Tours

‘‘Hola’ and welcome to the vibrant country of Peru, renowned for its diverse Andean environment and rich cultural heritage. Considered the heart of the ancient Inca Empire, it still maintains many of the time-honoured traditions of its numerous indigenous communities. Home to the spiritual realms of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, and an incredible culinary scene, it’s no wonder that Peru is often a bucket-list destination for many travellers. The remarkable landscapes woven throughout the regions are guaranteed to leave visitors speechless. Our journey begins this evening as we arrive in the historic capital of Lima. Located in the coastal desert region of Peru, it ranks second only to Cairo among the world’s largest desert cities. Established in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, Lima was originally designed to showcase the grandeur of Spanish colonial architecture in conquered territory. Today, the patchwork of Lima’s vibrant city life and neighbourhoods, combined with a host of museums and churches, offers visitors a rich immersion into centuries of fascinating heritage.

After a short flight from Lima to Guayaquil, we will be met by our guide and continue by coach on a scenic journey through the rolling Andean highlands. Relax and take in the mountainous scenery as we travel through the ever-changing landscapes into the heart of the Central Andes Mountains. In the evening, we will arrive in the remote village of Guamote, home to brightly painted buildings and a proud Indigenous community. Perched at an elevation of 3,050 metres above sea level, Guamote is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with sweeping views across the unique Andean landscape. Here, the traditions of its colourful Indigenous communities are deeply woven into daily life and agricultural practices. We will check in to the Inti Sisa guesthouse, a community run project that works to support the local area, and our home for the next two nights. After settling into our cosy retreat, we’ll meet for a delightful introduction to the local cuisine at a group welcome dinner at our guesthouse. As we tuck into each dish, we’ll be entertained with live, local music, sharing stories of the local culture through song. Your flight time today will be approximately 2 hours. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

A visit to Guamote is all about connection and today promises a truly special cultural experience. We’ll be welcomed into a local Indigenous community and get the unique opportunity to give back to those who are sharing their world with us. Special Experience Venture to a nearby village to learn about their daily lives and make a donation based on the needs of the community. In a local Indigenous village, we’ll learn about their way of life before supporting them with a donation based on their needs. The exact nature of the donation will be decided prior to our visit in conjunction with the local community and could include such things as clothing and shoes, school essentials or livestock. We’ll return to our guesthouse for lunch before setting out this afternoon for yet another incredible excursion to visit the local Shaman. Special Experience Learn the importance of the Shaman and feel enlightened on our visit that includes a spiritual cleansing for our group. A Shaman holds deep spiritual significance within many Indigenous communities and leads traditional rituals centered on healing and connection. During our visit, we’ll learn more about the Shaman’s role in local culture and partake in a cleansing ceremony which is deeply ingrained in their cultural traditions. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking at altitude.

Our final morning in Guamote begins with an early start as we visit the vibrant Guamote Market, one of the most authentic markets in Ecuador! Taking place every Thursday, this event is a real highlight where hundreds of ‘campesinos’ come in their colourful traditional dress to buy and sell their wares. Before we leave our special guesthouse accommodation, we will have the unique opportunity to enjoy a cultural exchange in Inti Sisa’s educational centre. Meeting the staff and children, we will learn more about the support the organisation provides to the local community through workshops and classes. After this exchange, we travel along 'The Avenue of the Volcanoes', taking in views of the snow-capped peaks of Chimborazo National Park. At the foot of the volcano, we’ll meet with the local Palacio Real community to learn all about llamas. Lunch is also included, for those with an adventurous palate, llama meat will be on the menu. Following lunch, we’ll continue to the sub-tropical town of Baños, the adventure capital of Ecuador, located in the foothills of the active Tungurahua Volcano. Tourists and locals alike visit here to go hiking, rafting, biking and more. Baños is also home to thermal springs, in fact it was named after them, and we can bathe and relax with the locals for just a few dollars. Later at night, there is even an opportunity for salsa dancing! Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Our chiva awaits us this morning! This colourful open-air bus will carry us into the upper basin of the Amazon rainforest. Here, we’ll take a short hike to the thunderous Devil's Cauldron waterfall or Pailon del Diablo, one of Ecuador’s most famous natural wonders. Fed by the rushing Pastaza River, this dramatic cascade is surrounded by lush forest and misty trails. We’ll also have the opportunity to cross the deep gorge in a scenic cable car for spectacular views. Returning to Baños, we’ll have some free time for lunch before our next adventure. The township is full of streets lined with restaurants, bars and souvenir shops. Make sure to watch the locals stretching toffee from wooden pegs in their shopfronts, it’s a traditional specialty. Then, prepare yourself for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as we travel to Casa del Arbol to the ‘Swing at the End of the World’ this afternoon! Originally built as a treehouse to monitor nearby Tungurahua Volcano, it has become one of Ecuador’s most iconic attractions. Perched high on a hillside with sweeping mountain views, the swing sends brave visitors soaring out over the valley below. A must for anyone with an adventurous spirit, or for those wanting to keep their feet firmly placed on solid ground, the stunning vistas will keep you enthralled and your camera busy. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Say farewell to Baños this morning, as we make our way towards Casa Agave, where we’ll discover the fascinating story of this versatile plant. Building on the early agave culture, these local manufacturers make remarkable, 100 percent natural products from the agave plant and have opened the first Andean agave culture museum in Ecuador. Special Experience Enjoy lunch at Casa Agave while sampling agave-based products, including tequila and learning about the many uses of this versatile plant. In the home of mescal and tequila, delight in a tasting and learn how the entire Agave plant is cooked and cultivated for various uses. Continuing our journey, we arrive at ‘Mitad del Mundo’ or the Middle of the World. It is here that the equator passes through Ecuador and you can actually stand with one foot in each hemisphere. We will also spend time at the nearby Inti Ñan Solar Museum, learning about the significance of this geographical location. Stroll through the outdoor exhibits, making sure you check out the ‘solar chronometer’ that uses the sun’s rays to determine the exact astronomical and conventional time, along with the day, month and season. We arrive in the town of Otavalo later this afternoon, located in a valley surrounded by the peaks of the Imbabura, Cotacachi and Mojanda volcanoes. Traditionally an area made up of farming communities, Otavalo now focuses on making handicrafts and is famous for its textile weaving. We’ll check in to our beautiful hacienda accommodation, once used by General Simon Bolivar during journeys between Ecuador and Colombia for his military and political campaigns. This evening, we’ll meet for dinner in the hacienda’s dining room. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Otavalo is one of Ecuador’s most culturally rich regions, where Indigenous traditions are proudly woven into everyday life. Surrounded by Andean peaks and patchwork countryside, it’s a place where community, ceremony and connection to the land still shape the rhythm of each day. Today, we’ll have the chance to experience that firsthand. Special Experience Visit an Andean community for a Pachamanka ceremony, enjoying a traditional Inca meal cooked underground with hot stones as part of this ancient ritual. From our base in Otavalo, we’ll journey out to a local Andean community to take part in an authentic feast where the food is cooked underground. This traditional ceremony is undertaken to celebrate the connection of the Andean people to Pachamama, which translates to ‘Mother Earth’. We’ll immerse ourselves in the cultural practice before tucking into lunch. The town of Cotacachi is our next stop. This local community, renowned as the ‘Leather Capital’, specialises in crafting high-quality leather goods including purses, jackets and leather belts. We’ll have time to do a spot of shopping and explore the town at leisure. In the early afternoon, we’ll venture to Cuicocha Lake, a stunning lagoon situated at the foot of the Cotacachi Volcano. The island in the middle of this lake is said to look like a guinea pig, hence the name Cuicocha which in the Kichwa Indigenous language means ‘Guinea Pig Lake’. Here, we will enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the tranquil waters of the volcanic crater lake. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Magnificent volcanoes surround us today as we continue our journey through the Andes. This morning, we’ll visit the bustling, Indigenous markets of La Plaza de Ponchos, Otavalo’s famous handicraft market and one of the best artisan markets in South America. It’s a wonderful place to browse for traditional handmade souvenirs such as jewellery, hammocks, blankets and ponchos. Next, we will visit La Companía Rose Plantation for a late morning tea and a tour of its historic hacienda. Built in a French Republic-style, the hacienda dates back to 1919 and has remained in the same family for five generations. Its rose showroom houses an amazing display of blooms in all colours and varieties, many of which are exported around the world. The scenic drive continues as we make our way to the tiny village of Papallacta this afternoon. Perched at 3,300 metres in a high Andean valley, Papallacta sits at the gateway to the Ecuadorian Amazon jungle and is home to the best hot springs in the country. The remainder of the day can be spent enjoying the therapeutic waters of the steamy springs at our hotel or indulging in some luxurious spa treatments. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Enjoy a slow morning today, with another opportunity to relax in Papallacta’s steamy hot springs. Sit back and soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters as you admire the surrounding mountain scenery. Said to contain medicinal properties, the natural springs are fed by rainwater that sneaks into the Chacana caldera and is warmed by the magma of surrounding volcanoes. Departing Papallacta, we will stop at the bird lover’s paradise of Guango Lodge. Nestled on the edge of Ecuador’s cloud forest, this serene spot is renowned for its rich biodiversity and abundance of birdlife. The cool mountain air and dense, misty forest create the perfect habitat for a remarkable variety of hummingbirds, many of which can be seen flitting between feeders and flowers. As we explore the lush surrounds, we’ll also pass beautiful orchids in bloom, adding yet another splash of colour to this peaceful natural setting. We then continue through the valley to Quito, Ecuador’s capital, located high in the Andes Mountains at an elevation of 2,800 metres. Nestled in a spectacular valley and surrounded by snow-capped volcanic peaks, Quito also claims UNESCO World Heritage status for its Old Town. This wonderful part of the city, with some of its buildings dating back to the mid-1500s when the Spanish founded the city, has been carefully restored. It holds fascinating history and beauty with vintage façades lining the streets, and large, open plazas adjacent to striking cathedrals and stately public buildings. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

After breakfast this morning, we will explore the lively city of Quito on a sightseeing tour led by our guide. Heralding as the second highest capital city on earth after La Paz in Bolivia, and often considered the oldest capital in South America, Quito’s history sits well preserved within its volcanic surrounds. The city stretches out beautifully between mountain peaks and boasts a lovely blend of modern, Spanish and Indigenous influences. Our sightseeing begins with a visit to the central Independence Square, a leafy plaza lined with historic buildings including the Cathedral of Quito. Next, we’ll visit the beautiful Church of the Society of Jesus, or ‘La Compañía de Jesús’, renowned for its lavish interior almost entirely decorated with gold leaf. Admire the Baroque-style architecture of its grey stone façade before venturing inside to marvel at the lavish ceilings and hallways. We’ll also see the San Francisco Monastery, dating back to the 1500s and recognised as one of the largest and most significant historical structures in Latin America. To wrap up our final moments in the city, we’ll admire the view of the city from the top of 'El Panecillo' for sweeping views across Quito and its mountain-fringed surrounds. Late this afternoon, we bid farewell to Ecuador and transfer to the airport for our onward flight to Lima, Peru. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking at altitude. Your flight time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Departing Lima this morning, we’ll take a short flight to Iquitos, the gateway to Peru’s Amazon region, set on the banks of the mighty Amazon River. Upon touching down in the port city, we’ll take a short boat ride to our jungle lodge. Surrounded by the lush foliage and remarkable wildlife of the Amazon, this jungle retreat will be our base for the next few days as we venture into the earth’s largest and most biodiverse tropical rainforest. Stepping off the boat, we’ll be welcomed with a delightful tropical refreshment to enjoy while our guide tells us what is planned for the days ahead. In the late afternoon, we’ll head out on the water to try the unique experience of piranha fishing. A traditional activity for many local communities, we’ll have the opportunity to seek out the sharp-toothed species accompanied by the beauty of the Amazon. As we explore we’ll also keep an eye out for the incredible Victoria Regia water lilies, or Victoria Amazonica. These giant water lilies are endemic to the shallow waters of the Amazon basin and are known for their gigantic leaves that stretch across the surface at up to 3 metres in diameter. Your flight time will be approximately 2 hours.

The Amazon Rainforest, known as the ‘lungs of the Earth’ is one of the most extraordinary places. It represents over half of the planet’s remaining rainforests, with an incredible depth of breathtaking biodiversity. Today, we get the opportunity to completely immerse ourselves in this spectacular ecosystem that covers 40 percent of the South American continent, including nine countries. We’ll begin the day with a canopy walk through the treetops of the Sucusari Reserve. One of the longest treetop walkways in the world, these suspended bridges rise more than 36 metres above the forest floor and stretch for over 500 metres. The walkway is the perfect vantage point to observe the multitude of life in the Amazon treetops and to see out over the vast tangle of trees in the adjoining reserve of over 390,000 hectares. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for vibrant splashes of colour or rustling amongst the branches, as the area is a haven for Paradise Tanagers, macaws and lizards. After a delicious lunch, we’ll visit the Ethnobotanical Garden tended to by a local shaman. Here, we’ll learn about the medicinal uses of some of the 240 plant species grown within the garden. Retreating to the lodge in the afternoon, enjoy some time at leisure to relax before a group dinner this evening. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.

Following a hearty breakfast, we will set out by boat for a visit to a traditional Yagua Village. Travelling by water will give us the best chance to catch a glimpse of the endangered pink dolphins of the Amazon River. These mammals are said to get their distinctive hue due to them having a thinner, more translucent layer of skin, so their blood vessels show through more prominently — similar to when a human blushes! Home to the heart of the Amazon, the Indigenous Yagua Indian people share a deep connection to nature. Once we arrive at the village, we’ll be welcomed in to learn about the local customs and traditions, including a blow gun demonstration which some of the Yagua elders still use for hunting. As the afternoon sets in, we’ll visit Monkey Island, a private reserve where more than five species of tropical primates including small tamarins, saki, titi and large woolly monkeys are protected. Wandering through the leafy surrounds, we’ll spend the afternoon observing these quizzical creatures in their natural habitat. This experience also offers the perfect opportunity to snap some beautiful photographs as the monkeys interact and swing through the trees.

Soak up the last of our stay in the peaceful setting of the jungle before leaving the beauty of the Amazon behind us and transferring to the airport, to fly to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Set high in the rugged Andes Mountains, the vibrant city of Cusco is home to ancient archeological treasures that sit alongside Spanish colonial architecture. Known by the locals as ‘the navel of the world’, the Incas believed that Cusco was the center of the universe, especially given its position at the meeting point of three rivers. The city’s layout, said to be designed in the shape of a Puma, is home to extensive Inca ruins which we’ll get the chance to explore tomorrow. Cusco is also the gateway to both the Sacred Valley and the world-famous site of Machu Picchu. On arrival at our hotel, we’ll be greeted with some coca tea to help us acclimatise to the altitude. Coca leaves have long been a popular remedy used in tea as well as chewed, to help subdue the effects experienced in high altitudes. Your flight time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Today is all about exploring the wonders of Cusco, beginning by discovering the magnificent fortress of Sacsayhuaman, believed to have been built during the 1400s. Some of its enormous stones weigh over 100 tonnes yet 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! We’ll then visit the San Pedro Market to immerse ourselves in the local culture. This bustling market offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can find fresh produce, handicrafts and traditional food. Special Experience Learn to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes with fresh ingredients and expert guidance from local chefs before savouring our creations for lunch. Our next stop will take us to the religious complex of Qoricancha, containing the Temple of the Sun, considered to be the most spectacular temple in the Inca Empire. As well as being the main astronomical observatory for the Incas, some 4,000 priests and their attendants once lived within its confines. Looted and then destroyed by the Spanish, they used the foundations for the Dominican Convent of Santo Domingo, creating perhaps the most incongruous imperial-colonial architectural clash in Cusco. We continue our tour of Cusco with a visit to the 17th century Cusco Cathedral, the façade of which is a fine example of colonial baroque architecture with a fascinating blend of baroque, Gothic and Indigenous artistic influences. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking at altitude.

It’s a short trip this morning to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The Urubamba Valley, as it is also known, encompasses the heartland of the Inca Empire and contains numerous archaeological remains and villages. The valley was valued by the Incas due to its special geographical and climatic qualities and was one of the empire’s main points for the extraction of natural wealth. Our first stop for the day is at Manos de la Comunidad, a local cooperative. Here we’ll meet native weavers and see the South American camelid species — llamas, alpacas, guanacos and vicuñas. As we wander through the grounds, we’ll learn about the harvesting processes of various wools, the natural dyeing techniques used and watch the locals demonstrate their impressive skills. We then continue to the lively Pisac markets, one of the oldest and most colourful in the Andes and well known for its incredible array of local handicrafts. Enjoy a stroll through the colourful stalls brimming with handwoven textiles, pottery, jewellery and more. Why not pick up a beautiful keepsake or taste a freshly baked empanada as you roam? We’ll also enjoy a visit to the Inkariy Museum, which showcases Peru’s pre-Hispanic Peruvian cultures. In the early afternoon we’ll arrive at our hotel, before enjoying the rest of the day at leisure. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca village and one of the best surviving examples of Inca city planning, is our first destination to explore this morning. We’ll step through the town’s narrow streets and visit a local home to get a real feel for what daily life looks like in this historic village. The nearby ruins form a fortress that can only be entered by a steep stone staircase that we’ll climb for an up-close look at the Inca’s dry masonry skill. Their astounding craftsmanship ensures that even after centuries of earthquakes, a knife cannot be slipped into the seams between the limestone blocks. Special Experience Pull up a blanket and cushion, as we picnic overlooking the Huaypo Lagoon, sampling local produce prepared by Cusco’s renowned Cicciolina restaurant. Following our relaxing lunch, we’ll make our way to the salt ponds of Maras. This unique system of shallow pools has been harvested since the days of the Inca Empire. Made up of over 3,000 sunlit ponds that cascade down the hillside, the landscape here makes for a truly breathtaking view! Our day concludes at the Seminario pottery workshop in Urubamba where we’ll gain insight into the various styles and techniques used by Peru’s ancient cultures. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking at altitude. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

A magical day lies ahead as we board an early Vistadome train ride through the Urubamba Valley to the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu! On arrival in Aguas Calientes, we’ll check into our hotel before taking a local bus up the mountain to the entrance. Nestled within an Andean cloud forest, Machu Picchu is famous for its remarkably preserved ruins and deep spiritual significance to the ancient Inca civilisation. Our guide will introduce us to this site, before enjoying some free time to explore the ruins at our own pace. Alternatively, if you have chosen to undertake the optional Inca Trail hike (this must be pre-booked at the time of tour booking), you will have an early start, taking a train to the ‘Km 104’ station where your trek commences. For those on the trek, the first site along the route is the incredible archaeological complex of Chachabamba. From here, the trail ascends for 8 kilometres. At approximately the four-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 sites of the ancient civilisation. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking at altitude. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Today, we’ll rise and enjoy a leisurely morning. You’ll also have the option to return to Machu Picchu for a second visit, to admire the beauty of this ancient wonder before the crowds arrive. We’ll then return to Ollantaytambo aboard the Vistadome train. From here, we’ll travel through the dramatic scenery of the Sacred Valley, passing rural villages and agricultural pastures on our way to Chinchero. We’ll stop in this rustic town to experience a traditional weaving demonstration. After soaking up the colour and customs of picturesque Chinchero, we’ll arrive back to Cusco in the evening where we’ll check into our hotel. 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. Full of grand plazas, archaeological ruins and interesting craft shops, Cusco is a wonderful place to explore at your own pace, with more than 3,000 years of history woven into its streets. Why not venture into the heart of the city to explore Cusco’s historic centre, Plaza de Armas? Here, you can marvel some more at the Cusco Cathedral or spend time admiring the architecture of the imposing Church of La Compañía de Jesús. You might also like to visit the Casa Concha Museum. This fascinating space contains artefacts from Machu Picchu that were found by Hiram Bingham and recently returned by Yale University. Just a few blocks from the main square, lies the neighbourhood of San Blas. Along its narrow, cobbled streets, you’ll find famous artisans, coffee shops, galleries and more. The area is also home to a lively mix of bars and restaurants. Venture into one of the establishments to rub shoulders with the locals or tuck into some traditional Peruvian dishes while enjoying live music.

We wave farewell to the wonders of Cusco early this morning, settling back into the comfort of the coach. Relax into the picturesque scenery over the next few hours as we wind through the majestic Andean Mountains to reach our next destination. In the Canchis Province, we’ll stop to stretch our legs and explore more remnants of the ancient Inca empire. The archeological complex of the Raqch’i Ruins is home to a number of impressive ruins, with the most prominent being the Temple of Wiracocha. This large structure reaches 92 metres high and is said to have been built to appease Wiracocha, the ‘creator god’ of Inca mythology. We’ll take a moment here to explore the high walls and crumbling temples that form part of one of the most remarkable surviving Inca sites. We’ll then stop for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to our final destination, Puno. Located on the shore of Lake Titicaca (the world's highest navigable lake, fed by 25 rivers!), Puno is widely considered to be the capital of Peruvian folklore. In this lakeside city, Spanish festivals and the Catholic faith blend with Inca and Indigenous traditions and art to create a captivating array of cultural experiences. Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.

