prepared by internationally renowned Chef Dany, using the bounty of the local gardens and ocean. Days 2-4 Todos Santos Spend three days at this undiscovered gem, named one of Mexico’s Pueblo Magicos, for its “magical” blend of nature and culture. Explore the enchanting surroundings—beautiful beaches, blooming gardens, and the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains—on foot, or horseback, and in the water. • Learn the motions, moves, and joys of surfing from the instructors at Los Cerritos • Take a memory-making horseback ride on an endless ribbon of beach—all skill levels welcome
• Feast on a home-style dinner, prepared by a local culinary legend • Meet the pen pals at the Palapa Society, volunteer as an English language mentor, and enjoy a piñata party • Take a cliff-top hike with stunning views of desert landscapes and impossibly blue waters, and watch for sea lions, whales, and resident birds • Join the locals and the surfing crowd at Miguel’s, a favorite Mexican food hotspot Days 5 La Paz Just a 90-minute drive away lies the easygoing coastal town of La Paz, with its colonial architecture and palm-lined promenade that fronts the Sea of Cortez. • Set out by boat for a little cluster of rocky islets, Los Islotes, and gear up in mask and snorkel for an unforgettable nose-to-nose swim with playful sea lions • Enjoy the famous tacos at a local restaurant Day 6 Todos Santos Jacques Cousteau called the Sea of Cortez “the aquarium of the world” for its exceptional diversity of marine species. See for yourself what he meant as you explore Balandra Bay, which meets the sugar-white shores of one of the world’s most exquisite beaches. • Take an unforgettable kayak adventure past the distinct mushroom-shaped rocks and life-sustaining mangrove thickets of Balandra Bay • Return to Todos Santos for a farewell dinner and final overnight Day 7 Depart for Home
What to expect: Easy: Up to three hours of (generally easy) physical activity a day
7 Days / 6 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/27 - 07/03 12/19 - 12/25 12/26 - 01/01/16
10 or more travelers $2,990 $3,290 $3,290
6-9 travelers $3,190 $3,490 $3,490
2-5 travelers $3,390 $3,690 $3,690
2016 Dates 03/26 - 04/01 04/10 - 04/16 06/25 - 07/01 12/20 - 12/26 12/26 - 01/01/17
$3,090 $3,090 $3,090 $3,490 $3,490
$3,290 $3,290 $3,290 $3,690 $3,690
$3,490 $3,490 $3,490 $3,890 $3,890
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $200 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $400 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Child Discount: $200 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Triple discount: For children under 12 sharing with two adults:$300 Price includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual guide throughout, 6 breakfasts/5 lunches/ 6 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
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Croatia: Mediterranean
Multi-Sport Adventure
With its medieval red-roofed towns and natural beauty of fairytale proportions, Croatia’s fabled Dalmatian coast provides a stunning backdrop for an unforgettable family adventure. Step back in time as you explore Dubrovnik and the ancient coastal gem of Split, and set off on daily discoveries by bicycle, on foot, by speedboat, by kayak, zip-line, and even by go-kart! Days 1-2 Depart Home / Arrive Dubrovnik, Croatia Days 3-4 Dubrovnik Once at the crossroads of empires, lovely Dubrovnik has been a strategic seaport since the 12th century. Its Old Town, surrounded by thick walls, is a medieval masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Follow the labyrinthine lanes through the heart of the city, walk the walls for magnificent views of the yacht-studded harbor, and explore nearby islands and beaches. • Take a guided walking tour of Old Town, following labyrinthine streets to sun-dappled plazas, and visit the Dubrovnik Cathedral, built on ancient ruins • Take an optional tour of the Rector’s Palace and Sponza Palace (famous for its sculptures) • Choose the option of a walking tour of the Dubrovnik walls that encircle Old Town
