Worldwide Adventures
Celebrating over 30 years of adventures
2018-2019 1
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Contents Introduction to Tucan Travel
3-19
Central America
20-35
South America
36-69
Antarctica
70-71
North America
72-77
Europe
78-95
Asia
96-117
Africa
118-133
Tailor Made
134-137
Booking Conditions
138
5%
Your loyalty reward As a repeat customer you are entitled to 5% off your next trip
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Who are Tucan Travel?
Small Group Adventures
Trips created by Travellers
At Tucan Travel, we believe that the best things come in small doses and that’s why we specialise in small group tours. Travelling with fewer people allows you to have a more personal experience while still retaining all of the social aspects of travelling in a group.
Each one of our tours has been designed by people with extensive knowledge of highlights and hidden gems around the world. All of our tours are tested out in advance to iron out any kinks before the ďŹ rst departures begin. The aim is to run trips in the most authentic and exciting way possible.
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View online | www.tucantravel.com/about-us
Who are Tucan Travel?
Established in 1987, that November our first group tour departed from Bogota for Lima with just three passengers on board. That first group could never have known that more than 30 years on, Tucan Travel would be running tours in over 70 countries around the world. Today, we have grown in size and experience. We now consist of four large offices across four continents filled with ex-tour leaders and passionate travellers looking to spread their love of the world onto others. With staff on the ground and close connections with embassies, hotels, airlines and local communities we can confidently say that no one knows about our trips like we do.
Experienced Tour Leaders & Specialist Guides
Responsible & Sustainable
We only hire Tour Leaders who share our key values and who want to show the part of the world they work in to you. They are resilient, passionate, inspiring and energetic. All of our Tour Leaders are supported on a daily basis by local guides and office-based staff, many of whom are former Tour Leaders themselves.
We believe that it is our responsibility to care for our planet, protect it from damage and secure its future for generations to come. We work within our strict Responsible Travel Guidelines and believe that the true rewards of travel come from experiencing a different culture while giving something back to the communities who make us welcome.
View online | www.tucantravel.com/about-us
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Our Travel Styles
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View online | www.tucantravel.com
Our Travel Styles
Our Travel Styles Something for everyone
Worldwide Adventures
Our Worldwide Adventures are escorted group tours for adventure travellers from around the world. Often fast-paced and actionpacked, these trips are perfect for anyone aged 18-65 looking for a taste of somewhere and something different. With the perfect balance of included excursions and free time to explore on your own, each trip is carefully designed to maximise your time on tour, allowing you to see as much as possible.
Adventures Group tours for 20s & 30s
Our Adventures for 20s & 30s aim to unite you with other likeminded adventure seekers from all over the world. You can rest assured that you’ll be with a great bunch of people who are near the same age and on the same wavelength as you. These itineraries are all about choice and flexibility. We want you to pay as little as possible for the tour, so you have more to spend when you are out there. This allows you to create a trip that suits your personality and budget. All of our Adventures for 20s & 30s can be found on our website.
Tailor-made Design your own adventure
If you want someone to design your own adventure, our Tailormade team are here to help. They can create bespoke trips in Latin America and Asia to accommodate your preferred routes, accommodation and dates. Many of the tours found in this brochure can be adapted for you by our Tailor-made team.
More information about our Tailor-made tours can be found on our website.
View online | www.tucantravel.com
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About Our Tours
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View online | www.tucantravel.com/about-us
About Our Tours
About Our Tours
Over 2000 Guaranteed Departures With 300 tours departing regularly in over 70 countries, there is something for everyone. To give you security when making a booking, our website clearly displays which tours are guaranteed.
Minimum numbers The minimum numbers required to run our tours is very low - it only takes four people to book onto most of our public transport tours, and ten for any of our tours that travel on our Overland Truck.
Physical Rating Some of our tours can be a little more active than others. Taking into account accommodation standards, activities and the duration of the trip, each tour has a Physical Rating allocated to it. The higher the rating, the more challenging the trip.
Travel for Longer Think of your trip as a tiny piece of a puzzle. Most of our tours in this brochure are short sections of much longer trips and they can all be combined to form an extended adventure through the region of your choice.
67 trips featured in this brochure! Only the most popular tours are in this brochure but we have a huge amount more online. Visit tucantravel.com to see all of our tours.
View online | www.tucantravel.com/about-us
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Who Travels with us?
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View online | www.tucantravel.com/about-us
Who Travels with us?
Who Travels with us? Travel with friends
Our tours attract people from all over the globe giving you the chance to make friends from all walks of life
A group crusing down a river in the Amazon Jungle, Peru
Perfect for people aged
18-65 Our age range varies across trips, countries and continents. Give an Adventure Specialist a call to find out about who is booked on a departure already.
Exploring St Petersburg, Russia
Go solo Our trips attract a mix of like-minded couples, friends and singles. About 60% of our travellers go solo.
A group walking with rhinos in Matobo National Park, Zimbabwe
No single supplement
On the vast majority of our tours, you will be sharing with another fellow traveller of the same gender.
Chichén Itzá, Mexico
View online | www.tucantravel.com/about-us
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How will you travel?
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View online | www.tucantravel.com
How will you travel?
How will you travel? Transport We want you to make the most of your experience and this includes when travelling from A to B. From colourful chicken buses to four wheel drives, the most appropriate form of transport is always chosen for your comfort and convenience. Depending on the region, we might include lots of short internal flights to connect you to the next highlight en route. These flights allow you to make the most of each destination. Travelling in some parts of the world can be tricky so we ask you to hold on tight as it is all part of the adventure.
Boat on Lake Titicaca, Peru
Types of transport we use Regional Flights
Trains
Tucan Travel overland vehicle, Patagonia - Taken by Kim Mouncer
Tuk-tuk
Public Bus
Overland Truck
Your feet
Taxi
Boat
Tuk-tuks in Thailand
Book your flights with us We can book your flights when you book your group tour. We can ďŹ nd flights that match your tour’s start and end dates or offer you some flexibility if you want to travel for a little longer.
Chicken buses in Guatemala
View online | www.tucantravel.com
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Where will you sleep?
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View online | www.tucantravel.com
Where will you sleep?
Where will you sleep? Accommodation You will mostly stay in small, locally-owned hotels and guesthouses that are chosen for their ambience and location rather than star rating. We look for qualities like character, atmosphere, cleanliness and security and we like to make sure that some of the types of places you sleep in also contribute to the adventure. You will get the opportunity to stay in a variety of different kinds of accommodation while travelling with us.
Hut in Swaziland - Taken by Anneka Buckle
Types of accommodation we use Hotels
Homestay
Hacienda Venecia, Colombia
Camping
Jungle Lodges
Junk Boat
African Rondavels
Overnight Train
Overnight Bus
Giritale Hotel in Sri Lanka - Taken by Kris Hadwin
Extend your stay Should you want to stay a little longer at the start or end of your tour, we can arrange extra nights accommodation for you. It’s easy, all you have to do is contact an Adventure Specialist.
Amazon Jungle lodges
View online | www.tucantravel.com
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Local Payment
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View online | www.tucantravel.com/about-us/before-you-go/local-payment
Local Payment
Your Local Payment Our tours in Africa and Patagonia all have Local Payments. The Local Payment helps us to keep your tour price as low as possible. It is a non-refundable, fixed amount which is paid to your Tour Leader in US dollars on the first day of your tour and goes towards its smooth running. The money is put straight back into the local economy, often to small suppliers in remote locations without banking facilities. Having this flexibility means we can stay in out-of-the-way places which benefit you as well as the local community.
The White Temple in Chiang Rai, Thailand
In South America It can be very difficult to access US Dollars in South America. Remember to obtain all the cash you will need for your Local Payment before leaving home.
Optional Excursions
Indian Sadhu, Jaipur, India
Our group tours are all about choice and flexibility. There are tonnes of Optional Excursions available on each day of your tour from guided walks to adrenaline activities. Most excursions can be organised once you are on your tour. Your Tour Leader will advise you on the best excursions to do and help you to book them. For a full range of Optional Excursions, see our website.
Admiring the views of Machu Picchu, Peru
Sloth in the Jungle, Costa Rica
View online | www.tucantravel.com/about-us/before-you-go/local-payment
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WIN A FREE TOUR
Follow us, we’re social
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View online | www.tucantravel.com/photo-competition-2018
WIN A FREE TOUR
#tucantravel
Enjoy your next tour for FREE! Every year we offer one lucky person the chance to win a group tour worth up to $2000. All you have to do is get hashtagging! Share your tour photos with the hashtag #tucantravel on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram to be in with the chance of winning your next adventure. Winners will be drawn on 31st August 2018, for full terms and conditions please visit our website on www.tucantravel.com/photo-competition-2018
View online | www.tucantravel.com/photo-competition-2018
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Welcome to Central America
Welcome to
Central America
Cathedral of Granada, Nicaragua
About Central America From mysterious Mayan ruins to tropical jungles and paradise islands, an adventure in Central America has it all. Discover active volcanoes, haggle in local markets and learn about a huge variety of colourful cultures on any one of our tours. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a culture buff or an adventure enthusiast, this corner of the world offers it all.
Your Transport
Your Accommodation
On our tours in Central America, we believe that the way you travel is part of the adventure. From speedboats to chicken buses, tuk-tuks to taxis, there are several ways we get you from A to B. One of the most used modes of transport in Central America are your own two feet and we will often walk from the bus stations to the hotel, across borders and up flights of stairs, so it is important you pack accordingly.
We use a huge variety of accommodation in Central America and the type and quality may vary depending on the country you are travelling through. We choose our hotels and cabins based on their location so that you can really make the most of each day of your tour. Our website lists all of the hotel names we use so that you get a good idea of what quality to expect.
About Each Day
Supporting Local Communities
Each tour is jam-packed and we include a number of the biggest and the best highlights in each country. From guided tours of many of the most popular Mayan ruins to entry to some of the most beautiful national parks, there are plenty more opportunities where you will get to choose how you spend your day. A list of optional excursions available on each day of your tour is available online.
Central America is packed with lush rainforest, local communities and diverse wildlife. Throughout Central America we stay in locally owned hotels and we travel on public transport which allows us to reduce our carbon footprint. We also ensure the continued protection of national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites by incorporating guided tours of some of these into our itineraries.
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View online | www.tucantravel.com/destinations/central-america
Welcome to Central America
Belize Costa Rica Guatemala Fishing Boat, Honduras
Honduras Mexico Nicaragua Panama
Red-eye tree frog, Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica
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Top Five Highlights
Chichén Itzá - Mexico Tikal - Guatemala Caye Caulker - Belize Tortuguero National Park - Costa Rica Casco Viejo - Panama
There are 16 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Central America
Weather Guide This chart indicates the weather in Central America throughout the year. Please be advised that this is a guide only, and you should check before you travel.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Mexico City, Mexico Playa del Carmen, Mexico Caye Caulker, Belize Antigua, Guatemala Roatán Island, Honduras Granada, Nicaragua Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica Tortuguero, Costa Rica Bocas del Toro, Panama Cold <= 60F, Wet Cold <= 60F, Dry
Cool 60-70F, Wet Cool 60-70F, Dry
Warm 70-86F, Dry Warm 70-86F, Wet
Hot > 86+F, Dry Hot > 86+F, Wet
View online | www.tucantravel.com/destinations/central-america
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Central America Mexico
Mayan ruins in Palenque, Mexico
1349
Magical Mexico | 13 days
From CHF
Tour Code: ZMA • Mexico City to Playa del Carmen
I’d like my own room: CHF239
Embrace the magical country of Mexico on this 13 day adventure. From the thriving capital of Mexico City to the sun-kissed beaches of Playa del Carmen, this tour includes the must-see highlights of the country. Climb the pyramids at Teotihuacán, be wowed at Chichén Itzá and enjoy local delicacies in Oaxaca.
Meals: 9 breakfasts included
Day 1 Mexico City This is your arrival day. Tonight you will meet your group and Tour Leader Day 2 Mexico City to Puebla Take a guided tour of Teotihuacán before reaching Puebla, one of Mexico’s oldest towns. Puebla is the place to try the delicious mole sauce, a traditional dish from this region Day 3 Puebla to Oaxaca Travel to Oaxaca, famous for its street food. You can visit a mezcal factory or try grasshoppers at the Benito Juarez Market Day 4 Oaxaca to San Cristóbal This morning you will visit the Monte Albán ruins. In the afternoon you have the option to visit the picturesque town of Santa Maria del Tule see the Tule Tree, the widest tree in the world. In the evening you will board a night bus to San Cristóbal de las Casas Days 5-7 San Cristobal de las Casas Tour the indigenous villages around San Cristóbal de las Casas. Here you can learn about Shaman traditions and buy handmade clothing in the local markets Days 8-9 San Cristobal to Palenque Explore the ruins of Palenque, nestled deep in the jungle Days 10-11 Mérida From Mérida you can visit nearby cenotes and swim in the crystal-clear water Day 12 Mérida to Playa del Carmen via Chichén Itzá Stop off at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Chichén Itzá on the way to Playa del Carmen Day 13 Depart Playa del Carmen
Included Excursions & Activities Guided tour of Teotihuácan ruins, guided tour of Monte Albán ruins, San Cristóbal de las Casas village tour, guided tour of Palenque ruins, guided tour of Chichén Itzá ruins
Dates Sun 03 Dec 17 Sat 23 Dec 17 Sun 14 Jan 18 Sat 03 Feb 18 Sun 25 Feb 18
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Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 11 nights hotels, 1 overnight bus
Itinerary
Start tour
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Fri 15 Dec 17 Thu 04 Jan 18 Fri 26 Jan 18 Thu 15 Feb 18 Fri 09 Mar 18
Sat 17 Mar 18 Sat 14 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18 Sat 02 Jun 18
Thu 29 Mar 18 Thu 26 Apr 18 Thu 17 May 18 Thu 14 Jun 18
Sat 23 Jun 18 Sat 21 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 08 Sep 18
Thu 05 Jul 18 Thu 02 Aug 18 Thu 23 Aug 18 Thu 20 Sep 18
Sat 29 Sep 18 Sat 27 Oct 18 Sat 17 Nov 18 Sat 15 Dec 18
Thu 11 Oct 18 Thu 08 Nov 18 Thu 29 Nov 18 Thu 27 Dec 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/magical-mexico/zma
Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Have more time? Add nine days to your trip and finish in Antigua, Guatemala. See Tour Code YMA online.
Central America Mexico
Ruins of Teotihuacán, Mexico
Traditional calaveras at a market, Mexico
“ Everyday was something different and exciting. ” Steven Cosnett, October 2016
Cancún
Cenote, Mexico
Mérida Chichén Playa del Carmen Itzá
Teotihuacán
Mexico City
Puebla
Palenque MEXICO
Oaxaca
San Cristóbal de las Casas
Monte Alban, Oaxaca, Mexico - Taken by Lisa Gregory
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/magical-mexico/zma
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Central America Mexico, Guatemala & Belize
Rio Dulce, Guatemala
Cancún
Playa del Carmen
MEXICO BELIZE San Ignacio Caye Caulker Tikal Flores Belize City Rio Dulce
Lívingston
GUATEMALA Guatemala City
Antigua Tikal National Park, Guatemala
1169
Quetzal Highway | 10 days
From CHF
Tour Code: QYA • Playa del Carmen to Antigua
I’d like my own room: CHF299
A short ten day adventure of Mexico, Belize and Guatemala, you will enjoy the sand, sea and sun on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula before sampling freshly cooked lobster and world-class snorkelling in Belize. Finally immerse yourself in local cultures and communities in Guatemala.
Itinerary
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 8 nights hotels, 1 night lodge
Day 1 Playa del Carmen This is your arrival day Days 2-4 Playa del Carmen to Caye Caulker From one paradise to the next, cross into Belize for world-class snorkelling on the barrier reef Days 5-6 Caye Caulker to San Ignacio From the small town of San Ignacio, you can hike, swim and climb through the Actun Tunichil Muknal caves to see the Crystal Maiden, a crystallised victim of Mayan sacrifice Day 7 San Ignacio to Flores via Tikal Cross into Guatemala for a guided tour of Tikal. Uncover temples hidden in the jungle and howler monkeys up in the trees before continuing to Flores Day 8 Flores to Rio Dulce Journey by bus to the banks of the Rio Dulce before boarding a boat to our lodge on an island on the river. On arrival, enjoy a boat tour of the area and stop for lunch in the Garifuna town of Livingston Day 9 Rio Dulce to Antigua Explore Antigua’s cobbled streets and grab a souvenir in the busy market Day 10 Depart Antigua
Meals: 5 breakfasts included Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating: This tour also runs in reverse: Antigua to Playa del Carmen - Tour Code: QYC
Our Tucan Travel Tip Included Excursions & Activities
Spend extra time in Antigua and climb Mount Pacaya, an active volcano.
Guided tour of Tikal ruins, Rio Dulce boat tour & a visit to Livingston
Dates Start tour
Fri 15 Dec 17 Thu 04 Jan 18 Fri 26 Jan 18 Thu 15 Feb 18 Fri 09 Mar 18
24
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 24 Dec 17 Sat 13 Jan 18 Sun 04 Feb 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sun 18 Mar 18
Thu 29 Mar 18 Thu 26 Apr 18 Thu 17 May 18 Thu 14 Jun 18
Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18 Sat 26 May 18 Sat 23 Jun 18
Thu 05 Jul 18 Thu 02 Aug 18 Thu 23 Aug 18 Thu 20 Sep 18
Sat 14 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 01 Sep 18 Sat 29 Sep 18
Thu 11 Oct 18 Thu 08 Nov 18 Thu 29 Nov 18 Thu 27 Dec 18
Sat 20 Oct 18 Sat 17 Nov 18 Sat 08 Dec 18 Sat 05 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/quetzal-highway/qya
Central America Mexico & Guatemala
San Cristóbal de las Casas, Mexico
Cancún Mérida
Playa del
Chichén Itzá Carmen MEXICO
Palenque San Cristóbal de la Casas GUATEMALA Chichicastenango Guatemala City Panajachel
Antigua
Chichén Itzá, Mexico
1159
Markets & Mayans | 13 days
From CHF
Tour Code: ZYG • Playa del Carmen to Antigua
I’d like my own room: CHF199
Visit Mayan sites and traditional villages as you travel through Mexico and Guatemala. Circle the towering Chichén Itzá and explore the surrounding ruins. Learn about indigenous customs and modern religion at San Cristóbal de las Casas. Cross into Guatemala and visit the colourful Chichicastenango Market where indigenous Maya people come to sell their wares before reaching the colonial town of Antigua.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 12 nights hotels Meals: 12 breakfasts included
Itinerary
Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16
Day 1 Playa del Carmen This is your arrival day Days 2-3 Playa del Carmen to Mérida via Chichén Itza Visit the famous Chichén Itzá on the way to Mérida and enjoy the white-washed town’s markets Days 4-5 Mérida to Palenque Travel to Palenque and visit the sprawling site nearby on a guided tour. You can also take a morning hike through the jungle to the Mishol-Ha Waterfall Days 6-8 Palenque to San Cristóbal de las Casas Enjoy Mexico’s richest example of indigenous culture as you tour the villages on the outskirts of San Cristóbal de las Casas. On the right day, you might find a market or festival Days 9-11 San Cristobal de las Casas to Lake Atitlán Crossing into Guatemala, you will stay on the shores of Lake Atitlán, in Panajachel. Take a boat out onto the lake, admire the three volcanoes or explore the surrounding villages Day 12 Panajachel to Antigua Stop off at Chichicastenango Market before continuing to the charming colonial town of Antigua Day 13 Depart Antigua
Physical Rating:
For tours that start and finish in Playa del Carmen, the nearest international airport is Cancún.
Included Excursions & Activities Guided tour of Chichén Itzá ruins, guided tour of Palenque ruins, San Cristóbal de las Casas village tour, Chichicastenango Market
Dates Start tour
End tour
Sun 10 Dec 17 Sun 31 Dec 17 Sun 21 Jan 18 Sun 11 Feb 18 Sun 04 Mar 18
Fri 22 Dec 17 Fri 12 Jan 18 Fri 02 Feb 18 Fri 23 Feb 18 Fri 16 Mar 18
Start tour
Sun 25 Mar 18 Sun 15 Apr 18 Sun 06 May 18 Sun 27 May 18 Sun 17 Jun 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Fri 06 Apr 18 Fri 27 Apr 18 Fri 18 May 18 Fri 08 Jun 18 Fri 29 Jun 18
Sun 08 Jul 18 Sun 29 Jul 18 Sun 19 Aug 18 Sun 09 Sep 18 Sun 30 Sep 18
Fri 20 Jul 18 Fri 10 Aug 18 Fri 31 Aug 18 Fri 21 Sep 18 Fri 12 Oct 18
Sun 21 Oct 18 Sun 11 Nov 18 Sun 02 Dec 18 Sun 23 Dec 18
Fri 02 Nov 18 Fri 23 Nov 18 Fri 14 Dec 18 Fri 04 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/markets-and-mayans/zyg
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Central America Mexico, Guatemala & Belize
Snorkelling in Caye Caulker, Belize
2259
Mayan Circle | 22 days
From CHF
Tour Code: YYC • Playa del Carmen to Playa del Carmen
I’d like my own room: CHF499
Circle through Mexico, Belize and Guatemala in 22 days on this grand tour of the region’s main highlights. Uncover ancient Mayan ruins at Chichén Itzá, Palenque and Tikal. Enjoy snorkelling in Caye Caulker and the beaches of Playa del Carmen. Meet local communities at San Cristóbal de las Casas and admire volcanoes surrounding Lake Atitlán.
Dates End tour
Sun 31 Dec 17 Sun 21 Jan 18 Sun 11 Feb 18 Sun 04 Mar 18 Sun 25 Mar 18
26
Accommodation: 20 nights hotels, 1 night lodge
Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16
Day 1 Playa del Carmen This is your arrival day Days 2-3 Playa del Carmen to Mérida via Chichén Itzá Tour Chichén Itzá on the way to Mérida Days 4-5 Mérida to Palenque Travel to Palenque for a guided tour of the ruins in the jungle Days 6-8 San Cristóbal de las Casas Tour the indigenous villages surrounding San Cristóbal de las Casas Days 9-11 San Cristóbal de las Casas to Lake Atitlán Relax on the shore of Lake Atitlán at Panajachel Days 12-13 Panajachel to Antigua Haggle for goods in the colourful Chichicastenango Market before heading to Antigua where you can enjoy freshly roasted coffee in the main square Day 14 Antigua to Rio Dulce Spend a night in a quiet lodge on the banks of the Rio Dulce, accessed only by boat Day 15 Rio Dulce to Flores Tour Rio Dulce by boat and visit the Garifuna town of Lívingston before heading to Flores Days 16-17 Flores to San Ignacio via Tikal Visit the Mayan ruins of Tikal before crossing into Belize for San Ignacio, where optional activities await Days 18-20 Tikal to Caye Caulker Snorkel on the barrier reef off Caye Caulker and enjoy fresh seafood cooked on the beach Day 21 Caye Caulker to Playa del Carmen Cross back into Mexico and travel to Playa del Carmen Day 22 Depart Playa del Carmen
Sun 10 Dec 17 Sun 31 Dec 17 Sun 21 Jan 18 Sun 11 Feb 18 Sun 04 Mar 18
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport
Meals: 17 breakfasts included
Itinerary
Start tour
Tour Information
Start tour
Sun 25 Mar 18 Sun 15 Apr 18 Sun 06 May 18 Sun 27 May 18 Sun 17 Jun 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 15 Apr 18 Sun 06 May 18 Sun 27 May 18 Sun 17 Jun 18 Sun 08 Jul 18
Sun 08 Jul 18 Sun 29 Jul 18 Sun 19 Aug 18 Sun 09 Sep 18 Sun 30 Sep 18
Sun 29 Jul 18 Sun 19 Aug 18 Sun 09 Sep 18 Sun 30 Sep 18 Sun 21 Oct 18
Sun 21 Oct 18 Sun 11 Nov 18 Sun 02 Dec 18 Sun 23 Dec 18
Sun 11 Nov 18 Sun 02 Dec 18 Sun 23 Dec 18 Sun 13 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/mayan-circle/yyc
Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Guided tour of Chichén Itzá ruins, guided tour of Palenque ruins, San Cristóbal de las Casas village tour, Chichicastenango Market, guided tour of Tikal ruins, Rio Dulce boat tour & a visit to Livingston
Central America Mexico, Guatemala & Belize
Chichén Itzá, Mexico
Caye Caulker, Belize
“ Awesome. Everything is arranged, you only need to choose what to do each day. There is freedom, no obligation and enough activites to fit each interests ” - Truus Boons, November 2016
Mérida
Chichén Itzá
Cancún
Playa del Carmen Chicken bus, Guatemala - Taken by Lisa Gregory
MEXICO
Palenque
Tikal Flores
San Cristóbal
BELIZE San Caye Caulker Ignacio Belize City Lívingston
Rio Dulce GUATEMALA Chichicastenango Panajachel
Guatemala City
Antigua
Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/mayan-circle/yyc
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Central America Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua & Costa Rica
Volcano on Ometepe island, Nicaragua
1829
Scenic Granada | 15 days
From CHF
Tour Code: XGJ • Antigua to San José
I’d like my own room: CHF429
Honduras and Nicaragua are two of Central America’s best kept secrets where fewer tourists venture than anywhere else on the continent. Explore the Maya site of Copán, known for its remarkable stone sculptures, the sun-kissed beaches of Roatán Island and the colonial town of Granada on the edge of Lake Nicaragua. Finishing in Costa Rica, you will visit four fascinating countries in two short weeks.
Day 1 Antigua Today is an arrival day. Tonight you will meet your group and Tour Leader Days 2-3 Antigua to Copán Travel into Honduras. Take a guided tour of Copán’s Maya ruins Days 4-6 Copán to Roatán Island On Roatán Island you can go snorkelling or scuba-diving on the barrier reef, kayaking, fishing or walking along the miles of beaches Days 7-9 Roatán Island to León Fly to Tegucigalpa, before continuing onwards by minivan to León in Nicaragua. Visit the churches and museums or people-watch from the plazas Days 10-11 León to Granada Travel to the colourful town of Granada. With lots to see within the town, you can also hike the Masaya and Mombacho volcanoes or a take a boat on to Lake Nicaragua Days 12-13 Granada to Ometepe Island Meaning two mountains, on Ometepe Island you can hike up the nearby volcanoes, explore the island by bike or relax in a hammock Day 14 Ometepe Island to San José Your final night will be in Costa Rica’s capital, San José Day 15 Depart San José
Included Excursions & Activities Guided tour of Copán ruins, nights on Roatán Island & Ometepe Island
Dates Sat 02 Dec 17 Sun 24 Dec 17 Sat 13 Jan 18 Sun 04 Feb 18 Sat 24 Feb 18
28
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 14 nights hotels Meals: 14 breakfasts included
Itinerary
Start tour
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sat 16 Dec 17 Sun 07 Jan 18 Sat 27 Jan 18 Sun 18 Feb 18 Sat 10 Mar 18
Sun 18 Mar 18 Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18 Sat 26 May 18
Sun 01 Apr 18 Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 19 May 18 Sat 09 Jun 18
Sat 23 Jun 18 Sat 14 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 01 Sep 18
Sat 07 Jul 18 Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 25 Aug 18 Sat 15 Sep 18
Sat 29 Sep 18 Sat 20 Oct 18 Sat 17 Nov 18 Sat 08 Dec 18
Sat 13 Oct 18 Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 01 Dec 18 Sat 22 Dec 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/scenic-granada/xgj
Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Our Tucan Travel Tip Book an extra night in Antigua before joining the tour. There is plenty to see to keep you busy.
Central America Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua & Costa Rica
Toucans in Copán, Honduras
A local market in Antigua, Guatemala
“ The Scenic Granada tour gave me a snapshot view of Central America, and allowed me to identify places I might like to go back to. There were great people to travel with, but our tour guide, Christobal, was the best. Always helpful, always available. ” - David Cole, November 2016
Roatán Island Street shoe shiners, Guatemala - Taken by Lisa Gregory
HONDURAS GUATEMALA
Guatemala City
Copán
Tegucigalpa
Antigua NICARAGUA León
Managua
Granada
Ometepe Island
San José COSTA RICA
Roatán Island, Honduras
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/scenic-granada/xgj
29
Central America Costa Rica
1029
Nature Trails | 9 days
From CHF
I’d like my own room: CHF239
Tour Code: NCR • San José to San José
This nine day tour in Costa Rica is perfect for the adventure lover. Spot monkeys, sloths, lizards and deer at Manuel Antonio National Park, also home to beautiful, palm-fringed beaches. You can zip-line through the forest canopy at Monteverde Cloud Forest and enjoy volcanic views of Arenal Volcano from La Fortuna.
La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
Santa Elena
COSTA RICA
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Itinerary
San José
Day 1 San José This is your arrival day. Tonight you will meet your group and Tour Leader at your predeparture meeting Days 2-3 San José to Manuel Antonio Visit Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most popular national parks. Relax on the sandy beaches and hike through the forest teeming with wildlife. Keep your eyes out for sloths, white-faced monkeys, anteaters and huge iguanas Days 4-5 Manuel Antonio to Monteverde Travel to Monteverde and visit Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. You can walk across the suspension bridges or zip line above the canopy. For those who want to keep their feet on the ground, take a chocolate and coffee tour or visit the orchid gardens Days 6-7 Travel across Arenal Lake to La Fortuna Hike through the hills around Arenal Volcano from La Fortuna. Thrill-seekers can opt to go canyoning down waterfalls or try white-water rafting Day 8 La Fortuna to San José Return to San José and pick up any last minute souvenirs Day 9 Depart San José
Accommodation: 8 nights hotels
Entry to Manuel Antonio National Park, entry to Monteverde National Park
Meals: 6 breakfasts included Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16
Dates Sat 30 Dec 17 Sun 07 Jan 18 Sat 27 Jan 18 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sun 18 Feb 18
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport
Included Excursions & Activities
Start tour
Manuel Antonio National Park
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 07 Jan 18 Mon 15 Jan 18 Sun 04 Feb 18 Sun 18 Feb 18 Mon 26 Feb 18
Sat 10 Mar 18 Sat 24 Mar 18 Sun 01 Apr 18 Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18
Sun 18 Mar 18 Sun 01 Apr 18 Mon 09 Apr 18 Sun 29 Apr 18 Sun 13 May 18
Sat 09 Jun 18 Sat 23 Jun 18 Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 18 Aug 18 Sat 15 Sep 18
Sun 17 Jun 18 Sun 01 Jul 18 Sun 05 Aug 18 Sun 26 Aug 18 Sun 23 Sep 18
Sat 06 Oct 18 Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 24 Nov 18 Sat 08 Dec 18 Sat 22 Dec 18
Sun 14 Oct 18 Sun 11 Nov 18 Sun 02 Dec 18 Sun 16 Dec 18 Sun 30 Dec 18
Physical Rating:
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/nature-trails/ncr
Tortuguero Costa | 9 days
1029
From CHF
I’d like my own room: CHF199
Tour Code: TCS • San José to San José
Costa Rica is home to a huge amount of wildlife and this tour will take you to some of the best places to see it. From La Fortuna you can hike around Arenal Volcano, in Tortuguero National Park you may be able to see wild green sea turtles come to nest, and in Cahuita you can explore the jungle or relax on some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
Tortuguero National Park
La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
Itinerary Day 1 San José This is your arrival day. A hotel representative will be on hand to assist your arrival Days 2-3 San José to La Fortuna Travel to La Fortuna, a perfect place for adventure activities. Hike to nearby waterfalls, indulge in Arenal Volcano’s hot springs or try canyoning or white-water rafting through the jungle Days 4-5 La Fortuna to Tortuguero National Park Navigate dense waterways deep into Tortuguero National Park, looking out for wildlife. At night, you can walk the beaches. If you’re lucky you may spot green sea turtles laying their eggs. During July-October you may even see some hatch! You can learn about their conservation at the visitors centre Days 6-7 Tortuguero to Cahuita In Cahuita you can visit Cahuita National Park. Here you can snorkel on the coral reef, stroll through the rainforest or spend the day in the sea Day 8 Cahuita to San José Spend the morning on the beach before returning to San José in the evening Day 9 Depart San José
COSTA RICA
San José
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 6 nights hotels, 2 nights in lodges
Included Excursions & Activities
Meals: 8 breakfasts included
Guided tour of Tortuguero National Park
Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Dates Start tour
Thu 04 Jan 18 Fri 12 Jan 18 Thu 01 Feb 18 Thu 15 Feb 18 Fri 23 Feb 18
30
Cahuita
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Fri 12 Jan 18 Sat 20 Jan 18 Fri 09 Feb 18 Fri 23 Feb 18 Sat 03 Mar 18
Thu 15 Mar 18 Thu 29 Mar 18 Fri 06 Apr 18 Thu 26 Apr 18 Thu 10 May 18
Fri 23 Mar 18 Fri 06 Apr 18 Sat 14 Apr 18 Fri 04 May 18 Fri 18 May 18
Thu 14 Jun 18 Thu 28 Jun 18 Thu 02 Aug 18 Thu 23 Aug 18 Thu 20 Sep 18
Fri 22 Jun 18 Fri 06 Jul 18 Fri 10 Aug 18 Fri 31 Aug 18 Fri 28 Sep 18
Thu 11 Oct 18 Thu 08 Nov 18 Thu 29 Nov 18 Thu 13 Dec 18 Thu 27 Dec 18
Fri 19 Oct 18 Fri 16 Nov 18 Fri 07 Dec 18 Fri 21 Dec 18 Fri 04 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/tortuguero-costa/tcs
Central America Costa Rica
Turtle crawling in Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica
Tortuguero National Park La Fortuna Arenal Volcano COSTA RICA Santa Elena
Cahuita National Park
Monteverde Cloud Forest
San José
Manuel Antonio National Park La Fortuna, Costa Rica - Taken by Rolf Stanley
1639
Costa Rica Encompassed | 14 days
From CHF
Tour Code: CER • San José to San José
I’d like my own room: CHF369
This is the ultimate tour for nature lovers who want to experience Costa Rica’s complete spectrum. From outstanding national parks to volcanoes, exceptional beaches, coral reefs and a plethora of wildlife, Costa Rica has it all. Explore the misty cloud forest of Monteverde, hike around Arenal Volcano, then enjoy some amazing underwater scenery at the reefs of Cahuita National Park.
