Tours

‘Hola’ and welcome to sizzling South America, a captivating melting pot of culture, cuisine and scenery. Consisting of 13 incredibly diverse countries, it is the fourth largest continent and home to some of the most recognisable UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites. And we can’t wait to show it to you! This evening, we’ll arrive in Lima, the capital of Peru. Lima is the second largest city after Cairo, to be situated within a desert. Founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, Lima was designed to be a showcase of Spanish colonial architecture in a conquered territory. Today, the patchwork of Lima’s vibrant city life and neighbourhoods, combined with a plethora of museums and churches, offers visitors a fascinating and rich cultural heritage to discover.

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

A visit to Guamote is a true cultural immersion. Today, we’ll be welcomed into a local indigenous community and get the unique opportunity to give back to those who are sharing their world with us. Special Experience An experience like no other, we’ll journey to a nearby village where we will make a donation based on the needs of the community and learn about their daily lives. In a local indigenous village, we’ll learn about their way of life before supporting them with a donation based on their needs. The exact nature of the donation will be decided prior to our visit in conjunction with the local community and could include such things as clothing and shoes, school essentials and livestock. We’ll return to our guesthouse for lunch before setting out this afternoon for yet another incredible excursion to visit the local Shaman. Special Experience Learn the importance of the Shaman and feel enlightened on our visit that includes a spiritual cleansing for our group. A Shaman is a person of religious and spiritual significance who performs traditional rituals for healing. We’ll learn about the significance of the Shaman in the local indigenous communities and partake in a cleansing experience which is deeply ingrained in their cultural traditions.

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

Our chiva awaits us this morning! This colourful open-air bus will carry us into the upper basin of the Amazon rainforest. Here, we take a short hike to the thunderous Devil's Cauldron waterfall (Pailon del Diablo) and the plunging Pastaza River gorge. Whilst exploring the lush environment, we’ll also have the opportunity to cross the deep gorge in a scenic cable car for spectacular views over the surrounding area. Returning to Baños, we’ll have some free time for lunch before our next adventure. The township is full of streets lined with restaurants, bars and souvenir shops. Make sure to watch the locals stretching toffee from wooden pegs in their shopfronts – it’s a traditional specialty. Then, prepare yourself for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as we travel to Casa del Arbol to the ‘Swing at the End of the World’ this afternoon! Picture a treehouse set atop a hillside, overlooking a breathtaking, mountainous landscape, and several swings just waiting to be swung. A must for anyone with an adventurous spirit, or for those wanting to keep their feet firmly placed on solid ground, the stunning vistas will keep you enthralled and your camera busy. 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.

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

Special Experience Travel to a local Andean community to experience a Pachamanka ceremony. We'll savour a meal prepared through a traditional Inca ritual, where vegetables and meat are cooked within the earth using hot lava stones. From our base in Otavalo, we’ll journey out to a local Andean community to take part in an authentic feast where the food is cooked underground. This traditional ceremony is undertaken to celebrate the connection of the Andean people to Pachamama, which translates to ‘Mother Earth’. We’ll immerse ourselves in the cultural practice before tucking into lunch. The town of Cotacachi is our next stop. This local community, renowned as the ‘Leather Capital’, specialises in crafting high-quality leather goods including purses, jackets and leather belts. We’ll have time to do a spot of shopping and explore the town at leisure. In the early afternoon, we’ll venture to Cuicocha Lake, a stunning lagoon situated at the foot of the Cotacachi Volcano. The island in the middle of this lake is said to look like a guinea pig, hence the name Cuicocha which in the Kichwa indigenous language means ‘Guinea Pig Lake’. Here, we will enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the tranquil waters of the volcanic crater lake.

Magnificent volcanoes surround us today as we continue our journey through the Andes. We start our day paying a visit to the bustling, indigenous markets of La Plaza de Ponchos, the Otavalo Handicraft Market. This is one of the best artisan markets in South America where you can find traditional handmade souvenirs such as jewellery, hammocks, blankets and ponchos. Next, we will visit La Companía Rose Plantation for a late morning tea and a tour of its historic hacienda. Built in a French Republic-style, the hacienda dates back to 1919 and has remained in the same family for five generations. The rose showroom houses an amazing display of roses of all colours and varieties, many of which are exported around the world. The scenic drive continues as we make our way to the tiny village of Papallacta this afternoon. Perched at 3,300 metres in a high Andean valley, Papallacta is located at the entrance to the Ecuadorian Amazon jungle and is home to the best hot springs in the country. The remainder of the day can be spent enjoying the therapeutic waters of the steamy springs at our hotel or indulging in some luxurious spa treatments.

Enjoy a slow morning today, with another opportunity to relax in Papallacta’s steamy hot springs. Sit and soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters as you admire the surrounding mountain scenery. Said to contain medicinal properties, the natural springs are fed by rainwater that sneaks into the Chacana caldera and is warmed by the magma of surrounding volcanoes. Departing Papallacta, we will stop at the bird lover’s paradise of Guango Lodge. We'll wander through the lush rainforest that surrounds the lodge, observing a variety of colourful hummingbird species in their natural habitat, while passing through an array of beautiful orchids in bloom. We continue through the valley to Quito, Ecuador’s capital. Quito is located high in the Andes Mountains at an elevation of 2,800 metres. Nestled in a spectacular valley and surrounded by snow-capped volcanic peaks, Quito also claims UNESCO World Heritage status for its Old Town. This wonderful part of the city, with some of its buildings dating back to the mid-1500s when the Spanish founded the city, has been carefully restored. It holds fascinating history and beauty with vintage façades lining the streets, and large, open plazas adjacent to striking cathedrals and stately public buildings.

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

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

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

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

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

Today is all about exploring the wonders of Cusco, beginning by discovering the magnificent fortress of Sacsayhuaman, believed to have been built during the 1400s. The enormous blocks used in the construction of this colossal structure were carved and fitted with such precision that there was no need for mortar, a testament to the skill of the masons. We’ll then visit the San Pedro Market to immerse ourselves in the local culture. This bustling market offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can find fresh produce, handicrafts and traditional food. Special Experience Learn to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes with fresh ingredients and expert guidance from local chefs before enjoying our creations for lunch. Our next stop will take us to the religious complex of Qoricancha, containing the Temple of the Sun, considered to be the most spectacular temple in the Inca Empire. As well as being the main astronomical observatory for the Incas, some 4,000 priests and their attendants once lived within its confines. Looted and then destroyed by the Spanish, they used the foundations for the Dominican Convent of Santo Domingo, creating perhaps the most incongruous imperial-colonial architectural clash in Cusco. We continue our tour of Cusco with a visit to the 17th century Cusco Cathedral – the façade of which is a fine example of colonial baroque architecture.

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

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

A magical day lies ahead of us as we take an early Vistadome train ride through the Urubamba Valley to the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu! On arrival in Aguas Calientes, we check into our hotel before taking a local bus up the mountain to the entrance. Nestled within an Andean cloud forest, Machu Picchu is famous for its remarkably preserved ruins and spiritual significance to the ancient Inca civilisation. Our guide will give us an in-depth introduction and description of the site, before enjoying some free time to explore the ruins on our own. Alternatively, if you have chosen to undertake the optional Inca Trail hike (this must be pre-booked at the time of tour booking), you will have an early start, taking a train to the ‘Km 104’ station where your trek commences. For those on the trek, the first site along the route is the incredible archaeological complex of Chachabamba. From here, the trail ascends for 8 kilometres. At approximately the four-hour mark we arrive at the impressive ruins of Wiñay Wayna, built into the steep countryside. As we continue, we'll enjoy magnificent views of the Urubamba River valley and the Choquesuysuy archaeological complex. We continue along a trail of flat stones on the edges of cliffs in highland jungle for another hour or so, until we arrive at the picturesque Sun Gate of Inti Punku - a wonderful spot to snap a beautiful photo. The trek ends in the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu. Our guide will take us through this mind-blowing site, pointing out the most important sites of the ancient civilisation. 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 rise and enjoy the morning at leisure. You’ll also have the option to return to Machu Picchu for a second visit, to admire the beauty of this ancient phenomenon before the crowds arrive. We’ll then return to Ollantaytambo via the Vistadome train. From Ollantaytambo, we travel through the dramatic scenery of the Sacred Valley, passing by rural villages and agricultural pastures before reaching Chinchero. We’ll stop in at the rustic town to experience a traditional weaving demonstration. Departing the colour and customs of picturesque Chinchero, we’ll arrive back to Cusco in the evening where we’ll check into our hotel. Optional Excursion Machu Picchu 2nd visit & Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) - Your tour already includes one visit to Machu Picchu, however, you may wish to take a second visit to explore this phenomenon further. Alternatively, you may wish to also incorporate a climb up to Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) (considered to provide the best view over Machu Picchu). Please note both options include entry into Machu Picchu and transportation (guide not included). If you choose the Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) option, entry to the peak is also included. Half day Machu Picchu only - from $90pp US. Half day Machu Picchu incl. Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) – from $105pp US. Please note: You must purchase your entrance ticket in advance. This will be done by our local operator. Please advise your travel specialist if you would like to include a second visit. Entrance tickets are limited and by shifts. These usually sell out well in advance. Current shifts for entry in the morning are hourly beginning at 6.00am. Your entry time is located in the top left corner of the ticket, and you have a maximum of 30 minutes after that time to arrive at the entrance for check in. If possible, we recommend booking an earlier time slot. Your ticket allows you access to one of the established circuits around the site. The ticket that includes Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) mountain only allows you to visit circuit 3-A. The circuits, visitor regulations and other relevant information for your visit are available at http://www.machupicchu.gob.pe For those clients who have chosen the optional Inca Trail trek, a second visit to Machu Picchu is included in the cost of your trekking permit. This allows trekkers who wish to do so to visit circuit 3-B at no additional cost. However, this included second visit does not include the cost of transportation to and from the ruins as not all trekkers will choose to return the following day. The cost of the return buses to the ruin site is $28pp US and this needs to be paid locally. Your tour guide will assist you in obtaining these tickets.

Enjoy a slow start to the morning with a full day at leisure to explore more of colourful Cusco. Full of plazas, archaeological ruins and interesting craft shops containing over 3,000 years of history, it's a great place to explore and experience on your own. Why not venture into the heart of the city to explore Cusco’s historic centre, Plaza de Armas? Here you can marvel some more at the Cusco Cathedral or spend time admiring the architecture of the imposing Church of La Compañía de Jesús. You might also wish to check out the Casa Concha Museum. This fascinating space contains artefacts from Machu Picchu that were found by Hiram Bingham and recently returned by Yale University. Just a few blocks from the main square, lies the neighbourhood of San Blas. Here along the narrow, cobbled streets, you’ll find famous artisans, coffee shops, galleries and more. The area is also home to a lively mix of bars and restaurants. Venture into one of the establishments to rub shoulders with the locals or tuck into some traditional Peruvian dishes while enjoying live music.

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

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

Nestled on the water just outside of Puno, we’ll visit the floating Uros Islands, where the unique landscape offers a glimpse into the ingenuity of the local Indian community. These man-made islands on Lake Titicaca are built on a foundation of totora reeds, sourced from the lake itself. Bound and connected by ropes, they are then anchored by logs which plunge deep into the bottom of the lakebed. There are over 100 of these small islands dotted around the lake, though the number is constantly changing as new mounds are constructed and others break down. The indigenous Uros people who live here earn a living from fishing, weaving and handicrafts. We’ll enjoy a moment to admire these fascinating floating communities, marvelling at how they’ve adapted to their natural environment. In the afternoon we fly to Lima, Peru’s largest city and its capital. This incredible region is covered in history, gloriously messy and full of aesthetic delights. Renowned for its historic UNESCO World Heritage-listed centre, the city is home to a splendid array of colonial-style architecture as well as an exciting food scene. Lima is also well known for its vibrant nightlife, littered with bars and live music venues.

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

Smile because it’s time to go to Rio! It’s an early start this morning as we depart the capital of Lima and transfer to the airport for our flight to Rio de Janeiro, the Cidade Maravilhosa or ‘Marvellous City’. Situated amongst lush, forest-covered mountains and breathtaking beaches, Rio is one of the world's most lively and beautiful cities. Brimming with music, dancing and delicious cuisine, the city is a whirlwind of colour and culture, made even more charming by the friendly atmosphere of the locals. Situated between Brazil’s Guanabara Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, the landscape is home to some of the most recognised sites in the world, including the iconic statue of Christ and the famous Copacabana Beach. We’ll transfer to our hotel in the late evening. Enjoy a moment to settle in before ensuring you set your camera to charge, ready for a full day of exploring tomorrow!

Today we discover the icons of Rio. The Statue of Christ the Redeemer is one of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’ and is situated at the peak of the 700-metre-high Corcovado Hill. We arrive at the bottom of the hill and board the red, narrow-gauge train to climb the mountain through the Tijuca Forest, up to the statue. The historic railway is almost one hundred years old and Brazil’s oldest tourist excursion. Settle in for some beautiful scenery and photo opportunities as we pass through the picturesque national park. We’ll also visit Sugar Loaf Mountain to enjoy amazing panoramic views over the whole city. Sugar Loaf Mountain’s name is said to have stemmed from when blocks of sugar (or sugar loaves) were placed in conical moulds made of clay to be transported on ships. The shape made by these moulds was similar to the peak, hence the name. Our touring will also include a stop at the Selaron Steps, one of Rio’s most striking and well-known landmarks. Created by Chilean artist Jorge Selaron, this is one of Brazil’s most famous pieces of street art with the steps decorated with more than 2000 tiles in the colours of the Brazilian flag.

Special Experience Discover Old Rio on a walking tour and enjoy a farm-to-cup Brazilian coffee tasting experience. Uncover the fascinating roots of Rio de Janeiro as we set out on foot through the older districts of the city. Explore its historical centre and other sites steeped in Rio’s colonial past, admiring the architecture and landmarks that we pass along the way. We’ll then immerse ourselves in the local culture by sampling the delicious flavours of traditional Brazilian coffee! Rio played a significant role in the history of Brazil’s coffee cultivation, which we’ll learn about as we sip on the aromatic beverage. This afternoon is at leisure to unwind in the beauty of Rio or explore some more. You may wish to visit the beautiful botanical gardens, a sanctuary of exotic flowers and plants, or stroll along the sandy shores of Copacabana Beach. This famous stretch of coast is framed by a swirling black-and-white sidewalk made entirely of mosaics. We’ll indulge in the fire-roasted flavours of a Brazilian churrasco grill dinner this evening at Assador. Optional Excursion Tour Old Rio and Santa Teresa - This tour starts in the historical centre of Rio de Janeiro. The architecture of Praça XV, Arco dos Teles, the França-Brasil House (Old Alfândega), the São Bento Monastery, and the Lapa Arches are prime examples of buildings from the Colonial era. The Banco do Brasil Cultural Museum, Municipal Theatre, Museum of Fine Arts and the Public National Library are examples of architecture from the Imperial era. Next stop on the tour is the neighbourhood of Santa Teresa. This traditional neighbourhood is home to mansions from the beginning of the 20th century, built mainly by the English who sought out this region for its mild climate. Nowadays, it’s a hotspot for artists and eccentrics. The antique cable car still runs through the narrow streets as the main form of collective transportation. Includes transportation on a seat-in-coach basis. 4 hours – from $66pp US. Optional Excursion Art and Graffiti Tour - This guided walking tour traces the route of open-air artwork located in some of Rio’s oldest neighbourhoods, from the original settlement of Praça XV to the recently renovated Porto Maravilha. This area’s historical importance is echoed through its monuments, statues, art installations, murals, and graffiti. Candelária Church, the Olympic Pyre, Maua Square and Rio’s Art Museum (MAR) are some of the highlights on this 4km walk. The amount of walking can be established by your interests and conditions. Most museums close on Monday in Rio. Entrance in any of the sites can be included for an added cost. Includes driver and guide. 4 hours – from $107pp US

Today we’ll make our way to one of the largest waterfall systems in the world, as we fly to Iguazu Falls! Straddling the borders of Brazil and Argentina, Iguazu Falls consists of more than 275 individual waterfalls, which fluctuates throughout the year depending on the season and water levels. Surrounded by the dense foliage of the Atlantic Rainforest, the waterfalls are more than 3 kilometres wide and 80 metres high - making them wider than Victoria Falls and higher than Niagara Falls. Considered to be one of the most spectacular natural sights in the world, seeing the horseshoe-shaped chain of falls cascade over the forest-fringed basalt rock and sandstone cliffs feels almost like stepping into another world. Surrounding the thunderous spray of the falls, the area is home to a diverse ecosystem of animal and plant life, including tapirs, coati, giant anteaters and colourful-billed toucans. The humid sub-tropical climate of the region provides the perfect conditions for a unique range of fauna to thrive, including a number of palm and orchid species. After our arrival, we’ll transfer to our hotel on the Argentinian side of the falls.

First up this morning, we’ll transfer back to the Brazilian side of the falls and walk the canyon path, discovering the panoramic views over San Martin Island. As we soak up the breathtaking vistas from this unique perspective, we’ll likely feel the mist of the thundering falls as we explore. Following our scenic stroll along the boardwalk, we’ll get up close with more than 150 species of exotic birds at the famous Parque das Aves Bird Park. The sanctuary is set within 12 acres of stunning rainforest and home to an incredible array of birdlife, including colourful macaws, toucans and flamingos. We’ll be immersed in a symphony of chirping, burbling and fluttering as we explore the tree shelters and take some beautiful photos of the wildlife. This afternoon, we return to our hotel on the Argentinian side of the falls where the remainder of the day will be at leisure to explore our surroundings. Optional Excursion Helicopter Tour - (min 2/max 4 participants per helicopter) - Experience the breathtaking sights of Iguazú Falls from the sky! Departure is from the entrance of the Iguazú National Park (Brazilian side) and can be taken when doing the Brazilian Falls tour. Please advise your guide if you are interested in this tour. 10 minutes – from $212pp US.

For our last day in Iguazu Falls, we’ll spend the morning exploring the Argentinian side of this natural masterpiece. A small train will take us into the heart of Iguazu National Park before we continue on foot to the falls. We’ll stand on a platform suspended over the thundering Devil's Throat - the largest of the waterfalls, to feel (and hear) the water’s power. Warning: you will get wet! With a drop of 82 metres, this impressive u-shaped waterfall crashes down into a narrow chasm encased by unique rock formations. After drying off, we’ll head to the airport to fly to Buenos Aires, Argentina - the 'Paris of the South'. Buenos Aires boasts an intriguing mix of grand boulevards and classic European style architecture combined with an irresistible South American vibe. Founded in the 16th century on the shores of the Rio de la Plata, Buenos Aires literally translates to ‘fair winds’ and it has grown and flourished since its early beginnings. Now one of the most visited cities in South America, its most defining characteristic is its many contrasting neighbourhoods - explore these on foot and take a stroll along the city streets to soak up the colourful atmosphere.

Crossing by ferry into Uruguay today, a full day of sightseeing awaits us in the town of Colonia del Sacramento, one of the country’s oldest. Located on the northeast bank of the Rio de la Plata river, a wander through Colonia del Sacramento’s streets is like stepping back in time to another era. With a beautiful blend of Portuguese, Spanish and post-colonial styles, this quaint town has a lovely, charming vibe and plenty of nooks and corners to explore. After taking in the dramatic, coastal scenery offered by the Rio de la Plata, we’ll uncover the rich history on display in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Historic Quarter. Wander the cobbled street of Calle de Portugal lined with foliage-filled, antique cars and see the Basilica of the Holy Sacrament, one of the oldest churches in Uruguay. We’ll also visit the ruins of the historically significant Convent of San Francisco. After our tour, enjoy some time at leisure in this gorgeous township to explore at your own pace. We’ll return to Buenos Aires by ferry, arriving back to the hotel in the early evening.

A bustling city of approximately three million people, Buenos Aires is home to magnificent palaces, cosy cafes and many beautiful parks and gardens. Our sightseeing today begins with a tour of the city, including the widest avenue in the world, Avenida 9 de Julio, historical Plaza de Mayo and its buildings, Casa Rosada (Government House) and the Catedral Metropolitana de Buenos Aires. Next, we will stroll through the elegant district of Recoleta and its famed cemetery where Argentina's famous Eva Peron was laid to rest. We continue to the Italian district of La Boca and enjoy a visit to Caminito Street, a colourful street museum. We’ll then visit the stunning Colon Theatre. The main opera house in Buenos Aires, it is ranked as the world's third best. Our final stop for the day takes us to the exquisite El Ateneo Grand Splendid bookstore. Recognised by National Geographic in 2019 as the most beautiful bookstore in the world, this historic building was once a palatial theatre that has since been meticulously transformed into an opulent haven for lovers of literature. The remainder of the afternoon is free to enjoy at leisure. Special Experience Don your dancing shoes for a traditional tango lesson, before keeping the rhythm alive at a lively dinner and show. No trip to Buenos Aires is complete without a dalliance in the city’s national dance – the tango! Learn the moves of this passionate dance that is deeply intertwined with Buenos Aires’ culture. Then, celebrate your new knowledge with a vibrant dinner and show.

It’s time to say ‘adios’ to South America as our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with a heart and camera roll full of fantastic memories!

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

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

A visit to Guamote is a true cultural immersion. Today, we’ll be welcomed into a local indigenous community and get the unique opportunity to give back to those who are sharing their world with us. Special Experience An experience like no other, we’ll journey to a nearby village where we will make a donation based on the needs of the community and learn about their daily lives. In a local indigenous village, we’ll learn about their way of life before supporting them with a donation based on their needs. The exact nature of the donation will be decided prior to our visit in conjunction with the local community and could include such things as clothing and shoes, school essentials and livestock. We’ll return to our guesthouse for lunch before setting out this afternoon for yet another incredible excursion to visit the local Shaman. Special Experience Learn the importance of the Shaman and feel enlightened on our visit that includes a spiritual cleansing for our group. A Shaman is a person of religious and spiritual significance who performs traditional rituals for healing. We’ll learn about the significance of the Shaman in the local indigenous communities and partake in a cleansing experience which is deeply ingrained in their cultural traditions.