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• Meet the pen pals at the beach and learn the Croatian ball game, Picigin, played in shallow water • Paddle a sea kayak around the outer city walls and to the caves and coves of Lokrum Island, stopping for lunch and snorkeling Days 5-8 Split Back-dropped by a high coastal mountain range and fronted by the azure Adriatic, Split was founded as a palace retreat for the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century. The city’s unique culture, architecture, and cuisine have all been influenced by its successive rulers, from the Byzantines to the Venetians. • Explore the town of Ston on the Peljesac Peninsula, and walk along its ancient stone walls • Take a boat ride among exquisite islands and sample local oysters • Walk through the old town of Split and visit Diocletian’s Palace a UNESCO World Heritage Site • Bicycle around Split as an alternative to walking, following a shoreline route along picturesque bays, through hillside forests, and past Diocletian’s Palace • Head to Karting Arena for an adrenaline-pumping go-kart adventure • Ride a speedboat to the island of Solta for swimming and snorkeling • Continue by boat to the medieval town of Trogir, whose historic center is on a small island • Zip-line high above a vast, scenic canyon and across the Cetina River on a nearly 7,000-foot high, 8-wire course (ages 8+) Days 9 Depart for Home
What to expect: Easy: Up to three hours of (generally easy) physical activity a day
9 Days / 8 Nights Bosnia & Herzegovina
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/20 - 06/28
10 or more 6-9 travelers travelers $4,990 $5,490
2-5 travelers $5,990
2016 Dates 06/18 - 06/26 07/09 - 07/17
$4,990 $4,990
$5,990 $5,990
$5,490 $5,490
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $250 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $500 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Child Discount: $100 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Price includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private Englishspeaking guide throughout, area specialists, 7 breakfasts/5 lunches/7 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance. Prices are based on number of people in your party
Canadian Rockies: Multi-Sport Adventure
Our non-stop family adventure in the Canadian Rockies gives everyone the chance to “go wild!” Explore Alberta’s larger-than-life landscapes: soaring mountains, turquoise lakes, and wildflower meadows. Watch for brown bear, bighorn sheep, and moose in the backcountry of Kananaskis County. Take an unforgettable hike on a glittering glacier. And spend two glorious days in Banff and Yoho National Parks. Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive Calgary, Canada Days 2-3 Kananaskis County Renowned for its pine-clad foothills, incredible wildlife, and miles of hiking trails, Kananaskis offers up the perfect introduction to the majesty of the Canadian Rockies. • Feast on a traditional ranch barbecue • Follow a magical, mossy trail to Troll Falls • Enjoy free time in Kananaskis Village • Meet huskies, and their pups, at a dog-sledding base camp • Option: Take a spelunking expedition into “wild” Rat’s Nest Cave • Option: Cycle the 25K Legacy Trail with stunning mountain views
Day 4 Icefields Parkway & Athabasca Glacier The Icefields Parkway is one of the world’s most spectacular roads and the link between Banff and Jasper National Parks. Turquoise lakes punctuate the evergreen forests and the dazzling, eons-old Columbia Icefields drape across the Continental Divide. • Drive the breathtaking Icefields Parkway • Stop to observe wildlife—moose, mountain goats, wapiti, and black and brown bears • Photograph the views of glacier-formed Peyto and Bow Lakes • Gear-up for an exciting ice-walk on the Athabasca Glacier and discover mini ice canyons and crevasses • Enjoy a picnic lunch on the glacier trail Days 5-6 Banff & Yoho National Parks Take your choice of river rafting and hiking adventures during two days surrounded by the natural splendors of Banff, Canada’s first National Park, and Yoho, whose Cree Indian name means “awe.” • Ride the rapids of Kicking Horse River • Option A: Take on 14 Class II - Class IV rapids between towering canyon walls • Option B: Float the upper canyon and thrill to Class II - III rapids • Hike an old growth forest to Emerald Lake • Visit the 833-foot-high Takakkaw Falls • Choose your backcountry hiking option at Moraine Lake and Valley of the Ten Peaks • Option A: Follow the Larch Valley Trail to a high alpine wildflower meadow • Option B: Head up to Sentinel Pass for jaw-dropping views of Paradise Valley • Walk the shores of fabled Lake Louise, back-dropped by glacier-covered peaks Day 7 Calgary/Depart for Home
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
7 Days / 6 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 07/26 - 08/01 08/16 - 08/22
10 or more travelers $3,690 $3,690
6-9 travelers $4,090 $4,090
2-5 travelers $4,490 $4,490
2016 Dates 07/03 - 07/09 08/14 - 08/20
$3,790 $3,790
$4,190 $4,190
$4,590 $4,590
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $200 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $400 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Price includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual guide throughout, 5 breakfasts/5 lunches/ 4 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
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Galápagos: Multi-Sport Adventure
