Discover the world with South Coast Cruise & Travel’s Special Tours Around the World. From vibrant cities and cultural landmarks to breathtaking natural wonders, curated journeys that take you beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re drawn to luxury ocean voyages, boutique small-ship adventures or immersive river cruises, our expert team ensures every detail is tailored to create unforgettable travel experiences.
Our journey begins in Delhi, India’s vibrant capital, where centuries of history meet the energy of modern life. The city is a hub of colourful chaos, with rickshaws, cars and pedestrians filling busy streets adorned with markets, street vendors and more. Arrive at any time today and settle into your hotel or head out to explore a little of the city at your own pace. With our Bhutan adventure beginning the following day, tonight is all about relaxing, soaking up the atmosphere and getting ready for the journey ahead. Special note: This tour involves remote, and off-the-beaten-path destinations sitting at altitudes ranging from 1200 meters to just under 3500 meters, throughout the tour. Be prepared for some long travel days, including journeys on winding and steep roads. Smaller vehicles will be used due to the nature of the roads and locations. To fully enjoy this journey, flexibility and a willingness to embrace the adventure are essential.
After breakfast this morning, we'll transfer to Delhi Airport for our flight to Paro. The approach into Bhutan is one of the most spectacular in the world, as we weave between towering Himalayan peaks before descending into the lush Paro Valley. On arrival, we’ll meet our local guide before driving to Bhutan’s charming capital, Thimphu. It’s a city unlike any other, with no traffic lights and a wonderful mix of modern life and age-old traditions. As we make our way through the streets, you’ll spot colourful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, monks in crimson robes and beautifully detailed Bhutanese buildings. This afternoon is free to settle into our hotel, unwind after the journey and start getting to know our new surroundings. Then, in the evening, we’ll gather for a group welcome dinner, where we'll enjoy our first taste of authentic Bhutanese cuisine while getting to know our fellow travellers. Your flight time will be approximately 2 hours.
Our sightseeing begins this morning in Thimphu at the King's Memorial Chorten, one of Bhutan's most revered monuments. Built in honour of the Third King, the gleaming white stupa is a place of daily worship where locals gather to pray, spin prayer wheels and pay their respects. We’ll then drive to the Choki Traditional Art School, a remarkable initiative providing free education, accommodation and meals for children from disadvantaged backgrounds while preserving Bhutan's traditional artistic heritage. Special Experience Take part in a traditional butter lamp lighting ceremony, an ancient spiritual ritual rooted in Bhutan's Buddhist heritage. Get ready to tap into your spiritual side as we take part in a traditional butter lamp lighting ceremony, a sacred ritual in Bhutanese Buddhism. Then, it’s time to get creative in a hands-on painting session led by senior students. Next is a tour of the beautifully preserved 340-year-old building, where we can watch skilled artisans demonstrate traditional Bhutanese crafts, including painting, sculpture, weaving, embroidery and woodturning. After lunch at a local restaurant, we'll visit the magnificent Tashichho Dzong, known as the Fortress of the Glorious Religion, before browsing the lively Centenary Farmers' Market where locals gather to buy fresh produce and handmade goods. Today involves approximately 2-3 hours of walking.
Today's journey is one of Bhutan's most spectacular drives as we travel through the heart of the Himalayas towards the beautiful Phobjikha Valley. Leaving Thimphu behind, we'll first visit the towering Buddha Dordenma, one of the largest seated Buddha statues in the world. Standing high above the capital within Kuenselphodrang Nature Park, the enormous, gilded statue offers sweeping views across the valley below. Our scenic drive continues as we climb through dense forests of pine and rhododendron to the breathtaking Dochula Pass, sitting at an altitude of 3,100 metres. On a clear day, the pass rewards us with magnificent panoramic views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks, while the 108 memorial chortens create one of Bhutan's most iconic landscapes. Following lunch at a local restaurant, we'll continue across Lawa La Pass. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to take part in the traditional hoisting of colourful prayer flags, a deeply meaningful Bhutanese custom believed to spread blessings, compassion and good fortune on the mountain winds. By late afternoon, we'll arrive in the peaceful Phobjikha Valley and check into our hotel. Surrounded by rolling meadows and pristine mountain scenery, this tranquil valley provides the perfect setting to relax before enjoying dinner together this evening. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Our morning begins with a visit to the impressive Gangtey Monastery, one of the most important Nyingma monasteries in Bhutan. Here we'll have time to observe the daily rituals of the resident gomchens (lay monks), soak up the tranquil atmosphere and admire spectacular views across the valley. From the monastery, we'll begin a walking down toward Gangtey Village, passing through a small local bazaar and clusters of traditional wooden houses. We’ll then join the picturesque Gangtey Nature Trail. Passing a small chorten and the peaceful Khewa Lhakhang, the trail gradually descends into the heart of the valley, offering wonderful opportunities to appreciate Bhutan's untouched countryside. Special Experience Enjoy a simple monastic lunch shared with the monks at Gangtey Shedra, providing a rare opportunity to experience traditional Bhutanese monastic hospitality. Following our walk, we’ll enjoy a special moment with the monks at the Gangtey Shedra Buddhist College, sharing a simple monastic lunch of traditional Bhutanese cuisine. Established to preserve and promote the teachings of the Nyingma tradition, Gangtey Shedra is an important hub for higher Buddhist learning. Enjoy this incredible opportunity to experience the warmth and serenity of monastic life, gaining insight into the kingdom’s rich spiritual heritage. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before dinner at our hotel. Today involves approximately 2.5 hours of trail walking, at altitude.
Leaving Phobjikha Valley behind, we'll enjoy a steady climb to the scenic Pele La Pass which reaches a high of 3,420 meters before descending through forests and mountain villages towards Trongsa. Here we'll enjoy lunch at a local eatery before continuing on. Our next stop is the magnificent Trongsa Dzong, the largest fortress-monastery in Bhutan. Dramatically perched on a ridge overlooking the Mangde Chhu River, this remarkable fortress has played an important role throughout Bhutan's history and remains closely connected to the country's royal family. Our scenic drive continues across the impressive Yotong La Pass before entering the beautiful Chumey Valley. Home to quaint villages and famous for its Yathra wool weaving, this peaceful area is filled with farmlands and crumbling monasteries dotted throughout the landscape. Arriving in Bumthang this afternoon, we'll transfer to our hotel and settle into the peaceful surroundings before dinner together this evening. A region made up of four valleys — Chumey, Choekhor, Tang and Ura — Bumthang is considered the spiritual heart of Bhutan. Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.
Bumthang is often described as Bhutan's cultural and spiritual soul. Home to some of the kingdom's oldest temples and monasteries, the valley is steeped in history, legend and religious significance. Rolling farmland, apple orchards and traditional villages create an idyllic setting for today's exploration. Our morning begins at Jambay Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest and most sacred temples. Built in the 7th century, the temple is believed to have been constructed to subdue a giant demoness whose body covered the Himalayas. From here, we'll enjoy a leisurely countryside walk to nearby Kurje Lhakhang, following quiet village roads through fertile farmland and rural communities before exploring the monastery complex. We continue by vehicle to Tamshing Lhakhang, renowned for housing some of Bhutan's oldest surviving Buddhist wall paintings. In the afternoon, we discover another side of Bumthang's culture with visits to the Red Panda Brewery and the nearby Bumthang Swiss Cheese Factory. Special Experience Sample locally crafted beer and delicious artisan cheese while learning about the unique production methods that combine Bhutanese traditions with Swiss influences. Enjoy a raclette-style lunch at the Red Panda Café before touring the brewery and sampling its signature Hefeweizen beer. We’ll then visit the Bumthang Swiss Cheese Factory to learn about traditional Swiss-style cheese production and taste locally made cheeses. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to relax before enjoying a simple farmhouse dinner and cooking demonstration in the evening. Today involves approximately 1 hour of walking.
After breakfast, we farewell Bumthang and begin our journey back towards western Bhutan. Today's drive takes us once again through dramatic mountain scenery as we retrace our route across high Himalayan passes before descending into the warmer, subtropical landscapes of the Punakha Valley. As the elevation gradually decreases, dense alpine forests give way to fertile valleys filled with rice paddies, fruit orchards and colourful villages. En route we'll stop at Chendbji Chorten, one of Bhutan's most recognisable stupas. Built in the 18th century and inspired by Nepal's famous Boudhanath Stupa, the whitewashed monument provides an ideal opportunity to stretch our legs and admire its intricate Buddhist artwork. Following lunch, we'll continue towards Lobesa, making a stop at historic Rinchengang Village. Believed to be one of Bhutan's oldest settlements, the village is home to beautifully preserved traditional stone houses clustered together on the hillside. A short uphill walk leads us into the village, where we'll gain an appreciation for Bhutan's enduring rural lifestyle and remarkable architectural heritage. Later this afternoon, we'll arrive at our hotel in the Punakha region and enjoy time to relax before dinner at the hotel. Your travel time today will be approximately 6.5 hours.
Punakha was once the capital of Bhutan and remains one of the kingdom's most beautiful and historically significant destinations. Nestled at the confluence of the Pho Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers, the fertile valley enjoys a warmer climate than much of the country, making it well known for its lush rice terraces, vibrant jacaranda trees and magnificent monasteries. Our day begins with a gentle countryside walk to Chimi Lhakhang, affectionately known as the Temple of Fertility. Following paved village lanes and narrow footpaths through rice paddies and peaceful hamlets, we'll make our way to the hilltop temple dedicated to the revered Buddhist master Drukpa Kunley, also known as the 'Divine Madman'. Before entering the shrine, we'll receive an orientation beneath the temple's sacred bodhi tree and learn about the fascinating traditions that continue to attract pilgrims from across Bhutan. Next, we'll visit the magnificent Punakha Dzong, widely regarded as Bhutan's most photogenic fortress-monastery. Beautifully positioned between two rivers, the dzong has served as the winter residence of the Je Khenpo, Bhutan's Chief Abbot, for centuries. We'll have ample time to admire its intricate woodwork, towering whitewashed walls and peaceful courtyards while learning about its important role in Bhutanese history. Savour a relaxed picnic-style lunch in a picturesque riverside setting surrounded by tranquil natural scenery. Afterwards, return to the hotel where the remainder of the day is at leisure with time to relax and take in the peaceful atmosphere of the valley. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Today we journey west towards the beautiful Paro Valley, retracing our route over the spectacular Dochula Pass. We'll once again enjoy magnificent mountain scenery as Bhutan's diverse landscapes unfold before us. Along the way, we'll stop for a memorable lunch at Babesa Heritage Home, a beautifully preserved 150-year-old Bhutanese residence tucked away in a quiet residential village. Lovingly maintained by the same family for generations, the heritage home offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Bhutanese architecture and hospitality. Here, we’ll enjoy a home-cooked Bhutanese lunch, savouring traditional recipes and the warm hospitality of the locals. Continuing towards Paro, we'll stop at Chuzom, where the Paro and Thimphu rivers meet beneath three distinctive stupas built in Bhutanese, Tibetan and Nepalese styles. We'll also visit the historic Tachog Lhakhang and its famous iron-chain suspension bridge, originally built by the renowned Tibetan engineer and saint Thangtong Gyalpo. Arriving in the picturesque Paro Valley, we'll pause at the Nyamai Zam Footbridge for iconic views across the river towards the impressive Rinpung Dzong before transferring to our hotel. This evening, we'll enjoy dinner together as we prepare for tomorrow's unforgettable adventure. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Surrounded by towering mountains and emerald rice fields, the Paro Valley is home to many of Bhutan's most treasured cultural landmarks. Today promises to be one of the highlights of our journey as we visit the country's most iconic monastery. Following an early breakfast, we'll travel to the trailhead to begin our hike to Taktsang Monastery, more famously known as the Tiger's Nest. Clinging dramatically to a sheer cliff face some 900 metres above the valley floor, this sacred monastery is one of the world's most extraordinary pilgrimage sites. According to Bhutanese legend, Guru Rinpoche flew to the site on the back of a tigress before meditating here in the 8th century, introducing Buddhism to Bhutan. The Tiger’s Nest Hike is a challenging return trek of approximately 6.5 kilometres, combining mountain trails, forest paths, rocky terrain, steep ascents and numerous stone staircases at altitude. The journey unfolds in three stages through fragrant pine and juniper forests, with rewarding views of the monastery and surrounding valley along the way. A lunch stop at the mountainside cafeteria provides an opportunity to rest and enjoy spectacular panoramic views. The most demanding section involves descending approximately 470 stone steps to a waterfall before climbing roughly 300 steps to reach the monastery entrance. For those who choose not to complete this demanding section, you may remain at the cafeteria until the group returns. After the hike, we’ll return to our hotel for a well-earned shower and rest. Later, unwind with a traditional Bhutanese hot stone bath, where river stones heated over an open fire are immersed into a wooden tub infused with local herbs — a wonderfully soothing and restorative experience after today’s hike. Today involves approximately 4-6 hours of walking on rocky surfaces and at altitude.
Our final full day in Bhutan offers the perfect opportunity to experience more of the country's rich traditions and welcoming culture. First, we’ll visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of Bhutan's oldest and most sacred temples. Dating back to the 7th century, the temple is believed to have been built as part of a network of monasteries constructed across the Himalayas to subdue a giant demoness. Surrounded by ancient orange trees, prayer wheels and beautifully maintained gardens, it remains an important place of pilgrimage for local worshippers. Special Experience Learn the fundamentals of Bhutanese archery from an experienced local archer, using traditional bamboo bows and arrows in a fun and interactive introduction to this much-loved national sport. We’ll later make our way to a local archery ground where we’ll discover Bhutan’s national sport during a hands-on archery experience. Using traditional bamboo bows and arrows, test out your aim with the expert guidance of a professional archer. Afterwards we'll browse the lively Ka Ja Throm Market before enjoying lunch at Namgay Artisanal Brewery, where authentic Bhutanese cuisine is accompanied by a tasting of locally brewed beer. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure before we gather this evening for an exclusive Bhutanese cultural performance followed by a memorable farewell dinner as we celebrate the incredible experiences we've shared throughout our journey.
This morning, our unforgettable journey through Bhutan comes to an end. After breakfast we'll transfer to Paro International Airport for our flight to Delhi, once again enjoying spectacular views of the Himalayan mountains as we depart this remarkable country. Our tour will come to an end when we land in Delhi. We hope you leave with fantastic memories! Your flight time will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Welcome to the dazzling South America, a continent full of rhythm, colour and soul! With 13 unique countries and some of the world’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, it’s a place that stirs the spirit and sparks the imagination, and lucky for us, we’re about to explore a few of its finest treasures. This evening, we arrive in Lima, the beautiful capital of Peru, nestled right on the Pacific Coast. Founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, it became the heart of Spanish rule in South America for nearly 300 years. Today, Lima surprises at every turn. One moment you’re standing in a peaceful colonial square and the next, you’re strolling past modern cafés or watching the sunset along a breezy coastal path. From grand churches to peaceful cloisters, the city’s energy is warm, vibrant and ready to welcome us.
Today is all about discovering some of Lima’s most iconic sights, right in the heart of the city. We’ll kick off our morning with a half-day tour, soaking up the elegance of Lima’s colonial architecture while learning about its colourful past. Our first stop will be the Cathedral of Lima, a baroque beauty built in 1535. Inside, we’ll find the tomb of Francisco Pizarro, the Spanish conquistador who founded the city. From there, we’ll head to the Basílica and Convent of San Francisco, famous for its bright yellow façade, its impressive library filled with centuries-old books and its eerie catacombs, offering a fascinating glimpse into Lima’s past. Next, we’ll head to the Larco Museum, tucked inside an 18th century mansion surrounded by blooming gardens. Here, we’ll explore a world-class collection of pre-Columbian art, including ancient gold, textiles and some cheeky ceramics that always spark a conversation. The afternoon is at leisure for you to relax or explore at your own pace. You might like to visit the nearby Miraflores markets, take a walk along the cliffside promenade or simply relax with a pisco sour in hand and watch the world go by. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group dinner at Huaca Pucllana to welcome us to Peru and to celebrate the beginning of our amazing South American adventure. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Adventure awaits as we fly to Puerto Maldonado this morning, a laid-back jungle town and the gateway to Peru’s southern Amazon. With steamy weather and lush surroundings, it’s the perfect place to begin our journey into one of the world’s most fascinating ecosystems. The Amazon is filled with winding rivers, quiet lakes, dense rainforest and an incredible variety of native wildlife. Upon arrival, we’ll cruise along the Madre de Dios River to reach our jungle lodge, where we’ll spend the next three nights. This vast rainforest stretches across nine countries and is home to more plant and animal species than anywhere else on Earth. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys calling in the treetops or brightly coloured birds flying overhead. After a welcome drink and bite to eat, we’ll head out on our first jungle adventure. We’ll take an afternoon walk through the forest, soaking in the sights and sounds of the jungle. Later, we’ll glide along the river by boat. With a bit of luck, we might spot caimans resting along the muddy banks as the sun sets. Your flight time today is approximately 2 hours. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
The Amazon Rainforest, known as the ‘lungs of the Earth’, is ours to explore even further today. We’ll start with a hike through the lush jungle to reach Lake Sandoval in the Tambopata National Reserve. Once there, we’ll board a canoe and head out in search of the elusive giant river otters, red howler monkeys and vibrant blue-and-yellow macaws. Afterwards, we’ll return to the lodge for a delicious lunch before heading to the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway, where we’ll climb a tower and cross seven hanging bridges high above the forest floor. The views of the jungle below are breathtaking. If we’re lucky, we might spot toucans, woodpeckers, trogons, sloths or monkeys among the treetops. Later, we’ll descend back to the forest floor and cross wooden bridges over swampy wetlands. We’ll learn all about the fascinating flooded ecosystem and how plants and animals have adapted to life in this unique environment. After a day full of exploration, we’ll return to the lodge for a relaxing evening before dinner. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
The Amazon is still one of the most unexplored places on Earth. Much of it remains untouched and deep in the forest, hundreds of Indigenous tribes live as they have for centuries. Today, we’ll catch a small but meaningful glimpse into their way of life and the deep knowledge passed down through generations. After an early breakfast, we’ll visit the Brazil Nut Cabin to learn about the history, uses and socioeconomic importance of the Brazil nut. From there, we’ll head to a nearby botanical garden, where we’ll explore the Amazon’s natural pharmacy. Many of these plants have been used in healing practices for centuries and still play an important role in Indigenous medicine. After a leisurely lunch at the lodge, we’ll enjoy a cocha water excursion in a traditional dugout canoe. As we row out onto the clay-coloured water, we’ll take in the scenery and look out for hoatzins, flycatchers and grey-necked woodrails, perhaps with the sounds of red howler monkeys bellowing in the distance. Later, we’ll head to the bird hides for a quiet chance to observe colourful species in their natural habitat. This evening we’ll discover another side of the rainforest on an incredible nocturnal walk, before returning to the lodge for dinner. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
This morning, we say ‘adios!’ to the beautiful Amazon Jungle. Did you know that the Amazon is home to over 2.5 million species of insects, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth? It’s a truly incredible place, and though we’re leaving today, the memories of this lush, vibrant rainforest will stay with us. Next, we’ll fly from Puerto Maldonado to Cusco, and you’ll immediately feel the difference. Cusco, once the heart of the ancient Inca Empire, sits high in the Andes and is the gateway to the Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu. After we land, we’ll head to our hotel, where we’ll be greeted with a soothing cup of coca tea to help us adjust to the higher altitude. Once we’ve settled in, we’ll enjoy a leisurely stroll through Plaza de Armas, Cusco’s historic main square. The city is said to resemble a puma, a sacred animal in Inca culture, with the square forming its head and the surrounding streets representing its body and tail. As we wander, you’ll be captivated by the stunning blend of colonial and Inca architecture, including the majestic Cusco Cathedral and La Compañía de Jesús. This evening, we’ll enjoy a delicious group dinner at a local restaurant. Your flight time today will be approximately 1 hour.
Cusco is a city that beautifully blends Inca and Spanish heritage. You’ll see it everywhere, with the ancient stone walls of Inca temples standing side by side with grand colonial architecture. Today, we’ll explore this fascinating mix as we enjoy a full day of discovery. Our first stop is the lively San Pedro Market, where locals shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts and colourful textiles. It’s the perfect place to get a feel for local life and perhaps try some fresh fruit juices or a traditional Peruvian snack. Next, we’ll head to Sacsayhuaman, a remarkable Inca fortress known for its massive stone walls. Some of the stones weigh over 100 tonnes, yet they fit together so precisely that not even a sheet of paper can slip between them. It’s an incredible feat of engineering that continues to puzzle archaeologists to this day! From here, we’ll explore Qoricancha, once the most sacred temple in the Inca Empire. The Spanish later built a church on top of the original walls, and today it stands as a striking example of two cultures meeting in one place. After some free time for lunch, we’ll visit the impressive 17th century Cusco Cathedral, a masterpiece of colonial architecture with a fascinating blend of baroque, Gothic and Indigenous artistic influences. Peru is also known for its vibrant food and drink culture, so this afternoon we’ll be treated to a fun local tradition that adds a little extra flavour to our time in Cusco. Special Experience Learn how to make the deliciously sweet and sour cocktail, Pisco Sour. For decades it has been regarded as the signature drink of Peru. It’s a lovely chance to discover the story behind this iconic drink and enjoy a relaxed moment together after a day of exploring. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking at altitude.
