Exodus Discovery & Wildlife by Travel Designers

DISCOV ERY & W ILDLIFE

SRI LANKA

A jewel in the Indian Ocean FOODIE ADVENTURES

Tastes of the world

WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS

Choose your African safari

2019/2020

DISCOVER a world of possibilities Welcome to this year’s Discovery & Wildlife brochure, packed with travel inspiration and advice. There’s nothing quite like exploring the world’s faraway places. Whether you’re looking for red-eyed frogs in a Costa Rican rainforest, or exploring a bejewelled Sri Lankan cave temple, it’s what I’m most passionate about. Exodus holidays venture to some of the most iconic places on the planet, so we’ve selected some of our favourite journeys, highlighting the unforgettable experiences included in our itineraries. After a few challenging years for the region, I’m happy that North Africa and the Middle East are making a well-deserved comeback. Imagine camping under crystal clear skies heaving with stars in Jordan’s Wadi Rum, or being lost among Morocco’s hypnotic and

exotic souks. These are some of the reasons it’s my favourite part of the world. Find out more in Trending Now (p24). There’s also some practical advice on how to pick your next safari: are you the kind of person who wants to camp in luxury or would you dare wild camp on the banks of the beguiling Zambezi? (p30). Our adventures are carefully crafted so you’ll get the best of every moment, with experienced local guides on hand. And when you travel with Exodus be assured we travel responsibly, working hard to eradicate the use of plastic bottles on all of our adventures (p33). Most of our holidays are small, guided group tours but we can also arrange completely tailormade adventures too. No matter where you’d like to go, or how you’d like to travel, let us help you discover the world...

EMMA GARRICK Discovery Programme Manager

97% of our travellers would recommend us to their friends

98% of our travellers think we design and operate trips to benefit the local community and environment

CONTENTS 4 INSPIRING ADVENTURE SINCE 1974 Reasons to choose Exodus for your next trip

6 WAYS TO TRAVEL How to make your adventure personal

8 WHAT’S NEW? Brand new trips from Europe to Asia

12 THE TRAVEL GUIDE Expert travel tips from flights to holiday bolt-ons

14 INSIDER’S GUIDE: SRI LANKA Exodus leader Ruwan shares his local knowledge

4.8 out of 5 average trip rating based on the past 100 online customer reviews

18 FOOD FIGHT: VIETNAM VS. CHINA Gourmet adventures to whet your appetite

21 THE LAST GREAT WILDERNESS Three inspiring women on life in Antarctica

24 TRENDING NOW The destinations hitting the headlines

28 BEYOND THE INCA TRAIL There’s so much more to Peru than Machu Picchu

32 CLOSE ENCOUNTERS Exodus traveller Ivan Pinto shares his love of Botswana

35 BAN THE BOTTLE How we’re waging war on single-use plastic

36 INTOXICATING INDIA Uncovering more of this colourful country

38 FOREVER ON CLOUD NINE Leader of the Year Johnny on why he loves Costa Rica

40 HOLIDAY LISTINGS Details of our Discovery & Wildlife holidays in one place Front cover art: An interpretation of Africa created by Serbian illustrator Martina Crepulja

Main image: The Meteora Monasteries, Greece

This year’s front cover art was created exclusively for Exodus by Serbian artist Martina Crepulja. She uses her work to encourage and support children through art, and has chosen to donate one third of her fee for each of her six cover illustrations to Exodus’ Inspiration Project, our initiative that takes disadvantaged children from around the globe on exciting trips in their homelands. “I believe that children have the potential to build a better future, but only if they are encouraged to do so,” she explains. “The Inspiration Project inspires respect, tolerance and positive ideas by educating children about their own cultural and natural heritage, something they might otherwise be deprived of.” Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk

Inspiring Adventure Since 1974

Inspiring

ADVENTURE SINCE 1974

More than 40 years ago, we took a group of adventurers to Kathmandu in the back of our Bedford truck on a mission to see the world for ourselves. It was the first Exodus trip, a chance to venture into the unknown with fellow explorers, to meet people along the way who could share with us a perspective different to our own and to see the diverse destinations that they called home. While the truck is long gone, our passion for travel, culture and discovery has only grown as time has passed. So too have the friendships forged with those that so warmly welcome us. As we support their communities, we benefit from the sights, sounds, tastes and experiences of their homelands. And you will too, on your next Exodus adventure...

â&#x20AC;&#x192; For full holiday listings see from p40

Why see the world

WITH EXODUS? ENRICHED BY EXPERTISE Every Exodus adventure is enhanced by our experience. We’ve travelled to more than 130 countries, to uncover their best-kept secrets and unmissable highlights. As you explore the world, you will do so with leaders who love to introduce you to their home countries, sharing stories and sights that allow you to experience it like a local. It’s these leaders — some who excel in fields such as mountaineering or archaeology — who show you the real heart of a destination.

INFINITE POSSIBILITIES With nearly 500 expertly arranged trips to 100 countries, you have an exciting choice to make. Our departures encompass winter specific adventures, cultural trips, cycling and trekking holidays, wildlife encounters and unforgettable family experiences, each with an activity rating so you can choose how active your trip will be. While our itineraries are carefully crafted, we’re flexible in how you enjoy them. Travel as part of a guided group or on a personalised, tailormade trip. You can also add extensions, flight upgrades and more.

TREADING CAREFULLY We are determined that future generations continue to enjoy exploring the world as we do, so we leave as small an impact as possible when we travel. With your help, we support the communities that so graciously share their homes with us through various projects, championing local businesses and creating jobs. We've initiated projects to eradicate single-use plastic bottles, take children and porters on adventures in their homeland for the first time, as well as community projects in the Himalaya.

PAINLESS PLANNING Activities, transport, accommodation and your tour guide are all arranged for you, so you can forget the logistics and simply focus on enjoying your holiday. Extensive trip notes for each adventure tell you all you need to know before you go, from any vaccination information to the expected weather. On guided group trips, our expert leaders are always on hand with advice should you need it, and they always have recommendations too. We’re also proud to say that 97% of our travellers would recommend us to their friends. And we’re ATOL and ABTA protected too, so you can be assured you are in safe hands.

Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk

Ways to Travel

WAYS TO

TRAVEL Whether you choose to travel with like-minded people on a guided group journey or a private tailormade trip, we’ve got dedicated teams here to make it happen. As the UK’s leading activity and adventure experts, being flexible is part of the reason customers turn (and return) to Exodus year after year.

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YOUR ADVENTURE YOUR WAY

GUIDED GROUP ADVENTURES There are many benefits to joining a guided group trip, and they make it our most popular way to travel. The insider knowledge of our worldrenowned leaders not only introduces your group to the best of a destination, but they share the stories behind them, taking you down paths less travelled to see the true heart of a country. They’re on hand for everything you need, from meeting you at the airport to restaurant recommendations and more. Group sizes range between 8-16 travellers, made up of a mix of people who share a love of discovery — perfect if you’re travelling solo. We find this size creates the best group dynamic, while ensuring that we’re not disruptive to the destinations and communities we visit. It also means the cost of the trip is spread across the group making it great value for money.

TAILORMADE HOLIDAYS Every aspect of a tailormade adventure can be created especially for you. Spotted something special in our brochure, but you’d like more time in one destination? Prefer to tone down the activity level to suit you? Our experts are on hand to make it happen. Similarly, if you want to go away but none of our current dates or locations are right for you, just give us a call. With 44 years’ experience of travelling the world, we’re able to get you to your dream destination, and provide everything you need when you get there (including one of our knowledgeable local leaders). And only two people need to travel for us to tailor something unique, so if you’re looking for an unusual honeymoon, a winter break for your walking club or a family getaway, reach out to our Tailormade team on 0203 733 4849. The more people that travel, the less it’ll cost.

FLEXIBILITY NO MAT TER HOW YOU TRAVEL We offer a number of extras on both our guided group and tailormade holidays, designed to make your trip special and free of complication. Regional departures are a simple option that makes all the difference, especially if you’re pushed for time. Let us know your nearest airport, and we’ll try our best to make it possible for you to travel from there. We can also sort flight upgrades, if you want to fly in style or additional comfort.

Some guests choose to linger a little while longer in their chosen destination, and so we can arrange trip extensions or onward travel to a new place if you want to make the most of your time away. Flexibility is everything when it comes to ensuring you have a hassle-free holiday, and we pride ourselves on our ability to make your life just that little bit easier. Speak to one of our experts to discuss your options.

Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk

What’s New?

WHAT’S NEW Europe, Africa & Middle East

Our passion for discovery and wildlife means that our experts go further and delve deeper to uncover unforgettable adventures. There are animal encounters, culinary discoveries, cultural trips and much more, all carefully designed to introduce you to more of our wonderful world... For full holiday listings see from p40

ICELAND Best for volcanic landscapes There are few places on Earth as dramatic as Iceland. Visitors here will spend time discovering thundering waterfalls, glacial lagoons, gushing geysers, ice caps and black beaches, all of which have inspired folklore and stories among those who live here. A knowledgeable local leader will take you on a journey designed to show you Iceland’s biggest highlights and to share the tales that they’ve inspired. Visit here in the summer to see the sights in 24-hour sunlight, or in winter when the mysterious, flickering Northern Lights may be seen overhead. While you can be sure to tick off the big attractions on this trip — including the Gulfoss Waterfall — you’ll also visit lesser-visited spots, and meet the locals in fishing villages and puffins on steely cliffs. Iceland Explorer

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OMAN

SPAIN

CZECH REPUBLIC

Best for Arabian magic

Best for foodies

Best for exploring cities

This one week trip offers complete cultural immersion for those looking to experience Arabian beauty and diversity. We experience many of Oman’s highlights, from Muscat’s Grand Mosque and the colourful Muttrah Souq to a cruise aboard a traditional dhow boat and sipping on Kahwah (local coffee) with an Omani family. Views of Jebel Shams, known as the Grand Canyon of Oman, are dramatic, as are those of the night sky over your desert camp at Wahiba Sands.

From tapas over drinks to fine dining in world-renowned restaurants — with 33 Michelin stars between them — food is held to an exceptionally high standard in Spain. Gourmands will love our journey through the Basque region. Here the sea and mountains meet, offering up an incredible range of dishes. Enjoy a cookery class in a Michelin-recommended restaurant in Bilbao; explore the vineyards of Rioja and indulge at an exclusive gastronomic dining club in San Sebastian — all unforgettable highlights.

Boasting impressive squares, bridges and a fairytale castle featured in Game of Thrones, Prague is a destination with a history as interesting as its skyline. It’s here that our adventure begins, with a tour sharing fascinating insights about the country’s Soviet history. You’ll discover that there’s much more to the Czech Republic than its capital when you visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Villa Tugendhat in Brno, the decorative Kroměříž Castle and the home of Pilsner beer.

A Week in Oman

Basque Food Adventure

Journey through the Czech Republic

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EGYPT

GHANA

ETHIOPIA & DJIBOUTI

Best for ancient cultures

Best for vibrant festivals

Best for alien landscapes

Few destinations offer as much intrigue as Egypt. With an ancient history that still harbours undiscovered secrets, it’s a magical destination. On this trip we visit Alexandria, once the intellectual and cultural centre of the ancient world, and Cairo, where you’ll embark on a food tour, tasting dishes that reveal more about a place so often defined primarily by its ancient relics. But don’t worry, we visit those too!

Ghanaians pride themselves as the friendliest nation in Africa and on a journey here you’ll be welcomed with cries of “Akwaaba” wherever you go. We celebrate the Akwasidae Festival with the Ashanti people and visit villages and markets to gain a better understanding of life here. As well as spending time with the people of Ghana, we see wildlife too, such as elephants and buffalo in the savannah of Mole National Park.

On the eastern branch of the Great Rift Valley, three tectonic plates come together to create the bizarre, alien landscape of the Danakil Depression. Here we explore sites including Lake Assal — the lowest point on the African continent — the colourful sulphur spring at Dallol, and observe centuries-old salt caravans. We also camp on the rim of an active volcano Erta Ale, and swim with Whale sharks off the Horn of Africa.

Alexandria to Aswan

Highlights of Ghana

Danakil & White Sharks

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EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AYJ Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk

What’s New?

WHAT’S NEW Further Afield

PERU Best for temples and ruins Spend ten action-packed days visiting some of the best sights Peru has to offer. Your adventure begins in the deep dense Amazon, exploring the rainforest by foot and boat, with a guide on hand to point out the creatures that call this place home. From there you’ll head to Cuzco city, visiting the San Pedro Market, the Sun Temple Koricancha and the Inca ruins of Sacsayhuaman. You’ll also spend some quality time enjoying lunch with a family in the Chichubamba community, from where the famous Inca Trail begins. We do a shortened 1-day Inca Trail walk, via the Wiñay Wayna ruins which are built into the side of a steep hillside overlooking the Urubamba river, to the impressive Sun Gate. Our adventure culminates in a guided tour of Machu Picchu, the iconic 15th-century Incan citadel. A Taste of Peru

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THAILAND Best for traditional cooking classes While our experienced leader will take you to Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Kanchanaburi on this trip, it’s your tastebuds that will take you on the biggest adventure. One for travellers with a love of food, it’s an opportunity to delve a little deeper into what makes Thai food so renowned the world over. We visit the famous night market of Kanchanaburi to see local produce being sold, before taking a cookery class (and enjoying lunch) at a celebrated school. In Bangkok, you’ll enjoy street food in China Town, sampling both local and Chinese dishes. Away from the throng, you’ll also visit a family near Chiang Mai, seeing their home, village and market before enjoying an authentic cookery class, teaching you the skills to recreate Thai dishes at home. Thailand Food Adventure

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/ALH For full holiday listings see from p40

GUATEMALA & BELIZE

SOUTH AMERICAN TRIO

ECUADOR

Best for snorkelling

Best for country-hopping

Best for wildlife encounters

Imagine peering down through the crystal waters of one of the best snorkelling destinations on the planet, or roasting marshmallows over a fiery volcano. You’ll do both on this adventure through Guatemala and Belize, discovering colonial cities, markets and more. You’ll spend three nights in Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by volcanoes, and you’ll explore Lake Atitlan by boat. Watching the sun rise over the ancient Mayan citadel of Tikal is an unmissable moment.

Taking in Uruguay, Argentina and Brazil, this tour lets you explore three vibrant and very distinct countries. In Uruguay, you’ll visit an estancia — a South American ranch — and enjoy horse riding in this perfectly peaceful spot. Buenos Aires is the tango dancing capital of the world. See the very best that Argentina has to offer over dinner, with a dramatic dance performance. Over in Brazil, you’ll stay in a beachfront hotel close to dazzling Copacabana beach — it’s the stuff that dreams are made of.

There’s no better way to explore the Galapagos Islands than by boat, where navigating through the wildlife-rich archipelago brings endless wonder. We take a cruise on Nemo III, a catamaran, complete with on-board jacuzzi for ultimate relaxation, in between island hopping. Walk among snoozing sea lions on the beach and follow in Charles Darwin’s footsteps in search of the marine iguana and the Giant tortoise. Birdwatchers will find their haven here in paradise.

Journey through Guatemala & Belize

Discover Uruguay, Argentina & Brazil

Galapagos Encounter — Nemo III

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INDIA

MEXICO

Best for religious architecture

Best for foodies

Best for undiscovered ruins

A visit to Gujarat is away from the well-trodden tourist tracks of northern India and yet it’s a state as richly endowed as its well-known neighbour Rajasthan. Fascinating Jain, Hindu and Islamic architecture make it a melting pot of religions. Our trip also includes two safaris as well as the opportunity to explore the Marine National Park with a naturalist. For culture addicts the unique tribal villages of Bhuj offer a chance to meet the locals.

