Tours

Welcome to Barcelona, one of the world's most stylish and cosmopolitan cities, on the cutting edge of architecture, food, fashion, style and music. The city is arguably most famous for the renowned architecture of the genius and eccentric Antoni Gaudí, and significant art collections of the famed Picasso and Miró. Here, the locals ooze a friendly and laid-back charm, welcoming you in with an enthusiasm that’s reflected in the city’s lively streets. The 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. Dotted with bars and terraces, Barcelona is home to a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of opportunities to indulge in its iconic tapas and sangria! We don’t want you to miss out on a single moment of this sizzling small group tour, so we recommend that you arrive at your hotel by 6.00pm. This evening, say hola to your fellow travellers and Tour Director as we meet for welcome drinks at the hotel.

After breakfast, we’ll begin exploring the sights of Barcelona, seeing the contrast of old and new as we drive through town and step inside Antoni Gaudí's iconic masterpiece, the La Sagrada Familia (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. Our exploration of 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. We also pass by Barcelona’s monumental Bull Ring and the city park, Parc de la Ciutadella, featuring the old triumphal arch of Barcelona. We continue our sightseeing through the famous Vila Olímpica neighbourhood and Port Olímpic marina, created as a hub for athletes of the 1992 Summer Olypmic Games, before continuing to the Montjuïc Mountain to take a scenic picture of the city. The afternoon is at leisure before tonight’s group welcome dinner at a local restaurant just a short walk from our hotel. Art lovers might like to visit the Picasso Museum which exhibits works from his ‘Blue’ and ‘Pink’ periods. Our Tour Director can help with directions.

Today we will enjoy a morning tour of Barcelona, starting with a visit to Park Güell. Declared an artistic monument and World Heritage-listed site by UNESCO, the park is a canvas of Gaudí's signature modernism style epitomised by curved lines, vivid colours and a seamless blend of nature and architecture. See the mosaic ‘El Drac’ dragon fountain and the intricately tiled Serpentine Bench. We then drive down to the oldest part of the city and see the Gothic Quarter, former Roman village, and heart of Medieval Barcelona. We also explore the Cathedral Square and its lovely surrounding streets lined with beautiful handicraft shops, quaint local restaurants and buildings as old as the 14th century. We’ll walk to Saint James Square, the political heart of the city, before ending our tour at Catalunya Square. The afternoon is at leisure to explore at your own pace. Optional Excursion Montserrat is a mountain top monastery in Catalonia, Spain. This incredible rocky formation is a sacred place for the Catalan people. Includes entrance to Basilica and return cable car for breathtaking views up to the Monastery and with any luck you can also hear the singing of the boys choir (weekdays around 13.00 and Sundays around 12.00, the boys choir does not sing every day as they frequently travel and perform in other churches). 4hrs – From Euro 90pp. This price is based on a minimum of 10 guests. If there are less than 10, please speak with your Tour Director about other options.

After a hearty breakfast, we farewell the bustle of Barcelona and settle into the coach for a scenic drive to our next destination. We’ll make a stop to stretch our legs in the picturesque town of Pensacola. Here, we’ll have some time to grab some lunch, wander through the charming cobblestone streets and take a photo of the gorgeous citadel. Standing prominent on the horizon is the Castillo de Peñíscola, built by the Knights Templar. This imposing stone castle stands guard over the city, overlooking a deep aqua-green sea that laps against a long stretch of white sandy shores. In the early evening, we’ll arrive in the coastal town of Valencia, Spain’s third largest city. Considered one of the most lively and friendly cities in Spain, Valencia is also famously known as the birthplace of paella. Once checked into our hotel, enjoy the freedom of exploring the city at leisure. Stroll through lush gardens or marvel at the mix of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture, the epitome of which is the city’s Cathedral, and you’ll get a taste for why the city is referred to as a living museum.

Waking in beautiful Valencia, our sightseeing this morning will take us through the city’s historical centre. Accompanied by a local guide, we’ll see the gothic-style Cathedral which houses art from the Spanish Renaissance and is home to the Cathedral of the Holy Chalice. Next, we’ll wander through Puerta del Real, the main entrance to Valencia’s royal gardens. Then it’s on to Puerta de la Trinidad, an ancient gateway dating back to the 14th century and offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval defences. We’ll also visit the Serranos Towers, one of the twelve gates that formed part of the ancient, fortified wall protecting the city. Enjoying a walk through the streets of Barrio del Carmen, we make our way to the Lonja de la Seda, Valencia’s 15th century stock exchange. Located in the heart of the city, we’ll enter the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Silk Exchange building to marvel at its well-preserved gothic architecture. The afternoon is for you to explore at your leisure. Valencia is the home of paella, so why not dive into a plate of this mouth-watering dish while you’re here? Traditionally eaten at midday, Paella Valenciana (with chicken/rabbit) or Paella de Marisco (with fish/seafood) are the most popular local variations.

Relax into the comfort of the coach this morning as we make our way through some beautiful scenery. Make sure you’re looking out the window as we pass by the famous tourist centre of Alicante, a pretty mediterranean port nestled within dramatic mountain peaks. We’ll also make our way past the ancient Moorish city of Murcia. In the late afternoon, we arrive in Granada. Located in the eastern part of the Andalucia region with a spectacular backdrop of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada has long inspired the spirit of romance among its inhabitants and visitors. With its relaxed bohemian vibe and rich Moorish influences, the city boasts some breathtaking landscapes and steep, narrow streets where one could easily loose themselves within the numerous hidden nooks. Upon our arrival, our guide will take us on a tour of this beautiful area. Special Experience Taste traditional Spanish tapas, enjoying a range of delicious bite-sized savoury dishes, richly seasoned with local spices. Tonight, we’ll dive into a feast of traditional and spectacularly spiced tapas. Typically served as small savoury dishes, indulging in this Spanish cuisine invites a culture of sharing and socialising. Some of the classic dishes include seafood, cured meats, croquettes, fried potatoes and empanadas.

Today, we’ll enter the famous Alhambra Palace complex, a Moorish citadel dating back to 13th century Nasrid dynasty and named because of its reddish coloured walls (it translates to ‘Red Castle’ in Arabic). Comprising of the Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba, the Palace of Charles V and the Bath of the Mosque, it is one of Spain's most famous attractions. Throughout its long history, the palace has served multiple purposes. Used as a fortress during the 9th century, it then became a Royal residence during the 13th century, where many buildings were added to the complex including a Mosque (later the site was turned into the current Church of St Mary), public baths and patios. When the Catholic Monarch Charles V took over, he ordered the demolition of part of the complex to rebuild the palace with an Emperor's chamber and Queen's dressing room. The palace was abandoned during the 18th century and sadly part of the fortress was destroyed. Restoration of the palace began in the 19th century and is still maintained today. Just a short stroll from the main buildings, you will wander through its manicured Generalife Gardens, the tranquil summer gardens of the Kings of Granada. We’ll also walk through Granada’s old town to see the outside of the Royal Chapel, where King Ferdinand and Queen Elizabeth are buried. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Today we will make our way to the small village of Ronda. Perched above the Tajo del Ronda, a deep, narrow gorge that plunges 150-metres into the valley, the town’s location is truly breathtaking. Its old town has been declared a Property of Cultural Interest as Celts, Phoenicians, Romans and Arabs all inhabited these lands, which were reconquered by the Catholic Monarchs. Take in the incredible vistas as we enjoy a guided walk through town with our Tour Director. Gaze around the soaring 66-metre diameter of the bullring and marvel at the depths of the El Tajo de Ronda Gorge, before wandering through the old town full of shopping and restaurants. We then continue to Carmona, an elegant town, full of artistic heritage. At various times occupied by the Phoenicians, Romans and Arabs, each has left a deep impression, making this a fascinating place to explore. Upon arriving, we’ll check in to our hotel before enjoying the evening at leisure. Looking out across the city’s skyline, you’ll see the slender spires of the Santa Maria Priory and San Pedro churches, encased by whitewashed houses framed with butterscotch-coloured roofs.

We enjoy a day trip to vibrant Seville today, the birthplace of tapas, capital of Andalucia and Spain's fourth largest city. Seville is very much a modern city, yet it has retained the strong influence of its past. This is most prominent in the old town where you feel as though you have stepped back in time to an old Spanish village. Once called ‘Hispalis’ by the Romans and ‘Ishbiliya’ by the Muslims, Seville's Roman and Muslim past is still evident in its architecture and traditions today. Our city highlights tour begins at the impressive Plaza España, characterised by its iconic semi-circular lake, twin towers and benches depicting the 48 provinces of Spain in ceramic tiles. We’ll visit the Royal Alcázar, a string of royal palaces built by the Catholic Kings during the 14th century which, today, is home to the Spanish Royal Family. Our next stop is the Cathedral of Santa Maria – the biggest in Spain and the site where Christopher Columbus is buried. We end our tour with a walk through the historical Jewish section of Santa Cruz. This afternoon is at leisure for you to discover the delights of this beautiful city before we make our way back to Carmona.

Today we will travel the ‘Route of the white villages’ where our first stop will be Arcos de la Frontera. Villages in this mountainous area were part of the war-like border between the Christian and Muslim kingdoms for more than three centuries and are filled with brilliant white houses with narrow streets and small squares. We’ll follow our Tour Director as they lead us through a guided orientation tour of the lofty town. Special Experience Sherry is the most famous Spanish wine in the world and we’ll stop for a tasting at a rustic cellar in the village of Jerez de la Frontera. Spanish sherry is a fortified wine that originates from the wine-growing region of Jerez (Jerez even translates to ‘sherry’ in Spanish!) With ancient wine-making roots dating back to Roman times, indulge in a tasting of this delicious, aged delicacy in a local cellar nestled in Jerez de la Frontera’s rolling hills. Apart from its sherry, the region is also famous for flamenco music and the 11th century Moorish fortress of Alcázar de Jerez. We enjoy a tour of this stunning, historic city before making our way back to Carmona.

After indulging in breakfast, we make tracks for another city home to the Andalucia region, Córdoba, lying at the foot of the Sierra Morena Mountain range. With a rich history influenced by various empires, Córdoba’s historic UNESCO World Heritage-listed centre is home to a fascinating blend of architecture. On a guided tour of the city, we’ll see the unique artistry of the Mezquita Mosque, otherwise known as the Cathedral of Córdoba. As one of the most important monuments in the Western Islamic world, it evokes the ‘Omeya’ style, as well as elements of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. We also walk the streets of Barrio de la Judería, which is known for its interesting interior patios and magnificent churches. Enjoy some free time to explore for lunch before we transfer to the train station to board the AVE high-speed train. Reaching up to speeds of 350 km/h, we’ll travel through the Spanish countryside to the grand city of Madrid, the capital of the Spanish Empire and once the richest and most powerful city on Earth. Today, its palaces, museums and concerts are among the best in the world.

Today is dedicated to exploring the lively city of Madrid, with a guided tour this morning. Our journey will take us past the well-known avenues of Gran Via and Castellana and famous squares such as Plaza de España, Atocha, Neptuno, Cibeles, Puerta de Alcalá, Colon and walking through Oriente, Mayor and Puerta del Sol. Our sightseeing continues through the beautiful green spaces of Parque del Oeste, known for its elaborate rose garden, and El Retiro Park, home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Glass Palace. We’ll also see Madrid's Las Ventas bullring, the largest in Spain, and the Santiago Bernabeu soccer stadium, a must-visit for football fanáticos. Wrapping up the tour with a visit to the Mercado de San Miguel, here we will experience the local culture of the region through its cuisine, delighting in the scents, sights and flavours of this historic market. The afternoon is free for you to wander at leisure. You may wish to sit back and relax at a café and be entranced by Madrid's energy as you people-watch, view eclectic architecture along the Gran Via, or savour traditional tapas and fresh pastries in Puerta Del Sol.

Today we take a day trip to the historic town of Toledo. Surrounded almost entirely by the river El Tajo, it became the capital for the Visigoth Kingdom during the 6th century. Known as the ‘City of Three Cultures’, much of its heritage stems from three different religious sects living together: Christians, Moorish and Jewish. During the 16th century, King Charles I even made Toledo the capital of the Spanish Empire. El Greco, a master painter from the 17th century known for his expressionistic style, also lived in Toledo and his work can be seen within churches and monasteries around the city. During our exploration, we’ll see the Cathedral and go inside the beautiful Santo Tome Church, to see one of El Greco’s famous paintings. We’ll then have some free time to further explore the city before returning to Madrid. 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. Cuisine is a cornerstone of Spanish culture, where the local flavours are a soulful blend of diverse ingredients and cultural influences. We’ll take part in a delectable cooking class, learning the secrets of traditional dishes from different regions, before enjoying our delicious creations for dinner!

Today, we farewell the vibrant energy of Madrid and make our way to the charming northern Spanish town of Burgos. Rich in history and heritage, the town once heralded as the capital of the Castile and Leon region of Spain. We’ll enjoy a tour of the area, seeing one of its most spectacular highlights, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cathedral of Santa Maria. The Cathedral is an important pilgrimage site on the Camino de Santiago, a network of ancient paths across Europe that holds religious and spiritual significance. Prominently situated on a terrace at the foot of the castle hill, it is one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Spain and we will have time to stop and take in its stunning exterior. Since Burgos is known for its hearty cuisine, we’ll also enjoy some free time for lunch. Returning to the coach, we continue our journey to Bilbao, where we will check into our hotel for the evening. Bilbao is the Basque country’s largest city with a delightful mix of traditional charm and modernity. Here, the old town coexists with some of the region’s most striking architecture which we’ll have the pleasure of exploring tomorrow!

Waking in the urban hub of Bilbao, we begin today’s sightseeing from the top of Mount Artxanda with spectacular views over the city. On the way down, we cross the ‘Ensanche’ of the city and head towards the old quarter, a pedestrian area with more than 700 years of history, where one can visit Santiago’s Cathedral or the ‘Plaza Nueva’. After some free time for lunch, we will explore Frank Gehry’s world-famous Guggenheim Museum, a masterpiece of contemporary art. Here, the building’s incredible warped exterior is just as fascinating as what we’ll discover inside, with the museum housing one of the largest art collections in the world. The Guggenheim Foundation was founded in 1937 by Solomon R Guggenheim and is dedicated to encouraging the appreciation and understanding of art and architecture, primarily of the modern and contemporary periods. We’ll have the opportunity to wander the museum at leisure and marvel at the pieces on display. The rest of the day is free for you to explore. Why not cruise the Nervión River by boat, to snake through the city and watch the afternoon sun catch the curves of the Guggenheim Museum’s elaborate facade.

After breakfast, we make our way to the coastal city of San Sebastián for a full day excursion. First, we will ride a cable car to the top of Igueldo Mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views over Santa Clara Island, Mount Ulia and La Concha Bay. We then cross the golden sands of La Concha and Ondarreta beaches, where we can admire the striking ‘Comb of the Wind’ sculptures by the Basque artist Eduardo Chillida adorning the coastline. Continuing into the heart of the city, we’ll visit the Old Quarter, the river Urumea and Mount Urgull, a tree-laden hill that rises at one end of La Concha Bay and once stood as a military fortress in the 12th century. We also see San Vicente’s church, Museum of San Telmo, the old Dominic convent and the 18th century Baroque Basilica of Santa Maria. Special Experience Taste txakoli, the Basque Country’s famous dry white wine which pairs perfectly with a side of flavoursome pintxos. Txakoli is a refreshing, slightly sparkling, dry white wine, produced across the Basque Country. We’ll enjoy a special gastronomy tasting of this delicious drop, accompanied by a side of pintxos. Similar to tapas, pintxos are tasty snacks often served on a toothpick. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Our journey takes us to the small town of Guernica this morning, located in the province of Biscay. Just outside Bilbao, this town is infamous for the devastating aerial bombings committed by Nazis during the Spanish Civil War in 1937. These events inspired Pablo Picasso to create his famous painting ‘Guernica’, depicting the tragedies of war, that is now displayed at the Reina Sofía Museum in Madrid. We’ll visit the Peace Museum and its poignant collection showcasing how Guernica has represented democracy, freedom, human rights and peace. We then travel to Vitoria and enjoy an orientation walk with our Tour Director through its well-preserved, medieval streets and plazas. Founded in the 12th century, we’ll wander through charming streets and past historic buildings for a glimpse into the town’s medieval, renaissance and neoclassical roots. We’ll stop briefly to find some lunch before heading south to Logroño, in the northern region of La Rioja. La Rioja is a beautiful wine region in Northern Spain characterised by its scenic patchwork of vineyard-covered hills, medieval villages and famous wineries. Upon arrival in Logroño, we’ll check in to our hotel before being introduced to the city by our Tour Director.

We’re in for a real treat for our taste buds today, as we explore some of the incredible wineries dotted throughout the beautiful rolling valleys of La Rioja’s prestigious wine region. Special Experience Spend the day exploring some of the 500 wineries that make up the unique La Rioja wine region, characterised by its ochre earth and abundance of sunshine. We’ll visit the town of Haro, a city filled with a vibrant culture that’s renowned internationally for producing excellent wines. Delve into its fascinating history that dates back to the 19th century, when Haro played a key role in the export of Rioja wines. In 1852, the Bordeaux vineyards of France suffered the effects of mildew, causing a decade of scarce vintages. Wine Maison’s sought out several other regions in Spain to make up for the lost supply. Haro subsequently experienced a pivotal period of growth, due to this influx of wine trading and the opening of a new train station connecting the city to the Port of Bilbao. We also have a special opportunity to visit a local family winery, where we’ll enjoy a traditional wine tasting and delicious lunch. Tonight, the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Leaving our hotel after an early breakfast, we make our way to Zaragoza, home to over 2,000 years of history. Joining our Tour Director, we’ll embark on an insightful stroll through the city’s traces of Iberian, Roman, Muslim, Jewish and Christian cultural influences. As we make our way into the heart of the city, we will visit one of the most spectacular cathedrals of Europe, the cathedral of Nuestra Señora del Pilar (Our Lady of the Pillar). Looming large on the banks of the River Ebro, this extravagant Baroque-style cathedral has a fascinating and storied past. The structure survived three bombs dropped during the turbulent Spanish Civil War in 1936, miraculously without exploding. These deactivated explosives now rest inside the Basilica's walls, serving as a testament to its resilience and divine protection. Enjoy some free time to explore and have lunch before transferring to Zaragoza’s train station. Here, we’ll board the AVE high-speed train and settle in for a swift ride through the countryside, arriving back to Barcelona in the early evening. Tonight, we’ll toast to some of the favourite moments of our Spanish adventure as we indulge in a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

It’s time to say adios to your fellow travellers and sun-drenched Spain, as our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with wonderful memories of this vibrant corner of the world.

Welcome to Barcelona, one of the world's most stylish and cosmopolitan cities, on the cutting edge of architecture, food, fashion, style and music. The city is arguably most famous for the renowned architecture of the genius and eccentric Antoni Gaudí, and significant art collections of the famed Picasso and Miró. Here, the locals ooze a friendly and laid-back charm, welcoming you in with an enthusiasm that’s reflected in the city’s lively streets. The 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. Dotted with bars and terraces, Barcelona is home to a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of opportunities to indulge in its iconic tapas and sangria! We don’t want you to miss out on a single moment of this exciting small group tour, so we recommend that you arrive at your hotel by 6:00pm This evening, say hola to your fellow travellers and Tour Director as we meet for welcome drinks at the hotel.

After breakfast, we’ll begin exploring the sights of Barcelona, seeing the contrast of old and new as we drive through town and step inside Antoni Gaudí's iconic masterpiece, the La Sagrada Familia (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. We then drive down to the oldest part of the city and see the Gothic Quarter, former Roman village, and heart of Medieval Barcelona. We also explore the Cathedral Square and its lovely surrounding streets lined with beautiful handicraft shops, quaint local restaurants and buildings as old as the 14th century. We’ll walk to Saint James Square, the political heart of the city, and Catalunya Square. We continue our sightseeing through the famous Vila Olímpica neighbourhood and Port Olímpic marina, created as a hub for athletes of the 1992 Summer Olympic Games, before continuing to the Montjuïc Mountain to take a scenic picture of the city. The afternoon is at leisure before tonight’s group welcome dinner at a local restaurant just a short walk from our hotel.

Today we’ll further explore the delights of beautiful Barcelona. Our exploration of Gaudí's distinctive architecture continues at Passeig de Gràcia, one of Barcelona’s largest avenues. Here we’ll marvel at the whimsical exteriors of Casa Batlló, one of the city’s most iconic sites. Sometimes referred to as the ‘House of the Dragon’, although Casa Batlló finished its design in 1907, it has been restored and maintained many times throughout the decades. While here, we’ll also see Casa Milà, originally built as a private residence during 1906-1912. Both of these UNESCO Heritage-listed Sites are some of the greatest examples of Catalan modernism! We will pass by Barcelona’s monumental Bull Ring and the city park, Parc de la Ciutadella, featuring the old triumphal arch of Barcelona. A green oasis in the centre of the city, Parc de la Ciutadella has been open since 1881 and covers almost 31 hectares of metropolitan Barcelona. On the park’s grounds is several of the city’s key sites, including the zoo, Catalan Parliament, a few museums and in the centre is a grand waterfall-fountain that Gaudí helped design with fellow renowned Spanish architect, Josep Fontserè. Our last stop of the day is the iconic Park Güell. Declared an artistic monument and World Heritage-listed Site by UNESCO, the park is a canvas of Gaudí's signature modernism style epitomised by curved lines, vivid colours and a seamless blend of nature and architecture. See the mosaic ‘El Drac’ dragon fountain and the intricately tiled Serpentine Bench. The afternoon is at leisure to explore at your own pace. Optional Excursion Montserrat is a mountain top monastery in Catalonia, Spain. This incredible rocky formation is a sacred place for the Catalan people. Includes entrance to Basilica and return cable car for breathtaking views up to the Monastery and with any luck you can also hear the singing of the boys choir (weekdays around 13.00 and Sundays around 12.00, the boys choir does not sing every day as they frequently travel and perform in other churches). 4hrs – From Euro 90pp. This price is based on a minimum of 10 guests. If there are less than 10, please speak with your Tour Director about other options.

Say adiós to Barcelona this morning as we make our way to the breathtaking Espot. It’s known as the hidden gem of the Spanish Pyrenees, a huge mountain range that straddles the border of Spain and France for 430-kilometres and offers some of the country’s most beautiful pristine landscapes. Espot is situated close to the Aigüestortes National Park in the Pyrenees mountain range. One of only 15 national parks in Spain, and the only national park in the Catalan region, mountain peaks rise over 3,000 metres creating a stunning backdrop for exploration. Despite its towering peaks throughout the range, everything in Aigüestortes centres around water. Numerous rivers, streams, waterfalls and lakes of all shapes and colours create a beautiful tapestry—with almost 200 lakes in this national park alone! While here, we’ll explore the many sides to this incredible location on an exciting 4WD jeep tour. As part of our tour, we’ll see the tranquil Lake Ratera where we can take a short walk to a look out. Later this afternoon, we’ll continue on to the small Pyrenean town of Viehla. Historically known for its ancient stone and slate architecture, Viehla’s origins trace back to the Roman period. It was not until the 10th century when it joined the Catalonian countries through feudal agreements, and in the 12th century it became an official part of the Crown of Aragon. The capital of the Arán Valley, Vielha is nestled among towering mountains that reach up to 2,000 meters, while the town itself sits at an impressive 1,000 meters above sea level. 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.

Sit back and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery as we travel through the French Pyrenees to the Bay of Biscay and the beachside town of San Sebastián. En route, we’ll stop in the French town of Pau to stretch our legs. We’ll arrive at San Sebastián this afternoon, a popular getaway for Spaniards during the hot summers as it’s home to some wonderful beaches and resorts. It’s considered the cultural capital of the Basque region, and the town has a great mix of cosmopolitan lifestyle blended with a historical old-world feel. San Sebastián is framed by sparkling golden beaches and dense hillsides, adding to the destination’s undeniable allure. On arrival, we will get acquainted with the city on a sightseeing tour. We’ll begin by riding the cable car to the top of Igueldo Mountain for beautiful panoramic views of Santa Clara Island, Mount Ulia and La Concha Bay. We then cross the golden sands of La Concha and Ondarreta beaches, where we can see the striking ‘Comb of the Wind’ sculptures by the Basque artist Eduardo Chillida adorning the coastline. Continuing into the heart of the city, we’ll see the Old Quarter, the river Urumea and Mount Urgull. We also see San Vicente’s church, Museum of San Telmo, the old Dominic convent and the Basilica of Santa Maria. Special Experience Taste txakoli, the Basque Country’s famous dry white wine which pairs perfectly with a side of flavoursome pintxos. This evening, we’re in for a delicious experience sampling the best of the Basque Country. Txakoli, also known as chacolí, is a dry white wine variety that is slightly sparkling, with high acidity and low alcohol content. Local to the Spanish Basque region, txakoli has intense citrus, herb and flower aromas—for the wine aficionados in the room! While here, we’ll also enjoy some ‘pintxos’, simple finger food that pairs particularly well with txakoli.

