Discover the world with South Coast Cruise & Travel’s Special Tours Around the World. From vibrant cities and cultural landmarks to breathtaking natural wonders, curated journeys that take you beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re drawn to luxury ocean voyages, boutique small-ship adventures or immersive river cruises, our expert team ensures every detail is tailored to create unforgettable travel experiences.
Welcome to Istanbul, a city like no 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 lovely 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. Constructed between 1466 and 1478 AD, the Topkapi Palace served as the residence of the esteemed Sultans and their households and functioned as the primary hub of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Today it is filled with treasures and antiquities including 12,000 pieces of fine Chinese porcelain. We’ll then visit the Hippodrome, once the heart of the political and sporting life of the city. It was the hub of games and riots throughout 500 years of Ottoman history. Next, we’ll head to the one-of-a-kind Blue Mosque, constructed in 1609 AD under the patronage of Sultan Ahmet. As we step inside, we are consumed by the grandeur of its interior, adorned with over 20,000 exquisite Iznik tiles. These tiles, meticulously crafted with intricate patterns and varying shades of blue, narrate stories of craftsmanship and artistic brilliance that have withstood the test of time. We’ll continue on to a local café, where you’ll have the chance to sample traditional Turkish sweets. Famous for its baklava and Turkish delight, this family-owned café has been delighting customers since it first opened its doors in 1864! Special Experience Excite your taste buds with some of Türkiye’s most famous delicacies, including 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 kicks off with 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 — truly a unique sight to behold with its columns brightly lit up. 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 our eyes are set 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 25 April to 20 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. We’ll continue onto Çanakkale, our home for the night. Situated on the southern shore of the Dardanelles, Çanakkale is an ancient port city that has housed several civilisations over the past 6,000 years! Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
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 set our sights on İzmir, Türkiye’s third-largest city and our home for the night. A bustling port on the country’s Aegean coast, İzmir has been shaped by the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine and, most prominently, Ottoman empires, giving the city a rich cultural and historical foundation. Today, it’s known for its scenic waterfront and vibrant markets, where traces of its fascinating past appear around every corner — from ancient landmarks to lively bazaars. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, and tonight we’ll meet up again for by a delightful group dinner at the hotel. Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
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. Run by a local women’s cooperative dedicated to preserving the region’s culture, this experience invites us to make Turkish ravioli, known as mantı. We’ll learn how to prepare the dough, fill it, and shape each ravioli by hand, guided by traditional cooking techniques and insider tips. At the end, we’ll get to savour the delicious creation we made from scratch! After lunch, we're venturing into the hidden gem of Paşabaği, a mystical valley where nature and history collide. Picture this: rock-hewn homes, ancient churches, and a peaceful, monastic atmosphere that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Later, we head to the Zelve Valley, once a bustling hub for Christians from the 9th to 13th centuries. Today, it's an outdoor museum, where we can wander among ancient dwellings and incredible churches carved into the rocks. After some time exploring this fascinating open-air museum, we return to our hotel before enjoying a delicious dinner. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours. Flight time will be approximately 3 hours.
For those that choose to do hot air ballooning, we have an early start this morning — but it’s totally worth it, we promise! We will have time to rest before commencing with the rest of the day’s sightseeing. 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"! Formed over thousands of years as wind and rain sculpted the soft volcanic rock, these towering formations create one of Türkiye’s most extraordinary landscapes. Beyond their striking appearance, many of the rock formations hide a fascinating past — with homes, monasteries and churches carved directly into the stone by early Christian communities. While here, we’ll explore several remarkable cave churches, including the beautifully painted Dark Church, and the Church of Saint Barbara, each decorated with colourful frescoes depicting biblical scenes. We’ll also see the historic Nunnery complex from the outside, once home to a community of nuns. Together, these sacred spaces offer a captivating glimpse into the spiritual and artistic life that once thrived here. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, and tonight we’ll meet up again for by a group dinner to round off the day. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. 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.
Rise and shine, art enthusiasts! Today kicks off with a colourful journey into the world of ceramics in Avanos. With its cobblestone streets and stunning views over the Red River, this quaint town offers the perfect backdrop for a pottery-making workshop. Get ready to dive into the magic of pottery with a lively lecture that'll spin tales as mesmerising as the pottery wheel itself. Next we dive into an adventure beneath the surface as we explore one of Cappadocia's incredible underground cities, Ozkonak. Featuring a maze of tunnels, chambers and rooms carved into soft volcanic rock over ten levels, this underground city is one of the best preserved in the area. It can hold an incredible 60,000 people and is over 40 metres deep into the Earth. Imagine the hustle and bustle of thousands of people living, sleeping, and working in this underground maze. It’s like stepping into a real-life cave city — a fascinating peek into ancient ingenuity and survival. We then set our eyes on Konya, one of Türkiye's oldest and most mystical cities. We’ll visit one of the largest surviving caravanserais along the Silk Road, the 13th century Sultanhanı Caravanserai. Historically, a caravanserai was a roadside inn, where travellers and merchants could rest and recover from the day’s journey. Not only did they provide accommodation and food, it was also an opportunity for merchants to exchange goods with people from across the vast regions the Silk Road covered. By late afternoon, we arrive in Konya and have some time to unwind before dinner this evening. Your travel time today is approximately 4 hours.
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. Farewelling Konya, we’ll make our way through the beautiful Turkish countryside with our eyes set on reaching Pamukkale, a destination with an extraordinary blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Pamukkale stands out as one of the highlights of Türkiye and this incredible location is where we will spend the night. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
Our day begins with a visit to the site of Hierapolis, an ancient Greek city that sits atop the famous cascading pool terraces. Established by the kings of Pergamon at the end of the 2nd century BC, this ancient spa town is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site revered for its striking natural formations and its complex Greco-Roman engineering techniques. Over the last 14,000 years, calcium rich water from an underground thermal spring has flowed over the mountainside and slowly solidified, creating shallow white basins and twisted stalagmites. The water here in Pamukkale is well-known for its positive effects on the skin and eyes, as well as its ability to alleviate symptoms of asthma and rheumatism! Next, we head to Kuşadası, a charming coastal town that boasts 300 days of sunshine annually. It’s a perfect spot to relax and unwind, but the best part? It’s the gateway to the incredible Roman ruins of Ephesus, just waiting to be explored! 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. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
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. We'll also visit a local leather factory, where you'll have the opportunity to watch artisans at work and purchase exquisite, handcrafted Turkish leather products. 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 — the choice is all yours! This evening we’ll head to a renowned vineyard in western Türkiye for a delightful wine tasting and dinner. There are over 20 wine grape varieties grown in the vineyards here, both local varieties and some completely new to Türkiye, so we’re in for a real treat during our sampling. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
This morning, we set sail on a scenic cruise around the Greek islands. Our first destination is the beautiful town 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 civilisation await. Famous for being 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 farewell our wonderful cruise and 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, one of the most powerful centres of the ancient Greek world thanks to its strategic position between the Aegean and Ionian seas. Dominating the site is the Temple of Apollo, one of the earliest Doric temples in Greece, built in the 6th century BC. Its imposing monolithic columns — carved from single blocks of limestone — have stood for over 2,500 years and hint at the city’s former wealth and importance. We’ll also visit the Fountain of Peirene, a famed water source in antiquity that supplied the city with fresh water and was closely tied to Greek mythology. According to legend, the fountain was created from the tears of the nymph Peirene and later became an important gathering place for locals and travellers alike. 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 of Epidaurus dates back to the 4th century and could seat over 14,000 people — just 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. Its history traces back to the prehistoric era, and according to mythology, the town was founded by Nafplios, the son of Poseidon and Amymone. 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. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Our day begins with a 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. Hosted by a local chef, we’ll discover the fundamentals and secrets of Greek and Mediterranean cuisine as we watch live demonstrations and help prepare staple dishes — including a traditional “Greek salad” — all before enjoying our delicious creations for dinner. To end the day, we’ll take a leisurely stroll through Nafplio’s charming laneways, soaking up the local atmosphere and the stunning seaside views — pure bliss!
Today we bid farewell to Nafplio and set off on a scenic drive through the stunning mountains of the 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, the sprawling site where the ancient Olympic Games began. At the heart of it is the Temple of Zeus — one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World — which once held a giant gold and ivory statue of Zeus by the famous sculptor Phidias. Built in the 5th century BCE, the temple was a symbol of Greek power and religious devotion, and even today, its massive Doric columns hint at the grandeur it must have held. We’ll also wander around the Palaestra, a square training ground where athletes practised wrestling, boxing and the pentathlon. Nearby is the workshop of Phidias, where some of Greece’s most incredible sculptures were made. Walking through these ancient spaces, it’s easy to picture the athletes training and the crowds cheering, feeling the energy of Olympia in its prime. 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. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
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 at around 200 metres. What you see today comes from Venetian updates, but the fortifications were developed in several stages, spanning from ancient times to the Turkish occupation. From the castle, 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. From Diakopto, we’ll board the historic Odontotos Rack Railway, a 19th century engineering marvel. Using a ‘rack and pinion’ system — a gear on the train that grips a toothed rail — the train climbs the steep slopes of the Vouraikos Gorge. As we wind through cliffs, forests and rivers, we’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery and experience a unique piece of Greek railway history. All aboard! We’ll stop in Kalavryta and enjoy some free time for lunch. Here you’ll have the chance to try some local specialties — perhaps you may like to indulge in “brizola,” a traditional grilled steak. After lunch, we’ll board our coach for the scenic drive back to Nafpaktos, where the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
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 across the ancient world to consult the famous Oracle of Delphi, whose cryptic prophecies shaped decisions in politics, war, and daily life. The sanctuary was the spiritual heart of Delphi, with grand temples, stoas, and sacred altars honouring Apollo. We’ll also stop by the Treasury of the Athenians, an impressively preserved building that once held valuable offerings and gifts to Apollo, and the Museum of Delphi, home to a plethora of fascinating artefacts including the Bronzed Charioteer. 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 souvlaki skewers grilled to perfection? This afternoon, we’ll journey through the mountains to reach the picturesque town of Kalambaka, our home for the night. Famous for its vibrant painted doors and windows, Kalambaka is also home to the awe-inspiring Meteora monasteries — we’re in for a real treat here! We'll settle into our hotel before a delightful dinner together Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
Prepare to be amazed by the towering monasteries of Meteora, one of Greece’s most extraordinary landscapes. Rising dramatically from the Thessalian plain, these majestic structures perch atop enormous rock pillars that seem to defy gravity. The name “Meteora” means “suspended in the air,” a fitting description for a place where the beauty of nature meets incredible human craftsmanship. Meteora’s history dates back to the 11th century, when hermit monks first sought refuge in the caves atop these cliffs, seeking solitude and spiritual devotion. By the 14th century, organised monastic communities began building the impressive monasteries that still stand today, creating a network of sacred sites that provided both safety from political unrest and a place for contemplation. Now a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Meteora blends natural beauty, architectural brilliance and centuries of religious tradition. 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. Our eyes are then set on 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. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
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, an ancient citadel that towers above the city and has stood as a symbol of Greek civilisation for over 2,500 years. Here, we’ll see iconic structures such as the Parthenon, and the Temple of Athena Nike, each showcasing the architectural brilliance and artistic achievements of classical Greece. We’ll also visit the nearby Acropolis Museum which houses an impressive collection of sculptures and artifacts, offering fascinating insights into daily life, religion and culture in ancient Athens. 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. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking.
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 Istanbul, a city like no other. Spanning two continents, Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus, with one shore in Europe and the other in Asia, creating a distinctive fusion of diverse cultures. From traditional tea houses to contemporary art galleries, this compelling mix of contrasts is truly captivating. With its extraordinary blend of East and West, Istanbul offers an unforgettable journey through time and contrasting cultures. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5:00pm. This evening, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a lovely welcome drink.
Get set for a full day exploring the fascinating city of Istanbul! We begin our day with a visit to the Underground Basilica Cistern, the largest surviving Byzantium Cistern. Built in 532 AD during the reign of Emperor Justinian, this unique spot is truly a sight to behold with its hundreds of columns brightly lit up. Our next stop is a visit to the magnificent Topkapi Palace. Constructed between 1466 and 1478 AD, the Topkapi Palace served as the residence of the esteemed Sultans and their households and functioned as the primary hub of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Today it is filled with treasures and antiquities including 12,000 pieces of fine Chinese porcelain. We’ll then visit the Hippodrome, once the heart of the political and sporting life of the city. It was the hub of games and riots throughout 500 years of Ottoman history. We’ll continue on to a local café, where you’ll have the chance to sample traditional Turkish sweets. Famous for its baklava and Turkish delight, this family-owned café has been delighting customers since it first opened its doors in 1864! Special Experience Excite your taste buds with some of Türkiye’s most famous delicacies, including baklava, Turkish coffee, and of course, Turkish delight! This afternoon, we’ll embark on a leisurely cruise along Istanbul’s most famous waterway, the Bosphorus. Our journey will take us along both European and Asian shores, where we’ll uncover marvellous monuments and districts, including the Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi), Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy, Ahmat Fethi Pasa Mansion, Ortaköy Mosque, Beylerbeyi Palace, Kuleli Military School, Arnavutköy and Bebek. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Our day starts with a tour of the impressive domed Basilica of St. Sophia (Hagia Sophia), which has inspired architects, scholars and historians for almost 1,500 years. The first church on this site was constructed in 326 AD by Constantine the Great; the current church dates back to 537 AD and has been a cathedral, a museum, and is now a mosque. Our next destination is the one-of-a-kind Blue Mosque, constructed in 1609 AD under the patronage of Sultan Ahmet. As we step inside, we are consumed by the grandeur of its interior, adorned with over 20,000 exquisite Iznik tiles. These tiles, meticulously crafted with intricate patterns and varying shades of blue, narrate stories of craftsmanship and artistic brilliance that have withstood the test of time. Later this afternoon, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Cappadocia, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed region renowned for its spectacular landscape – we’re in for a real treat! Cappadocia is known for its otherworldly landscapes, characterised by towering rock formations and cone-shaped fairy chimneys that have been shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours. Flight time will be approximately 1.5 hours.
For those that choose to do hot air ballooning, we have an early start this morning — but it’s totally worth it, we promise! We will have time to rest before commencing with the rest of the day’s sightseeing. 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"! Formed over thousands of years as wind and rain sculpted the soft volcanic rock, these towering formations create one of Türkiye’s most extraordinary landscapes. Beyond their striking appearance, many of the rock formations hide a fascinating past — with homes, monasteries and churches carved directly into the stone by early Christian communities. While here, we’ll explore several remarkable cave churches, including the beautifully painted Dark Church, and the Church of Saint Barbara, each decorated with colourful frescoes depicting biblical scenes. We’ll also see the historic Nunnery complex from the outside, once home to a community of nuns. Together, these sacred spaces offer a captivating glimpse into the spiritual and artistic life that once thrived here. After lunch, we're venturing into the hidden gem of Paşabaği, a mystical valley where nature and history collide. Picture this: rock-hewn homes, ancient churches, and a peaceful, monastic atmosphere that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Later, we head to the Zelve Valley, once a bustling hub for Christians from the 9th to 13th centuries. Today, it's an outdoor museum, where we can wander among ancient dwellings and incredible churches carved into the rocks. After some time exploring this fascinating open-air museum, we return to our hotel before enjoying dinner at a popular local restaurant. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking. 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.
Rise and shine, art enthusiasts! Today kicks off with a colourful journey into the world of ceramics in Avanos. With its cobblestone streets and stunning views over the Red River, this quaint town offers the perfect backdrop for a pottery-making workshop. Get ready to dive into the magic of pottery with a lively lecture that'll spin tales as mesmerising as the pottery wheel itself. We’ll then head to a local restaurant for a hands-on cooking class! Special Experience Visit a local restaurant in Cappadocia and learn to prepare some of the local culinary specialties in a hands-on cooking class. Run by a local women’s cooperative dedicated to preserving the region’s culture, this experience invites us to make Turkish ravioli, known as mantı. We’ll learn how to prepare the dough, fill it, and shape each ravioli by hand, guided by traditional cooking techniques and insider tips. At the end, we’ll get to savour the delicious creation we made from scratch! Next we dive into an adventure beneath the surface as we explore one of Cappadocia's incredible underground cities, Ozkonak. Featuring a maze of tunnels, chambers and rooms carved into soft volcanic rock over ten levels, this underground city is one of the best preserved in the area. It can hold an incredible 60,000 people and is over 40 metres deep into the Earth. Imagine the hustle and bustle of thousands of people living, sleeping, and working in this underground maze. It’s like stepping into a real-life cave city — a fascinating peek into ancient ingenuity and survival. Optional Excursion Whirling Dervishes – A performance about the mystical religious sect known as the Whirling Dervishes, using music and dance to induce themselves into a mystical state. As the ceremonial music plays, they begin to whirl, and their long skirts billow giving the impression that they are floating on air. 1hr – from Euro 40pp (minimum 5 people). Cash only.
After breakfast, we’ll make our way to Konya, one of Türkiye's oldest and most mystical cities. Here, we’ll visit one of the largest surviving caravanserais along the Silk Road, the 13th century Sultanhanı Caravanserai. Historically, a caravanserai was a roadside inn, where travellers and merchants could rest and recover from the day’s journey. Not only did they provide accommodation and food, it was also an opportunity for merchants to exchange goods with people from across the vast regions the Silk Road covered. Next, we’ll visit the home to the legendary Whirling Dervishes, the Mevlâna Museum. Whirling Dervishes are spiritual dancers that belong to a unique religious order 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. , Special Experience Watch as a skilled chef expertly prepares etli ekmek, a Turkish pizza-like dish originating from Konya. We’re in for a real treat today for lunch, stepping into the heart of Konya’s culinary traditions with a hands-on demonstration from a local expert. We will watch them prepare etli ekmek, a thin and delicious pizza-like Turkish speciality that has been a favourite in the region for generations — and hopefully a new favourite dish for us! After, we’ll savour a tasty lunch. This afternoon, we'll settle into our hotel before a delightful dinner together. Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.
This morning our eyes are set on a picturesque village that hugs the shores of Lake Beyşehir, where we’ll visit a friendly local family. This intimate visit offers a unique chance to experience Turkish culture firsthand, with a glimpse into daily life through the eyes of the locals. Our next stop today is the mesmerizing Esrefoğlu Mosque, one of Türkiye’s oldest mosques. Built in the 13th century, this wooden marvel is a fine example of Seljuk architecture. With its elegant minaret and beautifully intricate façade, it’s a place where history and art blend seamlessly. We then journey south, along the breathtaking Mediterranean coast, making our way to Antalya — the region’s largest city and tourism hotspot. With its ancient monuments and scenic tombs, Antalya’s rich history stretches all the way back to 133 BC. As we arrive, the longest beach in Türkiye awaits, offering a perfect mix of modern vibrancy and timeless beauty. Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.
Today we get to enjoy the day at leisure and explore Antalya, the sparkling gem of Türkiye’s Mediterranean coast. This lively city blends the best of ancient history and modern luxury. Stroll through its charming old town, visit Roman ruins, and marvel at towering tombs that have stood the test of time. With its stunning beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Antalya offers the perfect mix of sun, culture, and history — making it a must-see destination. Optional Excursion Perge, Aspendos and Duden Waterfall – Spend the day exploring these fascinating places located in the region of Antalya. First visit the ruins of Perge, an ancient Anatolian city. Then continue to Aspendos, home to one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the world. Lastly, visit the magnificent Duden Waterfalls. Full Day - from Euro 50pp (minimum 5 people). Cash only.
Saying goodbye to Antalya this morning, we’ll set off for the quaint town of Demre, taking the coastal route that boasts scenic Mediterranean landscapes. Here we’ll discover St. Nicholas Church, one of the most historically significant Christian pilgrimage sites in the eastern Mediterranean. This Byzantine church is the final resting place of St. Nicholas, the 4th-century bishop whose legacy eventually inspired the modern figure of Santa Claus. After, we’ll enjoy some free time for lunch and further exploration. We then continue on to the sun-kissed paradise of Fethiye, where adventure and relaxation go hand in hand. A stunning port city nestled on the Turquoise Coast, the town sits between lush pine-covered mountains and bright blue waters of the Mediterranean. Its streets and harbour are dotted with remnants of the past, from Lycian rock tombs carved into cliffs to Ottoman-era architecture. If this destination was described in two words, it would be ‘Mediterranean magic’! Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Today’s agenda? Pure, unadulterated bliss as you have the entire day at leisure to relax or explore the hidden gems of Fethiye. If shopping is your thing, then you may wish to discover Fethiye’s bustling market. Here, vibrant stalls burst with colourful textiles, aromatic spices, and quirky trinkets begging for attention. It’s a treasure trove for curious souls! Or, if you’re eager to take a dip in the sparkling blue water, head to Ölüdeniz Beach. With the lush national park on one side and the famous lagoon on the other, this scenic spot is unlike any other. Its sandy shores are the perfect place to settle in for a day of Mediterranean swimming. As a bustling port town, Fethiye is brimming with deliciously fresh seafood. If you are fans of mussels, you’re in for a treat — stuffed mussels are a local speciality here, filled with rice and rich, aromatic spices. Yum!
Farewelling Fethiye this morning, we set our eyes on Dalyan, a quaint town hugging the Dalyan River. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, the town is bursting with charming restaurants, cafés and shops, and has a rich history that stretches back to the 10th century. Here we’ll board a traditional, flat-bottomed boat and embark on a scenic journey through the Dalyan Delta. This protected, eco-rich wetland connects Köyceğiz Lake to the Mediterranean Sea, and we’ll have the opportunity to discover some of the narrow, reed-lined channels. We will also explore İztuzu Beach, also known as Turtle Beach, a pristine stretch of coast where loggerhead sea turtles come to lay eggs! This afternoon we continue on to Pamukkale, an extraordinary blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Pamukkale stands out as one of the highlights of Türkiye and this incredible location is where we will spend the night. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Our day begins with a visit to the site of Hierapolis, an ancient Greek city that sits atop the famous cascading pool terraces. Established by the kings of Pergamon at the end of the 2nd century BC, this ancient spa town is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site revered for its striking natural formations and its complex Greco-Roman engineering techniques. Over the last 14,000 years, calcium rich water from an underground thermal spring has flowed over the mountainside and slowly solidified, creating shallow white basins and twisted stalagmites. The water here in Pamukkale is well-known for its positive effects on the skin and eyes, as well as its ability to alleviate symptoms of asthma and rheumatism! We continue our fascinating journey to Aphrodisias, an ancient city dedicated to the Goddess of Love, Aphrodite. Once a major cultural and artistic hub, this city is renowned for its exceptional Sculpture School, which created some of the finest marble statues and architectural reliefs you’ll ever see. As we stroll through the site, we’ll marvel at these masterpieces. One of the real showstoppers is the gigantic stadium, the largest in the classical world, with a capacity of 30,000 spectators. Originally designed for athletic events, it later hosted gladiator fights, wild animal displays, and even circuses, especially after an earthquake in the 7th century altered its use. After soaking in the rich history of Aphrodisias, we head to Kuşadası, a charming coastal town that boasts 300 days of sunshine annually. It’s a perfect spot to relax and unwind, but the best part? It’s the gateway to the incredible Roman ruins of Ephesus, just waiting to be explored! Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. Optional Excursion Hot Air Balloon Ride – See the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage-listed Pamukkale hot springs from a completely different angle as you take to the skies on a hot air balloon adventure. 45mins – from Euro 210 pp. Cash only.
This morning is at leisure for you to relax or explore the sights of Kuşadası before we make our way to Ephesus, the largest Roman city ever uncovered. Stepping into Ephesus is like traveling back in time. Its remarkably preserved ruins span centuries of history, from classical Greece to the Roman Empire, when it served as the Mediterranean's primary commercial centre. Walking along the marble-paved streets of Ephesus offers a glimpse into daily life from those eras. We'll explore ancient gymnasiums and bathhouses, marvel at the Library of Celsus, and see the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. We'll also visit a local leather factory, where you'll have the opportunity to watch artisans at work and purchase exquisite, handcrafted Turkish leather products. This evening we’ll head to a renowned vineyard in western Türkiye for a delicious wine tasting and dinner. There are over 20 wine grape varieties grown in the vineyards here, both local varieties and some completely new to Türkiye, so we’re in for a real treat during our sampling. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Situated on the southern shore of the Dardanelles, Çanakkale is an ancient port city that has housed several civilisations over the past 6,000 years. Çanakkale is also widely regarded as the entry point to the Gallipoli Peninsula. On the way to Çanakkale, we’ll visit the Asclepieion of Pergamon, a famed ancient medical centre and the world's first psychiatric hospital. Pergamon stands today as a supreme example of the region’s multi-layered cultural landscape. This afternoon we’ll visit Troy, one of the oldest discovered sites in Asia Minor. It holds nine settlements, dating from the Stone Age to the Roman Empire along with a replica of the famous Trojan Horse. The celebrated city of the Iliad, the Odyssey of Homer and the Aeneid of Virgil were long believed to be fictional until renowned archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann discovered the ruins near the modern city. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
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 25 April to 20 December 1915, during what is referred to as The Gallipoli Campaign or Battle of Gallipoli. At the end of the war the bodies, still unburied, were cleared by the Allies on returning to the peninsula. Of the 22,000 graves at the 31 war cemeteries, only 9,000 are identified burials with grave markers. The remaining graves are commemorated with a special memorial. Today is an incredibly moving day. It is a tangible reminder of a not-so-distant past and a significant event in history that shaped Australia's national identity. Later this afternoon we’ll return to Istanbul. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
We begin the day with a visit to the famous Grand Bazaar. Built in 1457 AD, the Grand Bazaar is one of the largest covered markets in the world. It’s most famous for its antique shops, jewellery, carpets, hand-painted ceramics, embroideries and spices. Making our way to the exotic Spice Bazaar, you’ll have some time to browse through the stalls at your leisure and soak up the scents of hundreds of spices permeating the air. Next, we’ll take a walking tour through the neighbourhoods of Fener and Balat, perhaps two of the most historically rich districts in Istanbul. Fener is the historic Greek neighbourhood of Istanbul and is nestled on the shores of the Golden Horn. It’s a neighbourhood with a unique atmosphere, where colourful houses share fences with ancient mosques and churches. The adjacent district of Balat is renowned for its Jewish heritage and centuries-old synagogues, historic mansions and diverse array of architectural styles. Both areas boast historical significance in Istanbul and are included in UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at leisure to bask in the culture of this beautiful city for the last time. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a lovely group farewell dinner. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking.