Accommodation: 11 nights hotels, 2 nights lodges
Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16
Day 1 San José This is your arrival day. Tonight you will have a pre-departure meeting with your Tour Leader Days 2-3 San José to Manuel Antonio Explore the rainforest of Manuel Antonio National Park, looking out for sloths, monkeys and iguanas and relax on the sandy, peaceful beaches Days 4-5 Manuel Antonio to Monteverde Walk through the lush Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Here you can whizz over the canopy on the longest zip line in the world Days 6-8 Monteverde to La Fortuna Travel to La Fortuna sitting in the foothills of Arenal Volcano. You can hike through the surrounding valleys, visit the dramatic La Fortuna Waterfall or dip your toes in the hot springs Days 9-10 La Fortuna to Tortuguero Depending on the time of year, watch green sea turtles lay their eggs at Tortuguero National Park by night and explore the waterways and lagoons filled with wildlife by day Days 11-12 Tortuguero to Cahuita Soak up the Caribbean vibes in Cahuita. Visit the nearby national park, where you can snorkel on the coral reef, explore the jungle walkways or relax on stunning beaches Day 13 Cahuita to San José Make the most of your final day in Cahuita before returning to San José this evening Day 14 Depart San José
Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Entry to Manuel Antonio National Park, entry to Monteverde National Park, guided tour of Tortuguero National Park
Our Tucan Travel Tip The best time to see the sea turtle is between July & October.
Dates Sat 16 Dec 17 Sat 30 Dec 17 Sun 07 Jan 18 Sat 27 Jan 18 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sun 18 Feb 18
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport
Meals: 11 breakfasts included
Itinerary
Start tour
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Fri 29 Dec 17 Fri 12 Jan 18 Sat 20 Jan 18 Fri 09 Feb 18 Fri 23 Feb 18 Sat 03 Mar 18
Sat 10 Mar 18 Sat 24 Mar 18 Sun 01 Apr 18 Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18
Fri 23 Mar 18 Fri 06 Apr 18 Sat 14 Apr 18 Fri 04 May 18 Fri 18 May 18
Sat 09 Jun 18 Sat 23 Jun 18 Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 18 Aug 18 Sat 15 Sep 18
Fri 22 Jun 18 Fri 06 Jul 18 Fri 10 Aug 18 Fri 31 Aug 18 Fri 28 Sep 18
Sat 06 Oct 18 Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 24 Nov 18 Sat 08 Dec 18 Sat 22 Dec 18
Fri 19 Oct 18 Fri 16 Nov 18 Fri 07 Dec 18 Fri 21 Dec 18 Fri 04 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/costa-rica-encompassed/cer
31
Central America Costa Rica & Panama
Spider monkey in the rainforest, Costa Rica
1849
San José to Panama City | 14 days
From CHF
Tour Code: CEP • San José to Panama
I’d like my own room: CHF449
Travel the Pacific coast of Costa Rica before crossing into beautiful Panama. Encounter cloud forest, jungles, thermal pools, volcanoes, tranquil islands and abundant wildlife. During the journey, you can take an exhilarating canopy zip line over the forest canopy, try canyoning, white water rafting and kayaking. The beaches and reefs of Bocas del Toro will enchant you on your way to Panama City, home to the world’s most famous canal.
Included Excursions & Activities Entry to Manuel Antonio National Park, entry to Monteverde National Park, Bocas del Toro
Dates
32
Accommodation: 13 nights hotels
Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16
Day 1 San José This is the arrival day. Tonight you will meet your Tour Leader at the pre-departure meeting Days 2-3 Manuel Antonio Relax on idyllic, palm-fringed beaches and explore the jungle teeming with wildlife Days 4-5 Monteverde Cloud Forest Walk or zipline through the rainforest, sitting above the clouds or take a chocolate and coffee tour Days 6-7 La Fortuna Sitting at the base of Arenal Volcano, hike the surrounding area, visit waterfalls or lounge in hot springs Day 8 San José Return to San José for a night to break up the journey Day 9 San José to Bocas del Toro Cross into Panama and take a boat to the Bocas del Toro archipelago where you can enjoy the beaches, coral reefs and clear waters or hire a bike and explore the island Days 10-12 Bocas del Toro to Boquete Sample some of the sweetest oranges and richest coffee in Boquete, surrounded by sustainable plantations and local communities Day 13 Boquete to Panama City Fly to Panama City where you can visit the Panama Canal, explore Casco Viejo or discover the archaeological site of Panama Viejo Day 14 Depart Panama City
Sun 07 Jan 18 Sun 18 Feb 18
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport
Meals: 11 breakfasts included
Itinerary
Start tour
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sat 20 Jan 18 Sat 03 Mar 18
Sun 01 Apr 18 Sat 19 May 18
Sat 14 Apr 18 Fri 01 Jun 18
Sat 07 Jul 18 Sat 25 Aug 18
Fri 20 Jul 18 Fri 07 Sep 18
Sat 13 Oct 18 Sat 01 Dec 18
Fri 26 Oct 18 Fri 14 Dec 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/san-jose-to-panama-city/cep
Physical Rating:
Central America Costa Rica & Panama
Bocas del Toro Island, Panama
Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica
“ My
tour leader Scott was very knowledgable and made the whole trip seamless. His knowledge and experience showed. Tour route & lengths of stays in each location were bang on. ” - Lauren Adisson, June 2017
Iguana in Manuel Antonio National Park - Taken by Emma Campbell
COSTA RICA
La Fortuna
Santa Elena Monteverde Cloud Forest
San José
Bocas del Toro
Panama City
Manuel Antonio National Park Boquete David
PANAMA
Beautiful cityscape of Panama
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/san-jose-to-panama-city/cep
33
Central America Visits 7 countries
Sky Bridge, Monteverde National Park, Costa Rica
Travel for as little or as long as you like You can start and finish your tour in any of the cities on the map travelling for as little or as long as you like. To find out about each of the sections on this epic adventure, go to the pages listed below.
Mexico City to Playa del Carmen | 13 days
Playa del Carmen to Antigua | 10 days
Tour Code: ZMA
Tour Code: QYA
See Page 22
See Page 24
Antigua to San JosĂŠ | 15 days
San JosĂŠ to Panama City | 14 days
Tour Code: XGJ
Tour Code: CEP
See Page 26-27
See Page 32-33
34
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/grand-mexico-and-panama/mmp
Central America Visits 7 countries
Admiring Teotihuacán, Mexico
Group touring the scenic Caye Caulker, Belize - Taken by Marcus Hunt
Playa del Carmen
Mexico City
BELIZE MEXICO HONDURAS G U AT E M A L A
Antigua
NICARAGUA
COSTA RICA
San José
Panama City
PANAMA
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/grand-mexico-and-panama/mmp
35
Welcome to South America
Welcome to
South America
Colourful streets of Cartagena, Colombia
About South America South America is packed with adventures in abundance. Follow in the footsteps of the Incas to Machu Picchu, search for wildlife in the depths of the Amazon Jungle and conquer hiking trails in the remote region of Patagonia. From beautiful beaches to colourful colonial towns, this vast continent offers so much to see.
Your Transport
Your Accommodation
We use the most appropriate form of transport available at the time in South America, whether that is public buses, private vans, regional flights or two-seater tuk-tuks. On your trip through South America, you will cover great distances, crossing diverse terrains and stunning backdrops. Whether you are cruising through the Amazon on a motorised boat, hiking the Inca Trail using your own two feet or catching a quick flight from Buenos Aires to Iguazú Falls, each day is a new adventure.
We use a huge variety of accommodation options in South America, depending on where you are on the continent. Unless you are camping on the Inca Trail or in Torres del Paine National Park, sleeping in lodges in the Amazon Jungle or spending the night in basic hostels on the Uyuni Salt Flats, you will be staying in clean, comfortable, centrally located and locally owned hotels.
About Each Day
Supporting Local Communities
Our tours in South America offer a variety of included excursions and optional activities. We like to include the highlights like the Uyuni Salt Flats, Lake Titicaca or the Amazon Jungle, but we also understand that you like the flexibility to choose your own daily adventures. Each itinerary follows a dedicated schedule, allowing you to see all the highlights of South America whilst still allowing for free time so you can go and explore.
All of our tours operate on a strict ‘leave nothing but footprints’ basis and this is especially the case in South America. Where possible, we stay in eco-lodges, locally owned hotels and guesthouses, giving as much back to the local communities as possible. When trekking on the Inca or Lares Trails, we follow the strict Porters Laws, introduced by the Peruvian Government, putting the health, safety and security of our porters first.
36
View online | www.tucantravel.com/destinations/south-america
Welcome to South America
Argentina Bolivia Brazil Chile
Toucan in the Amazon Jungle, Peru
Colombia Galápagos Patagonia Peru
Jumping on the Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia
31
Top Five Highlights
Machu Picchu - Peru Tierradentro - Colombia Iguazú Falls - Brazil Torres del Paine NP - Chile Uyuni Salt Flats - Bolivia
YEARS
The amount of time that Tucan Travel have been operating in South America!
Weather Guide This chart indicates the weather in South America throughout the year. Please be advised that this is a guide only, and you should check before you travel.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Lima, Peru Amazon Jungle, Peru Machu Picchu, Peru La Paz, Bolivia Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Bogotá, Colombia Cartagena, Colombia Cold <= 60F, Wet Cold <= 60F, Dry
Cool 60-70F, Wet Cool 60-70F, Dry
Warm 70-86F, Wet Warm 70-86F, Dry
Hot > 86+F, Wet Hot > 86+F, Dry
View online | www.tucantravel.com/destinations/south-america
37
South America Getting to Machu Picchu
Getting to
Machu Picchu
Views of Machu Picchu, Peru
The Lost City of the Incas Machu Picchu is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the world, set deep in the Andean mountains of Peru. Known as the ‘Lost City of the Incas’, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed citadel dates back to the 15th century and was originally designed to be completely self-contained, surrounded by agricultural terraces sufficient to feed the population and watered by natural springs. Today, the city is visited by adventurous travellers either arriving on the trails that lead to the lost ruins or by bus & train from Cusco.
Your options for getting to Machu Picchu Inca Trail Trek 3 Nights Camping
Highest point 4200m
Closed in February for maintenance
Permits a day
Book 6 months in advance
Physical Rating:
38
Lares Valley Trek 2 Nights Camping 1 Night Hotel
Highest point 4600m
All year round!
No Permit? No problem!
Day Trek 5 Hour Hike
Highest point 2730m
Closed in February for maintenance
Permits a day
Book 6 weeks in advance
Book 3 months in advance
Physical Rating:
Physical Rating:
View online | www.tucantravel.com/travel-highlights/machu-picchu
Taking the Train 1 Train
2 Buses
2 hours on the train
All year round!
No Permit? No problem!
Book a few days in advance
Physical Rating:
South America Getting to Machu Picchu
Train to Machu Picchu, Peru
Walking the Inca Trail Trek, Peru
Why choose us for Peru? 31 years experience We were founded in 1987, making 2018 our 31st year of operation. That’s 31 years of taking travellers on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, with thousands of travellers enjoying the trek with us over the years.
We are based in Cusco Our Latin American office is based in the heart of Cusco, not far from where the permits need to be purchased. Once we have your deposit and passport details, we can confirm your permit and guarantee your place.
Experienced tour leaders Some of our tour leaders and local guides have hiked the Inca Trek to Machu Picchu more times than they can count so you are in the safest hands. Some have even entered the annual race to the Sun Gate, making it in just a couple of hours.
Camping on the Lares Valley Trek, Peru - Taken by Kris Hadwin
Guarantee your Trekking Permit Book early as the Peruvian government limits the number of people on the Inca Trail to 500 a day and with 300 porters and guides accompanying you on the hike, this route to Machu Picchu sells out fast. In order to book your place on the Inca Trail, we need the following details to obtain a permit. Full Name (as it appears on your passport) Date of Birth Passport Number Passport Expiry Date/Issue Date Nationality
Peruvian Women, Peru
View online | www.tucantravel.com/travel-highlights/machu-picchu
39
South America Peru
Inca Trail Trek, Peru
(Inca Trail Trek)
Machu Picchu
Ollantaytambo PERU
Cusco
Admiring Machu Picchu, Peru
Inca Trail Trek | 7 days Tour Code: RPITT â&#x20AC;˘ Cusco to Cusco
Approach the awe-inspiring ruins that are Machu Picchu in the most authentic way possible. The Inca Trail Trek will take you over high Andean passes and across original Inca stone pathways before you arrive at the Sun Gate, with the Lost City of the Incas laid out beneath you.
Itinerary Day 1 Cusco Arriving at your hotel, this evening you will have a pre-trek briefing on what to expect and pack for the Inca Trail Day 2 Cusco to Ollantaytambo via Sacred Valley of the Incas Departing early, enjoy a full day of sightseeing in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Admire stunning lookout points and enjoy a stop where you can say hello to some llamas. Learn about the wool-making process before taking guided tours of the archaeological sites of Pisac and Ollantaytambo where you will spend the night Day 3 Inca Trail Trek Begin your trek by crossing the Urabamba River, today is a relatively easy and flat walk through the valley Day 4 Inca Trail Trek The most challenging day, you will reach the highest peak at 4200m, stopping for a celebratory photo before continuing downhill to your campsite Day 5 Inca Trail Trek After being woken up by a cup of hot coca tea, today you will walk through tunnels and down original Inca steps before your final night of camping Day 6 Machu Picchu to Cusco This morning you wake early for your last hike towards the famous Sun Gate. Depending on the time of year, you might arrive in time to see the sunrise. After a guided tour of Machu Picchu you will return to Cusco by train Day 7 Depart Cusco
Included Excursions & Activities Guided tour of Sacred Valley of the Incas, Inca Trail Trek, entry & guided tour of Machu Picchu
Dates This tour departs every Tuesday.
40
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/inca-trail-trek/rpitt
1299
From CHF
Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like my own room: CHF99
Tour Information Type of Travel: Your own two feet & local transport Accommodation: 3 nights camping, 3 nights hotels Meals: 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners included Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Our Tucan Travel Tip Hire walking poles in Cusco or Ollantaytambo to help you tackle those steep Inca steps.
South America Peru
Group posing on the Lares Valley Trek, Peru
Machu Picchu
Aguas Calientes (Lares Valley Trek) Ollantaytambo
PERU
Cusco
Group trekking on the Lares Valley Trek, Peru
Lares Valley Trek | 6 days Tour Code: RPITL1 â&#x20AC;˘ Cusco to Cusco
Compulsory Single Supplement: CHF749
When there are no permits available for the Inca Trail Trek or the route is closed for maintenance in February, we offer the Lares Valley Trek instead. It is a fully escorted hike with two nights camping and one night in Aguas Calientes before a bus ride up to Machu Picchu.
Type of Travel: Your own two feet & local transport
Meals: 5 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners included
Day 1 Cusco This evening you will have a pre-trek briefing in Cusco to prepare for the following five days Days 2-3 Lares Valley Trek Hike into the Andes Valley passing Inca burial tombs, local farms, tiny villages and herds of wild llama. The highest point of your trek is 4600m, with amazing views of Aruraycocha Lake Day 4 Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes Arrive in Ollantaytambo and travel by train to Aguas Calientes. Following the Urabamba River, you will enjoy dramatic views and get to relax after a challenging few days of hiking Day 5 Machu Picchu to Cusco From Aguas Calientes, take an early morning bus to Machu Picchu and enjoy a guided tour of the site. After a quick lunch, you will return to Cusco by train and bus Day 6 Depart Cusco
Lares Valley Trek, entry & guided tour of Machu Picchu
Tour Information Accommodation: 2 nights camping, 3 nights hotels
Itinerary
Included Excursions & Activities
1199
From CHF
Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
No Permit? No Problem As there are no permits needed, the Lares Valley trek is a fantastic alternative when the Inca Trail Trek permits have sold out or when the Inca Trail is closed in February!
Dates This tour departs every Wednesday.
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/lares-valley-trek-and-machu-picchu-package/rpitl1
41
South America Peru
Llama by Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu Ollantaytambo Amazon Jungle
Cusco
PERU
Group walking through the Amazon Jungle, Peru - Taken by Kris Hadwin
Incas & Amazon | 8 days Tour Code: PEIA • Cusco to Cusco
From Cusco, enjoy a quick adventure of Peru’s highlights. You will stay in the heart of the lush Amazon Jungle, enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu and discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas. In just eight days you will experience two cities, one jungle and arguably the world’s most important Inca site.
Itinerary Day 1 Cusco This is your arrival day Day 2 Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas Discover the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting the ruins at Pisac and Ollantaytambo temple. Tonight you will stay in Ollantaytambo in preparation for your adventure to Machu Picchu Day 3 Machu Picchu & Cusco Waking up early, take the train to Aguas Calientes before getting a bus up to Machu Picchu. You will have a guided tour of the site before returning to Cusco in the evening Day 4 Cusco Today is free for you to explore. You could take a chocolate making workshop or enjoy a city tour Days 5-6 Cusco to the Amazon Jungle Fly to Puerto Maldonado. From here you travel by boat deep into the Amazon Jungle. Stay in wooden en-suite huts and explore the rainforest by foot and boat. Enjoy the local cuisine, visit Monkey Island, hike to Caiman Lake and learn about the medicinal plants and delicate ecosystems Day 7 Amazon Jungle to Cusco Return to Puerto Maldonado where you will catch a flight back to Cusco. Enjoy a final night making the most of the city’s nightlife Day 8 Depart Cusco
Included Excursions & Activities Two night Amazon Jungle excursion, guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the train or one day trek to Machu Picchu with a guided tour
Dates This tour departs every Tuesday
42
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/incas-and-amazon/peia
1959
From CHF
I’d like my own room: CHF289
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 5 nights hotels, 2 nights in a Amazon Jungle lodge Meals: 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners included Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Fancy a hike? Swap the train for a one day trek to Machu Picchu. Speak to our Adventure Specialists for more details.
South America Peru
Start of the Inca Trek, Peru - Taken by Axel Haudiquet
Machu Picchu Ollantaytambo Cusco
Lima
Amazon Jungle
PERU Lake Titicaca Puno
Lake Titicaca, Peru
2679
Andes to Jungle | 11 days
From CHF
Tour Code: PEIL • Lima to Lima
I’d like my own room: CHF379
No trip to Peru is complete without a guided tour of Machu Picchu, a visit to the depths of the Amazon Jungle and a boat trip on Lake Titicaca. This tour combines all three into the perfect 11 day adventure.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport
Itinerary Day 1 Lima This is your arrival day Day 2 Lima to Puno Fly to Juliaca where you be met and taken to the small town of Puno, your base for visiting Lake Titicaca Day 3 Lake Titicaca Enjoy a day trip on the world’s highest navigable lake. Meet residents of the floating Uros Island and enjoy lunch overlooking stunning scenery on Taquile Island Day 4 Puno to Cusco Drive through southern Peru on the tourist bus to Cusco Day 5 Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas Take a guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas before spending the night in the town of Ollantaytambo Days 6-7 Machu Picchu & Cusco Waking up early, you have the option to take the train or conquer a one day hike to Machu Picchu. You will have a guided tour of the site before returning to Cusco by train in the evening Days 8-9 Cusco to the Amazon Jungle After a short flight, travel by motorised boat to your lodge in the Amazon Jungle. On guided walks, spot wildlife nearby and admire the density of the jungle Day 10 Amazon Jungle to Lima Fly to Lima and pick up any last minute souvenirs Day 11 Depart Lima
Accommodation: 8 nights hotels, 2 nights in a Amazon Jungle lodge Meals: 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners included Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Have more time? You can add the Inca Trail Trek to this tour.
Included Excursions & Activities
See Tour Code PEPT online.
Two night Amazon Jungle excursion, guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the train or one day trek to Machu Picchu with a guided tour, day trip and guided tour of Lake Titicaca
Dates This tour departs every Saturday
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/ andes-to-jungle/peil
43
South America Peru & Bolivia
Peruvian women in The Sacred Valley, Peru
Inca Highlights | 11 days Tour Code: PEIH • Lima to La Paz
Immerse yourself in the many facets of Peruvian and Bolivian culture. Enjoy bustling colourful markets, astonishing wildlife and ancient Inca ruins. Explore the desert city of Lima, spot wildlife in the Amazon Jungle, discover the mysteries hidden at Machu Picchu and meet the friendly local folk on Lake Titicaca.
Itinerary Day 1 Lima This is your arrival day Days 2-3 Lima to the Amazon Jungle Head to the steamy tropics of the Amazon Jungle. Stay in eco-lodges and enjoy hikes in the search for wildlife Day 4 Amazon Jungle to Cusco Fly to Cusco and spend the afternoon exploring the city Day 5 Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas Enjoy a guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting the Pisac ruins and Ollantaytambo Day 6 Machu Picchu & Cusco From Ollantaytambo you can choose to either take the train or conquer a one day hike up to Machu Picchu. Return to Cusco at the end of the day Day 7 Cusco Today is free for you to explore Cusco or visit the other Inca ruins that surround the city Days 8-9 Cusco to Puno & Lake Titicaca Marvel at Andean landscapes on a scenic journey to the town of Puno. The next day there is a day trip onto Lake Titicaca. Admire the totora reed boats and meet the local communities Day 10 Puno to La Paz Cross into Bolivia and travel to La Paz. Visit the Witches’ Market and pick up a potion or two Day 11 Depart La Paz
Included Excursions & Activities Two night Amazon Jungle excursion, guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the train or one day trek to Machu Picchu with a guided tour, day trip and guided tour of Lake Titicaca
Dates This tour departs every second Tuesday
44
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/inca-highlights/peih
2379
From CHF
I’d like my own room: CHF339
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 8 nights hotels, 2 nights in a Amazon Jungle lodge Meals: 10 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners included Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Have more time? You can add the Inca Trail Trek to this tour. See Page 46 for more information.
South America Peru & Bolivia
Panoramic view of Plaza de Armas, Lima, Peru
A walk through the Amazon Jungle, Peru
“ I had so much fun exploring South America with Tucan Travel. It was a small group and well organised, I did not have to worry about anything. ” - Abby Roman - December 2016
Group meeting a Peruvian family, Peru - Taken by Salvattore Carlotto
Lima
Machu Picchu Ollantaytambo Cusco
Amazon Jungle
PERU BOLIVIA Lake Titicaca Puno
La Paz
Views of Lake Titicaca from Taquile Island, Peru
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/inca-highlights/peih
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South America Peru & Bolivia
Wiñay Wayna on the Inca Trail Trek, Peru
Machu Picchu (Inca Trail) Ollantaytambo Cusco
Amazon Jungle
Lima BOLIVIA
PERU
Lake Titicaca Puno
La Paz
Amazon Jungle, Peru
Magic of the Incas | 14 days Tour Code: PEMP • Lima to La Paz
Discover the highlights of Peru and experience a taste of Bolivia on this two week tour. Search for wildlife in the depths of the Amazon Jungle, hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and spend some time with the indigenous communities that live on Lake Titicaca.
Itinerary Day 1 Lima This is your arrival day Days 2-3 Lima to the Amazon Jungle Spend two nights staying at a jungle lodge in the Amazon, hiking through the rainforest and taking boat trips spotting wildlife Day 4 Amazon Jungle to Cusco Catch a short flight to Cusco where you have the remainder of the day to soak up the city Day 5 Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas Take a tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting Pisac and the fortress of Ollantaytambo before spending the night nearby Days 6-8 Inca Trail Trek Hike the Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu, passing Incan ruins and enjoying dramatic views Day 9 Machu Picchu to Cusco Your final day on the trek will lead you to the spectacular site of Machu Picchu. Enjoy a guided tour before returning to Cusco Day 10 Cusco Today is free for you to make the most of Cusco. Take a chocolate-making workshop or visit the Pisco museum Days 11-12 Cusco to Puno and Lake Titicaca Travel to Puno, your base for visiting Lake Titicaca on a day trip Day 13 Puno to La Paz Cross into Bolivia where you will reach dizzying heights in La Paz Day 14 Depart La Paz
Included Excursions & Activities Two night Amazon Jungle excursion, guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, guided Inca Trail Trek & permit, guided tour of Machu Picchu and train back to Cusco, day trip and guided tour to Lake Titicaca
Dates This tour departs every second Saturday.
46
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/magic-of-the-incas/pemp
2959
From CHF
I’d like my own room: CHF339
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 8 nights hotels, 2 nights in a Amazon Jungle lodge, 3 nights camping on the Inca Trail Trek Meals: 13 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners included Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Have more time? Continue to Santiago by combining this tour with our La Paz to Santiago tour. See Tour Code HPS online.
South America Peru
Admiring the views at the Colca Canyon, Peru
PERU
Machu Picchu Ollantaytambo Cusco
Lima Paracas Ballestas Islands
Huacachina Nasca
Lake Titicaca Colca Canyon Puno Arequipa
Candelabra, Paracas, Peru
2539
Peru Explored | 14 days
From CHF
Tour Code: PECL â&#x20AC;˘ Lima to Lima
Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like my own room: CHF359
Combine beautiful desert landscapes, hoards of wildlife and local communities with the rich Inca history found in Peru. You will see some of the biggest highlights from the Ballestas Islands to Lake Titicaca before ending the tour with a spectacular climax, visiting Machu Picchu.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 11 nights hotels, 1 night guesthouse, 1 overnight bus
Itinerary Day 1 Lima This is your arrival day Day 2 Lima to Paracas Travel along the coast to Paracas Day 3 Paracas to Nasca This morning we will take you on a boat tour around the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands. Spot Peruvian boobies, seals and penguins before returning to shore. You will continue your journey to Nasca, stopping en-route at the Huacachina desert oasis, surrounded by sand dunes Days 4-5 Nasca to Arequipa Before you leave Nasca you can visit the Nasca Lines that are etched into the desert floor. From the hummingbird to the spider, which one will you prefer? Continue to Arequipa, a white-washed colonial city with a wonderful central plaza and a beautiful cathedral Day 6 Colca Canyon Enjoy a guided tour of the Colca Canyon, keeping your eyes out for condors soaring above. Stay in the nearby town of Coporaque Days 7-8 Coporaque to Puno & Lake Titicaca Continue onwards to Puno, where you will take a boat onto Lake Titicaca Day 9 Puno to Cusco Travel to Cusco where you have the evening free Day 10 Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas Follow in the footsteps of the Incas in the Sacred Valley before spending the night in Ollantaytambo Days 11-12 Machu Picchu & Cusco Waking early, you can take either the train or the one day trek to Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco Day 13 Cusco to Lima Fly back to Lima for a final night Day 14 Depart Lima
Meals: 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner included Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Have more time? Spend two nights in the steamy rainforest and add the Amazon Jungle to your tour! See Tour Code PELL online.
Included Excursions & Activities Boat tour of the Ballestas Islands, visit the Huacachina Oasis, guided tour of the Colca Canyon, day trip and guided tour of Lake Titicaca, the train or one day trek to Machu Picchu with a guided tour, guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Dates This tour departs every Monday
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/peru-explored/pecl
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South America Peru
Totora boat on Lake Titicaca, Peru
Complete Peru | 19 days Tour Code: PECP • Lima to Lima
The ultimate, in-depth tour for anyone wanting to lift the lid on Peru. See the biggest highlights, including Machu Picchu and the Amazon Jungle. View condors swoop over the Colca Canyon, discover the floating Uros Islands on Lake Titicaca and hunt for souvenirs in Cusco’s narrow streets.
Itinerary Day 1 Lima This is your arrival day Day 2 Lima to Paracas Travel to Paracas by public bus Day 3 Paracas to Nasca Enjoy a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands before heading to Nasca, stopping at Huacachina desert oasis on the way Days 4-5 Nasca to Arequipa You can admire the Nasca Lines before taking an overnight bus to Arequipa, a beautiful white-washed city Day 6 Colca Canyon Enjoy a guided tour of the Colca Canyon and admire the spectacular views. Stay in the nearby town of Coporaque Days 7-8 Coporaque to Puno & Lake Titicaca Travel through to the market town of Puno. From here we take a day trip to the world’s highest navigable lake, Lake Titicaca Day 9 Puno to Cusco Travel to Cusco on a comfortable public bus, passing breath-taking Andean landscapes Day 10 Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas Take a tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas before spending the night in Ollantaytambo Days 11-13 Inca Trail Trek Hike the Inca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu camping en-route Days 14-15 Machu Picchu to Cusco Enjoy a guided tour of Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco by train. You will have another day to rest your aching legs in Cusco Days 16-17 Cusco to the Amazon Jungle Fly to Puerto Maldonado and descend deep into the Amazon Jungle for a few days Day 18 Amazon Jungle to Lima Return to Lima where you have a final night to enjoy the city Day 19 Depart Lima
Included Excursions & Activities Two night Amazon Jungle excursion, guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, Inca Trail Trek & permit, guided tour of Machu Picchu and train back to Cusco, day trip to Lake Titicaca, guided tour of the Colca Canyon, visit the Huacachina Oasis, boat tour of the Ballestas Islands
Dates This tour departs every Monday
48
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/complete-peru/pecp
3499
From CHF
I’d like my own room: CHF429
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 11 nights hotels, 1 night guesthouse, 2 nights in a Amazon Jungle lodge, 1 overnight bus, 3 nights camping on the Inca Trail Trek Meals: 18 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners included Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Our Tucan Travel Tip Don’t forget to pack a raincoat for the Amazon Jungle or you can buy plastic ponchos at the local market in Puerto Maldonado.
