africa & arabia - cox & kings, the americas kenya’s samburu & masai mara ... the bale...

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Africa & Arabia

Mount Kilimanjaro

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

As the world’s longest-running travel company, Cox & Kings has been designing, organizing and leading exceptional journeys since we operated our first expedition to India in 1758. Since then, we’ve been at the forefront of exploration, organizing the first attempt to summit Mount Everest in 1922 and bringing Mahatma Gandhi to Europe in 1933.

These days, traveling with Cox & Kings is considerably more comfortable than in those early expeditionary eras, but it is no less exciting. We’re a custom travel company, which means that all of our journeys are tailor-made for you; your dreams, your interests, your pace. We deliver hands-on travel experiences that will deepen your understanding of what you see and where you are. And on each journey, you’ll reap the benefits of over two-and-a-half centuries of relationships — local experts, insider experiences and cultural interactions you simply cannot get elsewhere.

At Cox & Kings, we believe that travel changes lives, and we’re dedicated to creating authentic travel experiences, full of surprises, wonder and joy. So whether you want to venture deep into the Amazon, trace the course of trade on the ancient Silk Route, track the Great Migration in the Serengeti, or explore the icy landscapes of Greenland, we’ve got the expertise and the relationships to ensure that your journey is completely unforgettable.

We invite you to join us on some of the world’s finest travel adventures.

The Cox & Kings Difference

Contact Your Favorite Tr avel Professional I cox a n dk i ngsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Chimpanzee, Kibale National Park, Uganda

Contact Your Favorite Travel Professional I cox a n dk i ngsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758

Your Journey, Your Way

Every traveler is different, with different goals, different dreams and different aspirations. At Cox & Kings, we

celebrate these differences with choices about how you travel with us.

Ask anyone who has traveled on a custom-designed private journey and you will hear how the trip comes alive for them. Perhaps it is the feeling

that every detail was carefully crafted with just them in mind. Or perhaps it was having the flexibility to alter almost anything at a moment’s notice.

When you have the right travel specialist that understands what to include and what to avoid, how to see and do it, and the way you want

to experience it – it’s the difference between feeling like a tourist rather than a traveler.

Cox & Kings was born as a luxury custom-designed travel company. It is who we are, and part of our heritage. We don’t just create “cookie-

cutter” itineraries, we thrive on bringing to life destinations with wonder and excitement, as if it was our first time, every time.

Our Destination Experts are some of the best when it comes to designinginnovative, authentic and remarkable travel experiences. In this brochure,they have handcrafted and highlighted the very best programs that theyrecommend. Of course, each one of these journeys is just a suggestion.

So experience your private journey as our experts intended, or work with us to perfectly craft the trip to fuel your desires.

The World is Waiting...

PETER KERKARChairman, Cox & Kings

Textiles tell a story through visualization, touch and history. Around the world, we take clients to places where bold colors and patterns are used to convey important cultural information.

Sometimes they have ancient stories woven into their patterns. Sometimes they are modern representations honoring the traditions of their forefathers. Textiles can also be a source of pride and substance as part of cooperative commerce for a village or a way of life to export indigenous products. Maasai are famous for their beaded jewelry. Men wear beaded bands on their wrists and ankles and women wear beaded collars. A bead’s color represents something significant. For example, red means bravery.

Private Journeys F u l l y c u s t o m i z a b l e i t i n e r a r i e s w i t h p r i v a t e g u i d e s , f o r o n e o r m o r e t r a v e l e r s

Accompanied by your Cox & Kings Representative, a private English-speaking Guide with you at all times

Private vehicle and driver provided for all transportation

Flexibility to alter your schedule while traveling

Exclusive access to people, places and events not usually afforded to groups

Beautifully prepared travel documentation customized to your journey

24/7 local and national support

Luggage and check in assistance throughout

Ethiopia

Chad

Iran

KenyaUganda

Rwanda

Tanzania

Comoros IslandsMalawi

Zambia

Zimbabwe MadagascarMauritiusBotswana

Namibia

Mozambique

South Africa

SeychellesZanzibar

Khartoum

Lilongwe

MaputoJohannesburg

Cape Town

Vilanculos

Moroni

WindhoekMaun

LusakaVictoria Falls Harare

Antananarivo

Fort Dauphin

Port Louis

Kilimanjaro

Dar es Salaam

Victoria

KampalaNairobi

Addis Ababa

Kigali

Dodoma

AmmanMorocco

Equator

Egypt

Northern Sudan

Israel

Jordan

U.A.E.

Oman

Marrakech

N’Djamena

Cairo

JerusalemRabat

Abu DhabiDubai

Muscat

Tehran

Type of travel is indicated in the maps at the beginning of each itinerary with symbols:

Surface Travel

Air Travel Train Travel Cruise Travel

My Dream Trip

10 Sea of Zanj onboard the Sea Endurance: East African Coastal Cruise

East & Central Africa

14 The Great Migration

16 Kenya: Luxury Lodges & Exclusive Reserves

18 Kenya’s Samburu & Masai Mara

20 Kenya & Zanzibar Family Discovery

22 Exclusive Tanzania

24 Tanzania’s Famed Northern Circuit

26 Remote Southern Tanzania

27 Western Tanzania Wilderness

28 Trekking Mt. Kilimanjaro

30 Uganda: Gorilla Trekking in The Pearl of Africa

32 Rwanda’s Mountain Gorillas

34 Chad: Africa’s Secret Safari

36 Northern Ethiopia: The Historic Route

38 Southern Ethiopia: The Bale Mountains & the Omo Valley

40 Spotlight Journeys — East & Central Africa

Southern Africa & Indian Ocean

44 Southern Africa: Winelands, Safari & Falls

46 South Africa: Coast to Kalahari

48 South Africa Family Discovery

50 Northern Botswana Wetlands

52 Zimbabwe Rediscovered

54 The Desert of Namibia

56 Zambia & Malawi

58 Mysteries of Madagascar

59 Seychelles: Jewel of the Indian Ocean

60 Spotlight Journeys — Southern Africa & Indian Ocean

North Africa & Arabia

64 Moroccan Odyssey

66 Jewels of Morocco: From Cities to Desert to Atlas Mountains

69 UAE: Arabian Nights

70 Oman: Land of Arabia

72 Israel: The Ancient Land

74 Hidden Treasures of Jordan

76 Egypt: Past & Present

78 Lost Pyramids of Northern Sudan

80 Heart of Persia onboard the Golden Eagle

82 Spotlight Journeys — North Africa & Arabia

Resources

84 Philanthropy

86 Festivals in Africa & Arabia

90 Weather Chart

93 Distance Chart

95 Travel Insurance

96 Terms & Conditions

Contents

FAMILY FRIENDLY:

A shared journey can bond generations of family like no other experience. Our Destination Specialists can design these trips, complete with activities to keep the kids engaged, the grown-ups relaxed and everybody inspired.

NEW JOURNEYS:

Our expert Destination Specialists have harnessed their regional knowledge to craft groundbreaking, engaging journeys that take you off the beaten path with exclusive insider access and unforgettable cultural experiences.

SELECT PRIVATE JOURNEYS:

We’ve chosen several of our most popular Private Journeys and added set departure dates and pricing. With a single call, you’ll be ready to embark on an innovative itinerary to a world-class destination.

For pricing and dates refer to the pricing sheet in front of the brochure or coxandkingsusa.com



Accompanied by Destination Specialist Meggan Risk, embark on a voyage of discovery in the remote waters of the Indian Ocean. After exploring historic Stone Town on Zanzibar, board your expedition ship and sail south toward the great Aldabra atoll, almost untouched by humans and home to giant tortoise and beautiful bays. Then it’s onward to the northern coast of Madagascar, the fabled isles of Comoros, and the UNESCO World Heritage fort on Ilha de Mozambique.

E scort Ed Grou p Jou r n E y

18 dAys & 17 n IGHts Z A nZ I bA r , K I lwA K I sI wA n I, A ldA br A Atoll , nos y bE , A n K A r A fA n tsI K A nAtIonA l pA r K, comoros I sl A n ds , I lH A dE moZ A m bIqu E , bA Z A ru to A rc H I pEl AG o & m A pu to

Day 1: Arrive Zanzibar, TanzaniaUpon arrival in Zanzibar, you will be welcomed and accompanied to your hotel in historic Stone Town. Zanzibar Serena Inn – 1 night

Day 2: ZanzibarThis morning, set out to explore Stone Town, which is a blend of African, Arabic, Indian and European culture. In the afternoon, board the Sea Endurance. Sea Endurance – 16 nights (B, L, D)

Day 3: To Kilwa KisiwaniThis morning, visit Kilwa Kisiwani, the site of one of East Africa’s most notorious slave processing stations. (B, L, D)

Day 4: At SeaSpend the day at sea sailing east to the Seychelles. (B, L, D)

Day 5: To Aldabra, SeychellesToday, sail toward Assumption Island and Aldabra, the second-largest atoll in the world

My Dream Trip — Sea of Zanj onboard the Sea Endurance: East African Coastal Cruise

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Zanzibar

Aldabra AtollComoros

Ilha de Mozambique

Bazaruto

Maputo

Nosy Be

Ankarafantsika National Park

Kilwa Kisiwani

Bazaruto Island, Mozambique

Contact Your Favorite Travel Professional I cox a n dk i ngsusa .com I 1.800.999.1758 11

Journey Highlights

Sail the southern waters aboard a relaxed expedition ship with only 23 cabins fitted with a fleet of zodiacs for wildlife watching and landings in remote areas

Gain a greater understanding of the region from an outstanding team of zoologists, marine biologists, ornithologists, historians and even a sommelier traveling on board

Discover the history and culture of Zanzibar’s Stone Town

Spot giant tortoise and a variety of birdlife on the pristine Aldabra atoll

Search for lemur and snorkel crystal-clear waters in Madagascar

Trek through rainforest to a volcano or explore the villages and farms of Grand Comoros

Marvel at the stunning Quirimbas and Bazaruto Archipelagos in Mozambique

Extend Your Journey

Tanzania • South Africa

and one of the most remote places on our planet. On arrival, if time permits, go on a late afternoon zodiac excursion. (B, L, D)

Day 6: AldabraSpend a full day exploring Aldabra. See the bio-logical station, snorkel at a remote site, look at the incredible giant tortoise, and if time allows, explore the inner atoll by zodiac. (B, L, D)

Day 7: At SeaOn your day at sea, enjoy lectures, bird watch-ing and wine tasting. (B, L, D)

Day 8: To Nosy Be, MadagascarToday, visit the Nosy Be area. Dive on some of the most pristine reefs in the world, do some snorkeling and see the black lemur of Nosy Komba. (B, L, D)

Day 9: To Ankarafantsika National ParkVisit Ankarafantsika National Park, which is home to 130 species of bird, Coquerel’s sifaka, mongoose lemur, sportive lemur, endangered tortoise and more. (B, L, D)

Day 10: At SeaSpend the full day at sea sailing to the Comoros Islands. (B, L, D)

Day 11: To Moroni, Comoros IslandsAfter a morning of sailing, reach the Comoros Islands in the afternoon. Choose to embark on an overnight trek to Mount Karthala, one of south-ern Africa’s only active volcanoes, or explore local villages, farms, beaches and bays. (B, L, D)

Day 12: MoroniContinue exploring the crater and rainforest or discover more wonders of the island. (B, L, D)

Day 13: To Ilha de Mozambique, MozambiqueSpend the morning exploring the World Heritage Site of the former Por tuguese por t of Ilha de Mozambique. This afternoon, explore the stunning Quirimbas Archipelago off Mozambique’s nor theastern coast. (B, L, D)

Day 14: Ilha de MozambiqueThis morning, depart down the Mozambique coast. (B, L, D)

Day 15: At SeaEnjoy a day on board with lectures and onboard activities with the expedition team. (B, L, D)

Day 16: To Bazaruto ArchipelagoSpend a full day of exploring the fantastic Bazaruto Archipelago, a World Heritage Site. Visit remote islets, snorkel the underwater wonderland, search for dugong and go on zodiac cruises inside extensive mangrove forests. (B, L, D)

Day 17: At SeaOn a full day at sea, enjoy talks with the expedi-tion team and some birding on deck with the ornithologist. (B, L, D)

Day 18: Depart MaputoThis morning, bid farewell to the crew as you disem-bark in Maputo. See the sights before continuing to the airport to board your onward flight. (B)

Lemur, Madagascar

Sea Endurance

Lion, Masai Mara

EAst & CEntrAl

AfriCAThe home of the classic safari, East Africa offers adventurous travelers a chance to track lion and leopard as they stalk the Great Migration. Or delve deep into the dense jungle of Rwanda and Uganda to interact with some of the world’s last mountain gorillas. And leave the beaten path far behind as you delve into the history, art, culture and wild landscapes of Ethiopia and Chad. Wherever you travel in East and Central Africa, you’ll experience the majesty of the African landscape, as well as the warmth of its people. Just turn the page to see some of the customized itineraries that our Destination Experts have designed…


The Great Migration is the yearly 1,200-mile path of nearly two million animals, including wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle. This great concentration of wildlife is a miraculous sight to behold — seeing the great herds thundering across the plains is one of the world’s most amazing wildlife experiences.