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. Today marks the completion of our adventure through fascinating Türkiye. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
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Get ready to experience the wonder that is Turkmenistan — a land where ancient spirituality, long-standing cultural traditions and diverse landscapes collide. This largely undiscovered Central Asian gem boasts a tapestry of influences, from Oghuz tribal language and Persian mystique to a dash of Soviet legacy. Our adventure kicks off in this land’s sparkling heart, Ashgabat. Gaining its independence from Russia in the ‘90s, the city is an architectural playground — imagine remnants of Soviet modernism interwoven with gleaming white marble buildings, wide empty boulevards and endless green parks. Ashgabat stands proudly unique, a city unlike any other you’ve seen and a stark contrast to the rest of the country. We don’t want you to miss out on your afternoon tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you are back at the hotel and ready to depart at 2pm. Our first stop will be the astonishing Independence Park, where marble monuments and gold statues soar skyward, followed by the palatial Ertuğrul Gazi Mosque, which is a spiritual and architectural marvel. We’ll gain real insight into Turkmen culture at the National Carpet Museum, gaping in awe at carpets so finely crafted, you can see the country’s proud artistic heritage in every beautifully constructed piece. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a group welcome dinner, complete with a folk performance that’ll immerse you into Turkmenistan’s one-of-a-kind spirit. Special note: This tour involves some long travel days by private vehicle, where conditions may be uneven and dusty. Be prepared for winding (but incredibly scenic) roads, many speedbumps and at times heavy traffic that will all affect travel times. Some smaller vehicles will be used due to the nature of the roads and some of the locations.
This morning, we’re swapping city opulence for ancient wonder as we venture out to the legendary ruins of Nisa. Once the heart of the mighty Parthian Empire, Nisa’s crumbling fortress walls are now UNESCO-celebrated and bursting with epic stories. Imagine emperors, battles and hidden treasures as you stroll through the sun-baked remnants. After getting your history fix, we’ll make our way back to Ashgabat for lunch at a local spot. We’ll then return to our hotel where the afternoon is yours at leisure. Why not relax at the hotel, take a dip in the pool, or consider doing the optional tour to the Darvaza Flaming Crater. Optional Excursion Darvaza Flaming Crater – Travel by 4WD jeeps to witness the Darvaza Flaming Crater at night. This unique geological phenomenon is a massive crater with a perpetually burning natural gas flame, creating a mesmerising and eerie spectacle that has earned it the ‘Door to Hell’ moniker. Enjoy a picnic dinner whilst admiring this captivating natural wonder. Please note this tour will conclude at your hotel around midnight. 10 hours – from US $150pp (minimum 3 people) Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking across uneven ground.
Enjoy a leisurely start to your day. Sleep in a little, you’ve earned it! Later, we’ll be cruising through the outskirts of Turkmenistan’s agricultural heartland on our way to something truly special — the Arkadash Stud Farm. Here, we’ll meet the legendary Akhal-Teke horses, the pride of Turkmenistan. These stunning “Golden Horses” shimmer in the sunlight, earning their nickname thanks to their glowing coats. With a 3,000-year-old pedigree of speed, smarts and stamina, these beauties are living legends, and you’ll get to see them up close! We then make our way back to Ashgabat for a well-deserved lunch at a local eatery. But we’re not done yet. Our next stop is the vibrant Russian Bazaar, a treasure trove of fresh flavours, colourful wares and quirky souvenirs. Upon returning to the hotel later in the afternoon, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy.
Today, we’re catching a local flight to Daşhoguz before making our way across the border into the legendary land of Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan is the crown jewel of the “Stans,” and it’s no wonder why! Its storybook past is peppered with tales of conquerors like Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan and the Russian Empire, all of whom left their mark on this vibrant and dynamic land. We arrive at the magical city of Khiva. Stepping into Khiva’s old town feels like hopping in a time machine bound for the Silk Road’s heyday. Winding alleys, mighty fortress walls and centuries-old minarets await, all perfectly frozen in time since the 10th century. Modern-day Khiva may be friendly and welcoming, but its mud-brick buildings and mystical atmosphere still echo tales of camel caravans and bustling bazaars. Soak up the sights, listen for ancient whispers in the breeze and let your imagination run wild, Khiva is where history comes alive and adventure takes centre stage! Your flight time will be approximately 1 hour. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours
Khiva is a fantastic city to discover by foot, and today we’ll do just that. Our walking tour will lead us straight into the legendary Itchan Kala, the heart and soul of Khiva’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, where ancient walls and narrow lanes will whisk us back in time. Don’t be surprised if you feel like you’ve landed in a history book! Today is all about discovery, diving into Khiva’s fascinating past step by step! Have your cameras ready as we wander past the dazzling, turquoise-tiled Kalta Minor Minaret, the regal Kunya Ark fortress, the solemn beauty of Madrassah Rakhimkhon, the Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud and the sky-piercing Islam Khodja Minaret. After a hearty lunch, we’ll marvel at the intricately carved wooden pillars of the Friday (Juma) Mosque, each one a masterpiece! Then it’s off to the incredible Tosh-Hovli Palace, the “Stone House,” where vibrant blue tiles, delicate carvings and incredible ghanch (that’s ornately carved alabaster) steal the show. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Gear up for a long travel day today as we bid adieu to Khiva and make our way by road to the ancient city of Bukhara. There will be plenty of stops along the way for us to stretch out and break for lunch. Over 2,000 years old, the Holy City of Bukhara is one of the best examples of preserved Islamic cities within Central Asia. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Silk Road,’ is filled with mosques, madrassahs (Islamic schools), flat-roofed houses and covered bazaars just waiting to be explored. Once we arrive at Bukhara, the rest of the day is free for us to enjoy at our own pace. Why not take a stroll through the old city to take some spectacular snaps as the sun sets over the ancient streets. Or duck into a local restaurant for a warm welcome to the city through your stomach! A cuisine known for its rich and savoury flavours, dive into a few mouthwatering dishes before a full day of exploring tomorrow. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Get ready for a day of exploration in Bukhara, packed with jaw-dropping sights and legendary tales. We’re diving headfirst into the city’s ancient heart, starting with the Lyabi-Khauz ensemble, a tranquil square surrounded by centuries-old trees and bustling teahouses. Then, marvel at Magoki Attori Mosque, the oldest in Bukhara and the intricately beautiful Madrassah Aziz Khan which is known for having its portal decorated with poetic verses. Next up, for all of us history buffs is the mighty Ark Fortress which stands tall since the 4th century BC, serving as the residence of the Emris of Bukhara for over a thousand years. Our touring continues at the elegant Bolo Hauz Mosque, famous for its striking entrance portico with slender wooden columns supporting a beautifully painted wooden ceiling. We’ll also visit the mystical Mausoleums of Ismail Samani and Chashma-Ayub. Later, we’ll visit the Hunarmand UNDP Assisted Workshop. We’ll meet with local artisans as they bring traditional arts to life: carving, miniature painting, block printing, glittering gold embroidery, metal chasing and the rich stitches of suzani embroidery. By the end of the day, we’ll be brimming with wonder, awe and inspiration. Bukhara’s magic is contagious! Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Ready to discover more of Bukhara? A half-day tour will introduce us to many more wonders of this Holy City. Venturing into the surrounding areas of Bukhara, we’ll visit Sitorai Mokhi Khosa, the former summer residence of Bukhara’s last Emir. Originally conceived by Akhad-Khan in the late 19th century, it was Muzaffar-Khan who completed the main palace and dedicated it to his beloved wife, Sitora-Bonu. Following her passing, the palace earned the name Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, meaning ‘star-like and moon-like palace.’ Its architectural charm draws parallels to Russia’s magnificent Peterhof Palace in St Petersburg, minus the chilly Russian winters! Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to soak up the atmosphere in Bukhara. It’s a great city to walk around and explore. Its streets are full of inviting tea houses, quirky shops and secret corners waiting to be discovered.
Our day’s adventure kicks off in the town of Gijduvan, renowned as a craft and trade centre for centuries. This town is particularly famous for its exquisite ceramics, distinguished by intricate geometric, animal, and botanical motifs, stemming from ancient polychromatic glazed ceramic traditions. We’ll step into local workshops, watching the magic unfold as artisans transform clay into colourful masterpieces and share the secrets behind their ancient techniques. Special Experience Dive into the flavours of Uzbek cuisine with a masterclass in traditional bread baking and shashlik making. Here we’ll watch how the delicious bread is shaped, and sizzling shashliks are prepared (Uzbek kebabs). And yes, we’ll get to feast on these treats during an authentic Uzbek lunch. We’ll continue our journey to the legendary city of Samarkand. Known as the “Rome of the East,” this storied city is nearly 2,750 years old and showcases a remarkable architectural mix of Persian, Islamic and Central Asian styles, from its medieval heart to its leafy Russian-influenced avenues. After check-in at our hotel, the evening is all yours to catch your breath, take a leisurely stroll or just revel in the wonder of Samarkand. The city’s magic is waiting for you to discover! Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
We’ll begin our day of sightseeing with a visit to the Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, an architectural masterpiece and the final resting place of Tamerlane (Timur), one of history’s most formidable conquerors. We then move onto the impressive UNESCO World Heritage-listed Registan Square, one of Central Asia’s most iconic sights. This breathtaking ensemble of architectural marvels embodies the city’s rich history and cultural significance. Here, we’ll admire the medieval architecture and its three madrassahs: Ulug-Bek, Tilya-Kori, and Sher-Dor. These ornate beauties have been standing tall since the 15th and 17th centuries, and every tile has a story to tell. Our adventure continues at the magnificent Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once the biggest in Central Asia, where echoes of 10,000 worshippers fill its grand courtyards. The scale and beauty here are nothing short of awe-inspiring! After some free time for lunch, we will visit a local winery for a fun and flavourful tasting session before returning to Samarkand for an evening at leisure. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Today we will travel to Konigil village to visit a paper-making workshop. Founded by the inventive Muktarov brothers, the paper mill has revived this ancient tradition based on Samarkand technologies. See how mulberry bark is cleaned, boiled and mashed before being flattened, dried and painted. We’ll also engage hands-on in the intricate steps of crafting paper by hand. You’ll be a craft master in no time! Next, we channel our inner stargazers with a stop at the Ulugh Beg Observatory Museum. Built in the 15th century by the legendary mathematician and astronomer (and grandson of the mighty Amir Temur), Ulugh Beg’s observatory was once a hub for sky-watchers and cosmic thinkers. Hidden for centuries, this is where the stars came close enough to touch! But wait, there’s more! We’ll roam the stunning Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, where ornate mausoleums shimmer in blue, telling stories from the 11th and 12th centuries. Then, get lost in the sensory wonderland of the Silk Road Bazaar. It’s a great place to purchases some local treats, collect souvenirs or just soak up the vibrant colours. Don’t snack too much, as we have a special lunch coming up and by now, we know that mealtimes in Uzbekistan are no small feat! Special Experience Indulge in an authentic culinary experience at a local Rahman master’s house. Witness the art of '‘Plov'’ preparation and delight in the creations for lunch. Watch as local ingredients are layered to create Uzbekistan’s beloved national dish. Then, once it’s ready we’ll sit down together and savour this delicious, flavour-packed rice meal. On our return to Samarkand, the rest of the day is free for you to explore this fascinating city at your own pace.
Today you will have the day to yourself to unwind and further discover Samarkand at your own pace. Take a leisurely stroll along Samarkand’s wide boulevards, unwind in a cozy chaykhana (teahouse) with a pot of fragrant Uzbek tea. Craving a treat? Pop into a local bakery for delicious, sweet pastries. Browse the bustling bazaar again for those irresistible, last-minute bargains. Or wander through the city’s charming neighbourhoods and parks, soaking up the rhythms of daily life away from the main tourist sites. Textile enthusiasts may enjoy a visit to the Happy Bird Art Gallery, which showcases folk art, hosts exhibitions and offers locally made crafts for sale. If relaxation is what you’re after, treat yourself to a soothing session at a traditional hammam for an authentic Central Asian bathhouse experience. The day is yours to enjoy as you wish. This evening, we hop aboard Uzbekistan’s high-speed bullet train, an experience in itself. Glide through the countryside in comfort and style, swapping stories and photos with fellow travellers or just gazing out at the shifting landscapes outside your window. We arrive in the pulsating capital of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, later in the evening and check into our hotel for a good evening’s rest before embarking on yet another adventure! Your train travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Today, get ready for a whirlwind tour through the heart of Uzbekistan’s capital, Tashkent. We’ll begin our exploration in the enchanting Old Town, where ancient charm meets vibrant city life. Marvel at the intricate beauty of the Barak-Khan Madrasah and admire the Tillya Sheikh Mosque, home to a precious treasure, a rare Koran said to date all the way back to the 7th century. Next, we’ll follow the mouthwatering aroma to the iconic Chorsu Bazaar. This lively marketplace is a kaleidoscope of colours, with bustling stalls overflowing with fragrant spices, farm-fresh produce and quirky souvenirs. Watch the magic unfold as master bakers create traditional Uzbek round breads called lepeshka, made fresh right before our eyes (and yes, you’ll want to taste one.) We’ll also make our way to Amir Temur Square to soak in the pulse of modern Tashkent before descending into the city’s famous metro, which is an absolute must-see! Think opulent chandeliers, colourful mosaics and station after station that feels more like a museum than public transport. Opened in 1977, the Tashkent Metro is a pure Soviet-era labyrinth of underground grandeur. Later this afternoon, the city is yours to explore. There are plenty of museums on offer for you to visit — the Tashkent Museum of Railway, the only one of its kind in Uzbekistan, or the Art Gallery of Uzbekistan which houses a wide variety of contemporary art from some of the country’s leading artists. Alternatively, sit back and relax in one of the many cafes or bars dotted around the capital.
After breakfast, it’s time to jet off on our next grand adventure to Dushanbe, the vibrant capital of Tajikistan. Soak up those aerial views as we fly into this city where ancient history and modern flair meet amidst snow-capped peaks. This immaculate city boasts European and Soviet-inspired aesthetics, adorned with tree-lined boulevards, numerous parks and public squares. It also proudly serves as the epicentre for Tajikistan’s finance, politics, administration and culture. Upon arrival, our friendly local guide and coach will be ready and waiting to whisk us into the centre of Dushanbe. First stop? The monument of Ismoili Somoni, a towering tribute to the founder of the Tajik nation — you’ll want your camera handy for this one. Next, we’ll wander through the leafy pathways of Rudaki Park, a favourite hangout for locals, poets and rose lovers alike. Next, we’ll make our way to the Cultural Palace “Kohi Navruz.” Prepare to be wowed by spectacular woodcarving, intricate mosaics and elaborate paintings. This is Tajik artistry at its absolute best! Of course, all that exploring will work up an appetite, so we’ll pause for a delicious local lunch. Then it's off to the National Museum of Antiquities, where we’ll come face-to-face with the incredible reclining Buddha. Prepare to be amazed by this ancient masterpiece and the museum’s treasure trove of artifacts. Your flight time will be approximately 1 hour.
After a hearty breakfast, we’re heading west out of Dushanbe to the town of Hisor. Picture rolling hills and scenic mountain views as we make our way to this historic spot. Awaiting us is the incredible Hisor Fortress, a castle that’s stood watch for over 2,500 years! An open-air museum, this formidable stronghold, which has witnessed countless epochs, bears the marks of numerous renovations and meticulous restorations over the ages. Imagine bustling marketplace scenes as we explore the towering gates, battered ramparts and secret passageways — it’s like stepping straight into a page of history. After getting our fill of legendary tales, we head back to Dushanbe just in time for lunch at a cozy local restaurant to sample more tasty Tajik flavours. With appetites satisfied, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy Dushanbe however you please. Stroll leafy boulevards lined with bold street art and shops, unwind in a lively cafe or explore the Botanical Garden, an oasis in the city centre that is home to a variety of birdlife. Today involves approximately 2-3 hours of walking.
Our journey today will span a considerable distance! Buckle up as we wind our way through jaw-dropping mountain passes, where every turn reveals another stunning view. Our lunch stop is in Istaravshan, a small city nestled in the foothills of the Turkistan Range. Here, we’ll visit the local Bazaar, where we observe skilled blacksmiths crafting items such as knives and horseshoes, just as their ancestors did centuries ago. Snap a photo or maybe pick up a handmade souvenir to remember this living tradition. After stretching our legs (and filling our stomachs), it’s onward to Khujand, where modern city lights meet ancient history. Conquered by Alexander the Great himself, Khujand was once known as Alexandria Eschate, a “last outpost” where empires clashed, cultures mingled, and legends were born. Fast-forward to today, and you’ll find a vibrant northwestern Tajik hub, buzzing with industries such as silk and cotton, and the gateway to the fertile Fergana Valley. The evening is yours to explore, relax, or dive into the local scenery of Khujand. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
This morning we’re diving into Khujand, one of Central Asia’s oldest gems along the great Silk Road. Our exploration begins at Kamoli Khujandi Square, where the city’s vibrant spirit comes alive. Next up is the bustling Khujand Bazaar, one of Tajikistan’s largest and liveliest. Wander aisles piled high with colourful spices, fresh produce and local goodies. We’ll also explore the storied walls of Timur Malik Fortress and pay our respects at the peaceful Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin. History lovers, get ready for the fascinating Historical Sughd Museum, where treasures and tales from Khujand’s long, colourful past await. But the showstopper is the Arbob Cultural Palace, an opulent 1950s wonder inspired by the Russian Tsar’s Winter Palace at Peterhof. Once headquarters for a Soviet collective farm, today it’s a dazzling slice of history you won’t want to miss. After our last Tajik lunch, it’s time to wave goodbye to Tajikistan as we make our way to the Oybek border to mark our entry back into Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital. Get excited for a unique blend of museums, modern chic, medieval marvels and Soviet-era architecture. With roots stretching all the way back to the 2nd century, Tashkent welcomes us to the next chapter of our Silk Road odyssey. On arrival at our hotel, the evening is at leisure for you to rest and relax. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Take it slow this morning. Sleep in, linger over a last cup of tea, or maybe treat yourself to a final wander around Tashkent’s charming streets. This is your morning to do as you please before our next Central Asian chapter begins. This afternoon, we bid farewell to Uzbekistan and take to the skies for our next adventure to Kyrgyzstan! We’ll board our flight to Bishkek, the lively capital. Nestled at the foot of snow-capped mountains and surrounded by sweeping green valleys, Bishkek is where urban energy meets breathtaking nature. But don’t let those mountain views fool you! Bishkek’s spirit is anything but sleepy. It’s full of post-Soviet architecture and infrastructure, lively cafes and an arts scene that’s as fresh as the mountain air. Once we land and check in at our hotel, let Bishkek work its magic. Unwind, explore, or simply savour the first taste of Kyrgyz hospitality. With mountain peaks on the horizon and adventure just beginning, this fourth Stan is ready to wow us! Your flight time will be approximately 1 hour.
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast, as today we're diving straight into the wonders of Bishkek. Our sightseeing starts at Philharmonic Square, where the mighty Manas Monument proudly honours the national hero at the heart of every epic Kyrgyz tale. Next, we stroll over to the centre of it all — Ala Too Square. Feel the city’s pulse as we admire the Soviet-style government buildings lining this vibrant plaza. We'll wander through history as we make our way to the Old Square, where Parliament House keeps watch and Lenin’s Monument takes us back to an earlier era. Our next stop is leafy Oak Park, home to an open-air sculpture gallery that’s a whimsical feast for the eyes. Created for the 1984 ‘All Union Sculptors Symposium’ in Bishkek, this sculpture garden celebrates “Work and Peace” and commemorates 60 years of Kyrgyzstan joining the Soviet Union. Then it’s on to Victory Square, where a yurt-inspired monument stands in tribute to the 40th anniversary of the end of World War II. But the adventure doesn’t stop there! As we leave the city and journey onward, the landscapes get bigger and bolder. Marvel at the ancient Burana Tower, gasp at the dramatic Boom Canyon, and soak in panoramic views atop the breathtaking Dolon Pass — nature’s playground at its wildest. Special Experience Enjoy a delicious home-cooked feast of local specialties in the backyard of a friendly family’s home in a rural village. We continue to our last destination for the day, located in the scenic Chong-Kemin Valley. Known as one of Kyrgyzstan’s most beautiful locations, it is popular with those who love the outdoors. Brimming with diverse flora and fauna, it’s a truly special place to explore. After checking in to our guesthouse, the rest of the day is yours at leisure. You can choose to participate in one of the activities the guesthouse runs (at your own expense) or simply sit back and unwind in this gorgeous rural setting. Then, gather around for a mouthwatering home-cooked Kyrgyz feast — your taste buds are in for a real treat tonight! Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
After breakfast our journey takes us to Kochkor, where rich tradition thrives in the mountain air. Our first stop is the Altyn Kol Women's Handicraft Workshop. Here, talented local artisans will let you in on the secrets of Kyrgyz felt making. Watch as wool gets skilfully transformed into rugs, hats and colourful crafts. Next, we’re off to the local bazaar. Picture an explosion of colour and sound as we wander rows of handmade Kyrgyz treasures, from handwoven bags, shimmering jewellery and unique souvenirs just waiting to come home with you. Then it’s time to hit the road again toward Naryn, our gateway to awe-inspiring mountains and deep, winding valleys. The landscapes here are incredibly dramatic with snow-capped peaks, vast green valleys and the occasional yurt dotted in the background. After this scenic drive, we’ll swing by the Central Mosque of Naryn — a tranquil masterpiece where local culture and architecture shine. Finally, we check into our hotel and savour a well-deserved dinner. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Today we’re travelling through the jaw-dropping At-Bashi Valley, where every turn reveals postcard-perfect scenery and epic mountain views. As we roll through this wild landscape, our first stop is Koshoy Korgon fortress. Picture ancient stone walls that once guarded powerful rulers during the 12th century. This site’s roots stretch all the way back to the 8th century, making it a true time traveller’s paradise! Up next, we head into the dramatic Kara-Koyun Gorge, where the legendary Tash Rabat awaits. This remarkably preserved 15th century stone caravanserai was once a bustling Silk Road resting spot for merchants, camels and adventurers alike. Imagine the swirl of languages, colourful goods and epic tales traded within these walls — history comes to life all around us. Take a stroll through the scenic gorge, breathe in the crisp mountain air and let the stories of ancient travellers spark your imagination. Then, settle in for a lunch, with each bite a delicious tribute to Kyrgyz hospitality in this unforgettable setting. We’ll return to our hotel in the late afternoon, giving you the rest of the day free to relax, explore, or simply dream about your Silk Road adventures! Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Today, prepare for a true Kyrgyzstan wow moment as we venture to Lake Issyk-Kul. Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Tian Shan,” this high-altitude alpine lake shimmers like a jewel amidst snow-capped peaks and valleys. It’s one of the world’s largest and deepest mountain lakes, with water that’s so pristine and blue. All around, you’ll spot charming lakeside villages and landscapes straight out of a brochure. We’re taking the scenic route along the southern shore — a feast for your eyes and your camera. Next, it’s hands-on fun in Kyzyl Tuu Village, where you’ll roll up your sleeves for a yurt-building workshop. Learn how these ingenious nomadic homes are constructed from wooden frames and felt, and how they are furnished in a way that they can then be packed up and moved onto a new location. Special Experience Discover the rich cultural heritage of Kyzyl Tuu Village during a yurt-building workshop, where you'll gain insight into traditional nomadic lifestyles. We then head to Skazka Canyon, literally translating to “Fairytale Canyon”. And as we arrive, we’ll see that this natural marvel certainly lives up to its name. Here, stunning rock formations rise dramatically from the earth, creating a playground of wild shapes and burnt-ochre colours just waiting to be explored. Tonight, soak up the spirit of the nomads in a lakeside yurt camp. Like most yurt camps in Kyrgyzstan, we will be provided with the essentials, electricity for lighting and heating, western toilets and outdoor showers with hot water. Please note facilities will be shared. Single bookings will be required to share for one night, when staying overnight in the Yurt camp. It will be based on twin share (2 people) per Yurt. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours. Today involves approximately 1-2 hours of walking over rock formations and uneven ground, in a canyon.
Wake up to a true Kyrgyz experience — breakfast in your lakeside yurt camp, with fresh mountain air and a view that’s hard to beat! Next, get ready for something truly special as we meet with a Berkutchi, or Golden Eagle Hunter. Watch in awe as this skilled owner and his majestic bird demonstrate the ancient art of eagle hunting right before our eyes. It’s a thrill you’ll be talking about for ages! Our next stop is Djety Oguz, also spelled as Jety-Oguz, a picturesque valley and rock formation. This natural wonder is renowned for its stunning red sandstone cliffs, which have unique shapes and vibrant colours. The name ‘Djety Oguz’ translates to ‘Seven Bulls’ in Kyrgyz, and it is named after the seven distinctive rock formations that resemble a row of charging bulls. Once we arrive in Karakol, it’s time for a city tour. Marvel at the charming old wooden Holy Trinity Orthodox Church and the vibrant Dungan Mosque, a masterpiece of Chinese Muslim architecture. Then, check into our hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
We have an early start this morning, travelling to the remote border crossing between Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. We’ll cross the border into our final Stan making our way to the magnificent Charyn Canyon and its valley of the Castles. Many liken Charyn Canyon to America’s Grand Canyon thanks to its vast, deep dusty orange canyons that stretch out over 150 kilometres, and spectacular rock formations sculpted by wind, water, and time. Here, you can choose to hike down towards the valley floor and climb back up again or soak in the epic views from the canyon rim. Either way, it’s absolutely unforgettable. Almaty, Kazakhstan’s grandest urban hub rolls out the red carpet with a blend of modern glitz and old-world charm, framed by the snow-capped peaks of the Zailiysky Alatau mountains. Towering skyscrapers mingle with elegant 19th century Russian buildings, and the streets are shaded by green parks. From shopping centres that buzz with energy to museums filled with history and culture, Almaty’s got something for everyone. On arrival at our hotel, the evening is at leisure. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking on uneven ground, in a canyon.