South America Peru
The hummingbird, Nasca Lines, Peru
Plaza de Armas, Cusco, Peru
“ This trip exceeded our expectations, we loved Peru, its people and cultures, landscapes and history. The whole tour was amazing. ” - Rosemary Toovey - June 2017
Condor flying over Colca Canyon, Peru
Machu Picchu
Lima
PERU
(Inca Trail) Ollantaytambo Amazon Jungle
Cusco
Ballestas Islands Paracas Huacachina Nasca
Colca Canyon
Lake Titicaca Puno
Arequipa
A girl and her puppy in Cusco, Peru - Taken by Eliza Tinnirello
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/complete-peru/pecp
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South America Galápagos
�e
Galápag� Islands
Turtle in the Galápagos Islands
Discover the Galápagos Islands Quito
EQUATOR LINE ECUADOR
Guayaquil Santiago
Galápagos Sea Lion
Fernandina Rábida Pinzón
Galápagos Giant Tortoise
Daphne
BALTRA Iguana
San Cristóbal
Santa Cruz Santa Fé Charles Darwin Station
Interpretation Centre
Isabela
Town
Blue-Footed Booby
Galápagos Penguin Post Office
Floreana Española
50
View online | www.tucantravel.com/travel-highlights/galapagos-islands
Galápagos Green Sea Turtle
South America Galápagos
About the Galápagos Fernandina Island the youngest island at 1 million years old
The
Española Island the oldest island at 3.5 million years old
first UNESCO World Heritage Site
Galápagos Penguin (only penguins in the northern hemisphere)
The Galápagos Giant Tortoise (can live for 150 years) Frigate bird, Galápagos Islands
Home to world’s largest Cormorant (and only one unable to fly)
Marine Iguana (only marine lizard in the world)
1835 The year Charles Darwin arrived on HMS Beagle
Sea Lion, most common mammal on the islands
Year round destination!
Dry season June to December, Warm season December to May Blue-Footed Booby, Galápagos Islands
Why visit the Galápagos Islands?
Add on Peru
Famous for the number of unique species, the Galápagos Islands offer wonderful wildlife viewing opportunities. Almost 97% of the land area of the islands is a national park and visits can only be made to specific landing sites with certified naturalist guides. Due to the regulations in place, the animals are less fearful of humans, making the Galápagos Islands a great location for viewing wildlife.
The most popular country to combine with the Galápagos is Peru and many people choose to add it on before or after their cruise. We can organise everything to get you from A to B, book flights, extra nights accommodation and transfers. To find out how this works, speak to an Adventure Specialist.
Our boats
When to visit the Galápagos
Travelling by boat makes the best use of your time. You will often travel to the next island through the night or at mealtimes on board. We use two well-equipped boats in the Galápagos, the Coral I and the Coral II. For more information on the facilities offered on board our boats, see our website.
In general the Galápagos Islands are an all-year round destination for wildlifespotting. The dry season is between June and November when the weather is cooler. We recommend visiting during the wet season between December and June. The seas are warm with more underwater visibility - perfect for snorkelling.
Weather Guide This chart indicates the weather in the Galápagos throughout the year. Please be advised that this is a guide only, and you should check before you travel.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Quito, Ecuador Galápagos Cold <= 60F, Wet Cold <= 60F, Dry
Cool 60-70F, Wet Cool 60-70F, Dry
Warm 70-86F, Dry Warm 70-86F, Wet
Hot > 86+F, Dry Hot > 86+F, Wet
View online | www.tucantravel.com/travel-highlights/galapagos-islands
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South America Galápagos
Coral I and II, Galápagos Islands
Quito ECUADOR
Buccaneers Cove Bartolomé
Baltra
Rábida Black Turtle Cove Dragon Hill SANTA CRUZ
Ayora Port Charles Darwin Reasearch Station Land Iguana, Galápagos
North Galápagos | 7 days
2499
From CHF
Tour Code: RCGK25 • Quito to Quito
Tour Information With a wealth of wildlife viewing opportunities on offer, this carefully planned itinerary covers the main highlights of the Galápagos Islands. Enjoy a number of daily activities, on land and in the water, but always amidst the stunning wealth of unique wildlife that inhabit these famous islands.
Itinerary Day 1 Quito This is your arrival day Day 2 Quito Enjoy a colonial city tour of Quito and see the iconic San Francisco Basilica Day 3 Quito to Santa Cruz Island Fly to Baltra Island and board your boat. This afternoon you will visit Santa Cruz Island. Look out for the island foxes Day 4 Dragon Hill & Bartolome Island Today you will land at Dragon Hill on Santa Cruz Island. Head to a lagoon to spot flamingos and hike up Dragon Hill to see the iguanas’ nesting ground. In the afternoon, sail to Bartolome Island where you can snorkel near Galápagos penguins Day 5 Rabida Island & Espumilla Beach Today you will have your first wet landing at Rábida Island which boasts nine Darwin Finch species. This afternoon visit Espumilla Beach where you can meet the playful sea lions Day 6 Black Turtle Cove & Quito Your last visit is Black Turtle Cove where you can see the turtles swimming in the sea. Later you will return to Quito from Baltra Island Day 7 Depart Quito
Included Excursions & Activities Visit the Charles Darwin Research Centre & Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre, walking and snorkelling trips throughout
Dates This tour departs every second Friday.
52
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/north-Galapagos/rcgk25
Type of Travel: Small boat - Coral I or II Accommodation: 3 nights hotels, 3 nights on board Meals: 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners included Group Size: Maximum 36 Physical Rating:
Our Tucan Travel Tip Snorkelling equipment is provided on our Galápagos tours but if you are a diver you can book to go scuba diving at an additional cost.
South America Galápagos
Isabela Island, Galápagos Island
ECUADOR ECU UADOR AD
Wolf Volcano
Vincente Roca Point
Quito
Santiago
Darwin Volcano
Punta Espinoza
Tagus Cove
La Cumbre Volcano
Fenrnandina
Puntas Egas Sullivan Bay
Urbina Bay Alcedo Volcano
Isabela
North Seymour Mosquera Islet South Plaza Santa Cruz Puerto Ayora San Cristóbal Santa Fe Interpretation Centre
Baltra
and Cerro Tijeretas
Sea lions, Galápagos Islands
In-depth Galápagos 2 | 11 days
4299
From CHF
Tour Code: RCGK32 • Quito to Quito
Tour Information Spend 11 adventure-filled days cruising the clear waters of the unique Galápagos Islands, on a journey you will never forget. From penguins to sea turtles and giant tortoises to sea lions, you will some of the Galápagos Island’s most famous species. Enjoy a mixture of dry and wet landings, snorkel with colourful marine life and soak up the fantastic scenery that is found in this unique corner of the world.
Type of Travel: Small boat - Coral I or II Accommodation: 3 nights hotels, 7 nights on board Meals: 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners included Group Size: Maximum 36
Itinerary Day 1 Quito This is your arrival day Day 2 Quito Discover Quito on an extensive city tour. Visit the point of the Equator and enjoy views from Panecillo Hill Day 3 Quito to Santa Cruz Island Fly to Baltra Island to board your boat. Later you will visit the Highlands Tortoise Reserve on Santa Cruz Island Day 4 Isabela Island & Fernandina Island Take a dinghy ride around Isabela Island to view Vicente Roca Point and snorkel in the Bolivar Channel. In the afternoon you will visit Fernandina Island home to Galápagos Penguins Day 5 Isabela Island Today you will visit Urbina Bay and Tagus Cove on Isabela Island, famous for their volcanic formations and black sand beaches Day 6 Santiago Island Land on Santiago Island and visit the tidal pool areas populated by fur seals Day 7 Santa Cruz Island View giant tortoises on Santa Cruz Island and explore the Charles Darwin Station Day 8 Mosquera Islet & North Seymour Island See sea lions on Mosquera Islet before heading to North Seymour Island where there is a colony of blue-footed boobies Day 9 Santa Fé Island & South Plaza Head to Santa Fé Island where there are plenty of hiking trails taking you close to the wildlife. This afternoon, head to Plaza Island where you can see the cactus forests Day 10 San Cristobal Island & Quito Explore the Interpretation Centre on San Cristóbal Island before departing for Quito Day 11 Depart Quito
Physical Rating:
Please note The prices listed are per person, based on two people travelling together in a standard cabin.
Included Excursions & Activities Visit the Highlands Tortoise Reserve, visit San Cristobal Giant Tortoise Breeding Centre, walking and snorkelling trips throughout
Dates This tour departs every second Monday.
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/in-depth-Galapagos-2/rcgk32
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South America Colombia
Coffee plantation tour, Colombia
Cartagena
COLOMBIA Medellín
Coffee Plantation
Salento
Bogotá
Cocora Valley, Salento, Colombia
1199
Colombia Express | 8 days
From CHF
Tour Code: CCX • Cartagena to Bogotá
I’d like my own room: CHF199
A whirlwind adventure to one of South America’s most fascinating countries. Begin the tour in Cartagena and wander down cobblestone streets that are bursting with colour. Fly to Medellín where you can enjoy the sights via cable car, before taking a coffee tour through Colombia’s leafy plantations. Ending in the lively city of Bogotá, this tour is a fast-paced insight into a seriously stunning destination.
Day 1 Cartagena This is your arrival day. Tonight you will meet your Tour Leader and the rest of your group at the pre-departure meeting. Book some extra time here to really explore the city and surrounding area Days 2-3 Cartagena to Medellín Fly to Medellín and explore the city on an orientation tour. Travel on raised trains and in telefericos, visit museums and wander through parks Day 4 Medellín to a Coffee Plantation Stay the night in a hacienda and enjoy a fascinating tour through a coffee plantation. Discover the 100year history of the plantation and learn about the extensive processes which produce the many varieties of coffee. You can buy a couple of bags to take back home Days 5-6 Salento Travel further into the coffee region, staying at the small town of Salento. Take a 4WD up to the Cocora Valley and marvel at the palm trees spread out over the horizon Day 7 Salento to Bogotá Fly to Bogotá and admire the street art in the historic neighbourhood of La Candelaria Day 8 Depart Bogotá
Included Excursions & Activities Public transport tour of Medellín, guided tour of a coffee plantation, Cocora Valley trek
Dates Start tour
54
Type of Travel: Mainly private transport Accommodation: 6 nights hotels, 1 night guesthouse Meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner included
Itinerary
Sun 31 Dec 17 Sun 14 Jan 18 Thu 25 Jan 18 Thu 08 Feb 18 Thu 22 Feb 18 Thu 08 Mar 18 Thu 22 Mar 18
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 07 Jan 18 Sun 21 Jan 18 Thu 01 Feb 18 Thu 15 Feb 18 Thu 01 Mar 18 Thu 15 Mar 18 Thu 29 Mar 18
Thu 05 Apr 18 Thu 19 Apr 18 Thu 03 May 18 Thu 17 May 18 Thu 31 May 18 Thu 14 Jun 18 Thu 28 Jun 18
Thu 12 Apr 18 Thu 26 Apr 18 Thu 10 May 18 Thu 24 May 18 Thu 07 Jun 18 Thu 21 Jun 18 Thu 05 Jul 18
Thu 12 Jul 18 Thu 26 Jul 18 Thu 09 Aug 18 Thu 23 Aug 18 Thu 06 Sep 18 Thu 20 Sep 18
Thu 19 Jul 18 Thu 02 Aug 18 Thu 16 Aug 18 Thu 30 Aug 18 Thu 13 Sep 18 Thu 27 Sep 18
Thu 04 Oct 18 Thu 25 Oct 18 Thu 08 Nov 18 Thu 22 Nov 18 Thu 06 Dec 18 Thu 20 Dec 18
Thu 11 Oct 18 Thu 01 Nov 18 Thu 15 Nov 18 Thu 29 Nov 18 Thu 13 Dec 18 Thu 27 Dec 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/colombia-express/ccx
Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Our Tucan Travel Tip The weather in Colombia is very changeable so pack a variety of clothes in order to be prepared for all climates.
South America Colombia
Tayrona National Park, Colombia
Santa Marta
Tayrona National Park
Cartagena
Villa de Leyva
Bogotá Cali Tierradentro
Villavieja
COLOMBIA
San Agustín Cartagena, Colombia
2129
Classic Colombia | 14 days
From CHF
Tour Code: CCC • Bogotá to Cartagena
I’d like my own room: CHF339
A feisty country with some of the most stunning landscapes, adventurers have been drawn to Colombia for many years. This two week tour will take you to some of the country’s highlights as we wander through colonial cities, roam through wildlife-rich national parks which hide sun-kissed beaches and uncover the fascinating ancient stone monuments of San Agustín.
Day 1 Bogotá This is your arrival day. There will be a pre-departure meeting in the evening with your Tour Leader Days 2-3 Bogotá to Villa de Leyva Travel to the colonial town of Villa de Leyva. On the way you will visit Zapiquira Salt Cathedral, an underground church built inside a salt mine Day 4 Villa de Leyva to Villavieja Travel to the small village of Villavieja, perfect for its proximity to the Tatacoa Desert Days 5-6 Villavieja to San Agustín Stay in the small town of San Agustín. Enjoy an included visit to San Agustín Archaeological Park. There are hundreds of statues and burial sites to admire Day 7 San Agustín to Tierradentro Our next stop is Tierradentro, another important archaeological site and home to underground tombs Days 8-9 Tierradentro to Cali Get a taste for salsa in Cali, a vibrant city famous for its dance culture Days 10-11 Cali to Santa Marta Fly to Santa Marta, your base for an included day trip to Tayrona National Park. Relax on its golden beaches Days 12-13 Santa Marta to Cartagena Your final stop is the intoxicating city of Cartagena. Stroll through the old town, admiring the colourful buildings and floweradorned balconies Day 14 Depart Cartagena
Dates Tue 19 Dec 17 Tue 02 Jan 18 Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 27 Jan 18 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 10 Mar 18
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 12 nights hotels, 1 night guesthouse Meals: 13 breakfasts included
Itinerary
Start tour
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Mon 01 Jan 18 Mon 15 Jan 18 Fri 26 Jan 18 Fri 09 Feb 18 Fri 23 Feb 18 Fri 09 Mar 18 Fri 23 Mar 18
Sat 24 Mar 18 Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18 Sat 19 May 18 Sat 02 Jun 18 Sat 16 Jun 18
Fri 06 Apr 18 Fri 20 Apr 18 Fri 04 May 18 Fri 18 May 18 Fri 01 Jun 18 Fri 15 Jun 18 Fri 29 Jun 18
Sat 30 Jun 18 Sat 14 Jul 18 Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 25 Aug 18 Sat 08 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18
Fri 13 Jul 18 Fri 27 Jul 18 Fri 10 Aug 18 Fri 24 Aug 18 Fri 07 Sep 18 Fri 21 Sep 18 Fri 05 Oct 18
Sat 13 Oct 18 Sat 27 Oct 18 Sat 10 Nov 18 Sat 24 Nov 18 Sat 08 Dec 18 Sat 22 Dec 18
Fri 26 Oct 18 Fri 09 Nov 18 Fri 23 Nov 18 Fri 07 Dec 18 Fri 21 Dec 18 Fri 04 Jan 19
Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Visit Zapiquira Salt Cathedral, visit Tatacoa Desert, guided tour of San Agustín Archaeological Park, entry to Tierradentro Archaeological Park, day trip to Tayrona National Park
“ Colombia was a wonderful country to visit and the Tucan Travel tour allowed us to see so many different facets of it. I chose this tour in particular because it covered more of the country, and I wasn’t disappointed! ” - Karen Maclean, December 2016
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/classic-colombia/ccc
55
South America Colombia
Local woman in Cartagena, Colombia
3099
Colombia Encompassed | 20 days
From CHF
Tour Code: CCE • Bogotá to Bogotá
I’d like my own room: CHF519
Take an immersive tour of Colombia in three weeks as you embark on a round-trip of the country from Bogotá. Enjoy a trip to Tayrona National Park with its golden beaches and tropical jungle, hike through the palm-fringed valleys from Salento and see awesome views from a cable car over Medellín.
Day 1 Bogotá This is your arrival day Days 2-3 Bogotá to Villa de Leyva Travel to Villa de Leyva, a colonial town that has been named a National Monument. Wander the cobbled streets and discover private courtyards each more picturesque than the last Day 4 Villa de Leyva to Villavieja Return to Bogotá and fly to Villavieja, your base for exploring the Tatacoa Desert Days 5-6 Villavieja to San Agustín Discover San Agustín and visit the archaeological site found here Day 7 San Agustín to Tierradentro Another important destination for archaeology, visit the underground tombs at Tierradentro Days 8-9 Tierradentro to Cali Travel to the colourful city of Cali which boasts a fantastic Afro-Caribbean culture Days 10-11 Cali to Santa Marta Fly to the oldest city in Colombia and enjoy a day trip to Tayrona National Park Days 12-13 Santa Marta to Cartagena Admire the colourful architecture and visit the fortress in Cartagena Days 14-15 Cartagena to Medellín Discover Medellín from above as you take a cable car over its barrios Day 16 Coffee Plantation Travel to the coffee region and take a tour of a traditional coffee plantation Days 17-18 Salento From Salento we will take you on a hike through the Cocora Valley Day 19 Salento to Bogotá Return to Bogotá to see any sights you may have missed Day 20 Depart Bogotá
56
Meals: 19 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner included Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Visit the Zapiquira Salt Cathedral, visit Tatacoa Desert, guided tour of San Agustín Archaeological Park, entry to Tierradentro Archaeological Park, day trip to Tayrona National Park, orientation tour of Medellín, guided tour of a coffee plantation, Cocora Valley trek
Tailor-made
Dates Tue 19 Dec 17 Tue 02 Jan 18 Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 27 Jan 18 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 10 Mar 18
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 17 nights hotels, 2 nights guesthouses
Itinerary
Start tour
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 07 Jan 18 Sun 21 Jan 18 Thu 01 Feb 18 Thu 15 Feb 18 Thu 01 Mar 18 Thu 15 Mar 18 Thu 29 Mar 18
Sat 24 Mar 18 Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18 Sat 19 May 18 Sat 02 Jun 18 Sat 16 Jun 18
Thu 12 Apr 18 Thu 26 Apr 18 Thu 10 May 18 Thu 24 May 18 Thu 07 Jun 18 Thu 21 Jun 18 Thu 05 Jul 18
Sat 30 Jun 18 Sat 14 Jul 18 Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 25 Aug 18 Sat 08 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18
Thu 19 Jul 18 Thu 02 Aug 18 Thu 16 Aug 18 Thu 30 Aug 18 Thu 13 Sep 18 Thu 27 Sep 18 Thu 11 Oct 18
Sat 13 Oct 18 Sat 27 Oct 18 Sat 10 Nov 18 Sat 24 Nov 18 Sat 08 Dec 18 Sat 22 Dec 18
Thu 01 Nov 18 Thu 15 Nov 18 Thu 29 Nov 18 Thu 13 Dec 18 Thu 27 Dec 18 Thu 10 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/colombia-encompassed/cce
Speak to our Tailor-made team about organising the Ciudad Perdida Trek, starting and finishing in Cartagena.
South America Colombia
San Agustín Archaeological Park, Colombia
Cathedral of Bogota, Colombia
“ Colombia, what an amazing country! With this tour I had the chance to see much of this huge country in only three weeks. The diverse landscapes are stunning, the food is tasty, the Colombians so friendly and the history is interesting! ” - Ursina Barbara Schrenk, March 2017
Santa Marta
Tayrona National Park
Cartagena
Cartagena, Colombia - Taken by Callum Whiteley
Medellín Villa de Leyva Coffee Plantation
Salento
Bogotá
Cali Villavieja Tierradentro
COLOMBIA
San Agustín
Tatacoa Desert, Colombia
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/colombia-encompassed/cce
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South America Chile, Argentina & Brazil
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
2739
South America Flyer | 11 days
From CHF
Tour Code: HSF • Santiago to Rio de Janeiro
I’d like my own room: CHF429
Sample world class cuisine and wine on this short but sweet tour flying across South America’s principle gastronomic region. Enjoy action-packed days where you can watch tango in one city or samba in another. You’ll also visit the beautiful countryside and vineyards around Mendoza, as well as admiring Iguazú Falls from both Brazil and Argentina.
Day 1 Santiago This is your arrival day. Tonight you will meet your Tour Leader and group at a predeparture meeting Days 2-4 Santiago to Mendoza Travel to Mendoza where you will tour Argentina’s most famous wine region and taste some of the world’s best Malbecs. Enjoy a guided tour at three local wineries, accompanied with a delicious lunch Days 5-7 Mendoza to Buenos Aires Fly to Buenos Aires where you can visit the Casa Rosada and sample some of the most succulent steaks Days 8-9 Buenos Aires to Foz do Iguaçu Catch a flight to Brazil, staying in the small town of Foz do Iguaçu. You will feel the spray of Iguazú Falls from both Brazil and Argentina, each perspective offering a different experience Day 10 Foz do Iguaçu to Rio de Janeiro Fly to your final destination, the electrifying city, Rio de Janeiro. Make sure you book some extra nights so you can check out the world-famous sites and relax on the sun-kissed beaches Day 11 Depart Rio de Janeiro
Dates Sat 30 Dec 17 Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 20 Jan 18 Tue 30 Jan 18 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 24 Mar 18
Accommodation: 10 nights hotels
Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Argentinean winery tour, entry to Iguazú Falls from Brazil & Argentina
Have more time? End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Tue 09 Jan 18 Tue 23 Jan 18 Tue 30 Jan 18 Fri 09 Feb 18 Tue 20 Feb 18 Tue 06 Mar 18 Tue 03 Apr 18
Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 28 Apr 18 Sat 12 May 18 Sat 26 May 18 Sat 09 Jun 18 Sat 23 Jun 18
Tue 17 Apr 18 Tue 01 May 18 Tue 08 May 18 Tue 22 May 18 Tue 05 Jun 18 Tue 19 Jun 18 Tue 03 Jul 18
Sat 07 Jul 18 Sat 21 Jul 18 Sat 04 Aug 18 Sat 18 Aug 18 Sat 01 Sep 18 Sat 15 Sep 18 Sat 29 Sep 18
Tue 17 Jul 18 Tue 31 Jul 18 Tue 14 Aug 18 Tue 28 Aug 18 Tue 11 Sep 18 Tue 25 Sep 18 Tue 09 Oct 18
Sat 13 Oct 18 Sat 27 Oct 18 Sat 10 Nov 18 Sat 24 Nov 18 Sat 08 Dec 18 Thu 20 Dec 18
Tue 23 Oct 18 Tue 06 Nov 18 Tue 20 Nov 18 Tue 04 Dec 18 Tue 18 Dec 18 Sun 30 Dec 18
This tour gets to Rio in time for Rio Carnival
58
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport
Meals: 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch included
Itinerary
Start tour
Tour Information
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/south-america-flyer/hsf
Speak with our Adventure Specialists about booking extra nights to enjoy Rio de Janeiro’s excellent beaches.
South America Chile, Argentina & Brazil
Cerro Santa Lucia, Santiago, Chile
Easter Island, Chile
“ A fast-paced, action-packed tour that took in a lot. With the help of our Tour Leader, we got to see things we might have missed out on if we had travelled independently. ” - Alexandra Heredea, November 2016
Easter Island | 7 Days Tour Code: RCLEI
689
From CHF
This four day tour of Easter Island takes you on a journey across the eerie landscape famous for its iconic moai heads.
Itinerary BRAZIL
Rio de Janeiro
Iguazú Falls
ARGENTINA
Tour Information Type of Travel: Shared service travelling with other clients
CHILE
Santiago
Day 1 Easter Island Transfer from the airport on Easter Island to your hotel Days 2-3 Easter Island Enjoy tours of the island with a guide. You will visit the temple of Akahanga, Rano Raraku volcano and the ruins at Ahu Tongakiri, as well as the ceremonial village of Orongo where you can admire the petroglyphs. Explore the lagoon crater of Rano Kau Volcano and Ahu Akivi where the head statues look out to the sea. Enjoy lunch at Anekena Beach Day 4 Depart Easter Island
Accommodation: 3 nights hotels Mendoza
Buenos Aires
Meals: 3 breakfasts, 1 lunch Group Size: Average 12, maximum 20 Physical Rating: Book & Go: While we have set departure dates, you can also travel on any date you want.
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/south-america-flyer/hsf
59
South America Peru, Bolivia & Chile
Traditional reed boat on Lake Titicaca, Peru
Lima
Machu Picchu Ollantaytambo Cusco Lake Titicaca PERU La Paz Puno Uyuní Calama
BOLIVIA
Laguna Colorada San Pedro de Atacama
CHILE
Santiago Sunset in the Atacama Desert, Chile
Peru, Bolivia & Chile | 15 days Tour Code: HPC • Lima to Santiago
Jumping from one country to the next, this short tour takes in three countries in just two action-packed weeks. From the legendary site of Machu Picchu to the salt flats of Uyuni and the modern metropolis of Santiago, you will get a good taste of the continent and some of its most popular highlights.
Itinerary Day 1 Lima This is an arrival day Day 2 Lima to the Sacred Valley of the Incas Today you will be taken on a tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas before staying overnight in Ollantaytambo Day 3 Machu Picchu & Cusco Waking early, take the train or conquer the one day hike to Machu Picchu. Enjoy a a guided tour before returning to Ollantaytambo where a transfer will be waiting to take you to Cusco Day 4 Cusco Today you are free to explore the city Day 5 Cusco to Puno Enjoy a scenic journey to Puno Day 6 Lake Titicaca From Puno you will visit Lake Titicaca. Discover the floating Uros Islands and meet the local communities Days 7-8 Puno to La Paz Cross into Bolivia and explore the bustling city of La Paz Day 9 La Paz to Uyuni Fly to the small town of Uyuni Days 10-11 Uyuni Salt Flats & Laguna Colorada Enjoy a tour of the otherworldly Uyuni Salt Flats, stopping to take photos of the incredible landscapes. You will also visit the remote Laguna Colorada, a beautiful lake home to a number of flamingos Days 12-13 San Pedro de Atacama Drive through the Salt Flats into Chile. Enjoy the lunar landscapes, geysers, salt flats and hot springs of the Atacama Desert Day 14 Calama to Santiago From Calama, fly to Chile’s sprawling cosmopolitan capital, Santiago Day 15 Depart Santiago
Included Excursions & Activities The train or one day trek to Machu Picchu with a guided tour, day trip and guided tour to Lake Titicaca, crossing the Uyuni Salt Flats to Laguna Colorada, entry and guided tour of Valley of the Moon, guided tour of the Sacred Valley of the Incas
Dates This tour departs every Friday.
60
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/peru-bolivia-and-chile/hpc
3139
From CHF
I’d like my own room: CHF349
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 12 nights hotels, 2 nights in basic, multi-share hostels on the Uyuni Salt Flats Meals: 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners included Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
South America Bolivia, Chile & Argentina
Laguna Colorada, Bolivia
BOLIVIA
La Paz Uyuni
Calama
Laguna Colorada San Pedro de Atacama
CHILE ARGENTINA
Santiago
Mendoza
Buenos Aires
Local market in La Paz, Bolivia
Bolivia, Chile & Argentina | 14 days Tour Code: HBA • La Paz to Buenos Aires
2799
From CHF
I’d like my own room: CHF449
Start your tour in La Paz and end it in one of South America’s most popular cities, Buenos Aires. Drive through Uyuni’s salt flats, reflected for miles around under the stunning blue sky, taste world-class Malbecs in Mendoza and learn to tango in Buenos Aires. A short but fulfilling adventure across three exhilarating countries.
Itinerary
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly private transport Accommodation: 11 nights hotels, 2 nights in basic, multi-share hostels on the Uyuni Salt Flats Meals: 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners included
Day 1 La Paz This is an arrival day. Tonight you will meet your Tour Leader at a pre-departure meeting Day 2 La Paz to Uyuni Fly to the small town of Uyuni Day 3 Uyuni Salt Flats In a 4WD, your guide will take you across the Uyuni Salt Flats. Create photographic illusions on the breathtaking landscape Day 4 Laguna Colorada Today your tour will take you across rugged and remote landscapes to Laguna Colorada, a beautiful lake speckled with flamingos Days 5-6 San Pedro de Atacama Drive into Chile, passing rugged landscapes along the way. Visit the world’s driest desert, the Atacama Desert and enjoy a guided tour of the Valley of the Moon Days 7-9 Calama to Santiago Fly from Calama near the Atacama Desert, to Chile’s cosmopolitan capital, Santiago. For the best views of the city, take a funicular rail to the top of San Cristóbal Days 10-12 Santiago to Mendoza Cross into Argentina and taste some of the world’s best wines in Mendoza Day 13 Mendoza to Buenos Aires Explore the colourful neighbourhoods and try the tastiest steaks in Buenos Aires Day 14 Depart Buenos Aires
Group Size: Average 12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Our Tucan Travel Tip The Uyuni Salt Flats get extremely cold at night so make sure you pack warm clothes.
Included Excursions & Activities Crossing the Uyuni Salt Flats to Laguna Colorada, entry and guided tour of Valley of the Moon, Argentinean winery tour
Dates This tour departs every second Friday & more regularly in peak season.
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/bolivia-chile-and-argentina/hba
61
South America Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina & Brazil
Peruvian men knitting on Taquile Island, Lake Titicaca, Peru
Travel for as little or as long as you like You can start and finish your tour in any of the cities on the map, travelling for as little or as long as you like. To find out about each of the sections on this epic adventure, go to the pages listed below.
Lima to La Paz | 14 days
La Paz to Buenos Aires | 14 days
Tour Code: PEMP
Tour Code: HBA
See Page 46
See Page 61
Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro | 6 days Tour Code: HBR
Online Only
62
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/south-america-highlights/hsh
South America Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina & Brazil
Lapa Steps, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Group at the Uyuni Salt Flats, Bolivia - Taken by Chris Koski
Machu Picchu
Lima PERU BOLIVIA
La Paz
BRAZIL
Rio de Janeiro
CHILE
Iguazú Falls
ARGENTINA
Santiago
Buenos Aires
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/south-america-highlights/hsh
63
South America Patagonia Chile & Argentina
Getting to
Patagonia
Trekking in Patagonia, El Chalten, Argentina
About Patagonia Located in Argentina and Chile, Patagonia is a vast windswept wilderness, famous for its breath-taking landscapes. An adventure here is packed to the brim with towering mountain views, miles of hiking trails and beautiful glaciers. It is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore this remote corner of the world.
Your Transport
Supporting Local Communities
The majority of the travel time is spent on our comfortable trucks. Our overland vehicles vary according to the destination, year and model. They have been modified for comfort and convenience and carry lots of equipment to assist you on your adventure.
The Local Payment is a non-refundable fixed amount which is paid to your Tour Leader in US dollars on the first day of your tour. Your Local Payment allows us to get more money to small businesses and communities who don’t have access to online banking services. Having this cash on hand means that you get to stay in more locally owned hotels, have more excursions included and allows our Tour Leaders to shop for the freshest produce in local markets.
Forward-facing seats & seat belts Two tables, great for playing games Access to the driver’s compartment Cabin to store your daypacks External storage compartments
Power sockets Panoramic windows A safe for passports & valuables Water tanks & storage for bulk supplies A small fridge to keep your food fresh
It can be difficult to withdraw local currencies in Patagonia and nearly impossible to access US Dollars for your Local Payment. Remember to obtain all the cash you may need for your tour before leaving home.
Weather Guide This chart indicates the weather in Patagonia throughout the year. Please be advised that this is a guide only, and you should check before you travel.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
Santiago, Chile Torres del Paine, Chile Ushuaia, Argentina Buenos Aires, Argentina Cold <= 60F, Wet Cold <= 60F, Dry
64
Cool 60-70F, Wet Cool 60-70F, Dry
Warm 70-86F, Wet Warm 70-86F, Dry
View online | www.tucantravel.com/destinations/south-america/patagonia
Hot > 86+F, Wet Hot > 86+F, Dry
OCT
NOV
DEC
South America Patagonia Chile & Argentina
About Patagonia Best time to travel
OCT
MAR
Ushuaia is the southernmost town in the world
2,000,000
Overland truck in Patagonia - Taken by Kim Mouncer
People live here.