A fabulous trip for food lovers, this adventure takes you to Oaxaca via a number of unforgettable stops. Culinary highlights include a visit to the Mundo Chocolate Museum, a craft mezcal tasting, and a meal at Limosneros — a delight to all of the senses. As well as tasting wonderful produce and taking cookery classes, you’ll visit the Frida Kahlo Museum, the Coyacan neighbourhood and take a boat ride along the Xochimilco Canals, as she once did.

See the natural and cultural sides of Mexico by journeying to its most remote areas. On this adventure, you’ll visit the Mayan cities of Yaxchilan and Bonampak, still largely undiscovered ruins hidden by greenery. We’ll also venture into the heart of the Chiapas jungle, where mysterious pyramids rise out of the lush vegetation. Enjoy splashing in lakes, waterfalls and cenotes, and we visit Sian Ka’an and Celestun, two biosphere reserves.

Highlights of Gujarat

Mexican Food Adventure

Hidden Mexico

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EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AHX Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk

The Travel Guide

THE TRAVEL GUIDE

Choosing a trip shouldn’t be a challenge. We’re leaders in adventure travel, and our experts have visited more than 131 countries between them, fuelled by an insatiable passion for adventure. With backgrounds in archaeology, mountain guiding and more, they’re sharing their expertise to make selecting your next holiday as easy as possible...

YOUR HOLIDAY, YOUR CHOICE GOING SOLO Around half of our guided group customers travel solo. We work hard to make it as easy as possible for them to do so. Our great relationships with partners around the world mean that when there’s a single supplement to pay, it’s as low as possible. “We also offer the option to avoid one entirely, by matching you in a twin room with someone of the same sex if you are happy to share,” says Sales expert, Andrea Beech. “New friends, and savings!” GRADING GUIDANCE “We grade each of our trips based on the amount of physical activity involved, so the higher the number on the activity dial, the more challenging it’ll be” explains Wildlife Programme Manager Vicky Boughton. “Saying that, a level one trip can still mean a busy itinerary, if you’re going on safari then it’s likely you’ll be up early for game drives and cover some long distances too.” There are detailed trip notes online which give you a better idea of what you’ll be doing and whether it’ll be suitable for you. There’s also more information about each activity level on our website: exodus.co.uk/activity-levels REGIONAL FLIGHTS We book group flights from London, but that doesn’t mean you have to travel from there. “If you’d find it easier to embark on an Exodus adventure from your local airport, we can arrange that for you,” says Aviation Manager, Nick Errington. “Our aim is to make your trip as enjoyable as possible, and we do that by organising everything for you.” For full holiday listings see from p40

STAY A WHILE LONGER When it comes to exploring the world, more is more. Our trip extensions offer you the chance to see extra highlights within your chosen region. We offer a number of addons, giving you more time to explore or unwind before or after your chosen itinerary. Below you’ll see a few options, but for more head to exodus.co.uk/trip-extensions. MALDIVES After exploring the jungles, temples and fortresses of Sri Lanka, Maldivian white sands are extraordinarily welcoming. Relax beneath palm trees, swim in crystalline lagoons, go snorkelling or dive beneath the waves. AVAILABLE ON TRIPS INCLUDING: AIA, AIL, AKS, WIY, AKA

ANGKOR WAT One of the world’s finest archaeological sites, Angkor Wat is a sprawling complex of temples and palaces. Exploring Vietnam and Thailand? Add on an extension to Cambodia to see its wonders. AVAILABLE ON TRIPS INCLUDING: ALD, AOV, AOE, ALC, AOF

EASTER ISLAND Take the opportunity to visit one of the most remote destinations in the world when visiting Chile. Around 900 iconic Moai statues are scattered across it, making the island an open air museum. AVAILABLE ON TRIPS INCLUDING: AAE, AAA, AAQ

AMAZON RAINFORESTS Explore the forests, lakes and rivers of the mighty Amazon, with three nights at a lodge in the biodiverse-rich Tambopata Reserve, where you’ll travel by motorised canoe to explore the deep, dense jungle. AVAILABLE ON TRIPS INCLUDING: APD, APX

TAILORMADE TOURS: HOW TO GO BESPOKE Making your Discovery & Wildlife holiday a personal, private experience is easy for our expert Tailormade Team. They arrange special adventures for those who want the full Exodus experience, complete with world-class tour leader. If you’re planning a honeymoon, family getaway or journey with a group of friends, call one of the team on 0203 733 4849, and they can help make it happen for groups of two or more.

Meet the team... SHARMIL

THIDARA

CHARLIE

Tailormade Sales Manager

Tailormade Sales Consultant

With 10 years of arranging tailormade trips and a lifetime of travel under his belt, Sharmil is the perfect person to create your next bespoke adventure.

Thidara’s passion for travel began on her first solo trip to Nepal, volunteering as a teacher at an orphanage. Now she’s been to over 40 countries!

Charlie has spent most of his adult life exploring other countries and cultures. He loves remote areas and roads less travelled, where travel becomes an adventure.

PAULA

ALICE

SCOT T

Tailormade Group Sales Consultant

Tailormade Customer Operations Executive

Wildlife & Tailormade Sales Consultant

Before Paula started working with Exodus in 2003, she travelled the globe solo. She’s been arranging private groups for more than 10 years now.

After studying geography at university, Alice backpacked around South & Central America. Favourite travel moments include cycling Death Road in Bolivia.

Scott’s focus is on creating wildlife adventures, from seeing sloths in Costa Rica to the majestic animals of the African plains. His enthusiasm is infectious!

TAILORMADE SRI LANKA Our tailormade team helped turn customer Haydn Hitchcock-McCarthy’s dream escape to Sri Lanka into a reality... “I’d travelled to Egypt and Ecuador with Exodus before, on guided group trips. My girlfriend Lisa hadn’t, but I’d extolled their virtues. We’ve travelled quite a lot as a couple, and Sri Lanka came highly recommended from friends and colleagues. We wanted it to be just us, and were struggling to find an itinerary that suited, and so I contacted Exodus. The Tailormade Team sent me a draft itinerary ready for us to fine tune. We worked with Thidara, one of the Exodus Tailormade experts. She was brilliant! We knew where we wanted to spend our mornings and how many days we wanted to stay in each place. The answer from Thidara was always ‘yes, we can do that’, including the activities we wanted to add on and the hotels we wanted to stay in. She was so flexible. Exodus also arranged a private guide and driver for us, taking us to the places we’d planned to see, as well as some hidden gems along the way.

It was great to have someone that knew the language and the culture so well, even down to things like how much to tip in restaurants. We loved meeting local people in the towns too, they were really friendly, something we’d expected after hearing so much about Sri Lanka from others. What we didn’t expect was for our two organised safaris to yield so many magic moments! The game drives in Yala were incredible. They were my first safaris and we got so lucky — we saw almost every animal there was to see, thanks to our amazing guide. He also had some brilliant ideas on how to beat the crowds. We visited Sigiriya rock at 7:30am before any other tourists, so it felt like we had the entire place to ourselves. And we added a walk up Little Adam’s Peak onto our itinerary. It only took an hour and a half. There were very few people around. The views were epic — it’s something that we’ll always remember. Thanks Exodus!”

MORE SRI LANKA If you wish to find out more about Sri Lanka see overleaf.

Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk

Insider’s Guide: Sri Lanka

For full holiday listings see from p40

SRI LANKA From its paradisical golden beaches to national parks packed with extraordinary wildlife, Sri Lanka is a tiny island that leaves a huge impact on those who visit. Leopards prowl through the tropical forests of Sri Lanka, while misty mountains cast their shadow across vibrant tea plantations. As the sun shines down on golden sand beaches and sacred cities year round, more and more adventurers are enticed to this alluring Indian Ocean island to uncover its secrets. Beauty here is in abundance, not just in the diverse scenery, but in its people too: welcomes as warm as the tropical climate await those who visit. In restaurants you’ll sample fragrant and mouth-watering curries, usually coconut based, along with fresh fish and roti flat bread. Many of Sri Lanka’s ancient and sacred cities are protected by their UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from Anuradhapura in the north to Galle in the south. Visiting them will give you a proper insight into the country’s history — it gained independence 70 years ago — and our award-winning local leaders are as proud to share their heritage with you as they are the country’s majestic architecture, culture and wildlife. One such leader is Ruwan Balasooriya who has been guiding Exodus groups through Sri Lanka for seven years. Here he gives us an insight into his homeland, and we share five idyllic itineraries too, helping you plan your dream Sri Lankan escape...

Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk

Insider’s Guide: Sri Lanka

RUWAN BALASOORIYA Tour Leader Sri Lanka is the land of serendipity, full of surprises for its visitors. There are many climatic zones within our small country, and that has made Sri Lanka one of the most diverse countries in the world, with temples, monuments, wildlife, beaches, tea plantations and fabulous hiking. Size wise we’re similar to Ireland which means you can experience the huge variety Sri Lanka offers without days and days of travel. Ancient kingdoms with ruins and rolling tea plantations tell the timeless stories of 2500 years of history and culture. We also have vast savannah grassland, mist-wrapped mountains sprinkled with waterfalls, abundant wildlife and wonderful walking, while endless white sandy beaches offer you plenty of opportunities to relax. But as different travellers have different hopes for their holiday in Sri Lanka, I like to show people more than just the sights. I try to tell them unheard stories about our culture and history, taking them to places the average tourist doesn’t get to go. I want them to take away memories of great adventures, so they can tell their friends and family when they get home. Leading Exodus tours is such a big part of my life — it’s more than a job — it’s a passion. Every time I walk through the villages and rice paddy fields I recall my childhood memories, reliving them, and sharing those memories with my clients. It’s personal. Many guests go home saying our food was a highlight of their journey. For us it’s normal! Rice and curry is our staple food. We have three different curries: white, red and black. White is mild,

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with turmeric and plenty of coconut milk and red curries aren’t for the faint of hearted — we add plenty of chilli to give a real kick! The black has a distinct flavour, coming from the dark roasted curry powder that’s used to prepare the dish. In a restaurant, you’ll be served a big bowl of rice plus six to ten dishes of vegetable, fish or meat curry. Even if you could eat it all, we’d serve more! Outside the restaurants, visitors to Sri Lanka get their kicks from the incredible variety of people and places to visit. The capital city Colombo is a busy modern city blended with old colonial buildings. If you drive a few hours out, you can see abundant wildlife in our 26 protected national parks. There’s such a huge variety of vegetation, wildlife and birdlife! You can also visit the cultural capital Kandy, followed by Nuwara Eliya or “Little England” with its ever-rolling tea plantations. In the north, you’ll encounter Tamil people and Hindu culture, and where even the beaches are totally different from those in the south — you may even come across herd of cows sunbathing on them, or whales and dolphins swimming offshore. I love to explain about our rich traditions, culture and way of life. For me it’s a privilege to show the whole world what the real Sri Lanka is like and to introduce them to our welcoming and generous people. By showing guests all that we as a country and nation have to offer, I hope they take away unforgettable memories of great hospitality, of friendly people, and of our unspoilt natural beauty.

SRI LANKA FIVE WAYS… COMPREHENSIVE SRI LANKA Best for variety Uncover Sri Lanka’s best bits on this comprehensive adventure. Explore the cave temple complex at Dambulla and cultural city of Kandy, a destination framed by mountains and famed for its sacred Buddhist sites. Go in search of leopards and herds of elephant in Yala National Park and climb Sigiriya rock. You’ll pack a lot in on this tour. Discover Sri Lanka

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WILD SRI LANKA Best for wildlife lovers Sri Lanka is famed for its thriving leopard population, but as majestic as they are, there’s so much more wildlife to see on — and off — this island. Our naturalists will point out big cats in Yala, elephant herds in Udawalawe, a wide range of endemic birds in the Sinharaja Rainforest and whales off the coast of Talalla. Wild Sri Lanka

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IMMERSIVE SRI LANKA Best for seeing the whole island You’ll travel an entire circuit of Sri Lanka on this immersive 17-day adventure, with special attention paid to the lesser-travelled north. En route to Jaffna and the islands of Nayinativu and Delft, we visit the Tantrimale monastery, set among sprawling boulders in thick forest. This part of the country is remote, and the temples and shrines are peaceful and beautiful. North Sri Lanka Revealed

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WHISTLE-STOP SRI LANKA Best for a flying visit If you’re looking for adventure but you’re short on time, then consider this one week trip. You’ll explore the colonial centre of Colombo, cycle through rice paddies, visit the ruins at Polonnaruwa, climb Sigiriya and explore Kandy. You could add a trip extension to the Maldives for the ultimate in rest and relaxation. Sri Lankan Highlights

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ACTIVE SRI LANKA Best for an action-packed adventure Sri Lanka’s tropical waters, mountains, lakes and rivers may be picturesque, but they’re also an idyllic playground for action and adventure. On this trip, we spend twelve days on the go, walking Adam’s Peak for a soul-lifting sunrise, snorkelling over the Kalpitiya Lagoon, and cycling through ancient Buddhist sites and cities. Sri Lanka Mixed Activity

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Food Fight: Vietnam vs. China

FOOD FIGHT VIETNAM VS. CHINA

Chopsticks at the ready! In the orange corner is Product Manager Vivien Urban who went on a tasty trip round Vietnam. In the red corner is customer Sarah Dennis who ate her way around China. But how did their journeys compare? And which country packed the most punch when it came to its food and flavours?

Vietnam

VIVIEN URBAN Product Manager at Exodus “One morning in Hoi An I woke up early to go to the market before the town and tourists got up. It was fascinating to see how people actually trade and shop, and see the fresh fish and vegetables for sale — completely different to those we get in the UK. Traditional Vietnamese food is governed by the Asian principles of Wu Xing, the five elements of spicy (metal), sour (wood), bitter (fire), salty (water) and sweet (earth). A rich use of fragrant herbs makes all the food smell healthy and fresh — we cycled to a herb village to see them being grown. Oh and the chillies! I’ve never seen such variety. There were so many highlights, including our leader Phi who was very friendly with a young spirit and a great sense of responsibility. His knowledge

and passion for Vietnam was incredible. Everyone loved him! I particularly enjoyed the cooking classes. We learnt simple, easy to prepare meals: spring rolls, lotus stem salad with prawns and pork, fresh rice noodle with marinated BBQ pork and raw vegetables, baked fish in banana leaves and pomelo and prawn salad. It really touched me hearing the personal story of the chef at KOTO. It’s a training restaurant for disadvantaged young people in Vietnam. Many are taken from the streets and given a real chance. The experience had changed his life. One night we stayed with a local family, and helped to prepare some salad together, then we were served food including Elephant fish and snails. Another night we stayed on a boat on the Halong Bay, where we ate a meal of soup, fish, salad and vegetables as the sun set. In the Mekong Delta there are lots of small cottages only accessible by boat where they produce coconut candy — which we got to taste — and rice wine and snake wine. I tried that too. Well, you do only live once…” Vietnam Food Adventure

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BEEF PHO “According to locals, pho is best eaten at breakfast, so we did just that and ate it on the streets of Hanoi. It was fresh and delicious. The secret is the layering of flavours in the rich and fragrant broth: ginger, star anise, whole cloves, beef or chicken and fish sauce all simmer away for hours to give it its savoury depth. You must try it!”