Treat yourself to a relaxed morning. Sleep in a bit, grab a leisurely breakfast and get ready to bask in the vibrant energy of Almaty. Our tour begins at the Park of 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, a lush green oasis in the heart of the city. Here, solemn monuments and towering trees pay tribute to 28 local heroes from World War II, making it a place bursting with both beauty and history. Next up is a true Almaty showstopper, the Zenkov Cathedral. This candy-coloured marvel is made entirely out of wood (even the nails!) and dazzles with its bright domes and ornate designs. Once a museum and concert hall during Soviet days, it’s now a thriving hub of Russian Orthodox life — you’ll definitely want your camera handy for this one! Scenic vistas continue as we soar above the cityscape on a cable car ride to Kok-Tobe Hill. Prepare to be wowed by panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. On our way back, we’ll indulge our sweet tooth with a visit to a local chocolate shop and trust us, it’s worth it! Enjoy free time this afternoon, whether that means shopping, strolling or relaxing, before capping off an unforgettable journey with a festive group farewell dinner. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Get ready for a high-altitude adventure as we visit Medeu, the world’s highest mountain ice-skating complex! Perched dramatically in the hills above Almaty, this iconic rink has seen more spins and speed skaters than you can imagine. Built in 1949, its 10,500 square metres of ice once echoed with cheers before falling silent after the Soviet Union’s collapse. We then take a scenic cable car ride to Chimbulak Mountain Resort, where we can see the ice-skating and Medeu Dam beneath us. This impressive dam is an engineering hero, built to save Almaty from destructive mudflows. Back in the heart of Almaty, we’ll explore the Central State Historical Museum. Here, we’ll feast your eyes on priceless artifacts, ancient relics and stories that bring Kazakh history to vivid life — perfect for one last deep dive into the region’s rich past. Then, let’s savour our final group meal at a vibrant local restaurant — one last hurrah where we can reminisce on our epic travels through these five fascinating countries. The rest of the afternoon and evening is at leisure for you to take in one last sight, pick up a few souvenirs or begin packing for the journey home.
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning, marking the end of our spectacular Central Asia adventure through the 5-Stans. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Salam and welcome to Azerbaijan, a country with rich cultural heritage, reflected in its traditional music, dance, art and architecture. We begin in Baku, the capital and largest city of Azerbaijan, home to seaside promenades and exceptional architecture. Once a former soviet capital, Baku is a city that has undergone a fascinating transformation, blending east and west into one incredible destination. Between its city palaces, delicious delicacies and the friendly charm of the locals, we’re in for a truly fascinating journey! We don’t want you to miss out on one moment of the incredible itinerary we have waiting for you, so we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 5.00pm. Tonight, you’ll meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a welcome drink, and to mingle about what you’re most looking forward to on tour.
Our sightseeing begins with a tour of Baku, the commercial hub of Azerbaijan. We’ll visit Martyrs’ Lane, a memorial dedicated to the victims of the 1990 Black January massacre by the Soviet Army, and the medieval-walled Old Town of Icheri Sheher. We will also explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed 15th century Palace of the Shirvanshahs and the 12th century medieval Maiden Tower. Special Experience Savour the heart and soul of Azerbaijan’s local traditions and culture at an organic, home-made tea-cream party. Tea culture is an important social custom in Azerbaijan. Tea here is usually bright in colour and served freshly brewed, strong and in a traditional pear-shaped armudu glass, typically accompanied by sweets. We will be welcomed in for an authentic tea experience in one of the Caravanserais of the old town, which can be likened to a roadside rest stop that once served as a hub for passing travellers. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure for you to further explore this wonderful city at your own pace, before we reconvene for dinner. Tonight, we’ll step back in time to old Baku as we enjoy a group welcome dinner with traditional live music at the Shirvanshah Museum restaurant. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
Today we will embark on a fascinating exploration of primitive history as we make our way to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gobustan National Park, renowned for its captivating open-air museum. The park is famously home to more than 6,000 inscriptions carved into the rocks of the mountainous landscape, dating back to what is believed to be over 20,000 years. The petroglyphs offer an intriguing glimpse into the remnants of early human life including depictions of animals, humans, rituals and symbols. Gobustan is also recognised for its abundance of a rare geological phenomenon that bubbles up in bulbous mounds from the earth — mud volcanoes! Mimicking that of a gurgling water fountain, these active volcanoes release a combination of mud, gas and water to form a surreal terrain that is unlike anything you have likely encountered before. According to legend, the mud is thought to contain healing properties due to its high mineral content, with locals using it for a variety of medicinal purposes including joint pain. On our return to Baku, we’ll snake our way through a buzzing local bazaar, brimming with fresh seasonal produce. We then explore the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre, featuring a distinctive, curved façade that was designed by renowned Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid. The museum provides an in-depth picture of Azerbaijan’s history and the life of the former president, Heydar Aliyev.
Our first stop for the day is the old capital of Azerbaijan, Shamakhi. This ancient city has a rich heritage and is well known as the home of many renowned Azerbaijani scientists, philosophers and architects. Here we'll explore the Juma Mosque, built on the site of a temple of fire-worshippers. We’ll also stroll through the grounds of the Yeddi Gumbaz Seven Tombs, a complex of seven partially complete, octagonal tombs built to be used for the Shirvan royal family in the 18th century. After some free time for lunch, we’ll continue on to Sheki. This charming city was once a bustling hub for silk production and is famous for its beautifully adorned Palace of Sheki Khans. Situated 701 metres above sea level, Sheki is laid out like an amphitheatre surrounded by forests of oak trees and lofty mountains. Once we arrive, we'll visit the Yukhari Caravanserai, a historic monument originally developed as an inn for caravaners to rest after a day of travelling. Not far from Sheki is the picturesque village of Kiş, where we'll discover the oldest church in the Caucasus. We’ll take in the stunning scenery as we walk through the striking foothills, before making our way back to Sheki for a group dinner. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
We venture across the border into Lagodekhi, Georgia this morning. At our first stop, we'll unwind at a local winery home to a unique cellar that is carved into the Caucasus Mountains. Following our exploration of the interconnected tunnels that span almost 8 kilometres and provide the perfect temperature for wine preservation, we will be treated to a delightful lunch accompanied by a wine tasting. Standing above the green valley of Alazin, the iconic Gremi church complex is next on our itinerary today. Built by the King of Kakheti Levan of the Bagrationi Dynasty, who led the most prosperous and peaceful period in the history of Kakheti, this 16th century architectural monument served as a royal citadel and place of worship. The ruins of the church are well-preserved and offer a brilliant display of late medieval Georgian architecture. Late in the afternoon we arrive in what is considered to be Georgia’s most medieval city, Telavi. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Nestled in the foothills of the Gombori Mountains, Telavi is the largest town in the heart of Georgia’s wine country. First to explore in this wine capital is the Bodbe Monastery, a Georgian Orthodox monastic complex where Saint Nino, the 4th century female evangelist, is buried. Special Experience Visit a local family for a cooking class of dishes from the Kakheti region. Enjoy our creations for lunch with music performed by polyphonic singers. Enjoy a very special lunch today as we join a local family for a scrumptious lesson in Kakheti cuisine. Simple but deliciously hearty, Kakheti food often consists of meat dishes, enjoyed alongside veggies and salad. We then explore picturesque Sighnaghi, a town perched high on a hilltop with panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains. We’ll take a walk with our guide through this delightful, fortified town, listening in to stories of its history as we explore cobblestone streets and admire the detailed façades which give the town its charming personality. On our way back to Telavi, we pay a visit to the Giorgi Ghvardzelashvili’s Winery! Enjoy a warm welcome from Giorgi Ghvardzelashvili himself, the heart and soul behind this beautiful cellar. Then, follow along as he shares his insights into traditional Georgian winemaking. We’ll also enjoy a delightful tasting of the locally produced wines.
Today we depart for Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, known for its varied culture and traditions. Paved with hilly cobblestones, the city’s old town is a testament to its long and complex history, including periods under both Russian and Persian rule. We will discover the sights of Tbilisi late this morning, taking a walk through its diverse architecture, and baroque and art nouveau buildings. Our sightseeing will include Metekhi Church, the Georgian Synagogue, Sulphur Baths and Rustaveli Avenue, which was named after the medieval Georgian poet, Shota Rustaveli. We’ll also ride a cable car from the old town up to the ancient Narikhala Fortress for breathtaking panoramic views of Tbilisi and its surrounding areas. The afternoon is at leisure for you to relax or explore more of the city. In the evening, we'll experience the local culture through our taste buds at a traditional restaurant. And as we dine, we’ll enjoy an entertaining folk show showcasing the rich history of each of the five regions in Georgia. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
After breakfast, our day is dedicated to discovering Tbilisi's hidden corners with further sightseeing in this colourful town. We’ll stroll through the Art Nouveau Sololaki district on a walking tour, home to rich merchants, artists and many hidden, vintage-style cafes. As the oldest district in Tbilisi, Sololaki showcases an authentic side to the town, with long balconies, faded paintings and echoes of its Soviet past. We’ll also visit the Dry Bridge Market, where you can browse an eclectic collection of treasures ranging from jewellery and paintings to military medals, tractor parts and crystal chandeliers. Special Experience Enjoy a private, classic trio reception concert at Mose Toidze House, complete with nibbles and an aperitif. Located in the home-studio of well-known Georgian painter, Mose Toidze, this museum features his paintings, documentary materials and works of his son, painter Irakli Toidze. In addition, we will have the opportunity to gain deeper insights into Georgian life, both past and present, with a local guest speaker who will join us at the museum. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking.
We farewell Tibilisi this morning and continue our journey to Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia. Here we explore Jvari, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed 6th century medieval monastery. It was at this site that King Mirian erected a large wooden cross after being converted by Saint Nino in the 4th century. The setting here is stunning, with vast panoramic views over the flowing rivers below. Next on our list to discover is the historic Svetitskhoveli Cathedral, another UNESCO site dating back to the 11th century. This revered cathedral is believed to be the final resting place of the Robe of Christ. We’ll take a break to drive along the beautiful mountain pass of the Georgian Military Highway to reach the Ananuri architectural complex. Originally built as a castle, this monument has witnessed countless battles and was ruled by the eristavis (dukes) of the Aragvi feudal dynasty in the 13th century. The fortress remained in use until the 19th century and was listed on the tentative UNESCO World Heritage list in 2007. Late this afternoon, we arrive in Kazbegi, also known as Stepantsminda. Situated on the banks of the Terek River, this quaint valley town is surrounded by towering mountains, with the majestic peak of Mount Kazbek looming over it from the west. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Grab your cameras, we’re in for some spectacular scenery today as we explore the pint-size mountain town of Kazbegi. We’ll take a short walk through the town centre before ascending by 4WD to Gergeti Trinity Church, standing at 2,200 meters above sea level. Isolated amongst the wilderness of Mount Kazbegi, the 14th century church is visible from just about anywhere in the town — making it one of Georgia’s most iconic sights. We then drive towards the Russian border, taking in views of the granite-walled Dariali Gorge and its beautiful surroundings. Special Experience Take part in a hands-on traditional dumpling masterclass with a local family and enjoy lunch in their home. Dumplings are a staple in Kazbegi cuisine, known to the locals as ‘khinkali’. Usually stuffed with flavour-filled spiced meat, these dumplings are typically quite large and known for their traditional pleating technique which forms a twisted ball-like shape. We’ll be welcomed into a local family’s home to get hands on and learn the culinary secrets of this delectable delicacy. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Why not discover more of the Caucasus Mountains by joining your guide for a hike in the dramatic Dariali Gorge? As you venture deeper into the valley, you’ll be rewarded with the magnificent sight of the gushing Gveleti waterfall. Today involves approximately 1-2 hours of walking on uneven and rocky terrain.
We depart Kazbegi this morning and journey to a local restaurant for lunch. After enjoying some delicious flavours of the region, we’ll venture to the centre of the Shida Kartli region, Gori, which is known as the birthplace of the infamous Soviet leader, Joseph Stalin. Here, we will visit the Stalin Museum to see the house where Stalin was born, as well as his personal railway carriage. Moving on from Gori, we will stop to explore the ancient rock-hewn ‘Fortress of God’ in the town of Uplistsikhe. Once serving as a significant religious, political and culture centre, this unique area is home to rock-cut architecture dating back to the 6th century BC. In some places, you can even see ancient wine barrels carved into the stone. In the evening, we will arrive in Kutaisi, the former ancient capital of the Kingdom of Colchis. Georgia’s third largest city, it is also said to be Europe’s 16th oldest city with people thought to have occupied the area from as early as the 17th century BC. Tonight, we will enjoy the evening at leisure. Today involves approximately 1-2 hours of walking on uneven and rocky terrain. Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
Today we'll set off to explore the incredible sights of Kutaisi. Of the most striking highlights is the Bagrati Cathedral, which hails as the emblem of a unified Georgia. Resting atop a dramatic hilltop, this marvellous monument is topped with distinctive turquoise roofs which contrast beautifully with its white stone façade. We will also enjoy a visit the local farmers' market, where vibrant stalls are lined with an array of fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables and cheese. The next stop on the agenda is a visit to the town of Tskaltubo, to see the abandoned sanatoriums. Back in the height of the USSR, Tskaltubo was a well-known spa destination, popular for its therapeutic mineral waters and radon bath therapies. In the late afternoon, we'll head down into the Prometheus Caves, a 1.2 kilometre long cave complex filled with breathtaking stalactites, stalagmites, petrified waterfalls and underground rivers. Here we will enjoy a boat ride (weather permitting) on the underground lake.
Leaving historic Kutaisi behind us, we’ll depart for the city of Borjomi, which is renowned for its mineral water industry. The springs in the valley are fed by water that filters in from glaciers sitting at altitudes of up to 2,300 metres on top of the Bakuriani mountains. The water is then transported by pipes to the two bottling plants. Discovered in the 1820s by the Imperial Russian military, the springs were made famous by the Russian Empire, which in turn saw an increase in tourism to the region. We’ll take a walk through the park and enjoy a taste of the renowned mineral water. Next, indulge your taste buds at a Meskhetian Stone Oven Ambari experience. Enjoy a baking demonstration of their signature bread, before tucking in for a taste. But that’s just the appetiser, before we’re treated to a homemade lunch of local Meskhetian dishes. Continuing on, we’ll make our way to the Samtskhe-Javakheti region. Named after two of the original Georgian tribes, Meskh and Javakhs, this area is widely considered to be the cradle of Georgian culture. As we travel, we’ll take in scenery consisting of arid and stone-terraced landscapes, green valleys and centuries-old fortresses — including views of the Rabati Castle. Lastly, we’ll stop at the 10th century Khertvisi Fortress, one of the oldest in Georgia, for a photo opportunity before arriving in Vardzia in the evening. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
An exciting day of discovery lies ahead of us as we visit the impressive Vardzia Cave Monastery, carved into the slopes of the Erusheti Mountain. Founded in the 12th century during the reign of Giorgi III and Queen Tamar, this fascinating complex was dug out of solid rock and became a well-fortified monastery with a significant role in Georgian history. After exploring the tunnels and chambers of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, we’ll enjoy some free time for lunch with some small cafes located near the complex. Special Experience Explore a nunnery in upper Vardzia, where nuns will teach us how to handcraft wooden crosses and honey wax candles. The city of Vardzia has long been considered a site of religious significance for the Georgian Orthodox Church. We will visit the upper Vardzia convent, which serves as a place of residence for the nuns who continue the rituals and traditions of the faith. Here we will try our hand at crafting wooden crosses and traditional honey wax candles. The nuns will also demonstrate how they paint symbols and showcase their handmade embroidery. Returning to the hotel, enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure before meeting in the evening for dinner at a local guesthouse. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking on uneven and rocky terrain.
We cross the border into Armenia this morning and travel to Gyumri, known for its unique heritage and ornately carved buildings. Here we will explore Saint Astvatsatsin Church, which is also known as the 'Church of Seven Wounds' in reference to the seven sorrows of the Virgin Mary. Although the original church was built in the 7th century, it was reconstructed in 1975. Inside, we’ll enjoy a unique view of the structure’s features, including the bell tower, five separate altars and intricate markings on the stone surfaces that look similar to brush strokes. Later in the afternoon, we will arrive in Yerevan, the capital and largest city of Armenia. Perched on the banks of the Hrazdan River, Yerevan serves as the administrative, cultural and industrial centre of the country. Yerevan is also one of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities. Enjoy some free time to unwind or discover some of the city this afternoon, before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
We're in for an exciting day as we make our way to the stunning Tavush Province, beginning with a visit to the town of Dilijan. As we stroll along Sharambeyan Street, adorned with traditional houses crafted from wood and stone, we'll explore some of Dilijan's craft workshops and art studios. Here we might be able to observe the process of wood carving and see stalls selling various khachkars, boxes, amulets and other wooden pieces. We then travel out to a nearby Molokan village for a glimpse into Armenia’s agricultural side. Life here is slower paced and rooted in tradition, home to close-knit, spiritual communities. Next, we’ll explore the large basin of Lake Sevan, one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. Interestingly, weather influences the lake’s colour, with shades ranging from deep blue to bright azure, and every hue in-between. The lake’s water is used for hydroelectricity and irrigation purposes, providing the country with low-cost electricity. We also visit Sevanavank Monastery. Serving spectacular views over the picturesque lake on the southern shore peninsula, this 9th century monastery is one of Armenia’s most visited sights. Our group will be then welcomed into a private residence for a fish BBQ masterclass, enjoying the creations for lunch, before returning to Yerevan. Relax this evening before more sightseeing tomorrow or spend some time strolling through the city’s centre. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
We'll kick off the day with a walking tour of Yerevan, allowing us to explore this fascinating city on foot. We will discover the various layers of the town’s history, walking past medieval shrines, Republic Square, the Cascade Complex, Mother Armenia and the Opera House. Our sightseeing continues as we take a visit to the Matenadaran Museum, home to some of the oldest repositories of Greek, Persian and Arabic manuscripts. After some free time for lunch, we stop at a local Khachkar workshop. A Khachkar, also known as an Armenian cross-stone, is an outdoor memorial stele that is carved in stone by local craftspeople. Khachkars are characteristic of medieval Christian Armenian art and act as a focal point for worship. Their design includes an ornate cross in the centre, and they can reach up to 1.5 metres high. Since 2010, Khachkars have been included on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Our last stop for today is the Genocide Memorial. Built in 1967, the memorial features a 44 metre tall stele symbolising the rebirth and unity of the Armenian people. Twelve slabs are positioned in a circle, representing the twelve lost provinces in present-day Turkey. We’ll see powerful photographs, documents and films dedicated to the 1.5 million people who were massacred during the first genocide of the 20th century. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore at your own pace. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking.
This morning we’ll discover Khor Virap, a fortified monastery and the site of the Royal Prison. It was here that Saint Gregory the Illuminator, a religious leader credited with converting Armenia from paganism to Christianity and the first bishop of the Armenian church, was held for thirteen years. Guided by the remote majesty of biblical Mount Ararat, we explore the site’s underground chambers and chapels. We then continue to the Areni Cave Complex, located along the Arpa River in southern Armenia, near Areni village. This cluster of caves is where archaeologists famously unearthed the earliest ever known winery, leather shoe, straw skirt and even a human brain! Later we’ll indulge in a cheese masterclass, accompanied by a homemade wine and vodka tasting in the Vayots Dzor region. Situated in the heart of Armenia, this beautiful province is famous for its assortment of wine which is considered to be some of the finest in the country. On our way back to Yerevan, we’ll stop for a photo opportunity at the 13th century Armenian monastery, Noravank. Surrounded by dramatic red-coloured cliffs, the complex was once home to religious leaders and the princes of the royal Orbelian family. Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.
Today, we’ll travel to Garni and Geghard via the picturesque Azat Canyon. With dramatic cliffs, gorges and the vast Azat River below, this canyon showcases spectacular views over the surrounding landscape. Here, we see the pagan Temple of Garni which impressively was built in the 1st century and is the sole surviving Greco-Roman structure in the country. As we travel through the gorge, we’ll also see the 12th century cave monastery of Geghard. Stepping inside, we’ll be treated to the harmonies of an acapella concert as five local women who form the quintet ‘Luys’ (Armenian for light), serenade us with their melodic voices. Special Experience Master the art of baking your very own Lavash, a traditional Armenian flatbread that has been enjoyed for centuries. Made of simple pantry staples, lavash is a large, thin flatbread. Traditionally baked in a clay oven, this warm, soft and chewy bread is often enjoyed as a wrap or dipped into delicious stews. Learn how to prepare this sumptuous speciality and sample your creation with a side of traditional Armenian cheese and greens, the must-have accompaniments to any Armenian meal! On return to Yerevan enjoy the rest of the day at leisure before our group farewell dinner tonight. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
After breakfast, we bid farewell to our fellow travellers, and the beauty of Georgia, Armenia and Azerbaijan — with a heart and camera full of unforgettable memories!
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Welcome to Casablanca, Morocco’s largest and most modern city, made famous by the movie of the same name starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. Located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Casablanca is a curious mix of ancient Berber influences and modern European hustle and bustle, plus lots of inviting places to enjoy the nation’s favourite drink — mint tea, of course. Its name, meaning ‘White House’ in Spanish, comes from the brilliant, whitewashed walls of the Old Medina. Wander a little and you’ll spot the elegant French colonial buildings with Moorish arches and Art Deco details. It’s a city that wears its past and present side by side. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 5:00pm. This evening, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a delicious welcome dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant.
Our day is dedicated to exploring Morocco’s cosmopolitan hub, Casablanca. Originally settled by Berber tribes, Casablanca has witnessed a series of transformations throughout history, including periods of rule by the Phoenicians, Romans and Portuguese. However, it was the French invasion in the 18th century that truly reshaped the city, laying the foundation for its modern identity that we’re familiar with today. After gaining independence in 1956, Casablanca continued to thrive, evolving into Morocco’s commercial and economic capital, retaining its diverse cultural heritage. We’ll explore the busy streets of Casablanca and acquaint ourselves with its European-influenced architecture before visiting the extraordinary Hassan II Mosque. Rising dramatically above the Atlantic Ocean, this remarkable mosque is truly one of the great architectural sights of the Islamic world. Completed in 1993, it is the largest mosque in Morocco and the second largest in the world, with a soaring minaret that stands 210 metres tall. During our visit we’ll step inside to admire the incredible craftsmanship found throughout the mosque, from intricate tilework and carved cedar wood ceilings to vast marble floors and beautifully detailed arches. We’ll also explore the impressive ablutions hall below, where rows of elegant marble fountains were designed for ritual washing before prayer. The scale, beauty and artistry of this space make it just as memorable as the mosque above. We’ll then visit Rick’s Café, a romantic café inspired by the 1942 film ‘Casablanca’. Enjoy some free time here for lunch before we continue our tour to uncover Casablanca’s famous Art Deco architecture. Casablanca’s unique style is called ‘architecture mauresque’ or ‘Moorish architecture’ beautifully blending French Art Deco with Islamic flair. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to explore at your own pace.
This morning, we say goodbye to beautiful Casablanca and travel east to Morocco’s smallest imperial city, Meknes, located in northern-central Morocco. Founded in the 11th century, Meknes is quieter and smaller than other imperial cities but still has the winding narrow Medina streets and grand buildings. On arrival into Meknes, we’ll enjoy an orientation tour of the old city referred to as the ‘Versailles of Morocco’. We begin at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old medina, a bustling maze of narrow streets, home to artisanal shops, traditional markets and historic buildings. We’ll see impressive gates, palaces and gardens built during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century including the magnificent Bab el Mansour Gate. Considered one of the most beautiful gates in Morocco, it is the perfect place for photos while marvelling at its ornate beauty. Special Experience Visit a picturesque winery in Meknes delighting in the scenery while tasting locally produced wines with a delicious lunch. The hillside vineyards and the mild temperature make the Meknes region the most ideal wine-growing area. Moroccan wines often incorporate local grape varietals like Carignan, Grenache and Cinsault. These varieties bring specific characteristics to the wines, such as fruity aromas, balanced tannin structure and great complexity. It's wonderful to experience a different side of Meknes and its surroundings, especially if you appreciate wine and want to explore the emerging wine culture in this region of Morocco. After our visit, we will continue our journey to Fez, one of Morocco’s most enchanting imperial cities, known for its labyrinth of ancient streets, vibrant souks and rich history that has earned it the nickname the country’s cultural and spiritual heart. Upon arrival, we will check in to our beautiful Moroccan riad, which will be our home for the next 3 nights. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Our adventure today takes us to the ancient archaeological site of Volubilis, one of the best-preserved sites in all of Morocco. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Volubilis stands as a lasting testament to the civilisations that once thrived in the region. Its origins trace back to the 3rd century BC when it was first established as a Phoenician settlement, evolving over centuries into a thriving Roman city. Volubilis served as a pivotal administrative city for this part of Roman Africa, responsible for grain production and exports to Rome. During our guided visit, we’ll explore the partially excavated ruins and discover the fascinating stories behind this once flourishing city. Make sure to keep an eye out for the amazing mosaics, still in situ, that Volubilis is famous for, many of which remain beautifully preserved in their original locations. We return back to Fez early this afternoon, giving you the perfect opportunity to explore the city at your own pace. You might choose to wander the endless winding alleys of the medina, soak up the vibrant atmosphere or simply relax at your authentic riad and watch the world go by. Whatever you choose, it will be a wonderfully flexible way to enjoy Fez. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Our day is dedicated to uncovering Morocco’s cultural and spiritual heart, Fez. Founded in the 9th century, Fez is a beautiful labyrinth of narrow laneways, bustling souks and ancient landmarks. This unique city offers visitors a glimpse into Morocco’s captivating past with its centuries-old traditions and historic atmosphere. We’ll begin the day at a scenic viewpoint, where the vast sweep of the old city stretches out before us. From here, you can truly appreciate just how grand and intricate Fez is. After taking in the views, we’ll head to a ceramics workshop. Here, we will learn how the beautiful plates, tagines and mosaics are crafted by hand and the work that goes into producing these intricate wares. Next, we’ll make our way to the famous Medina, which has been a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site since 1981. Here, the narrow lanes and colourful traders make for some fantastic photo opportunities. We’ll see the souks with the myriads of craftsmen, the famous tanneries and carpet stalls. Be sure to keep your guide in sight as with over 70km of labyrinthian alleyways you do not want to get lost! Our sightseeing in the Medina includes the Karaouine Mosque and the fountains of Carpenter's Square. The Mosque is one of the oldest of its kind in the western Muslim world, and while non-Muslims cannot enter, we will get a wonderful view from the top of Medersa Attarine when it is open. We’ll also visit the famous old operation tannery, processing the hides of sheep and goat in stone vessels filled with a range of colourful dyes. The vivid colours and distinctive scents are unforgettable and watching the craftsmen at work is a memory that will stay with you and makes for some amazing photos. We will also make a stop at a textiles workshop to see skilled artisans weaving various colourful materials into beautiful pieces. The rest of the evening is at leisure for you to explore or relax. Today involves approximately 4 to 5 hours of walking.
