Tours

Salam and welcome to Azerbaijan, a country with rich cultural heritage, reflected in its traditional music, dance, art and architecture. We begin in Baku, the capital and largest city of Azerbaijan, home to seaside promenades and exceptional architecture. A former soviet capital, Baku is now a fast-changing city, blending east and west into one to create a unique destination unmatched by any other. We’re in for a truly fascinating journey! We don’t want you to miss out on one moment of the incredible itinerary we have waiting for you, so we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 5.00pm. Tonight, you’ll meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a welcome drink, and to mingle about what you’re most looking forward to on tour.

Our sightseeing begins with a tour of Baku, the commercial hub of Azerbaijan. We’ll visit Martyrs’ Lane, a memorial dedicated to the victims of the 1990 Black January massacre by the Soviet Army, and the medieval-walled Old Town of Icheri Sheher. We will also explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed 15th century Palace of the Shirvanshahs and the 12th century medieval Maiden Tower. Special Experience Savour the heart and soul of Azerbaijan’s local traditions and culture at an organic, home-made tea-cream party. Tea culture is an important social custom in Azerbaijan. Tea here is usually bright in colour and served freshly brewed, strong and in a traditional pear-shaped armudu glass, typically accompanied by sweets. We will be welcomed in for an authentic tea experience in one of the Caravanserais of the Old Town, which can be likened to a roadside rest stop that once served as a hub for shelter and refreshments for travellers. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure for you to further explore this wonderful city at your own pace, before we reconvene for dinner. Tonight, we’ll step back in time to old Baku as we enjoy a group welcome dinner with traditional live music at the Shirvanshah Museum restaurant.

Today we will embark on a fascinating exploration of primitive history as we make our way to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gobustan National Park, renowned for its captivating open-air museum. The park is famously home to more than 6,000 inscriptions carved into the rocks of the mountainous landscape, dating back to what is believed to be over 20,000 years ago. The petroglyphs offer an intriguing glimpse into the remnants of early human life including depictions of animals, humans, rituals and symbols. Gobustan is also recognised for its abundance of a rare geological phenomenon that bubbles up in bulbous mounds from the earth – mud volcanoes! These active volcanoes, mimicking that of a gurgling water fountain, release a combination of mud, gas and water to form a surreal terrain that is unlike anything you have likely encountered before. According to legend, the mud is thought to contain healing properties due to its high mineral content, with locals using it for a variety of medicinal purposes including joint pain. On our return to Baku, we’ll snake our way through a buzzing local bazaar, brimming with fresh seasonal produce. We then explore the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre, featuring a distinctive, flowing, curved style that was designed by renowned Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid. The museum gives an in-depth picture of Azerbaijan’s history and the life of the former president, Heydar Aliyev.

Our first stop for the day is the old capital of Azerbaijan, Shamakhi. This ancient city has a rich heritage and is well known as the home of many renowned Azerbaijani scientists, philosophers and architects. Here we'll explore the Juma Mosque, built on the site of a temple of fire-worshippers. We’ll also stroll through the grounds of the Yeddi Gumbaz Seven Tombs, a complex of seven partially complete, octagonal tombs built to be used for the Shirvan royal family in the 18th century. After some free time for lunch, we’ll continue on to Sheki. This charming city was once a bustling hub for silk production and is famous for its beautifully adorned Palace of Sheki Khans. Situated 701 metres above sea level, Sheki is laid out like an amphitheatre surrounded by forests of oak trees and lofty mountains. Once we arrive, we'll visit the Yukhari Caravanserai, a historic monument originally developed as an inn for caravaners to rest after a day of travelling. Not far from Sheki is the picturesque village of Kiş where we'll discover the oldest church in the Caucasus. We’ll take in the stunning scenery as we walk through the striking foothills, before making our way back to Sheki for a group dinner.

We venture across the border into Lagodekhi, Georgia this morning. At our first stop, we'll unwind at a local winery, with a unique wine cellar that is carved into the Caucasus Mountains. Following our exploration of the interconnected tunnels that span almost 8 kilometres and provide a natural temperature for wine preservation, we will be treated to a delightful lunch accompanied by a wine tasting. Standing above the green valley of Alazin, the iconic Gremi church complex is next on our itinerary today. Founded by the King of Kakheti Levan of the Bagrationi Dynasty, who led the most prosperous and peaceful period in the history of Kakheti, this 16th century architectural monument served as a royal citadel and a church. The ruins of the church are well-preserved and offer a brilliant display of Georgian architecture. Late in the afternoon we arrive in what is considered to be Georgia’s most medieval city, Telavi.

Nestled in the foothills of the Gombori Mountains, Telavi is the largest town in the heart of Georgia’s wine country. This morning we'll stop at the Bodbe Monastery, a Georgian Orthodox monastic complex where Saint Nino, the 4th century female evangelist is buried. We then continue to picturesque Sighnaghi, a town perched high on a hilltop with panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains in the distance. Here we take a walk with our guide through this delightful, fortified town, listening in to stories of its history as we explore cobblestone streets and admire the detailed facades which gives the town its charming personality. Special Experience Visit a local family for a cooking class of dishes from the Kakheti region. Enjoy our creations for lunch with music performed by polyphonic singers. We then take a visit to Tsinandali Family Estate and wine cellar, where we will indulge in a wine tasting. Once belonging to the 19th century aristocratic poet Alexander Chavchavadze, the residence consists of a landscape garden and a historical winery, featuring several vintages of white wine. Inside the unique garden that blends European and Georgian styles, visitors will find ‘the love lane’, where legend says that if lovers can walk through the path with their eyes shut, their life together will be happy.

Today we depart for Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, known for its varied culture and traditions. The city's Old Town, paved with cobblestones, is a testament to its long and complex history, including periods under both Russian and Persian rule. We will discover the sights of Tbilisi late this morning, seeing its diverse architecture and baroque and art nouveau buildings. Our sightseeing will include Metekhi Church, the Georgian Synagogue, Sulphur Baths and Rustaveli Avenue, which was named after the medieval Georgian poet, Shota Rustaveli. We’ll also ride a cable car from the Old Town up to the ancient Narikhala Fortress for breathtaking panoramic views of Tbilisi and its surrounding areas. The afternoon is at leisure for you to relax or explore more of the city at your own pace. This evening we'll experience the local culture through our taste buds at a traditional restaurant, complete with a folk show showcasing the rich history of each region in Georgia.

After breakfast, our day is dedicated to discovering Tbilisi's hidden corners with further sightseeing in this colourful town. Stroll through the Art Nouveau Sololaki district on a walking tour, an area home to rich merchants, artists and many hidden, vintage-style cafes. As the oldest district in Tbilisi, the Sololaki district shows an authentic side to the town, with long balconies, faded paintings and echoes of its Soviet past. We’ll visit the Dry Bridge Market, where you can browse an eclectic collection of treasures ranging from jewellery and paintings to military medals, tractor parts and crystal chandeliers. Special Experience Enjoy a private, classic trio reception concert at Elene Akhvlediani Museum, complete with nibbles and an aperitif. The Elene Akhvlediani Museum pays tribute to the life and influence of the esteemed Georgian artist, Elene Akhvlediani. Set in Elene’s studio, we’ll see many of her works of art, heavily inspired by her studies in France and Italy, as well as her collection of crafts from across Georgia. In addition, we will have the opportunity to gain deeper insights into Georgian life, both past and present, with a local guest speaker who will join us at the museum.

We farewell Tibilisi this morning and continue our journey to Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia. Here we explore Jvari, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed 6th century medieval monastery. It was at this site that King Mirian erected a large wooden cross after being converted by Saint Nino in the 4th century. The setting here is stunning, with vast panoramic views over the flowing rivers below. Next on our list to discover is the historic Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, another UNESCO site dating back to the 11th century. This revered cathedral is believed to be the final resting place of the Robe of Christ. We’ll take a break to drive along the beautiful mountain pass of the Georgian Military Highway to reach the Ananuri architectural complex. Originally built as a castle, the monument witnessed many battles and was ruled by the eristavis (dukes) of Aragvi feudal dynasty in the 13th century. The fortress remained in use until the 19th century and was listed on the tentative UNESCO World Heritage list in 2007. Late this afternoon, we arrive in Kazbegi, also known as Stepantsminda. Situated on the banks of the Terek River, this quaint valley town is surrounded by towering mountains, with the majestic peak of Mount Kazbek looming over it from the west.

Grab your cameras, we’re in for some spectacular scenery today as we explore the pint-size mountain town of Kazbegi. We’ll take a short walk through the town centre before ascending by 4WD to Gergeti Trinity Church, standing at 2,200 meters above sea level. Isolated amongst the wilderness of Mount Kazbegi, the 14th century church is visible from just about anywhere in the town nestled below it – making it one of Georgia’s most iconic sights. We then drive towards the Russian border, taking in views of the granite-walled Dariali Gorge and its beautiful surroundings. Special Experience Take part in a hands-on traditional dumpling masterclass with a local family and enjoy lunch in their home. Dumplings are a staple in Kazbegi cuisine, known to the locals as ‘khinkali’. Usually stuffed with flavour-filled spiced meat, these dumplings are typically quite large and known for their traditional pleating technique which forms a twisted ball-like shape. We’ll be welcomed into a local family’s home to get hands on and learn the culinary secrets of this delectable delicacy. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Why not discover more of the Caucasus Mountains by joining your guide for a hike in the dramatic Dariali Gorge? As you venture deeper into the valley, you’ll be rewarded with the magnificent sight of the gushing Gveleti waterfall. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

We depart Kazbegi this morning and journey to a local restaurant for lunch. Now that we’ve enjoyed some delicious flavours of the region, we venture to the centre of the Shida Kartli region, Gori, which is known as the birthplace of the infamous Soviet leader, Joseph Stalin. Here, we will visit the Stalin Museum to see the house where Stalin was born, as well as his personal railway carriage. Moving on from Gori, we will stop to explore the ancient rock-hewn ‘Fortress of God’ in the town of Uplistsikhe. Once serving as a significant religious, political and culture centre, this unique area is home to fascinating rock-cut architecture that dates backs to the 6th century BC. In some places, you can even see ancient wine barrels carved into the stone. In the evening, we will arrive in Kutaisi, the former ancient capital of the Kingdom of Colchis. Georgia’s third largest city, it is also said to be Europe’s 16th oldest city with people thought to have occupied the area from as early as the 17th century BC. Tonight, we will have the evening at leisure. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Today we'll see the sights of Kutaisi. Highlights include the Bagrati Cathedral, which is considered as the emblem of a unified Georgia. We will visit the local farmers' market, where vendors sell an array of fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, and cheese. The next stop on the agenda is a visit to the town of Tskaltubo, to see the abandoned sanatoriums. Back in the height of the USSR, it was a well-known spa destination, popular for its therapeutic mineral waters and radon bath therapies. In the late afternoon, we'll head down into the Prometheus Caves, a 1.2 kilometre long cave complex filled with breathtaking stalactites, stalagmites, petrified waterfalls and underground rivers. Here we will enjoy a boat ride (weather permitting) on the underground lake.

After breakfast this morning, we depart for Borjomi, which is renowned for its mineral water industry. The artesian springs in the valley here are fed by water that filters in from glaciers that sit at altitudes of up to 2,300 metres on top of the Bakuriani mountains. The water is then transported by pipes to the two bottling plants. These springs were discovered in the 1820s by the Imperial Russian military and were made famous by the Russian Empire, which in turn saw an increase in tourism to Borjomi. We’ll take a walk through the park and sample the renowned water. We continue to the Samtskhe-Javakheti region, named after two of the original Georgian tribes, Meskh and Javakhs, and considered to be the cradle of Georgian culture. On our way, we’ll take in scenery consisting of arid and stone-terraced landscapes, green valleys and centuries-old fortresses - including views of the Rabati Castle. Lastly, we’ll stop at the 10th century Khertvisi Fortress, one of the oldest in Georgia, for a photo opportunity before arriving in Vardzia in the evening.

An exciting day of discovery lies ahead of us as we visit the impressive Vardzia Cave Monastery, carved into the slopes of the Erusheti Mountain. Founded in the 12th century during the reign of Giorgi III and Queen Tamar, this fascinating complex was dug out of solid rock and became a well-fortified monastery with a significant role in Georgian history. After exploring the tunnels and chambers of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, we’ll enjoy some free time for lunch with some small cafes located near the complex. Special Experience Explore a nunnery in upper Vardzia, where nuns will teach us how to handcraft wooden crosses and honey wax candles. The city of Vardzia has long been considered a site of religious significance for the Georgian Orthodox Church. We will visit the upper Vardzia convent, which serves as a place of residence for the nuns who continue the rituals and traditions of the faith. Here we will try our hand at crafting wooden crosses and traditional honey wax candles. The nuns will also demonstrate how they paint symbols and showcase their handmade embroidery. Returning to the hotel, enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure before meeting in the evening for dinner at a local guesthouse. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

We cross the border into Armenia this morning and travel to Gyumri, known for its unique heritage and ornately carved buildings. Here we will explore Saint Astvatsatsin Church, which is also known as the 'Church of Seven Wounds' in reference to the seven sorrows of the Virgin Mary. Although the original church was built in the 7th century, it was reconstructed in 1975. Inside, we’ll enjoy a unique view of the structure’s features, including the bell tower, five separate altars and intricate markings on the stone surfaces that look similar to brush strokes. Later in the afternoon, we will arrive in Yerevan, the capital and largest city of Armenia. Perched on the banks of the Hrazdan River, Yerevan serves as the administrative, cultural and industrial centre of the country. Yerevan is also one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities. Enjoy some free time to unwind or discover some of the city this afternoon, before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.

We're in for an exciting day as we make our way to the stunning Tavush Province, beginning with a visit to the town of Dilijan. As we stroll along Sharambeyan Street, adorned with traditional houses crafted from wood and stone, we'll explore some of Dilijan's craft workshops and art studios. Here we will have the opportunity to meet some local artists from the region, observe the process of wood carving and see stalls selling various khachkars, boxes, amulets and other wooden pieces. Next, we’ll explore the large basin of Lake Sevan, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. Interestingly, weather influences the lake’s colour, with its shades ranging from deep blue to bright azure, and every hue in-between. The lake’s water is used for hydroelectricity and irrigation purposes, providing the country with low-cost electricity. We also view Sevanavank Monastery, with spectacular vistas over the picturesque lake on the southern shore peninsula, making it one of Armenia’s most visited sights. We then visit a private residence for a fish BBQ masterclass and enjoy the creations for lunch, before returning to Yerevan. Relax this evening before more sightseeing tomorrow or spend some time strolling through the city’s centre.