The day is at leisure for you to relax and explore at your own pace. You may wish to take the opportunity to kick back and bask in the beauty of one of the town’s three famous beaches, each known for its distinct features. Situated to the east of the Urumea River, Zurriola Beach is perhaps San Sebastián’s most lively and vibrant, and is also a popular spot for surfers to catch some waves. Ondarreta Beach is another good choice, as it’s the least famous of the city’s beaches, meaning it will be the quietest! Here you’ll find a slow-paced, relaxed atmosphere and calm waters to enjoy. The last of the three beaches is San Sebastián’s iconic La Concha Beach, where you’re greeted by over a kilometre of fine golden sand and crystal-clear azure water. Known for its crescent shape, La Concha Beach stretches across the city centre. This beach is so beautiful that it was actually named one of the top beaches of 2023! Alternatively, you may wish to spend time wandering the old town—often referred to as the most authentic neighbourhood of San Sebastián! Known locally as Parte Vieja, the old town is the true heart of the city and it’s here where you’ll find charming cobblestoned streets, quaint upscale shops and vibrant pintxos bars. We recommend trying La Gilda, a bold and salty pintxo skewer of olive, anchovy, and pickled pepper. Pair this with a txakoli wine or cider, and you have some delicious local flavours on your plate—salud!

This morning our eyes are set on travelling just outside of San Sebastián to the small town of Guernica, known for the aerial bombings committed by Nazis during the Spanish Civil War. These actions inspired Pablo Picasso to create his famous painting ‘Guernica’, which is now displayed at the Reina Sofía Museum in Madrid. We will also visit the Peace Museum, with an exhibit showing how Guernica has represented democracy, freedom, human rights, and peace. We’ll continue onto the pretty port city of Bilbao, our destination for the next two nights. The Basque Country’s largest city—and truly one of its finest—Bilbao boasts a delightful mix of tradition and modernity. A city steeped in history, it was first established as a Roman settlement in the 2nd century, but it was not until the Middle Ages that the city gained notability. Due to its geographical position, Bilbao became a key location for Spanish trade and commerce, with its commercial hub heritage still apparent today through its impressive architecture. In Bilbao this afternoon, we’ll explore Frank Gehry’s world-famous Guggenheim Museum, one of modern architecture’s most iconic masterpieces. The building’s incredible exterior isn’t the only thing to see—the museum is also home to one of the world’s largest art collections. The Guggenheim Foundation was founded in 1937 by Solomon R Guggenheim and is dedicated to encouraging the appreciation and understanding of art and architecture, primarily of the modern and contemporary periods. Here we’ll have free time to wander the impressive museum at leisure and marvel at the pieces on display. The evening is at leisure for you to enjoy the atmosphere of Bilbao at your own pace.

Today we’ll set off on a tour to better acquaint ourselves with Bilbao. We’ll begin by marvelling at the gothic exteriors of Santiago Cathedral. This church was dedicated to Saint James the Apostle, and acted as a transit point for pilgrims that were following the Northern Way of the famed Camino de Santiago. We’ll also explore the main square of Bilbao’s old town, Plaza Nueva, an energetic centre lined with beautiful cafes and bars. Mercado de la Ribera is next on our agenda. Built on the site of the original Rivera Street market and said to be one of Europe's biggest covered food markets, this vibrant market is an absolute treat to wander. We’ll also head to the top of Mount Artxanda for breathtaking views of the city. One of Bilbao’s most iconic spots, it offers a fresh perspective on the historic old town below. From here, we’ll also be able to trace the winding Nervión River, which unofficially divides the city in two! This afternoon is free for you to enjoy at leisure. Why not wander around the beautiful narrow lanes and streets of Casco Viejo? Or perhaps you’d like to visit the Bilbao Fine Arts Museum? Here, you can take a journey through art history, from the 12th century to the present day. This museum is unique, born from the fusion of two institutions—the original Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, founded in 1908, and the Modern Art Museum, established in 1924—a beautiful combination of tradition and innovation.

Departing Bilbao this morning, we’ll take the UNESCO Heritage-listed Vizcaya Bridge. The Vizcaya Bridge offers a unique way to cross the Nervión River using a suspended gondola, which hangs from a high steel structure and moves back and forth between Portugalete and Getxo. This gondola carries passengers, bicycles, and even vehicles, providing both a scenic and efficient crossing Continuing west and following the northern Spanish coastline, we’ll arrive at the medieval town of Santillana del Mar. The village centre has been declared a national monument, which dates back to the 8th century. We’ll have some free time to explore before we continue to the seaside village of San Vicente de la Barquera. One of the most picturesque towns on the Cantabrian coast, San Vicente de la Barquera was a former fishermen’s refuge and is known for its excellent fish and seafood. After some free time to enjoy the town and have lunch we’ll depart for Oviedo. Tucked between the Bay of Biscay and the Cantabrian Mountains, Oviedo is known for its medieval-style old quarter and impressive architecture. It’s also home to some incredible pre-Romanesque treasures, adding to its historic charm. This quaint town is the perfect place for exploring on foot, and this afternoon we’ll embark on a walking tour to discover the best of Oviedo. We’ll marvel at the gothic exteriors of the Oviedo cathedral, before making our way to the Palace of Valdecarzana-Heredia, a baroque-style house that was built in 1629 for one of the greatest families of the Asturias region. The Church of San Tirso is next on our agenda, one of the most iconic sites in the city. Established in 790, this beautiful church is renowned for its pure Romanesque design and was an important stop on the Camino de Santiago route. We’ll also stroll through Porlier Square which is surrounded by the magnificent palaces of Toreno and Camposagrado.

Waving goodbye to Oviedo this morning, our eyes are set on reaching the historic town of Santiago de Compostela this evening! Heading west, our first stop of the day is at the quiet fishing village of Luarca. Built around an ‘S’ shaped cove, this small town boasts charming white houses and embraces its strong seafaring heritage. Here, we’ll have some time to wander the endearing streets and harbour. Next, we stop near the stunning Beach of the Cathedrals where we have some free time for lunch. This unique stretch of sand is home to a series of arched rock formations that form a ‘cathedral’ at low tide, and disappear completely when the tide comes in—it truly is a beautiful sight to behold! We’ll arrive at the gorgeous town of Santiago de Compostela in the early evening. This famous town is the culmination point of the renowned Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, and in a few days, we’ll have the opportunity to walk a portion of it! Widely known for the legend of Saint James the Apostle, the city has been a key spiritual epicentre since the Middle Ages, a legacy that has continued to the present day. Great pilgrimages aside, Santiago de Compostela is a lively city that has a beautiful blend of rich history, ancient architecture and delicious Spanish gastronomy. It’s religious importance heavily impacted the city’s development, seen through the tapestry of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architecture.

Our morning is dedicated to seeing the sites of Santiago de Compostela on a city tour! We begin by uncovering the city’s most iconic site, the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. An architectural marvel that has been developed over centuries, it began construction in the 11th century in the Romanesque-style the region is renowned for. In the following centuries, the cathedral added beautiful Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements, reflecting different time periods and the city’s rich heritage. Legend has it that the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela is the burial place of Saint James the Great, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ, making it among the last remaining churches to be built over the tomb of an apostle. We’ll also visit the surrounding squares, getting a feel of the city’s character. In front of the cathedral’s western façade is Praza do Obradoiro, a square that contains neither traffic, shops or cafes, creating a calm and unique atmosphere. We’ll also visit Quintana, Inmaculada, and Praterías, three iconic squares that are each rich in their own history and architectural beauty. We’ll also wander down the historic rúas, which are the main streets that lead the pilgrims to the grand cathedral—think of all the history of these streets alone! After some free time for lunch, we’ll travel to a nearby winery to learn all about albariño, a delicious variety of white wine. Named after the grapes that are grown in the Galicia region of northwestern Spain and in some nearby areas across the border in Portugal, albariño is a dry, highly acidic white wine with refreshing notes of citrus. Here, we’ll bask in the pretty landscape and of course, enjoy a delectable tasting. When we return to Santiago de Compostela, the evening is at leisure for you to enjoy.

Special Experience Walk part of the famous ‘Camino de Santiago’, one of the most important pilgrimages for Christians during the Middle Ages. Translating to ‘The Way of Saint James’ in English, the Camino de Santiago is one history’s most legendary pilgrimages. Since 1993, the Camino has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Site and it was the first European Cultural Route during the 1980s. Leading to the cathedral the Camino has been walked for centuries by pilgrims seeking spiritual growth, adventure, or personal reflection. There are many routes, the most popular being the Camino Francés, stretching about 800-km from the French Pyrenees to Santiago de Compostela. Other routes, like the Camino Portugués or the Camino del Norte (the ‘Northern Way’), offer different landscapes and challenges. Pilgrims pass through rolling countryside, medieval villages and vibrant cities, encountering stunning churches, ancient bridges, and warm hospitality along the way. Each year, over 300,000 travellers journey along the Camino de Santiago, making their way to Santiago de Compostela. Their reasons vary—spiritual reflection, personal challenge, or simply a chance to disconnect from daily life. Those who complete this famed pilgrimage often describe it as a profound journey of self-discovery, resilience, and connection. There’s a famous saying, ‘El Camino no termina en Santiago’—meaning the journey doesn’t end in Santiago. For many, embarking on the Camino stays with them forever. Today we’ll have the opportunity to embark on our own little pilgrimage, walking a portion of the Camino. As we follow this historic trail, greet fellow pilgrims with ‘Buen Camino’—meaning ‘good way’, a traditional wish for a good journey! We’ll finish a fulfilling day by enjoying a group dinner at a local restaurant. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Today we say adios to Spain and a huge olá to Portugal! Heading south to cross the border, our first stop of the day is in beautiful Braga, situated in the far north of Portugal. The country’s third largest city, Braga is regarded as the religious centre of Portugal, which is evident through the many Baroque churches that are scattered throughout town. Along with its impressive churches, Braga is home to charming plazas, bustling shopping streets, narrow cobblestoned laneways and beautiful gardens. While here, we’ll explore the city with our Tour Director on foot, meandering down its winding streets, before enjoying some free time for lunch—there is no shortage of delicious eateries here! Despite being Portugal’s second largest city, Porto manages to retain much of its traditional charm. The city boasts an ‘old European’ feel thanks to narrowly missing the 1755 earthquake that devastated many parts of Portugal, particularly Lisbon. Also known as Oporto, Porto hugs the Douro River, creating postcard-worthy riverside neighbourhoods on both sides of the banks, which are connected by an iconic arched metal bridge. Porto is especially famed for its fortified wine that shares its name! We’ll arrive in Porto this afternoon, where the remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy at leisure. Why not visit the interesting harbour area or spend some time at the photography museum housed in a 19th century prison? It’s also nice to simply wander through the town’s narrow medieval streets around the Sé (the cathedral) and enjoy the gentle lapping of the Douro River along the docks. For dinner, you might wish to try a local dish called ‘francesinha’, known as Portugal’s answer to the croque-monsieur. This hearty sandwich is packed with cured meats, steak and sausage, smothered in melted cheese, and drenched in a rich beer and tomato sauce. Served on a bed of fries, it’s best to save your diet for later!

Today is dedicated to exploring one of the oldest European centres. It’s history dates back to approximately 300BC, and it was actually called ‘Portus Cale’ in Roman times. We’ll begin our guided tour by exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ribeira Quarter. A medieval-maze of cobblestoned alleys that wind their way down to the banks of the Douro River, this incredibly charming quarter is perhaps Porto’s most-loved attraction and the atmosphere here is unmatched. We will walk past colourful houses, quaint tavernas, family-run shops and historical landmarks. Next, we’ll marvel at the impressive Gothic exteriors of the Church of Saint Francis, before making our way to Porto’s iconic old Stock Exchange. Known locally as the ‘Palácio da Bolsa do Porto’, this 19th century building was owned by the Porto Commercial Association, and was situated in the former economic and commercial district of the city. Although it no longer operates as a stock exchange, it still remains the headquarters of the Association! Built in 1842 over the ruins of the St Francis convent that burnt down in 1833, the building flaunts a unique blend of British Neoclassical and Palladian styles. Special Experience Discover how authentic port is made, before sampling its unique flavour at one of Porto’s historic cellars. After a special port tasting, we’ll take to the water for a short and relaxing cruise of the Douro River. Giving us the opportunity to admire the city from a different perspective, we pass under some of Porto’s famous bridges. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to unwind or explore at your own pace.

This morning we’ll explore the ‘Portuguese Venice’, Aveiro. A city famed for its colourful houses and numerous canals, Aveiro is nestled on the Ria de Aveiro, a saltwater lagoon that was traditionally farmed for its seaweed and fish. The city is renowned for its Art Nouveau architecture, particularly as these brightly painted masterpieces line the pretty canals of Aveiro—talk about postcard-worthy sights! Its low-rise buildings give the city an authentic Portuguese vibe, making it a beautiful destination to discover. Here, we have time to marvel at the graceful gondola-like 'moliceiros' boats, which were once used by farmers in the lagoon. They’re painted in bright colours that often depict pretty Portuguese symbols or scenes of local life. We will also have the opportunity to sample the local 'Ovos Moles de Aveiro' sweets—a delicious treat made from egg yolks and sugar, wrapped in a thin crust and moulded into various shapes. We’ll take a short orientation tour, then have some time to stroll around this unique city before departing for Coimbra. Inhabited by Romans and Arabs, Coimbra was once the capital of Portugal. Filled with medieval architecture, the city is still abundant with history and tradition. The city of Coimbra is divided into two by the stunning Mondego River: the Cidade Baixa (lower town) the main commercial centre, and Cidade Alta (upper town) the older part of the city, where the iconic university and many of Coimbra's main attractions are located. This afternoon a tour of Coimbra awaits us. Perhaps the most impressive is the beautiful University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in the world. Perched on a hill that overlooks the city below, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed Site was founded in 1290 and its historic campus is home to several notable buildings, including the Cathedral of Santa Cruz, the Joanine Library and the Royal Palace of Alcáçova. Many would be surprised to know that nowadays it is actually a public research university! We’ll be able to enter the grounds to get a better understanding of the institution, and further marvel at its impressive design and size.

Today we make our way towards Lisbon, first stopping in the medieval fortress village of Óbidos, still surrounded by high walls which date back to the 12th century. While here, we’ll also enjoy a tasting of the renowned local liquor, Ginjinha. Made from ginja berries (a type of sour cherry), you’ll find it comes served in a chocolate cup! Making our way inland, we’ll explore Sintra, a beautiful town situated on the green slopes of a mountain range. Set amongst lush forests and overflowing with exotic gardens and palaces, Sintra was also the residence of the Portuguese Royal Family during the Middle Ages. Special Experience Visit the mesmerising Quinta da Regaleira, an impressive 20th century residence decorated with gothic turrets and ornate gargoyles. Located on the western side of Sintra, the impressive Quinta da Regaleira was originally built for the Viscountess of Regaleira, a family of wealthy merchants from Porto, but was sold in 1892 to an eccentric Brazilian called Antonio Caralho Monteiro. It was Monteiro who transformed the property’s gardens, hiring a French landscapist and an Italian architect to redesign the manor and the grounds. Arguably its most impressive features is the spiralling ‘Initiation Well’, which boasts a mysterious design that is speculated to symbolise the connection to Masonic and Knights Templar initiation rights. Here, we’ll enjoy a guided tour and some time to explore. We continue to the vibrant and bustling Lisbon, Portugal’s capital. Lisbon is a cosmopolitan city situated on the banks of the River Tagus, where modern life seamlessly blends with historical architecture. Perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Lisbon is built on seven hills and is in fact Europe's second oldest capital, after Athens. Founded by the Celts and later established by the Phoenicians, Lisbon has been home to various civilisations over the centuries, including the Greeks, Carthaginians, and Romans. At different points in history, it also faced invasions by Germanic tribes, leaving behind a rich and diverse cultural heritage! 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.

Exploring the sites of this amazing city is on our agenda today. Our panoramic tour begins with some of Lisbon’s most iconic and traditional landmarks. We’ll see the lush Parque Eduardo VII, a beautiful public park that offers sweeping views over the city before continuing to Belém. Known as the ‘Discoveries Quarter’, it was from here that the caravels set sail for their trips to South America and to the Orient. We’ll visit the beautifully intricate Cloisters of Jerónimos Monastery, built in the 16th century to celebrate the power of King Manuel I and the magnificence of the empire. It’s also a prime example of Portuguese Gothic Manueline style architecture. We’ll also see the Tower of Belém, built in Manueline style on the north bank of the River Tagus for defence purposes of the city and have a photo stop at the Monument to the Discoveries. This monument celebrates the Portuguese discoveries with special mention of Henry the Navigator. Next, we continue our panoramic and walking tour through the elegant Avenida da Liberdade, Lisbon’s main boulevard that’s lined with grand architecture and boutiques. Also discovering Restauradores Square, uncovering its historical significance in paying homage to Portugal’s independence from Spain, and the lively Rossio Square, the heart of Lisbon’s social and cultural life. Our last stop this morning, will be the magnificent Praça do Comércio—also known as Commerce Square—once the grand gateway to the city. It’s 18th century arches and soft-yellow façade, make this a totally postcard-worthy site. As we explore the vibrant Downtown District, we’ll learn how this area was meticulously rebuilt after the catastrophic 1755 earthquake, transforming it into a symbol of resilience and innovation. Special Experience Learn to make Lisbon’s most delicious treat, the famous Portuguese custard tart, in a hands-on cooking class. During a fun and interactive cooking class, we’ll learn the secrets of crafting the perfect Portuguese custard tart. Locally known as ‘pastéis de nata’, these beloved custard tarts are world-renowned and are one of Portugal’s most popular desserts. Along with uncovering the recipe’s history, we’ll learn how to perfectly create the crunchy puff pastry from scratch, and its delicious custard filling. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy at leisure.

Portugal’s breathtaking southern coast awaits! Today we travel to the Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region. On our way we will stop in Faro, the capital of the Algarve region. Perfectly blending a beautiful old town, cafes, shopping and cobblestone streets with great beaches and natural reserves, Faro is a joy to discover. We’ll see some of the city’s highlights on an orientation tour and have some free time for lunch. Cork is the national tree of Portugal and one of the country’s most important exports. In the Algarve, we’ll stop to visit a traditional cork factory, learning about a variety of cork products, and sampling some of the liquor the products are used for! Afterwards we’ll stroll through the cork oak plantation on a guided tour. We’ll continue onto our destination for the next few nights, Tavira. Arguably the most charming town in the Algarve region, Tavira is nestled on the banks of the Gilão River and is just a short 30-minute drive from Faro. Known for its unique mix of traditional architecture with Moorish influences, tranquillity and rich heritage adds to it undeniable allure. Over the next few days we’ll experience the carefree way of life in the Algarve, wandering through the whitewashed town, and enjoying the delicious cuisine and warm hospitality.

Today, we’ll explore the Algarve’s breathtaking Ria Formosa Natural Park, one of Portugal’s most important protected areas. Stretching over 60-kilometres along the coast, this park is a stunning labyrinth of lagoons, islands, marshes, and barrier islets, constantly being reshaped by the wind and tides. The diverse eco-system here has attracted a variety of species to the area, including flamingos, spoonbills, and perhaps even the rare purple swamphen—the official symbol of Ria Formosa. While here, we’ll enjoy a cruise through the park’s calm wetlands, taking in the spectacular scenery and getting the opportunity to spot some of its wildlife. We will also make a stop at the peaceful Armona Island, famed for its white-sand beach and clear water. This small archipelago is relatively quiet and not overcrowded, even in the peak of summer. There are no cars on the island, and very few motorised vehicles, so we’ll be able to bask in the Algarve’s more untouched side. This afternoon we will return to the beautiful Tavira, where you can enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Today our eyes are set on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Évora. Once a thriving trade hub and a significant city for religion, Évora was originally founded by the Romans and later fortified by the Moors, leaving behind a stunning fusion of architectural styles. Wandering its picturesque streets, we’ll see a fascinating blend of Roman ruins, medieval buildings, and traditional whitewashed houses, all contributing to its unique charm. On arrival, we’ll enjoy some free time for lunch, before setting off on a sightseeing tour. Our walk through the historical quarter will highlight the city’s well-preserved heritage, including the Sé de Évora, a magnificent cathedral that showcases both Romanesque and Gothic styles. Dating back to the 12th century, it boasts impressive towers and a pretty rose window. We’ll see the Roman Temple of Évora, also known as the Temple of Diana, one of Portugal’s best-preserved Roman monuments. Built in the 1st century AD, this remarkable structure stands as a testament to Évora’s importance during the Roman Empire. We’ll also stop by the Church of Saint Francis, a Gothic-Manueline church from the 16th century to marvel at its impressive exteriors. Our last stop for the day is a visit to the Chapel of Bones, also known locally as Capela dos Ossos. One of the city’s most iconic monuments, this chapel is located within the Church of Saint Francis and is lined with the bones and skulls of thousands of monks—a striking, yet eerie experience.

We head back to Lisbon late this morning, where the afternoon is free to enjoy at leisure. You may wish to head to the Time Out Market, a popular place to eat and browse the many stalls. Set within the lively, old-school-looking Mercado de Ribeira, this market showcases the best of the city’s culinary scene and its diverse cuisine—you’ll even find Michelin star chefs. We recommend following your nose and sampling a bit of everything! Another quintessential Portuguese experience is attending a Fado performance. Fado is a distinctive style of music that originated in Lisbon and is deeply rooted in Portuguese culture. The best way to enjoy traditional Fado is in a bar or a Fado Club, known locally as ‘Casas de Fado’. All aboard the yellow tram! If further exploring Lisbon is on your agenda this afternoon, then don’t miss the iconic 28 Tram. This famed tram route is renowned for taking its passengers up, down and through some of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods and past many historical highlights, like the cathedral and castle. Lisbon is also famous for its stunning ceramics, and during your journey, you might find yourself hopping off the tram to pick up a beautiful souvenir—a perfect reminder of your adventures. Tonight, we’ll delight in a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

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

Welcome to Spain! We begin in the vibrant city of Seville, the birthplace of tapas, capital of Andalucia and Spain's fourth largest city. Once called ‘Hispalis’ by the Romans and ‘Ishbiliya’ by the Muslims, Seville's Roman and Muslim past is still evident today. Nowadays Seville is very much a modern city, yet it has retained much of its past. This is most prominent in the Old Town where it feels as though you have stepped back in time to an old Spanish village. 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 4.00pm. At 5.00pm, join your fellow travellers and tour leader in the hotel lobby for a welcome meeting, followed by an orientation tour of the area. After our short tour, we’ll enjoy a group welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

According to legend, Seville was founded by Hercules and has origins linked to the Tartessian civilisation. Famous for its joyous and passionate locals, it is the city of Carmen, Don Juan and Figaro. After breakfast we discover some of the highlights on a half-day city tour. We’ll start with a visit to the Royal Alcázar, a string of royal palaces built by the Catholic kings during the 14th century which is today home to the Spanish Royal Family. Next, we stop for a photo at the Cathedral of Santa Maria, Spain's largest cathedral and Columbus's burial site. Then, we finish the city tour with a stroll through the historical Jewish section of Santa Cruz. A labyrinth of charming, narrow streets, we’ll see bright, historic houses, quaint courtyards bursting with flowers and squares that have been the meeting point for locals for centuries. This afternoon is at leisure for you to discover more of this beautiful city at your own pace. Optional Excursion Optional Excursion – Flamenco Show, ‘Tablao El Arenal’ – Located in the beautiful city of Seville, a place where passionate Flamenco dancers (known as bailaores or bailaoras) perform group and solo dances. The Flamenco style of dance originated in the Andalucian 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. Approx. 1km-15min walking from the hotel. 1hr 30mins – from Euro 50pp (no minimum number required)

Today we will travel the ‘route of the white villages’. Villages in this mountainous area were part of the war-like border between the Christian and Muslim kingdoms for more than three centuries and are filled with brilliant white houses with narrow streets and small squares. Our first stop will be Arcos de la Frontera, perched impressively on a cliffside. Our guide will take us on a short tour of the town, before we continue on to the next village – Jerez de la Frontera. Special Experience Sherry is the most famous Spanish wine in the world and we’ll stop for a tasting at a rustic cellar in the village of Jerez de la Frontera. A fortified white wine, the history of sherry dates back to around 1100 BC, when the Phoenicians introduced winemaking to this area of Spain. Apart from its sherry, Jerez, as it is also known, is famous for flamenco music and the 11th century Moorish fortress of Alcázar de Jerez. We enjoy a tour of this stunning, historic city before enjoying some free time to explore on our own. In the afternoon we’ll make our way back to Seville and our hotel for an evening at leisure.