Our drive to Merzouga today takes us past the town of Midelt, situated on the high plains between the Middle Atlas and the High Atlas Mountain ranges. In this market town, the majority of the buildings are sand-coloured, resulting in a beautiful contrast against the imposing mountains that surround the city. Here we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch, before continuing to Merzouga, where we will transfer to 4WD vehicles for our journey to our desert camp accommodation. The town of Merzouga is often referred to as the ‘Jewel of the Sahara’ and is the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. These towering dunes are among the largest in Morocco and measure up to 160 metres high and stretch endlessly across the golden landscape. Deluxe Experience Experience the tranquil beauty of the Sahara Desert, staying in a luxury camp surrounded by breathtaking desertscapes. Located strategically in the middle of the big dunes of the Erg Chebbi Desert, Merzouga Sandy Tents offers an unparalleled desert experience. We enjoy the night under the stars here, having the opportunity to experience a camel ride at sunset and enjoy sunrise from the top of the golden dunes. Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.
Rise early to experience a beautiful sunrise illuminating the golden sands of the Sahara. With your tent surrounded by dunes, you will not need to walk far to enjoy this truly ethereal experience. Make sure you bring your camera with you, as this is an experience you’ll want to remember forever! After breakfast, we’ll depart in 4WD jeeps, travelling deeper into the Sahara Desert to explore the surrounding landscapes and communities. Special Experience Travel to Khamlia, a small desert village, enjoying Moroccan tea and Gnaoua music with local nomads. We’ll enjoy a cup of Moroccan mint tea in a traditional home setting with local Gnaoua music as entertainment. Gnaoua music (or Gnawa music as it is also known) is quite a show, being a combination of Berber, Sufi and sub-Saharan African religious songs and rhythms combined with acrobatic dancing. Tonight, we will catch the beautiful sun as it sets over the desertscape surrounding our boutique hotel riad. A totally special and mesmerising sight! Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
This morning we’ll say goodbye to the stunning Sahara Desert and drive through the Dades Valley with its majestic sand-coloured castles and incredible rock formations that are known as ‘monkey toes’. The route through Dades Valley is often referred to as ‘the Road of One Thousand Kasbahs’, and it’s on this road that we’ll be able to view a vast valley dotted with hundreds of small oases and ancient fortifications. We continue our journey through Todgha Gorge, a gorgeous canyon on the road to Skoura. Here, we will have some time to walk through the gorge, enjoying its beauty and taking some amazing photos. In Skoura, we’ll enjoy lunch with a local Berber family, gaining real insight into their fascinating culture. The Berber’s are an indigenous ethnic group native to north Africa, renowned for their distinct culture, language and rich history, and their presence in Morocco dates back thousands of years. They are traditionally nomads, and still today, many Berber tribes maintain their nomadic lifestyle. Lastly, we make our way to Ouarzazate. Often called the ‘Door of the Desert’, this fortified city is nestled amid the Atlas Mountains and its caramel-coloured buildings blend almost seamlessly into the desert’s golden sand. Ouarzazate is also a noted film-making location with films such as Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy, Gladiator and Kingdom of Heaven shot here. On arrival in Ouarzazate, the evening is ours to spend at leisure. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Our day is dedicated to exploring Ouarzazate and the beautiful Taourirt Kasbah. Among one of the most captivating Kasbahs in Morocco, the Taourirt Kasbah’s rich history dates all the way back to the French departure in 1953. Here, we’ll immerse ourselves in the cinematic legacies of the Ouarzazate Kasbahs, where the Moroccan film industry thrived in the post-French era. We’ll also discover the allure of the famous Atlas Studios, located just 5-kilometres west of Ouarzazate. This incredible location boasts the title of the world’s largest film studio by acreage! Nestled amid the desert and mountains, this amazing studio has preserved the sets from renowned productions including Gladiator and Game of Thrones, making it a must-visit destination when in the region. We’ll return to Ouarzazate in the early afternoon, where you’ll have the remainder of the day at your leisure to explore this beautiful town some more or simply to relax.
Saying goodbye to the beautiful city of Ouarzazate, we’ll make our way to the picturesque, fortified Berber village or ‘ksar’ of Aït Benhaddou. This traditional mudbrick city (that dates back to the 11th century) is on the UNESCO World Heritage-list and is a striking example of the architecture found across southern Morocco. This iconic village and landscape has been immortalised in films including Lawrence of Arabia, The Living Daylights, The Mummy and Gladiator. Here, we will spend time walking its maze of winding streets until reaching a fortified granary at the top which provides an amazing view of the valley. We then enjoy a delicious lunch in the Kasbah. We’ll continue our journey to the magical ‘Rose City’ of Marrakesh. One of the four Imperial Cities of Morocco, Marrakesh was founded in the 11th century by the Almoravid Berber dynasty. It soon became the capital of the Islamic Empire that stretched as far as Spain and western Africa. During the rule of Yousef Ben Tachfine, Marrakesh was blessed with fine gardens, palaces, mosques and legendary walls, and was influenced by the Almoravid conquest of southern Spain. Morocco was colonised by the French in the 20th century and the strong influences from these countries can be felt today. On arrival, we’ll enjoy the evening at leisure. Today involves approximately 2 to 3 hours of walking. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
The red royal city of Marrakesh is the real heartbeat of Morocco, set within sight of the snowy peaks of the High Atlas Mountains. Our entire day is dedicated to seeing some of the city’s most iconic and beautiful sites. We will visit the elegant Bahia Palace, a 19th century masterpiece built for a powerful vizier and designed to showcase Morocco’s finest craftsmanship. As we wander its peaceful courtyards, intricate mosaics and carved cedar ceilings, we will marvel at the blend of Islamic and Moroccan design. Afterward, we will admire the towering Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakesh’s most famous landmark, whose graceful minaret rises 77 metres above the city and has guided travellers for centuries, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s rich architectural heritage. We then head to Marrakesh’s main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa. Considered one of the most famous squares in Africa, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site serves as the epicentre of the city where locals and visitors alike come to experience its lively atmosphere. Be sure to also visit here at night when the square really comes alive! We’ll also explore Melah, the city’s old Jewish Quarter. Special Experience We’ll join a cooking class to discover the art of traditional Moroccan cuisine, followed by lunch featuring the dishes we’ve prepared. Our last sightseeing stop is a visit to the enchanting Jardin Marjorelle, gifted to the city by famous French fashion designer, Yves Saint Laurent. We’ll explore the vivid cobalt-blue buildings, fountains and exotic plants, enjoying the serene atmosphere and fragrant air. We’ll return to our hotel for some time at leisure, and to freshen up before our wonderful dinner experience. Deluxe Experience Delight in a private chef’s table experience at the renowned Azalai Uran Souk restaurant. At Chef FZ ’s Private Table, dining is an intimate affair, best shared among a select few. Enter an exclusive world, where the chef’s creativity and passion for cooking awaits. Nestled in an authentic setting, you’ll experience the magic up close as FZ creates a culinary symphony before your eyes. Prepare to be captivated by the chef’s menu, a savoury feast that rivals Michelin-starred experiences. Each meticulously crafted dish tells a story, tantalizing both the palate and the imagination. From delicate appetizers to beautifully presented dishes, every step is a testament to Chef FZ 's mastery and passion for culinary perfection. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking.
Our morning will be all about slowing down the pace. Why not return to the medina for some great shopping opportunities. Alternatively, you might choose to relax by the pool with a good book, enjoy a quiet stroll through the gardens, or simply find a comfortable spot to sit and take it all in. Later this afternoon, we’ll come together to indulge in a grand high tea experience. Deluxe Experience Delight your taste buds in a decadent high tea at the enchanting Royal Mansour Marrakesh. Step into the charming sanctuary of Royal Mansour Marrakesh, where the world is put on hold for a moment. We’ll enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea in the beautiful La Grande Brasserie restaurant, where we will delight in delicious sweet and savoury snacks, freshly squeezed juices and tea and coffee. A blissful afternoon awaits us! Optional Excursion Hot Air Balloon Ride. Embark on an unforgettable early morning journey, drifting above the enchanting landscapes of Morocco as the sun stretches its first rays over the endless ochre dunes and the Atlas Mountains unfold beneath you. Includes return transfers, a flight of approx. 60 minutes, and a Berber breakfast. From Euro 230pp (minimum 2 people)
Today we depart the idyllic Marrakesh and make our way back to the beautiful Casablanca. We’ll have the afternoon at leisure for you to wander the city at your own pace, before enjoying a lovely group farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We bid farewell to our new friends and to mesmerising Morocco. We hope you leave with the memories of a lifetime.
Welcome to Hanoi and Vietnam, a country full of breathtaking scenery and fascinating culture offering a unique blend of east and west. Hanoi may certainly be a bustling city, but it still retains the mystery and charm of the past centuries and French colonial influence, with its narrow lanes and traditional shop houses that invite one to explore. Its many beautiful public areas, lakes, parks, tree-lined boulevards and monuments give the city a touch of elegance and a harmony with nature. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5:00pm. Tonight we’ll have the chance to mingle with our fellow travellers at the group welcome dinner and get our first taste of Vietnam’s famed cuisine!
We’ll discover another side of Hanoi during a half day tour in Long Thuong Village, home to a community of bronze casters since the 13th century. Explore the village and observe how the families create a range of products, including incense-burners and flower vases. Walking alongside fields of rice paddies, we’ll reach the nearby 200-year-old Nom Village. Exploring the narrow brick roads, we’ll see the antique houses and enjoy a cup of tea with a local villager. Here we’ll learn about the local life and the traditions that define this community. One of the village’s highlights is Nom Pagoda, one of the most impressive in the region, dating back to the 17th century. The pagoda is known for its collection of well-preserved statues, intricate wooden carvings and peaceful atmosphere, offering a fascinating insight into traditional Vietnamese Buddhism. This afternoon we’re in for a special treat! We’ll be met at our hotel by a private chef from the Rose Kitchen and taken to a bustling local market, where we’ll learn about traditional ingredients and even try our hand at a little friendly haggling to pick up the fresh produce needed for our lesson. Back at the kitchen, we’ll get hands our hands dirty, learning how to prepare classic Vietnamese dishes from scratch. Our hard work will pay off when we sit down to enjoy the meal we’ve just created!
We’ll have an early start this morning to discover Hanoi as the city awakens, a great way to see how the locals begin their day. Our tour begins at the photogenic flower market and moves onto the Old Quarter — a fascinating network of narrow alleys and shop houses, also known as 'The 36 Streets'. Each street has been named after the merchandise traditionally sold there, ranging from fabrics and crafts to medicines and tombstones. This is also a great time of day for us to stroll along the majestic Hoan Kiem Lake as it stirs to life — a favourite spot among locals to practise Tai Chi in the tranquil half-light. We can either watch these practitioners or join in ourselves. Breakfast today includes a traditional Vietnamese ‘banh mi’, followed by a visit to a local coffee shop. Experiencing some of the unique highlights of the city, our orientation tour will include Long Bien Bridge, St Joseph’s Cathedral and the grand Hanoi Opera House. Continuing on, we’ll view the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex comprising of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the beautiful Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s neighbouring traditional Stilt House, where the former Prime Minister lived from 1954 to 1969. We’ll also see the One Pillar Pagoda before heading to the Imperial Citadel & Flag Tower, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010. After lunch, we resume our tour at Vietnam’s first university, the Temple of Literature, a peaceful series of walled courtyards and graceful gateways, which is also host to the ‘Imperial Academy’. Then we’ll get a fascinating insight into the lifestyle and customs of Vietnamese woman at the Women’s’ Museum, before exploring the Tran Quoc and Ngoc Son Temples. Our final stop is the notorious Hỏa Lò Prison, nicknamed ‘Hanoi Hilton’. Formerly used by the French colonists for political prisoners, it later housed the imprisoned US pilots that were shot down during the Vietnam War, and today the remnants of the gatehouse remain as a moving museum.
This morning, we travel from Hanoi to the breathtaking Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed seascape renowned for its dramatic beauty. Dotted with thousands of towering limestone karsts and jungle-clad islets rising from emerald-hued waters, the bay feels almost otherworldly. Formed over millions of years, this natural wonder is steeped in local legend and offers one of Vietnam’s most iconic and photogenic landscapes. Cruise Embarkation: We’ll board our cruise vessel and enjoy lunch while witnessing the incredible views. After a delicious lunch on board, we’ll step ashore to explore Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island. Hidden within lush national park surrounds, the cave stretches for hundreds of metres and is filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites sculpted by nature over millennia. Later, we’ll cruise to the peaceful waters of Tra Bau in Lan Ha Bay, a quieter extension of Halong Bay known for its pristine scenery. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the calm emerald waters or simply relax and soak up the serenity of this spectacular setting — the choice is all yours! Returning to the ship, we’ll enjoy some time to relax and watch the sunset on the deck before dinner. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
Begin the day with an optional Tai Chi session on deck, moving gently through slow, flowing motions as the sun rises over the limestone karsts of Halong Bay. Pretty unforgettable, right? Or if you prefer to take it slow, simply settle in with a coffee and watch this extraordinary seascape drift by as we continue cruising through the bay’s maze of islands. After a light breakfast on board, we’ll disembark and travel on to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital and home of the Nguyen emperors from 1802 to 1945. Sitting on the banks of the Perfume River, Hue has a super relaxed, easy-going feel, with plenty of history woven into everyday life. From its impressive citadel and royal tombs to its pagodas and tree-lined streets, the city offers a fascinating look at Vietnam’s imperial past. Flight time will be approximately 1.5 hours. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
This morning we’ll explore Hue during a sightseeing tour, including the bustling Dong Ba Markets and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Citadel in the old Imperial City, modelled on Beijing’s Forbidden City. It was completed in 1833, and from here the emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty ruled Vietnam until 1945. Entering the citadel via a stone bridge you can see the Thai Hoa Palace, an important venue for official receptions and other important court ceremonies. The ostentatious columns supporting the roof are lacquered and inlaid with gold. There is a pair of smaller halls behind the Thai Hoa Palace used by mandarins — scholar-officials in the Confucian hierarchy — to prepare for court ceremonies. After lunch and some time to explore further at our own pace, we continue our afternoon with a cruise by dragon boat along the tranquil waters of the Perfume River. These traditional vessels are long and narrow, decorated with brightly painted scales and finished with an ornate dragon head at the bow and tail at the stern. Deeply rooted in local custom, dragon boats are believed to bring good fortune — historically used during festivals to ward off evil spirits and promote health and prosperity. Tonight we have the opportunity to join a family for dinner in their home! We’ll enjoy a glimpse into everyday living as we connect with our hosts and even lend a hand in preparing a delicious dinner of regional specialities.
Our day begins with a visit to the imperial tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. Emperor Tu Duc, who ruled from 1848–1883, had the longest reign of the Nguyen dynasty. Despite having over a hundred wives and concubines, he was unable to father a son and was left to write his own epitaph — a duty he considered a bad omen. His epitaph can still be found on the stele, the largest of its type in Vietnam, in the pavilion to the east of his tomb. Each tomb reflects the unique personality of its emperor, with Tu Duc’s surrounded by peaceful gardens and lakes, while Khai Dinh’s is more ornate, blending traditional Vietnamese design with European influences. In the afternoon, we make our way to Hoi An, travelling along the stunning Hai Van Pass. Winding its way through dramatic mountains and hugging the coastline, this raised scenic route is often called the “Ocean Cloud Pass” and marks both a geographical and cultural boundary between northern and southern Vietnam. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the South China Sea, lush forests and small villages tucked into the hillsides. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Hoi An was known as Faifo to early western traders, and it was one of Southeast Asia's major international ports during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. This ancient town remains a well-preserved mix of both indigenous and foreign influences, with architecture styles pulled from Chinese, Japanese and later European, designs. Our walking tour this morning includes a visit to the Culture and History Museum to learn more about this charming town before taking a stroll along the main street where we’ll come to the Chinese Assembly Hall of Fujien Chinese Community. This was built in 1697 as a place of worship dedicated to Thien Hau — the Goddess of the Sea. Strolling along the banks of the river we’ll come to the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, first built by the Japanese community in order to link the town with the Chinese quarters on the other side of the river. Special Experience Visit the colourful local market before taking a short cruise along the Hoi An River to the secluded Red Bridge Cooking School for an aromatic and informative cooking class. This afternoon we’re in for a real treat. We’ll meet at a local café to enjoy a refreshing drink before heading to a vibrant market, where we’ll shop for fresh ingredients for our cooking class. Our guide will introduce us to the colourful produce and spices, giving insight into how locals go about their daily routines and make their meals. Cruising along the famed Hoi An River, we’ll arrive at the cooking school and explore the on-site herb garden before diving into a hands-on class, learning to prepare some of Hoi An and Vietnam’s most famous dishes. During the lesson, we’ll also be introduced to Vietnamese food carving, discovering the art of plate decoration that adds a signature touch to every dish. And of course, no cooking class is complete without tasting your own creations — so get ready to dig in and enjoy the fruits of your labour! Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
Today is at leisure for you to relax and enjoy the resort and local surrounds or explore the old city at your own pace. An ideal town to discover by foot, why not immerse yourself in Hoi An’s history by strolling through the historic, brightly painted yellow streets, or perhaps you’d like to take to the water with a boat ride on the Thu Bon River, either by day or at night. A popular activity here is releasing brightly coloured lanterns, creating unforgettable photo opportunities! If last night’s cooking class has awakened your inner foodie, today is the perfect opportunity to explore Hoi An’s regional flavours. A total must-try is cao lầu, a local specialty from the Da Nang region, consisting of thick rice noodles, barbecued pork, fresh greens and crispy croutons — yum! Optional Excursion My Son - Travel to My Son, the former religious centre of the Champa Kingdom, a sophisticated civilisation which held sway over the region from the 2nd to the 13th centuries. The Cham religion was primarily derived from Indian Hinduism. The ruins of the five archaeological sites are located among green hills and winding streams. After a brief visit to the Visitor’s Centre for an overview of Cham history and culture, walk along the forested paths to explore the ruins. 3 ½ hours – from US $60pp (private including transfers). Optional Excursion Ba Na Hills – Explore Ba Na Hills amusement park, board one of the world's longest non-stop single-track cable cars. Enjoy scenic views whilst floating over ancient rainforests and waterfalls up to the summit. Walk amongst the clouds along the iconic Golden Bridge, wander through the Le Jardin D’Amour Flower Garden and the French Village before descending the summit. 5 hours – from US $135pp (private including transfers).
We’ll transfer to the airport today for our flight to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). The largest city in Vietnam, the hustle and bustle of Vietnamese life is visible everywhere in Saigon. It is a city of contrasts, with towering skyscrapers standing alongside traditional markets and ancient temples and a vibrant street food scene that reflects its diverse cultural influences. The city is constantly moving, yet within this teeming metropolis are 300 years of timeless traditions and the beauty of an ancient culture. Special Experience Go off the beaten track to discover Saigon’s best food spots. Touring by vespa, we'll taste authentic Vietnamese cuisine as the locals do. Ready to dive into Saigon like a local? Tonight, each of us will have a dedicated vespa driver to whisk us around to the city’s best foodie spots. We’ll start at a stylish rooftop bar with sweeping skyline views for a refreshing drink, before weaving through the bustling streets and hidden alleyways to taste some local delicacies and favourites at two delicious locations! To cap off the evening, we’ll stop at a music bar to enjoy a drink while soaking up live performances by local musicians. With the city lights, flavours and sounds all around us, this night is sure to be one of the most memorable experiences of the tour. Flight time will be approximately 1.5 hours. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Escape the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City and immerse yourself in the peaceful charm of the lush Ben Tre province in the Mekong Delta. On arrival, we’ll take a short walk through a local village before cruising the hidden waterways, along narrow canals and tributaries onboard a traditional sampan-style boat observing daily life along the riverbanks. We’ll stop at a local coconut garden to enjoy fresh coconut water, before continuing on to a family-run coconut processing operation to see how local products are made. Next, we will hop onto a xe lôi — a motorbike with a passenger cart — for a ride through the village of Huu Dinh, stopping at a traditional brick-making factory, all before visiting the home of a local family. Here, we’ll enjoy tea while learning about the life of a typical Mekong Delta family. After lunch at a riverside restaurant, we’ll continue our village exploration, visiting a local rice wine maker before meeting a former Viet Cong soldier, where we’ll also see a demonstration of traditional rice paper making. Today involves approximately 1.5 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today is approximately 6 hours.
A half day city tour is on our agenda today! We’ll begin at the historic Rex Hotel and set off on a walking tour to discover some of Saigon’s most iconic sights. Our first stops are the iconic Dong Khoi Street, the Municipal Theatre, Hotel de Ville and Nguyen Hue Boulevard. We’ll then head to the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office before hopping on our coach to finish our tour. Our final sights in the city centre include the impressive Presidential Palace (Re-unification Palace) with its lush gardens and secret rooms and the War Remnants Museum, a sobering reminder of the brutal effects of war on civilian populations. Lastly, we’ll visit the Ngoc Hoang (Jade Emperor) Pagoda, one of Saigon’s most atmospheric and intriguing spiritual sites. Built in the 19th century, this Taoist temple is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, the supreme god in Taoist belief, and is filled with richly decorated statues, incense coils hanging from the ceiling and intricately carved altars. After soaking up the sights and sounds of this vibrant temple, we’ll head to a nearby local restaurant to enjoy lunch. This afternoon we depart for Vung Tau, which became home to the Australian Army during the Vietnam War. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today is approximately 3 hours.
A popular seaside destination for locals, expats and tourist alike, Vung Tau is the ideal getaway to relax by the beach that surrounds the resort town on three sides. We’ll learn more about the Vietnam War today, beginning with visits to Long Tan-Long Dat, where the first Australian Task Force was established in 1966 and the former Nui Dat Task Force. Little remains of this military base today except for the columns of the main gate. We’ll also visit the old bunkers, Kangaroo Pad, SAS Hill, Nui Dat Hill, Luscombe Airfield and the Battalions Flagpole. Next, we’ll see the Nui Dat Kindergarten, built for children of the village by Australian veterans. Continuing, we’ll visit the Long Tan Cross Memorial, site of the most talked about battle of the Vietnam War for Australians and New Zealanders. We finish with a stop at the Long Phuoc Tunnels, which acted as meeting areas, first-aid stations and fighting pits during the war.
We’ll return to Saigon today, where your day is free to explore more of this lively city, or simply unwind at our hotel. You may wish to visit the Ben Thanh Market, a busy market in the heart of the city. With more than 1,500 stalls, it’s one of the largest and oldest markets in Saigon, and you’ll find everything here from clothing, accessories and souvenirs to fresh produce and street food stalls. Afterwards, take a short stroll to the iconic Saigon Central Post Office — the perfect place to write and send a postcard of your travels home! Later, we’ll take in the city skyline as we relax with a sundowner atop a rooftop bar, before our group dinner, where we’ll bid farewell to beautiful Vietnam. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Today we wave goodbye to Vietnam and fly to Phnom Penh, the vibrant capital of Cambodia often called the ‘Pearl of Asia’. Nestled at the confluence of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers, Phnom Penh was founded in the 15th century and grew into the country’s political, economic and cultural hub. During the 1920s, under French colonial rule, the city earned a reputation as one of the loveliest in Indochina, with elegant boulevards, colonial villas and grand public buildings that reflected European architectural styles. Today, it’s a fascinating mix of historic landmarks, bustling markets and riverside charm, offering visitors a glimpse into both Cambodia’s past and its lively present. This afternoon is free for you to relax or explore at your own pace — perhaps wander along the riverfront, enjoy a coffee at a local café or simply soak up the city’s unique atmosphere. In the evening, we’ll come together for a group dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying some of Cambodia’s delicious cuisine. Flight time will be approximately 1.5 hours. Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
This morning our eyes are set on exploring the beautiful Phnom Penh by rickshaw! Our sightseeing includes the Royal Palace (still the official residence of King Norodom Sihamoi), the Silver Pagoda, and the elegant National Museum, which contains a comprehensive collection of Khmer Art. This afternoon we visit the poignant Killing Fields, located just outside of Phnom Penh. The Killing Fields of Choeung Ek provide a stark reminder of the atrocities committed under the Pol Pot regime, when thousands of people were killed between 1975 and 1978 and buried in mass graves. Today it is possible to see the fields and visit the Memorial Stupa containing 8,000 human skulls, all victims of the Khmer Rouge. On our way back to Phnom Penh we visit Tuol Sleng, the former high school and site of the notorious Security Prison 21, converted by the Khmer Rouge during their rise to power where an estimated 17,000 people were imprisoned. This visit is very moving and can be quite confronting, as it has now become the Cambodia Genocide Museum. This evening is ours to enjoy at leisure.