Early this morning, we’ll travel from Puno to the small town of Copacabana, located on the Bolivian shore of Lake Titicaca. Along the way, we’ll visit the colonial churches of Pomata and Juli before venturing inside the white-walled Copacabana Cathedral, a 17th century Spanish Colonial shrine accented by colourful ceramic tiles. The Basilica houses the iconic ‘Virgen de la Candelaria’ statue, sculpted from dark wood in reverence to the patron saint of Bolivia, the Virgin Mary. Boarding the hydrofoil, we’ll then speed across the deep blue waters of Lake Titicaca, taking in the picturesque surrounds and scattered islands. Arriving on the Island of the Moon, we’ll visit the Sun Virgin's Temple 'Iñak Uyu', an ancient Inca convent, before continuing to the Island of the Sun. Here, we’ll see the Grand Stairs, a long stairway that leads to the Sacred Fountain, where we can feel the water from this sacred stream trickle over our fingers. The water is said to bring eternal youth and happiness. We'll stop for lunch at Uma Kollu, an archaeological restaurant with an authentic Takana, or Inca terrace, forming part of its interior wall, before returning to Puno in the late afternoon. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking at altitude. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Nestled on the water just outside of Puno, we’ll visit the floating Uros Islands, where the unique landscape offers a glimpse into the ingenuity of the local Indian community. These man-made islands on Lake Titicaca are built on a foundation of totora reeds, sourced from the lake itself. Bound together by ropes, they are anchored by logs which plunge deep into the bottom of the lakebed. There are over 100 of these small islands dotted across the lake, although the number is constantly changing as new mounds are constructed and others break down. The Indigenous Uros people who live here earn a living from fishing, weaving and handicrafts. We’ll take time to admire these remarkable floating communities, marvelling at how they’ve adapted to their natural environment. In the afternoon we’ll fly to Lima, Peru’s capital and largest city. Rich in history and full of contrasts, Lima is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed centre, home to an impressive collection of colonial architecture. The city is also celebrated for its outstanding food scene and lively nightlife, with plenty of bars and live music venues adding to its energy. Your flight time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Waking in Peru’s cultural hub, today we explore colonial Lima on a half-day tour of the city. Our first stop is Plaza de Armas, where we’ll see the Government Palace, the House of El Oidor and the stunning City Hall buildings. We’ll then take a stroll through the Cathedral of Lima to learn more about Peru’s religious history and see the resting place of the famous conquistador, Francisco Pizarro. Our walking tour continues to the San Francisco Convent, where we’ll visit both its ‘catacombs’, the ancient underground cemetery of Lima, and the convent’s world-renowned library with thousands of antique texts. During our tour we’ll also admire the architectural jewels of the Torre Tagle Palace and Osambela House before arriving at the Larco Museum. The museum houses one of the most impressive collections of Inca artefacts and gives a fascinating insight into ancient Peru. We’ll learn about ancient culture as we visit the Textiles Gallery, the Spaniards' Arrival Gallery, the Sacrifice Ceremony Gallery and the Gold, Silver and Jewels Galleries. The remainder of the afternoon is free for you to rest and relax or explore more of the surrounding sights at your own pace. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group dinner and toast to our Peruvian adventure overlooking the ruins at Huaca Pucllana. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.

Our journey comes to an end after breakfast this morning as we wave ‘adios’ to the extraordinary landscapes of Peru and Ecuador. We hope you leave with some sizzling memories!

Welcome to South America, a continent full of rhythm, colour and character. Made up of 13 countries, it is the world’s fourth largest continent and home to some of the most recognisable UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites. Lucky for us, we’re about to get a wonderful taste of what it has to offer. Today, we arrive in Buenos Aires, the elegant capital of Argentina, often known as the 'Paris of the South'. Buenos Aires is an intriguing mix of grand boulevards and classic European-style architecture balanced by its own irresistible South American spirit. Founded in the 16th century on the shores of the Rio de la Plata, Buenos Aires literally translates to ‘fair winds’, and it has grown and flourished since its early beginnings. Now one of the most visited cities in South America, its defining feature is its many varied neighbourhoods. Explore them on foot and take a stroll along the city streets to soak up the colourful atmosphere. Meet your fellow travellers this evening over a welcome drink at the hotel.

A thriving city of approximately three million people, Buenos Aires is both cosmopolitan and elegant. Our sightseeing today begins with a city tour, including the widest avenue in the world, 9 de Julio Avenue, Plaza de Mayo and its notable buildings, Casa Rosada, the Government House and the Catedral Metropolitana de Buenos Aires. Next, we’ll wander through the elegant district of Recoleta, think Paris with a Latin soul and a cheeky wink and visit Recoleta Cemetery where Argentina's famous Eva Peron was laid to rest. With its grand mausoleums and Gothic detail, it feels like a city within a city. From here, we’ll continue to the Italian district of La Boca and a visit to Caminito Street, a colourful open-air street museum. We’ll then visit the stunning Colón Theatre. The main opera house in Buenos Aires, it stands as one of the city’s most treasured landmarks and is a masterpiece of architecture and acoustics, earning its place among the grandest opera houses in the world. Our final stop for the day takes us to the exquisite El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore. Recognised by National Geographic in 2019 as the most beautiful bookstore in the world, this historic building was once a palatial theatre that has since been meticulously transformed into an opulent haven for lovers of literature. Special Experience Don your dancing shoes for a traditional tango lesson, before keeping the rhythm alive at a lively dinner and show. No trip to Buenos Aires is complete without a dalliance in the city’s national dance, the tango! Learn the moves of this passionate dance, which is deeply intertwined with Buenos Aires’ culture. Then, celebrate your new knowledge with a vibrant dinner and show. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking.

Discover the fascinating history of Buenos Aires with a visit to the El Zanjon de Granados. Tucked away in the historic heart of San Telmo, what appears on the outside to be a modest 19th century house unfolds below ground into an intricate network of brick passageways and hidden chambers, dating back centuries and revealing layers of the city’s forgotten history. Wander through the candlelit corridors of this intriguing mansion and explore its underground tunnels. Afterwards, we'll head to the vibrant San Telmo market for a unique shopping experience. Enjoy a short tour of the market, followed by free time to explore and grab some lunch. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and flavours of this bustling market, where local artisans and vendors sell everything from handmade crafts to delicious street food. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure for us to further discover vibrant Buenos Aires at our own pace. If food’s your thing, this might be the perfect time for an empanada crawl, sampling as many varieties as you can find! Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.

Today, we say farewell to Buenos Aires and fly north to one of South America’s most spectacular natural wonders, Iguazú Falls. Straddling the borders of Brazil and Argentina, this extraordinary waterfall system is made up of more than 275 individual falls, each tumbling through lush rainforest with a force and beauty that is hard to put into words. Stretching more than 3 kilometres wide and reaching heights of around 80 metres, Iguazú is wider than Victoria Falls and higher than Niagara Falls. In other words, it knows how to make an impression. Surrounded by subtropical rainforest, the falls are not only impressive in scale but also rich in wildlife and natural beauty. The area is home to colourful birds, butterflies and curious coatis, so it’s worth keeping an eye out as we explore. Upon checking into our hotel, the rest of the afternoon is free for us to explore these incredible surroundings. You might like to relax, enjoy the hotel’s setting or simply take in the anticipation of tomorrow’s adventure. Your flight time today will be approximately 2 hours.

We’ll spend today exploring the Argentinian side of this verdant masterpiece. It’s a wonderfully immersive experience, placing us right in the heart of one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. A small train takes us into Iguazú National Park, where a series of walkways and paths will lead us to the falls. We’ll stand on a dramatic viewing platform suspended over the thundering Garganta del Diablo, or Devil's Throat, the largest of the waterfalls, and feel the power of the water all around us. It’s something that truly has to be experienced to be believed. Warning: you will get wet, but you’ll love every minute of it! There are other trails too, including the Upper and Lower Circuits, which offer equally impressive but different perspectives, from sweeping vistas above the falls to intimate viewpoints beside the torrents. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.

We’ll explore the Brazilian side of the falls this morning for the ultimate panoramic perspective, an unforgettable overview of the vast sweep of the waterfalls stretching across the jungle in a breathtaking haze of mist and motion. This side is ideal for taking in the sheer scale and majesty of Iguazú all at once. Later, we’ll get up close to more than 150 species of stunning exotic birds at the famous Parque das Aves. Located just a short walk from the entrance to the Brazilian side of Iguazú National Park, this beautiful bird park is set within 12 acres of rainforest and is designed to feel more like a tropical forest than a zoo. Its spacious walk-through aviaries are home to colourful macaws, toucans, flamingos, as well as butterflies, reptiles and a growing number of rescued animals. It’s a wonderful complement to the falls and a lovely way to experience the region’s rich biodiversity. We’ll then transfer to the airport for our flight to Rio de Janeiro. Optional Excursion Helicopter Tour - (min 2/max 4 participants per helicopter) - Experience the breathtaking sights of Iguazú Falls from the sky! Departure is from the entrance of the Iguazú National Park (Brazilian side) and can be taken when doing the Brazilian Falls tour. Please advise your guide if you are interested in this tour. 10 minutes – from $212pp US. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your flight time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Rise with a smile this morning because it’s time to explore Rio de Janeiro. The Cidade Maravilhosa, or ‘Marvellous City’, sits between lush, forest-covered mountains and breathtaking beaches and is one of the world's most lively and beautiful cities. Today, we’ll discover the icons of this remarkable place, beginning with the Statue of Christ the Redeemer. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it stands high atop Corcovado Hill. From the base of the mountain, we’ll board the historic red narrow-gauge train and travel through the lush Tijuca Forest to the summit. Opened in 1884, this charming railway is Brazil’s oldest tourist excursion and offers beautiful scenery and wonderful photo opportunities along the way. Later, we’ll visit Sugarloaf Mountain for sweeping panoramic views across the city. Its name is said to have come from the conical moulds once used to shape blocks of sugar for transport by ship, their form echoing the distinctive peak we see today. Our touring also includes a stop at the Selaron Steps, one of Rio’s most striking and colourful 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, many in the bright colours of the Brazilian flag. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking.

Rio knows how to put on a show, and this morning we’ll step behind the scenes of its most dazzling celebration. Carnival is more than a parade. It’s colour, music, craftsmanship and pure joy, all wrapped up in one unforgettable tradition. Special Experience Experience the artistry of Carnival, marvelling at the spectacle of more than 6000 costumes and even dressing up in one, while enjoying music and a delicious drink. This lively experience introduces us to the imagination and creativity behind Carnival. We’ll discover how more than 6,000 costumes and 15 spectacular floats are brought to life and visit Pimpolhos da Grande Rio’s warehouse, the Samba School for Kids and the renowned Grande Rio Samba School, one of Rio’s leading Carnival powerhouses. We’ll also explore exhibitions about the history of samba and the Carnival Parade. And because no Carnival experience would be complete without a little sparkle, we’ll have the chance to try on authentic costumes, enjoy the rhythm of the music and sip a refreshing Caipirinha welcome drink. Later, the afternoon is free for you to enjoy at your own pace, before we gather in the evening for a delicious Brazilian churrasco grill dinner at Assador. 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.

Spend your morning as you please before we set off for Lima, the capital of Peru. You might like to visit the stunning botanical gardens or simply take a leisurely stroll along Copacabana Beach, soaking up the everyday rhythm of the city one last time. Later this evening, we arrive in Lima. Founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, the city was designed as a showcase of Spanish Colonial architecture in the New World. Today, Lima is a fascinating blend of old and new, where grand churches and elegant balconies sit alongside lively neighbourhoods, excellent museums and a thriving food scene. There’s plenty of history here, but also a real sense of energy and surprise around every corner. Tomorrow, we’ll begin discovering more of this captivating city. 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 Your flight time today is approximately 6 hours.

Explore colonial Lima today on a city tour. Our first stop is the Plaza de Armas, where we’ll see the Government Palace, the House of El Oidor and the stunning City Hall buildings. We’ll then step inside the Cathedral of Lima to learn more about the religious history of Peru and see the resting place of the famous conquistador, Francisco Pizarro. Our walking tour continues to the San Francisco Convent, where we’ll visit both its catacombs, Lima’s ancient underground cemetery, and its world-renowned library filled with thousands of antique texts. As we move through the city, we'll also admire the stunning Baroque architecture of the Torre Tagle Palace and colonial Osambela House. Our next stop will be the Larco Museum, home to an impressive collection of Inca artefacts that offer a fascinating glimpse into Peru’s rich past. During our visit, we'll have the chance to explore galleries showcasing ancient textiles, ceremonial objects, gold and silver pieces and more, each helping to tell the story of Peru’s early civilisations. After some free time to enjoy lunch at Café del Museo or to further explore the museum at your own pace, we’ll return to our hotel to relax and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.

This morning, we’ll take a short flight from Lima to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Nestled high in the Andes Mountains at more than 3,300 metres above sea level, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is known as the gateway to both the Sacred Valley and the world-famous Machu Picchu. But Cusco is far more than a stepping stone. With Inca stone walls, Baroque churches, bustling plazas and narrow alleyways all around, it offers a rich mix of history, culture and high-altitude charm. The best way to explore this picturesque town is on foot. You might like to wander through the central Plaza de Armas, browse the lively San Pedro Market with its colourful stalls and local flavours or explore the bohemian San Blas district, known for its artist studios, cobbled laneways and cosy little restaurants. It’s worth noting that Cusco’s altitude can come as a surprise, so we’ll take things gently as we settle in. Staying hydrated is key, and a cup of local coca tea can be a great help when it comes to acclimatising. 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. Your flight time today is approximately 1.5 hours.

It’s a short trip this morning to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, also known as the Urubamba Valley, one of Peru’s most beautiful and soul-stirring regions. Framed by mountain peaks, terraced hillsides and traditional villages, this fertile valley was once the heartland of the Inca Empire and remains deeply connected to Andean life. Today is all about stepping a little closer to this world and enjoying the warmth of the people who call it home. Our first stop takes us to the Indigenous community of Ccorccor, where we’ll be welcomed into village life and invited to experience some of the traditions that have been passed down through generations. Special Experience Discover the lives of Ccorccor's indigenous women and take part in customary activities like Andean games, 'Tribute to Mother Earth', and 'chicha' demonstration. Surrounded by mountain landscapes and a strong sense of community, this is a wonderful opportunity to share in the spirit of the Sacred Valley in a way that feels personal and memorable. Later, we’ll continue to Ollantaytambo, an ancient Inca village and one of the best-preserved examples of Inca city planning. We’ll have some free time for lunch before stepping through the town’s narrow streets and visiting a local home to get a real feel for daily life in this historic village. Nearby, the ruins rise into a mighty fortress, reached by a steep stone staircase. Here, we’ll admire the Inca’s extraordinary dry-stone masonry skills, so precise that even after centuries of earthquakes, not even a knife can slip between the limestone blocks. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking at altitude. Your travel time today is approximately 3 hours.

A fine morning for bird lovers as we make our way to Ensifera, where we’ll visit the hummingbird gardens and learn all about these delightful creatures from an expert birder. With a beak longer than its body, the only bird in the world with that claim, the pretty hummingbird flits from flower to flower with grace and purpose, perfectly evolved to sip from trumpet-shaped blooms. Next, we’ll visit the terraces at Moray, generally regarded as one of the Inca’s most intriguing and mysterious engineering feats. At first glance, they resemble a giant green amphitheatre carved into the earth, but these concentric rings served a much more sophisticated purpose. Believed to be an ancient agricultural laboratory, each level of the terraces sits at a different altitude, which allowed the Inca to experiment with growing various crops under distinctly different environmental conditions. Ingenious indeed. The salt pans of Maras are our next stop this morning, a striking patchwork of pink, white and golden pools flowing down the mountainside. These terraced salt ponds have been used since pre-Inca times, fed by a naturally salty spring that runs through narrow channels into thousands of little ponds. Don’t forget to pick up a small bag of the famed sal de Maras as a flavourful souvenir straight from the source. On our way back to the hotel, we’ll stop at the gorgeous Hacienda Huayoccari for lunch and some time to explore the private museum. Owned by the same family since 1916, this estate has an interesting collection of pre-Columbian, Inca and colonial artefacts, showcasing centuries of Peruvian heritage. The remainder of the day is ours to enjoy at leisure or simply relax and take in our surroundings. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking at altitude. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

A magical day awaits as we board an early Vistadome train to traverse the stunning Urubamba Valley and reach the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu ruins. On arrival in Aguas Calientes, we’ll check into our hotel before taking a local bus up the mountain to the entrance. Nestled within an Andean cloud forest, Machu Picchu is famous for its remarkably preserved ruins and deep spiritual significance to the ancient Inca civilisation. Our guide will introduce us to this site, before enjoying some free time to explore the ruins at our own pace. Alternatively, if you have chosen to undertake the optional Inca Trail hike (this must be pre-booked at the time of tour booking), you will have an early start, taking a train to the ‘Km 104’ station where your trek commences. For those on the trek, the first site along the route is the incredible archaeological complex of Chachabamba. From here, the trail ascends for 8 kilometres. At approximately the four-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 sites of the ancient civilisation. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking at altitude. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Today, we’ll rise and enjoy a leisurely morning. You’ll also have the option to return to Machu Picchu for a second visit, to admire the beauty of this ancient wonder before the crowds arrive. Afterwards, we'll take the Vistadome train back through the mountains to Poroy. Upon arrival we will be transferred back to our hotel in Cusco. 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 exploring the wonders of Cusco, beginning by discovering the magnificent fortress of Sacsayhuamán, believed to have been built during the 1400s. Some of its enormous stones weigh over 100 tonnes yet 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! We’ll then visit the San Pedro Market to immerse ourselves in the local culture. This bustling market offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can find fresh produce, handicrafts and traditional food. Special Experience Learn to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes with fresh ingredients and expert guidance from local chefs before enjoying our creations for lunch. Our next stop will take us to the religious complex of Qoricancha, containing the Temple of the Sun, considered to be the most spectacular temple in the Inca Empire. As well as being the main astronomical observatory for the Incas, some 4,000 priests and their attendants once lived within its confines. Looted and then destroyed by the Spanish, they used the foundations for the Dominican Convent of Santo Domingo, creating perhaps the most incongruous imperial and colonial architectural clash in Cusco. We’ll continue our tour of Cusco with a visit to the 17th century Cusco Cathedral, the façade of which is a fine example of colonial architecture with a fascinating blend of Baroque, Gothic and Indigenous artistic influences. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking at altitude.

Spend a leisurely morning in Cusco, a city that seems to invite one last wander. With its cobbled laneways, handsome plazas and layers of Inca and colonial history, there is always something to catch the eye. If you’re in the mood for a little culture, you might like to visit the Casa Concha Museum, home to artefacts from Machu Picchu that were discovered by Hiram Bingham and later returned by Yale University. It’s a fascinating place to linger and a wonderful way to deepen your connection to Peru’s past. If you’d rather simply enjoy the city itself, Cusco is made for pottering. You could stroll through Plaza de Armas and admire the graceful architecture, pause in a cosy café for a coffee or a warming cup of coca tea or browse for handmade treasures. The bohemian San Blas district is another lovely option, with its artisan workshops, narrow streets and pretty views over the rooftops. This free morning is a chance to soak up a final taste of Cusco at your own pace, whether that means sightseeing, shopping or simply sitting in the sunshine and watching the world go by. This afternoon, we’ll transfer to Cusco airport for our flight back to Lima. Your flight time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.

This morning, we’ll head south to Paracas, a beautiful beach resort town where desert meets the Pacific in rather spectacular style. Situated just a few hours from Lima on Peru’s stunning coast, this region is rich in wildlife, natural beauty and ancient mystery. Our journey takes us along the famous and very scenic Pan-American Highway. After leaving the bustle of Lima behind, the landscape opens into wide open desert vistas, rolling sand dunes and glimpses of the Pacific Ocean shimmering on the horizon. Sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery, as it offers a wonderful prelude to the natural wonders waiting for us in Paracas. A national reserve and a pre-Inca cultural haven, Paracas is also the gateway to Nazca and Paracas National Reserve, a striking landscape of rust-coloured cliffs, golden beaches and turquoise waters. The reserve is home to a variety of marine life and seabirds, and just offshore a small boat trip away, are the spectacular Ballestas Islands. Here, it’s possible to spot sea lions, dolphins and Humboldt penguins, along with a wonderful array of bird species. Paracas is the perfect spot to unwind and people-watch in a seaside café, perhaps with a pisco sour in hand. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Today brings one of Peru’s great mysteries into view as we take to the skies above the Nazca Desert. Special Experience Fly in a light plane over the mysterious Nazca Lines in the middle of the Nazca Desert. We'll see ancient geoglyphs depicting hundreds of figures. These extraordinary line drawings are believed to have been created in the desert more than 2,000 years ago by the Nazca culture. They were only discovered in 1927 by Peruvian archaeologist Toribio Mejía Xesspe during an expedition organised by the National University of San Marcos. Stretching across the arid plains of southern Peru, the Nazca Lines are one of the world’s great archaeological puzzles. The enormous geoglyphs depict more than 70 designs, including a monkey, spider, condor, lizard and fish, etched into the landscape on a vast scale. The view from the plane is truly breathtaking and a flight overhead is the best way to appreciate a sight that feels part history, part mystery and entirely unforgettable. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to relax at your hotel or continue exploring this pretty seaside town at your own pace. Optional Excursion Dune buggy in the Paracas Desert – The desert near Paracas is a dream setting for a dune buggy adventure. Experience the thrill of zigzagging across the sands and have the opportunity to try sandboarding on the Paracas dunes. 2 hours – from $68pp US Your flight time today is approximately 2 hours.

Get your sea legs ready as we board a boat bound for the Ballestas Islands, a vibrant sanctuary home to an extraordinary variety of birdlife and marine animals, including the endangered Humboldt penguin. These craggy, sea-sculpted isles are bursting with life, from colonies of noisy sea lions and waddling penguins to more than 60 species of colourful seabirds. Along the way we will also see the Candelabro, a huge prehistoric geoglyph etched into the hillside above Pisco Bay, only visible from the sea or sky. Measuring more than 150 metres high, this mysterious figure resembles a giant candlestick. Whether it served as a navigational guide for sailors, a symbol linked to the Nazca Lines or an offering to local deities, no one knows for certain. What is certain is that seeing the Candelabro from the shimmering waters of the bay, with seabirds soaring overhead, is a truly memorable experience. In the early afternoon, we’ll settle in on the coach and relax as we return to Lima via the Pan-American Highway. Upon arrival in Lima, we’ll check into our hotel before enjoying a group farewell dinner this evening overlooking the ruins of Huaca Pucllana. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!