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China

SARAH DENNIS Exodus Customer “From sea urchins to sea bass, I’ve never seen such variety of fresh sea food as at the fish market in Xiamen. We got to choose the fish we’d like to eat, then went up some rickety stairs in a small building to sit at a table whilst it was cooked for us by locals. If that’s not fresh then I don’t know what is! But the highlight of the trip was going to see pandas at the rescue centre and having a cookery lesson afterwards. We learnt to cook stir fried tofu with panda rice balls, which look like really cute little black and white pandas — and are absolutely delicious. The food was so varied, we ate specialities from all the different areas of China and the flavours changed from place to place: from the sesame noodles we ate in a farm kitchen near the Terracotta Warriors in Shaanxi to the hotpot evening in Sichuan province, where we could choose what we

wanted to add to the pot — we opted for thin strips of beef and exotic-looking mushrooms — and if the broth was spicy or mild. In Chengdu we visited a place where they made soy sauce — some of the sauces were aged for ten years in a clay pot. You could really taste the difference in the ages of the sauces. We tried a huge variety of food, nothing like the Chinese food you get in the UK. The landscape was fascinating too: travelling on bullet trains we passed lots of countryside but once we got to the various cities it was futuristic high-rise architecture, although in Xi’an inside the ancient city wall the buildings were not allowed over a certain height. Our guide Jane was so knowledgeable and willing to talk us through all the food choices so it wasn’t overwhelming, and she took us to the kind of places where you were surrounded by locals sharing food together. The trip really made me feel like I had ‘done’ China — not just the sights but seen the real thing, and seen how real people live and eat. From the fish market, to the noodles, to the farm kitchen we ate in at the Terracotta Warriors: these were all places usual trips simply wouldn’t take you.” China Food Adventure

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LIANGPI “The best noodle dish we ate was a bowl of liangpi, a Shaanxi staple — thick ribbons of rice noodles tossed in cold peanut sauce, served with chilli oil and shreds of cucumber. We ate that whilst on our trip to the night market in Xi’an. This is the former imperial capital in north-west China, where local Muslims combine Chinese flavours with Middle Eastern spices.”

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Food Fight: Vietnam Vs. China

MORE FOOD FOR THOUGHT We know food has the power to bring a holiday to life for our travellers, and so we’ve carefully crafted a range of specialist gastronomic journeys just for you. Here are four more trips to whet your appetite…

SICILIAN FLAVOURS “Sicily’s cuisine bursts with Mediterranean flavours, but with exotic twists from the various civilisations that have occupied the island over the years,” says Product Manager Marta Marinelli. “Juicy tomatoes, pistachios, oranges and lemon zest are used as dressing, and give a unique flavour to pasta and fish. Try the pasta with sardines or sea urchins.” Sicily Food Adventure

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BASQUE BITES The Basque region boasts a slew of fancy Michelin-starred restaurants and the gastronomic pilgrimage sites of San Sebastian and Bilbao rightly draw the crowds. “We visit the most famous of Bilbao’s markets, and have a cookery class in a Michelinrecommended restaurant,” says Product Manager Monica Princic. “As well as a pintxos (tapas) crawl we dine at an exclusive private dining club in San Sebastian.‘’ Basque Food Adventure

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THAI SENSATIONS “This journey takes in the mountains and mists of northern Thailand,” says Product Manager Kelly Reid. “Try Khao Soi, a soup dish made with deep fried crispy noodles and boiled egg noodles, shallots, lime, ground chillies and meat in a tasty curry sauce. Among other culinary delights, we visit the night market in Kanchanaburi and participate in a cooking class at a renowned cookery school.” Thailand Food Adventure

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MEXICAN HOT Mexico is famed for fiery chiles rellenos, smokey mole, crispy tacos and jam-packed enchiladas. But did you know that the cacao bean originates here, and chocolate was invented by the Mayans? Learn more at the Mundo Chocolate museum, our first stop. We also visit traditional food markets, a mezcal distillery to sample ‘the elixir of the gods’, and some famous restaurants, including Limosneros, that uses only Mexican produce. Mexico Food Adventure

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The Last Great Wilderness

Follow in the footsteps of the great explorers on an expedition to South Georgia and the Antarctic. Here you’ll explore a pristine natural environment that — during short summer months — hosts one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on Earth, as the inhabitants of the Southern Ocean gather to breed. Imagine seeing 80,000 pairs of squawking King penguins with their chicks, walking among gigantic Elephant seals — some weighing up to 4.8 tonnes — fighting to protect their pups, or sitting for hours watching busy Gentoo penguins building nests. Then there are vast towers of ice in a dazzling spectrum of blues, seemingly lit

from within. But on the ice-bound seventh continent nothing comes easily. It’s a harsh and inhospitable environment, and one that highlights our own insignificance compared to the planet. So we asked some of our onboard experts — women who, for at least part of the year, have made the Antarctic home — just what is it that keeps them coming back? These are the people who create a safe environment, guide your zodiac boats, point out birds and animals of special interest, talk on conservation and history, and thrill you at dinner with daring tales. It’s their passion that brings the Antarctic to life.

MEET OUR ONBOARD EXPERTS…

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The Last Great Wilderness

NAME: Eva Molin Westerholm JOB TITLE: Guide & Program Co-ordinator YOU’LL FIND ME: Leading walks on land, planning our schedule of talks and lectures and driving zodiacs — I always take care to interpret what we’re seeing. I’ve been to the Antarctic over a hundred times now, but who’s counting? I still remember my first landing in the South Shetland Islands. The vessel was small and the Drake Passage was huge. Penguins, ice, the light. And each time you go back it’s different. Will that iceberg be there, what will the weather be like? What animals are home? There’s nothing else like the Antarctic. It holds the key to so much knowledge, and the work scientists are doing here is amazing. I’m a guide and program coordinator. I schedule our onboard educational program, and on excursions I drive the zodiac landing boats, interpreting what we see out in the wild. For most guests this is the trip of a lifetime, and our job as crew is to make sure everything meets their expectations, and keep them safe. That starts from the

moment you wake up in the morning, throughout the day until you lay your head down for the night. Seeing the season change over the time that we are there is an amazing experience — it starts with a pristine environment, then all the baby animals come along. There’s different light at different times, with incredible sunsets and sunrises at the beginning and end of the season. Sometimes in March you can see Humpback whales, they are very social and extremely aware of your presence. It’s good to know that most Humpback populations are bouncing back after near annihilation, and that they still want to come and say hello to us! And going south of the Antarctic circle to Marguerite Bay and Crystal Sound is spectacular — they are rarely visited places that hold a lot of ice. Although a ship is a closed environment, life onboard is varied. There are always fascinating people in both the crew and among the guests. We had direct descendants of Frank Wild, Roald Amundsen and Ernest Shackleton — three of the most famous polar explorers that ever lived — onboard the Akademik Ioffe for a drink in the bar one evening. You have to come to Antarctica for that!”

“Each time you go back it’s different. Will that iceberg be there, what will the weather be like? What animals are home?” Feeling inspired by our experts? Find out more by visiting the Polar section in the listings, p119.

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NAME: Joan Louwrens JOB TITLE: Ship’s Doctor YOU’LL FIND ME: Helping guests on and off zodiacs; in the ship’s sick bay; or sitting next to you at dinner! My first journey was to the ice shelf, on the 2013 expedition of Sir Ranulph Fiennes and his team. The seas were extraordinarily wild and I was almost moribund with sea sickness, but kept it a well hidden secret. As we headed south we became aware of an ethereal hazy white ridge line on the horizon and as we pushed into the surface ice, it was breathtaking. What can’t be expressed in words are the colours, subtle movement and sounds of the ice. Stretching far to the horizon are incredible ice sculptures, the dark water between them offering stark contrast. I’ve made six journeys to the Antarctic since, mainly to the Peninsula and also to South Georgia, usually doing at least two voyages each time, most

NAME: Sarah Lurcock JOB TITLE: Director of South Georgia Heritage Trust YOU’LL FIND ME: On board as you dock in South Georgia. I talk to passengers about the conservation work we do. People ask me why South Georgia? But our kitchen sink has the most incredible view. I first came with my husband more than 25 years ago. We walked from Grytviken to the other coast, then to St Andrew’s Bay — where there’s a vast King penguin colony. We fell for the wilderness. It’s an important untouched spot, where wildlife is still in charge. We found a job advertised for a single man, as women weren’t allowed to live here at the time. But eventually I joined him and the island became my passion. Now I’m Director of the South Georgia Heritage Trust, looking after the museum and fund raising. Recently SGHT raised £7.5 million for the Habitat Restoration Project. We went on board cruise ships telling people about the history of the islands, encouraging them to

recently with Exodus. Working as a doctor here presents different challenges, although the research vessels we use are better equipped than regular tourist ships. I usually see injuries related to joints and falls, although the crew are very careful to try to minimise these. But the most common is seasickness. The wilderness quality and incredible light are so exhilarating for me. Sea mammals make my mind wander into the depths in which they live. And penguins, despite seeing thousands, always amuse and inspire. The seals, Weddell, and Crabeaters barely raise their heads. I ask myself again and again why I keep going back, and I seldom come up with a reasonable answer. It’s like visiting another unspoiled planet, where man is secondary. As I stand on deck, I feel small and insignificant, but my mind is liberated. It must remain this way, as a reminder of how inconsequential we are. It is a privilege beyond words to see such splendour.”

donate. Early sealing and whaling introduced invasive species and rats devastated bird populations. Glaciers divide South Georgia into smaller areas, and we worked out that if we treated them separately, we could target them. We faced challenges, like high winds making it impossible to fly helicopters, and a race against retreating glaciers, but in April 2018 it was declared a success. Within three months birds were breeding in places they hadn’t for two centuries. Every time I hear the South Georgia pipit — the Antarctic’s only song bird — sing, I feel a thrill. But since I’ve been living here we’ve seen the effects of a warming climate. A whole glacier has disappeared, and some animals are at the limit of their tolerance, like the breeding Weddell seals. Sometimes we visit a hut where you can walk along a ridge with a couple of beers to watch the sun set. With the glaciers in front of the soaring Allardyce Mountain Range, it’s the most gorgeous view. And we have a little spot named after us, Lurcock Lake. I’ve been there once — we took some water and made ice cubes for our gin.” Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk

Trending Now

TRENDING NOW From the unassuming charms of the Baltic States to the re-emergence of the Middle East and North Africa, these are our pick of the best places to visit now...

EASTERN PROMISE The Baltics

2018 marked 100 years of independence for the Baltic States. Although they were to lose it again during Second World War — finally emerging from behind the Iron Curtain in 1991 — that didn’t stop the celebrations across Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia, including spellbinding national operas and exceptional art exhibitions. Cities, like Tallinn, with its burgeoning hip neighbourhoods like Kalamaja, a street food scene and creative hub, have that cool northern Europe thing about them, while the rich cultural history dates back many hundreds of years. Reminders of the Soviet past dot the countryside, contrasting with their untamed natural landscapes.Yet despite this winning mix, the Baltics somehow remain off the beaten track. Discover the Baltics

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TIME TRAVEL Central Asia

Long before ships sailed around the world, great explorers crossed the Silk Road, trading silks and sharing ideas, travelling through stunning valleys, imposing mountain ranges and storied towns and villages. Of course, there’s no single road, but a network of routes winding their way through central and eastern Asia. Although the region is relatively free of tourists, it’s been thrown into the spotlight with books, TV shows and even the likes of Joanna Lumley extolling its virtues. Travelling in this part of central Asia is not just a trip through historic cities and mountains dotted with yurts, but also a journey through time, past the Soviet era to the rise of Islam,

IN THE PINK Cherry Blossom

the great Persian and Mongol invasions, and the rich traders of the Silk Road. Travel with Exodus and you can gain a rich insight into the culture here, uncovering the strange and beguiling history through the knowledge and expertise of your local leader. Covering five countries in just three weeks, this tour has been hugely popular — Exodus client, Carol Penn, explains its appeal; “This was a trip full of variety and dramatic scenery, from the surreal Ashgabat, the amazing Darvaza Crater, the beautiful mosques and madrasahs of Samarkand and Bukhara to the truly majestic and ever changing scenery of the Kyrgyzstan mountains.”

Each spring a riot of pink engulfs Japan, rippling through the old world charm of southern Kyoto, then sweeping through futuristic Tokyo, before a final flurry in the northern-most city of Sapporo sometime in May. Known locally as sakura, cherry blossom season is a cause for celebration. The blossoms represent Japan’s deep-rooted cultural and philosophical beliefs. Not only is spring a time of renewal, but they point to the beautiful yet tragically short nature of life. There’s no doubt that cherry blossom season is the most popular time to visit Japan — our departures in 2018 sold out so quickly — so we’ve added more dates for 2019. Friends and family gather to picnic under the blossoms, a custom which dates back thousands of years, and festivals take place all over the country. It’s these fascinating customs, and the chance to explore a place where cutting edge technology and an age-old way of life collide, that mean Japan is growing in popularity as a holiday destination each year. Travel with Exodus and you’ll have experienced life like a local: sleeping in locally-owned ryokans, and trying the amazing food that makes the cuisine here incomparable. Ancient & Modern Japan

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The Five Stans of the Silk Road

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MORE CENTRAL ASIAN TRIPS: The Silk Road, p81 Uzbekistan Uncovered, p82 Mongolia: Steppes, Deserts & Nomads, p82

BET TER THAN EVER! Philippines

We’ve relaunched our journey to the Philippines, focusing entirely on the rich countryside of Luzon, from Mount Pinatubo, to the UNESCO-listed rice terraces of Maligcong and Sagada’s hanging coffins. We’ve added more local and foodie experiences to help you get under the skin of the culture and places here — like a home-cooked lunch in an ancestral home in Vigan, a distillery tour to sample Lambanog (a liquor made from the sap of coconut flowers), and a visit to a dragon fruit plantation. Top it off with an afternoon at the region’s best stretch of white sands, Pagudpud Beach. North Philippines Adventure

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BACK ON THE MAP

EAST MEETS WEST — Turkey After some challenging years for the region, people are returning to North Africa, the Middle East and Turkey. And why not? Culture runs deep here and the landscape is fantastic, while the region offers great value for money, and for now remains relatively less visited.

With one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, Turkey is a destination that has it all, from history, culture, and dramatic countryside, to gorgeous beaches. Many cultures have left their mark here, and in Istanbul — where we start our journey — we visit both the Hagia Sofia, which began life as a church, and the iconic Blue Mosque, glittering beneath the sun’s rays. A trip to Turkey is filled with adventure and intrigue: we visit the ancient city of Troy and the Cappadocia region. Shaped by wind and water, the rock formations here are out of this world and are dotted with delightful Byzantine cave chapels and underground cities. The coastal town of Kas is famous for its sparkling blue waters and has a host of adventurous activities on offer. “After three years of being completely off the radar,” says Senior Product Manager Emma Garrick, “it’s great to see that the desire for this fantastic destination is back.” For our full range of Turkey holidays:

EXODUS.CO.UK/TURKEY-HOLIDAYS For full holiday listings see from p40

—— SPECIAL DEPARTURE —— We’ll be running a special departure in February to witness the dazzling Sun Festival at Abu Simbel. Built by King Ramses II, the Sun Temple is carved into the sandstone cliffs of the banks of the River Nile. Twice a year light streams into the complex reflecting on Ramses II and the Sun God’s seated statues, illuminating the entire place and its incredible architecture. But one statue remains dark, that of Ptah, the Goddess of Darkness.

IN THE WAKE OF THE PHARAOHS — Egypt “Egypt is stable and tourism is returning,” says Product Manager John Penge, “but visitor numbers aren’t at the same level that they once were, making now a very good time to visit a popular destination before the word gets out!” We’re launching a new trip here in 2019, and will continue to run our premium adventure, where luxury meets escapism on a 5-star river cruise along the Nile. On both adventures you’ll take in the ancient wonders of the pyramids, visit the Valley of the Kings — with a qualified Egyptologist — and follow in the wake of Anthony and Cleopatra with a trip on the Nile. The new Egypt trip also visits Alexandria, where archaeologists recently found a black granite sarcophagus untouched for 2,000 years, and includes a food tour in Cairo.”