Today we make our way to Siem Reap, known as the gateway to Angkor Wat. Surrounded by rice paddies, the area is dotted with millennium-old temple ruins from the Khmer Empire, the most famous of which is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Angkor Wat, which we will be exploring in detail in a few days. En route, we’ll stop in Skuon to visit the renowned Spider Market. Regarded as a delicacy in Cambodia, spiders are the main attraction of this curious market. Fancy sampling a fried tarantula? This is your chance to do it! We continue on to Kampong Thom for lunch. Our next stop is at the Naga Bridge in Kampong Kdei. Also known as the Dragon Bridge or Spean Praptos, this bridge is said to be the oldest laterite bridge in southeast Asia. The Naga Bridge is so famous that it’s even printed on Cambodia’s currency — keep your eyes peeled for the 5000 riel. This afternoon, we’ll enjoy a leisurely cruise along Tonlé Sap Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. During the monsoon season the lake swells to four times its normal size, so it’s important for the locals that live on the banks and surrounds to build their houses on stilts. Here we’ll board a boat and take a ride along the canal of the lake, giving us an opportunity to see how the locals live in their colourful stilt houses. Watch children playing on the banks while fishermen wade in the shallows with nets and traps. As we reach the mouth of the canal and lake the stilt houses end, and boats are transformed into houses to make up the floating villages. Arriving in Siem Riep tonight, we’ll settle in before travelling to this evening’s welcome dinner by remork, a popular mode of transportation in Siem Reap similar to a tuk-tuk. Your travel time today will be approximately 7 hours.
Our introduction to Siem Reap’s sights begins with a visit to the fortified city of Angkor Thom. This dramatic structure covers an area of 10 square kilometres. Enclosed by a wall and wide moats, it includes many of Angkor's most popular sights. We enter by the monumental south gate over a causeway lined on either side by statues of demons and gods, each carrying a giant naga (snake-like creature). Our first stop is the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King. Formerly spaces for public ceremonies, both are adorned with dramatic bas reliefs. We visit the ruined Baphuon Temple and Phimeanakas Temple before continuing to the mysterious Bayon Temple. In this temple, one of the most popular and compelling in Angkor, we explore the galleries of beautifully preserved bas reliefs and ascend narrow stairs to reach the central sanctuary. Here we will find the famous giant stone faces smiling enigmatically down at us from every angle. The remainder of the day is at leisure to soak up more of the town at your own pace. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Optional Excursion APOPO HeroRats – Join a guided tour through the Visitor Center, learn about the history of conflict in Cambodia and APOPO’s mission to safely return land to local communities. You’ll get the chance to meet and see these intelligent HeroRATs in action. 1 hour – from US $10pp (private including transfers). Optional Excursion Phare Circus – Experience the famous Phare Circus, a captivating blend of Cambodian tradition and modernity. Through using theatre, music, dance, and circus acts, immerse yourself in a vibrant narrative that tells of a traditional Cambodian story weaving historical, modern and folk elements. Brace yourself for a high-energy performance that will leave you mesmerised from start to finish. 1 ¾ hours – from US $44pp (private including transfers).
Special Experience Take part in a Khmer cooking class, first stopping at a local market for a glimpse of the life of rural farmers before preparing and eating some of the best-known Khmer dishes for lunch. Our morning begins with a visit to a bustling local market, where we will soak up the sights, sounds and rich aromas of daily life in Cambodia. From there, we head to Lum Orng Farm to Table, a charming cooking school set among lush greenery, where we’ll learn to prepare some of Cambodia’s most beloved Khmer dishes under the expertise of local chefs. When our meals are crafted to perfection, we’ll enjoy them for lunch, savouring the fresh and vibrant flavours of Cambodian cuisine. This afternoon, we'll take an excursion to the popular Ta Keo, built by Jayavarman V, who ruled from 968 to 1001. We’ll see Ta Prohm which is famous for being featured in the Lara Croft: Tomb Raider series, and because much of the jungle surrounding it has not been cleared. We'll also explore the Banteay Srei and Kdei Temples before visiting Preah Khan, a temple built by King Jayavaram VII with towered enclosures and shoulder-hugging corridors set in the jungle. Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
Special Experience Rise early to witness the breathtaking views, shadows and reflections of Angkor Wat at sunrise. The national symbol and highlight of any visit to Cambodia, Angkor Wat is the crowning jewel of Khmer architecture. Built in the 12th century as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Vishnu, Angkor Wat was later transformed into a Buddhist temple and became the centre of the Khmer Empire. As the largest, best preserved and most religiously significant of all the Angkor temples, Angkor Wat impresses visitors with its sheer scale, beautifully proportioned layout and the delicate artistry of its carvings. Before leaving Angkor Wat, we’ll visit a local pagoda and experience a traditional monk blessing. A sacred ritual performed in pagodas across Cambodia, these blessings are said to bring luck and promote cleansing. This memorable experience will give us insight into Cambodia’s century-old traditions. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. Today involves approximately 4.5 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Welcome to Hanoi and Vietnam, a country full of breathtaking scenery and fascinating culture offering a unique blend of east and west. Hanoi may certainly be a bustling city, but it still retains the mystery and charm of the past centuries and French colonial influence, with its narrow lanes and traditional shop houses that invite one to explore. Its many beautiful public areas, lakes, parks, tree-lined boulevards and monuments give the city a touch of elegance and a harmony with nature. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5:00pm. Tonight we’ll have the chance to mingle with our fellow travellers at the group welcome dinner and get our first taste of Vietnam’s famed cuisine!
We’ll discover another side of Hanoi during a half day tour in Long Thuong Village, home to a community of bronze casters since the 13th century. Explore the village and observe how the families create a range of products, including incense-burners and flower vases. Walking alongside fields of rice paddies, we’ll reach the nearby 200-year-old Nom Village. Exploring the narrow brick roads, we’ll see the antique houses and enjoy a cup of tea with a local villager. Here we’ll learn about the local life and the traditions that define this community. One of the village’s highlights is Nom Pagoda, one of the most impressive in the region, dating back to the 17th century. The pagoda is known for its collection of well-preserved statues, intricate wooden carvings and peaceful atmosphere, offering a fascinating insight into traditional Vietnamese Buddhism. This afternoon we’re in for a special treat! We’ll be met at our hotel by a private chef from the Rose Kitchen and taken to a bustling local market, where we’ll learn about traditional ingredients and even try our hand at a little friendly haggling to pick up the fresh produce needed for our lesson. Back at the kitchen, we’ll get hands our hands dirty, learning how to prepare classic Vietnamese dishes from scratch. Our hard work will pay off when we sit down to enjoy the meal we’ve just created!
We’ll have an early start this morning to discover Hanoi as the city awakens, a great way to see how the locals begin their day. Our tour begins at the photogenic flower market and moves onto the Old Quarter — a fascinating network of narrow alleys and shop houses, also known as 'The 36 Streets'. Each street has been named after the merchandise traditionally sold there, ranging from fabrics and crafts to medicines and tombstones. This is also a great time of day for us to stroll along the majestic Hoan Kiem Lake as it stirs to life — a favourite spot among locals to practise Tai Chi in the tranquil half-light. We can either watch these practitioners or join in ourselves. Breakfast today includes a traditional Vietnamese ‘banh mi’, followed by a visit to a local coffee shop. Experiencing some of the unique highlights of the city, our orientation tour will include Long Bien Bridge, St Joseph’s Cathedral and the grand Hanoi Opera House. Continuing on, we’ll view the Ho Chi Minh Memorial Complex comprising of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the beautiful Presidential Palace and Ho Chi Minh’s neighbouring traditional Stilt House, where the former Prime Minister lived from 1954 to 1969. We’ll also see the One Pillar Pagoda before heading to the Imperial Citadel & Flag Tower, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010. After lunch, we resume our tour at Vietnam’s first university, the Temple of Literature, a peaceful series of walled courtyards and graceful gateways, which is also host to the ‘Imperial Academy’. Then we’ll get a fascinating insight into the lifestyle and customs of Vietnamese woman at the Women’s’ Museum, before exploring the Tran Quoc and Ngoc Son Temples. Our final stop is the notorious Hỏa Lò Prison, nicknamed ‘Hanoi Hilton’. Formerly used by the French colonists for political prisoners, it later housed the imprisoned US pilots that were shot down during the Vietnam War, and today the remnants of the gatehouse remain as a moving museum.
This morning, we travel from Hanoi to the breathtaking Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed seascape renowned for its dramatic beauty. Dotted with thousands of towering limestone karsts and jungle-clad islets rising from emerald-hued waters, the bay feels almost otherworldly. Formed over millions of years, this natural wonder is steeped in local legend and offers one of Vietnam’s most iconic and photogenic landscapes. Cruise Embarkation: We’ll board our cruise vessel and enjoy lunch while witnessing the incredible views. After a delicious lunch on board, we’ll step ashore to explore Trung Trang Cave on Cat Ba Island. Hidden within lush national park surrounds, the cave stretches for hundreds of metres and is filled with impressive stalactites and stalagmites sculpted by nature over millennia. Later, we’ll cruise to the peaceful waters of Tra Bau in Lan Ha Bay, a quieter extension of Halong Bay known for its pristine scenery. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the calm emerald waters or simply relax and soak up the serenity of this spectacular setting — the choice is all yours! Returning to the ship, we’ll enjoy some time to relax and watch the sunset on the deck before dinner. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
Begin the day with an optional Tai Chi session on deck, moving gently through slow, flowing motions as the sun rises over the limestone karsts of Halong Bay. Pretty unforgettable, right? Or if you prefer to take it slow, simply settle in with a coffee and watch this extraordinary seascape drift by as we continue cruising through the bay’s maze of islands. After a light breakfast on board, we’ll disembark and travel on to Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital and home of the Nguyen emperors from 1802 to 1945. Sitting on the banks of the Perfume River, Hue has a super relaxed, easy-going feel, with plenty of history woven into everyday life. From its impressive citadel and royal tombs to its pagodas and tree-lined streets, the city offers a fascinating look at Vietnam’s imperial past. Flight time will be approximately 1.5 hours. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
This morning we’ll explore Hue during a sightseeing tour, including the bustling Dong Ba Markets and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Citadel in the old Imperial City, modelled on Beijing’s Forbidden City. It was completed in 1833, and from here the emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty ruled Vietnam until 1945. Entering the citadel via a stone bridge you can see the Thai Hoa Palace, an important venue for official receptions and other important court ceremonies. The ostentatious columns supporting the roof are lacquered and inlaid with gold. There is a pair of smaller halls behind the Thai Hoa Palace used by mandarins — scholar-officials in the Confucian hierarchy — to prepare for court ceremonies. After lunch and some time to explore further at our own pace, we continue our afternoon with a cruise by dragon boat along the tranquil waters of the Perfume River. These traditional vessels are long and narrow, decorated with brightly painted scales and finished with an ornate dragon head at the bow and tail at the stern. Deeply rooted in local custom, dragon boats are believed to bring good fortune — historically used during festivals to ward off evil spirits and promote health and prosperity. Tonight we have the opportunity to join a family for dinner in their home! We’ll enjoy a glimpse into everyday living as we connect with our hosts and even lend a hand in preparing a delicious dinner of regional specialities.
Our day begins with a visit to the imperial tombs of Tu Duc and Khai Dinh. Emperor Tu Duc, who ruled from 1848–1883, had the longest reign of the Nguyen dynasty. Despite having over a hundred wives and concubines, he was unable to father a son and was left to write his own epitaph — a duty he considered a bad omen. His epitaph can still be found on the stele, the largest of its type in Vietnam, in the pavilion to the east of his tomb. Each tomb reflects the unique personality of its emperor, with Tu Duc’s surrounded by peaceful gardens and lakes, while Khai Dinh’s is more ornate, blending traditional Vietnamese design with European influences. In the afternoon, we make our way to Hoi An, travelling along the stunning Hai Van Pass. Winding its way through dramatic mountains and hugging the coastline, this raised scenic route is often called the “Ocean Cloud Pass” and marks both a geographical and cultural boundary between northern and southern Vietnam. Along the way, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the South China Sea, lush forests and small villages tucked into the hillsides. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Hoi An was known as Faifo to early western traders, and it was one of Southeast Asia's major international ports during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. This ancient town remains a well-preserved mix of both indigenous and foreign influences, with architecture styles pulled from Chinese, Japanese and later European, designs. Our walking tour this morning includes a visit to the Culture and History Museum to learn more about this charming town before taking a stroll along the main street where we’ll come to the Chinese Assembly Hall of Fujien Chinese Community. This was built in 1697 as a place of worship dedicated to Thien Hau — the Goddess of the Sea. Strolling along the banks of the river we’ll come to the famous Japanese Covered Bridge, first built by the Japanese community in order to link the town with the Chinese quarters on the other side of the river. Special Experience Visit the colourful local market before taking a short cruise along the Hoi An River to the secluded Red Bridge Cooking School for an aromatic and informative cooking class. This afternoon we’re in for a real treat. We’ll meet at a local café to enjoy a refreshing drink before heading to a vibrant market, where we’ll shop for fresh ingredients for our cooking class. Our guide will introduce us to the colourful produce and spices, giving insight into how locals go about their daily routines and make their meals. Cruising along the famed Hoi An River, we’ll arrive at the cooking school and explore the on-site herb garden before diving into a hands-on class, learning to prepare some of Hoi An and Vietnam’s most famous dishes. During the lesson, we’ll also be introduced to Vietnamese food carving, discovering the art of plate decoration that adds a signature touch to every dish. And of course, no cooking class is complete without tasting your own creations — so get ready to dig in and enjoy the fruits of your labour! Today involves approximately 3 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
Today is at leisure for you to relax and enjoy the resort and local surrounds or explore the old city at your own pace. An ideal town to discover by foot, why not immerse yourself in Hoi An’s history by strolling through the historic, brightly painted yellow streets, or perhaps you’d like to take to the water with a boat ride on the Thu Bon River, either by day or at night. A popular activity here is releasing brightly coloured lanterns, creating unforgettable photo opportunities! If last night’s cooking class has awakened your inner foodie, today is the perfect opportunity to explore Hoi An’s regional flavours. A total must-try is cao lầu, a local specialty from the Da Nang region, consisting of thick rice noodles, barbecued pork, fresh greens and crispy croutons — yum! Optional Excursion My Son - Travel to My Son, the former religious centre of the Champa Kingdom, a sophisticated civilisation which held sway over the region from the 2nd to the 13th centuries. The Cham religion was primarily derived from Indian Hinduism. The ruins of the five archaeological sites are located among green hills and winding streams. After a brief visit to the Visitor’s Centre for an overview of Cham history and culture, walk along the forested paths to explore the ruins. 3 ½ hours – from US $60pp (private including transfers). Optional Excursion Ba Na Hills – Explore Ba Na Hills amusement park, board one of the world's longest non-stop single-track cable cars. Enjoy scenic views whilst floating over ancient rainforests and waterfalls up to the summit. Walk amongst the clouds along the iconic Golden Bridge, wander through the Le Jardin D’Amour Flower Garden and the French Village before descending the summit. 5 hours – from US $135pp (private including transfers).
We’ll transfer to the airport today for our flight to Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). The largest city in Vietnam, the hustle and bustle of Vietnamese life is visible everywhere in Saigon. It is a city of contrasts, with towering skyscrapers standing alongside traditional markets and ancient temples and a vibrant street food scene that reflects its diverse cultural influences. The city is constantly moving, yet within this teeming metropolis are 300 years of timeless traditions and the beauty of an ancient culture. Special Experience Go off the beaten track to discover Saigon’s best food spots. Touring by vespa, we'll taste authentic Vietnamese cuisine as the locals do. Ready to dive into Saigon like a local? Tonight, each of us will have a dedicated vespa driver to whisk us around to the city’s best foodie spots. We’ll start at a stylish rooftop bar with sweeping skyline views for a refreshing drink, before weaving through the bustling streets and hidden alleyways to taste some local delicacies and favourites at two delicious locations! To cap off the evening, we’ll stop at a music bar to enjoy a drink while soaking up live performances by local musicians. With the city lights, flavours and sounds all around us, this night is sure to be one of the most memorable experiences of the tour. Flight time will be approximately 1.5 hours. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Escape the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City and immerse yourself in the peaceful charm of the lush Ben Tre province in the Mekong Delta. On arrival, we’ll take a short walk through a local village before cruising the hidden waterways, along narrow canals and tributaries onboard a traditional sampan-style boat observing daily life along the riverbanks. We’ll stop at a local coconut garden to enjoy fresh coconut water, before continuing on to a family-run coconut processing operation to see how local products are made. Next, we will hop onto a xe lôi — a motorbike with a passenger cart — for a ride through the village of Huu Dinh, stopping at a traditional brick-making factory, all before visiting the home of a local family. Here, we’ll enjoy tea while learning about the life of a typical Mekong Delta family. After lunch at a riverside restaurant, we’ll continue our village exploration, visiting a local rice wine maker before meeting a former Viet Cong soldier, where we’ll also see a demonstration of traditional rice paper making. Today involves approximately 1.5 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today is approximately 6 hours.
A half day city tour is on our agenda today! We’ll begin at the historic Rex Hotel and set off on a walking tour to discover some of Saigon’s most iconic sights. Our first stops are the iconic Dong Khoi Street, the Municipal Theatre, Hotel de Ville and Nguyen Hue Boulevard. We’ll then head to the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office before hopping on our coach to finish our tour. Our final sights in the city centre include the impressive Presidential Palace (Re-unification Palace) with its lush gardens and secret rooms and the War Remnants Museum, a sobering reminder of the brutal effects of war on civilian populations. Lastly, we’ll visit the Ngoc Hoang (Jade Emperor) Pagoda, one of Saigon’s most atmospheric and intriguing spiritual sites. Built in the 19th century, this Taoist temple is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, the supreme god in Taoist belief, and is filled with richly decorated statues, incense coils hanging from the ceiling and intricately carved altars. After soaking up the sights and sounds of this vibrant temple, we’ll head to a nearby local restaurant to enjoy lunch. This afternoon we depart for Vung Tau, which became home to the Australian Army during the Vietnam War. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions. Your travel time today is approximately 3 hours.
A popular seaside destination for locals, expats and tourist alike, Vung Tau is the ideal getaway to relax by the beach that surrounds the resort town on three sides. We’ll learn more about the Vietnam War today, beginning with visits to Long Tan-Long Dat, where the first Australian Task Force was established in 1966 and the former Nui Dat Task Force. Little remains of this military base today except for the columns of the main gate. We’ll also visit the old bunkers, Kangaroo Pad, SAS Hill, Nui Dat Hill, Luscombe Airfield and the Battalions Flagpole. Next, we’ll see the Nui Dat Kindergarten, built for children of the village by Australian veterans. Continuing, we’ll visit the Long Tan Cross Memorial, site of the most talked about battle of the Vietnam War for Australians and New Zealanders. We finish with a stop at the Long Phuoc Tunnels, which acted as meeting areas, first-aid stations and fighting pits during the war.
We’ll return to Saigon today, where your day is free to explore more of this lively city, or simply unwind at our hotel. You may wish to visit the Ben Thanh Market, a busy market in the heart of the city. With more than 1,500 stalls, it’s one of the largest and oldest markets in Saigon, and you’ll find everything here from clothing, accessories and souvenirs to fresh produce and street food stalls. Afterwards, take a short stroll to the iconic Saigon Central Post Office — the perfect place to write and send a postcard of your travels home! Later, we’ll take in the city skyline as we relax with a sundowner atop a rooftop bar, before our group dinner, where we’ll bid farewell to beautiful Vietnam. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Our tour of the spectacular Vietnam concludes after breakfast this morning. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Ayubowan and welcome to Sri Lanka! Affectionately known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a total feast for the senses and we can’t wait to dive in headfirst. Separated from India by the Palk Strait, Sri Lanka boasts a rich history that spans centuries. Historically referred to as ‘Ceylon’, this beautiful tear-drop shaped island was officially named ‘Sri Lanka’ in 1972. Home to a rich blend of traditions and cultures, Sri Lanka has been carved by the diverse religions and ethnic groups that have thrived there for centuries. The best bit? These unique customs shift and change depending on where you are! So no matter where you go, there’s always something fascinating to discover. We’re in for a real treat! We’ll arrive in Sri Lanka’s capital city of Colombo this evening, and transfer to our gorgeous hotel nestled by the beaches of Negombo.
Wake up and bask in the coastal-town-vibes of Negombo. Set alongside a picturesque lagoon and home to an impressive network of canals built in Dutch colonial times, Negombo was an important strategic outpost for the trade of cinnamon in colonial times and has been ruled at varying times by the Dutch, Portuguese and British empires. We’ll enjoy the day at leisure today to rest up and refresh from our flight before our sightseeing commences in the early evening. Special Experience Take a scenic cruise along the jungle-fringed Negombo Lagoon at sunset, before enjoying a delicious BBQ dinner. As the sun sets, keep an eye out for various colourful birds and water monitors while our boat navigates the mangrove islands. To welcome us to Sri Lanka, we’ll be treated to a scrumptious dinner of traditional and local dishes, while we enjoy the opportunity to get to know our fellow travellers! We’ll be leaving the boat and enjoying the serene lagoon setting in ankle deep water, so wear shoes that can be easily slipped off.
Negombo’s fish markets are full of life and colour each morning when the fresh catch is brought in and vendors voice their prices at the top of their lungs. Buyers bargain for the best deals in what is a daily practice for the locals of this coastal town. We’ll visit the fish markets during a morning tour of Negombo; don’t wear your best shoes and have a handkerchief on hand just in case of a strong aroma (it tends to smell rather fishy)! Next, we’ll make our way to the Dambulla Caves, home to the best-preserved cave temple complex of Sri Lanka. The cave temples were built in the 1st century and the gigantic granite outcrop towers more than 160 metres above its surrounds. We explore the caves covered by ancient frescoes and their interior where over a hundred statues of Buddha (157 to be exact) are housed, some carved from the rock itself. Sri Lanka is home to no less than eight UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, five of which are situated in what is known as the ‘cultural triangle’ that is located in the centre of the island. Neighbouring some of Sri Lanka’s most important sites and landmarks, Sigiriya is the gateway to the iconic cultural triangle and national parks. We make our way to Sigiriya and enjoy the remainder of our afternoon at leisure. Our accommodation for the next few nights is nothing short of breathtaking. This unique property features chic villas separated by beautifully designed waterways, streams and lush green meadows, perfectly blending elegance with nature. Be sure to take in the stunning views of Lion Rock from the grounds of our hotel! Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Set deep in the jungle around a large hill formed by huge sculptural granite monoliths, lies the ancient and now abandoned hermitage of Ritigala. Today the visible remains are those of a Buddhist monastic congregation that used to practice meditation in total austerity. Rarely visited by tourists, this mystical place is incredibly beautiful and unspoilt with shady forests filled with streams, pools and granite boulders leading to ruins with various meditation platforms. Lucky us – we get to spend our morning exploring this enchanting location! Our destination this afternoon is Minneriya National Park, where vast expanses of evergreen forest and scrub areas serve as the roaming grounds for elephants and sambar deer. The central feature of the park is the ancient Minneriya Tank, built in the 3rd century by King Mahasena. During the dry season from June to September, this tank is an incredible place to observe the elephants who come to bathe and graze, as well as the huge flocks of birds such as cormorants and painted storks that come to fish in the shallow waters. Here, we’ll enjoy a game drive by jeep; make sure your camera is recharged. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
This morning, we set our sights on Polonnaruwa, the easternmost point of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. It became the country’s second capital in the 11th century, following the destruction of Anuradhapura. We’ll spend our morning discovering this ancient city that was built alongside a large artificial lake and is home to well-preserved ruins of palaces, bathing pools, stupas and exquisite rock sculptures of Buddha at the Gal Vihara. We’ll also get a chance to see the ‘Quadrangle’, a fascinating group of raised-ruins that are bounded by a wall — a total archaeologist’s dream! After lunch in Polonnaruwa, we’ll return to our hotel to freshen up and take some time to relax before dinner this evening.
Regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive sites, a visit to the famous rock fortress of Sigiriya is a must. The remains of a 5th-century fortress lie perched high atop a rock plateau, offering panoramic views over a vast plain and dense jungles. Built by King Kasyapa, an impressive 5-acre fort sat astride the rock and a city nestled at its base, but now the city is gone and the fortress is in ruins. We depart our hotel early this morning to visit Sigiriya. Braving the spiral staircase, we’ll see the 21 frescoes of female nature spirits, known as Apsaras, painted beneath an overhang about 90 metres up the rock. These frescoes are beautiful – still boasting vibrant colours even after 1,500 years. Just above them, a wall adorned with 1,000-year-old graffiti and poetry serves as a testament to visitors who recorded their impressions of the painted women. Reaching the summit after climbing 1,200 stairs, we are rewarded with breathtaking views over the Sri Lankan jungle below and intriguing remnants of a once-thriving kingdom. Special Experience Be welcomed into a quaint village near Sigiriya, exploring the community and enjoying a traditional lunch with a local family. We get acquainted with the traditions of the local family as we watch how they prepare their meals, learn some traditional cooking techniques and enjoy a delicious meal together. Before we leave, we’ll meet staff and children from the local school and learn about the Bunnik Family’s connection to the community. We’ll enjoy the remainder of our afternoon at leisure, our luxurious hotel features a large outdoor pool, ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
This morning we farewell Sigiriya with our sights set on Kandy! En route, we’ll discover the impressive Coconut House, which is a wonderful opportunity to see how a local family utilises every element of a coconut tree, from extracting coconut oil to creating rope. We will also stop in Matale and visit some of the best spice plantations on the island. A large variety of spices such as cinnamon, pepper, nutmeg and precious cardamom (a relative of ginger) are grown here. We’ll be shown how some of these spices are grown and processed and will be able to purchase favourites to take home. Kandy is a truly charming town that is set around an artificial lake and nestled amidst rolling hills covered by forests and tea plantations. It’s known for housing the most important Buddhist temple in the country, the former capital of Ceylon and the last seat of the Sinhalese Kingdom is Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. Kandy’s beautiful city has a distinctive style due to the impressive colonial architecture that still survives today! On arrival, we’ll visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Ever since it was founded in the 16th century, it has housed one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism—a tooth of Buddha collected from his funeral pyre, which is now protected within the gold-roofed Temple of the Tooth. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
The stunning Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya is our destination this morning. Initially a Royal Park, it became a Botanical Garden in 1821 under British rule. Here exotic crops such as coffee, tea, nutmeg, rubber and cinchona (quinine)—all of which are important to the country's economy—were first tested. The Botanical Gardens include a beautiful orchid house and a wide variety of plant species from all over the world. We’ll discover the city of Kandy on a guided tour, starting at the Queen’s Hotel, one of the oldest hotels in the country and the first to be officially established in Sri Lanka. We will also make our way to Kandy Lake, a scenic spot in the heart of the city, before making our way to the Kandy Market passing local streets en route. To finish off the day, we’re treated to a mesmerising cultural show and traditional dance performance. We’ll witness the fascinating Kandyan dance, a vibrant art form unique to Sri Lanka that involves elements of fire dancing, drumming and acrobatics. The performance has deep cultural ties, traditionally being performed only during royal ceremonies, festivals and religious events.