Welcome to Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa! First established as a gold-mining settlement in 1886, Johannesburg became known as the ‘city of gold’, sitting adjacent to one of the richest gold reefs in the world. Today the city, that is affectionately known as ‘Jo’burg’, is a vibrant and thriving hub with a population of more than 5 million! Arriving very early this morning, we meet our guide before transferring to our hotel. We’ll enjoy breakfast, before spending the day at leisure to rest and recover after our flights. Meet with your fellow travellers and guide for a dinner and drink at the hotel this evening. Our guide will give us a short briefing to prepare us all for the exciting adventure ahead!

A busy day of sightseeing is on the agenda today as we explore Johannesburg’s Soweto district. Its name is an abbreviation for ‘South Western Townships’, and this district emerged during the country’s apartheid era as a township for black South African’s forcibly removed from their homes. Despite its dark history, Soweto today pulsates with resilience, rich culture and strong community spirit. We begin with a visit to Satyagraha House, the residence of Mohandas (Mahatma) Gandhi from 1908-1909. The house was built in 1907 by Gandhi’s close friend and architect, Hermann Kallenbach. Today, Satyagraha House is both a museum and a guest house. We’ll learn all about the apartheid era as we continue to the Apartheid Museum. Opened in 2001, it was the first museum of its kind and takes us through South Africa’s struggle for liberation during this dark, 40-year-long period. We’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Soweto, before continuing to the Hector Pieterson Memorial, dedicated to preserving the memory of the 1976 Soweto uprisings. The museum houses a collection of oral testimonies, photographs, audiovisual screen displays and historical documents. We then visit Mandela House, where Nelson Mandela and his family lived from 1946 into the 1990s. The house is a humble abode of four inter-leading rooms that today contain a collection of memorabilia, paintings and photographs of the Mandela family. Here we’ll learn about their fascinating stories.

We depart Johannesburg this morning, making our way to Mbombela, formerly Nelspruit, home to the Jane Goodall Institute and Chimp Eden Sanctuary. Special Experience See our closest relatives in their natural habitat as we tour Chimp Eden, the first and only chimpanzee sanctuary in South Africa. Established in 2006, by the Jane Goodall Institute, it is home to chimps that have been misplaced from their natural habitats in Africa. The goal of Chimp Eden is to rescue chimpanzees that have been orphaned, traded in the illegal pet market or traumatised for entertainment in circuses and night clubs. Here we have a unique opportunity to see these adorable yet cheeky animals in semi-wild surroundings. After our visit we make our way towards Hazyview, a sub-tropical farming town in South Africa’s Mpumalanga province. The small town is renowned for its banana plantations, and it’s said to have the best climate in the world for growing the delicious fruit! We’ll check into our hotel here, before enjoying the evening at leisure. Your travel time today will be approximately 6.5 hours.

This morning we depart Hazyview for Graskop Gorge where we’ll travel on the lift and enjoy some free time to bask in the spectacular views. Centrally located along South Africa’s famous Panorama Route, the lift takes visitors 51 metres down the face of the gorge into the lush forest below. Next our eyes are set on the scenic Panorama Route, travelling a portion of this famed road to Gods Window Viewpoint – one of the most picturesque vantage points in South Africa. In the early afternoon we’ll arrive at our accommodation in Greater Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s largest national parks. Special Experience Spend two incredible nights at the Kruger Shalati ‘Train on the Bridge’ hotel, which famously sits high above the Sabie River in Kruger National Park. This accommodation is home to unique suites that are situated in refurbished train carriages suspended over the Sabie River on the Selati Bridge. This beautiful river flows all year-round, drawing both animals and birds to it, making for some incredible viewing for us. The historic Selati Bridge was also where the very first visitors to Kruger National Park had a pioneering stay within the carriages! After some lunch at the hotel, we’ll head out on our first game drive of the tour — don't forget to bring your camera! Our safari vehicles will take us across the breathtaking landscape, as we search for the famous 'Big Five' — lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos and buffaloes. Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

Greater Kruger National Park is an extension of the Kruger National Park. With more than 20 private game reserves sharing unfenced borders, this allows the abundance of wildlife to roam freely around the entire park. Greater Kruger National Park is one of the best wildlife tourist attractions in South Africa and is home to roughly 147 different mammal species. Today is all about animals! We’ll rise early to explore this magnificent game park as it is bathed in the beautiful morning light. Keep an eye out for the many different types of animals we’re likely to see, including wildebeest, giraffes, antelopes and elephants. We return to the lodge for breakfast, lunch and some time to relax before heading out again this afternoon in search of more wildlife in the game reserve

We’ll rise early again this morning for one final game drive through Greater Kruger National Park, before transferring to Skukuza Airport for our flight to George, a town located on the Western Cape. One of South Africa’s more well-known provinces, the Western Cape is located on the south-western coast and was established in 1994. Out of the nine regions, it’s the country’s fourth largest and third most populous, with around two-thirds of the 7 million people that call the Western Cape home living in the metropolitan city of Cape Town. This stunning region is renowned for its flora and fauna, and has a strong agricultural sector that produces a lot of South Africa’s wool, wheat, hay and fruit. The Western Cape is also home to postcard-worthy scenery, thanks to the perfect combination of serene beaches, rugged mountain ranges and lush vineyards. Upon arrival, we’ll make our way to our hotel in the town of Knysna. Also located on the stunning Western Cape, it is one of the many towns that make up South Africa’s famous Garden Route. Stretching 300 kilometres along South Africa’s southern coast, this scenic route is home to picturesque mountain ranges, spectacular coastlines and wildlife reserves. Your flight time will be approximately 4 hours.

Knysna is a natural paradise in its own right, nestled between lush forests and the shores of a peaceful lagoon. The coastal town offers an exciting array of land and water-based experiences, which we will get a taste of today. After a leisurely start this morning, we make our way to the stunning waterfront. Boarding a ferry, we’ll enjoy a scenic lagoon cruise to the Featherbed Island Nature Reserve, where there will be some time to explore this wilderness area. Established as a tourist attraction in the 1980s by William Smith, a famous South African TV personality, this beautiful, undeveloped reserve is a wonder to explore. We’ll enjoy sweeping views of the ocean and Outeniqua Mountains and discover more about the local flora and fauna. On our visit to the island, we’ll stop to enjoy a group lunch at Featherbed Restaurant, where there will be even more time to soak in the scenery. This afternoon we return to Knysna’s famous waterfront area and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. If you’re a foodie — or really just an enjoyer of delicious food — we recommend checking out the amazing local market and restaurants around Knysna. At the markets you can browse the fresh produce and discover authentic dishes only the locals know about. Or if you’re looking for a more traditional dining experience, hit up one of the many restaurants scattered around Knysna, complete with incredible views — it’s a win-win!

We bid farewell to Knysna this morning and make our way towards Oudtshoorn, the ostrich capital of the world! En route, we’ll travel via the Outeniqua Pass. This famed road twists and turns through the mountainous terrain, offering some pretty spectacular views along the way. Oudtshoorn is nestled in the Klein Karoo, a lush valley on the Western Cape that is bounded by mountains and known for its nature reserves and variety of unique succulents. The spectacular mountains that frame the town are the Swartberg mountain range, which makes up part of the Cape Floral World Heritage-listed Site — a region renowned for its exceptional biodiversity. Oudtshoorn became famous for its ostrich population, and between the late 1800s and early 1900s, the town thrived by selling ostrich feathers, which were a popular fashion accessory among European nobles. Nearing Oudtshoorn, we’ll get to learn all about the largest bird on earth with a visit to Safari Ostrich Farm. Our guides will explain to us the natural breeding cycles of these captivating birds, as well as show us the different types of ostrich feathers and describe their uses — the very product that put Oudtshoorn on the map! On a tractor tour through the farm, we’ll see the local South African black ostrich, white ostrich, Zimbabwe blue ostrich, Kenyan red ostrich, and even some emus. Finishing the tour, we’ll enjoy a traditional barbeque and have the opportunity to try an ostrich steak if you dare! On arrival in Oudtshoorn, we have the afternoon and evening at leisure for more exploration at your own pace, or for simply relaxing. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Special Experience Enjoy a sunrise Meerkat adventure, watching these charismatic creatures emerge from their burrows as the sunshine and warmth sets in for the day. Meerkats hate the cold, so they’re only up once sunlight hits their burrow. Only one meerkat will come up initially — the sentinel. She’ll face the sun and absorb heat through her ‘solar panel’ — the dark patch on her belly. You’ll see her head swiveling, her dark eyes moving ceaselessly back and forth. She will study the people, then the surrounding bush, then gaze at the skies looking out for the meerkats’ most-feared foes — birds of prey. Then, one at a time, she will be joined by the others, and as a sentinel she’ll give a quiet, regular chirrup, reassuring them that all is well. Zoologists call it the 'Watchman’s Song'. We return to the lodge for breakfast before travelling to Mossel Bay, the place at which the first Europeans landed on South African soil in 1488. Here we visit the Bartholomeu Dias Museum, named after the Portuguese explorer who landed here. The museum houses the famous 500-year-old Post-Office Tree and the Shell Museum. We’ll then continue on to the amazing Botlierskop Game Reserve, a private safari park that has a great diversity of wildlife, boasting more than 200 bird species and 26 different animal species that can roam the region freely. This afternoon we will have our first experience of the reserve with an afternoon game drive. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Situated on the popular Garden Route, Botlierskop Game Reserve is home to some of South Africa’s most diverse and vast landscapes. Spanning over 4,500-hectares, the reserve offers awe inspiring views of the Langeberg and Outeniqua Mountains, beautifully framing the rolling grasslands and dense bush. In the park, we’ll get the opportunity to spot the iconic ‘Big Five’ – buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard and rhino, however, you’ll also see dozens of giraffes and zebras roaming freely! From spotting elephants making their way to a watering hole to seeing rare bird species soaring above your head, no two safari adventures here will be the same. Today, we’ll embark on both morning and afternoon game drives to spot the wildlife here in their natural habitat. Led by expert local guides, we’ll head deep into the heart of the reserve and learn about the intricate ecosystems that sustain these incredible species. With their well-trained eyes and in-depth knowledge, our guides will help us track elusive species, interpret animal behaviors, and share fascinating insights of the region. Between game drives, you’ll have time to relax and soak in the tranquility of the reserve, whether it’s enjoying the luxurious lodge facilities or simply unwinding with a scenic view.

After enjoying one last game drive in Botlierskop this morning, we’ll continue to Hermanus. This beautiful seaside town on the Western Cape is surrounded by majestic mountains and is home to a charming harbour. Hermanus’ history traces back to the 1800’s and it is world famous for whale watching — it’s generally considered the best land-based whale-watching location on Earth! This charming town is well-known for its artistry and culture, so much so that there are incredible galleries dotted all around Hermanus to explore. Generally within walking distance of each other are art galleries displaying the stunning pieces of local artists — you may even catch an artist at work, and in some galleries, meet the owner, who will share insights about the exhibiting artists! This afternoon is at leisure for you to walk around Hermanus and explore this lively town at your own pace. You may want to set off on the artist route to explore some local galleries, or perhaps you want to take in the beautiful blend of old and new architecture that lines the town’s streets. Dining options in Hermanus are fantastic too, whether you’re seeking fresh seafood or even a glass of local wine — here you’ll definitely be spoilt for choice! Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

This morning we’ll head out on an amazing whale watching cruise, a must-do while in Hermanus as it has been recognised by the World Wildlife Fund as one of the 12 best whale watching destinations in the world. After a short briefing, we board the cruise and begin our search for Humpback, Southern Right and Bryde’s whales. We then make our way towards Stellenbosch, South Africa’s premier wine-growing region. Along the way, we’ll stop at Betty’s Bay, a picturesque seaside village positioned in a narrow strip of land sandwiched between the Kogelberg Mountains and Atlantic Ocean, bordered by freshwater lakes and the Palmiet River. We’ll also stop at Gordon’s Bay situated around the old harbour and Bikini Beach. Special Experience Bask in the spectacular views at Glen Carlou Wine Estate, whilst indulging in wine tastings and a delicious lunch. An incredible afternoon awaits us at Glen Carlou Wine Estate. On over 140 hectares of pristine land, this beautiful estate is nestled between the rolling hills of Simonsberg Mountain on the Western Cape. Since 1988, Glen Carlou has been a premier wine destination, renowned for its exceptional terroir — a perfect blend of climate, soil, and landscape — that gives its wines distinctive flavour characteristics. Sampling their world-class wines today will be a real treat! Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Located in the heart of South Africa’s world-renowned wine region, Stellenbosch’s origins date back to 1679 and is the country’s second-oldest town. This university town is surrounded by the vineyards of the Cape Winelands and the mountainous nature reserves of Jonkershoek and Simonsberg. The town's oak-shaded streets are lined with cafes, boutiques and art galleries. This morning, we’ll head off on a walking tour of Stellenbosch to uncover the town’s historic centre and learn about its rich heritage. Admire the charm and harmony of the Cape Dutch Architecture and listen to tales about the colorful inhabitants of three centuries as we stroll past the period houses and gardens. Learn about the development of the town from a mere settlement to the city it is now. For lunch, we’ll participate in a hands-on cooking class with wine pairing at Rickety Bridge Estate. The estate’s winery has been in operation since 1797 and the land was granted to Paulina de Villiers in the same year, one of the first female landowners in South Africa! We’ll bask in the beautiful views of the surrounding Dassenberg Mountains during our time here. Afterwards, the remainder of the day and evening is at leisure. We recommend exploring Dorp Street, considered the hub of Stellenbosch. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.

Our morning begins with a visit to the breathtaking Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. Set against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain and just 13-kilometres from the city centre, Kirstenbosch is world renowned for the beauty and diversity of the Cape flora it displays. The hillside garden and nature reserve features rare plant species and walking trails. Special Experience Tour Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, one of the great botanic gardens of the world with over 7,000 plant species. This afternoon we will visit Simon’s Restaurant located at Groot Constantia, a historic wine estate situated in the Constantia Valley. The setting offers stunning views of the vineyards and mountains, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the afternoon relaxing with a drink while taking in the beautiful scenery. We continue on to Cape Town, a city completely different to anywhere else in Africa. Established in 1652 with the arrival of Dutch settlers, the city is surrounded by superb beaches and majestic mountains, including the incredible Table Mountain. Apart from Cape Town’s stunning natural features, the city is blessed with a laid-back ambience that meets with the approval of bohemians and holidaymakers alike. Cape Town is renowned for its great food and wine and has been named by some as the best food city in the world. The evening is then free for you to relax. We recommend visiting Cape Town’s iconic ‘V&A Waterfront’ neighbourhood. The oldest working harbour in the southern hemisphere, the waterfront district is home to various shops, restaurants and facilities, making for a beautiful location to explore and enjoy dinner! Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Today we embark on a picturesque sightseeing tour. In the morning, we’ll travel to the Cape Peninsula as we make our way towards Cape Point, the most south-westerly tip of the African continent. Here, we take the Flying Dutchman funicular from the car park to see the old lighthouse and enjoy the panoramic views. We’ll also discover the Cape of Good Hope before returning to Cape Town via Simon’s Town, home to the South African Navy’s largest base, and Boulder’s Beach. Here, a colony of African penguins, also known as Jackass penguins, have established themselves since the 1980s. The penguins bray like donkeys (hence their name) and from just two original breeding pairs, there are now over 2,500 penguins on this beach. This afternoon, we take the Fast Pass lane to ride a cable car to the top of Table Mountain (weather permitting), South Africa’s most iconic landmark. Table Mountain towers over the city and is the country’s most photographed attraction. It takes only 5 minutes to ascend by cable car and once atop, we’ll be rewarded with spectacular views over the city, beaches and across Table Bay to Robben Island. Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

This morning, we cruise out to discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Robben Island (weather permitting), famous for its use as isolation for political prisoners. Robben Island is where Nelson Mandela spent many of the 27 years of his imprisonment. It is now a museum and is symbolic to democratic South Africa of the price paid by many for the freedom of their country. The views looking back towards Cape Town and Table Mountain from here are truly spectacular! This afternoon we return to the mainland and visit Bo-Kaap, one of Cape Town’s most distinct neighbourhoods. Bo-Kaap’s origins date back to the 1760s when numerous houses were built and leased to slaves. The houses are a mix of Cape Dutch and Georgian architecture and are painted in bright colours. It is said that while the houses were leased by slaves, they were to be strictly painted white. Once this rule was lifted, the houses were decorated in vivid colours as an expression of their freedom. Tonight, we enjoy a group farewell dinner at GOLD, a unique African-themed restaurant with delicious a Cape Malay and African inspired menu as well as djembe drumming. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our new friends and to an incredible adventure across South Africa. We transfer to Cape Town airport to begin our journey home. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!

‘Jambo’ and welcome to Tanzania, a country known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife and vibrant culture. We begin our journey in the vibrant town of Moshi, nestled at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. A gateway for those looking to summit the ‘Roof of Africa’, Moshi is a laidback town known for its rich, aromatic coffee, art and friendly locals. The areas surrounding the town are lush and green, dotted with picturesque rivers and waterfalls, only adding to its peaceful atmosphere. We don’t want you to miss out on a single moment of your tour, so we recommend that you arrive at your hotel by 6pm. In the evening, join your fellow travellers for a welcome drink and to toast to the adventures ahead.

Waking in our quaint accommodation, with picturesque views of the Kilimanjaro mountain, today we’re in for a special experience connected to the communities surrounding this incredible landmark. After fuelling up at breakfast, we’ll be greeted at the hotel by one of the incredible team members of the Greenmanjaro Project. Founded on a mission to improve the living environment of Mount Kilimanjaro and its surrounding communities, we’ll learn about the charity’s incredible work that aims to reduce waste and the damaging effects of climate change. We’ll then take a visit to the project’s heart, its operations headquarters in Moshi, before ending our incredible experience with a stroll through the forest. Returning to town, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may wish to relax back at the hotel, explore more sights around the town or join a guide for a visit to some of the surrounding waterfalls. Hidden in lush, tropical vegetation, these stunning falls are a true sensory experience, offering unforgettable scenery and a breathtaking natural soundscape. Tonight, enjoy a warm welcome to the town as we join our fellow travellers for a delicious group dinner.

Today we depart Moshi for lively Arusha, resting at the foot of Mount Meru. Referred to as the ‘safari capital’ of Tanzania, it serves as the gateway to many of the country's most famous national parks and wildlife reserves. Arriving in town, we’ll set off on a sightseeing tour, beginning with a visit to the Tanzanite Museum. This dazzling exhibition space pulls visitors deep into the history of one of the world’s rarest gemstones — the stunning blue Tanzanite. While exploring the collections, we’ll discover why Tanzanite is so rare and sought-after, the complexities involved with its mining, and the skills involved in cutting and polishing the gems. You can even buy your very own piece to take home! Continuing to the Central Market, enjoy a glimpse into local life as we stroll through lively stalls bursting with aromatic spices, exotic fruits, delicious coffee and art. We then move on to the Uhuru Monument, meaning ‘Freedom’ in Swahili. The Uhuru torch serves as the symbol of Tanzania and represents their journey to colonial independence. The Arusha Declaration Museum is our next stop, dedicated to the country’s 1967 declaration that called for socialism and self-reliance in Tanzania. We’ll later visit the homely Arusha Coffee Lodge for a tranquil lunch followed by a visit to Shanga — a heartwarming project dedicated to supporting and empowering community members with disabilities. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.

Make sure your camera is charged this morning, as we depart Arusha for the rugged wilderness of Tarangire National Park. Famed for its picturesque landscape of humungous baobab trees (an iconic symbol of Africa), the open plains of Tarangire are a home ground for an incredible diversity of wildlife. Especially popular for the bird lovers among us, Tarangire serves as the only water source in the area, attracting unique and endemic species like the Ashy Starling and Kori Bustard. Upon arrival, enjoy a delightful lunch of local flavours at the lodge before heading out for an afternoon game drive. Home to the highest concentration of African Elephants of any park in northern Tanzania, Tarangire is renowned for its large elephant herds that gather and graze amongst zebras, wildebeest, giraffe and antelope. Here, the nature reserve offers a less crowded safari experience compared to its counterparts, despite its dense array of wildlife from July to November being second only to the Serengeti. We’ll return to the lodge for dinner, and an evening to soak up the spectacular soundscape. Listen out for bird calls, rustling grass and if we’re lucky, the distant rumbling of elephants or roaring lions. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Waking to the wild, we’ll venture out before the sun for an unforgettable early morning safari, before returning for breakfast at the lodge. We then make our way out to Mto wa Mbu. Home to more than 120 tribes, this authentic farming village is a cross-cultural melting pot and lucky for us, we’ll experience a taste of this endemic culture firsthand. Special Experience Meet a ‘laiboni’, a traditional Maasai Healer, and learn about the role of traditional healers in the community. Herbal plants have been used in Maasai healing for centuries, and today, we’ll meet with a traditional laiboni to learn the history of this ancient practice. They’ll show us how different bush medicine is used, from bark and roots to seeds, flowers and leaves, in the treatment of a variety of illnesses. Following our exploration into this spiritual tradition, get ready for an explosion of local flavours as we share a delicious lunch prepared by the villagers. In the afternoon, we’ll arrive in Lake Manyara and take a thrilling drive through its beautiful wilderness. This scenic lake offers a unique safari experience, in a setting proclaimed by Ernest Hemingway as ‘the loveliest I had seen in Africa’. Lush jungles, grassy floodplains and a vast alkaline lake make up this rare and fascinating ecosystem, where the lions climb trees and flamingos flock to the waters in mesmerising clouds of pink. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Our sightseeing this morning turns skyward, for a glimpse of life among the leaves along the Manyara Treetop Walkway. Travelling through the ancient forest canopy, we’ll make our way over a series of suspension bridges for a birds-eye view of the region’s untouched flora and fauna. Listen out for the growls and barks of baboons, Silvery-cheeked Hornbills and Blue Monkeys — we might even be lucky enough to see buffaloes grazing on the forest floor! Waving farewell to the treetops, we make our way to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The implosion of a volcano approximately 3 million years ago created the enormous UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ngorongoro Crater we know today. Sinking to a depth of 610 metres and stretching over 260 square kilometres, this protected area is a sanctuary for lion, elephant, hippopotamus, rhino and a unique array of birdlife. Arriving at our lodge, enjoy a bite to eat before setting out in the afternoon for a walk along a section of the crater’s rim. Guided by a local ranger, listen in as they point out different shrubs and flowers, and explain their uses for the local Maasai tribes. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.