Leaving Seville this morning, we stop in Zahara de la Sierra. This quaint, mountaintop hamlet overlooks a stunning crystal blue reservoir, where we’ll visit an organic olive farm. Spain is renowned for its olives, contributing to over fifty percent of the world's olive oil production. 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. After sampling a variety of different olive products, we continue on to our next destination – the small village of Ronda. Perched above the Tajo del Ronda, a deep, narrow gorge that plunges 150-metres into the valley, the town’s location is truly spectacular. Its old town has been declared a Property of Cultural Interest: Celts, Phoenicians, Romans and Arabs all inhabited these lands, which were reconquered by the Catholic Monarchs. Arriving in Ronda, we’ll have an orientation tour with our Tour Director, seeing the bullring and gorge, as well as the old town full of shopping and restaurants. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to continue exploring this stunning town.

Enjoy picturesque scenery as we make our way to Granada today. First, we'll revel in the enchanting town of Setenil de las Bodegas, where we'll savour a leisurely coffee break. Next, we'll bask in the captivating history of Antequera where we will have some free time for lunch, before arriving at our destination in the late afternoon. Located in the eastern part of the Andalucia region with a spectacular backdrop of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Granada has long inspired the spirit of romance among its inhabitants and visitors alike. With its rich history and Moorish influences, the city boasts some breathtaking landscapes and steep, narrow streets where one could easily lose themselves within the numerous hidden nooks. After checking into our hotel here, the remainder of the afternoon is free for you to enjoy at leisure before a group dinner. Special Experience Taste traditional Spanish tapas, enjoying a range of delicious bite-sized savoury dishes, richly seasoned with local spices. There are many different theories around the origins of tapas – some of which involve a variety of Spanish kings, some of which suggest they were invented to simply keep flies out of people’s drinks. Whatever the history, it has certainly transformed into a quintessential part of Spanish life today.

Our sightseeing today includes entry into the famous Alhambra Palace complex, a Moorish citadel dating back to 13th century Nasrid dynasty and named because of its reddish coloured walls (it translates to Red Castle in Arabic). Comprising the Nasrid Palaces, Alcazaba, the Palace of Charles V, and the Bath of the Mosque to name a few, it is one of Spain's most famous attractions. Throughout its long history, the palace has served multiple purposes. It was used as a fortress during the 9th century and then became a Royal residence during the 13th century. During its time as a Royal residence, many buildings were added to the complex such as a Mosque (later the site was turned into the current Church of St Mary), public baths and patios. When the Catholic Monarch Charles V took over, he ordered the demolition of part of the complex to rebuild the palace with an Emperor's chamber, and a Queen's dressing room added. The palace was abandoned during the 18th century and sadly part of the fortress was destroyed. Restoration of the palace began in the 19th century and is still maintained today. Just a short stroll from the main Alhambra buildings, you will wander through its stunning Generalife Gardens, the tranquil summer gardens of the Kings of Granada. We’ll also walk through the old part of the city and see the outside of the Royal Chapel, where King Ferdinand and Queen Elizabeth are buried. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Nestled on the scenic banks of the Guadalquivir River, Córdoba is our destination today. Córdoba is a city of immense historical and cultural significance in the region of Andalucia. It has a rich heritage that reflects its diverse past and the influence of various civilisations that have left their mark on the city. On a guided city tour we’ll visit the incredible Mezquita Mosque, otherwise known as the Cathedral of Córdoba. As one of the most important monuments in the Western Islamic world, it evokes the ‘Omeya’ style, as well as elements of gothic, renaissance and baroque architecture. We’ll take a short walking tour through Barrio de la Judería, the Jewish Quarter of Córdoba. Known for its interesting interior patios, we’ll also see a number of historic sites including the Municipal Souk. After our tour we have some time to explore independently before the enjoying rest of the afternoon at leisure.

After breakfast this morning we make our way back to Seville. The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy at leisure, before we come back together for a memorable farewell dinner. We’ll share stories and reminisce on the amazing memories we’ve made across Andalucia.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our new friends and to the wonders of southern Spain.

Welcome to Istanbul, a city unlike any other. Sitting gracefully between two continents, Istanbul spans the Bosphorus, with one side in Europe and the other in Asia. This unique blend of cultures creates a rich tapestry of contrasts, where traditional tea houses sit side-by-side with modern art galleries, and the hum of ancient markets fills the air. It’s a city that invites exploration at every turn, offering an unforgettable journey through time and diversity. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5.00pm. This evening, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a welcome drink.

Get set for a full day exploring the fascinating city of Istanbul! We’ll begin with a visit to the majestic Topkapi Palace, once the heart of the Ottoman Empire. This sprawling palace offers us a peek into the opulent world of the sultans. We’ll stroll through its ornate courtyards and grand rooms, where treasures like the famous Topkapi Dagger and the sacred relics of Prophet Muhammad’s cloak await to tell their stories. Next, we’ll visit the iconic Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most recognized landmarks. With its stunning blue tiles and tranquil atmosphere, it’s a place that leaves a lasting impression. We’ll take time to admire the prayer hall and its peaceful courtyard, soaking in the serenity that has drawn visitors for centuries. Special Experience Treat your senses to Türkiye’s renowned delicacies, featuring baklava, Turkish coffee, and, of course, Turkish delight. No visit to Istanbul would be complete without exploring the Spice Bazaar, a sensory feast where the air is filled with the aroma of hundreds of exotic spices. Then, we’ll wander through the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world. With its maze of antique shops, jewellery stalls and beautiful hand-painted ceramics, it’s a shopper’s paradise. This evening, enjoy a group welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Our touring today will feature a visit to the domed Basilica of St. Sophia (Hagia Sophia), a marvel that has inspired architects and religious leaders for almost 1,500 years. The first church on this sacred site was built in 326 by Constantine the Great, while the current structure dating back to 537, has been a cathedral, a museum, and is now a mosque. Next, we’ll explore the Hippodrome, which was the vibrant centre of both political and social life in ancient Istanbul. This bustling area once hosted chariot races and lively public events, all while being the backdrop for a series of fascinating historical moments. We’ll also visit the Underground Basilica Cistern, a hidden gem beneath the city. This otherworldly, yet beautiful, underground water storage facility was built in the 6th century and is supported by hundreds of ancient columns. This afternoon we’ll embark on a leisurely cruise along Istanbul’s most famous waterway, the Bosphorus. Our journey will take us along both European and Asian shores, where we’ll uncover marvellous monuments and districts, including the Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi), Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy, Ahmat Fethi Pasa Mansion, Ortaköy Mosque, Beylerbeyi Palace, Kuleli Military School, Arnavutköy and Bebek.

This morning, we say goodbye to Istanbul as we set our eyes on Gallipoli. Today is a deeply moving experience, as we visit a place that serves as a powerful reminder of a pivotal moment in history — one that played a crucial role in shaping Australia’s national identity. Special Experience Honour the ANZACs at Gallipoli with a specialist guide, as we explore ANZAC Cove, the Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair Memorials, and Johnston's Jolly. We visit the World War I battlefields, most notable for being held by the ANZACs from 25th April to 20th December 1915, during what is referred to as The Gallipoli Campaign or Battle of Gallipoli. At the end of the war the bodies, still unburied, were cleared by the Allies on returning to the peninsula. Of the 22,000 graves at the 31 war cemeteries, only 9,000 are identified with grave markers. The remaining graves are commemorated with a special memorial. After our visit, we’ll continue to Çanakkale, a charming city that sits on the southern shores of the Dardanelles Strait. This ancient port city has a history that stretches back over 6,000 years.

We start our day with a short drive to the legendary ancient city of Troy. With a history spanning over 4,000 years, Troy has witnessed the rise and fall of nine different civilizations, from the Stone Age to the Roman Empire. The thought of standing before the legendary Trojan Horse replica at the city gates is enough to give anyone goosebumps. As we explore this incredible site, we'll discover the connection to ancient tales like Homer’s Iliad, the Odyssey, and Virgil's Aeneid. What was once considered mere mythology was brought to life by the famous archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann, who uncovered these ruins near modern-day Türkiye. Afterwards, we’ll head to İzmir, a bustling port city where ancient ruins and contemporary life blend seamlessly. As Türkiye’s third-largest city, İzmir boasts a beautiful waterfront, vibrant markets and a rich mix of history. You’ll find traces of its fascinating past around every corner, from its ancient landmarks to the lively bazaars. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure, followed by a delightful group dinner at the hotel.

We’ll transfer to İzmir airport early this morning for a short flight to Cappadocia, a region so otherworldly it feels like stepping onto another planet. Known for its distinctive landscape of towering rock formations and cone-shaped fairy chimneys, Cappadocia is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site where the land itself has been shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion. Special Experience Visit a local restaurant in Cappadocia and learn to prepare some of the local culinary specialties in a hands-on cooking class. This afternoon, we’ll visit Paşabaği Valley, also known as "Monk’s Valley," where you’ll find the famous fairy chimneys—tall, conical rock formations that have been carved into homes and places of worship by monks. We’ll also visit Zelve Valley, an ancient cave town once inhabited by Christian settlers from the 9th to the 13th centuries. Today, it’s an open-air museum where you can wander through ancient dwellings and churches carved directly into the rocks. After our time exploring these remarkable sites, we’ll return to the hotel and enjoy a relaxing dinner.

Welcome to the whimsical region of Cappadocia! Today, we’re diving into the colourful world of Turkish carpets at the local municipality carpet cooperative. Get ready to witness the artistry and tradition behind these stunning textiles. From intricate designs to the weaving process, you’ll see how these timeless treasures come to life, thread by thread. Next, we’re off to the magical Göreme Valley, where nature’s artistry has carved out the famous "Fairy Chimneys"! Over thousands of years, rain has sculpted these bizarre rock formations into towering wonders. Inside, you’ll find homes and churches carved into the stone, with some grottoes dazzlingly adorned with vibrant murals telling biblical stories. It’s quite the landscape with nature, history and art all rolled into one. Optional Excursion Hot Air Balloon Ride – Gently float over the countryside in complete harmony with the deep canyons and lush fertile valleys of Cappadocia. Gentle winds carry you over places that could never be reached except by balloon. 45mins - from Euro 340pp. Cash only. Optional Excursion Whirling Dervishes – A performance about the mystical religious sect known as the Whirling Dervishes, using music and dance to induce themselves into a mystical state. As the ceremonial music plays, they begin to whirl, and their long skirts billow giving the impression that they are floating on air. 1hr – from Euro 40pp (minimum 5 people). Cash only. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Rise and shine, art enthusiasts! We begin the day with a colourful journey into the world of pottery in Avanos, a charming town famous for its ceramics. With its cobblestone streets and stunning views over the Red River, Avanos offers the perfect backdrop for a pottery-making workshop. Next, we’ll explore one of the area’s fascinating underground cities, Ozkonak. These subterranean marvels were carved out of soft volcanic rock by Christian settlers in the 6th century, providing them with a hidden sanctuary from invaders. Some of these cities go as deep as 80 meters and have up to eight levels, offering a glimpse into how thousands of people once lived in these underground labyrinths. On our way to Konya, we’ll stop at the Sultanhanı Caravanserai, a 13th century inn that once provided shelter and provisions for Silk Road travellers. It’s one of the largest surviving caravanserais from this ancient trade route, offering a fascinating look at the history of cross-continental trade. By late afternoon, we arrive in Konya and have some time to unwind before dinner this evening.

Konya, a city of profound spiritual heritage and cultural depth, is closely tied to the legacy of the great poet, philosopher and Sufi mystic Mevlâna Rumi — who, in the 13th century, founded the Mevlevi Order and became renowned for his teachings on love, unity and spiritual devotion — which continue to inspire visitors from around the world. Our first stop of the day is a visit to the home of the legendary Whirling Dervishes, the Mevlâna Museum. Whirling Dervishes are spiritual dancers that belong to the unique religious order ‘Sufi’ that use music and dance to enter a trance-like state as a way to connect with the divine. As the ceremonial music builds up, they begin their mesmerising whirling dance, their long skirts twirling and billowing, creating the illusion of floating on air. Walking through the museum and its exhibitions, we’ll get an insight into the long history of this fascinating tradition. Next we’ll make our way through the beautiful Turkish countryside, before arriving in Pamukkale. Known for its white thermal waters cascading down the rock terraces, Pamukkale’s beauty is otherworldly. Over the course of 14,000 years, calcium-rich spring waters have formed these stunning natural formations. The therapeutic waters here are known for their healing properties, particularly for the eyes and skin, and are also believed to alleviate symptoms of asthma and rheumatism.

We begin our day with a fascinating journey to Hierapolis, the ancient city nestled next to the Pamukkale hot springs. Here, you’ll find impressive Roman ruins alongside the surreal beauty of the white terraces formed by the calcium-rich waters. As we wander through the site, you’ll be transported back in time to an era when Romans bathed in these therapeutic waters. Next, we’ll head to Kuşadası, a charming coastal town with stunning beaches and a vibrant atmosphere. With 300 days of sunshine each year, Kuşadası is a great place to relax and soak up the Mediterranean vibes. It’s also the gateway to the remarkable Roman ruins of Ephesus. In the afternoon, you’ll have some free time to explore Kuşadası at your own pace. Wander through the lively bazaars, where you’ll find everything from handmade goods to beautiful jewellery and unique souvenirs. Optional Excursion Hot Air Balloon Ride – See the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pamukkale hot springs from a completely different angle as you take to the skies on a hot air balloon adventure. 45mins – from Euro 210 pp. Cash only.

Prepare for an exciting day as we step back in time to explore Ephesus, the largest Roman city ever uncovered. Walking through its remarkable ruins feels like traveling through centuries of history, from classical Greece all the way to the Roman Empire, when this city was the Mediterranean's bustling commercial hub. Walking along the marble-paved streets of Ephesus, we’ll uncover daily life in ancient times. We’ll explore grand gymnasiums, bathhouses, and be awestruck by the Library of Celsus, whose towering façade still stands strong. Then, we’ll see the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Next, we'll visit a local leather factory where skilled artisans will show us their craft. After our morning exploration, we’ll have the afternoon at leisure. You may opt for a rejuvenating Turkish bath at one of the local spas or simply relax and take in the charming surroundings. This evening we’ll head to a renowned vineyard in western Türkiye for a delightful wine tasting and dinner. With over 20 grape varieties grown here, many of which are unique to Türkiye, it’s sure to be a memorable treat as we savour the distinct flavours.

This morning, we set sail on a scenic cruise to the beautiful island of Patmos, one of the Aegean's most beautiful islands. Known as the “Jerusalem of the Aegean,” Patmos is steeped in religious history and stunning natural beauty. It’s the place where Saint John the Divine received his visions and wrote the Apocalypse, featured in the New Testament. Once we arrive, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Monastery of Saint John, at your own expense. Perched on a hill with panoramic views, this breathtaking site will leave you in awe. But Patmos isn’t just about its history — it’s a great spot to wander the charming streets, explore hidden beaches, or relax with a coffee at one of the local cafés. For those feeling adventurous, a walk up to the Cave of the Apocalypse, where Saint John is said to have received his visions, is not to be missed. After a day of exploration, we’ll head back to the ship, where the fun continues. As we cruise through the night, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy some fantastic shows on board, perfect for winding down.

Today, we’ll step off the ship and journey back in time on the beautiful island of Rhodes, where centuries of history and extraordinary civilization await. Famous as the home of the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the island will enchant you with its charm. We’ll begin by exploring the Acropolis of Lindos. Perched high above the town, this ancient citadel offers spectacular panoramic views and gives us a glimpse into Rhodes’ rich past. Next, we’ll wander through the medieval town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. Lined with the seven lodges of the Knights of St. John, each still displaying its original coat of arms, this cobblestone street is where Rhodes’ history was made for over two centuries. At the top of the street stands the Grand Master’s Palace, a striking example of Gothic architecture. As we explore this grand fortress, we’ll be awed by its strength and the fascinating stories of the knights who once roamed these halls. After a day full of history and beauty, we’ll return to the ship in the early evening to continue our cruise.

Today, we’ll arrive early in the port of Heraklion on the island of Crete, a place bursting with fascinating culture and natural beauty. Known as the birthplace of the ancient Minoan civilization, Crete offers so much to discover. You can join a guided tour at your own expense, and visit the legendary Palace of Knossos, an archaeological treasure full of myths, rich history and stunning ruins. Alternatively, you can relax and explore the charming local cafés or wander through Crete's lovely shops. Before noon, we’ll set sail for the dreamy island of Santorini. Famous for its iconic, white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches, Santorini looks like it’s straight out of a postcard. Once we arrive, you’ll have the chance to explore its picturesque villages, including Oia, at your own expense. Oia is known for its narrow, winding streets, unforgettable sunsets and jaw-dropping views of the caldera. But there's even more to enjoy! You can unwind on its unique volcanic beaches, stroll through art galleries or simply soak up the island's lively, welcoming atmosphere. After a day filled with breathtaking sights, we’ll head back to the ship to continue our cruise.

This morning, we’ll disembark the ship at the port of Lavrion, near Athens, and begin a scenic drive to the Corinth Canal, one of the ancient world’s greatest engineering feats. We’ll stop for a photo, capturing the stunning views of this canal, which connects the Aegean and Ionian Seas. Next, we’ll head to Ancient Corinth to explore the ruins of this once-thriving city. The Temple of Apollo, with its towering columns, will transport you back to the ancient world. We’ll also visit the Fountain of Peirene, a historic water source that once supplied the city. Afterwards, we’ll take a short drive to Epidaurus on the beautiful Argolid Peninsula. Here, we’ll visit one of Greece’s best-preserved ancient theatres. Known for its incredible acoustics, the Ancient Theatre dates back to the 4th century and could seat over 14,000 people imagine the performances that once echoed through it! Finally, we’ll continue on to Nafplio, a charming seaside town with Venetian architecture and Ottoman structures. It is said that Nafplio is home to some of the best gelato in all of Greece – give it a try and let us know! We’ll check into our hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner to cap off a wonderful day of exploration.

This morning, we’ll visit Mycenae, one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites and the birthplace of the culture that reigned during the late Bronze Age. Stepping into this ancient city is like stepping back in time, where powerful rulers and captivating myths come to life. We'll marvel at the iconic Lion’s Gate and stand in awe of the massive Cyclopean walls — so large and sturdy that ancient Greeks believed only giants, or cyclops, could have built them! These enormous limestone boulders are a testament to the ingenuity of a bygone era. Afterwards, we’ll venture to Nemea, a picturesque region famous for its lush vineyards. Here, we’ll enjoy a wine tasting, sampling some of the region’s finest wines. After a day filled with history and local flavour, we’ll return to Nafplio. Special Experience Visit a local restaurant in Nafplio where we’ll enjoy a hands-on lesson and cook up a feast of Mediterranean cuisine for dinner. To end the day, we’ll take a leisurely stroll through Nafplio’s charming laneways, soaking in the local atmosphere and the stunning seaside views.

This morning, we’ll bid farewell to Nafplio and set off on a scenic drive through the stunning mountains of Peloponnese, making our way to Olympia. As the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, Olympia is steeped in history and excitement. Here, athletes once gathered to compete for glory, and today, we’ll explore the ancient site where it all began. Our tour takes us through the impressive Olympia Complex, home to the Temple of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. We’ll marvel at the grandeur of this temple, which once housed a colossal statue of Zeus, sculpted by the legendary Phidias. We’ll also visit the Palaestra, where athletes trained for the Games, and the workshop of Phidias, where masterpieces were created. In the afternoon, we’ll drive across the awe-inspiring Rio–Antirrio Bridge, a modern marvel that spans the Gulf of Corinth. The views are simply stunning as we head to Nafpaktos, where we’ll check into our hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure.

Welcome to Nafpaktos, a town rich in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes. This charming town is famous for the Battle of Lepanto in 1571, where the Christian fleet claimed a pivotal naval victory over the Ottomans. It’s the perfect spot to step back in time and embrace the past. We’ll kick off the day with a visit to the Castle of Nafpaktos, perched high above the town. From here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Corinthian Gulf and the Rio–Antirrio Bridge. It’s a prime spot for photos, so be sure to capture the beauty of the bridge stretching across the sparkling water below. We then make our way to the peaceful village of Diakopto, nestled at the base of Mount Helmos. This quiet village offers a true taste of authentic Greek life, surrounded by scenic beauty and a tranquil atmosphere. Special Experience From the village of Diakopto, we’ll embark on a 'Rack and Pinion' train journey along the 19th century Odontotos Rack Railway through the stunning Vouraikos Gorge. We’ll stop for lunch in Kalavryta, where you’ll have the chance to try some local specialties. After lunch, we’ll reboard our bus for the scenic drive back to Nafpaktos, where the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Today, we embark on a scenic drive through Greece’s lush hills and rolling countryside, heading toward the mystical town of Delphi. In ancient times, Delphi was considered the centre of the world. According to mythology, two eagles sent by Zeus flew from opposite ends of the world and met here in Delphi—making it a place that truly feels touched by the gods. As we explore this remarkable archaeological site, we’ll visit the Sanctuary of Apollo, where pilgrims once travelled from all corners of the ancient world to seek the wisdom of the famous Oracle of Delphi. We’ll also stop by the Treasury of the Athenians, an impressively preserved structure that once held offerings to Apollo. After our exploration, you’ll have some free time to indulge in local Greek delicacies. Why not try moussaka, a hearty dish made with eggplant and lamb, or enjoy souvlaki skewers grilled to perfection? In the afternoon, we’ll journey through the mountains to the picturesque town of Kalambaka, famous for its vibrant painted doors and windows. Kalambaka is also home to the awe-inspiring Meteora monasteries. We'll settle into our hotel before a delightful dinner together.

Prepare to be amazed by the towering monasteries of Meteora! These majestic structures are perched high atop towering rock formations that seem to defy gravity. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Meteora is one of Greece's most iconic destinations, where natural beauty and spiritual history blend seamlessly. Today, we’ll visit two of these incredible monasteries, where you’ll be surrounded by stunning murals, serene views and a peaceful atmosphere that feels frozen in time. After some free time for lunch, we’ll hit the road and take a scenic drive to Thermopylae. This historic site is forever tied to the bravery of King Leonidas and his 300 Spartans, who made their heroic stand against the Persian army. We’ll stop here for a memorable photo with the impressive statue of Leonidas, standing proud as a tribute to his legendary courage. We’ll then head to Athens, the vibrant capital of Greece, where ancient history and modern life exist in perfect harmony. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to unwind or explore before we gather for dinner at a local restaurant.

We’ll begin the day at a relaxed pace with a morning at leisure before heading out on a panoramic tour of Athens, passing some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. You’ll see the Academy, the National Library, and the Greek Parliament, as well as the famous Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where the changing of the guards is always a fascinating spectacle. We’ll also visit the Panathenaic Stadium, home to the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, and Hadrian’s Arch, a grand symbol of Roman influence in Athens. Of course, we can’t forget the majestic Temple of Olympian Zeus, once one of the largest temples in the ancient world. A trip to Athens wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Acropolis and its museum. Get ready for jaw-dropping views and a deep dive into the history of ancient Greece. Afterward, we’ll take a leisurely walk through the Plaka neighbourhood, with its narrow streets lined with charming shops and cafés and enjoy some free time for lunch. Walking through this vibrant area is the best way to absorb the Athenian atmosphere — because let’s face it, the traffic here can be downright chaotic! In the evening, we’ll stroll through the Monastiraki and Thissio areas before gathering for a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. Today marks the completion of our Türkiye and Greece group tour. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!