1,043,076
Buenos Aires
km2
ARGENTINA
That’s 2 people per km2
CHILE
El Chaltén Chilean
Torres del Paine El Calafate National Park Puerto Natales
Argentinian
FACT: The only place outside of Wales where Welsh is still the native language.
Ushuaia
2059
Southern Patagonia | 13 days
From CHF
Tour Code: PASP • El Chaltén to Buenos Aires
Plus Local Payment: US$810 I’d like my own room: CHF599 Concentrating on just the southern tip of South America, this tour is rich in hiking trails, icy glaciers and windswept landscapes. Packed with adventure, culture and wildlife, each day will bring azure lakes, sweeping forests and granite mountains.
Itinerary
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly by Overland Truck
Day 1 El Chaltén This is your arrival day Day 2 El Chaltén Visit Los Glaciares National Park, venture on hikes and admire the snow-capped landscapes Days 3-4 El Chaltén to El Calafate Take your first journey in the overland truck to El Calafate, the base for a tour of the Perito Moreno Glacier. It is one of two Patagonian glaciers still growing Day 5 El Calafate to Puerto Natales Enjoy a scenic journey to the port town of Puerto Natales Days 6-8 Torres del Paine National Park With three nights camping inside Torres del Paine National Park, there is plenty of time to do the best excursions. Whether you want to hike part of the ‘W’ trek for the best views of the three towers or enjoy cruising over Lake Pehoe, there is something for all types of adventurer Day 9 Torres del Paine to El Calafate Return to El Calafate Days 10-11 El Calafate to Ushuaia We leave our truck to take a short flight to Ushuaia. Explore Tierra del Fuego National Park and admire the dramatic scenery Day 12 Ushuaia to Buenos Aires After enjoying Patagonia, fly to Buenos Aires for a final evening of excellent wine and steak Day 13 Depart Buenos Aires
Accommodation: 4 nights hotels, 3 nights camping, 3 nights hostels, 2 nights guesthouses Meals: 12 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners included Group Size: Average 15, maximum 34 Physical Rating: This tour also runs in reverse: Buenos Aires to El Chaltén - Tour Code: PAPS
Included Excursions & Activities Guided walks in Los Glaciares National Park, Perito Moreno Glacier tour, guided walks in Torres del Paine National Park, entry to Tierra del Fuego National Park
Dates Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Wed 20 Dec 17 Wed 07 Feb 18 Wed 28 Mar 18 Wed 31 Oct 18
Mon 01 Jan 18 Mon 19 Feb 18 Mon 09 Apr 18 Mon 12 Nov 18
Sat 24 Nov 18 Wed 19 Dec 18 Sat 12 Jan 19
Thu 06 Dec 18 Mon 31 Dec 18 Thu 24 Jan 19
Wed 06 Feb 19 Sat 02 Mar 19 Wed 27 Mar 19
Mon 18 Feb 19 Thu 14 Mar 19 Mon 08 Apr 19
Wed 30 Oct 19 Sat 23 Nov 19 Wed 18 Dec 19
Mon 11 Nov 19 Thu 05 Dec 19 Mon 30 Dec 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/destinations/south-america/patagonia
65
South America Patagonia Chile & Argentina
Guanaco in Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia
3479
Complete Patagonia | 24 days
From CHF
Tour Code: PACP • Santiago to Buenos Aires
Plus Local Payment: US$1160 I’d like my own room: CHF1239
Don’t miss out on any of Patagonia’s highlights on this 24 day tour. From the alpine wonderland of Bariloche in the north to the imposing towers of Torres del Paine in the south, you will take the 7 Lakes Drive travelling towards Buenos Aires. Conquer world-famous hikes and admire expanding glaciers, this tour will show you how diverse Patagonia really is.
Type of Travel: Mainly by Overland Truck
Itinerary Day 1 Santiago This is your arrival day Days 2-3 Santiago to Pucón Situated in Chile’s Lake District, Pucón is located on the banks of Lake Villarrica. You can hike up Villarrica Volcano Days 4-5 Pucón to Bariloche Enjoy the Swiss influences in Bariloche Days 6-7 Bariloche to Futaleufu Try your hand at rafting in Futaleufu Days 8-9 Futaleufu to Puyuhuapi Continue to Puyuhuapi where you can visit Parque Queulat National Park, famous for its hanging glacier Day 10 Puyuhuapi to Coyhaique Enjoy a scenic drive to Coyhaique. Stop at the Enchanted Forest trail en-route for a spot of hiking Day 11 Coyhaique to Perito Moreno Cross the border into Argentina, staying in the small town of Perito Moreno Days 12 -13 El Chalten Visit Cuevos de los Manos on the way to El Chalten. Admire the artwork on the cave walls Days 14-15 El Chaltén to El Calafate Take a tour of the Perito Moreno Glacier from El Calafate Day 16 El Calafate to Puerto Natales Return to Chile and head to the misty port town, Puerto Natales Days 17-19 Torres Del Paine National Park The next three nights are spent inside Torres del Paine. Conquer the incredible hiking treks here Day 20 El Calafate Return to El Calafate Days 21-22 El Calafate to Ushuaia Fly to Ushuaia, the gateway for exploring Tierra del Fuego National Park Day 23 Ushuaia to Buenos Aires Flying to Argentina’s capital, catch a tango show in beautiful Buenos Aires Day 24 Depart Buenos Aires
Included Excursions & Activities Guided tour of Cuevos de los Manos, guided walks of Los Glaciares National Park, Perito Moreno Glacier tour, guided walks in Torres del Paine National Park, entry to Tierra del Fuego National Park
Dates Start tour
Sat 09 Dec 17 Sat 27 Jan 18
66
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Mon 01 Jan 18 Mon 19 Feb 18
Sat 17 Mar 18 Sat 20 Oct 18
Mon 09 Apr 18 Mon 12 Nov 18
Tue 13 Nov 18
Thu 06 Dec 18
Sat 08 Dec 18
Mon 31 Dec 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/complete-patagonia/pacp
Accommodation: 8 nights hotels, 3 nights camping, 3 nights hostels, 7 nights guesthouses, 2 nights apartments Meals: 21 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 3 dinners included Group Size: Average 15, maximum 34 Physical Rating: This tour also runs in reverse: Buenos Aires to Santiago - Tour Code: PAPC
“ Phenomenal itinerary, lead by experienced guides ” - Nyrie Palmer, December 2016
South America South America Patagonia Chile & Argentina
La Boca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
A group in Patagonia, Argentina
Your tour spends a few nights in Ushuaia, the gateway to Antarctica. Postpone your return to Buenos Aires by including an Antarctica cruise. See Page 70 for more details.
Santiago
Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA
Rockhopper penguin, Patagonia, Argentina
CHILE Pucón Bariloche Futaleufu Puyuhuapi Coyhaique Perito Moreno El Chaltén Torres del Paine National Park Puerto Natales
El Calafate
Ushuaia Group photo in Patagonia - Taken by Anneka Buckle
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/complete-patagonia/pacp
67
Adventures for 20s & 30s
Adventures
for 20s & 30s in South America
76
DAYS
Travel Mainly by Overland Truck
The longest tour we offer
Add the Inca Trek or Amazon Jungle
Lots of meals included
Local Payment keeps the costs down
The number of countries you can tick off
Cartagena
COLOMBIA Quito
ECUADOR
PERU
Lima
Machu Picchu La Paz
BRAZIL
BOLIVIA
CHILE
Rio de Janeiro
Santiago Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA
Ushuaia
68
View online | www.tucantravel.com/adventures-for-20s-and-30s
Adventures for 20s & 30s
Our Best Selling Adventures for 20s & 30s
Inca Explorer 1 Duration: 21 Days Tour Code: BXIE1
PERU
Lima
1129
From CHF
La Paz
Plus Local Payment: US$370
BOLIVIA
Southern Cross PERU
Duration: 49 Days Tour Code: BXPA1
Lima
BRAZIL BOLIVIA
2769
From CHF
Rio de Janeiro
Plus Local Payment: US$1020
ARGENTINA
Patagonian Discovery
Santiago ARGENTINA
Duration: 22 Days Tour Code: BXSPD
1669
From CHF
CHILE
Plus Local Payment: US$550
Ushuaia
Cartagena to Rio
Cartagena COLOMBIA
Duration: 76 Days Tour Code: BXSCR
ECUADOR
4289
From CHF
Plus Local Payment: US$1510
PERU
BRAZIL BOLIVIA Rio de Janeiro
View online | www.tucantravel.com/adventures-for-20s-and-30s
69
Antarctica
Penguins jumping from iceberg, Antarctica
Classic Antarctica | 10 days
4999
From CHF
Tour Code: RACA â&#x20AC;˘ Ushuaia to Ushuaia
Tour Information For over two centuries, the remote White Continent has attracted scientists and explorers and now this frozen land has opened its doors to adventure travellers. Journey from the town of Ushuaia to the Antarctic Peninsula and be totally mesmerized by the unique wildlife, majestic icebergs and superb scenery. Sightings of large penguin colonies, magnificent whales, and breathtaking icebergs are common and will make each day more incredible than the last.
Type of Travel: The Ushuaia Vessel Accommodation: 9 nights on board Meals: All meals while onboard Group Size: Maximum 90
Itinerary Day 1 Ushuaia Board your cruise in the afternoon and set sail in the evening through the Beagle Channel Days 2-3 Drake Passage Today we cross the Drake Passage spotting many of the Antarctic seabirds. Our boat has an open bridge policy which means you can join the officers and learn about the navigation, as well as keeping an eye out for whales! You will get you first sightings of icebergs indicating that we have reached the South Shetland islands Days 4-7 South Shetland Islands & Antarctica Peninsula Explore some of the South Shetland Islands and discover a plethora of wildlife. View huge penguin and seal colonies on King George Island and sail to Deception Island where you can swim in the hot springs of Pendulum Cove. Taking a dip in these warm waters is truly an unforgettable experience Days 8-9 Drake Passage Heading north across the Drake Passage you can enjoy some lectures about the region before heading back to Ushuaia Day 10 Disembark at Ushuaia
Included Excursions & Activities Visit the South Shetland Islands, sail across Drake Passage, swim in the warm waters off Deception Island, various lectures by onboard naturalists
Dates Contact an Adventure Specialist for dates and availability.
70
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/classic-antartica/raca
Physical Rating:
Antarctica
Sunset in Antarctica
The Ushuaia, Antarctica
Our Tucan Travel Tip Pack your swimming costume as it is possible to swim in the sea at Deception Island, warmed by volcanic currents.
ARGENTINA
CHILE
Seal swimming, Antarctica
Ushuaia
DRAKE PASSAGE
King George Island Livingston Island Deception Island Curverville Island Gerlache Strait Paradise Bay
South Shetland Islands
Adelaide Island
WEDDELL SEA
ANTARCTICA
A group on a zodiac, Antarctica
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/classic-antartica/raca
71
Welcome to North America
Welcome to
North America
Monument Valley, Utah
About North America We have a small selection of tours in North America that are perfect for those wanting to experience some of the highlights of the USA and Canada. Admire spectacular views of the Grand Canyon, spot grizzly bears in Alaska, try your luck in Las Vegas and learn about traditional Navajo culture at Monument Valley.
Your Transport
Your Accommodation
North America is famously vast and it can be quite difficult to get to national parks using public transport. This is why we use private vans to get you from A to B. Some of the private vans we use were new for 2016 with A/C, extra-large windows, more leg room and overhead racks for storage. They are comfortable and wellequipped for long drive days through remote corners of the region. Other forms of transport included are ferries, four wheel drives and your own two feet!
We use a combination of hotels and cabins through North America depending on the region. We choose the most appropriate form of accommodation available based on comfort and location ensuring you can make the most of each day of your tour. Where possible, we stay in hotels within walking distance of the main attractions.
About Each Day
Your Meals
Each day of your tour will bring you new experiences and opportunities. Whether you are passing dramatic scenery and crossing vast distances in the comfort of our air-conditioned van, or trekking through stunning valleys or down dusty canyons, the diversity and size of North America will astound you. We try to include many of the key highlights visited on your tour including entry to some of the world’s most famous national parks.
North America is famous for its food from fluffy pancakes dripping in maple syrup to southern-fried chicken and juicy burgers. This is why we don’t include any meals on our trips to allow you to sample as much of the local cuisine as possible. Some Tour Leaders may operate a food kitty on our trips to cover some lunches on travel days. For more details on this, see our website.
72
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/classic-antartica/raca
Welcome to North America
Grizzly Bear in Alaska
Las Vegas sign, Las Vegas
Top Five Highlights
Grand Canyon - Arizona San Francisco - California Lake Louise - Alberta, Canada Mounument Valley - Utah Wrangell-St Elias National Park - Alaska
The Las Vegas Strip is the brightest place on Earth when looked at from outer space.
Weather Guide This chart indicates the weather in North America throughout the year. Please be advised that this is a guide only, and you should check before you travel.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
New York Area, New York Los Angeles, California San Francisco, California Las Vegas, Nevada Miami, Florida Anchorage, Alaska Vancouver, Canada Cold <= 60F, Wet Cold <= 60F, Dry
Cool 60-70F, Wet Cool 60-70F, Dry
Warm 70-86F, Wet Warm 70-86F, Dry
Hot > 86+F, Wet Hot > 86+F, Dry
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/classic-antartica/raca
73
North America California, Nevada, Arizona & Utah
The Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
NEVADA UTAH
Yosemite National Park
Zion NP
San Francisco
Bryce Canyon National Park
Death Valley National Park
Las Vegas
Route 66
CALIFORNIA
Lake Powell Monument Valley Grand Canyon National Park
ARIZONA
Bryce Canyon, Utah
3889
Best of the West | 14 days
From CHF
Tour Code: RNABW • San Francisco to Las Vegas
I’d like my own room: CHF1449
Discover the pinnacle of Western America on this 14 day adventure from San Francisco to Las Vegas. Explore world-famous destinations like the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley and spend three days hiking through beautiful Yosemite National Park. Get a taste of Americana culture on Route 66 before ending the tour in the energetic city of Las Vegas!
Tour Information Accommodation: 10 nights hotels, 3 nights lodges Meals: 1 dinner included
Itinerary Day 1 San Francisco This is an arrival day Day 2 San Francisco to Yosemite National Park Stop to admire views of the Golden Gate Bridge en-route to Yosemite National Park Days 3-4 Yosemite National Park Explore the beautiful national park and the Giant Sequoia trees Day 5 Death Valley Drive to Death Valley. It is the hottest, driest and lowest place in America. This evening you can enjoy cheese and wine tasting Days 6-7 Death Valley to Zion National Park Enter the Mormon state of Utah and head to Zion National Park. For the best views, challenge yourself with a hike to Angels Landing Day 8 Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon Head to Bryce Canyon National Park and admire the dramatic sandstone spires Day 9 Bryce Canyon to Lake Powell Enjoy a Navajo guided tour of Antelope Canyon before passing spectacular views en-route to Lake Powell. Here you can take a dip in the warm waters Day 10 Lake Powell to Monument Valley Visit Horseshoe Bend and gaze down into the canyon below before travelling to the heart of the Navajo region to Monument Valley. Here you will be taken on a Navajo-guided backroads tour Days 11-12 Monument Valley to Grand Canyon Marvel at the vast size of the Grand Canyon. You can hike into the canyon and along the rim Day 13 Grand Canyon to Las Vegas Drive along Route 66 to the bright lights of Las Vegas Day 14 Depart Las Vegas
Dates
Group Size: Average 10, maximum 13 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Navajo guided tour of Monument Valley, Navajo guided tour of Antelope Slot Canyon, entry to Yosemite National Park, entry to Death Valley National Park, entry to Zion National Park, entry to Bryce Canyon National Park, Lake Powell & Antelope Canyon, entry to Grand Canyon National Park, Horseshoe Bend, drive Route 66 and stop at the town of Seligman, driving tour of Las Vegas Strip
Our Tucan Travel Tip
Start tour
End tour
Sun 17 Dec 17 Mon 26 Mar 18 Mon 09 Apr 18 Sun 29 Apr 18 Wed 16 May 18
Sat 30 Dec 17 Sun 08 Apr 18 Sun 22 Apr 18 Sat 12 May 18 Tue 29 May 18
74
Type of Travel: Private vehicle
Start tour
Mon 28 May 18 Fri 08 Jun 18 Tue 26 Jun 18 Tue 24 Jul 18 Sun 29 Jul 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 10 Jun 18 Thu 21 Jun 18 Mon 09 Jul 18 Mon 06 Aug 18 Sat 11 Aug 18
Thu 09 Aug 18 Wed 29 Aug 18 Sat 08 Sep 18 Sun 23 Sep 18
Wed 22 Aug 18 Tue 11 Sep 18 Fri 21 Sep 18 Sat 06 Oct 18
Sun 07 Oct 18 Tue 16 Oct 18 Sun 25 Nov 18 Sun 16 Dec 18
Sat 20 Oct 18 Mon 29 Oct 18 Sat 08 Dec 18 Sat 29 Dec 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/best-of-the-west/rnabw
Book an extra few days at the start and end of this tour to make the most of two of the USA’s greatest cities.
North America Nevada, Arizona & Utah
Route 66
UTAH
NEVADA
Bryce Canyon National Park
Zion National Park
Monument Valley
Las Vegas
Grand Canyon National Park
Route 66 ARIZONA
Exploring Zion National Park, Utah
1949
Vegas, Valleys & Canyons | 9 days
From CHF
Tour Code: RNAVC â&#x20AC;˘ Las Vegas to Las Vegas
Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like my own room: From CHF539
Starting and finishing in Las Vegas, this nine day tour is packed with iconic national parks, dramatic lunar landscapes and stunning views. Providing an in depth look at three very different states in the Western corner of the USA, this tour will give you a glimpse into part of the country few tourists really discover.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Private vehicle Accommodation: 8 nights hotels
Itinerary
Meals: No meals included
Day 1 Las Vegas This is your arrival day Days 2-3 Las Vegas to Zion National Park View the Emerald Pools and challenge yourself with a hike to Angels Landing in Zion National Park. Dip your toes in the water at Riverside Walk or wade through The Narrows, for a view inside a natural slot canyon Day 4 Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon Learn about the mysterious hoodoos in Bryce Canyon National Park and hike amongst them on the Peek-a-Boo Loop trails Day 5 Bryce Canyon to Monument Valley Discover the incredible rock formations in Monument Valley. Here you will be taken on a Navajo-guided backroads tour Days 6-7 Monument Valley to Grand Canyon Stand on the rim of the Grand Canyon and admire its dramatic vastness. Hike into the canyon for a challenge or explore the canyon from different angles Day 8 Grand Canyon to Las Vegas Return to the bright lights of Las Vegas. Enjoy one last meal at one of the many lively restaurants before hitting one of the many casinos, clubs or shows Day 9 Depart Las Vegas
Group Size: Average 10, maximum 13 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Navajo guided tour of Monument Valley, entry to Zion National Park, entry to Bryce Canyon National Park, entry to Grand Canyon National Park, drive Route 66 and stop at the town of Seligman, driving tour of Las Vegas Strip, Glen Canyon Dam
Dates Start tour
End tour
Sun 17 Dec 17 Wed 17 Jan 18 Sun 11 Feb 18 Sun 11 Mar 18
Mon 25 Dec 17 Thu 25 Jan 18 Mon 19 Feb 18 Mon 19 Mar 18
Start tour
Sun 15 Apr 18 Sun 06 May 18 Thu 07 Jun 18 Sun 08 Jul 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Mon 23 Apr 18 Mon 14 May 18 Sat 15 Jun 18 Mon 16 Jul 18
Tue 07 Aug 18 Sun 09 Sep 18 Sun 23 Sep 18
Wed 15 Aug 18 Mon 17 Sep 18 Mon 01 Oct 18
Sun 14 Oct 18 Thu 15 Nov 18 Sun 16 Dec 18
Mon 22 Oct 18 Fri 23 Nov 18 Mon 24 Dec 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/vegas-valleys-and-canyons/rnavc
75
North America Canada
Wells Gray Provincial Park, Canada
BRITISH COLUMBIA ALBERTA Wells Gray Jasper National Park Peyto Lake Provincial Park Icefields Parkway Lake Louise Whistler Banff National Park Calgary
Vancouver
CANADA
Jasper National Park, Canada
Canadian Rockies Adventure | 12 days
I’d like my own room: CHF1079
Tour Code: RNACA • Vancouver to Calgary
Enjoy world-class hiking opportunities on this adventure through some of Canada’s greatest landscapes. Travel through the heart of the Rockies and enjoy treks through scenic national parks and legendary valleys. Visit breathtaking lakes, admire vast glaciers and relax in hot springs before saying goodbye to nature and ending in the cosmopolitan city of Calgary.
Dates
76
Type of Travel: Private vehicle and your own two feet Accommodation: 10 nights hotels, 1 night log cabin
Group Size: Average 10, maximum 13
Day 1 Vancouver This is an arrival day Day 2 Vancouver to Whistler Travel through Cache Creek to the adventure hub of Whistler. Here you can zip-line through the trees or try many hiking trails Day 3 Whistler From Whistler you will visit Garibaldi Provincial Park where your guide will lead you on the Cheakamus Lake Trail. It offers breath-taking views of turquoise lakes and lush forests Day 4 Whistler to Wells Gray Provincial Park Drive along the old Gold Rush Trail to Wells Gray Provincial Park. Visit the the famous Helmcken Falls stopping at a number of viewpoints Days 5-6 Wells Gray Provincial Park to Jasper National Park Enjoy three very different hikes in the wilderness landscapes of Jasper National Park Days 7 Jasper National Park to Golden Enjoy a scenic drive through the heart of the Rockies on the Icefields Parkway before heading to Golden. Here your guide will take you on the Parker Ridge Trail to see the Saskatchewan Glacier Day 8 Golden From Golden you will explore Yoho National Park. Here you will hike the Emerald Basin Trail for views of the President mountain ranges Day 9 Golden to Banff Enjoy a guided hike through the Lake Louise region before staying in the town of Banff Day 10 Banff National Park You have the option to ride up the gondola to Sulphur Mountain in Banff National Park Day 11 Banff National Park to Calgary Drive to the cosmopolitan city of Calgary famous for its Western roots Day 12 Depart Calgary
Start tour
Tour Information
Meals: No meals included
Itinerary
Sat 26 May 18 Sat 23 Jun 18
2619
From CHF
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Wed 06 Jun 18 Wed 04 Jul 18
Thu 05 Jul 18 Sat 21 Jul 18
Mon 16 Jul 18 Wed 01 Aug 18
Tue 07 Aug 18 Sat 25 Aug 18
Sat 18 Aug 18 Wed 05 Sep 18t
Sat 01 Sep 18 Sat 08 Sep 18
Wed 12 Sep 18 Wed 19 Sep 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/canadian-rockies-adventure/rnaca
Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Entry & Cheakamus Lake Trail in Garibaldi Provincial Park, entry & Helmcken Falls Rim Trail in Wells Gray Provincial Park, entry & Overlander Falls, Maligne Canyon & Cavell Meadows Trails in Jasper National Park, drive the Icefields Parkway, Parker Ridge Trail, entry & Emerald Basin Trail in Yoho National Park, Lake Agnes Trail visiting Lake Louise, entry & Sulphur Mountain Trail and springs in Banff National Park
North America Alaska
Denali National Park, Alaska
USA
Denali National Park Talkeetna
Alaska Range
ALASKA
Anchorage
Valdez Wrangell-St. National Park
Seward/Kenai Fjords National Park
Bear catching a fish, Alaska
3559
Alaska Uncovered | 12 days
From CHF
Tour Code: RNAAU • Anchorage to Anchorage
I’d like my own room: CHF1189
Conquer Alaska on this adventure through one of the most unspoilt regions of North America. Travelling through breath-taking scenery, you will encounter a wonderland of snow-capped mountains, icy glaciers and untamed national parks. There are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife including on the ferry through the Prince William Sound and whilst hiking Denali National Park.
Itinerary
Tour Information Type of Travel: Private vehicle Accommodation: 6 nights hotels, 2 nights cabins, 2 nights lodges, 1 night in a lodge with a shared bathroom Meals: No meals included
Day 1 Anchorage This is an arrival day. Arrive early to make the most of the city Day 2 Anchorage to Seward Travel to Seward first stopping at the Portage Glacier. Seward is our gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park where you can opt for a whale and wildlife-spotting cruise Day 3 Kenai Fjords National Park Today we explore more of Kenai Fjords National Park, taking the Exit Glacier hike for breathtaking views Days 4-5 Seward to Valdez Pass icebergs and islands on the ferry to Prince William Sound to Valdez. It is known as the “Switzerland of Alaska” due to its mountainous landscapes Days 6-7 Valdez to Wrangell-St Elias National Park Admire magnificent glaciers in Wrangell-St Elias National Park and explore the historic area of McCarthy and the Kennecott Mine Day 8 Alaskan Range Drive through the Alaskan Mountain Range arriving at a rustic lodge Days 9-10 Alaskan Range to Denali National Park Go hiking and watch a dog sled demonstration in Denali National Park Day 11 Anchorage Return to Anchorage stopping first at the town of Talkeetna Day 12 Depart Anchorage
Group Size: Average 10, maximum 13 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Ferry through Prince William Sound, entry and dog sled demonstration in Denali National Park, Denali bus pass, entry to Wrangell-St Elias National Park, Talkeetna Ranger Station (depending on availability)
Dates Start tour
Fri 08 Jun 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Tue 19 Jun 18
Sun 22 Jul 18
Thu 02 Aug 18
Sun 05 Aug 18
Thu 16 Aug 18
Fri 17 Aug 18
Tue 28 Aug 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/alaska-uncovered/rnaau
77
Welcome to Europe
Europe Welcome to
Tallinn, Estonia
About Europe From Russia all the way down to Istanbul, we have a number of tours that get under the skin of Eastern and Central Europe. By day you can visit sophisticated cities and quiet villages, art galleries and museums, cathedrals and castles, historic monuments, varied architecture and bustling street cafĂŠs. By night you can enjoy lively bars and excellent restaurants sampling local delicacies from region to region.
Your Transport
Your Accommodation
Europe has some of the best transport infrastructure in the world, with motorways, railways and ferries connecting people with ease and comfort. We will use a variety of transport to get you from A to B on your tour, depending on the departure time, level of comfort and ease of use. You will even use your own two feet, walking between train stations and hotels. With us, you will get to see and experience the way millions of people travel around Europe every day.
In Europe, we use a range of hotels, guesthouses and apartments. We try to stay in the heart of the cities and towns we visit, close to metro stations and key transport links. At Tucan Travel, we know that your time is precious, and this is why we sometimes use overnight trains when the journeys are long. This allows you to make the most of each place we visit.
About Each Day
Supporting Local Communities
Our tours in Europe cover a huge variety of countries and cultures meaning no day is the same. An adventure in Europe includes excursions to some of the ancient citadels, ruins and buildings that are famous across the world. Our knowledgeable Tour Leaders can also help arrange a number of optional excursions which can be found on our itineraries online.
Our tours in Europe are packed with visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and we include many guided tours of these locations. The fees for these excursions go back into the maintenance and restoration of the sites, protecting it for future generations to come. We use mainly public transport in this region which keeps our carbon footprint low and stay in locally owned hotels and apartments, putting money straight back into the communities.
78
View online | www.tucantravel.com/destinations/europe
Welcome to Europe
Albania Austria Bulgaria Bosnia & Herzegovina Croatia Czech Republic Estonia Hungary Iceland Kosovo Latvia Lithuania Macedonia Montenegro Poland Romania Russia Serbia Slovakia Slovenia Turkey
Group at Devils Town, Serbia
City centre of Kraków, Poland
Top Five Highlights
Northern Lights - Iceland St Basil’s Cathedral - Russia Plitvice National Park - Croatia Stari Most - Bosnia & Herzegovina Bran Castle - Romania
Budapest has more thermal springs than any other capital city in the world Weather Guide
This chart indicates the weather in Europe throughout the year. Please be advised that this is a guide only, and you should check before you travel.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Moscow, Russia St Petersburg, Russia Budapest, Hungary Dubrovnik, Croatia Istanbul, Turkey Reykjavík, Iceland Tallinn, Estonia Czech Republic, Prague Vienna, Austria Belgrade, Serbia Warsaw, Poland Bucharest, Romania Sofia, Bulgaria Cold <= 60F, Wet Cold <= 60F, Dry
Cool 60-70F, Wet Cool 60-70F, Dry
Warm 70-86F, Wet Warm 70-86F, Dry
Hot > 86+F, Wet Hot > 86+F, Dry
View online | www.tucantravel.com/destinations/europe
79
Europe Iceland
Views of Reykjavík, Iceland
Borgarnes ICELAND
Reykjavík Selfoss Kirkjubæjarklaustur
The Northern Lights, Iceland
Northern Lights | 8 days Tour Code: RICNL • Reykjavík to Reykjavík
In eight days maximise your chances of seeing the spectacular Northern Lights as well as packing in some of the top highlights of Iceland. Discover active volcanoes, admire tumbling waterfalls, see icelandic horses and take a dip in the relaxing warm waters of the Blue Lagoon. Staying in handpicked hotels, we chase the Northern Lights on this whirlwind icelandic adventure.
Itinerary Day 1 Reykjavík On arrival you will have an included transfer to take you to your hotel Day 2 Reykjavík to Borganes En-route to Borgarnes there is a stop in the Saga Valley where you can climb the Grábrok Volcanic Crater. On arrival, enjoy a lecture about the Northern Lights before heading into the hotel garden for your first chance of spotting them Day 3 Borganes Take a cruise through the Breiðafjörður Fjord and tour the local area, visiting fishing villages. Tonight, look for the Northern Lights from the hotel’s hot tub Day 4 Borganes to Selfoss Drive along the Golden Circle route to Selfoss, enjoying stops along the way. View bubbling geysers, admire waterfalls and visit a traditional Icelandic Horse Stable Days 5-6 Selfoss to Kirkjubæjarklaustur Stay in Kirkjubæjarklaustur where you will visit a glacier lagoon with floating icebergs Day 7 Kirkjubæjarklaustur to Reykjavík Stop at the black lava sand beaches in Reynisfjara and the bird cliffs at Reynisfjara. Later, return to Reykjavík and take a dip in the Blue Lagoon. Tonight enjoy a final chance spotting the Northern Lights Day 8 Depart Reykjavík
Included Excursions & Activities Six opportunities to see the Northern Lights, entry to Skogar Folk Museum & Turf Houses, Breiðafjörður fjord cruise, visit a geysir geothermal field, visit a traditional shark farmer, Eyjafjallajökull Information Centre, visit Icelandic horse stables, visit a geothermal greenhouse, entry to the Blue Lagoon, arrival and departure transfers
Dates This tour usually departs every Friday and Sunday between October and April.
80
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/northern-lights/ricnl
2279
From CHF
I’d like my own room: CHF599
Tour Information Type of Travel: Private vehicle Accommodation: 7 nights hotels Meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner included Group Size: Average 30-35, maximum 45 Physical Rating:
Europe Iceland
Blue Lagoon hot springs, Iceland
Akureyri Lake Mývatn Egilsstaðir ICELAND
Reykjavík
Flúðir Kirkjubæjarklaustur
Geysers, Iceland
2149
Circuit of Iceland | 8 days
From CHF
Tour Code: RICCI • Reykjavík to Reykjavík
I’d like my own room: From CHF469
Marvel at the unspoilt landscapes of Iceland on this eight day loop around the country. Discover the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’ as you hike along black sand beaches, admire vast glaciers and spot unique lava formations. Visit small fishing villages, relax in bubbling pools and see Europe’s biggest glacier.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Private vehicle Accommodation: 7 nights hotels
Itinerary
Meals: 7 breakfasts included
Day 1 Reykjavík On arrival you will have an included transfer to take you to your hotel Day 2 Reykjavík to Akureyri Meet your group in the morning and head to Akureyri. On the way there is a chance to climb the Grábrok Volcanic Crater and visit a natural history and seal museum at Hvammstangi Day 3 Akureyri to Lake Mývatn Enjoy panoramic views of Eyjafjörður Fjord before heading to Lake Mývatn where you can soak in the thermal Mývatn Nature Baths Day 4 Lake Mývatn to Egilsstaðir Start the day with a hike through the lava formations of Dimmuborgir before heading east to Egilsstaðir Day 5 Egilsstaðir to Kirkjubæjarklaustur Pass breathtaking fjord landscapes on the way to Kirkjubæjarklaustur. You can view Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull Day 6 Kirkjubæjarklaustur to Flúðir Drive across the Eldhraun lava field, stopping to visit the Skógafoss Waterfall and the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, before staying at Flúðir Day 7 Flúðir to Reykjavík Travel the Golden Circle route, visiting an Icelandic horse stable. You will return to Reykjavík where you can enjoy a short city tour Day 8 Depart Reykjavík
Group Size: Average 20-30, maximum 30 Physical Rating:
Our Tucan Travel Tip Pack a windproof jacket and waterproof boots to keep you warm when exploring Iceland, as the weather can be very unpredictable.