This endless journey — circling the Serengeti ecosystem, including Kenya’s Masai Mara — begins at birth as the animals search for grass and water. All the movements of the herds are dictated by rainfall and the subsequent availability of food.

Over land and across rivers, the great migration provides predators an abundance of opportunities to prey on the weak and young. Lion, cheetah, leopard and hyena comb the grasslands, while crocodile lay still underwater as the herds cross the rivers, all ready to pounce on the stragglers and strays. This cycle of birth, life and death is played and replayed each year under the expansive East African skies.

The Great Migr ation

The Great Migration


June – July

After making it across the Grumeti River, the herds continue across the Grumeti area toward the Northern Serengeti en route to Kenya’s Masai Mara. By the end of June, the rut is over and the bulls merge once more into the amorphous life of the herds. By late July, the masses have typically reached one of the main barriers in the path of the migration, the Mara River.

August – October

During this period, most common for Mara River crossings, the bulk of the migration is found in the far north Serengeti and the Masai Mara. Traditional crossing places are returned to year after year. To see a river crossing is a rare and truly dramatic experience, with thousands of wildebeest and zebra massed along the banks waiting for the moment to cross. Finally – sometimes after hours of waiting – one of the animals will make a move and the others follow, regardless of danger, be it sheer cliffs or crocodile lurking below. Yet despite the confusion and the losses, the majority of the wildebeest survive.

November – December

By late October or early November, the short rains come, and the herds head south again, back to the Serengeti. Long columns of wildebeest, the females, heavy with calves, trudge along in single file, sometimes walking, sometimes running. Typically traveling along the eastern side of the Serengeti ecosystem and in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, they are returning to the short grass plains in the south, where the circle of life begins all over again as it has for millennia.

Tanzania

KenyaMasai Mara

Game ReserveLake Victoria

SerengetiNational Park Ngorongoro

conservation area

Tanzania

Kenya

Grumeti Controlled Area

SERENGETINATIONAL PARK

NgorongoroConservation

Area

MASAI MARAGAME RESERVE

Grumeti River

Mara River

Tanzania

KenyaMasai Mara



conservation area

Kenya




Area


Grumeti River

Mara River

Tanzania

Tanzania

KenyaMasai Mara



conservation area

Kenya




Area


Grumeti River

Mara River

Tanzania

Tanzania

KenyaMasai Mara



conservation area

Kenya




Area

Grumeti River

Mara River

Tanzania


Tanzania

KenyaMasai Mara



conservation area

Kenya




Area


Grumeti River

Mara River

Tanzania

The descriptions by month below offer a general guide to the common paths followed – the pattern and timing varies from year to year.

January – March

Generally, wildebeest gather on the calcium-rich short grass plains in the southern part of the Serengeti plains. Here on these ancestral calving grounds, 90 percent of the calves are born within a few weeks between January and March – 400,000 calves, a truly spectacular sight. While the short grasses offer good visibility against predators, this peak in calving ensures that the majority of calves that survive as predators, such as lion, hyena and wild dog, can only devour a small percentage of the newborns.

April – May

Most of the vegetation on the short grass plains has been depleted and water has become scarce. Along with the arrival of the long rains, the herds begin their annual journey north across the long grass plains to the open woodlands. The zebra often lead the way eating the stems of the long grass while the wildebeest follow, preferring the shorter grass. The bulk of the herds head up through the western corridor, and their progress is slowed by the Grumeti River. Around this time, the mating or rutting season begins. The bulls establish and defend territories, herding the females as they wander through while challenging other males.

The Great Migr ation


Kenya is the home of the safari, offering some of Africa’s most dramatic wildlife viewing. On this innovative journey, experience the fauna of Kenya in a series of exclusive lodges and camps. Take in views of famed Mount Kilimanjaro and enjoy authentic encounters with a Maasai tribe, a world unchanged by the passage of time. In Samburu, see the unique species adapted to the arid north of the country. Enjoy viewing game in the iconic Masai Mara from your camp, which offers more land to traverse than any other, as you search the Big Five.

s u G G E s t E d I t I n E r A r y o n ly

11 dA y s & 10 n I G H t s n A I r o b I , c H y u l u H I l l s , s A m b u r u n At I o n A l pA r K & m A s A I m A r A r E s E r v E

Days 3 & 4: Chyulu HillsEmbark upon early morning and late afternoon game drives in Chyulu Hills. Among the preda-tors and prey, spot herds of large-tusked, free-ranging elephant that meander in the swamps and grasslands. In addition to elephant, the area is also home to Cape buffalo, impala, lion, cheetah, spotted hyena, giraffe, zebra and wildebeest as well as a great variety of birdlife. Members of the Maasai tribe also live here, sharing the land with local conservation efforts. (B, L, D)

Day 1: Arrive NairobiUpon arrival in Nairobi, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and accompanied to your hotel. Hemingways – 1 night

Day 2: To Chyulu HillsFly from Nairobi to Chyulu Hills, a spectacular region framed by rolling hills and distant Mt. Kilimanjaro. Upon arrival, check in to your luxury lodge. After dinner, enjoy gazing up at the constel-lations in the southern skies from your rooftop skybed! Ol Donyo Lodge – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Kenya: Luxury Lodges & Exclusive Reserves

Samburu National Park

Masai Mara Reserve

Chyulu Hills

Nairobi

Mount Kilimanjaro


Journey Highlights

Watch herds of magnificent large- tusked elephant against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro

Spot the “Northern Big Five” — beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra and Somali ostrich — in Samburu National Park

Visit local villages and interact with the friendly Samburu people and learn about their culture

Experience the abundant wildlife and watch the spectacle of predator and prey in the famous Masai Mara

Visit the Giraffe Center and the famed Daphne Sheldrick Elephant and Rhino Orphanage in Nairobi

Cox & Kings Recommends

Reserve exclusive use vehicles and guides to explore at your own pace

Experience a hot air balloon ride over the plains of the Masai Mara

Extend Your Journey

Rwanda • Uganda • Tanzania

Day 5: To Samburu National ParkToday, fly via Nairobi to Samburu National Park, in the northern reaches of Kenya. In this semi-arid setting, see Kenya’s “Northern Big Five”: beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra and Somali ostrich. Sightings of large herds of elephant and crocodile are com-mon along the meandering Ewaso Nyiro River. Spot Samburu herdsmen, dressed in rich red blankets, driving their herds across the lands. SaSaab Camp – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 6 & 7: Samburu National ParkEnjoy two days of exciting early morning and late afternoon game drives in Samburu National Park, complemented by cultural visits to the neighboring villages to learn about traditional ways of life in this remote region of the world. (B, L, D)

Day 8: To Masai Mara ReserveAfter breakfast this morning, depart Samburu and fly to the Masai Mara with its striking landscapes of wide plains interlaced with seasonal rivers. Throughout the year, the Masai Mara is an unforgettable place of natural drama, a kaleidoscope of vibrant color and life. Mara Plains Camp – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 9 & 10: Masai Mara ReserveEmbark upon early morning and late afternoon game drives in the Masai Mara. The famed “Big Five” — elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo — all roam the reserve, together with hundreds of other species, from cheetah and crocodile to endangered wild dog and magnificent birds of prey. Your camp has access to expansive areas of private land to avoid any crowds for game drives. Embark on authentic visits to local villages, or enjoy bush walks. (B, L, D)

Day 11: Depart NairobiToday, fly to Nairobi. Freshen up in your dayroom, and then get up close and personal with magnificent giraffe at the African Fund for Endangered Wildlife’s Giraffe Center. Learn about the conservation work being done by the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant and Rhino Orphanage, which helps the country’s endangered elephant and rhino populations as they face the problems of poaching and habitat loss due to deforestation. You may also browse the handicrafts at the Maasai market. This evening, continue to the airport for your onward flight. (B, L)

Beisa Oryx, Samburu

Giraffe Center


Embark on a classic East African safari staying in deluxe tented camps. As you travel through Kenya, spot great herds of elephant on the savanna, encounter Maasai and Samburu warriors, search for the Northern Big Five in Samburu and watch lion and leopard stalk gazelle in the Masai Mara. Begin and end your journey in Nairobi where you can shop for handicrafts at the Maasai market and learn about conservation efforts at the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant and Rhino Orphanage.


8 dA y s & 7 n I G H t s n A I r o b I , s A m b u r u n At I o n A l pA r K & m A s A I m A r A r E s E r v E

situated on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River in the dry northern reaches of Kenya. In this semi-arid setting, see Kenya’s “Northern Big Five”: beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra and Somali ostrich. Sightings of large herds of elephant and crocodile are common along the meandering Ewaso Nyiro River. Spot Samburu herdsmen, dressed in rich red blankets, driving their herds across the lands. Samburu Intrepids – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 3 & 4: Samburu National ParkEnjoy two days of exciting early morning and

Day 1: Arrive NairobiUpon arrival in Nairobi, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and accompanied to your hotel, which is located conveniently near the airport. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax after your travels, take a dip in the rooftop pool, pamper yourself in the holistic spa and enjoy the other amenities of your hotel. The Boma – 1 night

Day 2: To Samburu National ParkToday, fly to Samburu National Park, which is

Kenya’s Samburu & Masai Mara

Cheetah, Masai Mara Reserve

Samburu National Park

Masai Mara Reserve

Nairobi


Journey Highlights

Spot the “Northern Big Five” — beisa oryx, reticulated giraffe, gerenuk, Grevy’s zebra and Somali ostrich — in Samburu National Reserve

Search for large herds of elephant, as well as crocodile lazing on the banks of the Ewaso Nyiro River

Visit local villages and interact with the friendly Samburu people and learn about their culture

Encounter abundant wildlife and watch the spectacle of predator and prey in the famous Masai Mara

Visit the Giraffe Center and the famed Daphne Sheldrick Elephant and Rhino Orphanage in Nairobi



Enjoy close interaction with the elephant orphans at Daphne Sheldrick Elephant and Rhino Orphanage by booking an exclusive visit

Extend Your Journey

Rwanda • Uganda • Tanzania

late afternoon game drives in Samburu National Park, complemented by cultural visits to the neighboring villages to learn about traditional ways of life in this remote region of the world. Back at your comfortable camp, share stories of your daily adventures over tasty, home-cooked dinners. (B, L, D)

Day 5: To Masai Mara ReserveAfter breakfast this morning, depart Samburu and fly to the Masai Mara with its striking landscapes of wide plains interlaced with seasonal rivers, all nestled under the huge skies of East Africa. Throughout the year, the Masai Mara is an unforgettable place of natural drama, a kaleidoscope of vibrant color and life. Your luxurious camp overlooks the Talek River and is just a short drive away from the banks of the Mara River where millions of wildebeest and zebra cross into Tanzania and the plains of the Serengeti during their annual Great Migration. Mara Intrepids – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 6 & 7: Masai Mara ReserveEmbark upon early morning and late afternoon game drives in the Masai Mara. The famed “Big Five” — elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo — all roam the reserve, together with hundreds of other species, from the fastest animal on earth, the cheetah, to crocodile, endangered wild dog and magnificent birds of prey. During your time here, embark on morning and afternoon game drives, photographic safaris with trained naturalist guides, and bush dinners under the magnificent East African skies. (B, L, D)

Day 8: Depart NairobiToday, fly to Nairobi. Freshen up in your day room, and then discover some of Nairobi’s highlights. Get up close and personal with magnificent giraffe at the African Fund for

Endangered Wildlife’s Giraffe Center. Learn about the important conservation work being done by the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant and Rhino Orphanage, which helps the country’s endangered elephant and rhino populations as they face the problems of poaching and habitat loss due to deforestation and drought. You may also browse the handicrafts and ar t at the Maasai market. This evening, bid farewell to Kenya and continue to the airport for your onward flight. (B, L)

Grévy’s Zebra, Samburu National Park

Samburu Warriors

Did you know that there are 5 special animals that only are viewed above the equator that

runs through Kenya?