The Sacred Valley, once the agricultural heart of the Inca Empire, is famous for its rich soil, mild climate and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Shaped by the Urubamba River and terraced hillsides still in use today, it’s easy to see why this valley was so important to the Inca. Today, we’ll take in the highlights of this remarkable region. Our first stop will be Manos de la Comunidad, where we’ll meet llamas, alpacas, guanacos and vicuñas. Local artisans will show us how they spin and dye wool using traditional methods, preserving ancient weaving techniques passed down through generations. Next, we’ll wander through the lively Pisac Market, one of the oldest and most colourful in the Andes. From vibrant textiles to sparkling silver jewellery and intricate ceramics, it’s the perfect spot to pick up a unique souvenir or simply soak up the atmosphere. Afterwards, we’ll visit the Inkariy Museum, where fascinating exhibits and life-size reconstructions offer a glimpse into Peru’s ancient cultures. After some free time for lunch, we’ll head back to the hotel. The afternoon is yours to unwind, perhaps enjoy a peaceful walk, curl up with a good book or sip some coca tea as you watch the sun set behind the mountains. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Today begins with a visit to the remarkable village of Ollantaytambo, often called a ‘living Inca town.’ It’s one of the best-preserved examples of Inca city planning, with its original stone streets, canals and terraces still in use today. We’ll explore the impressive hillside fortress, once both a ceremonial centre and a military stronghold during the Spanish conquest. The stone steps are a bit of a climb, but the sweeping views of the valley below make it well worth the effort. We’ll also step inside a local home to get a real feel for what daily life looks like in this historic village. From here, we’ll make our way towards a traditional chichería, stopping first at the Seminario pottery workshop. This beautiful studio blends ancient Peruvian techniques with modern design and is a fascinating place to see local craftsmanship in action. Special Experience Enjoy an Andean brunch, where you’ll have the chance to sample the traditional drink, chicha and cuy, a regional delicacy of guinea pig – if you’re game! To finish the day, we’ll explore the incredible salt ponds of Maras. These geometric terraces have been in continuous use since Inca times, fed by a naturally salty spring. It’s a striking sight, and you’ll learn how local families still harvest the valley’s prized pink salt using centuries-old techniques. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking at altitude. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
The Sacred Valley is not only rich in history and natural beauty, but it also serves as an important corridor for the Incas, connecting Cusco to Machu Picchu. Today, we’re in for a magical adventure as we explore one of the world’s most iconic and spiritual sites, the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu! We’ll begin our day bright and early, boarding the Vistadome train for a scenic ride through the lush Urubamba Valley. The panoramic windows offer incredible views of towering mountains, winding rivers and charming villages along the way. Once we arrive in Aguas Calientes, the vibrant town nestled at the foot of Machu Picchu, we’ll check into our hotel. Next, we’ll board a local bus that winds its way up the mountain to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Our expert guide will take us through the ancient ruins, sharing insights into the temples, terraces and plazas that showcase the incredible engineering of the Incas. Believed to be a royal retreat or a sacred ceremonial centre, Machu Picchu is a place of deep spiritual significance, where the Incas connected with the gods and the cosmos. Alternatively, if you have chosen to undertake the optional Inca Trail (must have been pre-booked at time of tour booking), you will have an early start, taking a train to the ‘Km 104’ station where your amazing trek commences. For those on the trek, the first site along the way is the incredible archaeological complex of Chachabamba. From here the trail ascends for 8 kilometres. At approximately the 4 hour mark we arrive at the impressive ruins of Wiñay Wayna built into the steep countryside. As we continue, we'll enjoy magnificent views of the Urubamba River valley and the Choquesuysuy archaeological complex. We continue along a trail of flat stones on the edges of cliffs in highland jungle for another hour or so, until we arrive at the picturesque Sun Gate of Inti Punku – a wonderful photo opportunity. The trek ends in the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu. Our guide will take us through this mind-blowing site, pointing out the most important parts of the ancient civilisation. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking at altitude. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
After yesterday’s excitement, we’ll take things a little slower this morning. You might choose to revisit Machu Picchu for a second look, perhaps to explore some of the corners you didn’t see the first time or just to sit quietly and soak in the magic. There’s something truly special about being there early in the day, when the clouds are low and the citadel feels wrapped in mystery. Later, we’ll hop aboard the Vistadome train again and glide back through the valley to Ollantaytambo. From there, our coach takes us to the charming highland village of Chinchero. We’ll visit a local weaving cooperative where talented artisans show us how they create beautiful Andean textiles using traditional methods. It’s fascinating to see how they spin, dye and weave using only natural materials, and you might even pick up a handmade piece or two to take home. As the afternoon light softens, we’ll arrive in Cusco and check into our hotel. This city has a rhythm all its own — part ancient Inca capital, part vibrant colonial gem — and tomorrow, we’ll have time to explore it at our own pace. Optional Excursion Machu Picchu 2nd visit & Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) - Your tour already includes one visit to Machu Picchu, however, you may wish to take a second visit to explore this phenomenon further. Alternatively, you may wish to also incorporate a climb up to Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) (considered to provide the best view over Machu Picchu). Please note both options include entry into Machu Picchu and transportation (guide not included). If you choose the Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) option, entry to the peak is also included. Half day Machu Picchu only - from $90pp US. Half day Machu Picchu incl. Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) – from $105pp US. Please note: You must purchase your entrance ticket in advance. This will be done by our local operator. Please advise your travel specialist if you would like to include a second visit. Entrance tickets are limited and by shifts. These usually sell out well in advance. Current shifts for entry in the morning are hourly beginning at 6.00am. Your entry time is located in the top left corner of the ticket, and you have a maximum of 30 minutes after that time to arrive at the entrance for check in. If possible, we recommend booking an earlier time slot. Your ticket allows you access to one of the established circuits around the site. The ticket that includes Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) mountain only allows you to visit circuit 3-A. The circuits, visitor regulations and other relevant information for your visit are available at http://www.machupicchu.gob.pe For those clients who have chosen the optional Inca Trail trek, a second visit to Machu Picchu is included in the cost of your trekking permit. This allows trekkers who wish to do so to visit circuit 3-B at no additional cost. However, this included second visit does not include the cost of transportation to and from the ruins as not all trekkers will choose to return the following day. The cost of the return buses to the ruin site is $28pp US and this needs to be paid locally. Your tour guide will assist you in obtaining these tickets. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Today is all about enjoying Cusco in your own way. After so many big adventures, it’s lovely to have a day to just wander, discover and take it all in. You might start with a slow stroll through the cobbled streets to the Plaza de Armas, or head up to San Blas, the city’s artsy neighbourhood filled with galleries, little cafés and stunning views around every corner. If history is calling, the Casa Concha Museum is a real gem. It houses artefacts from Machu Picchu that were brought back from Yale and returned to Peru, a treasure trove for anyone wanting to dive a little deeper into Inca life. Or if you're in the mood for something hands-on, perhaps try your hand at a local cooking class. This is your day to linger, explore and simply enjoy the magic of Cusco. Whatever you choose, you're never far from a welcoming café, a little music or a shop filled with colour and charm.
This morning, we’ll bid farewell to Cusco and make our way towards the shimmering shores of Lake Titicaca. It’s a full-day journey by coach through the stunning Andes valleys and quiet villages with alpacas dotting the hillsides, and we’ll be travelling in comfort, with plenty of time to relax and take in the view. Along the way, we’ll stop at the remarkable ruins of Raqch’i. Once a major Inca religious and administrative centre, this site is full of surprises, from the towering Temple of Wiracocha to ancient storehouses and clever irrigation systems. It’s a wonderful peek into the past and a great spot to stretch our legs before lunch. Afterwards, we continue on through the high plains, eventually reaching Puno by late afternoon. Sitting right on the edge of Lake Titicaca, Puno is full of folklore, colour and a kind of festive energy that’s all its own. We’ll check into our hotel and settle in, ready for tomorrow’s lake adventure. Your travel time today is approximately 8 hours.
Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world, straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia. But it’s not just a pretty sight, it holds deep cultural and spiritual meaning for the Incas. Today, we’ll dive into some of the wonders of this special place, starting with a visit to the extraordinary Uros Islands. Made entirely of totora reeds found in the lake, the Uros Islands are like floating villages. The Uros people have lived here for centuries, and their unique lifestyle is a true marvel of sustainability. We’ll step onto the islands, meet the locals and hear all about their fascinating way of life, which has stayed remarkably unchanged over time. From there, we’ll cruise across the lake to Taquile Island. Life moves slowly here, and that’s part of the charm. The island is known for its peaceful atmosphere, stone paths, terraced hillsides and beautiful handwoven textiles. The views of the lake stretch as far as the eye can see, and the simple beauty of the island makes it feel like time has paused for a moment. By late afternoon, we’ll head back to Puno, where the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking at altitude.
After breakfast this morning, we’ll begin a scenic journey towards the magnificent Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. The drive itself will be a treat, with landscapes that shift from sweeping valleys to soaring volcanoes and quiet little villages tucked into the mountains. Along the way, we’ll pass Patapampa, known as the ‘Mirador de los Andes.’ At over 4,800 metres above sea level, this lookout treats us to sweeping views of snow-dusted peaks stretching out across the horizon. It’s a real ‘wow’ moment, so keep your camera handy. Then we’ll continue through Chucura, a peaceful village with traditional adobe houses and a lovely stillness to it. Keep your eyes open as we move through Toccra, where wild vicuñas sometimes wander the plains, adding a bit of magic to the journey. Further along, we’ll pass Vizcachani, where the highland landscape shows off its dramatic rock formations and wide open skies. By afternoon, we’ll arrive in Patahuasi, a small village that gently welcomes us to the Colca Canyon region. Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, Colca is known for its breathtaking views, ancient farming terraces and the soaring Andean condors that call it home. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
We’ll start our day early, heading to the famous Cross of the Condor, one of the most stunning viewpoints in Colca Canyon. Known locally as Cruz del Condor, this spot offers incredible views over one of the deepest parts of the canyon, with its vast cliffs and sweeping landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see. Special Experience Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Andean condor soaring effortlessly in flight over the Colca Canyon – an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. After taking in the spectacular scenery, we’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque villages of the Colca Valley. As we pass through Yanque, Achoma, Maca and Pinchollo, you’ll notice the locals in traditional dress, vibrant town squares and historic churches that speak to the area’s rich cultural heritage. It’s a peaceful peek into everyday life in this part of Peru. Next, we’ll stop at Antahuilque, where you’ll see ancient terraces that are still being farmed today, a beautiful example of how past and present come together in Peru. Not far from here is Choquetico, home to the intriguing Hanging Tombs and mysterious carved stone models believed to have been early land markers or maps. By afternoon, we’ll make our way to Arequipa, where we’ll spend the next two nights. Known as the ‘White City’ thanks to its stunning buildings made of pale volcanic stone, Arequipa is full of charm, history and gorgeous mountain views. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking at altitude. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
This morning, we’ll get to know the beautiful city of Arequipa, nestled at the foot of the majestic El Misti Volcano. Its elegant architecture, carved from white volcanic stone, gives the city a unique brightness, and it’s no wonder it’s a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. We’ll begin at the Carmen Alto viewpoint, where we’ll enjoy spectacular views of Arequipa and the surrounding countryside, with the mighty Misti Volcano in the distance. Next, we’ll step inside the Convent of Santa Catalina, a sprawling sanctuary that feels like a city within a city. Its vibrant courtyards and historic architecture offer a glimpse into the peaceful, centuries-old life of the nuns who once lived there. We’ll also wander through the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Arequipa, where we’ll pass the grand Cathedral and visit the Church of La Compañía, known for its beautiful baroque design. The afternoon is at leisure for you to relax or explore at your own pace. Why not visit the Museo Santuarios to see Juanita the Ice Maiden, a well-preserved mummy of a young girl who lived over 500 years ago in the Andes of Peru? Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking at altitude.
Our incredible tour of Peru concludes after breakfast this morning. As we pack our bags and head to the airport, we hope you take with you incredible memories and new friendships!
Welcome to the dazzling South America, a continent full of rhythm, colour and soul! With 13 unique countries and some of the world’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, it’s a place that stirs the spirit and sparks the imagination, and lucky for us, we’re about to explore a few of its finest treasures. This evening, we arrive in Lima, the beautiful capital of Peru, nestled right on the Pacific Coast. Founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, it became the heart of Spanish rule in South America for nearly 300 years. Today, Lima surprises at every turn. One moment you’re standing in a peaceful colonial square and the next, you’re strolling past modern cafés or watching the sunset along a breezy coastal path. From grand churches to peaceful cloisters, the city’s energy is warm, vibrant and ready to welcome us.
Today is all about discovering some of Lima’s most iconic sights, right in the heart of the city. We’ll kick off our morning with a half-day tour, soaking up the elegance of Lima’s colonial architecture while learning about its colourful past. Our first stop will be the Cathedral of Lima, a baroque beauty built in 1535. Inside, we’ll find the tomb of Francisco Pizarro, the Spanish conquistador who founded the city. From there, we’ll head to the Basílica and Convent of San Francisco, famous for its bright yellow façade, its impressive library filled with centuries-old books and its eerie catacombs, offering a fascinating glimpse into Lima’s past. Next, we’ll head to the Larco Museum, tucked inside an 18th century mansion surrounded by blooming gardens. Here, we’ll explore a world-class collection of pre-Columbian art, including ancient gold, textiles and some cheeky ceramics that always spark a conversation. The afternoon is at leisure for you to relax or explore at your own pace. You might like to visit the nearby Miraflores markets, take a walk along the cliffside promenade or simply relax with a pisco sour in hand and watch the world go by. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group dinner at Huaca Pucllana to welcome us to Peru and to celebrate the beginning of our amazing South American adventure. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Adventure awaits as we fly to Puerto Maldonado this morning, a laid-back jungle town and the gateway to Peru’s southern Amazon. With steamy weather and lush surroundings, it’s the perfect place to begin our journey into one of the world’s most fascinating ecosystems. The Amazon is filled with winding rivers, quiet lakes, dense rainforest and an incredible variety of native wildlife. Upon arrival, we’ll cruise along the Madre de Dios River to reach our jungle lodge, where we’ll spend the next three nights. This vast rainforest stretches across nine countries and is home to more plant and animal species than anywhere else on Earth. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys calling in the treetops or brightly coloured birds flying overhead. After a welcome drink and bite to eat, we’ll head out on our first jungle adventure. We’ll take an afternoon walk through the forest, soaking in the sights and sounds of the jungle. Later, we’ll glide along the river by boat. With a bit of luck, we might spot caimans resting along the muddy banks as the sun sets. Your flight time today is approximately 2 hours. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
The Amazon Rainforest, known as the ‘lungs of the Earth’, is ours to explore even further today. We’ll start with a hike through the lush jungle to reach Lake Sandoval in the Tambopata National Reserve. Once there, we’ll board a canoe and head out in search of the elusive giant river otters, red howler monkeys and vibrant blue-and-yellow macaws. Afterwards, we’ll return to the lodge for a delicious lunch before heading to the Inkaterra Canopy Walkway, where we’ll climb a tower and cross seven hanging bridges high above the forest floor. The views of the jungle below are breathtaking. If we’re lucky, we might spot toucans, woodpeckers, trogons, sloths or monkeys among the treetops. Later, we’ll descend back to the forest floor and cross wooden bridges over swampy wetlands. We’ll learn all about the fascinating flooded ecosystem and how plants and animals have adapted to life in this unique environment. After a day full of exploration, we’ll return to the lodge for a relaxing evening before dinner. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
The Amazon is still one of the most unexplored places on Earth. Much of it remains untouched and deep in the forest, hundreds of Indigenous tribes live as they have for centuries. Today, we’ll catch a small but meaningful glimpse into their way of life and the deep knowledge passed down through generations. After an early breakfast, we’ll visit the Brazil Nut Cabin to learn about the history, uses and socioeconomic importance of the Brazil nut. From there, we’ll head to a nearby botanical garden, where we’ll explore the Amazon’s natural pharmacy. Many of these plants have been used in healing practices for centuries and still play an important role in Indigenous medicine. After a leisurely lunch at the lodge, we’ll enjoy a cocha water excursion in a traditional dugout canoe. As we row out onto the clay-coloured water, we’ll take in the scenery and look out for hoatzins, flycatchers and grey-necked woodrails, perhaps with the sounds of red howler monkeys bellowing in the distance. Later, we’ll head to the bird hides for a quiet chance to observe colourful species in their natural habitat. This evening we’ll discover another side of the rainforest on an incredible nocturnal walk, before returning to the lodge for dinner. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
This morning, we say ‘adios!’ to the beautiful Amazon Jungle. Did you know that the Amazon is home to over 2.5 million species of insects, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth? It’s a truly incredible place, and though we’re leaving today, the memories of this lush, vibrant rainforest will stay with us. Next, we’ll fly from Puerto Maldonado to Cusco, and you’ll immediately feel the difference. Cusco, once the heart of the ancient Inca Empire, sits high in the Andes and is the gateway to the Sacred Valley and the iconic Machu Picchu. After we land, we’ll head to our hotel, where we’ll be greeted with a soothing cup of coca tea to help us adjust to the higher altitude. Once we’ve settled in, we’ll enjoy a leisurely stroll through Plaza de Armas, Cusco’s historic main square. The city is said to resemble a puma, a sacred animal in Inca culture, with the square forming its head and the surrounding streets representing its body and tail. As we wander, you’ll be captivated by the stunning blend of colonial and Inca architecture, including the majestic Cusco Cathedral and La Compañía de Jesús. This evening, we’ll enjoy a delicious group dinner at a local restaurant. Your flight time today will be approximately 1 hour.
Cusco is a city that beautifully blends Inca and Spanish heritage. You’ll see it everywhere, with the ancient stone walls of Inca temples standing side by side with grand colonial architecture. Today, we’ll explore this fascinating mix as we enjoy a full day of discovery. Our first stop is the lively San Pedro Market, where locals shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts and colourful textiles. It’s the perfect place to get a feel for local life and perhaps try some fresh fruit juices or a traditional Peruvian snack. Next, we’ll head to Sacsayhuaman, a remarkable Inca fortress known for its massive stone walls. Some of the stones weigh over 100 tonnes, yet they fit together so precisely that not even a sheet of paper can slip between them. It’s an incredible feat of engineering that continues to puzzle archaeologists to this day! From here, we’ll explore Qoricancha, once the most sacred temple in the Inca Empire. The Spanish later built a church on top of the original walls, and today it stands as a striking example of two cultures meeting in one place. After some free time for lunch, we’ll visit the impressive 17th century Cusco Cathedral, a masterpiece of colonial architecture with a fascinating blend of baroque, Gothic and Indigenous artistic influences. Peru is also known for its vibrant food and drink culture, so this afternoon we’ll be treated to a fun local tradition that adds a little extra flavour to our time in Cusco. Special Experience Learn how to make the deliciously sweet and sour cocktail, Pisco Sour. For decades it has been regarded as the signature drink of Peru. It’s a lovely chance to discover the story behind this iconic drink and enjoy a relaxed moment together after a day of exploring. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking at altitude.
The Sacred Valley, once the agricultural heart of the Inca Empire, is famous for its rich soil, mild climate and breathtaking mountain landscapes. Shaped by the Urubamba River and terraced hillsides still in use today, it’s easy to see why this valley was so important to the Inca. Today, we’ll take in the highlights of this remarkable region. Our first stop will be Manos de la Comunidad, where we’ll meet llamas, alpacas, guanacos and vicuñas. Local artisans will show us how they spin and dye wool using traditional methods, preserving ancient weaving techniques passed down through generations. Next, we’ll wander through the lively Pisac Market, one of the oldest and most colourful in the Andes. From vibrant textiles to sparkling silver jewellery and intricate ceramics, it’s the perfect spot to pick up a unique souvenir or simply soak up the atmosphere. Afterwards, we’ll visit the Inkariy Museum, where fascinating exhibits and life-size reconstructions offer a glimpse into Peru’s ancient cultures. After some free time for lunch, we’ll head back to the hotel. The afternoon is yours to unwind, perhaps enjoy a peaceful walk, curl up with a good book or sip some coca tea as you watch the sun set behind the mountains. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Today begins with a visit to the remarkable village of Ollantaytambo, often called a ‘living Inca town.’ It’s one of the best-preserved examples of Inca city planning, with its original stone streets, canals and terraces still in use today. We’ll explore the impressive hillside fortress, once both a ceremonial centre and a military stronghold during the Spanish conquest. The stone steps are a bit of a climb, but the sweeping views of the valley below make it well worth the effort. We’ll also step inside a local home to get a real feel for what daily life looks like in this historic village. From here, we’ll make our way towards a traditional chichería, stopping first at the Seminario pottery workshop. This beautiful studio blends ancient Peruvian techniques with modern design and is a fascinating place to see local craftsmanship in action. Special Experience Enjoy an Andean brunch, where you’ll have the chance to sample the traditional drink, chicha and cuy, a regional delicacy of guinea pig – if you’re game! To finish the day, we’ll explore the incredible salt ponds of Maras. These geometric terraces have been in continuous use since Inca times, fed by a naturally salty spring. It’s a striking sight, and you’ll learn how local families still harvest the valley’s prized pink salt using centuries-old techniques. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking at altitude. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
The Sacred Valley is not only rich in history and natural beauty, but it also serves as an important corridor for the Incas, connecting Cusco to Machu Picchu. Today, we’re in for a magical adventure as we explore one of the world’s most iconic and spiritual sites, the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu! We’ll begin our day bright and early, boarding the Vistadome train for a scenic ride through the lush Urubamba Valley. The panoramic windows offer incredible views of towering mountains, winding rivers and charming villages along the way. Once we arrive in Aguas Calientes, the vibrant town nestled at the foot of Machu Picchu, we’ll check into our hotel. Next, we’ll board a local bus that winds its way up the mountain to the entrance of Machu Picchu. Our expert guide will take us through the ancient ruins, sharing insights into the temples, terraces and plazas that showcase the incredible engineering of the Incas. Believed to be a royal retreat or a sacred ceremonial centre, Machu Picchu is a place of deep spiritual significance, where the Incas connected with the gods and the cosmos. Alternatively, if you have chosen to undertake the optional Inca Trail (must have been pre-booked at time of tour booking), you will have an early start, taking a train to the ‘Km 104’ station where your amazing trek commences. For those on the trek, the first site along the way is the incredible archaeological complex of Chachabamba. From here the trail ascends for 8 kilometres. At approximately the 4 hour mark we arrive at the impressive ruins of Wiñay Wayna built into the steep countryside. As we continue, we'll enjoy magnificent views of the Urubamba River valley and the Choquesuysuy archaeological complex. We continue along a trail of flat stones on the edges of cliffs in highland jungle for another hour or so, until we arrive at the picturesque Sun Gate of Inti Punku – a wonderful photo opportunity. The trek ends in the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu. Our guide will take us through this mind-blowing site, pointing out the most important parts of the ancient civilisation. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking at altitude. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
After yesterday’s excitement, we’ll take things a little slower this morning. You might choose to revisit Machu Picchu for a second look, perhaps to explore some of the corners you didn’t see the first time or just to sit quietly and soak in the magic. There’s something truly special about being there early in the day, when the clouds are low and the citadel feels wrapped in mystery. Later, we’ll hop aboard the Vistadome train again and glide back through the valley to Ollantaytambo. From there, our coach takes us to the charming highland village of Chinchero. We’ll visit a local weaving cooperative where talented artisans show us how they create beautiful Andean textiles using traditional methods. It’s fascinating to see how they spin, dye and weave using only natural materials, and you might even pick up a handmade piece or two to take home. As the afternoon light softens, we’ll arrive in Cusco and check into our hotel. This city has a rhythm all its own — part ancient Inca capital, part vibrant colonial gem — and tomorrow, we’ll have time to explore it at our own pace. Optional Excursion Machu Picchu 2nd visit & Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) - Your tour already includes one visit to Machu Picchu, however, you may wish to take a second visit to explore this phenomenon further. Alternatively, you may wish to also incorporate a climb up to Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) (considered to provide the best view over Machu Picchu). Please note both options include entry into Machu Picchu and transportation (guide not included). If you choose the Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) option, entry to the peak is also included. Half day Machu Picchu only - from $90pp US. Half day Machu Picchu incl. Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) – from $105pp US. Please note: You must purchase your entrance ticket in advance. This will be done by our local operator. Please advise your travel specialist if you would like to include a second visit. Entrance tickets are limited and by shifts. These usually sell out well in advance. Current shifts for entry in the morning are hourly beginning at 6.00am. Your entry time is located in the top left corner of the ticket, and you have a maximum of 30 minutes after that time to arrive at the entrance for check in. If possible, we recommend booking an earlier time slot. Your ticket allows you access to one of the established circuits around the site. The ticket that includes Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) mountain only allows you to visit circuit 3-A. The circuits, visitor regulations and other relevant information for your visit are available at http://www.machupicchu.gob.pe For those clients who have chosen the optional Inca Trail trek, a second visit to Machu Picchu is included in the cost of your trekking permit. This allows trekkers who wish to do so to visit circuit 3-B at no additional cost. However, this included second visit does not include the cost of transportation to and from the ruins as not all trekkers will choose to return the following day. The cost of the return buses to the ruin site is $28pp US and this needs to be paid locally. Your tour guide will assist you in obtaining these tickets. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Today is all about enjoying Cusco in your own way. After so many big adventures, it’s lovely to have a day to just wander, discover and take it all in. You might start with a slow stroll through the cobbled streets to the Plaza de Armas, or head up to San Blas, the city’s artsy neighbourhood filled with galleries, little cafés and stunning views around every corner. If history is calling, the Casa Concha Museum is a real gem. It houses artefacts from Machu Picchu that were brought back from Yale and returned to Peru, a treasure trove for anyone wanting to dive a little deeper into Inca life. Or if you're in the mood for something hands-on, perhaps try your hand at a local cooking class. This is your day to linger, explore and simply enjoy the magic of Cusco. Whatever you choose, you're never far from a welcoming café, a little music or a shop filled with colour and charm.