Alexandria to Aswan

For our full range of Egypt holidays:

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EXTRAORDINARY JORDAN Jordan

A DELIGHT FOR THE SENSES Morocco

FORGOT TEN TREASURES Oman

“Jordan is a fantastic destination — and one that is growing in popularity, with almost 30% more travellers than this time last year,” says Product Manager Kashka Lantis. “It’s a relatively short flight, the best time to go is in British winter, and it’s small enough that you can see all the main sites in just one week.” These include Roman ruins, imposing Crusader castles and the mysterious Lost City of Petra. Add to that an overnight stay in Wadi Rum, the bizarre feeling of floating in the Dead Sea, and then some much earned relaxation at the Red Sea.

“Morocco is just beyond Europe, in the same time zone, yet it exudes exoticism,” says Senior Product Manager Tom Harari. ‘’We’ve been seeing growing demand for Morocco, and it’s easy to see why. In historic towns and cities the bustling souks are filled with colourful jellabas cloaks and babouche slippers, sweet-smelling spices piled high, intricate leather and silver work. The call to prayer resonates from the top of minarets looking out over the flat roofs of riads and kasbahs. And then there’s the magnificent Sahara Desert, of course.”

A complete contrast to its ostentatious Emirati neighbours, Oman has a desert landscape topped by imposing fortresses and unexpected wonders. “Overlooked for a long time, it’s an absolute gem,” says Emma Garrick, “with fantastic desert scenery, abandoned oasis villages, wide valleys and the spectacular Hajar mountain range scenery.” We take you to the famous cattle market at Nizwa — where farmers come to barter and trade, with the 17th century fort as a backdrop. There’s also the chance to see a spectacular golden sun set on a traditional dhow as we cruise along the Gulf of Oman.

A Week in Jordan

Highlights of Morocco

A Week in Oman

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Beyond the Inca Trail

Beyond

THE INCA TRAIL

â&#x20AC;&#x192; For full holiday listings see from p40

Defined by its mysterious Inca ruins, trekking in the Land of the Sun is a bucketlist experience for many. So many in fact, that it’s one of our most popular trips. There’s nothing like the rewarding feeling of reaching the top of Dead Woman’s Pass, or emerging from the swirling mists at the top of the Inca Steps to the Sun Temple, seeing Machu Picchu laid out before you. We travel responsibly, and our porters are treated fairly, giving them an opportunity to see the sites for themselves. It’s they who make the journey extra special, with hearty three-course meals served on route, alongside encouraging and knowledgable local guides who get you where you need to be early in the morning before the crowds arrive. But, there’s so much more to see and do in Peru than just the trail. We offer a wide range of carefully crafted itineraries, and can even create one just for you. They all have things in common though: travel with Exodus and you’ll take in the colourful culture of the friendly people, soak in the magnificent landscapes of its windswept coast, arid deserts, mountainous Andes and verdant Amazon basin, wonder at the astonishing wildlife of its offshore islands, and flying condors over deep canyons and beautiful valleys. Not to mention sample its excellent food, a cuisine that’s gaining worldwide attention for its zingy fresh flavours. And pisco sours of course! This is a country that seeps into your heart, and its people, history, culture and cuisine leave an indelible mark. There’s so much more to it than the iconic Inca Trail... It’s time to discover your Peru. DISCOVER BEYOND THE TRAIL OVERLEAF...

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Beyond the Inca Trail

Discover Peru’s incredible variety beyond the trail, and experience it all on an Exodus adventure… S EE THE CONDORS AT

COLCA CANYON

Easily as impressive, twice as deep, but nowhere near as famous as the Grand Canyon, Colca is 100km long, 3000m deep, and surrounded by volcanoes and snow-capped mountains. Here you’ll see the traditionally dressed Quecha women, unspoilt Peruvian villages, and families of mighty condors cruising on thermals above you. ”Nothing surpassed seeing the condors soaring through the canyon,” says customer Angela Hill. Peru Explorer

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WONDER AT THE WILDLIFE

OF BALLESTAS ISLANDS

These islands lie a short distance off the coast of Peru, and have one of the highest concentrations of seabirds in the world. Cormorants, pelicans, tendrils, and the Peruvian Blue-footed booby lives here, along with Sea lion and Fur seal colonies, and Humboldt penguins. “We were unexpectedly charmed by simple pleasures,” says one of our customers. “Like seeing the penguins on Ballestas Islands, and the wonderful stars at night.” Peru Explorer

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S LEEP ON LAKE TITICACA South America’s largest lake has startlingly clear azure waters, punctuated by ancient manmade islands where indigenous communities live according to centuries-old customs. “It’s virtually impossible to select one particular highlight,” says one customer. “But Lake Titicaca’s Uros Islands stood out to me. The people welcomed us into their homes with open arms. The overnight stay with Mamma Flora and her family gave us a fascinating insight into the traditional way of life.” Essential Peru

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S TAY IN THE AMAZON

RAINFOREST

Exploring the biggest — and most diverse — ecosystem in the world is the stuff that legends are made of. At the Tambopata Reserve, several hours by boat into the jungle, the sheer mass of towering trees, damp and dense undergrowth, unusual flora, buzzing insects, animal noises and amazing wildlife sightings will get your senses tingling. Says customer Martin Bilson,“Ending the holiday in the Amazon Rainforest watching macaws, chameleons and monkeys, with the buzz of forest life in your ears was a definite high.” A Taste of Peru

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E XPERIENCE THE FESTIVAL

OF THE SUN

On the 24th June — the winter solstice in the Southern Hemisphere — Cuzco celebrates the Inca Festival of Inti Raymi, the Sun God. This is the most important religious festival in the Andes, and festivities take place from dawn until dusk. At the ancient Inca site of Sacsayhuaman, mist swirls among the ruins, and as drums beat in the background, a colourfully dressed Inca priest reads the final words of Quechua before sacrificing a llama in honour of the Sun and Earth. Essential Peru — Inti Raymi Festival Special Departure

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M ARVEL AT THE NAZCA LINES “I’ve always wanted to see the Nazca Lines,” says customer Barry Hunter, “and this was one of the few tours we could find that included it.” It’s an optional extra, but those who take the scenic flight won’t be disappointed. It’s only from the air that you see the super-sized neoglyphs of animals, abstract symbols and geometric shapes etched into the desert. Spread across 500km2, their purpose and origin is a mystery. Essential Peru

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Close Encounters

CLOSE ENCOUNTERS Some of the most dramatic moments in nature can be seen on safari. Imagine seeing a pride of lions hunting for their next meal, or the Great Migration of millions of animals through the Serengeti. Baby elephants wind through the legs of their parents, giraffes reach up to the canopy for their next meal, and leopards laze on hot branches. Exodus takes you, carefully and considerately, close to the action. Here, traveller Ivan Pinto shares his experience, and we look at four different types of safari adventures too...

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DR IVAN PINTO Exodus Customer “When I set out on my safari adventure to Botswana, I hoped to see some of the country’s most famous inhabitants — lions, leopards and elephants among them. While our guide was able to seek out some of the most impressive, the animals weren’t shy about seeking us out either! At the very start of the trip the Okavango Delta provided our first brush with elephants at close quarters. Two bulls approached to within a few feet of us, on our walking safari with leader Moses and the local guides. Moses was the epitome of calm as he gently shooed them away. We were still buzzing when a couple of hours later, sitting back at the camp by a small pond, another two elephants decided to have a ruckus! One chased the other straight through the pond to within a few feet of us again. We felt sure that these close encounters couldn’t be maintained throughout the trip, but Moses kept surprising us delivering Honey badgers on two separate occasions, leopards, and lions galore — including one at an elephant kill. Not to mention the usual suspects: giraffes, zebra, buffalo,

wildebeest, various deer and antelopes. Botswana is a birders’ paradise even in its winter, and we saw a wide variety of eagles and smaller birds. Wild camping was a great experience, with people comparing what animals they heard the previous night, both in the surrounding area and in camp. We even had leopard and hyena visit! But the most memorable moments happened while out exploring. Spotting a leopard as we rounded a corner on the road, and hearing a male lion roar next to its elephant kill were among the biggest highlights. Another came on our Chobe River cruise when an elephant in the water approached us while pulling up weeds, washing and chewing on them, all within touching distance. This wasn’t my first safari, but it may just have been my best so far. I’ve been to Borneo and India with Exodus, and to Kenya and Tanzania too. In Kenya and Tanzania, I found that when elephants or lions were nearby, there were many other vehicles around.

Botswana has a reputation for being quieter, and we wanted better viewing opportunities. It proved to be the case — during some sightings, we were the only car! It was a much more personal experience. Even when there were other vehicles around, they were kind enough to move aside so we all got to enjoy the experience. On safari trips, it’s your group’s shared love of wildlife which binds you. Our group ranged from 18 years old, my son, to a lady who was 80. I hope to embark on more wildlife holidays — next is to Costa Rica with Exodus. But Botswana will always hold a special place in my heart. I still haven’t seen cheetah or rhinos in the wild and that’s something I definitely want to experience. I hope to go to South Africa on safari and I’d love to experience more of Botswana. I generally never go back to the same destination twice as there’s so much of the world to see. But Botswana? That’s one place I’d love to return to.” Wildlife & Wilderness of Botswana

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DISCOVER DIFFERENT TYPES OF SAFARI OVERLEAF…

Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk

Close Encounters

Africa’s Pride: Four More Ways to Safari VARIED KENYA, UGANDA & RWANDA Wildlife highlight: Mountain gorillas The vast grassland of the Masai Mara is home to an abundance of wonderful wildlife, from zebra and wildebeest to cheetahs, lions and hyenas. During game drives spend precious moments in the company of some of the world’s most fascinating animals. From there you’ll head to Lake Nakuru National Park, where Black and Southern White rhinos roam. Leopards snooze in the fever trees while flamingoes relax on the lake. Tracking chimpanzees in the lush green Budongo Forest is sure to be a highlight, but it’s in in the shade of the canopy at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest that you’ll see one of this region’s greatest treasures — the Mountain gorilla. Gorillas & Masai Mara

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/WYU

LUXURIOUS KENYA Wildlife highlight: lions The eco award-winning Kicheche Valley Camp set amongst the trees and rocky outcrops of the vast wilderness of the Mara Naboisho Conservancy. It’s from this luxury tented camp that you’ll embark on nine fantastic game drives on board specialist vehicles in which you’re guaranteed a window seat. We head out on two drives a day, early in the morning and late in the afternoon when gazelles, buffalo, lions, cheetahs and leopards roam. Our expert guides will be sure to point out wallowing hippos and warthogs, but giraffes and elephants won’t need much in the way of introduction. Meals are shared beneath the stars to a soundtrack of one of the world’s most prolific savannahs. Mara Conservancy Safari

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/WYC

IMMERSIVE ZAMBIA Wildlife highlight: leopards Going on a walking safari means you see the animals up close, with nothing to restrict your view. South Luangwa is a perfect spot for this, with 9,000 square kilometres of untouched wilderness waiting to be explored. Travel between luxury bushcamps with your guide and armed escorts, passing through the home of elephants, buffalo, zebra, giraffes, hyena and lions. Our days start before the sun rises, and before the African heat forces the animals we hope to see into shady spots out of view. You can take some time for an afternoon nap too, with views over the plains, river or watering hole from your comfortable room. More game adventures await before sunset. South Luangwa Walking Safari

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/WZH

ACTIVE ZAMBIA Wildlife highlight: elephants Not all safaris need the power of a four wheel drive vehicle to take you around. In the Zambezi Valley, you’ll walk and canoe through the incredible scenery, coasting by basking crocodiles and pods of hippos before camping in the wild. The Zambezi River gives life to elephants and birds — including the magnificent African fish eagle. Canoe to the Chiawa Game Management Area in search of elephants, warthogs and Samango monkeys before following the stream to the Lower Zambezi National Park, where buffalo roam. Game drives here are among the very best on the continent, and your knowledgable guide will be happy to tell you more about the flora and fauna. The Zambezi Valley

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/WZC

For full holiday listings see from p40

Ban the Bottle

Every adventure that we embark on around the world has an impact on the destination we visit. Ensuring that ours is a positive one is a responsibility that we take seriously. That’s why we began our war on plastic waste more than two years ago. Exodus Responsible Tourism Manager Tom Harari explains: “The scourge of plastic is well documented. Even the most remote beaches in the world have plastic waste washed ashore, it gets in the food chain and kills wildlife, it blocks up waterways and pollutes water and soil alike.”

THE NUMBER OF SINGLE USE PLASTIC BOTTLES SAVED ON EXODUS ADVENTURES* IN ONE YEAR

It’s for this reason that Exodus works so hard to #BanTheBottle, an ongoing pledge to eliminate all single-use plastic bottles on trips. “We’ve been working with our local partners to find ways to provide safe and clean drinking water to our clients via other means,” says Tom. “We encourage each traveller to take a reusable bottle with them on their trip, which can be refilled in a number of ways.” On our Discover Sri Lanka adventure, thirsty sightseers can top up on the bus throughout the day, as Exodus customer Nina HookZurlino explains: “On our trip, the mega bottle of water with a pump was great as it replaced many one litre bottles.” At Exodus we’re delighted that the world is waking up to the perils of plastic consumption. The detrimental effects of single use plastic on the planet are finally being understood, and we believe that the travel industry has had a huge role in influencing this global revolution. You too can have a positive impact, by packing a refillable bottle with you when you travel, and being extra mindful about your use of plastic as you travel in your destination. To learn more about our war on plastic, how you can help, and watch our new video visit : exodus.co.uk/insights/exodus-bans-the-bottle * Period of July 1 2017 — June 30 2018 based on three 0.5l bottles per traveller on non-active trips and four for trekking and cycling adventures.

99%OF EXODUS TRIPS** THAT OFFER A MEANS OF REFILLING REUSABLE WATER BOTTLES WITH SAFE DRINKING WATER

** Excluding self-guided and tailor made adventures

Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk

Intoxicating India

INTOXICATING

INDIA

A blend of colourful cultures steeped in tradition, of fascinating customs, verdant villages and sprawling cities, India is as vibrant as the silks and spices it produces. Just like them, India captures the senses, taking you on a journey that delights, inspires and enriches. This vast land is known for its iconic sights and world-renowned landmarks, but come and uncover its less explored, yet equally wonderful secrets...

GUJARAT ASIATIC LIONS The Asiatic lion used to roam from east of the Indus River into central India and as far away as eastern Turkey, Iran and Mesopotamia. Today, Gir National Park in Gujarat is the last refuge of this endangered animal. On this trip, we embark on two safaris to catch a glimpse of the distinct big cat. We also open up the door to mystical tribal villages in Bhuj, explore the unusual salt marshes of the Great Rann of Kutch and much more. Highlights of Gujarat

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AIG

ELLORA & A JANTA CAVES

ASSAM FESTIVAL

THAR DESERT

It is thought that priests and pilgrims painstakingly chiselled out the Ellora Caves in a hillside, crafting such impressive monasteries and temples in rock that they’re now UNESCO protected due to the size and intricacies of the excavations. Dating back to between the 6th and 8th centuries AD, the Buddhist, Jain and Hindu temples can be compared only to those found carved into lava at Ajanta, which we also visit on this trip.

The Hornbill Festival is named after a colourful forest bird that features in the folklore of the Nagaland tribes. This special departure gives visitors the opportunity to experience the rich culture, songs, dances, and food of this corner of India. All Nagaland tribes still participate in the festivities, and we spend two full days with them. And there’s ample time to explore the temples, tea plantations and largely tourist-free beauty spots.

India’s colourful desert state is peppered with forts and palaces, holy towns and arid countryside. It’s here that we venture into the Thar desert for a stay at the historic, 15th century Khimsar Fort. The lush lawns, orchards and courtyards lie in juxtaposition to the surrounding sand dunes, and we embark on a jeep safari to meet the people of the Great Indian Desert. The inspiring Rajasthani lifestyle places emphasis on harmony, conservation and the use of natural resources.