Photo: Mancuso Rubin
Experience the wildlife wonders of the Galápagos at eye-level! Instead of traveling by cruise ship, this action-packed adventure offers your family the chance to hike, bike, kayak, and snorkel your way through a biodiverse wonderland, while staying steps away from the action in quaint island inns. Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive Guayaquil, Ecuador Check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure Days 2-4 Isabela Island, Galápagos Shaped like a seahorse and larger than all the other Galápagos islands combined, Isabela is graced with lava fields, sandy beaches, mangroves, and a 5,575-foot-high volcanic peak. Dozens of ecosystems-on land and in the surrounding waters-shelter an astonishing variety of wildlife, including wild tortoises, flamingoes, flightless cormorants, marine iguanas, sharks, and whales. • Ride a mountain bike past beaches, lagoons, and mangrove swamps to the “Wall of Tears” • Hike to the Sierra Negra Volcano—its caldera is one of the largest on the planet • Take a surfing lesson at a beautiful island beach
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• Ride a panga (local boat) to Tintoreras, hike to observe the marine iguanas and blue-footed boobies, and watch for reef sharks and the Galápagos penguin • Visit Loberia Chica by boat and snorkel with playful sea lions Days 5-7 Santa Cruz Island The second-largest island of the Galápagos is home to yachts and seabirds, cultivated farmland and wild highlands, remarkable lava formations and the Charles Darwin Research Station. • Walk through huge, ancient lava tubes that wind for more than a mile underground • Take a muscle-pumping sea kayak expedition across Angermeyer Point to Punta Estrada • Bike to El Garrapatero, a beautiful bay beach, and to a lake frequented by flamingos, herons, and stilts • Hike along Bahía Ballena (Whale Bay) and observe sea lions, marine iguanas, Darwin’s finches, frigate birds, and blue-footed boobies • Snorkel near the beaches of Bahía Ballena to witness a kaleidoscopic tropical fish Day 8 Santa Cruz / Guyaquil Return to the mainland and spend the afternoon at your leisure, exploring bustling tropical Guayaquil and its riverfront boardwalk and colorful markets. • Trade adventure stories with your traveling friends over a delicious farewell dinner Day 9 Guayaquil / Depart for Home
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
9 Days / 8 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates 06/27 - 07/05 07/18 - 07/26 12/19 - 12/27
10 or more travelers $5,790 $5,790 $6,190
2016 Dates 02/13 - 02/21 $5,990 03/12 - 03/20 $5,990 04/02 - 04/10 $5,990 06/11 - 06/19 $5,990 07/02 - 07/10 $5,990 08/20 - 08/28 $5,990 12/17 - 12/25 $6,390 12/25 - 01/02/17 $6,390
6-9 travelers $6,140 $6,140 $6,590
2 -5 travelers $6,490 $6,490 $6,990
$6,340 $6,340 $6,340 $6,340 $6,340 $6,340 $6,790 $6,790
$6,690 $6,690 $6,690 $6,690 $6,690 $6,690 $7,190 $7,190
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $400 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $800 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Internal Air: $500 (subject to change) Child Discount: $200 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Triple discount: For children under 12 sharing with two adults:$500 Price includes: All conservation, park and entrance fees, accomodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bilingual rafiki throughout, local area specialists, 8 breakfasts/7 lunches/ 7 dinners, bottled water & snacks, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
Costa Rica: Multi-Sport Adventure
Photo: Chris Gamel
Costa Rica is the ultimate destination for families in search of adventure. Explore three spectacular national parks and experience a dazzling diversity of landscapes, plants, and animals on a non-stop, active itinerary, with hiking, rafting, canyoning, kayaking, zip-lining, and surfing. Day 1 Depart Home / Arrive San José, Costa Rica Days 2-3 Tortuguero National Park Travel east to the Caribbean coast and discover the extraordinary wildlife and botanicals along the canals and lagoons of Tortuguero—the most biologically diverse in all of Costa Rica. Travel by boat through the lowland tropical rainforest and experience diverse habitats and an extraordinary variety of birds, including three species of toucans! • Enjoy the scenic boat transfer into the national park and your lodge • Option: Visit the Sea Turtle Conservancy and adopt an endangered turtle • Ride a jungle boat through winding waterways and view sloths; river otters; spider, howler, and white-faced monkeys; caimans; iguanas; and dozens of bird species • Meet the local children and pen pals in a small village and play games together • Kayak a peaceful maze of canals through mangrove thickets, watching for crocodiles, turtles, iguanas, and basilisk lizards