This morning, we’ll bid farewell to Cusco and make our way towards the shimmering shores of Lake Titicaca. It’s a full-day journey by coach through the stunning Andes valleys and quiet villages with alpacas dotting the hillsides, and we’ll be travelling in comfort, with plenty of time to relax and take in the view. Along the way, we’ll stop at the remarkable ruins of Raqch’i. Once a major Inca religious and administrative centre, this site is full of surprises, from the towering Temple of Wiracocha to ancient storehouses and clever irrigation systems. It’s a wonderful peek into the past and a great spot to stretch our legs before lunch. Afterwards, we continue on through the high plains, eventually reaching Puno by late afternoon. Sitting right on the edge of Lake Titicaca, Puno is full of folklore, colour and a kind of festive energy that’s all its own. We’ll check into our hotel and settle in, ready for tomorrow’s lake adventure. Your travel time today is approximately 8 hours.
Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world, straddling the border between Peru and Bolivia. But it’s not just a pretty sight, it holds deep cultural and spiritual meaning for the Incas. Today, we’ll dive into some of the wonders of this special place, starting with a visit to the extraordinary Uros Islands. Made entirely of totora reeds found in the lake, the Uros Islands are like floating villages. The Uros people have lived here for centuries, and their unique lifestyle is a true marvel of sustainability. We’ll step onto the islands, meet the locals and hear all about their fascinating way of life, which has stayed remarkably unchanged over time. From there, we’ll cruise across the lake to Taquile Island. Life moves slowly here, and that’s part of the charm. The island is known for its peaceful atmosphere, stone paths, terraced hillsides and beautiful handwoven textiles. The views of the lake stretch as far as the eye can see, and the simple beauty of the island makes it feel like time has paused for a moment. By late afternoon, we’ll head back to Puno, where the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking at altitude.
After breakfast this morning, we’ll begin a scenic journey towards the magnificent Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. The drive itself will be a treat, with landscapes that shift from sweeping valleys to soaring volcanoes and quiet little villages tucked into the mountains. Along the way, we’ll pass Patapampa, known as the ‘Mirador de los Andes.’ At over 4,800 metres above sea level, this lookout treats us to sweeping views of snow-dusted peaks stretching out across the horizon. It’s a real ‘wow’ moment, so keep your camera handy. Then we’ll continue through Chucura, a peaceful village with traditional adobe houses and a lovely stillness to it. Keep your eyes open as we move through Toccra, where wild vicuñas sometimes wander the plains, adding a bit of magic to the journey. Further along, we’ll pass Vizcachani, where the highland landscape shows off its dramatic rock formations and wide open skies. By afternoon, we’ll arrive in Patahuasi, a small village that gently welcomes us to the Colca Canyon region. Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, Colca is known for its breathtaking views, ancient farming terraces and the soaring Andean condors that call it home. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
We’ll start our day early, heading to the famous Cross of the Condor, one of the most stunning viewpoints in Colca Canyon. Known locally as Cruz del Condor, this spot offers incredible views over one of the deepest parts of the canyon, with its vast cliffs and sweeping landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see. Special Experience Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Andean condor soaring effortlessly in flight over the Colca Canyon – an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience. After taking in the spectacular scenery, we’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque villages of the Colca Valley. As we pass through Yanque, Achoma, Maca and Pinchollo, you’ll notice the locals in traditional dress, vibrant town squares and historic churches that speak to the area’s rich cultural heritage. It’s a peaceful peek into everyday life in this part of Peru. Next, we’ll stop at Antahuilque, where you’ll see ancient terraces that are still being farmed today, a beautiful example of how past and present come together in Peru. Not far from here is Choquetico, home to the intriguing Hanging Tombs and mysterious carved stone models believed to have been early land markers or maps. By afternoon, we’ll make our way to Arequipa, where we’ll spend the next two nights. Known as the ‘White City’ thanks to its stunning buildings made of pale volcanic stone, Arequipa is full of charm, history and gorgeous mountain views. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking at altitude. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
This morning, we’ll get to know the beautiful city of Arequipa, nestled at the foot of the majestic El Misti Volcano. Its elegant architecture, carved from white volcanic stone, gives the city a unique brightness, and it’s no wonder it’s a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. We’ll begin at the Carmen Alto viewpoint, where we’ll enjoy spectacular views of Arequipa and the surrounding countryside, with the mighty Misti Volcano in the distance. Next, we’ll step inside the Convent of Santa Catalina, a sprawling sanctuary that feels like a city within a city. Its vibrant courtyards and historic architecture offer a glimpse into the peaceful, centuries-old life of the nuns who once lived there. We’ll also wander through the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Arequipa, where we’ll pass the grand Cathedral and visit the Church of La Compañía, known for its beautiful baroque design. The afternoon is at leisure for you to relax or explore at your own pace. Why not visit the Museo Santuarios to see Juanita the Ice Maiden, a well-preserved mummy of a young girl who lived over 500 years ago in the Andes of Peru? Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking at altitude.
We’ll start our day with a flight back to Lima, where we’ll catch our onward flight to the lively and vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro. It’s time to say goodbye to the beautiful landscapes of Peru and hello to the colourful energy of Brazil’s most famous city. Known as the Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvellous City), Rio is nestled between lush, forest-covered mountains and stunning beaches. It’s a place where the rhythm of samba fills the air and the stunning sights, like Sugarloaf Mountain and the Christ the Redeemer statue, will leave you in awe. Rio truly lives up to its nickname, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. We’ll spend the next three nights here soaking up everything Rio has to offer. Get ready to immerse yourself in the excitement, marvel at the breathtaking views and enjoy the warmth of this unforgettable Brazilian destination! Your flight time today is approximately 8 hours.
We’re in for a real treat today as we discover the many icons of Rio de Janeiro. First up is the incredible Christ the Redeemer statue, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Perched high atop Corcovado Hill, it’s an awe-inspiring sight. We’ll travel up the mountain on the red train, which gently winds its way through the lush Tijuca Forest. This historic railway is nearly a century old and is Brazil’s oldest tourist ride. The views along the way are beautiful, with fantastic photo opportunities. Next, we’ll head to Sugarloaf Mountain. A cable car will take us to the summit, where we’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city, coastline and surrounding peaks. The mountain got its name from the conical shape of the moulds once used to transport sugar in colonial times, a fun little piece of history with a sweet twist! We’ll also visit the colourful Selaron Steps, one of Rio’s most striking and well known landmarks. Created by Chilean artist Jorge Selaron, this is one of Brazil’s most famous pieces of street art with the steps decorated with more than 2,000 tiles from all over the world, in the colours of the Brazilian flag. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking.
This morning, we’ll step into the heart of Rio’s most beloved tradition, Carnival. Recognised as one of the most vibrant festivals in the world, Carnival takes place each year before Lent and brings the city to life with joyful parades, lively samba music and costumes that shimmer with colour and flair. It’s a wonderful celebration of culture, rhythm and joy. Special Experience Experience the artistry of Carnival, enjoying lively music and a drink as you marvel at over 6,000 costumes and even try one on! With our Carnival spirits high and hearts full of rhythm, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You might like to take a peaceful walk through the beautiful Botanical Gardens, filled with orchids, shady paths and the sound of trickling fountains. Or simply head to Copacabana Beach, feel the sand between your toes, sip a fresh coconut and soak up the easy-going atmosphere. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a traditional Brazilian barbecue at Assador, known for its mouth-watering fire-roasted meats and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Optional Excursion Tour Old Rio and Santa Teresa - This tour starts in the historical centre of Rio de Janeiro. The architecture of Praça XV, Arco dos Teles, the França-Brasil House (Old Alfândega), the São Bento Monastery, and the Lapa Arches are prime examples of buildings from the Colonial era. The Banco do Brasil Cultural Museum, Municipal Theatre, Museum of Fine Arts and the Public National Library are examples of architecture from the Imperial era. Next stop on the tour is the neighbourhood of Santa Teresa. This traditional neighbourhood is home to mansions from the beginning of the 20th century, built mainly by the English who sought out this region for its mild climate. Nowadays, it’s a hotspot for artists and eccentrics. The antique cable car still runs through the narrow streets as the main form of collective transportation. Includes transportation on a seat-in-coach basis. 4 hours – from $66pp US. Optional Excursion Art and Graffiti Tour - This guided walking tour traces the route of open-air artwork located in some of Rio’s oldest neighbourhoods, from the original settlement of Praça XV to the recently renovated Porto Maravilha. This area’s historical importance is echoed through its monuments, statues, art installations, murals, and graffiti. Candelária Church, the Olympic Pyre, Maua Square and Rio’s Art Museum (MAR) are some of the highlights on this 4km walk. The amount of walking can be established by your interests and conditions. Most museums close on Monday in Rio. Entrance in any of the sites can be included for an added cost. Includes driver and guide. 4 hours – from $107pp US
Easing into the morning, we’ll leave the vibrant streets of Rio behind. Rio is known for its incredible graffiti culture, and the city’s streets are practically an open-air art gallery. If you have a moment, take a stroll and snap a few photos of the colourful murals that showcase the city’s artistic spirit. We’ll fly to the breathtaking Iguazú Falls. Stretching across the border between Brazil and Argentina, the falls are made up of more than 275 individual cascades that thunder down through the lush Atlantic Rainforest. Depending on the season and rainfall, the water puts on a different show each time — always dramatic, always breathtaking, never disappointing! The falls span over three kilometres in width and reach heights of 80 metres, making them taller than Niagara and wider than Victoria Falls. Surrounded by tropical forest and alive with the calls of toucans, the rustle of coatis and the occasional glimpse of a giant anteater. The subtropical climate supports a diverse range of plant life, including palms and orchids After our arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel on the Argentinian side of the falls. Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours. Your flight time today is approximately 2 hours.
This morning, we’ll make our way back to the Brazilian side of Iguazú Falls for a closer look at this incredible natural wonder. We’ll enjoy a guided walk along the canyon path, a scenic trail just over a kilometre long that offers sweeping panoramic views over San Martin Island. The final stretch of the path takes us right out over the falls on a dramatic walkway. As we soak up the breathtaking vistas, we’ll likely feel the mist of the thundering water all around us. Afterwards, we’ll visit the famous Parque das Aves Bird Park, set in 12 acres of lush rainforest. It’s home to more than 150 species of exotic birds, including colourful macaws, toucans and flamingos. We’ll wander through the peaceful aviaries, surrounded by birdsong and the rustle of leaves, with plenty of chances for photos along the way. This afternoon, we’ll return to our hotel, where the remainder of the day will be at leisure. You might like to relax by the pool, enjoy a quiet drink or simply soak in the natural beauty of the area at your own pace. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Our morning is spent exploring the Argentinian side of the natural masterpiece that is Iguazú Falls. We’ll begin with a peaceful ride on the ecological train, which gently winds its way through the lush national park to our starting point. From there, we’ll follow the network of walkways that bring us right to the heart of the action. One of the most impressive sights is the Devil’s Throat, a massive U-shaped waterfall where torrents of water plunge 82 metres into the depths below. Standing on the platform suspended just above it, you’ll feel the spray on your skin and the thunder of the falls beneath your feet. As we continue exploring, we’ll enjoy the natural beauty of the rainforest all around us. Keep your eyes peeled for colourful butterflies, toucans darting through the trees and perhaps a friendly coati nosing around. In the afternoon, we’ll say goodbye to Iguazú and fly to Buenos Aires, the cosmopolitan capital of Argentina. Known as the ‘Paris of the South’, Buenos Aires welcomes us with its elegant boulevards, European-style architecture and rich cultural spirit. After landing, we’ll transfer to our hotel and get settled in for the night. Today involves approximately 3 to 4 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your flight time will be approximately 2 hours.
Buenos Aires is a city made for wandering, and today we’ll dive into its stories with a guided tour. We’ll start in the historic Plaza de Mayo, the city’s political heart, where we’ll see the famous Casa Rosada, the pink presidential palace, and visit the beautiful Metropolitan Cathedral, the final resting place of General San Martín, a national hero. Next, we’ll pass by the grand Town Hall and take in the colourful vibes of La Boca, a lively neighbourhood known for its street art, tango dancers and brightly painted buildings. Later, we’ll visit the elegant Recoleta Cemetery, where Argentina’s beloved Eva Perón is buried, a peaceful and moving place with some truly striking architecture. To add another layer to our discovery of this captivating city, we’ll also step inside one of Buenos Aires’ most treasured cultural landmarks. Special Experience Visit the stunning Colon Theatre. Touted for its breathtaking architecture and extraordinary acoustics, it is ranked as the world's third best opera house. To finish off our day, we’ll stop by the beautiful El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore. Once a grand theatre, it’s now recognised as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. With its opulent surroundings, it’s a true haven for book lovers. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking.
Today is all yours to enjoy as you please. You might like to start the morning with a peaceful stroll along the waterfront in Puerto Madero, one of Buenos Aires’ most stylish districts. It’s perfect for a coffee stop and a bit of people-watching by the water. For something a little different, consider visiting El Zanjón de Granados. This hidden gem beneath the streets of San Telmo reveals a maze of restored 18th-century tunnels and gives fascinating insights into the city’s foundations. If you’d prefer a livelier pace, head to the buzzing San Telmo Market, where stalls overflow with local crafts, antiques and tasty bites. It’s a great spot to pick up a souvenir or just soak in the colourful energy. This evening, we’ll experience a lively tango dinner show, an absolute must while you are in Argentina. Tango was born right here in the streets of Buenos Aires, and tonight we’ll see it brought to life with dazzling costumes, passionate performances, and live music. We’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and even try a few dance steps ourselves during a short, fun lesson.
Our incredible tour of South America concludes after breakfast this morning. As we pack our bags and head to the airport, we hope you take with you incredible memories and new friendships!
Welcome to South Korea, a land teeming with centuries-old customs, dazzling cityscapes and endless possibilities. In dynamic Seoul, the country's bustling capital of over 10 million people, you'll discover how old-world heritage gracefully mingles with futuristic skyscrapers and neon-lit streets. This is just the beginning of your journey through scenic landscapes, lively markets and cultural hotspots that make South Korea truly unforgettable. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 5.30pm. This evening we’ll meet up to enjoy a group welcome dinner.
We’ll experience old and new Seoul today, beginning at the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace where we’ll witness the changing of the guard ceremony. Built in 1395 AD, this grand palace now includes museums and historical sites, framed by breathtaking gardens and timeless stone pagodas that transport you back in time. Next up, we’ll head to Bukchon Hanok Village, a great spot to grab a bite for lunch. Strolling around these snug alleyways, you’ll discover hundreds of traditional Hanok homes, some standing for over six centuries. Then, let’s head skyward to the observation deck of Seoul’s N Tower, perched atop Mt. Namsan. The “N” doesn’t just mean “North”—it represents “New” and “Nature,” blending modern architecture with serene surroundings. Constructed in 1969 and opened in 1980, it’s a must-visit vantage point for sweeping city views. Finally, we’ll dive into the hustle and bustle of Gwangjang Market. With its mouthwatering Mung Bean pancakes called bindaetteok and addictive mini seaweed rice rolls known as mayak gimbap, this historic market is guaranteed to leave your taste buds tingling. So get ready to indulge in history, culture, and mouthwatering delights! Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.
This morning, we head south to Suwon, where history and adventure await at the UNESCO-listed Hwaseong Fortress. Upon arrival, we admire the imposing walls that encircle the city centre — living proof of Korean ingenuity dating back to the late 18th century. But the real thrill is just around the corner - a traditional archery experience! After a quick introductory lesson, we’ll get to perfect our aim while channelling our inner warrior. Don’t forget to snap some fun photos to capture the moment! Once you’ve put your newfound archery skills to the test, it’s back on the road toward Jeonju. The village is made up of over 800 traditional Korean houses and is tucked behind the rest of industrialised Jeonju. Over 800 of these gorgeous, exquisitely carved homes are arranged in two sections: Anchae, traditionally reserved for women, and Sarangchae, designated for men. You’ll have free time to wander through the beautiful grounds and seek out a local eatery for lunch. Since Jeonju is the birthplace for bibimbap, do yourself a favour and enjoy a hearty bowl of this iconic rice dish at its source! Today, we’re not just tasting Korea’s most famous dish, we will be diving in hands-first! Discover the secrets behind kimchi, the spicy, tangy fermented veggie superstar found at every Korean meal. Get ready to whip up your own delicious batch to brag about back home. Special Experience Learn all about Korea’s fascinating cuisine at a kimchi making experience, South Korea’s staple side dish made from fermented vegetables. Once we check in to our hotel, the rest of the evening is free for you to sample Jeonju’s famed local delicacies, chat with friendly vendors, or simply bask in the charm of the village. Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.
Get ready for a challenging day as we venture to Mt. Maisan and walk the trail as we ascend to the stunning Tapsa Temple. This extraordinary Buddhist site is built entirely out of stones, forming a series of magnificent towers. Snap photos, soak in the vibes, and marvel at this architectural wonder. You won’t believe how the stones were skilfully stacked into towering masterpieces. Spa culture reigns supreme in Korea, and next you’ll discover why Koreans treat spa visits as therapy for both body and mind. The traditional spa is gender combined and requires swimwear and bathing caps, which can be hired at the spa for a small fee. Enjoy the freedom to experience any of the themed rooms, including herbal bed therapy, bubble therapy, aromatherapy, mud therapy, stone therapy, floating therapy, outdoor pools with amazing views, and more. After a relaxing time at the spa, we continue toward Gwangju and check into our hotel for the next two nights. Known as Korea’s cradle of democracy, Gwangju’s vibrant political scene pairs seamlessly with its flourishing art culture. Explore galleries, museums, and a bustling street dedicated to all things art — a feast for creative souls! Today involves approximately 1 hour of walking on uneven, steep surfaces. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
This morning we’ll visit the Juknokwon Bamboo Garden. Picture yourself strolling along winding paths beneath a lush canopy of towering bamboo, letting the gentle rustle of leaves melt your worries away. After soaking up all that tranquil greenery, it’s time to head back to Gwangju for a fun-filled visit to Chungjang-ro Street. Known as the city’s top spot for fashion and entertainment, this vibrant area offers everything from trendy boutiques and shopping malls to cozy cafés and mouthwatering restaurants. Treat yourself to a little retail therapy, people-watch from a corner coffee shop, or simply wander around to enjoy the buzzing atmosphere. Special Experience Delve into Korea's past at the Gwangju Traditional Cultural Centre, learning the ins and outs of the country’s local customs. Here, you can let your creativity shine as you slip into a beautiful Hanbok, Korea’s traditional dress, and discover some centuries-old practices such as the art of drumming. Immerse yourself in this living piece of history, and don’t forget to snap a few memorable photos! Finally, we’ll cap off your evening with a mouthwatering group dinner at a local restaurant, feasting on an iconic Korean BBQ. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.
Get ready for an exciting day as we head to Suncheon, where we’ll step back in time at the Naganeupseong Folk Village. Enclosed by sturdy Joseon-period fortress walls, this beautifully preserved town is a cultural treasure, offering a peek into Korea’s rich past. Stroll through narrow alleys lined with traditional homes and imagine what daily life was like in centuries gone by. It’s history, culture and architecture all wrapped up in one stunning spot! Next, we’ll make our way to the coastal city of Yeosu — famous for its dramatic cliffs, scattered islands and scenic peninsulas along the East China Sea. One of the day’s biggest highlights? Taking a ride on the Yeosu Maritime Cable Car! We’ll glide high above the water for jaw-dropping panoramic views of both the sparkling ocean and rugged mountain landscapes in the distance. Keep your camera ready, you won’t want to miss that Facebook-worthy shot. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Yeosu at your own pace. Discover the bustling harbour, savour fresh seafood, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk by the sea. Fun fact: Yeosu hosted the World Expo back in 2012, and its playful energy still resonates throughout this charming coastal destination! Today involves approximately 1.5 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
This morning, we begin our adventure with a visit to the stunning Ssangyesa Temple. Tucked away in a peaceful valley, this sacred site is most famous for the vibrant tunnel of cherry blossoms that burst into colour each spring. Special Experience At the Ssanggyesa Temple, relish the experience of a traditional Korean tea ceremony and meditation session with monks. Later this afternoon, we’ll make our way to Busan for a well-deserved dinner at a local restaurant. As South Korea’s second largest city, Busan boasts a dynamic energy and breathtaking scenery. With majestic mountains wrapping around a bustling port, it’s easy to see why so many visitors fall in love with this coastal gem. Beyond the views, Busan is also chock-full of exciting activities, from bustling streets, chic boutiques and mouthwatering street food in every corner. Expect to be swept up in the unique charm that only Busan can offer. Our first stop in vibrant Busan is the Arte Museum, where cutting-edge technology and artistic creativity combine to create a truly immersive experience. Wander through a series of mesmerising digital installations inspired by nature, each brought to life with spectacular light, sound and visual effects. It's a fascinating introduction to South Korea's innovative spirit and the perfect place to capture some unforgettable photos. After our visit, we'll make our way to our hotel and check in. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Perhaps take a stroll through the surrounding neighbourhood and seek out one of Busan's fantastic local restaurants or dinner or simply unwind after your journey. Today involves approximately 1.5 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
Get ready to experience Busan at its finest! We’ll kick off our day with a coastal train ride at Haeundae Blueline Park. Sit back and soak up sweeping views of the sparkling East Sea as we glide along one of Busan's most scenic stretches of coastline, passing rugged cliffs, sandy beaches and colourful seaside scenery. Our journey then continues to the breathtaking Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. This majestic Buddhist sanctuary perches along the northeastern coastline, offering an enchanting blend of history, architectural beauty and endless ocean vistas. Returning towards Busan we’ll then take a refreshing walk along the coastal path at Igidae Park, where we can soak up stunning views of the ocean and the city skyline in one sweep. Next up is the Oryukdo Skywalk, perched right at the dividing line between the East and South Seas — prepare to feel exhilarated as we step out over the glass walkway and gaze down at the crashing waves beneath your feet! Afterward, we’ll pause to pay our respects at the UN Memorial Cemetery, where soldiers and UN staff from the Korean War of the 1950s are honoured in a peaceful, reflective setting before heading back to the hotel, where the rest of the evening yours to enjoy. Today involves approximately 2.5 hours of walking across uneven ground. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
We travel to Gyeongju this morning, known as ‘the museum without walls.’ The city has more tombs, temples, rock carvings, pagodas, Buddhist statuary and palace ruins than any other place in South Korea. Our day begins at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bulguksa Temple. First built in 528 AD during the Silla Dynasty, then reconstructed in 751 AD, the temple encompasses seven of the National Treasures of South Korea. Some of the most impressive treasures include the two pagodas and two gilt-bronze statues of Buddha. Later we’ll take the 3km scenic walk to our next stop, the Seokguram Grotto. This artificial grotto is made from granite and is also a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. After sunset we visit Gyeongju Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, formerly known as Anapji, an artificial pond in Gyeongju National Park. The site is almost 1500 years old and was once home to the crown prince during the reign of King Munmu. In the evening we’ll enjoy the stunning night views of the Wolijeonggyo Bridge. Today involves approximately 2.5 hours of walking across uneven ground. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Today, we’re kicking off our day at the Cheomseongdae Observatory. Its name translates to “star-gazing tower,” and it doesn’t disappoint. Dating all the way back to the seventh century during the Silla Dynasty, this incredible relic is the oldest surviving observatory in East Asia. Take a moment to picture ancient astronomers peering at the skies from this very spot! Next, we’ll head over to Tumuli Park. Home to more than 20 grand and petite tombs from the Silla period, this park is full of mysterious grassy mounds that blend into the surrounding rolling hills. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to stumble upon hidden treasures straight out of a history book, this place has your name on it. We’ll also pay a visit to the nearby Gyeongju National Museum, one of the most prominent museums in Korea dedicated to the Silla culture. We’ll discover ancient artifacts, detailed exhibits and fascinating stories tucked into every corner. It’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the splendour of a bygone era and piece together the puzzle of Silla’s rich legacy. Finally, when our explorations draw to a close, we’ll hop aboard the high-speed train to Seoul, memories (and maybe a souvenir or two) in tow! Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Our day is spent exploring Korea’s Demilitarised Zone. We visit Freedom Bridge at Imjingak Village, we’ll walk down the 3rd infiltration tunnel and see the DMZ Exhibition Area. Korea is officially the only divided country in the world and has been since the Korean War of 1950 – 1953. This zone was established by both sides and is 2 kilometres on either side of the Military Demarcation Line, running 250 kilometres across the Korean Peninsula. Our tour continues at the Dora Observatory and Dorasan Station, which allow us a peak into North Korea and the village of Kijŏng-dong. Often referred to as the propaganda village, it was designed by the North Koreans to show that the North is living a life of prosperity. A closer look indicates that they are all concrete shells with no windows and automatic lighting that switches on and off at designated times to suggest activity! Tonight, we’ll enjoy a Nanta Show. Nanta is a non-verbal comedy show and a popular way to spend an evening in South Korea. After the performance our evening continues with our group farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant. Today involves approximately 1 hour of walking on uneven, steep surfaces.