With everything from classic game drives and guided bush walks to traditional dhow cruises in a tropical paradise, this wildlife and nature adventure has something for the whole family. Feed giraffe and play with baby elephant, take a horseback ride through the plains of the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy and watch the spectacle of predator and prey on the Masai Mara. End your journey as you relax on the white-sand beaches of Zanzibar.


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interact with the baby elephants up close and one-on-one. (B, L, D)

Day 3: To Lewa Wildlife ConservancyReturn to the airport this morning for your flight to Lewa, East Africa’s most progressive wildlife conservancy. Arrive at Lewa Wilderness Lodge in time for lunch and an afternoon game drive. The rooms here feature plenty of space for families, and offer excellent views over the rolling hills of Lewa. Lewa Wilderness Lodge – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Day 1: Arrive NairobiUpon arrival, you will be escorted to your English-style manor house with resident giraffe that come to the property to visit, especially during breakfast! Giraffe Manor – 2 nights

Day 2: NairobiGet an overview of Nairobi on a brief visit. Back at Giraffe Manor, enjoy some more time to get to know these incredible animals. In the afternoon, visit Dame Daphne Sheldrick’s elephant orphanage, where you can feed and

Kenya & Zanzibar Family Discovery

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Zanzibar

NairobiMasai Mara

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy

Rhino, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy


Journey Highlights

Interact with the resident giraffe at Giraffe Manor and visit with the baby elephant at Daphne Sheldrick’s Elephant and Rhino Orphanage during a private visit

At Lewa, see both the traditional and “Northern Big Five” and walk with the Maasai people and learn about their lives

See large herds of wildlife in the Masai Mara

Indulge yourself in the tropical island of Zanzibar


Fly in an open cockpit biplane over forests, herds of game and through otherwise inaccessible ravines


Ply the waters of the Indian Ocean on an exclusive dhow cruise along the coast

Extend Your Journey

Tanzania • Zanzibar • Egypt

Days 4 & 5: Lewa Wildlife ConservancyLewa is ideal for kids, as the owners’ children also grew up here. Enjoy a range of activities, including traditional game drives, walks with the local Maasai, horseback riding for all levels and guided explorations of the Ngare Ndare rainforest with its beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes. You have excellent opportunities to meet the locals because of the strong relationship between the lodge and the community. Lewa’s wildlife is also unique, featuring the “Northern Big Five”. And the conservancy is a sanctuary for endangered rhino, giving you a great chance of seeing black or white rhino while you’re here. (B, L, D)

Day 6: To Masai Mara ReserveFly to the Masai Mara today, arriving in time for lunch before your afternoon game drive. Throughout the year, the Masai Mara is an unforgettable place of natural drama. Naboisho Camp is located in a private conservancy bordering the Masai Mara National Reserve, allowing for game viewing inside the reserve as well as night drives, walks, off-road game viewing and cultural opportunities. There are eight en suite, tented rooms, including a family tent. Naboisho Camp – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 7 & 8: Masai Mara ReserveEnjoy full-day game drives, cultural visits to Maasai villages, photography and guided walks through the bush. The Masai Mara features a plethora of big cats, elephant, rhino, buffalo, zebra, Masai giraffe, beautiful birds and much more. (B, L, D)

Day 9: To ZanzibarFly via Nairobi to the island of Zanzibar in the Indian Ocean. Upon arrival, check in to your beachfront resort, which features beautiful villas with easy access to a glorious strand of beach. Baraza Resort & Spa – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 10 & 11: ZanzibarRelax and enjoy your days in this tropical para-dise. Sit by the swimming pool and enjoy a wide range of both high-tide and low-tide activities, including snorkeling, biking, windsurfing, kayaking, dhow cruises and much more. (B, L, D)

Day 12: Depart NairobiFly back to Nairobi to connect to your onward flight. (B, L)

Zanzibar

Maasai


Experience the majesty of Tanzania’s legendary wildlife on this one-of-a-kind journey that features exclusive lodges, remote luxury camps, and private concessions far away from the tourist crowds. Begin your journey spotting herds of elephant and more than 500 species of bird in Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara. Search for members of the Big Five in the incredible landscapes of Ngorongoro Crater, and track the Great Migration in a remote corner of Serengeti National Park.


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Days 3 & 4: Tarangire/Manyara CorridorSpend two days exploring Tarangire and the surrounding land, home to some of the largest baobab trees and the densest population of elephant in East Africa. Enjoy game drives in the park as well as game viewing on the camp’s exclusive land, including evening drives and bush walks. The swamps of the park are home to more than 500 varieties of birds, the largest number of breeding species in a single habitat anywhere in the world. (B, L, D)

Day 1: Arrive Kilimanjaro – To ArushaUpon arrival this evening, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and accompanied to your hotel in Arusha. Arusha Coffee Lodge – 1 night

Day 2: To Tarangire/Manyara CorridorAfter breakfast, fly to Tarangire National Park. On arrival, continue to your intimate tented camp located in its own private concession. Little Chem Chem – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Exclusive Tanzania

Giraffe, Chem Chem Lodge

Tarangire

Lake Manyara

Greater Serengeti National Park

Ngorongoro Highlands

Arusha

Kilimanjaro


Journey Highlights

Watch ancient elephant matriarchs, feisty young bulls, and tiny, stumbling calves as they amble through the rolling plains of Tarangire

Spot expansive flocks of pink flamingo on Lake Manyara (seasonal)

Search for the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant) in Ngorongoro Crater

Visit local communities to learn more about the traditional Maasai way of life

Observe the ancient cycle of predator and prey in the endless plains of the Serengeti


Soar by exclusive helicopter over Lake Manyara and up to Lake Natron, both home to thousands of flamingo and see the Ngorongoro Crater from the air

Follow the footsteps of the Great Migration. Depending on your dates of travel, stay in another area of the Serengeti to mirror the typical path of the vast herds roaming the plains throughout the year

Extend Your Journey

Southern or Western Tanzania • Rwanda Uganda • Kenya • Zanzibar

Day 5: Tarangire/Manyara CorridorAfter a final morning activity, travel to the western edge of the private concession and your elegant vintage safari lodge. Far from any other visitors – your accommodations sit near the eastern shores of Lake Manyara. Chem Chem Lodge – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 6: Tarangire/Manyara CorridorSpend the day enjoying private bush picnics, Maasai guided interactive walks (or runs!), village visits and sundowners on the edge of Lake Manyara. (B, L, D)

Day 7: To Ngorongoro CraterAfter a final morning activity, depart through the Tanzania highlands to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Continue to your modern camp set high on the slopes of Olmoti Volcano with sweeping views all the way to the Serengeti.The Highlands Ngorongoro – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Day 8: Ngorongoro CraterEnjoy a full-day game drive with a picnic lunch. The world-famous Ngorongoro Crater spans 100 square miles and contains one of the great-est concentrations of wildlife in Africa. The “Big Five” (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant) can be found, along with most other species found in East Africa. (B, L, D)

Day 9: Ngorongoro CraterExperience the highlands of the wild Ngorongoro Conservation Area surrounding camp, home to leopard, buffalo and elephant. Follow ancient Maasai trails to the summit of the Olmoti crater and visit local communities to catch a glimpse into the traditional Maasai way of life that has defined this corner of East Africa for centuries. (B, L, D)

Day 10: To Greater Serengeti National ParkTravel by light aircraft to the remote southern reaches of the famed Serengeti ecosystem and avoid the crowds. Mwiba Lodge – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 11 & 12: Greater Serengeti National ParkEnjoy two days of game drives traversing the Serengeti plains. Vast and privately controlled, this exquisite 134,000-acre wildlife reserve is vibrantly lush with color-infused botanicals, 33 freshwater springs and a diverse array of wildlife. Experience game drives, bush walks and cultural excursions to the local tribes’ villages. (B, L, D)

Day 13: Depart KilimanjaroBid farewell to East Africa this morning as you are accompanied to the airstrip for your flight to Kilimanjaro, where you have access to a day room before connecting to your onward flight. (B, L)

Serengeti National Park

Leopard


Begin your journey through the seemingly endless plains of East Africa in Tarangire National Park, which is home to herds of elephant grazing among the iconic baobab trees. Travel onward to the Ngorongoro Crater, which contains within its massive walls one of the world’s greatest concentrations of wildlife. Spot the rare, black-maned lion and endangered black rhino as you explore the crater. On the celebrated Serengeti Plains, marvel at the timeless cycle of predator and prey.


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of wildlife in Tanzania outside the Serengeti ecosystem. This afternoon, begin exploring the park, which is famous for its huge herds of elephant. Watch ancient matriarchs, feisty young bulls, and tiny, stumbling calves as they amble through the rolling plains. Maramboi Tented Camp – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 3: Tarangire National ParkEnjoy a day of game viewing in the park. On guided drives, spot a great variety of big game, including lion, elephant, black rhino and buffalo,

Day 1: Arrive Kilimanjaro – To ArushaUpon arrival this evening at the Kilimanjaro airport, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative and accompanied to your hotel in Arusha. Lake Duluti Serena Lodge – 1 night

Day 2: To Tarangire National ParkAfter breakfast, travel to Tarangire National Park, where you will be met by your private guide and escorted to your accommodations. Tarangire boasts the greatest concentration

Tanzania’s Famed Northern Circuit

Serengeti National Park

Tarangire National Park

Ngorongoro Crater

Arusha

Kilimanjaro

Lion, Tarangire National Park


Journey Highlights

Watch the famed elephant of Tarangire National Park as they graze among the ancient baobabs

Search for lion stalking their prey around the water holes of Tarangire

Descend into the Garden of Eden of the Ngorongoro Crater and search for lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant

Marvel at the circle of life on the vast plains of the Serengeti, home to the annual Great Migration


Follow the footsteps of the Great Migration! Depending on your dates of travel, stay in another area of the Serengeti to mirror the typical path of the vast herds roaming the plains throughout the year

Experience a hot air balloon journey over the plains of the Serengeti

Extend Your Journey

Southern or Western Tanzania • Rwanda Uganda • Kenya • Zanzibar

as well as a large and varied population of lesser game. Wildebeest, zebra, buffalo, and gazelle congregate around each water hole, which also attracts rarer species such as eland and oryx. The swamps of the park are home to more than 500 varieties of birds, the largest number of breeding species in a single habitat anywhere in the world. (B, L, D)

Day 4: To Ngorongoro CraterAfter breakfast, depart by road for the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Upon arrival, check in to your safari lodge, which sits directly on the rim of the massive crater. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon to explore the grounds of your lodge and take in the exceptional views. Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 5: Ngorongoro CraterThe Ngorongoro Crater spans 100 square miles and contains one of the greatest concentrations of wildlife in Africa. The “Big Five” (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant) can be found, along with most other species that call East Africa home. Away from the crater itself lie several superb spots for hiking and trekking, or simply relaxing and taking in the views. (B, L, D)

Day 6: To Serengeti National ParkTravel by road to Serengeti National Park. With no fences or manmade barriers, the park plays host to one of the last great wildlife migrations on Earth. During your time here, attune yourself to the natural rhythms of the plain, which have remained the same for millennia. Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 7 & 8: Serengeti National ParkEmbark on half- or full-day game drives. Watch the majestic lion stalk its prey, the sleek cheetah fly across the plains and families of giraffe

munching contentedly on acacia leaves. Back at your lodge, relax over a sundowner, sketch the wildlife you’ve encountered in a safari journal and chat about your adventures with fellow guests before enjoying a final dinner in the bush. (B, L, D)

Day 9: Depart KilimanjaroAfter a final game drive this morning, bid fare-well to the plains of East Africa as you depart on your flight to Arusha. Continue to your day room and enjoy lunch at the lodge. Later, you are escorted to Kilimanjaro Airport for your onward flight. (B, L)

Elephant, Tarangire National Park

Ngorongoro Crater


Journey Highlights

Marvel at views of the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean from your luxurious hotel in Dar-es-Salaam

Track packs of wild dog, pods of hippo and herds of elephant in Selous Game Reserve

Embark on game drives and on foot to watch powerful lion stalk buffalo and other prey in the wilds of Ruaha


Spend one or two nights under the stars of Ruaha National Park fly camping as you explore the park on foot

Reserve exclusive use vehicles and guides to explore at your own pace

Extend Your Journey

Western Tanzania • Kenya • Zanzibar

Explore the wild landscapes of southern Tanzania on this adventurous journey that takes in some of the country’s more remote and fascinating national parks and game reserves. Search for endangered wild dog and great herds of elephant in the Selous Game Reserve, the continent’s largest reserve. Continue to Ruaha National Park — home to elephant that dig wells in the park’s dry riverbeds as well as populations of giraffe, buffalo and lion.