Days 4-5 Manuel Antonio National Park Although Manual Antonio is Costa Rica’s smallest national park, the variety of gorgeous terrain—from dense forest and mangroves, to beach and marine habitat—is a haven for a phenomenal array of wildlife. • Option: Zip-line through the rainforest canopy 120 feet above the ground • Option:Visit Kids Saving the Rainforest, started by a 10-year-old girl • Hike the park trails, spotting coatimundi, agouti, sloths, and white-faced and squirrel monkeys • Keep a lookout for brilliant scarlet macaws flying above the park • Relax on the picturesque beach and swim in the warm ocean waters • Option:Take a surfing lesson with the guidance of an expert (at additional expense) • Enjoy dinner and an evening on your own Day 6 San José On the way back to San José, stop in a lively beach town to enjoy a range of optional beach activities, from surfing, to mountain biking to yoga to just a relaxing soak in the sunshine. • Take an outrigger canoe tour on beautiful, calm waters • Share trip adventure stories over a delicious farewell dinner in San José Day 7 Depart for Home
What to expect: Moderate: 3-5 hours of activity daily and/or elevation gain, higher altitude, longer distance, uneven terrain
7 Days / 6 Nights
D A T E S / P R I C E S 2015 Dates
10 or more travelers 06/27 - 07/03 $2,590 08/01 - 08/07 $2,590 12/23 - 12/31* $3,990 12/26 - 01/3/16* $3,990 * 9-day trip includes rafting 2016 Dates 02/20 - 02/26 $2,590 03/05 - 03/11 $2,590 04/16 - 04/22 $2,590 06/18 - 06/24 $2,590 07/23 - 07/29 $2,590 12/25 - 12/31 $2,890 12/27 - 01/03/17 $3,390
6-9 travelers $2790 $2790 $4190 $4190
2-5 travelers $2990 $2990 $4,390 $4,390
$2790 $2790 $2790 $2790 $2790 $3,090 $3,590
$2990 $2990 $2990 $2990 $2990 $3,290 $3,790
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT Book your 2016 adventure before June 30, 2015 and receive a $200 discount per person for groups of 2 to 5, or a $400 discount per person for groups of 6 or more. Internal Air: $150 (subject to change) Child Discount: $200 per child under 12 Alumni discount: If you are a returning Thomson guest, please subtract $500 per family from these prices Triple discount: For children under 12 sharing with two adults:$500 Price includes: All entrance fees, accommodations based on two to a room, land transportation, private bi-lingual guide throughout, area specialists, 6 breakfasts/5 lunches/4 dinners, bottled water & snacks in the vehicle, comprehensive travel insurance Prices are based on number of people in your party
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Booking Information HOW TO BOOK YOUR TRIP Our groups are small, so space is limited. We recommend you call early to ensure space is available on your desired departure date.
DEPOSITS A $700 non-refundable deposit per person is needed to reserve space on scheduled departures. Your deposit may be made by check, Visa, MasterCard or American Express.
PAYMENTS Payment is due in full no later than ninety (90) days prior to the date of your January – November departure and one hundred and twenty (120) days prior to the date of your December departure, unless otherwise noted. Final payment must be made by personal check, cashier’s check, or wire. Credit cards are not accepted for final payment.
CANCELLED TRIPS Thomson Family Adventures reserves the right to cancel any departure due to a natural disaster, act of God, act of terrorism, sickness or disease outbreak, or other causes beyond our control. In such a case, a refund is given that equals the total payments received less $700 per person deposit and less all non-refundable expenditures paid to our adventure outfitters. For all other trips cancelled by Thomson Family Adventures, each customer will be sent a full refund. In both cases, Thomson Family Adventures is not responsible for additional expenses incurred by customers such as non-refundable advance purchase air tickets, visa fees, etc.
GUARANTEED DEPARTURES We offer frequent departures of many of our trips in order to accommodate as many schedules as possible. Because most of our trips maxout at 15–25 people, many departures sell out. On the other hand, there are times when a trip will have low enrollment, and there will be only one family on a departure. Thomson Family Adventures will never cancel a trip due to low enrollment unless conditions outside our control dictate the cancellation. If you prefer to travel with other families, please make sure to call our office at least 90 days before departure to check on the status of your trip. If you are the only family on the trip and would like to transfer to a different departure date, that can be arranged without any cancellation or transfer fees.