Tokyo, Japan’s buzzing capital city. Formerly known as Edo, a small local fishing village, the Tokyo of today is a vibrant metropolis renowned for its advanced technology and diverse fashion sense, intermingled with the ancient traditions of Japanese culture. We’ll travel to Japan today, flying from Seoul to Tokyo. Once in Tokyo, we'll find an unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture and exquisite food as we get acquainted with the city on our own this afternoon. This evening we’ll meet up to enjoy a group dinner at our hotel. Your travel time today will approximately 3.5 hours.
Tokyo is a city that truly dazzles. It’s where centuries-old temples quietly sit beside towering skyscrapers, and the pace of modern life hums in harmony with deep-rooted tradition. Today, we’ll enjoy a taste of both worlds as we explore the very best of this incredible city. We’ll start our day at the Imperial Palace East Garden, a calm and elegant escape right in the heart of Tokyo. Once the site of Edo Castle and home to powerful shōguns, these beautifully kept gardens are rich with history and perfect for a peaceful stroll. Next, we’ll wander into Ginza, Tokyo’s famous upscale shopping and dining district. It’s known for its elegant boutiques, art galleries and delicious eateries. We’ll have some free time here to enjoy lunch and take in the lively atmosphere. We’ll then experience the pulse of the city at the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, a wildly choreographed moment of urban life where thousands of people cross from all directions at once. It’s pure Tokyo theatre. This evening, we’ll enjoy our welcome dinner aboard a yakatabune, a traditional Japanese houseboat. As we cruise along Tokyo Bay, we’ll enjoy great food, good company and sparkling skyline views. Today involves approximately 3.5 hours of walking.
What’s a trip to Tokyo without a little adventure on the subway? Today, we’ll hop on the city’s fast and efficient trains and travel just like the locals. It’s a fun and simple way to get around, and riding the subway really gives you a feel for the rhythm of Tokyo life. We’ll make our way to the Shitamachi district, often called Tokyo’s 'old town.' This area still holds onto the charm of traditional Japan. In Asakusa, we’ll visit Sensō-ji Temple, the oldest temple in Tokyo. It’s a peaceful and striking place, with its large red lantern and the soft scent of incense drifting through the air. Just outside the temple, we’ll wander down Nakamise Street, a lively shopping alley filled with stalls selling local snacks, souvenirs and handcrafted treasures. It’s the perfect stop for a leisurely stroll and a little shopping. Special Experience Delight in an entertaining sumo wrestling show while savouring a traditional Chanko-Nabe (a sumo hotpot-style stew) lunch. Sumo wrestling has been part of Japanese culture for over 1,500 years. What began as a ritual to entertain the gods is now a beloved national sport, rich with tradition. Today, we’ll enjoy a lively sumo demonstration, with an English-speaking host to explain the rules and rituals. If you’re feeling brave, you might even have the chance to step into the ring for a friendly match. As we watch, we’ll enjoy the flavours of a sumo lunch, featuring the hearty and delicious Chanko-Nabe hotpot. After a wonderful day, we’ll return to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure. Today involves approximately 2.5 hours of walking, including negotiating Tokyo’s extensive subway system.
This morning, we’ll leave the energy of Tokyo behind and make our way into the peaceful countryside, heading for the town of Fukasawa. Here, we’ll have some free time to enjoy lunch and explore the Gotemba Premium Outlets. It’s one of Japan’s largest outlet centres with a wide range of shops to browse at your own pace. If the weather is kind, you’ll be treated to some truly breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji in the distance, rising gracefully above the rooftops. In the afternoon, we’ll arrive in the scenic mountain town of Hakone, a favourite getaway spot for both locals and travellers. We’ll hop aboard the Hakone Ropeway, a cable car that gently glides above lush hills and steaming valleys. As we ride from Tōgendai to Ōwakudani, keep your eyes peeled for postcard-perfect views of Mt. Fuji if the skies are clear. Ōwakudani is a fascinating volcanic valley formed over 3,000 years ago. You’ll see steam vents puffing away and might even smell the sulphur in the air. Later, we’ll check in to our traditional ryokan accommodation and enjoy a delicious Japanese-style dinner to round out the day. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Japan’s bullet trains began as a bold dream back in the 1950s as a plan to connect cities faster than ever before and spark a whole new era of travel. After years of clever innovation, the very first shinkansen zoomed onto the tracks in 1964, just in time for the Tokyo Olympics. Since then, these sleek, speedy trains have become a symbol of Japan’s perfect mix of style, safety and precision. Today, we get to experience this incredible ride ourselves as we travel from Hakone to Nagoya. Then connecting with the local regional service which brings us into Takayama Station. Takayama is a delightful town tucked away in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, famous for its beautifully preserved old town and rich history. When we arrive, we’ll have some time to stretch our legs after travelling by train, soaking up the warm atmosphere of this charming place. We will enter Takayama Jinya, a stunning wooden government building from the Edo period. It’s the only one left in Japan and offers a fascinating peek into how the town was run hundreds of years ago. We’ll also wander down Sanmachi Street, where old merchant houses from the Edo and Meiji periods now house sake breweries, quaint shops and cosy restaurants with an opportunity to pick up a souvenir. After our walk, we’ll finish at our hotel where you’ll have the evening to relax and enjoy at leisure. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Today, we’ll explore the beautiful area around Takayama, starting with a visit to one of Japan’s largest morning markets, the Miyagawa Open Air Market. This lively market buzzes with local farmers and artisans selling fresh produce, handmade crafts and tasty snacks. It’s a colourful, cheerful spot where you can enjoy browsing and maybe find a special keepsake or a little treat to nibble on. Next, we’ll journey to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed village of Shirakawa-go. This charming village is famous for its unique gasshō-zukuri houses, with their steep thatched roofs designed to handle heavy snowfall. The roofs look like hands pressed together in prayer, exactly what gasshō means. We’ll visit one of these traditional houses, step inside, and get a real feel for how people lived here hundreds of years ago while soaking in the beautifully preserved cultural traditions. After exploring Shirakawa-go, we’ll have some free time to enjoy lunch and explore. You might want to try the local Hida beef, a delicious specialty of the region, or simply stroll the peaceful streets and take in the serene mountain views. In the afternoon, we’ll head to Gokayama, another mountain area known for its gasshō-zukuri houses and rich heritage. We’ll visit the Japanese Paper Village, where you can watch delicate washi paper being handmade using techniques passed down for centuries. It is commonly used in the traditional paper-folding art of Origami. Later, we’ll return to our hotel to relax and enjoy a lovely dinner to end the day. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.
We’ll leave the peaceful mountain scenery of Takayama behind this morning and head to the station, where we’ll board the local train to Nagoya. Once we arrive in Nagoya, there will be time to grab a bite before we hop onto the famous bullet train bound for Kyoto. Sit back and enjoy the changing views from the window as we make our way through the countryside. Kyoto is often considered the cultural heart of Japan. With over a thousand years of history, it’s home to elegant temples, serene gardens, traditional tea houses and wooden laneways that seem to pause time. The shift in atmosphere is something you’ll feel as soon as we arrive. Once we arrive in Kyoto, we’ll explore the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its winding trail of more than 10,000 bright red torii gates. Dedicated to the god of rice and sake back in the 8th century, it’s one of Japan’s most iconic and photogenic spots. Later, we’ll head to our hotel for a restful evening in this timeless city. Today involves approximately 1 hour of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
Kyoto is the quiet heartbeat of traditional arts, and this morning we begin with one of its most elegant expressions, Japanese black ink calligraphy known as shodō. This beautiful, meditative art form has deep roots in Kyoto where monks and scholars practised it in ancient temples. The city’s calm and scholarly atmosphere helped it flourish, with generations of masters refining their techniques here over the centuries. This morning, we will have the chance to try it ourselves. Special Experience Delve into the stunning art form of Japanese black ink calligraphy and try your hand at perfecting this ancient art. Afterwards, we will take part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Rooted in Kyoto’s Zen traditions, this graceful ritual is all about mindfulness, quiet hospitality and taking a pause to appreciate the present moment. It is both soothing and deeply cultural. Following this rich cultural morning, we will enjoy a stroll along the Philosopher’s Walk. This peaceful stone path follows a narrow canal lined with cherry trees and weaves gently between temples in northern Kyoto. It is named after a Kyoto University philosopher who walked it daily, deep in thought. Depending on the season, you may see soft cherry blossoms overhead or fiery autumn leaves beneath your feet. Along the way are shrines, little art galleries and cosy cafés perfect for a quiet rest or a sweet treat. We will return to the hotel in the afternoon with the rest of the day free to enjoy at your leisure. Today involves approximately 1 hour of walking.
Home to over 1,600 temples, Kyoto offers a wonderful glimpse into Japan’s rich spiritual and cultural history. Today, we’ll explore some of its most famous sites, starting with Kinkaku-ji, the stunning Golden Pavilion. This temple, covered in shimmering gold leaf, reflects beautifully in the calm pond that surrounds it. Originally a shogun’s retreat turned Zen temple, it was lovingly rebuilt after a fire in 1950 to preserve its timeless beauty. After soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of Kinkaku-ji, we’ll head to a local restaurant to dive into Japan’s amazing food culture. Special Experience Partake in a hands-on class where you'll make tofu and mix up shichimi, the famous Japanese seven-spice blend — then enjoy your delicious dishes for lunch. Tofu has been a cornerstone of Japanese cooking for centuries, prized for its fresh, delicate flavour and endless versatility. Shichimi, a fragrant blend of seven spices, adds warmth and a gentle kick to many dishes, showing how Japanese cuisine celebrates balance and subtlety in every bite. After our tasty and immersive lunch, we’ll return to the hotel where you’ll have the rest of the day at leisure. Today involves approximately 1.5 hours of walking.
We’ll start our final day in Kyoto with a visit to the nearby Arashiyama district, where the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge awaits. Known as the 'Moon Crossing Bridge,' this charming wooden structure has been a favourite spot for centuries. It frames the river and surrounding mountains perfectly, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season and autumn when the colours burst to life. Next, we’ll wander through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Towering bamboo stalks sway gently above us, creating a peaceful, whispering canopy. Walking along the winding paths feels almost magical as soft sunlight filters through the lush green. After our stroll, we’ll explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Tenryū-ji Temple. Founded in 1339, this important Zen Buddhist temple is famous for its stunning gardens that blend nature with traditional design. Though rebuilt after fires, Tenryū-ji still holds its peaceful, meditative spirit. For lunch, we’ll enjoy a traditional Japanese meal right on the temple grounds. We'll savour the Buddhist vegetarian cuisine with highlights of fresh, seasonal ingredients with delicate flavours. Later, we’ll board the bullet train at Kyoto Station bound for Hiroshima. This city, known for its inspiring story of resilience and peace, will welcome us as we check into our hotel. The evening is yours to relax and explore at your leisure. Today involves approximately 1.5 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
While Hiroshima is known around the world for the events of 1945, today it stands as a powerful symbol of hope, peace and renewal. This morning, we’ll set out to explore one of Japan’s most scenic and spiritual places, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Island of Miyajima. We’ll begin with a short drive to Miyajimaguchi Station, then enjoy a peaceful ferry ride across the bay to reach the island. Once there, we’ll visit the famous Itsukushima Shrine. This stunning shrine is built over the water and, during high tide, appears to float in the sea. Its bright red torii gate has become one of Japan’s most iconic views, and the shrine itself is a beautiful example of traditional Shintō design that dates back to the 12th century. After exploring, we’ll take the ferry back to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Park and the A-Bomb Dome. The park stands as a powerful tribute to the lives lost in 1945 and as a heartfelt call for peace. The A-Bomb Dome, left standing near the blast’s epicentre, has been preserved as a symbol of resilience and remembrance. As we walk through the park, past memorials and thousands of colourful paper cranes, it’s hard not to be touched by the quiet strength of this place. Later, we’ll return to the hotel for a well-earned rest. If you’re in the mood to explore, you might like to try Hiroshima’s famous okonomiyaki, a savoury pancake layered with noodles and local flavour. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
We’ll say goodbye to Hiroshima this morning as we catch our last bullet train of the trip, heading to the city of Himeji. Known as the home of one of Japan’s most spectacular castles, Himeji gives us a wonderful glimpse into the country’s feudal past. Often called the White Heron Castle because of its elegant, white exterior, Himeji Castle is a masterpiece of Japanese architecture and one of the best-preserved castles in Japan. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site dates back to 1617 and has stood strong through war and earthquakes, making it a true symbol of resilience. We’ll take our time exploring its stunning grounds before strolling over to the nearby Kōkoen Garden, a peaceful haven filled with beautiful traditional landscaping. After some free time for lunch, we’ll learn all about a local beverage which holds a special place in Japanese culture, from family celebrations to spiritual ceremonies, sake. We’ll visit a sake brewery where we discover how this time-honoured drink is carefully crafted. After exploring the process, we’ll enjoy a tasting and savour the delicate flavours that make sake so beloved across Japan. Special Experience Enjoy a tasting experience at a local sake brewery and learn how Japan’s drink of choice is made. After our tasting, we’ll drive to the lively city of Osaka. Known as Japan’s Kitchen for its mouthwatering food, warm locals and energetic spirit, Osaka is a playful city where tradition meets fun. This vibrant city will be our home for the next two nights. Once we arrive, we’ll check in at our hotel and collect our luggage. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. For dinner, why not explore nearby Namba? This bustling district is a food lover’s paradise, bursting with eateries, vibrant street stalls and delicious local flavours. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the lively streets and soak up the energetic atmosphere that makes Namba truly special. Today involves approximately 2.5 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Nara’s story begins over 1,300 years ago when it became Japan’s very first permanent capital in 710 AD. Before that, the capital moved with each new emperor, but Nara was chosen to bring stability and grow into a grand centre for culture, religion, and government. This morning, we’ll enjoy a scenic drive from Osaka to explore this historic city. Our first stop is the magnificent Tōdai-ji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue. This impressive temple is a marvel of ancient architecture and has been a spiritual heart of Japan for centuries. After soaking in its peaceful atmosphere, we’ll stroll through Nara Deer Park, where gentle deer roam freely. These sacred creatures are considered messengers of the gods and have become one of Nara’s most beloved sights. Later, we’ll return to Osaka and explore the lively Dōtonbori district. Famous for its colourful neon lights and bustling streets, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy some free time and lunch. Special Experience Dive into the world of pre-modern Japan with a fun, interactive session on the way of the Samurai. Unleash your inner warrior and learn their legendary skills. The samurai were more than warriors, they were noble guardians living by a strict code of honour, loyalty and discipline. Their stories of bravery still inspire us today, offering a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s rich past and traditions. We’ll explore their art and even try out some of their movements ourselves, which is sure to bring a few laughs along the way! Afterwards, we’ll head back to the hotel and prepare for our group farewell dinner, toasting the wonderful memories we’ve made together. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Our time together concludes this morning after breakfast, but the laughter, discovery and gentle hospitality of Japan are yours to keep forever. We hope you leave with new friendships and wonderful stories to share!
Sejam bem-vindos… or, welcome to the Azores! Set in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean between Europe and North America, the Azores are a breathtaking chain of nine islands known for their volcanic landscapes, emerald crater lakes, dramatic coastlines and charming seaside villages. Rich in natural beauty and adventure, the islands offer everything from geothermal hot springs to local vineyards and warm Azorean hospitality. Situated along a beautiful natural harbour on Faial Island, the lovely town of Horta is known as one of the Atlantic’s most famous yachting stopovers. With colourful marina murals, lively cafes and sweeping ocean views, Horta blends maritime history with laid-back island charm and is the perfect gateway to exploring the Azores. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 6.00pm. At 6.45pm, join your fellow travellers and tour leader in the lobby for introductions and a welcome drink, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.
Located in the central group of the Azores, Faial is a striking island, with sharp contrasts between moody, volcanic landscapes and lush greenery, all with sweeping Atlantic views as the backdrop. One of its most dramatic landmarks is the Capelinhos Volcano, where a 1957-58 eruption dramatically extended the island and created a stark, moonlike landscape of ash and lava. We’ll have the opportunity to explore this unique site through the underground Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre. We’ll have an immersive look into the powerful geological story of the Azores, before walking among the ash fields and admiring the stark silhouette of the lighthouse, which is now partially buried. Next, we continue up the mountain to visit the Caldeira. Stopping in Capelo Forest Park, we’ll indulge in a delicious, picnic lunch, completely surrounded by nature. After admiring the lush landscapes, we’ll make our way back to Horta, Stopping at Peter Café Sport, beloved by sailors and decorated with yacht flags from every corner of the globe. Here, we’ll enjoy a gin tasting of their renowned house gin, a tradition that has become part of Faial’s cultural identity. While here, you may like to visit the Scrimshaw Museum to see the rare collection of the Azorean tradition of engraving whale teeth and bones. Tonight is free to further explore Horta at your leisure. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
After breakfast it’s time to say farewell to Faial Island as we take a ferry trip to Pico Island, just across the water. One of the most dramatic and beautiful islands in the Azores, Pico Island is home to Portugal’s tallest mountain, Mount Pico, framed by a rugged volcanic landscape and black lava fields. Upon arrival on Pico Island, we’ll start our day with a scenic drive through the heart of the island, crossing the island at the foot of the towering Mount Pico. Our first stop is for a photo opportunity at Lagoa do Capitão, famous for the reflections of Mount Pico in its beautiful waters on a calm day… keep your fingers crossed! We’ll continue towards the historic whaling town of Lajes do Pico, where we’ll have the chance to explore the Whalers Museum, housed in the boathouses that once sheltered the traditional whaling boats. Further along the coastline, our journey takes us to the peaceful village of São Roque and the Whaling Industry Museum to experience the industrial side of the island’s whaling history. Later, we’ll return to Madalena, for our final stop of the day at the Wine Museum, where we’ll have an introduction to the fascinating wine traditions of the island. The remainder of the day is yours to explore Madalena, and you may wish to enjoy some of the amazing seafood at a local restaurant. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Today is all about exploring the rugged beauty of Pico Island, starting with panoramic views along the coast. We’ll see some of Pico Islands iconic natural swimming areas that have been formed by ancient lava flows where black rock meets the deep blue Atlantic. Next we enjoy scenic stops around Cabrito and Areia Larga, before visiting the extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage-listed vineyard landscape. Here generations of locals have transformed the hardened black lava fields into a thriving vineyard culture, unlike anywhere else in the world. Stretching along the coastline beneath the towering presence of Mount Pico, thousands of small stone-walled plots protect the vines from the Atlantic winds and salt spray. We’ll stop for a photo at the picturesque Criação Velha Vineyards and windmills, to experience this unique landscape up close. While we’re in this wine region, we can’t miss the opportunity to taste the local drop! We’ll head to another local winery where we’ll learn about local wine production and enjoy a tasting. Returning to Madalena, we’ll take a walking tour of the picturesque historic town centre. As we stroll through the streets, we’ll discover traditional architecture and scenic coastal viewpoints, all while gaining insight into the local culture and maritime heritage of this historic town. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening discovering all that Madalena has to offer at your own pace. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
This morning we’ll transfer to Pico Airport for our onwards flight to São Miguel Island and the archipelago’s capital, Ponta Delgada. The largest island in the Azorean archipelago, São Miguel Island is home to crater lakes, steaming geothermal springs, rolling green pastures and charming seaside villages, rich in Portuguese culture and tradition. After our arrival, we’ll begin to explore the pretty capital on foot, admiring the whitewashed architecture and black basalt, giving monochrome vibes, but we’ll discover this is a town full of colourful character! Rich in history, Ponta Delgada blends elegant Portuguese architecture with a relaxed island atmosphere. Take some free time for lunch, before we continue our exploration in the historic Matriz district, surrounded by some of the city’s most important architectural and cultural landmarks. The beautiful São Sebastião Mother Church stands proudly at the heart of the city and nearby, the iconic Portas da Cidade (the city gates) form one of the most recognisable symbols of the Azores, opening to lively squares and waterfront promenades. We’ll pass the Ponta Delgada City Hall on our way to São Francisco Square. Later, we’ll check in to our hotel and have the rest of the afternoon and evening to further explore this idyllic city at our own pace. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.
Today is a treat for our taste buds as we get set to uncover the delights of São Miguel Island on a full day tour. Departing the hotel, our adventure begins with a scenic drive towards the dramatic volcanic heights of Lagoa do Fogo, one of São Miguel Island’s most pristine crater lakes. Make sure your cameras are ready, as this is one you won’t want to miss! Continuing along the island’s scenic northern coast, we’ll reach the historic Gorreana Tea Plantation, Europe’s oldest surviving tea plantation, offering a rare and beautiful glimpse into the centuries-old tea production in a subtropical Atlantic setting.. We’ll have a chance to walk through the plantation, learn traditional tea-processing methods, and naturally, enjoy tastings of both the black and green tea varieties. Moving on, we’ll stop in Ribeira Grande, a charming seaside town, where there will be some free time for lunch. If liquors are more your thing, we’ll also visit a local producer of artisanal liqueurs that celebrate the island’s rich natural ingredients and heritage. Crafted using time-honoured methods, the range includes distinctive fruit and cream-based liqueurs, from tropical passionfruit to creamy milk and spice infusions. Saúde! In the late afternoon, we’ll return to Ponta Delgada, where the rest of the day is your own to further explore or relax as you wish. Your travel time today is approximately 2 hours.