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

Our chiva awaits us this morning! This colourful open-air bus will carry us into the upper basin of the Amazon rainforest. Here, we take a short hike to the thunderous Devil's Cauldron waterfall (Pailon del Diablo) and the plunging Pastaza River gorge. Whilst exploring the lush environment, we’ll also have the opportunity to cross the deep gorge in a scenic cable car for spectacular views over the surrounding area. Returning to Baños, we’ll have some free time for lunch before our next adventure. The township is full of streets lined with restaurants, bars and souvenir shops. Make sure to watch the locals stretching toffee from wooden pegs in their shopfronts – it’s a traditional specialty. Then, prepare yourself for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as we travel to Casa del Arbol to the ‘Swing at the End of the World’ this afternoon! Picture a treehouse set atop a hillside, overlooking a breathtaking, mountainous landscape, and several swings just waiting to be swung. A must for anyone with an adventurous spirit, or for those wanting to keep their feet firmly placed on solid ground, the stunning vistas will keep you enthralled and your camera busy. 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.

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

Special Experience Travel to a local Andean community to experience a Pachamanka ceremony. We'll savour a meal prepared through a traditional Inca ritual, where vegetables and meat are cooked within the earth using hot lava stones. From our base in Otavalo, we’ll journey out to a local Andean community to take part in an authentic feast where the food is cooked underground. This traditional ceremony is undertaken to celebrate the connection of the Andean people to Pachamama, which translates to ‘Mother Earth’. We’ll immerse ourselves in the cultural practice before tucking into lunch. The town of Cotacachi is our next stop. This local community, renowned as the ‘Leather Capital’, specialises in crafting high-quality leather goods including purses, jackets and leather belts. We’ll have time to do a spot of shopping and explore the town at leisure. In the early afternoon, we’ll venture to Cuicocha Lake, a stunning lagoon situated at the foot of the Cotacachi Volcano. The island in the middle of this lake is said to look like a guinea pig, hence the name Cuicocha which in the Kichwa indigenous language means ‘Guinea Pig Lake’. Here, we will enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the tranquil waters of the volcanic crater lake.

Magnificent volcanoes surround us today as we continue our journey through the Andes. We start our day paying a visit to the bustling, indigenous markets of La Plaza de Ponchos, the Otavalo Handicraft Market. This is one of the best artisan markets in South America where you can find traditional handmade souvenirs such as jewellery, hammocks, blankets and ponchos. Next, we will visit La Companía Rose Plantation for a late morning tea and a tour of its historic hacienda. Built in a French Republic-style, the hacienda dates back to 1919 and has remained in the same family for five generations. The rose showroom houses an amazing display of roses of all colours and varieties, many of which are exported around the world. The scenic drive continues as we make our way to the tiny village of Papallacta this afternoon. Perched at 3,300 metres in a high Andean valley, Papallacta is located at the entrance to the Ecuadorian Amazon jungle and is home to the best hot springs in the country. The remainder of the day can be spent enjoying the therapeutic waters of the steamy springs at our hotel or indulging in some luxurious spa treatments.

Enjoy a slow morning today, with another opportunity to relax in Papallacta’s steamy hot springs. Sit and soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters as you admire the surrounding mountain scenery. Said to contain medicinal properties, the natural springs are fed by rainwater that sneaks into the Chacana caldera and is warmed by the magma of surrounding volcanoes. Departing Papallacta, we will stop at the bird lover’s paradise of Guango Lodge. We'll wander through the lush rainforest that surrounds the lodge, observing a variety of colourful hummingbird species in their natural habitat, while passing through an array of beautiful orchids in bloom. We continue through the valley to Quito, Ecuador’s capital. Quito is located high in the Andes Mountains at an elevation of 2,800 metres. Nestled in a spectacular valley and surrounded by snow-capped volcanic peaks, Quito also claims UNESCO World Heritage status for its Old Town. This wonderful part of the city, with some of its buildings dating back to the mid-1500s when the Spanish founded the city, has been carefully restored. It holds fascinating history and beauty with vintage façades lining the streets, and large, open plazas adjacent to striking cathedrals and stately public buildings.

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

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

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

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

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

Today is all about exploring the wonders of Cusco, beginning by discovering the magnificent fortress of Sacsayhuaman, believed to have been built during the 1400s. The enormous blocks used in the construction of this colossal structure were carved and fitted with such precision that there was no need for mortar, a testament to the skill of the masons. We’ll then visit the San Pedro Market to immerse ourselves in the local culture. This bustling market offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can find fresh produce, handicrafts and traditional food. Special Experience Learn to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes with fresh ingredients and expert guidance from local chefs before enjoying our creations for lunch. Our next stop will take us to the religious complex of Qoricancha, containing the Temple of the Sun, considered to be the most spectacular temple in the Inca Empire. As well as being the main astronomical observatory for the Incas, some 4,000 priests and their attendants once lived within its confines. Looted and then destroyed by the Spanish, they used the foundations for the Dominican Convent of Santo Domingo, creating perhaps the most incongruous imperial-colonial architectural clash in Cusco. We continue our tour of Cusco with a visit to the 17th century Cusco Cathedral – the façade of which is a fine example of colonial baroque architecture.

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

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

A magical day lies ahead of us as we take an early Vistadome train ride through the Urubamba Valley to the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu! On arrival in Aguas Calientes, we check into our hotel before taking a local bus up the mountain to the entrance. Nestled within an Andean cloud forest, Machu Picchu is famous for its remarkably preserved ruins and spiritual significance to the ancient Inca civilisation. Our guide will give us an in-depth introduction and description of the site, before enjoying some free time to explore the ruins on our own. Alternatively, if you have chosen to undertake the optional Inca Trail hike (this must be pre-booked at the time of tour booking), you will have an early start, taking a train to the ‘Km 104’ station where your trek commences. For those on the trek, the first site along the route is the incredible archaeological complex of Chachabamba. From here, the trail ascends for 8 kilometres. At approximately the four-hour mark we arrive at the impressive ruins of Wiñay Wayna, built into the steep countryside. As we continue, we'll enjoy magnificent views of the Urubamba River valley and the Choquesuysuy archaeological complex. We continue along a trail of flat stones on the edges of cliffs in highland jungle for another hour or so, until we arrive at the picturesque Sun Gate of Inti Punku - a wonderful spot to snap a beautiful photo. The trek ends in the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu. Our guide will take us through this mind-blowing site, pointing out the most important sites of the ancient civilisation. 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 rise and enjoy the morning at leisure. You’ll also have the option to return to Machu Picchu for a second visit, to admire the beauty of this ancient phenomenon before the crowds arrive. We’ll then return to Ollantaytambo via the Vistadome train. From Ollantaytambo, we travel through the dramatic scenery of the Sacred Valley, passing by rural villages and agricultural pastures before reaching Chinchero. We’ll stop in at the rustic town to experience a traditional weaving demonstration. Departing the colour and customs of picturesque Chinchero, we’ll arrive back to Cusco in the evening where we’ll check into our hotel. Optional Excursion Machu Picchu 2nd visit & Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) - Your tour already includes one visit to Machu Picchu, however, you may wish to take a second visit to explore this phenomenon further. Alternatively, you may wish to also incorporate a climb up to Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) (considered to provide the best view over Machu Picchu). Please note both options include entry into Machu Picchu and transportation (guide not included). If you choose the Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) option, entry to the peak is also included. Half day Machu Picchu only - from $90pp US. Half day Machu Picchu incl. Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) – from $105pp US. Please note: You must purchase your entrance ticket in advance. This will be done by our local operator. Please advise your travel specialist if you would like to include a second visit. Entrance tickets are limited and by shifts. These usually sell out well in advance. Current shifts for entry in the morning are hourly beginning at 6.00am. Your entry time is located in the top left corner of the ticket, and you have a maximum of 30 minutes after that time to arrive at the entrance for check in. If possible, we recommend booking an earlier time slot. Your ticket allows you access to one of the established circuits around the site. The ticket that includes Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) mountain only allows you to visit circuit 3-A. The circuits, visitor regulations and other relevant information for your visit are available at http://www.machupicchu.gob.pe For those clients who have chosen the optional Inca Trail trek, a second visit to Machu Picchu is included in the cost of your trekking permit. This allows trekkers who wish to do so to visit circuit 3-B at no additional cost. However, this included second visit does not include the cost of transportation to and from the ruins as not all trekkers will choose to return the following day. The cost of the return buses to the ruin site is $28pp US and this needs to be paid locally. Your tour guide will assist you in obtaining these tickets.

Enjoy a slow start to the morning with a full day at leisure to explore more of colourful Cusco. Full of plazas, archaeological ruins and interesting craft shops containing over 3,000 years of history, it's a great place to explore and experience on your own. Why not venture into the heart of the city to explore Cusco’s historic centre, Plaza de Armas? Here you can marvel some more at the Cusco Cathedral or spend time admiring the architecture of the imposing Church of La Compañía de Jesús. You might also wish to check out the Casa Concha Museum. This fascinating space contains artefacts from Machu Picchu that were found by Hiram Bingham and recently returned by Yale University. Just a few blocks from the main square, lies the neighbourhood of San Blas. Here along the narrow, cobbled streets, you’ll find famous artisans, coffee shops, galleries and more. The area is also home to a lively mix of bars and restaurants. Venture into one of the establishments to rub shoulders with the locals or tuck into some traditional Peruvian dishes while enjoying live music.

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

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

Nestled on the water just outside of Puno, we’ll visit the floating Uros Islands, where the unique landscape offers a glimpse into the ingenuity of the local Indian community. These man-made islands on Lake Titicaca are built on a foundation of totora reeds, sourced from the lake itself. Bound and connected by ropes, they are then anchored by logs which plunge deep into the bottom of the lakebed. There are over 100 of these small islands dotted around the lake, though the number is constantly changing as new mounds are constructed and others break down. The indigenous Uros people who live here earn a living from fishing, weaving and handicrafts. We’ll enjoy a moment to admire these fascinating floating communities, marvelling at how they’ve adapted to their natural environment. In the afternoon we fly to Lima, Peru’s largest city and its capital. This incredible region is covered in history, gloriously messy and full of aesthetic delights. Renowned for its historic UNESCO World Heritage-listed centre, the city is home to a splendid array of colonial-style architecture as well as an exciting food scene. Lima is also well known for its vibrant nightlife, littered with bars and live music venues.

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

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

Welcome to South America! Consisting of 13 countries, it is the world’s fourth largest continent and home to some of the most recognisable UNESCO World Heritage sites. Today we arrive in Buenos Aires, Argentina - the 'Paris of the South'. Buenos Aires is an intriguing mix of elegance and old-world charm… of grand boulevards and classic European style architecture combined with its own irresistible South American vibe. Founded in the 16th century on the shores of the Rio de la Plata, Buenos Aires literally translates to ‘fair winds’ and it has grown and flourished since its early beginnings. Now, one of the most visited cities in South America, its most defining characteristic is its many varied neighbourhoods - explore these on foot and take a stroll along the city streets to soak up the colourful atmosphere. Meet your fellow travellers this evening over a welcome drink in the hotel.

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

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

Today we say farewell to Buenos Aires as we fly to Iguazu Falls! Straddling the borders of Brazil and Argentina, Iguazu Falls is one of the world's biggest waterfalls with a total of more than 240 individual falls, each seeming to tumble in its own rhythm across a lush green stage. Surrounded by teeming rainforests, the waterfalls are more than 3 kilometres wide and 80 metres high - making them wider than Victoria Falls and higher than Niagara Falls. Upon checking into our hotel, the rest of the afternoon is free for us to explore these incredible surroundings.

We’ll spend today exploring the Argentinian side of this verdant masterpiece. A truly immersive experience, we’ll be right in the heart of one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. A small train takes us into Iguazu National Park, where a series of walkways and paths will lead us to the falls. We’ll stand on a dramatic viewing platform suspended over the thundering Garganta del Diablo, or Devil's Throat - the largest of the waterfalls, to feel (and hear) the water’s power. Something that has to be experienced to be believed. Warning: you will get wet, but you’ll love every minute of it! There are other trails, like the Upper and Lower Circuits that offer equally as impressive, but different perspectives – from sweeping vistas above the falls, to intimate spots beside the torrents. Here, there’s an excellent chance of spotting some unique wildlife too, including toucans, colourful butterflies and coatis.

We’ll explore the Brazilian side of the falls this morning for the ultimate panoramic perspective – an unforgettable overview of the vast sweep of the waterfalls that stretch across the jungle in a breathtaking kaleidoscope of mist and motion. This side is ideal for those wanting to take in the sheer scale and majesty of the falls all at once. Later today, we’ll get up close and personal with more than 150 species of stunning exotic birds at the famous Parque das Aves. Located just a short walk from the entrance to the Brazilian side of Iguazu National Park, the bird park is set in 12 acres of beautiful rainforest and is designed to feel more like a tropical forest than a zoo, with spacious aviaries that you can walk through - home to colourful macaws, toucans, and flamingos among many more. The park also houses butterflies, reptiles and a growing number of rescued animals. Parque das Aves perfectly compliments the natural wonder of the falls by showing off the region’s huge biodiversity. We then transfer to the airport for our flight to Rio de Janeiro. Optional Excursion Helicopter Tour - (min 2/max 4 participants per helicopter) - Experience the breathtaking sights of Iguazu Falls from the sky! Departure is from the entrance of the Iguazu National Park (Brazilian side) and can be taken when doing the Brazilian Falls tour. Please advise your guide if you are interested in this tour. 10 minutes – from $212pp US

Rise with a smile this morning because it’s time to explore Rio de Janeiro! The Cidade Maravilhosa, or ‘Marvellous City’, is situated amongst lush, forest-covered mountains and breathtaking beaches, and is one of the world's most lively and beautiful cities. Today we’ll discover the icons of this amazing city, beginning with the Statue of Christ the Redeemer. One of the ‘New Seven Wonders of the World’, it is situated at the peak of the 700-metre-high Corcovado Hill. We arrive at the bottom of the hill and board the red narrow-gauge train to climb the mountain and take us up to the statue. The historic railway was opened in 1884 and is Brazil’s oldest tourist excursion. There will be so many fantastic photo opportunities here. Later we’ll visit Sugar Loaf Mountain to enjoy amazing panoramic views over the whole city. Sugar Loaf Mountain’s name is said to have stemmed from when blocks of sugar (or sugar loaves) were placed in conical moulds made of clay to be transported on ships. The shape made by these moulds was similar to the peak, hence the name. Our touring will also include a stop at the Selaron Steps, one of Rio’s most striking and well-known landmarks. Created by Chilean artist Jorge Selaron, this is one of Brazil’s most famous pieces of street art with the steps decorated with more than 2,000 tiles in the colours of the Brazilian flag.

Special Experience Experience the artistry of Carnival, marvelling at the spectacle of more than 6,000 costumes and having the opportunity to dress up in one if you wish, while enjoying music and a delicious drink. Get ready to dive headfirst into the glitter, rhythm and pure magic of Rio’s Carnival… our backstage pass to the creativity and flair behind one of the world’s most dazzling celebrations. We’ll discover how the six thousand costumes and 15 jaw-dropping floats come to life, from sketch to samba! We’ll also step inside the colourful world of the Pimpolhos da Grande Rio’s warehouse, the Samba School for Kids and the legendary Grande Rio Samba School, one of Rio’s top-tier Carnival powerhouses and view the exhibition about the history of the samba and the Carnival Parade. And because no Carnival experience is complete without a little sparkle and samba, we’ll have the opportunity to try on some of the real Carnival costumes and feel the beat of the drums, all with a refreshing Caipirinha welcome drink. Later, the afternoon is free for you to enjoy at your own pace, followed by a delicious Brazilian churrasco grill dinner in the evening at Assador. Optional Excursion Tour Old Rio and Santa Teresa - This tour starts in the historical centre of Rio de Janeiro. The architecture of Praça XV, Arco dos Teles, the França-Brasil House (Old Alfândega), the São Bento Monastery, and the Lapa Arches are prime examples of buildings from the Colonial era. The Banco do Brasil Cultural Museum, Municipal Theatre, Museum of Fine Arts and the Public National Library are examples of architecture from the Imperial era. Next stop on the tour is the neighbourhood of Santa Teresa. This traditional neighbourhood is home to mansions from the beginning of the 20th century, built mainly by the English who sought out this region for its mild climate. Nowadays, it’s a hotspot for artists and eccentrics. The antique cable car still runs through the narrow streets as the main form of collective transportation. Includes transportation on a seat-in-coach basis. 4 hours – from $66pp US.

Spend your morning as you please before we set off for Lima, the capital of Peru. You might want to take a trip to the stunning botanical gardens, or simply take a leisurely stroll along Copacabana Beach, observing the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Late in the evening we arrive in Lima. Founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro, the city was designed to be a showcase of Spanish Colonial architecture in a conquered territory. The patchwork of Lima’s vibrant city life and neighbourhoods combine with a plethora of museums and churches to offer visitors a fascinating and rich cultural heritage to discover. Optional Excursion Art and Graffiti Tour - This guided walking tour traces the route of open-air artwork located in some of Rio’s oldest neighbourhoods, from the original settlement of Praça XV to the recently renovated Porto Maravilha. This area’s historical importance is echoed through its monuments, statues, art installations, murals, and graffiti. Candelária Church, the Olympic Pyre, Maua Square and Rio’s Art Museum (MAR) are some of the highlights on this 4km walk. The amount of walking can be established by your interests and conditions. Most museums close on Monday in Rio. Entrance in any of the sites can be included for an added cost. Includes driver and guide. 4 hours – from $107pp US

Explore colonial Lima today on a city tour. Our first stop is the Plaza de Armas, where we see the Government Palace, the House of El Oidor and the stunning City Hall buildings. We take a stroll through the Cathedral of Lima and learn the religious history of Peru and see the resting place of the famous conquistador, Francisco Pizarro. Our walking tour continues to the San Francisco Convent to view both its ‘catacombs’, the ancient, underground cemetery of Lima, and the convent’s world-renowned library with thousands of antique texts. As we tour the city, we'll get to admire the stunning baroque architecture of the Torre Tagle Palace and colonial Osambela House. Our next stop will be the Larco Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of Incan artifacts, providing an intriguing glimpse into the rich history of Peru. During our visit, we'll have the opportunity to explore various galleries, such as the Textiles Gallery, the Spaniards' Arrival Gallery, the Sacrifice Ceremony Gallery, and the Gold, Silver, and Jewels Galleries, where we'll discover fascinating insights into the ancient cultures of Peru. After some free time to enjoy lunch at Café del Museo or to further explore the museum at your own pace, we return to our hotel to enjoy some downtime and unwind or explore the surroundings at your leisure.

This morning we take a short flight from Lima to the ancient Incan capital of Cusco. Nestled high up in the Andes Mountains, Cusco sits at over 3,300 metres above sea level. This UNESCO World Heritage city is also known as the gateway to both the Sacred Valley and the world-famous site of Machu Picchu, but it’s also a destination in its own right. With centuries of history in the Inca walls, baroque churches, bustling plazas and narrow alleyways all around, Cusco offers a rich mix of tradition, hospitality and high-altitude charm. The best way to explore this picturesque town is on foot. Don’t miss the central Plaza de Armas, the local San Pedro markets, a sensory feast of local flavours, handmade goods and colourful characters and the bohemian San Blas district, home to Cusco’s artist community, cobblestone alleyways and cozy restaurants. It’s important to note that Cusco’s height above sea level means it’s thin mountain air can be a surprise for many travellers and you may find you need some help to acclimatise – hydration is key, and sipping the local coca tea can help. We’ll have the chance to enjoy a hot cup on our arrival at the hotel. Special Experience Learn how to make the deliciously sweet and sour cocktail, Pisco Sour. For decades it has been regarded as the signature drink of Peru.

It’s a short trip this morning to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The Urubamba Valley, as it is also known, encompasses the heartland of the Inca Empire and contains numerous archaeological remains and villages. The valley was valued by the Incas due to its special geographical and climatic qualities and was one of the empire’s main points for the extraction of natural wealth. A truly special day awaits us as we visit the local village of Ccorccor. Special Experience Discover the lives of Ccorccor's indigenous women and take part in customary activities like Andean games, 'Tribute to Mother Earth', and 'chicha' demonstration. In this charming village of about 60 families, we’ll gain a glimpse into life in a small village – where hard-work and a strong sense of community are part of everyday living. We’ll discover their unique culture, daily traditions and share a few laughs and stories along the way with some truly wonderful people. Later, we’ll arrive in the town of Ollantaytambo, one of the Sacred Valley’s most captivating towns, and a testament to Inca engineering and culture. Often referred to as the ‘living village’, Ollantaytambo is unique in that many of its original Inca streets, terraces and irrigation canals are still in use today. Here, we’ll visit a local house to gain insight into daily life in the Andes. We also discover the ruins of the historic Inca village. The ruins form a fortress that can only be entered by a steep stone staircase. We climb these and enter the town’s narrow streets for an up-close look at the Inca’s extraordinary dry masonry skills. Their astounding craftsmanship ensures that even after centuries of earthquakes, a knife cannot be slipped into the seams between the limestone blocks.