We'll kick off the day with a walking tour of Yerevan, allowing us to explore this fascinating city on foot. We will discover the various layers of the town’s history, walking past medieval shrines, Republic Square, the Cascade Complex, Mother Armenia and the Opera House. Our sightseeing continues as we take a visit to the Matenadaran Museum, home to some of the oldest repositories of Greek, Persian and Arabic manuscripts. After some free time for lunch, we stop at a local Khachkar workshop. A Khachkar, also known as an Armenian cross-stone, is an outdoor memorial stele that is carved in stone by local craftspeople. Khachkars are characteristic of medieval Christian Armenian art and act as a focal point for worship. Their design includes an ornate cross in the centre, and they can reach up to 1.5 metres high. Since 2010, Khachkars have been included on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Our last stop for today is the Genocide Memorial. Built in 1967, the memorial features a 44 metre tall stele symbolising the rebirth and unity of the Armenian people. Twelve slabs are positioned in a circle, representing the twelve lost provinces in present-day Turkey. We’ll see powerful photographs, documents, reports and films dedicated to the 1.5 million people who were massacred during the first genocide of the 20th century. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore at your own pace.

This morning we’ll discover Khor Virap, a fortified monastery and the site of the Royal Prison. It was here that Saint Gregory the Illuminator, a religious leader credited with converting Armenia from paganism to Christianity and the first bishop of the Armenian church was held for thirteen years. Guided by the remote majesty of biblical Mount Ararat, we explore the site’s underground chambers and chapels. We then continue to the Areni Cave Complex, located along the Arpa River in southern Armenia, near Areni village. This cluster of caves is where archaeologists famously unearthed the earliest ever known winery, leather shoe, straw skirt and human brain! Later we’ll indulge in a cheese masterclass, accompanied by a homemade wine and vodka tasting in the Vayots Dzor region. Situated in the heart of Armenia, this beautiful province is famous for its assortment of wine which is considered to be some of the finest in the country. On our way back to Yerevan, we’ll stop for a photo opportunity at the 13th century Armenian monastery, Noravank. Surrounded by dramatic red-hued cliffs, the complex was once home to religious leaders and the princes of the royal Orbelian family.

After breakfast this morning, we’ll travel to Garni and Geghard via the picturesque Avan Canyon. With dramatic cliffs, gorges and the vast Azat River below, this canyon showcases spectacular views over the surrounding landscape. Here, we see the pagan Temple of Garni which impressively was built in the 1st century and is the only sole surviving Greco-Roman structure in the country. As we travel through the gorge, we also see the 12th century cave monastery of Geghard. Here we enjoy the harmonies of an acapella concert as five local women who form the quintet ‘Luys’ (Armenian for light), serenade us with their melodic voices. Special Experience Master the art of baking your very own Lavash, a traditional Armenian flatbread that has been enjoyed for centuries. Made of simple pantry staples, lavash is a large, thin flatbread. Traditionally baked in a clay oven, this warm, soft and chewy bread is often enjoyed as a wrap or dipped into delicious stews. Learn how to prepare this sumptuous speciality and sample your creation with a side of traditional Armenian cheese and greens, the must-have accompaniments to any Armenian meal! On return to Yerevan enjoy the rest of the day at leisure before our group farewell dinner tonight.

After breakfast, we bid farewell to our fellow travellers, and the beauty of Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan – with a heart and camera full of unforgettable memories!

Welcome to Istanbul, a city unlike any other. Spanning two continents, Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus, with one shore in Europe and the other in Asia, creating a distinctive fusion of diverse cultures. From traditional tea houses to contemporary art galleries, this compelling mix of contrasts is truly captivating. With its extraordinary blend of East and West, Istanbul offers an unforgettable journey through time and culture. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5:00 pm. At 6:00pm, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director before walking to a local restaurant for a drink and a lovely welcome dinner.

Get ready to spend a full day immersing in the incredible Istanbul. We begin our day with a visit to the Underground Basilica Cistern, the largest surviving Byzantium Cistern. Built in 532 AD during the reign of Emperor Justinian, this unique spot is truly a sight to behold with its hundreds of columns brightly lit up. We then continue to a local café that’s renowned for their traditional treats since 1864. Yum! Special Experience Treat your senses to Türkiye’s renowned delicacies, featuring baklava, Turkish coffee, and, of course, Turkish delight. Once we’ve satisfied our taste buds, we’ll proceed to explore Istanbul’s most famous architectural wonders. First up, is the impressive domed Basilica of St. Sophia (Hagia Sophia), which has inspired architects, scholars and historians for almost 1,500 years. The first church on this site was constructed in 326 AD by Constantine the Great; the current church dates back to 537 AD and has been a cathedral, a museum, and is now a mosque. Our next destination is the Hippodrome, once the heart of the political and sporting life of the city. It was the scene of games and riots throughout 500 years of Ottoman history. We will then head to the one-of-a-kind Blue Mosque, constructed in 1609 AD under the patronage of Sultan Ahmet. As we step inside, we are consumed by the grandeur of its interior, adorned with over 20,000 exquisite Iznik tiles. These tiles, meticulously crafted with intricate patterns and varying shades of blue, narrate stories of craftsmanship and artistic brilliance that have withstood the test of time. Deluxe Experience Indulge your palate with a delightful high tea experience at the historic and iconic Pera Palace Hotel.

This morning, we say goodbye to Istanbul as we set our eyes on Gallipoli, our destination for the day. Today is an incredibly moving day. It is a tangible reminder of a not-so-distant past and a significant event in history that shaped Australia's national identity. Special Experience Honour the ANZACs at Gallipoli with a specialist guide, as we explore ANZAC Cove, the Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair Memorials, and Johnston's Jolly. We visit the World War I battlefields, most notable for being held by the ANZACs from 25th April to 20th December 1915, during what is referred to as The Gallipoli Campaign or Battle of Gallipoli. At the end of the war the bodies, still unburied, were cleared by the Allies on returning to the peninsula. Of the 22,000 graves at the 31 war cemeteries, only 9,000 are identified burials with grave markers. The remaining graves are commemorated with a special memorial. We’ll continue onto Çanakkale, our home for the night. Situated on the southern shore of the Dardanelles, Çanakkale is an ancient port city that has housed several civilisations over the past 6,000 years!

We start our day with a short drive to the legendary ancient city of Troy. Over its 4,000-year existence, Troy has experienced the rise and fall of nine distinct settlements, spanning from the Stone Age to the Roman Empire. If that doesn't give you goosebumps, the sight of the Trojan Horse replica at the city gates certainly will. We'll continue to explore the surroundings, including the famed city central to the Iliad, the Odyssey of Homer, and Virgil's Aeneid. Once thought to be purely mythical, these sites were unveiled as real when archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann unearthed the ruins near the modern city. Next on the agenda is the charming Greek-Turkish village of Adatepe, nestled in the foothills of the stunning Ida Mountains. We’ll delve into the rich history and traditional techniques of olive pressing and harvesting in Türkiye at the Adatepe Olive Oil Museum. We’ll also have the chance to sample some of the local produce. We’ll then continue to Kuşadası, our home for the next two nights.

Our morning begins with a visit to the extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ephesus. As the largest and most significant Roman city ever unearthed, stepping into Ephesus is like traveling back in time. Its remarkably preserved ruins span centuries of history, from classical Greece to the Roman Empire, when it served as the Mediterranean's primary commercial centre. Walking along the marble-paved streets of Ephesus offers a glimpse into daily life from those eras. We'll explore ancient gymnasiums and bathhouses, marvel at the Library of Celsus, and see the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. We'll also visit a local leather factory, where you'll have the opportunity to watch artisans at work and purchase exquisite, handcrafted Turkish leather products. Next, we'll head to the charming and breathtaking village of Şirince. This scenic town is rich in history and culture, with its beautiful stone houses gracing the hillside, creating a truly picturesque setting. Special Experience Visit Şirince Village and learn to prepare some local culinary specialities in a hands-on cooking class. After a long day, we'll unwind with an evening at leisure upon returning to our hotel in Kuşadası. This lively coastal paradise, blessed with around 300 days of sunshine each year, offers plenty to explore. Or you can simply choose to unwind and watch the world go by at one of the town's many seafront restaurants. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

After a leisurely morning in Kuşadası, we’ll make our way to the Karnas Vineyards, tucked away in the lush rolling hills of the Aegean Valley. Renowned for their award-winning wines produced with traditional and sustainable methods, this family-owned boutique winery is set on endless stretches of sprawling vines. A visit here will make you feel as if you’ve stepped right into a postcard! They’re known for growing several varieties of grapes, including Zinfandel, Syrah (Shiraz), Cabernet Franc and Vermentino. Deluxe Experience Sample local wines and regional snacks at Karnas Vineyards, a family-owned boutique winery, nestled in the verdant Aegean Valley. Our next stop is Bodrum , a coastal city sitting on a rugged peninsula that offers a true Mediterranean experience. This town boasts abundant bays and pristine beaches along its stunning coastline. The sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea are beyond inviting. Beautiful scenery aside, this town is bursting with history and iconic landmarks and has a rich cultural heritage to match. Plus, the cuisine found here is otherworldly – if you are a fan of seafood, prepare to find heaven in Bodrum! Arriving here, we’ll enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

We will spend this morning exploring Bodrum Castle, also known as the Castle of St. Peter, a medieval waterfront fortification. Situated on a small rocky peninsula, the castle was built from 1402 AD onwards by the Knights of St. John. While here, we’ll visit the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, housed within the rooms and towers of the Bodrum Castle. This fascinating museum features artifacts from the 16th century, including remains from ancient shipwrecks. The remainder of the day is yours to explore Bodrum at your own pace. Relax at a seaside café or wander through the lively bazaars, where you’ll find everything from handmade goods to beautiful jewellery and unique souvenirs.

Today we travel to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cappadocia. The region is renowned for its otherworldly landscapes, characterised by towering rock formations and cone-shaped fairy chimneys that have been shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion. We’ll transfer to the airport for our midday flight, via Istanbul to Cappadocia. Special Experience Stay in a luxurious cave hotel in the heart of Cappadocia, immersing in the town’s unique and mystical atmosphere. Complimenting Cappadocia’s otherworldly charm is our accommodation for the next two nights. We’ll get the chance to stay in ‘cave rooms’, an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends together history, culture and comfort – this is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the true Cappadocia! Please note: The cave hotel is located right in the heart of Cappadocia, which dates back thousands of years. This means there are multiple flights of stairs, plenty of steps and uneven cobblestone ground to navigate. Rooms are scattered across multiple levels - they are not inside a singular building. Meeting our mobility and fitness requirements are essential. No two rooms are the same with quirky layouts that can be dimly lit. While these rooms are still comfortable remember you are staying in a cave! These are incredibly unique and a once in a lifetime experience to stay in this unforgettable location.

For those that choose to do hot air ballooning, we have an early start this morning. Optional Excursion Hot Air Balloon Ride – Gently float over the countryside in complete harmony with the deep canyons and lush fertile valleys of Cappadocia. Gentle winds carry you over places that could never be reached except by balloon. 45mins - from Euro 340pp. Cash only. We will have time to rest before commencing with the rest of the days’ sightseeing. Our first stop of the day is the local municipality carpet cooperation where we’ll learn about this intricate and age-old artform of Turkish weaving. We continue on to explore the spectacular landscape of Göreme Valley. Over thousands of years, the rain has eroded this landscape to give rise to unique rock formations known as 'Fairy Chimneys'. Many of these formations now have homes and churches carved into them. Some of the grottoes are even magnificently decorated with colourful frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Later today, we will visit a local family where we’ll get the chance to learn about their lifestyle and the local way of life in Cappadocia. This evening we’ll enjoy dinner in a local family restaurant. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

We begin our day by driving to the charming village of Avanos, a town famous for its centuries long tradition of pottery making and carpet weaving. While here, we’ll enjoy a lecture by locals on ceramic art. Next, we make our way to the incredible underground city of Ozkonak. Featuring a maze of tunnels, chambers and rooms carved into soft volcanic rock over ten levels, this underground city is one of the best preserved in the area. It can hold an incredible 60,000 people and is over 40 metres deep into the Earth. Today, only four of these levels are accessible by the public. It is believed that the origins of Ozkonak dates back to the fourth century BC and was greatly expanded and deepened during the Byzantine era. Later, we transfer to the airport for our flight back to Istanbul.

Get set for our final full day exploring the fascinating city of Istanbul! Our first stop of the day is a visit to the magnificent Topkapi Palace. Constructed between 1466 and 1478 AD, the Topkapi Palace served as the residence of the esteemed Sultans and their households and functioned as the primary hub of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Today, it is filled with treasures and antiquities, including 12000 pieces of fine Chinese porcelain. We continue our journey to the famous Grand Bazaar. Built in 1457 AD, the Grand Bazaar is one of the largest covered markets in the world. It is most famous for its antique shops, jewellery, carpets, hand-painted ceramics, embroideries and spices. We’ll also make our way to the exotic Spice Bazaar, where you’ll have some time to browse through the stalls at your leisure and soak up the scents of hundreds of spices permeating the air. Later this afternoon, we will embark on a leisurely cruise along Istanbul’s most famous waterway, the Bosphorus. Our journey will take us along both European and Asian shores, as we gently cruise past marvellous monuments and districts, including the Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi), Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy, Ahmat Fethi Pasa Mansion, Ortaköy Mosque, Beylerbeyi Palace, Kuleli Military School, Arnavutköy and Bebek. It’s almost time to bid farewell to this mesmerising country, but not before we feast on a lavish spread of Ottoman cuisine at a beautiful local restaurant.

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

Welcome to Istanbul, a city unlike any other. Spanning two continents, Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus, with one shore in Europe and the other in Asia, creating a distinctive fusion of diverse cultures. From traditional tea houses to contemporary art galleries, this compelling mix of contrasts is truly captivating. With its extraordinary blend of East and West, Istanbul offers an unforgettable journey through time and contrasting cultures. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5:00 pm. This evening, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a lovely welcome drink.

Get set for a full day exploring the fascinating city of Istanbul! We begin our day with a visit to the Underground Basilica Cistern, the largest surviving Byzantium Cistern. Our next stop is a visit to the magnificent Topkapi Palace. Constructed between 1466 and 1478 AD, the Topkapi Palace served as the residence of the esteemed Sultans and their households and functioned as the primary hub of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Today it is filled with treasures and antiquities including 12,000 pieces of fine Chinese porcelain. We’ll then visit the Hippodrome, once the heart of the political and sporting life of the city. It was the hub of games and riots throughout 500 years of Ottoman history. Special Experience Treat your senses to Türkiye’s renowned delicacies, featuring baklava, Turkish coffee, and, of course, Turkish delight. This afternoon, we’ll embark on a leisurely cruise along Istanbul’s most famous waterway, the Bosphorus. Our journey will take us along both European and Asian shores, where we’ll uncover marvellous monuments and districts, including the Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi), Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy, Ahmat Fethi Pasa Mansion, Ortaköy Mosque, Beylerbeyi Palace, Kuleli Military School, Arnavutköy and Bebek. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Our day starts with a tour of the impressive domed Basilica of St. Sophia (Hagia Sophia), which has inspired architects, scholars and historians for almost 1,500 years. The first church on this site was constructed in 326 AD by Constantine the Great; the current church dates back to 537 AD and has been a cathedral, a museum, and is now a mosque. Our next destination is the one-of-a-kind Blue Mosque, constructed in 1609 AD under the patronage of Sultan Ahmet. As we step inside, we are consumed by the grandeur of its interior, adorned with over 20,000 exquisite Iznik tiles. These tiles, meticulously crafted with intricate patterns and varying shades of blue, narrate stories of craftsmanship and artistic brilliance that have withstood the test of time. Later this afternoon, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Cappadocia, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed region renowned for its spectacular landscape – we’re in for a real treat! Cappadocia is known for its otherworldly landscapes, characterised by towering rock formations and cone-shaped fairy chimneys that have been shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion.