Heading out early this morning, we’ll descend into the crater for an incredible game drive in search of some of the iconic ‘Big Five’. Travelling through the Lerai Forest, past Lake Magadi and across the crater floor, be on the lookout for rhino and lions lounging in the morning sun. At this time of day, we’ll bask in cooler temperatures and the likely promise of peak animal activity. We’ll likely spot zebra, wildebeest and buffalo in abundance, leisurely grazing on the sun-kissed plains. Make sure you’ve got your camera handy for this one. The backdrop of the forest-covered crater walls paints a stunning setting for some spectacular snaps! After an incredible experience in the crater, return to the lodge where the afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish. Why not slow down and savour the rest of the afternoon by indulging in the hotel amenities or relaxing in the comforting views of your room. Tonight, we’ll come together to reminisce about our favourite moments of the day over dinner at the lodge. Retreating to our accommodation, enjoy your final evening overlooking this breathtaking natural wonder.

Leaving the beauty of the Ngorongoro Crater in our camera roll, we’ll make our way to our first cultural pit stop for the day. Journeying to a Maasai village, enjoy a rare glimpse into the vibrant culture and semi-nomadic way of life for this traditional tribal community. Known for their strong warrior traditions and deep connection to their ancestral lands, the Maasai are renowned for their colourful attire, intricate beadwork and deep-rooted bond with their cattle. Farewelling the lively locals, we continue on to Olduvai Gorge, a steep-sided ravine in the Great Rift Valley known as ‘The Cradle of Mankind’. Considered one of the most prominent paleoanthropological sites in the world, the mysteries of the gorge have been pivotal in our understanding of early human evolution. Learn about the area’s history on a tour through the museum’s collection of fossils and stone tools belonging to homo habilis — thought to be the first early human species on earth that occupied the gorge approximately 1.9 million years ago. After lunch accompanied by beautiful views over the gorge, we continue our journey to the sweeping plains of the Serengeti. Arriving as dusk falls, enjoy dinner at the lodge before an exciting day of exploring tomorrow. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Savour a slow start to the morning or rise early to greet the Serengeti sunrise in a hot air balloon, before a day of exploring. This captivating landscape is characterised by treeless plains where the eye can see for kilometres, even back to the Ngorongoro Crater which looms in the distance. The plains are dotted with rocky outcrops known as kopjes, where lions often laze the day away. Also well-known for its cheetah sightings, the terrain is home to a high density of these carnivorous big cats, which can often be seen sitting atop an old termite mound scanning for their next meal. We’ll enjoy a full day of game drives, on the prowl for big cats, gazelle and zebra. You’ll want your binoculars handy for this journey! What makes the Serengeti so different from other national parks, is the fact that the area is completely unfenced, giving its residents an abundance of natural habitat to roam freely — and continue the journey to greener pastures that they have undertaken for millions of years. The famous starting point of the Great Migration, the Serengeti comes alive in this annual spectacle when some six million hooves pound the open grasslands in search of fresh grazing and water. Returning to the lodge later this afternoon, we’ll have time to relax into the comfort of the amenities or soak up more of the surrounding wilderness before dinner. Optional Excursion Serengeti Balloon Safari – This morning, enjoy an amazing experience as you take a balloon ride over the Serengeti National Park. Launching at dawn, as the sun rises, you’ll gently float over the plains of the magnificent Serengeti. On landing, you’ll be provided with a delicious bubbly-style bush breakfast. Balloon safaris will be done in lieu of the early morning game drive that is scheduled. 2.5 hours – from $505pp US (minimum 4 participants).

Today, we leave the open plains of the Serengeti behind us, as we transfer to the airport this morning for a short flight back to the city of Arusha. Upon touching down, we’ll once again make a pit stop at the nearby Arusha Coffee Lodge. Tucked away in one of Tanzania’s largest coffee plantations, we’ll take a moment to pause for an aromatic meal accompanied by soaring vistas of Mount Meru. With our appetite satisfied, we’ll then board the coach for a scenic drive to our next incredible wildlife destination. Crossing the border into Kenya this afternoon, we’ll meet our guide who will take us through the plains on yet another thrilling game drive. In the evening, we’ll reach one of Kenya’s most coveted national parks set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro — Amboseli National Park! Lovingly referred to as the ‘home of the African Elephant’, this reserve is famously home to large populations of this gorgeous stamping species, providing the perfect opportunity for us to get up close to these magnificent creatures. Located in the heart of the park, take a moment to settle into our lodge accommodation before meeting for dinner. Your flight time will be approximately 1 hour. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Get ready for an exciting day ahead as we embark on an early morning safari across Amboseli’s beautiful, rugged savannah. Located in the southern region of Kenya, the park is considered to be one of the most renowned conservation areas in the world. Here the grasslands are home to herds of roaming wildlife framed against Mt Kilimanjaro’s snow-covered peak, making this an absolute haven for photographers! As you cast your gaze over the arid landscape, listen in to the natural soundscape of twittering birds, chirping insects and the wind whistling through the long grass as the wilderness rises with the sun. If we’re lucky, we’ll be serenaded with the distant trumpeting of elephants, the throaty snarls of stalking lions and the gentle clopping of hooves from giraffes and wandering wildebeest. Return to the lodge for lunch before enjoying the afternoon at leisure, to unwind in this stunning setting. We will then come together later in the evening for dinner. Optional Excursion Guided Walk – Spend the afternoon with a local ranger from the Amboseli Maasai Village on a walk outside the lodge grounds, learning about their role in the protection of the park’s iconic species – from $20pp US (minimum 2 participants).

We’ll transfer to the airport this morning for our flight to Nairobi, Kenya’s capital and the largest city between Cairo and Johannesburg. Less than 100 years ago, a river snaked through the empty wilderness where the modern city now stands. Arriving in Nairobi, we’ll visit two of Kenya’s great conservation projects, beginning with the Daphne Sheldrick animal orphanage at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. For close to 30 years, Kenyan-born Daphne Sheldrick lived and worked alongside her husband David, caring for and successfully rehabilitating many wild species. She is now a recognised international authority on the rearing of wild creatures and is the first person to have perfected the milk formula and necessary husbandry for infant milk-dependent elephant and rhino. We then visit the Giraffe Centre, an important conservation initiative created by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife. Here, we come eye-to-eye with this long-necked species whilst feeding them from an elevated platform. After lunch we enjoy a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum, the former residence of famous novelist Karen Blixen. The house contains many of her original pieces along with some exhibits donated by the makers of the film, ‘Out of Africa’. And tonight, we’re in for a unique dining experience at the iconic Carnivore Restaurant, famous for its meat buffet! Your flight time will be approximately 1 hour. Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour.

This morning, we leave the city of Nairobi and begin our journey into the Kenyan countryside. Our sights are set on Aberdare National Park, a protected area in Kenya’s central highlands known for its stunning moorlands and waterfalls. Upon reaching the game reserve, we’ll take a break for lunch at the Aberdare Country Club. Brimming with country charm, this picturesque homestead is nestled on the slopes of Mweiga Hill, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. We are then transferred to our quirky accommodation at The Ark Lodge for a spectacular overnight stay inside Aberdare National Park. A protected area in Kenya’s central highlands, Aberdare is known for its stunning high moorland, bamboo forests and thundering waterfalls. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephant, buffalo, the elusive leopard and several primate species. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to bask in unobstructed views of the surrounding wildlife from the Ark’s multi-level decks, balconies and lounges. As the sun begins to set, gaze out over the floodlit waterhole and watch as species emerge to drink and wallow in this beautiful setting. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Emerging rested from our stay at the Ark, we continue to the Nanyuki Spinners and Weavers, a women’s self-help group that produces beautiful, handcrafted items. We’ll learn about the traditional techniques used in the craft of spinning, to make vibrant knitted and woven items from hand, with the opportunity to purchase some artistic souvenirs. Then, it’s on to Shaba National Reserve, located by the banks of the Ewaso Ngiro River in the northern part of Kenya. The river attracts a variety of wildlife thanks to its shady trees, so the likelihood of seeing a diverse range of species here is high. Much of Shaba’s appeal lies in the beauty of its landscape. Characterised by dry bushlands, deep gorges and open grasslands, the reserve is snaked with swamps and rivers, all framed by imposing mountain ranges. Linked with Samburu National Park and Buffalo Springs National Reserve, the three areas are not separated by fences, enabling animals to move freely between them. An afternoon game drive will introduce us to some of the species home to the reserve, including the Reticulated Giraffe, Grevy's Zebra, oryx, antelope and the Somali Ostrich. Along the river itself, keep your eyes peeled for any action in the water including the surfacing of crocodiles or hippopotamus. The region is also home to a fascinating array of birds. Make sure you bring your camera to capture every corner of this incredible canvas! Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

As the sun climbs over the horizon, we set out to witness the beauty of Shaba’s secluded plains in the cooler hours of the day. As we traverse the rugged terrain, we’ll search for lions, buffalo, leopards and the famous ‘Red Elephant of Samburu’, named for the iconic red dust that coats their hide. Following our morning safari, we return to the comfort of the lodge for a sumptuous breakfast and some downtime. After enjoying the amenities of the lodge, we’ll then spend some time away from the wildlife to visit a local community. Special Experience Explore Samburu Unity Village, a women-only community, to learn about ‘a day in the life’ of a Samburu woman and her children. In this beautiful and empowering community, enjoy a glimpse into the daily lives of the UNITY women who construct local handicrafts, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings, baskets and coasters. We’ll learn the history of the village and enjoy the chance to browse their extensive selection of jewellery for sale! In the afternoon, we’ll set off on another exciting safari through the reserve, soaking up the last of our time in this striking environment.

First on our itinerary today, is a drive to the town of Nyahururu. And we’re in for a real treat, not only as we tuck into a delicious lunch, but also as we soak up the surrounding sights of the region. The town’s name originates from the Maasai word ‘e-naiwurruwurr’, which means ‘waterfall’ or ‘windy place’ and as you take in the lush gardens and rolling hills that accompany our flavoursome dishes, you’ll understand why. We continue on to Lake Nakuru National Park, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley. Lake Nakuru has a reputation for being one of the best places in the country to spot the elusive leopard and is also home to some of east Africa's rarest creatures, including fast-growing populations of Black and White Rhino. Before we make our way to our accommodation, we’ll take part in another exciting wildlife encounter on a game drive through the area. This offers a great chance to spot some of the park’s diverse wildlife, including pink flamingos and rhino. Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.

Today, we set our sights on Lake Naivasha, which is the highest and one of the most beautiful lakes that form part of the Great Rift Valley. Taking its name from the Maasai word ‘en-aiposha’, meaning ‘heaving’ or ‘to and fro’, the waters of the freshwater lake are well-known to be quite turbulent in the afternoons. A popular spot for British flying boats of the 1930s, it was also the home of Joy Adamson, conservationist and author of the classic 1960s novel ‘Born Free’. Before lunch, we’ll navigate the lake’s shallow waters on a boat safari in search of its residents. The environment is a natural hub for over 400 species of birds including fish eagles, kestrels and falcons, and numerous pods of wallowing hippos. Following our wildlife fix, we will then enjoy a delightful afternoon tea on the lake’s shores at the famous Elsamere Conservation Centre, located in Joy Adamson’s former residence. The museum contains a collection of her paintings and artefacts as well as memorabilia from the ‘Born Free' film, with photos documenting Joy and George Adamson's work. We then return to the lodge for dinner. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

After an early breakfast, we depart for the Maasai Mara, one of the world's finest game reserves. The landscape is characterised by wide open plains and rolling grasslands that flow into the Serengeti, making it one of the biggest wildlife havens on earth. Special Experience Take a Swahili cooking class in the heart of the Maasai Mara, including a visit to the herb and vegetable garden. With nature as our backdrop, delight in a fragrant culinary workshop of Swahili cuisine. We’ll be led through the herb and vegetable garden before preparing some flavoursome dishes and enjoying our creations for lunch. Later in the day, we’ll head into the heart of the Maasai Mara for an afternoon safari. As dusk begins to settle over the landscape, keep an eye out for elephant, giraffe, eland, wildebeest, zebra and gazelle. With a little luck, we may also spot a lion or spotty cheetah on the prowl. Special Experience Relax amidst the beauty of the Maasai Mara plains as we sip on sundowners and devour delicious canapes. An iconic end to any safari experience, sip on a refreshing beverage such as a gin and tonic, as the last of the day’s sun kisses the Maasai plains. Watch as the landscape transforms before your eyes, into a beautiful display of golden grasses moving in time with the wind against the stark silhouette of acacia trees. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Waking early for a morning safari, we’ll be rewarded with the breathtaking scenes of the Maasai Mara as the sun begins to rise over the savannah. One of the best destinations to spot the ‘Big Five’, the reserve is home to a high density of diverse species and often tops bucket lists due to its mesmerising migration of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle each year. The experience of watching teeming herds of animals navigate the undulating plains and Mara River, is something that will stay with you forever. Returning for breakfast, enjoy some time to relax at the lodge before savouring a bite to eat for lunch. We’ll head out for one last safari in the afternoon, lingering on the golden landscapes before enjoying a farewell dinner in the heart of the Maasai Mara. Optional Excursion Maasai Mara Balloon Safari – This morning, enjoy an amazing experience as you take a balloon ride over the Maasai Mara. This is probably one of the most scenic views you will ever experience as you depart at dawn and float, suspended in a basket beneath a canopy while viewing the sights of the mighty Maasai Mara and its wildlife. On landing, you’ll be provided with a delicious bubbly-style bush breakfast. 3 hours – from $505pp US.

Today marks the end of our adventure across Kenya and Tanzania. A light plane flight from the Maasai Mara will take us to Nairobi, where we’ll leave with our hearts and camera roll full of fantastic memories! Your flight time will be approximately 1.5 hours.

Welcome to Egypt, a country known for its incredible array of historical sites that regularly top bucket lists. We begin in Cairo, the sprawling capital of Egypt and the largest city in Africa. Home to many famous Egyptian landmarks, visitors will find it to be a fascinating and often bewildering mixture of old and new. We don’t want you to miss out on a single moment of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 6:00pm. Meet your fellow travellers tonight as we enjoy a group welcome dinner to kick off our incredible journey ahead. Optional Excursion Coptic Cairo - Discover the ancient sites & culture of Coptic Christians throughout Old Cairo. 3 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only. Optional Excursion Islamic Cairo - Visit the Gayer Anderson Museum, Ibn Toulon Mosque & El Sultan Hassan Mosque. 3 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only. Optional Excursion The Pyramids of Dahshur - Dahshur forms the southernmost area of the Memphis Necropolis & contains a number of pyramid complexes & monuments 3 hours – from $65pp US (cash only).

Our tour kicks off with a bang today! After breakfast, we begin at the oldest structures in existence and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the amazing Great Pyramids of Giza. We'll visit the nearby Great Sphinx, with the body of a lion and the head of a king, often referred to as the national symbol of Egypt. Special Experience Take in the incredible views of the Great Pyramids of Giza while enjoying a delicious lunch at the Giza Plateau Venturing to the Giza Plateau for lunch, it’s time to indulge in the delicious Middle Eastern cuisine the city is renowned for, but the best bit? The view! This unique restaurant is unlike anywhere you’ve dined before. Offering panoramic views of the majestic pyramids surrounded by desert, the pictures you’ll take here are guaranteed to be incredible. After lunch, we travel to Sakkara to see the Step Pyramid, also known as the Pyramid of Djoser. Designed by Imhotep, the famous vizier of King Djoser, this was the first pyramid ever built! Special Experience Tour the historic Serapeum of Sakkara, the burial place of the Apis Bulls and home to centuries of cult activity. The Serapeum of Sakkara was built by Ramses II between 1279 and 1213 BC as a dedication to the Greco-Egyptian God of Serapis. Before this, the area had already been used for hundreds of years as a monument for the Apis Bulls, a sacred animal believed to be the god of fertility and the underworld by the ancient Egyptians. When the site was rediscovered in 1850, they found the burial places of 64 Apis bulls and thousands of inscribed objects related to centuries of cult activity. Discover the ancient burial chambers and crypts, and learn all about the rituals and beliefs of the ancient Egyptians who called this area home. Your travel time will be approximately 3 hours.

It’s an early start this morning as we farewell Cairo and transfer to the airport for our flight to Luxor. Located on the east bank of the Nile River, the city surrounds two huge, surviving ancient temples. Once the site of the ancient city of Thebes, Luxor as a whole is often considered its own open-air museum. We begin our sightseeing at the ancient Avenue of Sphinxes, a 3-kilometre-long road connecting Karnak Temple with Luxor Temple. Approximately 30 pharaohs contributed to Karnak Temple’s structure over time, which explains its monumental size! Equal in grandeur, Luxor Temple is home to a 25-metre-tall pink granite obelisk, which was part of a matching pair until the 1830s when one was bestowed to France. It now stands in the centre of the Place de la Concorde in Paris. We’ll finish the morning with a visit to a local gallery to appreciate the ancient artform of papyrus craft, with an opportunity to purchase a lovely memento to take home. It’s then time to embark our Nile cruise ship, ready for our four-night stay along the most iconic river in Egypt. Enjoy a delicious lunch on board before an afternoon at leisure indulging in the ship’s amenities or further exploring the sites of Luxor. Your flight time will be approximately 1 hour. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Optional Excursion Sound & Light Show at Karnak Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.

It’s another early start for us this morning, leaving the ship after breakfast for a half day tour of the West Bank. Our first destination is the Valley of the Kings, a royal burial ground for many of Egypt’s pharaohs, queens and other elites. Here, we’ll discover King Tutankhamun’s Tomb, arguably the most well-known of Egypt’s pharaohs who reigned between 1332 and 1323 BC. Despite his celebrity, King Tut’s tomb is actually smaller than other royal tombs of its era, likely because of his untimely death. After descending into his tomb where his mummified body lies, we’ll enter other tombs to see examples of the elaborate and well-preserved hieroglyphic paintings. Carved deep into the limestone rock, each tomb has a similar pattern of three corridors, an antechamber and a sarcophagus chamber. Next, we explore the Temple of Hatshepsut. Built for Queen Hatshepsut, she was one of only a few women to be given the title of pharaoh. We then visit the Colossi of Memnon, a historic landmark consisting of two massive statues of the Pharaoh Amenhotep III. We then stop at a nearby alabaster workshop to learn how the locally quarried stone is carved and crafted, and if interested, can purchase a souvenir piece to take home. Back on board the ship, we cruise onward to Edfu, travelling through the Esna Lock — an impressive engineering feat that helps control the flow of the Nile. The afternoon is at leisure before a welcome dinner on board. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking. Optional Excursion Hot Air Balloon Ride over the West Bank in the early morning. Includes transport from hotel. 1.5 hours – from $170pp US. Cash only.

Resting on the west bank of the Nile River between Esna and Aswan lies Edfu. This Egyptian city is renowned for the Temple of Horus, dedicated to the Falcon God, the main attraction that we'll visit this morning. This beautiful temple is one of the best-preserved in Egypt and the second largest after Karnak Temple. Immerse yourself in thousands of years of history as you walk through the Pylon, a monumental gateway that leads to a spectacular courtyard framed on three sides by 32 columns. We’ll also have the opportunity to explore the Inner and Outer Hypostyle Halls, the Court of Offerings, the Vestibule and the Sanctuary. Returning to the ship, we continue to the riverside Temple of Kom Ombo, a unique double temple dedicated to the gods of Sobek and Haroeris. Combining two temples into one, it is symmetrical in nature with twin entrances, two linked hypostyle halls and twin sanctuaries. As it is dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, it is thought that it was once teeming with crocodiles! Today we visit a Crocodile Museum which features a collection of mummified crocodiles. As we cruise to the port of Aswan this evening, enjoy a traditional Galabeya party on board.

A very early start this morning is rewarded with one of the most iconic sights in Egypt, as we cross the desert to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed temples of Abu Simbel. The temples were originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, as a monument to himself and his queen, Nefertari. The complex was then relocated in its entirety in the 1960s to higher ground to avoid it being submerged by the Nile River due to the construction of the High Aswan Dam. We will spend a few hours exploring the temples before returning to our Nile cruise ship in Aswan. In the afternoon, we’ll swap our ship for something a little more local — a traditional Felucca! The Nile has been home to these simple, wooden style sailboats for thousands of years. We’ll observe life along the banks of the river as our boat leisurely bobs along, taking advantage of the gentle winds and currents. Tonight, get ready for some hearty hospitality as we delight in a traditional Nubian Show on board. Observe traditional music, singers and dancers dressed in distinctive Nubian clothing, as we enjoy a glimpse into the unique culture of the Nubian people. Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.