Included Excursions & Activities Entry to the Natural History & Seal Museum, visit Viðimýri Turf Church, entry to Mývatn Nature Baths, entry to Petra’s Stone & Mineral Collection, Eyjafjallajökull Information Centre, visit Icelandic horse stables, visit a geothermal greenhouse, arrival and departure transfers
Dates This tour usually departs every Friday all year and most Tuesdays in May, October, November and December.
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/circuit-of-iceland/ricci
81
Europe Russia
Colourful Russian Nesting Dolls, Russia
St Petersburg RUSSIA
Veliky Novgorod
Moscow
Posing in front of St Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow, Russia
949
Russian Highlights | 7 days
From CHF
Tour Code: EEHR • Moscow to St Petersburg
I’d like my own room: CHF169
This week long adventure provides a unique insight into Russia’s history and culture. Wander the Kremlin’s red brick towers and gaze over the city’s iconic onion domes, travel to Veliky Novgorod and visit the oldest cathedral in Russia. Head to St Petersburg where you can enjoy the Venetian-style canal network, neoclassical architecture and European-influenced sophistication.
Day 1 Moscow This is an arrival day. Tonight you will meet your tour leader and group Day 2 Moscow Visit Moscow’s Red Square and admire the spectacular architecture of St Basil’s Cathedral. Enjoy a guided tour of the Kremlin. Admire the metro system’s architecture on the way back to your hotel, the network is beautifully decorated and you can take a tour of the different stations Day 3 Moscow to Veliky Novgorod Enjoy a full day exploring Moscow before taking the overnight train to Veliky Novgorod, one of the oldest cities in Russia Day 4 Veliky Novgorod Enjoy a guided tour of the Novgorod Kremlin and St Sophia’s Cathedral Days 5-6 Veliky Novgorod to St Petersburg The former capital of the Russian Empire, visit the Winter Palace and the Church of Spilt Blood. Here we included a guided tour of the Hermitage Museum with its extensive art collection Day 7 Depart St Petersburg
Included Excursions & Activities Guided tour of Moscow Kremlin, guided tour of St Sophia’s Cathedral, guided tour of Novgorod Kremlin, guided tour of Hermitage Museum
Dates Fri 20 Apr 18 Fri 04 May 18 Fri 18 May 18 Fri 01 Jun 18
82
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 5 nights hotels, 1 overnight train Meals: 6 breakfasts included
Itinerary
Start tour
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Thu 26 Apr 18 Thu 10 May 18 Thu 24 May 18 Thu 07 Jun 18
Fri 15 Jun 18 Fri 29 Jun 18 Fri 13 Jul 18 Fri 27 Jul 18
Thu 21 Jun 18 Thu 05 Jul 18 Thu 19 Jul 18 Thu 02 Aug 18
Start tour
Fri 10 Aug 18 Fri 24 Aug 18 Fri 07 Sep 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Thu 16 Aug 18 Thu 30 Aug 18 Thu 13 Sep 18
Fri 21 Sep 18 Fri 05 Oct 18 Fri 19 Oct 18
Thu 27 Sep 18 Thu 11 Oct 18 Thu 25 Oct 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/russian-highlights/eehr
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Russian Visa! Everyone needs a visa to enter Russia and to get one, you will need an Invitation Letter. We can issue this letter for you to take to your nearest Russian Embassy or consulate. Ask your Adventure Specialist for more details.
Europe Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania & Poland
Warsaw, Poland
Tallinn ESTONIA
LATVIA
Riga
LITHUANIA Vilnius
POLAND
Warsaw
Beautiful city of Tallinn, Estonia
799
Baltic Capitals | 7 days
From CHF
Tour Code: EEBC • Tallinn to Warsaw
I’d like my own room: CHF199
This whistlestop tour of the Baltic capitals captures the history of this charming corner of Europe. Discover Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland as you wander the old towns of each of their capitals arriving in Warsaw where the city has risen out of the ashes to become a modern metropolis.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 6 nights hotels
Itinerary
Meals: 6 breakfasts included
Day 1 Tallinn This is an arrival day. Tonight you will meet your Tour Leader and group at your pre-departure meeting Days 2-3 Tallinn to Riga Crossing into Latvia, stop in the enchanting city of Riga with its medieval centre and modern city infrastructure. Wander the old town and visit the famous Gothic Church of St Peter’s. You can climb to the top of its spire for panoramic views of the city Days 4-5 Riga to Vilnius Discover Vilnius in Lithuania. Visit Gediminas Castle on the top of Gediminas Hill and Cathedral Square at the base of the hill. Look out for the secret stebuklas tile and when you find it, make a wish. You will also have a guided tour of the KGB Museum Day 6 Vilnius to Warsaw Poland’s capital of Warsaw is your last stop. We arrive in the evening giving you time to wander the Old Town. We recommend booking extra nights to visit the Royal Castle and the Historical Museum of Warsaw Day 7 Depart Warsaw
Included Excursions & Activities
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
“ I loved the flexibility of this tour, everything was planned by Tucan Travel. This took the stress out of getting from city to city. ” - Kell Karg - February 2017
Entry & guided tour of the Vilnius KGB Museum
Dates Start tour
Fri 30 Mar 18 Fri 13 Apr 18 Fri 27 Apr 18 Fri 11 May 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Thu 05 Apr 18 Thu 19 Apr 18 Thu 03 May 18 Thu 17 May 18
Fri 25 May 18 Fri 08 Jun 18 Fri 22 Jun 18 Fri 06 Jul 18
Thu 31 May 18 Thu 14 Jun 18 Thu 28 Jun 18 Thu 12 Jul 18
Start tour
Fri 20 Jul 18 Fri 03 Aug 18 Fri 17 Aug 18 Fri 31 Aug 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Thu 26 Jul 18 Thu 09 Aug 18 Thu 23 Aug 18 Thu 06 Sep 18
Fri 14 Sep 18 Fri 28 Sep 18 Fri 12 Oct 18 Fri 26 Oct 18
Thu 20 Sep 18 Thu 04 Oct 18 Thu 18 Oct 18 Thu 01 Nov 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/baltic-capitals/eebc
83
Europe Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia & Czech Republic
High Tatras Mountains, Slovakia
Tallinn ESTONIA LATVIA
Riga
LITHUANIA Vilnius POLAND Warsaw CZECH REPUBLIC
Prague
Kraków High Tatras Mountains SLOVAKIA
Local chicken Prague, Czechbuses Republic in Antigua
1439
Tallinn to Prague | 13 days
From CHF
I’d like my own room: CHF379
Tour Code: EETP • Tallinn to Prague
On this short tour you will get to visit the historic old towns of five distinct Eastern-European capitals. Many are well-preserved and there are countless cathedrals, marketplaces, plazas and cobbled streets to be explored. You will also take a guided tour of the harrowing Auschwitz Concentration Camp.
Meals: 12 breakfasts included
Day 1 Tallinn This is your arrival day. Tonight you will meet your group and tour leader at a pre-departure meeting Days 2-3 Tallinn to Riga Travel to Riga and explore the UNESCO-listed old town. The city is famous for its Art Nouveau architecture as well as the gothic St Peter’s Church Days 4-5 Riga to Vilnius Cross into Lithuania and travel to Vilnius where you will have a guided tour of the KGB Museum Days 6-7 Vilnius to Warsaw Entering Poland you can compare the Old Town of Warsaw with its lively modern infrastructure Days 8-9 Warsaw to Kraków Explore Kraków, Poland’s cultural and historical city. We recommend visiting Wawel Castle, a royal palace from the Renaissance period. Kraków is also the base for visiting Auschwitz Day 10 Kraków to the High Tatras Mountains Travel to the High Tatras, a mountain range on the border of Slovakia and Poland. There are many hiking trails to explore and you can admire the glacial Štrbské pleso lake Days 11-12 High Tatras Mountains to Prague Spend the morning enjoying the crisp mountain air before catching an overnight train to Prague. The next day you are free to sample some of the city’s finest beers and visit Hradčany Castle Day 13 Depart Prague
Included Excursions & Activities Entry & guided tour of the Vilnius KGB Museum, guided tour of Auschwitz Concentration Camp
Dates Start tour
84
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 11 nights hotels, 1 overnight train
Itinerary
Fri 30 Mar 18 Fri 13 Apr 18 Fri 27 Apr 18 Fri 11 May 18
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Wed 11 Apr 18 Wed 25 Apr 18 Wed 09 May 18 Wed 23 May 18
Fri 25 May 18 Fri 08 Jun 18 Fri 22 Jun 18 Fri 06 Jul 18
Wed 06 Jun 18 Wed 20 Jun 18 Wed 04 Jul 18 Wed 18 Jul 18
Start tour
Fri 20 Jul 18 Fri 03 Aug 18 Fri 17 Aug 18 Fri 31 Aug 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Wed 01 Aug 18 Wed 15 Aug 18 Wed 29 Aug 18 Wed 12 Sep 18
Fri 14 Sep 18 Fri 28 Sep 18 Fri 12 Oct 18 Fri 26 Oct 18
Wed 26 Sep 18 Wed 10 Oct 18 Wed 24 Oct 18 Wed 07 Nov 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/tallinn-to-prague/eetp
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
“ Fabulous tour, excellent way to see Eastern Europe with a good combination of group activities and free time ” - Kyra Thorncraft - March 2017
Europe Poland, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Austria & Hungary
The Széchenyi Chain Bridge in Budapest, Hungary
POLAND
CZECH REPUBLIC Prague
Warsaw
Kraków
SLOVAKIA High Tatras Mountains Vienna AUSTRIA
Budapest HUNGARY
Local chicken Statue of Johann buses Strauss in Antigua in Vienna, Austria
1519
Central Europe Highlights | 11 days
From CHF
Tour Code: EEXC • Warsaw to Budapest
I’d like my own room: CHF359
A short adventure from Warsaw to Budapest, travel through five countries, four of which were hidden behind the Iron Curtain for many decades. Learn about the Holocaust at Auschwitz, visit Vienna, one of the most musical cities in the world, enjoy the crisp air up in the High Tatras Mountains and indulge in the hot baths of Budapest.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 9 nights hotels, 1 overnight train Meals: 10 breakfasts included
Itinerary Day 1 Warsaw This is your arrival day. Tonight there will be a pre-departure meeting with your Tour Leader and group Days 2-3 Warsaw to Kraków Travel to Kraków, a city known for its beautiful architecture and historical monuments. From here you will visit Auschwitz Day 4 Kraków to the High Tatras Mountains Cross into Slovakia and stay in the High Tatras Mountains. Enjoy the many hiking trails and discover the glacial lake of Štrbské pleso Day 5 High Tatras Mountains to Prague Spend the morning admiring the mountain views before taking an overnight train to Prague Days 6-7 Prague Visit Hradčany Castle and St Vitus Cathedral for magical views over the city and admire the stunning architecture as you explore the cobbled streets Days 8-9 Prague to Vienna Head to Austria and fall in love with the romantic city of Vienna. Here you can watch an opera or ballet performance in one of the many concert houses Day 10 Vienna to Budapest Sample traditional goulash in Budapest, stroll down the Danube River and grab some souvenirs Day 11 Depart Budapest
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Guided tour of Auschwitz Concentration Camp
Dates Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Thu 05 Apr 18 Thu 19 Apr 18 Thu 03 May 18 Thu 17 May 18
Sun 15 Apr 18 Sun 29 Apr 18 Sun 13 May 18 Sun 27 May 18
Thu 31 May 18 Thu 14 Jun 18 Thu 28 Jun 18 Thu 12 Jul 18
Sun 10 Jun 18 Sun 24 Jun 18 Sun 08 Jul 18 Sun 22 Jul 18
Thu 26 Jul 18 Thu 09 Aug 18 Thu 23 Aug 18 Thu 06 Sep 18
Sun 05 Aug 18 Sun 19 Aug 18 Sun 02 Sep 18 Sun 16 Sep 18
Thu 20 Sep 18 Thu 04 Oct 18 Thu 18 Oct 18 Thu 01 Nov 18
Sun 30 Sep 18 Sun 14 Oct 18 Sun 28 Oct 18 Sun 11 Nov 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/central-europe-highlights/eexc
85
Europe Visits 7 Countries
Lake Ohrid, Macedonia
2039
Balkans in 2 Weeks | 15 days
From CHF
Tour Code: EETW • Dubrovnik to Dubrovnik
I’d like my own room: CHF499
Start and end your tour in the charming city of Dubrovnik. In just 15 days this tour includes highlights from seven diverse countries. Visit four UNESCO sites including the Stari Most Bridge and take a boat ride around Matka Canyon. Discover tranquil lakes, ancient citadels and lively towns on this complete adventure through the Balkans region.
Type of Travel: Private vehicle Accommodation: 12 nights hotels, 2 nights apartments Meals: 14 breakfasts included
Itinerary Day 1 Dubrovnik This is your arrival day Days 2-3 Dubrovnik to Sarajevo Travel to Sarajevo, stopping en-route at the picturesque monastery of Blagaj Tekke. Next enjoy a visit to Mostar, famous for the Stari Most Bridge before arriving at Sarajevo in the afternoon. The next day you have free to explore Days 4-5 Sarajevo to Belgrade Cross into Serbia stopping at the capital, Belgrade. Here you’ll visit the Military Museum Days 6-7 Belgrade to Sofia Wander amongst bustling markets and visit the 900 year old Boyana Church in Sofia Day 8 Sofia to Skopje Travel to Skopje, Macedonia’s capital. Admire the many historical monuments including the Kale Fortress Days 9-10 Skope to Lake Ohrid Cruise down the Matka Canyon before traveling to the beautiful town of Ohrid situated on the shores of the lake Day 11 Lake Ohrid to Tirana Heading into Albania the first stop is Berat. Admire the white ottoman houses before continuing to the colourful capital of Tirana Days 12-13 Tirana to Kotor Soak up the charming town of Kotor in Montenegro. Enjoy a coastal meal at the Bay of Kotor or explore Stari Grad, the UNESCO listed Old Town Day 14 Kotor to Dubrovnik On the way to Dubrovnik you will stop at Trebinje for a winery tour and tasting Day 15 Depart Dubrovnik
Included Excursions & Activities Visit Mostar, entry to Blagaj Tekke, entry to the Belgrade Military Museum, Matka Canyon boat ride, visit Berat, stop at Trebinje for wine tour & tasting, 24 hour Dubrovnik city card including access to the Dubrovnik City Walls
Dates Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 22 Apr 18 Sun 06 May 18 Sun 20 May 18 Sun 03 Jun 18
Sun 06 May 18 Sun 20 May 18 Sun 03 Jun 18 Sun 17 Jun 18
Sun 17 Jun 18 Sun 01 Jul 18 Sun 15 Jul 18
Sun 01 Jul 18 Sun 15 Jul 18 Sun 29 Jul 18
Sun 29 Jul 18 Sun 12 Aug 18 Sun 26 Aug 18
Sun 12 Aug 18 Sun 26 Aug 18 Sun 09 Sep 18
Sun 09 Sep 18 Sun 23 Sep 18 Sun 07 Oct 18
Sun 23 Sep 18 Sun 07 Oct 18 Sun 21 Oct 18
86
Tour Information
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/balkans-in-two-weeks/eetw
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Want to start in Bulgaria? You can also start and finish this tour in Sofia, Bulgaria. See Tour Code EETWS online.
Europe Visits 7 Countries
Skanderbeg Square, Tirana, Albania
Exploring Skopje, Macedonia - Taken by Emma Nelson
Our Tucan Travel Tip Summer in the Balkans can get very hot so remember to pack your sunscreen!
Belgrade
BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA
Kotor, Montenegro - Taken by Jenny Aitken
Sarajevo CROATIA
SERBIA
Mostar MONTENEGRO
Sofia
Dubrovnik BULGARIA
Kotor Skopje MACEDONIA
Tirana
Lake Ohrid
ALBANIA
Dubrovnik, Croatia
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/balkans-in-two-weeks/eetw
87
Europe Hungary, Serbia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Albania & Croatia
Kotor, Taken by Bryony Battis
Budapest HUNGARY
Novi Sad Belgrade SERBIA CROATIA
Dubrovnik
KOSOVO Kotor
Pristina Skopje
Tirana
MACEDONIA Lake Ohrid
ALBANIA
Local chicken Group at Devil’s buses Town, in Antigua Serbia
1969
Budapest to Dubrovnik | 15 days
From CHF
Tour Code: EEPD • Budapest to Dubrovnik
I’d like my own room: CHF489
In two weeks combine seven countries travelling from Hungary to Croatia. Starting in the cultural city of Budapest, we enjoy an adventure that includes fortress tours and tranquil boat rides. Visit the bizarre landscapes of Devil’s Town in Serbia and walk the walls of Kruja in Albania. Enjoy coastal views in Montenegro before finishing your tour in the charming city of Dubrovnik.
Type of Travel: Mixture of private and public transport Accommodation: 12 nights hotels, 2 nights apartments Meals: 14 breakfasts included
Itinerary Day 1 Budapest Arrive today and meet your group and Tour Leader in the evening Day 2 Budapest to Novi Sad Cross into Serbia and travel to the artistic city of Novi Sad. It is a cultural hub and boasts over 88 art studios Days 3-4 Novi Sad to Belgrade Take a tunnel tour of the Petrovaradin Fortress before departing for Belgrade Days 5-6 Belgrade to Pristina Head towards Pristina. On the way there is a stop at the peculiar Devil’s Town rock formation Days 7-8 Pristina to Skopje Cross into Macedonia and see the Mother Teresa statue in Skopje Days 9-10 Skopje to Lake Ohrid Travel to Lake Ohrid. Wander through the town and hike to the top of the ancient walled fortress. You can also take a boat out onto the lake Day 11 Lake Ohrid to Tirana On the way to Tirana, stop in the small town of Kruja to visit the Skanderbeg Museum Days 12-13 Tirana to Kotor Crossing into Montenegro head to the pretty city of Kotor. Enjoy a guided tour of the Old Town Day 14 Kotor to Dubrovnik Arriving in Croatia, your final stop is Dubrovnik. Stroll along the city walls and admire views of the Adriatic Sea Day 15 Depart Dubrovnik
Included Excursions & Activities Petrovaradin Fortress tunnel tour, visit Devil’s Town, Matka Canyon boat ride, entry to Kruja City walls and Skanderbeg Museum, stop at Trebinje for wine tour & tasting, 24 hr Dubrovnik city card including access to the Dubrovnik City Walls
Dates Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 15 Apr 18 Sun 29 Apr 18 Sun 13 May 18 Sun 27 May 18
Sun 29 Apr 18 Sun 13 May 18 Sun 27 May 18 Sun 10 Jun 18
Sun 10 Jun 18 Sun 24 Jun 18 Sun 08 Jul 18 Sun 22 Jul 18
Sun 24 Jun 18 Sun 08 Jul 18 Sun 22 Jul 18 Sun 05 Aug 18
Sun 05 Aug 18 Sun 19 Aug 18 Sun 02 Sep 18
Sun 19 Aug 18 Sun 02 Sep 18 Sun 16 Sep 18
Sun 16 Sep 18 Sun 30 Sep 18 Sun 14 Oct 18
Sun 30 Sep 18 Sun 14 Oct 18 Sun 28 Oct 18
88
Tour Information
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/budapest-to-dubrovnik/eepd
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
“ Very interesting and rewarding tour visiting less well known parts of the former Yugoslavia with Albania. Excellent itinerary being exposed to varied landscapes and local cultures. ” - Simon Mark Willans - May 2017
Europe Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Slovenia & Hungary
The Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Hungary
Budapest SLOVENIA Lake Bled
HUNGARY
Ljubljana
Zagreb
Plitvice National Park
CROATIA
BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA Sarajevo
Split
Mostar
Hvar Island
Dubrovnik LocalBled, Lake chicken Slovenia buses in Antigua
2139
Dubrovnik to Budapest | 15 days
From CHF
Tour Code: EEDP • Dubrovnik to Budapest
I’d like my own room: CHF419
Combine some of the most picture-perfect parts of Eastern Europe on this two week tour. This adventure includes one of Croatia’s most beautiful islands, as well as some fascinating highlights of Bosnia & Herzegovina, Slovenia and Hungary. Take a dip in Kravice Waterfall, enjoy a guided tour of the Diocletian’s Palace and visit the tranquil Lake Bled.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mixture of private and public transport Accommodation: 12 nights hotels, 2 nights guesthouses Meals: 12 breakfasts included
Itinerary Day 1 Dubrovnik This is your arrival day. Tonight you will meet your group at your pre-departure meeting Days 2-3 Dubrovnik to Sarajevo Cross into Bosnia & Herzegovina for Sarajevo and its many museums Day 4 Sarajevo to Mostar Admire the poignant Stari Most bridge in Mostar Days 5-6 Mostar to Hvar Returning to Croatia, spend two days on the beautiful island of Hvar. Enjoy al fresco cafes and stroll around the harbour Day 7 Hvar to Split Head to the coastal city of Split and tour Diocletian’s Palace Day 8 Split to Plitvice National Park Admire the many azure blue lakes in Plitvice National Park Days 9-10 Plitvice to Zagreb Your last stop in Croatia is Zagreb. Discover the historic Upper Town with churches from the 17th century Day 11 Zagreb to Lake Bled Cross into Slovenia and visit the charming town of Bled, on the banks of an emerald green lake. You can hire a boat and row across it to an island, home to a small baroque church Days 12-13 Lake Bled to Ljubljana Travel to Ljubljana. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walking tour of the city Day 14 Ljubljana to Budapest Cross into Hungary where your final destination is the cultural city of Budapest Day 15 Depart Budapest
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Entry to Kravice Waterfall, guided tour of Diocletian’s Palace, entry to Plitvice Lakes National Park, guided walking tour of Ljubljana, tunnel tour in Sarajevo
Dates Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 29 Apr 18 Sun 13 May 18 Sun 27 May 18 Sun 10 Jun 18
Sun 13 May 18 Sun 27 May 18 Sun 10 Jun 18 Sun 24 Jun 18
Sun 24 Jun 18 Sun 08 Jul 18 Sun 22 Jul 18 Sun 05 Aug 18
Sun 08 Jul 18 Sun 22 Jul 18 Sun 05 Aug 18 Sun 19 Aug 18
Sun 19 Aug 18 Sun 02 Sep 18 Sun 16 Sep 18
Sun 02 Sep 18 Sun 16 Sep 18 Sun 30 Sep 18
Sun 30 Sep 18 Sun 14 Oct 18 Sun 28 Oct 18
Sun 14 Oct 18 Sun 28 Oct 18 Sun 11 Nov 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/dubrovnik-to-budapest/eedp
89
Europe Romania
Suceviţa Monastery, Bucovina, Romania
Suceviţa Bucovina Săpânţa Moldoviţa Maramureş Mănăstirea Humorului
ROMANIA
Bucharest Local chicken Merry cemetery buses in Maramureş, in Antigua Romania
929
Hike Romania | 9 days
From CHF
Tour Code: RRHR • Bucharest to Bucharest
I’d like my own room: CHF129
Get off the beaten track as you trek through the Romanian countryside. Staying in local guesthouses, you will discover rural villages and rich traditions. This nine day adventure takes you through two regions, Bucovina and Maramureş, as you pass spectacular landscapes, beautiful monasteries and traditional architecture.
Day 1 Bucharest to Bucovina Arrive in Bucharest and meet your group. You will take an overnight train to the region of Bucovina in the evening Day 2 Moldoviţa Arriving on an overnight train, you will arrive in the region of Bucovina and the village of Moldoviţa. Take a stroll and meet the Hutsules community who will show you the art of egg painting. You will also see the unique Moldoviţa painted monastery Day 3 Moldoviţa to Suceviţa Today there is a lengthy hike through the woods to Suceviţa. You have the chance to visit Suceviţa Monastery, another beautiful building that is very well preserved Day 4 Suceviţa to Mănăstirea Humorului Trek for approximately 12km to the rural village of Mănăstirea Humorului. Take a step back in time watching horse-carts go by Day 5 Mănăstirea Humorului to Maramureş A private vehicle will transfer you to the region of Maramureş where you can visit the distinctive old wooden churches. Hiking from here we head to our guesthouse Days 6-7 Maramureş Spend the next two days hiking from village to village in the Maramureş Region, passing wooden churches and stunning views Day 8 Maramureş to Săpânţa We drive to Săpânţa to visit the fascinating “Merry Cemetery”, filled with poetic stories before boarding an overnight train back to Bucharest Day 9 Depart Bucharest
Dates Start tour
90
Type of Travel: Hiking tour Accommodation: 6 nights guesthouses, 2 overnight trains Meals: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners included
Itinerary
Sat 20 May 17 Sat 24 Jun 17
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 28 May 17 Sun 02 Jul 17
Tue 01 Aug 17
Wed 09 Aug 17
Mon 04 Sep 17
Tue 12 Sep 17
Sat 30 Sep 17
Sun 08 Oct 17
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/hike-romania/rrhr
Group Size: Average 6, maximum 14 Physical Rating:
Our Tucan Travel Tip You need to be reasonably fit for this tour: expect hikes of between 3 and 5 hours most days.
Europe Bulgaria
Rila Monastery, Bulgaria
BULGARIA
Sofia Simeonovo Govedartsi
Yastrebetz Peak Rila National Park Bansko
Pirin National Park Tevno Ezero Lake
LocalNational Pirin chicken Park, busesBulgaria in Antigua
689
Hike Bulgaria | 9 days
From CHF
Tour Code: RBHB • Sofia to Sofia
I’d like my own room: CHF179
Discover the highest mountains in Bulgaria on this nine day adventure. Visit one of Bulgaria’s most famous landmarks, the Rila Monastery. Steep ascents will be rewarded with spectacular views on this unique hiking experience.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Hiking tour Accommodation: 7 nights hotels, 1 night hut near Tevno
Itinerary
Ezero lake
Day 1 Sofia On arrival at Sofia you will be transferred to your hotel in Simeonovo Day 2 Simeonovo to Govedartsi Transfer to Borovets where you will take the cable car to Yastrebetz Peak. From here begin the hike to Mount Musala. Enjoy panoramic views before descending to Govedartsi Day 3 Prekorechki Lakes From Govedartsi enjoy a day’s trekking to the Prekorechki Lakes. Flanked by steep slopes, it’s a challenging hike Day 4 Govedartsi to Bansko We take a chairlift to Seven Rila Lakes. From here, hike to Bulgaria’s largest monastery, Rila Monastery. You will then be driven to Bansko Day 5 Pirin Trek to Tevno Ezero Spend the day hiking through the Central Pirin region to Tevno Ezero Lake. Pass beautiful scenery as you cover great distances before staying the night at Tevno Ezero hut Day 6 Pirin Glacier Lakes to Bansko Discover magnificent views over the Pirin glacial lakes on today’s trek before returning to Bansko Day 7 Mount Vihren Today’s hike is a steep ascent to the highest peak in the Pirin Mountains. Pass glacial lakes before reaching the top of Mount Vihren. You will return to Bansko later today Day 8 Bansko to Sofia Return to Sofia for a final night Day 9 Depart Sofia
Meals: 8 breakfasts, 6 dinners included Group Size: Average 4, maximum 12 Physical Rating:
Our Tucan Travel Tip Pack your hiking boots as this trip is challenging with walks of between 5 and 7 hours each day.
Dates Start tour
Sat 24 Jun 17 Sat 08 Jul 17
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 02 Jul 17 Sun 16 Jul 17
Sat 22 Jul 17 Sat 05 Aug 17
Sun 30 Jul 17 Sun 13 Aug 17
Sat 26 Aug 17
Sun 03 Sep 17
Sat 02 Sep 17
Sun 10 Sep 17
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/hike-bulgaria/rbhb
91
Europe Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey
Bran Castle, Romania
1839
Transylvania Tale | 15 days
From CHF
Tour Code: EETT • Budapest to Istanbul
I’d like my own room: CHF379
Turn back time and descend into the dark ages on this tour of Dracula’s region. Medieval castles stand beside heavily fortified towns frozen in time. From ancient Byzantine churches in one town to ottoman mosques in the next, you will be charmed by the country so raw and real right in front of you.
Type of Travel: Mixture of public and private transport Accommodation: 13 nights hotels, 1 night guesthouse
Itinerary Day 1 Budapest This is your arrival day Day 2 Budapest to Eger Take the train to Eger, famous for its traditional wines Day 3 Eger to Baia Mare Crossing into Romania, take a tour of the Maramures Region. Visit the picturesque village of Bârsana and discover the traditional wooden churches. Later, head to the town of Baia Mare Days 4-5 Baia Mare to Sighișoara Visit the historical city of Cluj Napoca before travelling to Sighișoara where we stay inside the citadel Day 6 Sighișoara to Brașov Travel to Brașov stopping en-route at the Viscri Fortified Church and Prejmer Fortified Church Day 7 Brașov From Brașov visit Bran’s Castle, often known as Dracula’s Castle. You will also explore Peleș Castle. It’s elaborate design looks like it could be from a fairytale Day 8 Brașov to Bucharest Continue the journey to Bucharest, where you will have free time to explore Romania’s cultural capital. Discover the eclectic mix of architecture including the Arc de Triomphe that rivals Paris Day 9 Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo Cross into Bulgaria and explore the historical city of Veliko Tarnovo Days 10-11 Veliko Tarnovo to Sofia Travel to Sofia for its many cultural highlights. There are museums to explore, cafes to enjoy and markets to browse Days 12-13 Sofia to Plovdiv Journey to Plovdiv one of Europe’s oldest cities. Here we visit the Roman Amphitheatre Day 14 Plovdiv to Istanbul Arrive in Istanbul in time to try the delicious Turkish cuisine for dinner Day 15 Depart Istanbul
Meals: 12 breakfasts included Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Guided tour of Maramures, visit Cluj Napoca, entry to Viscri Fortified Church, entry to Prejmer Fortified Church, entry to Bran’s Castle, entry to Peles Castle, entry to Plovdiv Roman Amphitheatre
Our Tucan Travel Tip
Dates Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 15 Apr 18 Sun 29 Apr 18 Sun 13 May 18 Sun 27 May 18
Sun 29 Apr 18 Sun 13 May 18 Sun 27 May 18 Sun 10 Jun 18
Sun 10 Jun 18 Sun 24 Jun 18 Sun 08 Jul 18 Sun 22 Jul 18
Sun 24 Jun 18 Sun 08 Jul 18 Sun 22 Jul 18 Sun 05 Aug 18
Sun 05 Aug 18 Sun 19 Aug 18 Sun 02 Sep 18 Sun 16 Sep 18
Sun 19 Aug 18 Sun 02 Sep 18 Sun 16 Sep 18 Sun 30 Sep 18
Sun 30 Sep 18 Sun 14 Oct 18 Sun 28 Oct 18
Sun 14 Oct 18 Sun 28 Oct 18 Sun 11 Nov 18
92
Tour Information
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/transylvania-tale/eett
When in Bulgaria be aware of the local customs. People nod to say no and shake their head to say yes!