Welcome to Greece! Often cited as the birthplace of European civilisation, Greece offers a heady mix of ancient archaeological sites, chic hotels, rustic tavernas and seaside escapes. Scattered throughout the calm blue waters of the Ionian and the Aegean Sea are Greece’s 3,000 islands, each with their own magical story. Our journey will take us through mainland Greece, as well as several beautiful island locations – are you ready? Our tour begins in the port city of Thessaloniki in the country’s north, Greece’s second largest city. Thessaloniki is home to some of Greece’s best restaurants and ouzeries, beautiful waterfront areas, as well as an abundance of museums and historic Roman and Byzantine sites nearby. 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 7.30pm. Meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director this evening for a welcome drink.

We begin the day with a panoramic tour where we will see the famous White Tower, the picturesque sea-front promenade, bustling Aristotelous Square and the stunning Basilica of Saint Dimitrios, originally built during the 4th century, and well known for its Byzantine mosaics and relics of Saint Demetrios, the city’s patron saint. From there, we'll venture through the bustling local markets, immersing ourselves in the vibrant blend of traditional and contemporary atmospheres. We continue by coach towards the upper districts to see the Theodosian walls, also known as the ‘Walls of Thessaloniki’. These incredible ancient Byzantine walls are approximately 4-kilometres in length and date back to the 4th century AD, showcasing the architectural brilliance of the times. Here, we can enjoy stunning views over the city. Leaving the city behind, we’ll visit a local farm known for producing vine leaves with which the famous Greek ‘dolmadakia’ (stuffed vine leaves) are made. Special Experience Visit a local farm to discover how vine leaves are grown, then enjoy a tasting of the region’s famed dolmadakia. We return to Thessaloniki this afternoon, where we’ll have some free time to further explore this lovely city on our own, or to simply relax before our evening stroll through the beautiful district of Ladadika, on our way to our group welcome dinner at a local restaurant. We return to Thessaloniki this afternoon, where we’ll have some free time to further explore this lovely city on our own, or to simply relax before our evening stroll through the beautiful district of Ladadika, on our way to our group welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Today our sights are set on exploring the birthplace of Alexander the Great in Pella. Also known as Alexander III of Macedon, Alexander the Great is widely considered one of history’s greatest military commanders. He’s known for conquering the eastern Mediterranean, Egypt and parts of Africa, making significant cultural shifts in a relatively short period of time. In Pella, we’ll uncover the local archaeological site to marvel at the exquisite floor mosaics from the 4th century BC, as well as visiting the museum to gain some further insight into his fascinating past. Heading to the quaint village of Vergina, once the royal metropolis of ancient Macedonia, we’ll uncover the Macedonian Royal Tombs. Here we’ll enjoy a guided tour of the tombs, including the impressive tomb of King Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great. We’ll also enjoy some free time for lunch here in Vergina, before our afternoon jaunt through the pretty Greek countryside on our way to Kalambaka. This evening we’ll arrive in the town of Kalambaka, our base to explore the Hanging Rocks of Meteora.

Behold, the mighty monasteries of Meteora! Today we’ll discover these iconic UNESCO World Heritage-listed clifftop monasteries where Monks have been settled on these ‘columns of the sky’ since the 11th century. Since early Christian times, Meteora’s cliffs have been regarded as the perfect place to attain absolute isolation in order to achieve peace and harmony. The tallest of these incredible rock formations reaches 400 metres high. We’ll explore two of the monasteries before some free time for lunch in Kalambaka. This afternoon we depart for Volos, a port city that is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches – and despite being one of Greece’s busiest harbours, it’s still incredibly picturesque! In this seaside town, we’ll find fresh seafood, historic sites and a lively shore-front promenade. What could be better than that? Tonight, we’ll wander the streets of Volos, exploring its famous ‘Tsipouradika’ area. We’ll visit a traditional tsipouradika tavern to try the famous Greek ‘tsipouro’, a strong pomace brandy produced in the area. Tsipouro is usually served in shot glasses with a side of meze (a selection of small dishes, similar to tapas). We’ll also enjoy a group dinner here tonight.

Today we discover the beautiful villages of the Mount Pelion region aboard a restored steam train. Sit back and enjoy the beautiful scenery as the train winds its way up the mountain to the village of Milies. Once we arrive, we’ll continue our journey by coach, stopping in the picturesque villages of Portaria and Makrinitsa. Here, we’ll have time to discover the impressive stonework of the buildings, quaint shops selling local products, tavernas and cafes. We’ll make our way back to Volos this afternoon, where the remainder of the day is for you to enjoy any way you’d like, whether that’s heading out to a local taverna for dinner or taking a minute to relax and catch your breath, the choice is yours!

This morning enjoy a scenic drive through the mountains of central Greece as we make our way to Delphi. Revered by ancient Greeks as the centre of the world, Delphi was a destination where people from far and wide sought counsel from the revered oracle, 'Pythia'. We’ll enjoy a guided tour of the archaeological ruins including the Sanctuary of Apollo and the Treasury of Athenians, followed by a visit to the museum housing the famous 'Bronze Charioteer'. After our visit, we’ll make a stop in the sea-side village of Itea for some free time for lunch. This sleepy, coastal town will make us want to ditch our afternoon plans and sip ouzo, while watching the boats bob in the harbour’s crystal-clear water for the rest of the day! Upon arrival in Nafpaktos, we'll have the remainder of the afternoon at leisure to unwind. Later this evening, we'll embark on a short walking tour, immersing ourselves in the charm of this picturesque port city with its trendy harbour area, dotted with cafes and restaurants, and flanked by beautiful beaches on either side.

Limber up this morning as we prepare to learn all about the history of the modern-day Olympic Games during a fascinating tour of Olympia. Built on the banks of the river Alfios, the site of Olympia is lush, green and calm – the perfect venue for the original Olympic Games which began in 776BC. Our tour takes us through the impressive ruins, where we can follow in the footsteps of the ancient Olympians. We’ll see the Temple of Zeus, the Palaestra, and Phidias’ Workshop, and as well as tour the archaeological museum, one of the richest in Greece. After some free time for lunch, we cross the scenic mountains of the Peloponnese Peninsula and make our way to the charming seaside town of Nafplio. If Greece were giving out awards for quaint villages, Nafplio would surely win gold - a romantic town with Venetian architecture and Ottoman structures, the Old Town is a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets where you’ll discover hidden squares and beautiful buildings. It is also said that Nafplio is home to some of the best gelato in all of Greece – give it a try and let us know…!

This morning we'll visit Mycenae, one of Greece's most significant archaeological sites and the birthplace of the culture that reigned during the late Bronze Age. Here, we'll explore the remarkable remnants of this ancient civilization, including the Tomb of Agamemnon, a massive tholos (beehive) tomb built around 1250BC, and the iconic Lion's Gate, the main entrance to the ancient city of Mycenae, featuring the stone relief of two lions, making this the oldest known monumental sculpture in Europe. We’ll then return to Nafplio and make our way up to the Castle of Palamidi, a fortress perched high on a cliff offering stunning views over the town. Built as a defensive fortress in the 17th Century, it sits high above Nafplio and is considered by many as a masterpiece of military architecture. After, we’ll make a stop at a small, local ‘ouzo’ distillery to learn about Greece's beloved national aperitif and enjoy a tasting. Afterwards, we’ll take a walking tour to discover more of this picturesque town and enjoy the waterfront promenade and the beautiful views over to Bourtzi, the tiny, fortified islet guarding the entrance of Nafplio’s port. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

We bid the charming town of Nafplio and the Peloponnese peninsula farewell today, as we make our way towards Greece’s capital city, Athens. After breakfast, we depart for Epidaurus, one of the most popular archaeological sites of ancient Greece. Upon arrival, we visit the Sanctuary of Asklepios, once a major healing centre. In ancient times, it was a place where the sick sought cures through rituals and treatments. Today, it stands as a testament to the healing practices of the past and the early development of scientific medicine. We’ll enjoy a guided tour of the ancient theatre, perhaps its most famous feature is its unique acoustics. This theatre was constructed in the 4th century to host religious ceremonial events to honour the god Asklepios – the Greek god of medicine and healing – whose ‘healing centre’ was a stone’s throw away. Today, there are still performances hosted here in the summer months, including ancient Greek dramas. Special Experience Take a tour of a local olive farm, where we'll stroll the groves, learn the craft of olive oil production, and indulge in a tasting and light lunch. Our next stop is ancient Corinth, one of the major cities of antiquity where Saint Paul is believed to have lived and delivered the letter to the Corinthians. Here we’ll tour the ancient city and explore the Agora marketplace and the Temple of Apollo. As we continue towards Athens we’ll stop to admire the Corinth Canal, cutting through the Isthmus of Corinth, separating the Peloponnese from mainland Greece. Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world. Athens was named after Athena, the Greek Goddess of Wisdom, who according to mythology won the city as a prize after a duel against Poseidon.

Prepare your camera and sense of wonder! After a hearty breakfast we’ll head straight to the majestic Acropolis, perched high above the city. Marvel at the Propylae, the Erechtheion with its iconic Caryatids, the Temple of Athena Nike and the legendary Parthenon, each monument a timeless testament to Greece’s glorious past. Next, we’ll enjoy a scenic stroll down Dionysiou Aeropagitou Street to the Museum of Acropolis, where centuries of art and artifacts bring history to life. Next, buckle up for a panoramic coach ride around the city’s highlights. Spot the grand Panathinaikon Stadium, gaze upon the majestic Zappeion and snap photos of the towering Temple of Olympian Zeus. We’ll pass Hadrian’s Arch, Syntagma Square, the Parliament building and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Admire neoclassical gems like Schliemann’s House, the Academy, University, National Library and the Old Parliament. Our journey brings us to the lively Thisio district for lunch in a local restaurant. After lunch we’ll stroll along Adrianou Street, past the Greek and Roman Agora, enjoying views of the Acropolis and the impressive Temple of Hephaestus. We’ll immerse ourselves in the bustling atmosphere, exploring the renowned flea market of Monastiraki to the lively Plaka district. The rest of the day is at leisure for you to relax or continue exploring at your own pace. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Enjoy the day at leisure to explore Athens at your own pace.

Enjoy the morning at leisure to relax or to further explore wonderful Athens before our afternoon visit to Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon. If the Greek gods picked a vacation home, then the Temple of Poseidon would definitely be it! Cape Sounion sits on the very edge of Attica, standing guard over the endless Aegean Sea, like the ultimate ocean front property. The incredible Temple of Poseidon perches high on the edge of a cliff that plunges 65 metres to the sea. It’s easy to see why many sailors pause here to pray for safe sea voyages. On a clear day the area also affords views to the islands of Kea, Kythnos, Serifos, Aegina and the Peloponnese, and these days, visitors flock here to capture some of the most epic sunsets in all of Greece – an enchanting place where history and nature dazzle in perfect harmony. Tonight, we’ll transfer to the port of Piraeus to board an overnight ferry to the island of Crete.

Welcome to Crete and the port of Chania, the island’s second largest city. We have an early start this morning, after disembarking our ferry, we’ll check in to our hotel and enjoy breakfast. Today we’ll take the time to discover this delightful city and it’s surrounds, including a walk through the Old Town with its quaint cobbled alleyways, pastel-coloured buildings and flower draped balconies. We’ll see the Venetian port, the city’s showstopper, with its iconic lighthouse and take a stroll through the local delicious spice scented market area and peek into the quirky little boutiques. We’ll pay our respects during a visit to Souda Bay and the WWII Commonwealth Cemetery located there. This is the final resting spot for over 1,500 Allied soldiers who fought and died during World War II, many during the Battle of Crete in 1941. We’ll continue our journey to the quaint village of Akrotiri, where the serene Agia Triada Monastery awaits. Special Experience Enjoy a wine and olive oil tasting with light snacks, amidst the tranquil surrounds of the Agia Triada Monastery. Later this afternoon our Tour Director will take us through the winding, narrow streets and hidden alleys of Chania's enchanting old town to the historic Venetian port, where we’ll have some time to explore at our own pace.

Enjoy a day at leisure to relax in the sun. Why not visit the area of Tabakaria known for its old leather processing houses, or visit the Maritime Museum of Crete?

After breakfast we depart for Heraklion, Crete’s largest city and its capital. Along the way, we’ll stop at Preveli Monastery which once served as a hiding place for allied troops during WWII. The monks of the monastery helped save many soldiers from the 6th Australian division unit and the monastery now hosts the Australian Memorial. This peaceful monastery is located on Crete’s rugged southern coast, overlooking the Libyan Sea. Inside, there’s a stunning Byzantine church, sacred relics and the Holy Cross of Preveli, believed to have healing powers. In the town of Rethymnon we’ll stop at ‘Fortezza’, the Venetian castle that presides over the town, and admire the amazing views. We’ll then enjoy a panoramic city tour and have some free time for lunch along the lovely seafront promenade. This afternoon we continue to Heraklion, making a short stop at the Stavromenos Australian War Memorial along the way. This poignant memorial pays tribute to the Australian soldiers who fought and lost their lives defending Crete against the German invasion in 1941. It also stands as a symbol of friendship between Australia and Crete, celebrating the shared history and honouring those who gave their lives for the freedom of the island.

This morning we’ll make the short drive to Knossos for our visit to the famous Minoan Palace. Knossos was undoubtedly the ceremonial and political centre of the Minoan civilisation and culture, and in mythology, it housed the labyrinth of the mythical Minotaur. The site dates back to around 1900BC, making it one of the oldest and most influential palaces in Europe. Here, we can marvel at the ancient ruins, the Throne Room and the Central Court, the intricately decorated walls, and the grandeur of the place that once hosted kings and queens. After our thorough exploration of Knossos, we’ll continue to picturesque Archanes, a village with a rich history spanning over 5,000 years, where we have free time to explore and grab some lunch. As we make our way back to the hotel, we'll make a fascinating stop at the nearby Archaeological Museum of Heraklion for a guided tour. This renowned museum showcases archaeological discoveries from across Crete, spanning over 5,500 years of the island's rich history. Of particular significance are the treasures of Minoan civilisation, which hold pride of place within the museum's collection. Regarded as the epitome of Minoan culture, the museum boasts the world's most extensive assortment of Minoan antiquities. In the early evening, we’ll take a leisurely walking tour of Heraklion town, joined by our Tour Director.

Early this morning we board the high-speed ferry to the breathtaking island of Santorini, which some say is the most beautiful island of the Aegean. With its enchanting, whitewashed towns clinging to rugged cliffs, and some of the most incredible sunsets you’ll ever see, it’s easy to fall in love with Santorini. Upon arrival, we'll take a short tour, exploring the delightful village of Megalochori. Nestled on the islands southern side, this small village offers a more authentic and quieter experience when compared to buzzing Oia or Fira. It’s known for its old-world charm, narrow streets and whitewashed houses, often adorned with a colourful array of flowers. We then drive to Akrotiri, a fascinating Bronze Age settlement lost to volcanic ash and brimming with hidden stories. We then continue to the black-sanded beaches of Perivolos and Perissa, perfect for soaking up the sun along the sparkling shoreline. Here, you’ll have some free time to wander, snap envy-worthy photos and indulge in local delicacies for lunch. Next, we’re off to the beautiful village of Pyrgos for an immersive walking tour, complete with cobblestone lanes, traditional architecture and breathtaking vistas. Once we arrive and check-in to our hotel, you’ll have the evening at leisure to enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants looking out at the volcano. We recommend ordering a ‘gyros’ from one of the local vendors. Traditionally made with lamb in Greece, chicken and pork are also commonly offered. Combined with tomato, onion, French fries and tzatziki, and encased within a fluffy flatbread, it’s a cheap and delicious meal!

The morning is at leisure to soak up the magic of Santorini at our own pace. Why not start your day with a breezy beachside stroll, a rooftop coffee with a view, or a relaxed wander through narrow, bougainvillea-framed alleys, whatever your heart desires. Once you’ve soaked in some Greek charm, we’ll set off for the monastery of Profitis Ilias, perched at the highest point of Santorini. Get your cameras ready, because the panoramic sights from here will surely make your heart skip a beat! Next, we’ll journey to the seaside village of Kamari with its iconic, black-sanded beach. Kick off those sandals, dip your toes in refreshing waters and watch the vibrant village life roll by. Next, prepare for a taste sensation at a local winery offering wines that capture Santorini’s sun-drenched spirit. Swirl, sip and savour as the knowledgeable hosts share their passion for exceptional Greek vintages. Finally, as evening sets in, we’ll arrive in Oia, just in time to bask in its famous golden-hour glow. Special Experience Explore Oia, Santorini’s most famous and picturesque village, and witness an incredible sunset over the Aegean. Today is not the day to forget our cameras… Oia’s picture perfect whitewashed houses, blue domed churches and narrow winding streets are straight out of a movie set! Combined with the legendary sunset as it drops into the caldera is an image we won’t want to forget.

Enjoy the day at leisure to explore and relax in beautiful Santorini. Why not take a stroll along the caldera walkway which runs all the way from Fira, the island’s capital, to Oia, the stunning town located at its northern tip. Even a short walk can be visually astounding. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner in a local restaurant.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. Today marks the end of our adventure across fascinating Greece. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!

Halló and welcome to Reykjavík, the northernmost capital of any sovereign nation on earth! Despite being one of the smallest ‘big’ cities in the world, Iceland’s capital sure does pack quite the punch. It’s situated on the country’s southwest coast on the Seltjarnar Peninsula and is bordered on the other side by spectacularly imposing mountain ranges. Reykjavík is a city of alluring contrasts, perfectly blending aspects of the surrounding nature with a sophisticated cosmopolitan, yet small-town vibe. The city’s name derives from an Old Norse dialect translating to ‘smoky bay’, inspired by the steam that rises from its hot springs. Tonight, we’ll meet our fellow travellers and tour director at 5:30pm in the hotel reception for a wonderful welcome dinner at a local restaurant in Reykjavík’s harbour area. This gorgeous old harbour is the beating heart of the capital. Historically a hub for fisheries and trade, nowadays the area is more popularly known as a departure point for whale watching and Northern Lights tours. Soak up the seaside atmosphere as we tuck into a hearty Icelandic dish.

Boasting a rich history rooted in Viking heritage, Reykjavík is a totally unique city. Established as a trading post by Norse settlers in around 870 AD, the settlement evolved gradually until it became an official trading town in 1786. Reykjavík’s true transformation into a modern city happened in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, whereby the city has seen constant development to this day. Despite this, it still retains much of its ancient roots and charm. We begin our day with a tour of the city, including a visit to the iconic Perlan Wonders of Iceland Museum. A collection celebrating nature like no other, we’ll explore several exhibits such as the Northern Lights Show in the Planetarium, the Volcano Show, the Ice Cave and a visit to the Observation Deck. In the early afternoon, we will make our way to the beautiful Sky Lagoon, a geothermal spa perched on the coast of the Kopavogur Peninsula. Take your time here to relax in the lagoon and breathe in the refreshing ocean air. Embrace the natural warmth of the water and immerse yourself in the calming energy while you soak in the stunning views. Tonight, we’ll watch a performance of ‘How to become Icelandic in 60 minutes’. This punchy show blends education with comedy, and will teach us about the Icelandic people, their attitudes and about their everyday life. Get ready to learn, laugh and embrace your inner Icelander!

Farewelling the beauty of Reykjavík this morning, we’ll make our way to Reykholt, a tiny village that was once considered the intellectual centre of Iceland as it was home to one of the most important schools in the country. We’ll also travel through Barnafoss and the nearby Hraunfossar, two beautiful waterfalls that pour into the river Hvítá. Steeped in the legends of old folklore, Barnafoss’ bright blue waters gush over the landscape, while Hraunfossar is made up of a series of trickling streams that flow out of a lava-forged field. We continue on to Ytri Tunga Beach, standing out as one of the only beaches in Iceland to have golden sand instead of black sand! Here, we’ll get the chance to watch the resident Harbour and Grey Seals frolic and bask on rocks along the shoreline. A photo stop at the iconic Black Church of Budir is our next location, after which we head to the fascinating Ólafsvíkurkirkja Church, the first ‘modern’ Church in Iceland. Constructed entirely of trianglular pieces, admire the quirky geometric architecture before arriving at Arnarstapi Beach and taking in the beautiful coastal views from the cliff viewpoint. We’ll then travel to the small fishing village of Arnarstapi, located at the foot of Mt. Stapafell, where we will settle into our accommodation and enjoy the evening at leisure.

After breakfast, we’ll depart Arnarstapi and head towards Kirkjufell Mountain. At an elevation of 1519 feet above sea level, this towering landmark features a beautiful and distinct-shaped peak that spirals into the clouds above it. Considered by the locals as one of the most beautiful mountains on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, this striking natural spectacle even featured in the popular fantasy TV series, Game of Thrones. We continue our drive to the Bjarnarhöfn Shark Museum for a cultural dive into the 400-year-old story of the local family and their relationship with sharks. This unique guided tour takes us beyond biology, revealing the fascinating life cycle of shark meat and its importance to Icelandic culture. From its modern bycatch to the historical techniques used for preservation, our visit wraps up with a trip to the drying house, to see these methods in action, and, of course, to taste the legendary fermented shark. Next, we journey towards Skagi Peninsula, stopping for a stretch at the Glaumbær Farm and Museum. During our photo stop, we’ll be able to marvel at the traditional ‘turf houses’ built by Icelanders for hundreds of years into the 20th century. In the evening, we will arrive and check in to our hotel for the night.

Horses are intrinsic to the culture of Iceland. Here, they are known for their smaller but stocky build, thick, fluffy coats and their ability to navigate rough terrain. Special Experience Discover Langhus Horse Farm, an Icelandic family-owned farm where we’ll learn about traditional practices while enjoying local snacks. Nestled in the rolling countryside, taste some regional treats and take photos with these beautiful creatures as we experience life on a working family horse farm. Following our morning marvelling at the beautiful horses and learning from some friendly Icelandic locals, we’ll continue on to Akureyri via the stunning Siglufjörður. Considered to be the capital of the north with a population of just under 20,000 residents, Akureyri is situated at the base of Eyjafjörður Fjord and boasts quaint streets, cosy cafes and brightly painted houses. Renowned for its vibrant culture and thriving arts scene, in the centre of the city you’ll find the Akureyri Church with beautiful stained-glass windows portraying scenes from Icelandic Christian history – totally worth the visit! We’ll enjoy some free time in this beautiful city to explore at our own pace, before continuing on to our next stop, the mythical Goðafoss Waterfall. This spectacular waterfall has to be seen to be believed. Goðafoss cascades over a curved edge spanning over 30 metres in width and falls 12 metres deep into a bright blue pool at the bottom.

An early start to the day and a short walk will see us reaching the beautiful Dettifoss Waterfall found in Vatnajökull National Park. Said to be the second most powerful waterfall in Europe after the Rhine Falls in Switzerland, Dettifoss Waterfall is 100 metres wide and is 45 metres tall! It’s also referred to by some as the ‘The Beast’ in comparison to ‘The Beauty’ that is Goðafoss, due to its power rather than appearance. We’ll then stop to stretch our legs at the Ásbyrgi Canyon and enjoy the view from the lookout points, before setting off on an exciting whale watching cruise. Special Experience Embark on an unforgettable whale watching cruise in Húsavík, aboard a traditional Icelandic oak ship. Húsavík has built a reputation as the whale watching capital of Iceland, a total marine lover’s paradise. Here we’ll get the chance to spot minke whales, breaching humpbacks and playful dolphins – and if you’re really lucky, you might even spot a killer whale or fin whale. Special Experience Sink into the healing powers of the Geosea Geothermal Sea Baths, taking part in a custom deeply ingrained in Iceland’s cultural fabric. This world-class geothermal bath is heated from the ground and is packed with minerals, revitalising the skin. The geothermal seawater promotes muscle relaxation and stimulates circulation within the body, leaving you feeling totally rejuvenated. One dip here and you’ll never want to leave! Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Our first stop of the day is at Lake Mývatn, a beautiful series of connected lakes with many small islands littered throughout the water. Here we’ll also see the Skútustaðagígar pseudo-craters, before continuing on to Dimmuborgir to walk through the fascinating Lava Field, and Námaskarð to witness the mythical geothermal landscape. Next, we’ll drive to the Krafla Power Station, observing the structures that harness the abundance of geothermal energy in the region, before some free time for lunch in the highest situated farm in Iceland. In the early afternoon, we’ll reach renowned Stuðlagil Canyon, one of the world’s most enchanting basalt rock formations. Located in the Jökuldalur Valley, Stuðlagil Canyon was completely submerged under the river Jökla, until the water levels dropped several years ago, revealing the incredible canyon. From our viewpoint we’ll also be able to see the bright Stuðlafoss Waterfall, a cascading waterfall that flows down from the moss-covered basalt columns. The views here are simply otherworldly! We continue on to Egilsstaðir for a short comfort stop. Home to reindeer and a scenic combination of mountains, lakes and forests, the town serves as the gateway to the East Fjords, where we will later arrive and settle into our accommodation for the night.