This morning, we disembark our Nile cruise ship in the Port of Aswan and bid farewell to the crew. The rest of the day will be spent exploring incredible Aswan, a historic city unlike anywhere else in Egypt. On a half day tour, we visit the picturesque Philae Temple on Agilkia Island. Originally located on Philae Island, this temple is dedicated to Isis, the goddess of magic, who is said to have brought her husband Osiris back to life after he was killed by his own brother. Still in impeccable condition, it is remarkable to note that like Abu Simbel, this temple was also moved piece by piece to a new location to prevent flooding from the creation of the High Aswan Dam. Following our history fix, we’ll visit a local store which produces an assortment of aromatic perfumes and oils, along with ornate accessories, all available for purchase. Special Experience Navigate the waterways of the Nile to a Nubian village where we’ll visit the local market and meet a Nubian family in their home. The Nubian culture originated in what has now become modern day Sudan and southern Egypt. We’ll be welcomed in for an incredible afternoon with a local family to experience some of their distinct language, food and traditions firsthand. We’ll return to our hotel where the evening is at leisure. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Optional Excursion Sound & Light Show at Philae Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.

Waving farewell to vibrant Aswan, we’ll transfer to the airport this morning for our flight back to Cairo, where we’ll have the chance to explore the city. First up, we’ll visit the 12th century Saladin Citadel of Cairo, a monumental Islamic fortification built as a defence against the crusaders in 1176 AD. With our expert guide leading the way, we’ll see many of its famous sights, including the Muhammad Ali Mosque (and no, this isn’t dedicated to the famous boxer!). Built between 1832 and 1857 by Muhammad Ali Pasha, its position and towering minarets make it one of the most prominent mosques in the Cairo skyline. Our final stop is the 14th century Khan el-Khalili Bazaar, a major souk in Cairo’s Islamic District. Famous for its handmade crafts, it’s also the perfect place to enjoy a traditional Arabic coffee. There are no fixed prices here, so make sure you practice your haggling skills! We’ll return to our hotel where the afternoon and evening is at leisure. You may wish to relax and take in the incredible Nile views from the hotel’s pool, explore the nearby shopping mall or taste some of the local cuisine — the choice is yours! Your flight time will be approximately 1.5 hours. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.

We’re in for an exciting morning as we take an excursion to the newly debuted Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM). Nestled at the foot of the Great Pyramids of Giza, the GEM is home to a breathtaking fusion of modern architecture and ancient heritage, housing over 100,000 ancient artefacts. After being greeted by a 3,200-year-old, 83-ton statue of Ramses II in the GEM’s main entrance, we’ll spend the morning exploring the vast collection of exhibition halls, including its centrepiece, the King Tutankhamun galleries. Now home to Tutankhamun’s legendary Gold Death Mask and more than 5,000 other artifacts, it brings together the boy king’s treasures for the first time in history. Enjoy some free time to wander around the museum and grab a bite to eat. We’ll later make our way to downtown Cairo, before an early dinner at the hotel. As the evening sets in, we bid farewell to Egypt as we fly to Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, on an overnight flight. Your flight time will be approximately 5 hours.

The largest city between Cairo and Johannesburg, Kenya’s vibrant capital has rapidly evolved from its humble beginnings. Less than 100 years ago, a river snaked through the empty wilderness where Nairobi now stands. Positioned close to the equator, the city experiences spring-like weather for most of the year — deliciously warm during the day and cool in the evenings. It’s this climate that has earned it the nickname of the ‘Green City in the Sun’, with streets awash with colour from tropical vegetation and vines. Venturing out this afternoon, we’ll visit the Giraffe Centre, an important conservation initiative created by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife. Here, we’ll come nose-to-nose with gentle giants whilst feeding them from an elevated platform. After a delicious lunch at the Tamarind Brasserie, we’ll enjoy a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum, the former residence of famous novelist Karen Blixen. The house contains many of her original pieces along with some exhibits donated by the makers of the film, ‘Out of Africa’. Enjoy the evening at leisure to recharge after a long day.

Today we visit one of Kenya’s great conservation projects, Daphne Sheldrick’s animal orphanage at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. For over 25 years, Kenyan-born Daphne Sheldrick lived and worked alongside her husband David, during which time they raised and successfully rehabilitated many wild species. Daphne Sheldrick’s involvement with wildlife has spanned a lifetime. She is now a recognised international authority on the rearing of wild creatures and is the first person to have perfected the milk formula and necessary husbandry for infant milk-dependent elephants and rhinos. We later visit the Anselm Kitengela Hot Glass studio for a mesmerising glassblowing demonstration. Watch how expert Kenyan artisans twist and warp molten glass to create functional handmade objects from recycled materials. Enjoy some free time for lunch in this unique setting, with the opportunity to purchase some of the exquisite, brightly coloured masterpieces as a spectacular souvenir. Take some time to relax at the hotel this afternoon before our group dinner at the picturesque Hemingways Eden Residence.

This morning, we leave the city of Nairobi and begin our journey into the Kenyan countryside. Our sights are set on Aberdare National Park, a protected area in Kenya’s central highlands known for its stunning moorlands and waterfalls. Upon reaching the game reserve, we’ll take a break for lunch at the Aberdare Country Club. Brimming with country charm, this picturesque homestead is nestled on the slopes of Mweiga Hill, offering 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. After lunch, we are transferred to our quirky ‘Ark’ accommodation. As the name suggests, the building shares some resemblance with Noah’s Ark and is a testament to the abundant wildlife in the area. Here, we’ll enjoy the afternoon at leisure to gaze out over the floodlit waterhole and salt lick, watching the wildlife bask in this beautiful setting. For any avid photographers in the group, we suggest a visit to the bunker — the ideal vantage point for snapping the perfect shot of the wildlife which could be just metres away. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Emerging rested from our stay at the Ark, we continue to the Nanyuki Spinners and Weavers, a women’s self-help group that produces beautiful, handcrafted items. We’ll learn about the traditional techniques used in the craft of spinning, to make vibrant knitted and woven items from hand, with the opportunity to purchase some artistic souvenirs. We continue to Shaba National Reserve, located by the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River in the northern part of Kenya. The river attracts an abundance of wildlife thanks to its shady trees, so the likelihood of seeing a diverse range of species here is even higher. We’ll arrive at the park just in time for lunch at the lodge and take some time here to relax after our long drive. As the afternoon sets in, it’s time to embark on our first game drive in the reserve. Shaba’s scenery is spectacular. Think waterholes and marshes, woods and grasslands, all with the imposing Shaba Hill Volcano looming in the distance. As we make our way through the reserve, we’ll be introduced to some of the unique animals home to the area, including the Reticulated Giraffe, the largest of the giraffe subspecies and the tallest land animal on the planet! We’ll also be on the lookout for Grevy's Zebra, Somali Ostrich, Beisa Oryx, hippos and if we’re lucky, perhaps some prowling lion prides. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

As the sun climbs over the horizon, we’ll experience the beauty of Shaba’s rugged plains on an early morning safari. The animals are often on the move in the cooler temperatures and soft light, making it one of the best times of the day to encounter some incredible wildlife. We’ll continue our search for lions, buffalo, leopards and the famous 'Red Elephant of Samburu' — named for the iconic red dust that coats their hides. We return to our lodge for breakfast and some downtime before taking another game drive this afternoon. After getting our wildlife fill for the day, we head to a local village. Special Experience Explore Samburu Unity Village, a women-only community, to learn about ‘a day in the life’ of a Samburu woman and her children. Formed in 2011, the Unity Village is a refuge for women looking to escape oppression and other inequities. Today it serves as a safe place for women to raise their families, educate their children and thrive in an environment where they can work together. Our experience here is both magical and heartbreaking, and you will leave with the utmost respect for these resilient women who have managed to create a better life for themselves and their children.

Today, we leave Shaba behind us and continue our adventure, reaching Nyahururu in time for lunch. Here, we’ll enjoy a lovely meal in the Panari Nyahururu resort. We then arrive in Lake Naivaisha, the highest and one of the most beautiful lakes that form part of the Great Rift Valley. A popular spot for British flying boats of the 1930s, it was also the home of Joy Adamson, conservationist and the author of ‘Born Free’. We’ll explore the area on an afternoon boat safari, searching for some of its famous residents including over 400 species of birds and numerous pods of wallowing hippos. Returning from our adventure on the water, we’ll then enjoy afternoon tea at the famous Elsamere Conservation Centre, located in Joy’s former house. The museum contains a fascinating collection of her paintings and artefacts as well as memorabilia from the ‘Born Free' film, with photos documenting Joy and George Adamson's work. We then return to our lodge for dinner. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

After an early breakfast, we depart for the epic savannahs of the Maasai Mara. Characterised by wide open plains and rolling grasslands, dotted with the occasional tree, the Maasai Mara flows into the Serengeti, making it one of the biggest reserves on earth. Special Experience Take a Swahili cooking class in the heart of the Maasai Mara, including a visit to the herb and vegetable garden. Whether you consider yourself a seasoned chef or complete amateur, this cooking class gives you (and your taste buds) the chance to explore the flavours and textures of traditional Swahili food. We’ll be led through the herb and vegetable garden before preparing some flavoursome dishes and enjoying our creations for lunch. Before making our way to our tented camp in the heart of the Maasai Mara, we head out on a late afternoon game drive. Hailed as one of Africa’s greatest wildlife reserves, huge herds of elephant, giraffe, eland, wildebeest, zebra and gazelle are commonly sighted here. With a bit of luck, we may also spot a lion or spotty cheetah as we roam. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

Although it’s an early start this morning, we’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking game drive to enjoy this beautiful landscape as the sun rises over the savannah. Many of the animals that call this area home are crepuscular, which means they are most active during the twilight hours. On our adventure this morning, our expert guide will help us to spot the wildlife as they engage in natural behaviours like foraging, grooming or finding the perfect spot for some sun. We’ll return to the comfort of the lodge for breakfast and lunch, with some time to relax in this picturesque setting. Then, as the day begins to wind down, we’ll head out on one last safari before a special dinner to farewell the Maasai Mara. Optional Excursion Maasai Mara Balloon Safari – This morning, enjoy an amazing experience as you take a balloon ride over the Maasai Mara. This is probably one of the most scenic views you will ever experience as you depart at dawn and float, suspended in a basket beneath a canopy while viewing the sights of the mighty Maasai Mara and its wildlife. On landing, you’ll be provided with a delicious bubbly-style bush breakfast. 3 hours – from $505pp US.

Today, we’re kicking off the final stretch of our adventure, as we head to the airport for our flight to the exotic island of Zanzibar via Nairobi. Well known for its white sandy beaches and warm turquoise water, Zanzibar is the perfect place to relax and simply soak up the sun. Scenic fishing villages are scattered throughout the beaches of this picturesque region, where the locals enjoy a simple, laid-back way of life. Arriving on the island, we head to our beautiful beachside resort in Kiwengwa Beach. Located on the east coast of Zanzibar, the resort is home to impeccable white sand beaches, has over 30 acres of tropical gardens to explore, and a variety of leisure facilities to indulge in and lucky for us, the rest of the day is free to indulge in whichever amenities take your fancy, before joining the group for dinner. Your flight time will be approximately 2.5 hours.

The day is yours to soak up the tropical charm of the ‘Spice Island’. Snag a sun lounger to relax and unwind in this tranquil setting, perhaps with a novel to bury into. Or why not explore more of this stunning island paradise at your own pace. Your tour guide or the resort staff are well equipped to provide you with any suggestions if you’re looking to get out and about. Popular activities here include visiting the beaches and reefs, caves and spice farms, or even joining a quad bike tour of the island.

Our eyes are set on historic Stone Town, Zanzibar’s biggest city set on the opposite side of the island. A Swahili trading town, Stone Town has taken on influences from Arab, Indian and European cultures to cultivate its own unique way of life that we’ll experience today. Fans of the band Queen may also know Stone Town as the childhood hometown of the band’s charismatic lead singer, Freddie Mercury! As we begin our exploration this morning, a city tour will acquaint us with a range of different sites, including the City Market, the Anglican Church of Christ, Africa House and Forodhani Park. We’ll also visit the House of Wonders — the most significant structure on the seafront that was built in the 1880s as a ceremonial palace. Originally used as the headquarters and administrative centre during the colonial period, it was later converted into a school and a museum. Lastly, we will explore the Sultan's Palace, the Old Museum and the Old Market where we can shop for various local fruits and spices. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner at the 6 Degrees South restaurant, where the atmosphere is as vibrant as the cuisine! Indulge in fresh, flavoursome dishes as we reminisce on our favourite moments of the tour. Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.

Today marks the end of our spectacular African adventure. We will enjoy our last day at leisure in paradise before transferring to the airport this evening. We hope you leave with a heart and camera roll full of fantastic memories!

Welcome to Antananarivo, the capital and largest city of the gorgeous island nation of Madagascar. The fourth-largest island in the world, Madagascar sits like a jewel in the crown of the Indian Ocean, just off the coast of Mozambique. Isolated for millions of years after breaking away from the Indian subcontinent, it evolved extraordinary wildlife found nowhere else on Earth, making it one of the world’s true biodiversity hotspots. Antananarivo, often called ‘Tana,’ is a very spread-out city and is split into upper, middle and lower town. At its heart lies Lake Anosy, once a royal lake of the Merina kings and now beautifully encircled by jacaranda trees that burst into purple bloom in season. This distinctive heart-shaped lake creates a striking focal point and reflects the city’s rich history, where traditional Malagasy culture blends effortlessly with French colonial influence. You will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. 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 in Madagascar by 4:00 PM. This evening you will meet our local guide over a welcome dinner. Special Note: Poor road conditions are common in Madagascar, with potholes, cracks and rough, uneven surfaces frequently encountered. Some roads are unsealed and may lack proper drainage during rainy periods. In certain areas, heavy traffic can also contribute to delays. As a result, in some parts of the country, travelling 100 km may take three hours or more, so please be prepared for extended travel times. Additionally, please keep in mind that the standards of service and accommodation may not always match those to which you are accustomed. To fully enjoy this journey, flexibility, a positive attitude and a willingness to embrace the adventure are essential.

Today we’ll journey towards the eastern side of the island, where lush rainforest and fascinating wildlife await. Our first stop will be the Reserve Peyrieras Madagascar Exotic. This small, privately run reserve at Marozevo may look modest at first glance, but it is home to many species of reptiles and amphibians found on the island, including elusive chameleons. The reserve was created to protect and showcase Madagascar’s endemic animals at a time when many species were under pressure from habitat loss. Over the years, it has become a favourite stop for visitors from around the world, and today we will have time to truly appreciate these fascinating creatures up close. After a lunch stop, we’ll continue to Andasibe National Park, one of Madagascar’s oldest and most important protected areas. Established in the early 20th century, the park was created to safeguard its unique rainforest ecosystem and the remarkable wildlife that calls it home. This evening, we’ll go on a guided night walk in the park to discover some its fascinating nocturnal wildlife. Known for its rich biodiversity, Andasibe National Park is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The rainforest is home to numerous species of lemur, including the famous indri lemur, known for its beautiful calls that echo through the forest. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Passing through charming small villages early this morning, we’ll make our way to explore the Analamazaotra Special Reserve. What makes this reserve especially fascinating is its history. Established in 1970, it was the very first protected area created specifically to safeguard the indri, Madagascar’s largest lemur. Once part of the larger Mantadia National Park, this reserve is an absolute must-see for any nature lover! The rainforest here is teeming with life, including 108 species of birds, 14 lemur species and 84 types of amphibians. Upon arrival, we’ll head into the rainforest for a guided hike in search of lemurs, including the magnificent Indri indri. We’ll listen for their haunting morning calls echoing through the trees and keep watch for other lemur species as well. Along the way, we will spot towering hardwood trees, delicate orchids, colourful chameleons, busy insects and perhaps a shy reptile or two along the trail. Later, we will visit Vakona Private Reserve, home to the well-known Lemur Island. Special Experience Immerse yourself in the iconic Lemur Island's wildlife, with the opportunity to get up close and personal with these fascinating creatures. This small island was created from a former swampland that was carefully reshaped into a safe sanctuary for rescued lemurs. It now plays an important role in conservation and education, offering close and memorable encounters. We will end the day with dinner, sharing stories about our rainforest discoveries. Your hiking time will be approximately 3 hours in hot and humid conditions.

Leaving the rainforest behind this morning, we’ll return to Antananarivo. As we travel through the Malagasy highlands, we’ll pass terraced rice fields and traditional villages that showcase farming techniques practiced for generations. This region is historically significant as the heartland of the Merina people, who in the 19th century unified much of Madagascar under the Merina Kingdom, shaping the island’s culture and politics for years to come. Once we arrive, the rest of the day will be yours to enjoy at leisure. You may choose to wander through the vibrant Analakely market, filled with local crafts, spices and textiles or visit the Queen’s Palace ruins at Rova, which offer insight into the royal history of the Merina monarchy as well as stunning panoramic views over the city. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Leaving the capital behind, we journey south along the famous Route Nationale 7, towards the town of Ambatolampy. Route Nationale 7, also known as RN7, is the primary highway running 980km through the centre of Madagascar going from the capital Antananarivo to Tulear on the country’s south-west coast. It is one of the country’s most important trade routes, and along the way we’ll be treated to some stunning views. At Ambatolampy, the aluminium capital of the island, nestled in the Madagascar highlands, we’ll get a warm welcome from the locals. These friendly villagers are known for crafting beautiful traditional pots made from recycled aluminium, and we’ll have the chance to watch them work and learn about this unique art form. It’s a great way to connect with the community and experience local craftsmanship and resourcefulness firsthand. Continuing along RN7, we’ll arrive in Antsirabe, which was founded in the late 19th century by Norwegian missionaries and later developed by the French as a thermal spa retreat. Sitting at about 1,500 metres above sea level, it is known for its cool climate and mineral-rich thermal springs, earning it the nickname ‘The City of Water.’ After lunch, the afternoon will be yours to enjoy at leisure. You may wish to explore its colonial architecture, browse artisan workshops or visit the famous thermal springs at a relaxed pace. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Today’s journey takes us through the vibrant world of Madagascar’s unique craftsmanship. We’ll start by exploring an eco-friendly twist on recycling in this region, understanding how locals creatively transform materials into remarkably detailed model bicycles, cars and trucks. Special Experience Visit a workshop where the locals craft miniature vehicles from recycled materials and witness an informative demonstration. Next, we’ll visit a workshop where skilled artisans turn Zebu horns into beautiful souvenirs. The Zebu is central to Malagasy culture, symbolising wealth, status and tradition. The polished horn is shaped into bowls, jewellery and decorative pieces, each one completely unique in colour and pattern. We’ll then make our way to a shop filled with dazzling precious stones. Madagascar is one of the world’s richest sources of gemstones, including sapphires, tourmalines, garnets and amethysts, many found in the highlands. Later this morning, we’ll continue our journey south through the stunning highlands, making a stop in Ambositra, the handicraft capital of Madagascar. This town is famous for its unique Zafimaniry woodcarving, a traditional craft so special it’s been recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage. While there, we’ll explore local craft workshops, watch talented artisans create their masterpieces and have the chance to pick up some beautiful souvenirs to bring home. In the late afternoon sit back, relax and enjoy the passing scenery on the way to the rainforests of Ranomafana National Park. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

Ranomafana National Park is one of Madagascar’s great natural treasures. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site was created after the rediscovery of the greater bamboo lemur and the discovery of the golden bamboo lemur. Today, it protects more than 41,000 hectares of tropical rainforest and an astonishing variety of rare plants and animals. We’ll be up early this morning for an exciting adventure through this remarkable rainforest, accompanied by a park ranger and tracker. As we wander through this stunning park, we’ll be surrounded by incredible wildlife, from 12 species of lemur to 115 species of birds. The variety of flora and fauna here is truly awe-inspiring, and we’ll be treated to some amazing wildlife sightings along the way. It’s a chance to immerse ourselves in Madagascar’s natural beauty and experience the magic of one of its most biodiverse parks. Following a local lunch, we'll have the afternoon at leisure to relax and unwind before we head out on an incredible nocturnal visit along the Route Nationale 7. With our expert guide leading the way, we'll search for nocturnal lemurs like the microcebe or mouse lemur and other nocturnal animals including chameleons. We'll then return to the lodge for a well-deserved dinner. Today involves approximately 4 hours of hiking in hot and humid conditions.

Today, we say goodbye to the lush Madagascan highlands and head into the dry, semi-desert landscapes of southern Madagascar. Our first stop is Ambalavao, a town renowned for its high-quality handmade silk and paper, still crafted using ancient techniques. While here, we’ll visit the fascinating Antemoro Paper Mill, which has a rich history that dates back to the Arab influence on the region and preserved by the Antemoro people. This special craft uses the bark of the avoha plant to create beautifully textured handmade paper. Once used for sacred writings and royal correspondence, it remains an important part of the region’s cultural heritage today. After exploring the paper mills, we’ll continue to Anja Community Reserve, an inspiring conservation success story managed entirely by the local village community. This reserve protects granite outcrops and patches of natural forest that are home to ring-tailed lemurs, known scientifically as Lemur catta. With a local guide, we’ll hear the legend of the three brothers linked to these rocky hills while enjoying the chance to spot these charismatic animals up close. After enjoying a picnic lunch, we’ll continue to Isalo National Park, famous for its dramatic sandstone formations, shaped over millions of years and its deep cultural significance to the Bara people. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

Isalo National Park is a vast sandstone massif shaped during the Jurassic period. Over millions of years, wind and water have carved this remarkable landscape into dramatic canyons, rocky plateaus and hidden oases that feel almost otherworldly. As we hike through the park, we’ll visit the fascinating Baras Tombs, perched high in the cliffs. These burial sites belong to the local Bara people and remain deeply significant today, offering insight into ancestral traditions and spiritual beliefs that are still honoured. We’ll also stroll through a lush botanic garden, soaking in the stunning natural beauty of Madagascar’s unique flora and fauna species all around us. Special Experience Accompanied by a park ranger, hike through awe-inspiring canyons and oases of Isalo National Park taking in the lunar landscape. After exploring the canyons, we’ll enjoy lunch with locals while soaking up the quiet beauty of the region. After a big day, we’ll head back to the lodge for a relaxing afternoon. You can unwind by taking a dip in the swimming pool or enjoy the calming natural spring. It’s the perfect way to recharge and soak in the peaceful surroundings! Today involves approximately 4 hours of hiking in hot and humid conditions.