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

A magical day awaits as we board an early Vistadome train to traverse the stunning Urubamba Valley and reach the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu ruins! On arrival in Aguas Calientes, we check into our eco-resort before taking a local bus up the mountain to the entrance. Our guide will give us an in-depth introduction and description of the site and we’ll also have the opportunity to explore the ruins at our own pace afterwards. Alternatively, if you have chosen to undertake the optional Inca Trail hike (this must be pre-booked at the time of tour booking), you will have an early start, taking a train to the ‘Km 104’ station where your trek commences. For those on the trek, the first site along the way is the incredible archaeological complex of Chachabamba. From here, the trail ascends for 8 kilometres. At approximately the 4 hour mark we’ll arrive at the impressive ruins of Wiñay Wayna, built into the steep countryside. As we continue, we'll enjoy magnificent views of the Urubamba River valley and the Choquesuysuy archaeological complex. We continue along a trail of flat stones on the edges of cliffs in highland jungle for another hour or so, until we arrive at the picturesque Sun Gate of Inti Punku - a wonderful photo opportunity. The trek ends in the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu. Our guide will take us through this mind-blowing site, pointing out the most important parts of the ancient civilisation. 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 is at leisure. You have the option to return to Machu Picchu for a second visit to thoroughly soak in the beauty of this ancient phenomenon before the crowds arrive. Afterwards, we'll take the Vistadome train back through the mountains to Poroy. Upon arrival we will be transferred back to our hotel in Cusco. Optional Excursion Machu Picchu 2nd visit & Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) - Your tour already includes one visit to Machu Picchu, however, you may wish to take a second visit to explore this phenomenon further. Alternatively, you may wish to also incorporate a climb up to Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) (considered to provide the best view over Machu Picchu). Please note both options include entry into Machu Picchu and transportation (guide not included). If you choose the Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) option, entry to the peak is also included. Half day Machu Picchu only - from $90pp US. Half day Machu Picchu incl. Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) – from $105pp US. Please note: You must purchase your entrance ticket in advance. This will be done by our local operator. Please advise your travel specialist if you would like to include a second visit. Entrance tickets are limited and by shifts. These usually sell out well in advance. Current shifts for entry in the morning are hourly beginning at 6.00am. Your entry time is located in the top left corner of the ticket, and you have a maximum of 30 minutes after that time to arrive at the entrance for check in. If possible, we recommend booking an earlier time slot. Your ticket allows you access to one of the established circuits around the site. The ticket that includes Huayna Picchu (Waynapicchu) mountain only allows you to visit circuit 3-A. The circuits, visitor regulations and other relevant information for your visit are available at http://www.machupicchu.gob.pe For those clients who have chosen the optional Inca Trail trek, a second visit to Machu Picchu is included in the cost of your trekking permit. This allows trekkers who wish to do so to visit circuit 3-B at no additional cost. However, this included second visit does not include the cost of transportation to and from the ruins as not all trekkers will choose to return the following day. The cost of the return buses to the ruin site is $28pp US and this needs to be paid locally. Your tour guide will assist you in obtaining these tickets.

Today is all about exploring the wonders of Cusco beginning at the magnificent fortress of Sacsayhuaman, believed to have been built during the 1400s. The enormous blocks used in the construction of this colossal structure were carved and fitted with such precision that there was no need for mortar, a testament to the skill of the masons. We’ll then visit the San Pedro Market to immerse ourselves in the local culture. This bustling market offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can find fresh produce, handicrafts and traditional food. Special Experience Learn to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes with fresh ingredients and expert guidance from local chefs before enjoying our creations for lunch. Our tour will then take us to the religious complex of Qoricancha, containing the Temple of the Sun, considered to be the most spectacular temple in the Inca Empire. As well as being the main astronomical observatory for the Incas, some 4,000 priests and their attendants once lived within its confines. Looted and then destroyed by the Spanish, they used the foundations for the Dominican Convent of Santo Domingo, creating perhaps, the most incongruous imperial-Colonial architectural clash in Cusco. Finally, we tour the 17th-century Cusco Cathedral – the façade of which is a fine example of colonial baroque architecture.

Spend a leisurely morning in vibrant Cusco, brimming with plazas, archaeological ruins, and artisan shops. Why not check out the Casa Concha Museum, containing artefacts from Machu Picchu that were found by Hiram Bingham and recently returned by Yale University? Alternatively, it’s a great morning to just get out and about on foot – it’s entirely possible to spend the morning wandering through the cobblestone streets of the historic centre, the Plaza de Armas, with its delightful colonial architecture, or find a cozy café to savour a coffee or the local coca tea. If you need to pick up some last-minute souvenirs, you may like to head back to the San Pedro Markets and enjoy the lively atmosphere, or head to the bohemian San Blas district for its artsy vibes and stunning city views. The great thing is – the choice is entirely yours! This afternoon we transfer to Cusco airport for our flight back to Lima.

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

Special Experience Fly in a light plane over the mysterious Nazca Lines in the middle of the Nazca Desert. We'll see ancient geoglyphs depicting hundreds of figures. This series of line drawings are believed to have been made in the sand more than 2,000 years ago by the Nazca culture and were only discovered in 1927 by Peruvian archaeologist Toribio Mejia Xesspe when he was part of an expedition organised by the National University of San Marcos. Extending across the arid plains of southern Peru, the Nazca Lines are one of the world’s greatest archaeological mysteries. The gigantic geoglyphs resemble a landing field and feature over 70 designs including a monkey, spider, condor, lizard, and fish among others, that stretch for many kilometres. The view from the plane is simply breathtaking and a flight is the only way to appreciate this amazing sight that feels more like time travel than tourism – equal parts history, mystery and awe. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to relax and enjoy your hotel or further explore this pretty seaside town at your own pace. Optional Excursion Dune buggy in the Paracas Desert – The desert near Paracas is a dream setting for a dune buggy adventure. Experience the thrill of zigzagging across the sands and have the opportunity to try sandboarding on the Paracas dunes. 2 hours – from $68pp US

Get your sea legs ready as we board a boat bound for the Ballestas Islands, a vibrant sanctuary home to many birds and animals, including the endangered Humboldt penguin. These craggy, sea-sculpted isles are bursting with life – home to an abundance of noisy wildlife including colonies of sea lions, waddling penguins and more than 60 species of colourful sea birds. Along the way we will also see the 'Candelabro', a huge prehistoric geoglyph on the hilly coast of Pisco Bay, only visible from the sea or sky. Measuring over 150 metres high, this enigmatic figure looks like a giant candlestick. Whether it was a navigational guide for sailors, a symbol linked to the Nazca Lines or an offering to local deities, no one knows for sure, but what is certain is that cruising by boat along the shimmering waters of the bay, with seabirds soaring overhead, the Candelabro makes for an awe-inspiring sight! In the early afternoon, we’ll settle in on the coach and relax as we return to Lima via the Pan-American Highway. Upon arrival into Lima, we’ll check into our hotel before enjoying a group farewell dinner this evening overlooking the ruins at Huaca Pucllana.

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

‘Bonjour’ and welcome to France, a country that possesses a rich and storied history that is echoed through its masterful literature, art and music. We begin our tour in the romantic capital of Paris, often referred to as the ‘City of Light’. Tree-lined boulevards, cobblestone lanes and charming architecture are hidden around every corner of this iconic city that oozes style and elegance. Well-known for being the backdrop to many famous films and productions, Paris is home to some of the most recognisable sites in the world, including the Eiffel Tower. We don’t want you to miss out on a single moment of your French ‘soirée’, so we recommend that you arrive at your starting destination by 3.00pm. After meeting our fellow travellers and Tour Director for a welcome drink, we’ll enjoy a brief introduction to the city, taking an afternoon stroll through some of its beautiful streets. After wandering past some of the local sites, we will make our way to a local restaurant. Here, we will indulge in some of the delicious flavours that are iconic to French cuisine, before making our way back to our accommodation.

Waving ‘au revoir’ to Paris this morning, we’ll take a relaxing drive through the stunning French countryside as we make our way to the Loire Valley. Dating back over one thousand years, the Loire Valley is surrounded by beautiful rolling vineyards and fruit orchards. Thanks to the kings, queens, dukes and nobles who built magnificent châteaux, and the quaint medieval villages that are dotted throughout the region, the Loire Valley today feels like stepping into a real-life fairytale. In the late morning, we reach Chartres, where we will discover the wonderful architecture and rich history of the city during a walking tour. We’ll then enjoy a guided tour of its impressive Gothic-style cathedral, built in 1220, before some free time for lunch and a chance to further explore its medieval streets. Next, we continue to the town of Amboise to visit the Château du Clos Lucé, where the famous artist and engineer Leonardo da Vinci lived and worked in the 14th century. We’ll see da Vinci’s workshop, bedroom and replicas of his famous inventions during a tour of the château. We’ll finish the day in Tours, where we check into our hotel and our home for the next two nights.

Waking in the charming city of Tours, enjoy a slow start to the day before we set out to explore the many châteaux of the region. We’ll begin in the small village of Chenonceaux, home to one of the region’s best-known châteaux, Château de Chenonceau. In its current form, the château was built between 1513 and 1517 on the banks of the Cher River and is home to an exquisite collection of furniture and art. We’ll explore its opulent rooms and manicured gardens before continuing to a local winery. Special Experience Enjoy an underground tour and tasting at Caves Monmousseau Winery, famous for its fine bubbles and labyrinth of cellars carved into tufa stone. Venturing to the town of Montrichard, we’ll take a guided tour of the Maison Monmousseau cellars. Carved into the natural tufa stone, the wine cellars create the perfect temperature of 12 degrees Celsius for aging sparkling wine, but you might need a jacket! Enjoy a tasting of Monmousseau’s famous wines, accompanied by a selection of local delicacies. We then return to Tours and enjoy the evening at leisure. Why not take a stroll past some of the well-preserved Roman ruins or soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere with a wine in hand?

After breakfast, today we’ll take a short drive to the lovely village of Villandry. Small but picturesque with charming lanes lined with 15th century cottages, our sightseeing will take us to the Château de Villandry. Inhabited since the Renaissance, the grand château is home to exquisite exterior architecture and several hectares of verdant gardens. We’ll enjoy time in the grounds, exploring the perfectly manicured hedges, immaculately pruned trees and colourful flowers. We then make our way to the lively town of Angers, where we’ll visit the staggering stone stronghold of Château d’Angers that dates back to 1230. During our visit, we’ll learn about how the fortress was constructed and the history it survived before admiring its most prized possession, the 100-metre-long 14th century Apocalypse Tapestry. Depicting scenes from the Book of Revelation, the Apocalypse Tapestry is the largest surviving set of medieval tapestries. In the afternoon, we make our way to the university city of Rennes, buzzing with a vibrant atmosphere and the charming character of its old town. Home to a delicious restaurant scene, the capital of France’s Brittany region is perhaps most famous for its medieval half-timbered houses, the oldest of which dates back to the 16th century.

We’ll embark on a guided city tour of Rennes this morning, passing by the Palais du Parlement de Bretagne, the former parliament of Brittany. As we move through the mix of old and new, we’ll marvel at quintessential French architecture and the medieval old town before visiting the Rennes Cathedral. Stepping inside, we’ll see the slabs of rare marble taken from the Roman Forum that adorn the altar, and the blend of Gothic and Neoclassical styles added throughout its many transformations. Heading northwest, we continue on to the town of Dinan, where quaint cobblestone streets are lined with half-timbered houses from the Middle Ages. Enjoy a chance to stroll through the town on your own to find a spot for lunch. In the afternoon, we travel to the historic walled city of Saint Malo. Located on the English Channel in France’s Brittany region, Saint Malo was first inhabited in the 8th century. A wealth of history is housed between its ancient walls, with charming laneways leading to beautiful buildings and a sandy stretch of coastline. Enjoy the evening at leisure to get to know the city – Our tip? Visit one of the many delicious crêperies for dinner!

First up this morning, we’ll mosey across to the Solidor Tower of Saint-Servan, a fortified dungeon with three towers built in the 12th century. After gazing over the towering heights of the defensive structure, we’ll settle back into the coach to admire the passing coastal scenery of northern Brittany as we continue to Cap Frehel. Characterised by dramatic cliffs that plunge steeply into the water below, this peninsula is home to fertile moors and unique geological formations which we’ll spend time admiring – keeping an eye out for the diverse birdlife that flocks to the area! Making our way back to Saint Malo, enjoy some free time for a bite to eat before we meet for a guided tour of the port. As we meander through the city, we’ll see the forts of Saint Malo and take to the city’s ramparts for a walk around the ancient walls, enjoying views out across the English Channel. In the afternoon, we journey to the coastal town of Cancale to visit a local oyster farm. We’ll learn about the process of farming oysters and enjoy a tasting of the farm’s freshest harvest, before returning to Saint Malo for an evening at leisure.

Today, keep your camera at the ready as we make our way to the magnificent Mont Saint-Michel. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed fortress perches on an islet surrounded by the lapping tides of the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel. As we approach the causeway that links Mont Saint-Michel to the mainland, take in the beauty of the Benedictine Abbey, erected in 966 and seemingly defying gravity as it rises high out of the sandbanks. We’ll enjoy a guided tour of the abbey before enjoying some free time in this storybook setting for lunch. As the afternoon sets in, we proceed to Ducy-Sainte-Marguerite and visit the apple orchards of Les Vergers de Ducy. We’ll enjoy a tour of the property that produces apple cider, cider vinegar, apple juice and the aperitif, Pommeau de Normandie. Following the tour, we’ll treat our taste buds to a taste of the delicious apple beverages, before continuing to our next destination. In the evening, we’ll arrive to our hotel in Bayeux, a popular base for exploring the infamous sites of the D-Day Landings in Normandy. Enjoy the evening at leisure to discover more of the town. You might consider a stroll amongst the elegant 17th and 18th century mansions that flank Bayeux’s medieval streets. 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 is dedicated to discovering the remarkable history of the Normandy region. Normandy has battled a rough history, from the 1066 Norman invasion of England to the 1944 Battle of Normandy. Today, the region is known for its breathtaking coastal landscapes, picturesque villages and Gothic churches, as well as being a cultural and culinary hub of France – and the home of camembert cheese! We begin at Colleville-sur-Mer (also known as Omaha Beach), where we will visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial. We’ll learn about the poignant events of World War II and pay our respects to those who served before continuing to Pointe du Hoc, a cliff that played an important role during the conflict. Continuing to Sainte Mere Église (also known as Utah Beach), we’ll stop briefly to find some lunch. Special Experience Be transported back in time to 1944 and explore the important sights linked to World War II’s D-Day during a tour in World War II open top jeeps. In this unique experience, we’ll hop into a classic World War II jeep to explore the Normandy landscape from a different perspective, delving into the history of key locations linked to the invasion of 1944. 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.

Departing Bayeux this morning, our day begins with cheese when we make our way to the town of Livarot! Stopping in at Fromagerie E. Graindorge, we’ll delight in a tasting of the traditional cheeses that have been produced at the family operated fromagerie for three decades. Next, it’s on to the colourful port of Honfleur, reminiscent of Denmark’s Copenhagen. Lying on the southern bank of the river Seine, Honfleur was popular among French impressionist painters such as Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin. Enjoy some free time to explore its historic fishing port and marina that once served as a vital trade hub. In the early afternoon, we’ll continue on to Normandy’s cultural capital, Rouen. With centuries of history, preserved architecture and a delightful port, Rouen still retains many of the scars of its tumultuous past. Nestled on the banks of the river Seine, the city is home to a cathedral that was famously decorated by the brushstrokes of Claude Monet, medieval half-timbered houses and a turbulent history including the burning of Joan of Arc in 1431. Rouen is also renowned for its strong gastronomic traditions, which we’ll get the pleasure of indulging in tonight, as we enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Following breakfast, we’ll explore the city of Rouen on foot. As we take to the streets, we’ll pass by the former royal palace of Palais de Justice, before visiting the city’s famed cathedral. This Gothic masterpiece is well-known for its three distinct towers and is home to the sarcophagus of Richard the Lionheart, the former King of England and a prominent figure in the Third Crusade. We’ll also venture inside the Church of Saint Joan of Arc, resting on the exact site where the heroine was burned at the stake for heresy in the 15th century. Our dive into the story of Joan of Arc continues at the Historical Jeanne d’Arc Museum, where we’ll be immersed in the epic tale through captivating exhibitions at the site of her second trial, the Archbishop’s Palace. After our tour, we’ll take a drive out to the picturesque French village of Giverny, home to the final residence and gardens of Claude Monet. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the lush setting, exploring the vibrant flower gardens and water lily ponds that inspired many of the Impressionist painter’s famous works. Farewelling the beauty of Giverny, our tour concludes this evening when we arrive back in the ambient city of Paris at around 6:00pm. We hope you leave with fabulous memories as we say ‘au revoir’ to our new friends and the incredible landscapes of northern France.

Welcome to Dublin, Ireland’s picturesque capital and birthplace of the famous Guinness beer. Situated on the eastern coast, where the Liffey River meets the sea, Dublin owes its global reputation for friendliness to its people – they’re warm, welcoming and always up for a chat. We don’t want you to miss out on a single moment of your Irish adventure, so we recommend that you arrive at your starting destination by 3.00pm. After meeting our fellow travellers and tour director for a welcome drink, we’ll enjoy a brief introduction to the city and take a stroll along South George’s Street, before making our way to the Temple Bar district for a welcome dinner.

We start our day in the heart of Dublin, where stories of the city’s rich history and unique traditions come to life. First up is a visit to the prestigious Trinity College, once home to literary greats like Bram Stoker, Oscar Wilde and Jonathan Swift. Founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592 through a royal charter, it is one of the seven original "ancient universities" of Great Britain and Ireland. Inside the renowned library we’ll wander through the famous Long Room, which is filled with 200,000 literary works, before marvelling at the jewel in its crown: the exquisite Book of Kells. We’ll then head to Powerscourt House and Gardens – a site brimming with intrigue and history. Here we explore the magnificent estate, one of the most filmed locations in Ireland! Later, be transported back to medieval times when we travel to Kilkenny. The city is home to narrow streets and historic buildings, a vibrant restaurant and pub scene, and friendly locals. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

This morning we’ll visit the stunning Kilkenny Castle, taking time to wander through the impressive estate and surrounding grounds. Built in the 13th century, Kilkenny Castle originally served as a defensive castle, due to its location close to the River Nore and several important trade routes. Continuously occupied until 1967, it was sold to the local council for a staggering £50! Later, we will proceed to Thomastown and explore Jerpoint Abbey, which was established in 1180. The abbey is renowned for its charming location and the remarkable stone carvings adorning its walls. Next, we have time to explore the impressive site of Kells Priory, first founded in 1193, many intact remains still exist there today. Continuing on, we pass through Dungarvan and Youghal (the filming location of Moby Dick!), before stopping in the picturesque harborside town of Cobh. Here, we will take a break to stretch our legs and have some free time. You may like to explore its thriving restaurant scene and the picture worthy ‘Deck of Cards’ – a string of brightly coloured houses perched near the seaside. Fun fact – Cobh (previously known as Queenstown) was the final port of call for the Titanic, before it embarked on its maiden journey across the North Atlantic Ocean. We arrive in Cork, Ireland’s second largest city, later in the evening. Situated on an island in the River Lee, the vibrant city’s narrow streets are bursting at the seams with traditional pubs, boutique shops, welcoming laid-back locals and more. You'll have the rest of the night to enjoy at leisure here.

Today we take the time to explore Ireland’s remarkable natural scenery as we embark on a winding journey to the coastal town of Glengarriff. From there, we'll board a boat to reach the enchanting Garnish Island. While on the water, we'll make a stop near the seal islands, hoping to catch glimpses of the local seals in their natural habitat. If we’re really lucky, we may even see Glengarriff’s White Tailed Sea Eagles, which have a wingspan of nearly 2.5 metres! Disembarking on Garnish Island, we’ll have some time to explore the scenery and the renowned Bryce House. Set on a large property, the gardens here are a spectacular sight. Back on the mainland, we enjoy a scenic trip over the Cork and Kerry Mountains to the town of Kenmare. We have a brief stop here to grab a bite to eat, and if you’re a seafood fan, we recommend trying the chowder! Afterwards, we’ll head towards Muckross and the idyllic Killarney National Park. Home to Ireland’s largest forest of oak trees, Killarney National Park is situated in over 10,000 hectares of pristine, rolling countryside. This afternoon, we’ll enjoy a stroll through the National Park, stopping to view the scenic Torc Waterfall and explore the grounds of the Muckross House Estate, before returning to Cork. 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.

It’s time to explore more of Cork this morning, discovering the numerous highlights the city has to offer. With a laid-back atmosphere, it is the perfect place to discover on foot. During our walking tour, we will visit the English Markets, a great place to grab your morning coffee, Saint Patrick's Street and Fitzgerald's Park. Our sightseeing continues as we immerse ourselves in some of Cork’s most fascinating landmarks, delving into the local history at the Butter Museum and listening to all the intriguing stories about the Saint Fin Barres Cathedral and its eccentric builder, William Burges. This afternoon, we’ll enjoy an incredible afternoon tea at Cork’s famous Imperial Hotel. This iconic location was established back in 1813 and was initially used to house city merchants, until 1816 when it became open to the public as a hotel. The Imperial Hotel boasts a long list of historical figures who have enjoyed the hotels atmosphere, a few including Frederick Douglass, Charles Dickens and Grace Kelly. Following afternoon tea, we'll proceed to Limerick, a city nestled along the banks of the River Shannon, with the magnificent King John's Castle gracing its surroundings. Limerick has a rich history, believed to have been settled by the Vikings as early as 922 AD. However, in modern times, the city is renowned for its captivating Georgian architecture and is famously recognised as the backdrop for Frank McCourt's acclaimed book, "Angela's Ashes." Upon arrival, we’ll explore the city with an orientation tour.