We begin our morning with a visit to Djúpivogur, a lovely little town that is home to around 600 residents. The seaside village is surrounded by stunning mountains and has a rich cultural heritage as a critical trading post for the eastern region of Iceland. We’ll then make our way to Höfn, a charming fishing town where we’ll have some free time for lunch. Next, we will stop at Jökulsárlón Glacier lagoon, admiring the shimmering icebergs that break off from the glacier and drift onto the black sands of Diamond Beach along the way. In Jökulsárlón, we’ll embark on an exciting Amphibian boat trip on Glacier Lagoon, getting the chance to marvel at stunning 1,000-year-old icebergs. If we’re lucky, we may get the opportunity to spot playful marine life! Late this afternoon we’ll check in to our hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

After breakfast this morning, we’ll stop at Kirkjubæjarklaustur for a short walk on the lava field before setting off for Fjaðrárgljúfur, roughly translating to Feather River Canyon. Here, a river runs through the canyon centre and is surrounded by high grassy hills, creating a beautiful contrast. The walk to the canyon is roughly an hour, but the views that will greet are well worth it. We continue on to the quaint village of Vík, a seaside town situated just south of the Katla Volcano. Here, we’ll enjoy lunch at a popular family-owned eatery which originally began in a repurposed military container. After lunch, we stop at the renowned Icelandic Lava Show. The only live lava show in the world, this unique experience recreates a volcanic eruption by superheating real lava up to 1100°C. We’ll get the exclusive opportunity to get close to real molten lava, see it flowing, hear it sizzle and bask in the incredible heat it produces. Perhaps the most exciting part of our day, we’ll explore the Reynisfjara Black beach, the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss Waterfalls. Skógafoss is one of Iceland’s biggest waterfalls, with a drop of around 60 metres, and it’s also one of the most beautiful, with its water stream cascading over a lush cliff. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall is arguably one of Iceland’s most impressive with its elegant stream of water plunging deep into a round dish at the entrance of a cave that has formed over centuries. It’s one of the few waterfalls in Iceland that you can actually walk behind! 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 discover some of Iceland’s famous Golden Circle, a 300-kilometre loop that covers central Iceland. Our first stop is Thingvellir National Park, Iceland’s most important cultural landmark and where the world’s first parliament, The Althingi, was formed in 930AD. The parliament continued to meet here for more than 850 years and there are historical documents dating back to its earliest days. Assemblies lasted for two weeks a year in two areas of the park, the Lögberg (Law Rock), and the Lögrétta (Law Council). Today you can still see evidence of nearly 50 booths which were made from turf and stone. The park is also home to Iceland’s largest natural lake and marks the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, resulting in some mesmerising faults and canyons, as well as rifts filled with crystal-clear water. Special Experience Visit a family-owned tomato farm that grows crops all-year-round, enjoying a taste of the delicious produce. Discover a local greenhouse tomato farm and learn how they successfully grow tomatoes in this cold climate. While we are here, we will enjoy delicious tomato soup with freshly baked bread, made from the farm grown tomatoes. We’ll also discover Strokkur, a geyser that erupts every 10 minutes and with a spout of boiling water that can be as high as 30 metres. Our last stop of the day is the incredible Gullfoss Waterfalls or ‘Golden Falls’. If the sun is shining you might see a rainbow in the mist clouds, making for a beautiful photo. Recognised as Iceland’s most famous waterfall, Gullfoss is a double-tiered waterfall plunging around 31 metres into the Hvítá River below.

This morning we say goodbye to Hveragerði and make our way to Raufarhólshellir to tour the fascinating Lava Tunnel. This spectacular cave formed as a lava tube during the Leitahraun eruption that occurred around 5,200 years ago. The tunnel has an impressive total length of 1360 metres, with the main tunnel being 900 metres long. It can reach up to 30 metres wide and 10 metres high, making it one of the most expansive lava tunnels in Iceland. Next we visit the Krýsuvík Geothermal Area, where a winding boardwalk takes us through steam vents in mud pools, hot springs and sulphur deposits. The colourful natural landscape gives the area an otherworldly effect. In the early afternoon, our adventure takes us to the incredible Blue Lagoon, situated a little way out of town. This is perhaps one of Iceland’s most famous geothermal spas and is often a bucket-list item for travellers visiting the country. Named after the incredibly vibrant water colour, this geothermal spa is volcanically heated and contains minerals that encourages relaxation, nourishment and rejuvenation. Before we reach our accommodation for the night, we’ll make a photo stop at the Bridge Between Continents and the Reykjanes Lighthouse. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious farewell dinner, reminiscing on all of the fun experiences we’ve shared and sights we’ve seen on tour. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our new friends and to the spectacular scenery of Iceland.

Welcome to Oslo, the capital city of Norway. Bordered on one side by serene blue waters and on the other an expansive mountain range; this compact, yet incredibly charming city will draw you in from the get-go. Renowned for its lush gardens, captivating museums and delectable culinary culture, Oslo will delight you in more ways than you expect. We’ll meet our fellow travellers and our tour director at 1:00pm in the hotel reception for a brief orientation before kickstarting our Oslo sightseeing. We begin our city tour outside the award-winning Oslo Opera House. Completed in 2007 this impressive piece of modern architecture is home to the Norwegian Opera and Ballet. Its surrounding terraces offer some fantastic viewing platforms from which to take in Oslo and its surrounding fjord. We then pass by the Royal Palace to the main street, Karl Johan’s gate. Named after King Charles III John, it stretches a kilometre from Oslo Central Station to the Royal Palace, lined with shops, cafes and historic buildings. Continuing, we’ll head to Holmenkollbakken, the legendary ski jumping arena that’s been hosting competitions since the late 1800s. A great opportunity to soak in the views and learn all about Norway’s ski culture. Our last stop will be a visit to Vigeland Park, the world's largest sculpture park by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland. There are more than 200 sculptures in bronze, granite and cast iron on display here. Tonight, we will enjoy a delicious welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

The city of Oslo was founded in around 1050 A.D. as a Viking settlement and evolved quickly from its medieval roots to become Norway’s capital city in 1299. The 19th century saw big developments for Oslo, expanding and embracing modernity, a lasting identity that managed to seamlessly intertwine with its long history. This morning, we explore some of this history at the fascinating Kon-Tiki Museum. Here we’ll uncover the life of Norwegian adventurer and scientist Thor Heyerdahl, who crossed the Pacific Ocean on the balsawood raft ‘Kon-Tiki’ in 1947. We’ll be able to marvel at the original vessel, as well as learning about his expeditions to Polynesia, Easter Island, the Galapagos and more through interesting exhibits. The rest of the day is at leisure for you to explore at your own pace. During your free time, why not check out one of Oslo’s interesting museums? Perhaps a visit to the Norsk Folkemuseum or Fram Museum will be on your agenda today.

This morning we make our way to Lillehammer, a charming ski-resort town that gained international fame as the host of the 1994 Winter Olympic Games. Situated in the heart of Norway and just north of Oslo, Lillehammer’s unique combination of culture and historical significance make it a joy to explore. Since 2017, it has been recognised as a UNESCO City of Literature, and it’s in Lillehammer that the Norwegian Festival of Literature takes place—the largest of its kind in Scandinavia. Whilst here, we will explore the Norwegian Olympic Museum, a contemporary museum where we’ll uncover Olympic history from ancient times to the present day. We’ll also explore the fascinating Maihaugen, one of the oldest open-air museums in Europe. Here we will get the opportunity to see more than 200 historic houses than span from the 13th century to now, giving us an authentic insight into the Norwegian culture and of course, its rich heritage. A visit to Maihaugen is often described as a travelling back in time—ready to hop into the time machine? We’ll journey through the famous Peer Gynt region and the mythical ‘kingdom of trolls’, immersing ourselves in the evocative landscapes that inspired the story. This area, nestled within the stunning Gudbrandsdalen Valley, offers magical panoramic views of Norway’s beautiful countryside. We'll arrive at our hotel in the early evening, enjoying its peaceful location along the Gudbrandsdalslågen river, bordered by dense forests and rugged mountains.

We spend the morning driving through the Norwegian countryside as we make our way to Dombås, home to enchanting vistas and cozy cafes! Once you step off the coach, wander through the quaint streets and treat yourself to a local snack for lunch. Next, making our way to Bjorli we prepare for an extraordinary delight — a full-spectrum sensory feast awaits us aboard the Golden Train! Special Experience Board the Rauma Railway, one of Norway’s most scenic train journeys, and marvel at the dramatic natural landscapes passing by. Named Europe’s most beautiful railway line (and used as a backdrop for blockbusters like Harry Potter and Mission: Impossible), this train journey will put us front-row centre to Norway’s postcard-perfect scenery. While we will not be crossing paths with Tom Cruise here, we will be left captivated by steep peaks, serene rivers and charming rustic villages. Snap photos of the iconic Kylling Bridge and watch waterfalls cascade from mighty cliffs as we sit back, soak up the rolling scenery and experience the joy of slow travel to Åndalsnes. In the early evening, we’ll arrive in the quaint city of Molde, a small coastal town on the west coast of Norway. It’s affectionately referred to as the ‘City of Roses’ for its abundance of beautiful rose gardens, and it’s also home to the world’s oldest jazz festival, hosting hundreds of jazz enthusiasts from far and wide every summer. The night is for you to enjoy at leisure.

This morning we depart beautiful Molde and wind our way to Ålesund, first travelling on one of Norway’s most scenic routes, the Atlantic Road. On the Atlantic Road, we’ll travel between Bud and Kristiansund. This special stretch of road hugs the ocean’s edge and is considered to be one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Built to connect Averøy to the mainland, this 8-kilometre road will take us over pretty islands, islets and reefs. Make sure your camera is charged and you are seated next to a window! Famous for its Art Nouveau architecture painted in delightful pastel hues, Ålesund is considered the cultural centre of the Sunnmøre region and it’s not hard to understand why. Nestled along the water's edge, this compact town is framed by the majestic Alps in the backdrop and is a totally unique destination to visit. Ålesund is frequently referred to as Norway’s most pretty town! We’ll arrive in Ålesund, where the remainder of the day is free for you to explore this lovely town at your own pace. You may want to make the walk up to the Aksla Viewpoint for incredible panoramic vistas over the coastal town below.

A slow morning spent in Ålesund is on the agenda today, where you can soak in the vibes of this delightful little spot. Later on, we’ll set off to our next destination Geiranger, taking the scenic Trollstigen Road. One of Norway’s top driving experiences and most famous routes, this mountain pass is home to windy roads that zig-zag their way around spectacular mountains. It loosely translates into English as ‘The Troll’s Path’, linking Åndalsnes with the Valldal Valley and Geiranger. We’ll stop at beautiful look-out points along the way, so make sure you keep your cameras handy! After taking a short ferry trip, our drive continues along the iconic Ørnevegen, also known as Eagle’s Road. This road was officially opened in 1955 and gave the village of Geiranger year-round access, allowing the town to develop quicker over the years. This steep stretch of road was given its name because its highest point passed through a terrain traditionally inhabited by a large number of eagles! We’ll enjoy the road’s magnificent fjord and mountain views before our arrival at Geiranger in the late afternoon.

Welcome to Geiranger, one of the most beautiful villages in all of Norway. Beckoning with its magic natural landscapes, the area is known for its towering mountains, cascading waterfalls like the Seven Sisters and dazzling blue waters of the Geirangerfjord—which is often referred to as the ‘jewel in Norway’s crown of fjords’, and there’s good reason for it! Our day is dedicated to seeing the sites in and around Geiranger. We begin at Dalsniba, experiencing the magic of the Geiranger Skywalk. The air coming up from the iron grid floor gives you the sensation of floating, while the skywalk’s clear glass wall allows you to see 500 metres below into the fjord. Next we stop in the village of Lom to take a photo of the Lom Stave Church, one of the biggest and most beautiful in Norway. Built in the mid-12th century, this iconic church is incredibly well-preserved and acts as a fantastic example of medieval-stave churches. Interestingly, despite its ancient age, it is still an active parish! After lunch we continue to Klimapark 2469, an outdoor discovery centre with a focus on climate history, hunting traditions, geology and biology. With an experienced guide, we’ll take a unique tour across the Juvflye route, situated at the foot of the Galdhøpiggen mountain. This 2-kilometre walk is full of educational information displays, and at the end of the walkway is the man-made Juvfonne Ice Tunnel that will see us walking 70 metres into 7000-year-old ice. Special Experience Step back in time to the Stone Age, descending into an ice tunnel to marvel at 7000-year-old ice at Kilmapark 2469. We’ll drive back to Geiranger this afternoon and enjoy dinner at the hotel tonight. 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 an incredible cruise down the famous Geirangerfjord, cruising between Geiranger and Hellesylt. A UNESCO Heritage-listed Site that frequents travellers’ bucket-lists; the Geirangerfjord is cocooned by steep mountains, azure waters and small farms that cling to the mountain’s sides. We’ll also marvel at the Knivsflå waterfalls, which are more commonly referred to as the ‘Seven Sisters’ and ‘the Suitor’ waterfalls—these are some of the most photographed in the whole of Norway! Our journey then takes us to the small village of Loen, where we’ll go from fjord to mountain on the impressive Loen Skylift. We will board one of the steepest cable cars in the world and ascend over 1-kilometre almost straight up Mount Hoven, enjoying spectacular views of the landscape below. At the top, we’ll indulge in a delicious three-course lunch at Hoven Restaurant, complete with locally sourced ingredients. This unique eatery is situated on the edge of the cliffside and boasts panoramic views of the fjord landscapes below—this is definitely not your average lunch! We continue on to our next destination, winding our way past the stunning Stryn and Loen Vatn lakes. We’ll make a photo stop at Bøyabreen Glacier viewpoint, taking in the vistas of the incredible fjord up close, before making our way to Sognefjord.

Wake up in a stunning little town nestled on the shores of Sognefjord. Known for its natural beauty, this area offers a captivating blend of fjords, mountains, and lush greenery. This morning, we’ll make our way to the village of Flåm via the Lærdal Tunnel for our first activity of the day! As we make our way through the tunnel, you’ll notice the tunnel walls lit up beautifully, giving the illusion of gliding through a sparkling iceberg. Special Experience Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime cruise through the beautiful Nærøyfjord, marvelling at the scenery as you journey from Flåm to Gudvangen. In Flåm, we’ll board a first-class electric vessel and enjoy a stunning 'silent' cruise along the Nærøyfjord to Gudvangen, a small town located at the end of the Nærøyfjord where the Nærøydalselvi River empties into the fjord. The fjord itself is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Site, due to the exceptional natural beauty stemming from the narrow and steep-sided crystalline rock walls that rise up 1,400 metres from the Norwegian Sea and extend 500 metres below sea level. It is amongst the world’s longest and deepest fjords and has many waterfalls, free-flowing rivers, forests, and glaciers. We’ll then make our way to Flåm Station, where we’ll take a stunning train ride from Flåm to Myrdal. Travelling the return journey on the Flåmsbana back to Flåm, be sure not to miss any of the amazing vistas on offer. Said to be one of the greatest engineering feats in Norway, the Flåm Railway is a 20-kilometre track that runs past trickling waterfalls, imposing mountains, and bright fjords—a total feast for the eyes! Travelling through the Nærøy Valley to our hotel, we will stop for an amazing photo opportunity looking down the valley, a true highlight for all travellers when visiting western Norway.

Today our eyes are set on reaching the beautiful town of Bergen. We’ll start the day off by driving to Ulvik, a peaceful town set amongst steep mountains and lush orchards. While here, we will enjoy a tour of the Hardanger Factory and Cider Farm, a local farm that produces highly acclaimed apple-based products. We’ll also have some free time to explore the idyllic town. Next, we will drive to Hardanger Akvasenter Salmon Farm, stopping for a photo at the Hardanger Bridge en route, one of the world’s longest suspension bridges. This unique place is an informative visitor centre for aquaculture and includes interactive exhibitions about the life cycle of salmon and a floating salmon farm that’s in full production on the Hardangerfjord. We’ll also delight in a delicious lunch at this unique location! We’ll make a photo stop at the impressive Steinsdal Waterfall, where we have the opportunity to walk behind the falls themselves—without getting wet, of course! The waterfall has a 50-metre drop which makes for a fantastic picture. Continuing on, we’ll reach Bergen in the late afternoon and enjoy the evening at leisure to explore this exciting, yet super cosy, city at our own pace.

The enchanting coastal city of Bergen is surrounded by seven mountains and seven fjords, making it a totally unique location to explore. Norway’s second largest city, Bergen is home to colourful historic buildings that reflect traditional Norwegian architecture. Bergen offers a delightful blend of vibrant culture, rich history and incredible natural wonders—the absolute jackpot for any keen traveller. They say Bergen captures the very essence of Norway, and we’re about to see why—we’re in store for a real treat! We begin our morning with a walking tour of Bergen, exploring the must-see sites of this pretty city. First, we head to the UNESCO Heritage-listed Bryggen Quarter to marvel at the photogenic traditional houses that hug the Hanseatic wharf—a recognisable symbol of not only Bergen, but Norway as a whole. Once a place of trade for thousands of years, Bryggen is now home to local artisans and traders! We’ll then continue on with a visit St Mary’s Church, the oldest building in Bergen, before exploring the fish market that is situated on the banks of the stunning wharf. The afternoon is at leisure for you to explore at your own pace, perhaps you’ll choose to ascend Mt Floien or visit Troldhaugen, the former home of composer Edvard Grieg. We’ll meet up again this evening at Bergen pier and journey to our dinner location in Holmen on a stunning cruise. We will delight in a farewell dinner at one of Bergen’s most loved (and delicious!) restaurants.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our new friends and to the wonders of beautiful Norway.

Welcome to Stockholm, Sweden’s elegant capital located on the south-east coast, on the Baltic Sea. Spread across 14 islands of distinctly different character and connected by 57 bridges, the city exudes charm and is just begging to be explored. Often hailed as one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, Stockholm dazzles with its striking architecture, sparkling waterways and lush green spaces. With UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites like the majestic Royal Palace Drottningholm and the peaceful Skogskyrkogården, Stockholm perfectly blends timeless history with modern elegance. You will meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director at 6:30pm in the hotel reception for a welcome drink this evening.

This morning, after breakfast, we’ll set off on a panoramic tour to explore the best of Stockholm. Our first stop will be the impressive City Hall, where we’ll admire its stunning architecture and learn about its fascinating history. It’s one of Stockholm’s most famous landmarks, and you’ll soon see why! Next, we’ll drive past some of the city’s main attractions, giving you a chance to take in Stockholm’s beauty from the comfort of our coach. Then, we’ll step into the heart of the city for a leisurely stroll through Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old City. With its cobblestone streets and colourful buildings, this charming area is full of character. We’ll pause here for a leisurely lunch break, where you’ll have the opportunity to savour some delicious Swedish dishes with the locals. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the incredible Vasa Museum, home to the remarkable Vasa ship. This 17th century ship, which sank on its maiden voyage, has been carefully restored and now stands as one of Sweden’s most treasured artifacts. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Enjoy the morning at leisure to discover more of Stockholm at your own pace. With an abundance of palaces and museums, there’s a lot to do in the city. If you’re an ABBA fan, why not visit their very own museum where the legendary Swedish pop group comes to life! Alternatively, you can take a stroll through Hötorget or the Haymarket, two lively areas in the heart of Stockholm. These vibrant squares are known for their bustling atmosphere, historic building and thriving shopping scene. Don’t forget to explore the market stall, where you can try some local treats and unique products. Later this afternoon, we’ll transfer to the ferry terminal to board our overnight ferry to Helsinki. As we set sail, you can relax and unwind, taking in the peaceful views across the water.

Disembarking this morning, we’ll step off the ferry and into the vibrant, charming capital of Finland, Helsinki. Known for its stunning waterfront, laid-back atmosphere and creative design, Helsinki truly blends the old with the new. With its reputation as the “City of Design,” you’ll quickly notice how beautifully modern architecture mixes with traditional buildings, making it a real treat for the eyes. Our city tour will take us past some of Helsinki’s most famous sights. We’ll stop for photos at iconic landmarks like Senate Square, the grand Uspenski Cathedral, and Parliament House. We’ll also visit Finlandia Hall, a striking piece of modern architecture. Then, we’ll take a peaceful stroll through Sibelius Park, where you’ll see the unique monument dedicated to Finland’s beloved composer, Jean Sibelius. Next, we’ll explore the fascinating Underground Temple, carved right into solid rock — it’s unlike any church you’ve ever seen! Thereafter, we’ll visit the impressive Temppeliaukion Church, another architectural wonder built directly into rock that you won’t forget. We’ll break for lunch at a local market, for the opportunity to sample Finnish specialties. The rest of the afternoon is then yours to explore more of Helsinki at leisure.

We depart Helsinki this morning and enjoy a scenic flight north into the beautiful Ruka–Kuusamo region. This part of Finland is a popular destination year-round, and Ruka is one of the country’s largest ski resorts. The area’s stunning wilderness offers a variety of outdoor experiences, from peaceful snowshoeing to relaxing by the warm fire in a cozy cabin. Ruka’s remote location, far from the big cities and close to the Arctic Circle, makes it a fantastic spot for catching a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Upon arrival we’ll head to Lammintupa, a local farm where we’ll savour a traditional smoked lunch and immerse ourselves in authentic Finnish activities. Afterward, we’ll check in and enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.

Today, we’ll venture into the stunning Oulanka National Park, located near the border with Russia. This breathtaking park is a true photographer’s paradise, bursting with diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes. As we stroll through this natural wonder, we’ll be surrounded by lush forests and rushing rivers, with some of Finland’s most impressive waterfalls adding to the scene. We’ll also have the chance to pick in-season mushrooms and grill delicious sausages over an open fire — because nothing beats a meal enjoyed in the great outdoors! After our adventure in the park, we’ll continue on to the Ruka Scenic Gondola. As we ascend to the peak of Ruka, we’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding fells and hills, offering a completely new perspective on the landscape. In autumn, the vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold paint the scenery, creating a truly magical sight. Special Experience Enjoy a unique hands-on experience at a cooking class of local Finnish delights with a professional chef. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

We begin our journey early, heading further north into the heart of Lapland, where the magic of the Arctic awaits. This unique region is famous for its natural wonders, including the mesmerising northern lights in winter. Our scenic drive from Ruka to Luosto takes us through Finland's tranquil forests, offering a peaceful journey through beautiful landscapes. Once in Luosto, we’ll visit the Lampivaara Amethyst Mine. Here, we’ll learn about the fascinating formation of amethysts and how they are mined in this stunning part of Finland. After our adventure, you might wish to grab a snack at the mine’s café — the perfect spot to savour local dishes and maybe pick up a special souvenir too. Next, we’ll continue our drive to Inari, a small town in the heart of Lapland, known for its rich Sámi culture and breathtaking surroundings. Upon arrival at the hotel, you’ll have time to unwind and relax in your in-room Finnish sauna, an important part of Finnish culture in this region.