India Grand Tour

Assam Explorer — Special Departures

Classic Rajasthan

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AII

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AKN

For full holiday listings see from p40

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AIP

MEENAKSHI AMMAN TEMPLE

JANTAR MANTAR OBSERVATORY

OOTY HILL STATION

The temple of Meenakshi Amman is dedicated to the warrior goddess Meenakshi and her consort Sundareswarar, and the bright and colourful complex is unlike anything else you’ll see in India. Built in the 7th-10th centuries and added to extensively in the 14th-15th centuries, it’s considered by some as the Taj Mahal of the south. Twelve tall gopurams (gatehouse towers) reach into the sky above the old city of Madurai, each encrusted with images of gods, goddesses, demons, mythical creatures and heroes.

Standing at 27m tall and able to tell the time in two second intervals, the Samrat Yantar is the world’s largest stone sundial. The astronomical instruments we discover at the Jaipur Observatory were originally intended to track celestial bodies which fascinated their creator, Rajput King Sawai Jai Singh II. Before building this marvel Jai Singh sent his scholars abroad to study, and this UNESCO World Heritage Site also represents the coming together of different religious and social beliefs. We also visit the Taj Mahal and tigers.

Known as the Queen of Hill Stations, Ootacamund — or Ooty as it is fondly known as — can be found nestled on the lush, green Nilgiri Hills of the Western Ghats. Situated high above sea level, India’s hill stations were conceived by European colonialists looking to escape the high temperatures of the plains. You will feel the cooler air as we head through the lush tea and coffee plantations towards Ooty on this journey through the country’s south. Weather permitting, we take a delightful one-hour steam train trip with unparalleled views.

The Tropical South

Colours of Rajasthan

South India Explored

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AIT

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AIK

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AIS

AMRITSAR Worshippers and travellers from around the globe flock to Amritsar to visit the Golden Temple, the most holy site for Sikhs worldwide. We join the 100,000 people that visit the gleaming 16th-century building each day, walking the white marble causeway over the sacred pool into the serenity of the intricately designed temple. On a heritage walk through its narrow lanes we discover the traditional trades and crafts of this engaging 400-year-old city. Mountains, Temples & Hill Stations

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AIQ

Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk

Forever on Cloud Nine

FOREVER ON CLOUD NINE

Meet Johnny Villalobos. He’s our Exodus Leader of the Year, chosen for his passion and incredible knowledge of Costa Rica, his home country. Johnny tells us why he loves Costa Rica, and why he thinks you’ll love it too... My job involves nature, archaeology, history and anthropology Costa Rica has it all in abundance. One of my hobbies is birdwatching. Although it’s part of my job, I consider it a hobby. I studied to be a naturalist guide, and started working in 1995. I love being outside, finding myself deep in nature, and sharing that with others. It’s a fantastic privilege and honour. The Caribbean Coast is my favourite part of the country For its music, food and laid back lifestyle. Its biological diversity and richness make it a true treasure for our country. I live here in a town called Guapiles. Costa Rica has amazing biodiversity Every day you’ll be in a different eco-system, and there’s a big variety of landscapes. Immerse yourself in the tropical rain or Cloud Forest looking for colourful tree frogs or trying to find sloths, monkeys and beautiful birds. The Resplendent Quetzal is my favourite bird, because of its mystical value. It’s associated with spiritual traditions.

For full holiday listings see from p40

The people are Pura Vida This is an expression that represents the most authentic part of the Costa Rican people. Translated literally, it would be like ‘pure life’ or ‘good life’ but for us it’s beyond that. It’s how we are, filled with enthusiasm, happiness and hospitality. It means that everything is fantastic. We live — and celebrate — the good life, and see the positive in everything around us. If somebody comes to you in the morning and says “How are you today?” you answer, “Pura vida,” full of life. My travellers always end up using it too: that’s really how they feel, that’s how the trip is going. The food is fantastic People often come with low expectations of the food here, but it’s honestly great! We grow everything in the country and the variety of fresh fruits is incredible. Because we don’t use chemicals or artificial techniques, the natural ingredients burst with flavours. My favourite dish is passion fruit mousse. It’s passion fruit blended with evaporated milk and condensed milk. Simple as that but the flavour is just wow!

Sustainability is part of our philosophy And it’s a pleasure to share this with my guests. Santa Elena Reserve is run by Santa Elena High School. It’s one of the educational programmes they have in Costa Rica. This is an honour to share with those travelling with me. And on one of the trips we visit Doña Aurora on her farm. She’s a farmer and a cheesemaker with lots of happy cows, who runs her farm in a sustainable way. The unexpected can happen at any time We were in Manuel Antonio National Park area — one of the highlights of the trip — and after seeing monkeys and sloths and deer, we headed towards the beach. One of the guests said, “Johnny, are there whales here?” And I was saying, “Well, once in a while but it’s very difficult...” and she said, “No, Johnny, turn around!” And as I was talking there were Humpback whales, right behind me! Want to see more? Watch his video here: exodus.co.uk/leaderawards-2017

JOHNNY THINKS YOU’LL

love…

…THE RAINFOREST LODGE

…THE NATIONAL PARKS

…THE WONDERFUL WILDLIFE

“Esquinas Rainforest Lodge is committed to the environment and wants to share their enthusiasm with guests in a friendly way. It’s really special to be part of this awakening. It’s 100% carbon neutral, and has even won awards! Here you can stay in the middle of the jungle surrounded by wildlife, listening to its wonderful sounds. Just outside the door are miles of winding trails that lead into the Piedras Blancas National Park.”

“Costa Rica is a land of rivers and volcanoes, with spectacular geomorphology resulting in fantastic hot springs to enjoy. It’s a privilege for us that 25% of Costa Rica’s territory is under the national park system. We visit Tortuguero National Park, Arenal National Park, Manuel Antonio National Park — where rainforest meets the beach — and Piedras Blancas National Park where we stay in an amazing rainforest lodge.”

“The wildlife here is completely unique — and there’s the opportunity to see sloths, monkeys, red-eyed tree frogs, birds — including hummingbirds, quetzals and toucans — as well as colourful butterflies and even crocodiles! Many different species of turtles nest on the beaches around Tortuguero, and between November and January you might even see their tiny babies rushing towards the ocean.”

Discover Costa Rica

Wild Costa Rica

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/WUC

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/WUP

…THE COASTLINE AND BEACHES

…THE MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST

… AN ACTIVE ADVENTURE

“Our beaches range from black volcanic sand to white sand — and they present the opportunity to snorkel in both the Caribbean and Pacific Oceans. At Cahuita we chill on the Caribbean coast, fringed by tall palms and tropical forest. We also take a motorboat to Drake Bay on the Osa Peninsula. It’s very remote and the bay is spectacular. Another day we head out to Caño Island.”

“It’s a magical place, with lots of birds, sunsets and rainbows. I’m here right now — here’s a hummingbird right in front of me by the way! — and I can see the Pacific Ocean stretching out before me even though I’m in the middle of the Monteverde Cloud Forest. On a clear day you can see both coasts at once, the Pacific and Caribbean. Isn’t that incredible?”

“There’s kayaking, hiking and a bridge walk in the cloud forest. But my favourite activities are whitewater rafting and zip lining. The whitewater rafting is amazing — as this adventure takes place in the middle of the rainforest; and I love zip lining in the forest through the same trees that monkeys are living in, and being able to scream as loud as the Howler monkeys. It’s so exhilarating.”

Costa Rica’s Coastal Secrets

Natural Highlights of Costa Rica

Active Costa Rica

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/WUR

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/WUA

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AUF

Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk

Holiday Listings

Our discovery & wildlife

HOL I DA Y L I S T I NG S LOOK OUT FOR…

The next section features all of our cultural and wildlife adventures. Within, we’ll give you a head start on all the information you need: the highlights of each trip, the activity level they require, the times of the year we depart — and, of course, an idea of their price.

PREMIUM

If a trip catches your eye, you’ll find a full itinerary, complete pricing information and a comprehensive list of departure dates on our website. Simply visit the specific tour’s unique page — look for the three letter trip code: EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AVG

Throughout our holiday listings we’ll share handy tips and information for your next adventure.

Online, you’ll also have access to maps, detailed trip notes, reviews and photos. And if you have any questions, you can have a ‘live chat’ session with one of our sales experts.

CHOOSING YOUR ACTIVITY LEVEL Online, you’ll also have access to maps, detailed trip notes, reviews and photos. And if you have any questions, you can have a ‘live chat’ session with one of our sales experts.

SAFARI RATINGS In addition to the activity level, each wildlife trip has also been classified with a grade of three, four or five ‘paw marks’ to help you find the right trip. Designed for people with a general interest in wildlife, but who also want to experience some of the other highlights of the region or country.

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/ACTIVITY LEVELS 1 LEISURELY

3 MODERATE

5 CHALLENGING

7 TOUGH

You are healthy, enjoy the outdoors and want a relaxing 3 4 5 6 trip.2 No experience is required.

You are reasonably fit, enjoy the outdoors and are looking 5 6 7 8 9 for 4some exercise. Some previous experience is preferable for activity based trips.

3-5

SPECIALIST ACTIVITY HOLIDAYS We feature a range of trips within our Discovery & Wildlife brochure, including selected specialist trips which are highlighted as follows:

Sometimes we use split grades, for a more accurate grading system, for example Leisurely/Moderate. 9

3-5 MULTI-LEVEL

On some trips we offer a choice of different levels of walk each day.

9 3-5 A more dedicated wildlife itinerary where the majority of time is spent in wildlife rich areas such as national parks or nature reserves.

A wholly focused wildlife trip where every aspect — vehicle, accommodation, and guide are geared up to immerse you in, and educate you about the local wildlife.

You are moderately fit and possess a spirit of adventure. 6 8 9 Some previous7 experience is required for most3-5 activity based trips. You have a very high level of fitness and are extremely 8 9 3-5 adventurous. Plenty of previous experience is essential for activity based trips.

NEW

We love finding new ways of discovering the world to share with our customers, whether that’s new countries, cultures or exciting new activities. Keep an eye out for the NEW flag on the following pages which identify our new additions to the programme. We have an extensive range of premium adventures at Exodus. Look out for the premium flag at the top of the trip listing.

Winter Adventures Wildlife Encounters

Walking & Trekking Cycling Holidays

EUROPE Iceland

READ MORE ON PAGE 25

UZBEKISTAN, KYRGYZSTAN, KAZAKHSTAN

The Silk Road Land Only from £1929 Flight Inclusive from £2649

TRIP CODE

AXF

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Samarkand and Bukhara • Almaty, nestled in the foothills of the mountains • Issyk Kul alpine lake •

AT A GLANCE 15 days land only/flight inclusive • Travel by minibus and train • 12 nights hotel, 1 night yurt and 1 night sleeper train • All breakfasts and 3 dinners included • Optional single supplement from £290 •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

Start Tashkent.

Tashkent city tour.

Morning train to Samarkand, visit Registan Square and Gur-e-Amir mausoleum. Explore Samarkand's Necropolis and Ulugbek's Observatory; transfer to Bukhara.

Explore Bukhara's many historical sites.

Another day exploring Bukhara before catching the overnight train to Tashkent. Morning sightseeing; afternoon board overnight train to Almaty.

TURKMENISTAN, UZBEKISTAN, TAJIKISTAN, KYRGYZSTAN, KAZAKHSTAN

The Five Stans of the Silk Road Land Only from £3299 Flight Inclusive from £3899

TRIP CODE

AXK

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • ‘Door to Hell’ giant burning gas pit at Darvaza • Islamic architecture and ancient ruins • Villages and lakes of the mountains AT A GLANCE 23 days land only/flight inclusive • Travel by minibus and train • 15 nights hotels, 1 night guest house, 4 nights homestays and 2 nights yurts • All breakfasts, 3 lunches and 8 dinners included • Optional single supplement from £475 •

Arrive in Almaty; city tour.

Visit Ashgabat’s weird and wonderful monuments.

Day trip to Issyk and Turgen Gorge.

Explore the UNESCO ruins of Nissa, the old capital of Parthia; head into the desert and gaze into the 'Door to Hell' at Darvaza.

Almaty to Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan; afternoon visit Bishkek.

Issyk Kul and Djety Oguyz Gorge; overnight in a yurt camp.

To the oasis town of Mary, stopping at Anau Mosque and Abiverd en route.

Morning hike (3hrs); to Karakol.

Cholpon Ata on the northern shore of Issyk Kul Lake, burial mounds and petroglyphs.

Stop in ancient Merv, a UNESCO site, en route to the Uzbek border; to Bukhara.

Travel through the Boon Gorge and visit the Burana tower before returning to Bishkek.

Day exploring the Silk Road city of Bukhara.

Continue to Samarkand on the Silk Road.

Full day exploring Registan Square and Samarkand's other sites.

Full day drive to Termez stop at Tamerlane's home town Shahrisabz en route.

End Bishkek.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months:

Cross into Tajikistan and drive to the capital Dushambe; afternoon city tour.

Head into the Fann Mountains to the shores of Iskanderkul Lake; overnight homestay.

Continue to Khujand visiting the former Persian town of Istravshan.

Re-enter Uzbekistan; visit Kokand, on to Rishtan famous for its ceramics; to Marghilan to see silk production; drive to Ferghana.

Into Kyrgyzstan; visit Osh; to the mountain retreat of Arslanbob; overnight homestay.

Day to enjoy the walnut forests of the Arslanbob Valley.

Scenic drive through canyons and gorges in the Central Tien Shan Mountains; to Chychkan Gorge.

Continue through the mountains to the pre-Soviet village of Kyzyl Oi; overnight homestay.

Drive to Son Kul Lake to experience Kyrgyzstan's nomadic culture; stay in a yurt.

Free time to enjoy the beautiful area around the lake.

Drive to the Kyrgyz capital, Bishkek; afternoon city tour.

Cross into Kazakhstan and leafy Almaty; afternoon city tour.

End Almaty or extend in Astana.

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY Start Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.

Explore ancient and modern Termez.

LEISURELY/MODERATE

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AXK

F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AXF

ASIA Uzbekistan, Mongolia

MONGOLIA

UZBEKISTAN

Uzbekistan Uncovered Land Only from £1249 Flight Inclusive from £1899

TRIP CODE

AXS

LEISURELY

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Samarkand’s Registan Square • Khiva and the desert castles • Two thousand-year-old Bukhara •

AT A GLANCE 11 days land only/12 flight inclusive • Travel by private bus, train and internal flight • 9 nights hotels and 1 night yurt • All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner included • Optional single supplement from £170 •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

MONGOLIA

Mongolia: Steppes, Deserts & Nomads Land Only from £2199 Flight Inclusive from £3099

TRIP CODE

ACM

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Vulture Canyon and Flaming Cliffs • Remote Gobi Desert • Desert monasteries and colossal sand dunes •

AT A GLANCE 13 days land only/14 flight inclusive • Travel by 4WD, bus and 1 internal flight • 3 nights hotels and 9 nights ger camps • All meals included • Naadam Festival departures • Optional single supplement from £530 •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

Mongolia Eagle Festival Land Only from £3249 Flight Inclusive from £4099

TRIP CODE

ACK

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Golden Eagle Festival in remote western Mongolia • Rolling Mongolian steppe • Singing sand dunes of the Gobi •

AT A GLANCE 17 days land only/19 flight inclusive • Travel by 4WD, bus and internal flight • 4 nights hotels and 12 nights ger camp • All meals included • Optional single supplement from £600 (excludes 3 nights at Eagle Festival). •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

Start Tashkent; city tour.

Fly to Urgench; transfer to Khiva; city tour.

Start Ulaanbaatar.

Visit the desert castles of Toprak Qala, Qaval Qala and Ayaz Qala.

To Khustain Nuruu N.P.; trek to see Przewalski's horses; overnight in ger camp.

Transfer to Khustain Nuruu National Park, trek to see wild horses.

