Australia South to North - Melbourne to Darwin (OAMD)
You can’t get Down Under through a bus window. If you’re going to get off the tourist track, you’ll have to shake things up a bit—that’s why we’ve turned to trains, 4x4s, buses and boats for this itinerary. From the cobblestones of charming Melbourne, cut through the outback and explore the mysteries of Uluru. Follow your curiosity down the deserted tracks that make Australia so remote and spend 18 days discovering the natural beauty of one of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations.
Highlights: Bedding down at a traditional sheep station and outside under the outback sky, learning about dreamtime stories from the Aborigines, experiencing a night underground in Coober Pedy, catching the magnificent colours of Uluru, hiking through gorgeous natural rock formations in the Red Centre, riding the route of Afghan cameleers on the Ghan Train, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kakadu National Park
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Backroads & Highlands of Peru (SPBH)
Get off the beaten path in the highlands of Peru and discover stunning mountain scenery and remote cities few tourists visit. Getting to Cuzco is half the adventure—travel by public bus keeps costs down and allows you to connect with the locals in the rarefied mountain air of the Andes. Climb the legendary Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the 'Lost City of the Incas'. We operate our own treks in Peru and can ensure the fair treatment of our porters—and an exceptional experience for you.
Highlights: Gazing at Andean vistas, experiencing the culture and mingling with the locals on public buses, conquering the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, sampling the seafood in Lima.
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 4
Belize & Tikal Adventure (BHH)
Follow in the footsteps of Mayan warriors to lost cities cloaked in jungle mists. This adventure offers an intriguing mix of ruins, beaches, wildlife and the rich cultures of Belize and Guatemala. A perfect blend of activity and relaxation—spend three days canoeing deep in the jungle and snorkelling the crystal-clear turquoise-blue waters before easing into the laidback Belizean lifestyle while sipping on a rum cocktail. As pioneers of canoeing in the region, we are pleased to offer this classic trip—one you won’t find anywhere else.
Highlights: River canoeing in central Belize, spotting tropical sea life while snorkelling the barrier reef, exploring the jungle-set ruins of Tikal, listening to reggae music as you walk down Caye Caulker's sandy main street.
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 3
China Express (ACCR)
Walk backwards in time along the Great Wall and stare down an army of Terracotta Warriors before leaping into the future of Shanghai's incredible high-rise towers on this fast-paced tour of China’s highlights. With the perfect blend of guided activities and free time to explore on your own, this adventure is made for those who want to get a taste of China in a short amount of time.
Highlights: Trekking along the Great Wall, visiting the Forbidden City in Beijing and the canal town of Suzhou, experiencing a local meal and Terracotta Warriors in Xi'an, enjoying an acrobat show in Shanghai.
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Classic Costa Rica (CRCRD)
Connect with nature’s best in Costa Rica. Explore the lush rainforests full of exotic flora and fauna. Relax in the hot springs near Arenal Volcano and later enjoy a tortilla-making lesson and lunch with a local family. Learn how chocolate is made on a tour at La Tirimbina Rainforest Center and then enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Monteverde’s cloud forest atop a treetop canopy. Costa Rica is a world famous destination known for beautiful landscapes from the ground up.
Highlights: Learning about the Sarapiqui rainforest and Monteverde cloudforest with local naturalists, Partaking in demonstrations by experts on how chocolate and coffee get from the forest to your table, Sharing lunch and a cooking demonstration in a local family's home
- Trip Style:
- Discovery Adventures
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Classic Peru (PPC)
This compact tour of the archaeological highlights and cultural treasures of the Andean highlands has it all. Cruise Lake Titicaca and immerse yourself in rural life with a homestay in a small village. Wander the cobblestone streets of Cuzco before breaking a sweat hiking mountain passes along the Inca Trail on your way to Machu Picchu. Because we run our own treks, we can ensure the fair treatment of our porters and the quality of food and equipment so that you’re free to enjoy the beauty of the region.
Highlights: Feeling like a local at a Lake Titicaca homestay, climbing the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, sampling the seafood in Lima, exploring ancient ruins and villages.
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 4
Cuba Explorer (CCCE)
Explore a side of Cuba that few rarely get to experience on this 9-day adventure. Cruise Havana’s history-infused streets in a classic car and stroll along Trinidad’s cobblestone avenues to the rhythms of music floating from open windows. Tour a tobacco plantation for a taste of iconic Cuban culture and luxuriate in the view of the island’s rolling western hills. Travel by private air-conditioned van is well-paced, so you're refreshed and ready to explore the island’s vibrant culture and incredible Caribbean beaches.
Highlights: Cruising through Havana in a vintage automobile, watching the making of the famous Cuban cigar at a local factory, blissing out on a beautiful beach overlooking the blue Caribbean.