Welcome to the whimsical region of Cappadocia! Today, we’re diving into the colourful world of Turkish carpets at the local municipality carpet cooperative. Get ready to witness the artistry and tradition behind these stunning textiles. From intricate designs to the weaving process, you’ll see how these timeless treasures come to life, thread by thread. Next, we’re off to the magical Göreme Valley, where nature’s artistry has carved out the famous "Fairy Chimneys"! Over thousands of years, rain has sculpted these bizarre rock formations into towering wonders. Inside, you’ll find homes and churches carved into the stone, with some grottoes dazzlingly adorned with vibrant frescoes telling biblical stories. It’s quite the landscape with nature, history, and art all rolled into one. After lunch, we're venturing into the hidden gem of Paşabaği, a mystical valley where nature and history collide! Picture this: rock-hewn homes, ancient churches, and a peaceful, monastic atmosphere that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Ready to uncover its secrets? Let’s explore this ancient, rock-carved wonderland! Later, we head to the Zelve Valley, once a bustling hub for Christians from the 9th to 13th centuries. Today, it's an outdoor museum, where we can wander among ancient dwellings and incredible churches carved into the rocks. After some time exploring this fascinating open-air museum, we return to our hotel before enjoying dinner at a popular local restaurant. Optional Excursion Hot Air Balloon Ride – Gently float over the countryside in complete harmony with the deep canyons and lush fertile valleys of Cappadocia. Gentle winds carry you over places that could never be reached except by balloon. 45mins - from Euro 340pp. Cash only. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Rise and shine, art enthusiasts! Today kicks off with a colourful journey into the world of ceramics in Avanos, where creativity knows no bounds. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into the magic of pottery with a lively lecture that'll spin tales as mesmerising as the pottery wheel itself. Special Experience Visit a local restaurant in Cappadocia and learn to prepare some of the local culinary specialties in a hands-on cooking class. After lunch, get ready for an adventure beneath the surface as we explore one of Cappadocia's incredible underground cities, Ozkonak. Featuring a maze of tunnels, chambers and rooms carved into soft volcanic rock over ten levels, this underground city is one of the best preserved in the area. It can hold an incredible 60,000 people and is over 40 metres deep into the Earth. Imagine the hustle and bustle of thousands of people living, sleeping, and working in this underground maze. It’s like stepping into a real-life cave city—a fascinating peek into ancient ingenuity and survival. Optional Excursion Whirling Dervishes – A performance about the mystical religious sect known as the Whirling Dervishes, using music and dance to induce themselves into a mystical state. As the ceremonial music plays, they begin to whirl, and their long skirts billow giving the impression that they are floating on air. 1hr – from Euro 40pp (minimum 5 people). Cash only.

After breakfast, we’ll make our way to Konya, one of Türkiye's oldest and most mystical cities. Here, we’ll visit one of the largest surviving caravanserais along the Silk Road, the 13th century Sultanhanı Caravanserai. Historically, a caravanserai was a roadside inn, where travellers and merchants could rest and recover from the day’s journey. Not only did they provide accommodation and food, it was also an opportunity for merchants to exchange goods with people from across the vast regions the Silk Road covered. Next, we’ll visit the Mevlana Museum, home to the legendary Whirling Dervishes. These spiritual dancers belong to a unique religious order that uses music and dance to enter a trance-like state. As the ceremonial music builds up, they begin their mesmerizing whirling dance, their long skirts twirling and billowing, creating the illusion of floating on air. It’s a truly enchanting experience, blending spirituality, art, and movement into something that’s almost otherworldly. Get ready to be captivated by this fascinating tradition. Special Experience Watch as a skilled chef expertly prepares etli ekmek, a Turkish pizza-like dish originating from Konya. This afternoon, we'll settle into our hotel before a delightful dinner together.

This morning we’ll head to a picturesque village on the shores of Lake Beyşehir, where we’ll visit a friendly local family. This intimate visit offers a unique chance to experience Turkish culture firsthand, with a glimpse into daily life through the eyes of the locals. Our next stop today is the mesmerizing Esrefoğlu Mosque, one of Türkiye’s oldest mosques. Built in the 13th century, this wooden marvel is a fine example of Seljuk architecture. With its elegant minaret and beautifully intricate façade, it’s a place where history and art blend seamlessly. We then journey south, along the breathtaking Mediterranean coast, making our way to Antalya—the region’s largest city and tourism hotspot. With its ancient monuments and scenic tombs, Antalya’s rich history stretches all the way back to 133 BC. As we arrive, the longest beach in Türkiye awaits, offering a perfect mix of modern vibrancy and timeless beauty.

Today we get to enjoy the day at leisure and explore Antalya, the sparkling gem of Türkiye’s Mediterranean coast. This lively city blends the best of ancient history and modern luxury. Stroll through its charming old town, visit Roman ruins, and marvel at towering tombs that have stood the test of time. With its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Antalya offers the perfect mix of sun, culture, and history—making it a must-see destination. Optional Excursion Perge, Aspendos and Duden Waterfall – Spend the day exploring these fascinating places located in the region of Antalya. First visit the ruins of Perge, an ancient Anatolian city. Then continue to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world. Lastly, visit the magnificent Duden Waterfalls. Full Day - from Euro 50pp (minimum 5 people). Cash only.

We’re off to the sun-kissed paradise of Fethiye today, where adventure and relaxation go hand in hand. Upon arrival, you'll have free time to munch on some scrumptious delights — whether it’s devouring a classic Turkish kebab or nibbling on a plate of meze, your taste buds are in for a treat. Once we're refueled and raring to go, we’ll embark on an orientation wander through Fethiye’s bustling market. Here, vibrant stalls burst with colorful textiles, aromatic spices, and quirky trinkets begging for attention. It’s a treasure trove for curious souls! With the afternoon at leisure, will you explore more hidden gems or simply chill by the azure waters of the Aegean Sea? The choice is yours in this coastal wonderland!

Special Experience Enjoy a leisurely day cruising the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Relax and soak up the sun and the spectacular coastal scenery. Today’s agenda? Pure, unadulterated bliss as we embark on a dreamy cruise across Fethiye's dazzling Mediterranean waters. Picture this - the gentle sea breeze tousling your hair, the sun wrapping you in a warm embrace, and the rhythmic waves serenading you into a state of relaxation. As we sail past vibrant turquoise coves and rugged cliffs, your only challenge is deciding between lounging with a refreshing drink or snapping frame-worthy shots of the stunning scenery. We’ll pause our ocean adventure for a delicious lunch right on deck, with a spread so good it might just outshine the views! Whether you're swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking it all in, today is all about Mediterranean magic and some down-time. Upon arriving back to our hotel this evening, we’ll have the evening at leisure to further explore the hidden gems of Fethiye.

Pamukkale is an extraordinary blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Standing out as one of the highlights of Türkiye, this incredible location is where we will spend the night. Over the last 14,000 years, calcium rich water from an underground thermal spring has flowed over the mountainside and slowly solidified, creating shallow white basins and twisted stalagmites. The water at Pamukkale is well-known for its positive effects on the skin and eyes, as well as its ability to alleviate symptoms of asthma and rheumatism. On arrival we’ll visit the site of Hierapolis, an ancient Greek city that sits atop the famous cascading pool terraces. Established by the kings of Pergamum at the end of the 2nd century BC, this ancient spa town is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site revered for its striking natural formations and its complex Greco-Roman engineering techniques.

We kick off the day with a fascinating journey to Aphrodisias, an ancient city dedicated to the Goddess of Love, Aphrodite. Once a major cultural and artistic hub, this city is renowned for its exceptional Sculpture School, which created some of the finest marble statues and architectural reliefs you’ll ever see. As we stroll through the site, we’ll marvel at these masterpieces. One of the real showstoppers is the gigantic stadium, the largest in the classical world, with a capacity of 30,000 spectators. Originally designed for athletic events, it later hosted gladiator fights, wild animal displays, and even circuses, especially after an earthquake in the 7th century altered its use. After soaking in the rich history of Aphrodisias, we head to Kuşadası, a charming coastal town basking in 300 days of sunshine annually. It’s a perfect spot to unwind, and the best part? It’s the gateway to the incredible Roman ruins of Ephesus, just waiting to be explored! Optional Excursion Hot Air Balloon Ride – See the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pamukkale hot springs from a completely different angle as you take to the skies on a hot air balloon adventure. 45mins – from Euro 210 pp. Cash only.

This morning is at leisure for you to relax or explore the sights of Kuşadası before we make our way to Ephesus, the largest Roman city ever uncovered. Stepping into Ephesus is like traveling back in time. Its remarkably preserved ruins span centuries of history, from classical Greece to the Roman Empire, when it served as the Mediterranean's primary commercial centre. Walking along the marble-paved streets of Ephesus offers a glimpse into daily life from those eras. We'll explore ancient gymnasiums and bathhouses, marvel at the Library of Celsus, and see the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. We'll also visit a local leather factory, where you'll have the opportunity to watch artisans at work and purchase exquisite, handcrafted Turkish leather products. This evening we’ll head to a renowned vineyard in western Türkiye for a delicious wine tasting and dinner. There are over 20 wine grape varieties grown in the vineyards here, both local varieties and some completely new to Türkiye, so we’re in for a real treat during our sampling.

Situated on the southern shore of the Dardanelles, Çanakkale is an ancient port city that has housed several civilisations over the past 6,000 years. Çanakkale is also widely regarded as the entry point to the Gallipoli Peninsula. On the way to Çanakkale, we stop at the Pergamum where we’ll visit the Asclepion, a famed ancient medical centre and the world's first psychiatric hospital. Pergamum stands today as a supreme example of the region’s multi-layered cultural landscape. This afternoon we’ll visit Troy, one of the oldest discovered sites in Asia Minor. It holds nine settlements, dating from the Stone Age to the Roman Empire along with a replica of the famous Trojan Horse. The celebrated city of the Iliad, the Odyssey of Homer and the Aeneid of Virgil were long believed to be fictional until renowned archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann discovered the ruins near the modern city.

Special Experience Honour the ANZACs at Gallipoli with a specialist guide, as we explore ANZAC Cove, the Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair Memorials, and Johnston's Jolly. We visit the World War I battlefields, most notable for being held by the ANZACs from 25th April to 20th December 1915, during what is referred to as The Gallipoli Campaign or Battle of Gallipoli. At the end of the war the bodies, still unburied, were cleared by the Allies on returning to the peninsula. Of the 22,000 graves at the 31 war cemeteries, only 9,000 are identified burials with grave markers. The remaining graves are commemorated with a special memorial. Today is an incredibly moving day. It is a tangible reminder of a not-so-distant past and a significant event in history that shaped Australia's national identity. Later this afternoon we’ll return to Istanbul.

We begin the day with a visit to the famous Grand Bazaar. Built in 1457 AD, the Grand Bazaar is one of the largest covered markets in the world. It is most famous for its antique shops, jewellery, carpets, hand-painted ceramics, embroideries and spices. Making our way to the exotic Spice Bazaar, you’ll have some time to browse through the stalls at your leisure and soak up the scents of hundreds of spices permeating the air. Next, we’ll take a walking tour through the neighbourhoods of Fener and Balat, perhaps two of the most historically rich districts in Istanbul. Fener is the historic Greek neighbourhood of Istanbul and is nestled on the shores of the Golden Horn. It is a neighbourhood with a unique atmosphere, where colourful houses share fences with ancient mosques and churches. The adjacent district of Balat is renowned for its Jewish heritage and centuries-old synagogues, historic mansions and diverse array of architectural styles. Both areas boast historical significance in Istanbul and are included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon basking in the culture of this beautiful city for the last time. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a lovely group farewell dinner.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. Today marks the completion of our adventure through fascinating Türkiye. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!

We say a huge ‘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 sparking white-washed buildings of the Old Medina and is 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 thankfully managed to retain much of its traditional flare. The city’s French colonial legacy is evident throughout, with areas of the town featuring Mauresque architecture, Moorish design elements and European art deco themes — 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 Ain Diab Esplanade. Lined with tall palm trees and bursting with vibrancy, this beach front promenade is popular with both 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. Get ready to get lost in the strong aromas, chaotic sounds and local goods on offer here. Up next on our agenda is the iconic Hassan II Mosque, an opulent mosque that is set on an outcrop jutting out over the ocean. This 210 metre tall minaret is a major landmark for the city, and once you visit, it’s easy to understand why. It’s the largest mosque in Africa, and the second largest in the world, and interestingly, it’s one of only two mosques in Morocco that is open to non-Muslim spectators. Make sure to pay attention to the fine Moroccan artisanship on display, seen through the hand-carved stone, intricate marble floor and exquisite ceilings. 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. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group welcome dinner at a typical Moroccan restaurant. Bring your appetite!

This morning we depart for Essaouira, a charming town nestled on Morocco’s Atlantic coast that was once the old Portuguese city of Mogador. The city was strengthened by a French architect who was a follower of Vauban. Combine these influences and the result is the very attractive and picturesque town it is today. Over time more and more artists have flocked to Essaouira, making it a fascinating place to visit. On arrival, the rest of the afternoon is ours to enjoy at leisure and begin acquainting ourselves with the city.

We’ll begin our day of sightseeing at the city’s port to experience the lively atmosphere as the boats come in and fish are sold. It’s one of the most animated spots in town and a spectacle not to be missed! We’ll then discover the ‘Door of the Navy’, built in year 1184 of the Hegira (Hegira is the journey of Islamic prophet Mohammed from Mecca to Yathrib/Medina which is believed to have happened in AD 622) to connect the city with the port. Place Moulay el-Hassan, and a stroll through the town’s colourful Kasbah are also on the agenda for today.

Travelling inland, we make our way to the magical ‘Rose City’ of Marrakesh. Marrakesh is one of the four Imperial Cities of Morocco and was founded in the 11th century by the Berber dynasty, Almoravid. 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. Upon our arrival into Marrakesh, we’ll enjoy an orientation tour before having some free time for lunch. Special Experience Experience the atmosphere of Marrakesh’s main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa. Pass through a wondrous mix of food, music and entertainment, getting a taste of this lively city. We’ll have the chance to enjoy a real taste of Morocco at dinner, complete with dancers and musicians in a local restaurant.