The country’s main hill resort, Nuwara Eliya is the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush tea-growing region. Founded by the British explorer Samuel Baker in 1846, Nuwara Eliya was a sanctuary to the colonialists keen to escape the humidity and heat of Sri Lanka. The town was originally built with mock-Tudor houses featuring inglenook fireplaces and billiard tables, a golf course, racetrack, gentlemen's clubs and botanical gardens. Now a bustling town and the vegetable garden of Sri Lanka, it still provides a glimpse of life during the colonial heyday. The region’s temperate climate makes this the coolest area in the country, so you may want to pack a jacket or some layers! Deluxe Experience Enjoy an exclusive visit to a tea plantation, learning the tea-making process and sampling the local produce while overlooking lush tea gardens. Today we’ll visit one of the most prestigious tea plantations not only in Nuwara Eliya, but in Sri Lanka as a whole! Here we’re immersed in the entire tea making process, from handpicking the tea leaves to the different techniques that help contribute to the delicious final product. Of course, no visit would be complete without enjoying some of the produce — we’ll enjoy an exclusive tasting session overlooking the incredible vistas of the rolling tea gardens. Meandering through some of the country’s most beautiful scenery, there will be plenty of photo worthy moments during our journey. We’ll arrive at our hotel in the afternoon — an elegant colonial property that dates back to 1891 — and have time to relax at the hotel before a delectable dinner this evening. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
We have a full day dedicated to discovering Nuwara Eliya and its beautiful surrounds. This morning we’ll board the local train for a scenic ride to Thalawakale station, passing magnificent landscapes with every twist and turn. We stop in the main town of Nuwara Eliya and enjoy a guided tour to acquaint ourselves with historically rich city. Here we’ll discover the idyllic Gregory Lake and the busy Central Market and Bazaar, full of vendors and locals going about their day. Known as Little England, Nuwara Eliya features beautiful colonial-era architecture which we’ll have the opportunity to see on our tour – this includes the renowned Nuwara Eliya Post Office! Our journey takes us out of town, venturing further to see the spectacular St. Clair and Devon Falls that cascade down the lush green mountains of the region. Known as Little Niagara of Sri Lanka, St. Clair Falls is one of the widest falls in the country. The nearby Devon Falls was named after an English coffee planter by the name of Devon, whose plantation is situated close by. Back at our stunning accommodation, we’ll indulge in a high tea iconic to the Grand Hotel, delighting in a range of locally sourced teas and delicious finger food. The evening at leisure for you to enjoy.
We make our way to Yala this morning, stopping to witness the gushing water of the incredible waterfalls at Ella before continuing to Udawalawe en route. Special Experience Visit the incredible Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe and learn about its extensive rehabilitation program. Established in 1995, the Elephant Transit Home rehabilitates orphaned elephant calves until they’re strong enough for release back into the wild. This special place is situated on the western border of Udawalawe National Park, where the elephants get the opportunity to roam free. Best job ever? Very well could be! Although we can’t get up close and personal with the elephants, we’ll be able to see plenty of adorable calves being fed during feeding time. Waving goodbye to our new elephant friends, we make our way to one of Sri Lanka’s most premier eco-tourism destinations, Yala National Park — the gateway to some of the island’s incredible wildlife. Established in 1938, Yala National Park boasts a diverse range of habitats, including scrub jungle, brackish lagoons, lakes, and rivers, that leopards, elephants, wild buffalo and more call home. Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.
This morning we’ll enjoy time at leisure to relax and enjoy our hotel’s facilities. Grab your cameras, we’re heading out on an incredible safari this afternoon through Yala National Park! Among the oldest and best known of Sri Lanka’s national parks, our safari will take us through the park’s stunning scenery and past a number of important cultural ruins. Think vast grassland terrain mixed with beautiful, open lagoons and water holes that are popular among the diverse species found here. Keep your eyes peeled and get your lens ready to capture the numerous different species that call this park home. From the unique Sri Lankan sloth bear and wild water buffalo to the majestic Sri Lankan elephants that roam the area, there is magic to be found with every twist and turn. Here, you’ll also get the opportunity to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. Affectionately known as the Lords of the Jungle, Yala National Park has a leopard density that’s higher than anywhere else on the planet. Fingers crossed we can spot one!
Farewelling the lush greenery of Yala this morning, we make our way to the coastal walled city of Galle, the capital of the South Province. Built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century, this old trading port was further fortified by the Dutch and British colonialists. The narrow streets of shuttered mansions and churches protected by the stone walls, bastions and ramparts, are a delight to stroll through. Deluxe Experience Spend two days staying a short walk from the historic walled city of Galle, wandering the narrow streets and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort. On arrival in Galle, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of the city on foot, learning about the town’s history and immersing in its stunning colonial architecture. We will discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort, a fantastically preserved colonial sea fortress and Galle’s best-known site. Early this afternoon, we make our way to the seaside village of Habaraduwa to visit a special turtle hatchery. Set up to conserve Sri Lanka’s turtle population, we’ll get the chance to see baby turtles before they’re released into the wild. We then make our way to the stunning town of Weligama, where we’ll witness the unique stilt fishermen of Weligama go about their trade — bring your camera, this makes for a cool photo opportunity! Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
This morning we enjoy a scenic cruise along the Madu River, meandering through islets forested with mangroves. Look out for the 46 different species of birds that reside in the area, including 14 aquatic varieties, as well as huge water lilies and colourful butterflies. We’ll then visit the Moonstone Mine in Meetiyagoda. This mine is one of the few places where the semi-precious stone is found in high concentrations, hence the villagers believe this area is blessed by the moon. At Meetiyagoda you can see, or even go down into the deep, narrow shafts where the stones are mined. On our way back to the hotel, we will make a stop at the moving Tsunami Photograph Museum which remembers the devastating 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami that inflicted widespread damage to the coast of Sri Lanka. The rest of the afternoon is ours to enjoy at leisure. You may like to make the most of the luxurious hotel amenities, explore the Galle fort further on your own or take part in an optional cycling tour of Galle’s countryside—the choice is yours! Optional Excursion Cycle in the Galle Countryside - Enjoy a relaxed cycle through paddy fields and small villages stopping to meet some of the locals along the way. The tour will also include a visit to a local tea and cinnamon factory, where of course you’ll enjoy a tasting! 3 hours/30km – from US $60pp
Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo, the ‘Garden City of the East’, faces the Indian Ocean and stretches along more than 14 kilometres of the island’s western shores. A bustling city crowded with buses and minivans has overtaken the once quiet roads laden with bullock carts. Tree-lined boulevards, colonial buildings, open air markets, temples, lakes, and churches add great character to this city. Upon arrival in Colombo, we’ll enjoy a guided city tour, including a visit to the Gangarama Temple and the famous Cricket Club Café, a prominent establishment in town owned by two Australians. Special Experience Navigate the hustle and bustle of Colombo’s streets during a tour of the city in open-top Jeeps. One of the most immersive tours you can take of Colombo awaits us this evening. Feel the breeze in your hair as open-top jeeps whiz us around the energetic city, discovering the lively ocean-front promenade ‘Galle Face Green’ before heading to Colombo Fort and Pettah, a busy market area that seamlessly combines colonial and local influences. We’ll visit Beira Lake, a beautiful manmade lake in the city’s centre, and uncover some of Colombo’s iconic modern landmarks, including the Old Parliament, Lotus Tower and Galbokka Lighthouse. We’ll enjoy a farewell dinner this evening at Colombo’s Gallery Café. Housed in the former offices of world-renowned Sri Lankan architect, the late Geoffrey Bawa, the internationally acclaimed restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy our last group meal together. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Today marks the completion of our adventure across amazing Sri Lanka. We’ll enjoy the day at leisure to explore Colombo further or simply relax and enjoy our hotel amenities. We hope you leave with fantastic memories! Optional Excursion Visit the Bunnik Tours office – Enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the Bunnik Tour’s Colombo office to see how our tours are created and meet the Sri Lankan team. Be taken on a tour of the building before enjoying a local homemade meal with the staff over lunch. 2.5 hours – complimentary
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Ayubowan and welcome to Sri Lanka! Affectionately known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a total feast for the senses and we can’t wait to dive in headfirst. Separated from India by the Palk Strait, Sri Lanka boasts a rich history that spans centuries. Historically referred to as ‘Ceylon’, this beautiful tear-drop shaped island was officially named ‘Sri Lanka’ in 1972. Home to a rich blend of traditions and cultures, Sri Lanka has been carved by the diverse religions and ethnic groups that have thrived there for centuries. The best bit? These unique customs shift and change depending on where you are! So no matter where you go, there’s always something fascinating to discover. We’re in for a real treat! We’ll arrive in Sri Lanka’s capital city of Colombo this evening, and transfer to our gorgeous hotel nestled by the beaches of Negombo.
Wake up and bask in the coastal-town-vibes of Negombo. Set alongside a picturesque lagoon and home to an impressive network of canals built in Dutch colonial times, Negombo was an important strategic outpost for the trade of cinnamon in colonial times and has been ruled at varying times by the Dutch, Portuguese and British empires. We’ll enjoy the day at leisure today to rest up and refresh from our flight before our sightseeing commences in the early evening. Special Experience Take a scenic cruise along the jungle-fringed Negombo Lagoon at sunset, before enjoying a delicious BBQ dinner. As the sun sets, keep an eye out for various colourful birds and water monitors while our boat navigates the mangrove islands. To welcome us to Sri Lanka, we’ll be treated to a scrumptious dinner of traditional and local dishes, while we enjoy the opportunity to get to know our fellow travellers! We’ll be leaving the boat and enjoying the serene lagoon setting in ankle deep water, so wear shoes that can be easily slipped off.
Negombo’s fish markets are full of life and colour each morning when the fresh catch is brought in and vendors voice their prices at the top of their lungs. Buyers bargain for the best deals in what is a daily practice for the locals of this coastal town. We’ll visit the fish markets during a morning tour of Negombo; don’t wear your best shoes and have a handkerchief on hand just in case of a strong aroma (it tends to smell rather fishy)! Next, we’ll make our way to the Dambulla Caves, home to the best-preserved cave temple complex of Sri Lanka. The cave temples were built in the 1st century and the gigantic granite outcrop towers more than 160 metres above its surrounds. We explore the caves covered by ancient frescoes and their interior where over a hundred statues of Buddha (157 to be exact) are housed, some carved from the rock itself. Sri Lanka is home to no less than eight UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, five of which are situated in what is known as the ‘cultural triangle’ that is located in the centre of the island. Neighbouring some of Sri Lanka’s most important sites and landmarks, Sigiriya is the gateway to the iconic cultural triangle and national parks. We make our way to Sigiriya and enjoy the remainder of our afternoon at leisure. Our accommodation for the next few nights is nothing short of breathtaking. This unique property features chic villas separated by beautifully designed waterways, streams and lush green meadows, perfectly blending elegance with nature. Be sure to take in the stunning views of Lion Rock from the grounds of our hotel! Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Set deep in the jungle around a large hill formed by huge sculptural granite monoliths, lies the ancient and now abandoned hermitage of Ritigala. Today the visible remains are those of a Buddhist monastic congregation that used to practice meditation in total austerity. Rarely visited by tourists, this mystical place is incredibly beautiful and unspoilt with shady forests filled with streams, pools and granite boulders leading to ruins with various meditation platforms. Lucky us, we get to spend our morning exploring this enchanting location! Our destination this afternoon is Minneriya National Park, where vast expanses of evergreen forest and scrub areas serve as the roaming grounds for elephants and sambar deer. The central feature of the park is the ancient Minneriya Tank, built in the 3rd century by King Mahasena. During the dry season from June to September, this tank is an incredible place to observe the elephants who come to bathe and graze, as well as the huge flocks of birds such as cormorants and painted storks that come to fish in the shallow waters. Here, we’ll enjoy a game drive by jeep; make sure your camera is recharged. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
This morning, we set our sights on Polonnaruwa, the easternmost point of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. It became the country’s second capital in the 11th century, following the destruction of Anuradhapura. We’ll spend our morning discovering this ancient city that was built alongside a large artificial lake and is home to well-preserved ruins of palaces, bathing pools, stupas and exquisite rock sculptures of Buddha at the Gal Vihara. We’ll also get a chance to see the ‘Quadrangle’, a fascinating group of raised-ruins that are bounded by a wall — a total archaeologist’s dream! After lunch in Polonnaruwa, we’ll return to our hotel to freshen up and take some time to relax before dinner this evening.
Regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive sites, a visit to the famous rock fortress of Sigiriya is a must. The remains of a 5th-century fortress lie perched high atop a rock plateau, offering panoramic views over a vast plain and dense jungles. Built by King Kasyapa, an impressive 5-acre fort sat astride the rock and a city nestled at its base, but now the city is gone and the fortress is in ruins. We depart our hotel early this morning to visit Sigiriya. Braving the spiral staircase, we’ll see the 21 frescoes of female nature spirits, known as Apsaras, painted beneath an overhang about 90 metres up the rock. These frescoes are beautiful — still boasting vibrant colours even after 1,500 years. Just above them, a wall adorned with 1,000-year-old graffiti and poetry serves as a testament to visitors who recorded their impressions of the painted women. Reaching the summit after climbing 1,200 stairs, we are rewarded with breathtaking views over the Sri Lankan jungle below and intriguing remnants of a once-thriving kingdom. Special Experience Be welcomed into a quaint village near Sigiriya, exploring the community and enjoying a traditional lunch with a local family. We get acquainted with the traditions of the local family as we watch how they prepare their meals, learn some traditional cooking techniques and enjoy a delicious meal together. Before we leave, we’ll meet staff and children from the local school and learn about the Bunnik Family’s connection to the community. We’ll enjoy the remainder of our afternoon at leisure, our luxurious hotel features a large outdoor pool, ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
This morning we farewell Sigiriya with our sights set on Kandy! En route, we’ll discover the impressive Coconut House, which is a wonderful opportunity to see how a local family utilises every element of a coconut tree, from extracting coconut oil to creating rope. We will also stop in Matale and visit some of the best spice plantations on the island. A large variety of spices such as cinnamon, pepper, nutmeg and precious cardamom (a relative of ginger) are grown here. We’ll be shown how some of these spices are grown and processed and will be able to purchase favourites to take home. Kandy is a truly charming town that is set around an artificial lake and nestled amidst rolling hills covered by forests and tea plantations. It’s known for housing the most important Buddhist temple in the country, the former capital of Ceylon and the last seat of the Sinhalese Kingdom is Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. Kandy’s beautiful city has a distinctive style due to the impressive colonial architecture that still survives today! On arrival, we’ll visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Ever since it was founded in the 16th century, it has housed one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism — a tooth of Buddha collected from his funeral pyre, which is now protected within the gold-roofed Temple of the Tooth. This evening we’re in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, attending the incredible Kandy Festival! Watch in awe as thousands of dancers, drummers, torchbearers and whip-crackers dressed in traditional costumes weave their way through cheering crowds. This is Sri Lanka’s biggest and most spectacular festival. We have seats within a special viewing gallery to watch the pageant and enjoy the festivities. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
The stunning Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya is our destination this morning. Initially a Royal Park, it became a Botanical Garden in 1821 under British rule. Here exotic crops such as coffee, tea, nutmeg, rubber and cinchona (quinine) — all of which are important to the country's economy — were first tested. The Botanical Gardens include a beautiful orchid house and a wide variety of plant species from all over the world. We’ll discover the city of Kandy on a guided tour, starting at the Queen’s Hotel, one of the oldest hotels in the country and the first to be officially established in Sri Lanka. We will also make our way to Kandy Lake, a scenic spot in the heart of the city, before making our way to the Kandy Market passing local streets en route.
The country’s main hill resort, Nuwara Eliya is the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush tea-growing region. Founded by the British explorer Samuel Baker in 1846, Nuwara Eliya was a sanctuary to the colonialists keen to escape the humidity and heat of Sri Lanka. The town was originally built with mock-Tudor houses featuring inglenook fireplaces and billiard tables, a golf course, racetrack, gentlemen's clubs and botanical gardens. Now a bustling town and the vegetable garden of Sri Lanka, it still provides a glimpse of life during the colonial heyday. The region’s temperate climate makes this the coolest area in the country, so you may want to pack a jacket or some layers! Deluxe Experience Enjoy an exclusive visit to a tea plantation, learning the tea-making process and sampling the local produce while overlooking lush tea gardens. Today we’ll visit one of the most prestigious tea plantations not only in Nuwara Eliya, but in Sri Lanka as a whole! Here we’re immersed in the entire tea making process, from handpicking the tea leaves to the different techniques that help contribute to the delicious final product. Of course, no visit would be complete without enjoying some of the produce — we’ll enjoy an exclusive tasting session overlooking the incredible vistas of the rolling tea gardens. Meandering through some of the country’s most beautiful scenery, there will be plenty of photo worthy moments during our journey. We’ll arrive at our hotel in the afternoon — an elegant colonial property that dates back to 1891 — and have time to relax at the hotel before a delectable dinner this evening. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
We have a full day dedicated to discovering Nuwara Eliya and its beautiful surrounds. This morning we’ll board the local train for a scenic ride to Thalawakale station, passing magnificent landscapes with every twist and turn. We stop in the main town of Nuwara Eliya and enjoy a guided tour to acquaint ourselves with historically rich city. Here we’ll discover the idyllic Gregory Lake and the busy Central Market and Bazaar, full of vendors and locals going about their day. Known as Little England, Nuwara Eliya features beautiful colonial-era architecture which we’ll have the opportunity to see on our tour — this includes the renowned Nuwara Eliya Post Office! Our journey takes us out of town, venturing further to see the spectacular St. Clair and Devon Falls that cascade down the lush green mountains of the region. Known as Little Niagara of Sri Lanka, St. Clair Falls is one of the widest falls in the country. The nearby Devon Falls was named after an English coffee planter by the name of Devon, whose plantation is situated close by. Back at our stunning accommodation, we’ll indulge in a high tea iconic to the Grand Hotel, delighting in a range of locally sourced teas and delicious finger food. The evening at leisure for you to enjoy.
We make our way to Yala this morning, stopping to witness the gushing water of the incredible waterfalls at Ella before continuing to Udawalawe en route. Special Experience Visit the incredible Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe and learn about its extensive rehabilitation program. Established in 1995, the Elephant Transit Home rehabilitates orphaned elephant calves until they’re strong enough for release back into the wild. This special place is situated on the western border of Udawalawe National Park, where the elephants get the opportunity to roam free. Best job ever? Very well could be! Although we can’t get up close and personal with the elephants, we’ll be able to see plenty of adorable calves being fed during feeding time. Waving goodbye to our new elephant friends, we make our way to one of Sri Lanka’s most premier eco-tourism destinations, Yala National Park—the gateway to some of the island’s incredible wildlife. Established in 1938, Yala National Park boasts a diverse range of habitats, including scrub jungle, brackish lagoons, lakes, and rivers, that leopards, elephants, wild buffalo and more call home. Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.
This morning we’ll enjoy time at leisure to relax and enjoy our hotel’s facilities. Grab your cameras, we’re heading out on an incredible safari this afternoon through Yala National Park! Among the oldest and best known of Sri Lanka’s national parks, our safari will take us through the park’s stunning scenery and past a number of important cultural ruins. Think vast grassland terrain mixed with beautiful, open lagoons and water holes that are popular among the diverse species found here. Keep your eyes peeled and get your lens ready to capture the numerous different species that call this park home. From the unique Sri Lankan sloth bear and wild water buffalo to the majestic Sri Lankan elephants that roam the area, there is magic to be found with every twist and turn. Here, you’ll also get the opportunity to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. Affectionately known as the Lords of the Jungle, Yala National Park has a leopard density that’s higher than anywhere else on the planet. Fingers crossed we can spot one!
Farewelling the lush greenery of Yala this morning, we make our way to the coastal walled city of Galle, the capital of the South Province. Built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century, this old trading port was further fortified by the Dutch and British colonialists. The narrow streets of shuttered mansions and churches protected by the stone walls, bastions and ramparts, are a delight to stroll through. Deluxe Experience Spend two days staying a short walk from the historic walled city of Galle, wandering the narrow streets and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort. On arrival in Galle, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of the city on foot, learning about the town’s history and immersing in its stunning colonial architecture. We will discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort, a fantastically preserved colonial sea fortress and Galle’s best-known site. Early this afternoon, we make our way to the seaside village of Habaraduwa to visit a special turtle hatchery. Set up to conserve Sri Lanka’s turtle population, we’ll get the chance to see baby turtles before they’re released into the wild. We then make our way to the stunning town of Weligama, where we’ll witness the unique stilt fishermen of Weligama go about their trade — bring your camera, this makes for a cool photo opportunity! Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
This morning we enjoy a scenic cruise along the Madu River, meandering through islets forested with mangroves. Look out for the 46 different species of birds that reside in the area, including 14 aquatic varieties, as well as huge water lilies and colourful butterflies. We’ll then visit the Moonstone Mine in Meetiyagoda. This mine is one of the few places where the semi-precious stone is found in high concentrations, hence the villagers believe this area is blessed by the moon. At Meetiyagoda you can see, or even go down into the deep, narrow shafts where the stones are mined. On our way back to the hotel, we will make a stop at the moving Tsunami Photograph Museum which remembers the devastating 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami that inflicted widespread damage to the coast of Sri Lanka. The rest of the afternoon is ours to enjoy at leisure. You may like to make the most of the luxurious hotel amenities, explore the Galle fort further on your own or take part in an optional cycling tour of Galle’s countryside — the choice is yours! Optional Excursion Cycle in the Galle Countryside - Enjoy a relaxed cycle through paddy fields and small villages stopping to meet some of the locals along the way. The tour will also include a visit to a local tea and cinnamon factory, where of course you’ll enjoy a tasting! 3 hours/30km – from US $60pp
Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo, the ‘Garden City of the East’, faces the Indian Ocean and stretches along more than 14 kilometres of the island’s western shores. A bustling city crowded with buses and minivans has overtaken the once quiet roads laden with bullock carts. Tree-lined boulevards, colonial buildings, open air markets, temples, lakes, and churches add great character to this city. Upon arrival in Colombo, we’ll enjoy a guided city tour, including a visit to the Gangarama Temple and the famous Cricket Club Café, a prominent establishment in town owned by two Australians. Special Experience Navigate the hustle and bustle of Colombo’s streets during a tour of the city in open-top Jeeps. One of the most immersive tours you can take of Colombo awaits us this evening. Feel the breeze in your hair as open-top jeeps whiz us around the energetic city, discovering the lively ocean-front promenade ‘Galle Face Green’ before heading to Colombo Fort and Pettah, a busy market area that seamlessly combines colonial and local influences. We’ll visit Beira Lake, a beautiful manmade lake in the city’s centre, and uncover some of Colombo’s iconic modern landmarks, including the Old Parliament, Lotus Tower and Galbokka Lighthouse. We’ll enjoy a farewell dinner this evening at Colombo’s Gallery Café. Housed in the former offices of world-renowned Sri Lankan architect, the late Geoffrey Bawa, the internationally acclaimed restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy our last group meal together. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Today marks the completion of our adventure across amazing Sri Lanka. We’ll enjoy the day at leisure to explore Colombo further or simply relax and enjoy our hotel amenities. We hope you leave with fantastic memories! Optional Excursion Visit the Bunnik Tours office – Enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the Bunnik Tour’s Colombo office to see how our tours are created and meet the Sri Lankan team. Be taken on a tour of the building before enjoying a local homemade meal with the staff over lunch. 2.5 hours – complimentary
Ayubowan and welcome to Sri Lanka! Affectionately known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a total feast for the senses and we can’t wait to dive in headfirst. Separated from India by the Palk Strait, Sri Lanka boasts a rich history that spans centuries. Historically referred to as ‘Ceylon’, this beautiful tear-drop shaped island was officially named ‘Sri Lanka’ in 1972. Home to a rich blend of traditions and cultures, Sri Lanka has been carved by the diverse religions and ethnic groups that have thrived there for centuries. The best bit? These unique customs shift and change depending on where you are! So no matter where you go, there’s always something fascinating to discover. We’re in for a real treat! We’ll arrive in Sri Lanka’s capital city of Colombo this evening, and transfer to our gorgeous hotel nestled by the beaches of Negombo.
Wake up and bask in the coastal-town-vibes of Negombo. Set alongside a picturesque lagoon and home to an impressive network of canals built in Dutch colonial times, Negombo was an important strategic outpost for the trade of cinnamon in colonial times and has been ruled at varying times by the Dutch, Portuguese and British empires. We’ll enjoy the day at leisure today to rest up and refresh from our flight before our sightseeing commences in the early evening. Special Experience Take a scenic cruise along the jungle-fringed Negombo Lagoon at sunset, before enjoying a delicious BBQ dinner. As the sun sets, keep an eye out for various colourful birds and water monitors while our boat navigates the mangrove islands. To welcome us to Sri Lanka, we’ll be treated to a scrumptious dinner of traditional and local dishes, while we enjoy the opportunity to get to know our fellow travellers! We’ll be leaving the boat and enjoying the serene lagoon setting in ankle deep water, so wear shoes that can be easily slipped off.