Europe Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey
City of Budapest, Hungary
Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
“ The itinerary was excellent and has given me a perfect experience of the countries. Everything was well organised, hotels were in ideal locations and our tour leader went above and beyond each day. ” - Katherine Sheehan - September 2016
Eger Baia Mare
Budapest
Cluj-Napoca Sighişoara
HUNGARY
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey
Viscri Braşov ROMANIA Bucharest
BULGARIA Veliko Tarnovo Sofia Plovdiv
Istanbul TURKEY
A group in Cluj-Napoca, Romania - Taken by Martin Sluman
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/transylvania-tale/eett
93
Europe Visits 20 Countries
Plitvice National Park, Croatia
Travel for as little or as long as you like You can start and finish your tour in any of the cities on the map travelling for as little or as long as you like. To find out about each of the sections on this epic adventure, go to the pages listed below.
Moscow to Warsaw | 14 days
Warsaw to Budapest | 11 days
Tour Code: EEMW
Tour Code: EEXC
Online Only
See Page 85
Budapest to Dubrovnik | 15 days
Dubrovnik to Budapest | 15 days
Tour Code: EEPD
Tour Code: EEDP
See Page 88
See Page 89
Budapest to Istanbul | 15 days Tour Code: EETT
See Page 92-93
94
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/ultimate-eastern-europe/eeue
Europe Visits 20 Countires
Hagia SoďŹ a, Istanbul
St Petersburg Tallinn RUSSIA
ESTONIA
LATVIA
Moscow
LITHUANIA
Church of the Savior on Blood, St Petersberg, Russia
POLAND
Warsaw CZECH REPUBLIC
SLOVAKIA HUNGARY
Budapest
AUSTRIA
Karageorge Petrovitch monument in Belgrade, Serbia
SLOVENIA
CROATIA
ROMANIA BOSNIA
Dubrovnik MONTENEGRO ALBANIA
SERBIA BULGARIA MACEDONIA
Istanbul TURKEY
Enjoying Prizren, Kosovo - Taken by Emma Nelson
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/ultimate-eastern-europe/eeue
95
Welcome to Asia
Asia Welcome to
Woman at Sukhothai, Thailand
About Asia There are so many adventures in Asia to choose from. Discover ancient cities in Thailand, get off the tourist trail in Myanmar or marvel at the majestic complex of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. See the Taj Mahal at sunrise, visit the floating markets of the Mekong or soak up the cherry blossom in Japan.
Your Transport
Your Accommodation
On our tours in Asia we use the most appropriate method of transport available, whether that is a private van, public bus, tuk-tuk or your own two feet. From cruising on traditional junk boats in Halong Bay, to exploring Delhi on a rickshaw, you will be immersed in the local way of life.
We offer more opportunities to sleep in unique types of accommodation in Asia than on any other continent we run tours in. From junk boats in Vietnam to homestays in the Mekong Delta, we offer unique accommodation to suit the adventure. For all those nights not spent in unique places, we use hotels that are comfortable and centrally located to the sights.
About Each Day
Supporting Local Communities
From the iconic Taj Mahal in India to Angkor Wat in Cambodia, there are some sights that we know you don’t want to miss out on in Asia. We include the biggest and the best highlights in each country so that you don’t have to worry about too many extra costs while on your tour. There are plenty more opportunities where you will get to choose how you spend your day. A list of of your tour’s optional excursions is available online.
The way we treat our world and the creatures in it is of the utmost priority for us at Tucan Travel. In Asia, we do our best to ensure we only visit wildlife centres with an excellent reputation for animal welfare, we support local communities as much as possible and use public transport allowing us to reduce our carbon footprint and share the burden among many others.
96
View online | www.tucantravel.com/destinations/asia
Welcome to Asia
Cambodia China Laos India Japan Malaysia
Indian woman, India
Myanmar/Burma Nepal Singapore Sri Lanka Thailand Vietnam Halong Bay, Vietnam
Top Five Highlights!
Angkor Wat - Cambodia Bagan - Myanmar Taj Mahal - India Bangkok Grand Palace - Thailand Halong Bay - Vietnam
90% of all the rice in the world is eaten in Asia Weather Guide
This chart indicates the weather in Asia throughout the year. Please be advised that this is a guide only, and you should check before you travel.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Hanoi, Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Bangkok, Thailand Phuket, Thailand Chiang Mai, Thailand Singapore, Singapore Yangon, Myanmar Mandalay, Myanmar Delhi, India Kathmandu, Nepal Tokyo, Japan Beijing, China Colombo, Sri Lanka Phnom Penh, Cambodia Cold <= 60F, Wet Cold <= 60F, Dry
Cool 60-70F, Wet Cool 60-70F, Dry
Warm 70-86F, Wet Warm 70-86F, Dry
Hot > 86+F, Wet Hot > 86+F, Dry
View online | www.tucantravel.com/destinations/asia
97
Asia Sri Lanka
Fishermen in Galle, Sri Lanka
1979
Jewels of Sri Lanka | 15 days
From CHF
Tour Code: SRJ • Negombo to Negombo
I’d like my own room: CHF629
Explore Sri Lanka, the land of hidden temples and caves, sacred Buddhist sites and Hindu shrines. Venture into the British tea plantations, nature reserves and botanical gardens of the hill country. Visit ancient royal capitals, enjoy the urban buzz of leafy Kandy and trek in the sweeping Horton Plains to see giant Buddha statues, before relaxing on Unawatuna’s blissful beaches.
Dates
98
Accommodation: 14 nights hotels
Group Size Average 10-14, maximum 16
Day 1 Negombo This is your arrival day Days 2-3 Negombo to Anuradhapura Stop at Negombo’s fish market on the way to Anuradhapura where you will visit the extensive religious ruins Day 4 Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa Explore Polonnaruwa with a guided tour through the archeological site Day 5 Polonnaruwa to Sigiriya Head to Sigiriya where you can climb Lion’s Rock rising out of the jungle Days 6-7 Sigiriya to Kandy Stop at the cave temples of Dambulla before continuing to Kandy. In the evening you will get to see a cultural dance show Days 8-9 Kandy to Nuwara Eliya Wake early and take an optional trip to Adam’s Peak in time for sunrise. You will then travel into the Sri Lankan tea plantation region stopping at Nuwara Eliya Day 10 Nuwara Eliya to Ella Explore Horton Plains National Park and trek to ‘World’s End’ before getting the train to Ella Day 11 Ella to Yala National Park Stop at the Ravana Waterfalls before heading to Yala National Park. Enjoy a games drive spotting wildlife Days 12-13 Yala National Park to Unawatuna Visit the Elephant Transit Home before heading to Unawatuna. Relax on the beaches and take a city tour of nearby Galle Day 14 Unawatuna to Negombo Return to Negombo stopping first in the city of Colombo for a short tour Day 15 Depart Negombo
Start tour
Type of Travel: Mainly private transport
Meals: 14 breakfasts, 1 dinner included
Itinerary
Sat 16 Dec 17 Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sat 10 Mar 18
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sat 30 Dec 17 Sat 27 Jan 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 24 Mar 18
Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 12 May 18 Sat 16 Jun 18
Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 26 May 18 Sat 30 Jun 18
Sat 14 Jul 18 Sat 18 Aug 18 Sat 22 Sep 18
Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 01 Sep 18 Sat 06 Oct 18
Sat 27 Oct 18 Sat 24 Nov 18 Sat 22 Dec 18
Sat 10 Nov 18 Sat 08 Dec 18 Sat 05 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/jewels-of-sri-lanka/srj
Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Negombo city tour & fish market, visit coconut plantation & toddy tapping, visit Mihintale, visit Anuradhapura ruins, visit Aukana Buddha, visit Polonnaruwa ruins, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Dambulla Caves, visit Arthur’s Seat Viewpoint, Kandy city tour, evening Puja at Temple of the Tooth, entry to the Royal Botanical Garden, Kandy cultural dance show, tea plantation excursion, guided tour of Nuwaraeliya, entry and trek through Horton Plains National Park, scenic train journey to Ella, game drive in Yala National Park, visit Little Adam’s Peak & Rawana Waterfall, entry to elephant transit home, Sri Lankan cooking class with dinner, Galle city tour, entry to a turtle hatchery, Colombo city tour, visit Meethiyagoda Moonstone Mine, visit a cinnamon plantation
Asia Sri Lanka
Sigiriya Lion Rock, Sri Lanka
Fishing boats, Sri Lanka
â&#x20AC;&#x153; Amazing tour! Great diversity in the country, the landscape, the people, the food were all fantastic. â&#x20AC;? - Michael Halley, March 2017
Anuradhapura
Tea plantations in Sri Lanka
Sigiriya Polonnaruwa
SRI LANKA
Kandy
Negombo Colombo
Nuwara Eliya Ella
Yala National Park
Unawatuna
Train to Ella, Sri Lanka
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/jewels-of-sri-lanka/srj
99
Asia Nepal
Annapurna Mountain Range reflected on Phewa Lake, Nepal
1119
Highlights of Nepal | 11 days
From CHF
Tour Code: INHN • Kathmandu to Kathmandu
I’d like my own room: CHF239
The beautiful Annapurna region of Nepal offers some of the world’s most spectacular vistas and picturesque trails. The incredible Himalayan scenery includes freshwater lakes, rivers, and streams winding through arid landscapes. Trek through quaint villages, encounter friendly local mountain tribes, view impressive flora and fauna and admire many sacred Buddhist and Hindu shrines set against the backdrop of majestic snowcapped mountains.
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 5 nights hotels, 2 night lodges, 3 nights guesthouses Meals: 8 breakfasts included
Itinerary
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16
Day 1 Kathmandu This is your arrival day. Tonight you will meet your group and Tour Leader Day 2 Kathmandu to Lumbini Travel to Lumbini said to be the birthplace of Buddha. Here you visit the Maya Devi Temple Days 3-4 Lumbini to Chitwan National Park Head to Chitwan National Park where you can enjoy jungle walks spotting rhino, buffalo or even the elusive tiger. In the evening there is a cultural dance show Day 5 Chitwan National Park to Pokhara Head to the tranquil town of Pokhara nestled on the banks of Lake Phewa, shop for silks as souvenirs or hiking gear for the days ahead here Days 6-7 Annapurna Foothills Spend two days hiking through the Annapurna Foothills with a local guide, sleeping in rustic lodges with incredible mountain views Days 8-9 Pokhara Return to Pokhara where you can relax from your trekking experience. There is an included visit to the Tibetan Refugee Camp where you can get an insight into the Tibetan culture Day 10 Pokhara to Kathmandu Travel back to Kathmandu in time for a visit to the Monkey Temple Day 11 Depart Kathmandu
Included Excursions & Activities Visit the Maya Devi Temple, Tharu cultural dance show, entry to Chitwan National Park, two day Annapurna Foothills trek, hike to the World Peace Pagoda, visit the Tibetan Refugee Camp & Syambhu Nath (Monkey) Temple
Dates Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Wed 20 Dec 17 Wed 31 Jan 18 Wed 14 Mar 18
Sat 30 Dec 17 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sat 24 Mar 18
Wed 25 Apr 18 Wed 06 Jun 18
Sat 05 May 18 Sat 16 Jun 18
Wed 18 Jul 18 Wed 29 Aug 18
Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 08 Sep 18
Wed 10 Oct 18 Wed 21 Nov 18
Sat 20 Oct 18 Sat 01 Dec 18
100
Tour Information
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/highlights-of-nepal/inhn
Physical Rating:
Have more time? In two weeks hike to Everest Base Camp See Tour Code: (RNEVC) on our website for more details.
Asia Nepal
Smiling woman in Nepal - Taken by Kate Finnigan
Lumbini, Nepal
â&#x20AC;&#x153; I really enjoyed my Tucan Travel tour of Nepal. Our guide was excellent and there was so much to see even before you start trekking. â&#x20AC;? - Kathryn Jones, February 2017
Buddha statue in Swoyambhunath Temple, Kathmandu, Nepal
Annapurna Foothills
Pokhara Lumbini
Kathmandu NEPAL Chitwan National Park
Group photo in the Annapurna Foothills, Nepal
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/highlights-of-nepal/inhn
101
Asia India
Taj Mahal, Agra, India
2319
India in Depth | 22 days
From CHF
Tour Code: INID • Delhi to Delhi
I’d like my own room: CHF699
Rajasthan presents a fascinating view into the vibrant heritage of India. During this tour your eyes will be dazzled by blue-painted towns and rose-washed cities populated by women in glittering saris and men in multi-hued turbans. You will visit the majestic Taj Mahal, travel down the Ganges in Varanasi and take a camel safari out into the desert.
Itinerary
Dates Start tour
102
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 16 nights hotels, 2 overnight sleeper trains, 1 night camel safari camp, 2 nights guesthouses Meals: 19 breakfasts, 1 dinner included
Day 1 Delhi This is your arrival day Day 2 Delhi to Bikaner Travel to Bikaner and visit the Karni Mata Temple, where over 2000 rats live Day 3 Bikaner to Jaisalmer Travel to the desert city of Jaisalmer. Marvel at the markets as camels stand in the sun Day 4 Thar Desert Ride a camel into the Thar Desert and camp under the stars Day 5 Jaisalmer Visit the abandoned Kuldhara Village before returning to Jaisalmer Days 6-7 Jaisalmer to Jodhpur Travel to the ‘Blue City’, Jodhpur. You have the option to visit the Mehrangarh Fort Days 8-9 Udaipur Continue your journey to Udaipur, brimming with lush gardens and marble palaces Days 10-11 Udaipur to Jaipur Take the train to Jaipur and discover the Amber Fort Days 12-13 Jaipur to Agra Head to Agra where we tour the Taj Mahal Days 14-15 Orchha Travel to Orchha and admire the Ram Temple Day 16 Orcha to Basari Get off the beaten track and stay in the traditional village of Basari. Visit a school and meet the local children Day 17 Basari to Khajuraho Travel to Khajuraho and visit the ‘Karma Sutra’ temple Days 18-19 Khajuraho to Varanasi Take an overnight train to Varanasi.The next day take an evening boat trip down the Ganges for best views of the ghats and ceremonies Days 20-21 Varanasi to Delhi Spend the morning enjoying Varanasi before returning to Delhi Day 22 Depart Delhi
Sat 02 Dec 17 Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 24 Feb 18
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sat 23 Dec 17 Sat 03 Feb 18 Sat 17 Mar 18
Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 19 May 18 Sat 30 Jun 18
Sat 28 Apr 18 Sat 09 Jun 18 Sat 21 Jul 18
Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 22 Sep 18
Sat 01 Sep 18 Sat 13 Oct 18
Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 15 Dec 18
Sat 24 Nov 18 Sat 05 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/india-in-depth/inid
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Evening walk around Karol Bagh, visit Karni Mata temple, camel safari, visit Jaisalmer Fort, visit Kuldhara village, Rajasthani cultural dance show, entry to Udaipur City Palace, Jagdish temple & markets tour, visit Amber Fort, visit Birla Temple, guided tour of the Taj Mahal, Orchha heritage walk, visit Ram Temple, visit Basari Village, Khajuraho Market, visit Karma Sutra Temple, boat ride down the River Ganges, Puja Ceremony
Asia India
Celebrating Holi Festival, India
Indian woman, India
“ India is truely a county of contradictions, so colourful but so drab, noisy then total quiet, billions of people and then you don’t see a soul. This trip to India has changed me forever. ” - Alexandra Robb, October 2016
INDIA River Ganges, Varanasi, India
Delhi
Thar Desert
Bikaner
Jaisalmer
Agra (Taj Mahal) Jaipur
Jodhpur Orchha
Udaipur
Basari Khajuraho
Varanasi
Jodhpur, the Blue City, Rajasthan, India
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/india-in-depth/inid
103
Asia Myanmar/Burma
Temples in Bagan, Myanmar
2079
Classic Myanmar | 14 days
From CHF
Tour Code: BUCM • Mandalay to Yangon
I’d like my own room: CHF529
Journey into the remote Northern Shan State on this two week tour visiting all of Myanmar’s fascinating highlights. Get off the beaten track hiking through remote villages, cycle through the romantic temples of Bagan, take a boat on Inle Lake before finishing up in Yangon, home to the golden Shwedagon Pagoda.
Meals: 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches included
Day 1 Mandalay This is your arrival day Days 2-3 Mandalay to Hsipaw Travel into the Northern Shan State staying at the tiny town of Hsipaw, a place where few other tourists venture. Enjoy a walking tour through the paddy fields passing local villages and quiet monasteries Day 4 Hsipaw to Kyaukme Take a bus to Kyaukme. On arrival trekking to meet the Palaung people living in the remote valleys Day 5 Kyaukme to Pyin Oo Lwin Enjoy a scenic train ride over the Goteik Viaduct to the colonial town of Pyin Oo Lwin Day 6 Pyin Oo Lwin to Mandalay Return to Mandalay and soak up more of the sights Days 7-9 Mandalay to Bagan Bagan has more temples than anywhere else in world. Climb a pagoda for impressive views and enjoy a bicycle tour, stopping at many ancient temples Day 10 Bagan to Kalaw Stop off at the Elephant Conservation Centre en-route to Kalaw. You can help wash and feed them, learning about how they came to the sanctuary Days 11-12 Kalaw to Inle Lake Take a scenic train to Inle Lake. You will visit the villages and workshops on the lake before enjoying a traditional Intha lunch at a local family’s home Day 13 Inle Lake to Yangon Fly to Yangon where you can visit the spiritual Shwedagon Pagoda Day 14 Depart Yangon
Included Excursions & Activities Walking tour of the Shan villages around Hsipaw, mountain walking tour around Kyaukme, train journey over the Goteik Viaduct, Bagan orientation tour, bicycle tour through Bagan, entry to the Elephant Conservation Centre, train journey through Shan Hills to Inle Lake, a full day touring Inle Lake with traditional Intha lunch
Dates Start tour
104
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 13 nights hotels
Itinerary
Sat 02 Dec 17 Sat 30 Dec 17 Sat 27 Jan 18
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Fri 15 Dec 17 Fri 12 Jan 18 Fri 09 Feb 18
Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 24 Mar 18 Sat 21 Apr 18
Fri 09 Mar 18 Fri 06 Apr 18 Fri 04 May 18
Sat 16 Jun 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 06 Oct 18
Fri 29 Jun 18 Fri 24 Aug 18 Fri 19 Oct 18
Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 01 Dec 18 Sat 29 Dec 18
Fri 16 Nov 18 Fri 14 Dec 18 Fri 11 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/classic-myanmar/bucm
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Our Tucan Travel Tip 89% of Myanmar’s population are Buddhist and your tour includes visits to many monasteries and religious sites. Wear modest clothing when entering temples and pack shoes that are easy to slip on and off.
Asia Myanmar/Burma
Traditional fishermen, Inle Lake, Myanmar
Children playing, Mandalay, Myanmar
“ The tour was a fantastic whirlwind of culture, adventure, laughs and wonderment. A great experience that I will always be a part of me! ” - Thomas Christian Ainsworth, July 2016
Hsipaw MYANMAR Kyaukme
Mandalay
Pyin Oo Lwin
Gotiek Viaduct train journey, Myanmar
Bagan Inle Lake
Kalaw
Yangon Locals in the Northern Shan tea fields, Myanmar
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/classic-myanmar/bucm
105
Asia Laos & Thailand
Kuang Si Falls, Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang Golden Triangle Chiang Rai Chiang Mai
Vang Vieng Vientiane
Sukhothai
LAOS THAILAND
Bangkok
Wat Rong Khun, Chiang Rai, Thailand
1619
Laos & Thailand | 15 days
From CHF
Tour Code: SELT • Bangkok to Bangkok
I’d like my own room: CHF319
Beginning in Bangkok and travelling through Northern Thailand you will uncover ancient ruins, colourful night markets and intricate temples. Crossing into Laos, witness the friendly locals giving alms to the monks, pass lush paddy fields and explore French colonial cities.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 12 nights hotels, 2 nights guesthouses
Itinerary Day 1 Bangkok This is your arrival day Day 2 Bangkok Enjoy a day exploring Bangkok. You will visit the Grand Palace, home to the revered Emerald Buddha Days 3-4 Bangkok to Sukhothai Fly to the ancient capital of Sukhothai. Visit the ruins of this once-royal capital on a bicycle tour Days 5-6 Sukhothai to Chiang Mai Journey to the north of Thailand stopping in Chiang Mai, famous for its night market Day 7 Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai Take the tourist bus to Chiang Rai where the evening is free Day 8 Golden Triangle Enjoy a full day tour exploring the Golden Triangle region. Highlights include visiting the breathtaking White Temple and the Opium Museum where you can learn about the Golden Triangle’s opium past. Return to Chiang Rai at the end of the day Days 9-10 Chiang Rai to Luang Prabang Fly to Laos staying at Luang Prabang. Watch monks collecting alms at sunrise Days 11-12 Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Travel to the small town of Vang Vieng. Enjoy a tuk-tuk trip through the countryside to the Blue Lagoon Day 13 Vang Vieng to Vientiane Head to Laos’ capital which boasts a number of French influences Day 14 Vientiane to Bangkok Return to Bangkok Day 15 Depart Bangkok
Meals: 11 breakfasts included Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Bangkok Grand Palace tour, bicycle tour of Sukhothai, full day tour of the Golden Triangle region including entry to the White Temple and entry to the Black House, trip to and up Mount Phousi with the Tour Leader, watch monks collecting alms, tuk-tuk tour through Vang Vieng countryside to the Blue Lagoon, visit the COPE Centre
Dates Start tour
Sat 30 Dec 17 Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 27 Jan 18 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 10 Mar 18 Sat 24 Mar 18
106
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 27 Jan 18 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 10 Mar 18 Sat 24 Mar 18 Sat 07 Apr 18
Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18 Sat 19 May 18 Sat 02 Jun 18 Sat 16 Jun 18 Sat 30 Jun 18
Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18 Sat 19 May 18 Sat 02 Jun 18 Sat 16 Jun 18 Sat 30 Jun 18 Sat 14 Jul 18
Sat 14 Jul 18 Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 25 Aug 18 Sat 08 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18 Sat 06 Oct 18
Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 25 Aug 18 Sat 08 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18 Sat 06 Oct 18 Sat 20 Oct 18
Sat 20 Oct 18 Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 17 Nov 18 Sat 01 Dec 18 Sat 15 Dec 18 Sat 29 Dec 18
Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 17 Nov 18 Sat 01 Dec 18 Sat 15 Dec 18 Sat 29 Dec 18 Sat 12 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/laos-and-thailand/selt
“ I fell in love with Thailand and Laos. The people, the food, the many different temples. Each day delivered so many memories ” - Robert Davidson, May 2016
Asia Singapore, Malaysia & Thailand
Floating market, Bangkok, Thailand
THAILAND
Bangkok
Phuket Penang Cameron Highlands Kuala Lumpur
MALAYSIA
Melaka SINGAPORE
Singapore Batu Caves statue and entrance near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
1319
Singapore to Bangkok | 14 days
From CHF
Tour Code: SESB • Singapore to Bangkok
I’d like my own room: CHF319
Starting in the glittering lights of Singapore, the adventure continues in Malaysia where you can compare bustling cities with quiet villages, nestled deep in the highlands. Head to Thailand to enjoy the beaches of Phuket, and you can visit some surrounding islands before arriving in Bangkok where ornate golden temples and busy markets await.
Dates Sun 31 Dec 17 Sun 14 Jan 18 Sun 28 Jan 18 Sun 11 Feb 18 Sun 25 Feb 18 Sun 11 Mar 18 Sun 25 Mar 18
Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 27 Jan 18 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 10 Mar 18 Sat 24 Mar 18 Sat 07 Apr 18
Accommodation: 13 nights hotels
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16
Day 1 Singapore This is your arrival day. Tonight you will meet your Tour Leader and group Days 2-3 Singapore to Melaka Cross into Malaysia stopping in Melaka. Explore Harmony Street, where you can find a number of temples from a variety of religions, including Buddhism and Hinduism. Tonight you will see the city on an evening rickshaw tour Days 4-5 Melaka to Kuala Lumpur Kuala Lumpur is Malaysia’s thriving capital. Here you can pay a visit to the tallest twin tower buildings in the world, the Petronas Towers Days 6-7 Kuala Lumpur to Cameron Highlands Leave the city behind staying in the lush Cameron Highlands. Enjoy a day viewing the tea plantations, visiting a strawberry farm and taking a short trek through the jungle Days 8-9 Cameron Highlands to Penang Take a heritage walk through Georgetown, Penang and try delicious street food found here Days 10-12 Penang to Phuket Fly to Thailand, stopping at the island paradise of Phuket. Here you can see the big Buddha and relax on the many beautiful beaches Day 13 Phuket to Bangkok Fly to Bangkok where you can visit the Grand Palace Day 14 Depart Bangkok
End tour
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport
Meals: 11 breakfasts included
Itinerary
Start tour
Tour Information
Start tour
Sun 08 Apr 18 Sun 22 Apr 18 Sun 06 May 18 Sun 20 May 18 Sun 03 Jun 18 Sun 17 Jun 18 Sun 01 Jul 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18 Sat 19 May 18 Sat 02 Jun 18 Sat 16 Jun 18 Sat 30 Jun 18 Sat 14 Jul 18
Sun 15 Jul 18 Sun 29 Jul 18 Sun 12 Aug 18 Sun 26 Aug 18 Sun 09 Sep 18 Sun 23 Sep 18 Sun 07 Oct 18
Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 25 Aug 18 Sat 08 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18 Sat 06 Oct 18 Sat 20 Oct 18
Sun 21 Oct 18 Sun 04 Nov 18 Sun 18 Nov 18 Sun 02 Dec 18 Sun 16 Dec 18 Sun 30 Dec 18
Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 17 Nov 18 Sat 01 Dec 18 Sat 15 Dec 18 Sat 29 Dec 18 Sat 12 Jan 19
Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Evening rickshaw city tour in Melaka, visit the KLCC area to see the Petronas Towers, visit Batu Caves and temple with Tour Leader, full day tour of the Cameron Highlands, Penang heritage walk
Our Tucan Travel Tip Your money will go further in Thailand if you bring larger notes with you in USD as you will get a better exchange rate
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/singapore-to-bangkok/sesb
107
Asia Vietnam
The Imperial City, Hue, Vietnam
Hanoi Halong Bay
Hue Hoi An VIETNAM Nha Trang
Ho Chi Minh City Mekong Delta Halong Bay, Vietnam
1239
Vietnam Experience | 15 days
From CHF
Tour Code: SEVE • Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
I’d like my own room: CHF239
Immerse yourself in the delights of Vietnam on this in-depth tour of the country. Enjoy hearty bowls of pho in Hanoi, cruise through Halong Bay and visit the citadel in Hue. Get clothes tailored in Hoi An, relax on the beach at Nha Trang and explore floating markets in the Mekong Delta.
Day 1 Hanoi This is your arrival day Days 2-4 Halong Bay & Hanoi Leave Hanoi to spend the night on a traditional junk boat as it cruises around Halong Bay. Visit the large caves before returning to Hanoi where you have free time to explore Days 5-6 Hanoi to Hue Take a short flight to the Hue and visit the Imperial City within the Citadel Days 7-9 Hue to Hoi An Stop at the Marble Mountain and Hai Van Pass en-route to Hoi An. Here you can visit the atmospheric Old Town and admire the spectacular architecture Days 10-11 Hoi An to Nha Trang Take the overnight train to Nha Trang, a beautiful coastal location that boasts turquoise waters and sun-kissed sandy beaches Day 12 Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and soak up the electric atmosphere. Haggle for bargains at the Ben Thanh Market and sample some of the tastiest food in Vietnam Day 13 Mekong Delta Get out of the city and stay with a local family on the Mekong Delta. Learn about village life on the river, visiting a floating market Day 14 Ho Chi Minh City Return to Ho Chi Minh City Day 15 Depart Ho Chi Minh City
Included Excursions & Activities Halong Bay overnight cruise, half day tour of Hanoi, water-puppet theatre trip, visit the Citadel in Hue, visit the Marble Mountain & Hai Van Pass, Mekong Delta homestay with river workshops and visits to the floating market, walking tour of Ho Chi Minh City
Dates Start tour
108
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 11 nights hotels, 1 overnight sleeper trains, 1 night on a junk boat, 1 night homestay
Itinerary
Sat 30 Dec 17 Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 27 Jan 18 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 10 Mar 18 Sat 24 Mar 18
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 27 Jan 18 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 10 Mar 18 Sat 24 Mar 18 Sat 07 Apr 18
Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18 Sat 19 May 18 Sat 02 Jun 18 Sat 16 Jun 18 Sat 30 Jun 18
Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18 Sat 19 May 18 Sat 02 Jun 18 Sat 16 Jun 18 Sat 30 Jun 18 Sat 14 Jul 18
Sat 14 Jul 18 Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 25 Aug 18 Sat 08 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18 Sat 06 Oct 18
Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 25 Aug 18 Sat 08 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18 Sat 06 Oct 18 Sat 20 Oct 18
Sat 20 Oct 18 Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 17 Nov 18 Sat 01 Dec 18 Sat 15 Dec 18 Sat 29 Dec 18
Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 17 Nov 18 Sat 01 Dec 18 Sat 15 Dec 18 Sat 29 Dec 18 Sat 12 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/vietnam-experience/seve
Meals: 13 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners included Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
“ Well organised. Good hotels with great locations. A good range of activities, taking full advantage of the sights. ” - Christine Staphnill, July 2016
Asia Cambodia & Thailand
A monk in Cambodia
THAILAND Siem Reap & Angkor Wat
Bangkok
CAMBODIA Kratie
Battambang
Kompong Cham
Phnom Penh
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
1089
Cambodia Adventure | 10 days
From CHF
Tour Code: SECA • Phnom Penh to Bangkok
I’d like my own room: CHF179
Get under the skin of Cambodia and explore some of the main attractions as well as charming riverside towns. Try and spot the rare Irrawiddy dolphin in Kratie, and enjoy a trip on the bamboo railway in Battambang. No visit to Cambodia would be complete without seeing Angkor Wat, and we can explore the legendary temple complex in all its glory.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 9 nights hotels Meals: 8 breakfasts included
Itinerary Day 1 Phnom Penh This is your arrival day. Tonight you will meet you group and Tour Leader Days 2-3 Phnom Penh to Kratie Leaving the city you will get a taste of Cambodian countryside in Kratie. Here you can take a boat onto the river to spot dolphins Day 4 Kratie to Kompong Cham Travel to Kompong Cham, home to the local ethnic Cham community. You can take a boat to one of the last remaining wooden pagodas in Cambodia Day 5 Kompong Cham to Battambang Journey to Battambang arriving in the late afternoon. On the way, stop at the Skuon Spider Market where you can dare to try the local delicacy, fried spider Day 6 Battambang Take a trip on the unique Bamboo Railway and sample traditional Khmer wine Day 7 Battambang to Siem Reap Travel to Siem Reap stopping en-route for a quick break at Sisophon Day 8 Angkor Wat Today is undoubtedly a highlight of your trip, as we take you on a guided tour of the Angkor Wat complex. Explore the sprawling temples and see the site where Tomb Raider was filmed Day 9 Siem Reap to Bangkok Fly to Bangkok and spend your final night soaking up the city. Head to the floating markets and sample exotic street food Day 10 Depart Bangkok
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Visit the Spider Market, Bamboo Railway ride, Khmer wine tasting, visit the Battambang Bat Caves, guided tour of Angkor Wat
Want to start in Vietnam?