After breakfast we will set off along Route Nationale 7, heading southwest towards the stunning coast. Along the way we’ll pass through Ilakaka, a small market town of Sapphire diggers. Just a few decades ago, this area was sparsely populated, but when sapphires were discovered in the 1990s, Ilakaka transformed almost overnight into a bustling mining town. Today, market stalls, miners and a lively energy now define the town. It’s a fascinating glimpse into how natural resources can shape communities and livelihoods in a remarkably short time. We’ll also stop to visit the captivating Zombitse National Park. This unique park offers a fascinating mix of dry forests, marshes and savannahs, where we’ll explore towering baobabs and get up close to the playful Sifaka dancing lemurs. Zombitse is one of the best place to see them leap across the forest floor with their signature sideways hopping, which resembles a graceful dance, creating one of the island’s most delightful wildlife spectacles. Next, we’ll head to the port city of Toliara, where we’ll have some free time to explore the town and enjoy lunch at our own expense. From there, we’ll continue our journey towards the stunning shores of the Mozambique Channel, to the peaceful fishing village of Ifaty, a hidden gem with a gorgeous palm-fringed beach. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and soak in the beauty of Madagascar’s coastline, drink in hand. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours. Today involves approximately 2 hours of hiking in hot and humid conditions.

Early this morning, we’ll head to the Reniala Private Reserve, also known as the Baobab Forest. This enchanting place is home to some of Madagascar’s most iconic trees, the giant baobabs, which can live for hundreds of years and seem to grow upside down with their broad, gnarly branches reaching towards the sky. As we stroll through the reserve, we’ll learn about their importance to the local ecosystem. The reserve is also home to a variety of unique plants and wildlife, making it a perfect spot to appreciate the natural wonders of Madagascar. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse ourselves in the island’s fascinating ecology. After our walk, we’ll return to the hotel for a delicious breakfast, with fresh morning air and sweeping coastal views to enjoy. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Ifaty is known for its beautiful beaches, perfect for a relaxing stroll, lounging in the sun or simply soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Feeling a little more adventurous? You might choose to try snorkelling, fishing alongside a local fisherman or visiting the nearby tortoise village to learn more about these reptiles and their conservation. Today involves approximately 2 hours of hiking in hot and humid conditions.

This morning, we say goodbye to Ifaty as we transfer to the airport for our flight back to the capital, Antananarivo. On arrival, we’ll visit the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, also known as the Blue Hill. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is considered the cradle of Merina Monarchy and holds a deeply important place in Malagasy history. As we wander through its royal compounds, sacred tombs and terraced gardens, we’ll gain insight into the traditions, ceremonies and daily life of the Merina kings and queens. The views from the hill are magnificent, stretching across the surrounding countryside that has shaped the island’s history for centuries. Madagascar’s food culture is as rich and diverse as its landscape and history. Influenced by African, Asian and European traditions, local cuisine is known for fresh seasonal vegetables, fragrant rice dishes, seafood and a variety of species and herbs. This afternoon, we will enjoy a hands-on culinary experience. Special Experience Experience a delightful cooking class in Antananarivo, uncovering the rich and delicious culinary traditions of the region, before enjoying your creations for lunch. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace in Antananarivo. You could stroll through the markets, try some local cuisine or simply take in the lively atmosphere. Please note: The airline ticket for the flight between Ifaty and Antananarivo is issued locally by our operator. Your flight time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.

Get ready to discover Madagascar’s charming capital on a guided city tour this morning. One of the highlights is the Old Upper Town, perched on a granite hilltop with sweeping views of the Ikopa River Valley. Known for its impressive baroque-style palaces and gothic cathedrals, this area offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past, with buildings dating back centuries. We’ll stroll through the city centre, soaking in the unique mix of old and new, before visiting a local craft market. Here, we’ll have the chance to pick up souvenirs for family and friends and interact with skilled artisans. Can’t get enough of Antananarivo? The afternoon is all yours to explore the city at your own pace. Whether you’re discovering hidden gems or simply sitting back and relaxing, it’s a perfect way to end our journey through breathtaking Madagascar! Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious group farewell dinner.

Our tour concludes after breakfast, and we bid farewell to our new friends. You will be transferred to the airport in time for your international flight home.

Get ready to experience the wonder that is Turkmenistan — a land where ancient spirituality, long-standing cultural traditions and diverse landscapes collide. This largely undiscovered Central Asian gem boasts a tapestry of influences, from Oghuz tribal language and Persian mystique to a dash of Soviet legacy. Our adventure kicks off in this land’s sparkling heart, Ashgabat. Gaining its independence from Russia in the ‘90s, the city is an architectural playground — imagine remnants of Soviet modernism interwoven with gleaming white marble buildings, wide empty boulevards and endless green parks. Ashgabat stands proudly unique, a city unlike any other you’ve seen and a stark contrast to the rest of the country. We don’t want you to miss out on your afternoon tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you are back at the hotel and ready to depart at 2pm. Our first stop will be the astonishing Independence Park, where marble monuments and gold statues soar skyward, followed by the palatial Ertuğrul Gazi Mosque, which is a spiritual and architectural marvel. We’ll gain real insight into Turkmen culture at the National Carpet Museum, gaping in awe at carpets so finely crafted, you can see the country’s proud artistic heritage in every beautifully constructed piece. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group welcome dinner, complete with a folk performance that’ll immerse you into Turkmenistan’s one-of-a-kind spirit. Special note: This tour involves some long travel days by private vehicle, where conditions may be uneven and dusty. Be prepared for winding (but incredibly scenic) roads, many speedbumps and at times heavy traffic that will all affect travel times. Some smaller vehicles will be used due to the nature of the roads and some of the locations.

This morning, we’re swapping city opulence for ancient wonder as we venture out to the legendary ruins of Nisa. Once the heart of the mighty Parthian Empire, Nisa’s crumbling fortress walls are now UNESCO-celebrated and bursting with epic stories. Imagine emperors, battles and hidden treasures as you stroll through the sun-baked remnants. After getting your history fix, we’ll make our way back to Ashgabat for lunch at a local spot. We’ll then return to our hotel where the afternoon is yours at leisure. Why not relax at the hotel, take a dip in the pool, or consider doing the optional tour to the Darvaza Flaming Crater. Optional Excursion Darvaza Flaming Crater – Travel by 4WD jeeps to witness the Darvaza Flaming Crater at night. This unique geological phenomenon is a massive crater with a perpetually burning natural gas flame, creating a mesmerising and eerie spectacle that has earned it the ‘Door to Hell’ moniker. Enjoy a picnic dinner whilst admiring this captivating natural wonder. Please note this tour will conclude at your hotel around midnight. 10 hours – from US $150pp (minimum 3 people) Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking across uneven ground.

Enjoy a leisurely start to your day. Sleep in a little, you’ve earned it! Later, we’ll be cruising through the outskirts of Turkmenistan’s agricultural heartland on our way to something truly special — the Arkadash Stud Farm. Here, we’ll meet the legendary Akhal-Teke horses, the pride of Turkmenistan. These stunning “Golden Horses” shimmer in the sunlight, earning their nickname thanks to their glowing coats. With a 3,000-year-old pedigree of speed, smarts and stamina, these beauties are living legends, and you’ll get to see them up close! We then make our way back to Ashgabat for a well-deserved lunch at a local eatery. But we’re not done yet. Our next stop is the vibrant Russian Bazaar, a treasure trove of fresh flavours, colourful wares and quirky souvenirs. Upon returning to the hotel later in the afternoon, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy.

Today, we’re catching a local flight to Daşhoguz before making our way across the border into the legendary land of Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan is the crown jewel of the “Stans,” and it’s no wonder why! Its storybook past is peppered with tales of conquerors like Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan and the Russian Empire, all of whom left their mark on this vibrant and dynamic land. We arrive at the magical city of Khiva. Stepping into Khiva’s old town feels like hopping in a time machine bound for the Silk Road’s heyday. Winding alleys, mighty fortress walls and centuries-old minarets await, all perfectly frozen in time since the 10th century. Modern-day Khiva may be friendly and welcoming, but its mud-brick buildings and mystical atmosphere still echo tales of camel caravans and bustling bazaars. Soak up the sights, listen for ancient whispers in the breeze and let your imagination run wild, Khiva is where history comes alive and adventure takes centre stage! Your flight time will be approximately 1 hour. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours

Khiva is a fantastic city to discover by foot, and today we’ll do just that. Our walking tour will lead us straight into the legendary Itchan Kala, the heart and soul of Khiva’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, where ancient walls and narrow lanes will whisk us back in time. Don’t be surprised if you feel like you’ve landed in a history book! Today is all about discovery, diving into Khiva’s fascinating past step by step! Have your cameras ready as we wander past the dazzling, turquoise-tiled Kalta Minor Minaret, the regal Kunya Ark fortress, the solemn beauty of Madrassah Rakhimkhon, the Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud and the sky-piercing Islam Khodja Minaret. After a hearty lunch, we’ll marvel at the intricately carved wooden pillars of the Friday (Juma) Mosque, each one a masterpiece! Then it’s off to the incredible Tosh-Hovli Palace, the “Stone House,” where vibrant blue tiles, delicate carvings and incredible ghanch (that’s ornately carved alabaster) steal the show. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.

Gear up for a long travel day today as we bid adieu to Khiva and make our way by road to the ancient city of Bukhara. There will be plenty of stops along the way for us to stretch out and break for lunch. Over 2,000 years old, the Holy City of Bukhara is one of the best examples of preserved Islamic cities within Central Asia. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Silk Road,’ is filled with mosques, madrassahs (Islamic schools), flat-roofed houses and covered bazaars just waiting to be explored. Once we arrive at Bukhara, the rest of the day is free for us to enjoy at our own pace. Why not take a stroll through the old city to take some spectacular snaps as the sun sets over the ancient streets. Or duck into a local restaurant for a warm welcome to the city through your stomach! A cuisine known for its rich and savoury flavours, dive into a few mouthwatering dishes before a full day of exploring tomorrow. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

Get ready for a day of exploration in Bukhara, packed with jaw-dropping sights and legendary tales. We’re diving headfirst into the city’s ancient heart, starting with the Lyabi-Khauz ensemble, a tranquil square surrounded by centuries-old trees and bustling teahouses. Then, marvel at Magoki Attori Mosque, the oldest in Bukhara and the intricately beautiful Madrassah Aziz Khan which is known for having its portal decorated with poetic verses. Next up, for all of us history buffs is the mighty Ark Fortress which stands tall since the 4th century BC, serving as the residence of the Emris of Bukhara for over a thousand years. Our touring continues at the elegant Bolo Hauz Mosque, famous for its striking entrance portico with slender wooden columns supporting a beautifully painted wooden ceiling. We’ll also visit the mystical Mausoleums of Ismail Samani and Chashma-Ayub. Later, we’ll visit the Hunarmand UNDP Assisted Workshop. We’ll meet with local artisans as they bring traditional arts to life: carving, miniature painting, block printing, glittering gold embroidery, metal chasing and the rich stitches of suzani embroidery. By the end of the day, we’ll be brimming with wonder, awe and inspiration. Bukhara’s magic is contagious! Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.

Ready to discover more of Bukhara? A half-day tour will introduce us to many more wonders of this Holy City. Venturing into the surrounding areas of Bukhara, we’ll visit Sitorai Mokhi Khosa, the former summer residence of Bukhara’s last Emir. Originally conceived by Akhad-Khan in the late 19th century, it was Muzaffar-Khan who completed the main palace and dedicated it to his beloved wife, Sitora-Bonu. Following her passing, the palace earned the name Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, meaning ‘star-like and moon-like palace.’ Its architectural charm draws parallels to Russia’s magnificent Peterhof Palace in St Petersburg, minus the chilly Russian winters! Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to soak up the atmosphere in Bukhara. It’s a great city to walk around and explore. Its streets are full of inviting tea houses, quirky shops and secret corners waiting to be discovered.

Our day’s adventure kicks off in the town of Gijduvan, renowned as a craft and trade centre for centuries. This town is particularly famous for its exquisite ceramics, distinguished by intricate geometric, animal, and botanical motifs, stemming from ancient polychromatic glazed ceramic traditions. We’ll step into local workshops, watching the magic unfold as artisans transform clay into colourful masterpieces and share the secrets behind their ancient techniques. Special Experience Dive into the flavours of Uzbek cuisine with a masterclass in traditional bread baking and shashlik making. Here we’ll watch how the delicious bread is shaped, and sizzling shashliks are prepared (Uzbek kebabs). And yes, we’ll get to feast on these treats during an authentic Uzbek lunch. We’ll continue our journey to the legendary city of Samarkand. Known as the “Rome of the East,” this storied city is nearly 2,750 years old and showcases a remarkable architectural mix of Persian, Islamic and Central Asian styles, from its medieval heart to its leafy Russian-influenced avenues. After check-in at our hotel, the evening is all yours to catch your breath, take a leisurely stroll or just revel in the wonder of Samarkand. The city’s magic is waiting for you to discover! Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

We’ll begin our day of sightseeing with a visit to the Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, an architectural masterpiece and the final resting place of Tamerlane (Timur), one of history’s most formidable conquerors. We then move onto the impressive UNESCO World Heritage-listed Registan Square, one of Central Asia’s most iconic sights. This breathtaking ensemble of architectural marvels embodies the city’s rich history and cultural significance. Here, we’ll admire the medieval architecture and its three madrassahs: Ulug-Bek, Tilya-Kori, and Sher-Dor. These ornate beauties have been standing tall since the 15th and 17th centuries, and every tile has a story to tell. Our adventure continues at the magnificent Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once the biggest in Central Asia, where echoes of 10,000 worshippers fill its grand courtyards. The scale and beauty here are nothing short of awe-inspiring! After some free time for lunch, we will visit a local winery for a fun and flavourful tasting session before returning to Samarkand for an evening at leisure. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.

Today we will travel to Konigil village to visit a paper-making workshop. Founded by the inventive Muktarov brothers, the paper mill has revived this ancient tradition based on Samarkand technologies. See how mulberry bark is cleaned, boiled and mashed before being flattened, dried and painted. We’ll also engage hands-on in the intricate steps of crafting paper by hand. You’ll be a craft master in no time! Next, we channel our inner stargazers with a stop at the Ulugh Beg Observatory Museum. Built in the 15th century by the legendary mathematician and astronomer (and grandson of the mighty Amir Temur), Ulugh Beg’s observatory was once a hub for sky-watchers and cosmic thinkers. Hidden for centuries, this is where the stars came close enough to touch! But wait, there’s more! We’ll roam the stunning Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, where ornate mausoleums shimmer in blue, telling stories from the 11th and 12th centuries. Then, get lost in the sensory wonderland of the Silk Road Bazaar. It’s a great place to purchases some local treats, collect souvenirs or just soak up the vibrant colours. Don’t snack too much, as we have a special lunch coming up and by now, we know that mealtimes in Uzbekistan are no small feat! Special Experience Indulge in an authentic culinary experience at a local Rahman master’s house. Witness the art of '‘Plov'’ preparation and delight in the creations for lunch. Watch as local ingredients are layered to create Uzbekistan’s beloved national dish. Then, once it’s ready we’ll sit down together and savour this delicious, flavour-packed rice meal. On our return to Samarkand, the rest of the day is free for you to explore this fascinating city at your own pace.

Today you will have the day to yourself to unwind and further discover Samarkand at your own pace. Take a leisurely stroll along Samarkand’s wide boulevards, unwind in a cozy chaykhana (teahouse) with a pot of fragrant Uzbek tea. Craving a treat? Pop into a local bakery for delicious, sweet pastries. Browse the bustling bazaar again for those irresistible, last-minute bargains. Or wander through the city’s charming neighbourhoods and parks, soaking up the rhythms of daily life away from the main tourist sites. Textile enthusiasts may enjoy a visit to the Happy Bird Art Gallery, which showcases folk art, hosts exhibitions and offers locally made crafts for sale. If relaxation is what you’re after, treat yourself to a soothing session at a traditional hammam for an authentic Central Asian bathhouse experience. The day is yours to enjoy as you wish. This evening, we hop aboard Uzbekistan’s high-speed bullet train, an experience in itself. Glide through the countryside in comfort and style, swapping stories and photos with fellow travellers or just gazing out at the shifting landscapes outside your window. We arrive in the pulsating capital of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, later in the evening and check into our hotel for a good evening’s rest before embarking on yet another adventure! Your train travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

Today, get ready for a whirlwind tour through the heart of Uzbekistan’s capital, Tashkent. We’ll begin our exploration in the enchanting Old Town, where ancient charm meets vibrant city life. Marvel at the intricate beauty of the Barak-Khan Madrasah and admire the Tillya Sheikh Mosque, home to a precious treasure, a rare Koran said to date all the way back to the 7th century. Next, we’ll follow the mouthwatering aroma to the iconic Chorsu Bazaar. This lively marketplace is a kaleidoscope of colours, with bustling stalls overflowing with fragrant spices, farm-fresh produce and quirky souvenirs. Watch the magic unfold as master bakers create traditional Uzbek round breads called lepeshka, made fresh right before our eyes (and yes, you’ll want to taste one.) We’ll also make our way to Amir Temur Square to soak in the pulse of modern Tashkent before descending into the city’s famous metro, which is an absolute must-see! Think opulent chandeliers, colourful mosaics and station after station that feels more like a museum than public transport. Opened in 1977, the Tashkent Metro is a pure Soviet-era labyrinth of underground grandeur. Later this afternoon, the city is yours to explore. There are plenty of museums on offer for you to visit — the Tashkent Museum of Railway, the only one of its kind in Uzbekistan, or the Art Gallery of Uzbekistan which houses a wide variety of contemporary art from some of the country’s leading artists. Alternatively, sit back and relax in one of the many cafes or bars dotted around the capital.

After breakfast, it’s time to jet off on our next grand adventure to Dushanbe, the vibrant capital of Tajikistan. Soak up those aerial views as we fly into this city where ancient history and modern flair meet amidst snow-capped peaks. This immaculate city boasts European and Soviet-inspired aesthetics, adorned with tree-lined boulevards, numerous parks and public squares. It also proudly serves as the epicentre for Tajikistan’s finance, politics, administration and culture. Upon arrival, our friendly local guide and coach will be ready and waiting to whisk us into the centre of Dushanbe. First stop? The monument of Ismoili Somoni, a towering tribute to the founder of the Tajik nation — you’ll want your camera handy for this one. Next, we’ll wander through the leafy pathways of Rudaki Park, a favourite hangout for locals, poets and rose lovers alike. Next, we’ll make our way to the Cultural Palace “Kohi Navruz.” Prepare to be wowed by spectacular woodcarving, intricate mosaics and elaborate paintings. This is Tajik artistry at its absolute best! Of course, all that exploring will work up an appetite, so we’ll pause for a delicious local lunch. Then it's off to the National Museum of Antiquities, where we’ll come face-to-face with the incredible reclining Buddha. Prepare to be amazed by this ancient masterpiece and the museum’s treasure trove of artifacts. Your flight time will be approximately 1 hour.

After a hearty breakfast, we’re heading west out of Dushanbe to the town of Hisor. Picture rolling hills and scenic mountain views as we make our way to this historic spot. Awaiting us is the incredible Hisor Fortress, a castle that’s stood watch for over 2,500 years! An open-air museum, this formidable stronghold, which has witnessed countless epochs, bears the marks of numerous renovations and meticulous restorations over the ages. Imagine bustling marketplace scenes as we explore the towering gates, battered ramparts and secret passageways — it’s like stepping straight into a page of history. After getting our fill of legendary tales, we head back to Dushanbe just in time for lunch at a cozy local restaurant to sample more tasty Tajik flavours. With appetites satisfied, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy Dushanbe however you please. Stroll leafy boulevards lined with bold street art and shops, unwind in a lively cafe or explore the Botanical Garden, an oasis in the city centre that is home to a variety of birdlife. Today involves approximately 2-3 hours of walking.

Our journey today will span a considerable distance! Buckle up as we wind our way through jaw-dropping mountain passes, where every turn reveals another stunning view. Our lunch stop is in Istaravshan, a small city nestled in the foothills of the Turkistan Range. Here, we’ll visit the local Bazaar, where we observe skilled blacksmiths crafting items such as knives and horseshoes, just as their ancestors did centuries ago. Snap a photo or maybe pick up a handmade souvenir to remember this living tradition. After stretching our legs (and filling our stomachs), it’s onward to Khujand, where modern city lights meet ancient history. Conquered by Alexander the Great himself, Khujand was once known as Alexandria Eschate, a “last outpost” where empires clashed, cultures mingled, and legends were born. Fast-forward to today, and you’ll find a vibrant northwestern Tajik hub, buzzing with industries such as silk and cotton, and the gateway to the fertile Fergana Valley. The evening is yours to explore, relax, or dive into the local scenery of Khujand. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.