TRAVEL INSURANCE All customers who join us on one of the scheduled departures listed in this brochure will be provided a travel insurance plan. It is automatically included in the cost of the deposit and covers the following: Trip Cancellation Trip Interruption Trip Delay Baggage/Personal Effects Baggage Delay Medical Expense Evacuation/Repatriation 24–Hr Assistance Services
Land package price* to a maximum of $10,000 Land package price* to a maximum of $10,000 $500 ($200 per day) $750 $100 $15,000 $100,000 Included
REFUNDS AND CANCELLATIONS Notification of cancellation must be made in writing to Thomson Family Adventures. Upon receiving your cancellation notice, all payments will be refunded less the following cancellation fees:
Time of Cancellation 121 days + before departure 120-91 days before departure 90-61 days before departure 60 days or fewer before departure
January to November Adventures Deposit amount per person Deposit amount per person 50% of the package price 100% of the package price
December Adventures Deposit amount per person 50% of the package price 65% of the package price 100% of the package price
This is a partial list of booking terms. Upon reserving your space you will be asked to sign a complete set of booking conditions.
Please note, our Smithsonian Family Adventures have different terms & conditions. Please visit our website for a complete list of terms & conditions.
Please call us at (800) 262-6255 between 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM ET, Monday through Friday. 41 800.262.6255
Photo: Chris Gamel
Where and When Page Days Jan
MEXICO & CEN TRAL AMERICA
ASIA
EUROPE
Celtic Ireland: Caves, Castles and Connemara 12
SOUTH AMERICA AFRICA
Mar Apr May
Jun
Jul
9
X
X
Southern Italy: Volcanoes & Islands
13
11
X
X
Croatia: Mediterranean Multi-Sport Adventure
37
9
X
X
Wonder of Turkey: A Smithsonian Family Adventure Call
15
X
X
Secrets of Turkey Call
14
X
X
Turkey to Infinity Call
14
Wonders of China 11
15
X
X
X
X
X
X
Thailand: Active Family Adventure
26
10
Treasures of China: A Smithsonian Family Adventure
15
14
Costa Rica: Teen Adventure
24
9
Journey to Costa Rica: A Smithsonian Family Adventure
16
9
X
X
Discover Panama: A Smithsonian Family Adventure
18
9
X
X
Costa Rica: Volcanoes and Beaches
29
7
Baja: A Whale of an Adventure
30
9
Panama: A Family Adventure
35
Baja: Multi-Sport Adventure Costa Rica: Multi-Sport Adventure
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X
X
X
Aug Sep
Oct Nov Dec
X
X
X
X X
X X
X
X
8
X
X
X
36
7
X
X
X
40
7
X
X
X
X
X
X
Surfari! Baja Surf Camp Call
7
8
X
X
X
X
X
X
9
X
Sporting Costa Rica: 17 to Infinity Call
NORTH AMERICA & CARRIBBEAN
Feb
Peru: The Land of the Ancient Inca
9
Peru: Family Trek 25
X
X
X
X
X
X X
10
X
Galapagos & Ecuador: A Smithsonian Family Adventure 17
10
X
X
X
Exploring Peru: A Smithsonian Family Adventure 19
10
X
X
X
Brazil: Rio & the Wild Wetland of Pantanal 28
10
X
X
Ecuador: Enchanted Galรกpagos & Andean Highlands 31
9
Galapagos: Multi-Sport Adventure 39
9
X X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Tanzania Safari: A Smithsonian Family Adventure 14
12
Tanzania: Active Safari for Families with Teens 27
13
X
X
X
X
X
Kilimanjaro Trek: Western Approach 23
12
X
X
X
X
X
Tanzania: Family Safari 32
12
X
X
X
X
X
Tanazania: Short Family Safari 33
10
X
X
X
X
Egypt: Hidden Desert 17 to Infinity Call
12
Egypt: Valley of the Nile Call
10
Voices of South Africa: A Smithsonian Family Adventure 20
12
X
X
Morocco: Family Trek Call
11
Cuba: A Cultural Connection for Families 10
9
Alaska: Cruising Glacier Country 34
9
Canadian Rockies: Multi-Sport Adventure 38
7
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www.familyadventures.com 42
14 Mount Auburn Street Watertown, MA 02472
800.262.6255 www.familyadventures.com Worldwide Adventures Designed by Families for Families
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Photo: Chirs Gamel
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