Special Experience Unleash your inner adventurous side as we spend a full day exploring the spectacular Sete Cidades region in 4x4 vehicles. Famous for its twin crater lakes framed by dramatic green slopes, there is no better (or more exciting) way to discover the landscapes of the Sete Cidades region than in a 4x4 vehicle with expert guides. Kicking off our adventure, we’ll stop at some breathtaking viewpoints, including sweeping panoramas over the iconic Green and Blue Lakes. Descending into the heart of the volcanic caldeira, we pass through the village of Sete Cidades, nestled beside the serene lake waters. We’ll explore the crater floor and then enjoy some free time for lunch in this peaceful, storybook setting. Our journey continues off the beaten track to elevated viewpoints such as the Vista do Rei and Pico da Cruz, depending on the weather, revealing new perspectives of the crater landscape and the rugged Atlantic coastline beyond. This combination of mountain trails, forest paths and coastal vistas offers a constantly changing and immersive experience of São Miguel’s natural wonders. We’ll end our day at a pineapple plantation where we’ll learn about the unique slow-growth method of the famous Azores pineapples and enjoy a tasting of the fruit and liquor made with this tropical fruit. Upon arrival back at our hotel, the evening is at leisure. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Our explorations today take us along the southern coastline towards the charming seaside town of Vila Franca do Campo. This town was once the island’s first capital, and it’s most important, until the devastating earthquake of 1522. We’ll have some time to stroll through the historic streets, and perhaps sample the famous local delicacy, ‘queijadas da Vila’, a traditional sweet pastry beloved across the Azores. We continue to the lush and volcanic Furnas Valley, a spectacular geothermal landscape formed within an active volcanic complex. The valley is home to the peaceful village of Furnas, the stunning crater lake of Lagoa das Furnas and an extraordinary collection of bubbling hot springs and fumaroles, where steaming mineral water rises from the earth amid a dramatic display of hissing vapours and (somewhat stinky) sulphurous aromas. Special Experience Enjoy a traditional Cozido lunch – a famous stew with mixed meats and vegetables, slow cooked underground with volcanic heat. Along the lakeshore, we’ll stop at a local restaurant to witness the traditional cooking of the famous ‘cozido das caldeiras’. Using the natural volcanic heat to cook a rich stew, it is a unique technique that has been used by the locals for centuries. After learning all about the process, we’ll enjoy this delicious dish for lunch. Afterwards, we’ll continue on to the beautifully landscaped Terra Nostra Gardens, one of the most enchanting botanic gardens in all of Europe. Blending exotic planting with the island’s unique volcanic environment, the gardens are home to an amazing array of trees, plants and flowers from all around the world. One of the highlights is the iconic geothermal pool, and we’ll have time to bathe in these warm, iron-rich waters. Eventually, we’ll return to our hotel and enjoy the night at leisure. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Today is free for you to enjoy however you’d like. You may like to spend the day wandering through the streets of Ponta Delgada, on the lookout for some unique souvenirs to bring home with you. The more adventurous among us may even like to walk some of the coastal or volcanic trails! This evening we’ll join our new friends for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant where we reminisce on our favourite memories and experiences of the Azores together. Optional Excursion Whale Watching Tour. Located on the edge of three tectonic plates in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and benefitting from the gulf stream, the Azores are a permanent home or place of passage for more than a third of whale and dolphin species in the world. On this optional tour, you’ll spend the morning searching for, and hopefully observing, these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. 3hrs – From Euro 70pp.
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our fellow travellers and to the treasures of the Azores.
Welcome to South Korea, a land teeming with centuries-old customs, dazzling cityscapes and endless possibilities. In dynamic Seoul, the country's bustling capital of over 10 million people, you'll discover how old-world heritage gracefully mingles with futuristic skyscrapers and neon-lit streets. This is just the beginning of your luxury journey through scenic landscapes, lively markets and cultural hotspots that make South Korea truly unforgettable. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 5.30pm. This evening we’ll meet up to enjoy a group welcome dinner.
We’ll experience old and new Seoul today, beginning at the majestic Gyeongbokgung Palace where we’ll witness the Changing of the Guards ceremony. Built in 1395 AD, this grand palace now includes museums and historical sites, framed by breathtaking gardens and timeless stone pagodas that transport you back in time. Next up, we’ll head to Bukchon Hanok Village. Strolling around these snug alleyways, you’ll discover hundreds of traditional Hanok homes, some standing for over six centuries. Special Experience Explore Bukchon Hanok Village by private pedicab, relaxing as you glide through winding streets while learning the history and charm of this beautifully preserved traditional neighbourhood. Afterward, we’ll explore the Insa-dong Antique Shopping Alley. Here, over 70 shops sell antique artworks, porcelains, woodcrafts, metalwork and other handcrafted items. Feel free to wander around, grab something for lunch and even buy something as a unique souvenir or gift for a loved one back home. Special Experience Learn how to make Makgeolli, traditional Korean rice wine, during a hands-on class and enjoy a tasting of this delicious drink. This afternoon brings a fun and delicious cultural experience as we learn how to make Makgeolli, Korea’s traditional rice wine. Did you know that this milky, lightly-sparkling drink is known to be Korea’s oldest alcoholic beverage? That’s right, the first documented mention of it in a book dated back to the Goryeo Dynasty (918 - 1392). Here, we’ll discover its brewing process and who knows maybe you’ll become the next Makgeolli connoisseur! We’ll then stop for photos at the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza (DDP), a striking architectural landmark known for its flowing curves and illuminated exterior. Later, we’ll return to the hotel where the evening is free for you to enjoy as you wish.
After breakfast this morning, we’ll meet our guide and begin the day with a visit to the National Museum of Korea, one of the country’s most impressive cultural institutions. Here, we’ll discover fascinating artifacts and stories that trace Korea’s history from ancient kingdoms through to modern times. Our next stop of the day is COEX Mall, one of Seoul’s largest underground shopping complexes. While here we’ll stop by the famous Starfield Library, a unique space with soaring bookshelves and a striking modern design. You’ll also have some free time to grab lunch, browse the shops or simply soak up the lively atmosphere. Then, let’s head skyward to the Lotte World Tower Observatory! Standing at 555 metres, it’s not only the tallest building in Korea but the sixth tallest building in the world. Opened in 2017, this modern architectural marvel is home to Seoul Sky, where floor-to-ceiling glass make for unforgettable panoramic views across the city. Tonight, we’ll take our VIP seats for a performance of the famous Nanta Show. This high-energy, non-verbal comedy combines rhythm, acrobatics and kitchen chaos into a wildly entertaining performance that’s become a must-see in South Korea. After the show, the evening is yours to explore Seoul after dark. Myeongdong is a lively district filled with restaurants, cafés and street food stalls all within easy walking distance, making it the perfect place to find a cosy spot for dinner.
This morning, we transfer to the airport for a short flight to Jeju Island, South Korea’s beloved volcanic island known for its dramatic landscapes, unique culture and laid-back atmosphere. After arriving, we’ll pause for a lunch break, giving you time to refuel and perhaps sample some of Jeju’s local specialties before continuing our sightseeing. Next up is Jeju Stone Park, a fascinating cultural park dedicated to the island’s volcanic origins and the myths and traditions that have shaped Jeju’s identity. Wander through beautifully landscaped grounds dotted with striking basalt sculptures and stone formations while learning about the island’s famous “stone culture” and folklore. Later, we’ll check in to our hotel, with the rest of the evening at leisure. You may wish to relax after the day’s travels or head out to explore Jeju’s relaxed seaside atmosphere. Your flying time today will be approximately 1.5 hours. Today involves approximately 1.5 hours of walking across uneven ground.
Today we continue exploring the natural beauty and creative culture of Jeju Island. Our first stop is the spectacular Jusangjeolli Cliff, where towering hexagonal basalt columns rise dramatically from the ocean. Formed by volcanic lava meeting the sea, these striking rock formations create one of Jeju’s most impressive coastal landscapes. We then journey to the immersive Arte Museum, a cutting-edge digital art space where light, sound and nature-inspired visuals combine to create a truly mesmerising experience. Wander through a series of interactive installations designed to truly engage all the senses. Special Experience Visit the O’sulloc Tea Museum, where we’ll learn about the history and craftsmanship behind the brand’s premium green tea before taking part in an engaging tea class. After lunch we’ll be treated to a visit to the O’sulloc Tea Museum, dedicated to Korea’s beloved green tea culture. This museum offers a selection of exhibits about green tea, a roastery, rolling views of the Gotjawal forest and a gift shop. Perhaps something there might catch your eye to bring home as a souvenir? After returning to the hotel to freshen up, we’ll head out for a luxurious dinner at a renowned fine dining restaurant. Here we’ll enjoy a beautifully crafted meal showcasing high-quality ingredients and modern flavours — the perfect way to end another memorable day on Jeju. Deluxe Experience Delight in a fine dining experience at The Flying Hog, where we’ll indulge in an elegant menu highlighting seasonal ingredients, refined flavours and beautifully presented dishes.
Today we continue discovering the dramatic landscapes that make Jeju Island so special. This morning we’ll drive to Seongsan Ilchulbong, also known as Sunrise Peak. This UNESCO Heritage-listed volcanic formation rose from the sea over 5,000 years ago and is one of Jeju’s most iconic natural landmarks. We’ll explore the Seongsan Ilchulbong Tuff Cone, where a short walk reveals sweeping coastal views and the impressive crater formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. After our visit, we’ll stop for lunch at the charming Floyeast Bakery Café. This popular spot is known for its delicious pastries, fresh breads and relaxed atmosphere. Once our stomachs are full, we’ll visit the beautiful Cheonjiyeon Waterfalls, where water cascades into a serene pool surrounded by lush greenery. The name translates to “sky connected with land,” and the peaceful walking paths make this a lovely place to soak up Jeju’s natural beauty. Deluxe Experience Set sail along Jeju’s beautiful coastline at sunset, relaxing on board a luxurious yacht while savouring light refreshments and soaking up the sea breeze. As the day winds down, we’ll set out on a sunset tour aboard a yacht, cruising along Jeju’s picturesque coastline as the sky glows with evening colours. Indulge in light snacks and beverages and even try your hand at a spot of fishing. After returning to shore, the evening is yours at leisure to explore more of Jeju or simply unwind after a memorable day. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking across uneven ground.
This morning, we say goodbye to Jeju Island and hop on a flight back to Busan, and then continue on to our next destination, Gyeongju, known as ‘the museum without walls.’ The city has more tombs, temples, rock carvings, pagodas, Buddhist statuaries and palace ruins than any other place in South Korea. Our day begins at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bulguksa Temple. First built in 528 AD during the Silla Dynasty, then reconstructed in 751 AD, the temple encompasses seven of the National Treasures of South Korea. Some of the most impressive treasures include the two pagodas and two gilt-bronze statues of Buddha. As the sun begins to set we’ll visit the Gyeongju Donggung Palace and Wolji Pond, formerly known as Anapji, an artificial pond in Gyeongju National Park. The site is almost 1500 years old and was once home to the crown prince during the reign of King Munmu. This evening we’ll then enjoy a memorable dinner at Yoseokgung 1779, a beautifully preserved traditional Korean Hanok house known for its refined Hanjeongsik cuisine. Later, we take in the stunning night views of the Wolijeonggyo Bridge. Your flying time today will be approximately 1.5 hours. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Today, we’re kicking off at the Cheomseongdae Observatory. Its name translates to “star-gazing tower,” and it doesn’t disappoint. Dating all the way back to the seventh century during the Silla Dynasty, this incredible relic is the oldest surviving observatory in East Asia. Take a moment to picture ancient astronomers peering at the skies from this very spot! Next, we’ll head over to Tumuli Park. Home to more than 20 grand and petite tombs from the Silla period, this park is full of mysterious grassy mounds that blend into the surrounding rolling hills. Special Experience Gain insight into Korea’s monastic traditions while taking part in a variety of cultural practices such as meditation, archery and Seonmudo at Golgulsa Temple. This afternoon we’re in for a unique cultural experience at Golgulsa Temple, dramatically set into the cliffs of Mount Hamwol and known as the home of Seonmudo, a traditional Korean Buddhist martial art. After changing into temple attire, we’ll take part in a series of immersive activities, including an archery experience, a calming seated meditation session and a fascinating Seonmudo performance. Our day concludes as we make our way to Busan. As South Korea’s second largest city, Busan boasts a dynamic energy and breathtaking scenery. With majestic mountains wrapping around a bustling port, it’s easy to see why so many visitors fall in love with this coastal gem. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking across uneven ground. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Get ready to experience Busan at its finest! This morning we’ll pause to pay our respects at the UN Memorial Cemetery, where soldiers and UN staff from the Korean War of the 1950s are honoured in a peaceful, reflective setting. Our journey then continues to the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village, one of Busan’s most photogenic neighbourhoods. Often called the “Machu Picchu of Busan,” the village is a maze of narrow alleyways, vibrant murals and pastel-coloured houses stacked along the hillside. As we wander through the winding streets, you’ll discover quirky art installations, charming cafés and local craft shops, with plenty of opportunities to snap some fantastic photos. We’ll then head to the lively heart of the city with time to explore BIFF Square and Kukje Market. BIFF Square, named after the Busan International Film Festival, is famous for its bustling atmosphere and incredible street food scene. Nearby, Kukje Market is one of Korea’s largest traditional markets, where stalls overflow with everything from clothing and souvenirs to local delicacies. Enjoy some free time here to soak up the local atmosphere, browse the shops and sample some of Busan’s famous street food. After returning to the hotel, the late afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy as you please — it’s perfect chance to relax or continue exploring the city at your own pace.
This morning we’ll enjoy a scenic ride on the Haeundae Blueline Park Coastal Train, a charming seaside railway that hugs Busan’s coastline. As the train glides along the shore, take in sweeping views of golden beaches, rugged cliffs and the sparkling East Sea. Next, it’s off to the breathtaking Haedong Yonggungsa Temple. Unlike most temples in Korea which are nestled deep in the mountains, this remarkable Buddhist sanctuary sits dramatically along the northeastern coastline. Waves crash against the rocks below while ornate pagodas, lanterns and statues overlook the endless blue horizon, creating one of the most picturesque temple settings in the country. Later this afternoon we’ll have a couple of hours free to explore or relax at the hotel, before heading out again and visiting Gwangalli Beach, one of Busan’s most beloved stretches of sand. Here we can stroll along the waterfront, relax at one of the many cafés and take in spectacular views of the illuminated Gwangan Bridge (Gwangandaegyo) stretching across the bay. As the sun begins to set we’ll sit down to enjoy a farewell dinner, celebrating our journey with a classic Korean BBQ. Sizzling cuts of premium meat are grilled right at the table and enjoyed alongside a variety of delicious side dishes. It’s the perfect way to toast the end of our adventure together. Today involves approximately 1.5 hours of walking across uneven ground. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Ayubowan and welcome to Sri Lanka! Affectionately known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a total feast for the senses and we can’t wait to dive in headfirst. Separated from India by the Palk Strait, Sri Lanka boasts a rich history that spans centuries. Historically referred to as ‘Ceylon’, this beautiful tear-drop shaped island was officially named ‘Sri Lanka’ in 1972. Home to a rich blend of traditions and cultures, Sri Lanka has been carved by the diverse religions and ethnic groups that have thrived there for centuries. The best bit? These unique customs shift and change depending on where you are. So no matter where you go, there’s always something fascinating to discover. Our adventure guides us down the path less travelled to some of Sri Lanka’s more off-the-beaten-track locations. Following years of restoration and renewal in the country’s north, the region has emerged as a destination overflowing with unique and authentic cultural experiences unspoilt by mass tourism. We’re in for a real treat! We’ll arrive in Sri Lanka’s capital city of Colombo this evening, and transfer to our gorgeous hotel nestled by the beaches of Negombo.
Wake up and bask in the coastal-town-vibes of Negombo. Set alongside a picturesque lagoon and home to an impressive network of canals built during the Dutch colonial rule, Negombo was an important strategic outpost for the trade of cinnamon and has been governed at different times by the Dutch, Portuguese, and British empires. We have most of the day at leisure to rest up and refresh from our flight before our sightseeing commences in the early evening. Special Experience Cruise through the unique mangroves of the Muthurajawela Wetlands at sunset, before savouring dinner at a lagoon-side restaurant. Said to be over 7,000 years old and covering over 3,000 hectares, Muthurajawela — also nicknamed the Royal Swamp of Pearls — is a key player in the Western Province ecosystem, and is Sri Lanka’s largest coastal saltwater wetland, rich in mangroves and wildlife. As we glide and navigate through the mangrove islands at sunset, keep an eye out for the various colourful bird, reptile and mammal species that call this wetland home — don’t forget to bring your fully charged camera! To welcome us to Sri Lanka, we’ll be treated to a delicious dinner of traditional and local dishes, while we enjoy the opportunity to get to know our fellow travellers.
In the late morning, we’ll wave goodbye to coastal Negombo and journey north towards the ancient city of Anuradhapura. One of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals and now the capital of the North Province, Anuradhapura is a fascinating UNESCO World Heritage-listed city renowned for its remarkable collection of ancient ruins, sacred temples, tranquil pools and towering dagobas. Dating back more than 2,000 years, Anuradhapura was the centre of Sri Lankan civilisation for over a millennium and remains one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the country today. Set amongst sprawling archaeological ruins and lush greenery, the city is home to impressive monasteries, intricately carved stone carvings and sophisticated ancient irrigation systems that were considered engineering marvels of their time. It’s also where you’ll find the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, believed to have been grown from a cutting of the very tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Arriving in the afternoon, we’ll have the rest of the day at leisure to soak up the magic of Anuradhapura or to simply kick back and relax. Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
Grab your cameras — this afternoon we’re heading out on an unforgettable safari through Sri Lanka’s largest wildlife reserve, Wilpattu National Park! Famous for its distinctive villus (natural lakes) scattered across dense dry forest, this remarkable landscape creates a thriving sanctuary for wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for elusive leopards, Sri Lankan elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer and crocodiles, all moving through a mosaic of woodland, grassland and wetland habitats. Birdlife is equally rich, with kingfishers, eagles and hornbills often spotted along the park’s forest edges and waterways. Its remote location and low visitor numbers also make for a quieter, more immersive safari experience. As we explore, stay alert for the incredible diversity of species that call this park home — from the rare Sri Lankan sloth bear and wild water buffalo to herds of elephants roaming freely across the landscape. And if we’re lucky, we may even catch a glimpse of the elusive Sri Lankan leopard blending seamlessly into the forest!
After a lovely breakfast this morning, we’ll jump aboard a local train that will take us to our next destination, Jaffna! Enjoy the beautifully scenic countryside as we pass through dry plains, lagoons and the narrow “Elephant Pass”, also known as the “Gateway to Jaffna,” which connects the peninsula to the mainland. Arriving in Jaffna in the early afternoon, we’re welcomed to a city that is considered the cultural heart of the Northern Province. Located on Sri Lanka’s northern peninsula, Jaffna has a rich and complex past, shaped by ancient Tamil kingdoms, colonial rule under the Portuguese, Dutch and British, and more recent civil conflict. Today, Jaffna stands as a resilient city, proudly preserving its unique heritage, traditions and strong sense of identity. This region feels distinctly different from the south, with its strong Tamil heritage, Hindu traditions, and unique flavours that draw inspiration largely from south India. In the late afternoon, we’ll make our way to one of the city’s highlights, Jaffna Fort. A historic star-shaped fortification nestled nearby Jaffna Lagoon, it was built originally by Portuguese colonialists in 1619 during their invasion of the Jaffna Kingdom and was later captured by the Dutch in 1658 and expanded in 1792. Its strategic coastal position makes it one of the best-preserved forts in Sri Lanka, and today you can wander along the fort’s walls, gateways and moats, and enjoy sweeping city views from its massive ramparts. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to relax or further explore this beautiful city at your own pace. We’ll get together in the evening to enjoy a drink or two together — pure bliss! Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
On our agenda today is a full day sightseeing tour around the Jaffna Peninsula. We’ll begin with a visit to the Jaffna Market, a location bursting with colour and life. Here you can find unique souvenirs that are hard to find elsewhere in Sri Lanka — like products created from the Palmyrah tree — and vendors that are displaying fresh produce, dried fish, aromatic spices and other northern delicacies. We’ll also visit Jaffna Public Library, one of the most important cultural landmarks of the Tamil community, and the Jaffna Clock Tower, a historic colonial-era monument. Our lunch today is equal parts delicious and informative. We’ll be joining a local Jaffna family and enjoying traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. While dining with them, we will have the opportunity to better understand northern food, their unique traditions and how daily life operates. After, we’ll make our way to Kayts village on Velanai Island, just off the coast of the Jaffna Peninsula, for a brief insight into island life in the north. Here, we’ll see the Kayts Island Fort, which was once the location where Sri Lankan elephants were exported to India. We continue to the magnificent Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, one of the most significant Hindu temples in the region. Originally founded in 948 AD, the temple has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, with its current striking structure dating back to 1731. Known for its ornate architecture, golden accents, and vibrant rituals, it remains a powerful centre of devotion in Jaffna. To round off an excellent day, we head to the Rio Ice Cream parlour, a long-standing local institution known for its delicious ice cream creations. Is there a better way to finish a day of sightseeing?
Today we’re in for a cultural treat! Our eyes are set on visiting a small village where we’ll be immersed in a unique northern Sri Lankan experience — watching traditional Palmyrah “toddy tapping” in action. Here we’ll learn how fresh sap, known as toddy — a naturally fermented, mildly alcoholic palm drink — is collected by skilled climbers high in the Palmyrah trees. We will also see how it can be boiled down into “jaggery”, a rich, caramel-like palm sugar. It’ll provide insight into the cultural and economic importance of the Palmyrah palm, a species deeply woven into northern Sri Lanka’s identity. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a delicious local lunch inspired by the flavours and traditions we’ve discovered throughout the experience. In the late afternoon, we’ll travel further north to the quaint town of Point Pedro and enjoy a photo stop at Sakkotai Cape, the northern-most point of the island. Expect pure serenity and gorgeous, white-sandy beach shores — don’t forget to bring along your camera! Returning to Jaffna, you’ll have the evening at leisure. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Buckle up for a full travel day as we journey from Jaffna to Trincomalee, travelling through Sri Lanka’s eastern dry-zone region. Along the way, we pass through remote villages, stretches of farmland, and wide-open landscapes dotted with lagoons and scrub jungle, offering a glimpse into the island’s quieter rural life. It’s a chance to sit back, relax and watch the scenery slowly shift as we make our way toward the eastern coast. We’ll arrive in Trincomalee this afternoon, a beautiful port city on Sri Lanka’s northeast coast. This town boasts a tranquil, laid-back vibe, making for the perfect destination to truly relax. With over 2,500 years of recorded history, Trincomalee, has attracted seafarers, traders and pilgrims from all over the world since ancient times and is considered one of the oldest cities in Asia. In addition to its harbour — often described as the best in the world — it is also famous for its stunning beaches and epic marine activities, such as surfing, scuba diving, fishing and whale watching! Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
The morning is at leisure to relax or explore more of Trincomalee at your own pace. You may wish to opt for one of two optional excursions today if you’re feeling a little adventurous — choose between a whale and dolphin watching cruise or snorkelling around Pigeon Island. If you’re exploring at your own pace, you may like to visit the Maritime and Naval History Museum, a fascinating museum downtown that dives into Sri Lanka’s naval history all the way back to Marco Polo’s time. In the early afternoon, we’ll meet up as a group and embark on a sightseeing tour around Trincomalee. We begin by visiting the Commonwealth War Cemetery, a beautifully maintained cemetery dedicated to the allied soldiers of World War II, before heading to Kanniya Hot Springs, a cluster of natural geothermal wells that hold deep historical significance. Various inscriptions reveal that the hot springs were a part of a larger pond complex used by Buddhist Monks who were living in the area during the Anuradhapura period. Next, we’ll uncover the Natural Harbour of Trincomalee, one of the largest deep-water harbours in the world. It’s renowned for its strategic location and immense size, and it serves as a critical hub for Sri Lanka’s shipping and logistics. After we’ll explore the vibrant Koneswaram Temple, a revered Hindu site perched high on Swami Rock with sweeping views over the Indian Ocean. We’ll then discover the nearby Fort Frederick, built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch and British. Our last stop is to Uppuveli Beach, where we’ll take some beautiful photos of the white sandy beach, before returning to our accommodation for an evening at leisure. Optional Excursion Whale and dolphin watching cruise – Set sail from Trincomalee and cruise into the deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean, renowned for seasonal sightings of blue whales, sperm whales and playful pods of dolphins. Keep watch as these magnificent marine giants surface, offering an unforgettable wildlife experience. 4 hours – from US $95pp. Optional Excursion Pigeon Island tour (snorkelling) – Take a boat ride to Pigeon Island National Park, a protected marine sanctuary just off the coast. Dip into crystal-clear waters to snorkel above vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, and, if you’re lucky, spot reef sharks and sea turtles in their natural habitat. 4 hours – from US $90pp.