Dates Start tour
Thu 21 Dec 17 Thu 04 Jan 18 Thu 18 Jan 18 Thu 01 Feb 18 Thu 15 Feb 18 Thu 01 Mar 18 Thu 15 Mar 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sat 30 Dec 17 Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 27 Jan 18 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 10 Mar 18 Sat 24 Mar 18
Thu 29 Mar 18 Thu 12 Apr 18 Thu 26 Apr 18 Thu 10 May 18 Thu 24 May 18 Thu 07 Jun 18 Thu 21 Jun 18
Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18 Sat 19 May 18 Sat 02 Jun 18 Sat 16 Jun 18 Sat 30 Jun 18
Thu 05 Jul 18 Thu 19 Jul 18 Thu 02 Aug 18 Thu 16 Aug 18 Thu 30 Aug 18 Thu 13 Sep 18 Thu 27 Sep 18
Sat 14 Jul 18 Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 25 Aug 18 Sat 08 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18 Sat 06 Oct 18
Thu 11 Oct 18 Thu 25 Oct 18 Thu 08 Nov 18 Thu 22 Nov 18 Thu 06 Dec 18 Thu 20 Dec 18
Sat 20 Oct 18 Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 17 Nov 18 Sat 01 Dec 18 Sat 15 Dec 18 Sat 29 Dec 18
You can start this tour in Ho Chi Minh City adding an extra five days to your tour. See Tour Code SEVB online.
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/cambodia-adventure/seca
109
Asia Travel for as long as you like
Friendly locals Sagaing, Myanmar
Travel for as little or as long as you like You can start and finish your tour in any of the cities on the map travelling for as little or as long as you like. To find out about each of the sections on this epic adventure, go to the pages listed below.
Bangkok to Bangkok | 15 days
Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City | 15 days
Tour Code: SELT
Tour Code: SEVE
See Page 106
See Page 108
Ho Chi Minh City to Bangkok | 15 days
Singapore to Bangkok | 14 days Tour Code: SESB
Tour Code: SEVB
See Page 107
Online Only
Mandalay to Yangon | 14 days Tour Code: BUCM
See Page 104-105
110
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/best-of-myanmar-and-south-east-asia/sebbl
Asia Travel for as long as you like
Giving alms to the monks in Luang Prabang, Laos
Mandalay Hanoi
MYANMAR
Mandalay
Halong Bay
LAOS
Hanoi
MYANMAR
Halong Bay VIETNAM
LAOS
Vientiane VIETNAM Cuchi Tunnels, Vietnam - Taken by Marcus Hunt
Yangon
Vientiane THAILAND
Yangon CAMBODIA THAILAND
Bangkok
C APhnom M B O DPenh IA
Bangkok
Phnom Penh
Ho Chi Minh City Ho Chi Minh City
Emperor Tomb, Hue, Vietnam
MALAYSIA
Kuala Lumpur
MALAYSIA
Kuala Lumpur
Singapore
SINGAPORE
Singapore
SINGAPORE
If you book a longer tour, we include the transport connection to get you there. The red lines indicate these flights. Singapore skyline, Singapore
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/best-of-myanmar-and-south-east-asia/sebbl
111
Asia Japan
Geisha admiring cherry blossom, Japan
2659
Back Roads of Japan | 10 days
From CHF
Tour Code: JBR • Kyoto to Tokyo
I’d like my own room: CHF339
Conflict, peace perseverance and prosperity have each shaped the history of Japan, which you can discover for yourself on this fascinating journey. From the early imperial palaces, traditional temples and sacred shrines, to 20th century memorials to the devastation of war, you can follow the evolution of a nation. Explore modern cities, relax in natural thermal springs and sample delicious cuisine on this adventure through Japan.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 9 nights hotels Meals: 7 breakfasts included
Itinerary
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16
Day 1 Kyoto This is your arrival day Day 2 Kyoto Today your Tour Leader will take you on a walking tour of Kyoto’s Geisha District Day 3 Kyoto to Hiroshima Take the Bullet Train to Himeji where you can visit Himeji Castle. After lunch continue the journey to Hiroshima Day 4 Hiroshima From Hiroshima you will visit the holy island of Miyajima, famous for the floating Torii Gate Days 5-6 Hiroshima to Nagasaki Travel to Nagasaki where you will visit the Peace Park and Memorial dedicated to the lives lost during World War II Days 7-8 Nagasaki to Fukuoka Take the train to Fukuoka, where you can enjoy a day trip to Yufuin, famous for its hot springs. Here you can take a leisurely walk around Kinrinko Lake Day 9 Fukuoka to Tokyo Fly to Tokyo, Japan’s vibrant capital. Visit the quirky Harajuku district, or spend the night in one of the city’s famous karaoke bars Day 10 Depart Tokyo
Physical Rating:
Only have one week? View our seven day Japan Highlights tour from Tokyo to Kyoto. See Tour Code JJH online.
Included Excursions & Activities Walking tour of Geisha District, visit Hiroshima Peace Park & Museum, visit Himeji Castle, visit Myajiima & the Torii Gate, visit Nagasaki Peace Park & Museum, day trip to Yufuin
Dates Start tour
Thu 14 Dec 17 Thu 28 Dec 17
112
End tour
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End tour
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End tour
Thu 28 Dec 17 Thu 11 Jan 18
Thu 29 Mar 18 Thu 12 Apr 18
Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 21 Apr 18
Thu 27 Sep 18 Thu 11 Oct 18
Sat 06 Oct 18 Sat 20 Oct 18
Thu 20 Dec 18
Sat 29 Dec 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/back-roads-of-japan/jbr
Asia Japan
Don’t miss the
Cherry Bl�som The best time to see this is between March & April
Torii Gate, Miyajima, Japan
Traditional onsen, Japan
“ Great value, comprehensive tour of Japan. Reliable professional tour guide. Travel and accommodation of a good standard. A thoroughly enjoyable trip. ” - Valerie Christine West - March 2017
Buddhist temple in Fushimi-ku, Kyoto, Japan
JAPAN
Kyoto
Tokyo
Hiroshima Fukuoka
Miyajima Yufuin
Nagasaki
Himeji Castle, Japan
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/back-roads-of-japan/jbr
113
Asia China
Shanghai, China
Badaling (Great Wall of China) Juyongguan Pass
Beijing
CHINA
Xi’an Suzhou
Shanghai
Terracotta Warriors, Xi’an, China
1799
Great Wall & Warriors | 9 days
From CHF
Tour Code: RCGW • Beijing to Shanghai
I’d like my own room: CHF599
The juxtapositions on this tour couldn’t be starker. In Beijing ancient wonders such as the Forbidden City sit amongst the bustle of modern-day China. Going inland we journey into the heartland where daily life follows centuries-old tradition, before we end in Shanghai where the future is seemingly already here.
Day 1 Beijing This is your arrival day Day 2 Beijing Take a tour of Beijing including Tiananmen Square. This evening you can enjoy a Chinese acrobatic show and a tasty peking duck dinner Day 3 Beijing to The Great Wall of China Today you will travel to Badaling where you walk a section of the Great Wall of China. Tonight you will spend the night at the foot of the wall at Juyongguan Pass Day 4 The Great Wall of China to Xi’an Spend the morning exploring the Great Wall. Later that day we return to Beijing before catching our overnight train to Xi’an Day 5 Xian Arrive in Xi’an and head to the hotel for breakfast. Later you will visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and enjoy a bike ride on top of the Xi’an city wall Day 6 Xi’an to Shanghai via the Terracotta Warriors Visit Emperor Qin’s Terracotta Warriors before taking an overnight train to Shanghai Day 7 Shanghai Enjoy a city tour including a leisurely cruise down to Huangpu River Day 8 Suzhou Enjoy a day trip to Suzhou. Its series of canals and pretty waterways resemble a likeness to Venice Day 9 Depart Shanghai
Included Excursions & Activities Chinese acrobatic performance, entry to the Great Wall of China from Badaling & Juyongguan, rickshaw ride of Beijing’s hutongs, city tours of Beijing, Badaling, Juyongguan, Xi’an, Suzhou & Shanghai, Huangpu River cruise, Grand Canal cruise, Xi’an city walls bike ride
Dates Start tour
114
Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 6 nights hotels, 2 overnight sleeper trains
Itinerary
Sat 10 Mar 18 Sat 24 Mar 18 Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 18 Mar 18 Sun 01 Apr 18 Sun 15 Apr 18 Sun 29 Apr 18 Sun 13 May 18
Sat 19 May 18 Sat 02 Jun 18 Sat 16 Jun 18 Sat 30 Jun 18 Sat 14 Jul 18
Sun 27 May 18 Sun 10 Jun 18 Sun 24 Jun 18 Sun 08 Jul 18 Sun 22 Jul 18
Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 25 Aug 18 Sat 08 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18
Sun 05 Aug 18 Sun 19 Aug 18 Sun 02 Sep 18 Sun 16 Sep 18 Sun 30 Sep 18
Sat 06 Oct 18 Sat 20 Oct 18 Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 17 Nov 18
Sun 14 Oct 18 Sun 28 Oct 18 Sun 11 Nov 18 Sun 25 Nov 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/great-wall-and-warriors/rcgw
Meals: 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 1 dinner included Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Asia China
Giant Potala Palace located in Lhasa, Tibet
Badaling (Great Wall of China) Juyongguan Pass
Beijing CHINA Xi’an
Chengdu Lhasa Yamdrok Lake TIBET
The Great Wall of China, China
4049
Take me to Tibet | 12 days
From CHF
Tour Code: RCTT • Beijing to Lhasa
I’d like my own room: CHF1019
Discover some of China’s biggest highlights before flying to Tibet. Climb two portions of the Great Wall of China, discover the Terracotta Warriors and meet Giant Pandas in Chengdu. Tibet is a land of spirituality, and from your base in Lhasa, you will be able to compare the Winter Palace and the Summer Palace of the Dalai Lama as well as the pilgrimage site, Yamdrok Lake.
Itinerary
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly local public transport Accommodation: 10 nights hotels, 1 overnight sleeper train Meals: 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners included
Day 1 Beijing This is your arrival day Day 2 Beijing Enjoy a tour of Beijing and visit the Gate of Heavenly Peace, the main entry to the Forbidden City. Tonight, watch a Chinese acrobatic show Day 3 Beijing to The Great Wall of China Head to Badaling where you walk a section of the Great Wall of China before spending the night at the foot of the wall at Juyongguan Pass Day 4 The Great Wall of China to Xi’an Wake early to beat the crowds at the Great Wall. Return to Beijing before catching an overnight train to Xi’an Day 5 Xian Arrive in Xi’an and take a tour of the Big Wild Goose Pagoda Day 6 Xi’an to Chengdu via the Terracotta Warriors Admire Emperor Qin’s Terracotta Warriors before flying to Chengdu. Made of clay, no two soldiers’ faces are the same Day 7 Great Panda Research Base From Chengdu you will visit the Great Panda Research Base, an important breeding centre for this endangered species Day 8 Chengdu to Leshan Travel to Leshan where you will see the Great Buddha, carved into the face of Lingyun Hill Day 9 Leshan to Lhasa Welcome to Tibet! Fly to Lhasa where you visit the Dalai Lama’s Winter and Summer palaces Day 10 Lhasa Today you will visit the Sera Monastery where you will see the young novice monks learning their scriptures Day 11 Lhasa to Yamdrok Lake Enjoy a breath-taking journey towards the Himalayas to Yamdrok Lake. This is one of Tibet’s holiest lakes Day 12 Depart Lhasa
Group Size: Average 10-14, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Chinese acrobatic performance, entry to the Great Wall of China from Badaling & Juyongguan, rickshaw ride of Beijing’s hutongs, city tours of Beijing, Badaling, Juyongguan, Xi’an, Chengdu & Lhasa, 4x4 drive to Yamdrok Lake
Dates Start tour
Sat 17 Mar 18 Sat 31 Mar 18 Sat 14 Apr 18 Sat 28 Apr 18 Sat 12 May 18
End tour
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End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Thu 29 Mar 18 Thu 12 Apr 18 Thu 26 Apr 18 Thu 10 May 18 Thu 24 May 18
Sat 26 May 18 Sat 02 Jun 18 Sat 16 Jun 18 Sat 30 Jun 18
Thu 07 Jun 18 Thu 14 Jun 18 Thu 28 Jun 18 Thu 12 Jul 18
Sat 14 Jul 18 Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 25 Aug 18
Thu 26 Jul 18 Thu 09 Aug 18 Thu 23 Aug 18 Thu 06 Sep 18
Sat 08 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18 Sat 06 Oct 18 Sat 20 Oct 18
Thu 20 Sep 18 Thu 04 Oct 18 Thu 18 Oct 18 Thu 01 Nov 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/take-me-to-tibet/rctt
115
Adventures for 20s & 30s
Adventures for 20s & 30s in Asia 29 DAYS
Travel by Public Transport
The longest tour we offer
4 Local Payment keeps the costs down
The number of countries you can tick off
HANOI LAOS Golden Triangle
THAILAND Siem Reap & Ankor Wat
VIETNAM
CAMBODIA BANGKOK
Chauc Doc (Mekong Delta)
116
HO CHI MINH CITY
View online | www.tucantravel.com/travel-styles/trips/adventures-for-20s-and-30s
Adventures for 20s & 30s
Our Best Selling Adventures for 20s & 30s
Watâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Up Cambodia Duration: 8 Days Tour Code: BXWU
THAILAND CAMBODIA Bangkok
VIETNAM
439
From CHF
Ho Chi Minh City
Plus Local Payment: US$160
Vietnam Discovered
Hanoi
Duration: 9 Days Tour Code: BXVD
479
From CHF
VIETNAM
Plus Local Payment: US$160
Ho Chi Minh City
Thailand & Laos Duration: 14 Days Tour Code: BXTL
LAOS
789
From CHF
THAILAND
Plus Local Payment: US$330
Bangkok
South East Asia Loop Duration: 29 Days Tour Code: BXILB
VIETNAM
1519
From CHF
THAILAND
LAOS CAMBODIA
Plus Local Payment: US$650
Bangkok
View online | www.tucantravel.com/travel-styles/trips/adventures-for-20s-and-30s
117
Welcome to Africa
Welcome to
Africa
Children in Kenya
About Africa If colourful landscapes, incredible wildlife encounters and fascinating people is what you are looking for in an adventure, then Africa is your ideal destination. Watch predators stalking their prey in world-famous wildlife reserves and feel the spray on your face from Victoria Falls. Hike through the rainforest in the quest to find wild mountain gorillas and learn about traditional local customs from small, remote villages.
Your Transport
Your Accommodation
The majority of the travel time is spent on our comfortable trucks. Our overland vehicles vary according to the destination, year and model. They have been modified for comfort and convenience and carry lots of equipment to assist you on your adventure.
For the 2018/19 season all of our tours in East and Southern Africa are now fully accommodated, staying in locally-owned hotels , traditional rondavels, safari lodges or guesthouses. At Tucan Travel, we like to make sure that the places you sleep are part of the adventure. Many of the places we stay are in areas of outstanding natural beauty, by lakes, on the beach or in the heart of the city. On our tours in Morocco you will be staying in hotels apart from one night camping at a traditional Berber Camp in the Sahara Desert.
Forward-facing seats & seat belts Two tables, great for playing games Space to store your daypacks External storage compartments
Power sockets Panoramic, tinted windows A safe for passports & valuables A fridge to keep your food fresh
On some of our tours in Africa we also use private vehicles, ferries and flights to get you from A to B.
About Each Day
Supporting Local Communities
Our Africa tours are packed with game drives, trips to local communities and national parks. There are lots of opportunities to spot the big five, catch stunning sunrises and enjoy vigorous hikes. We like to include the most popular excursions on our trips so that you don’t have to worry about too many extra costs while on your tour. In addition to the included excursions, you also have free time for optional activities. Each day will bring you the opportunity to see and experience more than you ever thought possible.
The Local Payment is a non-refundable fixed amount which is paid to your Tour Leader in US dollars on the first day of your tour in East and Southern Africa. Your Local Payment allows us to get more money to small businesses and communities who don’t have access to online banking services. Having this cash on hand means that you get to stay in more locally owned hotels, have more excursions included and allows our Tour Leaders to shop for the freshest produce in local markets.
118
View online | www.tucantravel.com/destinations/africa
Welcome to Africa
Botswana Kenya Morocco Namibia Rwanda South Africa Swaziland Tanzania Uganda Zambia Zimbabwe
Lioness in the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Hippo in the Okavango Delta, Botswana
Top Five Highlights
Victoria Falls - Zambia Masai Mara National Reserve - Kenya Zanzibar Island - Tanzania Kruger National Park - South Africa Okavango Delta - Botswana
Namibia has the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest population of wild cheetahs
Weather Guide This chart indicates the weather in Africa throughout the year. Please be advised that this is a guide only, and you should check before you travel.
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Marrakech, Morocco Nairobi, Kenya Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda Zanzibar, Tanzania Serengeti NP, Tanzania Livingstone, Zambia Etosha NP, Namibia Cape Town, South Africa Pretoria, South Africa Cold <= 60F, Dry Cold <= 60F, Wet
Cool 60-70F, Dry Cool 60-70F, Wet
Warm 70-86F, Dry Warm 70-86F, Wet
Hot > 86+F, Dry Hot > 86+F, Wet
View online | www.tucantravel.com/destinations/africa
119
Africa Morocco
Ait Benhaddou kasbah, Morocco
Rabat Casablanca
Fes Meknes
MOROCCO
Marrakech Ait Benhaddou
Sahara Desert Todra Gorge
Camel riding in the Sahara Desert, Morocco
939
Highlights of Morocco | 9 days
From CHF
Tour Code: RMOHMM • Marrakech to Marrakech
I’d like my own room: CHF169
An adventure to Morocco provides an exotic, beguiling experience. Uncover medieval ruins in Fes before riding camels into the Sahara desert to stay at a Berber camp. Admire how the colours change on the walls of Todra Gorge and get lost in the maze of souks in Marrakech.
Day 1 Marrakech This is your arrival day Day 2 Marrakech to Casablanca Enjoy a city tour of Rabat on the way to Casablanca. You will see the Hassan Tower and the Royal Palace Days 3-4 Casablanca to Fes Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis on the way to Fes. The next day you can discover Fes on a full day tour. Wander the souks and sample delicious Moroccan tagine Day 5 Berber Camp in the Sahara Desert Ride camels into the Sahara Desert. Tonight you will stay at a traditional Berber Camp, enjoying local food and typical music, sleeping under the stars Day 6 Sahara Desert to Todra Gorge Leave the desert and head to Todra Gorge. Admire the colours of the gorge changing as the sun moves east to west Day 7 Todra Gorge to Ait Benhaddou Travel to the fortified city of Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will visit the famous Kasbahs which showcase Morocco’s clay architecture Day 8 Ait Benhaddou to Marrakech Enjoy a scenic journey through the High Atlas Mountains as you return to Marrakech. Visit the medina and barter for a bargain in the souk Day 9 Depart Marrakech
Included Excursions & Activities Arrival transfer, guided tours of Rabat, Volubilis, Fes, Ait Benhaddou, camel trek into the Sahara Desert, overnight at a traditional Berber Camp
Dates Start tour
120
Type of Travel: Private vehicle Accommodation: 7 nights hotels, 1 night in a Berber Camp in the Sahara Desert
Itinerary
Sat 23 Dec 17 Sat 27 Jan 18 Sat 10 Feb 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 10 Mar 18 Sat 24 Mar 18 Sat 07 Apr 18
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 31 Dec 17 Sun 04 Feb 18 Sun 18 Feb 18 Sun 04 Mar 18 Sun 18 Mar 18 Sun 01 Apr 18 Sun 15 Apr 18
Sat 21 Apr 18 Sat 05 May 18 Sat 19 May 18 Sat 26 May 18 Sat 02 Jun 18 Sat 16 Jun 18 Sat 30 Jun 18
Sun 29 Apr 18 Sun 13 May 18 Sun 27 May 18 Sun 03 Jun 18 Sun 10 Jun 18 Sun 24 Jun 18 Sun 08 Jul 18
Sat 14 Jul 18 Sat 28 Jul 18 Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 25 Aug 18 Sat 08 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18
Sun 22 Jul 18 Sun 05 Aug 18 Sun 19 Aug 18 Sun 02 Sep 18 Sun 16 Sep 18 Sun 30 Sep 18
Sat 06 Oct 18 Sat 20 Oct 18 Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 17 Nov 18 Sat 08 Dec 18 Sun 23 Dec 18
Sun 14 Oct 18 Sun 28 Oct 18 Sun 11 Nov 18 Sun 25 Nov 18 Sun 16 Dec 18 Sun 30 Dec 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/highlights-of-morocco/rmohmm
Meals: 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 6 dinners included Group Size: Average 8-12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Africa Morocco
Group wearing traditional Berber clothes, Morocco
Chefchaouen
Rabat Casablanca
Marrakech Essaouira
Fes
Meknes
MOROCCO
Midelt
Sahara Desert Todra Gorge Ait Benhaddou
Jemaa el-Fnaa, Marrakech, Morocco
1129
Best of Morocco | 15 days
From CHF
Tour Code: RMOBM • Marrakech to Marrakech
I’d like my own room: CHF269
Taking in all of Morocco’s cultural and scenic gems, this two week tour takes you from the souks of Marrakech to the solitude of the Sahara. From beautiful beaches to dark desert skies and towns painted blue, marvel at some of the most breath-taking regions in the country.
Day 1 Marrakech This is your arrival day Day 2 Marrakech to Casablanca Travel to Casablanca where you can visit the Hassan II Mosque Day 3 Casablanca to Meknes Enjoy a guided tour of Rabat before arriving in the imperial city of Meknes Day 4 Meknes to Chefchaouen Travel to the picturesque town of Chefchaouen. The streets are painted blue and each corner offers multiple photo opportunities Days 5-6 Chefchaouen to Fes Your next stop is one of the world’s oldest medieval cities, Fes. Stroll through the intoxicating souks which will set all your senses alive Day 7 Fes to Midelt Head to the mountains spending a night relaxing in Midelt Day 8 Berber Camp in the Sahara Desert Transfer onto camels journeying to a Berber Camp in the the Sahara Desert Day 9 Sahara Desert to Todra Gorge Gaze into the Todra Gorge, Morocco’s very own Grand Canyon. Take hikes around the rim for beautiful views Day 10 Todra Gorge to Ait Benhaddou Visit the fortified city of Ait Benhaddou Days 11-12 Ait Benhaddou to Essaouira Visit the fish market in Essaouira enjoying fresh seafood at the harbour restaurants. Wander through the whitewashed narrow streets and shop for bargains Days 13-14 Essaouira to Marrakech Return to Marrakech and explore the bustling souk Day 15 Depart Marrakech
Dates Sat 23 Dec 17 Sat 20 Jan 18 Sat 03 Feb 18 Sat 17 Feb 18 Sat 03 Mar 18 Sat 17 Mar 18 Sat 31 Mar 18
Type of Travel: Private vehicle Accommodation: 13 nights hotels, 1 night in a Berber Camp in the Sahara Desert
Itinerary
Start tour
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sat 06 Jan 18 Sat 03 Feb 18 Sat 17 Feb 18 Sat 03 Mar 18 Sat 17 Mar 18 Sat 31 Mar 18 Sat 14 Apr 18
Sat 14 Apr 18 Sat 28 Apr 18 Sat 12 May 18 Sat 26 May 18 Sat 09 Jun 18 Sat 23 Jun 18 Sat 07 Jul 18
Sat 28 Apr 18 Sat 12 May 18 Sat 26 May 18 Sat 09 Jun 18 Sat 23 Jun 18 Sat 07 Jul 18 Sat 21 Jul 18
Sat 21 Jul 18 Sat 04 Aug 18 Sat 18 Aug 18 Sat 01 Sep 18 Sat 15 Sep 18 Sat 29 Sep 18 Sat 13 Oct 18
Sat 04 Aug 18 Sat 18 Aug 18 Sat 01 Sep 18 Sat 15 Sep 18 Sat 29 Sep 18 Sat 13 Oct 18 Sat 27 Oct 18
Sat 27 Oct 18 Sat 10 Nov 18 Sat 24 Nov 18 Thu 06 Dec 18 Sun 23 Dec 18
Sat 10 Nov 18 Sat 24 Nov 18 Sat 08 Dec 18 Thu 20 Dec 18 Sun 06 Jan 19
Meals: 14 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners included Group Size: Average 8-12, maximum 16 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Arrival transfer, guided tours of Rabat, Volubilis, Chefchaouen, Fes, Ait Benhaddou, camel trek into the Sahara Desert, overnight at a traditional Berber Camp
“ It was a jam-packed tour which really showed all the colours and sounds of Morocco’s diverse and historic cities. ” - Marcus Hunt, January 2016
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/best-of-morocco/rmobm
121
Africa Kenya & Tanzania
Dhow boat in the Indian Ocean off Zanzibar, Tanzania
KENYA
Nairobi Serengeti National Park Ngorongoro Crater Arusha TANZANIA
Zanzibar (Stone Town)
Lioness and cubs in the Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
1879
Serengeti to Zanzibar | 9 days
From CHF
Tour Code: AFSZ • Nairobi to Stone Town
Plus Local Payment: US$680
A perfect nine day tour with world class wildlife viewing opportunities plus a few days relaxing on the beach. Spot the big five in the Serengeti National Park and be one of the first vehicles to enter the Ngorongoro Crater in the morning before wandering Stone Town’s bustling markets.
Type of Travel: Mixture of Overland Truck and private and public transport
Itinerary Day 1 Nairobi This is your arrival day. Tonight you will meet your group Day 2 Nairobi to Arusha Crossing into Tanzania, drive to Arusha, passing Kilimanjaro in the distance Day 3 Arusha to the Serengeti National Park It is time to head to the Serengeti National Park where you will get your first taste of Africa’s amazing wildlife on an afternoon game drive. Tonight you will stay inside the park Day 4 Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Crater Get back into the safari vehicles for a full day of wildlife watching in the Serengeti. Later today we will take you towards the Ngorongoro Crater where you will spend the night Day 5 Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha Early this morning, we drive into the Ngorongoro Crater, an area filled with non-migratory wildlife, before returning to Arusha in the afternoon Days 6-7 Arusha to Zanzibar North Beach Fly to Zanzibar and spend two days making the most of its beautiful beaches. You can take a dhow sunset cruise or snorkel in the clear waters Day 8 Zanzibar North Beach to Stone Town Enjoy a spice tour before heading to Stone Town Day 9 Depart Stone Town
Included Excursions & Activities Entry & game drives in the Serengeti National Park, entry & game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar spice tour
Dates Start tour
Fri 05 Jan 18 Fri 16 Feb 18 Fri 30 Mar 18 Fri 20 Apr 18
122
Tour Information
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 28 Apr 18
Fri 11 May 18 Fri 01 Jun 18 Fri 22 Jun 18 Fri 13 Jul 18
Sat 19 May 18 Sat 09 Jun 18 Sat 30 Jun 18 Sat 21 Jul 18
Start tour
Fri 03 Aug 18 Fri 24 Aug 18 Fri 14 Sep 18 Fri 05 Oct 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 01 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18 Sat 13 Oct 18
Fri 26 Oct 18 Fri 16 Nov 18 Fri 07 Dec 18 Fri 28 Dec 18
Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 24 Nov 18 Sat 15 Dec 18 Sat 05 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/serengeti-to-zanzibar/afsz
Accommodation: 6 nights hotels, 2 nights lodges Meals: 8 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 2 dinners included Group Size: Average 15, maximum 34 Physical Rating:
“ It was amazing we saw loads of animals - more than I was expecting and finished on a beautiful beach in Zanzibar ” - Catriona Gallagher, October 2016
Africa Kenya & Tanzania
An elephant in Kilimanjaro National Park, Tanzania
KENYA
Masai Mara
Nairobi
Serengeti National Park Ngorongoro Crater Arusha TANZANIA
Zanzibar (Stone Town)
Wildebeest Migration, Masai Mara, Kenya
2539
Safari & Beach | 13 days
From CHF
Tour Code: AFSB • Nairobi to Stone Town
Plus Local Payment: US$890
This 13 day adventure combines some of east Africa’s best safaris with a few nights on the paradise island of Zanzibar. Packed with game drives, fascinating cultures and delicious cuisine, this tour takes in many of the region’s best highlights.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mixture of Overland Truck and private and public transport
Itinerary Day 1 Nairobi This is your arrival day Day 2 Nairobi to the Masai Mara Departing Nairobi early, travel to the Masai Mara. Jump into a safari vehicle for your first game drive Day 3 Masai Mara Today you can enjoy a whole day spotting the big five. Head to the Mara River to see crocodiles waiting to catch their prey and visit a traditional Masai Village Days 4-5 Masai Mara to Nairobi Return to Nairobi where you can meet baby elephants at the Elephant Orphanage Day 6 Nairobi to Arusha Cross into Tanzania and travel to Arusha, the gateway for a safari in the Serengeti Day 7 Arusha to the Serengeti National Park Spend the day spotting the big five before settling down for the night at your lodge inside the national park Day 8 Serengeti National Park to Ngorongoro Crater After another day of wildlife-spotting, travel to the Ngorongoro Crater where you will spend the night Day 9 Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha Take your final game drive, inside the crater itself, before returning to Arusha Days 10-11 Arusha to Zanzibar North Beach Fly to Stone Town and relax on Zanzibar’s palm-fringed beaches Day 12 Zanzibar North Beach to Stone Town Enjoy a tour of a spice plantation en-route to Stone Town Day 13 Depart Stone Town
Included Excursions & Activities
Accommodation: 8 nights hotels, 2 nights lodges, 2 nights permanent tents Meals: 12 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 4 dinners included Group Size: Average 15, maximum 34 Physical Rating:
Have more time? Book a few more nights on Zanzibar Island to make the most of the beaches.
Entry & game drives in the Masai Mara, Masai Village visit, Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Centre visit, entry & game drives in the Serengeti National Park, entry & a game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar spice tour & local lunch
Dates Start tour
End tour
Mon 01 Jan 18 Mon 12 Feb 18 Mon 26 Mar 18 Mon 16 Apr 18
Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 07 Apr 18 Sat 28 Apr 18
Start tour
Mon 07 May 18 Mon 28 May 18 Mon 18 Jun 18 Mon 09 Jul 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sat 19 May 18 Sat 09 Jun 18 Sat 30 Jun 18 Sat 21 Jul 18
Mon 30 Jul 18 Mon 20 Aug 18 Mon 10 Sep 18 Mon 01 Oct 18
Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 01 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18 Sat 13 Oct 18
Mon 22 Oct 18 Mon 12 Nov 18 Mon 03 Dec 18 Mon 24 Dec 18
Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 24 Nov 18 Sat 15 Dec 18 Sat 05 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/safari-and-beach/afsb
123
Africa Rwanda, Uganda & Kenya
Lake Bunyonyi, Kenya - Taken by Alice Rerden
UGANDA Kampala
Jinja
KENYA
Naivasha RWANDA
Lake Bunyonyi
Nairobi
Kigali
Mountain gorilla, Uganda
1669
Kigali to Nairobi | 11 days
From CHF
Tour Code: AFKN • Kigali to Nairobi
Plus Local Payment: US$470
Beginning in Kigali, discover how Rwanda has flourished in the last decade before heading to Lake Bunyonyi where your search for mountain gorillas begins. Spend an hour with a family of these incredible animals in the heart of the Ugandan forest. Jinja will provide more heart-racing opportunities before ending in Nairobi where you could add on an adventure to the Masai Mara.
Itinerary
Type of Travel: Mixture of Overland Truck and private transport Accommodation: 4 nights hotels, 5 nights permanent
Day 1 Kigali This is your arrival day Day 2 Kigali to Lake Bunyonyi Visit the Rwanda Genocide Museum and Hotel Rwanda before heading to Lake Bunyonyi, your base for the gorilla trekking experience Day 3 Gorilla Trek Today is a highlight as you hike through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in search of a family of endangered Mountain Gorillas. Spend an hour with them before returning to Lake Bunyonyi Day 4 Lake Bunyonyi Take a boat onto Lake Bunyonyi and admire the surrounding hillsides, visit a village and school of pygmy schoolchildren Day 5 Lake Bunyonyi to Kampala Travel to Uganda’s capital, Kampala, stopping off at the Equator for an excellent photo opportunity Days 6-7 Kampala to Jinja Head to the adventure hub of Jinja where you could try white-water rafting on the Nile River or tour surrounding villages Days 8-9 Jinja to Lake Naivasha Travel to Lake Naivasha. From here you can spot hippos on the lake, explore the nearby Hell’s Gate National Park or go horse riding Day 10 Lake Naivasha to Nairobi It’s time to return to Nairobi. You can enjoy a final meal at Carnivores restaurant where the food is served on Masai spears Day 11 Depart Nairobi
Included Excursions & Activities
tents, 1 night hotel with a shared bathroom Meals: 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner included Group Size: Average 15, maximum 34 Physical Rating:
Have more time? Add on three extra days and enjoy game drives in the Masai Mara. See Tour Code AFEA online.