Drive across Central Asian Plateau and through desert to Bukhara.

Drive to Little Gobi Desert; visit Khogno Khan Mountain; opportunity for bird and wildlife watching.

Day to explore 12th century Char Minar, Bolo Khauz Mosque and the old summer palace of the Emirs.

To Karakorum; visit Erdene Zuu Monastery.

Karakorum; visit Erdene Zuu Monastery.

Morning visit to monastery; along edge of Gobi Desert to Arvaikheer via Shankh Monastery.

Transfer to Arvaikheer via Shankh Monastery and explore the museum.

Free day to explore Bukhara.

Drive to Nurata, Alexander the Great's fortress; overnight in traditional yurt camp in desert.

To Bayan Gobi via Mt. Ikh Bogd.

Bayan Gobi via Mt. Ikh Bogd.

Explore region of Bayan Gobi.

Explore the region of Bayan Gobi.

Optional camel ride and free time at Aidarkul Lake; on to Samarkand.

Visit 'singing' sand dunes, the largest dunes in Mongolia.

Visit the ‘singing’ sand dunes, the largest dunes in Mongolia.

Full day tour in Samarkand visiting Registan Square, Ulugbek Observatory and Mausoleum of Tamerlane.

Travel through rocky plains of Gobi Gurvansaikhan National Park.

Free time; evening train to Tashkent.

Trek around the 'Flaming Cliffs' of Bayanzag.

Trek around the Flaming Cliffs of Bayanzag.

End Tashkent.

Fly to Ulaanbaatar; on to Terelj National Park.

Turtle Rock, meditation centre and Genghis Khan monument; to Ulaanbaatar.

Morning flight to Ulaanbaatar; afternoon in Terelj National Park.

End Ulaanbaatar.

Turtle Rock, meditation centre and Genghis Khan monument; to Ulaanbaatar.

Fly to Olgii; visit a Kazakh family.

14-15

Two days at the Golden Eagle Festival - hunting eagle demonstrations, horse and camel racing, archery, Kazakh costume competitions and cultural performances.

Fly to Ulaanbaatar; free time.

End Ulaanbaatar.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AXS

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/ACM We always remember we are guests in the places we visit. We travel courteously, and are always working to improve the positive impact tourism has across the globe. To find out more about our responsible tourism projects and policies visit exodus.co.uk/ responsible-travel Prices are in £s per person. Dates and prices correct at time of publication

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/ACK

ASIA China

BEST SELLER

CHINA

Harbin Ice & Snow Festival Land Only from £1799 Flight Inclusive from £2399

TRIP CODE

ACI

LEISURELY

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS The world’s largest snow and ice festival • The Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an • Key sites of Beijing and Shanghai •

AT A GLANCE 12 days land only/13 flight inclusive • Travel by train, minibus and 1 internal flight • 10 nights hotels and 1 night sleeper train • 10 breakfasts and 2 lunches included • Free transfer for any flight • Optional single supplement from £330 •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY Start Shanghai.

1 2

Morning city tour; afternoon free. Evening visit to Jinmao tower for night view.

Visit to Xitang water town; overnight sleeper train to Xi'an.

Arrive Xi’an mid-morning; explore the Muslim quarter and calligraphy lesson.

Terracotta Warriors tour.

Morning bullet train to Beijing; afternoon walking tour of Hutongs. Visit Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square and Forbidden City.

CHINA

Imperial China & Yangtze River Cruise Land Only from £2249 Flight Inclusive from £2899

TRIP CODE

ACE

LEISURELY

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Ancient and modern China • Less visited section of The Great Wall • Cruise the Yangtze River AT A GLANCE • 19 days land only/20 flight inclusive • Travel by train, minibus, cruise boat and internal flight • 14 nights hotels, 3 nights 4-star cruise boat and 1 night 1st class sleeper train • All breakfasts, 9 lunches and 3 dinners included • Free transfer for any flight • Optional single supplement from £580 ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

Arrive Beijing.

2-4

Three full days sightseeing, including the Forbidden City, hutongs, Temple of Heaven and Summer Palace, plus The Great Wall; overnight train to Xi'an on day 4.

Transfer to Mutianyu for Great Wall of China visit.

Morning flight to Harbin; afternoon walking tour of Central Avenue and St. Sophia church.

Harbin ice and snow festival; evening ice sculpture exhibition.

Morning walking tour of the Muslim area and mosque; free afternoon or optional cycle ride.

Bullet train to Beijing.

Excursion to visit the Terracotta Warriors.

End Beijing.

High speed train to Chengdu; afternoon sightseeing tour.

Sightseeing trip to Leshan Giant Buddha; return to Chengdu; evening Sichuanese hot pot dinner.

Visit the Giant Panda Breeding Research Centre; to Chongqing, board cruise boat.

10-11

Two full days cruising the Yangtze River including the Three Gorges and the dam.

Disembark at Yichang; bullet train to Wuhan.

High speed train to Guilin; transfer to Yangshuo, surrounded by towering limestone scenery.

Explore the nearby countryside by bike.

Yangshuo walking tour and cooking class.

To Guilin for flight to Shanghai; evening tour along the Bund.

To the water town of Xitang.

Morning city tour; afternoon free.

End Shanghai.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/ACE

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/ACI

ASIA China

READ MORE ON PAGE 25

CHINA

Walking the Great Wall M/A

Land Only from £949 Flight Inclusive from £1769

TRIP CODE

TCW

MODERATE/CHALLENGING

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Walk one of the seven wonders of the world • Tiananmen Square and The Forbidden City • Charming rural accommodation •

AT A GLANCE 9 days land only/10 flight inclusive • 6 days point-to-point walking with luggage transfers • 3 nights comfortable hotels and 5 nights basic guest houses • All breakfasts, 6 lunches and 6 dinners included • Terracotta Warriors extension available • Free transfer for any flight • Optional single supplement from £190 •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

Start Beijing; free afternoon and Beijing duck dinner.

Morning drive to Huanghuacheng Great Wall section; afternoon trek; overnight at Huanhuacheng.

Morning trek from Mutianyu to Jiankou through beautiful scenery; dinner at Mr Zhou’s guesthouse.

A challenging but beautiful morning trek at Jiankou ‘Wild’ wall; afternoon drive to Gubeikou.

Hike the Great Wall Jinshanling section; overnight in Gubeikou.

JAPAN

Ancient & Modern Japan Land Only from £3649 Flight Inclusive from £4449

TRIP CODE

AOP

Free day in Kyoto.

Bullet train to Hiroshima; visit Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima; return Kyoto.

Train to Takayama with panoramic views; afternoon visit Hida Folk Museum.

Free day in Takayama; explore the morning market and traditional architecture.

Train to Matsumoto via mediaeval village of Tsumago; see the famous black castle by night.

Travel by train to spa town of Yudanaka; soak in a hot spring.

See the famous Snow monkeys; bullet train to Tokyo.

Optional day trip to Hakone or Kamakura.

A full day city tour of Tokyo including the Senso-ji Temple.

Free day in Tokyo.

End Tokyo.

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Kyoto’s temples, Zen gardens and geishas • Discover futuristic Tokyo • Snow monkeys and hot springs AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/16 flight inclusive • Travel by train, bus, metro and ferry • 10 nights comfortable hotels and 3 nights ryokans (traditional Japanese guesthouses) • 3 breakfasts and 3 dinners included • Cherry blossom and Autumn colours dates • Includes railpass and journeys on the bullet train • Optional single supplement from £790 (limited and only available in Kyoto, Matsumoto and Tokyo) •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

Challenging walk along Gubeikou's Palongshan section.

Start Kyoto.

Majiagou Hill circular walk via Niangniang Temple; afternoon drive back to Beijing.

Kyoto city tour including Nijo Castle and Golden Pavilion.

Beijing city tour visiting hutongs, Tiananmen Square and The Forbidden City.

Day trip to Nara, ancient capital of Japan.

End Beijing.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AOP

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/TCW

“I loved this holiday...” Maureen Lamb

Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk and enter the three letter trip code

ASIA Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia

MYANMAR (BURMA)

THAILAND, LAOS, VIETNAM, CAMBODIA

VIETNAM, CAMBODIA, THAILAND

Discover Myanmar (Burma)

Thai Indochina Grand Tour

Thai Indochina Explorer

Land Only from £1599 Flight Inclusive from £2399

TRIP CODE

AON

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP CODE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Explore the ancient temples of Bagan • Sunrise at iconic U-Bein Bridge • Leg-rowing fishermen of Inle Lake AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/16 flight inclusive • Travel by private bus and internal flights • 13 nights mix of standard and comfortable hotels • All breakfasts and 3 lunches included • Ngapali Beach extension available • Free transfer for any flight • Optional single supplement from £415

City tour including Shwedagon Pagoda.

AT A GLANCE 28 days land only/30 flight inclusive • Travel by train, private minibus and internal flights • 24 nights hotels, 1 night boat, 1 night homestay and 1 night sleeper train • All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners included • Free transfer for any flight • Optional single supplement from £670 (hotel nights only) •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 2

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Four countries in four weeks • Explore ancient Angkor complex in Cambodia • Caves, waterfalls and floating markets

•

Start Yangon.

AOG

•

Land Only from £2799 Flight Inclusive from £3499

1 2

Fly to Bagan; free time to explore until sunset.

Full day tour of Bagan's temples.

Morning sightseeing at Bagan; free afternoon.

Fly to Mandalay; free afternoon; visit Mandalay Hill for sunset.

3 4

Start Bangkok. City tour; free afternoon. Fly to Chiang Rai; to Chiang Khong. Into Laos; travel by boat down Mekong to Pak Beng.

Land Only from £1349 Flight Inclusive from £2199

TRIP CODE

AOX

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Three countries in two weeks • ‘The Killing Fields’, an immersive and moving experience • Overnight in the Mekong Delta •

AT A GLANCE 15 days land only/17 flight inclusive • Travel by minibus and boat • 13 nights comfortable hotels and 1 night guesthouse • All breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner included • Free transfer for any flight • Optional single supplement from £400 (hotel nights only) •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

Start Saigon.

Visit Cu Chi Tunnels; tour of Saigon.

Mekong Delta; visit floating market; overnight homestay.

Walking tour in the delta; visit Sam Mountain for sunset.

To Cambodia; Kampot en route to Otres beach town in Sihanoukville.

Second day on Mekong cruise; arrive Luang Prabang.

Luang Prabang tour; Kuang Si waterfalls; night market.

Free day at the beach.

Day visit to Vang Lei village; partake in village activities.

Drive to Phnom Penh; free afternoon.

Sunrise at U-Bein Bridge; visit Mingun and Sagaing villages by boat.

Journey through striking scenery to Vang Vieng.

Cave visit followed by free time.

Full day sightseeing including the Royal Palace and 'The Killing Fields'.

Scenic drive to the hill town of Kalaw.

To laid-back capital city Vientiane.

To Siem Reap.

Daywalk through Kalaw, passing minority villages.

Fly to Hanoi in Vietnam.

Full day exploring temple complex at Angkor.

Drive to Inle Lake via Pindaya Caves.

To Halong Bay for cruise; overnight on boat.

Further time at Angkor; free afternoon.

Cruise on Inle Lake visiting the floating markets and Indein pagodas.

Cruise in Halong Bay; return to Hanoi.

Drive to Khao Yai N.P, a UNESCO site.

14-15

City tour of Hanoi; sleeper train to Hue sightseeing.

Bike ride to local market; journey to Hoi An.

Full day exploring the waterfalls and jungle trails of Khao Yai.

17-18

Sightseeing and free day.

Transfer to Bangkok; afternoon city tour.

End Bangkok.

Cycle/drive to minority villages around Inle Lake.

Fly to Yangon; free afternoon.

End Yangon.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months:

Transfer to Da Nang; fly to Saigon; afternoon city tour.

Visit Cu Chi tunnels; afternoon free.

To Mekong Delta; riverside village and visit floating market.

22-23

To Chau Doc. Transfer into Cambodia and on to Phnom Penh.

City tour including the Royal Palace and the 'Killing Fields'.

25-27

To Siem Reap. Two full days to explore the Angkor temple complex.

End Siem Reap.

F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AON

“...one WOW moment after another.” Fiona Allan

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

Prices are in £s per person. Dates and prices correct at time of publication

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AOG

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AOX

ASIA Cambodia, Vietnam

PREMIUM

CAMBODIA

VIETNAM, CAMBODIA

Cambodia Adventure

Classic Vietnam & Angkor

Land Only from £1099 Flight Inclusive from £1999

TRIP CODE

AOA

TRIP CODE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Two full days exploring the temples of Angkor • Famous Kampot pepper plantations • Tranquil Kep for fresh crab

AOI

LEISURELY

AT A GLANCE 13 days land only/15 flight inclusive • Travel by private minibus • 12 nights comfortable hotels • All breakfasts and 2 lunches included • Free transfer for any flight • Optional single supplement from £310

AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/16 flight inclusive • Travel by private minibus, boat and internal flight • 12 nights premium hotels and 1 night boat • All breakfasts, 3 lunches and 1 dinner included • Free transfer for any flight • Optional single supplement from £320 (hotel nights only) ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

Start Phnom Penh.

Start Hanoi.

Transfer to Kampot; sunset river cruise.

City tour; free afternoon.

Explore fruit and pepper plantations; visit Kep.

To Halong Bay; cruise; overnight on boat.

Journey to Koh Kong along jungle roads.

Continue cruise; return to Hanoi.

Boat trip to Koh Kong Island; relax, swim, visit local fishing village.

Fly to Da Nang; transfer to Hoi An.

Transfer to Phnom Penh; evening rickshaw ride.

Sightseeing including Royal Palace, 'Killing Fields' and Russian Market.

Fly to Saigon; afternoon city tour.

To colonial city of Battambang.

Morning visit to Cu Chi Tunnels; free afternoon.

Leisurely cycle ride through rural Battambang (or explore on foot).

To Mekong Delta; boat through waterways.

Transfer to Siem Reap.

Visit floating market; return to Saigon.

Full day at Angkor temple complex; sunset visit.

Fly to Siem Reap; afternoon at Angkor.

Leisurely bicycle tour of temples.

End Siem Reap.

13 14

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EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AOA

AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/16 flight inclusive • Travel by private bus, boat, sleeper train and internal flight • 8 nights hotels, 1 night boat, 3 nights homestay and 1 night sleeper train • 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 4 dinners included • Angkor Wat extension available • Free transfer for any flight • Optional single supplement from £160 (hotel nights only) •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

Start Hanoi.

Transfer to Hoa Binh; afternoon trek to caves and tea plantation.

Walking tour of Hoi An; free afternoon.

Cruise on Thu Bon River to a cooking class; afternoon free.

Full day trekking to remote Da Bia village; overnight homestay.

Boat ride on reservoir before returning to Hanoi for city tour.

To Halong Bay; cruise/kayak/try fishing; dinner and sleep on boat.

Cruise then return to Hanoi; overnight train to Hue.

Sightseeing by private bus and bicycle in Hue.

Cycle to Thanh Toan local market; drive to Hoi An.

Walking tour of Hoi An; free afternoon.

Fly to Saigon; afternoon visit Cu Chi Tunnels.

Cycle ride to Cai Be; visit handicraft workshops; drive to Can Tho.

Boat trip to floating markets; cycle ride; boat trip to island homestay.

Cruise to Cai Be; to Saigon for afternoon city tour.

End Saigon.

Full day to explore Angkor. End Siem Reap.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months:

MODERATE

•

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

AOF

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Kayak in rivers and amongst mangroves • Cycle the verdant Mekong Delta • Trek through remote hilltribe villages

•

Land Only from £1149 Flight Inclusive from £1979

TRIP CODE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Angkor temples and floating markets • Hands on Vietnamese cookery class • Cruise the emerald waters of Halong Bay

•

VIETNAM

Trails of Vietnam

Land Only from £1649 Flight Inclusive from £2449

LEISURELY/MODERATE

F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AOI

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months:

“Excellent tour...highly

F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

recommended.”