This morning, we visit a husky farm where we will meet arctic sled dogs. Every one of these majestic animals has a special story, which the musher will share with us. After our visit, we’ll take a leisurely stroll through the Open-Air Museum in Inari. This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the traditional ways of life in the Lapland region. We’ll then enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savouring regional Finnish dishes made from locally sourced ingredients in a welcoming setting. We’ll then visit the Siida Museum and Nature Centre, offering an immersive look into the lives of the Sámi people, the Indigenous inhabitants of the Lapland region. The museum features a vast collection of Sámi artefacts, including tools, artwork and displays of reindeer herding techniques passed down through generations. Through both indoor and outdoor exhibits, we’ll explore their rich culture, history and way of life, from ancient traditions to modern-day practices. In the afternoon, we’ll visit a reindeer farm. Reindeer have been an essential part of Finnish life for centuries. Believed to have been domesticated during the Bronze and Iron Ages, these majestic creatures have long been herded by the Sámi people. Their meat, fur and antlers are still used today, continuing a centuries-old tradition.

We bid farewell the charming town of Inari and set off on a scenic drive as we cross into Norway and journey to the area of Karasjok, the country’s heart of Sámi culture. Driving through this picturesque region, we’ll immerse ourselves in the rich traditions and history of the Sámi people. Our first stop will be Sápmi Park, where we’ll have the chance to learn about Sámi culture in an entertaining and informative way. The park offers a fascinating glimpse into their way of life. It’s also a great spot to pick up some traditional Sámi handicrafts, known as duodji. Throughout the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey, making scenic photo stops along the way and taking a break at Olderfjord, as we break up our time on the road. Upon arrival into Honningsvag, we’ll check into our hotel and enjoy a group dinner this evening.

This morning we head to the iconic North Cape, where cliffs rise over 300 metres above the Barents Sea, offering a truly breathtaking view. At North Cape Hall, we’ll have time to explore fascinating exhibits about this remarkable place and its history. You’ll also have the chance to mail postcards from Europe’s northernmost point, 71° North! Be sure to snap a photo by the iconic globe sculpture outside, marking your spot at the edge of the world. Next we’ll set off on a scenic drive to Alta, the journey promises to be unforgettable, with stunning views of Norway’s rugged landscapes along the way. Expect to see picturesque fjords, rolling hills, and dramatic coastal beauty as we make our way through this wild and tranquil region. Once we arrive in Alta, we’ll visit the Alta Museum, home to the famous UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rock Carvings. These ancient carvings, dating back thousands of years, provide a fascinating window into the lives of early humans in this remote corner of Norway. The museum’s engaging exhibits will give us a deeper understanding of the area’s rich history and the stories these carvings tell. We’ll thereafter check into our hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure before dinner.

This morning, we’ll set off on a spectacular drive through Norway’s breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, we’ll stop in Gildetun for a coffee break and photo opportunity, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere before continuing our journey. In the afternoon, we’ll board a ferry from Olderdalen to Lyngseidet, with more stunning vistas across the fjords. Then, we’ll hop on another ferry from Svensby to Breivikeidet, gliding smoothly over the water while taking in the awe-inspiring landscapes around us. Once we arrive in Tromsø, the Arctic Capital, we’ll check into our hotel and have some time to relax. Tromsø, located 350 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, is known for its unique blend of centuries-old wooden buildings and modern architecture, all surrounded by fjords and snow-capped peaks. It’s also one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, and during the summer months, the Midnight Sun lights up the skies. If the weather allows this evening, we’ll take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Storsteinen to enjoy the magnificent vistas over the city and the surrounding islands.

Our morning sightseeing tour of Tromsø will introduce you to the charm of this Arctic city. We’ll begin at the Arctic Cathedral, an architectural gem that mirrors the stark, majestic beauty of the Arctic landscape. From there, we’ll head to the Tromsø Museum, where you can dive into the region’s fascinating history, from the Indigenous Sámi people to its pivotal role in Arctic exploration. After that, we’ll enjoy a leisurely stroll through the Botanic Garden, home to a remarkable collection of Arctic and alpine plants. Next, we’ll visit the Cod Museum, where we’ll discover how cod fishing has shaped Norway’s history and culture. This museum is a tribute to the fish that has nourished the nation for centuries, and you’ll have the chance to indulge in a delicious cod-tasting experience. It’s a treat for the taste buds and a great way to explore Norwegian food traditions. This afternoon will be yours to relax and explore Tromsø at your own pace. In the evening, we’ll visit the northernmost Magic Ice-art Gallery, where incredible ice sculptures are on display in a chilled and magical setting. Special Experience Enjoy a drink at an ice bar and gallery where everything, including the glasses, is made of crystal-clear ice from Norway.

This morning, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Oslo, Norway’s vibrant capital. While Oslo dates back to around 1000 AD, it’s still considered quite young compared to other European cities. Over the centuries, the city has faced its share of challenges, including several fires that destroyed much of it. In fact, Oslo wasn’t named the capital of Norway until the 1800s, which means many of its iconic landmarks, like the Royal Palace and Stortinget (the Parliament), were built relatively recently. Oslo is known for its exceptional quality of life and is often ranked as one of Europe’s most desirable places to live. Nestled at the northernmost point of the Oslofjord and surrounded by lush hills and mountains, the city offers a perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. Oslo is also famous for its expansive parks and green spaces, which give the city a refreshing, airy feel. We arrive in Oslo in the afternoon, with the rest of the day free to enjoy at leisure. You might like to relax at the Oslofjord Promenade or explore the Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen waterfront areas, soaking in the beauty of the Oslofjord.

This morning, we begin our city tour outside the award-winning Oslo Opera House. Completed in 2007 this impressive piece of modern architecture is home to the Norwegian Opera and Ballet. Its surrounding terraces offer some fantastic viewing platforms from which to take in Oslo and its surrounding fjord. We then pass by the Royal Palace to the main street, Karl Johan’s gate. Named after King Charles III John, it stretches a kilometre from Oslo Central Station to the Royal Palace, lined with shops, cafes and historic buildings. Continuing, we’ll head to Holmenkollbakken, the legendary ski jumping arena that’s been hosting competitions since the late 1800s. A great opportunity to soak in the views and learn all about Norway’s ski culture. We’ll continue to Bygdøy and explore the Fram Museum, a fascinating museum dedicated to Norwegian polar exploration and the famous polar ship, Fram. Our last stop will be a visit to Vigeland Park, the world's largest sculpture park by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland. There are more than 200 sculptures in bronze, granite and cast iron on display here.

Our day starts as we embark on a scenic drive from Oslo to Gol, taking us through Norway’s breathtaking countryside. As we wind through rolling hills and lush greenery, we’ll stop in Hemsedalen, a stunning mountain plateau where you’ll feel on top of the world, surrounded by dramatic peaks and crisp alpine air. Once we arrive in Gol, we’ll have some free time to enjoy lunch and explore the charming village. From there, we’ll head to Borgund, a place brimming with history and natural beauty. Known for its traditional wooden buildings and picturesque views, Borgund is perfect for a few memorable photos. Next, we’ll visit the iconic Borgund Stave Church, a 12th-century masterpiece showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of Norway’s medieval past. Its stunning wooden carvings and unique design reflect the Viking influence on architecture and woodworking. Finally, we’ll make our way to Lærdal, a picturesque town nestled at the end of the magnificent Sognefjord. After our journey, we’ll settle in and later enjoy a delightful group dinner at the hotel.

This morning, we’ll drive to the village of Flåm, passing through the famous Lærdal Tunnel. As we make our way through, you’ll notice the tunnel walls lit up beautifully, giving the illusion of gliding through a sparkling iceberg. Here, we’ll board the famous Flåmsbana train for a breathtaking ride up to Myrdal. This scenic journey is one of the steepest in the world, offering views of lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and towering mountains. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience, and we’ll all have our cameras ready for the stunning vistas! On the return journey, we’ll get the opportunity to relive the stunning scenery from a different perspective. Special Experience Ride the famous Flåm Railway, enjoying some of Norway’s most dramatic scenery as you wind your way through mountains and past fjords. Next, we’ll board a first-class electric vessel for a serene, ‘silent’ cruise along the Nærøyfjord. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed fjord is pure magic, with its towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most beautiful places in the world! In the afternoon, we’ll head back to the hotel to unwind before dinner.

Departing today, we’ll set off on a scenic drive through the Nærøy Valley (Nærøydalen), one of the most picturesque valleys in Norway. This area is famous for its dramatic landscapes, with steep mountains, winding rivers, and small traditional farms tucked into the hills. The valley is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and untouched charm. As we make our way toward Stalheim, we’ll be surrounded by views of lush forests and towering peaks. At Stalheim, we’ll make a stop at the viewpoint, which offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the Nærøyfjord below. This spot has been a favourite for travellers for centuries, and it’s easy to see why — it's the kind of view that takes your breath away. We'll also enjoy a coffee break here, giving us time to soak in the beauty of the area and take some photos before continuing on our journey. Our next stop will be the famous Tvindefossen Waterfall, a powerful and picturesque cascade that falls 150 meters into a lush green gorge. Known for its unique, multi-tiered structure, it’s one of Norway’s most popular waterfalls and a great spot for photos. We’ll then head towards Bergen, where the remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure.

The charming city of Bergen will greet us with its colourful wooden buildings, scenic harbour, and winding cobblestone streets. Nestled between mountains, Bergen is known as the "City of Seven Mountains,” and it’s easy to see why! We’ll enjoy a walking tour through the historic Bryggen quarter, where you’ll find the vibrant Hanseatic buildings lining the waterfront. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site showcases the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. Along the way, we’ll pass St. Mary’s Church, a beautiful medieval gem, before making a stop at the bustling Fish Market. The fresh seafood and lively atmosphere will give you a true taste of local life. We’ll have some free time to enjoy lunch in the heart of the city. For an authentic taste of Bergen, indulge in the local fish soup, or treat yourself to a “skillingsboller,” a sweet, cinnamon-infused pastry adored by the locals. We'll then visit Troldhaugen, the tranquil lakeside home of composer Edvard Grieg, where we’ll soak in the peaceful surroundings and learn a bit about Norway’s musical history. Later, we’ll hop on the funicular railway to the top of Mt. Fløyen, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains—perfect for a photo! The rest of the evening is yours to relax, explore or simply soak in the charm of this stunning city.

Today we fly south to Denmark’s cosmopolitan capital, Copenhagen, a city where old-world charm meets modern flair. As we soar over the Scandinavian landscape, we’ll catch glimpses of lush forests, sparkling waters and charming villages — an absolutely stunning way to start the day! Upon arrival, we’ll stretch our legs and enjoy some free time for lunch in the vibrant Canal Area of Nyhavn. Built in the 17th century, this iconic harbour was once the lively heart of Copenhagen’s maritime trade. Today, it’s a postcard come to life with beautiful townhouses, gently bobbing wooden ships, and cafés spilling out onto cobblestone streets. Hans Christian Andersen even called this charming place home. From here, we’ll embark on a delightful canal cruise that offers a unique perspective of this captivating city. As we glide along the water, we’ll pass colourful buildings and scenic bridges, setting the perfect tone for our adventure. In the afternoon, we’ll check into our hotel to unwind. Later, we’ll enjoy a special dinner with a local Danish family, soaking in the warmth of true Danish hospitality.

With an exciting day ahead, we first visit the Tivoli Gardens, the second-oldest operating amusement park in the world, and a place that’s fascinated visitors since 1843! This place is bursting with charm, from thrilling rides to stunning gardens, spectacular shows and fun performances. Next, we’ll enjoy a panoramic city tour, driving past some of Copenhagen’s most iconic landmarks. We’ll pass through City Hall Square, Tivoli Gardens, and the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek. We’ll also see the National Museum, the Old Stock Exchange, and the Naval Church. As we make our way to Kings New Square, we’ll stop by the famous Gefion Fountain. Our tour will include a photo stop at the stunning Amalienborg Palace, the residence of Denmark's Royal Family. No visit to Copenhagen is complete without seeing the Little Mermaid statue, one of the city’s most beloved monuments. We complete our sightseeing with a guided tour of Christiansborg Palace. This grand palace was once home to kings and queens and is now the seat of the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the Ministry of State. As we explore, we’ll walk through 800 years of history, taking in the impressive Great Hall and the Royal Stables. Tonight, we have our group farewell dinner, where we’ll delight in the cuisine at a local restaurant.

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

Welcome to Helsinki, the sparkling gem that sits proudly on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, nestled between Stockholm, Tallinn, and Saint Petersburg. This stylish city earned the title of the World Design Capital in 2012, luring in trendsetters and explorers alike. Thanks to the visionary architect Carl Ludvig Engel, Helsinki boasts a jaw-dropping neoclassical city centre with the magnificent Senate Square stealing the show. But that's not all. This city is a feast for the eyes, flaunting a fabulous mix of architectural styles from neoclassical elegance to whimsical Art Nouveau, all the way to sleek modern functionalism. 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 this evening for a welcome drink at the hotel.

Get ready to dive into the heart of Helsinki on a city tour that promises to delight. Get your cameras ready as we drive through the city’s vibrant streets, where every turn presents a new postcard-worthy view. First up, marvel at the magnificent Senate Square, a grand stage for Helsinki’s neoclassical wonders. Feel the grace of the Uspenski Cathedral, standing proud with its domes glistening in the sunlight, and take in the grandeur of the Parliament House. Our journey continues as we admire the sleek, modern lines of Finlandia Hall, stroll through the verdant tranquillity of Sibelius Park & Monument, and uncover the mysterious allure of the Underground Temple. But hold onto your hats, because the highlight awaits — the astounding Temppeliaukio Church, or, as the locals call it, the Rock Church. Carved directly into the bedrock, this architectural gem is an astounding fusion of nature and human creation. After feeding our imagination, we’ll satisfy our appetites at a bustling local market. Enjoy some free time to wander, explore, and indulge in a leisurely lunch, discovering the local flavours. Later in the evening, we'll reconvene for a group welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

This morning we board a ferry to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Suomenlinna. Set on a cluster of islands connected by bridges, it was a maritime fortress and base for the Archipelago Fleet built in the 1700s by Sweden and known at the time as Viapori. It was then under the rule of the Russian Imperial Government in the 1800s. In 1917 Finland gained independence from Russia and in 1918 they renamed the site Suomenlinna, or ‘Castle of Finland’, to reflect their new independence. As one of Finland’s most beloved attractions, it's a must-see! After soaking up the history and picturesque views, we ferry back to Helsinki. The afternoon is your blank canvas — paint it with your own adventure! Dive into Finnish culture by unwinding in one of the city’s thousands of saunas, a sanctuary of warmth and relaxation. Got a sweet tooth? Stroll to a nearby bakery and sink your teeth into a scrumptious lingonberry pie. Whether you indulge, explore, or simply wander, the choice is yours.

After breakfast we bid farewell to Helsinki and set sail on a ferry to our next destination. This afternoon, we'll reach Tallinn, the capital situated on the southern coast of the Gulf of Finland. Tallinn is a city that caters to every palate, blending the charming Old Town, known for its medieval architecture, with a bustling modern hub of skyscrapers, vibrant bars, and enticing restaurants. After some free time for lunch, we begin with a drive around Tallinn’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. Get ready to be dazzled by the ancient city wall’s charm and timeless beauty. We arrive in the Upper Town, or Castle Hill, where our journey starts with a walk through the cobbled streets. Our destination? A breathtaking viewing platform that showcases the Old Town spread out beneath us like a scene out of a fairy-tale. Next, we’ll make our way down to the lively lower Old Town. Prepare to be wowed by the Town Wall and its striking towers, the Gothic Town Hall from the 15th century, and Saint Nicholas Church, now a treasure trove of medieval art. But that's not all! We'll visit one of the world’s oldest pharmacies, open since 1422 AD, and stroll past authentic merchant houses once buzzing with the Hanseatic League's trade secrets. We’ll wrap up our tour with a pleasant stroll along the bustling shopping street, leaving the evening free for you to create your own Tallinn memories. Enjoy every moment of it!

Take the day to unwind and explore the wonders of Tallinn at your own pace. Perhaps consider taking a leisurely stroll through the Old Town square, where history meets charm at every corner. Sip a rich coffee or savour a delicious pastry at one of the many quaint cafes, each with its own unique story to tell. Wander past vibrant storefronts and tempting eateries, the air filled with enticing aromas. Whether it’s indulging in a bit of shopping or simply soaking up the local vibe, every moment spent here will be nothing short of delightful.

Today we’re off on a cross-border adventure into Latvia. Our first stop is Sigulda, a town that is hedged by breathtaking scenery from the neighbouring Gauja National Park. Just a stone’s throw from town right in the heart of the National Park, we’ll dive into history at Turaida Castle, a 13th-century medieval marvel that towers over the verdant landscape. It's more than just stone and mortar; it’s a fascinating part of the museum reserve that invites exploration and wonder. Special Experience Visit the once top secret Ligatne Soviet Bunker, concealed 9 metres beneath the surface. Declassified in 2003, the bunker was constructed in the 1980s for the political elite who would govern the state in the event of a nuclear war. Its 2,000 square metres of space was intended to accommodate up to 250 people. The bunker had direct communication lines with the Kremlin and was self-sustaining, able to produce its own electricity and filter oxygen and water. This evening, we arrive in Riga, the vibrant heartbeat of the Baltics! Despite a history of wars, regime changes, and economic shifts, Riga pulses with energy and charm. This dynamic city attracts visitors with its colourful old town and rich history, but what really is the draw card is its electrifying nightlife — one of Europe's most popular!

Our morning sightseeing tour features Riga’s most iconic landmarks. We begin with a drive along the central boulevards, soaking in the scenery of the City Canal parks, Bastion Hill, and the intriguing Powder Tower. Feast your eyes on the Latvian National Theatre, the Fine Arts Museum, and the stunning Art Nouveau buildings from the early 20th century. We’ll then encounter the majestic Freedom Monument, the University of Latvia, and the picturesque Daugava River. We’ll then experience the ‘Concerto Piccolo’, a 20-minute organ concert in the beautiful Dome Cathedral. The Riga Dome Cathedral’s organ is considered one of the world’s most valuable historic organs, built in 1883 and dating to the period of late Romanticism. We will also discover Old Riga on a walking tour. Sights include the Dome Cathedral, Saint Peter’s Church, Parliament House and Old Riga Castle. Picture-perfect streets reveal restored buildings now bustling with lively restaurants, cozy cafes, vibrant bars and delightful souvenir shops. Special Experience Journey into the past with a visit and tasting at the Riga Black Magic Bar. Originating in the 18th century, this Apothecary bar was created by Abraham Kunze who served special blends of herbs that are said to have healing benefits for a range of diseases. Today the bar sells its Black Riga balsam developed from a 250-year-old recipe, as well as a range of chocolates and desserts made with balsam. The rest of the afternoon is yours to savour at your own pace. For a true local experience, why not explore the vibrant Riga Central Markets? Dive into a unique shopping adventure and admire stunning 20th century architecture while soaking up the lively atmosphere.

We depart Riga in the morning and travel to Rundāle Palace. An ornate 18th century masterpiece of Baroque and Rococo artistry, this palace boasts an incredible 136 lavish rooms. Originally crafted as a summer haven for Duke Ernst Johann of Courland, this palace was meticulously remodelled from 1765 to 1768 AD by a talented German sculptor and Italian painters. Their artistic magic still graces the interiors to this day. Get ready to be wowed by this regal gem of northern Europe! Special Experience Receive a Rococo-style welcome at Rundāle Palace, including a tour through the opulent apartments, before enjoying a short baroque music concert. As we journey south, we'll pause to explore the remarkable Hill of Crosses, a sacred pilgrimage site shrouded in mystery. No one knows for certain how the tradition of placing crosses here began, but it's believed to honour the lives lost during the Eastern European and Russian Empire uprisings during the 1800s. Even during Soviet times, when authorities repeatedly removed them, the crosses would miraculously reappear overnight. Today, this powerful site embodies the resilience, hope, devotion, and unwavering faith of the Lithuanian people. It’s hard not to be moved by this profound symbol of endurance. We then make our way to Vilnius, the captivating capital of Lithuania. This picturesque city is sure to impress with its enchanting Baroque Old Town and idyllic setting along the serene banks of the Neris and Vilnia Rivers.

This morning, our city tour of Vilnius kicks off at the Cathedral of Vilnius. We then proceed to explore the charming Old Town located on the left bank of the Neris River, showcasing the rich heritage of Lithuania. Along the way, we pause to admire the 16th-century Gothic masterpiece, Saint Anne's Church, and the baroque-style Church of Saint Peter and Paul, dating back to the 17th century. Our next stop is Vilnius University, established in 1579 and renowned as the oldest and most prestigious institution in the Baltic region. Throughout its long history, the university faced various challenges, including an 80-year closure following the November Uprising and periods of occupation by Soviet and German forces. Following Lithuania's independence in 1991, the university proudly regained its position as one of Eastern Europe's top higher education institutions. Next up, is the 17th century Baroque Chapel of the Gate of Dawn, a significant pilgrimage destination for Catholics. This chapel is renowned for its housing of the captivating Madonna of Vilnius painting. Our tour concludes at the Amber Gallery, further exploring Lithuania’s fascinating past. After our busy morning of sightseeing, we’ll visit the amazing Alaus Biblioteka, also known as the ‘Beer Library’. Dive into scrumptious platters paired with tastings of the unique range of beers on offer, all in a cozy library-like pub setting – which some would argue is better than a real library! This afternoon is free for you to enjoy at leisure. The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy at leisure.

It’s time to bid farewell to Lithuania and cross the border into Poland. Nestled in the heart of Europe, Poland has played the dual role of being a connecting link and a historical battleground between Eastern and Western Europe. Our first stop is the picturesque village of Wigry to visit the former Camaldolese Monastery. This historic gem was crafted by the Camaldolese monks on a peninsula of Lake Wigry in the 1600s. Ready your cameras and capture a piece of history! Next, we're off to the laid-back town of Augustow! Stroll around, soak in the serenity, and treat yourself to a leisurely lunch. It's the perfect spot to unwind and savour the slower pace! Our final stop is Bialystok, the vibrant heart of northeastern Poland. Surrounded by numerous National Parks, this diverse city is the largest in the region, boasting a rich tapestry of Polish, Jewish, and Belarusian influences, creating a unique cultural blend that's all its own. Arriving in the afternoon, we'll be greeted by the city’s bustling charm and lively spirit. A local guide will whisk us away on a short, panoramic tour showcasing the towns highlights. From its fascinating architecture to its colourful history, Bialystok is a cultural feast for the senses promising many photo-worthy opportunities.

Today, we’re off to the spell-binding village of Bialowieza, nestled in the heart of the legendary Bialowieza Forest. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonderland is a true time capsule, preserving one of the last remnants of the primeval forest that once swept across the European plain. As we journey through this old-growth forest, you’ll feel like a woodland explorer stepping back in time. The forest is teeming with wildlife, particularly the mighty European bison, which were saved from extinction and now roam freely in this dense biosphere reserve. Bialowieza offers an unforgettable escape into the wild beauty of a bygone era, largely untouched by man. Embrace the fresh air and let the magic of this ancient forest capture your spirit. Special Experience Enjoy a horse and carriage ride through the Bialowieza Forest, the natural habitat of the majestic European bison. We return to the village for some leisure time and lunch. Then, it's time to sit back and relax as we journey to the bustling metropolis of Warsaw, Poland’s largest city and vibrant capital. Watch as the picturesque rolling hills and lush forests give way to Warsaw’s dynamic skyline. This captivating city blends old-world charm with modern flair, showcasing a tapestry of architectural styles that reflect its fascinating history and resilience. From the grandeur of Royal Castle to the lively buzz of its squares, Warsaw promises an exciting blend of innovation and tradition, inviting us to delve into its unique cultural mosaic.