With a later start this morning, we’ll have plenty of time to relax and recharge, before making our way to the departure point for our cruise on the River Shannon. Special Experience Enjoy a scenic cruise along the waterways of the River Shannon and Lough Derg Lake, followed by lunch at a local restaurant on the banks of the lake. The afternoon is a highlight of any trip to Ireland as we drive to Clare to see the famous Cliffs of Moher. These majestic cliffs, towering over 200 metres from the seabed, present a breathtaking and rugged sight along the extensive coastline. Later, we’ll travel onwards to the vibrant city of Galway, taking the stunning coastal road. We travel through The Burren, ensuring we stop for breathtaking scenery along the way, and perhaps getting a glimpse of the 3 Aran Islands. 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 start our day with a walking tour of Galway this morning. Located on the breathtaking west coast, where the River Corrib meets the Atlantic Ocean. Galway boasts a lively music and arts scene, complemented by historic buildings and traces of its medieval history. We will uncover the city's proud heritage and vibrant culture as we venture to several fascinating landmarks. Our journey will take us through the captivating Eyre Square, the historical Lynches Castle, the charming Quay Street, and the iconic Spanish Arch, each telling a tale of Galway's past. We’ll also explore the graceful Church of Saint Nicholas, which stands as a testament to the city's religious significance. It is even thought that Christopher Columbus came here to pray to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of mariners, before setting off on his adventure to discover the New World! We’ll then enjoy the remainder of our afternoon at leisure to explore more of the city at our own pace.

This morning, we tour the delightful Kylemore Abbey and its serene Victorian gardens. From hidden nooks to secret tales, get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Kylemore Abbey. We’ll visit the beautifully restored period rooms of the Abbey and learn about its history of tragedy, romance, education and spirituality. We continue our journey making our way to the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery. Carrowmore is recognised as Ireland’s oldest and most concentrated collection of Neolithic tombs. Dating back nearly 6,000 years, they are older than Egypt’s pyramids! Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery boasts over 35 passage tombs, each revealing insights into past lives, rituals and cultural practices. Our touring for the day finishes in Sligo, a coastal seaport nestled along the breathtaking west coast. Its Gaelic name, Sligeach, translates to “abounding in shells,” a nod to the wealth of shellfish found in its river and estuary. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

This morning begins with a short walking tour through the charming streets of Sligo, where we delve into the town's rich history and cultural heritage. We’ll then make our way to the tranquil Drumcliffe Church and visit the final resting place of one of Ireland's most celebrated literary figures, W.B. Yeats. Our next stop is Belleek Pottery, Ireland’s oldest working fine china pottery. Established in 1857, Belleek Pottery has become one of Ireland’s most famous brands. We’ll then visit the Stone Fort of Grianán of Aileach, an ancient hillfort atop Greenan Mountain believed to have been constructed during the 6th or 7th century CE. We’ll explore the fort which once served as the seat of the Kingdom of Ailech and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Upon arrival in Londonderry/Derry, we’ll visit the Museum of Free Derry, a fascinating exhibition that delves into the civil rights movement of the 1960s, and the infamous Bloody Sunday. The museum narrates the events leading up to Bloody Sunday, its aftermath, and the subsequent Operation Motorman, which aimed to regain control of nationalist areas. This afternoon we’ll enjoy a walking tour, exploring the city walls, before checking into our hotel for the night.

We depart this morning, first visiting Benone Beach Viewpoint for a photo stop, before we make our way to Bushmills Distillery. Special Experience Step back in time with a tour of the 400-year-old Bushmills whiskey distillery, where we’ll savour a taste of this iconic Irish whiskey. The oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world, we’ll learn about their unique craft that has been passed down for generations. Our next stop is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Giant’s Causeway, a remarkable natural wonder on the north coast of Northern Ireland. According to local legends, this breathtaking natural formation was shaped by giants. Comprised of approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, the Giant’s Causeway was formed by an ancient volcanic fissure eruption around 50 to 60 million years ago, during the Palaeocene Epoch. As we explore, we'll marvel at the tops of the columns, forming a mesmerising pattern of stepping stones that lead us to the cliff edge and out into the sea. Finally, we continue on to Belfast, a city with a rich history, standing proudly on the banks of the River Lagan. From the early presence of the Vikings as early as 922 AD to its present-day identity, Belfast has undergone a remarkable evolution. While its past is marked by shipyards and linen mills, today it boasts a captivating ensemble of Georgian architecture that graces its streets. Once a centre of conflict, Belfast now symbolises resilience and transformation.

This morning we’ll have the chance to immerse ourselves in the vibrant city of Belfast with a tour, before visiting the Titanic Museum. The striking, star-shaped museum stands proudly at the head of the slipway where the Titanic was built, charting the history of Belfast and the story of the ill-fated ship. After diving into the history of the Titanic, we make the journey to Hillsborough, home to the royal residence which is now the official residence of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. Our local guide will take us on a tour of the stunning Hillsborough Castle, including the ‘Royal Style in the Making’ exhibition displaying dresses worn by Queen Elizabeth II, Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother and HRH Princess Margaret. After the tour we’ll enjoy some free time to explore the amazing gardens. They have been developed since the 1760s and offer an intriguing mix of formal gardens, woodland and meadows. Make sure to check out the unique ‘Walled Garden’, a site that historically used to produce fruit, vegetables and flowers for the castle! Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reminiscing on all the memories we’ve made on tour.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning, when we’ll say a fond farewell to the beautiful country of Ireland and our newfound friends.

Welcome to stunning Scotland and its charming capital city, Edinburgh. With over 12,000 years of history, this land is rich with stories — from fearless Highland clans to Roman invaders who never quite managed to conquer the native Caledonians. Edinburgh itself, the capital since 1437, is a breathtaking blend of the ancient and the modern, where cobbled lanes wind past medieval spires and contemporary culture hums around every corner. 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 3:00pm. We’ll ease into our Scottish adventure with a relaxed walking tour to get to know this incredible city. First up is Greyfriars, an atmospheric old kirkyard with centuries of stories and the beloved Greyfriars Bobby — a wee dog whose loyalty still tugs at the heartstrings. From there, we’ll wander down Victoria Street, a delightfully wonky road lined with colourful buildings and quirky little shops (perfect for a first photo or two!). Then it’s off to the Grassmarket, once the site of public hangings, now a lively square filled with pubs, character and echoes of history. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious group welcome dinner in a local restaurant.

This morning, we’ll wave goodbye to lovely Edinburgh set off on a scenic journey north. We’ll begin by crossing the Firth of Forth, where the North Sea meets Scotland, then wind our way through the rolling hills and storybook villages of Fife. The views are truly something special, have your cameras ready! Our first stop is the historic coastal town of St. Andrews. Known as the birthplace of golf, it’s also rich in medieval charm. We’ll enjoy a gentle walk passing by some of the town’s most iconic sights, including the grand ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral and its mighty castle which was once a centre of religious power and a destination for pilgrims from all over Europe. Next, we’ll continue to the village of Glamis, a small town with big history. Said to have inspired Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’, it’s home to the magnificent Glamis Castle, which we’ll visit. As the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, the castle is filled with royal connections and ghostly whispers, making it a place full of legend. After some free time for lunch, it’s onward to Aberdeen to catch our ferry across the Pentland Firth to Orkney — an archipelago of wild beauty and rich Norse heritage. Please keep in mind that this is a long journey, and we’ll arrive at our accommodation in the late evening.

Orkney, a captivating archipelago perched off the northern coast of Scotland, boasts some of Europe’s most well-preserved Neolithic sites and a wealth of stories eager to be uncovered. Today, we’ll explore its charming capital, Kirkwall, a town with no Gaelic roots but one deeply connected to the Old Norse world. Its original name, Kirkjuvágr, means ‘church bay,’ a fitting introduction to the town’s peaceful character and fascinating past. We’ll enjoy a leisurely morning, giving you time to take in the surroundings at your own pace. In the afternoon, we’ll dive into some local history with visits to the impressive Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces. The Bishop’s Palace, built in the early 1100s, is full of history, including tales of King Hakon of Norway. Just across the road, the Renaissance-style Earl’s Palace, built in 1606, is a stunning sight and a perfect example of Orkney’s rich past. Next, we’ll head to Lamb Holm, where we’ll see the Churchill Barriers, causeways originally built during World War II to protect the naval base at Scapa Flow. These barriers now link the islands and offer some stunning views. While we’re here, we’ll also visit the Italian Chapel, a beautiful little church created by Italian prisoners of war during World War II, full of intricate frescoes and a truly moving story. Returning to Kirkwall, the evening is yours to enjoy, for dinner, perhaps try some local seafood at one of the town’s cozy pubs while exploring the town at your own pace.

Today, we’ll step way back in time as we explore some of Orkney’s most treasured archaeological sites. Our first stop is Broch of Gurness, an impressive Iron Age village built around a circular stone tower, giving us a glimpse into community life during that era. Afterwards, we’ll visit the Brough of Birsay — a tidal island rich in Viking and Pictish ruins. If the tide is just right, we’ll cross the causeway and explore on foot. We’ll then make our way to Skara Brae, one of the best-preserved prehistoric villages in Europe. Hidden beneath the sand for thousands of years, it was uncovered by a storm in 1850 and offers a remarkable window into life more than 5,000 years ago. We’ll also visit nearby Skaill House, a beautiful manor filled with centuries of stories, where you can see how life evolved from ancient times to more recent history. Special Experience Discover the ancient Standing Stones of Stenness, a megalithic structure older than Stonehenge. Only four stones remain from the original circle of twelve but standing nearly six metres tall and arranged around a central hearth, they still create a striking and mysterious presence in the landscape. Later, we’ll say goodbye to Orkney and aboard the ferry from Stromness to Scrabster. It’s a scenic and breezy ride across the sea, keep an eye out for seabirds and maybe even a seal or two! Dinner tonight will be waiting at our hotel, where we’ll settle in and relax after a day filled with wonder.

After breakfast this morning, we’ll head out to Dunnet Head, the northernmost point of mainland Britain. This rugged, windswept peninsula features dramatic cliffs that plunge into the sea, offering breathtaking panoramic views. On a clear day, you might even be able to look back and spot the Orkney Islands in the distance. The lighthouse stands proudly at the edge, adding to the picturesque scene. If we’re lucky, we might even catch a glimpse of puffins, razorbills or other seabirds nesting along the cliffs. From there, we’ll begin one of the most scenic drives of our journey as we join the famous North Coast 500 route. Often called Scotland’s answer to Route 66, this stunning road takes us through landscapes that look straight out of a postcard — shimmering lochs, striking coastal cliffs, and winding roads that meander through hills and glens. We’ll make time for plenty of photo stops along the way. Make sure your camera is charged, we can guarantee that you’ll need it! Later this evening, we’ll arrive in the lovely harbour town of Ullapool. Tucked between mountains and the sea, it’s a peaceful little gem with a rich fishing heritage and a warm welcome. We’ll check into our hotel and enjoy a hearty dinner tonight.

Ullapool was built in the 18th century to support the booming herring industry, and today, it’s a vibrant little town known for its creativity and love of the arts. This morning, we’ll say goodbye to this cultural gem and set off for our first stop of the day, historic Culloden. Now a peaceful moor, Culloden was once the site of the last pitched battle fought on British soil. In 1746, the Battle of Culloden marked the dramatic end of the Jacobite uprising — a moment that forever changed Scotland’s story. We’ll visit the Culloden Battlefield and Exhibition Centre, where we’ll walk the very ground where it all happened and explore the moving exhibits that bring these powerful tales to life. Next, we’ll head to Elgin, home to the grand ruins of Elgin Cathedral, once called the ‘Lantern of the North’ for its stunning design. Here, we’ll visit the Glen Moray Distillery, which was converted from a brewery into a renowned Speyside whisky maker. Special Experience Taste the local drop at the Glen Moray Distillery. Established in 1897, we visit the whisky distillery and learn about the Scottish drink of choice. From here, we’ll enjoy a scenic drive to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. On arrival, we’ll take a gentle walking tour through the heart of the town, passing the Victorian Market, Inverness Castle, St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Falcon Square, the Tollbooth Steeple, and the elegant Town House. We’ll check into our hotel this evening and relax for the night.

This morning, we’ll enjoy a short drive along the scenic shores of Loch Ness, making our way to Drumnadrochit. Here, we’ll visit Urquhart Castle, one of Scotland’s largest and most historic castles, with panoramic views over the loch. The castle ruins date back to 1509 and offer a glimpse into Scotland’s medieval past. Next, we’ll head to Dornie, where we’ll stop for a photo at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle. Sitting beautifully on a small island, this castle is one of the most photographed spots in Scotland, so don’t forget your camera! Next we’ll find a spot for some free time to relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch. Perhaps you could try a traditional bowl of Cullen Skink, a hearty Scottish fish soup, or a savory Scotch pie in one of the local cafés along the loch. Finally, we’ll head to the Isle of Skye, checking into our hotel we’ll delight in a group dinner.

Renowned for its breathtaking beauty, the Isle of Skye is a true Scottish gem. From its rugged landscapes to its rich history, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most captivating places in the country. Today, we’ll dive right into its charm with a full day of exploring this enchanting island. Our adventure begins with a drive to Portree, the island’s largest town with a photo stop at the village of Sligachan, where we’ll take in the breathtaking sight of Black Cuilin Hills. In Portree, we’ll have the chance to pick up some snacks for our day ahead and enjoy the local shops. Afterwards, we’ll visit the famous Old Man of Storr, this giant rock formation has inspired countless legends and offers jaw-dropping views. We’ll then continue to Kilt Rock, a striking cliff that gets its name from its resemblance to a kilt. From here, we’ll head to Flodigarry for a scenic walk to view the Quiraing, a landscape of ancient landslips and towering pinnacles. As we continue our journey through the Trotternish Peninsula, we’ll arrive at the Skye Museum of Island Life. Here, you can step back in time and explore a traditional Highland village from 100 years ago. Our final stop is Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland, and home to the chiefs of Clan MacLeod for over 800 years. Later in the evening, we make our way back to the hotel. 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’ll say goodbye to the beautiful Isle of Skye and begin our journey back to the mainland with a scenic ferry ride from Armadale to Mallaig. Keep your eyes peeled on the water, seabirds and seals sometimes like to tag along for the ride! Back on land, we’ll make our way via Glenfinnan. Here, we’ll look to get a glimpse of the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct as we pass through, a breathtaking sight made even more magical by its star turn in the Harry Potter films. You might recognise it as the route of the Hogwarts Express, curving gracefully through the Highlands. Next, we’ll stop in at Fort William, a bustling Highland town tucked beneath the mighty Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the United Kingdom. We then continue to Torlundy and the Nevis Range, where the UK’s only mountain gondola awaits. Special Experience Board the United Kingdom’s only mountain gondola for stunning aerial views of the Highlands, ascending to Scotland's Aonach Mor. This afternoon, our adventure takes us to the quaint town of Oban, meaning ‘Little Bay’ in Gaelic. Nestled on the west coast, Oban is surrounded by dramatic shores, a picturesque harbour, and lush countryside. Often called the 'Seafood Capital of Scotland,' this welcoming town is known for its daily fresh catch — making it a haven for food lovers and coastal wanderers alike.

During World War II, Oban played a vital role as a strategic base for flying boats and anti-submarine patrols, with its surrounding waters bustling with naval activity. Today, we’ll bid farewell to this lovely harbour town and begin our journey towards Loch Lomond. We’ll pass by Inveraray Castle, Downton Abbey fans might recognise it as Duneagle Castle from the Christmas special! Though we won’t stop, it’s a sight worth a glance, sitting proudly against the Highland backdrop. Our drive takes us into the heart of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park, often called the ‘Highlands in Miniature’ for its enchanting mix of rugged hills, glistening lochs, and ancient woodlands. Special Experience Incredible scenery awaits us at Trossachs National Park where we cruise the vast waters of Loch Lomond admiring its spectacular natural beauty. We’ll then enjoy some free time in the picturesque lochside village of Luss. Take the opportunity to hike the Luss Heritage Trail, a scenic path that offers breathtaking views of Loch Lomond and the surrounding countryside. Later, we’ll arrive in Glasgow, Scotland’s biggest city, full of energy and creativity character. After checking into our hotel, we’ll have some time to freshen up before indulging in a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We’ll say goodbye to our new friends and to wonderful Scotland.

Welcome to England and its lively capital, London! One of the world’s most visited cities, London is rich in history and filled with antiquity. From its early days as the Roman settlement of Londinium to the bustling, multicultural metropolis it is today, this city has quite the story to tell. Over the centuries, it’s survived Viking invasions, the Great Fire of 1666, and even the Blitz — yet it’s always managed to rise, rebuild and reinvent itself with resilience and a touch of style. You’ll notice how history peeks out from every corner, whether it’s an old pub tucked down a cobbled alley or a blue plaque marking where someone fascinating once lived. And the names! Soho, Kensington, Notting Hill — they’re as charming as they sound. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 5.00pm. You will meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a welcome drink this evening.

London is a city where history and innovation dance together, and today, you’ll see this blend come to life as we explore its iconic landmarks. From medieval fortresses to modern marvels, each stop tells a fascinating story of power, culture, and stunning architecture. We’ll pass by many of the famous buildings and monuments that make London so iconic, including the Big Ben, the Tower of London, and the stunning Tower Bridge. We’ll also pass by Trafalgar Square, where the lions stand proud, and Buckingham Palace, with a photo opportunity. We’ll enjoy a tour of St. Paul’s Cathedral, whose magnificent dome has graced the London skyline for over 300 years, filled with history from Winston Churchill to royal weddings. This afternoon, enjoy time at your own pace. Perhaps you’ll step into the magical world of Madame Tussauds or explore the wonders of the Natural History Museum. Whether you wander down Oxford Street or take a river cruise along the Thames, London is yours to enjoy. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group welcome dinner.

We leave the buzz of London behind this morning and journey southwest through the rolling English countryside. Our first stop is the historic city of Winchester — once the ancient capital of England. Rich in character, this timeless gem invites us to wander medieval streets and soak in centuries of stories. We’ll enjoy a guided tour of the city as we take in views of Winchester Castle, where tales of King Arthur and his legendary Round Table still capture the imagination. We’ll also step inside the breathtaking Winchester Cathedral, one of Europe’s largest, and the final resting place of beloved author Jane Austen. After lunch at leisure, we journey on to the sparkling coast and the delightful town of Lyme Regis. Nicknamed the ‘Pearl of Dorset,’ this seaside gem captivates with its fossil-studded cliffs, winding lanes, and timeless harbour wall known as the Cobb. Later this afternoon, we’ll make our way to Exeter, a historic cathedral city in the heart of Devon. Dating back to Roman times, Exeter offers a rich tapestry of heritage, beauty and warm West Country hospitality. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy.

With the Devon sunshine on our backs, we’re off on one of England’s most scenic drives through the wild, rugged beauty of Dartmoor National Park. We’ll pass through the village of Princeton before making our way to Merrivale and Yelverton, soaking in the stunning, sweeping views along the way. We’ll stop at Buckland Abbey, once home to the legendary Sir Francis Drake. Built in 1278, this historic house has a fascinating past, from its time as a monastery to its later role as Drake’s residence. We’ll explore the abbey and discover the adventurous life of the famous explorer — from his epic journey around the world to his key role in defeating the Spanish Armada. Afterwards, we’ll stop for a well-earned break at the Ox Yard Cafe, where you can relax with a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy some delicious refreshments. Later this afternoon, we’ll arrive in Cornwall, a land famous for its rugged cliffs, stunning beaches, and picturesque seaside villages. Once we’ve checked into our hotel, the rest of the evening is yours to unwind, explore and soak in the charm of this beautiful region at your own pace.

Cornwall has a character all its own. From rugged cliffs and storybook harbours to a proud Celtic spirit, this region feels delightfully different from the rest of England. You might even spot a few signs written in Cornish, the local language that’s been lovingly brought back to life. Today, we’ll uncover more of what makes this part of the country fascinating. We’ll begin with a photo stop at St Michael’s Mount, where a medieval castle stands proudly on a tiny tidal island. Steeped in myth and magic, it’s a picture-perfect moment, especially if the tide is low and the old stone causeway to the mainland reveals itself across the water. Next, we continue to the artistic haven of St Ives, where golden sands meet creative souls. On our guided walk, we’ll take in views of St Nicholas Chapel, proudly watching over the bay since the 15th century, and the ancient Celtic Cross, a quiet symbol of Cornwall’s deep spiritual roots. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore, or relax by the sea. This afternoon, we’ll discover the secrets behind Cornwall’s most iconic dish, the Cornish Pasty. Hosted by local bakers, we’ll learn how to prepare perfect buttery pastry, and master the traditional crimp by hand, guided by time-honoured techniques passed down through generations. At the end, we’ll get to savour our delicious creation we made from scratch! We will return to the hotel with the evening yours to enjoy at leisure.

This morning, we trade one postcard for another as we head north to the delightful fishing village of Port Isaac. Tucked into the cliffs, this picturesque spot is well known as the setting for the TV series ‘Doc Martin’ and the film ‘Fisherman’s Friends’. As the coach can’t quite squeeze into the village centre, we’ll enjoy a gentle stroll down into town, giving you the perfect chance to take in the sights at a leisurely pace. After some free time and a relaxed lunch, we’ll head to the legendary Tintagel Castle, perched on the cliffs and wrapped in the myths of King Arthur. The views are spectacular, and if conditions allow, we might glimpse Merlin’s Cave below. The terrain can be steep and uneven, so we’ll take it easy. Later this evening, we’ll settle into Barnstaple, North Devon’s largest town. A bustling market hub since Saxon times, it’s among the oldest boroughs in the UK. The evening is yours at leisure, consider a visit to the historic Pannier Market, trading local goods since the 11th century and still buzzing today. 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 scenic drive awaits today as we journey through the wild, windswept landscapes of Exmoor. Our first stop is Lynton, affectionately known as ‘Little Switzerland of England’ for its dramatic, alpine-style views. We’ll visit the nearby Valley of the Rocks, where towering stone formations meet the sea, and if we’re lucky, we might spot wild goats perched along the cliffs. We’ll then continue on through Exmoor’s rolling hills and ancient woodlands, making our way to the picturesque village of Dunster. We’ll have time to wander through its cobbled streets, check out the quaint Yarn Market, and maybe even get a glimpse of Dunster Castle up on the hill. This afternoon, we’ll head to Avebury, home to one of the world’s largest prehistoric stone circles. Unlike its more famous cousin Stonehenge, Avebury’s stone circle is larger and older, and you can walk right through it. The stones stretch through the heart of the village, adding a sense of mystery to everyday life. We’ll end our day in beautiful Bath, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site recognised for its Roman baths, graceful Georgian terraces and rich literary history, Jane Austen herself once called this elegant city home.