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Day 1: Arrive Dar-es-SalaamUpon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel. Hyatt Regency Dar-es-Salaam, The Kilimanjaro – 1 night

Day 2: To Selous Game ReserveFly to Selous Game Reserve. The populations of wild dog, hippo and lion are unsurpassed, and more than half of Tanzania’s elephant are found here. Siwandu Camp – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 3 & 4: Selous Game ReserveExplore the reserve by vehicle and on foot. Sheltered in a grove of palms on the shores of Lake Nzerakera, your camp is perfectly located to take in the wildlife. (B, L, D)

Day 5: To Ruaha National ParkDepart by light aircraft to Ruaha. Situated under magnificent shade trees, your remote camp will give you a true taste of the bush. Jongomero Camp – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 6 & 7: Ruaha National ParkSeek out great herds of buffalo and packs of wild dog, as well as giraffe, hippo, crocodile, and lion. (B, L, D)

Day 8: Depart Dar-es-SalaamReturn to Dar-es-Salaam for your onward flight. (B, L)

Remote Southern Tanzania

Hippo

Ruaha National Park

Dar-es-Salaam

Selous Game Reserve


Journey Highlights

Marvel at the wildlife-rich flood plains of Katavi National Park and see thousands of crocodile and hippo

Cruise Lake Tanganyika, past small villages and local fishermen in dhows

Hike the forested paths, take a dip in a cool pool and spot rare birds in the Mahale Mountains

Venture into the forest to visit large communities of chimpanzee


Fly camp in Katavi experiencing the bush up-close-and-personal

With limited flights in these areas, travel by private bush plane to follow your own schedule while experiencing the stunning beauty of these areas from the air

Extend Your Journey

Rwanda • Uganda • Southern Tanzania

Immerse yourself in some of the wildest areas on the African continent on this journey to the national parks of western Tanzania. Track lion and leopard as they stalk their prey in the pristine landscapes of isolated Katavi National Park. Then cruise the turquoise waters of Lake Tanganyika on your way to your remote lodge in Mahale Mountains National Park, which is home to gregarious communities of chimpanzee.


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Day 1: Arrive Kilimanjaro – To ArushaUpon arrival, you will be accompanied to your hotel. Arusha Coffee Lodge – 1 night

Day 2: To Katavi National ParkFly to Katavi National Park. With few visitors, this wild area evokes the Golden Age of African exploration. Chada Katavi – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 3 & 4: Katavi National ParkExplore this remote, pristine wilderness. Lion and hyena stake out the flood plains where numerous species come to drink. Marvel at thousands of crocodile and hippo, as well as herds of majestic elephant. (B, L, D)

Day 5: To Mahale Mountains National ParkFly west, then travel by boat along the shores of Lake Tanganyika to your lodge, which sits on a white sandy beach with the mountains rising behind. Greystoke – 4 nights (B, L, D)

Days 6–8: Mahale Mountains National ParkVenture into the forest to see communities of chimpanzee, as well as bushbuck, bushpig and an array of birds and butterflies. (B, L, D)

Day 9: Depart KilimanjaroReturn to Arusha for your onward flight. (B, L)

Western Tanzania Wilderness

Chimpanzee

Arusha

Mahale Mountains National Park

Kilimanjaro

Katavi National Park


Journey to the Rooftop of Africa as you climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest peak on the continent and the largest freestanding mountain in the world. Embark on this private expedition along the less-traveled Machame Route, accompanied by world-class guides and porters. While not a “technical climb,” it is physically demanding — and the experience of standing atop the summit and looking over the plains that stretch into the distance below will truly take your breath away.


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packing and you commence your journey. Machame Camp (10,000 feet) – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 4: Mt. KilimanjaroLeave Machame Camp for Shira Camp. After a relatively steep first section, the trail levels out as you pass through the glacial valleys of the Heath Zone, home to attractive Helichrysum and Lobelia plants. Keep an eye out for lava tubes. Your guide will pick a good spot for a picnic lunch before you continue to Shira Camp for the night. Shira Camp (12,500 feet) – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 1: Arrive Kilimanjaro – To ArushaUpon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel. Rivertrees Country Inn – 2 nights

Day 2: ArushaToday, meet your guide for a briefing and take an afternoon hike to help acclimate after your journey. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel. (B, L, D)

Day 3: To Mt. KilimanjaroAfter breakfast, depart by road to Kilimanjaro. At the Machame Gate, your crew finalizes

Trekking Mt. Kilimanjaro

T

Mt. Kilimanjaro

Uhuru PeakShira Ridge

19,341 FT

Mweka Camp

Karanga Camp 13,100 FT

Barranco Camp13,000 FT

Machame Camp10,000 FT

10,200 FT

Barafu Camp15,200 FT

Shira Camp12,500 FT


Journey Highlights

Climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest peak on the continent of Africa and stand at the summit to gaze out over all of East Africa

Be guided every step of the way by a professional, experienced team

Explore the extraordinary ecosystems as you climb — verdant Afromontane forest, scenic ridges and otherworldly moorlands of the Shira Plateau, breathtaking glacial valleys and stark alpine deserts

Admire some stunning views of Kilimanjaro’s volcanic cones


Experienced climbers can customize their route and perhaps enjoy a night on the crater floor

Consider some additional time and acclimation hikes in Arusha to ensure you are prepared for the journey

Extend Your Journey

Northern Tanzania • Zanzibar • Rwanda Uganda • Kenya

Day 5: Mt. KilimanjaroToday is a “walk high, sleep low” day to help you acclimatize to the altitude. After breakfast, ascend into alpine desert and, if you’re feeling strong, you can even head up to the Lava Tower before descending to Barranco Camp. Barranco Camp (13,000 feet) – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 6: Mt. KilimanjaroFrom Barranco Camp, which is famous for its giant groundsels, ascend the Barranco Wall and hike through incredible glacial valleys to Karanga Camp. From here, the glaciers are at their most spec-tacular — vast sheets of cold, crystalline ice glow crimson during the evening light. In the afternoon, you can take a walk with your guides to marvel at some great views of the southern walls of Kibo as well as some deep glacial valleys. Karanga Camp (13,100 feet) – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 7: Mt. KilimanjaroToday is another half day as you ascend to Barafu Camp. In this desolate alpine desert, strong winds at times rip over the camp — yet in the evening, splendid views of Mawenzi Peak can often be enjoyed. Eat an early dinner and get some rest before you depart for the summit at just around midnight. Barafu Camp (15,200 feet) – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 8: Mt. KilimanjaroPatience and persistence as you attempt to reach the summit. Climb through the middle of the night and by dawn, as the first rays of light start to appear, most climbers arrive near the rim. Ascend by Stella Point for a short final sec-tion to Uhuru Peak, the Rooftop of Africa. After savoring your accomplishment (and the views), begin your descent to Mweka Camp. Mweka Camp (10,200 feet) – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 9: To ArushaAfter breakfast in camp, descend through the scenic Afromontane Forest. Around midday, after saying farewell to your crew, you are escorted to your hotel for a well-deserved shower! This evening, toast to your accomplishments at a celebratory dinner. The Hatari Lodge – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 10: Depart KilimanjaroSleep in and relax until it is time to connect with your onward flight. (B, L)

River Abhainn Shira

Uhuru Peak

29


Explore the incredible national parks of Uganda on this adventurous journey. Begin your travels in the lush, evergreen rainforest of Kibale National Park, where you’ll visit a community of wild chimpanzees. Travel onward to Queen Elizabeth National Park to spot tree-climbing lion, pods of hippo and herds of elephant. Venture deep into the dense jungle of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to spend time with a family of endangered mountain gorillas, a truly unforgettable experience.


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Kyaninga Lodge (Elite) / Ndali Lodge (Preferred) – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 3: Kibale Forest National ParkEnjoy a morning trek exploring the verdant landscapes of Kibale Forest National Park, one of the best places in the world to see chimpan-zee in the wild. While you’re here, try to spot some of the 12 additional primate species in the park, such as the red-tailed, blue and Colobus monkey as well as the olive baboon. (B, L, D)

Day 1: Arrive EntebbeUpon arrival in Entebbe, you will be escorted to your hotel. Rest up from your travels in preparation for tomorrow’s adventures. Protea Hotel Entebbe – 1 night

Day 2: To Kibale Forest National ParkAfter breakfast, fly to Kasese and continue to your luxury lodge, which offers stunning views of alpine lakes and the Mountains of the Moon. In the afternoon, take a walk through the forest and spot some of the local wildlife.

Uganda: Gorilla Trekking in The Pearl of Africa

T

Kibale ForestQueen Elizabeth National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Entebbe

Mountain Gorilla, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest


Journey Highlights

Trek through Kibale Forest National Park to see chimpanzee in the wild

Ply the waters of the Kazinga Channel, home to one of the densest populations of hippo in Africa

Search for the tree-climbing lion of Queen Elizabeth National Park

View endangered mountain gorilla at close range


Charter a helicopter to make the most of your time providing quicker access to each area and providing spectacular views from above

Join in the process of habituating a chimpanzee community in Kibale Forest National Park spending a full day in the forest

Extend Your Journey

Northern Uganda • Rwanda • Kenya Tanzania

Day 4: To Queen Elizabeth National ParkDepart for Queen Elizabeth National Park, which boasts rugged volcanic terrain, and a stunning range of wildlife, including the beauti-ful black-maned lion. Take a launch along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake George and Lake Edward, to view one of the largest concentrations of hippo in the world. Continue to your accommodations in the less-visited Ishasha region of the park, one of the few places in the world where lion regularly climb trees. Ishasha Wilderness Camp – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 5 & 6: Queen Elizabeth National ParkEnjoy two days of game drives. Look for elephant, buffalo, kob, waterbuck, bushbuck and predators, including lion and leopard. Bird watching is remarkable, with about 600 species recorded. (B, L, D)

Day 7: To Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National ParkToday, travel to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, passing colorful roadside markets and lush vegetation interspersed with banana and millet plantations before traversing the beautiful mountain landscapes known as the Switzerland of East Africa. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest impresses with its landscape of volcanoes, jagged valleys, waterfalls, lakes and dramatic mountain ranges. Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp (Elite) / Buhoma Lodge (Preferred) – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 8 & 9: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National ParkEnjoy two morning gorilla treks. Nothing can prepare one for the impact of encountering a fully-grown silverback gorilla. Although the hike is physically demanding, and the terrain is rough and muddy at times, the beauty of

the forest and surrounding scenery make the trekking worthwhile. After locating the gorilla family, you will spend one hour in their company before returning to your lodge. The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a World Heritage Site, is also home to other primates and offers excellent opportunities for bird watching. Toast to your travels this evening during a final celebratory dinner at your camp. (B, L, D)

Day 10: Depart EntebbeThis morning, travel to the airstrip and fly to Entebbe. Enjoy a tasty lunch and a day room at your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure. Later, bid farewell to Uganda and return to the airport to connect with your onward flight. Lake Victoria Serena Resort (Elite) / The Boma (Preferred) (B, L)

Lion, Queen Elizabeth National Park

Hippo, Kazinga Channel

Did you know that gorilla trekking in Rwanda can be less strenuous?