Wake up and enjoy the morning at leisure, before we depart for our next destination, Dambulla! Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s renowned “Cultural Triangle”, Dambulla is an important junction town that connects Colombo to Trincomalee and Anuradhapura to Kandy. While the town itself is relatively quaint, it’s the base to a wealth of experiences found in the area. Special Experience Discover Sam Popham’s Arboretum, Sri Lanka’s only dry-zone sanctuary, on a guided night walk to spot elusive slender loris and other rare species. This evening we’ll visit Sam Popham’s Arboretum in Dambulla for a fascinating nocturnal loris-watching experience. Established by Englishman Sam Popham in 1963, the arboretum originally spanned just 7.5 acres. Now managed by the Institute of Fundamental Studies, it has grown to cover an impressive 34.5 acres. As Sri Lanka’s only dry-zone arboretum, this unique conservation space is home to a rich collection of native flora, with over 350 species, as well as an impressive variety of fauna — more than 150 species of mammals, birds and insects have been recorded here. Here, a local guide will share insights into the sanctuary’s history before leading us along nature trails to quietly observe the elusive gray slender loris — a rare nocturnal primate known for its large eyes and slow, delicate movements — in its natural habitat. We will hopefully spot other rare species on our adventure, such as nightjars, pangolin, civet and fishing cat. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
This morning we say goodbye to Dambulla and make our way to Matale. On the way, we’ll stop to discover Nalanda Gedige, Sri Lanka’s best-preserved stone temple. Dating back to around 700 to 1000 AD, this ancient and mysterious edifice combines various stylistic elements from Buddhist, Hindu, Sinhalese and Tamil cultures. Continuing on, we’ll visit the Spice Ceylon Museum in Matale, an immersive experience that celebrates Sri Lanka’s rich spice heritage. Here, we will explore the curated exhibits to learn about the island’s historic spice trade, traditional cultivation methods, and the role spices have played in shaping Sri Lankan cuisine, culture, and global connections over centuries. After free time for lunch, our journey continues to Kandy. A truly charming town set around an artificial lake, Kandy is nestled amidst rolling hills covered by forests and tea plantations. It’s known for housing the most important Buddhist temple in the country, the former capital of Ceylon and the last seat of the Sinhalese Kingdom is Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. Kandy’s beautiful city has a distinctive style due to the impressive colonial architecture that still survives today! This afternoon, we’ll head to the Gem Museum to learn about gemstones. Sri Lanka is a global leader in high-quality coloured gemstone production, particularly renowned for varieties of Sapphires. Today we will learn about the mining, cutting and polishing process before seeing the beautiful gemstones in their final form. To finish off the day, we’re treated to a mesmerising cultural show and traditional dance performance. We’ll witness the fascinating Kandyan dance, a vibrant art form unique to Sri Lanka that involves elements of fire dancing, drumming and acrobatics. The performance has deep cultural ties, traditionally being performed only during royal ceremonies, festivals and religious events. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Our day begins with a visit to a local tea factory, where we will step into the world of Ceylon tea production. Learn how the tea leaves are carefully plucked, withered, rolled and graded using traditional methods that have shaped Sri Lanka’s vast tea industry for decades. Discover the journey from leaf to cup before finishing your visit with a freshly brewed tasting of aromatic Ceylon tea, enjoyed right where it’s made amidst the surrounding plantations. Next we’ll set off on a tour of Kandy by tuk tuk, the most authentic way to experience the city’s lively energy and charm. We’ll wind through bustling streets, colourful markets and local neighbourhoods as we take in the sights and sounds of everyday life. We will also stop at Arthur’s Seat Viewpoint for sweeping panoramas over Kandy Lake and the surrounding hills, offering a perfect snapshot of this scenic city. Special Experience Enjoy an authentic taste of local life with a hands-on cooking experience in a traditional Kandy village, then savour the creations for lunch. Heading to a local village just outside of Kandy, we’ll dive into traditional Sri Lankan cuisine in a fun and informative cooking class. Beginning with a warm welcome of tea and a local sweet treat, before visiting a nearby market to pick up fresh, seasonal ingredients. Then head to a rural home where we’ll learn to prepare classic Sri Lankan dishes using traditional techniques, all before savouring our delicious meal together for lunch. Returning to Kandy, the remainder of the day is at leisure.
Today we board a local train, departing Kandy and heading to Kadugannawa to visit the National Railway Museum, home to an impressive collection of historic engines, locomotives, railcars, trolleys and carriages spanning over 150 years of Sri Lanka’s railway heritage. Explore the restored exhibits and learn how the railway helped shape travel and trade across the island. Our journey continues on to Colombo, where the afternoon is yours to relax or explore at leisure — perhaps enjoy a final stroll through the city or some last-minute shopping. Later this afternoon, enjoy a private guided visit to No. 11 – Geoffrey Bawa’s Residence, the former home of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated architect, who is dubbed the godfather of “Tropical Modernism”. Set within a series of beautifully designed townhouses, the space reflects Bawa’s signature style of open courtyards, natural light and seamless indoor–outdoor living. After we will head to the iconic Gallery Café, once Bawa’s own office, for a memorable farewell dinner. Set in a stunning open-air courtyard surrounded by contemporary art, it’s the perfect setting to reflect on your journey through Sri Lanka! Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.
Today marks the completion of our adventure across amazing Sri Lanka. We’ll enjoy the day at leisure to explore Colombo further or simply relax and enjoy our hotel amenities. We hope you leave with fantastic memories! Optional Excursion Visit the Bunnik Tours office – Enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the Bunnik Tour’s Colombo office to see how our tours are created and meet the Sri Lankan team. Be taken on a tour of the building before enjoying a local homemade meal with the staff over lunch. 2.5 hours – complimentary
‘Bonjour’ and welcome to France, a country that possesses a rich and storied history that is echoed through its masterful literature, art and music. We begin our tour in the romantic capital of Paris, often referred to as the ‘City of Light — a nickname that dates back to the ‘Enlightenment’ era, when the city became a hub of ideas, creativity and intellectual exchange. Tree-lined boulevards, cobblestone lanes and charming architecture are hidden around every corner of this iconic city that oozes style and elegance. Well-known for being the backdrop to many famous films and productions, Paris is home to some of the most recognisable sites in the world, such as the iconic Eiffel Tower, as well as the world-renowned Louvre Museum, which houses thousands of works of art including the Mona Lisa! We don’t want you to miss out on a single moment of your French ‘soirée’, so we recommend that you arrive at your starting destination by 3:00pm. After meeting our fellow travellers and Tour Director for a welcome drink, we’ll enjoy a brief introduction to the city, taking an afternoon stroll through some of its beautiful streets. After wandering past some of the local sites, we will make our way to a local restaurant for dinner. Here, we will indulge in some of the delicious flavours that are iconic to French cuisine, before making our way back to our accommodation.
Waving ‘au revoir’ to Paris this morning, we’ll take a relaxing drive through the stunning French countryside as we make our way to the Loire Valley. Dating back over one thousand years, the Loire Valley is surrounded by beautiful rolling vineyards and fruit orchards. Thanks to the kings, queens, dukes and nobles who built magnificent châteaux, and the quaint medieval villages that are dotted throughout the region, the Loire Valley today feels like stepping into a real-life fairytale. In the late morning, we reach Chartres, a gorgeous town that overlooks the banks of the serene Eure River. Here, we will discover the wonderful architecture and rich history of the city during a walking tour. We’ll also enjoy a guided tour of the impressive Cathédrale Notre-Dame — the town’s impressive Gothic-style cathedral that was built in 1220 — before some free time for lunch and a chance to further explore its medieval streets. Next, we continue to the charming town of Amboise to visit the Château du Clos Lucé, the final residence of the legendary artist and engineer Leonardo da Vinci. It was here, under the support of King Francis I, that da Vinci spent the last years of his life bringing his visionary ideas to life. During our visit, we’ll explore his workshop and bedroom, gaining a fascinating insight into his daily life, before discovering detailed models and replicas of his groundbreaking inventions, from flying machines to early engineering concepts, all set within the château’s beautifully preserved surroundings. We’ll finish the day in Tours — our home for the next two nights — where we check into our hotel and have the evening at leisure. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Waking in the charming city of Tours, enjoy a slow start to the day before we set out to explore the many châteaux of the region. We’ll begin in the small village of Chenonceaux, home to one of the region’s best-known châteaux, Château de Chenonceau. In its current form, the château was built between 1513 and 1517 on the banks of the Cher River and is home to an exquisite collection of furniture and art. We’ll explore its opulent rooms and manicured gardens before continuing to a local winery. Special Experience Enjoy an underground tour and tasting at Caves Monmousseau Winery, famous for its fine bubbles and labyrinth of cellars carved into tufa stone. Venturing to the town of Montrichard, we’ll take a guided tour of the renowned Maison Monmousseau cellars, famed for their traditional sparkling wines. Carved into the natural tufa stone, these underground caves naturally maintain a constant temperature of around 12 degrees Celsius — ideal for the slow ageing process that gives the wines their delicate bubbles and refined character (so bringing a jacket is a good idea!). We’ll wander through the atmospheric tunnels and learn about the history and craftsmanship behind the winemaking process, before finishing with a tasting of Monmousseau’s signature wines, perfectly paired with a selection of local delicacies from the Loire Valley — pure bliss if you ask us! We then return to Tours and enjoy the evening at leisure. Why not take a stroll past some of the well-preserved Roman ruins or soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere with a wine in hand? Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
After breakfast, today we’ll take a short drive to the lovely village of Villandry. Small but picturesque with charming lanes lined with 15th century cottages, our sightseeing will take us to the Château de Villandry. Inhabited since the Renaissance, the grand château is home to exquisite exterior architecture and several hectares of verdant gardens. We’ll enjoy time in the grounds, exploring the perfectly manicured hedges, immaculately pruned trees and colourful flowers. We then make our way to the lively town of Angers, where we’ll visit the staggering stone stronghold of Château d’Angers that dates back to 1230. During our visit, we’ll learn about how the fortress was constructed and the history it survived before admiring its most prized possession, the 100-metre-long 14th century Apocalypse Tapestry. Depicting scenes from the Book of Revelation, the Apocalypse Tapestry is the largest surviving set of medieval tapestries. In the afternoon, we make our way to the university city of Rennes, buzzing with a vibrant atmosphere and the charming character of its old town. Home to a delicious restaurant scene, the capital of France’s Brittany region is perhaps most famous for its medieval half-timbered houses, the oldest of which dates back to the 16th century. Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
We’ll embark on a guided city tour of Rennes this morning, passing by the Palais du Parlement de Bretagne, the former parliament of Brittany. As we move through the mix of old and new, we’ll marvel at quintessential French architecture and the medieval old town before visiting the Rennes Cathedral. Stepping inside, we’ll admire the altar adorned with rare marble — said to have been sourced from ancient Rome’s Roman Forum — along with the striking blend of Gothic and Neoclassical styles introduced throughout the cathedral’s many transformations. Heading northwest, we continue on to the town of Dinan, where we’ll enjoy one of the highlights of our tour! Hugged by nearly 3 kilometres of ramparts, Dinan is a charming town filled with medieval half-timbered houses lining quaint cobblestone streets. For just one weekend every second year, the town is taken over by jousting tournaments, medieval market stalls, grand balls and packed parades of locals dressed in period attire. While here, we’ll immerse in the ancient customs of the Ramparts Festival, offering a window into what it might have been like to wander through Dinan through the late Middle Ages. In the afternoon and after our journey back in time, we travel to the historic walled city of Saint Malo, dramatically set on the English Channel in France’s Brittany region. Once a fortified stronghold and home to feared privateers in the Middle Ages, the city boasts a rich maritime heritage that still defines its character today. Although much of Saint-Malo was rebuilt after World War II, it carefully preserves its original charm, with impressive granite ramparts encircling the old town and offering sweeping coastal views. Enjoy the evening at leisure to explore at your own pace — our tip? Stop by one of the many traditional crêperies for a classic Breton dinner. Delicious! Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Rise at your own pace this morning and enjoy a leisurely start to the day in this charming coastal city. You may choose to wander the cobblestoned lanes within the historic walled Old Town, browsing the boutique shops, artisan galleries and inviting cafés that are tucked between stunning stone buildings. Perhaps you can settle in for a slow coffee or flaky French pastry while overlooking the sparkling seaside — bliss! In the early afternoon, we’ll meet for a guided tour of the historic port. As we wander through the atmospheric Old Town, we’ll uncover stories of the city’s rich maritime past and the famous corsairs who once sailed from its harbour. We’ll admire the impressive granite forts built to defend the coastline before taking to Saint Malo’s iconic ramparts — some of the best-preserved city walls in France. From here, enjoy sweeping views across the English Channel, the harbour and the region’s dramatic tidal coastline. In the afternoon, we journey to the coastal town of Cancale, a quaint spot renowned for its fresh seafood. While here, we’ll visit a local oyster farm, learning about the process of farming oysters and getting the opportunity to taste the farm’s freshest harvest, before returning to Saint Malo for an evening at leisure. Optional Excursion Cap Frehel – Discover the striking Solidor Tower in Saint-Servan, a 12th century fortified structure made up of three towers that once formed part of Saint Malo’s coastal defence network. Continuing along the scenic coastline of northern Brittany, we’ll make our way to the Cap Fréhel peninsula, famed for its dramatic pink sandstone cliffs, rugged coastal landscapes and sweeping sea views, before returning to Saint Malo. 3.5 hours - from Euro 79pp (minimum 4 people). Cash only. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Keep your camera at the ready today as we make our way to the magnificent Mont Saint-Michel. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed fortress perches on an islet surrounded by the lapping tides of the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel. As we approach the causeway that links Mont Saint-Michel to the mainland, take in the beauty of the Benedictine Abbey, constructed in 966 and seemingly defying gravity as it rises high out of the sandbanks. We’ll enjoy a guided tour of the abbey before enjoying some free time in this storybook setting for lunch. As the afternoon sets in, we proceed to Ducy-Sainte-Marguerite and visit the apple orchards of Les Vergers de Ducy. We’ll enjoy a tour of the property that produces apple cider, cider vinegar, apple juice and the aperitif, Pommeau de Normandie. Following the tour, we’ll treat our taste buds to a sample of these delicious apple beverages, before continuing to our next destination. In the evening, we’ll arrive at our hotel in Bayeux, a charming medieval town and popular base for exploring the historic D-Day Landing sites of Normandy. Remarkably spared from much of the destruction of World War II, Bayeux is renowned for its beautifully preserved old town, lined with cobblestone lanes, elegant 17th and 18th century mansions and half-timbered buildings that reflect centuries of Norman history. With the night at leisure, you may wish to take a leisurely stroll through the atmospheric streets, admire the grand Gothic architecture of the Bayeux Cathedral or soak up the relaxed ambience of the town’s inviting cafés and boutiques. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Today is dedicated to uncovering the remarkable and turbulent history of the Normandy region. From the 1066 Norman conquest of England led by William the Conqueror to the pivotal events of the 1944 Battle of Normandy during World War II, this corner of France has long stood at the crossroads of European history. Beyond its storied past, Normandy is celebrated for its dramatic coastal scenery, charming villages, half-timbered architecture and magnificent Gothic churches, as well as its rich culinary traditions — including creamy Camembert cheese, fresh cider and Calvados apple brandy. Our day begins at Colleville-sur-Mer, overlooking the sands of Omaha Beach, one of the key landing sites of the Allied D-Day invasion. Here, we’ll visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, where rows upon rows of white marble crosses and Stars of David honour the thousands of American soldiers who lost their lives during the campaign. Taking time to reflect on the scale and significance of these events, we’ll then continue to Pointe du Hoc, a dramatic clifftop position famously scaled by U.S. Army Rangers under heavy fire on D-Day. Still scarred by bomb craters and wartime bunkers, the site offers a powerful insight into the intensity of the conflict. We’ll continue on to Sainte-Mère-Église near Utah Beach — one of the first French towns liberated during the invasion and famed for the paratrooper caught on the church steeple. Here we’ll stop briefly to find some lunch. Special Experience Be transported back in time to 1944 and explore the important sights linked to World War II’s D-Day during a tour in World War II open top jeeps. In this unique experience, we’ll hop into a classic World War II jeep to explore the Normandy landscape from a different perspective, delving into the history of key locations linked to the invasion of 1944. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Departing Bayeux this morning, we begin our day in the town of Livarot with a taste of Normandy’s famous cheeses — best morning ever, right? Here, we visit Fromagerie E. Graindorge, a family-run cheese producer renowned for its traditional methods and long-standing heritage. We’ll enjoy a tasting of their classic varieties, crafted with care for over three decades, offering a delicious introduction to the region’s rich culinary traditions. Next, it’s on to the colourful port of Honfleur, reminiscent of Denmark’s Copenhagen. Overlooking the southern side of the River Seine, Honfleur was popular among French impressionist painters such as Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin. Enjoy some free time to explore its historic fishing port and marina that once served as a vital trade hub. In the early afternoon, we’ll continue on to Normandy’s cultural capital, Rouen. With centuries of history, preserved architecture and a delightful port, Rouen still retains many of the scars of its tumultuous past. Nestled on the banks of the River Seine, the city is home to a cathedral that was famously decorated by the brushstrokes of Claude Monet, medieval half-timbered houses and a turbulent history including the burning of Joan of Arc in 1431. Rouen is also renowned for its strong gastronomic traditions, which we’ll get the pleasure of indulging in tonight, as we enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Enjoy a relaxed morning at leisure to relax or explore Rouen at your own pace. You may like to discover the city on foot, where highlights include the former royal palace of the Palais de Justice de Rouen and the impressive Rouen Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece known for its striking façade, three distinctive towers and its historical connection to figures such as Richard the Lionheart, whose heart is said to be interred within. Nearby, the Church of Saint Joan of Arc marks the evocative site where Joan of Arc was executed in 1431, offering a powerful moment of reflection within the modern memorial space. If you wish to delve into her story, you might like to visit the Historial Jeanne d’Arc, located within the former Archbishop’s Palace, where immersive exhibitions bring the life, trial and legacy of Joan of Arc vividly to life through engaging displays and multimedia storytelling. We’ll meet in the late morning and take a drive out to the picturesque French village of Giverny, home to the final residence and gardens of Claude Monet. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the lush setting, exploring the vibrant flower gardens and water lily ponds that inspired many of the Impressionist painter’s famous works. Farewelling the beauty of Giverny, our tour concludes this evening when we arrive back in the ambient city of Paris at around 6:00pm. We hope you leave with fabulous memories as we say ‘au revoir’ to our new friends and the incredible landscapes of northern France. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Welcome to Costa Rica, a country where volcanoes, tropical forests and remarkable wildlife appear around almost every corner. Tucked between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, this small but naturally rich nation is home to around five percent of the world’s biodiversity. Sloths lounge in the treetops, toucans flash through the jungle and the phrase pura vida, meaning pure life, reflects the relaxed and joyful spirit woven into daily life. Costa Rica is also known for its peaceful approach to national life, having abolished its army in 1948 and invested instead in education and healthcare. Our adventure begins in San José, Costa Rica’s lively capital in the scenic Central Valley. Surrounded by rolling mountains and volcanoes, the city blends grand colonial buildings, neoclassical architecture and elegant Victorian-era mansions with leafy plazas, local character and a growing café and culinary scene. Originally founded in the 18th century, San José has grown into a dynamic capital that remains closely tied to the country’s cultural identity. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. To make sure you do not miss any part of the adventure, we recommend arriving at the hotel by 4:00pm. This evening, we’ll meet our local guide and fellow travellers over a welcome dinner.
San José sits at the centre of Costa Rica’s political and economic life and was recognised by UNESCO as a ‘Creative City of Design’ for its creative spirit and fresh approach to urban living. This morning, we’ll take a closer look at its past. What began as a modest colonial town grew steadily over time into a city that reflects Costa Rica’s history and ambition. Today, its museums, monuments, historic buildings and busy streets help tell the story of the nation through the years. Our half-day tour will take us through some of the city’s most significant landmarks and museums. Inside the National Theatre, we’ll admire elegant architecture and ornate interiors created during Costa Rica’s prosperous coffee era. We’ll also step inside the National Museum, housed in a former military fortress that later served as a prison, where bullet marks from the 1948 civil war can still be seen on the walls. Nearby, we’ll visit the Gold Museum, which holds an extraordinary collection of pre-Columbian artefacts, while the Numismatic Museum offers a closer look at historic currency and Costa Rica’s changing economy over time. The afternoon will be at leisure. Perhaps settle into a café for a cup of Costa Rican coffee, browse artisan markets or simply find a shady plaza bench and watch city life drift by. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
An early start today as we leave San José behind and travel towards Costa Rica’s Caribbean lowlands. Setting off around sunrise, we’ll journey through the Central Valley as the cool mountain landscapes gradually give way to dense tropical vegetation, banana plantations and small roadside towns beginning their day. This route offers a very different side of Costa Rica, where humid rainforest and winding waterways shape both the landscape and daily life. We’ll stop for breakfast in Guápiles, an important agricultural town known for producing much of the country’s bananas and pineapples. Afterwards, we’ll continue to La Pavona, a small riverside dock where roads come to an end and boats become the only way forward. From here, we’ll board a shared boat and travel along the canals towards Tortuguero, one of Costa Rica’s most remote and wildlife-rich regions. Accessible only by boat or small aircraft, Tortuguero is a fascinating mix of rainforest, wetlands and waterways protected within a national park created in 1975 to safeguard its habitats and vital sea turtle nesting beaches. The remainder of the afternoon will be at leisure. You may like to visit Tortuguero village, explore the Sea Turtle Conservancy Museum or take a walk along the black sand beach before dinner at the lodge this evening. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Water shapes every part of life in Tortuguero and today we’ll get to know this wonderfully wild corner of Costa Rica a little better. Often called the country’s little Amazon, Tortuguero is a maze of canals, lagoons and rainforest, protected within one of Costa Rica’s most important national parks. The region is especially famous for its green sea turtles, which come ashore to nest between June and October, giving Tortuguero its name and much of its conservation importance. This morning, we’ll enjoy a shared tour through Mawamba Park, a private nature reserve within the lodge gardens. As we wander through the grounds, we’ll explore butterfly gardens, frog enclosures showcasing Costa Rica’s tiny but fascinating amphibians and river turtle areas dedicated to local conservation. After lunch at the lodge, we’ll take a shared boat tour through the canals of Tortuguero National Park. These waterways are home to caimans, crocodiles and even elusive manatees, while the forests shelter three-toed sloths, lizards, three of Costa Rica’s four monkey species and more than 300 species of birds. After our exploration, we’ll return to the lodge for dinner and perhaps a little nightcap to round off the day.