Visit the Nyamata Church Genocide Memorial, Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre & Hôtel des Mille Collines (Hotel Rwanda), guided Gorilla Trek including the permit, boat trip on Lake Bunyonyi, visit Batwa pygmy village
Dates Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 24 Dec 17 Sun 04 Feb 18 Sun 18 Mar 18
Wed 03 Jan 18 Wed 14 Feb 18 Wed 28 Mar 18
Sun 29 Apr 18 Sun 10 Jun 18 Sun 01 Jul 18
Wed 09 May 18 Wed 20 Jun 18 Wed 11 Jul 18
Sun 22 Jul 18 Sun 12 Aug 18 Sun 02 Sep 18
Wed 01 Aug 18 Wed 22 Aug 18 Wed 12 Sep 18
Sun 23 Sep 18 Sun 14 Oct 18 Sun 25 Nov 18
Wed 03 Oct 18 Wed 24 Oct 18 Wed 05 Dec 18
124
Tour Information
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/kigali-to-nairobi/afkn
Africa Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya & Tanzania
Visiting the Giraffe Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
UGANDA
Kampala
RWANDA
Jinja
KENYA
Naivasha Lake Bunyonyi Masai Mara Nairobi Serengeti National Park
Kigali
Ngorongoro Crater TANZANIA
Arusha
Zanzibar (Stone Town)
Sunset in the Masai Mara, Kenya
3849
Rwanda to Zanzibar | 21 days
From CHF
Tour Code: AFRZ • Kigali to Stone Town
Plus Local Payment: US$1380
A diverse adventure through four countries. Begin your tour in Kigali and learn about Rwanda’s turbulent history. You will then be whisked to Lake Bunyonyi, the base for our Gorilla Trek. We include both the Masai Mara National Reserve and Serengeti National Park for ample wildlife spotting opportunities before heading to the beaches of Zanzibar.
Itinerary Day 1 Kigali This is your arrival day Day 2 Kigali to Lake Bunyonyi Visit the memorials dedicated to the Rwandan Genocide before driving to Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda Days 3-4 Lake Bunyonyi Trek to see the endangered mountain gorillas, nestled deep in the jungle Day 5 Lake Bunyonyi to Kampala Stop at the Equator en-route to Kampala, Uganda’s capital Days 6-7 Kampala to Jinja Head to Jinja, where you can go white-water rafting or explore surrounding villages Days 8-9 Jinja to Naivasha The next stop is Naivasha staying near the lake. Keep your ears out for the sound of hippos! Days 10-11 Naivasha to the Masai Mara Kenya’s most iconic park, watch out for the big five and spot crocs on the Mara River Days 12-13 Masai Mara to Nairobi Heading to Kenya’s capital, visit the Giraffe Centre and Elephant Orphanage for close up experiences with the animals Day 14 Nairobi to Arusha Cross into Tanzania stopping in Arusha Days 15-16 Arusha to the Serengeti National Park & the Ngorongoro Crater Enjoy game drives in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, spotting a diverse array of wildlife Day 17 Ngorongoro Crater to Arusha After a final game drive it’s time to return to Arusha Days 18-19 Arusha to Zanzibar North Beach Fly to Zanzibar. Take a dhow sunset cruise or enjoy a spot of snorkelling Day 20 Zanzibar North Beach to Stone Town Enjoy a tour of a spice plantation en-route to Stone Town Day 21 Depart Stone Town
Dates Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sun 24 Dec 17 Sun 04 Feb 18 Sun 18 Mar 18
Sat 13 Jan 18 Sat 24 Feb 18 Sat 07 Apr 18
Sun 29 Apr 18 Sun 10 Jun 18 Sun 01 Jul 18
Sat 19 May 18 Sat 30 Jun 18 Sat 21 Jul 18
Sun 22 Jul 18 Sun 12 Aug 18 Sun 02 Sep 18
Sat 11 Aug 18 Sat 01 Sep 18 Sat 22 Sep 18
Sun 23 Sep 18 Sun 14 Oct 18 Sun 25 Nov 18
Sat 13 Oct 18 Sat 03 Nov 18 Sat 15 Dec 18
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mixture of Overland Truck and private and public transport Accommodation: 10 nights hotels, 7 nights permanent tents, 1 night hotel with a shared bathroom, 2 nights lodges Meals: 20 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 5 dinners included Group Size: Average 15, maximum 34 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Visit the Nyamata Church Genocide Memorial, Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre & Hôtel des Mille Collines (Hotel Rwanda), guided Gorilla Trek including permit, boat trip on Lake Bunyonyi, visit a Batwa pygmy village, entry & game drives in the Masai Mara, Elephant Orphanage & Giraffe Centre visit, entry & game drives in the Serengeti National Park, entry & game drive in the Ngorongoro Crater, Zanzibar spice tour & local lunch
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/rwanda-to-zanzibar/afrz
125
Africa South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe & Zambia
Aerial view of Victoria Falls, Zambia
ZAMBIA
Livingstone ZIMBABWE
Victoria Falls
Bulawayo Tshipise Kruger National Park
Pretoria
Hazyview
Johannesburg
Mlilwane SWAZILAND
SOUTH AFRICA
Lion in Kruger National Park, South Africa
1489
Kruger to Vic Falls | 14 days
From CHF
Tour Code: AFKF • Pretoria to Livingstone
Plus Local Payment: US$360
You will experience four countries in two weeks as you travel from Pretoria, just outside Johannesburg, to Livingstone, Zambia and the mighty Victoria Falls. Learn about the intriguing culture in Swaziland, game drive through Kruger National Park, South Africa’s largest national park, and spot endangered rhino in Zimbabwe.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly by Overland Truck
Itinerary Day 1 Pretoria This is your arrival day Days 2-4 Pretoria to Mlilwane Travel to the small yet fascinating country of Swaziland. From Mlilwane you can visit the Mantenga Cultural Village Day 5 Mlilwane to Hazyview Driving back into South Africa, the next stop is Hazyview. This is a scenic journey as you pass the Blyde River Canyon and the Lisbon Falls Days 6-7 Hazyview to Kruger National Park From the overland truck, drive into Kruger National Park to enjoy game drives. The added height means you can see animals further away Day 8 Kruger National Park to Tshipise Cross into Zimbabwe, stopping at the small town of Tshipise Days 9-10 Tshipise to Bulawayo From Bulawayo we will take you on a full day’s excursion in Matobo National Park. You will be able to see rhinos up close in the wild and discover ancient bush paintings Days 11-12 Bulawayo to Victoria Falls Victoria Falls is the small town near the waterfalls of the same name. For the best views, visit them from this side of the border Day 13 Victoria Falls to Livingstone Crossing into Zambia, Livingstone is home to the adrenaline-pumping activities around Victoria Falls. You have free time to make the most of these, as well as the chance to see the mighty falls from this side of the border Day 14 Depart Livingstone
Included Excursions & Activities Entry & game drives through Kruger National Park from the Tucan Travel vehicle, day trip in Matobo National Park including rhino viewing on foot, game drives & visits to the bush painting & boulder formations
Dates Start tour
Sun 25 Feb 18 Sun 08 Apr 18
126
End tour
Sat 10 Mar 18 Sat 21 Apr 18
Start tour
Sun 20 May 18 Sun 01 Jul 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Sat 02 Jun 18 Sat 14 Jul 18
Sun 12 Aug 18 Sun 23 Sep 18
Sat 25 Aug 18 Sat 06 Oct 18
Sun 04 Nov 18 Sun 16 Dec 18
Sat 17 Nov 18 Sat 29 Dec 18
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/kruger-to-vic-falls/afkf
Accommodation: 4 nights hotels, 2 nights permanent tents, 2 guesthouses, 5 nights in rondavels Meals: 13 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 2 dinners included Group Size: Average 15, maximum 34 Physical Rating:
“ If you love your wildlife, with a beautiful backdrop, want to immerse yourself in other cultures in the company of like minded people from around the world then this is a mustdo trip. ” - Vincent Willams, June 2017
Africa Zambia, Botswana & Namibia
Etosha National Park, Namibia
ZAMBIA
Okavango Delta Divundu Etosha National Park Outjo Swakopmund
Windhoek
Livingstone
Victoria Falls
Kasane (Chobe National Park) Elephant Sands Maun BOTSWANA
NAMIBIA
Tucan Travel truck, Botswana - Taken by Callum Whiteley
1519
Botswana & Namibia | 13 days
From CHF
Tour Code: AFBN • Livingstone to Windhoek
Plus Local Payment: US$400
In 13 days get under the skin of Botswana and Namibia. Enjoy a sunset cruise down the river in Chobe National Park before heading to the remote Okavango Delta where you can paddle on traditional mokoros spotting animals from afar. Spot wildlife on game drives in Etosha National Park, and admire the towering sand dunes in the Namib Desert.
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly by Overland Truck Accommodation: 8 nights in hotels, 1 night tented camp, 1 night in a basic hut, 2 nights lodges
Itinerary Day 1 Livingstone This is your arrival day Day 2 Livingstone to Kasane Enter Botswana staying in Kasane, where we visit Chobe National Park. Enjoy a sunset river cruise through the park, best-known for its elephant population Day 3 Kasane to Elephant Sands Spend the night at Elephant Sands lodge, on the banks of a watering hole attracting elephants and other wildlife Day 4 Elephant Sands to Maun Leaving the elephants behind, we travel to the town of Maun Day 5 Okavango Delta From Maun we take a day trip into the Okavango Delta. Paddle the traditional mokoros or swim in the waterways Day 6 Maun to Divundu Cross into Namibia and drive to Divundu Days 7-8 Divundu to Etosha National Park Staying near Etosha National Park, spend the day driving through the reserve spotting wildlife from our truck Day 9 Etosha National Park to Outjo This morning it’s time to leave the Etosha area and continue through Namibia Days 10-11 Outjo to Swakopmund The next destination is Swakopmund, surrounded by the Namib Desert. From here you can try sky-diving, sandboarding or take a quad-bike tour of the desert Day 12 Swakopmund to Windhoek Your last stop is Namibia’s capital, Windhoek. Explore the town, admiring the German influences Day 13 Depart Windhoek
Meals: 12 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 3 dinners included Group Size: Average 16, maximum 34. Physical Rating:
Have more time? Add five days and travel to Cape Town, which has it all: beaches, mountains, harbours and gardens See Tour Code: AFDD online.
Included Excursions & Activities Sunset safari cruise on the Chobe River, day trip to the Okavango Delta, entry & game drive in Etosha National Park
Dates Start tour
Sat 10 Mar 18 Sat 21 Apr 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Thu 22 Mar 18 Thu 03 May 18
Sat 02 Jun 18 Sat 14 Jul 18
Thu 14 Jun 18 Thu 26 Jul 18
Sat 25 Aug 18 Sat 06 Oct 18
Thu 06 Sep 18 Thu 18 Oct 18
Sat 17 Nov 18 Sat 29 Dec 18
Thu 29 Nov 18 Thu 10 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/botswana-and-namibia/afbn
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Africa South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana & Namibia
Fighting Gemsbok Antelope in Etosha National Park, Namibia
Southern Africa Adventure | 31 days Tour Code: AFSL â&#x20AC;˘ Pretoria to Cape Town
Plus Local Payment: US$980
An in-depth journey through Southern Africa, you will begin in Pretoria and finish in Cape Town, nestled under Table Mountain. Enjoy national parks brimming with wildlife, exciting safaris and sunset cruises.
Itinerary
Dates Start tour
128
End tour
Tue 27 Mar 18 Tue 08 May 18
Tour Information Type of Travel: Mainly by Overland Truck
Day 1 Pretoria This is your arrival day Days 2-4 Pretoria to Mlilwane Enter Swaziland and visit the Matenga Cultural Village for an insight into the Swazi culture Days 5-7 Mlilwane to Hazyview & Kruger National Park Back to South Africa to relax in Hazyview. Continue towards Kruger National Park where you can enjoy game drives from our truck Days 8-10 Kruger National Park to Bulawayo via Tshipise Enter Zimbabwe, stopping in Tshipise. Continue to Bulawayo where you will explore Matobo National Park Days 11-12 Bulawayo to Victoria Falls Stay at Victoria Falls where you can visit the famous falls from the Zimbabwean side Days 13-14 Victoria Falls to Livingstone Cross into Zambia and head to Livingstone where there are many adventure activities from bungee jumping to rafting Day 15 Livingstone to Kasane & Chobe National Park Botswana! Visit Chobe National Park from Kasane and enjoy an evening river cruise Day 16 Kasane to Elephant Sands Marvel at the elephants that roam free at Elephant Sands Days 17-18 Elephant Sands to Maun Maun is the gateway for a day trip to the Okavango Delta Days 19-21 Maun to Etosha via Divundu Journey into Namibia stopping at Divundu. Continue towards Etosha National Park and enjoy a full day spotting wildlife Days 22-23 Etosha to Swakopmund via Outjo Spend the night in Outjo before exploring Swakopmund, a colonial town with German influences Days 25-26 Swakopmund to Sesriem via Windhoek Namibiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s capital, Windhoek lies in a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains. Stop here before heading to Sesriem, deep in the Namib desert Days 27-28 Sesriem to Fish River Canyon & Orange River Admire spectacular views from Fish River Canyon and travel to Orange River Days 29-31 Orange River to Cape Town via Cederberg Enjoy a wine tasting tour in Cederberg before heading to Cape Town Day 31 Depart Cape Town
Sun 25 Feb 18 Sun 08 Apr 18
3499
From CHF
Start tour
Sun 20 May 18 Sun 01 Jul 18
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Start tour
End tour
Tue 19 Jun 18 Tue 31 Jul 18
Sun 12 Aug 18 Sun 23 Sep 18
Tue 11 Sep 18 Tue 23 Oct 18
Sun 04 Nov 18 Sun 16 Dec 18
Tue 04 Dec 18 Tue 15 Jan 19
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/southern-africa-adventure/afsl
Accommodation: 14 nights hotels, 5 nights in rondavels, 3 nights permanent tents, 2 nights lodges, 2 guesthouses, 4 nights basic huts Meals: 30 breakfasts, 20 lunches, 8 dinners included Group Size: Average 15, maximum 34 Physical Rating:
Included Excursions & Activities Entry & game drives through Kruger National Park from Tucan Travel vehicle, day trip in Matobo National Park including rhino viewing on foot, game drives & visits to the bushpainting & boulder formations, sunset safari cruise on the Chobe River, day trip to the Okavango Delta, entry & game drive in Etosha National Park, stop at the town of Solitaire & the Tropic of Capricorn, Sossusvlei & Dead Vlei, Fish River Canyon, wine tasting in Cederberg
Africa South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana & Namibia
Tucan Travel truck stopping at the Tropic of Capricorn, Namibia
Fish River Canyon, Namibia - Taken by Alice Rerden
“ I had a fabulous time on this tour. From the first zebra at Mlilwane to a colourful gecko in the dunes of Swakopmund, the wildlife was amazing. Seeing the ‘Big Five’ at Kruger plus wild dogs was incredible. Walking with the rhinos at Matobo was unforgettable. ” - Judith O’Leary, May 2017
Kasane (Chobe National Park) ZAMBIA
Okavango Delta
Cape Town, South Africa
Livingstone Victoria Falls
Divundu
ZIMBABWE
Etosha National Park Outjo Maun
Swakopmund
Elephant Sands
Bulawayo
Windhoek NAMIBIA
Sesriem
Tshipise BOTSWANA
Pretoria Johannesburg
Fish River Canyon
SWAZILAND
Kruger National Park Hazyview Mlilwane
Orange River SOUTH AFRICA Cederberg
Cape Town
Traditional Swaziland huts, Swaziland
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/southern-africa-adventure/afsl
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Africa Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana & Namibia
Masai Warriors, Kenya
Travel for as little or as long as you like You can start and finish your tour in any of the cities on the map travelling for as little or as long as you like. To find out about each of the sections on this epic adventure, go to the pages listed below.
Nairobi to Nairobi | 12 days
Nairobi to Stone Town | 13 days
Tour Code: AFKR
Tour Code: AFSB
Online only
See Page 123
Pretoria to Livingstone | 14 days
Livingstone to Windhoek | 13 days
Tour Code: AFKF
Tour Code: AFBN
See Page 126
See Page 127
Windhoek to Cape Town | 7 days Tour Code: AFWC
Online Only
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View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/highlights-of-africa/afha
Africa Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana & Namibia
Elephants at dawn, Tanzania
UGANDA UGANDA
Kigali
RWANDA
Kigali
RWANDA
KENYA
Nairobi KEN YA Nairobi Zanzibar
(Stone Town)
Zebras in Kruger National Park, South Africa
Zanzibar
(Stone Town)
ZAMBIA
Livingstone
Z A M B IZAI M B A B W E
Livingstone Windhoek
BOTSWANA ZIMBABWE
Windhoek
BOTSWANA
NAMIBIA NAMIBIA
Pretoria Okavango Delta, Botswana - Taken by Callum Whiteley
PretoriaS W A Z I L A N D
SOUTH AFRICA
SWAZILAND SOUTH AFRICA
Cape Town Cape Town
If you book a tour that connects East Africa with Southern Africa, we include the flight between Stone Town, Zanzibar and Pretoria, South Africa. Tucan Travel truck, Botswana - Taken by Callum Whiteley
View online | www.tucantravel.com/tour/highlights-of-africa/afha
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Adventures for 20s & 30s
Adventures
for 20s & 30s in Africa
76 DAYS Travel Mainly by Overland Truck
The longest tour we offer
Add safaris galore
11 The number of countries you can tick off
Lots of activities included
Local Payment keeps the costs down
UGANDA KENYA
NAIROBI
TANZANIA
ZAMBIA
MALAWI
LIVINGSTONE ZIMBABWE NAMIBIA BOTSWANA
WINDHOEK
PRETORIA
SWAZILAND SOUTH AFRICA
LESOTHO
CAPE TOWN
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View online | www.tucantravel.com/travel-styles/trips/adventures-for-20s-and-30s
ZANZIBAR
Adventures for 20s & 30s
Our Best Selling Adventures for 20s & 30s
Big 5 & Beaches
Nairobi
Duration: 11 Days Tour Code: BXABB
KENYA
899
From CHF
TANZANIA
Plus Local Payment: US$280
Dar es Salaam
Safari, Swazi & Zim Duration: 13 Days Tour Code: BXASS
ZAMBIA Livingstone ZIMBABWE
949
From CHF
Pretoria
Plus Local Payment: US$240
SWAZILAND
SOUTH AFRICA
Vic Falls to Cape Town Duration: 19 Days Tour Code: BXAVC
ZAMBIA Livingstone
NAMIBIA BOTSWANA
1119
From CHF
Plus Local Payment: US$360
SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town
Road to Cape
KENYA Nairobi
Duration: 38 Days Tour Code: BXACT
TANZANIA
2269
From CHF
Plus Local Payment: US$830
ZAMBIA
MALAWI
NAMIBIA BOTSWANA SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town
View online | www.tucantravel.com/travel-styles/trips/adventures-for-20s-and-30s
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Tailor-made
Welcome to
Tailor-made tours
134
View online | www.tucantravel.com/travel-styles/tailor-made-tours
Tailor-made
About Tailor-made Tours Any of the Latin America or Asia tours found in this brochure can be adapted by our Tailor-made department. If you didn’t see your preferred dates, or if you would like to add some more bespoke adventures, our dedicated team can help you create your perfect itinerary. Email tailormade@tucantravel.com for more details.
Accommodation We can book any type of accommodation from a 3* hotel to a 5* boutique lodge. We specialise in providing locally owned accommodation but can also book a specific hotel you have your eye on.
Transport Whether you want a private driver or you would like an authentic experience on public transport, we can organise the best way to get you from A to B. Many of our tours will include regional flights to maximise the time spent at each destination but sometimes there may be a need for overnight transport to get you from one region to the next.
Excursions Each itinerary we create is designed specifically for you, based on your personal preferences. This allows you to have that all important flexibility to ensure you get what you want out of your time away. Whether you want a day tour of the highlights of a city or you want to get under its skin, we can fill the days your way.
Meals At Tucan Travel, we believe that experiencing the local food is one of the best ways to really get to know a region, whether that is freshly made empanadas or sizzling steak, straight off the grill. Our trips can be adapted to suit any dietary requirements and we can arrange cooking lessons, recommend popular restaurants or take you to local markets to try the fresh produce.
The Belmond Hiram Bingham Train, Peru
View online | www.tucantravel.com/travel-styles/tailor-made-tours
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Tailor-made Sample Itineraries
Machu Picchu, Peru
Outdoor jacuzzi at the Salkantay Lodge, Peru
Sample Itinerary of Peru | 9 Days An alternative to the Inca Trail, the Salkantay Trek is the ultimate journey to Machu Picchu. Hike past the breath-taking Mount Salkantay, staying in comfortable mountain lodges along way. You will take challenging ascents and trek through Inca ruins before spending the evenings relaxing, making the most of the outdoor jacuzzis provided.
Machu Picchu Llactapata
Day 1 Arrive Cusco Day 2 Travel to the mountain village of Mollepata before beginning the hike at Marcoccasa. Arrive at the Salkantay Lodge and enjoy the outdoor jacuzzi Day 3 Enjoy a half day hike to Lake Humantay for pristine views Day 4 Conquer a challenging trek to the Salkantay Pass which is 4,638 metres above sea level Day 5 Hike through a cloud forest before arriving at Colpa Lodge. Enjoy a traditional Peruvian dish, Pachamanca Day 6 Hike through the Santa Teresa Valley passing avocado orchards Day 7 Discover the Inca Llactapata ruins before taking the train to Aguas Calientes Day 8 Waking early, it’s time for a guided tour of Machu Picchu before returning to Cusco Day 9 Depart Cusco
View online, tour code: TMST
Aguas Calientes
Salkantay Trek PERU Molepata
Cusco
Perfect for Adventure
A couple enjoying Chile’s central wine valleys
La Boca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Sample Itinerary of Chile & Argentina | 10 Days Enjoy a combination of colourful, cosmopolitan cities and lush wine valleys. Argentina and Chile are home to some of the most prestigious vineyards in Latin America and this tour will take you to a variety of vineyards. Enjoy traditional lunches, sample delicious white and red wine and catch a tango show in Buenos Aires. Day 1 Arrive Santiago Day 2 Enjoy a full day tour of colourful Valparaiso Day 3 Travel to Chile’s premier white wine region, the Casablanca Valley. Visit two major vineyards in the area Days 4-5 Fly to Mendoza in Argentina. The next day take a tour of the city visiting the historical centre Day 6 Enjoy a tour of the Uco Valley wine region and discover some of Argentina’s most prestigious vineyards. Visit three wineries, sampling red and white varieties and eating a delicious lunch Days 7-9 Fly to Buenos Aires and enjoy a city tour. You will also get to watch Argentina’s most famous dance, the tango Day 10 Depart Buenos Aires
View online, tour code: TMWV
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Perfect for Honeymoons
Perfect for Culture
View online | www.tucantravel.com/travel-styles/tailor-made-tours
CHILE Valparaiso
ARGENTINA Mendoza
Casablanca
Santiago
Uco Valley
Buenos Aires
Tailor-made Sample Itineraries
Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
Tikal National Park, Guatemala
Sample Itinerary of Guatemala | 14 Days Fall in love with Guatemala on this cultural, comprehensive two-week journey, including the country’s best highlights from Antigua to Tikal. Take a whirlwind trip to Honduras to explore the ruins of Copán and enjoy the Caribbean atmosphere in Livingston. Day 1 Arrive Guatemala City Day 2 Enjoy a guided tour of Antigua and visit a coffee farm Days 3-4 Enjoy a scenic boat ride across Lake Atitlan and visit nearby traditional villages Day 5 Wander through Chichicastenango Market where you can see the indigenous communities trade. Continue to Quetzaltenango Days 6-7 Explore the three towns known as the Ixil Triangle. Nebaj is home to colourful markets, Chajul has a beautiful ornate church and San Juan Cotzal boasts Guatemala’s finest weaving products Days 8-9 Return to Antigua before crossing into Honduras. You will take a tour of the Copán ruins Day 10 Returning to Guatemala, cruise down Rio Dulce to the Garifuna village of Livingston Days 11-12 Uncover Maya ruins in Tikal National Park Day 13 Discover the archaeological site of Yaxhá National Park before returning to Guatemala City Day 14 Depart Guatemala City
View online, tour code: TMGE
Tikal Flores
GUATEMALA Nebaj Chichicastenango Quetzaltenango
Livingston Rio Dulce Copan HONDURAS
Lake Atitlan Antigua
Guatemala City
Perfect for Culture
Local woman, Vietnam
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
Sample Itinerary of Cambodia & Vietnam | 11 Days Hanoi
Sample some of the highlights of Cambodia and Vietnam on this 11 day adventure. Wander around the complex of Angkor Wat on a full day tour before heading to Vietnam where you can explore vibrant Ho Chi Minh City. From Hoi An you can soak up sandy beaches or try a traditional Vietnamese coffee as you browse the bustling markets. Finally it’s off to Hanoi where you can soak up the Old Quarter on a cyclo tour! Day 1 Arrive Siem Reap Day 2 Discover the Angkor Wat complex on a full day tour Day 3 Take a trip to Tonle Lake from Siem Reap Days 4-5 Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and enjoy a tour of the main sights including the War Remnants Museum Day 6 Travel to Hoi An stopping en-route at the beautiful Marble Mountains Days 7-8 Experience the charm of Hoi An on a walking tour. Admire the old merchant houses and the Japanese Bridge Days 9-10 Fly to Hanoi and enjoy a cyclo tour through the vibrant Old Quarter Day 11 Depart Hanoi
View online, tour code: TVCT
Perfect for Culture
VIETNAM
Hoi An
Siem Reap & Angkor Wat CAMBODIA
Ho Chi Minh City
View online | www.tucantravel.com/travel-styles/tailor-made-tours
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Important Information
a) How to book a Group Tour You can make a booking with us in a number of ways. You can either get in touch directly by phone, email or through our website. We are available 24 hours a day, 5 days a week with limited opening times on Saturdays. We take Visa, Mastercard, Maestro or Bank Transfers as a form of payment and charge no credit card fees. Alternatively, we can also take your booking through your local Travel Agent.
b) Deposits, Payments & Charges
Leader easy access to cash to ensure the smooth, day to day running of the tour. It also ensures that more money reaches local communities and the people who truly need it. For more information on the Local Payment, go to tucantravel.com/local-payment v) What if I want to make any changes to my booking? You can change your departure date or group tour at any time outside of 60 days before departure for a small fee of CHF125 per person, per Component.
i) What Deposit will I have to pay?
If your tour includes the Inca Trek, Lares Trek or Gorilla Trek, we will have to purchase new trekking permits for you so extra costs apply.
As a sign of your commitment to travel with us, we charge a nominal non-refundable deposit at the time of booking. This money goes towards services which must to be paid for in advance, like internal flights, permits and hotels where there might be limited availability.
A change to Extra Services (pre/post tour accommodation, transfers etc) will incur a smaller CHF65 fee per booking. Extra Services may be added up to 30 days before departure without charge if available.
For Group Tours of less than 27 days without the Gorilla Trek, Inca Trail Trek, Lares Trek, Train to Machu Picchu and Amazon Jungle per person: CHF500; For Group Tours of more than 27 days without the Gorilla Trek, Inca Trail Trek, Lares Trek, Train to Machu Picchu and Amazon Jungle per person: CHF1000 For Group Tours of less than 27 days with the Gorilla Trek, Inca Trail Trek, Lares Trek, Train to Machu Picchu and Amazon Jungle per person: CHF900 For Group Tours of more than 27 days with the Gorilla Trek, Inca Trail Trek, Lares Trek, Train to Machu Picchu, Amazon Jungle per person: CHF1400 For Galápagos, Antarctica or Tailor-made Tours per person: 30% of total booking amount or a minimum spend / deposit of: CHF500 whichever is the highest. ii) When is Full Payment due?
vi) Can you arrange my international flights? Absolutely! Once your tour is guaranteed to depart, we can book your international flights to tie in with its arrival and departure dates. The flights must be paid for in full at the time of booking and are generally non-refundable.
c) Cancellations i) What if I need to cancel? You can cancel your tour at any time by notifying your Adventure Specialist in writing. Cancellation fees vary depending on how far in advance we are notified of cancellation. On Group Tours 60 days or more: Loss of all deposits 59 - 28 days before departure: 50% loss of full payment 27 days or less before departure: 100% loss of full payment
On Group Tours, this is requested 60 days before departure. If you are looking to depart within 60 days, full payment is due up front before we can confirm your place on tour. In the unlikely event that we aren’t able to confirm your place, the full amount will be refunded to you.
On Galápagos Tours, Antarctica Tours or Tailor-made Tours; 90 days or more (or as advised): Loss of all deposits. Within 89 days of departure (or as advised): 100% loss of full payment.
For Galápagos, Antarctica or Tailor-made Tours, full payment is due 90 days before departure however during high seasons or high occupancy this deadline may be brought forward even after you have booked.
International flights are generally non-refundable. If the reason for cancellation is covered by your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.
iii) My tour includes a Local Payment. What is this & when do I pay it?
ii) What if you cancel my tour?
The Local Payment is a non-refundable US dollar cash payment due on the first day of your tour, paid directly to your Tour Leader. The Local Payment helps to keep your tour price as low as possible and gives your Tour
It’s rare, but it does happen sometimes. Except for Force Majeure or when full payment is not received, we won’t cancel your Group Tour less than 28 days before departure. In the event of cancellation, we will refund all monies paid directly to us or offer an
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View online | www.tucantravel.com/booking-conditions
alternative trip of a comparable standard.
d) Other i) Do you have any age restrictions & do I need to be reasonably fit? Our Group Tours are recommended to anyone aged 18 to 65 years although we do occasionally take 16-17 year olds when accompanied by a guardian. In general, you should be fit, healthy and able to carry your own luggage. Our tours are relatively active and participatory in nature. You will mostly be travelling on public transport, walking long distances and up many flights of stairs, sometimes with your luggage in hand. We may ask that you sign our Tour Suitability form and anyone with pre-existing conditions should make this known to their Adventure Specialist. ii) Your Brochure & Website don’t match up Oops! The information contained in our brochure is believed correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication (August 2017). Errors may occasionally occur and information may subsequently change. Our website will always have the most up-to-date information on it so please check tucantravel.com or with your Adventure Specialist. iii) What about my Financial Protection? With offices in the UK, Australia, Canada and Peru, you are financially protected wherever you are in the world. For clients from the UK, we are members of ATOL and ABTOT, in Australia and New Zealand, we are members of ATAS and in Canada, we are a member of TICO. For more information on what this means for you, go to tucantravel.com/bookingconditions iv) Tucan Travel Company Information United Kingdom: Tucan Limited is incorporated in England and Wales with limited liability. Registered office: 316 Uxbridge Road, Acton, London W3 9QP. Company. Registration Number: 337 0298. VAT Number: GB 702 2687 54. Australia: Tucan Travel Pty Ltd is incorporated in Australia with limited liability. Registered office: Scott Associates, PO Box 20739, World Square, NSW 2002. ACN: 085 587 659. ABN: 77 085 587 659 Canada: Tucan Travel Inc is incorporated in Ontario, Canada. Registered office: 689 St Clair Avenue West, 2nd Floor Front, Toronto, Ontario, M6C1B2. Ontario Corporation Number: 002488113. Business number for GST/HST: 80088 8141 RT0001
Booking Conditions In order to join a tour, you must read our full Booking Conditions at tucantravel.com/bookingconditions
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