Long before Bath became the fashionable Georgian city it is today, it was known as Aquae Sulis, an important Roman religious centre. Pilgrims travelled from all over Roman Britain to seek healing at the temple complex. Today, we’ll take a guided walking tour to discover the history and beauty of this stunning city. We’ll stroll across the Pulteney Bridge, one of only four bridges in the world with shops lining both sides. With its graceful arches, the bridge spans the River Avon and often reminds visitors of Venice’s Rialto Bridge. From here, we’ll head to the Royal Crescent, a magnificent row of Georgian townhouses built in a sweeping crescent shape. It’s one of Bath’s most famous landmarks, designed to capture the light in the most flattering way, making it an architectural gem. Next, we’ll explore the Roman’s Bath, the very heart of the city’s history. Built over 2,000 years ago, these ancient baths were once a hub of Roman life and still draw visitors from around the world. It’s from these baths that Bath got its name, and stepping inside is like stepping back in time. The afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. You might visit the Jane Austen Centre, step into the world of this beloved author, or simply enjoy a leisurely afternoon at one of Bath’s lovely cafés. For a treat, why not head to Landrace Bakery on Walcot Street and indulge in a delicious cardamom bun?

This morning, we’ll make our way to Cardiff, the lively capital of Wales. As we cross the striking Severn Bridge, a majestic, suspended structure linking England and Wales, we’ll pause to take in the wide, sweeping river views. It’s the perfect moment to soak up the changing landscape, as the soft English countryside gives way to the wild beauty of the Welsh countryside. Cardiff, though only officially named the capital in 1955, wears its rich history proudly. We’ll take in a panoramic tour of the city, passing by the stately City Hall, a shining example of Edwardian Baroque architecture, before catching sight of Cardiff Castle, where Roman ruins and medieval towers sit side-by-side like old friends with stories to tell. Down by the revitalized harbour, where coal once bustled through the old docks, we’ll glimpse a new era — cafés, galleries, and the iconic, shimmering façade of the Millennium Centre. Afterwards, we’ll visit the fairytale forest retreat of Castell Coch, the ‘Red Castle.’ Tucked among lush, leafy hills, this 19th century marvel was the vision of a marquess with a flair for whimsy and grandeur. Inside, it’s all painted ceilings, winding turrets, and imaginative murals. Then it’s onward to the scenic drive through Brecon Beacons National Park, a tapestry of rugged peaks and peaceful valleys, before we arrive in the colourful market town of Llandeilo.

Today, we’re bound for the picture-perfect seaside town of Tenby, where pastel houses hug golden shores and sea views stretch as far as the heart can dream. The drive from Llandeilo winds through lush Welsh countryside, and before long, the salty sea breeze welcomes us to this beloved Pembrokeshire gem. We’ll begin with a visit to a local Lovespoon workshop. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to watch local artisans at work and learn about the centuries old Welsh tradition of carving lovespoons as tokens of affection. We’ll then make our way to Tenby’s harbour, the heartbeat of the town. Fishing boats bob in the water, and the medieval town walls still stand proudly, echoing tales from long ago. In fact, one such tale is truly royal — young Henry Tudor once hid here in 1471, escaping to France through a secret tunnel that you can still visit today. History feels close in Tenby, whispered on the wind and beneath your feet. We’ll then have some free time to explore more of this stunning town. Perhaps enjoy a walk along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, browse the exhibits at the Tenby Museum and Art Gallery, or visit the historic lifeboat station. And if the tide is low, you might even stroll across to St. Catherine’s Island and discover its Victorian-era fort. We’ll return to Llandeilo this afternoon, with a relaxing evening at leisure. Maybe you’ll choose to have a pleasant stroll down to The White Horse and enjoy a drink or two in this welcoming local favourite.

With hearts full of Welsh memories, we set off northward through some of Wales’ most stirring scenery. Our first stop is the seaside town of Aberystwyth, where Victorian architecture lines the sweeping promenade and the sea air is fresh and bracing. Here, we’ll stretch our legs and soak in the views. Special Experience Take a steam train on the Vale of Rheidol Railway from Aberystwyth to Devils Bridge, also known as Pontarfynach. This steam train journey winds through the Cambrian Mountains. Legend has it that the Devil himself built the first of the three bridges, only to be outsmarted by a clever old woman and her loyal little dog. You’ll feel the magic as we puff along. Next, we’ll stop in the historic town of Machynlleth as we break for lunch, before continuing through the dramatic landscapes of Snowdonia National Park, keep your eyes peeled for Mount Snowdon. We’ll journey on to Tal-y-Cafn, where we’ll visit the exquisite Bodnant Gardens, famous for its sweeping terraces and fragrant laburnum arch. Arriving in Liverpool, we’ll check into our accommodation for the next couple of nights – the Beatles-themed Hard Days Night Hotel. Each room is uniquely styled, featuring exclusive artwork that celebrates the legendary Fab Four, making for a truly memorable stay.

Liverpool’s rich history spans centuries, from its pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution to its musical legacy. It was home to the world’s first modern enclosed dock — an innovation that transformed global trade — and also played a key role in the transatlantic slave trade, a chapter the city reflects on today. Then came the 1960s, when Liverpool rose to global fame as the birthplace of the Beatles. Today, we’ll explore the musical magic that began right here. Special Experience Explore Liverpool's famous sites on a Beatles tour, including a visit to the iconic museum, The Beatles Story. We’ll visit the schools and colleges where the Beatles found their rhythm, including Liverpool Art College and LIPA, where Paul McCartney once studied. We’ll also see the childhood homes of all four Beatles, and their early bandmate Stuart Sutcliffe. We’ll take a stroll down Penny Lane, visit the former home and school of their manager Brian Epstein, and stop by St. Peter’s Church Hall, where the Fab Four played one of their first gigs, and where you’ll spot Eleanor Rigby’s grave. We’ll also visit Strawberry Field, to see all the good word done at the Salvation Army Centre and wander Mathew Street to see the legendary Cavern Club. After some free time for lunch, we’ll head into The Beatles Story Museum, where you’ll discover all the details of their rise to fame, from the early days to worldwide stardom. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon to further explore Liverpool at leisure. You might enjoy a visit the iconic Beatles Statue, take in sweeping views from the Royal Liver Building’s 360° experience, or step into the British Music Experience, where interactive exhibits bring the story of Britain’s rich musical heritage to life.

We leave the musical echoes of Liverpool behind and head to York, one of England’s most captivating historic cities. Founded by the Romans in the 1st century, York is beautifully preserved, with ancient city walls, timber-framed buildings, and winding cobbled streets that make it feel like stepping back in time. Once we arrive, we’ll enjoy a relaxed walking tour through the city’s highlights. We’ll pass by Clifford’s Tower, once a mighty Norman stronghold for William the Conqueror. Then, we’ll wander through the famous Shambles, a crooked little street dating back to the 14th century that’s rumoured to have inspired Diagon Alley in ‘Harry Potter.’ We’ll also meander through the hidden Snickelways — York’s little alleys filled with character and history. Afterwards, we’ll have some free time to grab lunch. Fancy trying a classic Yorkshire pudding or a hearty pie? It’s the perfect chance to sample some local flavours. Next, we’ll step inside the breathtaking York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Northern Europe—its stained glass and soaring arches are simply spectacular. In the afternoon we make our way to Leeds and check in our hotel where the evening free to enjoy at your own pace.

We’ll bid farewell to the rolling hills of Yorkshire and head toward Aysgarth Falls, the stunning setting from Robin Hood. On the way, we’ll pass through Thirsk, a town made famous by the ‘All Creatures Great and Small’ series, inspired by the stories of James Herriot, and you can almost feel the countryside stories in the air. Special Experience Visit Wensleydale Creamery to taste the iconic cheese that was a favourite of famous clay animation characters Wallace and Gromit. After our delightful time at the creamery, we’ll commence our journey on to Windermere, nestled in the heart of the Lake District. This stunning region, often referred to as the birthplace of England’s national park movement, has inspired poets and painters for centuries—and it’s easy to see why. Our afternoon sees us take to the water on a relaxing boat cruise from Bowness Pier to Ambleside. As we glide across the sparkling waters, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding hills, woodlands, and charming lakeside homes. When we arrive at Ambleside Pier, you’ll have some free time to wander and explore this lovely town at your own pace. This evening, we’ll check into our lakeside accommodation, our home for the next two nights. After settling in, we’ll gather for a lovely group dinner, enjoying good food and even better company in this peaceful lakeside setting.

Today, we embark on a leisurely exploration of the stunning Lake District — a UNESCO World Heritage region that has captured the hearts of poets, artists and wanderers alike for centuries. From glistening lakes to rolling hills and picture-perfect villages, it’s easy to see why this area is so beloved. Our journey begins at Blackwell, a rare architectural gem frozen in time. This beautiful Arts & Crafts house overlooks Lake Windermere and is a testament to craftsmanship, from intricate wood carvings to stunning stained-glass windows. We’ll enjoy a guided tour, surrounded by views that will surely take your breath away. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Our time in the Lake District may be coming to an end, but the adventure continues. Today, we make our way towards new and exciting destinations, starting with Dove Cottage, once the home of the famous poet William Wordsworth. Here, among stone walls and wild gardens, Wordsworth penned some of his most cherished poems. As we wander through the rooms where he lived and wrote, you’ll feel the quiet beauty of the place wash over you. We’ll continue to the village of Grasmere, where we’ll have some free time to explore. You might want to treat yourself to a warm, spicy bite from the Grasmere Gingerbread Shop, or take a moment to reflect at Wordsworth’s grave in the churchyard nearby. Next, we cross the Scottish border and stop at Gretna Green, the UK’s most famous wedding destination. The Old Blacksmith’s Shop here holds centuries of romantic tales as young lovers once fled to marry without parental consent. It’s a delightful stop steeped in rich and romantic history! Later this afternoon, we’ll roll into Glasgow, our home for the next two nights. Scotland’s largest city has a big heart and a bold personality with its grand Victorian buildings, lively streets and a thriving arts scene. It’s a brilliant mix of old and new, and we’ll have time to soak it all in.

Good morning, Glasgow! This vibrant city is alive with creativity and steeped in rich history. From its role in the rise of punk rock in the 1970s to its current status as a UNESCO City of Music, Glasgow continues to pulse with a delightful mix of traditional Scottish folk and modern beats. Today, we’ll set off on a walking tour to explore the city’s highlights. We’ll wander through the Merchant City district, once the heart of Glasgow’s bustling trade, and now a lively blend of grand architecture, chic boutiques, and cozy cafés. It’s where old-world charm meets modern flair. We’ll also see George Square, Glasgow’s grand civic centre, surrounded by iconic buildings and statues of famous Scots like Sir Walter Scott and Robert Burns. It’s a wonderful spot to pause and take in the city’s history. As we wander, we’ll also pass by Royal Exchange Square, home to the Gallery of Modern Art — an absolute must for art lovers. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You can dive into Glasgow’s culture at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, stroll through the West End, or indulge in some shopping along Buchanan Street.

Did you know that the famous deep-fried Mars Bar was invented right here in Glasgow? What started as a cheeky snack has since become a beloved guilty pleasure. Today, we’ll say goodbye to this vibrant city and head into the heart of the Scottish Highlands. We’ll begin our journey through the stunning Trossachs National Park, with Loch Lomond glistening in the distance, on our way to Glencoe. Known for its dramatic landscapes, Glencoe is home to towering mountains and deep valleys, making it the perfect spot to capture the beauty of Scotland. Be sure to have your camera ready! Next, we arrive in Fort William, a picturesque town nestled at the foot of Ben Nevis, the tallest mountain in the United Kingdom. Here, you’ll have some free time to explore, grab a bite, or enjoy the peaceful surroundings before we visit a local distillery, observing the process where whisky-making has been perfected for over 200 years. We’ll learn about the fascinating process behind this Scottish tradition and savour a wee dram of single malt. Our scenic journey continues along the world-famous Loch Ness, keep an eye out for Nessie, the legendary Loch Ness monster! Finally, we’ll reach Inverness, the ‘Capital of the Highlands,’ where we’ll have the evening to unwind and enjoy at leisure.

This morning, we’ll journey through the beautiful Scottish countryside on our way to Culloden. Known for its rich history, Culloden is a place that deeply resonates with Scotland’s past. Here, we’ll visit the Culloden Battlefields, where the Jacobite Rising came to a tragic end in 1746. This decisive battle marked a turning point in Scottish history, and the site is filled with moving memorials to the brave souls who fought and fell that day. It’s a powerful experience that connects us to the very heart of Scotland’s story. After soaking in the history of Culloden, we continue south through the stunning Cairngorms National Park, known for its rugged mountains, peaceful valleys and abundant wildlife. The beauty of this region will leave you in awe as we make our way to Edinburgh. Once we arrive in Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, we’ll take a brief panoramic tour to see the city’s famous landmarks before checking into our hotel for the evening.

Edinburgh is a city as captivating as it is beautiful. With dramatic peaks, sweeping sea views, and streets that seem to rise from the rocky landscape, there’s truly no place like it. Today, we’ll embark on a walking tour to uncover the magic hidden in every corner of this historic city. We’ll explore the medieval Old Town and stroll along the famous Royal Mile, passing hidden closes, charming courtyards, and the striking St. Giles’ Cathedral, a true Gothic gem that’s stood tall since the 14th century. We’ll also pass the peaceful Princes Street Gardens and marvel at the towering Scott Monument, built in honour of beloved author Sir Walter Scott. From here, we’ll make our way to Edinburgh Castle, perched proudly atop Castle Rock. As we explore inside, we’ll uncover the Crown Jewels and centuries of royal history, all while taking in sweeping views over the city. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

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

Welcome to Portugal! This vivacious southwestern European country is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and Spain on the other, and offers an exquisite coastline, unique cities, a wealth of history, and incredible architecture. We begin our small group tour in Porto, a fascinating city that lies along the banks of the Douro River. Located on the northern coast of Portugal, Porto is its second largest city and well known for its port wine production. From wandering its winding streets to savouring local delicacies in waterfront cafes, we’ll experience an irresistible blend of tradition, culture and modern flair in this truly unforgettable Portuguese adventure. 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 5.30pm. At 6.30pm, join your fellow travellers and tour leader in the lobby for introductions and a welcome drink. Then take an orientation walk of the surrounds followed by dinner at local restaurant.

Our half day guided city tour of Porto begins after breakfast this morning. We’ll admire the façade of the Carmo Church and Clérigos Tower, learning about their distinct architecture and the part they have played in the intriguing history of the city. We’ll also visit the Stock Exchange Palace and marvel at the beautiful neoclassical style building from both inside and out. Next, we’ll take a cruise along the Douro River and pass under each of Porto’s six bridges. We then pay a visit to a local wine cellar to learn how authentic port is made and enjoy a tasting before continuing our walking tour, crossing the iconic iron Dom Luís I Bridge. The remainder of the day is at leisure to get acquainted with the city further on our own. A short distance from the town centre of Porto is the exhilarating ‘WOW – The Cultural District’. The panoramic views of the River Douro this district has to offer (along with the wine) is truly stunning. Consider exploring one of its seven museums, numerous shops and twelve restaurants and bars at your own pace.

It’s time to awaken our inner wine connoisseur as we make our way to the lush Vinho Verde Region. Get your cameras and palette ready as we drive past rolling hills and picturesque vineyards to sample the crisp, refreshing wines this beautiful region has to offer. Special Experience Explore the stunning vineyards and immaculately manicured gardens of the Vinho Verde Region during a wine tasting and guided tour. We then make our way to the charming city of Amarante, where we’ll see the stunning Saint Goncalo’s Monastery. This grand structure, begun in 1543 AD and completed over a century later, towers over the peaceful, flowing waters of the Tâmega, exuding a sense of timeless beauty. Whether you’re an architecture aficionado or history enthusiast, there’s plenty to marvel at here, from the intricate stone carvings to the serene riverside setting. Take a moment to savour a delicious lunch at a local café, before we head back to Porto, relaxed and ready for an afternoon of leisurely exploration at your own pace.

Rise and shine! It’s time to make our way to the opulent city of Guimarães, often revered as the cradle of Portugal. We’ll wander through its narrow cobblestone streets and admire its marvellous medieval architecture. Our walking tour today will lead us to the Palace of the Dukes of Braganza, a grand residence steeped in regal splendour. With its imposing towers and intricate tapestries, this palace offers a fascinating glimpse into Portugal’s royal past. After our Palace visit, make your way to the charming cafés for some lunch around the lively squares just waiting to be explored. Braga, one of Portugal’s eldest cities, is our next destination today. Step back in time as we marvel at the striking baroque monuments and the iconic Bom Jesus do Monte sanctuary, perched high above the city on a short panoramic city tour. End your day at leisure people-watching in the bustling Praça da República, soaking in Braga’s charm before excitedly planning your return visit perhaps? Weave through the narrow streets lined with lively cafés and boutique shops, where locals greet you with warm smiles. Hungry? Why not taste some local delights like the famous papas de sarrabulho or mouthwatering bacalhau dishes.

Buckle up for an exhilarating day as we make our way to our first stop this morning – Ovar! Together with our local tourism expert, we’ll discover striking azulejo-clad façades and delve into the history of tile-painting. Referred to as the Portuguese Venice, next we make our way to Aveiro. Set on the shores of the Ria de Aveiro, this Portuguese city is known for its many meandering canals. We'll hop aboard iconic moliceiro boats for a laid-back glide on the serene waters, admiring the vibrant Art Nouveau buildings along the banks. After, indulge in local flavours during your free time at lunch. We’ll then embark on a guided walking tour to marvel at Aveiro’s cultural gems. Descending a steep hill to meet the river Mondego is the charming city of Coimbra, which is our final stop this evening. Best known for its prestigious university—one of Europe’s oldest—this vibrant locale brims with centuries of history. Tonight, we’ll settle into Coimbra’s inviting surrounds with a group dinner, savouring regional delicacies while a Fado performance fills the air with soulful melodies.

Today’s adventure promises a feast for the eyes, imagination and the heart—prepare to fall in love with Coimbra’s spellbinding allure. We’ll start the day with a guided tour that reveals the secrets of this historical university town, exploring the majestic University grounds to admiring the mesmerising architecture of its centuries-old cathedral. Special Experience Discover the Shale Villages, visiting local shops and connecting with the locals before enjoying a traditional lunch. Once we have become acquainted with Coimbra, we’ll make our way to the Shale Villages. Equally as charming as they are compelling, the Shale Villages are made up of houses and buildings constructed from shale, a fine sedimentary rock made mostly from clay that splits into very thin layers and makes for some spectacular architecture. We stop for lunch in a local restaurant in the Shale village of Candal where rugged hues and cobblestone lanes create a dreamy atmosphere. We journey on to Lousã, arguably the crown jewel of Shale villages and brimming with medieval charm, leafy trails and a warm welcome around every corner. We return to Coimbra for an evening at leisure where you can choose to sip local wine, stroll the cities lanes or perhaps indulge in sweet pastries 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.

Get ready to explore Nazaré, a picturesque fishing village renowned for its towering waves that attract fearless surfers from around the globe. On a short orientation tour this morning, we’ll stroll along the waterfront, soaking up local lore and panoramic ocean views, before we settle in for a mouthwatering Portuguese feast that will delight your taste buds. In the afternoon we’ll continue to the town of Óbidos, where we have the opportunity to taste the local cherry liquor, Ginjinha, an iconic Portuguese liquor made by infusing sour cherries in the traditional local brandy called ‘Aguardente’. It’s a spirited delight you won’t want to miss! We’ll arrive in Lisbon this evening, a city buzzing with life and character. After we check in, the evening is all yours to discover its vibrant streets. Marvel at the grand Gothic cathedrals alongside striking modern architecture or simply admire terracotta rooftops lining the winding lanes. Soak up the heady mix of tradition and trendiness and sip a refreshing sangria while overlooking the Tagus River. Once you feel Lisbon’s pulse, you’ll know exactly why it’s such an unforgettable must-visit!

After breakfast this morning we make our way to Sintra, a town just outside of Lisbon and home to the incredible National Palace of Sintra. Exploring the Palace, we’ll see the distinct mix of medieval, Gothic, Manueline and Renaissance architecture which has remained relatively untouched since the mid-16th century. The National Palace of Sintra was used by the Portuguese Royal family until the end of the monarchy in 1910 and offers visitors a glimpse back through time. Cascais is the perfect midday stop on our journey back to Lisbon, offering a delightful blend of seaside charm and scenic squares lined with palm trees. After a short orientation tour, you’ll have free time for lunch and to meander through the quaint lanes of this easy-going coastal town. Next, we’ll venture to Estoril, renowned for its golden beaches and glitzy casino history. When we arrive back in Lisbon, the remainder of the day is yours to wander the romantic streets, visit museums or simply enjoy a relaxed waterfront stroll.