Our journey kicks off in Warsaw’s captivating Old Town, a true phoenix that rose from the ashes after WWII. This area is a remarkable fusion of historic charm and modern vibrancy. It's a treasure trove of art galleries, quaint shops, restaurants, cafés and workshops. Here, every corner tells a story, and we'll dive deep into the city's rich and turbulent history at the Historical Museum of Warsaw. Next, we embark on a scenic drive along a section of the 'Royal Route,' graced by magnificent palaces, aristocratic mansions, renowned sculptures, and historic churches. Our journey today also includes the Warsaw Ghetto Memorial, the Monument of the Warsaw Uprising and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in the Jewish Ghetto. We conclude our day with a visit to the Chopin Monument, situated in the elevated section of Lazienki Park, and the Belvedere Palace, which has served as the residence for Polish Presidents. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. For a memorable experience, consider ascending the 150 stone steps of the Saint Anne's Church Bell Tower, where you'll be treated to the most enchanting vista of the Old Town and the eastern side of Warsaw, especially at sunset. To satisfy your palate, don't miss the opportunity to savour Poland's renowned culinary delight, the Pierogi, a delectable dumpling prepared in a multitude of mouthwatering variations, featuring fillings like meat, potato, cheese, or spinach. Optional Excursion Chopin Recital - Enjoy a recital of Chopin's music performed by celebrated Polish pianists. The concert consists of two parts with intermission when a glass of sparkling wine is served. 1hr - from Euro 65pp

Today we continue to the enchanting city of Krakow via train, granting us the opportunity to relax and admire the picturesque landscapes unfolding before us. Renowned as Poland's medieval capital, Krakow sits gracefully along the banks of the Vistula River. The city boasts a wealth of Gothic and Renaissance churches, monasteries, and abbeys, imbuing visitors with a sense of stepping back in time. Upon our arrival, we will embark on a tour of the city's highlights. At its heart is the historic Old Town Square which is surrounded by a series of public parks called 'The Planty'. Get ready to step back in time as we explore the Old Town's fascinating treasures. We’ll wander along the ancient defence walls and arrive at the bustling heart — Rynek Glowny, the market square. Here we see the impressive Wawel Royal Cathedral, and marvel at Saint Mary's Basilica's stunning interior. Famous for its two towers of different heights — a 14th century Polish Gothic masterpiece with roots going back to the early 13th century. Our journey continues with a visit to the Town Hall Tower, the lone survivor of the original Town Hall, and the iconic Cloth Hall, where merchants once gathered to discuss the state of business. An incredible evening is in store for us as we visit the historic Klezmer-hois for dinner and a concert. Also known as ‘Klezmer’s House’, this iconic venue — a café, restaurant, and hotel — is nestled in the heart of the city’s Jewish quarter, just 100 metres from the 15th-century Remuh Synagogue. Stepping into Klezmer-hois is like travelling back in time to the pre-war days when Kazimierz, the Jewish quarter, was vibrant and full of life. Here, we’ll enjoy an intimate performance of Klezmer music, a rich instrumental tradition rooted in the Ashkenazi Jewish culture of Central and Eastern Europe.

Special Experience Delve into history at the UNESCO World Heritage Wieliczka Salt Mine, one of the world’s oldest operating mines, dating back to the 13th century. Prepare to be amazed by the jaw-dropping wonders of the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a historic marvel that served up table salt until 2007. We’ll descend into an underground labyrinth stretching over 300 kilometres across nine levels, reaching 327 meters deep. As we explore further, we’ll encounter galleries filled with magnificent salt-carved masterpieces. The crown jewel of the mine? Saint Kinga's Chapel, a space of worship since 1896. Its walls dazzle with intricate carvings of New Testament scenes, and chandeliers glisten with crystals fashioned entirely from salt. It's a subterranean spectacle like no other. In the afternoon we pay a moving visit to Auschwitz, (located 70 kilometres from Krakow) where the most horrific crimes were committed under Nazi occupation during WWII. Today, the preserved buildings house displays of photographs and articles that evoke the personal tragedy of individuals. They also bear witness to the grand scale of the horrors that occurred between 1940 and 1945 when an estimated 4 million people lost their lives in these camps.

Spend the day exploring this glorious city at your own pace. Krakow has so much to offer to fill your day. You could consider another stroll through the Old Town and maybe snag a seat at a charming café. For history buffs, a visit to the Wawel Castle offers a peek into Poland's royal past. Art lovers could head to the Museum of Contemporary Art for a dose of inspiration. If you're in the mood for relaxation, take a leisurely boat ride along the Vistula River. For a taste of local life, don't forget to indulge in a hearty Polish meal at a traditional eatery. As the sun sets, consider heading to the lively bars in the Old Town Square. Optional Excursion Jewish Quarter - Visit the Jewish Quarter in Kazmirizh district which was described in Australian author's Thomas Keneally book ‘Schindler's Ark’ and later produced into a film. Please note this optional tour includes an English-speaking guide & entrance to the Schindler’s Museum. 3hrs - from Euro 68pp (minimum 10 pax)

Buckle up for a scenic drive as we meander through the breathtaking Polish countryside. Rolling hills and local villages set the scene as we journey towards Czechia, a country brimming with medieval towns and fairytale castles. This afternoon, we’ll reach the Moravian Karst, a stunning natural playground boasting over 1,100 intriguing caverns and coves. As one of Central Europe's premier karst landscapes, it's a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Our journey begins with a short, scenic walk to the magnificent Macocha Gorge, a remarkable sinkhole that plunges an impressive 138.7 meters into the earth, offering spectacular views. Next, we’ll descend into the mesmerising depths of the Punkva Caves, where you'll uncover a world of striking stalactites, underground rivers, and mysterious chambers that tell tales of time and nature's artistry. Get ready for an unforgettable exploration of this geological wonder. We continue our journey towards Kroměříž, a serene town in the relatively young European nation of Czechia. Home to the impressive Archbishop's Chateau with its ornate architecture, several Renaissance and Baroque churches and lovely gardens. We’ll be checking into our hotel here in the evening.

This morning, we head to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed gem of Třeboň. Known for being one of the most picturesque towns in Czechia, Třeboň offers a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. Once we arrive, you'll have some free time to explore and grab a bite to eat. Walk through the picturesque streets, immerse yourself in the quaint atmosphere, and enjoy the stunning countryside that has transformed dramatically since the 14th century. Imagine over 6,000 shimmering lakes, islands, and rich wetlands filled with rare flora and fauna, all waiting for you. Our journey continues to the bohemian town of Český Krumlov, situated on the banks of the graceful Vltava River. This town appears as if it's been pulled straight out of a storybook, with its cobblestone streets and colourful buildings. Once we arrive and check in to our hotel, the evening is yours to unwind and explore at your own pace. Wander through its charming alleyways, admire the intricate architecture, or find a cozy spot to savour some Czech cuisine. Český Krumlov promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Our day starts with exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Český Krumlov. Prepare to be whisked away into a world like no other as we explore the town’s awe-inspiring castle complex. Perched majestically above the town, this castle's construction started way back in the late 13th century, setting the stage for the town to flourish around it. Český Krumlov soon gained fame as a bustling stop along the Vltava River, nestled perfectly along vital trade routes in Bohemia. As we wander the cobblestone streets, we'll be surrounded by rolling hills and over 300 protected medieval buildings, each one a piece of living history. In 1253 AD the Český Krumlov Castle was completed as the residence of the Lords of the Krumlov (members of the Rosenburg family for over 300 years). Throughout the next few hundred years many Emperors, Lords and Dukes added to the castle which gives it its charm today. Special Experience Enjoy a tea or coffee and cake, within the grounds of the former monastery. A great location to sit back and take in the historic surroundings. Our journey takes us north to Prague this evening, a city often hailed as the most beautiful in Europe. And we concur! While many European capitals suffered extensive destruction during World War II, Prague emerged miraculously unscathed, preserving its beauty and thus, adding to its allure.

Today promises to be a day full of admiration and a lot of history as we delve into Prague's stunning Baroque and Renaissance architecture. We begin by passing the impressive National Museum and the National Theatre that proudly grace the top of Wenceslas Square. We then continue into 'Mala Strana,' or the Lesser Town, a historical area that is one of the oldest districts in Prague. We explore Hradčany, the castle district of Prague and visit Prague Castle, the largest castle complex in the world. Dating back to the 9th century, the castle is where kings of Bohemia, Holy Emperors and presidents of Czechoslovakia have had their offices. Prague Castle is also where the Crown Jewels of Czechia are housed and where we’ll see the world-famous Saint Vitus Cathedral. While in the castle complex, we also visit the Golden Lane, a small street of 11 historic houses that date back to the 15th century. Each house is painted in a different colour to represent their origin and showcases weapons, armoury, and textiles. Once we've uncovered the castle's mysteries, we’ll cross the river into the Jewish Quarter and continue to the ever-bustling Old Town Square, home to the Astronomical Clock and imposing Gothic Church of Our Lady before Týn. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in this amazing city, before a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning, marking the completion of our incredible adventure through Finland and Central Europe. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!

Welcome to Windhoek, the vibrant capital of Namibia, nestled in a valley between the Eros Mountains to the north and the Auas Mountains to the south. This picturesque city beautifully blends African and European cultures, a fusion evident in its unique architecture and rich history. Later tonight, we’ll meet up at approximately 7:00 pm for our group welcome dinner at Joe’s Beerhouse.

After an early breakfast, we’ll depart Windhoek and embark on a scenic journey towards the breathtaking Sossusvlei, deep in the heart of the Namib Desert. Our first stop will be Penduka Women’s Village, an amazing community project that empowers over 500 local women. Here, you’ll get to check out some beautiful, handcrafted goods, learn about the artisans, and discover how the village supports the community. It’s a meaningful experience that really highlights the creativity and strength of Namibia’s rural areas. As we continue our drive, we’ll enjoy a packed lunch, giving you a chance to relax and eat while soaking in the vast desert landscape. The towering dunes and endless skies will keep you in awe as we make our way to Sossusvlei. When we arrive at our lodge, you’ll be welcomed by the peaceful ambiance of the Namib Desert.

We start early today, rising before dawn to journey towards the majestic Sossusvlei dunes. Once we arrive, we’ll switch to 4WD vehicles, to tackle the rugged desert terrain and reach the dunes. As the sun rises, we’ll climb the towering dunes, where we’ll be treated to panoramic views of the endless desert and vast claypans below. Make sure to have your camera ready – this will definitely be one of the highlights of your trip. Next, we’ll visit the nearby Dead Vlei, where ancient, dead camel thorn trees stand in stark contrast to the bright white claypan floor. The otherworldly landscape here is perfect for more incredible photos, and we’ll take our time soaking it all in. We’ll also enjoy a delicious picnic breakfast right in the heart of the desert, surrounded by nothing but stunning scenery. Our final stop for the morning will be Sesriem Canyon, a remarkable geological feature carved by the Tsauchab River millions of years ago. The ancient rock formations here will tell the story of Namibia’s ever-changing landscape – it’ll be a fascinating stop before we return to the lodge to relax and unwind. Special Experience Relax with a sundowner drink at Elim Dune and watch as the sun sets over the vast plains of the Namib Desert. 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 continue our journey towards Swakopmund, a charming coastal town that perfectly blends its German heritage with the beauty of Namibia’s southwestern coast. Founded in 1892, Swakopmund is the country’s largest coastal town, with over 75,000 residents. Known for its palm-lined streets, sandy beaches, and well-preserved German colonial architecture, it’s a place where history and coastal charm come together. The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at leisure. You can explore more of Swakopmund on your own or, for something unforgettable, you might opt for a scenic flight over the dramatic Skeleton Coast. Optional Excursion Optional Excursion – Swakopmund Scenic Flight (Cessna 210 Craft) – Often described as 'the flight of a lifetime', travelling from Swakopmund along the Kuiseb Riverbed to the awe-inspiring dunes at Sossusvlei. The colour and shadows of these gigantic mountains of sand change by the hour from beige to rust-red to purple, dazzling the eye. The flight continues over the ‘sea of sand’, towards the shore at Conception Bay, soaring along the coastline and over the shipwreck of the German passenger liner, Eduard Bohlen. Other points of interests include Sandwich Harbour and it’s a large saltwater lagoon, home to an incredible variety of bird life and one of southern Africa’s greatest natural bird sanctuaries; and the salt mines of Walvis Bay, before landing back in the town of Swakopmund. 1.5 hours (610km) – from NAD6500 (approximately US $370pp) (minimum 4 participants)

Special Experience Enjoy a scenic cruise on Walvis Bay in search of Namibia’s ‘Marine Big Five’, made up of whales, dolphins, mola mola, leatherback turtles and seals. This morning, we embark on an exciting marine excursion from the Walvis Bay Waterfront. As we sail along the coast, we’ll pass by local oyster farms and head toward the remote Pelican Point peninsula, home to over 60,000 Cape Fur Seals. It’s the perfect opportunity to watch these playful creatures in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, you'll have free time to continue discovering Swakopmund at your own pace. You might choose to explore the vibrant arts and crafts centre or simply unwind by the ocean, enjoying the peaceful coastal surroundings.

Today, we’ll say goodbye to Swakopmund and head north toward Damaraland, a region that’s as captivating as it is beautiful. Along the way, we’ll pass through the Brandberg Mountains, Namibia’s highest peak, offering jaw-dropping views of dramatic rock formations and vast plains that seem to go on forever. We’ll arrive at our lodge in the late afternoon, with plenty of time to settle in and relax. Once we’ve settled, we’ll head out on a fascinating Desert Elephant drive. These incredible elephants have adapted to the tough, semi-desert environment, with smaller bodies, longer legs, and larger feet to help them navigate the dunes in search of water. It’s a rare chance to see these unique creatures in their natural habitat – a truly awe-inspiring experience. As the sun sets over the desert, we’ll pause for sundowners and soak in the peaceful beauty of Damaraland’s vast landscape. We’ll return to the lodge after for a delicious dinner, savouring the flavours of the region.

After an early breakfast, we begin our exploration of Damaraland with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Twyfelfontein. This fascinating site is home to over 2,500 ancient rock engravings. We’ll take a guided walk around the Zieben Platten National Heritage Site, to uncover the stories behind these intricate carvings, some of which are thousands of years old. Next, we’ll visit the Damara Living Museum, where we’ll dive into the rich history of the Damara people, one of Namibia’s oldest cultures. Their heritage, shaped by a blend of hunter-gatherer and herding traditions, has been profoundly influenced by colonization. The museum provides a rare glimpse into how their culture has adapted, offering insight into a society once on the brink of disappearing. We’ll continue to the Petrified Forest, a striking site where ancient tree trunks — over 280 million years old — have turned to stone, providing a fascinating window into Namibia’s distant past. Before heading to Etosha, we’ll make a stop at a Himba Village, home to Namibia’s last semi-nomadic people. The Himba are known for their distinctive practice of covering their skin with butterfat and ochre (otjize paste), to protect themselves from the harsh climate. Their unique beauty rituals and lifestyle offer an unforgettable insight into their captivating culture. 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 an early breakfast, we’ll set off for a thrilling full day of game viewing in Etosha National Park. Our expert rangers will guide us as we explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, home to over 110 animal species and 300 bird species. Etosha is renowned for its wildlife, including four of the ‘Big Five’—elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinos. We’ll also have the chance to search for rarer species, such as the black-faced impala and the small but mighty Damara dik-dik. One of the park’s main highlights is the Etosha Pan, a massive salt desert so vast that it can be seen from space. During the dry season, the waterholes here attract all sorts of wildlife, making it a photographer’s dream. After the rains, flamingos flock to the pan, adding splashes of pink to the stark white landscape. We’ll spend the day immersed in nature, observing the breathtaking wildlife, birdlife and scenery that make Etosha such a special place.

After an early breakfast, we continue our adventure with another exciting day on safari, this time exploring the eastern regions of Etosha National Park. We’ll board safari vehicles and spend the day searching for wildlife across a variety of landscapes. From elephants in lush, dense vegetation to giraffes grazing in the drier areas, and lions prowling the golden grasslands, the eastern side of Etosha offers plenty of opportunities to spot more wildlife. We’ll also enjoy the chance to observe numerous other species, including graceful antelopes and majestic zebras, all set against the striking backdrop of Etosha’s salt pans and waterholes. In the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey through the park, taking in the stunning landscapes and the diverse wildlife that calls Etosha home.

Today we depart the Etosha National Park for an exciting journey north to the Kavango region, a vibrant and culturally rich area of Namibia. We’ll travel for approximately 6 hours, passing through captivating landscapes that showcase the diverse beauty of the country. Along the way, we’ll stop in Nkurenkuru for an opportunity to get some lunch and to stretch our legs. In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a serene sundowner cruise along the Okavango River, which forms the border between Namibia and Angola. The river is teeming with birdlife, and as we glide along the water, we’ll have plenty of opportunities to soak in the stunning scenery. As the sun sets, we’ll enjoy refreshing drinks, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of one of Namibia’s most serene locations.

Today we venture deep into the Kavango region. Our first stop will be a charming Zambezi village, where we can immerse ourselves in the local traditions and experience the vibrant way of life. Our journey continues as we make our way to Mahango National Park, nestled in Namibia’s Caprivi Strip. Known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, this area was once acquired by German Chancellor Leo von Caprivi in 1890, with the hope of gaining access to the Indian Ocean via the Zambezi River, although the mighty Victoria Falls stood in the way. This region, often called Namibia’s “panhandle,” offers a perfect blend of beauty and history. After some time to relax and explore, we’ll set off on a serene river cruise along the Kavango River. As we glide along the water, we’ll have the chance to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and perhaps spot wildlife drinking from the riverbanks. As the sun sets, we’ll unwind with refreshing drinks while taking in the tranquil atmosphere.

Today, we immerse ourselves in the beauty of Mahango National Park with an exciting game drive. We’ll board the 4WD open safari vehicle and head out through the park’s diverse landscapes, where vast floodplains and towering baobab trees provide a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography. Mahango is a sanctuary for many species of antelope, but keep your eyes peeled for the park’s bigger residents, including elephants, lions, leopards, and even the elusive wild dogs. Crocodiles, hippos, baboons, and vervet monkeys are also frequent sights, adding to the magic of the park. After an exhilarating morning of wildlife sightings, we’ll return to the lodge for lunch. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings as you gaze over the river. Whether you choose to unwind on the lodge’s deck with a refreshing drink or take a gentle stroll around the grounds, this is the perfect time to recharge.

After a rewarding time discovering the wildlife and landscapes of the Caprivi Strip, we begin our journey south to the beautiful terrain of Botswana. Our destination is Maun, a quaint town on the edge of the Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. The drive offers breathtaking views, with Botswana’s wild beauty unfolding before us. As we approach Maun, the peaceful Thamalekane River greets us, winding its way near our lodge, offering a serene introduction to the beauty of the Okavango Delta. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Today, we leave Maun behind and head east toward the heart of the Okavango Delta, passing through vibrant local villages along the way. Our journey takes us to the buffalo fence, marking our entry into the Okavango Delta. From here, we continue deeper into Moremi Game Reserve, where we’ll pause for a refreshing break before setting off on an exciting game drive, where the wilderness of Moremi will unfold before us. As we explore, the landscape transforms, offering endless opportunities for stunning wildlife sightings and incredible photo moments. Along the way, we’ll stop for a delicious picnic lunch in the reserve, allowing us to relax and enjoy the surrounding beauty. Late afternoon, we’ll arrive at our natural safari campsite, where you’ll be guided to your tent and briefed on safety and facilities. As evening settles, enjoy a 3-course dinner under the stars complemented by exquisite South African wines.

After an early breakfast, we’re off on another game drive through Moremi. With its rich landscapes and abundant wildlife, Moremi promises incredible sights around every corner. As we explore, keep your eyes peeled for a variety of animals and birds that call this stunning place home. Next, we’ll board motorboats to explore the tranquil permanent lagoons of Xaxanika or Godikwa. These serene waters offer a completely different perspective of the region, with heronries providing a breathtaking spectacle of birdlife. The peaceful environment is a perfect setting to soak in the beauty of the delta. After our thrilling adventure, we’ll return to camp for a delicious lunch and some well-deserved downtime. Moremi is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 500 species, so be prepared for more surprises in the afternoon when we head back out in search of wildlife. As the day ends, we’ll relax with sundowners, reflecting on our experiences, before enjoying another unforgettable dinner under the vast African sky.

After a delicious breakfast, we head out for a relaxed morning game drive in the stunning Moremi Game Reserve. This is your chance to take in the serene beauty of the reserve, enjoy its tranquil landscapes, and perhaps spot some last-minute wildlife before we continue our journey. Next, prepare for an exhilarating scenic flight over the Okavango Delta. From the sky, you'll be mesmerized by the endless waterways, sparkling white claypans, and palm-lined lagoons. Keep your camera ready as you spot hippos lounging in the channels, and elephants and buffaloes seeking refuge under the shade of trees. Upon landing back in Maun, we’ll collect our luggage and then board the tour vehicle for the next leg of our adventure. Our drive will take us towards the Makgadikgadi Pans, a journey through captivating landscapes.

This morning, we set off on a guided nature drive in an open safari vehicle through the Sua Pan and Nata Sanctuary, a captivating region of intersecting pans in the heart of the barren wilderness. During the dry season, March to September, the pans transform into cracked, empty mudflats. However, from November to March, the wet season brings this landscape to life, attracting an array of wildlife to the waterholes. As we explore, keep an eye out for elephants, antelope, and a variety of bird species against the vast, serene backdrop of the pans. Afterward, we’ll embark on a scenic drive to Chobe National Park, offering you time to unwind and soak in the breathtaking views along the way. Chobe, Botswana’s third-largest national park, is famed for its incredible wildlife. Home to the largest concentration of elephants on Earth, the park offers some of Africa’s most awe-inspiring landscapes and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Prepare for a truly remarkable experience in one of the continent's most spectacular national parks.

We start the day early with a game drive in an open 4WD safari vehicle, taking us deep into the heart of Chobe National Park where we’ll explore the park’s varied ecosystems, each teeming with wildlife. Expect to spot elephants, lions, leopards, and an array of other animals as we travel through lush plains, dense forests, and open floodplains. Chobe is home to four distinct ecosystems: Serondela, with its fertile plains and forests along the Chobe River; the Savuti Marsh in the west; the Linyanti Swamps in the northwest; and the dry hinterland that connects them all. During the dry season, the park's floodplains attract large herds of elephants, offering a rare and unforgettable sight. After the drive, we return to the lodge for a relaxing breakfast, with time to unwind and soak in the surroundings. In the afternoon, we embark on a guided river cruise along the Chobe River. The peaceful journey offers a unique perspective of the wildlife along the banks, including elephants, hippos, and colourful birds. Enjoy the serenity as we watch the sun sink into the horizon.

This morning, we cross the border from Botswana to Zimbabwe during our transfer to the mesmerising Victoria Falls. Victoria Falls, also known as the ‘Smoke that Thunders’, is suggested to be the world’s biggest waterfall at 1.7-kilometres-wide and 110-metres-high. The noise of the falls can be heard from 40 kilometres away, while its spray and mist can be seen from 50 kilometres. Victoria Falls is located on the mighty Zambezi River, which forms the international border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. David Livingstone is believed to have been the first European to discover the waterfall in November 1855 and named it in honour of Queen Victoria. Later this afternoon, we’ll embark on a peaceful sunset cruise along the Zambezi River.

Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world, and we are set to explore this incredible location on foot this morning. Our walking discovery will take us to various vantage points, each offering a unique perspective of the falls. Facing the Zambian side, we’ll visit lookout points that provide views of the Victoria Falls Bridge, take us through the jungle, and even allow us to peer right over the edge. Feel the spray of the falls and hear the thunderous roar as millions of tonnes of water tumble into the deep gorge below, where the Zambezi River continues its journey eastward towards the Indian Ocean. Special Experience Discover the history of Victoria Falls Bridge during an informative and exciting bridge walk, before marvelling at the views from the catwalks of the bridge. This evening, we’ll visit a local community for our group farewell dinner, where we’ll enjoy an authentic Zimbabwean meal. Challenging Day Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.

Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our new friends and to our incredible adventure across Africa. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories from this remarkable journey!

Welcome to Tanzania, a country known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife and vibrant culture. We begin in Arusha, a vibrant city located in northern Tanzania, at the base of Mount Meru. Referred to as the ‘safari capital’ of Tanzania, it serves as the gateway to many of the country's most famous national parks and wildlife reserves, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 6.30pm. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a welcome drink. For clients who arrive later than 6.30pm, you will receive your welcome drink upon arrival along with a letter advising meeting time for tomorrow morning.