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AOF

Linda Ennis

Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk and enter the three letter trip code

ASIA Vietnam

BEST SELLER

VIETNAM

Cycling Vietnam M/A

Land Only from £1349 Flight Inclusive from £2149

TRIP CODE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Cover the highlights on two wheels • Cruise among Halong Bay’s limestone formations • Whale Island - a peaceful retreat

Vietnam Adventure Land Only from £1069 Flight Inclusive from £1799

AOV

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Key sites from north to south • Explore the historic trading town of Hoi An • Journey to the lush Mekong Delta AT A GLANCE • 14 days land only/16 flight inclusive • Travel by private minibus, sleeper train, boat and internal flight • 10 nights hotels, 1 night boat, 1 night homestay and 1 night sleeper train • All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners included • Angkor Wat extension available • Free transfer for any flight • Optional single supplement from £195 (hotel nights only) ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

MODERATE

•

VIETNAM

TRIP CODE

MOV

City tour.

To Halong Bay; cruise; overnight on boat.

Cruise; return to Hanoi; overnight train to Hue.

Arrive Hue; sightseeing.

Morning visit local market.

Journey to Hoi An via Da Nang.

Walking tour of Hoi An; free afternoon.

Visit My Son; free afternoon in Hoi An.

Fly to Saigon; walking city tour.

Visit Cu Chi Tunnels; free afternoon.

Mekong Delta boat ride; overnight in homestay.

13 14

Walk through fruit orchards; return to Saigon. End Saigon.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

Start Hanoi.

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AOV

AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/16 flight inclusive • 9 days cycling with full vehicle support • 11 nights comfortable hotels, 1 night boat and 1 night sleeper train • All breakfasts, 10 lunches and 1 dinner included • Local bike hire included • Free transfer for any flight • Angkor Wat extension available • Optional single supplement from £240 •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

Start Saigon.

Transfer out of the city; cycle to Cu Chi tunnels.

Cycle towards the coast and drive to Mui Ne.

Cycle to Dalat in the Central Highlands.

Cycle through Bidoup N.P.; overnight on Whale Island.

Cruise around islands with seafood lunch and snorkelling.

Drive to beautiful Dai Lanh Beach; coastal ride to Quy Nhon.

Further coastal ride stopping en route at sand dunes; transfer to Hoi An.

Sightseeing in Hoi An; free afternoon.

Ride over the spectacular Hai Van Pass; cycle and drive on to Hue.

Explore Hue by bike and boat; overnight train to Hanoi.

Arrive Hanoi; drive to Halong Bay; board boat and cruise/kayak in the bay.

Morning cruising Halong Bay; return to Hanoi.

End Hanoi.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D F l M l lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/MOV

Prices are in £s per person. Dates and prices correct at time of publication

ASIA Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia

VIETNAM

THAILAND, CAMBODIA, VIETNAM

Highlights of Vietnam

Vietnam Food Adventure

Cycle Indochina & Angkor

Land Only from £899 Flight Inclusive from £1649

TRIP CODE

ALD

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Jungle and mountains of UNESCO Phong Nha • Overnight cruise amongst karst cliffs of Halong Bay • Contrasting towns of Hanoi, Saigon, Hoi An and Hue •

AT A GLANCE 10 days land only/12 flight inclusive • Travel by private minibus, sleeper train, boat and internal flight • 6 nights hotels, 1 night farm-stay, 1 night boat and 1 night sleeper train • All breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners included • Free transfer for any flight • Angkor Wat extension available • Optional single supplement from £140 (hotel nights only) •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

Start Hanoi.

To Halong Bay; cruise among limestone formations; overnight on boat.

M/A

Land Only from £1049 Flight Inclusive from £1859

TRIP CODE

ALC

LEISURELY

Land Only from £1649 Flight Inclusive from £2499

TRIP CODE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Dine with a family in the Mekong Delta • Seafood dinner in spectacular Halong Bay • Market visits and participatory cookery classes •

AT A GLANCE 10 days land only/12 flight inclusive • Travel by minibus, boat and internal flights • 7 nights comfortable hotels, 1 night boat and 1 night homestay • All breakfasts, 4 lunches and 5 dinners included • Free transfer for any flight • Angkor Wat extension available • Optional single supplement from £150 (hotel nights only) •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

MOC

MODERATE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Cycle through three contrasting countries • Mouth-watering cuisine • Explore the Angkor temples by bike •

AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/16 flight inclusive • 9 days cycling with full vehicle support • 12 nights hotels and 1 night guesthouse • All breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner included • Local bike hire included • Premium departures • Optional single supplement from £300 •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

Start Bangkok.

Start Hanoi.

Sunrise walk around Hoan Kiem; lakeside breakfast. Market visit, traditional tea experience and evening cooking class.

Transfer to the ancient kingdom of Ayuttaya, start today’s cycling by the giant Reclining Buddha.

Cycle to Sa Keaw.

Ride to Aranyaprathet.

Into Cambodia and on to Siem Reap.

Transfer back to Hanoi; overnight train to Dong Hoi.

To Halong Bay; overnight on boat with seafood dinner.

Journey to underground rivers, karst mountains and verdant jungle of UNESCO site Phong Nha N.P.; optional cycle through traditional villages.

Return to Hanoi; fly to Hoi An, see Chinese temples and crumbling colonial architecture.

6-7

To Hue via Vinh Moc tunnels, a key resource for local troops during the Vietnam War.

Walking tour of Hoi An; Banh Vac (white rose cake) experience with lunch included.

Two full days to explore the temple complex of Angkor Wat by bus and bike.

Drive to Phnom Penh, stopping at Skuon.

Leisurely cycle ride to Tra Que her village; cookery class.

Hue city tour of Citadel and Pagoda; transfer to Hoi An.

Fly to Saigon; city tour and Ben Thanh Market.

Sightseeing including Royal Palace and the 'Killing Fields'.

Walking tour of Hoi An; free time to explore the market.

Fly to Saigon; visit the main sights.

Mekong Delta boat ride; overnight in homestay, dinner with the family.

Transfer to Takeo; cycle to Vietnam border and Chau Doc.

Day trip to Mekong Delta; farewell dinner in Saigon.

To the Mekong Delta and Vinh Long; boat to homestay; overnight.

End Saigon.

Return to Saigon; afternoon cookery class and dinner with a Vietnamese legendary chef.

End Saigon.

To Cai Be floating market; cycle Mekong riverbank; transfer to Saigon.

Free day in Saigon.

End Saigon.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/ALD

“Every day brought something new... a truly enthralling trip” Emily Draper

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/ALC

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/MOC In Hanoi, we encourage our groups to share a communal meal at KOTO, a non-profit organisation that provides disadvantaged 16-22 year olds with a two year course in hospitality, English and life skills.

Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk and enter the three letter trip code

ASIA Thailand, Malaysia

READ MORE ON PAGE 25

INDONESIA

Primates & Dragons of Indonesia

Volcanoes & Temples of Indonesia

Land Only from £2239 Flight Inclusive from £3059

TRIP CODE

WOZ

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Track Komodo dragons on Rinca Island • Wild orang-utans in Gunung Leuser N.P. • Three days sailing around Komodo N.P. •

AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/16 flight inclusive • Travel by minibus, boat and internal flight • 11 nights hotels and eco lodges, 2 nights on a boat with shared facilities • All breakfasts, 4 lunches and 2 dinners included • Optional single supplement from £345 •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

North Philippines Adventure

Land Only from £1299 Flight Inclusive from £2349

TRIP CODE

AOJ

NEW

PHILIPPINES

Land Only from £2099 Flight Inclusive from £2849

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP CODE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Sunrise overlooking Mt. Bromo • Ancient temples of Borobudur and Prambanan • Wander through Balinese rice paddies

ALK

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Walk to the crater of Mount Pinatubo • Maligcong Rice Terraces in Bontoc • Historic Vigan and Taal Heritage Town

•

AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/16 flight inclusive • Travel by minibus, train and ferry • 13 nights in a range of hotels • All breakfasts included • Gili Island extension available • Optional single supplement from £330

AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/16 flight inclusive • Travel by private bus, local jeepney and internal flight • 6 nights comfortable hotels/eco-resort, 2 nights standard hotels and 4 nights basic hotels • All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 1 dinner included • Palawan beach extension available • Optional single supplement from £720

•

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

Start Medan, Sumatra; to Bukit Lawang.

Start Yogyakarta.

Walk in Gunung Leuser N.P. in search of orang-utans.

City tour; afternoon visit of Prambanan.

Start Manila.

Full day with local guides in Gunung Leuser N.P; home to gibbons, orang-utans, monkeys and many different bird species.

Explore the temples of Borobudur.

Train ride through central Java and on to Batu.

Manila city tour, including the old walled town of Intramuros.

To Bromo Volcano; 'Sand Sea' crater floor exploration.

Sunrise over crater; to Kalibaru.

Discover Taal Heritage town and its craft workshops; visit a distillery.

Plantation and village walk; optional Ijen visit.

Climb Mount Pinatubo to see the crater lake; afternoon free to relax in an eco-resort in Tarlac.

To Pemuteran in Bali, via Pulaki Temple.

Long drive north to Banaue.

Optional snorkelling followed by a visit to Ulun Danu Temple and on to Ubud.

Walk amidst the lesser-visited Maligcong Rice Terraces.

Explore nearby Tam-an village; drive to Sagada via Bontoc Museum.

Morning village walk and cooking demonstration; afternoon return to Medan.

Fly to Denpasar, Bali; to Sanur.

Free day to relax on the beach or optional activities in Sanur.

After a relaxed morning; fly to Labuan Bajo, Flores.

Board the boat; look for Komodo dragons on Rinca Island.

Track Komodo dragons; snorkelling excursion to see Manta rays.

Final day in Komodo N.P. before returning to Labuan Bajo.

Fly to Bali; transfer to Ubud; Bali's cultural heartland.

Hike to Batur Volcano; visit Gunung Kawi Temple, Tirta Empul Temple and Tegalalang.

Free day in Ubud; optional trekking or rafting.

End Ubud.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/WOZ

Free day in Ubud.

Explore the rice terraces of central Bali; visit Gunung Kawi Temple and Tirta Empul Temple.

Tour of Sagada including the burial caves and hanging coffins of Echo Valley.

Mt. Batur and on to Sanur.

Free day to relax on the beach or other activities.

To colonial Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; afternoon free.

End Bali.

Walking tour of Vigan with a home-cooked meal in one of the ancestral homes.

Drive to Laoag in Ilocos Norte, stopping at other sites and a famous empanada place en route.

Visit the salt producing town of Pasuquin and Cape Bojeador Lighthouse; afternoon to relax at Pagudpud Beach.

Morning free; afternoon fly to Manila.

End Manila.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months:

llllllllllll J

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AOJ

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/ALK

Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk and enter the three letter trip code

ASIA Nepal, Bhutan

BEST SELLER

NEPAL, BHUTAN

Festivals of Bhutan Land Only from £2649 Flight Inclusive from £3399

TRIP CODE

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Mystical Tiger’s Nest Monastery • Masked dances and traditional festival rituals • Serene Himalayan beauty •

NEPAL

Everest Base Camp Trek Land Only from £1599 Flight Inclusive from £2399

TRIP CODE

AIB

TNT

CHALLENGING

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Mt. Everest views from Kala Pattar • The hilltop monastery at Thyangboche • Namche Bazaar in the Sherpa heartland AT A GLANCE • 16 days land only/17 flight inclusive • 3 nights standard hotels and 12 nights teahouses • All breakfasts, morning bed-tea and welcome drinks included • Expedition departures in spring available • Free transfer for any flight • Optional single supplement from £100 (3 nights only) ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

Start Kathmandu.

Short flight to Lukla; trek to Phakding.

Climb to Namche Bazaar, exploring Sherpa villages en route.

M/A 4

Kunde and Khumjung acclimatisation walk; descend to Kyanjuma.

Trek to Thyangboche Monastery.

Walk up the Khumbu and Imja Valleys to Dingboche.

Acclimatisation day at Dingboche.

Continue the ascent to Lobuje.

Trek to Everest Base Camp (5364m); return to Gorak Shep.

Climb Kala Pattar (5545m) for views of Everest; descend to Pheriche.

AT A GLANCE 11 days land only/12 flight inclusive • Travel by private minibus and internal flight • 10 nights hotels • All breakfasts, 8 lunches and 8 dinners included • Itinerary varies by departure to coincide with the festivals • Optional single supplement from £450 •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

Start Kathmandu.

Spectacular flight over the Himalaya to Paro.

Full day at Paro Festival to witness ancient rituals and colourful masked dances.

Drive to Thimphu, visiting Zilukha Nunnery en route.

Beautiful drive over the Dochula Pass to sub-tropical Punakha, the old capital.

Walk up to the 15th century Chime Lakhang Monastery; on to Gangtay.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months:

Hike through rural pastures and forests of Gangtay Valley; drive to Wangdue.

Drive to Thimpu and visit Tashichho Dzong.

F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

To Paro; hike to Tiger's Nest Monastery.

Fly to Kathmandu; overnight.

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/TNT

End Kathmandu.

Retrace our steps to Kyanjuma.

Descend through Namche to Monzo.

Continue to Lukla.

Fly to Kathmandu.

Free day in Kathmandu; explore the city.

End Kathmandu.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AIB

“This was the trip of a lifetime.” Neil Robson

Prices are in £s per person. Dates and prices correct at time of publication

ASIA India, Nepal

READ MORE ON PAGE 36

INDIA

Delhi to Kathmandu

India Grand Tour

AIN

TRIP CODE

Mountains, Temples & Hill Stations

Land Only from £2299 Flight Inclusive from £2949

LEISURELY

TRIP CODE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Awesome Himalayan views from Pokhara • Taj Mahal, palaces and sacred cities • Search for the Bengal tiger

AII

LEISURELY

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS The ultimate India adventure • Marvel at the palaces of Rajasthan • Kick back on the tranquil backwaters of Kerala AT A GLANCE 27 days land only/28 flight inclusive • Travel by air-conditioned private bus and train • 22 nights hotels, 1 night houseboat, 3 nights sleeper train • All breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner included • Diwali festival dates • Optional single supplement from £670

AT A GLANCE 15 days land only/16 flight inclusive • Travel by air-conditioned bus and train • 13 nights hotels and lodges, 1 night sleeper train • All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners included • Holi and Diwali Festival dates • Free transfer for any flight • Optional single supplement from £400

•

Land Only from £1249 Flight Inclusive from £1949

TRIP CODE

•

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INDIA

INDIA, NEPAL

Land Only from £1599 Flight Inclusive from £2429

AIQ

LEISURELY

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Amritsar, heart of Punjabi culture • Shimla ‘Queen of the hill stations’ • Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture •

AT A GLANCE 15 days land only/16 flight inclusive • Travel by air-conditioned private bus and train • 14 nights standard hotels • All breakfasts and 2 lunches included • Optional single supplement from £410 •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

Start Delhi; afternoon free.

Start Amritsar; ceremony at the Golden Temple.

Start Delhi; afternoon free.

Morning sightseeing; overnight train to Varanasi.

Golden Temple and Heritage walk; overnight Amritsar.

Visit Old Delhi, Humayun's Tomb and New Delhi; afternoon drive to Jaipur.

Morning arrival; free to explore Varanasi.

Drive to Pragpur India’s first heritage village.

Boat ride on the Ganges; overnight train to Agra.

Full day to relax or explore quaint Pragpur.

Arrive Agra; visit the Red Fort.

To Dharamsala and McLeod Ganj, home to the Dalai Lama, afternoon orientation tour.