Negombo’s fish markets are full of life and colour each morning when the fresh catch is brought in and vendors voice their prices at the top of their lungs. Buyers bargain for the best deals in what is a daily practice for the locals of this coastal town. We’ll visit the fish markets during a morning tour of Negombo; don’t wear your best shoes and have a handkerchief on hand just in case of a strong aroma (it tends to smell rather fishy)! Next, we’ll make our way to the Dambulla Caves, home to the best-preserved cave temple complex of Sri Lanka. The cave temples were built in the 1st century and the gigantic granite outcrop towers more than 160 metres above its surrounds. We explore the caves covered by ancient frescoes and their interior where over a hundred statues of Buddha (157 to be exact) are housed, some carved from the rock itself. Sri Lanka is home to no less than eight UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, five of which are situated in what is known as the ‘cultural triangle’ that is located in the centre of the island. Neighbouring some of Sri Lanka’s most important sites and landmarks, Habarana is one of the main gateways to the iconic cultural triangle and national parks. We make our way to Habarana and enjoy the remainder of our afternoon at leisure. Our hotel features a large outdoor pool, ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka and the capital of the North Province. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is known for its many ruins of temples, ancient pools and dagobas. We’ll spend the morning exploring Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest ancient city, seeing its famous white dagobas — large bell-like structures that reach some 60 metres in height which house Buddhist relics. We’ll travel back to Habarana via the Ritigala Medicinal Forest. Set deep in the jungle around a large hill formed by huge sculptural granite monoliths, lies the ancient and now abandoned hermitage of Ritigala. Today the visible remains are those of a Buddhist monastic congregation that used to practice meditation in total austerity. Rarely visited by tourists, this mystical place is incredibly beautiful and unspoilt with shady forests filled with streams, pools and granite boulders leading to ruins with various meditation platforms. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
This morning, we set our sights on Polonnaruwa, the easternmost point of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. It became the country’s second capital in the 11th century, following the destruction of Anuradhapura. We’ll spend the first half of our day discovering this ancient city that was built alongside a large artificial lake and is home to well-preserved ruins of palaces, bathing pools, stupas and exquisite rock sculptures of Buddha at the Gal Vihara. We’ll also get a chance to see the ‘Quadrangle’, a fascinating group of raised-ruins that are bounded by a wall — a total archaeologist’s dream! While in Polonnaruwa, we’re treated to a delicious, traditional lunch. Bursting with regional spices and flavours, we’ll eat with a friendly local family in their very own backyard — lucky us! Our destination this afternoon is Minneriya National Park, where vast expanses of evergreen forest and scrub areas serve as the roaming grounds for elephants and sambar deer. The central feature of the park is the ancient Minneriya Tank, built in the 3rd century by King Mahasena. During the dry season from June to September, this tank is an incredible place to observe the elephants who come to bathe and graze, as well as the huge flocks of birds such as cormorants and painted storks that come to fish in the shallow waters. Here, we’ll enjoy a game drive by jeep; make sure your camera is fully charged!
Regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive sites, a visit to the famous rock fortress of Sigiriya is an absolute must. The remains of a 5th-century fortress lie perched high atop a rock plateau, offering panoramic views over a vast plain and dense jungles. Built by King Kasyapa, an impressive 5-acre fort sat astride the rock and a city nestled at its base, but now the city is gone and the fortress is in ruins. We depart our hotel early this morning to visit Sigiriya. Braving the spiral staircase, we’ll see the 21 frescoes of female nature spirits, known as Apsaras, painted beneath an overhang about 90 metres up the rock. These frescoes are beautiful, still boasting vibrant colours even after 1,500 years. Just above them, a wall adorned with 1,000-year-old graffiti and poetry serves as a testament to visitors who recorded their impressions of the painted women. Reaching the summit after climbing 1,200 stairs, we are rewarded with breathtaking views over the Sri Lankan jungle below and intriguing remnants of a once-thriving kingdom. Special Experience Be welcomed into a quaint village near Sigiriya, exploring the community and enjoying a traditional lunch with a local family. We get acquainted with the traditions of the local family as we watch how they prepare their meals, learn some traditional cooking techniques and enjoy a delicious meal together. Before we leave, we’ll meet staff and children from the local school and learn about the Bunnik Family’s connection to the community. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
This morning we farewell Sigiriya with our sights set on Kandy! En route, we’ll discover the impressive Coconut House, which is a wonderful opportunity to see how a local family utilises every element of a coconut tree, from extracting coconut oil to creating rope. We will also stop in Matale and visit some of the best spice plantations on the island. A large variety of spices such as cinnamon, pepper, nutmeg and precious cardamom (a relative of ginger) are grown here. We’ll be shown how some of these spices are grown and processed and will be able to purchase favourites to take home. Kandy is a truly charming town that is set around an artificial lake and nestled amidst rolling hills covered by forests and tea plantations. It’s known for housing the most important Buddhist temple in the country, the former capital of Ceylon and the last seat of the Sinhalese Kingdom is Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. Kandy’s beautiful city has a distinctive style due to the impressive colonial architecture that still survives today! On arrival, we’ll visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Ever since it was founded in the 16th century, it has housed one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism — a tooth of Buddha collected from his funeral pyre, which is now protected within the gold-roofed Temple of the Tooth. This evening we’re in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, attending the incredible Kandy Festival! Watch in awe as thousands of dancers, drummers, torchbearers and whip-crackers dressed in traditional costumes weave their way through cheering crowds. This is Sri Lanka’s biggest and most spectacular festival. We have seats within a special viewing gallery to watch the pageant and enjoy the festivities. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
The stunning Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya is our destination this morning. Initially a Royal Park, it became a Botanical Garden in 1821 under British rule. Here exotic crops such as coffee, tea, nutmeg, rubber and cinchona (quinine) — all of which are important to the country's economy — were first tested. The Botanical Gardens include a beautiful orchid house and a wide variety of plant species from all over the world. We’ll discover the city of Kandy on a guided tour, starting at the Queen’s Hotel, one of the oldest hotels in the country and the first to be officially established in Sri Lanka. We will also make our way to Kandy Lake, a scenic spot in the heart of the city, before making our way to the Kandy Market passing local streets en route. We’ll enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
The country’s main hill resort, Nuwara Eliya is the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush tea-growing region. Founded by the British explorer Samuel Baker in 1846, Nuwara Eliya was a sanctuary to the colonialists keen to escape the humidity and heat of Sri Lanka. The town was originally built with mock-Tudor houses featuring inglenook fireplaces and billiard tables, a golf course, racetrack, gentlemen's clubs and botanical gardens. Now a bustling town and the vegetable garden of Sri Lanka, it still provides a glimpse of life during the colonial heyday. The region’s temperate climate makes this the coolest area in the country, so you may want to pack a jacket or some layers! We’ll visit a tea plantation and factory where we discover how Sri Lankan tea is produced, from picking the leaves to selling the tea! And of course, no visit would be complete without enjoying a few samples of the delicious product. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
We have a full day dedicated to discovering Nuwara Eliya and its beautiful surrounds. This morning we’ll board the local train for a scenic ride to Thalawakale station, passing magnificent landscapes with every twist and turn. We stop in the main town of Nuwara Eliya and enjoy a guided tour to acquaint ourselves with historically rich city. Here we’ll discover the idyllic Gregory Lake and the busy Central Market and Bazaar, full of vendors and locals going about their day. Known as Little England, Nuwara Eliya features beautiful colonial-era architecture which we’ll have the opportunity to see on our tour — this includes the renowned Nuwara Eliya Post Office! Our journey takes us out of town, venturing further to see the spectacular St. Clair and Devon Falls that cascade down the lush green mountains of the region. Known as Little Niagara of Sri Lanka, St. Clair Falls is one of the widest falls in the country. The nearby Devon Falls was named after an English coffee planter by the name of Devon, whose plantation is situated close by. Back at our stunning accommodation, we’ll unwind at a lovely high tea, delighting in a range of locally sourced teas and delicious finger food. The evening at leisure for you to enjoy. Optional Excursion Horton Plains – Departing before sunrise you make your way to Horton Plains, home to many endemic loris and purple monkeys. Your trek will have you visiting the breathtaking Baker’s Fall and the magnificent ‘World’s End’ which offers one of the best panoramic views in Sri Lanka. 3 hrs/9km – from US $78 pp. Includes local guide (please note: clients who choose to do the trek will miss out on the morning train ride)
We make our way to Yala this morning, stopping to witness the gushing water of the incredible waterfalls at Ella before continuing to Udawalawe en route. Special Experience Visit the incredible Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe and learn about its extensive rehabilitation program. Established in 1995, the Elephant Transit Home rehabilitates orphaned elephant calves until they’re strong enough for release back into the wild. This special place is situated on the western border of Udawalawe National Park, where the elephants get the opportunity to roam free. Best job ever? Very well could be! Although we can’t get up close and personal with the elephants, we’ll be able to see plenty of adorable calves being fed during feeding time. Waving goodbye to our new elephant friends, we make our way to one of Sri Lanka’s most premier eco-tourism destinations, Yala National Park — the gateway to some of the island’s incredible wildlife. Established in 1938, Yala National Park boasts a diverse range of habitats, including scrub jungle, brackish lagoons, lakes, and rivers, that leopards, elephants, wild buffalo and more call home. Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.
Grab your cameras, we’re heading out on an incredible safari this afternoon through Yala National Park! Among the oldest and best known of Sri Lanka’s national parks, our safari will take us through the park’s stunning scenery and past a number of important cultural ruins. Think vast grassland terrain mixed with beautiful, open lagoons and water holes that are popular among the diverse species found here. Keep your eyes peeled and get your lens ready to capture the numerous different species that call this park home. From the unique Sri Lankan sloth bear and wild water buffalo to the majestic Sri Lankan elephants that roam the area, there is magic to be found with every twist and turn. Here, you’ll also get the opportunity to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. Affectionately known as the Lords of the Jungle, Yala National Park has a leopard density that’s higher than anywhere else on the planet. Fingers crossed we can spot one!
Farewelling the lush greenery of Yala this morning, we make our way to the coastal walled city of Galle, the capital of the South Province. Built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century, this old trading port was further fortified by the Dutch and British colonialists. The narrow streets of shuttered mansions and churches protected by the stone walls, bastions and ramparts, are a delight to stroll through. On arrival in Galle, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of the city on foot, learning about the town’s history and immersing in its stunning colonial architecture. We will discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort, a fantastically preserved colonial sea fortress and Galle’s best-known site. Early this afternoon, we make our way to the seaside village of Habaraduwa to visit a special turtle hatchery. Set up to conserve Sri Lanka’s turtle population, we’ll get the chance to see baby turtles before they’re released into the wild. We then make our way to the stunning town of Weligama, where we’ll witness the unique stilt fishermen of Weligama go about their trade — bring your camera, this makes for a cool photo opportunity! Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
This morning we enjoy a scenic cruise along the Madu River, meandering through islets forested with mangroves. Look out for the 46 different species of birds that reside in the area, including 14 aquatic varieties, as well as huge water lilies and colourful butterflies. We’ll then visit the Moonstone Mine in Meetiyagoda. This mine is one of the few places where the semi-precious stone is found in high concentrations, hence the villagers believe this area is blessed by the moon. At Meetiyagoda you can see, or even go down into the deep, narrow shafts where the stones are mined. On our way back to the hotel, we will make a stop at the moving Tsunami Photograph Museum which remembers the devastating 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami that inflicted widespread damage to the coast of Sri Lanka. The rest of the afternoon is ours to enjoy at leisure.
This morning we’ll dive into Sri Lanka’s spice heritage at the beautiful Gradely Cinnamon Estate, a working plantation set among lush tropical greenery. As we wander through the fragrant groves, we’ll learn how world-famous Ceylon cinnamon is grown and harvested, before sitting down together to enjoy a delicious cinnamon-infused morning tea in peaceful surrounds. Delish! Special Experience Take a tour of the beautiful Gradely Cinnamon Estate property, before indulging in a delicious cinnamon-infused morning tea. Our eyes are then set on Sri Lanka’s capital city of Colombo, the ‘Garden City of the East’. Facing the Indian Ocean, it stretches along more than 14 kilometres of the island’s western shores. A bustling city crowded with buses and minivans has overtaken the once quiet roads laden with bullock carts. Tree-lined boulevards, colonial buildings, open air markets, temples, lakes, and churches add great character to this city. Upon arrival in Colombo, we’ll enjoy a guided city tour, including a visit to the Gangarama Temple and the famous Cricket Club Café, a prominent establishment in town owned by two Australians. This evening, we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner at the Veranda Restaurant located within the historic and stunning Galle Face Hotel. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Today marks the completion of our adventure across amazing Sri Lanka. We’ll enjoy the day at leisure to explore Colombo further or simply relax and enjoy our hotel amenities. We hope you leave with fantastic memories! Optional Excursion Visit the Bunnik Tours office – Enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the Bunnik Tour’s Colombo office to see how our tours are created and meet the Sri Lankan team. Be taken on a tour of the building before enjoying a local homemade meal with the staff over lunch. 2.5 hours – complimentary
Ayubowan and welcome to Sri Lanka! Affectionately known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is a total feast for the senses and we can’t wait to dive in headfirst. Separated from India by the Palk Strait, Sri Lanka boasts a rich history that spans centuries. Historically referred to as ‘Ceylon’, this beautiful tear-drop shaped island was officially named ‘Sri Lanka’ in 1972. Home to a rich blend of traditions and cultures, Sri Lanka has been carved by the diverse religions and ethnic groups that have thrived there for centuries. The best bit? These unique customs shift and change depending on where you are! So no matter where you go, there’s always something fascinating to discover. We’re in for a real treat! We’ll arrive in Sri Lanka’s capital city of Colombo this evening, and transfer to our gorgeous hotel nestled by the beaches of Negombo.
Wake up and bask in the coastal-town-vibes of Negombo. Set alongside a picturesque lagoon and home to an impressive network of canals built in Dutch colonial times, Negombo was an important strategic outpost for the trade of cinnamon in colonial times and has been ruled at varying times by the Dutch, Portuguese and British empires. We’ll enjoy the day at leisure today to rest up and refresh from our flight before our sightseeing commences in the early evening. Special Experience Take a scenic cruise along the jungle-fringed Negombo Lagoon at sunset, before enjoying a delicious BBQ dinner. As the sun sets, keep an eye out for various colourful birds and water monitors while our boat navigates the mangrove islands. To welcome us to Sri Lanka, we’ll be treated to a scrumptious dinner of traditional and local dishes, while we enjoy the opportunity to get to know our fellow travellers! We’ll be leaving the boat and enjoying the serene lagoon setting in ankle deep water, so wear shoes that can be easily slipped off.
Negombo’s fish markets are full of life and colour each morning when the fresh catch is brought in and vendors voice their prices at the top of their lungs. Buyers bargain for the best deals in what is a daily practice for the locals of this coastal town. We’ll visit the fish markets during a morning tour of Negombo; don’t wear your best shoes and have a handkerchief on hand just in case of a strong aroma (it tends to smell rather fishy)! Next, we’ll make our way to the Dambulla Caves, home to the best-preserved cave temple complex of Sri Lanka. The cave temples were built in the 1st century and the gigantic granite outcrop towers more than 160 metres above its surrounds. We explore the caves covered by ancient frescoes and their interior where over a hundred statues of Buddha (157 to be exact) are housed, some carved from the rock itself. Sri Lanka is home to no less than eight UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, five of which are situated in what is known as the ‘cultural triangle’ that is located in the centre of the island. Neighbouring some of Sri Lanka’s most important sites and landmarks, Habarana is one of the main gateways to the iconic cultural triangle and national parks. We make our way to Habarana and enjoy the remainder of our afternoon at leisure. Our hotel features a large outdoor pool, ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka and the capital of the North Province. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is known for its many ruins of temples, ancient pools and dagobas. We’ll spend the morning exploring Sri Lanka’s largest and oldest ancient city, seeing its famous white dagobas — large bell-like structures that reach some 60 metres in height which house Buddhist relics. We’ll travel back to Habarana via the Ritigala Medicinal Forest. Set deep in the jungle around a large hill formed by huge sculptural granite monoliths, lies the ancient and now abandoned hermitage of Ritigala. Today the visible remains are those of a Buddhist monastic congregation that used to practice meditation in total austerity. Rarely visited by tourists, this mystical place is incredibly beautiful and unspoilt with shady forests filled with streams, pools and granite boulders leading to ruins with various meditation platforms. Today involves approximately 4 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
This morning, we set our sights on Polonnaruwa, the easternmost point of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. It became the country’s second capital in the 11th century, following the destruction of Anuradhapura. We’ll spend the first half of our day discovering this ancient city that was built alongside a large artificial lake and is home to well-preserved ruins of palaces, bathing pools, stupas and exquisite rock sculptures of Buddha at the Gal Vihara. We’ll also get a chance to see the ‘Quadrangle’, a fascinating group of raised-ruins that are bounded by a wall — a total archaeologist’s dream! While in Polonnaruwa, we’re treated to a delicious, traditional lunch. Bursting with regional spices and flavours, we’ll eat with a friendly local family in their very own backyard — lucky us! Our destination this afternoon is Minneriya National Park, where vast expanses of evergreen forest and scrub areas serve as the roaming grounds for elephants and sambar deer. The central feature of the park is the ancient Minneriya Tank, built in the 3rd century by King Mahasena. During the dry season from June to September, this tank is an incredible place to observe the elephants who come to bathe and graze, as well as the huge flocks of birds such as cormorants and painted storks that come to fish in the shallow waters. Here, we’ll enjoy a game drive by jeep; make sure your camera is fully charged!
Regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive sites, a visit to the famous rock fortress of Sigiriya is an absolute must. The remains of a 5th-century fortress lie perched high atop a rock plateau, offering panoramic views over a vast plain and dense jungles. Built by King Kasyapa, an impressive 5-acre fort sat astride the rock and a city nestled at its base, but now the city is gone and the fortress is in ruins. We depart our hotel early this morning to visit Sigiriya. Braving the spiral staircase, we’ll see the 21 frescoes of female nature spirits, known as Apsaras, painted beneath an overhang about 90 metres up the rock. These frescoes are beautiful, still boasting vibrant colours even after 1,500 years. Just above them, a wall adorned with 1,000-year-old graffiti and poetry serves as a testament to visitors who recorded their impressions of the painted women. Reaching the summit after climbing 1,200 stairs, we are rewarded with breathtaking views over the Sri Lankan jungle below and intriguing remnants of a once-thriving kingdom. Special Experience Be welcomed into a quaint village near Sigiriya, exploring the community and enjoying a traditional lunch with a local family. We get acquainted with the traditions of the local family as we watch how they prepare their meals, learn some traditional cooking techniques and enjoy a delicious meal together. Before we leave, we’ll meet staff and children from the local school and learn about the Bunnik Family’s connection to the community. Today involves approximately 2 hours of walking in hot and humid conditions.
This morning we farewell Sigiriya with our sights set on Kandy! En route, we’ll discover the impressive Coconut House, which is a wonderful opportunity to see how a local family utilises every element of a coconut tree, from extracting coconut oil to creating rope. We will also stop in Matale and visit some of the best spice plantations on the island. A large variety of spices such as cinnamon, pepper, nutmeg and precious cardamom (a relative of ginger) are grown here. We’ll be shown how some of these spices are grown and processed and will be able to purchase favourites to take home. Kandy is a truly charming town that is set around an artificial lake and nestled amidst rolling hills covered by forests and tea plantations. It’s known for housing the most important Buddhist temple in the country, the former capital of Ceylon and the last seat of the Sinhalese Kingdom is Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. Kandy’s beautiful city has a distinctive style due to the impressive colonial architecture that still survives today! On arrival, we’ll visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Ever since it was founded in the 16th century, it has housed one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism — a tooth of Buddha collected from his funeral pyre, which is now protected within the gold-roofed Temple of the Tooth. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
The stunning Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya is our destination this morning. Initially a Royal Park, it became a Botanical Garden in 1821 under British rule. Here exotic crops such as coffee, tea, nutmeg, rubber and cinchona (quinine) — all of which are important to the country's economy — were first tested. The Botanical Gardens include a beautiful orchid house and a wide variety of plant species from all over the world. We’ll discover the city of Kandy on a guided tour, starting at the Queen’s Hotel, one of the oldest hotels in the country and the first to be officially established in Sri Lanka. We will also make our way to Kandy Lake, a scenic spot in the heart of the city, before making our way to the Kandy Market passing local streets en route. To finish off the day, we’re treated to a mesmerising cultural show and traditional dance performance. We’ll witness the fascinating Kandyan dance, a vibrant art form unique to Sri Lanka that involves elements of fire dancing, drumming and acrobatics. The performance has deep cultural ties, traditionally being performed only during royal ceremonies, festivals and religious events.
The country’s main hill resort, Nuwara Eliya is the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush tea-growing region. Founded by the British explorer Samuel Baker in 1846, Nuwara Eliya was a sanctuary to the colonialists keen to escape the humidity and heat of Sri Lanka. The town was originally built with mock-Tudor houses featuring inglenook fireplaces and billiard tables, a golf course, racetrack, gentlemen's clubs and botanical gardens. Now a bustling town and the vegetable garden of Sri Lanka, it still provides a glimpse of life during the colonial heyday. The region’s temperate climate makes this the coolest area in the country, so you may want to pack a jacket or some layers! We’ll visit a tea plantation and factory where we discover how Sri Lankan tea is produced, from picking the leaves to selling the tea! And of course, no visit would be complete without enjoying a few samples of the delicious product. Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
We have a full day dedicated to discovering Nuwara Eliya and its beautiful surrounds. This morning we’ll board the local train for a scenic ride to Thalawakale station, passing magnificent landscapes with every twist and turn. We stop in the main town of Nuwara Eliya and enjoy a guided tour to acquaint ourselves with historically rich city. Here we’ll discover the idyllic Gregory Lake and the busy Central Market and Bazaar, full of vendors and locals going about their day. Known as Little England, Nuwara Eliya features beautiful colonial-era architecture which we’ll have the opportunity to see on our tour — this includes the renowned Nuwara Eliya Post Office! Our journey takes us out of town, venturing further to see the spectacular St. Clair and Devon Falls that cascade down the lush green mountains of the region. Known as Little Niagara of Sri Lanka, St. Clair Falls is one of the widest falls in the country. The nearby Devon Falls was named after an English coffee planter by the name of Devon, whose plantation is situated close by. Back at our stunning accommodation, we’ll unwind at a lovely high tea, delighting in a range of locally sourced teas and delicious finger food. The evening at leisure for you to enjoy. Optional Excursion Horton Plains – Departing before sunrise you make your way to Horton Plains, home to many endemic loris and purple monkeys. Your trek will have you visiting the breathtaking Baker’s Fall and the magnificent ‘World’s End’ which offers one of the best panoramic views in Sri Lanka. 3 hrs/9km – from US $78 pp. Includes local guide (please note: clients who choose to do the trek will miss out on the morning train ride)
We make our way to Yala this morning, stopping to witness the gushing water of the incredible waterfalls at Ella before continuing to Udawalawe en route. Special Experience Visit the incredible Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe and learn about its extensive rehabilitation program. Established in 1995, the Elephant Transit Home rehabilitates orphaned elephant calves until they’re strong enough for release back into the wild. This special place is situated on the western border of Udawalawe National Park, where the elephants get the opportunity to roam free. Best job ever? Very well could be! Although we can’t get up close and personal with the elephants, we’ll be able to see plenty of adorable calves being fed during feeding time. Waving goodbye to our new elephant friends, we make our way to one of Sri Lanka’s most premier eco-tourism destinations, Yala National Park — the gateway to some of the island’s incredible wildlife. Established in 1938, Yala National Park boasts a diverse range of habitats, including scrub jungle, brackish lagoons, lakes, and rivers, that leopards, elephants, wild buffalo and more call home. Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.
This morning we’ll enjoy time at leisure to relax and enjoy our hotel’s facilities. Grab your cameras, we’re heading out on an incredible safari this afternoon through Yala National Park! Among the oldest and best known of Sri Lanka’s national parks, our safari will take us through the park’s stunning scenery and past a number of important cultural ruins. Think vast grassland terrain mixed with beautiful, open lagoons and water holes that are popular among the diverse species found here. Keep your eyes peeled and get your lens ready to capture the numerous different species that call this park home. From the unique Sri Lankan sloth bear and wild water buffalo to the majestic Sri Lankan elephants that roam the area, there is magic to be found with every twist and turn. Here, you’ll also get the opportunity to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. Affectionately known as the Lords of the Jungle, Yala National Park has a leopard density that’s higher than anywhere else on the planet. Fingers crossed we can spot one!
Farewelling the lush greenery of Yala this morning, we make our way to the coastal walled city of Galle, the capital of the South Province. Built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century, this old trading port was further fortified by the Dutch and British colonialists. The narrow streets of shuttered mansions and churches protected by the stone walls, bastions and ramparts, are a delight to stroll through. On arrival in Galle, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of the city on foot, learning about the town’s history and immersing in its stunning colonial architecture. We will discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort, a fantastically preserved colonial sea fortress and Galle’s best-known site. Early this afternoon, we make our way to the seaside village of Habaraduwa to visit a special turtle hatchery. Set up to conserve Sri Lanka’s turtle population, we’ll get the chance to see baby turtles before they’re released into the wild. We then make our way to the stunning town of Weligama, where we’ll witness the unique stilt fishermen of Weligama go about their trade — bring your camera, this makes for a cool photo opportunity! Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
This morning we enjoy a scenic cruise along the Madu River, meandering through islets forested with mangroves. Look out for the 46 different species of birds that reside in the area, including 14 aquatic varieties, as well as huge water lilies and colourful butterflies. We’ll then visit the Moonstone Mine in Meetiyagoda. This mine is one of the few places where the semi-precious stone is found in high concentrations, hence the villagers believe this area is blessed by the moon. At Meetiyagoda you can see, or even go down into the deep, narrow shafts where the stones are mined. On our way back to the hotel, we will make a stop at the moving Tsunami Photograph Museum which remembers the devastating 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami that inflicted widespread damage to the coast of Sri Lanka. The rest of the afternoon is ours to enjoy at leisure.