After breakfast, we set out on a panoramic tour through Lisbon’s charming historical centre, soaking up centuries of stories enroute. Admire the grandiose Monument of Discoveries before we head to the awe-inspiring Jerónimos Monastery. Prepare to be wowed by ornate stone carvings of mythical sea creatures and swirling vines. Built in honour of Portugal’s Age of Discovery, Jerónimos Monastery is a glorious testament to the city’s rich maritime heritage and Manueline architecture. Next, we’ll venture downtown for a lively walking tour, culminating at Rossio Square, the heart of this vibrant city. This will be an ideal spot to indulge in a leisurely lunch at your own pace. Whether you spend the rest of your day scouting out Portuguese souvenirs, people-watching by the grand fountains or sipping an espresso at a nearby café, Rossio Square has something to offer for everyone! Special Experience Get ready for an iconic double treat — a private tram ride through the winding streets of Lisbon while sampling the famous Portuguese Tarts. Today we’re checking two quintessential Portuguese experiences off our bucket lists! We’ll hop aboard Lisbon’s iconic yellow tram, winding our way through both popular tourist quarters and tucked-away local districts. Retaining much of their 1930s character — think wood-panelled interiors and gleaming brass details —these historic trams are brimming with old-world charm. As we glide through the city’s interlacing neighbourhoods, we’ll savour the renowned Pastel de nata, Portugal’s beloved custard tart. What a perfect way to wrap up our day! This evening we’ll join our new friends for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant where we reminisce on our favourite memories and experiences of Portugal together.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our fellow travellers and to the treasures of Portugal.

Ahlan wa sahlan — welcome to Casablanca! Morocco’s largest city greets us with a mix of old-world charm and modern rhythm. Nestled along the Atlantic coast, this lively port hums with life and history. Though sleek skyscrapers and stylish cafés dot the skyline, Casablanca still holds tight to its roots. Its name, meaning ‘White House’ in Spanish, comes from the brilliant, whitewashed walls of the Old Medina. Wander a little, and you’ll spot the elegant French colonial buildings with Moorish arches and Art Deco details, it’s a city that wears its past and present side by side. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 5.00pm This evening, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a welcome drink.

We’ll begin our morning with an introduction to Casablanca, Morocco’s vibrant and cosmopolitan city. We’ll wander through the lively Central Market, where the colours and sounds bring the city to life. Then, we’ll take a stroll along the seaside Aïn Diab Esplanade, where locals sip mint tea and the Atlantic breeze keeps time with the waves. Afterwards, we will step inside the awe- inspiring Hassan II Mosque. This architectural marvel is one of the largest mosques in the world, with a minaret soaring nearly 700 feet high. Even more impressive? It’s built partly over the sea, with a glass floor that lets you glimpse the ocean below. We’ll pass through the Habous Quarter, with its blend of French design and Moroccan tradition. Narrow streets, spice shops and fragrant bakeries invite you in with the warmth of another era. After some free time for lunch, we’ll make our way to Marrakesh, one of Morocco’s four Imperial cities. Founded in the 11th century, it was once the heart of a vast empire stretching into Spain and West Africa. 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 experience a real taste of Morocco at dinner, complete with dancers and musicians, in a local restaurant.

Marrakesh, with its terracotta walls and snow-capped Atlas Mountains in the distance, is a city that leaves a lasting impression. Known as the ‘Pearl of the South,’ Marrakesh is the second oldest of the four Imperial Cities, and today, we’ll uncover some of its most beautiful corners. We’ll begin at the peaceful Saadian Tombs which was hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1917. Its intricate carvings, colourful tiles and elegant script reflect the artistry of the 16th century. Next, we’ll explore Bahia Palace, a lavish residence once home to a powerful vizier. With its serene courtyards, detailed ceilings and fragrant gardens, it’s easy to imagine the stories it holds. The striking Koutoubia Mosque comes next, with its 12th century minaret rising above the city like a beacon. Though non-Muslims cannot enter, the exterior alone is breathtaking. We’ll also wander through the Medina and Kasbah districts and stop at a traditional Berber Pharmacy, where time-tested remedies and oils offer a window into Moroccan healing traditions. 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. After a full day of discovery, we’ll return to the hotel. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

This morning, we’re off to discover a different side of Morocco, with our sights set on the historic city of Fez. Along the way, we’ll stop for lunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pastilla, a delicious pastry filled with savory meats and sweet spices that perfectly captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine. We’ll continue our drive towards Fez, soaking in the stunning mountainous scenery as we approach one of Morocco’s most ancient Imperial Cities. Fez is famous for its beautifully crafted ceramics, so be sure to bring your bargaining skills to the market! Fez is truly the heart of Morocco, nestled in the rolling countryside between the Rif and Mid Atlas Mountains. Its UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina, Fez el-Bali, is one of the largest living medieval cities in the world, with towering gates and magnificent walls that transport you to another time. We’ll check into our hotel and later enjoy a relaxing dinner together.

Fez is a city where rich history and ancient traditions blend seamlessly with the lively energy of today. After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we’ll set off to explore the heart of this magical city. Our day begins in the Main Medina (Fez el-Bali), a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, where narrow alleys and colourful souks bring the city to life. The vibrant sights, scents of spices and the bustle of local traders will captivate you at every turn. We’ll also stop at the Kairaouine Mosque, one of the oldest universities in the world. While entry is restricted to Muslims, the view of its stunning architecture from the top of Medersa Attarine when open, is not to be missed. After taking in the sights, we’ll pause to see the fountains of Carpenters Square, where local artisans continue to practice their craft. You’ll have some free time to shop in the Medina, so bring your best haggling skills! Later, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch in a small but beautiful Moroccan palace in the heart of the Medina. We’ll then visit the city’s famous tannery, where leather is dyed in vibrant colours using centuries-old techniques passed down through generations. The rest of the evening is yours to relax or explore more of Fez on your own.

From Fez we head to Meknes, Morocco’s smallest imperial city founded in the 11th century. Quieter and more laid-back than Fez, Meknes still boasts beautiful winding streets and grand architecture. We’ll take an orientation tour of the old city, known as the ‘Versailles of Morocco.’ We’ll see the impressive Bab el Mansour Gate, the historic Royal Stables that once housed the royal horses and the lovely Bou Inania Madrasa known for its mosaics and carvings. After soaking in the sights of Meknes, we’ll 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. We’ll enjoy some free time for lunch before continuing our journey towards Chefchaouen. As we drive, we’ll pass through rolling hills and local villages, soaking in the beautiful rural landscape of Morocco. Finally, we’ll arrive in Chefchaouen, the famous ‘Blue City,’ nestled in the Rif Mountains. With its vibrant blue buildings and steep streets, Chefchaouen feels like a real-life watercolour painting. Get ready to fall in love with this tranquil town!

Chefchaouen, founded in 1471 as a fortress to defend against the Portuguese, has blossomed into a town with a unique blend of Berber, Arab, and Jewish influences. One popular theory behind its iconic, blue-painted buildings is that Jewish refugees introduced the tradition in the 1930s, symbolizing peace, spirituality, and a connection to the divine. Today, we’ll explore this magical town on foot, beginning with Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the lively heart of Chefchaouen. As we wander through the narrow, winding streets, you'll be delighted by the vibrant contrasts of colourful wares and the town’s iconic blue walls. Chefchaouen is a great place to shop for locally made treasures like woven blankets and wool, items you won’t easily find elsewhere in Morocco. Next, we’ll embark on a hike up to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the town and the surrounding mountains. It’s a bit steep, but the panoramic views are absolutely worth the effort! After our guided exploration, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. You can relax in one of the cafés, browse the artisan shops for unique crafts, or simply take a leisurely stroll through the vivid streets. 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 bid farewell to Morocco, as we make out way to the ferry port in Tangier. After crossing the Strait of Gibraltar, we’ll arrive in Tarifa, Spain. From here, we’ll head toward Seville, with some free time along the way to stretch our legs and have some lunch. As we arrive in Seville, you’ll quickly fall for this lively city. Once known as ‘Hispalis’ by the Romans and ‘Ishbiliya’ under the Moors, Seville’s rich history is still woven into its vibrant atmosphere today. With stunning architecture and a fascinating past, Seville perfectly blends the old and new. The old town, in particular, feels like stepping back in time to an authentic Spanish village, where much of the city’s history has been carefully preserved. After checking in, the rest of the evening is yours to explore at your own pace.

According to legend, Seville was founded by Hercules and has origins linked to the Tartessian civilisation. It’s a city full of passion and stories — the birthplace of Carmen, Don Juan, and Figaro. Today, we’ll step into its rich history with a guided tour that brings Seville’s colourful past to life. We’ll begin at the Royal Alcázar, a breathtaking Moorish palace that’s been home to royalty for centuries. As we stroll through its ornate rooms and peaceful gardens, you’ll see why it’s still used by the Spanish Royal Family. Next, we’ll admire the impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria and its soaring Giralda Bell Tower. This is Spain’s largest cathedral and said to be the final resting place of Christopher Columbus. We’ll wrap up our tour with a wander through the historic Jewish Quarter of Santa Cruz, a maze of lanes, leafy courtyards, and hidden corners. This afternoon is at leisure for you to discover the delights of this beautiful city. Optional Excursion Flamenco Show, 'El Palacio Andaluz’ - Located in the beautiful city of Seville is El Patio Andaluz, a place where passionate Flamenco dancers (known as bailaores or bailaoras) perform group and solo dances. The Flamenco style of dance originated in the Andalusian region and is expressed by the performer with intricate hand, arm and body movements whilst clapping their hands and rhythmically stomping their feet. The dances are usually accompanied by guitars and as the song builds so does the tempo and volume. Enjoy a traditional Flamenco show accompanied with one drink (beer, wine or soft drink) on arrival and return bus transfers. 1hr 30mins - from Euro 49pp (no minimum number required)

The pueblos blancos, or white villages, of southern Spain are a stunning collection of hilltop towns scattered across Andalusia. Their name comes from the traditional whitewashed houses, originally painted with lime to reflect the sun and keep interiors cool during hot summers. But these villages offer more than just beauty — each one is rich in history, and today we’ll explore and uncover the fascinating stories they hold. Our first stop is Zahara de la Sierra, a mountaintop village overlooking a stunning blue reservoir. Here, we’ll visit an olive mill to learn about the production of one of Spain’s most cherished ingredients. Special Experience Discover Andalucia's essence at an olive oil mill. Tour the grounds, relish a degustation of local produce, and immerse in the flavours of the region. Next, we’ll head to Setenil de las Bodegas, a town unlike any other, where dwellings have been built into the cleft of rocks cut by the Guadalporcún River. It’s a truly unique sight, as though nature and architecture made a perfect partnership. You’ll have some free time to explore its winding streets, grab a coffee, or indulge in a slice of almond cake, tarta de almendra. Arriving in Granada, we’ll check into our hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Granada is like a living canvas, where Moorish, Muslim and Catholic influences come together in a beautiful mix of architecture. The charm and history at every turn will captivate you, and today, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of this enchanting city. Our sightseeing today includes entry into the world-famous Alhambra Palace complex, a stunning example of 13th century Islamic architecture. Known as the ‘Red Castle’ for its reddish walls, this Moorish citadel includes the Nasrid Palaces, the Alcazaba, and the Palace of Charles V. Once a fortress and royal residence, it’s now one of Spain’s most iconic landmarks. Just a short stroll away, we’ll wander through the serene Generalife Gardens, once the summer retreat for the Kings of Granada. With peaceful fountains, vibrant flowers, and fragrant pathways, it’s a tranquil oasis that feels like stepping into another world. After exploring the Alhambra, we’ll walk through the old part of the city. You’ll get to soak up the atmosphere as we stroll through winding streets, before ending at the Royal Chapel, the final resting place of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace, before we reconvene for a group dinner. Special Experience Taste traditional Spanish tapas, enjoying a range of delicious bite-sized savoury dishes, richly seasoned with local spices.

This morning, we’ll be exploring more of the beautiful Andalusian countryside as we enjoy a scenic drive, with comfort stops along the way, before reaching the historic city of Córdoba. Our first stop will be the magnificent Mezquita Mosque, also known as the Cathedral of Córdoba. It’s one of the most important monuments in the Western Islamic world and blends ‘Omeya’ style with Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque touches. Its grand arches, intricate carvings, and peaceful courtyards are sure to leave you in awe. Next, we’ll wander through Barrio de la Judería, the old Jewish Quarter. Known for its narrow, interlacing streets and whitewashed buildings, the area reflects the city’s layered cultural history. You’ll have some free time to stroll through the district taking in the atmosphere or enjoy something to eat. After lunch, we’ll transfer to the train station and take the AVE high-speed train to the grand city of Madrid. As the capital of the Spanish Empire and once the richest and most powerful city on Earth, Madrid is known for its vibrant energy and rich culture. Today, Madrid is known as a city that never sleeps with its palaces, museums and concerts are up there with the best in the world.

Today, we’re in for a treat as we set off to discover the many faces of Madrid on a guided city tour. We'll begin with a scenic drive past Plaza de Colón, where the enormous Spanish flag stands tall and proud, then roll through the elegant Calle Serrano in the stylish Salamanca district. From there, we’ll pass the grand Puerta de Alcalá and the famous Retiro Park, a favourite local spot where you might spot rowboats drifting across the lake. Next up is the Atocha district, followed by the tree-lined Paseo del Prado, home to the world-famous Prado and Reina Sofía museums. We’ll glide past the iconic fountains of Neptune, Apollo, and Cibeles before taking in the buzz of Gran Vía and the stately Plaza de Oriente. Our next stop is at the Royal Palace, a beautiful baroque masterpiece with over 3000 rooms. Although the royal family no longer lives here, the Palacio Real still serves as the king and queen's official residence, a venue for state ceremonies, and a place for tourists to get a peek into the fascinating royal history of Spain. We’ll finish our tour at Mercado de San Miguel, Plaza Mayor, and Puerta del Sol. Then it’s your time to enjoy a leisurely lunch or simply soak up the city’s charm at your own pace. You may wish to sit back and relax at a cafe and be entranced by Madrid's energy as you people-watch, view eclectic architecture along the Gran Via and savour Spanish fare in Puerta Del Sol. Special Experience Participate in a cooking class, learning traditional methods and discovering the delights of typical Spanish cuisine. You’ll leave with a new repertoire of delicious recipes to take home.

We’ll begin the day with a relaxed morning at your own pace in beautiful Madrid. It’s the perfect time to soak up a little more of the city’s magic—perhaps take a morning stroll through the leafy boulevards of Retiro Park, enjoy a slow coffee at a sun-dappled café, or revisit one of the museums we passed yesterday for a closer look. Later, we’ll make our way to the station and hop aboard the AVE—Spain’s sleek and speedy high-speed train. Sit back and enjoy the comfort as we glide across the countryside on our way to the vibrant and unique Barcelona. Barcelona is one of the world’s most stylish and cosmopolitan cities on the cutting edge of architecture, food, fashion, style and music. The city features buildings by the genius and eccentric Antoni Gaudí, significant art collections of Picasso and Miro, and the exuberant locals will enchant you. The city's main tree-lined pedestrian mall, Las Ramblas, runs all the way from the quayside through the heart of the city and will lead you to the Gothic Quarter. Arriving in Barcelona in the afternoon, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure to begin exploring this magnificent city at your own pace.

Did you know this stunning city enjoys more sunny days than almost anywhere in Europe? Or that it was once home to Picasso, Gaudí, and even a booming chocolate guild? Well, today we’ll be exploring the sights that make Barcelona so captivating, taking in the contrast of old and new as we drive through the city’s lively streets. We’ll step inside Antoni Gaudí's iconic masterpiece, the La Sagrada Família (Holy Family Church). This sky-scraping basilica, an enduring symbol of Barcelona, stands as a testament to Gaudí's visionary genius and remains an unfinished work in progress, captivating visitors with its intricate facades and towering spires. From there, we’ll continue our journey walking through Plaza Cataluña and along the elegant Paseo de Gracia passing Gaudí's distinctive architecture continues as we marvel at the whimsical exteriors of Casa Batlló and Casa Milà along Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelona’s largest avenues. The afternoon is at leisure to further explore before our group farewell dinner this evening. Why not take some time to visit the popular Las Ramblas Street with its cafes, restaurants and street artists?

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

Welcome to the sunny region of Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea! We begin in the region’s vibrant capital city, Palermo, boasting a blend of historical landmarks, diverse architecture, and a lively street life. The coastal city has been invaded many times over the years, resulting in a mixed architectural appearance with Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Modernist influences. We don’t want you to miss out on a single moment of your island adventure, so we recommend that you arrive at your starting destination by 1.00pm. At 2.00pm, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Leader before joining a local guide for a fascinating anti-mafia walking tour through the streets of Palermo. As we make our way through the colourful town centre, we’ll gain insight into the captivating history, significant events and courageous figures who stood up against the criminal influence. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the influence of the notorious Sicilian mob beyond the myths. This evening, we’ll enjoy an authentic introduction to the region’s hearty cuisine at a group welcome dinner in a local restaurant.

Following breakfast this morning, we will make our way eastward to the town of Cefalù, one of the most beautiful villages in all of Sicily. Sitting snug between a sandy bay and the towering granite rock of La Rocca, Cefalù offers something for every traveller. Here, we’ll have the opportunity to leisurely explore the cafe-lined medieval streets, tuck into a local delicacy for lunch and can even take a dip in the clear, shallow waters. Take advantage of some free time to wander through the historic centre and admire the Norman-style facade of the Cefalù Cathedral. Next, settle back into the coach, looking out over the gorgeous blue waters of the Mediterranean as we snake along the Sicilian coast. In the evening, we’ll arrive in the vibrant port city of Messina, perched on the northeastern tip of Sicily overlooking the Strait of Messina. Often referred to as the island’s gateway, Messina is known for its grand piazzas, impressive cathedral and sweeping harbour views. With a history shaped by earthquakes, invasions and centuries of maritime trade, the city has long played a strategic role in Mediterranean life. After checking into our hotel, the evening is yours to explore — perhaps enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront before settling into one of the many nearby trattorias for dinner.

Today we spend the morning driving through varied Sicilian landscapes on our way to beautiful Taormina. This tranquil area earnt the nickname of the ‘Pearl of the Ionian Sea’, and it’s not hard to understand why. Neighbouring mighty Mount Etna looming on the horizon, the town’s unique cliffside position overlooking the sea and the region’s striking natural beauty make Taormina one marvellous destination to visit. On arrival we start with a walking tour and marvel at the picturesque Duomo cathedral that dates back to the 13th century. Over the years it has been reconstructed and restored and displays a great blend of Renaissance and Baroque design aesthetics. We’ll also visit the ancient Greek amphitheatre and take a leisurely stroll through the charming narrow streets of the old town. The rest of the day is at leisure to immerse in Taormina at your own pace. Perhaps you might like to wander through the Villa Comunale gardens? Located on the edge of the town and featuring brick structures encased by palm trees, cacti and flowers, find a quaint pocket for a peaceful moment overlooking the landscape. Later in the day we check into our hotel in the Taormina Riviera, where you'll have the rest of the night to enjoy at your leisure.

Today we visit Mount Etna, Europe's largest active volcano, with its summit stretching approximately 3,350 metres high. To the ancient Greeks, Mount Etna was the realm of Vulcan, the God of Fire, and the home of the one-eyed monster known as the Cyclops. Over 1,200 square metres of Etna's surface is covered with solidified lava. We’ll have the opportunity of exploring some of these lava stones and to take some spectacular photographs. Special Experience Indulge in a delightful lunch paired with a memorable wine tasting experience at a picturesque Sicilian winery. The vineyards neighbouring Mount Etna and the surrounding Catania region are famous for their viticulture, enjoying a mediterranean climate favoured for grape cultivation. We’ll enjoy a tasting accompanied by lunch at a local winery, set against a stunning backdrop of the Sicilian countryside. We’ll return to our hotel in the late afternoon where the rest of the evening is at leisure.

We continue along the Mediterranean coast today, making our way to Catania, the second-largest city in Sicily. Lying at the foot of Mount Etna, the city centre is known for its masterful examples of Baroque architecture which earned it a coveted spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Here, we'll immerse ourselves in Sicilian culture and its culinary delights as we take a walking tour, discovering the significance of Catania's food in the local heritage. Next on our journey, we'll explore the small island of Ortigia, connected to the city of Syracuse. With a history dating back to ancient times, Ortigia is home to a myriad of historical landmarks, charming streets and beautiful architecture. After a short orientation tour delving into some of the town’s ancient roots, there will be free time for you to grab some lunch and explore this fascinating island on your own. We arrive in the beautiful province of Ragusa late this afternoon, a region famous for its rich red wines that are usually made from a blend of Nero d’Avola, Frappato and Pignatello grapes. Tonight, you'll have the evening free to acquaint yourself with the city. Enjoy the opportunity to explore and immerse yourself in the beauty of Ragusa at your own pace.

In the late morning, we’ll take a walking tour through the old town of Ragusa. Stroll through the winding streets, lined with centuries-old buildings, and discover the rich heritage of this beautiful Sicilian city. We’ll also see the impressive Duomo di San Giorgio. This 18th century cathedral is topped with a neoclassical dome and rises from the streets with a distinctive three-tiered cake-like exterior. Special Experience Visit a local cheese manufacturer, where you'll have the opportunity to sample a delectable tasting of the renowned Ragusano cheese. We’ll venture to a local cheese manufacturer to observe the production process and taste some of the region’s famous Ragusano cheese – a hard, stretched-curd cheese known for its bold flavour. The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy as you wish. Take advantage of an afternoon at leisure to further explore the wonderful city of Ragusa. A short stroll through its maze of steep narrow streets will show you why Ragusa earned the nickname of ‘the city of two halves’. Here, the older Baroque-style town is preserved alongside the more modern side of the city. Visit some of its museums, admire the intricate details of the main avenues or explore some of its elegant Baroque churches.