- Trip Style:
- G-Plus
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Incredible India (AHHH)
If you’re looking for a taste of India’s world class highlights, but still want to explore some of its hidden gems, this action-packed adventure serves up a great combination. Stand in awe of the Taj Mahal's perfection, wander the French Quarter of Pondicherry, search for tigers in the wild—experience the iconic highlights of the North before flying south for even more culture and wilderness. Appreciate the colours of Rajasthan and the Tamil-style of the Sri Meenakshi Temple. Our CEO will lead the way and eliminate the hassle so you can experience incredible India.
Highlights: Exploring India's vibrant cities, Discovering ancient forts and temples, Revelling in the beauty of Agra's Taj Mahal, Staying with the locals in the Kerala backwaters
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Indochina Cultural Journey (ATICD)
There’s a magic about South East Asia that casts a spell on many who visit this exotic region. Explore the cultural best of Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. Encounter history, both ancient and modern, and witness the unbelievable splendour of Angkor Wat. From the natural beauty of Halong Bay and Chiang Mai’s temples to khantoke dinners and Khmer lunches, our expert guides will share the natural, historical and cultural beauty that has persisted in this region. More than a tour—this is an adventure of discovery.
Highlights: Partaking in a cooking class and learning how to make your favourite Thai dishes, Visiting Buddhist temples and observing the daily life of monks, Learning about Cambodian history both ancient and recent, Experiencing the vibrancy of Ho Chi Minh City on a thrilling cyclo ride.
- Trip Style:
- Discovery Adventures
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Kakadu Adventure (OAKA)
Get remote and head into the last frontiers of Australia—Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks. Featuring lots of inclusions at a great price, this itinerary is geared towards budget-conscious travellers who want to make the most of their time in Kakadu. Take in the region’s ancient landscapes, spectacular waterfalls, pristine rock pools and magnificent gorges and meet some of the locals. Round out your experience with a guided exploration of the regions ancient art, gaining insight to Aboriginal culture.
Highlights: Exploring remote areas of the Northern Territory, discovering secret watering holes and waterfalls, spotting crocs by boat, viewing sites where Crocodile Dundee was filmed.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Camping
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Laos & Thailand on a Shoestring (AVRL)
Wander the tranquil monasteries of Luang Prabang and experience the French colonial influence while sipping coffee at a café. Take 12 days to uncover this laid-back corner of South East Asia. While you're free to choose your own adventure, your accommodation and transportation are included and our expert CEOs will help you make the most of your time. Take a slow boat down the Mekong or admire the limestone karsts surrounding Vang Vieng from your pushbike.
Highlights: Exploring vibrant Hanoi, revelling in the shadows of limestone karsts, discovering the serenity of Luang Prabang, floating on the mighty Mekong, experiencing the beauty of scenic northern Thailand, enjoying the bustle of Bangkok.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Mayan Discovery (CMMD)
Mayan ruins peeking out from verdant jungle, street vendors hawking their wares on colonial streets, pristine white sand beaches sparkling under the Caribbean sun—now this is the real Yucatán! On this unique 15-day journey, you’ll tour the ruins at Chichén Itzá and Palenque, and head deep into the jungle of Guatemala to experience the ruins of Tikal. You're free to choose your own adventure! So escape the resort packages and witness all the incredible wilderness, wildlife and Mayan culture—past and present—that you can imagine.
Highlights: Exploring Mayan temples, trekking through jungles, chilling out on a Belizean island, staring out into the Caribbean blue from a Mayan Riviera beach.
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Melbourne to the Red Centre (OAMR)
If you really want to get Down Under and experience Australia’s highlights without feeling rushed, you’ll have to get off the big coaches. Explore Melbourne before hitting the Great Ocean Road and cutting through the outback to the Red Centre. Here you’ll experience the mysteries of Uluru and gain insight into Aboriginal culture. When it comes time to bed down, shake things up with a variety of unique accommodation—from safari tents to underground hostels and even a traditional sheep station.
Highlights: Marvelling at the 12 Apostles along the Great Ocean Road, bedding down at a traditional sheep station, learning about dreamtime stories from the Aborigines, catching the magnificent colours of Uluru at sunset, exploring the Red Centre with a local guide
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Mexico Ancient Civilizations (MMC)
From the hustle of modern Mexico City, which preserves its magic from centuries gone by, to the ruins at Chichén Itzá, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, this adventure takes in the cultural and historical highlights. It’s perfect for travellers on a tight budget looking to see as much as possible of this diverse region.