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 sightseeing here. First, we visit the 16th century monument site of the Saadian Tombs which remained sealed until 1917 when they were rediscovered. The tombs are brilliantly decorated with intricate carvings, colourful tiles and Arabic scripts. We’ll then continue to the aristocratic Bahia Palace which functions as a Royal residence and see the Koutoubia Mosque, considered a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Its minaret is even a reference point for international architecture – the 12th century 70-metre-high tower is the prototype for Seville’s La Giralda and Rabat’s Le Tour Hassan. Our last stop is a visit to the enchanting Jardin Marjorelle, gifted to the city by famous French fashion designer, Yves Saint Laurent.

Enjoy a late start to the morning before departing for our wonderful culinary experience today. 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. Moroccan cuisine is a fusion of many influences that reflects the country’s history and diverse culture. It usually incorporates fruits such as apricots, dates, and raisins, and nuts along with aromatic and distinctive spices, such as cumin, coriander, saffron, cinnamon, ginger, paprika, and turmeric. The afternoon is at leisure to further explore at your own pace. Why not shop for carpets and crafts in the city’s labyrinth of souks? 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 make our way through the scenic Atlas Mountains and the twisting Tizi n’Tichka pass to the picturesque, fortified Berber village or ‘ksar’ of Ait Ben Haddou. A traditional Mud Brick city, and a striking example of southern Moroccan architecture, the town is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. We continue our travels to Ouarzazate, which 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 we visit the majestic structure of the Taourirt Kasbah, a giant sandcastle that decided to get fancy. Rising from the desert in all its sunbaked glory, the cinnamon coloured walls of this ancient Berber stronghold whisper stories of ancient sultans, and once inside, the intricate carvings and colourful tiles contrast with the fortress’ rugged exterior, like a warrior with a soft side. It’s no wonder this Kasbah is considered to be among the most beautiful in Morocco! After our explorations, we continue to our guesthouse in Skoura.

This morning we stop at the famous palm grove of Skoura, one of the few that is still inhabited and cultivated in Morocco. We’ll then visit 17th century wonder of Kasbah Amridil, which appears on Morocco’s 50-dirham note. Amridil is a living museum, showcasing typical life in a Kasbah over the centuries. A local pottery house is also on the agenda for today, where we’ll get to see gorgeous locally made handicrafts. After some free time for lunch, we’ll take part in a traditional calligraphy workshop with a local artisan using a typical reed pen, the traditional qalam. Here, our teacher will guide us through the mesmerizing curves of Arabic script and we have the chance to create our own ink masterpiece.

We depart Skoura through the Dades Valley, continuing past Erfoud, on the edge of the majestic Sahara Desert. This valley is carved by the Dades River and is sprinkled with ancient kasbahs, lush palm groves and dramatic rock formations. We then make our way into the vast Erg Chebbi dunes before arriving in Merzouga. And just when we think Morocco couldn’t get any more magical, we arrive in the town of Merzouga, which is often referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Sahara’ and is the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. The dunes are among the largest in Morocco and measure up to 160 metres high . Here, we’ll change vehicles to 4WD’s for the last leg of our journey to the deluxe campsite. 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.

An early start this morning, and an experience never to be forgotten, as we set off to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the sweeping sands of the Sahara Desert. Marvel at the changing colours of the morning as the sun rises over the dunes, before returning to the camp 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 mines in Memphis before continuing onto the traditional artists’ village of Tissirdmine for lunch amongst the palms. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to relax and enjoy the Kasbah.

This morning, we cross the desert again and make our way to the small village of Midelt, driving through the spectacular wooded 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. 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 World Heritage-listed medina of Fez el-Bali (old Fez) is one of the largest living medieval cities in the world, and its gates and walls are magnificent.

We spend the day discovering the sights of this unique city. This morning we visit the famous Medina, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 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. 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 does not allow non-Muslims to enter, so the best place to view this magnificent building is from the top of Medersa Attarine (when open). We’ll also visit the famous ancient old operation tannery, processing the hides of sheep and goat in stone vessels filled with a range of colourful dyes. The rest of the evening is at leisure for us to get out and explore on our own, or simply enjoy the night, catching our breath and relaxing at the hotel.

From Fez we head north to Morocco’s smallest imperial city, Meknes, founded in the 11th century. Quieter and smaller than Fez, it’s also more laid-back but 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 old medina, Royal Stables and the Bab el Mansour Gate. Next, we continue to the ancient archaeological site of Volubilis. UNESCO World Heritage-listed Volubilis is a partly excavated Roman city, developed from the 3rd century BC as a Phoenician settlement. Volubilis was a central administrative city for this part of Roman Africa, responsible for grain production and exports to Rome. Volubilis is in stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh’s Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Here it is quiet and free from the hordes of locals and tourists, providing the perfect opportunity to stop and reflect whilst soaking up the impressive Roman ruins and preserved mosaics. After a guided tour, we return to Fez. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

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 hotel, we’ll have some free time to relax and unwind before enjoying dinner here.

Today we’ll explore the town’s picturesque streets on foot. Wandering through the winding lanes and alleyways is a true photographers delight – the variety of colours from different wares and shops contrast with the vivid blue buildings. This town is also the perfect place to shop for souvenirs such as woven blankets and wool that are not commonly available elsewhere in Morocco. The rest of the day is at leisure for you to experience the delights of this stunning town at your own pace. There is an option to walk with your Tour Director towards a stunning lookout point over the town and surrounding mountains. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

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 enjoy a city tour here, first visiting the Kasbah of the Oudayas which illustrates the Islamic and French colonial heritage of the city. We’ll also see the medina, Mohamed V Mausoleum and the iconic Hassan Tower, a 12th century minaret that overlooks the remains of a mosque. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure before our group farewell dinner at a local restaurant tonight.

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.

Welcome to Vienna! The Austrian capital is an elegant European city that effortlessly blends imperial grandeur with modern vibrancy, captivating visitors at every turn. Vienna’s rich cultural heritage, shaped by centuries of royalty and artistry, is reflected in its stunning architecture, which tells a fascinating story at every corner. Often ranked as one of the most liveable cities in the world, Vienna’s unique atmosphere and cultural charm are sure to leave an impression. As the home of legendary composers like Mozart, Beethoven and Strauss, their influence still echoes throughout Vienna’s world-renowned concert halls and opera houses. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5.00pm. At approximately 6.00pm, join your fellow travellers and tour director for brief introductions and an orientation walk before our welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

The best of Vienna is at our fingertips today as we embark on a guided walking tour. We’ll make our way through this magnificent city, admiring its Baroque architecture and visit St Stephen’s Cathedral. Here, we’ll step inside the Romanesque and Gothic cathedral known as the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese and learn more about its significant history. Our walking tour will conclude near the Schwedenplatz or “Sweden Square” where we will have free time for snacks and coffee. Make sure to try the Sachertorte, a dense chocolate sponge cake with a layer of apricot jam – it’s a proud symbol of the Austrian capital! Next, we’ll head to the Schönbrunn Palace Grounds, where we’ll experience our first Christmas market. Set against the backdrop of the palace, the market sparkles with lights, handcrafted goods and mulled wine — everything you need to get into the holiday spirit. Later, we’ll take a ride on the iconic Wiener Riesenrad, the Giant Ferris Wheel, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. We’ll wrap up the day with another charming Christmas market. Take in the enchanting sights of the market – from the lights, the decorations, the stalls and of course, the Christmas tree!

We cross the border into Slovenia today. It may be small, but this enchanted country is packed full of charming cities, stunning architecture and unique experiences, making a visit here truly memorable. Our first stop is the town of Maribor, where we’ll enjoy a delightful walking tour through the city’s historic heart. Next, we’ll visit the Old Vine House (Hiša Stare Trte), home to the world’s oldest fruit-bearing vine. This vine has been thriving in Maribor for over 450 years. Here, we’ll sample local wines while enjoying a selection of local produce, all amidst the rich history of this remarkable place. In the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s idyllic capital city. Known for its elegant buildings, tree-lined boulevards and friendly locals, Ljubljana is truly a hidden gem. In the evening, we’ll explore another festive Christmas market. Saunter through the bright decorations and the bustling stalls as we sip on mulled wine, before some free time for dinner.

Ljubljana, an increasingly popular destination for travellers to Europe, is ours to explore today. We’ll start with a walking tour, taking in some of the city’s best spots, including the Central Market, where locals sell fresh produce and unique artisanal goods. We’ll then hop on the funicular from Krek Square to Ljubljana Castle, where we’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city’s colourful rooftops and the surrounding hills. Next, we’ll head to the serene and beautiful Lake Bled. Surrounded by snow-covered forests and the iconic Bled Island with its picturesque church, the lake offers a tranquil escape. Enroute we stop to visit a Slovenian chocolate shop where we’ll sip drinks from a chocolate glass, taste raw cacao beans and watch a demonstration from a talented chocolatier. Then on arrival we take a leisurely walk around Lake Bled, breathing in the fresh alpine air and make our way up to Bled Castle, perched high on a cliff with panoramic views over the lake. We’ll also visit the local Christmas markets, brimming with festive treats, crafts and seasonal delights. We’ll return to Ljubljana for an evening at leisure. Why not further explore the Christmas markets or find a cosy restaurant to enjoy dinner.

Today, we’ll bid farewell to Ljubljana and head to Postojna, a charming town that takes its name from the white-tailed eagle, a majestic bird of prey that once nested above the town. Here, we’ll explore the remarkable Postojna Cave, a vast underground wonder that’s nearly 12 million years old. As we take a train ride through its impressive chambers and galleries, you’ll be amazed by the intricate calcite formations. Afterwards, we’ll cross the border into Croatia, one of Mediterranean’s most captivating gems. Known for its crystal-clear Adriatic waters, beautiful ancient towns, rich heritage and delectable cuisine, Croatia offers a unique charm. Our first stop will be Opatija, a picturesque coastal town once frequented by the Austro-Hungarian elite. Today, Opatija is a perfect blend of history and beauty, with elegant villas, serene parks and charming churches. Upon arrival in Opatija, we’ll take an early evening walking tour of this quaint seaside town, while enjoying the local festive atmosphere. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

We’ll depart Opatija this morning and begin our journey along Croatia's stunning Adriatic coast. The drive offers breathtaking views of the sea, snow-dusted hills of the Istrian Peninsula and picturesque islands. As we pass through charming coastal villages, the majestic mountain ranges provide a striking contrast to the coastal beauty. Our first stop will be Zadar, a city where ancient Roman ruins, medieval churches and vibrant modern attractions coexist. We’ll have some free time for lunch before we embark on a guided sightseeing tour to uncover the city’s rich history. Afterward, we’ll continue our journey to Split, Croatia's second-largest coastal city. Split is lively with a dynamic cultural scene, beautiful beaches and the impressive Diocletian’s Palace, a sprawling Roman fortress now home to bustling markets, cafes and narrow stone streets. It’s the perfect blend of ancient tradition and modern energy. We’ll arrive Split this evening with time to ourselves to get acquainted with the city.

Witness the influence of the Roman Empire as we tour Split today. We’ll visit one of the world’s most impressive Roman monuments, Diocletian’s Palace. The UNESCO World Cultural Heritage-listed site was built by Emperor Diocletian in 305 AD as a residence, fortified town and military fortress – all of which make up Split’s Old Town today. As we explore the palace’s remarkable cellars, we’ll uncover the hidden stories of centuries past, tucked away beneath its ancient stone walls. We’ll also pass by Jupiter’s Temple, marvel at the grand Peristyle courtyard and stand in awe of the majestic St. Domnius Cathedral — each offering a glimpse into the ancient grandeur of the city. After the tour, we’ll have some free time to explore Split at leisure, before making our way to a very special lunch. Special Experience Travel to Stella Croatica, an ethno village celebrating Dalmatian culture, tradition and nature, and enjoy a delicious three-course lunch of traditional Christmas dishes. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure once we return to Split. Wander through its charming narrow streets lined with local shops and cafes, or simply relax along the stunning waterfront, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this beautiful old town.

This morning, we’ll leave the coastal beauty of Split behind and journey through Croatia’s captivating countryside towards the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes. As we approach this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, you'll be awestruck by its stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes. During the winter months, the freezing temperatures transform the lakes into a magical winter wonderland, with the cascading waterfalls frozen into ice formations. Depending on the weather, we’ll enjoy a peaceful walk through the lakes, taking in the serene and frosty beauty before sitting down for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey to Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital city. Nestled between the slopes of the Medvednica Mountains and the northern bank of the Sava River, Zagreb offers a unique blend of medieval charm and modern elegance. You’ll be amazed by the city’s cobblestone streets, beautiful parks and historic architecture. We arrive in Zagreb in the evening where the remainder of the day is free for you to explore the surrounds.

Walking is one of the best ways to explore Zagreb, and we’ll do just that this morning. Our guided tour includes views of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The famous St. Mark’s church which is known for its striking colourful roof that represents the medieval coats of arms of Croatia, Zagreb and Dalmatia. We’ll also pass by St. Catherine’s church, a stunning example of Baroque architecture and the impressive Zagreb cathedral, whose twin Gothic spires stand out against the city skyline. As we stroll through the city, we’ll also see the Parliament and Government Palace, two key buildings in Croatia’s political landscape. Each offering insight into the country’s history and governance. Special Experience Discover the craft of Croatian gingerbread making and decorate your own love heart shaped gingerbread in the centre of Zagreb. Inscribed in 2010 on the Representative List of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, Croatia’s gingerbread craft is steeped in tradition. After learning about the age-old methods, we’ll have some free time to explore more of Zagreb, including the city’s charming Christmas markets. This evening we’ll meet back up with our group and enjoy a farewell dinner together.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our new friends and to the charming wonders of Austria, Slovenia and Croatia.

Welcome to Croatia and the historic city of Dubrovnik situated on the country’s southern coast. Often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik is a treasure trove of medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. Its ancient city walls, ramparts and bastions provide breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, while the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town offers a captivating glimpse into centuries of history. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination around 4.00pm. At approximately 5.00pm, join your fellow travellers and tour director for brief introductions and an orientation walk before our welcome dinner. Special Experience Enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals and taste the regional cuisine at a special home-hosted dinner.

The stunning city of Dubrovnik welcomes us with stone buildings, deep green shutters and terracotta roof tiles. Today, we’ll embark on a walking tour of the Old Town, which will transport us back to a time when this city was home to notable poets, scholars and artists. Our tour will begin at the Pile Gate, and we’ll pass the Bell Tower Clock, Orlando’s Column, and the majestic Sponza Palace. We’ll also stop at the Dominican Monastery, where you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and stunning architecture. Next, we’ll visit the Rector’s Palace, the residence of the head of the Republic of Dubrovnik, where we’ll learn about the city’s history of governance and how natural disasters shaped its impressive architecture. Our journey will continue with a visit to the Franciscan Monastery, home to one of Europe’s oldest pharmacies, which has been operating since 1317. To cap off the day, we’ll take the cable car up Mount Srd for an unforgettable view of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea. In the afternoon, you’ll have leisure time to further explore the Old Town.