Early this morning, we farewell the beauty of Ragusa and travel to the outskirts of Agrigento where we will visit the Valley of the Temples, one of Sicily's most famous historical attractions. Here we’ll explore the spectacular archaeological site that preserves the ruins of seven ancient Greek temples and other monuments. We’ll marvel at the Temples of Juno, Concord, Heracles, Zeus, Castor and Pollux, and learn about their historical significance, steeped in tales of Greek mythology. As we continue our journey, we will stop for a scenic photo at the Stair of the Turks, a stunning natural cliff formation. This wavy stretch of coastline has been carved out by the lapping waves of the Mediterranean, moulding it into the rounded, white rock formation it is today. We'll then enjoy some free time in Sciacca for lunch before proceeding to our final destination for the day. As the afternoon sun begins to set in, we’ll arrive in Marsala, a pretty coastal town in western Sicily. Home to a diverse cultural history, the town was famously the landing point of The Expedition of the Thousand, the unification movement of Italy led by Garibaldi. Marsala is also renowned for its production of the sweet, fortified wine of the same name.

This morning, we’ll set out on a captivating tour of Marsala, exploring the charming city and its unique attractions. The town once served as a Roman colony but has also seen Arab rule and was later occupied by the English, which makes delving into its history even more alluring. As we meander through its streets, we’ll be taken back to past eras, discovering the archaeological and architectural treasures that make up its fascinating heritage. Marsala is renowned for its fortified wine, so we could visit without a sample. This afternoon we’ll visit a local wine cellar and enjoy tastings of the local drop. The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy some downtime in the peaceful surrounds or explore more of the town. Why not visit the Cathedral of San Tommaso of Canterbury, dedicated to Saint Thomas Becket, before later ducking into a local bar to experience Marsala’s vibrant nightlife.

After breakfast, we'll head to the medieval town of Erice. Located in the northwest of Sicily and perched atop Monte San Giuliano, this walled hilltop town sits 750m above sea level offering spectacular valley and sea vistas. Make sure you are wearing comfortable walking shoes today, as the narrow cobblestone streets and entrance to the town are quite steep. Special Experience In Erice, savour the local pastries, including the renowned Genovesi Ericine — a flaky shortcrust pastry filled with lemon cream. Indulge in the town’s flavoursome Genovesi Ericine, a flaky sweet made of shortcrust pastry and filled with a creamy lemon-flavoured centre. One bite of this ‘crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside’ cookie and you won’t be able to stop at just one! Take advantage of some free time to explore more of the well-preserved stone ruins before we continue on to Palermo. Later in the day, we’ll arrive back to where we started in beautiful Palermo and enjoy a free afternoon for some final exploring. Tonight, we’ll toast ‘saluti’ (cheers!) to our favourite memories of the tour at a group farewell dinner.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with fabulous memories as we bid ‘addiu’ to our new friends and to the sun-drenched wonders of Sicily!

Welcome to Italy, the land of ‘La Dolce Vita’, and to the famed city of Rome. Italy is bursting with rich heritage, a thriving art and food scene, and some of the most well-known cultural landmarks in the world. Here, ancient ruins rub shoulders with modern buildings and sleepy cobblestone alleyways lie next to busy streets. The home of pizza, pasta, olive oil and wine, Italy is a true food lover's paradise, while fashion aficionados from all over the world flock for its renowned fashion, shoes and handbag designs. Rome, Italy’s historic capital, is home to a plethora of marvellous palaces, churches, grand ruins, opulent monuments, ornate statues and graceful fountains. This romantic city seamlessly blends its cosmopolitan atmosphere with its rich historical heritage, making it one of the world’s most visited, famous, influential and beautiful capitals. We don’t want you to miss out on a single moment of your Italian adventure, so we recommend that you arrive at your hotel by 5:00pm. Tonight, soak up the buzzing atmosphere of this timeless city as you say ‘ciao’ to your fellow travellers and Tour Director and enjoy a welcome drink at the hotel.

Today, make sure you pack your camera as we set out to explore Imperial Rome by foot, visiting some of the city’s most famous sites. We’ll walk in the steps of Julius Ceasar, through the ruins of the Roman Forum, an ancient hub of political and social activity before visiting the nearby Piazza Venezia. Here in the square, where numerous major roads intersect, we’ll marvel at the imposing monument dedicated to King Vittorio Emanuele II and the Unification of Italy. We’ll also enjoy a visit to The Imperial Palace and Capitoline Hill, still used by the Roman government today, and home to the beautiful Piazza del Campidoglio designed by Michelangelo. Last on our walking tour, we’ll pass through ancient stone archways to enter the imposing arena of The Colosseum, one of the most famous sites in Rome and the largest amphitheatre built in the Roman Empire. Capable of seating 50,000 spectators, the Colosseum was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, including mock sea battles, animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, and dramas based on classical mythology. The afternoon is free for you to further explore, before making your way back to the hotel for a group welcome dinner this evening. 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 indulging in breakfast this morning, a full day awaits you to explore the city of Rome at your own pace. From museums and galleries to basilicas and amphitheatres, Rome is home to an incredible array of historic sites thrumming with ancient tales of the city. Perhaps you want to stroll through one of the city’s impressive museums, delving into the history of master painters and sculptors like Michelangelo, Raphael and Caravaggio, or revisit a famous site we explored yesterday? You might wish to take in the details that decorate the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, visit the iconic columns of the 2nd century Pantheon temple, or admire the intricate artistry of the Fontana di Trevi, taking part in the time-honoured tradition of tossing a coin into the water. Whatever you do, the choice is yours. Make sure to take some time to wander Rome’s cobblestone streets and immerse yourself in its culinary delights. Renowned for its carbonara and cacio e pepe, why not tuck into a hearty bowl of pasta or a delicious slice of pizza, followed by a scoop of creamy gelato - you are bound to stroll past a shop or two on your travels!

Saying goodbye to Rome this morning, we’ll journey to the ancient city of Pompeii, where a local guide will take us on a walking tour of the famous ruins. The prosperous Roman city of Pompeii lay buried for hundreds of years after the eruption of the Vesuvius volcano in the year 79 AD, and it is one of the most significant examples of Roman civilisation. The volcanic material that covered Pompeii kept the city largely intact, including both the exteriors and interiors of many buildings. We’ll have some free time to wander around and marvel at the ruins, before continuing along Italy’s beautiful coastline. In the early evening, we’ll reach the beautiful coastal town of Sorrento, the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Built into the cliffs overlooking the sparkling Bay of Naples, the sweeping views here will simply take your breath away. Special Experience Enjoy an Italian culinary experience, with a hands-on lesson teaching us how to make pizza the authentic way. In Sorrento, pizza is a special culinary tradition. Different to the raised edges of a classic Neopolitan pizza, the pizza here has a thinner, crispier crust and is topped with fior di latte cheese, instead of the typical mozzarella. We’ll learn the secrets of mastering this mouth-watering delicacy, whilst enjoying our creations for 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.

Today our eyes are set on the glamorous Isle of Capri, renowned as a playground for the rich and famous! We’ll meet our local guide after breakfast and make our way to the Sorrento port, where we’ll board the ferry that will take us to the island. The ferry between Sorrento and Capri skirts a stunning stretch of the coast so, if you can, sit on the left side to soak up the view. The emperor Augustus was the first to discover the beauty of the Isle of Capri in 29 BC, and was followed by many others including Tiberius, Lenin, Mussolini, the Swedish doctor Axel Munthe and the factory owners Krupp. Each one of these guests influenced Capri's culture which continues to enchant the many visitors it receives today. A true jewel of the Mediterranean, Capri is known for its rugged seascape, café culture and brilliant bougainvillea. On arrival we’ll take a minibus up to the hilltop village of Anacapri. After our tour, enjoy some free time to indulge in a bite to eat and explore more of the island before returning by funicular railway to board the ferry back to Sorrento. Make sure you charge your camera tonight to capture some spectacular views tomorrow.

We’ll say ‘ciao’ to the beautiful Amalfi Coast today, enjoying an excursion to this scenic setting. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Amalfi Coast stretches for 50 kilometres across the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula. Its rugged cliffs and the beautiful villages that cling to the hillsides make it one of the most picturesque destinations in all of Italy. First, we’ll spend time in the small village of Positano, a seaside paradise famous for its colourful buildings that cling to the steep hill of the town and encircle a beautiful beach. Here, we’ll have free time to explore some of the pretty shops and cafés dotted along the steep but photogenic streets. From Positano, we’ll take the ferry to Amalfi, allowing us to appreciate these wonderful views from the water. We’ll then have time to explore the namesake town of Italy’s famous coastline, brimming with winding alleyways and vibrant architecture. We return to Sorrento where the rest of the day is free for you to enjoy at leisure. Limoncello, Italy’s famous lemon liqueur, has traditionally been made from the zest of Sorrento lemons for more than 100 years. Why not delight in this deliciously sweet and citrusy liqueur after dinner as a ‘digestivo’?

Departing the city of lemons this morning, we make our way to the region of Apulia, which forms the iconic heel of Italy’s boot. By midday, we’ll arrive in Alberobello, a charming town in the Puglia region famous for its unique trulli – distinctive cone-shaped houses that are a symbol of this area. The trulli are made of limestone and built without mortar, using a dry-stone technique that dates back to prehistoric times. These stone buildings have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site since 1996. Once we arrive in Alberobello, we’ll learn about the origins of the 15th century buildings on a walking tour through the town’s historical centre. The rest of the day is free for you to further explore the quiet, charming streets. Special Experience Spend two nights staying in a traditional, heritage-listed trullo, a conical shaped house unique to the region of Puglia. Made entirely of stone and featuring a round shape with a distinctive domed roof, spend two nights in an authentic dry-stone dwelling. Step across the entryway and be transported back in time, through thousands of years of history to get a true feel for how the locals used to live.

Discovering the seaside town of Monopoli is on the agenda for this morning. Located on the Adriatic coast, the town was first settled around 500 BC as a fortified Messapian city. We’ll have some free time here to explore some of its rich maritime history and unique surrounds, including the Baroque Monopoli Cathedral with its tall bell tower. Our next stop for the day is the picturesque white town of Locorotondo, a delightful destination situated in the heart of the Puglia region. Taking a short stroll to reach the town centre, we will be able to view Locorotondo’s unique circular layout with pretty views out over its surrounding vineyards and olive groves. We’ll then stop at a local deli where we will have the chance to try some of its locally made products. Returning to Alberobello in the late afternoon hours, we’ll have the chance to freshen up before an exciting taste of the local culture. Tonight, just before dinner, we have the privilege of experiencing a brief, hands-on demonstration by Nonna herself as she skilfully crafts traditional orecchiette pasta (meaning ‘little ears’ in Italian for its tiny, concave shape) at the restaurant.

Our journey this morning takes us to the small beach suburb of Marina di Ostuni, to enjoy a guided walk through a Masseria and its fertile grounds. Special Experience Take a tour of a local olive farm. Located on the plains of the Marina di Ostuni, the impressive olive trees are thought to be up to a thousand years old. The town of Ostuni has been heralded as the ‘Queen of the Olive Trees’, well-known for producing high quality extra virgin olive oil. We’ll enjoy a tour of the olive groves and delight in a tasting of this velvety staple of Mediterranean cuisine. We then make our way to the main town of Ostuni, a 3,000-year-old city perched atop a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea. This charming, fortified town known as ‘La Città Bianca’ (The White City) has a very exotic feel – more Greek or Middle Eastern than Italian. Enjoy some free time to wander through the narrow streets and alleyways, mingle with the locals or relax in one of the many bars and restaurants and watch the world go by. In Ostuni, you’ll find a beautiful range of locally produced handicrafts. The items being produced and sold are not cheap but are completely unusual works of art and well worth taking home as a lovely reminder of your visit. In the afternoon, we’ll reach Matera, a town famous for its sassi – the ancient cave dwellings that featured in Mel Gibson's film, ‘The Passion of the Christ’. As we approach, our first glimpse of the town will be one that you’ll remember forever – almost as if you’ve stepped back 2,000 years in time. Special Experience Stay in one of Matera’s ancient sassi cave dwellings, carved into the limestone gorge of La Gravina, for two nights.

The town of Matera was declared a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site in 1993 for being ‘the most outstanding, intact example of a troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean region, perfectly adapted to its terrain and ecosystem’, and there is certainly a lot to explore. Carved into the rock of the Gravina valley, Matera is packed with an incredible amount of history waiting around every corner. The city’s unique architecture stands in a brilliant contrast to the lush backdrop of the region’s surrounding mountain range and valleys. Considered the third oldest city in the world, this morning, we’ll join a local guide for a walking tour to discover the artistry of this unusual town. During our exploration, we will enter one of the old rock churches as well as a cave home for a glimpse at life for its ancient inhabitants. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to discover the town at leisure. Explore more of its hidden nooks, see historic reconstructions of cave life in the past or visit one of the museums. As evening sets in, Matera becomes even more beautiful as the cave houses and bars are bathed in the warm glow of amber street lamps. 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.

Waking in our authentic cave residence, we’ll enjoy our last moments in the unique town of Matera, before departing mainland Italy to drive south through the region of Calabria. Settle into the comfort of the coach as the scenic drive takes us through the mountains, villages and along stretches of sparkling coastline, making some stops along the way to stretch our legs and enjoy a bite to eat. We’ll arrive in the small village of Villa San Giovanni in the early hours of the afternoon, where we will depart the coach to board the ferry across the Strait of Messina. Once in Messina, we’ll cross into stunning Sicily, following the coast to the spectacular Taormina Riviera. This tranquil area earnt the nickname of the ‘Pearl of the Ionian Sea’, and after taking in some of its surrounding scenery, it’s not hard to understand why. Neighbouring mighty Mount Etna looming on the horizon, the town’s unique cliffside position overlooking the sea and the region’s striking natural beauty make Taormina one marvellous destination to visit.

Today we visit Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano at approximately 3,350 metres high. To the ancient Greeks, Mount Etna was the realm of Vulcan, the God of Fire, and the home of the one-eyed monster known as the Cyclops. Over 1,200 square metres of Etna’s surface is covered with solidified lava. We’ll visit the base of the volcano to see some of these lava stones, make plenty of photo stops and then have some free time for lunch. Returning to Taormina, we’ll embark on a walking tour of the town. We’re in for a treat as we marvel at the picturesque Duomo cathedral that dates back to the 13th century. Over the years it has been reconstructed and restored and displays a great blend of Renaissance and Baroque design aesthetics. We’ll also visit the ancient Greek amphitheatre and take a leisurely stroll through the charming narrow streets of the old town. The rest of the day is at leisure to immerse in Taormina at your own pace. Perhaps you might like to wander through the Villa Comunale gardens? Located on the edge of the town and featuring brick structures encased by palm trees, cacti and flowers, find a quaint pocket for a peaceful moment overlooking the landscape.

After a hearty breakfast, first up, our journey takes us northwest across the island to the town of Cefalù, one of the most beautiful villages in all of Sicily. Sitting snug between a sandy bay and the towering granite rock of La Rocca, Cefalù offers something for every traveller. Here we’ll visit the historic centre and admire the Norman-style facade of the Cefalù Cathedral, founded by King Roger II. Enjoy some free time to wander the medieval streets and tuck into a local delicacy for lunch before we return to the coach. We then drive along the coastal route to Palermo, the capital and largest city in Sicily. This coastal city has been invaded many times over the years, resulting in a very mixed architectural appearance with Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Modernist influences. Enjoy the evening at leisure to marvel at some of the distinctive architecture of this beautiful Mediterranean city. Palermo is also renowned for its vibrant street food scene, so why not take a stroll in search of some of Sicily’s must-try dishes – think fried arancini, panelle (chickpea fritters) and crunchy potato croquettes!

Keep your camera handy this morning as we explore the delights of Palermo. Our tour begins at the iconic red-domed Moorish church of St John of the Hermits. Dating back to 1132, the church was built on the grounds of a mosque and has been inspired by Islamic traditions of five mosque-like domes. We’ll then see the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Norman Cathedral (Palermo Cathedral), also heavily influenced by an Arabic design style. We continue on to the Royal Palace, once the seat of power for Italy's kings during the Norman domination. The palace is set on a plateau away from the city traffic and, like much of Palermo's architecture, it has a mixture of influences from its long history. The greatest influence came from Roger II in the 12th century when he summoned Arab and Byzantine artists to decorate and reinvent the castle. Stepping inside, we’ll admire the most outstanding of these unique touches, the Byzantine mosaics adorning the walls that depict stories and images from the Old and New Testament. Following our exploration, enjoy the afternoon at leisure to wander through the stalls of nearby flea markets, enjoy a crispy ricotta-filled cannoli or to simply retreat back to your accommodation.

Today we’ll travel to Monreale, a picturesque town on the slopes of Monte Caputo. Here we’ll see the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cattedrale di Monreale, a masterpiece of Norman architecture that features stunning mosaics and a beautiful cloister. We’ll also enjoy a brief tour around the town of Monreale, admiring its quaint streets and taking in the views over the Conca d’Oro, or Golden Valley. After some free time for lunch, we’ll follow the southern coastline to the hilltop town of Agrigento. Located on the outskirts of Agrigento, the Valley of the Temples is one of Sicily's most historical attractions. Here, we’ll explore the spectacular archaeological site that preserves the ruins of seven ancient Greek temples and other monuments. We’ll marvel at the Temples of Juno, Concord, Heracles, Zeus, Castor and Pollux, and learn about their history and significance. In the late afternoon, we arrive in Agrigento and check into our hotel. Once the Greek city of Akragas, this town was settled by descendants from Rhodes and Crete who found the land and climate to be perfect for grape and olive growing. The ruins of the ancient city of Akragas are the main attraction of this relatively small town, which we’ll explore this afternoon.

After breakfast this morning, we continue along the Mediterranean coast, stopping to explore in the beautiful province of Ragusa. The region is famous for its rich red wines that are usually made from a blend of Nero d’Avola, Frappato and Pignatello grapes. Once we reach the city, we’ll venture to a local cheese manufacturer to observe the production process and taste some of the region’s famous Ragusano cheese – a hard, stretched-curd cheese known for its bold flavour. Next we’ll meet up with a local guide who will take us on a short walking tour of the old town. Wandering through a small portion of Ragusa’s maze of narrow streets, listen in to the history of its ancient architecture that stands in contrast to the modern side of the city, before enjoying some free time. We’ll then make our way to the port town of Pozzallo to board the ferry to Malta. Sit back and bask in the salty breeze before we’re graced with the sight of the Maltese coastline. Departing the ferry in the evening, we’ll be greeted by our Tour Director before transferring to our hotel. The beautiful, yet tiny, country of Malta offers a contemporary Mediterranean lifestyle, full of traditional customs and contrasts. It is often described as an open-air museum, with over 7,000 years of history set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.

Today, we discover Malta’s fascinating capital. Founded in 1566, Valletta bears all the hallmarks of a fortified city, yet within its walls its elegant urban features reveal an architectural opulence steeped in history. The city is a living testimony to the legendary Knights of the Order of St John. Their extravagant palaces, and the Co-Cathedral of St John, are renowned for their wealth of artistic treasures. Beginning in ‘Strada Reale’, or Republic Street as it is better known today, we walk amongst the locals until we reach one of the jewels of Malta: The St John's Co-Cathedral. Its exterior is deceivingly simple, while inside you’ll find incredible Baroque art and architecture. The Grandmasters and several knights donated gifts of high artistic value and made enormous contributions to enrich it with only the best works of art, including Caravaggio’s masterpiece – the Beheading of St John the Baptist. With the Co-Cathedral behind us, we make our way to St. George’s Square, the centre of the city, where we see the Grandmaster’s Palace from the outside. We also discover the Casa Rocca Piccola, a privately owned 16th century palace and home of the noble Maltese family de Piro. Special Experience Watch the world go by while enjoying a coffee and freshly prepared pastries known as pastizzis at a well-established café, in the heart of Valletta. This afternoon we’ll experience Malta in 5D at a show that brings 7,000 years of island history to life before visiting the Upper Barracca Gardens. Situated near the entrance of the city, these gardens offer a breathtaking panoramic view over the Grand Harbour, considered to be the finest natural harbour in the Mediterranean. To finish the day, we enjoy a cruise in a traditional dhajsa boat (similar to a Venetian gondola) along the harbour to witness Malta's living past. Cruise around the natural Grand Harbour of Valletta and learn about the town's history and the Great Sieges of 1565 and 1942.

This morning, we take a short ferry ride to the tiny island of Gozo, a charming area of picturesque landscapes, pastoral villages and quaint churches. Although the islands of Malta and Gozo are similar in history, Gozo has a character entirely of its own. Gozo is the home of the prehistoric Temples of Ggantija in Xaghra and this is where we begin our sightseeing today. The temples date back to the Neolithic Age (3,600 - 2,500 BC) and are believed to be the oldest free-standing religious structures in the world, pre-dating the Egyptian Pyramids and Stonehenge. Next, we’ll explore the capital of Gozo, Victoria, where we’ll see the Citadel and stop for a photo at the lovely Bay of Xlendi. We’ll also have some time to wander around and shop for some souvenirs. Renowned for its woollen goods and handmade lace, it is the perfect opportunity to mingle with the locals and take a piece of Malta home. Special Experience Experience the authentic flavours of a traditional Maltese restaurant, where we’ll enjoy a tasting of local Gozitan wine over a light lunch. Influenced by the region’s vineyards being positioned close to the sea, Gozitan wine is known for its unique flavours that often display citrus and floral notes. We’ll taste some of these local drops accompanied by antipasti during an authentic Maltese dining experience.