Today is dedicated to exploring the wonderful sights of Arusha. We’ll begin the day with a visit to the Tanzanite Museum, an exhibition space that gives visitors a deep understanding into the rich history of one of the world’s rarest gemstones – the stunning blue Tanzanite. While exploring the collections, we’ll discover why Tanzanite is so rare and sought-after, the complexities involved with its mining, and the skills involved in cutting and polishing the gems. You can even buy your very own piece to take home! We will then make our way to the city’s bustling Central Market, a fantastic place to get a glimpse into local life. Here you can find stalls selling aromatic spices, exotic fruits, delicious coffee and so much more! Following a lively stroll through the market, we’ll admire the fascinating Uhuru Monument. Meaning ‘Freedom’ in Swahili, the Uhuru torch serves as the symbol of Tanzania and represents their journey to colonial independence and the path of light to freedom. The Arusha Declaration Museum is our next stop. The museum is dedicated to and celebrates the country’s 1967 declaration that called for socialism and self-reliance in Tanzania. After our morning of sightseeing we will make our way to Arusha Coffee Lodge where we will enjoy lunch followed by a visit to Shanga - a heartwarming project dedicated to supporting and empowering community members with disabilities. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a group welcome dinner.

Make sure your camera is charged this morning, as we transfer to the Arusha Airport to depart for the sweeping plains of the Serengeti. We’ll arrive at our lodge for lunch and enjoy some free time to relax before our first game drive later this afternoon. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars before heading out for our first thrilling encounter with the incredible wildlife of this jaw-dropping region! The Serengeti National Park is famed for its annual migration, when some six million hooves of zebras, gazelles and wildebeest pound the open grasslands in search of fresh grazing and water. The spectacle of the park’s natural ecosystem is like nothing else on earth. Prides of majestic lions prey on the abundance of plain grazers, while slinking leopards haunt the acacia trees lining the river and stalking cheetahs prowl along the south-eastern plains. What makes the Serengeti so different from other national parks, is the fact that the area is completely unfenced, giving its residents an abundance of natural habitat to roam freely – and continue the journey to greener pastures that they have undertaken for millions of years.

Today we continue our spectacular discovery of the Serengeti. This captivating landscape is characterised by treeless plains where the eye can see for kilometres, even back to the Ngorongoro Crater which rises from the horizon in the distance. The plains are dotted with rocky outcrops known as kopjes, where lions often laze the day away. Also well-known for its cheetah sightings, the terrain is home to a high density of these carnivorous big cats, which can often be seen sitting atop an old termite mound scanning for their next meal. We’ll enjoy a full day of game drives, on the prowl for big cats, gazelle and zebra. Returning to the lodge later this afternoon, we’ll have time to relax into the comfort of the amenities or soak up more of the surrounding wilderness before dinner. Optional Excursion Serengeti Balloon Safari – This morning, enjoy an amazing experience as you take a balloon ride over the Serengeti National Park. Launching at dawn, as the sun rises, you’ll gently float over the plains of the magnificent Serengeti. On landing, you’ll be provided with a delicious bubbly-style bush breakfast. Balloon safaris will be done in lieu of the early morning game drive that is scheduled. 2.5 hours – from $485pp US (minimum 4 participants).

We wake for an early breakfast this morning before setting out to enjoy one last game drive in the Serengeti. Farewelling the vast landscape, we’ll continue to Olduvai Gorge, a steep-sided ravine in the Great Rift Valley. One of the most prominent paleoanthropological sites in the world, the mysteries of the gorge referred to as ‘The Cradle of Mankind’, have been pivotal in improving our understanding of early human evolution. Homo habilis, probably the first early human species on earth, occupied Olduvai Gorge approximately 1.9 million years ago. Here, we’ll learn more about the area’s history on an illuminating tour with a local guide through the museum’s collection of fossils, stone tools and skeletons. After enjoying lunch accompanied by breathtaking views over the gorge, we continue our journey with a visit to a Maasai village. Known for their strong warrior traditions and deep connection to their ancestral lands, the Maasai are renowned for their colourful attire, intricate beadwork and love of cattle. Here we will get a glimpse into their vibrant culture and semi-nomadic way of life. Tonight, we’ll arrive at our accommodation in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, enjoying dinner at the lodge.

The implosion of a volcano approximately 3 million years ago created the enormous UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ngorongoro Crater. This breathtaking natural phenomenon sinks to a depth of 610 metres and at its base, stretches over 260 square kilometres. The protected area has become a sanctuary for lion, elephant, hippopotamus, rhino and a unique array of birdlife. Early this morning, we descend into the crater for a game drive in search of some of the 'Big Five'. We’ll travel through the Lerai Forest, past Lake Magadi and across the crater floor looking out for rhino and lions basking in the morning sun. The backdrop of the forest-covered crater walls will create a stunning setting for all your photographs! See zebra, wildebeest and buffalo in abundance, grazing on the sun-kissed plains. After an incredible experience in the crater, we return to the lodge for lunch before setting out again in the afternoon for a walk along a section of the rim. Guided by a local ranger, listen in as they point out different shrubs and flowers, and explain their uses for the local Maasai tribes. Tonight, we’ll reminisce about our favourite moments of the day over dinner at the lodge.

Leaving the beauty of the Ngorongoro Crater in our camera roll, we depart for Lake Manyara. Once we arrive, we will check in to our lodge and take a moment to refresh from our drive, enjoying a delicious bite to eat for lunch. In the early afternoon, we’ll take a thrilling drive through Lake Manyara. Here, the scenic lake offers us a unique safari experience, in a setting proclaimed by Ernest Hemingway as ‘the loveliest I had seen in Africa’. Lush jungles and rainforests, grassy floodplains and a vast alkaline lake make up this rare and fascinating ecosystem, where the lions climb trees and flamingos flock to the waters in mesmerising clouds of pink. Our sightseeing then takes a different perspective, to life among the leaves of the ancient forest canopy of this magnificent national park. Travelling along the Manyara Treetop Walkway, we’ll make our way over a series of suspension bridges to admire the region’s untouched flora and fauna at a birds-eye view. Listen out for the growls and barks of baboons, Silvery-cheeked Hornbills and Blue Monkeys – we might even be lucky enough to see buffaloes grazing on the forest floor!

Enjoy a slower morning today, before making our way to Mto wa Mbu, where we’ll get to experience a unique taste of Tanzanian culture. Home to over 120 tribes, this authentic farming village is a total cross-cultural melting pot. Special Experience Meet a ‘laiboni’, a traditional Maasai Healer, and learn about the role of traditional healers in the community. Herbal plants have been used in Maasai healing for centuries. Journeying to the heart of this ancient practice, we’ll learn about how different bush medicine is used in the prevention and treatment of a variety of illnesses from a traditional laiboni. They’ll show us how different kinds of medicinal plants are used, from bark and roots to seeds, flowers and leaves. After our exploration into the cultural and spiritual traditions, we’ll be treated to a delicious lunch prepared by the villagers. Prepare for an explosion of local flavours! After our meal, we’ll enjoy another opportunity to observe and spot the local wildlife as we continue to our next destination. We’ll arrive in Tarangire National Park late in the afternoon and settle into the lodge before meeting in the evening for dinner.

We wake for an early safari through Tarangire National Park this morning. Home to the highest concentration of African Elephants of any park in northern Tanzania, Tarangire is famous for its large elephant herds that gather and graze amongst zebras, wildebeest, giraffe and antelope. Its picturesque landscape is also dotted with ancient baobab trees, an iconic symbol of Africa. Here, the nature reserve offers a less crowded safari experience compared to its counterparts, despite its dense array of wildlife from July to November being second only to the Serengeti. Returning for breakfast, we’ll then set off for the city of Arusha, where we’ll stop for lunch at the homely Arusha Coffee Lodge. Tucked away in one of Tanzania’s largest coffee plantations, enjoy an aromatic meal with rugged Mount Meru in view. We cross the border into Kenya this afternoon, setting off through the plains on another game drive. In the evening, we reach one of Kenya’s most coveted national parks set against the stunning backdrop of Mt Kilimanjaro – Amboseli National Park! Nestled in the heart of the park, enjoy a moment to settle into the accommodation before meeting for dinner.

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

We’ll transfer to the airport this morning for our flight to Nairobi, Kenya’s capital and the largest city between Cairo and Johannesburg. Less than 100 years ago, a river snaked through the empty wilderness where the modern city now stands. Positioned close to the equator, Nairobi experiences spring-like weather most of the year – warm during the day and cool at night. Arriving in Nairobi, we’ll visit two of Kenya’s great conservation projects, beginning with the Daphne Sheldrick animal orphanage at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. For close to 30 years, Kenyan-born Daphne Sheldrick lived and worked alongside her husband David, caring for and successfully rehabilitating many wild species. She is now a recognised international authority on the rearing of wild creatures and is the first person to have perfected the milk formula and necessary husbandry for infant milk-dependent elephant and rhino. We then visit the Giraffe Centre, an important conservation initiative created by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife. Here, we come eye-to-eye with gentle giants whilst feeding them from an elevated platform. After lunch we enjoy a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum, the former residence of famous novelist Karen Blixen. The house contains many of her original pieces along with some exhibits donated by the makers of the film, ‘Out of Africa’.

This morning, we depart Nairobi and visit the Nanyuki Spinners and Weavers, a women's self-help group that produces beautiful, handcrafted items. Here, we will learn about the traditional techniques used in the craft of spinning, to make vibrant knitted and woven items from hand. We’ll also have the opportunity to purchase some artistic souvenirs to take home. Next, we make a pit stop for lunch at the Aberdare Country Club, which once served as a homestead resting on the slopes of Mweiga Hill in the Aberdare Highlands. We are then transferred to our quirky accommodation at The Ark Lodge for a spectacular overnight stay inside Aberdare National Park. A protected area in Kenya’s central highlands, Aberdare is known for its stunning high moorland, bamboo forests and thundering waterfalls. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephant, buffalo, the elusive leopard and several primate species. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to bask in unobstructed views of the surrounding wildlife from the Ark’s multi-level decks, balconies and lounges. As the sun begins to set, gaze out over the floodlit waterhole and watch as species emerge to drink and wallow in this beautiful setting.

Emerging rested and restored from our stay at the Ark, today we depart for the Shaba National Reserve, located by the banks of the Ewaso Ngiro River in the northern part of Kenya. The Ewaso Ngiro River attracts a variety of wildlife thanks to its shady trees, so the likelihood of seeing a diverse range of species here is high. Much of Shaba’s appeal lies in the beauty of its landscape, characterised by dry bushlands, deep gorges, and open grasslands snaked with swamps and rivers – all framed by imposing mountain ranges. Linked with Samburu National Park and Buffalo Springs National Reserve, the three areas are not separated by fences, enabling animals to move freely between them. An afternoon game drive will introduce us to some of the unique species home to the reserve, including the Reticulated Giraffe, Grevy's Zebra, oryx, antelope and the Somali Ostrich. Along the river itself, keep your eyes peeled for any action in the water including the surfacing of crocodiles, hippopotamus and buffalo. The region is also home to a fascinating range of bird species – make sure you bring your camera to capture every corner of this incredible canvas!

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

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

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

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

Waking early for a morning safari, we’ll be rewarded with the breathtaking scenes of the Maasai Mara as the sun begins to rise over the savannah. One of the best destinations to spot the ‘Big Five’, the reserve is home to a high density of diverse species and is often a bucket list item for travellers due to its Great Migration of wildebeest, zebra and gazelle each year. The experience of watching teeming herds of animals navigate the undulating plains and Mara River, is something that will stay with you forever. We’ll return for breakfast, enjoying some time to relax at the lodge before savouring a bite to eat for lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll head out on one last safari before enjoying a farewell dinner in the heart of the Maasai Mara. Optional Excursion Maasai Mara Balloon Safari – This morning, enjoy an amazing experience as you take a balloon ride over the Maasai Mara. This is probably one of the most scenic views you will ever experience as you depart at dawn and float, suspended in a basket beneath a canopy while viewing the sights of the mighty Maasai Mara and its wildlife. On landing, you’ll be provided with a delicious bubbly-style bush breakfast. 3 hours – from $485pp US.

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

Welcome to Egypt, a country known for its historical sites and world wonders. We begin in Cairo, the sprawling capital of Egypt and the largest city in Africa. Home to many famous Egyptian landmarks, visitors will find it to be a fascinating and often bewildering mixture of old and new. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 6.00pm Meet your fellow travellers tonight as we enjoy a group welcome dinner. Optional Excursion Coptic Cairo - Discover the ancient sites & culture of Coptic Christians throughout Old Cairo. 3 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only. Optional Excursion Islamic Cairo - Visit the Gayer Anderson Museum, Ibn Toulon Mosque & El Sultan Hassan Mosque. 3 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only. Optional Excursion The Pyramids of Dahshur - Dahshur forms the southernmost area of the Memphis Necropolis & contains a number of pyramid complexes & monuments 3 hours – from $65pp US (cash only).

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

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

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

Located on the west bank of the Nile River between Esna and Aswan lies Edfu, home to approximately 60,000 residents. This Egyptian city is renowned for the Temple of Horus, dedicated to the Falcon God, the main attraction that we'll visit this morning. This beautiful ancient temple is one of the best-preserved in Egypt and the second largest after Karnak Temple. Immerse yourself in history as you walk through the Pylon, a monumental gateway that leads you through to a spectacular courtyard framed on three sides by 32 columns. Other sites to explore here include the Inner and Outer Hypostyle Halls, the Court of Offerings, the Vestibule, the Sanctuary and more. Returning to the ship, we'll then cruise to the riverside Temple of Kom Ombo, a unique double temple that is dedicated to the gods of Sobek and Haroeris. Combining two temples into one, it is symmetrical in nature with twin entrances, two linked hypostyle halls and twin sanctuaries. As it is dedicated to Sobek, the crocodile god, it is thought that it was once teeming with crocodiles! Today we visit a Crocodile Museum which features a collection of mummified crocodiles. As we cruise to the port of Aswan this evening, we enjoy a traditional Galabeya party on board.

We have a very early start this morning as we cross the desert to the incredible UNESCO World Heritage-listed twin temples of Abu Simbel. The temples were originally carved out of the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II in the 13th century BC, as a monument to himself and his queen, Nefertari. The complex was relocated in its entirety in the 1960s to higher ground to avoid it being submerged by the Nile River due to the construction of the High Aswan Dam. We will spend a few hours exploring the temples before returning to our Nile cruise ship in Aswan. This afternoon, we’ll sail on the Nile a little bit differently – on a traditional Egyptian sailboat known as a Felucca. The Nile has been home to these simple, wooden style sailboats for thousands of years. We’ll observe life along the banks of the river as our boat takes advantage of the gentle winds and currents. Get ready for a traditional Nubian Show on board this evening. During this cultural performance we’ll witness traditional music, singers and dancers dressed in distinctive Nubian clothing, highlighting the unique culture of the Nubian people.

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

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

Today, we’ll visit the brand-new Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Giza, located a short distance from the pyramids themselves. One of the largest, most modern and renowned museums in the world, the GEM is home to over 100,000 ancient Egyptian artefacts. After being greeted by a 3,200-year-old, 83-ton statue of Ramses II in the GEM’s main entrance we’ll spend the morning exploring the vast collection of exhibition halls, including its centrepiece, the King Tutankhamun galleries. We’ll enjoy some free time to wander around the museum and grab a bite to eat. Later, we’ll make our way to downtown Cairo, before an early dinner at the hotel. Tonight we bid farewell to Egypt as we fly to Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, on an overnight flight.

Nairobi is the largest city between Cairo and Johannesburg. Although it is just south of the equator, it sports beautiful spring-like weather year-round – warm during the day and cool at night. It is a modern city, yet its main avenues blaze with colour from tropical bushes and vines. Less than 100 years ago, there was a river in an empty wilderness where Nairobi now stands. Despite health hazards and the ever-present danger of wild animals, Nairobi was established by 1907 and quickly grew. It also attracted world attention as the centre of big-game safaris for the rich and famous – perhaps the most famous was the safari of Teddy Roosevelt, who needed 500 porters to carry supplies! This afternoon we visit the AFEW Giraffe Centre, an important conservation initiative created by the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife. Here we can get up close whilst feeding the giraffes from an elevated platform. After lunch we’ll enjoy a visit to the Karen Blixen Museum – the former residence of famous novelist Karen Blixen. The house contains many of her original pieces along with some exhibits donated by the makers of the film, ‘Out of Africa’. Enjoy the evening at leisure to recharge after a long day.

Today we visit one of Kenya’s great conservation projects, Daphne Sheldrick’s animal orphanage at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust. For over 25 years, Kenyan-born Daphne Sheldrick lived and worked alongside her husband David, during which time they raised and successfully rehabilitated many wild species. Daphne Sheldrick’s involvement with wildlife has spanned a lifetime. She is now a recognised international authority on the rearing of wild creatures and is the first person to have perfected the milk formula and necessary husbandry for infant milk-dependent elephants and rhinos. Later we visit the Anselm Kitengela Hot Glass studio and enjoy a glassblowing demonstration. Here we will see how expert Kenyan artisans create functional handmade objects from recycled glass and learn about the unique art of glassblowing. During your free time for lunch here, you may wish to purchase some of the exquisite, brightly coloured masterpieces for yourself. Take some time to relax at the hotel this afternoon before our group dinner at the picturesque Hemingways Eden Residence.

Leaving Nairobi this morning, we start our journey into the Kenyan countryside. The first stop is at the Nanyuki Spinners and Weavers, a women's self-help group that produces beautiful, handcrafted items. We’ll learn about the traditional techniques used to make these items and will have the chance to purchase unique souvenirs to take home. Continuing on, we make our way to Aberdare National Park, a protected area in Kenya’s central highlands. Known for its stunning high moorland, bamboo forests and thundering waterfalls, it is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephant, buffalo, leopards and several primate species. After lunch at the Aberdare Country Club, we are transferred to our quirky ‘Ark’ accommodation. As the name suggests, the building shares some resemblance with Noah’s Ark, and is a testament to the abundant wildlife in the area. Here, we’ll enjoy the afternoon at leisure to gaze out over the floodlit waterhole and salt lick, watching the wildlife bask in this beautiful setting. For any discerning photographers in the group, we suggest a visit to the bunker – the ideal vantage point for getting the perfect shot of the wildlife which could be just metres away.

Shaba National Reserve is our destination today, located by the banks of the Ewaso Ng’iro River in the northern part of Kenya. The river attracts a lot of wildlife thanks to its shady trees, so the likelihood of seeing a diverse range of wildlife here is even higher. We’ll check in to our accommodation, have some lunch and time to recuperate after our long drive this morning. This afternoon it’s finally time to embark on our first game drive of the tour – an experience you won’t forget in a hurry! The location of Shaba National Reserve in northern Kenya is scenically spectacular. Think waterholes and marshes, woods and grasslands, all with the imposing Shaba Hill Volcano in the background. As we make our way through the Reserve on our game drive this afternoon, we’ll be introduced to some of the unique animals in this area, including the reticulated giraffe, the largest of the giraffe subspecies, and at up to six metres height it is the tallest land animal on the planet! We’ll also be on the lookout for Grevy's zebra, Somali ostrich, beisa oryx, hippos and even “the king of the jungle”, the lion.

We have an early start for our morning game drive across Shaba’s beautiful, rugged landscape. As the sun begins to rise for the day, the animals are often out and about in the cooler temperatures and soft light, making it one of the best times of the day to spot the wildlife. We’ll continue our search for lions, buffalo, leopards and the famous 'red elephant of Samburu' – named for the red dust that coats their hides. We return to our lodge for breakfast and some downtime before taking another game drive this afternoon. After getting our wildlife fill for the day, we head to a local village. Special Experience Explore Samburu Unity Village, a women-only community, to learn about ‘a day in the life’ of a Samburu woman and her children. Formed in 2011, the Unity Village is a refuge for women looking to escape oppression, abuse and other inequities. Today it serves as a safe place for women to raise their families, educate their children and thrive in an environment where they can work together. Our experience here is magical and heartbreaking all at the same time, and you will leave with the utmost respect for these resilient women who have managed to create a better life for themselves and their children despite the hardship they have faced.

Today we continue to Lake Naivasha, which is the highest and one of the most beautiful lakes that form part of the Great Rift Valley. Taking its name from the Maasai word En-aiposha, meaning ‘heaving’ or ‘to and fro’, the water is well-known to be turbulent in the afternoons. A popular spot for British flying boats of the 1930s, it was also the home of Joy Adamson, conservationist and the author of ‘Born Free’. After lunch we’ll take a boat safari on Lake Naivasha, in search of its residents which include over 400 bird species and numerous pods of hippo. We’ll enjoy afternoon tea at the famous Elsamere Conservation Centre, located in Joy’s former house. The museum contains a collection of her paintings and artefacts as well as memorabilia from the ‘Born Free' film, with photos documenting Joy and George Adamson's work. We then return to our lodge for dinner.

After an early breakfast, we depart for the Maasai Mara. The landscape of the Maasai Mara is characterised by wide open plains and rolling grasslands, dotted with the occasional tree. The Maasai Mara flows into the Serengeti, making it one of the biggest reserves in the world. Special Experience Take a Swahili cooking class in the heart of the Maasai Mara, including a visit to the herb and vegetable garden. Whether you consider yourself a seasoned chef or complete amateur, this cooking class gives you (and your taste buds) the chance to explore the flavours and textures of traditional Swahili food. With plenty of locally sourced herbs and spices including cinnamon, turmeric, cardamom, nutmeg and more, it will be a delight for the senses. Before making our way to our accommodation, a tented camp in the Maasai Mara, we head out on a late afternoon game drive. The Maasai Mara is one of the most well-regarded wildlife reserves in Africa, and for good reason -- elephant, giraffe, eland, wildebeest, zebra and gazelle are plentiful here and commonly sighted. With a bit of luck, we may also spot a lion or cheetah.

We have an early start for a morning game drive to enjoy this beautiful landscape as the sun rises over the savannah. Many of the animals that call this area home are crepuscular, which means they are most active during the twilight hours. On our adventure this morning our expert guide will help us to spot the wildlife as they go about their usual business. We’ll return to the lodge for breakfast and lunch, with some time to relax. Later we’ll head out on one last safari before a special farewell dinner to farewell the Maasai Mara. Optional Excursion Maasai Mara Balloon Safari – This morning, enjoy an amazing experience as you take a balloon ride over the Maasai Mara. This is probably one of the most scenic views you will ever experience as you depart at dawn and float, suspended in a basket beneath a canopy while viewing the sights of the mighty Maasai Mara and its wildlife. On landing, you’ll be provided with a delicious bubbly-style bush breakfast. 3 hours – from $485pp US.

Today is the beginning of the final phase of our journey, as we head to the airport for our flight to the exotic island of Zanzibar via Nairobi! Well known for its white sandy beaches and warm turquoise water, Zanzibar is the perfect place to relax and simply soak up the sun. Scenic fishing villages are scattered throughout the beaches of Zanzibar where the locals enjoy a simple way of life. Arriving on the island, we head to our beautiful beachside resort in Kiwengwa Beach. Located on the east coast of Zanzibar, the resort is home to impeccable white sand beaches, has over 30 acres of tropical gardens to explore, and a variety of leisure facilities to enjoy. The rest of our day is spent at leisure here indulging in whichever amenities take your fancy, before joining the group for dinner.

The day is at leisure for you to relax and unwind in this tranquil setting or to explore more of this stunning island paradise. The choice is yours! Your tour guide or the resort staff are well equipped to provide you with any suggestions if you’re looking to get out and about. Popular activities here include visiting the beaches and reefs, caves and spice farms, or even joining a quad bike tour of the island.

Our eyes are set on historic Stone Town, Zanzibar’s biggest city set on the opposite side of the island. A Swahili trading town, Stone Town has taken on influences from Arab, Indian and European cultures to cultivate its own unique way of life that we’ll experience today. Fans of the band Queen may also know Stone Town as the childhood hometown of the band’s charismatic lead singer, Freddie Mercury! As we begin our exploration this morning, a city tour will acquaint us with a range of different sites, including the City Market, the Anglican Church of Christ, Africa House and Forodhani Park. We’ll also visit the House of Wonders – the most significant structure on the seafront that was built in the 1880s as a ceremonial palace. Originally used as the headquarters and administrative centre during the colonial period, it was later converted into a school and a museum. Lastly, we will explore the Sultan's Palace, the Old Museum and the Old Market where we can shop for various local fruits and spices. This evening we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. We’ll indulge in the local cuisine as we reminisce on the many astounding memories we have made together over the last three weeks.

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