After an early breakfast, we’ll set off on a breathtaking drive along the Adriatic coast, with towering cliffs and lush landscapes unfolding before us. Our destination is Montenegro, a stunning country known for its natural beauty. We’ll arrive in Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town located in the Bay of Kotor. The Bay is the longest and deepest fjord in southern Europe, and the town is dotted with charming villages along its coastline. We’ll embark on a scenic cruise through the sparkling waters of Kotor Bay. We’ll stop at the islet of Our Lady of the Rocks, famous for its unique history and striking church. After the cruise, we’ll explore Kotor’s well-preserved medieval town. The town is home to impressive landmarks such as the Tryphon Cathedral, dedicated to the patron saint of Kotor. Following the tour, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, sampling the flavours of Montenegro. We’ll arrive back in Dubrovnik in the evening.

After breakfast, we’ll begin our journey towards the peaceful Bacinska Jezera, one of Croatia’s hidden gems. We’ll pause here to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the lakes and take in the scenic surroundings. This is the perfect opportunity to capture some memorable photos. Next, we’ll head to the charming coastal town of Makarska, where we’ll have free time to relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch. You can take a stroll along the waterfront or savour a meal at one of the local restaurants, soaking up the laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere. After lunch, we’ll continue our journey along the breathtaking Adriatic Coast, with view that will surely leave you in awe. Our next destination is Split, Croatia’s second-largest coastal city. Once we arrive, we’ll step back in time with a fascinating walking tour of the city. We’ll pass by Jupiter’s Temple, admire the grand Peristyle courtyard and marvel at the impressive St. Domnius Cathedral. We’ll visit Diocletian’s Palace, one of the most remarkable Roman monuments in the world. Originally built by Emperor Diocletian in 305 AD as a residence, military fortress and fortified town, the palace is now the heart of Split’s Old Town and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Our day begins with a visit to the town of Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town known for its medieval beauty. The town’s walls dating back to the 13th century, surround a treasure trove of Renaissance buildings and narrow cobbled streets. As we stroll through the Old Town, we’ll explore landmarks like the stunning St. Lawrence Cathedral. Built on the site of an ancient Greek temple, the cathedral’s bell tower showcases a blend of architectural styles due to its long construction period. Next, we’ll continue to Klis, a town perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of Split and the surrounding coastline. Special Experience Explore a family-run olive farm and learn about their organic methods, then enjoy a delicious tasting of their olives and oils! Upon returning to Split, the rest of the day is yours to relax and explore this vibrant coastal city at your leisure.

We depart split this morning and head to the breathtaking Krka Bridge. We'll stop at Krka Skradin, a quaint town nestled at the entrance of Krka National Park. Known for its traditional stone houses, peaceful atmosphere and delicious local cuisine. It's the perfect spot to capture a quick photo of the stunning scenery around us. Next, we'll drive along the picturesque Maslenica Bridge, a striking modern landmark that spans the Novigrad Sea, offering panoramic views of the sparkling waters and rugged coastline. We'll arrive at Plitvice Lakes, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site famous for its spectacular waterfalls and vibrant, crystal-clear lakes. Here, we'll have some free time for lunch before we dive into an afternoon walking tour of the park. Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the oldest and most beautiful parks in Croatia, made up of stunning forestry and sixteen cascading lakes. Renowned for their range of distinctive colours, the lakes’ water changes from azure to green, grey or blue depending on the quantity of minerals in the water and the angle of sunlight. After our adventure through this natural wonder, we'll head to our hotel for a relaxing evening.

Today, we bid farewell to Slunj and make our way to Postojna, a picturesque town nestled in Slovenia’s Karst region. Postojna is named after the white-tailed eagle, a majestic bird that once nested high above the town, adding to its allure. Here, we’ll venture into the extraordinary Postojna Cave, one of the world’s most remarkable underground systems. Formed nearly 12 million years ago, the cave stretches for over 24 kilometres, and we’ll board a train to explore its vast chambers and galleries. As we wind our way through this natural wonder, we’ll be amazed by the intricate calcite formations. Afterward, we’ll continue our journey to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s idyllic capital. Known for its blend of Baroque and modern architecture, Ljubljana offers a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere. The city’s tree-lined streets, charming bridges, and the iconic Ljubljana Castle create an irresistible charm that has earned it a spot as one of Europe’s up-and-coming destinations. Once in Ljubljana, we’ll take a short sightseeing tour, offering glimpses of the city’s highlights. We’ll have some free time to wander through the pretty streets, explore the local cafes, or visit one of the many museums before settling in for a relaxing evening in this delightful city.

The Julian Alps have been captivating European travellers for centuries, and today, we’ll have the pleasure of experiencing their beauty up close on a day trip to Bled. Known for its serene, sapphire-toned lake, charming villages and refreshing alpine air, Bled has a way of enchanting everyone who visits. We’ll begin our day with a guided tour of the town, starting with a visit to the stunning Bled Castle. Perched high on a cliff above the lake, this medieval fortress, dating back to around 1011, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. As we stroll through its historic halls, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. No trip to Bled would be complete without tasting its famous local specialty – the Bled Cream Cake. With its delicate layers of puff pastry, smooth custard, and fluffy whipped cream, it’s a treat you definitely won’t want to miss! Next, we’ll continue our journey through Slovenia’s picturesque villages, making our way to Bohinj. Here, we’ll visit a local farm and learn all about the region’s dairy industry. Special Experience Experience a traditional butter making demonstration at a family dairy farm and enjoy a taste of the delicious dairy products. We return to Ljubljana and have the rest of the day at leisure.

This morning, we’ll make our way to the delightful town of Novo Mesto, beautifully situated on a horse-shoe bend of the Krka River. With its peaceful atmosphere, winding cobblestone streets and intimate charm, this town invites us to slow down and appreciate the simple beauty of its tranquil surroundings. Special Experience Take a relaxing cruise aboard Rudolf’s Raft, meandering past adorable buildings dotted along the riverbank, while enjoying local wine, delicious snacks and light music. Next, we travel back into Croatia and to its capital city, Zagreb, nestled between the Medvednica Mountains and the Sava River. Known for its mix of medieval charm and modern elegance, Zagreb is both the cultural and economic heart of the country. Arriving in Zagreb, we’ll get acquainted with the city during free time for lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll enjoy a guiding walking tour of Zagreb’s most iconic landmarks. We’ll pass by the colourful St. Mark’s Church, the Parliament and Government Palace and the stunning St. Catherine’s Church. Lastly, we’ll marvel at the impressive Zagreb Cathedral, with its twin Gothic spires dominating the city skyline. This evening, we’ll indulge in a three-course farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our new friends and to the splendour of Croatia and Slovenia.

Welcome to Croatia, one of the sparkling jewels of the Mediterranean. Boasting an incredible coastline, stunning azure seas, well-preserved old towns and a fascinating history, our journey through Dalmatia will begin here in the city of Zagreb. The beautiful capital of Zagreb is also Croatia's largest city, situated between the southern slopes of the Medvednica Mountains and the northern bank of the Sava River. The city dates back to 1094 and architecturally is a mix of Austro-Hungarian and Socialist structures. Zagreb's colourful and historic old town is surrounded by parks and has a vibrant shopping centre, as well as numerous restaurants and cafes to enjoy for lunch and dinner. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to get your bearings, before meeting your fellow travellers and Tour Director over a welcome drink this evening. 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 6:00pm.

We begin our adventure with a tour of beautiful Zagreb this morning. The first stop is at St Mark’s Church, which dates all the way back to the 13th century. We’ll learn about its history and have time to snap a picture of its unique roof, intricately tiled with Zagreb’s coat of arms. Next it’s onto the baroque St Catherine’s Church and the Cathedral of Zagreb. Built in the 11th century and then reconstructed following an earthquake in 1880, at 108 metres tall the Cathedral remains one of the tallest buildings in Croatia to this day. Our final stops for the day take us to the Parliament building and Government Palace, where our guide will give us some insight into the political history of Zagreb and Croatia. The afternoon is at leisure to further explore this historic city on your own before tonight’s group welcome dinner at a local restaurant. You may wish to climb to the top of Lotrščak Tower and enjoy panoramic views of Zagreb at sunset.

We’ll start early today and cross the border to enter the country of Bosnia & Herzegovina, also known as the heart-shaped land. The drive through the mountains to Sarajevo is one of the most scenic in the region. On our travels we make a stop at the Tunnel of Hope, a museum dedicated to a fascinating 800-metre-long tunnel. Stretching underneath an airport runway, the Tunnel of Hope served as the link to the outside world during the 1992-95 siege where Bosnian Serb forces surrounded Sarajevo. During our visit, we will learn more about the intriguing history of how the tunnel aided the survival of those under siege. Sarajevo has been the meeting point between east and west for hundreds of years, the place where time seems to have frozen. A symbol of hospitality for centuries, Sarajevo has had many civilisations and empires pass through the city, each of them leaving their mark. Within just a few hundred metres of one another, Catholic and Orthodox churches, Mosques, and Jewish synagogues proudly stand side by side, standing the test of time and welcoming travellers. Unsurprisingly, Sarajevo has also been called the 'Jerusalem of Europe'. On arrival in Sarajevo, we’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the Sarajevo Olympic Stadium, which hosted the Winter Olympic Games back in 1984, before enjoying the evening at leisure.

After breakfast we’ll tour this diverse city, uncovering the vibrant Turkish-style bazaar, Baščaršija, with a wonderful array of pottery, metalwork and jewellery on offer. We’ll also explore the Gazi Husrev Beg Mosque, one of the oldest and most beautiful mosques, believed to have been targeted heavily during the Bosnian War. We’ll then visit the historical Gavrilo Princip Museum where the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand took place and is thought to have set off a chain of events that led to the start of World War I. Special Experience Discover the culinary delights of Sarajevo on a gourmet walking tour. Enjoy a degustation of traditional foods, relax in a typical tavern and try homemade rakija. There are many different traditional foods unique to either Sarajevo or Bosnia & Herzegovina that we’ll get to try today. Bosnian cuisine incorporates ingredients such as beef, lamb, chicken, potatoes, onions, garlic, paprika, tomatoes, peppers, beans, and an assortment of vegetables. Popular dishes include burek, cevapi, and Bosanski lonac, which is a meat and vegetable stew. The rest of the day is at your leisure to further explore this wonderful city at your own pace.

We bid farewell to Sarajevo this morning and travel through the spectacular gorge valley of the Neretva River to the historic town of Mostar. Mostar is the second largest city in Bosnia & Herzegovina and home to the famed Stari Most (Old Bridge). Built by the Ottomans in the 16th century, the bridge was the longest single arch constructed bridge in the world for centuries. The original bridge stood for over 400 years, before it was destroyed in the 1990s during the conflicts in the region. It was rebuilt by the European Union using most of the original stones, to its original specifications and style. It has become a rite of passage for young men from Mostar to jump from the bridge into the fast flowing and icy waters below. Whilst in Mostar, we’ll also see the remains of the Turkish quarter and have some leisure time for lunch. We’ll then cross back into Croatia and continue on to Dubrovnik, set against a backdrop of the shimmering Adriatic Sea. Built on a strong tradition of maritime trade, Dubrovnik was one of the centres developing the Croatian language and literature, and was home to many notable poets, playwrights, painters, physicists, mathematicians, and other scholars. We’ll check into our hotel before enjoying an evening at leisure.

This morning we'll enjoy a walking tour of Dubrovnik’s Old Town including a visit to the Rector's Palace. This palace owes its present shape to many additions and reconstructions throughout its turbulent history. It underwent various restorations and repairs due to damage by fires, explosions and earthquakes. Each architect who worked on the repairs had their own view of how the building should look. Today, this allows us to enjoy the unique mix of styles that have been blended perfectly across this monumental structure. Our tour will take us past the Bell Tower Clock and Orlando's Column. We will also see Sponza Palace, the Dominican Monastery and the Franciscan Monastery, the latter boasting one of the world's oldest pharmacies. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. For lunch why not try the local seafood, such as stewed muscles or fresh oysters. As the most popular delicacy, the seafood in Dubrovnik is always caught nearby and served fresh. Tonight, we’re treated to a beautiful sunset cruise around Dubrovnik, delighting in the opportunity to marvel at this city from a different perspective. Make sure your cameras are handy to capture the city bathed in the hues of an evening glow!

Enjoy a full day at leisure today. You can explore this wonderful city at your own pace, or perhaps a day of relaxation is on the agenda – whatever you do, the choice is yours!

We head north along the spectacular coast to Hvar Island this morning. All along the coast, small villages occupy the thin strip of land between towering mountains and cliffs and the bright turquoise waters of the Adriatic. We’ll make a few stops in some of the picturesque towns along the way, including Baćinska Jezera. Our journey to Hvar will include a ferry ride, then we take in the views from the panoramic road on the island as we travel to Hvar town. Home to idyllic beaches and rich with cultural and historic heritage, Hvar has plenty on offer. Lined with 13th-century walls that surround ornate Gothic palaces, Hvar is a small but busy town which can host up to 20,000 people a day in peak periods. The evening is free for you to enjoy at your leisure. Why not stroll the marble-clad and traffic-free streets to take in the city’s vibrant nightlife?

We’ll see some of the highlights of the beautiful island of Hvar on a walking tour this morning. We will be treated to scenic views from the Hvar Fortress, a medieval castle dating back to before 500 BC. Fans of the show Game of Thrones may recognise some of the sights we pass today, as this was the filming site for scenes in the fictional city of Meereen. We then make our way to the village of Vrisnik, ready for lunch. Special Experience Enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals and taste the regional cuisine at a special home-hosted lunch at a local family restaurant. This unique opportunity allows us to delight in a shared group lunch while getting an authentic insight into the local culture – a truly unforgettable experience. We’ll return to our hotel in the afternoon and have the remainder of the day to enjoy at leisure.

Boarding a ferry, this morning we continue to Split, one of the jewels of Croatia’s glittering Adriatic Coast. The largest and most important city of the Dalmatia region, Split was first settled all the way back in 639 AD! Today we’ll explore the historic inner city of Split, built around the Roman Emperor Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage-listed site. Set on the harbourside, our tour takes us through one of the most impressive Roman structures still around today. Commissioned by the emperor Diocletian early in the 4th century, the palace has had many additions and alterations over the years, transforming it into the bustling hub that it is today. We continue to immerse ourselves in Roman history as we see the remnants of Split's Roman heritage, its Renaissance and Gothic structures, Jupiter's Temple, the Peristyle and the Cathedral. The rest of the afternoon is then yours to enjoy at leisure. You may wish to spend time at one of the city’s stunning beaches before exploring some of the excellent dining options and buzzing nightlife in town. Your Tour Director will be able to help with some recommendations.