This morning we’re diving into Khujand, one of Central Asia’s oldest gems along the great Silk Road. Our exploration begins at Kamoli Khujandi Square, where the city’s vibrant spirit comes alive. Next up is the bustling Khujand Bazaar, one of Tajikistan’s largest and liveliest. Wander aisles piled high with colourful spices, fresh produce and local goodies. We’ll also explore the storied walls of Timur Malik Fortress and pay our respects at the peaceful Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin. History lovers, get ready for the fascinating Historical Sughd Museum, where treasures and tales from Khujand’s long, colourful past await. But the showstopper is the Arbob Cultural Palace, an opulent 1950s wonder inspired by the Russian Tsar’s Winter Palace at Peterhof. Once headquarters for a Soviet collective farm, today it’s a dazzling slice of history you won’t want to miss. After our last Tajik lunch, it’s time to wave goodbye to Tajikistan as we make our way to the Oybek border to mark our entry back into Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital. Get excited for a unique blend of museums, modern chic, medieval marvels and Soviet-era architecture. With roots stretching all the way back to the 2nd century, Tashkent welcomes us to the next chapter of our Silk Road odyssey. On arrival to our hotel, the evening is at leisure for you to rest and relax. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Take it slow this morning. Sleep in, linger over a last cup of tea, or maybe treat yourself to a final wander around Tashkent’s charming streets. This is your morning to do as you please before our next Central Asian chapter begins. This afternoon, we bid farewell to Uzbekistan and take to the skies for our next adventure to Kyrgyzstan! We’ll board our flight to Bishkek, the lively capital. Nestled at the foot of snow-capped mountains and surrounded by sweeping green valleys, Bishkek is where urban energy meets breathtaking nature. But don’t let those mountain views fool you! Bishkek’s spirit is anything but sleepy. It’s full of post-Soviet architecture and infrastructure, lively cafes and an arts scene that’s as fresh as the mountain air. Once we land and check in at our hotel, let Bishkek work its magic. Unwind, explore, or simply savour the first taste of Kyrgyz hospitality. With mountain peaks on the horizon and adventure just beginning, this fourth Stan is ready to wow us! Your flight time will be approximately 1 hour.

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast, as today we're diving straight into the wonders of Bishkek. Our sightseeing starts at Philharmonic Square, where the mighty Manas Monument proudly honours the national hero at the heart of every epic Kyrgyz tale. Next, we stroll over to the centre of it all — Ala Too Square. Feel the city’s pulse as we admire the Soviet-style government buildings lining this vibrant plaza. We'll wander through history as we make our way to the Old Square, where Parliament House keeps watch and Lenin’s Monument takes us back to an earlier era. Our next stop is leafy Oak Park, home to an open-air sculpture gallery that’s a whimsical feast for the eyes. Created for the 1984 ‘All Union Sculptors Symposium’ in Bishkek, this sculpture garden celebrates “Work and Peace” and commemorates 60 years of Kyrgyzstan joining the Soviet Union. Then it’s on to Victory Square, where a yurt-inspired monument stands in tribute to the 40th anniversary of the end of World War II. But the adventure doesn’t stop there! As we leave the city and journey onward, the landscapes get bigger and bolder. Marvel at the ancient Burana Tower, gasp at the dramatic Boom Canyon, and soak in panoramic views atop the breathtaking Dolon Pass — nature’s playground at its wildest. Special Experience Enjoy a delicious home-cooked feast of local specialties in the backyard of a friendly family’s home in a rural village. We continue to our last destination for the day, located in the scenic Chong-Kemin Valley. Known as one of Kyrgyzstan’s most beautiful locations, it is popular with those who love the outdoors. Brimming with diverse flora and fauna, it’s a truly special place to explore. After checking in to our guesthouse, the rest of the day is yours at leisure. You can choose to participate in one of the activities the guesthouse runs (at your own expense) or simply sit back and unwind in this gorgeous rural setting. Then, gather around for a mouthwatering home-cooked Kyrgyz feast — your taste buds are in for a real treat tonight! Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

After breakfast our journey takes us to Kochkor, where rich tradition thrives in the mountain air. Our first stop is the Altyn Kol Women's Handicraft Workshop. Here, talented local artisans will let you in on the secrets of Kyrgyz felt making. Watch as wool gets skilfully transformed into rugs, hats and colourful crafts. Next, we’re off to the local bazaar. Picture an explosion of colour and sound as we wander rows of handmade Kyrgyz treasures, from handwoven bags, shimmering jewellery and unique souvenirs just waiting to come home with you. Then it’s time to hit the road again toward Naryn, our gateway to awe-inspiring mountains and deep, winding valleys. The landscapes here are incredibly dramatic with snow-capped peaks, vast green valleys and the occasional yurt dotted in the background. After this scenic drive, we’ll swing by the Central Mosque of Naryn — a tranquil masterpiece where local culture and architecture shine. Finally, we check into our hotel and savour a well-deserved dinner. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Today we’re travelling through the jaw-dropping At-Bashi Valley, where every turn reveals postcard-perfect scenery and epic mountain views. As we roll through this wild landscape, our first stop is Koshoy Korgon fortress. Picture ancient stone walls that once guarded powerful rulers during the 12th century. This site’s roots stretch all the way back to the 8th century, making it a true time traveller’s paradise! Up next, we head into the dramatic Kara-Koyun Gorge, where the legendary Tash Rabat awaits. This remarkably preserved 15th century stone caravanserai was once a bustling Silk Road resting spot for merchants, camels and adventurers alike. Imagine the swirl of languages, colourful goods and epic tales traded within these walls — history comes to life all around us. Take a stroll through the scenic gorge, breathe in the crisp mountain air and let the stories of ancient travellers spark your imagination. Then, settle in for a lunch, with each bite a delicious tribute to Kyrgyz hospitality in this unforgettable setting. We’ll return to our hotel in the late afternoon, giving you the rest of the day free to relax, explore, or simply dream about your Silk Road adventures! Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Today, prepare for a true Kyrgyzstan wow moment as we venture to Lake Issyk-Kul. Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Tian Shan,” this high-altitude alpine lake shimmers like a jewel amidst snow-capped peaks and valleys. It’s one of the world’s largest and deepest mountain lakes, with water that’s so pristine and blue. All around, you’ll spot charming lakeside villages and landscapes straight out of a brochure. We’re taking the scenic route along the southern shore — a feast for your eyes and your camera. Next, it’s hands-on fun in Kyzyl Tuu Village, where you’ll roll up your sleeves for a yurt-building workshop. Learn how these ingenious nomadic homes are constructed from wooden frames and felt, and how they are furnished in a way that they can then be packed up and moved onto a new location. Special Experience Discover the rich cultural heritage of Kyzyl Tuu Village during a yurt-building workshop, where you'll gain insight into traditional nomadic lifestyles. We then head to Skazka Canyon, literally translating to “Fairytale Canyon”. And as we arrive, we’ll see that this natural marvel certainly lives up to its name. Here, stunning rock formations rise dramatically from the earth, creating a playground of wild shapes and burnt-ochre colours just waiting to be explored. Tonight, soak up the spirit of the nomads in a lakeside yurt camp. Like most yurt camps in Kyrgyzstan, we will be provided with the essentials, electricity for lighting and heating, western toilets and outdoor showers with hot water. Please note facilities will be shared. Single bookings will be required to share for one night, when staying overnight in the Yurt camp. It will be based on twin share (2 people) per Yurt. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours. Today involves approximately 1-2 hours of walking over rock formations and uneven ground, in a canyon.

Wake up to a true Kyrgyz experience — breakfast in your lakeside yurt camp, with fresh mountain air and a view that’s hard to beat! Next, get ready for something truly special as we meet with a Berkutchi, or Golden Eagle Hunter. Watch in awe as this skilled owner and his majestic bird demonstrate the ancient art of eagle hunting right before our eyes. It’s a thrill you’ll be talking about for ages! Our next stop is Djety Oguz, also spelled as Jety-Oguz, a picturesque valley and rock formation. This natural wonder is renowned for its stunning red sandstone cliffs, which have unique shapes and vibrant colours. The name ‘Djety Oguz’ translates to ‘Seven Bulls’ in Kyrgyz, and it is named after the seven distinctive rock formations that resemble a row of charging bulls. Once we arrive in Karakol, it’s time for a city tour. Marvel at the charming old wooden Holy Trinity Orthodox Church and the vibrant Dungan Mosque, a masterpiece of Chinese Muslim architecture. Then, check into our hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

We have an early start this morning, travelling to the remote border crossing between Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. We’ll cross the border into our final Stan making our way to the magnificent Charyn Canyon and its valley of the Castles. Many liken Charyn Canyon to America’s Grand Canyon thanks to its vast, deep dusty orange canyons that stretch out over 150 kilometres, and spectacular rock formations sculpted by wind, water, and time. Here, you can choose to hike down towards the valley floor and climb back up again or soak in the epic views from the canyon rim. Either way, it’s absolutely unforgettable. Almaty, Kazakhstan’s grandest urban hub rolls out the red carpet with a blend of modern glitz and old-world charm, framed by the snow-capped peaks of the Zailiysky Alatau mountains. Towering skyscrapers mingle with elegant 19th century Russian buildings, and the streets are shaded by green parks. From shopping centres that buzz with energy to museums filled with history and culture, Almaty’s got something for everyone. On arrival to our hotel, the evening is at leisure. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking on uneven ground, in a canyon.

Treat yourself to a relaxed morning. Sleep in a bit, grab a leisurely breakfast and get ready to bask in the vibrant energy of Almaty. Our tour begins at the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, a lush green oasis in the heart of the city. Here, solemn monuments and towering trees pay tribute to 28 local heroes from World War II, making it a place bursting with both beauty and history. Next up is a true Almaty showstopper, the Zenkov Cathedral. This candy-coloured marvel is made entirely out of wood (even the nails!) and dazzles with its bright domes and ornate designs. Once a museum and concert hall during Soviet days, it’s now a thriving hub of Russian Orthodox life — you’ll definitely want your camera handy for this one! Scenic vistas continue as we soar above the cityscape on a cable car ride to Kok-Tobe Hill. Prepare to be wowed by panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. On our way back, we’ll indulge our sweet tooth with a visit to a local chocolate shop and trust us, it’s worth it! Enjoy free time this afternoon, whether that means shopping, strolling or relaxing, before capping off an unforgettable journey with a festive group farewell dinner. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.

Get ready for a high-altitude adventure as we visit Medeu, the world’s highest mountain ice-skating complex! Perched dramatically in the hills above Almaty, this iconic rink has seen more spins and speed skaters than you can imagine. Built in 1949, its 10,500 square metres of ice once echoed with cheers before falling silent after the Soviet Union’s collapse. We then take a scenic cable car ride to Chimbulak Mountain Resort, where we can see the ice-skating and Medeu Dam beneath us. This impressive dam is an engineering hero, built to save Almaty from destructive mudflows. Back in the heart of Almaty, we’ll explore the Central State Historical Museum. Here, we’ll feast your eyes on priceless artifacts, ancient relics and stories that bring Kazakh history to vivid life — perfect for one last deep dive into the region’s rich past. Then, let’s savour our final group meal at a vibrant local restaurant — one last hurrah where we can remise on our epic travels through these five fascinating countries. The rest of the afternoon and evening is at leisure for you to take in one last sight, pick up a few souvenirs or begin packing for the journey home.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning, marking the end of our spectacular Central Asia adventure through the 5-Stans. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!

Welcome to Casablanca, Morocco’s largest and most modern city, made famous by the movie of the same name starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. Located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Casablanca is a curious mix of ancient Berber influences and modern European hustle and bustle, plus lots of inviting places to enjoy the nation’s favourite drink — mint tea, of course. Its name, meaning ‘White House’ in Spanish, comes from the brilliant, whitewashed walls of the Old Medina. Wander a little and you’ll spot the elegant French colonial buildings with Moorish arches and Art Deco details. It’s a city that wears its past and present side by side. 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 5:00pm. This evening, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a delicious welcome dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant.

Our day is dedicated to exploring Morocco’s cosmopolitan hub, Casablanca. Originally settled by Berber tribes, Casablanca has witnessed a series of transformations throughout history, including periods of rule by the Phoenicians, Romans and Portuguese. However, it was the French invasion in the 18th century that truly reshaped the city, laying the foundation for its modern identity that we’re familiar with today. After gaining independence in 1956, Casablanca continued to thrive, evolving into Morocco’s commercial and economic capital, retaining its diverse cultural heritage. We’ll explore the busy streets of Casablanca and acquaint ourselves with its European-influenced architecture before visiting the extraordinary Hassan II Mosque. Rising dramatically above the Atlantic Ocean, this remarkable mosque is truly one of the great architectural sights of the Islamic world. Completed in 1993, it is the largest mosque in Morocco and the second largest in the world, with a soaring minaret that stands 210 metres tall. During our visit we’ll step inside to admire the incredible craftsmanship found throughout the mosque, from intricate tilework and carved cedar wood ceilings to vast marble floors and beautifully detailed arches. We’ll also explore the impressive ablutions hall below, where rows of elegant marble fountains were designed for ritual washing before prayer. The scale, beauty and artistry of this space make it just as memorable as the mosque above. We’ll then visit Rick’s Café, a romantic café inspired by the 1942 film ‘Casablanca’. Enjoy some free time here for lunch before we continue our tour to uncover Casablanca’s famous Art Deco architecture. Casablanca’s unique style is called ‘architecture mauresque’ or ‘Moorish architecture’ beautifully blending French Art Deco with Islamic flair. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to explore at your own pace.

This morning, we say goodbye to beautiful Casablanca and travel east to Morocco’s smallest imperial city, Meknes, located in northern-central Morocco. Founded in the 11th century, Meknes is quieter and smaller than other imperial cities but still has the winding narrow Medina streets and grand buildings. On arrival into Meknes, we’ll enjoy an orientation tour of the old city referred to as the ‘Versailles of Morocco’. We begin at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old medina, a bustling maze of narrow streets, home to artisanal shops, traditional markets and historic buildings. We’ll see impressive gates, palaces and gardens built during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century including the magnificent Bab el Mansour Gate. Considered one of the most beautiful gates in Morocco, it is the perfect place for photos while marvelling at its ornate beauty. Special Experience Visit a picturesque winery in Meknes delighting in the scenery while tasting locally produced wines with a delicious lunch. The hillside vineyards and the mild temperature make the Meknes region the most ideal wine-growing area. Moroccan wines often incorporate local grape varietals like Carignan, Grenache and Cinsault. These varieties bring specific characteristics to the wines, such as fruity aromas, balanced tannin structure and great complexity. It's wonderful to experience a different side of Meknes and its surroundings, especially if you appreciate wine and want to explore the emerging wine culture in this region of Morocco. After our visit, we will continue our journey to Fez, one of Morocco’s most enchanting imperial cities, known for its labyrinth of ancient streets, vibrant souks and rich history that has earned it the nickname the country’s cultural and spiritual heart. Upon arrival, we will check in to our beautiful Moroccan riad, which will be our home for the next 3 nights. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Our adventure today takes us to the ancient archaeological site of Volubilis, one of the best-preserved sites in all of Morocco. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Volubilis stands as a lasting testament to the civilisations that once thrived in the region. Its origins trace back to the 3rd century BC when it was first established as a Phoenician settlement, evolving over centuries into a thriving Roman city. Volubilis served as a pivotal administrative city for this part of Roman Africa, responsible for grain production and exports to Rome. During our guided visit, we’ll explore the partially excavated ruins and discover the fascinating stories behind this once flourishing city. Make sure to keep an eye out for the amazing mosaics, still in situ, that Volubilis is famous for, many of which remain beautifully preserved in their original locations. We return back to Fez early this afternoon, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore the city at your own pace. You might choose to wander the endless winding alleys of the medina, soak up the vibrant atmosphere or simply relax at your authentic riad and watch the world go by. Whatever you choose, it will be a wonderfully flexible way to enjoy Fez. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Our day is dedicated to uncovering Morocco’s cultural and spiritual heart, Fez. Founded in the 9th century, Fez is a beautiful labyrinth of narrow laneways, bustling souks and ancient landmarks. This unique city offers visitors a glimpse into Morocco’s captivating past with its centuries-old traditions and historic atmosphere. We’ll begin the day at a scenic viewpoint, where the vast sweep of the old city stretches out before us. From here, you can truly appreciate just how grand and intricate Fez is. After taking in the views, we’ll head to a ceramics workshop. Here, we will learn how the beautiful plates, tagines and mosaics are crafted by hand and the work that goes into producing these intricate wares. Next, we’ll make our way to the famous Medina, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site since 1981. Here, the narrow lanes and colourful traders make for some fantastic photo opportunities. We’ll see the souks with the myriads of craftsmen, the famous tanneries and carpet stalls. Be sure to keep your guide in sight as with over 70km of labyrinthian alleyways you do not want to get lost! Our sightseeing in the Medina includes the Karaouine Mosque and the fountains of Carpenter's Square. The Mosque is one of the oldest of its kind in the western Muslim world, and while non-Muslims cannot enter, we will get a wonderful view from the top of Medersa Attarine when it is open. We’ll also visit the famous old operation tannery, processing the hides of sheep and goat in stone vessels filled with a range of colourful dyes. The vivid colours and distinctive scents are unforgettable and watching the craftsmen at work is a memory that will stay with you and makes for some amazing photos. We will also make a stop at a textiles workshop to see skilled artisans weaving various colourful materials into beautiful pieces. The rest of the evening is at leisure for you to explore or relax. Today involves approximately 4 to 5 hours of walking.

Our drive to Merzouga today takes us past the town of Midelt, situated on the high plains between the Middle Atlas and the High Atlas Mountain ranges. In this market town, the majority of the buildings are sand-coloured, resulting in a beautiful contrast against the imposing mountains that surround the city. Here we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch, before continuing to Merzouga, where we will transfer to 4WD vehicles for our journey to our desert camp accommodation. The town of Merzouga is often referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Sahara’ and is the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. These towering dunes are among the largest in Morocco and measure up to 160 metres high and stretch endlessly across the golden landscape. Deluxe Experience Experience the tranquil beauty of the Sahara Desert, staying in a luxury camp surrounded by breathtaking desertscapes. Located strategically in the middle of the big dunes of the Erg Chebbi Desert, Merzouga Sandy Tents offers an unparalleled desert experience. We enjoy the night under the stars here, having the opportunity to experience a camel ride at sunset and enjoy sunrise from the top of the golden dunes. Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.

Rise early to experience a beautiful sunrise illuminating the golden sands of the Sahara. With your tent surrounded by dunes, you will not need to walk far to enjoy this truly ethereal experience. Make sure you bring your camera with you, as this is an experience you’ll want to remember forever! After breakfast, we’ll depart in 4WD jeeps, travelling deeper into the Sahara Desert to explore the surrounding landscapes and communities. Special Experience Travel to Khamlia, a small desert village, enjoying Moroccan tea and Gnaoua music with local nomads. We’ll enjoy a cup of Moroccan mint tea in a traditional home setting with local Gnaoua music as entertainment. Gnaoua music (or Gnawa music as it is also known) is quite a show, being a combination of Berber, Sufi and sub-Saharan African religious songs and rhythms combined with acrobatic dancing. Tonight, we will catch the beautiful sun as it sets over the desertscape surrounding our boutique hotel riad. A totally special and mesmerising sight! Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

This morning we’ll say goodbye to the stunning Sahara Desert and drive through the Dades Valley with its majestic sand-coloured castles and incredible rock formations that are known as ‘monkey toes’. The route through Dades Valley is often referred to as ‘the Road of One Thousand Kasbahs’, and it’s on this road that we’ll be able to view a vast valley dotted with hundreds of small oases and ancient fortifications. We continue our journey through Todgha Gorge, a gorgeous canyon on the road to Skoura. Here, we will have some time to walk through the gorge, enjoying its beauty and taking some amazing photos. In Skoura, we’ll enjoy lunch with a local Berber family, gaining real insight into their fascinating culture. The Berber’s are an indigenous ethnic group native to north Africa, renowned for their distinct culture, language and rich history, and their presence in Morocco dates back thousands of years. They are traditionally nomads, and still today, many Berber tribes maintain their nomadic lifestyle. Lastly, we make our way to Ouarzazate. Often called the ‘Door of the Desert’, this fortified city is nestled amid the Atlas Mountains and its caramel-coloured buildings blend almost seamlessly into the desert’s golden sand. Ouarzazate is also a noted film-making location with films such as Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy, Gladiator and Kingdom of Heaven shot here. On arrival in Ouarzazate, the evening is ours to spend at leisure. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

Our day is dedicated to exploring Ouarzazate and the beautiful Taourirt Kasbah. Among one of the most captivating Kasbahs in Morocco, the Taourirt Kasbah’s rich history dates all the way back to the French departure in 1953. Here, we’ll immerse ourselves in the cinematic legacies of the Ouarzazate Kasbahs, where the Moroccan film industry thrived in the post-French era. We’ll also discover the allure of the famous Atlas Studios, located just 5-kilometres west of Ouarzazate. This incredible location boasts the title of the world’s largest film studio by acreage! Nestled amid the desert and mountains, this amazing studio has preserved the sets from renowned productions including Gladiator and Game of Thrones, making it a must-visit destination when in the region. We’ll return to Ouarzazate in the early afternoon, where you’ll have the remainder of the day at your leisure to explore this beautiful town some more or simply to relax.