This morning we’ll dive into Sri Lanka’s spice heritage at the beautiful Gradely Cinnamon Estate, a working plantation set among lush tropical greenery. As we wander through the fragrant groves, we’ll learn how world-famous Ceylon cinnamon is grown and harvested, before sitting down together to enjoy a delicious cinnamon-infused morning tea in peaceful surrounds. Delish! Special Experience Take a tour of the beautiful Gradely Cinnamon Estate property, before indulging in a delicious cinnamon-infused morning tea. Our eyes are then set on Sri Lanka’s capital city of Colombo, the ‘Garden City of the East’. Facing the Indian Ocean, it stretches along more than 14 kilometres of the island’s western shores. A bustling city crowded with buses and minivans has overtaken the once quiet roads laden with bullock carts. Tree-lined boulevards, colonial buildings, open air markets, temples, lakes, and churches add great character to this city. Upon arrival in Colombo, we’ll enjoy a guided city tour, including a visit to the Gangarama Temple and the famous Cricket Club Café, a prominent establishment in town owned by two Australians. This evening, we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner at the Veranda Restaurant located within the historic and stunning Galle Face Hotel. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Today marks the completion of our adventure across amazing Sri Lanka. We’ll enjoy the day at leisure to explore Colombo further or simply relax and enjoy our hotel amenities. We hope you leave with fantastic memories! Optional Excursion Visit the Bunnik Tours office – Enjoy a behind the scenes tour of the Bunnik Tour’s Colombo office to see how our tours are created and meet the Sri Lankan team. Be taken on a tour of the building before enjoying a local homemade meal with the staff over lunch. 2.5 hours – complimentary
Welcome to Istanbul, a city unlike any other. Spanning two continents, Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus, with one shore in Europe and the other in Asia, creating a distinctive fusion of diverse cultures. From traditional tea houses to contemporary art galleries, this compelling mix of contrasts is truly captivating. With its extraordinary blend of East and West, Istanbul offers an unforgettable journey through time and culture. We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your starting destination by 5:00 pm. At 6:00pm, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director before walking to a local restaurant for a drink and a lovely welcome dinner.
Our first stop of the day is a visit to the magnificent Topkapi Palace. Constructed between 1466 and 1478 AD, the Topkapi Palace served as the residence of the esteemed Sultans and their households and functioned as the primary hub of the Ottoman Empire from the 15th to the 19th centuries. Today, it is filled with treasures and antiquities, including 12000 pieces of fine Chinese porcelain. We then continue to a local café that’s renowned for their traditional treats since 1864. Yum! Special Experience Excite your taste buds with some of Türkiye’s most famous delicacies, including baklava, Turkish coffee, and of course, Turkish delight! Once we’ve satisfied our taste buds, we’ll proceed to the famous Grand Bazaar. Built in 1457 AD, the Grand Bazaar is one of the largest covered markets in the world. It is most famous for its antique shops, jewellery, carpets, hand-painted ceramics, embroideries and spices. We’ll also make our way to the exotic Spice Bazaar, where you’ll have some time to browse through the stalls at your leisure and soak up the scents of hundreds of spices permeating the air. Later this afternoon, we will embark on a leisurely cruise along Istanbul’s most famous waterway, the Bosphorus. Our journey will take us along both European and Asian shores, as we gently cruise past marvellous monuments and districts, including the Maiden’s Tower (Kız Kulesi), Dolmabahçe Palace, Çırağan Palace, Ortaköy, Ahmat Fethi Pasa Mansion, Ortaköy Mosque, Beylerbeyi Palace, Kuleli Military School, Arnavutköy and Bebek.
Get ready to spend a full day immersing in the incredible Istanbul. We begin our day with a visit to the Underground Basilica Cistern, the largest surviving Byzantium Cistern. Built in 532 AD during the reign of Emperor Justinian, this unique spot is truly a sight to behold with its hundreds of columns brightly lit up. Next, we’ll explore Istanbul’s most famous architectural wonders. First up, is the impressive domed Basilica of St. Sophia (Hagia Sophia), which has inspired architects, scholars and historians for almost 1,500 years. The first church on this site was constructed in 326 AD by Constantine the Great; the current church dates back to 537 AD and has been a cathedral, a museum, and is now a mosque. Our next destination is the Hippodrome, once the heart of the political and sporting life of the city. It was the scene of games and riots throughout 500 years of Ottoman history. We will then head to the one-of-a-kind Blue Mosque, constructed in 1609 AD under the patronage of Sultan Ahmet. As we step inside, we are consumed by the grandeur of its interior, adorned with over 20,000 exquisite Iznik tiles. These tiles, meticulously crafted with intricate patterns and varying shades of blue, narrate stories of craftsmanship and artistic brilliance that have withstood the test of time. In the late afternoon, we’ll take a scenic drive through Istanbul toward one of its most iconic landmarks, the legendary Pera Palace Hotel. Deluxe Experience Indulge your palate with a delightful high tea experience at the historic and iconic Pera Palace Hotel. Nestled in the heart of Beyoğlu and famed for hosting the likes of Agatha Christie and Ernest Hemingway, the Pera Palace is a masterpiece of Art Nouveau and Orientalist design. Here, we’ll enjoy a beautifully curated high tea experience, surrounded by ornate chandeliers, velvet furnishings and the timeless elegance of an era when the Orient Express brought Europe’s elite to Istanbul’s doorstep. After this indulgent experience, the evening is yours to spend at leisure — unwind in the comfort of your luxurious surroundings, enjoy dinner at your own pace or take an evening stroll to soak up Istanbul’s vibrant atmosphere.
This morning, we say goodbye to Istanbul as we set our eyes on Gallipoli, our destination for the day. Today is an incredibly moving day. It is a tangible reminder of a not-so-distant past and a significant event in history that shaped Australia's national identity. Special Experience Honour the ANZACs at Gallipoli with a specialist guide, as we explore ANZAC Cove, the Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair Memorials, and Johnston's Jolly. We visit the World War I battlefields, most notable for being held by the ANZACs from 25th April to 20th December 1915, during what is referred to as The Gallipoli Campaign or Battle of Gallipoli. At the end of the war the bodies, still unburied, were cleared by the Allies on returning to the peninsula. Of the 22,000 graves at the 31 war cemeteries, only 9,000 are identified burials with grave markers. The remaining graves are commemorated with a special memorial. We’ll continue onto Çanakkale, our home for the night. Situated on the southern shore of the Dardanelles, Çanakkale is an ancient port city that has housed several civilisations over the past 6,000 years!
We start our day with a short drive to the legendary ancient city of Troy. Over its 4,000-year existence, Troy has experienced the rise and fall of nine distinct settlements, spanning from the Stone Age to the Roman Empire. If that doesn't give you goosebumps, the sight of the Trojan Horse replica at the city gates certainly will. We'll continue to explore the surroundings, including the famed city central to the Iliad, the Odyssey of Homer, and Virgil's Aeneid. Once thought to be purely mythical, these sites were unveiled as real when archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann unearthed the ruins near the modern city. Our next stop is the Adatepe Olive Oil Museum. Here, we’ll delve into the rich history and traditional techniques of olive pressing and harvesting in Türkiye. We’ll also have the chance to sample some of the local produce. We’ll then continue to Kuşadası, our home for the next two nights.
Our morning begins with a visit to the extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ephesus. As the largest and most significant Roman city ever unearthed, stepping into Ephesus is like travelling back in time. Its remarkably preserved ruins span centuries of history, from classical Greece to the Roman Empire, when it served as the Mediterranean's primary commercial centre. Walking along the marble-paved streets of Ephesus offers a glimpse into daily life from those eras. We'll explore ancient gymnasiums and bathhouses, marvel at the Library of Celsus, and see the remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. We'll also visit a local leather factory, where you'll have the opportunity to watch artisans at work and purchase exquisite, handcrafted Turkish leather products. Next, we'll head to the charming and breathtaking village of Şirince. This scenic town is rich in history and culture, with its beautiful stone houses gracing the hillside, creating a truly picturesque setting. Special Experience Visit Şirince Village and learn to prepare some local culinary specialities in a hands-on cooking class. After a long day, we'll unwind with an evening at leisure upon returning to our hotel in Kuşadası. This lively coastal paradise, blessed with around 300 days of sunshine each year, offers plenty to explore. Or you can simply choose to unwind and watch the world go by at one of the town's many seafront restaurants.
After a leisurely morning in Kuşadası, we’ll make our way to the Karnas Vineyards, tucked away in the lush rolling hills of the Aegean Valley. Deluxe Experience Sample local wines and regional snacks at Karnas Vineyards, a family-owned boutique winery, nestled in the verdant Aegean Valley. Renowned for their award-winning wines produced with traditional and sustainable methods, this family-owned boutique winery is set on endless stretches of sprawling vines. A visit here will make you feel as if you’ve stepped right into a postcard! They’re known for growing several varieties of grapes, including Zinfandel, Syrah (Shiraz), Cabernet Franc and Vermentino. Our next stop is Bodrum, a coastal city sitting on a rugged peninsula that offers a true Mediterranean experience. This town boasts abundant bays and pristine beaches along its stunning coastline. The sparkling waters of the Aegean Sea are beyond inviting. Beautiful scenery aside, this town is bursting with history and iconic landmarks and has a rich cultural heritage to match. Plus, the cuisine found here is otherworldly – if you are a fan of seafood, prepare to find heaven in Bodrum! Arriving here, we’ll enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.
We will spend this morning exploring Bodrum Castle, also known as the Castle of St. Peter, a medieval waterfront fortification. Situated on a small rocky peninsula, the castle was built from 1402 AD onwards by the Knights of St. John. While here, we’ll visit the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, housed within the rooms and towers of the Bodrum Castle. This fascinating museum features artifacts from the 16th century, including remains from ancient shipwrecks. The remainder of the day is yours to explore Bodrum at your own pace. Relax at a seaside café or wander through the lively bazaars, where you’ll find everything from handmade goods to beautiful jewellery and unique souvenirs.
Today we travel to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cappadocia. The region is renowned for its otherworldly landscapes, characterised by towering rock formations and cone-shaped fairy chimneys that have been shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity and erosion. We’ll transfer to the airport for our midday flight, via Istanbul to Cappadocia. Special Experience Stay in a luxurious cave hotel in the heart of Cappadocia, immersing in the town’s unique and mystical atmosphere. Complimenting Cappadocia’s otherworldly charm is our accommodation for the next two nights. We’ll get the chance to stay in ‘cave rooms’, an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends together history, culture and comfort – this is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the true Cappadocia! Please note: The cave hotel is located right in the heart of Cappadocia, which dates back thousands of years. This means there are multiple flights of stairs, plenty of steps and uneven cobblestone ground to navigate. Rooms are scattered across multiple levels - they are not inside a singular building. Meeting our mobility and fitness requirements are essential. No two rooms are the same with quirky layouts that can be dimly lit. While these rooms are still comfortable remember you are staying in a cave! These are incredibly unique and a once in a lifetime experience to stay in this unforgettable location.
For those that choose to do hot air ballooning, we have an early start this morning — but it’s totally worth it, we promise! We will have time to rest before commencing with the rest of the day’s sightseeing. 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 explore the spectacular landscape of Göreme Valley. Over thousands of years, the rain has eroded this landscape to give rise to unique rock formations known as 'Fairy Chimneys'. Many of these formations now have homes and churches carved into them. Some of the grottoes are even magnificently decorated with colourful frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Later today, we will visit a local family where we’ll get the chance to learn about their lifestyle and the local way of life in Cappadocia. This evening we’ll enjoy dinner in a local family restaurant. 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.
This morning begins at a gentler pace, with breakfast and some well-earned leisure time to enjoy the quiet rhythm of Cappadocia. Whether you take a slow walk, sip a final Turkish tea, or simply soak up the last views of the valley, it’s the perfect moment to breathe before the day’s discoveries. Later this morning, we’ll depart for Avanos Village, a charming town set along the Kızılırmak River, famous for its centuries long tradition of pottery making and carpet weaving. While here, we’ll visit a local workshop for a ceramic art lecture, where master artisans continue ancient techniques passed down through generations. Watching clay transform beneath skilled hands offers fascinating insight into a craft that has long defined this region. Next, we make our way to the incredible underground city of Ozkonak. Featuring a maze of tunnels, chambers and rooms carved into soft volcanic rock over ten levels, this underground city is one of the best preserved in the area. It can hold an incredible 60,000 people and is over 40 metres deep into the Earth. Today, only four of these levels are accessible by the public. It is believed that the origins of Ozkonak dates back to the fourth century BC and was greatly expanded and deepened during the Byzantine era. This afternoon, we’ll make our way to the airport, wrapping up our unforgettable Turkish journey as we prepare to fly onward to Egypt. We’ll arrive in Egypt’s capital city of Cairo late this evening, and transfer to our hotel nestled by the Nile River.
'Salam' and welcome to the bustling hub of Cairo, set along the legendary Nile River. It's Egypt's largest city and truly one of a kind. We'll see how ancient history meets modern life here in the most fascinating way. From majestic temples and towering pyramids to colourful streets and bustling markets, Cairo dazzles with layers of Pharaonic, Roman, Greek and Islamic influences. As the cultural heart of the Middle East, the city is famous for its rich history, thriving arts scene and mouthwatering cuisine that will delight any food lover. We’ll enjoy the morning at leisure to rest up and refresh from our flight before our sightseeing commences in the early afternoon. This afternoon, we’ll meet out Egyptologist before stepping into a world of gold-tipped doors and secret gardens! Cairo’s royal palaces are ready to dazzle with sparkling halls, intricate mosaics and the echoes of royalty in every corner. Wander corridors where kings once roamed, snap selfies by grand fountains and let the magic of Egyptian history take your breath away. Deluxe Experience Tour the former residence of the Egyptian royal family and discover their opulent lifestyle, architecture and refined tastes from a bygone era. This evening, we’ll savour another mouthwatering welcome dinner to mark the start of our Egyptian adventure.
We're set for a magical day of touring, visiting some of the most iconic sites in the world. We’ll begin with one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the majestic Great Pyramids of Giza. These iconic structures are the oldest surviving wonders of their kind and continue to inspire awe. The largest of the three, built for Pharaoh Khufu around 2600 BC, once stood an astonishing 481 feet tall and remains largely intact today. His son Khafre and grandson Menkaure built the two slightly smaller pyramids nearby, creating a royal legacy that has stood for thousands of years. Not far from the pyramids, we’ll come face-to-face with the Great Sphinx. With the body of a lion and the head of a pharaoh, it’s one of the most recognisable statues in the world. Believed to represent Pharaoh Khafre, the Sphinx continues to intrigue historians and visitors alike with its mysterious origins. Special Experience Take in the incredible views of the Great Pyramids of Giza while enjoying a delicious lunch at the Giza Plateau. We’ll sit down to a delicious Middle Eastern lunch with what might just be the best view in town. This beautiful open-air restaurant offers sweeping views of the Great Pyramids, making it the perfect spot to pause, relax and take a few memorable photos. After lunch, we’ll head to the impressive new Grand Egyptian Museum, just a short drive away. This world-class museum holds an incredible collection of ancient treasures, including the famous galleries dedicated to King Tutankhamun. Greeted by the towering statue of Ramses II at the entrance, we’ll explore some of Egypt’s most remarkable artefacts in a stunning, modern setting.
With over 100 pyramids scattered across Egypt, it’s easy to forget how many quietly rest beyond the famous silhouettes of Giza. This morning we leave the crowds behind as we explore Sakkara, home to the extraordinary Step Pyramid of Djoser, the first pyramid ever built in Egypt and the beginning of the country's pyramid-building legacy. Special Experience Tour the historic Serapeum of Sakkara, the burial place of the Apis Bulls and home to centuries of cult activity. It’s believed to have been designed by the renowned vizier Imhotep, one of the first recognised architects in the world. While here, we’ll also visit the fascinating Serapeum of Sakkara, the ancient resting place of the sacred Apis bulls, once worshipped in Memphis. After a morning of discovery, we’ll take a leisurely break at a local farm, where a beautiful farm-to-table lunch awaits. We’ll then bid farewell to Cairo and take a short flight to Luxor, the jewel of ancient Upper Egypt. Nestled on the east bank of the Nile, this beautiful city is home to some of Egypt’s most impressive and iconic temples. Here, we’ll meet with our Upper Egypt guide and check into our hotel. This evening will be yours to enjoy at leisure.
Today, we’ll begin our adventure with a visit to the majestic Karnak Temple. Spanning over 2 square kilometres, this grand complex was shaped over 1,500 years by nearly 30 pharaohs. Once the spiritual heart of ancient Egypt, Karnak was dedicated to the powerful Theban triad: Amun, Mut and Khonsu. Wandering through its towering columns and sacred courtyards feels like stepping straight into another world. Next, we’ll stop by a local papyrus gallery, where we’ll see how this ancient reed was carefully crafted into scrolls and artwork. It’s a lovely opportunity to learn about this timeless tradition and perhaps choose a piece as a keepsake. This afternoon, we’ll return to our hotel for some well-earned rest and a chance to recharge. As evening sets in, we’ll head to Luxor Temple, a truly unforgettable sight under the fading glow of sunset. Special Experience Explore the spectacular Luxor Temple at sunset, witnessing how the golden light brings this ancient wonder to life. Luxor Temple is connected to Karnak Temple by a 3-kilometre-long Avenue of Sphinxes. It’s also 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. Optional Excursion Luxor Museum – Discover one of Egypt’s best museums, boasting some of the country’s best-preserved artefacts. The Luxor Museum is home to an abundance of ancient antiquities from the Theban region, featuring statues, pottery, jewellery and well-preserved mummies. 1.5 hours – from $60pp US. Cash only.
Luxor is often called the world’s greatest open-air museum, and today we’ll step into its extraordinary history with a half-day tour of the West Bank of the Nile. Our first stop is the legendary Valley of the Kings, where Egypt’s most powerful pharaohs were laid to rest for nearly 500 years. We’ll wander through tombs carved deep into the cliffs and step inside Tutankhamun’s famed tomb, the boy king whose resting place is adorned with beautifully preserved hieroglyphs that tell tales of the afterlife. From here, we’ll visit the elegant Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, a powerful woman who ruled as pharaoh and left behind a temple that still inspires awe. We’ll continue on to the towering Colossi of Memnon, two giant statues that have stood watch over the Theban plain for thousands of years. Before we return, we’ll stop at a local alabaster workshop, where skilled artisans bring smooth stone to life using techniques passed down through generations. This afternoon, we’ll board our Nile River cruise ship and settle in with lunch on deck. As the boat begins to glide south, take in the timeless scenery with palm groves, quiet villages and the golden glow of the river. In ancient times, the Nile was seen as the lifeblood of Egypt and over the next few days, we’ll explore some of the remarkable sites built along its banks. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a vibrant belly dancing show. It’s a joyful celebration of rhythm, storytelling and Egyptian spirit. 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. Optional Excursion Deir El Medina & Medinet Habu – Visit one of the most well-preserved ancient settlements in Egypt and the Mortuary Temple of Ramses ll. 3 hours – minimum 4 participants required – from $105pp US, including Nobles Tombs; from $160pp US, including Nefertari’s Tomb (subject to open times). Cash Only Optional Excursion Sound & Light Show at Karnak Temple at night. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
After breakfast, we’ll set off on a scenic drive to discover one of Egypt’s best-kept secrets, the Temple of Dendera. Special Experience Enjoy a half-day tour to the Dendera Temple Complex, exploring one of Egypt’s best-preserved sites, the Temple of Hathor, goddess of love and beauty. Surrounded by peaceful countryside, this remarkably preserved site often surprises visitors with its grandeur and vivid colours. The main temple is dedicated to Hathor, the goddess of love, pleasure, beauty and music. As we wander through its grand halls, we’ll see exquisite artwork and vibrant reliefs that tell stories of ancient rituals and myths. The colourful ceilings and intricate carvings make Dendera a truly magical place to explore. After soaking in the beauty of Dendera, we’ll return to Luxor and rejoin our elegant Nile cruise. Cruising the Nile feels timeless, especially knowing that many vessels still follow the same routes as ancient Egyptian royalty. Legend has it Cleopatra once sailed these very waters aboard a lavish barge. This afternoon, we’ll pass through the Esna Lock as we continue our journey south. Located near the town of Esna, this lock helps boats navigate the river by managing water flow around the Esna Barrage, keeping our cruise smooth and steady.
Located on the West Bank of the Nile River between Esna and Aswan, the town of Edfu greets us this morning with a quiet charm that feels a world away from the modern rush. After stepping ashore, we’ll board a short bus ride that takes us to the magnificent Temple of Horus, dedicated to the falcon-headed god of protection. It’s one of the best-preserved temples in all of Egypt and second in size only to Karnak Temple. As we pass through its towering gateways and peaceful courtyards, it’s easy to imagine the ceremonies and legends that once brought this sacred space to life. After our visit, we’ll return to the comfort of our cruise ship and continue our journey along the Nile. The scenery is lovely, with palm-lined banks, farmers at work in their fields and the occasional villages coming into view like postcards from another time. Later this afternoon, we’ll disembark to explore the remarkable riverside temple of Kom Ombo. This unusual ‘double’ temple is dedicated to both Sobek, the crocodile god and Horus, the falcon god. It’s full of beautiful carvings, including depictions of ancient surgical tools still clearly etched in stone. Back on board this evening, we'll let our hair down for a light-hearted Galabeya Show, where guests are invited to dress in traditional Egyptian robes for a lively evening of music and celebration.
Departing Kom Ombo in the early morning, we’ll continue sailing south toward the relaxed and scenic city of Aswan. Once we arrive, we’ll head straight to the airport for a short flight to one of Egypt’s most extraordinary sites, the temples of Abu Simbel. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is truly a wonder to behold. Carved directly into the mountainside during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II, the twin temples were created to honour both himself and his beloved queen, Nefertari. Standing before these colossal statues, it’s impossible not to feel awestruck by their sheer scale and artistry. We’ll spend time here wandering through the grand halls, admiring the beautifully preserved carvings, and soaking up the grandeur of a monument that has stood for over 3,000 years. After our visit, we’ll fly back to Aswan and return to our cruise ship for a relaxing evening. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a colourful Nubian show on board. With lively music, dancing and traditional dress, it’s a joyful way to experience the culture of one of Egypt’s oldest communities. Optional Excursion Experience the Sound & Light Show at Philae Temple at night as you walk through ancient courtyards illuminated by vivid lights and echoes of powerful narration. Let the dramatic storytelling and visual effects transport you back in time to uncover the secrets, legends and legacy of one of Egypt’s most enchanting temples. 1.5 hours – from $65pp US. Cash only.
Today, we’ll disembark our Nile cruise and say goodbye to the wonderful crew who’ve made our time on the river so memorable. But our journey continues, as we spend the day exploring the rich culture and colourful heritage of Aswan. Our first stop is the stunning Philae Temple, once a sacred sanctuary dedicated to Isis, the goddess of magic and motherhood. The temple sits peacefully on Agilkia Island, where it was relocated to save it from flooding after the Aswan High Dam was built. It’s a breathtaking spot, full of stories, carvings and quiet charm. We’ll stroll through graceful colonnades, admire exquisite carvings and soak in the temple’s serene, spiritual atmosphere. Next, we’ll visit the Nubian Museum, which offers a powerful glimpse into one of the world’s oldest and most resilient cultures, with beautifully curated exhibits that tell stories of ancient kingdoms and enduring tradition. This afternoon, we’ll check into the legendary Old Cataract Hotel. Deluxe Experience Enjoy spectacular views over the Nile at the famous Old Cataract Hotel Perched above the Nile’s edge, the Old Cataract is steeped in romance and history. With its Moorish arches, polished marble and sweeping river views, it has welcomed statesmen, archaeologists and storytellers alike. Agatha Christie even penned part of 'Death on the Nile' here. Today, we become part of that legacy. Here, history and luxury don’t just meet — they embrace, inviting us into a living story of elegance and charm. This afternoon we’ll step aboard a felucca, a traditional wooden sailboat, and drift along the Nile around Kitchener Island. It’s a slow and soothing ride, with gentle breezes, calm waters and lush gardens lining the banks. The perfect way to end the day, with the sun low in the sky and the river at its peaceful. Optional Excursion Nubian Village - Travel by motorboat to a local village, visit a Nubian family and enjoy tea in their home. 3 hours – from $75pp US, including camel ride; from $65pp US, without camel ride. Cash only.
This morning begins at a slower pace, with breakfast and some well-earned leisure time to soak up the scenic beauty of Aswan. Watch traditional feluccas glide across the Nile, admire the golden desert hills rising beyond the riverbanks, or simply relax with a coffee as the city eases into the day. Waving goodbye to Aswan, we’ll transfer to the airport to board our flight back to Cairo. Sit back and relax as the landscapes change below, marking the transition from the tranquil rhythms of the Nile to the energetic pulse of Egypt’s capital. Arriving in bustling Cairo this afternoon, we’ll check into our hotel before enjoying some free time to explore at your own pace. Tonight, we’ll gather for a memorable farewell dinner, celebrating the journey we've shared and the friendships made along the way.
Today marks the end of our incredible journey through Türkiye and Egypt. After breakfast, our tour concludes and we say goodbye to this magical part of the world as we begin our journey home. We hope you return home with lasting memories, enriched by the beauty, history and warmth of the people and places we’ve explored together! Please note, in order to undertake the following optional tours additional post tour accommodation in Cairo may be required. Please check with your Travel Specialist for details. 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 National Museum of Egyptian Civilisation – Displaying the civilisation of Egypt from the prehistoric period to the present era. 3 hours – from $80pp US. Cash only.
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