We leave Split this morning, first continuing north along the coast to the artists' town of Trogir, where scholars from around the world gather to study and paint. Here, we’ll explore the charming Old Town and see the Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral of St Lawrence. After some free time in this charming town, it’s time to head inland! We’ll make our way towards Ličko Petrovo Selo, a small village with rich history and stunning natural surroundings only a short distance away from the famed Plitvice Lakes National Park. On this scenic drive, we’ll travel via both the Krka Bridge and the Maslenica Bridge – two impressive arch bridges offering scenic views of the villages and waterways below. After checking in to our hotel, we’ll enjoy dinner together at our hotel.

After breakfast we’ll head to Plitvice Lakes to explore this stunning national park. Plitvice Lakes National Park is comprised of 16 terraced lakes surrounded by densely wooded hills. Found in the Lika region of Croatia, Plitvice Lakes National Park covers a total area of 300-square-kilometres, including the dazzling string of lakes that link together over a distance of 8-kilometres. Today we’ll enjoy a morning walk around some of the lower lakes. We’ll stroll along wooden boardwalks just above the water level, allowing us to take in the stunning colours of the different lakes as we hear the water rushing right beneath our feet. Our tour of this section of the park takes us through grottoes and caves, and to Veliki Slap, the highest waterfall at 78 metres high. While the boardwalks do make it easy to get around, make sure you wear good, comfortable shoes so you can really get the most out of our adventures today! The afternoon is free for you to explore further at your own pace or to relax and enjoy the tranquillity. If you’re feeling active, you have the option to discover more of this incredible natural phenomenon on an extended walk with your guide this afternoon. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

This morning we make our way to the former imperial resort town of Opatija, located on the beautiful Gulf of Kvarner. Opatija is still a popular resort destination for locals and visitors from surrounding European countries due to its constantly warm climate. Along the way we stop to visit the beautiful watermill village in Rastoke. Here the bright, turquoise water of the Slunjčica flows into the Korana River, which over time has created a series of picturesque waterfalls. After some free time for lunch, we continue to Opatija. Here we’ll take an orientation tour, with our guide pointing out the highlights of this seaside town. We’ll see picturesque gardens, historic churches, scenic views of the ocean and promenades. We’ll enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to continue exploring at our own pace.

Today we have an exciting excursion to the heart-shaped Istrian Peninsula. Located in Croatia’s northwest, it is actually shared by three separate countries; both Italy and Slovenia take up a slice of this Peninsula as well! The drive will take us through many tourist resorts on our way to Pula, a strategic port dating back to ancient Roman times. During our time here we’ll visit the Roman Amphitheatre, the sixth largest of its kind to be preserved in the world today. Next is the village of Rovinj, renowned for its colourful, narrow streets, small squares and old palaces built in Venetian style. We’ll enjoy free time here to grab a bite for lunch. Continuing we experience more of the beauty of the Istria with a delightful tour and wine tasting at a local winery, savoring the region's unique flavors. It’s then back to Opatija and our hotel in the late afternoon where the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

We say goodbye to Croatia today and make our way across the border into Slovenia, with our first stop at the incredible Postojna Caves. The caves are a network of 20 kilometres of passages, galleries and chambers and the largest and most-visited show cave in Europe. This massive cave has its own distinct ecosystem and is home to the unique amphibian, the olm, also known as the human-fish. After some free time for lunch, our journey continues to Predjama, stopping for a photo opportunity of the impressive Predjama Castle, built into the mouth of a cavern. Our journey then continues into the heart of the Julian Alps and the delightful city of Bled, our destination for the next couple of days. The region around Bled is beautiful, set amongst stunning mountain peaks and brimming with forests and greenery, waterfalls and streams. Special Experience Visit a Slovenian chocolate shop where we’ll sip drinks from a chocolate glass, taste raw cacao beans and watch a demonstration from a talented chocolatier. We continue to be immersed in history as we savour traditional Slovenian fare for dinner at the museum’s adjoining restaurant.

Bled is ours to enjoy today during a sightseeing tour, including the town, the lakeshore and the imposing Bled Castle, perched on a cliff high above the lake. Bled Castle was first mentioned in 1011 when the German emperor Henrik II gave it to the Bishops of Brixen. The castle is now a fascinating museum and exhibition space. Next, we travel to the lake valley of Bohinj, beautifully set amidst dense woods and spectacular mountains. The journey will take us through some very old, typical Slovenian villages with gorgeous landscapes. Special Experience Visit the Alpine Dairy Farming Museum, learning about the life of herdsmen in an authentic environment and tasting the locally produced cheeses. We’ll ride a cable car to the top of Mt. Vogel where we admire the breathtaking views over Lake Bohinj and the surrounding southern Julian Alps. Enjoy some free time for lunch here amongst this Alpine wonderland. After making our way back to Bled, the rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy this picture-perfect location. Whilst exploring the Lake Bled area, make sure you stop and try a local Slovenian dish, known as the Bled Cream Cake. Made with layers of puff pastry, custard and whipped cream it’ll be hard not to go back for seconds. Many cafes offer chocolate or fruit versions of the cream cake too!

There’s plenty of time to relax today as we enjoy a full morning of leisure in Bled. Departing after lunch, we make tracks for Vintgar Gorge where we explore the lush greenery and tranquil waters of this stunning location on a walk through the ravine. Don’t forget your camera, the scenery will truly take your breath away! Finishing our walk, we’ll journey to the picturesque Slovenian city of Ljubljana. Charming and romantic, the country’s capital is an idyllic city full of elegant buildings, tree-lined boulevards and welcoming locals. Upon arrival, we’ll take a short sightseeing tour, seeing the intricate baroque buildings of the Old Town, Town Hall, Robba's Fountain, Three Bridges, Parliament and Congress Square. The historic city centre was made a car-free zone in 2007, making it incredibly easy to explore on foot and get a real feel of the history. The evening is at leisure for you to continue exploring at your own pace! Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Today we’ll enjoy a full day of leisure in the gorgeous city of Ljubljana. Perhaps you want to visit Ljubljana Castle, a castle complex that stands on Castle Hill overlooking downtown Ljubljana, or maybe you’d rather wander the many cobblestoned lanes of its car-free centre and explore the boutique stores. Today’s agenda is totally up to you!

After breakfast this morning, we’ll depart for the picturesque town of Novo Mesto, situated on the bend of the Krka River. The town’s history dates all the way back to the 1300s, highlighted through the traditional architecture that hugs the riverside. Special Experience Take a relaxing cruise aboard Rudolf’s Raft, meandering past adorable buildings dotted along the riverbank, while enjoying local wine, delicious snacks and light music. Back on solid ground, we have some free time to take in the sights of Novo Mesto from a different angle. Wander through cobblestone streets, kick back at a quaint coffee shop or marvel at more of the scenery from the riverfront. Later, it’s time to make our way back to where we started, the beautiful Croatian city of Zagreb. Along the way, we stop for a photo opportunity at Otocec Castle, built on a small island in the middle of the Krka River. Back in Zagreb this evening, we’ll check into our hotel before a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant. We’ll reminisce on all the wonderful memories we’ve made over the past few weeks – a great way to end a spectacular trip.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning, marking the completion of our adventure across the Jewels of Dalmatia. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!

Ayubowan and welcome to Sri Lanka! Affectionately known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a total feast for the senses and we can’t wait to dive in headfirst. Separated from India by the Palk Strait, Sri Lanka boasts a rich history that spans centuries. Historically referred to as ‘Ceylon’, this beautiful tear-drop shaped island was officially named ‘Sri Lanka’ in 1972. Home to a rich blend of traditions and cultures, Sri Lanka has been carved by the diverse religions and ethnic groups that have thrived there for centuries. The best bit? These unique customs shift and change depending on where you are! So no matter where you go, there’s always something fascinating to discover. We’re in for a real treat! We’ll arrive in Sri Lanka’s capital city of Colombo this evening, and transfer to our gorgeous hotel nestled by the beaches of Negombo.

Wake up and bask in the coastal-town-vibes of Negombo. Set alongside a picturesque lagoon and home to an impressive network of canals built in Dutch colonial times, Negombo was an important strategic outpost for the trade of cinnamon in colonial times and has been ruled at varying times by the Dutch, Portuguese and British empires. We’ll enjoy the day at leisure today to rest up and refresh from our flight before our sightseeing commences in the early evening. Special Experience Take a scenic cruise along the jungle-fringed Negombo Lagoon at sunset, before enjoying a delicious BBQ dinner. As the sun sets, keep an eye out for various colourful birds and water monitors while our boat navigates the mangrove islands. To welcome us to Sri Lanka, we’ll be treated to a scrumptious dinner of traditional and local dishes, while we enjoy the opportunity to get to know our fellow travellers!

Negombo’s fish markets are full of life and colour each morning when the fresh catch is brought in and vendors voice their prices at the top of their lungs. Buyers bargain for the best deals in what is a daily practice for the locals of this coastal town. We’ll visit the fish markets during a morning tour of Negombo; don’t wear your best shoes and have a handkerchief on hand just in case of a strong aroma (it tends to smell rather fishy)! Next, we’ll make our way to the Dambulla Caves, home to the best-preserved cave temple complex of Sri Lanka. The cave temples were built in the 1st century and the gigantic granite outcrop towers more than 160 metres above its surrounds. We explore the caves covered by ancient frescoes and their interior where over a hundred statues of Buddha (157 to be exact) are housed, some carved from the rock itself. Sri Lanka is home to no less than eight UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, five of which are situated in what is known as the ‘cultural triangle’ that is located in the centre of the island. Neighbouring some of Sri Lanka’s most important sites and landmarks, Habarana is one of the main gateways to the iconic cultural triangle and national parks. We make our way to Habarana and enjoy the remainder of our afternoon at leisure. Our hotel features a large outdoor pool, ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.

Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka and the capital of the North Province. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is known for its many ruins of temples, ancient pools and dagobas. We’ll spend the morning exploring Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest ancient city, seeing its famous white dagobas – large bell-like structures that reach some 60 metres in height which house Buddhist relics. We’ll travel back to Habarana via the Ritigala Medicinal Forest. Set deep in the jungle around a large hill formed by huge sculptural granite monoliths, lies the ancient and now abandoned hermitage of Ritigala. Today the visible remains are those of a Buddhist monastic congregation that used to practice meditation in total austerity. Rarely visited by tourists, this mystical place is incredibly beautiful and unspoilt with shady forests filled with streams, pools and granite boulders leading to ruins with various meditation platforms. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

This morning our eyes are set on Polonnaruwa, which lies at the cultural triangle’s easternmost point and became Sri Lanka’s second capital in the 11th century after the destruction of Anuradhapura. We’ll spend our morning discovering this ancient city that was built alongside a large artificial lake and is home to well-preserved ruins of palaces, bathing pools, stupas and exquisite rock sculptures of Buddha at the Gal Vihara. We’ll also get a chance to see the ‘Quadrangle’, a fascinating group of raised-ruins that are bounded by a wall—a total archaeologist’s dream! While in Polonnaruwa, we’re treated to a delicious, traditional lunch. Bursting with regional spices and flavours, we’ll eat with a friendly local family in their very own backyard – lucky us! Our destination this afternoon is Minneriya National Park, where vast expanses of evergreen forest and scrub areas serve as the roaming grounds for elephants and sambar deer. The central feature of the park is the ancient Minneriya Tank, built in the 3rd century by King Mahasena. During the dry season from June to September, this tank is an incredible place to observe the elephants who come to bathe and graze, as well as the huge flocks of birds such as cormorants and painted storks that come to fish in the shallow waters. Here, we’ll enjoy a game drive by jeep; make sure your camera is recharged.

Regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive sites, a visit to the famous rock fortress of Sigiriya is a must. The remains of a 5th-century fortress lie perched high atop a rock plateau, offering panoramic views over a vast plain and dense jungles. Built by King Kasyapa, an impressive 5-acre fort sat astride the rock and a city nestled at its base, but now the city is gone and the fortress is in ruins. We depart our hotel early this morning to visit Sigiriya. Braving the spiral staircase, we’ll see the 21 frescoes of female nature spirits, known as Apsaras, painted beneath an overhang about 90 metres up the rock. These frescoes are beautiful – still boasting vibrant colours even after 1,500 years. Just above them, a wall adorned with 1,000-year-old graffiti and poetry serves as a testament to visitors who recorded their impressions of the painted women. Reaching the summit after climbing 1,200 stairs, we are rewarded with breathtaking views over the Sri Lankan jungle below and intriguing remnants of a once-thriving kingdom. Special Experience Be welcomed into a quaint village near Sigiriya, exploring the community and enjoying a traditional lunch with a local family. We get acquainted with the traditions of the local family as we watch how they prepare their meals, learn some traditional cooking techniques and enjoy a delicious meal together. Before we leave, we’ll meet staff and children from the local school and learn about the Bunnik Family’s connection to the community. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

This morning we farewell Sigiriya with our sights set on Kandy! En route, we’ll discover the impressive Coconut House, which is a wonderful opportunity to see how a local family utilises every element of a coconut tree, from extracting coconut oil to creating rope. We will also stop in Matale and visit some of the best spice plantations on the island. A large variety of spices such as cinnamon, pepper, nutmeg and precious cardamom (a relative of ginger) are grown here. We’ll be shown how some of these spices are grown and processed and will be able to purchase favourites to take home. Kandy is a truly charming town that is set around an artificial lake and nestled amidst rolling hills covered by forests and tea plantations. It’s known for housing the most important Buddhist temple in the country, the former capital of Ceylon and the last seat of the Sinhalese Kingdom is Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. Kandy’s beautiful city has a distinctive style due to the impressive colonial architecture that still survives today! On arrival, we’ll visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Ever since it was founded in the 16th century, it has housed one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism—a tooth of Buddha collected from his funeral pyre, which is now protected within the gold-roofed Temple of the Tooth. This evening we’re in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, attending the incredible Kandy Festival! Watch in awe as thousands of dancers, drummers, torchbearers and whip-crackers dressed in traditional costumes weave their way through cheering crowds. This is Sri Lanka’s biggest and most spectacular festival. We have seats within a special viewing gallery to watch the pageant and enjoy the festivities.

The stunning Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya is our destination this morning. Initially a Royal Park, it became a Botanical Garden in 1821 under British rule. Here exotic crops such as coffee, tea, nutmeg, rubber and cinchona (quinine)—all of which are important to the country's economy—were first tested. The Botanical Gardens include a beautiful orchid house and a wide variety of plant species from all over the world. We’ll discover the city of Kandy on a guided tour, starting at the Queen’s Hotel, one of the oldest hotels in the country and the first to be officially established in Sri Lanka. We will also make our way to Kandy Lake, a scenic spot in the heart of the city, before making our way to the Kandy Market passing local streets en route. We’ll enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

The country’s main hill resort, Nuwara Eliya is the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush tea-growing region. Founded by the British explorer Samuel Baker in 1846, Nuwara Eliya was a sanctuary to the colonialists keen to escape the humidity and heat of Sri Lanka. The town was originally built with mock-Tudor houses featuring inglenook fireplaces and billiard tables, a golf course, racetrack, gentlemen's clubs and botanical gardens. Now a bustling town and the vegetable garden of Sri Lanka, it still provides a glimpse of life during the colonial heyday. The region’s temperate climate makes this the coolest area in the country. We’ll visit a tea plantation and factory where we discover how Sri Lankan tea is produced, from picking the leaves to selling the tea! And of course, no visit would be complete without enjoying a few samples of the delicious product.