Visit Taj Mahal; to Jaipur via Fatehpur Sikri.

Sightseeing in and around McLeod Ganji.

City Palace, Jantar Mantar and Amber Fort.

Explore the Norbulingka Institute of Tibetan Culture.

Drive to Ranthambore N.P; evening game drive

Village walk; free time to explore.

Morning game drive, train to Mumbai.

Drive to the tranquil town of Andretta.

Arrive Mumbai, free day for sightseeing.

11-12

To Aurangabad; explore Ellora and Ajanta caves.

To Mandi; explore the old trading town and stay in a raja’s palace.

Drive to Bijapur the city of sultans.

Sightseeing of Bijapur; drive to Hospet.

Drive to Shimla; afternoon tour of The Ridge, Christ Church and Scandal Point.

Full day exploring ruins at Hampi.

Enjoy the colonial charm of Shimla with a walking tour of the Mall and former Viceregal Lodge.

Drive through hills to Goa.

Catch the ‘Toy Train’ to Kalka; afternoon fast train to Delhi.

Free day in Goa or optional sightseeing

To Udupi; continue to Mangalore.

Free day in Delhi or optional trip to Agra to see the Taj Mahal.

Drive to Mysore.

End Delhi.

Tour of Mysore; visit Maharajah's Palace.

21-22

To Ooty; relax or ride the steam train.

Descend the Nilgiri Hills to Cochin.

Tour of Cochin; optional Kathakali dance show.

To Alleppey; backwater cruise on houseboat.

To tropical beaches of Kovalam.

End Kovalam.

Full day sightseeing including City Palace and Amber Fort; evening free.

Drive to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri.

Sunrise visit to Taj Mahal and later visit the Red Fort; overnight train to Varanasi Arrive Varanasi; afternoon free or optional trip to Sarnath site of Buddha’s first sermon. Dawn boat ride on Ganges visiting bathing ghats; free afternoon; evening witness the Ganga Aarti ceremony. Cross border to Nepal; to World Heritage Site of Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. Drive to Chitwan National Park, optional ox cart ride in Tharu village and evening dance performance (optional). Chitwan jeep safari, bird watching, dug out canoe excursion.

To Pokhara with views of the Annapurnas on route.

Follow Marsyangdi and Trisuli rivers to Kathmandu.

Optional Everest flight; visit Pashupatinath and Bodnath; free time.

End Kathmandu.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months:

llllllllllll J

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AIN

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AIQ

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AII

Call 0203 131 5962 or visit exodus.co.uk and enter the three letter trip code

ASIA India

READ MORE ON PAGE 36

INDIA

Assam Explorer

Highlights of Northern India

Colours of Rajasthan

Land Only from £1829 Flight Inclusive from £2549

TRIP CODE

AKN

LEISURELY/MODERATE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Living root bridges in Cherrapunjee • Wildlife in Kaziranga National Park • Distinct and fascinating tribal cultures •

AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/15 flight inclusive • Travel by air-conditioned private bus and internal flight • 9 nights hotels and 4 nights lodges • All breakfasts and 8 dinners included • Hornbill and Aoleang festival dates • Optional single supplement from £405 •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

Start Guwahati, Assam; optional visit to Umananda Temple.

Land Only from £899 Flight Inclusive from £1559

AIC

TRIP CODE

Land Only from £1079 Flight Inclusive from £1749

LEISURELY

TRIP CODE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Taj Mahal and the Amber Fort • Search for the elusive tiger • Explore intoxicating Varanasi

AIK

LEISURELY

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS India’s regal desert state in depth • Forts, palaces and temples • Holy Pushkar with its lake and ghats

•

AT A GLANCE 9 days land only/10 flight inclusive • Travel by private air-con bus, train and internal flight • 7 nights hotels and 1 night sleeper train • All breakfasts and 1 lunch included • Alternative summer itinerary • Diwali and Holi festival dates • Optional single supplement from £170

AT A GLANCE 13 days land only/14 flight inclusive • Travel by private air-con bus and train • 12 nights hotels • All breakfasts included • Holi, Diwali and Pushkar festival departures • Free transfer for any flight • Optional single supplement from £275

•

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

Start Delhi; transfer to Jaipur.

Start Delhi; half-day city tour.

Visit City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Hawa Mahal and Amber Fort.

Transfer to Agra; afternoon visit the Red Fort.

Sunrise at the Taj Mahal; to Ranthambore National Park via Fatehpur Sikri.

Drive to Cherrapunjee in Meghalaya via Umiam Lake.

Trek through the Khasi hills to the living root bridges; visit Moasmi Cave and Seven Sister Falls.

Trek between the villages of Ladmawphlang to Mawphlang; drive to Shillong via Sacred Forest.

To Ranthambore; afternoon game drive in search of tiger.

Morning and evening game drives.

Morning game drive; drive to Agra via Fatehpur Sikri.

To Bundi nestled within the beautiful Aravalli Hills; visit Bundi Fort.

Drive to Kaziranga N.P in Assam via the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures.

Visit the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort; overnight train to Varanasi.

Morning and afternoon jeep safaris in search of the One-horned rhino.

To Udaipur, 'The Pearl of Rajasthan'.

Explore the wonders of Varanasi.

Dawn boat ride on the Ganges visiting the bathing ghats; afternoon flight to Delhi.

Full day to explore Udaipur; visit the City Palace and Jagdish Temple.

To Jodhpur via Ranakpur and the Jain temple.

Delhi free day or optional sightseeing.

To the Hindu pilgrimage town of Pushkar.

End Delhi.

Morning sightseeing; afternoon drive to Jaipur.

Sightseeing in Jaipur; visit Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, Royal Observatory and City Palace.

Fast train from Jaipur to Delhi, free time on arrival.

End Delhi.

Drive to Nimati Ghat; ferry to Majuli Island, crossing the mighty Brahmaputa River. Early morning birdwatching walk in the wetlands; visit the village of the Mishing tribe.

Ferry to Nimati Ghat then drive to Sivasagar; visit Kareng Ghar, Talatal Ghar, Rang Ghar and the Sivasagar Tai Museum.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months:

Drive to Mon, Nagaland; free to explore.

Visit Longwa village, located on the India-Myanmar border; visit Hongphoi village to meet a headhunting tribe; return to Mon.

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Drive to Dibrugarh; free time.

Fly to Kolkata; afternoon sightseeing.

End Kolkata.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AIC

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

“This is an amazing introduction to India.”

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AKN

Prices are in £s per person. Dates and prices correct at time of publication

Simon Gillingham

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AIK

ASIA India

READ MORE ON PAGE 36

INDIA

Land of the Tiger

The Tropical South

Cycle Kerala & Tropical India

Land Only from £1779 Flight Inclusive from £2499

TRIP CODE

WIW

Land Only from £1129 Flight Inclusive from £1869

LEISURELY

TRIP CODE

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Comprehensive tour of India’s best tiger parks • Fifteen game drives included • Visit the magnificent Taj Mahal in Agra

•

AT A GLANCE 15 days land only/16 flight inclusive • Travel by 4WD, air-conditioned bus and train • 13 nights hotels and 1 night sleeper train • All breakfasts and 11 dinners included • Optional single supplement from £390

AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/15 flight inclusive • Travel by air-conditioned private bus • 11 nights hotels, 1 night homestay and1 night houseboat • All breakfasts, 1 lunch and 3 dinners included • Diwali festival date • Optional single supplement from £375

•

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

Start Nagpur; transfer to Pench.

2-3

Four game drives over two days in Pench N.P.

Transfer to Kanha N.P.

8 9-11

Five game drives over three days in Kanha N.P. Transfer to Bandhavgarh. Six game drives over three days in Bandhavgarh National Park.

Drive to Katni; overnight train to Agra.

Arrive Agra; afternoon visit Agra Fort; sunset at the Taj Mahal.

Drive to Delhi; free afternoon.

End Delhi.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months:

llllllllllll J

LEISURELY

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Explore the old spice town of Cochin • Madurai’s Sri Meenakshi Temple • Cruise the backwaters on a traditional houseboat

•

5-7

AIT

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/WIW

Start Cochin.

M/A

Land Only from £1749 Flight Inclusive from £2469

TRIP CODE

MIK

MODERATE/CHALLENGING

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Western ghats’ lush countryside • Evening pooja at Hindu temple • Serene Cochin and tranquil Alleppey •

AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/15 days flight inclusive • 10 days cycling with partial vehicle support (limited seats) • 9 nights hotels, 3 nights lodges and 1 night houseboat • All breakfasts, 10 lunches and 4 dinners included • Premium departures available • Local bike hire included • Optional single supplement from £565 •

ITINERARY & DAILY CYCLING DISTANCE

Sightseeing at Fort Cochin; optional sunset cruise.

Start Mysore.

To the hillstation of Munnar.

Daywalk through tea plantations and the hills of Munnar.

Ride to Srirangapatnam ruins; afternoon to explore Mysore and the Maharaja Palace.

Cross into the state of Tamil Nadu; to Madurai.

Cycle the backroads of Mysore Plateau to Nanjangud; transfer to Bandipur N.P.

Visit the colourful Sri Meenakshi Temple; optional cycle rickshaw ride through town.

Optional visit to Bandipur; afternoon ride to Mudumalai N.P.

To Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary; dinner and cooking demonstation with a local family.

Optional ascent to Ooty Hill Station, free afternoon to explore the town.

Explore Periyar; morning forest walk followed by optional boat trip on the lake.

Western Ghats descent through tea plantations; transfer to Guruvayoor.

To the eco-friendly Erattupetta Planters Homestay.

To Muhamma in Alleppey; optional village walk, cycle or boat ride.

Circular ride on rural roads; visit Guruvayoor Temple for evening Pooja.

Board houseboat for backwater cruise; overnight on the houseboat.

Cycle along coastal roads lined with coconut palms; ferry to Fort Cochin.

Free day to explore Cochin's bazaars and old harbour.

Cycle past old Portuguese houses to Vambanad Lake and Alleppey.

Explore Alleppey; cruise the backwaters on a Keralan houseboat.

Clifftop ride to laid-back Varkala.

Free day to relax on the beach and enjoy fresh seafood.

End Varkala.

Disembark houseboat; scenic drive to Kovalam.

Free time on the beach.

End Kovalam.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

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MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/MIK

Prices are in £s per person. Dates and prices correct at time of publication

ASIA India

BEST SELLER READ MORE ON PAGE 36

PREMIUM

INDIA

Classic South India Land Only from £1969 Flight Inclusive from £2649

TRIP CODE

AIU

LEISURELY

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Historic cities, stunning palaces and temples • Jungle safari and houseboat cruise • Southern India in greater comfort •

AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/15 flight inclusive • Travel by air-conditioned private bus • 12 nights premium hotels and 1 night deluxe houseboat • All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners included • Diwali festival date • Optional single supplement from £820 •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY Start Chennai; transfer to beachside town of Mahabalipuram.

Visit ancient Dravidian sites, including Shore temple and the Five Rathas.

INDIA

South India Explored Land Only from £1659 Flight Inclusive from £2349

TRIP CODE

AIS

LEISURELY

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • World heritage ‘toy train’ Ooty • Striking temples, wildlife and backwaters • Southern India’s best cities AT A GLANCE • 20 days land only/21 flight inclusive • Travel by air-conditioned private bus and train • 18 nights hotels and 1 night houseboat • All breakfasts, 1 lunch and 1 dinner included • Diwali festival date • Optional single supplement from £535

To Hassan via Helbid, Belur and Sravanabelagola temple.

Drive to Bangalore where we have lunch then join an afternoon train to Chennai.

Explore Chennai including St Thomas church then on to Mahabalipuram a quaint seaside town.

Explore the World heritage site of Mahabalipuram; afternoon free.

To Pondicherry via Vedantangal Bird Sanctuary.

To Thanjavur through fertile Kaveri Delta.

Explore Thanjavur; to Madurai.

Visit Sri Meenakshi Temple; free time.

Westward to Kerala and Periyar National Park.

Explore Periyar N.P.; morning nature walk; optional afternoon boat trip.

To Alleppey; board houseboat for backwater cruise.

Disembark houseboat; drive to Kovalam; afternoon free.

Return to Chennai via the temples at Kanchipuram.

Express train to Mysore; transfer to hotel.

Sightseeing including Mysore Palace and Srirangapatna.

Drive to Bandipur N.P.; afternoon jungle safari.

Drive to Coonoor via botanical gardens of Ooty.

Start Cochin.

Explore Coonoor; optional walk through tea plantations or 'Toy Train' ride.

Explore historic spice port.

Optional visit to Kanyakumari or relax on the beach.

Train to Pallakad; drive through Nilgiri Hills to Ootacamund.

End Kovalam.

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY

Transfer from Coonoor to Cochin.

Boat tour of Cochin harbour; explore historic spice port; afternoon free.

Explore Ooty and ride the UNESCO world heritage steam train.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months:

Drive to Alleppey and board houseboat for backwater cruise.

To Mysore through Mudmalai National Park.

F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

Explore the palaces and temples of Mysore.

Transfer to Varkala; free time to relax on beach.

Free day.

End Varkala.

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AIS

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AIU

ASIA Sri Lanka

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COSTA RICA, PANAMA

Discover Costa Rica & Panama Land Only from £2799 Flight Inclusive from £3549

TRIP CODE

NEW

GUATEMALA, BELIZE

Journey through Guatemala & Belize Land Only from £2549 Flight Inclusive from £3299

TRIP CODE

AAB

Full day tour of Lake Atitlan.

Morning at leisure; transfer to Antigua via a coffee plantation.

LEISURELY/MODERATE 5

Pacaya Volcano Hike: afternoon chocolate tour.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS • Snorkel in Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Caye Caulker • Sunrise tour of Mayan Tikal • Incredible archaeology of the ATM caves

Morning at leisure; afternoon flight to Flores.

Sunrise tour of Tikal; transfer to Cayo District in Belize.

Free day for optional activities.

Visit the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) caves.

AT A GLANCE • 13 day land only/14 flight inclusive • Travel by minibus, boat and 1 internal flight • 12 nights standard hotels • All breakfasts and 2 lunches included • Optional single supplement from £390

Transfer to Caye Caulker visiting the Blue Hole en route.

Snorkel tour in Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

12 13

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

Start Antigua, Guatemala.

Transfer to Panajachel; market tour.

AUU

LEISURELY

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS Navigate the waterways of Tortuguero N.P. • Idyllic islands of Bocas del Toro • See the colossal Panama Canal in action •

AT A GLANCE 14 days land only/15 flight inclusive • Travel by air-conditioned bus, boat, ferry and internal flight • 13 nights comfortable hotels • All breakfasts, 5 lunches and 2 dinners included • Optional single supplement from £630 •

ITINERARY - DAY BY DAY 1

Start San Jose.

To Los Angeles Cloud Forest; nature walk and cultural discovery of San Ramon and Sarchi.

Free day to relax or join an optional activity.

To La Anita Rainforest Ranch near Rincon de la Vieja.

Transfer to Belize City; end.

Organic Chocolate tour at La Anita Cacao Farm.

To La Fortuna, near Arenal Volcano; optional visit of Ecotermales Hot Springs.

Visit Arenal Volcano N.P.; afternoon free for optional activities.

To Tortuguero N.P.

Boat tour around Tortuguero waterways.

To the Caribbean coast.

Cross into Panama; to Bocas del Toro islands.

Free day in Bocas del Toro for optional activities.

Morning to Boquete; afternoon coffee plantation tour.

Fly to Panama City; visit Casco Viejo and the Panama Canal.

End Panama City.

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AAB

MONTHS OF DEPARTURE Choose your own date for a tailormade adventure, or join our guided groups in the following months: F l M l A l M l J l J l A l S l O l N l D lJ l

EXODUS.CO.UK/TRIP/AUU

AMERICAS Costa Rica, Panama