Turn the page31


Volcanoes National Park

Kigali

Journey Highlights

Learn about the history of Rwanda and visit the sobering Kigali Memorial Center as you visit the capital city with your expert local guide

See the famed mountain gorilla in its natural habitat on two guided treks in the Virunga Mountains

Search the hills of Volcanoes National Park for golden monkey

Pay a visit to the children of the Imbabazi Orphanage, founded by American expatriate Roz Carr


Avoid the winding drives or cover more areas in less time by helicopter in this scenic region

Consider booking a private gorilla trek for your party and experience this once-in-a-lifetime moment exclusively

Extend Your Journey

Uganda • Tanzania • Kenya

Explore the home of the endangered mountain gorilla and the volcanic slopes of the Virungas, home to most of the mountain gorillas remaining in the world. Participate in an unforgettable wildlife experience as you journey through the “Land of 1,000 Hills” and into the jungle. Visit the gorilla, search for golden monkey and experience firsthand Rwanda’s remarkable and inspiring recovery in the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Kigali.


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Day 1: Arrive KigaliUpon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel. Kigali Serena – 1 night

Day 2: To Volcanoes National ParkIn Kigali, visit the Kigali Memorial Center, dedicated to the victims of the 1994 genocide. After lunch, depart for Volcanoes National Park. Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge (Elite) / Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Preferred) – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 3 & 4: Volcanoes National ParkEach morning, embark on the exhilarating climb to the gorillas’ habitat of shady bamboo forest, which offers fantastic views in all directions. You will have exactly one hour to observe the gorillas as they likewise observe their human visitors — truly one of the world’s great wildlife encounters! In the afternoons, see local life in a nearby village, visit stunning mountain lakes, or stop at the Imbabazi Orphanage, founded by American expatriate Roz Carr. (B, L, D)

Day 5: To KigaliSet out for your trek in search of golden monkey, one of the most endangered primates in Africa. After years of habituation, the monkeys now chatter and play happily while being observed. After lunch, return to Kigali for your final night in Rwanda. Kigali Serena – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 6: Depart KigaliTravel to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Rwanda’s Mountain Gorillas

Mountain Gorilla,

Volcanoes National Park


Mountain Gorilla, Rwanda


Venture far off the beaten path to places few Western travelers have ever seen. Explore N’Djamena, and then spot elephant, lion and more in Zakouma National Park. Fly deep into the Sahara to the spectacular Ennedi Mountains. Meet the nomadic Tubu people, look for rock art dating back thousands of years, and walk into the Guelta d’Archei where the Tubu bring huge herds of camel to drink at the only waterhole for miles around.

G r o u p J o u r n E y

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Day 3: To Zakouma National ParkFly by light aircraft to Zakouma National Park, 1,175 square miles of untamed African wilder-ness in southeastern Chad. Camp Nomade – 7 nights (B, L, D)

Days 4-9: Zakouma National ParkExplore the park on game drives. Zakouma’s dry season lures wildlife to the heart of the park. Large herds of animals as well as thou-sands of birds congregate at seasonal pools, making for spectacular game viewing, including

Day 1: Arrive N’DjamenaUpon arrival in N’Djamena, you will be welcomed and escorted to your hotel. Meet your fellow travel-ers over dinner. Hilton N’Djamena – 2 nights (D)

Day 2: N’DjamenaEnjoy a day at leisure to relax after your long journey. Visit the city’s large and sprawling central market, as well as the National Museum with its collection of prehistoric artifacts (B, D)

Chad: Africa’s Secret Safari

N’Djamena

Ennedi

Mourdi Depression

Ounianga Oasis

Zakouma National Park

Camels at Ennedi Wells


Journey Highlights

Visit the collection of prehistoric artifacts in N’Djamena’s National Museum

Search for elephant, Kordofan giraffe, lion, Lelwel’s hartebeest, pale fox and red-fronted gazelle in Zakouma National Park, possibly Africa’s most successful conservation story

Explore the rock formations of Ennedi, eroded into weird and wonderful shapes by wind and sand

Discover rock art hidden by overhanging rocks, depicting cows, camels and warriors

Camp under the stars amid the spectacular sand dunes of the Mourdi Depression

Follow an ancient caravan route to a salt pan

Marvel at the multicolored lakes of the Ounianga oasis and keep an eye out for local wildlife such as the fennec fox

Extend Your Journey

Ethiopia • Egypt • Morocco

elephant, Kordofan giraffe, lion, Lelwel’s harte-beest, pale fox and red-fronted gazelle. (B, L, D)

Day 10: To Ennedi MountainsDepart today by light aircraft north to the Ennedi Mountains to explore the rock formations and rock art sites depicting cows, camels and warriors. This is the domain of the Tubu, and you may meet these nomads on their way to pasture with the camels or drawing water at wells. The landscape in this region is truly spectacular, and the campsites are in the prettiest areas. Mobile Tented Camp – 5 nights (B, L, D)

Day 11: Ennedi MountainsVisit the Guelta d’Archei, a waterhole situated near a dramatic gorge, where you can often see hundreds of camels drinking, their bellowing echoing around the rock walls. The guelta is also home to one of the last populations of Saharan crocodile, gazelle, baboon and patas monkey, as well as porcupine and honey badger. (B, L, D)

Day 12: To Mourdi DepressionDescend the plateau to Fada and stock up on supplies before heading northward onto a plateau of red rocks and descending to the Mourdi Depression, an area of vast sand dunes of incredible beauty. (B, L, D)

Day 13: Mourdi DepressionFollow the ancient route that is still used by camel caravans taking salt from Demi and Teguedei to the Fada and beyond. At Kora, while crossing dunes and entering an area that saw fighting during the war with Libya, you may see the remnants of tanks, slowly being reclaimed by the desert. (B, L, D)

Day 14: To Ounianga OasisVisit the small village of Demi, located at the foot of a mountain and on the edge of a salt pan, where

men and women dig the red earth for salt to be transported across the desert, exchanged for goods like millet, sorghum and other foods. Continue to the Ounianga oasis to explore the lakes, visit the village of Ounianga Serir, and take a dip in Boukou, the only freshwater lake in the oasis. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as dorcas gazelle, jackal, bustard and perhaps the pretty fennec fox. (B, L, D)

Day 15: To N’DjamenaReturn by light aircraft to N’Djamena. Hilton N’Djamena – 1 night (B ,L, D)

Day 16: Depart N’DjamenaBid farewell to Chad and your travel companions as you are escorted to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Zakouma National Park

Tents, Ennedi Mountains


Explore northern Ethiopia on this extraordinary journey. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church played a huge role in shaping the country, and your explorations are a mix of the sacred and the historical as you discover the wonders of the ancient cities of Bahir Dar, Gondar, Lalibela and Axum. From the shores of Lake Tana and the hills of Gondar to the Simien Mountains, you’ll experience the best of Ethiopia, including ruined castles, island monasteries and rock-hewn churches.


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the monastery church of Ura Kidane Mihret. Return to Bahir Dar for lunch before taking an excursion to Blue Nile Falls (seasonal). The falls are known locally as “Tis Issat,” which means “smoke of fire,” after the smoky bubbles of the falling waters. Kuriftu Lodge – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 3: To GondarEmbark upon a scenic drive to Gondar, the first capital of the Ethiopian Empire, founded in 1635 by the Emperor Fasilidas. This afternoon, visit 17th-century palaces, the library of Fasilidas’ son

Day 1: Arrive Addis AbabaUpon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel. This afternoon, embark on a visit of the city. Sheraton Addis – 1 night

Day 2: To Bahir DarThis morning, fly to Bahir Dar, and enjoy a cruise on Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia. Of the vast lake’s 33 islands, 23 of them have churches and monasteries of historical and cultural interest. Then see the stunning frescoes, ancient biblical manuscripts and old crosses of

Northern Ethiopia: The Historic Route

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Gondar

Addis Ababa

Lalibela

Axum

Bahir Dar

Simien Mountains

St. George Church, Lalibela


Journey Highlights

Cruise the waters of Lake Tana and discover its island monasteries and churches

Wander the scenic hills of Gondar and explore some of its fabulous castles and ruins

Search for the Walia ibex and the Gelada baboon amid the scenic landscapes of the Simien Mountains

Explore Lalibela’s stunning rock-hewn churches

Visit the ancient city of Axum, the reputed site of the Ark of the Covenant

Shop for treasures in Africa’s largest open-air market in Addis Ababa


Spend longer in the Simien Mountains to perhaps see the Ethiopian wolf or enjoy a trek to the recently accessible cliff-side Monastery of Saddique Amba

Enjoy the unbelievable scenery from the air and avoid tiring drives by helicopter charter

Extend Your Journey

Kenya • Tanzania • Rwanda • Uganda Northern Sudan • Egypt

and the church of Debre Berhan Selassie, which is located at the summit of a hill and surrounded by fortified walls. Finally, explore the ruins of Kuskuam Church and a nearby palace. Mayleko Lodge – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 4: GondarDiscover the wild beauty of Simien Mountains National Park. The road to the park passes through mountainous areas boasting amethyst-colored peaks and deep gullies. These river val-leys are home to the Walia ibex and troops of mischievous Gelada baboon, which are endemic to Ethiopia. After a picnic lunch in the park, visit the former village of the Felasha (African Jews) who have now migrated to Israel. (B, L, D)

Days 5 & 6: To LalibelaFly to Lalibela, home to stone churches painstakingly hewn from the rock more than 800 years ago. Some of the highlights include Bet Medhane Alem (House of the Savior of the World), which resembles a Greek or Roman temple and is said to be the largest stone church in the world; Bet Maryam (House of Mary), which boasts beautiful frescoes and interior decoration; and Bet Gyorgyis (House of St. George), the last-built and most famous of these spectacular churches. Spend the following day further exploring this monumental site. Maribela Hotel – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 7: To AxumFly to Axum, the site of the Cathedral of Tsion Maryam, which was founded in the fourth century and is still considered the home of Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. Visit this cathedral, where the Ark of the Covenant is reputed to be stored; the palace of the Queen of Sheba; and a field of carved monoliths from pre-Christian times. The most controversial of

the stelae, the Obelisk of Axum, was stolen by Italian forces in 1937 during Italy’s conquest of Ethiopia, and has only recently been returned and restored. Sabean Hotel – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 8: Depart Addis AbabaReturn to Addis today. This afternoon, you can visit the biggest open-air market in Africa. Or take an excursion to Holy Trinity Cathedral, which is the last resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie. Later today, head to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Gondar

Gelada Baboon, Simien Mountains


The Omo Valley is one of the most unique places on earth, a kaleidoscope of vanishing cultures and breathtaking landscapes. Search for the Ethiopian wolf in the Bale Mountains and cruise on Lake Chamo to spot crocodile, hippo and a multitude of birds. Visit one of the world’s great tribal lands, escorted by your guide. Visit the Mursi, the Hamer and the Karo people and learn about their customs.


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Ziway and Langano. Sabana Beach Resort – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 3: To Bale MountainsDrive to Bale Mountains National Park. In Dinsho, search the trails for a variety of colorful birds, the mountain nyala, and Menelik’s bush-buck. Bale Mountain Lodge – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 4 & 5: Bale MountainsThe Sanetti Plateau is between 12,400 and 14,300 feet above sea level, and is home to Africa’s

Day 1: Arrive Addis AbabaUpon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel. This afternoon, embark on a visit of the city. Sheraton Addis – 1 night

Day 2: To Lake LanganoAfter breakfast, visit the Paleolithic open-air museum of Melka Kunture, the striking rock-hewn church of Adadi Mariam, unique stelaes from the 12th century and the traditional villages of the Gurage and Oromo people. Conclude your day at the rift valley lakes of

Southern Ethiopia: The Bale Mountains & the Omo Valley

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Addis Ababa

Lake Langano

Bale MountainsLake Awassa

Arba Minch

Turmi

Jinka

Ethiopian Wolf, Bale Mountains


Journey Highlights

Explore the Sanetti Plateau and search for the rare Ethiopian wolf

Marvel at the spectacular sunset from the banks of Lake Awassa

Search for hippo, giant crocodile and the African fish eagle on Lake Chamo

Visit the tribes of the Omo Valley and browse one of the area’s colorful weekly markets


Travel by private bush plane to cover the great distances of Southern Ethiopia most efficiently

Consider a mobile camping safari in the Omo Valley to access more off-the-beaten track villages and tribes

Extend Your Journey

Northern Ethiopia • Kenya • Northern Sudan

highest road, which passes close to the summit of Ethiopia’s second-tallest mountain. Home to seven endangered species of birds and among the high-est densities of rodents in the world, the plateau attracts an array of raptors, including eagles and buzzards. They share this abundant food source with the plateau’s most celebrated resident, the Ethiopian wolf, the world’s rarest canine. (B, L, D)

Day 6: To Lake AwassaThis morning, enjoy a trek through the forest near the lodge as you search for primates and other endemic wildlife. Then, drive to your resort on the shores of Lake Awassa. Haile Resort – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 7: To Arba MinchAfter breakfast, explore the local fish market. En route to Arba Minch, visit the villages of Wolayta and Alaba, and stop at a wildlife sanctuary to see endemic Swayne’s hartebeest. Paradise Lodge – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 8: Arba MinchEmbark upon a morning cruise on the south-ernmost rift valley lake of Ethiopia: Lake Chamo. Keep your eyes open for resident hippo and the giant crocodile, as well as a profusion of birds like the African fish eagle and the great white pelican. After lunch, travel by road to Gamotti and visit the Gamo people, known for their traditional weaving culture, which is reflected in their clothing, fences and beehive-shaped bamboo huts. (B, L, D)

Day 9: To JinkaHead south across the lovely Weito Valley toward the village of Tsemay to visit the Woito people. In Key Afer, wander through the busy weekly market of the Tsemay, Ari and Benna tribes. Omo Eco Lodge – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 10: To TurmiAfter breakfast, drive to a Mursi village to meet with the people and learn about their culture. In Turmi, the women of the Hamer tribe are known for their fringe of ochre-colored hair and leather skirts. Buska Lodge – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 11: TurmiTake an excursion to Murulle, a village of Karo people known for painting their bodies and faces in elaborate patterns before important ceremonies. (B, L, D)

Day 12: Depart Addis AbabaFly to Addis Ababa. Upon arrival, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before connecting to your onward flight. (B, L, D)

Hamer Tribe

Egrets, Lake Awassa


Cox & Kings Spotlight Journeys are Single-Destination Short Itineraries, designed to combine or extend your customized Private Journey.