We have a full day dedicated to discovering Nuwara Eliya and its beautiful surrounds. This morning we’ll board the local train for a scenic ride to Thalawakale station, passing magnificent landscapes with every twist and turn. We stop in the main town of Nuwara Eliya and enjoy a guided tour to acquaint ourselves with historically rich city. Here we’ll discover the idyllic Gregory Lake and the busy Central Market and Bazaar, full of vendors and locals going about their day. Known as Little England, Nuwara Eliya features beautiful colonial-era architecture which we’ll have the opportunity to see on our tour – this includes the renowned Nuwara Eliya Post Office! Our journey takes us out of town, venturing further to see the spectacular St. Clair and Devon Falls that cascade down the lush green mountains of the region. Known as Little Niagara of Sri Lanka, St. Clair Falls is one of the widest falls in the country. The nearby Devon Falls was named after an English coffee planter by the name of Devon, whose plantation is situated close by. Back at our stunning accommodation, we’ll unwind at a lovely high tea, delighting in a range of locally sourced teas and delicious finger food. The evening at leisure for you to enjoy. Optional Excursion Horton Plains – Departing before sunrise you make your way to Horton Plains, home to many endemic loris and purple monkeys. Your trek will have you visiting the breathtaking Baker’s Fall and the magnificent ‘World’s End’ which offers one of the best panoramic views in Sri Lanka. 3 hrs/9km – from US $78 pp. Includes local guide (please note: clients who choose to do the trek will miss out on the morning train ride)

We make our way to Yala this morning, stopping to witness the gushing water of the incredible waterfalls at Ella before continuing to Udawalawe en route. Special Experience Visit the incredible Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe and learn about its extensive rehabilitation program. Established in 1995, the Elephant Transit Home rehabilitates orphaned elephant calves until they’re strong enough for release back into the wild. This special place is situated on the western border of Udawalawe National Park, where the elephants get the opportunity to roam free. Best job ever? Very well could be! Although we can’t get up close and personal with the elephants, we’ll be able to see plenty of adorable calves being fed during feeding time. Waving goodbye to our new elephant friends, we make our way to one of Sri Lanka’s most premier eco-tourism destinations, Yala National Park—the gateway to some of the island’s incredible wildlife. Established in 1938, Yala National Park boasts a diverse range of habitats, including scrub jungle, brackish lagoons, lakes, and rivers, that leopards, elephants, wild buffalo and more call home.

This morning we’ll enjoy time at leisure to relax and enjoy our hotel’s facilities. Grab your cameras, we’re heading out on an incredible safari this afternoon through Yala National Park! Among the oldest and best known of Sri Lanka’s national parks, our safari will take us through the park’s stunning scenery and past a number of important cultural ruins. Think vast grassland terrain mixed with beautiful, open lagoons and water holes that are popular among the diverse species found here. Keep your eyes peeled and get your lens ready to capture the numerous different species that call this park home. From the unique Sri Lankan sloth bear and wild water buffalo to the majestic Sri Lankan elephants that roam the area, there is magic to be found with every twist and turn. Here, you’ll also get the opportunity to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. Affectionately known as the Lords of the Jungle, Yala National Park has a leopard density that’s higher than anywhere else on the planet. Fingers crossed we can spot one!

Farewelling the lush greenery of Yala this morning, we make our way to the coastal walled city of Galle, the capital of the South Province. Built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century, this old trading port was further fortified by the Dutch and British colonialists. The narrow streets of shuttered mansions and churches protected by the stone walls, bastions and ramparts, are a delight to stroll through. On arrival in Galle, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of the city on foot, learning about the town’s history and immersing in its stunning colonial architecture. We will discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort, a fantastically preserved colonial sea fortress and Galle’s best-known site. Early this afternoon, we make our way to the seaside village of Habaraduwa to visit a special turtle hatchery. Set up to conserve Sri Lanka’s turtle population, we’ll get the chance to see baby turtles before they’re released into the wild. We then make our way to the stunning town of Weligama, where we’ll witness the unique stilt fishermen of Weligama go about their trade—bring your camera, this makes for a cool photo opportunity!

This morning we enjoy a scenic cruise along the Madu River, meandering through islets forested with mangroves. Look out for the 46 different species of birds that reside in the area, including 14 aquatic varieties, as well as huge water lilies and colourful butterflies. We’ll then visit the Moonstone Mine in Meetiyagoda. This mine is one of the few places where the semi-precious stone is found in high concentrations, hence the villagers believe this area is blessed by the moon. At Meetiyagoda you can see, or even go down into the deep, narrow shafts where the stones are mined. On our way back to the hotel, we will make a stop at the moving Tsunami Photograph Museum which remembers the devastating 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami that inflicted widespread damage to the coast of Sri Lanka. The rest of the afternoon is ours to enjoy at leisure.

Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo, the ‘Garden City of the East’, faces the Indian Ocean and stretches along more than 14 kilometres of the island’s western shores. A bustling city crowded with buses and minivans has overtaken the once quiet roads laden with bullock carts. Tree-lined boulevards, colonial buildings, open air markets, temples, lakes, and churches add great character to this city. Special Experience Take a tour of the beautiful Gradely Cinnamon Estate property, before indulging in a delicious cinnamon-infused morning tea. Upon arrival in Colombo, we’ll enjoy a guided city tour, including a visit to the Gangarama Temple and the famous Cricket Club Café, a prominent establishment in town owned by two Australians. This evening, we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner at the Veranda Restaurant located within the historic and stunning Galle Face Hotel.

Today marks the completion of our adventure across amazing Sri Lanka. We’ll enjoy the day at leisure to explore Colombo further or simply relax and enjoy our hotel amenities. We hope you leave with fantastic memories! Optional Excursion Optional Excursion – Visit the Bunnik Tours office – Enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the Bunnik Tour’s Colombo office to see how our tours are created and meet the Sri Lankan team. Be taken on a tour of the building before enjoying a local homemade meal with the staff over lunch. 2.5 hours – complimentary

Welcome to Hanoi and Vietnam, a country full of breathtaking scenery and fascinating culture offering a unique blend of east and west. Hanoi may certainly be a bustling city, but it still retains the mystery and charm of the past centuries and French colonial influence, with its narrow lanes and traditional shop houses that invite one to explore. Its many beautiful public areas, lakes, parks, tree-lined boulevards and monuments give the city a touch of elegance and a harmony with nature. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5.00pm. We’ll meet tonight to enjoy our group welcome dinner in the Old Quarter.

We’ll discover another side of Hanoi during a half day tour in Long Thuong Village, home to a community of bronze casters since the 13th century. Explore the village and observe how the families create a range of products, including incense-burners and flower vases. Walking alongside fields of rice paddies, we’ll reach the nearby 200-year-old Nom Village. Exploring the narrow brick roads, we’ll see the antique houses and enjoy a cup of tea with a local villager. Learn about the local life and the traditions that define this community. Later this afternoon, we’ll be met at our hotel by a chef from the Rose Kitchen, who will guide us through the local markets, teaching us along the way about Vietnamese produce before a special cooking class, where we get to savour what we create!

We’ll have an early start this morning to discover Hanoi as the city awakens, a great way to see how the locals begin their day. Our tour begins at the photogenic flower market and moves onto the Old Quarter—a fascinating network of narrow alleys and shop houses, also known as 'The 36 Streets'. Each street has been named after the merchandise traditionally sold there, ranging from fabrics and crafts to medicines and tombstones. This is also a great time of day for us to stroll along the majestic Hoan Kiem Lake as it stirs to life—a favourite spot among locals to practise Tai Chi in the tranquil half-light. We can either watch these practitioners or join in ourselves. Breakfast today includes a traditional Vietnamese ‘banh mi’, followed by a visit to a local coffee shop. Experiencing some of the unique highlights of the city, our orientation tour will include Long Bien Bridge, St Joseph’s Cathedral and the grand Hanoi Opera HouseContinuing on, we’ll view the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex comprising of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the beautiful Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s neighbouring traditional Stilt House, where the former Prime Minister lived from 1954 to 1969. We’ll also see the One Pillar Pagoda before heading to the Imperial Citadel & Flag Tower, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010. After lunch, we resume our tour at Vietnam’s first university, the Temple of Literature, a peaceful series of walled courtyards and graceful gateways, which is also host to the ‘Imperial Academy’. Gain a fascinating insight into the lifestyle and customs of Vietnamese woman at the Women’s’ Museum, before exploring the Tran Quoc and Ngoc Son Temples. Our final stop is the notorious Hỏa Lò Prison, nicknamed ‘Hanoi Hilton’. Formerly used by the French colonists for political prisoners, it later housed the imprisoned US pilots that were shot down during the Vietnam War, and today the remnants of the gatehouse remain as a moving museum.

This morning, we travel from Hanoi to breathtaking Halong Bay. Dotted with thousands of limestone islands and outcrops, the bay is known for its stunning emerald waters. Cruise Embarkation We’ll board our cruise vessel and enjoy lunch, while witnessing the incredible views. After our delicious lunch, we’ll have the opportunity to explore Trung Trang Cave, known for its many stalactite formations before a refreshing swim in the emerald waters of Tra Bau – Lan Ha Bay. Returning to the ship, we’ll enjoy some time to relax and watch the sunset on the deck before dinner. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Try your hand at Tai Chi this morning or simply sit back, relax and watch the incredible scenery pass by from the deck as we continue cruising on the waters of Halong Bay. We’ll enjoy a light breakfast before we disembark our cruise and set our sights on Hue, Vietnam’s former capital and seat of the Nguyen Dynasty’s emperors. Hue is the ancient capital of the Nguyen emperors, and its atmospheric charm owes partly to its location right on the Perfume River.

This morning we’ll explore Hue during a sightseeing tour, including the bustling Dong Ba Markets and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Citadel in the old Imperial City, modelled on Beijing’s Forbidden City. It was completed in 1833, and from here the emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty ruled Vietnam until 1945. Entering the citadel via a stone bridge you can see the Thai Hoa Palace, an important venue for official receptions and other important court ceremonies. The ostentatious columns supporting the roof are lacquered and inlaid with gold. There is a pair of smaller halls behind the Thai Hoa Palace used by mandarins to prepare for court ceremonies. After lunch and some time to explore further at our own pace, our afternoon continues with a cruise by dragon boat along the tranquil waters of the Perfume River, before joining a local family for dinner.

Our day commences with a visit to the imperial tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. Ruling from 1848–83, Emperor Tu Duc enjoyed the longest reign of the Nguyen dynasty. Despite having over a hundred wives and concubines, he was unable to father a son and was left to write his own epitaph, even though he believed doing so was a bad omen. His epitaph can still be found on the stele, the largest of its type in Vietnam, in the pavilion to the east of his tomb. This afternoon we travel to Hoi An via the scenic Hai Van Pass, the geographical and psychological boundary between North and South Vietnam.

Hoi An was known as Faifo to early western traders, and it was one of Southeast Asia's major international ports during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. This ancient town remains a well-preserved mix of both indigenous and foreign influences, with architecture styles pulled from Chinese, Japanese and later European, designs. Our walking tour this morning includes a visit to the Culture and History Museum to learn more about this charming town before taking a stroll along the main street where we’ll come to the Chinese Assembly Hall of Fujien Chinese Community. This was built in 1697 as a place of worship dedicated to Thien Hau—the Goddess of the Sea. Strolling along the banks of the river we’ll come to the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, first built by the Japanese community in order to link the town with the Chinese quarters on the other side of the river. Special Experience Visit the colourful local market before taking a short cruise along the Hoi An River to the secluded Red Bridge Cooking School for an aromatic and informative cooking class.

Today is at leisure for you to relax and enjoy the resort and local surrounds or explore the old city at your own pace. An ideal town to discover by foot, why not immerse yourself in Hoi An’s history. Optional Excursion My Son - Travel to My Son, the former religious centre of the Champa Kingdom, a sophisticated civilisation which held sway over the region from the 2nd to the 13th centuries. The Cham religion was primarily derived from Indian Hinduism. The ruins of the five archaeological sites are located among green hills and winding streams. After a brief visit to the Visitor’s Centre for an overview of Cham history and culture, walk along the forested paths to explore the ruins. 3 ½ hours – from US $60pp (private including transfers).

We’ll transfer to the airport today for our flight to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). The largest city in Vietnam, the hustle and bustle of Vietnamese life is visible everywhere in Saigon. It is a city of contrasts, with towering skyscrapers standing alongside traditional markets and ancient temples and a vibrant street food scene that reflects its diverse cultural influences. The city is constantly moving, yet within this teeming metropolis are 300 years of timeless traditions and the beauty of an ancient culture. Special Experience Go off the beaten track to discover Saigon’s best food spots. Touring by vespa, we'll taste authentic Vietnamese cuisine as the locals do.

We explore the Ben Tre province in the Mekong region today, riding a xe lôi (a motorized bike with a cart to sit in) to the local village of Huu Dinh. Travelling along the tributaries and narrow canals in a traditional-style cruise boat, we can observe daily life along the banks. We’ll stop at a family-owned coconut processing business and a brick making factory before enjoying fresh fruit and tea with a local family. After lunch at a riverside restaurant, we continue our xe lôi excursion to visit Mr Sau Toung, a former Viet Cong soldier who spent two years fighting the Khmer Rouge in Phnom Penh. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Our half day city tour departs from the historic Rex Hotel today, as we begin our walking discovery of some of Saigon’s most famous locations. Our first stops are the iconic Dong Khoi Street, the Municipal Theatre, Hotel de Ville and Nguyen Hue Boulevard. We’ll then head to the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office before hopping on our coach to finish our tour. Our final sights in the city centre include the impressive Presidential Palace (Re-unification Palace) with its lush gardens and secret rooms and the War Remnants Museum, a sobering reminder of the brutal effects of war on civilian populations. Lastly, we’ll make our way to the Ngoc Hoang (Jade Emperor) Pagoda before stopping for lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon we depart for Vung Tau, which became home to the Australian Army during the Vietnam War. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

A popular seaside destination for locals, expats and tourist alike, Vung Tau is the ideal getaway to relax by the beach that surrounds the resort town on three sides. We’ll learn more about the Vietnam War today, beginning with visits to Long Tan-Long Dat, where the first Australian Task Force was established in 1966 and the former Nui Dat Task Force. Little remains of this military base today except for the columns of the main gate. We’ll also visit the old bunkers, Kangaroo Pad, SAS Hill –Nui Dat Hill, Luscombe Airfield and the Battalions Flagpole. Next, we’ll see the Nui Dat Kindergarten, built for children of the village by Australian veterans. Continuing, we’ll visit the Long Tan Cross Memorial, site of the most talked about battle of the Vietnam War for Australians and New Zealanders. We finish with a stop at the Long Phuoc Tunnels, which acted as meeting areas, first-aid stations and fighting pits during the war.