This morning, we’ll farewell the waterways of Tortuguero and begin our journey back inland. After breakfast at the lodge, we’ll travel by shared boat to La Pavona before continuing by road through the fertile Caribbean lowlands, where banana plantations, cattle farms and tropical scenery line much of the route to Guápiles. Here, we’ll stop for lunch before continuing towards the volcanic landscapes of Arenal. Towering above the northern plains, Arenal Volcano is one of Costa Rica’s most recognisable natural wonders. For almost 40 years, it erupted regularly and became known as the country’s most active volcano, shaping both the land and the stories of the region. Although the volcano is now dormant, its near-perfect cone still leaves quite an impression. Nearby, the lively town of La Fortuna brings a different energy. Good food, warm hospitality and the sounds of salsa drifting from nearby restaurants give the town its cheerful and welcoming atmosphere. On arrival, we’ll check into our hotel where we will enjoy a group dinner. This evening you might choose to relax and unwind in the hotel’s thermal springs. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Arenal has a way of drawing attention and today we’ll see exactly why. Rising above rainforest and old lava fields, this striking volcano has shaped the surrounding landscape for decades. Once one of Costa Rica’s most active volcanoes, Arenal erupted almost continuously from 1968 to 2010, leaving behind the dramatic terrain we’ll explore today. After breakfast, we’ll head into the national park for a guided walk. Along the way, we may spot tropical birds, monkeys and colourful plants as we follow sandy trails, and cross old lava flows left behind by past eruptions. Our walk leads to an impressive lookout over Lake Arenal, where the views are every bit as spectacular as you might hope. This region offers more than striking scenery. It also gives us the chance to experience the flavours and traditions that are part of daily life here. Tortillas are a much-loved part of Costa Rican home cooking, served fresh with all sorts of traditional meals, and this afternoon we’ll experience that for ourselves. Special Experience Learn the art of traditional tortilla making during a warm and welcoming cooking lesson, followed by a homemade lunch in a local family home. Later, we’ll visit a small family-run sloth reserve for a guided walk through lush gallery forest, where we’ll learn more about these famously slow creatures and the reserve’s conservation work. We may also spot birds, frogs and lizards among the trees. By late afternoon, we’ll return to the hotel with time to enjoy the hot springs before dinner. Today involves approximately 2 hours of hiking in hot and humid conditions over uneven ground. Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.
Lake crossings, mountain roads and changing scenery shape today’s journey as we leave Arenal behind and travel deeper into Costa Rica’s highlands. After breakfast, we’ll make our way to the Arenal dock and board a boat across Lake Arenal, the country’s largest lake and an important source of hydroelectric power. Surrounded by rolling farmland and forested hills, the crossing to Río Chiquito offers a quieter glimpse into rural life beyond the country’s more familiar tourist routes. From here, we’ll continue by road to El Dos de Tilarán, a small farming community where dairy production and agriculture still shape everyday life. After lunch, we’ll continue climbing higher into the mountains as the scenery begins to change again. Warm tropical landscapes gradually give way to cooler air, drifting mist and dense cloud forest wrapped around the hillsides. By late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Monteverde, meaning ‘green mountain’, a region renowned for its biodiversity and conservation efforts. Originally settled by Quaker families in the 1950s, Monteverde is now home to protected cloud forest, exceptional plant life and more than 400 bird species, including the colourful resplendent quetzal. The remainder of the afternoon will be at leisure before dinner this evening in a unique treehouse restaurant. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Monteverde’s unique climate and high elevation make it one of Costa Rica’s most important regions for conservation. With moisture drifting in from both the Pacific and Caribbean, this cloud forest supports an exceptional variety of plant and animal life. Orchids, ferns, mosses and other epiphytes thrive here, while the canopy and undergrowth provide shelter for colourful birdlife, insects and mammals found only in this special environment. This morning, we’ll visit Selvatura Park for a guided walk along its famous hanging bridges. Originally created to help naturalists study the forest canopy, these suspended walkways now offer a fascinating window into life above the forest floor. As we make our way along the trails and bridges, with some stretching up to 170 metres, we may spot tropical birds, butterflies and perhaps even monkeys moving quietly through the branches. After our morning in nature, the afternoon will be at leisure. You may like to join a local coffee tour and discover why Costa Rican coffee is so highly regarded or for those feeling adventurous, there is the option to zip line through the treetops. Special Experience Unwind at a scenic viewpoint as the Costa Rican sunset paints the sky in brilliant colours, accompanied by refreshing drinks and local bites. This evening, you may choose to relax back at the hotel or head out on an optional guided night walk. Optional Excursion Optional Excursion – Monteverde Coffee Tour — Visit one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated coffee-growing regions and discover the fascinating journey from bean to cup on a guided tour through a working plantation. Learn about traditional farming methods, the history of coffee in Costa Rica and the importance of Arabica beans, while also exploring cacao, sugar cane and local fruit trees. Finish with a tasting experience featuring freshly brewed coffee prepared in different styles. Please advise your guide if you are interested in this tour. 2 hours - from US$300 pp. Optional Excursion Optional Excursion – Canopy Tour Zip Lining — Take in Monteverde’s famous cloud forest from a thrilling new perspective on an exciting canopy adventure high above the treetops. Glide along a series of zip lines and suspended bridges while enjoying sweeping views of the lush landscape below. Along the way, experienced guides share insights into the region’s ecology as you soar through the forest canopy. The experience also includes a rappel descent and Tarzan swing for those seeking an extra sense of adventure. Please advise your guide if you are interested in this tour. A good head for heights is recommended. 3 to 4 hours - from US$200 pp. Optional Excursion Optional Excursion – Santa Maria Forest Night Walk — Experience the cloud forest after dark on a guided evening walk through Santa Maria Forest, when the landscape takes on a different character and nocturnal wildlife begins to emerge. With flashlight in hand, follow forest trails in search of sleeping birds, frogs, insects, sloths, raccoons, owls and other fascinating creatures that thrive after sunset. Along the way, your guide shares insights into the biodiversity and delicate ecosystems that make Monteverde so unique. Please advise your guide if you are interested in this tour. 2 hours - from US$150 pp. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.
Today, we’ll leave the cool mountain landscapes of Monteverde behind and make our way towards Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, with a few memorable stops along the way. Our journey takes us to the famous Tárcoles River, known for its enormous American crocodiles, some of the largest in the country. From the well-known Tárcoles Bridge, we’ll stop to watch these impressive creatures resting along the riverbanks below, a sight that rarely fails to capture attention. Next comes a shared jungle river cruise through the Guacalillo Estuary, a peaceful maze of mangroves and waterways where birdlife thrives among tangled roots and tropical vegetation. Here we’ll glide quietly along the waterways keeping watch for crocodiles, monkeys, colourful birds and other animals hidden among the trees. After lunch, we’ll continue south to Manuel Antonio, a laid-back coastal region where rainforest-covered hills meet golden beaches along the Pacific Ocean. Although home to one of Costa Rica’s smallest national parks, the area is especially rich in wildlife and known for its relaxed atmosphere, lovely coastline and warm tropical waters. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Manuel Antonio may be one of Costa Rica’s smallest national parks, but what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in scenery and wildlife. Here, tropical rainforest tumbles down towards white sand beaches and warm Pacific waters, creating one of the country’s most memorable coastal settings. The park is home to sloths, iguanas, tropical birds and all three of Costa Rica’s most common monkey species. This morning, we’ll visit Manuel Antonio National Park for a guided walk through this richly biodiverse reserve. Along the trails, our guide will help spot animals hidden among the trees using a high-powered scope, while sharing insights into the plants and creatures that thrive here. There may also be time for a swim at one of the park’s beaches, so be sure to bring your swimming costume. This afternoon, we’ll swap rainforest trails for the Pacific coastline as we head out onto the water by catamaran. With forested headlands, quiet coves and warm ocean breezes all around, it is a relaxing way to take in Manuel Antonio’s shoreline and marine life, including dolphins and sea turtles. Special Experience Sail the Pacific on a catamaran cruise, soaking up ocean breezes, coastal views and a lively onboard atmosphere while keeping watch for playful marine life. After a full day of exploration, we’ll return to the hotel with the rest of the evening at leisure. Today involves approximately 3 hours of hiking in hot and humid conditions
There is something especially easy about mornings on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, and today we’ll have time to enjoy it one last time. The morning will be at leisure, giving you the chance for a stroll along the beach, a swim in the warm ocean waters or perhaps a slow breakfast with Costa Rican coffee and tropical views lingering in the background. If you feel like stretching your legs, the town’s small shops and relaxed seaside atmosphere are always worth one more wander. In the afternoon, we’ll journey inland once again, watching the scenery shift from palm-lined coastlines to rolling hills and mountain landscapes as we make our way back to San José, where we’ll check into our hotel. This evening, we’ll gather for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. With stories shared around the table and the journey drawing gently to a close, we hope you’ll leave with a little of Costa Rica’s pura vida spirit to take home with you. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Our adventure through Costa Rica comes to an end after breakfast this morning. You will be transferred to the airport in time for your international flight home.
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Hola and welcome to Guatemala, where ancient traditions and modern life come together in colourful and fascinating ways. Our journey begins in Guatemala City, the country’s lively capital and the largest city in Central America, giving us a memorable first taste of this richly diverse nation. Long before the modern city took shape, this region was home to ancient Maya communities whose legacy still runs deep in Guatemala today. Later, Spanish rule left its own mark, visible in the city’s churches, public squares and historic buildings. These older influences now sit alongside modern neighbourhoods, busy cafés and the everyday rhythm of city life, giving Guatemala City an atmosphere that feels both historic and wonderfully alive. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. To make sure you do not miss any part of the adventure, we recommend you arrive at the hotel by 4:00pm. This evening, we’ll meet our local guide and fellow travellers over a welcome dinner.
Guatemala City will reveal a new side today as we explore its historic heart and discover some of the country’s most rewarding cultural treasures. The capital is home to museums and landmarks that help tell the story of Guatemala’s ancient Maya roots and colonial past. This morning, we’ll visit the National Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, one of the country’s leading cultural institutions. Inside, remarkable stone carvings, ancient ceramics and beautifully preserved artefacts will bring thousands of years of Maya history to life. We’ll also explore the city’s historic centre, where grand plazas, elegant churches and stately civic buildings sit alongside the bustle of modern life, giving us a lovely introduction to Guatemala’s story. After lunch at a local restaurant, we’ll transfer to the airport for our flight north to Flores. Perched on a tiny island in Lake Petén Itzá, Flores is a colourful lakeside town that was once known as Great Island and later renamed in honour of Guatemalan independence leader Cirilo Flores. With its cobbled streets, pastel houses and peaceful setting, it is the perfect place to slow the pace a little. After settling into our hotel, the evening will be at leisure. A lakeside coffee or sunset stroll will be hard to resist. Your flight time today will be approximately 1 hour.
Tikal National Park is on our radar this morning as we set off bright and early for one of the most extraordinary archaeological sites in the Maya world. Hidden deep within the rainforest of northern Guatemala, Tikal was once a powerful city at the heart of Maya civilisation during the Classic Period, flourishing between the 3rd and 9th centuries. Today, it remains one of the most impressive ancient cities ever discovered in the Americas. During our guided tour of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, we’ll explore towering temples, grand ceremonial plazas and intricate stone carvings that reveal the sophistication of this ancient civilisation. Some of Tikal’s pyramids rise dramatically above the jungle canopy, while the rainforest hums with life. As we wander through the park, we’ll learn how this once-thriving city was home to kings, priests and astronomers before being slowly reclaimed by nature over the centuries. We may also spot some of the park’s present-day residents, including monkeys, toucans and other colourful birdlife among the trees. After our guided visit, there will be free time to explore at our own pace before we enjoy a boxed barbecue picnic lunch inside the park. Later this afternoon, we’ll return to Flores. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
A change of scene is in store for us today as we say goodbye to lovely Flores and the lowland jungles and fly back to Guatemala City before continuing on to Quetzaltenango. Known locally as Xela, this highland city has a personality all its own and offers a wonderful introduction to Guatemala’s western highlands. Framed by mountains and volcanoes, Quetzaltenango is Guatemala’s second largest city and is known for its strong Indigenous heritage, elegant neoclassical architecture and lively cultural spirit. It feels less polished than some of Guatemala’s better-known destinations, but that is very much part of its charm. Once we arrive, we’ll check into our hotel and have a little time to settle in before heading out on an orientation tour of the historic centre. It will be a pleasant way to get our bearings and soak up the atmosphere of our home for the next two nights. As we stroll through the main square and nearby streets, grand facades, local shops and important civic buildings will reveal the story of Quetzaltenango’s past and present. There’s a proud and independent spirit to this city, shaped by a rich mix of Maya traditions and European influence. By the end of the walk, we may well find ourselves developing a soft spot for Xela too. Today involves approximately 1 hour of walking. Your flight time today will be approximately 1 hour. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Life in the highlands takes centre stage today as we venture into the market towns around Quetzaltenango. We’ll begin with a visit to Almolonga, often called Guatemala’s vegetable garden thanks to its fertile volcanic soil. The market is filled with local farmers selling enormous vegetables and flowers, giving us an engaging look at everyday highland life and plenty to catch the eye of keen photographers. From here, we’ll continue into the nearby countryside where agriculture remains central to the local economy and way of life. This productive landscape supports generations of farming traditions and close-knit communities throughout the region. Special Experience Wander through the lush vegetable fields of Zunil, meet local farmers and enjoy a warm glimpse into everyday life in Guatemala’s vibrant highlands. Afterwards, we’ll visit Zunil Market, a smaller and more traditional market where daily life unfolds at a gentler pace. Then it will be time to unwind at Fuentes Georginas, one of the region’s best-known hot springs. Surrounded by cloud forest, these inviting thermal pools will be the perfect place to relax and soothe tired muscles, so be sure to bring your swimsuit. Back in Quetzaltenango this afternoon, things become a little sweeter as we visit Chocolates Doña Pancha for a chocolate workshop, tasting and later dinner inside the museum. It will be a delicious way to end the day and perhaps the perfect excuse to pick up some chocolate to take home. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.
Did you know that Quetzaltenango once had an older name, Xelajú Noj? Often translated as under ten mountains or under ten gods, it is thought to reference the chain of volcanoes around the city. This morning, we’ll wave this striking highland setting goodbye as we travel deeper into Guatemala’s mountains towards Chichicastenango, passing traditional villages, patchwork farmland and spectacular scenery along the way. On arrival, we’ll visit the famous market of Chichicastenango, one of the largest and most vibrant in Central America. Held only on Thursdays and Sundays, it draws local communities from across the region who come to sell textiles, handicrafts, flowers, food and all manner of everyday goods. Bargaining is part of the experience here too, so a friendly smile and a little negotiation may go a long way. We’ll also visit the Church of Santo Tomás, built in the 16th century on the site of an older Maya temple. Its broad stone steps, flickering candles and incense-filled interior reflect centuries of Maya and Catholic traditions existing side by side. Afterwards, we’ll continue to Panajachel, affectionately known as Pana by locals and the gateway to Lake Atitlán. Set along the shores of this beautiful lake, the town will be our home for the next three nights as we explore one of Guatemala’s most scenic regions. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Few places in Guatemala leave quite the impression that Lake Atitlán does. Formed inside an ancient volcanic crater and framed by towering volcanoes and traditional Maya villages, the lake has inspired travellers, artists and writers for generations. Beyond its striking scenery, Lake Atitlán also remains deeply important to the Indigenous communities who continue to preserve their traditions along its shores today. This morning, we’ll travel by boat across the lake to Santiago Atitlán, one of the region’s most traditional villages. During our visit, we’ll wander through the lively streets and central plaza before hopping aboard a tuk tuk to visit the house of Maximón, a much-revered folk saint who blends Maya spirituality with Catholic influences. The ceremonies surrounding Maximón remain an important part of local life and offer a memorable insight into the customs of the region. Back on the water, we’ll continue to San Juan La Laguna, a welcoming lakeside village known for its artistic spirit and strong culinary traditions. Special Experience Discover the rich flavours of Guatemala during a cooking class and demonstration at Deleite Ancestral, where traditional recipes and warm hospitality come together. After enjoying lunch with our host family, we’ll spend time exploring San Juan La Laguna before returning to Panajachel later this afternoon. The evening will be at leisure and perhaps the perfect opportunity to enjoy dinner along Calle Santander, where cosy restaurants and lakeside views create a lovely atmosphere to end the day. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
The shores of Lake Atitlán continue to surprise us today as we discover two quieter lakeside communities known for their strong artistic traditions and deep Indigenous heritage. This morning, we’ll make our way to Santa Catarina Palopó and neighbouring San Antonio Palopó, both beautifully set against the backdrop of the lake and nearby volcanoes. Santa Catarina is known for its brightly painted buildings and traditional weaving culture, while San Antonio has become especially famous for its striking blue pottery and handcrafted ceramics. For generations, local artisans here have shaped clay using techniques passed down through families, creating pieces that reflect both Maya traditions and everyday life around the lake, a craft we will see up close today. Special Experience Enjoy a hands on pottery workshop in San Antonio Palopó, where skilled local artisans share the timeless techniques behind the village’s signature handcrafted ceramics. After our rather creative morning, we’ll enjoy a short tour around San Antonio. As we wander through the village, we may spot colourful murals, women weaving traditional textiles and small workshops where pottery lines the shelves waiting to dry in the mountain air. Later, we’ll return to our hotel with the rest of the afternoon free to relax and enjoy the peaceful lakeside surroundings. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
We leave the shores of Lake Atitlán behind this morning as we make our way back inland. Along the way, we’ll stop at Iximché, once the capital of the Kaqchikel Maya Kingdom and one of Guatemala’s most historically significant archaeological sites. Tucked among pine forests and rolling hills, Iximché feels quieter and more atmospheric than many of the country’s larger Maya ruins. During our visit, we’ll explore ancient plazas, ceremonial platforms and temple remains where Maya rituals once took place centuries ago. In fact, Spanish conquistador Pedro de Alvarado briefly used Iximché as Guatemala’s first colonial capital before relations with the Kaqchikel people quickly broke down. Today, the site still holds spiritual importance for Maya communities, and it is not unusual to see traditional ceremonies taking place among the ruins. Later, we’ll continue to Antigua, our home for the next three nights. Once one of the most important cities in Spanish Central America, it was largely abandoned after a devastating earthquake in 1773. Many of its churches and convents still stand partially in ruins today, giving the city its wonderfully romantic and slightly timeworn appeal. Between hidden courtyards, rooftop cafés and the scent of fresh coffee drifting through the streets, Antigua has a way of inviting the sort of slow wandering that makes visitors linger a little longer than planned. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Ringed by volcanoes and filled with beautifully preserved Baroque-influenced architecture, Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, is ours to explore today. Elegant churches, leafy courtyards and pastel-coloured buildings give the city a timeless feel, while the surrounding peaks provide a dramatic backdrop in every direction. Our day begins with a visit to Ciudad Vieja, once Guatemala’s first colonial settlement before natural disasters forced the capital to move. We’ll also spend time in San Antonio Aguas Calientes, a traditional town celebrated for its detailed Maya weaving and richly embroidered textiles still crafted by local artisans today. Afterwards, we’ll head to Cerro de la Cruz, where panoramic views across Antigua’s red rooftops and surrounding volcanoes make the climb well worthwhile. Returning to the city, we’ll enjoy a guided walk through Antigua’s lively Central Plaza, a gathering place lined with fountains, shaded benches and historic landmarks. We’ll visit the Cathedral, whose partially restored ruins still tell the story of Antigua’s earthquake-filled past, along with the Municipal Government building and the impressive Palace of the Captains General, once the administrative centre of Spanish rule in the region. We’ll also stop at a jade factory to discover why jade was considered more valuable than gold by the ancient Maya. The remainder of the afternoon will be free to enjoy Antigua at your own pace. Perhaps settle into a cosy café for coffee and cake, browse the artisan markets or enjoy a relaxed dinner in one of the city’s candlelit courtyards. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
A slower pace awaits us today as we enjoy a full day at leisure in Antigua. By now, the city’s relaxed rhythm may already feel a little familiar, making this the perfect opportunity to enjoy its quieter pleasures at our own pace. You may like to spend the morning visiting one of Antigua’s peaceful courtyard museums or beautifully restored convents, many of which provide rewarding insights into the city’s colonial past. Food lovers might enjoy sampling freshly made Guatemalan pastries from a local bakery, while coffee enthusiasts will find no shortage of charming cafés serving beans grown on the surrounding volcanic slopes. For those in the mood for a little shopping, Antigua’s artisan markets are filled with woven textiles, handmade ceramics and locally crafted jewellery that make lovely keepsakes to take home. If relaxation sounds more appealing, perhaps settle into a shady garden courtyard with a good book or simply enjoy watching daily life unfold around the plazas and cobbled streets. This evening, we will gather at a local restaurant for a farewell dinner and one final evening together in Antigua. It will be the perfect chance to share stories from the journey, raise a glass to new friendships and enjoy one last taste of Guatemala’s wonderful food and hospitality before we all say thank you and hasta luego, Guatemala. Optional Excursion Pacaya Volcano — Experience one of Guatemala’s most famous volcanoes on a guided excursion through dramatic lava fields and rugged volcanic landscapes as you climb this active volcano. Enjoy sweeping mountain views while learning about Pacaya’s fascinating history and volcanic activity from your local guide. Please advise your guide if you are interested in this tour. A good level of fitness is required for this excursion. From $210pp US.
Our Guatemalan adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. You will be transferred to the airport in time for your international flight home.
Ayubowan and welcome to Sri Lanka! Affectionately known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a total feast for the senses and we can’t wait to dive in headfirst. Separated from India by the Palk Strait, Sri Lanka boasts a rich history that spans centuries. Historically referred to as ‘Ceylon’, this beautiful tear-drop shaped island was officially named ‘Sri Lanka’ in 1972. Home to a rich blend of traditions and cultures, Sri Lanka has been carved by the diverse religions and ethnic groups that have thrived there for centuries. The best bit? These unique customs shift and change depending on where you are. So no matter where you go, there’s always something fascinating to discover. Our adventure guides us down the path less travelled to some of Sri Lanka’s more off-the-beaten-track locations. Following years of restoration and renewal in the country’s north, the region has emerged as a destination overflowing with unique and authentic cultural experiences unspoilt by mass tourism. We’re in for a real treat! We’ll arrive in Sri Lanka’s capital city of Colombo this evening, and transfer to our gorgeous hotel nestled by the beaches of Negombo.
Wake up and bask in the coastal-town-vibes of Negombo. Set alongside a picturesque lagoon and home to an impressive network of canals built during the Dutch colonial rule, Negombo was an important strategic outpost for the trade of cinnamon and has been governed at different times by the Dutch, Portuguese, and British empires. We have most of the day at leisure to rest up and refresh from our flight before our sightseeing commences in the early evening. Special Experience Cruise through the unique mangroves of the Muthurajawela Wetlands at sunset, before savouring dinner at a lagoon-side restaurant. Said to be over 7,000 years old and covering over 3,000 hectares, Muthurajawela — also nicknamed the Royal Swamp of Pearls — is a key player in the Western Province ecosystem, and is Sri Lanka’s largest coastal saltwater wetland, rich in mangroves and wildlife. As we glide and navigate through the mangrove islands at sunset, keep an eye out for the various colourful bird, reptile and mammal species that call this wetland home — don’t forget to bring your fully charged camera! To welcome us to Sri Lanka, we’ll be treated to a delicious dinner of traditional and local dishes, while we enjoy the opportunity to get to know our fellow travellers.