Spotlight Journeys – East & Central Africa

Za nziba r

Northeast Coast

K en ya

M atthews Mou nta ins

Rwa nda

Ny u ngw e For est

Day 1: ZanzibarThe coast of Zanzibar has long, sparkling white beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and millions of coconut palms swaying in the tropical breezes. Upon arrival, you are escorted to your resort. Matemwe Retreat – 3 nights (D)

Days 2 & 3: ZanzibarSpend two days taking advantage of the amenities of your exclusive resort and private villa featuring in-room dining and private butler service. If you choose to leave your expansive accommodations that feature a private roof terrace with plunge pool, activities available include snorkeling, reef walks, kayaking and visits to nearby villages. (B, L, D)

Day 4: Depart ZanzibarToday, enjoy a visit of the iconic spice plantations that give the island its nickname and have lunch in Stone Town before visiting the historic sites of the island’s main town. Afterwards, return to the airport to connect to your onward flight. (B, L)

Day 1: Kigali – To Nyungwe ForestUpon arrival, travel to your luxury lodge, which is located on the grounds of a tea plantation on the edge of the Nyungwe Forest. Each room of the lodge boasts stunning views from private decks overlooking the vast jungle. Nyungwe Forest Lodge – 3 nights (D)

Days 2 & 3: Nyungwe ForestAt least one morning while you’re here, rise early to embark on an unforgettable morning trek to visit the native chimpanzee. During the afternoons and evenings, set out in search of the black and white Colobus monkey, the grey-cheeked mangabey, and blue and golden monkey trekking. Alternatively, visit a nearby village or explore the Kamiranzovu swamp. An extensive network of well-maintained walking trails lead through Nyungwe Forest to various waterfalls and viewing points. (B, L, D)

Day 4: Depart Nyungwe ForestReturn to Kigali or travel to your next destina-tion in Rwanda. (B)

Day 1: Namunyak ConservancyArrive by private charter today from Nairobi or another safari destination in Kenya. Your luxury-tented camp boasts stunning views of the Matthews Mountains and offers all the necessary comforts in this remote private conservancy in the north of Kenya. Sarara Camp – 3 nights (D)

Days 2 & 3: Namunyak ConservancyEach day, embark on game drives or bush walks with your expert guides. Sarara has established itself as one of the best spots for quality leopard viewing in Africa. Endangered African wild dog are frequently encountered, as well as elephant, buffalo, giraffe, gerenuk, impala and warthog. Every morning, the Samburu warriors bring their cattle to drink from wells they dig in the dry riverbed near Sarara Camp. (B, L, D)

Day 4: Depart Namunyak ConservancyDepart today by private charter to your next safari destination or to Nairobi to connect to your onward flight. (B)

41

Gerenuk, Kenya

Zambezi River

southErn AfriCA &

indiAn oCEAn

As you stand at the edge of one of the natural world’s greatest spectacles, experience the thundering cascades of Victoria Falls. On either side of the Zambezi, you will find Zambia and Zimbabwe with some of the continent’s wildest spots. To the south lies Botswana, home to the Okavango Delta and great elephant herds. Further afield are the Game Parks, Winelands, and cities of South Africa, Namibia’s massive sand dunes and dramatic Skeleton Coast, and the pristine waters of Lake Malawi. Off the continent’s east coast, experience the exotic islands of the Indian Ocean – from barefoot luxury of Mozambique to endemic wildlife of Madagascar and the verdant beauty of the Seychelles. You are at the heart of Africa, the perfect spot to embark on an unforgettable journey.


Travel to a land of cultural diversity and natural beauty. Begin in Cape Town, which occupies one of the world’s most dramatic settings between two oceans and stunning mountains. Pamper yourself in the Winelands region as you visit some of South Africa’s most renowned wineries. Search for elephant, lion, rhino, leopard and buffalo within the private concession in the Greater Kruger National Park. End this classic journey at Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.


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in the Grand Parade where Nelson Mandela addressed the nation upon his release in 1990. Move on to the District Six Museum. Relish lunch at one of the city’s popular restaurants. (B, L)

Day 3: Cape TownDepart the city for the fishing village of Hout Bay. Here, board a boat to view the Cape Fur Seal colony on Duiker Island. Traverse Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the world’s most spectacular passes. Explore the rocky coastline and spot endemic fauna in the Cape

Day 1: Arrive Cape TownUpon arrival in Cape Town, you will be escorted to your hotel. Cape Grace (Elite) / More Quarters (Preferred) – 3 nights

Day 2: Cape TownBoard a cable car for the five-minute ride to the top of Table Mountain. Return to the city via the old Cape Malay Quarter for a walk through the botanical gardens. Stroll through the city to Greenmarket Square to browse its bustling market stalls. Drive to the Castle, and then take

Southern Africa: Winelands, Safari & Falls

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Livingstone Victoria Falls

Cape Town

Cape Winelands

Johannesburg

Sabi Sand / Kruger NP

Victoria Falls, Zambia


Journey Highlights

Explore the history and culture of Cape Town and take in the views from the top of Table Mountain

Visit the spectacular Cape of Good Hope and see the continent’s only penguins along the Cape Peninsula

Discover the culinary delights of the Winelands

Search for the “Big Five” on safari

Soar over Victoria Falls by helicopter and embark on a scenic sunset cruise on the Zambezi River


Enjoy sundowners from a private cruise on Cape Town’s Harbor

See the sunrise over Table Mountain from a privately guided hike up Lion’s Head

Kayak among the African Penguins at Boulder Beach

Swim on the edge of Victoria Falls during a lunch time visit to Livingstone Island

Extend Your Journey

Botswana • Zimbabwe • Zambia Namibia • Mozambique

of Good Hope National Park. Enjoy vistas from the famous Cape Point Lighthouse and visit the fabled Cape of Good Hope. After lunch, visit Boulders Beach for a close-up with a colony of African penguins. Head home through fishing villages and seaside havens. (B, L)

Day 4: To the Cape WinelandsVenture into the magnificent Cape Winelands. In the Franschhoek Valley, settle into your charming hotel and enjoy a stroll through the town and into some of the local boutiques and restaurants. Leeu Estates (Elite) / Franschhoek Country House (Preferred) – 2 nights (B)

Day 5: Cape WinelandsEnjoy tastings of high-quality reds and whites, as well as Cap Classiques (South African “Champagnes”) in areas, including Stellenbosch, Simonsberg, Paarl and Franschhoek. Savor lunch at one of the many classic restaurants in the area. See the Afrikaans Language Monument with panoramic Boland views, historic Cape Dutch architecture in Stellenbosch and the idyllic Franschhoek Valley. (B, L)

Day 6: To Sabi Sand / Kruger National ParkFly northeast to Kruger National Park or the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Enjoy your first afternoon game drive, searching for Africa’s large mammals, rare birds and elusive big cat. Londolozi Tree Camp (Elite) / Lion Sands Tinga or Narina Lodge (Preferred) – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 7 & 8: Sabi Sand / Kruger National ParkEarly morning and afternoon/evening game drives reveal the many species of wildlife and birds native to the region. Search for Africa’s “Big Five” — leopard, lion, elephant, buffalo and rhino. (B, L, D)

Day 9: To Victoria FallsThis morning, fly to Livingstone. Referred to by the locals as “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” or the “Smoke that Thunders,” Victoria Falls is formed as the majestic Zambezi River sharply drops over a basalt cliff. Royal Livingstone – 2 nights (B)

Day 10: Victoria FallsEnjoy a private tour of Victoria Falls today, as well as a helicopter flight along the Zambezi and over the cascades. This afternoon, embark on a cruise on the Zambezi River where you can sip sundowners and enjoy one of the world’s most remarkable sunsets. (B)

Day 11: Depart JohannesburgEnjoy a leisurely morning before flying to Johannesburg to connect with your onward flight. (B)

Cape Town, South Africa

Kruger National Park, South Africa


Discover South Africa’s natural wonders on this journey through one of the continent’s most diverse countries. See the great whites of False Bay and visit infamous Robben Island off the coast of Cape Town. Spot the Big Five, the sleek cheetah and the endangered black rhino at Phinda Private Game Reserve. Explore the history and culture of Johannesburg before ending your journey in the wildlife-rich grasslands of Tswalu Kalahari, South Africa’s largest game reserve.


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whites of False Bay in the rare act of “breaching” in their pursuit of Cape fur seal they hunt in this area. Cruise by Seal Island, watch the sharks breach and enjoy lunch on board. (B, L)

Day 3: Cape TownDepart from Cape Town by ferry for a scenic 25-minute trip across Table Bay to Robben Island. This World Heritage Site, which is one of South Africa’s most revered national monuments, was once a prison where Nelson Mandela spent two decades of his life on the island, along with

Day 1: Arrive Cape TownUpon arrival in Cape Town, you will be escorted to your hotel on the Atlantic Coast by Camps Bay. Twelve Apostles – 3 nights

Day 2: Cape TownDepart before daybreak for Simonstown harbor for a boat trip with international shark experts Chris and Monique Fallows in search of the super predator of the oceans: the great white shark. The Fallows have studied great whites since 1989 and were the first to film the now-famous great

South Africa: Coast to Kalahari

T

Johannesburg

Tswalu Kalahari

Cape Town

Durban

Phinda Private Game Reserve

Kalahari Meerkat


Journey Highlights

Search for great whites with shark experts Chris and Monique Fallows

Explore historic Robben Island

Spot lion, buffalo, leopard, elephant, cheetah and rhino at Phinda Private Game Reserve

Explore Johannesburg and Soweto

Visit a friendly colony of meerkat, then ride on horseback among antelope at Tswalu


Take in the stunning coastal scenery by helicopter over Cape Town

Visit Sodwana Bay from Phinda for some scuba diving, fishing or even turtle watching

Meet locals as you bike through Soweto

View the amazing southern skies at night with the sounds of the bush surrounding you on your own open-air platform at Tswalu Kalahari

Extend Your Journey

Botswana • Zimbabwe • Zambia • Namibia Mozambique

3,000 inmates. Some of the island guides were once inmates themselves. (B)

Day 4: To Phinda Private Game ReserveThis morning, fly from Cape Town to Durban and then drive onward to Phinda Private Game Reserve. Your intimate lodge abuts the wetlands where you can view game from the comfort of your private plunge pool. andBeyond Phinda Vlei Lodge – 3 nights (B, D)

Days 5 & 6: Phinda Private Game ReserveEnjoy two full days of game viewing. The fascinating variety of landscape and veg-etation in Phinda shelters an abundance of wildlife, including not only the Big Five but many rarer and lesser-spotted species, such as the elusive cheetah or the scarce black rhino. (B, L, D)

Day 7: To JohannesburgToday, fly by light aircraft to Johannesburg and continue to your luxury boutique hotel. Fairlawns Boutique Hotel – 2 nights (B)

Day 8: JohannesburgAfter breakfast, enjoy a full-day tour of Johannesburg, including Soweto, the black residential area where much of the struggle against apartheid was fought and the fascinat-ing Apartheid Museum. (B, L)

Day 9: To Tswalu KalahariFly by light aircraft to the grasslands of the Green Kalahari, home to landscapes unlike those of any other reserve in the country. Tswalu Kalahari is South Africa’s largest private game reserve, cover-ing an area of over 250,000 acres, and one of its most exclusive, with never more than 30 visitors at a time. Tswalu Motse – 4 nights (B, D)

Days 10 –12: Tswalu KalahariEmbark on a combination of game drives and bush walks to see the wildlife in the reserve, including cheetah, black-maned lion, desert-adapted black rhino and wild dog. A morning can begin by walking to a meerkat colony and watching these engaging mammals warm themselves in the sunshine before they scamper off to forage. Don’t forget to take a starlit night walk in search of aardvark, pangolin, porcupine or brown hyena. (B, L, D)

Day 13: Depart JohannesburgYour journey ends today as you return to Johannesburg by light aircraft to connect to your onward flight this evening. (B)

Lion Cubs

Great White Shark


Immerse your whole family in the wonders of one of the most diverse countries in the world. Discover scenic Cape Town and the natural beauty of the landscapes and wildlife of the Cape Peninsula. Play soccer with South African children, visit a local craft market, spot breaching whales and relax on some beautiful beaches. Search for lion, elephant, leopard and more in Africa’s wildlife-rich, child-friendly and malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve in the north.