We’ll return to Saigon today, where your day is free to explore more of this lively city, or simply unwind at our hotel. Later, we’ll take in the city skyline as we relax with a sundowner atop a rooftop bar, before our group dinner, where we’ll bid farewell to beautiful Vietnam.

Today we will fly to the Cambodian capital of Phnom Penh, known as the ‘Pearl of Asia’ and considered one of the loveliest French-built cities in Indochina during the 1920s. This afternoon is ours to enjoy at leisure. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group dinner at a local restaurant.

This morning is spent exploring Phnom Penh by rickshaw. Our sightseeing includes the Royal Palace (still the official residence of King Norodom Sihamoi), the Silver Pagoda, and the elegant National Museum, which contains a comprehensive collection of Khmer Art. This afternoon we visit the poignant Killing Fields, located just outside of Phnom Penh. The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek provide a stark reminder of the atrocities committed under the Pol Pot regime, when thousands of people were killed between 1975 and 1978 and buried in mass graves. Today it is possible to see the fields and visit the Memorial Stupa containing 8,000 human skulls, all victims of the Khmer Rouge. On our way back to Phnom Penh we visit Tuol Sleng, the former high school and site of the notorious Security Prison 21, converted by the Khmer Rouge during their rise to power where an estimated 17,000 people were imprisoned. This visit is very moving and can be quite confronting, as it has now become the Cambodia Genocide Museum. This evening is ours to enjoy at leisure.

Today we make our way to Siem Reap, known as the gateway to Angkor Wat. Surrounded by rice paddies, the area is dotted with millennium-old temple ruins from the Khmer Empire, the most famous of which is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Angkor Wat, which we will be exploring in detail in a few days. En route, we’ll stop in Skuon to visit the renowned Spider Market. Regarded as a delicacy in Cambodia, spiders are the main attraction of this curious market. Fancy sampling a fried tarantula? This is your chance to do it! We continue to Kampong Thom, visiting a local stone mason before some free time for lunch. Departing for Siem Reap, we’ll marvel at the Naga Bridge in Kampong Kdei. Also known as the Dragon Bridge or Spean Praptos, this bridge is said to be the oldest laterite bridge in southeast Asia. The Naga Bridge is so famous that it’s even printed on Cambodia’s currency – keep your eyes peeled for the 5000 riel. This evening we travel to this evening’s welcome dinner by remork, a popular mode of transportation in Siem Reap similar to a tuk-tuk.

Our introduction to Siem Reap’s sights begins with a visit to the fortified city of Angkor Thom. This dramatic structure covers an area of 10 square kilometres. Enclosed by a wall and wide moats, it includes many of Angkor's most popular sights. We enter by the monumental south gate over a causeway lined on either side by statues of demons and gods, each carrying a giant naga (snake-like creature). Our first stop is the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Formerly spaces for public ceremonies, both are adorned with dramatic bas reliefs. We visit the ruined Baphuon Temple and Phimeanakas Temple before continuing to the mysterious Bayon Temple. In this temple, one of the most popular and compelling in Angkor, we explore the galleries of beautifully preserved bas reliefs and ascend narrow stairs to reach the central sanctuary. Here we will find the famous giant stone faces smiling enigmatically down at us from every angle. In the afternoon we make our way to Tonlé Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. During the monsoon season the lake swells to four times its normal size, so it’s important for the locals that live on the banks and surrounds to build their houses on stilts. Here we’ll board a boat and take a ride along the canal of the lake, giving us an opportunity to see how the locals live in their colourful stilt houses. Watch children playing on the banks while fishermen wade in the shallows with nets and traps. As we reach the mouth of the canal and lake the stilt houses end, and boats are transformed into houses to make up the floating villages. Optional Excursion Phare Circus – Experience the famous Phare Circus, a captivating blend of Cambodian tradition and modernity. Through using theatre, music, dance, and circus acts, immerse yourself in a vibrant narrative that tells of a traditional Cambodian story weaving historical, modern and folk elements. Brace yourself for a high-energy performance that will leave you mesmerised from start to finish. 1 ¾ hours – from US $44pp (private including transfers). Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Special Experience Take part in a Khmer cooking class, first stopping at a local market for a glimpse of the life of rural farmers before preparing and eating some of the best-known Khmer dishes for lunch. This afternoon, we'll take an excursion to the popular Ta Keo, built by Jayavarman V, who ruled from 968 to 1001. We’ll see Ta Prohm which is famous for being featured in the Lara Croft: Tomb Raider series, and because much of the jungle surrounding it has not been cleared. We'll also explore the Banteay Srei and Kdei Temples before visiting Preah Khan, a temple built by King Jayavaram VII with towered enclosures and shoulder-hugging corridors set in the jungle. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Special Experience An early start to witness the breathtaking views, shadows and reflections of Angkor Wat at sunrise. The national symbol and highlight of any visit to Cambodia, Angkor Wat is the crowning jewel of Khmer architecture. Built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, Angkor Wat was later transformed into a Buddhist temple and became the center of the Khmer Empire. As the largest, best preserved and most religiously significant of all the Angkor temples, Angkor Wat impresses visitors with its sheer scale, beautifully proportioned layout and the delicate artistry of its carvings. Before leaving Angkor Wat, we’ll visit a local pagoda and experience a traditional monk blessing. A sacred ritual performed in pagodas across Cambodia, these blessings are said to bring luck and promote cleansing. This memorable experience will give us insight into Cambodia’s century-old traditions. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

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

Welcome to Hanoi and Vietnam, a country full of breathtaking scenery and fascinating culture offering a unique blend of east and west. Hanoi may certainly be a bustling city, but it still retains the mystery and charm of the past centuries and French colonial influence, with its narrow lanes and traditional shop houses that invite one to explore. Its many beautiful public areas, lakes, parks, tree-lined boulevards and monuments give the city a touch of elegance and a harmony with nature. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5.00pm. We’ll meet tonight to enjoy our group welcome dinner in the Old Quarter.

We’ll discover another side of Hanoi during a half day tour in Long Thuong Village, home to a community of bronze casters since the 13th century. Explore the village and observe how the families create a range of products, including incense-burners and flower vases. Walking alongside fields of rice paddies, we’ll reach the nearby 200-year-old Nom Village. Exploring the narrow brick roads, we’ll see the antique houses and enjoy a cup of tea with a local villager. Learn about the local life and the traditions that define this community. Later this afternoon, we’ll be met at our hotel by a chef from the Rose Kitchen, who will guide us through the local markets, teaching us along the way about Vietnamese produce before a special cooking class, where we get to savour what we create!

We’ll have an early start this morning to discover Hanoi as the city awakens, a great way to see how the locals begin their day. Our tour begins at the photogenic flower market and moves onto the Old Quarter—a fascinating network of narrow alleys and shop houses, also known as 'The 36 Streets'. Each street has been named after the merchandise traditionally sold there, ranging from fabrics and crafts to medicines and tombstones. This is also a great time of day for us to stroll along the majestic Hoan Kiem Lake as it stirs to life—a favourite spot among locals to practise Tai Chi in the tranquil half-light. We can either watch these practitioners or join in ourselves. Breakfast today includes a traditional Vietnamese ‘banh mi’, followed by a visit to a local coffee shop. Experiencing some of the unique highlights of the city, our orientation tour will include Long Bien Bridge, St Joseph’s Cathedral and the grand Hanoi Opera House. Continuing on, we’ll view the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex comprising of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the beautiful Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s neighbouring traditional Stilt House, where the former Prime Minister lived from 1954 to 1969. We’ll also see the One Pillar Pagoda before heading to the Imperial Citadel & Flag Tower, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010. After lunch, we resume our tour at Vietnam’s first university, the Temple of Literature, a peaceful series of walled courtyards and graceful gateways, which is also host to the ‘Imperial Academy’. Gain a fascinating insight into the lifestyle, culture and customs of Vietnamese woman at the Women’s’ Museum, before exploring the Tran Quoc and Ngoc Son Temples. Our final stop is the notorious Hỏa Lò Prison, nicknamed ‘Hanoi Hilton’. Formerly used by the French colonists for political prisoners, it later housed the imprisoned US pilots that were shot down during the Vietnam War, and today the remnants of the gatehouse remain as a moving museum.

This morning we travel from Hanoi to breathtaking Halong Bay. Dotted with thousands of limestone islands and outcrops, the bay is known for its stunning emerald waters. Cruise Embarkation We’ll board our cruise boat and enjoy an authentic Vietnamese lunch as the boat sails towards the southeast of the bay. After our delicious lunch, we’ll have the opportunity to explore Trung Trang Cave, known for its many stalactite formations before a refreshing swim in the emerald waters of Tra Bau – Lan Ha Bay. Returning to the ship, we’ll enjoy some time to relax and watch the sunset on the deck before dinner. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Try your hand at Tai Chi this morning or just simply sit back, relax and watch the incredible scenery pass by from the deck as we continue cruising on the waters of Halong Bay. We’ll enjoy a light breakfast, before we disembark our cruise and set our sights on Hue, Vietnam’s former capital and seat of the Nguyen Dynasty’s emperors. Hue is the ancient capital of the Nguyen emperors, and its atmospheric charm owes partly to its location right on the Perfume River.

This morning we’ll explore Hue during a sightseeing tour, including the bustling Dong Ba Markets and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Citadel in the old Imperial City, modelled on Beijing’s Forbidden City. It was completed in 1833, and from here the emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty ruled Vietnam until 1945. Entering the citadel via a stone bridge you can see the Thai Hoa Palace, an important venue for official receptions and other important court ceremonies. The ostentatious columns supporting the roof are lacquered and inlaid with gold. There is a pair of smaller halls behind the Thai Hoa Palace used by mandarins to prepare for court ceremonies. After lunch and some time to explore further at our own pace, our afternoon continues with a cruise by dragon boat along the tranquil waters of the Perfume River, before joining a local family for dinner.

Our day commences with a visit to the imperial tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. Ruling from 1848–83, Emperor Tu Duc enjoyed the longest reign of the Nguyen dynasty. Despite having over a hundred wives and concubines, he was unable to father a son and was left to write his own epitaph, even though he believed doing so was a bad omen. His epitaph can still be found on the stele, the largest of its type in Vietnam, in the pavilion to the east of his tomb. This afternoon we travel to Hoi An via the scenic Hai Van Pass, the geographical and psychological boundary between North and South Vietnam.

Hoi An was known as Faifo to early western traders, and it was one of Southeast Asia's major international ports during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. This ancient town remains a well-preserved mix of both indigenous and foreign influences, with architecture styles pulled from Chinese, Japanese and later European, designs. Our walking tour this morning includes a visit to the Culture and History Museum to learn more about this charming town before taking a stroll along the main street where we’ll come to the Chinese Assembly Hall of Fujien Chinese Community. This was built in 1697 as a place of worship dedicated to Thien Hau—the Goddess of the Sea. Strolling along the banks of the river we’ll come to the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, first built by the Japanese community in order to link the town with the Chinese quarters on the other side of the river. Special Experience Visit the colourful local market before taking a short cruise along the Hoi An River to the secluded Red Bridge Cooking School for an aromatic and informative cooking class.

Today is at leisure for you to relax and enjoy the resort and local surrounds or explore the old city at your own pace. An ideal town to discover by foot, why not immerse yourself in Hoi An’s fascinating history. Optional Excursion My Son - Travel to My Son, the former religious centre of the Champa Kingdom, a sophisticated civilisation which held sway over the region from the 2nd to the 13th centuries. The Cham religion was primarily derived from Indian Hinduism. The ruins of the five archaeological sites are located among green hills and winding streams. After a brief visit to the Visitor’s Centre for an overview of Cham history and culture, walk along the forested paths to explore the ruins. 3 ½ hours – from US $60pp (private including transfers).

We’ll transfer to the airport today for our flight to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). The largest city in Vietnam, the hustle and bustle of Vietnamese life is visible everywhere in Saigon. It is a city of contrasts, with towering skyscrapers standing alongside traditional markets and ancient temples and a vibrant street food scene that reflects its diverse cultural influences. The city is constantly moving, yet within this teeming metropolis are 300 years of timeless traditions and the beauty of an ancient culture. Special Experience Go off the beaten track to discover Saigon’s best food spots. Touring by vespa, we'll taste authentic Vietnamese cuisine as the locals do.

We explore the Ben Tre province in the Mekong region today, riding a xe lôi (a motorized bike with a cart to sit in) to the local village of Huu Dinh. Travelling along the tributaries and narrow canals in a traditional-style cruise boat, we can observe daily life along the banks. We’ll stop at a family-owned coconut processing business and a brick making factory before enjoying fresh fruit and tea with a local family. After lunch at a riverside restaurant, we continue our xe lôi excursion to visit Mr Sau Toung, a former Viet Cong soldier who spent two years fighting the Khmer Rouge in Phnom Penh. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Our half day city tour departs from the historic Rex Hotel today, as we begin our walking discovery of some of Saigon’s most famous locations. Our first stops are the iconic Dong Khoi Street, the Municipal Theatre, Hotel de Ville and Nguyen Hue Boulevard. We’ll then head to the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office before hopping on our coach to finish our tour. Our final sights in the city centre include the impressive Presidential Palace (Re-unification Palace) with its lush gardens and secret rooms and the War Remnants Museum, a sobering reminder of the brutal effects of war on civilian populations. Lastly, we’ll make our way to the Ngoc Hoang (Jade Emperor) Pagoda before stopping for lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon we depart for Vung Tau, which became home to the Australian Army during the Vietnam War. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

A popular seaside destination for locals, expats and tourist alike, Vung Tau is the ideal getaway to relax by the beach that surrounds the resort town on three sides. We’ll learn more about the Vietnam War today, beginning with visits to Long Tan-Long Dat, where the first Australian Task Force was established in 1966 and the former Nui Dat Task Force. Little remains of this military base today except for the columns of the main gate. We’ll also visit the old bunkers, Kangaroo Pad, SAS Hill –Nui Dat Hill, Luscombe Airfield and the Battalions Flagpole. Next, we’ll see the Nui Dat Kindergarten, built for children of the village by Australian veterans. Continuing on, we’ll visit the Long Tan Cross Memorial, site of the most talked about battle of the Vietnam War for Australians and New Zealanders. We finish with a stop at the Long Phuoc Tunnels, which acted as meeting areas, first-aid stations and fighting pits during the war.

We’ll return to Saigon today, where your day is free to explore more of this lively city, or simply unwind at our hotel. Later, we’ll take in the city skyline as we relax with a sundowner atop a rooftop bar, before our group dinner, where we’ll bid farewell to beautiful Vietnam.

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