Saying goodbye to the beautiful city of Ouarzazate, we’ll make our way to the picturesque, fortified Berber village or ‘ksar’ of Aït Benhaddou. This traditional mudbrick city (that dates back to the 11th century) is on the UNESCO World Heritage-list and is a striking example of the architecture found across southern Morocco. This iconic village and landscape has been immortalised in films including Lawrence of Arabia, The Living Daylights, The Mummy and Gladiator. Here, we will spend time walking its maze of winding streets until reaching a fortified granary at the top which provides an amazing view of the valley. We then enjoy a delicious lunch in the Kasbah. We’ll continue our journey to the magical ‘Rose City’ of Marrakesh. One of the four Imperial Cities of Morocco, Marrakesh was founded in the 11th century by the Almoravid Berber dynasty. It soon became the capital of the Islamic Empire that stretched as far as Spain and western Africa. During the rule of Yousef Ben Tachfine, Marrakesh was blessed with fine gardens, palaces, mosques and legendary walls, and was influenced by the Almoravid conquest of southern Spain. Morocco was colonised by the French in the 20th century and the strong influences from these countries can be felt today. On arrival, we’ll enjoy the evening at leisure. Today involves approximately 2 to 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

The red royal city of Marrakesh is the real heartbeat of Morocco, set within sight of the snowy peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. Our entire day is dedicated to seeing some of the city’s most iconic and beautiful sites. We will visit the elegant Bahia Palace, a 19th century masterpiece built for a powerful vizier and designed to showcase Morocco’s finest craftsmanship. As we wander its peaceful courtyards, intricate mosaics and carved cedar ceilings, we will marvel at the blend of Islamic and Moroccan design. Afterward, we will admire the towering Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakesh’s most famous landmark, whose graceful minaret rises 77 metres above the city and has guided travellers for centuries, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s rich architectural heritage. We then head to Marrakesh’s main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa. Considered one of the most famous squares in Africa, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site serves as the epicentre of the city where locals and visitors alike come to experience its lively atmosphere. Be sure to also visit here at night when the square really comes alive! We’ll also explore Melah, the city’s old Jewish Quarter. Special Experience We’ll join a cooking class to discover the art of traditional Moroccan cuisine, followed by lunch featuring the dishes we’ve prepared. Our last sightseeing stop is a visit to the enchanting Jardin Marjorelle, gifted to the city by famous French fashion designer, Yves Saint Laurent. We’ll explore the vivid cobalt-blue buildings, fountains and exotic plants, enjoying the serene atmosphere and fragrant air. We’ll return to our hotel for some time at leisure, and to freshen up before our wonderful dinner experience. Deluxe Experience Delight in a private chef’s table experience at the renowned Azalai Uran Souk restaurant. At Chef FZ ’s Private Table, dining is an intimate affair, best shared among a select few. Enter an exclusive world, where the chef’s creativity and passion for cooking awaits. Nestled in an authentic setting, you’ll experience the magic up close as FZ creates a culinary symphony before your eyes. Prepare to be captivated by the chef’s menu, a savoury feast that rivals Michelin-starred experiences. Each meticulously crafted dish tells a story, tantalizing both the palate and the imagination. From delicate appetizers to beautifully presented dishes, every step is a testament to Chef FZ 's mastery and passion for culinary perfection. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking.

Our morning will be all about slowing down the pace. Why not return to the medina for some great shopping opportunities. Alternatively, you might choose to relax by the pool with a good book, enjoy a quiet stroll through the gardens, or simply find a comfortable spot to sit and take it all in. Later this afternoon, we’ll come together to indulge in a grand high tea experience. Deluxe Experience Delight your taste buds in a decadent high tea at the enchanting Royal Mansour Marrakesh. Step into the charming sanctuary of Royal Mansour Marrakesh, where the world is put on hold for a moment. We’ll enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea in the beautiful La Grande Brasserie restaurant, where we will delight in delicious sweet and savoury snacks, freshly squeezed juices and tea and coffee. A blissful afternoon awaits us! Optional Excursion Hot Air Balloon Ride. Embark on an unforgettable early morning journey, drifting above the enchanting landscapes of Morocco as the sun stretches its first rays over the endless ochre dunes and the Atlas Mountains unfold beneath you. Includes return transfers, a flight of approx. 60 minutes, and a Berber breakfast. From Euro 230pp (minimum 2 people)

Today we depart the idyllic Marrakesh and make our way back to the beautiful Casablanca. We’ll have the afternoon at leisure for you to wander the city at your own pace, before enjoying a lovely group farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our new friends and to mesmerising Morocco. We hope you leave with the memories of a lifetime.

We say a warm ‘ahlan wa sahlan’ to Casablanca, Morocco’s largest and most modern city. Casablanca’s name, translating easily to ‘White House’ in Spanish was inspired by the sparkling, white-washed buildings of the Old Medina. It’s the perfect starting point for our adventure through the sights and sounds of this lively country. Hugging the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean, the port city of Casablanca acts as the commercial hub of western Morocco. Despite its growing modernity, Casablanca has managed to retain much of its traditional flair. The city’s French colonial legacy is evident throughout, with areas of the town featuring Mauresque architecture, Moorish motifs and European art deco designs — a truly fascinating mix awaits us. 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 4:00pm. This evening we’ll meet our fellow travellers and Tour Director for a welcome drink.

A full day exploring the busy streets of Casablanca awaits us today. We begin our sightseeing by acquainting ourselves with the city’s European-influenced architecture along the Aïn Diab Esplanade. Lined with tall palm trees and bursting with vibrancy, this beach front promenade is popular with local residents and tourists alike. We’ll then head to the Central Market, one of the most famed urban markets in Morocco. Highly regarded as one of Casablanca’s hidden gems, here we’ll take a peep into local life as vendors and buyers go about their day. Surrounded by colourful produce, fragrant spices and lively sounds, we’ll soak up the atmosphere and discover authentic Moroccan flavours. Up next on our agenda is the extraordinary Hassan II Mosque. Rising dramatically above the Atlantic Ocean, this remarkable mosque is truly one of the great architectural sights of the Islamic world. Completed in 1993, it is the largest mosque in Morocco and the second largest in the world, with a soaring minaret that stands 210 metres tall. During our visit we’ll step inside to admire the incredible craftsmanship found throughout the mosque, from intricate tilework and carved cedar wood ceilings to vast marble floors and beautifully detailed arches. We’ll also explore the impressive ablutions hall below, where rows of elegant marble fountains were designed for ritual washing before prayer. The scale, beauty and artistry of this space make it just as memorable as the mosque above. After some free time for lunch, we’ll make our way to the Quartier Habous. Also known as Nouvelle Medina (New Medina), it was built in the 1930s by the French with the aim to solve a housing crisis in the city. What we’re left with today is a bustling medina that features a picturesque mix of Moroccan and European architectural styles. We’ll stroll its tidy streets and browse its lovely little shops. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group welcome dinner at a typical Moroccan restaurant. Bring your appetite! Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking.

This morning, we’ll leave the buzz of Casablanca behind and travel west along the Atlantic coast towards the seaside town of Essaouira. Once known as Mogador, this historic port carries layers of Portuguese influence and later French design. In the 18th century, the city was strengthened by a French architect inspired by Vauban, which explains the impressive, fortified walls and the unusually orderly layout we’ll notice as we arrive. It is a refreshing contrast to the winding medinas in other parts of the country. As we approach, the salty sea air and relaxed pace will greet us. Essaouira has long attracted artists, musicians and free spirits, drawn by its easy-going atmosphere. That creative energy still lingers in the streets today. Once settled, the rest of the day will be at leisure. We’ll have time to stroll along the ramparts overlooking the Atlantic, wander through the white and blue medina or relax at a seaside café with a glass of mint tea. This will be our chance to ease into the rhythm of the coast and simply enjoy being here. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

After breakfast, we’ll experience Essaouira from a more local perspective. Our morning begins at the bustling port, where bright blue fishing boats return with the day’s catch. The quays come alive as fishermen unload crates of sardines and other fresh seafood while fishmongers call out to eager buyers. It’s one of the most animated spots in town and a spectacle not to be missed! We’ll then pass through the historic Door of the Navy, once the main link between the city and its port. Built in the year 1184 of the Hegira (from the Islamic calendar that begins in AD 622), this striking gateway reflects centuries of layered history. Its triangular pediment and twin columns hint at European influence, while its purpose reminds us of Essaouira’s importance as a coastal trading hub. From there, we’ll stroll along the Skala toward Place Moulay el Hassan. The former ammunition warehouses lining the ramparts have been transformed into artisan workshops, where skilled craftsmen create intricate inlaid wood pieces by hand. Watching them at work offers a wonderful glimpse into traditions still alive today. The afternoon will be free to explore further, perhaps browsing the medina’s hidden corners or lingering by the sea, now feeling fully acquainted with this delightful coastal town. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking.

You may be surprised to hear Morocco is the second-largest wine producer in Africa! Introduced centuries ago and later developed during the French period, vineyards quietly thrive in various parts of the country, and today we’ll pause to enjoy the fruits of this tradition. Special Experience Visit a picturesque winery near Essaouira delighting in the scenery while tasting locally produced wines with a delicious lunch. At Domaine du Val d’Argan, we’ll take our time enjoying the peaceful surroundings while tasting wines that blend French expertise with the distinctive flavours of the Essaouira region. It's wonderful to experience a different side of Essaouira and its surroundings, especially if you appreciate wine and want to explore the emerging wine culture in this region of Morocco. After our delicious lunch, we continue towards the magical ‘Rose City’ of Marrakesh. Founded in the 11th century by the Almoravid Berber dynasty, Marrakesh quickly became the capital of a vast empire reaching Spain and West Africa. Under the rule of Yousef Ben Tachfine, the city flourished with elegant gardens, grand palaces, beautiful mosques and its legendary protective walls. Later, during the French colonisation in the 20th century, another layer of style and architecture was introduced, elements of which can still be seen today. On arrival, we’ll check in to our authentic riad which will be our home for the next three nights. Tonight, we’ll have the chance to enjoy a real taste of Morocco at dinner, complete with dancers and musicians in a local restaurant. We will also experience the atmosphere of Marrakesh’s main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, passing through a wondrous mix of food, music and entertainment as we soak up the energy of this lively city. Jemaa el-Fnaa has been Marrakesh’s vibrant heart for centuries, once a site for public gatherings, today it pulses with food stalls, musicians and storytellers. By night, the square transforms into a lively festival of performers and open-air cafés, capturing the city’s energy and eclectic spirit. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

The red royal city of Marrakesh is the real heartbeat of Morocco, set within sight of the snowy peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. Our entire day is dedicated to seeing some of the city’s most iconic and beautiful sites. First, we visit the 16th century monument site of the Saadian Tombs which remained sealed until 1917 when they were rediscovered. Viewing the ornately decorated mausoleums, we’ll be captivated by the intricate carvings, colourful tiles and Arabic inscriptions while learning about the fascinating Saadian dynasty. We’ll then continue to the aristocratic Bahia Palace, a 19th century masterpiece built for a powerful vizier and designed to showcase Morocco’s finest craftsmanship. As we wander its peaceful courtyards, intricate mosaics and carved cedar ceilings, we will marvel at the blend of Islamic and Moroccan design. Afterwards, we will admire the towering Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakesh’s most famous landmark, whose graceful minaret rises 77 metres above the city and has guided travellers for centuries, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s rich architectural heritage. Our last stop is a visit to the enchanting Jardin Marjorelle, gifted to the city by famous French fashion designer, Yves Saint Laurent. We’ll explore the vivid cobalt-blue buildings, fountains and exotic plants, enjoying the serene atmosphere and fragrant air. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking.

Enjoy a late start to the morning before departing for our wonderful culinary experience today. Moroccan cuisine is a delicious reflection of the country’s history and diverse culture, blending fruits like apricots, dates and raisins with nuts and a fragrant mix of spices including cumin, coriander, saffron, cinnamon, ginger, paprika and turmeric. Special Experience We’ll join a cooking class to discover the art of traditional Moroccan cuisine, followed by lunch featuring the dishes we’ve prepared. Our expert chef will guide us through each step, showing how to blend spices, prepare fresh ingredients and create the flavours that make Moroccan food so memorable. As we cook, we’ll hear the stories behind the dishes, taste as we go, and maybe even share a laugh or two with our fellow travellers. Once our culinary creations are ready, we’ll sit down together to enjoy a well-earned lunch of aromatic tagines, freshly baked breads, fragrant salads and refreshing mint tea. After lunch, we’ll continue the adventure in a very different way. Sidecars have been a playful and stylish way to explore cities since the early 20th century, and here in Marrakesh they offer a unique perspective on the bustling streets and historic quarters. Special Experience Take to the streets of Marrakesh by sidecar for a unique experience. With open air panoramic views, this is an unforgettable way to absorb the city’s beauty. After our thrilling adventure, the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Why not return to Jemma el-Fnaa to sample some of the delicious food on offer? Optional Excursion Hot Air Balloon Ride. Embark on an unforgettable early morning journey, drifting above the enchanting landscapes of Morocco as the sun stretches its first rays over the endless ochre dunes and the Atlas Mountains unfold beneath you. Includes return transfers, a flight of approx. 60 minutes, and a Berber breakfast. From Euro 230pp (minimum 2 people)

This morning, we will make our way through the scenic Atlas Mountains and along the winding Tizin’Tichka Pass, the highest major mountain pass in Morocco at over 2,200 metres above sea level. Built during the French Protectorate in the 1930s, this remarkable road once connected Marrakesh to the Sahara trade routes. As we follow its curves, we will enjoy sweeping views of rugged peaks, tiny Berber villages clinging to the hillsides, and terraced fields that have sustained families for generations. We will continue on to the picturesque, fortified village of Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site built from earth and straw. This striking example of southern Moroccan architecture has stood for centuries and has appeared in films such as Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator. We will wander through its narrow lanes and climb to the top of the kasbah for beautiful views across the desert plains. Next, we will head to Ouarzazate, often called the Gateway to the Sahara and home to Morocco’s famous film studios. After exploring the grand Kasbah Taourirt with its sunbaked walls and intricate interiors, we will continue on to Skoura, a peaceful oasis known for its palm groves and historic kasbahs. Today involves approximately 2 to 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

Skoura has long been an important stop along old caravan routes and life here still revolves around its remarkable palm groves. We will stroll beneath what locals proudly call the “thousand palms,” though there are in fact many more. These date palms are nourished by a traditional irrigation system known as khettara, an ingenious network of underground channels that has carried water to the oasis for centuries. Next, we will visit the beautiful 17th century Amridil Kasbah, one of the best preserved in Morocco. So iconic, that this kasbah appears on the country’s 50 dirham bank note. Its wonderfully authentic earthen architecture has also attracted filmmakers, including the classic film ‘The Man Who Would Be King’. As we explore its towers and passageways, it will feel like stepping into another era. After some free time for lunch, we will try our hand at calligraphy using the traditional reed pen, known as a qalam. Here, our teacher will guide us through the mesmerizing curves of Arabic script and we will have the chance to create our own ink masterpiece. Later this evening, we will gather for a local dinner, ending our cultural day with good food and good company.

We depart Skoura this morning and make our way through the stunning Dades Valley near Boumalne. This valley is famous for its striking red cliffs, winding gorges and scattered ancient kasbahs that hint at centuries of desert life. As we drive, we will pass through Tinghir, a gateway to the magnificent Todgha Gorge. Here, we will have some time to walk through the gorge, enjoying its beauty and taking some amazing photos. We continue through Rissani, once a thriving centre for Saharan trade and the historical heart of the Tafilalt region. These towns offer a glimpse into Morocco’s rich caravan history and the daily life of desert communities. By afternoon, we will arrive in Merzouga, our home for the next few days, set beside the sweeping Erg Chebbi dunes, the largest in Morocco. Merzouga has long been home to nomadic tribes and desert traders, and its golden sands rise dramatically from the edge of the village, creating a landscape that feels almost timeless. We will hop into our 4 wheel drives and head out to our desert camp, where desert life awaits us. Special Experience Immerse yourself in the serenity of desert life, spending a night in a deluxe camp nestled in the dunes of the Sahara Desert. Whilst staying overnight in the desert camp, we will be able to take in spectacular views of the natural landscape as the sun sets over the golden slopes. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.

Rise early to experience a beautiful sunrise illuminating the golden sands of the Sahara. With your tent surrounded by dunes, you will not need to walk far to enjoy this truly ethereal experience. Marvel at the changing colours of the morning as the sun rises over the dunes, before returning for breakfast. After breakfast we depart in a 4WD for Khamlia, a small desert village, where we’ll enjoy a cup of Moroccan tea in a traditional home setting with local Gnaoua music as entertainment. Gnaoua music (or Gnawa music, as it is also known) is quite a show, being a combination of Berber, Sufi and sub-Saharan African religious songs and rhythms with acrobatic dancing. We’ll also visit the ancient mines in Mamphis and peek into the world of miners who have shaped this land for generations. From there, we’ll continue to the oasis of Tissirdmine for lunch amongst the palms. Surrounded by swaying date trees, we enjoy our meal. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to relax and enjoy the Kasbah. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

This morning, we cross the desert again and make our way to the small village of Midelt, driving through the spectacular wooded slopes of the Middle Atlas Mountains. Midelt is a market town and former French administrative post and is also one of Morocco's principal cities for the mining of several minerals. The town is also famous for its apple orchards, which produce much of the region’s fruit. Here, we’ll stop and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, sit back and enjoy the mountainous scenery this afternoon as we continue to Fez, one of the oldest Imperial Cities. Fez is also a great place to purchase beautifully decorated ceramics, make sure you barter though! Fez is arguably the symbolic heart of Morocco, set in the gentle rolling countryside of the mid Atlas Mountains. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina of Fez el-Bali (old Fez) is one of the largest living medieval cities in the world. Its gates, walls and narrow winding streets are magnificent and full of history waiting to be explored. Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.

Our day is dedicated to uncovering Morocco’s cultural and spiritual heart, Fez. Founded in the 9th century, Fez is a beautiful labyrinth of narrow laneways, bustling souks and ancient landmarks. This unique city offers visitors a glimpse into Morocco’s captivating past with its centuries-old traditions and historic atmosphere. We’ll begin the day at a scenic viewpoint, where the vast sweep of the old city stretches out before us. From here, you can truly appreciate just how grand and intricate Fez is. After taking in the views, we’ll head to a ceramics workshop. Here, we will learn how the beautiful plates, tagines and mosaics are crafted by hand and the work that goes into producing these intricate wares. Next, we’ll make our way to the famous Medina, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site since 1981. Here, the narrow lanes and colourful traders make for some fantastic photo opportunities. We see the souks with the myriads of craftsmen, the famous tanneries and carpet stalls. Be sure to keep your guide in sight as with over 70km of labyrinthian alleyways you do not want to get lost! Our sightseeing in the Medina includes the Karaouine Mosque and the fountains of Carpenter's Square. The Mosque is one of the oldest of its kind in the western Muslim world, and while non-Muslims cannot enter, we will get a wonderful view from the top of Medersa Attarine when it is open. We’ll also visit the famous old operation tannery, processing the hides of sheep and goat in stone vessels filled with a range of colourful dyes. The vivid colours and distinctive scents are unforgettable and watching the craftsmen at work is a memory that will stay with you and makes for some amazing photos. We will also make a stop at a textiles workshop to see skilled artisans weaving various colourful materials into beautiful pieces. The rest of the evening is at leisure for you to explore or relax. Today involves approximately 4 to 5 hours of walking.

From Fez we head north to Morocco’s smallest imperial city, Meknes, founded in the 11th century. Quieter and more relaxed than Fez, Meknes still has the winding narrow Medina streets and grand buildings of an imperial city. Here, we’ll enjoy an orientation tour of the old city known as the ‘Versailles of Morocco’ and see the magnificent Bab el Mansour Gate and the lively old Medina. From Meknes, we will continue to the ancient archaeological site of Volubilis. This partly excavated Roman city began as a Phoenician settlement in the 3rd century BC and later became a central hub for grain production and trade to Rome. Walking among the preserved mosaics, grand arches and crumbling columns, we will have plenty of time to reflect on life in this remarkable city, far removed from the bustle of modern Morocco. Make sure to keep an eye out for the amazing mosaics, still in situ, that Volubilis is famous for, many of which remain beautifully preserved in their original locations. After a guided tour, we return to Fez in the evening, bringing back memories of history, grandeur and a very different side of Morocco. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

After a morning at leisure, we travel to Chefchaouen, undoubtedly one of the prettiest gems in all of Morocco. Tucked away in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen looks like it’s been washed in every shade of blue imaginable and wandering the streets here is like stepping into a real-life watercolour painting where every alley is a new shade of sapphire, cobalt or periwinkle. Founded in the 15th century by Moulay Ali Ben Rachid, the original settlement began as a small fortress to protect the area from attacks by Portuguese invaders. The Medina and its fountains, the Kasbah, the Great Mosque and Ras al-Ma’, the traditional water source for the town are all fascinating examples of Chefchaouen’s varied history. Upon arrival at our traditional riad, we’ll have some free time to relax and unwind before enjoying dinner here. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Founded in 1471, Chefchaouen is a delightful mix of Moroccan and Andalusian architecture, and today we will explore it on foot during our walking city tour. We will wander past charming plazas and visit the old kasbah, each spot telling the story of its Moroccan and Andalusian heritage. As we stroll through the winding lanes and alleyways, it will feel like a photographer’s dream. The vivid blue walls of the town are perfectly offset by the colourful wares in the shops, from handwoven textiles to pottery and baskets, creating little bursts of colour at every turn. Chefchaouen is also the perfect place to pick up souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else in Morocco, such as woven blankets, locally dyed wool and artisanal crafts. We will also enjoy a walk to a lookout point above the town. From there, the view of the blue streets winding through the Rif Mountains is simply breathtaking and will give you a wonderful perspective of this magical place. The rest of the day will be at leisure, giving you time to wander, explore or simply sit and enjoy the magic of Chefchaouen. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.

We continue to Rabat today, the capital of Morocco. While smaller than many of the other cities we’ve visited, it certainly has plenty of charm. From palm-lined boulevards in the ville nouvelle to an ancient walled medina, you’ll find less tourists but the same vibrant culture. We will begin our city tour at the Kasbah of the Oudayas, a stunning fortress perched above the Atlantic Ocean. Its white and blue buildings, peaceful gardens and narrow cobbled streets showcase the mix of Islamic and French colonial heritage that makes Rabat so special. From there, we will explore the medina with its traditional shops and colourful alleyways, before visiting the Mohamed V Mausoleum, a masterpiece of modern Alaouite architecture. We’ll also visit the iconic Hassan Tower, a 12th century minaret that rises above the unfinished mosque, hinting at the city’s rich past and ambitions. Enjoy our group farewell dinner at a local restaurant tonight. 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 mesmerising Morocco. We hope you leave with the memories of a lifetime. Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.