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for a picnic on the lawn. Later, head to nearby Paardevlei to visit the Cheetah Outreach Center to learn about and pet these majestic creatures. (B, L)

Day 3: Cape TownStart the day on Table Mountain, where your private guide will point out unique flora and fauna, including the friendly rock hyrax. Return through the historic Cape Malay Quarter and enjoy a walk through Company Gardens. Get to know the local marine life at the Two Oceans

Day 1: Arrive Cape TownUpon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel on the V&A Waterfront. The rest of the day is yours to relax from your travels. One&Only Cape Town (Elite) / Cape Royale Luxury Hotel (Preferred) – 4 nights

Day 2: Cape TownTravel to Boulders Beach to climb on the granite boulders and swim with African pen-guins. Continue to Spier Estate — home of one of South Africa’s premier wine producers

South Africa Family Discovery

African Penguin

Johannesburg

Grootbos Nature Reserve

Madikwe Game Reserve

Cape Town


Journey Highlights

Swim with African penguin near the Cape of Good Hope and visit rescued cheetahs at the Cheetah Outreach Center

Ride the cable car to the top of Table Mountain and marvel at the panoramic views

Spot whale off the coast near Grootbos

Play soccer with local kids and plant trees for the community near Grootbos

Search for the “Big Five” in the malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve


View the migrating marine wildlife from a small plane over the bay near Grootbos

See the great white shark up close from a cage diving boat from Gaansbai

Join Madikwe’s veterinarians and field rangers and join in the conservation efforts by helicopter in efforts to safeguard the reserve’s important wildlife populations

Extend Your Journey

Tswalu Kalahari • Bushman’s Kloof Rocktail Beach Camp

Aquarium and ascend Signal Hill for the firing of the noonday guns. (B, L)

Day 4: Cape TownAn educational and fun day with your guide starts with a visit to the Tsoga Environmental Center, which sponsors environmental educa-tion and food-growing programs. Later, meet a traditional healer, visit a school, craft market, and eat a traditional lunch. (B, L)

Day 5: To Grootbos Nature ReserveTravel to the Grootbos Nature Reserve, perched above Walker Bay. From June to November, southern right whale calve in this bay, and great white shark patrol the waters. This evening, savor dinner at your lodge, which offers fresh, organic fare — all served in a stunning dining room with views over Walker Bay. Grootbos Garden Lodge – 3 nights (B, D)

Day 6: Grootbos Nature ReserveEmbark on one of many activities, including whale watching, hiking and horseback riding on the reserve. In the mood for some pamper-ing? Just visit the spa for a relaxing full-body therapeutic massage. (B, L, D)

Day 7: Grootbos Nature ReserveExperience cultural interaction today — on the soccer field. The Grootbos Foundation built this sports facility to serve three diverse townships and communities, and guests can play soccer with the local children. A donation to the Foundation will be made on your behalf, and you can also plant a tree and visit the Green Futures School. (B, L, D)

Day 8: To Madikwe Game ReserveReturn to Cape Town, where you will fly to Johannesburg to connect by light aircraft to

Madikwe Game Reserve and Jaci’s Safari Lodge. Set on a stream, the lodge features large, thatched suites and private decks for viewing wildlife. Jaci’s Safari Lodge – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 9 & 10: Madikwe Game ReserveOn game drives and walks, search for lion, buffalo, leopard, elephant, hippo, giraffe, rhino, wild dog, hyena and cheetah. Jaci’s features family safari vehicles allowing parents and children to enjoy the bush together, and there is also a daily game drive for children age four and younger. (B, L, D)

Day 11: Depart JohannesburgReturn to Johannesburg by light aircraft this afternoon and connect to your onward flight. (B)

Table Mountain

Lion, Madikwe Game Reserve


Begin your journey at one of the continent’s most iconic sights, Victoria Falls. Then, embark on an adventure through Botswana as you explore some of the wildest places in Africa. Near the Savute Channel, spot the large herds of elephant, packs of wild dog and rich birdlife of the private Linyanti Reserve. Explore the Okavango Delta by land and water in search of its incredible profusion of wildlife, including lion, leopard, giraffe and hippo.


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meet with some of the families who call this area home. This afternoon, embark on a boat ride through the channels of the Zambezi River to Livingstone Island, and — if you’re feeling adventurous — take a dip in the natural “devil’s pool” at the very lip of the falls (depending on water levels). (B, L, D)

Day 3: To Linyanti ReserveThis morning, fly to the Linyanti Reserve, which boasts nearly 309,000 acres of private land bordering the famed Chobe National Park.

Day 1: Arrive Victoria FallsArrive in Livingstone, Zambia, and Victoria Falls where you will check in to your luxury camp on the banks of the Zambezi River. Late this afternoon, enjoy a sundowner cruise on the river. Tongabezi Lodge (Elite) / Toka Leya (Preferred) – 2 nights (D)

Day 2: Victoria FallsWith a private guide, take a walking tour of the falls. Or depart on a visit to a local village where you’ll have the special opportunity to

Northern Botswana Wetlands

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Livingstone

Linyanti ReserveVictoria Falls

Maun

Okavango Delta

Mokoro, Okavango Delta


Journey Highlights

Feel the mist on your face at Victoria Falls and picnic at the edge of the falls and take a swim in the “devil’s pool”

Search for endangered wild dog in Linyanti Reserve along with the region’s other iconic wildlife

Glide through the wild splendor of the Okavango Delta on a traditional mokoro

Discover the secrets of nocturnal species with your guide on a night game drive

Experience the bush up close on walking safaris with guides in your private reserves


Soar over the mist of Victoria Falls by tandem microlite

View the wildlife and waterways from the air on a scenic, open-sided helicopter flight

Enjoy a hot air balloon flight

Extend Your Journey

Southern Botswana • South Africa • Zambia Zimbabwe • Namibia • Mozambique

Enjoy a tasty lunch in your camp and then relax for a while before embarking on an afternoon game drive in search of some of the reserve’s large population of big game. Kings Pool Camp (Elite) / DumaTau Camp (Preferred) – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 4: Linyanti ReserveDiscover more of the natural wonders of this pristine Botswana reserve on day and night game drives, walks and seasonal boating and fishing activities in the private Linyanti Reserve with its large herds of elephant, community of wild dog and rich birdlife. (B, L, D)

Day 5: To Okavango DeltaAfter a morning game drive or walk, fly to the Okavango Delta, the largest inland delta in the world. This basin fills and evaporates in an annual cycle, creating one of the most exciting big game and bird-viewing experiences in Africa. Keep an eye open for the massive crocodile that lurk in the shallows waiting for their prey. Jao Camp (Elite) / Xigera Camp (Preferred) – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 6: Okavango DeltaEnjoy another day of exploring the wilds. You may take excursions by mokoro, which are tra-ditional dugout canoes that are poled by guides through the shallow waters, or motorized boats (water levels permitting). (B, L, D)

Day 7: Okavango DeltaToday, fly by light aircraft to your next camp in the Delta. Enjoy an afternoon game drive or guided walk and dinner at the camp. Vumbura Plains (Elite) / Chitabe Camp (Preferred) – 3 nights (D)

Days 8 & 9: Okavango DeltaEmbark upon day and night game drives and

walks in search of the prolific game found here, both large and small. Lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, giraffe, zebra, hyena and ample plains game and smaller species can be seen year-round. Enjoy an afternoon exploring the bush followed by sundowners, and then head back to camp for dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 10: Depart MaunOn your final morning in the bush, choose to take another game drive or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere. Later, bid farewell to your camp as you fly by light aircraft to Maun where you connect to your onward flight. (B)

Victoria Falls

Leopard, Okavango Delta


Day 1: Arrive Harare – To Mana Pools NPUpon arrival in Harare, fly to Mana Pools National Park, which occupies a stretch of land along the Zambezi River. This remote area boasts spectacular natural beauty and a rich diversity of game. Ruckomechi Camp – 3 nights (D)

Days 2 & 3: Mana Pools National ParkMana Pools is renowned for its large numbers of elephant, buffalo, hippo and eland. In the driest months, elephant stand on their hind legs to feed from acacia trees that bear fruit. Predators

such as lion, leopard and wild dog are all found in the area. Birdlife is superb, and in the dry months, the photogenic carmine bee-eaters nest in colonies on the riverbanks. You have a choice of activities, including wildlife viewing in open 4x4 vehicles, on motorized pontoon boats, on foot, in hides and in canoes. (B, L, D)

Day 4: To Matusadona National ParkFollowing breakfast this morning, depart Mana Pools and take to the air on a scenic flight to the shores of Lake Kariba, where you continue

Travel to the heart of Africa from the riverine environments of Mana Pools National Park and the Zambezi River — home to hippo, crocodile and a variety of birdlife — to the great herds in Hwange National Park. Discover the wild areas of Zimbabwe, and along the way, view the semi-aquatic elephant on Lake Kariba’s shores in the immense Matusadona National Park and stand at the edge of the cascades of Victoria Falls.


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Zimbabwe Rediscovered

Victoria Falls

Hwange National Park

Harare

Mana Pools National Park

Matusadona National Park

Lake Kariba


Journey Highlights

Enjoy walking safaris with your naturalist guides in Mana Pools National Park

Spot hippo, lion, leopard and rare, endangered wild dog in Mana Pools by land or from a boat or canoe on the Zambezi River

Observe uniquely adapted elephant along the shores of Lake Kariba

Track vast herds of buffalo, elephant and sable in Hwange National Park

Feel the mist on your face at majestic Victoria Falls where you also embark on a sunset cruise and elephant-back safari


Spend an unforgettable night under the African sky on a “star bed”

Fish on Lake Kariba and try your luck with the famous tiger fish

Soar over Victoria Falls by helicopter

Extend Your Journey

South Africa • Botswana • Zambia Namibia • Mozambique

Day 10: Victoria FallsEmbark upon a morning elephant-back safari. This afternoon, enjoy a guided walk of nearby Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Afterward, celebrate your last evening in Zimbabwe during a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. (B, L, D)

Day 11: Depart Victoria FallsBid farewell to Africa as you are escorted to the Victoria Falls Airport for your onward flight. (B)

by boat to your tented camp with views across the lake to the Matusadona Mountains. After checking in, you have time at leisure before an afternoon game drive or lake excursion. Changa Camp – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 5: Matusadona National ParkEnjoy a full day exploring this vast park. The el-ephant here are unique in that they have adapted to a semi-aquatic lifestyle along the lakeshore, which attracts many of the park’s wildlife popula-tion. In addition to game drives, explore on foot and boat on Lake Kariba. (B, L, D)

Day 6: To Hwange National ParkContinue by light aircraft to Hwange today. Upon arrival, take a scenic drive through the park to your camp, which overlooks a pan attracting game year-round. Linkwasha Camp – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Days 7 & 8: Hwange National ParkHwange National Park is home to some of southern Africa’s last great elephant, buffalo and sable herds. Along the Botswana border, the easternmost tongues of the Kalahari sands creep into the country and mix with the teak forests of the interior, so that desert-adapted animals share the same habitat with woodland species. Embark on twice-daily game drives and try out the log pile hide, where you can view elephant very closely as they come to quench their thirst at the waterhole. (B, L, D)

Day 9: To Victoria FallsAfter a last game drive, depart on a scenic flight to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. Upon arrival, continue to your camp in the nearby bush with views of Victoria Falls’ spray and the gorges of the Zambezi River. Enjoy sundowners overlooking the gorge. The Elephant Camp – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Lion

Zebra


Explore the stark desert landscapes of Namibia on this journey through a remote land. Begin your travels in the home of the tallest sand dunes in the world, the clay pan of Sossusvlei. Search for desert-adapted elephant, lion, giraffe, leopard, and more from your camp near the famed Skeleton Coast. Then, travel into the Kunene River Valley to meet the nomadic Himba people and explore some of the wildest land on the continent.