This morning we farewell Negombo and set our eyes on the nature paradise of Wilpattu! The drive north from Negombo offers a glimpse into everyday rural life, passing small villages, coconut plantations and roadside markets before the scenery begins to change. The first half of the journey will take us along Sri Lanka’s sparkling coast, and as we continue more inland, we’ll see the landscape gradually become more open and rugged, with scrubby bushland, scattered trees and wide, sunbaked plains. Special Experience Spend two nights on the doorstep of Wilpattu National Park at Mahoora Tented Safari Camp, immersing in the tranquil beauty of Sri Lanka’s largest wildlife reserve. We’ll arrive at the beautiful Mahoora Tented Safari Camp in the early afternoon, our home for the next two nights. Nestled on the eastern edge of a tranquil lake and close to Wilpattu National Park, the camp offers an ideal base for exploring the surrounding wilderness. Its peaceful setting, deep in nature and far from the bustle of town, creates the perfect place to unwind and connect with the wild landscapes of Sri Lanka — this is a truly immersive safari experience and one we’ll never forget! We’ll settle into our rooms before heading out on our first safari by jeep — how exciting! Wilpattu National Park is Sri Lanka’s largest national park, renowned for its unique villus (natural lakes) scattered across dry forests. This diverse landscape creates a haven for wildlife, from elusive leopards and herds of elephants to sloth bears, spotted deer and crocodiles. Birdlife is equally impressive, with kingfishers, eagles and hornbills commonly seen across the park’s wetlands and woodland edges. Its remote setting and low visitor numbers make for a more peaceful, immersive safari experience. After hopefully spotting some elusive wildlife, we’ll head back to the camp at dusk and enjoy an incredible dinner under Wilpattu’s sky. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Our morning is at leisure to soak up the peaceful surrounds of our beautiful wilderness camp. Sleep in and unwind to the sounds of chirping birds or take the time to explore the grounds at your own pace. For those eager to experience more of Wilpattu’s remarkable landscapes, there’s also the option to join an additional morning safari through the national park — the choice is all yours! Later this afternoon, we’ll venture back into Wilpattu National Park for another safari adventure, travelling deeper into its rugged landscapes of dry forest, open plains and natural lakes. The late afternoon light brings a different atmosphere to the park, offering fantastic opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. As the sun begins to set, we’ll pause for a relaxed sundowner with light snacks, taking in the peaceful beauty of the surrounding wilderness. Returning to camp, we’ll come together for another memorable group dinner under Wilpattu’s sky — a truly unforgettable way to end the day and our safari experience. Optional Excursion Morning safari – Embark on an early morning safari through Wilpattu National Park, discovering this wildlife haven as it gently awakens in the soft morning light. Keep watch for elusive species as the park comes to life around you. 3.5 hours – from US $85pp. Cash only.
After a lovely breakfast at our camp this morning, we’ll set off for Anuradhapura to jump aboard a local train that will take us to our next destination, Jaffna! Enjoy the beautifully scenic countryside as we pass through dry plains, lagoons and the narrow “Elephant Pass”, also known as the “Gateway to Jaffna,” which connects the peninsula to the mainland. Arriving in Jaffna in the early afternoon, we’re welcomed to a city that is considered the cultural heart of the Northern Province. Located on Sri Lanka’s northern peninsula, Jaffna has a rich and complex past, shaped by ancient Tamil kingdoms, colonial rule under the Portuguese, Dutch and British, and more recent civil conflict. Today, Jaffna stands as a resilient city, proudly preserving its unique heritage, traditions and strong sense of identity. This region feels distinctly different from the south, with its strong Tamil heritage, Hindu traditions, and unique flavours that draw inspiration largely from south India. In the late afternoon, we’ll make our way to one of the city’s highlights, Jaffna Fort. A historic star-shaped fortification nestled nearby Jaffna Lagoon, it was built originally by Portuguese colonialists in 1619 during their invasion of the Jaffna Kingdom and was later captured by the Dutch in 1658 and expanded in 1792. Its strategic coastal position makes it one of the best-preserved forts in Sri Lanka, and today you can wander along the fort’s walls, gateways and moats, and enjoy sweeping city views from its massive ramparts. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to relax or further explore this beautiful city at your own pace. We’ll get together in the evening to enjoy a drink or two together — pure bliss! Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
On our agenda today is a full day sightseeing tour around the Jaffna Peninsula. We’ll begin with a visit to the Jaffna Market, a location bursting with colour and life. Here you can find unique souvenirs that are hard to find elsewhere in Sri Lanka — like products created from the Palmyrah tree — and vendors that are displaying fresh produce, dried fish, aromatic spices and other northern delicacies. We’ll also visit Jaffna Public Library, one of the most important cultural landmarks of the Tamil community, and the Jaffna Clock Tower, a historic colonial-era monument. Our lunch today is equal parts delicious and informative. We’ll be joining a local Jaffna family and enjoying traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. While dining with them, we will have the opportunity to better understand northern food, their unique traditions and how daily life operates. After, we’ll make our way to Kayts village on Velanai Island, just off the coast of the Jaffna Peninsula, for a brief insight into island life in the north. Here, we’ll see the Kayts Island Fort, which was once the location where Sri Lankan elephants were exported to India. We continue to the magnificent Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, one of the most significant Hindu temples in the region. Originally founded in 948 AD, the temple has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, with its current striking structure dating back to 1731. Known for its ornate architecture, golden accents, and vibrant rituals, it remains a powerful centre of devotion in Jaffna. To round off an excellent day, we head to the Rio Ice Cream parlour, a long-standing local institution known for its delicious ice cream creations. Is there a better way to finish a day of sightseeing?
Today we’re in for a cultural treat! Our eyes are set on visiting a small village where we’ll be immersed in a unique northern Sri Lankan experience — watching traditional Palmyrah “toddy tapping” in action. Here we’ll learn how fresh sap, known as toddy — a naturally fermented, mildly alcoholic palm drink — is collected by skilled climbers high in the Palmyrah trees. We will also see how it can be boiled down into “jaggery”, a rich, caramel-like palm sugar. It’ll provide insight into the cultural and economic importance of the Palmyrah palm, a species deeply woven into northern Sri Lanka’s identity. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a delicious local lunch inspired by the flavours and traditions we’ve discovered throughout the experience. In the late afternoon, we’ll travel further north to the quaint town of Point Pedro and enjoy a photo stop at Sakkotai Cape, the northern-most point of the island. Expect pure serenity and gorgeous, white-sandy beach shores — don’t forget to bring along your camera! Returning to Jaffna, you’ll have the evening at leisure. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Buckle up for a full travel day as we journey from Jaffna to Trincomalee, travelling through Sri Lanka’s eastern dry-zone region. Along the way, we pass through remote villages, stretches of farmland, and wide-open landscapes dotted with lagoons and scrub jungle, offering a glimpse into the island’s quieter rural life. It’s a chance to sit back, relax and watch the scenery slowly shift as we make our way toward the eastern coast. We’ll arrive in Trincomalee this afternoon, a beautiful port city on Sri Lanka’s northeast coast. This town boasts a tranquil, laid-back vibe, making for the perfect destination to truly relax. With over 2,500 years of recorded history, Trincomalee, has attracted seafarers, traders and pilgrims from all over the world since ancient times and is considered one of the oldest cities in Asia. In addition to its harbour — often described as the best in the world — it is also famous for its stunning beaches and epic marine activities, such as surfing, scuba diving, fishing and whale watching! Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
The morning is at leisure to relax or explore more of Trincomalee at your own pace. You may wish to opt for one of two optional excursions today if you’re feeling a little adventurous — choose between a whale and dolphin watching cruise or snorkelling around Pigeon Island. If you’re exploring at your own pace, you may like to visit the Maritime and Naval History Museum, a fascinating museum downtown that dives into Sri Lanka’s naval history all the way back to Marco Polo’s time. In the early afternoon, we’ll meet up as a group and embark on a sightseeing tour around Trincomalee. We begin by visiting the Commonwealth War Cemetery, a beautifully maintained cemetery dedicated to the allied soldiers of World War II, before heading to Kanniya Hot Springs, a cluster of natural geothermal wells that hold deep historical significance. Various inscriptions reveal that the hot springs were a part of a larger pond complex used by Buddhist Monks who were living in the area during the Anuradhapura period. Next, we’ll uncover the Natural Harbour of Trincomalee, one of the largest deep-water harbours in the world. It’s renowned for its strategic location and immense size, and it serves as a critical hub for Sri Lanka’s shipping and logistics. After we’ll explore the vibrant Koneswaram Temple, a revered Hindu site perched high on Swami Rock with sweeping views over the Indian Ocean. We’ll then discover the nearby Fort Frederick, built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch and British. Our last stop is to Uppuveli Beach, where we’ll take some beautiful photos of the white sandy beach, before returning to our accommodation for an evening at leisure. Optional Excursion Whale and dolphin watching cruise – Set sail from Trincomalee and cruise into the deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean, renowned for seasonal sightings of blue whales, sperm whales and playful pods of dolphins. Keep watch as these magnificent marine giants surface, offering an unforgettable wildlife experience. 4 hours – from US $95pp. Optional Excursion Pigeon Island tour (snorkelling) – Take a boat ride to Pigeon Island National Park, a protected marine sanctuary just off the coast. Dip into crystal-clear waters to snorkel above vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, and, if you’re lucky, spot reef sharks and sea turtles in their natural habitat. 4 hours – from US $90pp.
Wake up and enjoy the morning at leisure, before we depart for our next destination, Dambulla! Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s renowned “Cultural Triangle”, Dambulla is an important junction town that connects Colombo to Trincomalee and Anuradhapura to Kandy. While the town itself is relatively quaint, it’s the base to a wealth of experiences found in the area. Special Experience Discover Sam Popham’s Arboretum, Sri Lanka’s only dry-zone sanctuary, on a guided night walk to spot elusive slender loris and other rare species. This evening we’ll visit Sam Popham’s Arboretum in Dambulla for a fascinating nocturnal loris-watching experience. Established by Englishman Sam Popham in 1963, the arboretum originally spanned just 7.5 acres. Now managed by the Institute of Fundamental Studies, it has grown to cover an impressive 34.5 acres. As Sri Lanka’s only dry-zone arboretum, this unique conservation space is home to a rich collection of native flora, with over 350 species, as well as an impressive variety of fauna — more than 150 species of mammals, birds and insects have been recorded here. Here, a local guide will share insights into the sanctuary’s history before leading us along nature trails to quietly observe the elusive gray slender loris — a rare nocturnal primate known for its large eyes and slow, delicate movements — in its natural habitat. We will hopefully spot other rare species on our adventure, such as nightjars, pangolin, civet and fishing cat. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
This morning we say goodbye to Dambulla and make our way to Matale. On the way, we’ll stop to discover Nalanda Gedige, Sri Lanka’s best-preserved stone temple. Dating back to around 700 to 1000 AD, this ancient and mysterious edifice combines various stylistic elements from Buddhist, Hindu, Sinhalese and Tamil cultures. Continuing on, we’ll visit the Spice Ceylon Museum in Matale, an immersive experience that celebrates Sri Lanka’s rich spice heritage. Here, we will explore the curated exhibits to learn about the island’s historic spice trade, traditional cultivation methods, and the role spices have played in shaping Sri Lankan cuisine, culture, and global connections over centuries. After free time for lunch, our journey continues to Kandy. A truly charming town set around an artificial lake, Kandy is nestled amidst rolling hills covered by forests and tea plantations. It’s known for housing the most important Buddhist temple in the country, the former capital of Ceylon and the last seat of the Sinhalese Kingdom is Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. Kandy’s beautiful city has a distinctive style due to the impressive colonial architecture that still survives today! This afternoon, we’ll head to the Gem Museum to learn about gemstones. Sri Lanka is a global leader in high-quality coloured gemstone production, particularly renowned for varieties of Sapphires. Today we will learn about the mining, cutting and polishing process before seeing the beautiful gemstones in their final form. To finish off the day, we’re treated to a mesmerising cultural show and traditional dance performance. We’ll witness the fascinating Kandyan dance, a vibrant art form unique to Sri Lanka that involves elements of fire dancing, drumming and acrobatics. The performance has deep cultural ties, traditionally being performed only during royal ceremonies, festivals and religious events. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Our day begins with a visit to a local tea factory, where we will step into the world of Ceylon tea production. Learn how the tea leaves are carefully plucked, withered, rolled and graded using traditional methods that have shaped Sri Lanka’s vast tea industry for decades. Discover the journey from leaf to cup before finishing your visit with a freshly brewed tasting of aromatic Ceylon tea, enjoyed right where it’s made amidst the surrounding plantations. Next we’ll set off on a tour of Kandy by tuk tuk, the most authentic way to experience the city’s lively energy and charm. We’ll wind through bustling streets, colourful markets and local neighbourhoods as we take in the sights and sounds of everyday life. We will also stop at Arthur’s Seat Viewpoint for sweeping panoramas over Kandy Lake and the surrounding hills, offering a perfect snapshot of this scenic city. Special Experience Enjoy an authentic taste of local life with a hands-on cooking experience in a traditional Kandy village, then savour the creations for lunch. Heading to a local village just outside of Kandy, we’ll dive into traditional Sri Lankan cuisine in a fun and informative cooking class. Beginning with a warm welcome of tea and a local sweet treat, before visiting a nearby market to pick up fresh, seasonal ingredients. Then head to a rural home where we’ll learn to prepare classic Sri Lankan dishes using traditional techniques, all before savouring our delicious meal together for lunch. Returning to Kandy, the remainder of the day is at leisure.
Today we board a local train, departing Kandy and heading to Kadugannawa to visit the National Railway Museum, home to an impressive collection of historic engines, locomotives, railcars, trolleys and carriages spanning over 150 years of Sri Lanka’s railway heritage. Explore the restored exhibits and learn how the railway helped shape travel and trade across the island. Our journey continues on to Colombo, where the afternoon is yours to relax or explore at leisure — perhaps enjoy a final stroll through the city or some last-minute shopping. Later this afternoon, enjoy a private guided visit to No. 11 – Geoffrey Bawa’s Residence, the former home of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated architect, who is dubbed the godfather of “Tropical Modernism”. Set within a series of beautifully designed townhouses, the space reflects Bawa’s signature style of open courtyards, natural light and seamless indoor–outdoor living. After we will head to the iconic Gallery Café, once Bawa’s own office, for a memorable farewell dinner. Set in a stunning open-air courtyard surrounded by contemporary art, it’s the perfect setting to reflect on your journey through Sri Lanka! Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.
Today marks the completion of our adventure across amazing Sri Lanka. We’ll enjoy the day at leisure to explore Colombo further or simply relax and enjoy our hotel amenities. We hope you leave with fantastic memories! Optional Excursion Visit the Bunnik Tours office – Enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the Bunnik Tour’s Colombo office to see how our tours are created and meet the Sri Lankan team. Be taken on a tour of the building before enjoying a local homemade meal with the staff over lunch. 2.5 hours – complimentary
Welcome to Vienna! The Austrian capital is an elegant European city that effortlessly blends imperial grandeur with modern vibrancy, captivating visitors at every turn. Vienna’s rich cultural heritage, shaped by centuries of royalty and artistry, is reflected in its stunning architecture, which tells a fascinating story at every corner. Often ranked as one of the most liveable cities in the world, Vienna’s unique atmosphere and cultural charm are sure to leave an impression. As the home of legendary composers like Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss, their influence still echoes throughout Vienna’s world-renowned concert halls and opera houses. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5.00pm. At approximately 6.00pm, join your fellow travellers and tour director for brief introductions and an orientation walk before our welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
The best of Vienna is at our fingertips today as we embark on a guided walking tour. Wrapped up for the day, we’ll make our way through this magnificent city, admiring its Baroque architecture and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Here, we’ll step inside the Romanesque and Gothic cathedral known as the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese and learn more about its significant history. Our walking tour will conclude near the Schwedenplatz or “Sweden Square” where we will have free time for snacks and coffee. Make sure to try the Sachertorte, a dense chocolate sponge cake with a layer of apricot jam – it’s a proud symbol of the Austrian capital and perfect for a winter’s day! After having the afternoon free to explore on our own, this evening we’ll take a ride on the iconic Wiener Riesenrad, the Giant Ferris Wheel, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
We cross the border into Slovenia today. It may be small, but this enchanted country is packed full of charming cities, stunning architecture and unique experiences, making a visit here truly memorable. Our first stop is the country’s oldest town, Ptuj. Here, we’ll visit Kurentova Hiša to learn about the unique Kurent tradition, a centuries-old cultural ritual recognised by UNESCO, before heading up to Ptuj Castle. Sitting high above the town, the castle offers sweeping views across red rooftops and the Drava River. After exploring, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, with time to relax warm up, and soak in the atmosphere of this beautifully preserved town. In the afternoon, we continue to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s picturesque capital. Known for its leafy streets, elegant architecture and laid-back feel, it’s often considered one of Europe’s most underrated cities. This evening is at leisure. Perhaps take a stroll along the Ljubljanica River, where cafés glow warmly along the water, or settle in for a comforting meal in the Old Town. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
Ljubljana, an increasingly popular destination for travellers to Europe, is ours to explore today. We’ll start with a walking tour, taking in some of the city’s best spots, including the Central Market, where locals sell fresh produce and unique artisanal goods. We’ll then hop on the funicular from Krek Square to Ljubljana Castle, where we’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city’s colourful rooftops and the surrounding hills. Next, we’ll head to the serene and beautiful Lake Bled. The lake’s calm waters, framed by towering peaks and lush forests, create a scene that feels straight out of a postcard. There’s a quiet stillness in the air, perfect for soaking up the view and with a little luck, the surrounding landscape may be softly dressed in white, elevating its fairytale charm even further. After checking into our hotel, the afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy. Perhaps take a brisk lakeside walk, then settle into a cosy café for something warm as you take in the view. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.
Bled is ours to enjoy today as we set out on a guided walking tour through this picture-perfect lakeside town. We’ll wander along the shoreline, taking in the ever-changing views across the water and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere that makes Bled so special. After the tour, you’ll have some free time to explore. If you like, you can take a traditional pletna boat ride out to the charming island in the middle of the lake, or simply relax by the water and enjoy the scenery. Next, we travel to the lake valley of Bohinj, beautifully set amidst dense woods and spectacular mountains. The journey will take us through some very old, typical Slovenian villages with gorgeous landscapes, where the crisp mountain air adds to the sense of escape. Special Experience Visit the Alpine Dairy Farming Museum, learning about the life of herdsmen in an authentic environment and tasting the locally produced cheeses. We’ll ride a cable car to the top of Mt. Vogel where we admire the breathtaking views over Lake Bohinj and the surrounding southern Julian Alps. After making our way back to Bled, the rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy this picture-perfect location. Whilst exploring the Lake Bled area, make sure you stop and try a local Slovenian dish, known as the Bled Cream Cake. Made with layers of puff pastry, custard and whipped cream it’ll be hard not to go back for seconds. Many cafes offer chocolate or fruit versions of the cream cake too!
Today we step into a true winter wonderland as we venture into Slovenia’s alpine region, where snow-dusted landscapes and crisp mountain air set the scene for the day ahead. Our first stop is Zelenci Nature Reserve, where the vivid emerald-green springs are edged with frost, creating a striking contrast against the surrounding snow. Wooden boardwalks lead us through this peaceful setting, with the Julian Alps rising in the distance. We’ll then continue to the Planica Nordic Centre, one of the world’s most renowned ski jumping destinations. In winter, the atmosphere here is even more impressive, with snow-covered slopes and towering jumps showcasing the region’s deep connection to winter sports. Next, we’ll visit the picturesque Lake Jasna, where icy waters reflect the surrounding peaks. If temperatures allow, you may even see the lake partially frozen! We’ll also spend time in the charming winter Fairytale Village of Kranjska Gora, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch or a warm drink. Think cosy alpine huts, festive touches and the perfect excuse to indulge in something hearty. Later, we’ll return to Bled, with the evening at leisure. Perhaps savour a quiet dinner or a peaceful lakeside stroll under the winter sky. Today involves approximately 1.5 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Today, we goodbye to Lake Bled and make our way towards Croatia, a country known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich history and vibrant culture, where medieval towns and coastal beauty go hand in hand. Enroute, we stop to visit a Slovenian chocolate shop in the charming town of Radovljica. Here we’ll sip drinks from a chocolate glass, taste raw cacao beans and watch a demonstration from a talented chocolatier. Finishing our tasting experience, we’ll journey to Novo Mesto, situated on the bend of the Krka River. The town’s history dates all the way back to the 1300s, highlighted through the traditional architecture that hugs the riverside. Special Experience Savour traditional Slovenian flavours with a locally inspired lunch and time-honoured dishes that bring the Dolenjska region’s culinary heritage to life. While we are here, we’ll delight in a delicious lunch, where local flavours take centre stage. You’ll sample a selection of regional specialties while learning about the traditions and stories behind each dish. Once our bellies are full, our journey then continues to the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park. This UNESCO World-Heritage listed site is one of the oldest and most beautiful parks in Croatia, made up of stunning forestry and sixteen cascading lakes. Renowned for their range of distinctive colours, the lakes’ water changes from azure to green, grey or blue depending on the quantity of minerals in the water and the angle of sunlight. After checking into our hotel, the rest of your evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.
During these winter months, the freezing temperatures transform the lakes into a magical winter wonderland, with the cascading waterfalls frozen into ice formations. Depending on the weather, we’ll enjoy a peaceful walk through the lakes, taking in the serene and frosty beauty before sitting down for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Afterwards, we’ll continue our journey to Split, Croatia's second-largest coastal city. Split is lively with a dynamic cultural scene, beautiful beaches and the impressive Diocletian’s Palace, a sprawling Roman fortress now home to bustling markets, cafes and narrow stone streets. It’s the perfect blend of ancient tradition and modern energy. We’ll arrive Split this evening with time to ourselves to get acquainted with the city. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
This morning, we’ll step back in time with a fascinating walking tour of the city of Split. We’ll pass by Jupiter’s Temple, admire the grand Peristyle courtyard and marvel at the impressive St. Domnius Cathedral. We’ll visit Diocletian’s Palace, one of the most remarkable Roman monuments in the world. Originally built by Emperor Diocletian in 305 AD as a residence, military fortress and fortified town, the palace is now the heart of Split’s Old Town and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. We’ll then head out to visit the town of Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town known for its medieval beauty. The town’s walls dating back to the 13th century, surround a treasure trove of Renaissance buildings and narrow cobbled streets. As we stroll through the Old Town, we’ll explore landmarks like the stunning St. Lawrence Cathedral. Built on the site of an ancient Greek temple, the cathedral’s bell tower showcases a blend of architectural styles due to its long construction period. Special Experience Enjoy a guided tasting of Croatian olive oil, an aromatic Mediterranean adventure for the senses! After some free time in this charming town, we’ll make our way back to Split where we’ll make our way to a local gastro-bar famed for its olive oil. Here, we’ll indulge in a guided tasting of three premium olive oils to learn about Croatian traditions and how to recognize quality olive oil. We’ll follow-up the tasting with a delicious lunch. A sure way to warm you up! After our visit, the evening is yours at leisure. Relax back at the hotel, wander the ancient lanes of Diocletian’s Palace or settle into a waterfront bar along the Riva and soak up the easy Mediterranean atmosphere. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
This morning, we’ll leave the coastal beauty of Split behind and journey through Croatia’s captivating countryside and in the early afternoon we arrive in Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital city. Nestled between the slopes of the Medvednica Mountains and the northern bank of the Sava River, Zagreb offers a unique blend of medieval charm and modern elegance. You’ll be amazed by the city’s cobblestone streets, beautiful parks and historic architecture. After checking into our hotel and having some time to relax on our own, we’ll head out to explore Zagreb on foot on a guided tour of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The famous St. Mark’s church which is known for its striking colourful roof that represents the medieval coats of arms of Croatia, Zagreb and Dalmatia. We’ll also pass by St. Catherine’s church, a stunning example of Baroque architecture and the impressive Zagreb cathedral, whose twin Gothic spires stand out against the city skyline. As we stroll through the city, we’ll also see the Parliament and Government Palace, two key buildings in Croatia’s political landscape. Each offering insight into the country’s history and governance. Our tour concludes at a lovely local restaurant where we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner together. Today involves approximately 2.5 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our new friends and to the charming winter wonders of Austria, Slovenia and Croatia.
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