Highlights: Visiting Mayan ruins, dancing the night away in Mexican bars and clubs, bargaining for beautiful textiles and handmade goods at colourful markets, savouring the tasty Mexican food and drink, chilling on the white sand beaches of the Mayan Riviera.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Nepal Adventure (ANNA)
From the colours and magic of Kathmandu's markets to the serenity of Himalayan trails, this 10-day adventure offers an intriguing blend of well-paced excursions. The rugged foothills of the Annapurna Range will reward those willing to break a sweat with stunning views of mountain vistas. Experience Nepal from a different perspective as you explore Chitwan National Park from the back of an elephant. With many included activities and options for more, like a soak in the restorative waters of a natural hot spring, you'll come away with a full and real appreciation of this fascinating land.
Highlights: Sightseeing in old Kathmandu and Bhaktapur, Searching for tigers in Chitwan National Park, Trekking the foothills of the Annapurna Range, Marvelling at the mountain landscapes
- Trip Style:
- Classic
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Standard
- Physical Grading:
- 4
Northern Aboriginal Experience (OANA)
“Dreamtime,” the animist mythology central to indigenous Australian society, is a fascinating ideology that has helped shape the continent. This trip is just the ticket for curious travellers eager to learn more about Aboriginal history, culture and contemporary life straight from the people themselves. Up here in the north, you’ll study ancient traditions, learn how to spear-fish, wander the beaches and lush valleys along the Daintree River and embark on a life-affirming rainforest walk that will bring you closer to the land and the people who inhabit it than you ever thought possible. The dream is real, and it’s waiting for you to join it.
Highlights: Sleeping in a swag under the impressive southern night sky, spearing fish and cooking what you catch with Aboriginals, making your own Aboriginal artwork, learning about life in remote communities with a local host, exploring pristine coastal rainforests.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 4
Outback to The Great Ocean Road in Style (OAOG)
The outback...in comfort? Oh, it's possible. This G-Plus trip offers travellers the chance to explore the exotic extremes of contemporary Australia, from its busy big cities like Melbourne to the natural beauty of the outback and its massive rock formations. Visit vineyards in Australia’s booming wine regions, learn about the historic mining industry that shaped the nation while fossicking for gemstones. Visit fabled Uluru and learn about Aboriginal history. All Australia. All amazing. All yours.
Highlights: Exploring the famous Red Centre and witnessing the majesty of Uluru, Fossicking for gems and exploring a mine, Tasting some of Australia's best wines, Experiencing the wilderness of Australia's national parks.
- Trip Style:
- G-Plus
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
Outback to the Red Centre—Adelaide to Alice Springs (OAAR)
Forego the typical coach tour and get off the beaten track from Adelaide to Alice Springs and explore some of the most remote areas on Earth. From Adelaide, hit the Flinders Ranges and cut through the outback to the Red Centre. Here you’ll meet some of the locals, experience the mysteries of Uluru and gain insight into regional Aboriginal and European history. Geared towards budget-conscious travellers looking to hit the outback’s highlights, this itinerary features lots of inclusions at a great price.
Highlights: Bedding down at a traditional sheep station, Living life underground in the historic mining town of Coober Pedy, Learning about dreamtime stories from the Aborigines, Enjoying the sunset over Uluru, Experiencing the Red Centre with an Aboriginal guide, Sleeping in a 'swag' under the stars of the outback sky
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Basic
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Red Centre Experience (OARC)
A great little add-on to a longer Australian adventure, this short-and-sweet journey to the famed Red Centre brings you close to the continent’s vast heart. Watch the sun rise over iconic Uluru, explore the curious domed rock formations of Kata Tjuta and gaze up in astonished awe at the 100-metre-high walls of majestic Kings Canyon while the locals share the secrets of indigenous Australian culture. If you’ve come all the way to Australia, it’d be a shame to go home without coming here first. Regret nothing.
Highlights: Enjoying the sunrise and sunset over iconic Uluru, exploring breathtaking Kings Canyon, hiking the impressive Valley of the Winds in Kata Tjuta, sleeping under the stars of the outback sky.
- Trip Style:
- Yolo
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Camping
- Physical Grading:
- 3
Southern Discovery (SSB)
From the wineries of Santiago to the pristine beauty of Patagonia and the cosmopolitan flair of Buenos Aires, experience the riches of South America. Enjoy a taste of wilderness with hiking opportunities in Chile's Lake District and Argentine Patagonia before cleansing your palate for a wine tasting at a Santiago vineyard. Travel days are well paced and include short flights, allowing you the time to really experience the region’s highlights—in comfort and style. As an introduction to Chile and Argentina, this trip offers the perfect combination of guided excursions and free time to explore at your own pace.
Highlights: Wandering the streets and sampling the wines in Santiago, Soaking in the stunning natural beauty of the Lake District's volcanoes and waterways, Experiencing the sophistication of Buenos Aires.
- Trip Style:
- G-Plus
- Trip Type:
- Small Group
- Service Level:
- Comfort
- Physical Grading:
- 2