Enjoy the day at leisure to relax or discover more of Malta, before we make our way in the evening to stop for a photo at the basilica of the Mosta Rotunda. Tonight, we’ll experience the charm of Mdina, the former capital of Malta. The medieval city is dazzling at night, when the old lanterns light up the empty and narrow streets. As we walk through the walls of the venerable ‘Silent City’, we’ll feel like we’ve travelled back to The Middle Ages. We’ll also enjoy the best view of the island from the bastions. The deeper we explore, our tour guide will reveal the secrets of the city and its nocturnal residents, such as the White Lady of Mdina. The silence in Mdina is eerie but humming with the mysteries of its captivating past. After our walk we’ll savour our experience over a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Optional Excursion Hagar Qim Temple & Marsaxlokk – This delightful excursion begins at Malta’s mesmerising Blue Grotto. If weather permits, you will have the opportunity to take a boat ride (boat fee not included) around the caves and grottoes where you can experience the luminescent corals and glowing water. Your guide will then show you the prehistoric temple complex of Hagar Qim which was discovered in 1839. It dates from about 3,800 BC, and it is one of the oldest known man-made structures in the world. The temple stands on a hilltop overlooking the sea and the islet of Fifla. Continuing to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, you’ll have free time to explore the most picturesque seaside locality in Malta. Bask in the serenity of the picturesque setting where fishing nets are often spread on the quay to dry in the sun, admiring the traditions of local fishermen whose colourful boats line the harbour. 5hrs – from Euro 140pp (minimum 4 people).

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning, marking the completion of our adventure across sun-drenched Southern Italy, Sicily and Malta. We hope you leave with beautiful memories and a camera roll full of moments you can’t wait to share!

Welcome to beautiful Italy, a diverse country with something for everyone! Ancient ruins lie next to modern buildings and cobblestone alleyways next to busy streets. Home of pizza, pasta, olive oil and wine, Italy is known as a food lover's paradise. Fashion lovers from all over the world flock to Italy for the latest clothing, shoes and handbag designs. We begin our tour in the lively city of Bologna, characterised by its red-brick palazzi, towers and lengthy porticos. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 5.00pm. This evening, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a welcome drink at the hotel.

Get ready to fall in love with Bologna’s historic charm today on a walking tour. This delightful city is a hidden gem, rich in history, stunning architecture and a vibrant culture. On our adventure we’ll stroll through Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s lively main square, and take in the grand Fontana del Nettuno, a 16th-century fountain that’s an absolute showstopper. You’ll also spot the impressive Basilica di San Petronio, the 5th largest church in the world. We’ll wander through Piazza della Mercanzia, a picturesque medieval square, before stepping inside the Archiginnasio, which was once the heart of the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the world. We’ll also see the Church of Santa Maria della Vita, home to a breathtaking sculpture by the legendary Niccolò dell'Arca. We’ll also catch a glimpse of the famous Due Torri — Bologna’s iconic leaning towers that have stood proudly for centuries. We'll end the tour with a visit to a popular local gelateria and enjoy a serve of the famous Italian ice-cream. With the rest of the day at leisure, why not try Bologna’s famous tortellini or tagliatelle for lunch? Be sure to savour these delicious local pasta dishes that the city is known for. Tonight, we enjoy a group welcome dinner.

This morning, we embark on a scenic drive from Bologna, watching the landscape transform beautifully from the city’s lively atmosphere to lush green fields as we enter the Emilia-Romagna region. Often hailed as the gastronomic hub of Italy, Emilia-Romagna region is home to some of Europe’s most iconic culinary treasures, and today, we’ll dive into the heart of it all. Special Experience Experience the 'Food Valley', heading to Emilia Romagna to taste cheese and to Modena to try the famous balsamic vinegar and prosciutto. Our first stop will be a cheese factory, where we’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the art of making Parmigiano Reggiano, followed by a delightful tasting paired with local wine. Next, we’ll visit a family run prosciutto producer, just outside Parma, to sample some of the finest prosciutto. This will be complemented by a glass of local sparkling wine, Lambrusco. We’ll then head to Modena to visit a renowned balsamic vinegar producer. Here, we’ll discover the meticulous process of creating this liquid gold and enjoy tasting its rich, complex flavours. With our bellies happy and full, we’ll continue our drive toward Venice, where we’ll be spending the next two nights. Famous for its winding canals, charming piazzas, and gondola-filled waterways, Venice is as magical as it gets. It’s a city that will leave you spellbound, and we can’t wait to explore it with you!

Venice, the city of romance, is like nowhere else on Earth. Built on 118 islands and connected by canals instead of roads, it’s a city where cars are banned — and even the postmen and police get around by boat. It’s a truly unique place, and we’ll explore it together on a walking sightseeing tour. We’ll start at the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica, where you’ll be in awe of the shimmering mosaics and grand Byzantine design. It’s easy to see why Napoleon once called St. Mark’s Square the "drawing room of Europe." Next, we’ll visit the Doge’s Palace, the heart of Venice’s former power. This beautiful building combines gothic and Renaissance styles, and inside, you’ll find rooms brimming with history and art. We’ll also pass by the famous Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners once took one last look at the outside world on their way to the nearby Piombi Prison. The history here is palpable! After the tour, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You could take a peaceful gondola ride along the canals, stroll across the Rialto Bridge, explore the lively markets or relax with a coffee in one of Venice’s charming squares.

This morning we’ll set off on a scenic drive to Verona, known as the “City of Love” which was made famous by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Verona is a true treasure, with its cobbled streets, beautiful squares and ancient Roman amphitheatre that predates the Colosseum in Rome. We’ll have some free time to explore the historical centre, which earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage-listed status. While you're here, why not treat yourself to some local specialties like risotto all'Amarone? We will continue our journey to Franciacorta, a region known for its beautiful countryside and sparkling wines. The drive will take us through rolling hills where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see — a perfect prelude to the delicious wine we will sample here. During our tasting, we’ll learn about the ancient Franciacorta winemaking method, a tradition that’s deeply woven into the fabric of this region. Special Experience Visit a famous wine cellar in Franciacorta for a tasting, accompanied by some local cheeses and smallgoods. Finally, we’ll make our way to Como, arriving in the evening. Nestled at the foot of the Alps and overlooking the stunning Lake Como, this charming town feels like something straight out of a postcard.

After breakfast, we discover some of the towns nestled along spectacular Lake Como. Our first stop is Menaggio, a lakeside town known for its historic city centre, cobblestone streets, cozy cafes and beautiful lakeside promenade. After a brief orientation, we’ll board a public boat for a scenic ride to our next destination, Varenna. Once we arrive in Varenna, a small but incredibly picturesque village, we’ll embark on a guided tour to discover its hidden treasures. Afterwards, we’ll have some free time to explore at leisure. Here, you could wander through the lovely gardens of Villa Monastero or relax by the lakeside with a gelato. Our last town of the day will be beautiful Bellagio. Known as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio boasts colourful streets, lovely piazzas and stunning views of the Alps. After a guided tour, we’ll have some free time for lunch, perhaps indulge your taste buds in a fresh plate of pasta or some local fish dishes by the water. Our visit today will end as we hop on a boat to Bellano, where a bus will transfer us to the capital of the Lombardy region, Milan.

Today we will explore the world capital of fashion and design, Milan. Known for its sleek style and sophisticated culture, this city is a perfect blend of modern elegance and historic charm. Our day will begin with a guided walking tour, taking us through some of Milan’s most iconic sights. We’ll delve into the impressive Sforzesco Castle, a grand fortress that once housed Milan’s ruling families. It’s brimming with historical antiquity and art, including works by Michelangelo himself. We’ll also explore the magnificent Duomo, the most impressive structure in Milan and the largest church in Italy. Its intricate gothic architecture and towering spires are nothing short of breathtaking. The elegant Vittorio Emanuele Gallery invites us to stroll through its stunning shopping arcade that dates back to the 19th century. The glass dome and lavish surroundings will transport you to a time of luxury, and you might just be tempted by Milan’s finest boutiques lining the arcade. Once our tour wraps up, the afternoon is all yours to enjoy at leisure. You might want to explore the Brera district, known for its art galleries and upscale cafes. Alternatively, you could visit the Biblioteca Ambrosiana, a historical library in the heart of Milan housing masterpieces from the likes of Leonardo Da Vinci and Raphael.

This morning, we’ll wave goodbye to the chic streets of Milan and set off on a scenic drive to the refined city of Turin. Upon arrival, we’ll dive into a guided sightseeing tour, starting with the grand Royal Palace. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed property, this former residence of the House of Savoy is a true architectural marvel, home to ornate tapestries, grand staircases and an Armory of bygone weaponry. Upon entering the palace grounds, keep your eyes peeled for the striking golden relief of Medusa on the palace gates — an iconic symbol of the palace’s rich history. Next, we’ll pass by the impressive Duomo, Turin’s stunning cathedral. This is where the world-famous Shroud of Turin is kept, adding a fascinating layer of mystery to this already beautiful structure. After our tour, we’ll have some free time for lunch. Turin is knowns for its rich culinary scene, so why not indulge in some classic agnolotti, delicious stuffed pasta or sample some bicerin, a traditional chocolatey coffee drink? We’ll continue our journey to the hilly region of Langhe. A foodie’s paradise, the Langhe region is renowned for its gastronomic delights including wine, truffles and over 100 types of cheese. Tonight, we’ll get to enjoy dinner with a local resident, a great way to immerse ourselves in the local culture and way of life.

Today, we’ll be exploring the breathtaking Langhe region, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed treasure known for its rolling hills, ancient winemaking traditions and the delicate art of truffle hunting. We’re in for an unforgettable experience as we dive into both! Special Experience Take to the woods in search of the Langhe region’s famous truffles with a trifulau (truffle hunter) and their trained canine. After they share their knowledge of this centuries-old tradition, it’s our turn to get our hands dirty and search for these prized delicacies. Truffle hunting is a true adventure, and the thrill of finding a piece of “delicious gold” is something you won’t soon forget! Once we’ve worked up an appetite, we’ll head to a local farm where we’ll sample fresh, locally-produced goods paired with a glass of regional wine — including truffle of course! Our next stop will be Serralunga, where we visit the medieval Castello di Serralunga d'Alba. Unique in Italy given its French ‘donjon’ architectural structure, this grand castle is centuries old and was originally built as a base to control local production. Surrounded by the gorgeous Barolo vineyards, it is considered to be one of the best conserved examples of 14th-century castles in Piedmont. We continue our journey to Alba, famous for its white truffle and wine production. Here we’ll enjoy some free time before a group dinner at a local restaurant.

Today, we’ll enjoy the stunning vistas as we make our way to Genoa, a city rich in history, culture and maritime heritage. Nestled on the coast of the Ligurian sea, Genoa is famous for its medieval old town, colourful buildings and the vibrant port that has shaped its identity. We will enjoy a short orientation of the city before some free time for lunch. Genoa is known for its seafood, perhaps savour a plate of Ligurian para or indulge in slice of focaccia, a local specialty. After our time in Genoa, we’ll continue to the harbor town of La Spezia. Known as the gateway to the spectacular Cinque Terre, La Spezia has a relaxed yet lively vibe. It also hosts the arsenal of the Italian Navy and is one of Italy’s major military and commercial harbours, making it a fascinating blend of both visual allure and industrial strength. We’ll enjoy a brief orientation tour of La Spezia, after which the rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace. You might want to stroll along the waterfront, explore the Piazza De Ferrari in the old town or treat yourself to a gelato.

We’re in for a real treat today as we explore one of Italy’s most iconic and picturesque coastlines, the Cinque Terre! This region is made up of five colourful seaside villages, each clinging to steep terraces and surrounded by ancient vineyards. What makes the Cinque Terre so unique is that these villages are only accessible by foot, train, or boat — cars can’t get in! It’s a truly special place, and it’s no wonder it’s been a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site since 1997. The villages date back to the early medieval period, giving them a rich, fascinating history. As we wander through these charming towns, you’ll notice the bright, bold colours of the houses. Interestingly, this vibrant look didn’t come about until the 1970s, but it’s now part of what makes the Cinque Terre so photogenic and loved by visitors. You’ll also find local artisan shops, gelato bars, cafés and restaurants where you can taste the authentic flavours of the region. We’ll take a train to the Cinque Terre, where we’ll tour Vernazza, Monterosso and Manarola or Riomaggiore, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon we’ll make our way back to La Spezia by boat.

Sit back and enjoy the beautiful Tuscan countryside as we make our way to Pisa, a city famous for its Leaning Tower. As we drive through rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the stunning views that make this region so special. Once we arrive in Pisa, we’ll visit the Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the magnificent cathedral, the Baptistery, the iconic Leaning Tower. Construction began in the late 12th century, and after 200 years, this unforgettable tower leans at a 4-degree angle due to poor foundations. You’ll have some free time here to explore the monuments up close and have your own photo taken ‘holding up’ the Leaning Tower. This afternoon we will arrive in Florence and explore the heart of the Renaissance. Our tour commences at the grand Piazza del Duomo where we see the Cathedral of Florence (the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore). It was here in the 15th century that Filippo Brunelleschi designed its distinctive dome. The engineering behind the dome was revolutionary for its time and it remains the world’s largest brick dome to this day. We also visit Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery with Ghiberti’s bronze ‘Gate of Paradise’. We continue to the Galleria dell’Accademia and Michelangelo’s incomparable statue of David, sculpted by the master at the age of 26. This marble statue was carved in the early 16th century as a symbol of youth, strength and beauty.

Today we escape the bustle of Florence and explore the beautiful Tuscan countryside. Our first stop will be the medieval town of Siena, a true gem nestled in the hills. We’ll wander through the iconic Piazza del Campo, the town’s main square, famous for its unique shell shape and the exciting Palio horse race held every summer. We’ll also see the stunning Cathedral and Baptistery, masterpieces of Gothic architecture with intricate details that are sure to leave you in awe. Along the way, we’ll pass by the Basilica of San Domenico, a peaceful spot with rich history. After some free time to relax and enjoy lunch, we’ll continue to UNESCO World Heritage-listed San Gimignano. Sitting atop a hill, it’s a sight to behold on the Tuscan horizon. Known as the ‘Town of Fine Towers,’ many of its medieval tower houses are still standing tall, a reminder of the power and wealth of local families. We’ll take an orientation tour, followed by free time to explore on your own. Special Experience A tour to Italy is never complete without learning more about the local cuisine. We’ll learn the art of simple Italian cooking and enjoy our creations over dinner. After a wonderful day of exploration, we’ll return to Florence.

Today is all about taking it slow, soaking in the sights, and enjoying Florence at your own pace. This city is best discovered on foot, with charming streets around every corner, each offering something new to explore. If you’re feeling artsy, head to the Uffizi Gallery in the morning, where you can admire masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. You can take a leisurely stroll along the Arno River, stopping by quaint boutiques and artisan shops as you go. You can wander through the beautiful Boboli Gardens and enjoy the fresh air and wonderful scenery. For lunch, why not indulge in some delicious Tuscan cuisine at a local trattoria? Fresh pasta, local wine, and, of course, a slice of rich Italian gelato from the Gelateria dei Neri to round it all off.

This morning, we journey from Florence by train to the ancient city of Pompeii. Once we arrive, a local guide will lead us through the famous ruins. Pompeii, a prosperous Roman city, was buried for centuries by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The volcanic ash preserved much of the city, both inside and out, offering a rare and detailed glimpse into Roman life. As we stroll through Pompeii, you’ll be surrounded by homes with colourful frescoes, ancient shops, public baths and even a Roman amphitheatre—it truly feels like stepping back in time. After exploring the ruins, we’ll continue to the beautiful coastal town of Sorrento, gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Built into the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples, the sweeping views will take your breath away. Once we check in, you’ll have the evening free to explore this vibrant town. Why not treat yourself to a delicious dinner in the town centre, enjoy a freshly made pizza and zesty limoncello spritz, all while watching the sunset? 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 breakfast we’ll make our way to the Sorrento port to board the ferry to Capri, an island famed for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters and glamorous lifestyle. As we cruise across the sea, you'll get a glimpse of the stunning coastline – so if you can, sit on the left side to really enjoy the view! Capri has long been a hotspot for celebrities and historical figures, from Emperor Augustus in 29 BC to the likes of Tiberius, Mussolini and even the Swedish doctor Axel Munthe. These visitors left their legacy, making Capri a true Mediterranean treasure, with its rugged landscapes, café culture and brilliant bougainvillea. Upon arrival, we’ll take a minibus up to the hilltop village of Anacapri. From there, we’ll explore the picturesque streets of Capri itself, filled with boutique shops and coastal vistas as far as the eye can see. Once our tour is complete, you’ll have some free time to wander the island, enjoy lunch, or simply relax in one of the many cafés. On our departure, we’ll take a scenic funicular ride down to where we’ll board the ferry back to Sorrento, taking in the beautiful surroundings as we return.

After a leisurely breakfast, today’s all about soaking up the charm of Sorrento at your own pace. You can start by strolling through the historic centre, stopping at Piazza Tasso to sip an espresso and do a little people-watching. If you're in the mood for adventure, head down to the waterfront and take a boat ride along the breathtaking coastline. The views from the water are absolutely stunning! For those who love a bit of culture, the Museo Correale is a must-see, offering a delightful look at local art and history. Or, if shopping is more your speed, explore the charming boutiques and pick up some handmade ceramics or even a bottle of limoncello as a memento. Of course, you can always spend your free time simply relaxing at a café with a ‘Sorbetto al Limone’ – lemon sorbet served in a Sorrento lemon! Today is all about doing what makes you feel the happiest, before we rejoin together this evening for a fun activity. In Sorrento, pizza is a special culinary tradition. Different to the raised edges of a classic Neopolitan pizza, the pizza here has a thinner, crispier crust and is topped with fior di latte cheese, instead of the typical mozzarella. We’ll learn the secrets of mastering this mouth-watering delicacy, whilst enjoying our creations for dinner.

Today we enjoy an excursion along the Amalfi Coast, one of Italy’s most visited destinations. Known for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and enchanting seaside towns, it’s no wonder this coastline is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. Enjoy the views as we travel past the stunning coastline, driving along Italy’s most popular stretch of road. Our first stop will be Positano, a picturesque town that seems to tumble down the mountainside in a cascade of colourful houses. You’ll have free time to wander the steep but photogenic streets, explore boutique shops or simply relax on the beach. Next, we’ll hop on a ferry to Amalfi, allowing us to appreciate these magnificent views from the water. The Amalfi Coast stretches for 50 kilometres along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula, and there’s no better way to appreciate its beauty. We’ll then have time to explore the namesake town of Italy’s famous coastline. Visit the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, wander the winding alleyways and or shop for local souvenirs. In the afternoon, we’ll make our way back to Sorrento by bus, giving us one last time to enjoy everything Sorrento has to offer.

As the famous saying goes ‘all roads lead to Rome’, and that is where ours will head today! We’ll be departing the beautiful southern coast for Italy’s sprawling capital and one of the most famous cities in the world, Rome. Filled with historic icons, picturesque streets and bustling piazzas, it’s easy to see how the locals have been enjoying la dolce vita since 753 BC. On our journey to Rome, we’ll make a stop for a lunch. After checking into our hotel, we’ll embark on an orientation walk to get our bearings of this amazing city. Rome is a place where history comes alive with its ancient ruins, magnificent palaces and lively squares full of cafes and fountains. We’ll take a leisurely stroll through the city, and you’ll start to see why Rome is lovingly called the Eternal City. Your evening is free to start soaking up the magic of Rome at your own pace. There are many small pizzeria’s dotted throughout its bustling streets, serving up pizza by the slice. Grab one to go, find a spot on some nearby steps, and enjoy a front-row seat to the city’s vibrant energy.

With over 280 fountains, many of which are centuries old, the Eternal City is a living museum, full of history, iconic monuments and unparalleled beauty at every turn. Today, we’re going to explore this incredible city on foot, starting with a visit to the Colosseum. This iconic amphitheatre, once home to thrilling gladiator games, could hold up to 80,000 spectators! As we stroll through its ancient walls, it’s easy to imagine the crowds cheering and the excitement in the air. We’ll venture to Palatine Hill, one of Rome’s oldest locations and often considered the birthplace of the city. It’s here where emperors once lived, and the views of the city from the top are absolutely stunning. Just below us, we’ll wander through the Roman Forum, where ancient temples, bustling markets and grand government buildings stand in silent witness to the past. We’ll also pass through Piazza Venezia, a lively thoroughfare with imposing structures and impressive architecture, and enjoy panoramic views from Capitoline Hill. Did you know Capitoline is home to some of the world’s oldest museums? After soaking in all this history, the rest of the afternoon is yours enjoy at leisure. Why not visit Bocca della Verità, a large marble disc depicting a man’s face with an open mouth, known as the ‘Mouth of Truth.’ According to legend, those who are accused of lying place their hand inside the mouth and if found guilty, would lose the appendage. 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 is all yours to explore Rome at your own pace, and there’s so much to explore! For a taste of history, head over to Trajan’s Market, the world’s first shopping mall, dating all the way back to 110 AD. It’s an impressive feat of ancient architecture, giving you a real sense of life in Roman times. While you’re out and about, keep an eye out for an ancient Egyptian obelisk standing tall in the heart of the city—just one of the many reminders of Rome’s vast empire. Take a stroll over to Vatican City—the world’s smallest sovereign state—tucked entirely within the city of Rome, perched on a hill just west of the River Tiber. You can explore the impressive St. Peter’s Square, enclosed by a beautiful circular boundary creating a perfect balance of symmetry and elegance. You may even catch a glimpse of the Swiss Guards, who stand proudly in their bright uniforms, guarding the Pope and territory of the Vatican. Giving the popularity and nature of this place, it is advised that you book tickets well in advance (prior to departing Australia) if you wish to visit the famous Sistine Chapel and incredible museums. If you're in the mood for some more leisurely exploring, take a stroll through the beautiful Villa Borghese gardens or enjoy a coffee at one of the charming cafés in Piazza Navona. And if you’re up for a bit of shopping, the fashionable Via Condotti is just around the corner, perfect for finding that special Roman souvenir. This evening, we’ll come together to savour our experience over a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning, marking the end of our Italian adventure. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!