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flanked by the famous sand dunes that glow red in the early morning sun. Also see Dead Vlei, another pan where water once flowed; now all that remains are the skeletons of trees reaching up out of the cracked earth. This afternoon, explore the wilderness reserve by quad-bike. (B, L, D)

Day 3: To Skeleton CoastTravel by light aircraft to a remote area of mountains, vast plains, and dry riverbeds inhabited by fascinating wildlife. Your camp lies

Day 1: Arrive Windhoek – To SossusvleiUpon arrival in Windhoek, connect by light aircraft to the vast Namib Desert. Commence your adventure in Sossusvlei, home to the highest sand dunes in the world. This afternoon, enjoy a nature drive or walk for great views of desert-adapted wildlife and plants followed by a sundowner and dinner at the lodge. Little Kulala – 2 nights (D)

Day 2: SossusvleiAfter breakfast this morning, embark on a visit to the enormous clay pan of Sossusvlei, which is

The Desert of Namibia

Kunene River Valley

Windhoek

Skeleton Coast

Sossusvlei

Skeleton Coast


Journey Highlights

Explore the massive sand dunes of the Namib Desert as well as the immense clay pan

Search for rare, desert-adapted lion and elephant near the banks of the Hoanib River

Visit the great colony of Cape fur seal on the wild Skeleton Coast

Spot crocodile and water birds in the lush oases of the Kunene River

Meet the semi-nomadic Himba people who have inhabited the Kunene River Valley for generations


Soar above the highest sand dunes in the world on an early morning hot air balloon ride over the Namib Desert

Make the most of your time by chartering a private bush plane to cover the great distances in Namibia

Extend Your Journey

Etosha National Park • Victoria Falls Botswana • South Africa

on the transient Hoanib River and is flanked by desert mountains. Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Day 4: Skeleton CoastDiscover the wealth of desert-adapted life, including elephant and giraffe, alongside antelope, which are stalked by lion, leopard and cheetah. Learn the history of the original Strandlopers (“Beachcombers”), their stone circles lying in hidden valleys; marvel at the ancient welwitschia plant; follow the herds of springbok; and savor landscapes untouched by human habitation for hundreds of miles. (B, L, D)

Day 5: Skeleton CoastEmbark on a 4x4 trip to the Skeleton Coast via the wilderness and wildlife of the Hoanib River and floodplain. Upon arrival, marvel at the rocky coastline with its huge Cape fur seal colony and remains of shipwrecks. If weather permits, a scenic flight back to camp offers a different and breathtaking perspective of your journey from the air. (B, L, D)

Day 6: To Kunene River ValleyContinue by light aircraft to one of the most remote camps on the African continent. Set among shady trees on the banks of the Kunene River, Serra Cafema offers access to some of the most spectacular landscapes in the world — and an opportunity to meet some of Africa’s last nomadic people. Serra Cafema – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Day 7: Kunene River ValleyEmbark on nature drives in open Land Rovers to experience the Namib Desert in all its glory. Then, slow down and take a guided walking safari to see the smaller denizens of the desert, from the famous fairy circles to the desert chameleon. Climb aboard a boat

to explore the lush riverside oases and the Kunene River, which is home to crocodile and water birds. (B, L, D)

Day 8: Kunene River ValleyAccompany your expert guides who take care not to disturb the fragile ecosystem — on a quad bike excursion through the dunes where local Himba people continue their traditional, semi-nomadic way of life. As you pass through this remote area, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about their lifestyles and traditions. (B, L, D)

Day 9: Depart WindhoekFly to Windhoek to connect with your onward flight. (B)

Himba Woman

Dead Vlei


Embark on an unforgettable wilderness adventure in Zambia, home to some of Africa’s best wildlife viewing and most dramatic landscapes. This exciting journey showcases the country’s diverse national parks, the breathtaking, unspoiled riverine ecosystem of the Lower Zambezi and the famed walking safaris of the South Luangwa. Then, travel to Malawi to swim in the clear waters of Africa’s most beautiful lake and explore the dramatic landscapes and warm communities surrounding your lodge.


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than 50 mammal species, including lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and hippo. Watch tropical birds skim the surface of the water and call from the trees. And keep your eyes peeled for crocodile lazing on the riverbanks. Back at your camp, indulge in tasty home-cooked dinners and spend your evenings studying the constellations in the southern skies. (B, L, D)

Day 4: To South Luangwa National ParkAfter breakfast this morning, fly by light aircraft to Mfuwe. From there, travel into South

Day 1: Arrive Lusaka – To Lower ZambeziUpon arrival in Lusaka, you will be met and escorted to your light aircraft flight to the Lower Zambezi National Park, a sprawling area of rivers and plains that remains one of the wildest areas in Africa. Old Mondoro or Chiawa Camp – 3 nights (D)

Days 2 & 3: Lower Zambezi National ParkOver the next two days, enjoy a variety of activi-ties in the Lower Zambezi. During game drives and river excursions, search for members of more

Zambia & Malawi

T

Likoma Island

Lake Malawi

LilongweLusaka

South Luangwa National Park

Lower Zambezi National Park

Zebra, South Luangwa National Park


Journey Highlights

Spot lion, leopard, hippo, crocodile and a wide variety of birdlife from canoe on the mighty Zambezi River

Try your hand at fishing for the aggressive tiger fish

Search for wildlife on one of South Luangwa National Park’s famed walking safaris

Track leopard in the South Luangwa, the continent’s premier spot to search for these elusive cats

Swim and snorkel in the clear blue waters of Lake Malawi and take a beautiful sunset sailboat cruise on the lake


Reserve exclusive vehicles and guides and explore at your own pace on safari

End your journey in style upgrading to accommodations with private plunge pools overlooking Lake Malawi

Extend Your Journey

Victoria Falls • Botswana • South Africa

Luangwa National Park, which was the place where the walking safari was invented. It’s still the best spot on the continent to track leopard, hippo, lion and wild dog with some of Africa’s top guides. Chamilandu or Chindeni Camp – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 5: South Luangwa National ParkWhether you’re on foot or in a safari vehicle, you’ll be amazed by the impressive range of habitats in South Luangwa National Park. Thirsty animals, such as lion, zebra, antelope and buffalo visit the many oxbow lakes near the camp with regularity. You can enjoy lunch or a drink in a comfortable hide while observing elephant bathing in the lake and the natural rhythms of the bush. (B, L, D)

Days 6 & 7: South Luangwa National ParkJust as the herds migrate from one area to the next, you’ll move to your next camp today. Upon arrival, check in and embark on a classic walking safari or game drive led by an expert naturalist guide. In the evenings, head to the campfire, where you can share stories and indulge in sumptuous meals designed by the camp chef. Bilimungwe or Kapamba or Zungulila Camp – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 8: To Likoma IslandAfter a last breakfast in the bush, continue to Mfuwe and fly via Lilongwe to Lupita Island on Lake Malawi, which is regarded as having the best marine diversity and abundance of life on the lake. Kaya Mawa – 4 nights (B, L, D)

Days 9-11: Likoma IslandEnjoy three days on the lake, which is the world’s most ecologically diverse lake. Its crystal-clear waters are home to more than a thousand species of fish. Spend some time

soaking up the sun and swimming, snorkeling or kayaking the clear blue waters of the lake, or experience the warm people of Malawi as you explore the island on foot or mountain bike. At the end of the day, sail into the sunset on one of the resort’s sailboats. (B, L, D)

Day 12: Depart LilongweFly back to Lilongwe and connect to your onward flight. (B)

Lake Malawi

Elephant, Lower Zambezi National Park


Journey Highlights

Get to know the local Antandroy people as you learn about their traditional music, dance and sports

In the South, experience the unique environments and wildlife by day and night, including the iconic ring-tailed lemur

See the world’s largest species of lemur, the Indri, and spot chameleon in the lush Perinet-Andasibe Special Reserve

Enjoy the pristine beaches and diverse environment around your elegant resort in Anjajavy


Private bush planes allow you to follow your own schedule and avoid disruption when traveling around Madagascar

Consider extending your stay at Anjajavy with its vast range of environments and experiences to enjoy

Extend Your Journey

Avenue of Baobabs • Tsingy National Park Seychelles • Kenya • South Africa

Discover the fantastic and unusual flora and fauna of Madagascar. Isolated for 65 million years, the remote island boasts 200,000 endemic species, including nearly 100 species of lemur. Along the way, search for the world’s largest (and smallest) lemur species, learn about the traditions of the country’s native people, spot a variety of endemic and migrating birds, explore the mysteries of the nocturnal forest, and indulge yourself at the beachfront Anjajavy Resort.


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Day 1: Arrive AntananarivoUpon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel. Lokanga Boutique Hotel – 1 night

Day 2: To IfotakaIn your camp in Southern Madagascar, learn about traditional Antandroy music. Mandrare River Camp – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Day 3: IfotakaExplore ancient tombs and attend a perfor-mance of Antandroy wrestling. (B, L, D)

Day 4: IfotakaRise early to see sifaka and ring-tailed lemur. (B, L, D)

Day 5: To Perinet-Andasibe Special ReserveReturn to Antananarivo, and on to Perinet-Andasibe Special Reserve. Vakôna Forest Lodge – 3 nights (B, D)

Days 6 & 7: Perinet-Andasibe Special ReserveSearch for the Indri, in addition to boa, chameleon and indigenous birds. (B, D)

Day 8: To AntananarivoReturn to Antananarivo. Lokanga Boutique Hotel – 1 night (B)

Day 9: To Anjajavy Private ReserveFly to Anjajavy. Anjajavy – 3 nights (B, D)

Days 10 & 11: Anjajavy Private ReserveExplore the area while indulging yourself at your beachfront resort. (B, D)

Day 12: Depart AntananarivoFly to Antananarivo to connect with your onward flight. (B)

Mysteries of Madagascar

Lemur, Perinet-Andasibe Special Reserve

Antananarivo

Anjajavy

Ifotaka

Perinet-Andasibe Special Reserve


Journey Highlights

Shop for local art and handicrafts in Victoria’s bustling market

Visit the legendary Vallée de Mai on Praslin Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to the fabulous coco de mer tree

Relax on the white sands of the world-renowned Anse Lazio beach, which is surrounded by cerulean waters and dramatic granite boulders

Relish a traditional Creole lunch on one of La Digue Island’s idyllic beaches


Spend the day on a private vessel traveling between islands and enjoying the sea

Take in the scene from above, transferring between islands by helicopter

Visit the land tortoises of Cap Lazare Nature Reserve

Extend Your Journey

Kenya • South Africa • United Arab Emirates

Discover the islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, home to white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and granite boulders, ancient remnants of the islands’ former connections to Africa. As you travel through the remote archipelago of the Seychelles, explore dense primeval jungles, swim and snorkel in warm, crystal-clear waters, luxuriate on pristine beaches, get acquainted with the local Creole culture, and indulge in sumptuous cuisine, first-class service and accommodation.


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Day 1: Arrive MahéUpon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel. Four Seasons Resort Seychelles (Elite) / Kempinski Resort (Preferred) – 3 nights

Day 2: MahéEmbark on a full-day tour of Mahé, including a walk through a vibrant market. (B)

Day 3: MahéSpend the day at leisure enjoying your resort. (B)

Day 4: To PraslinAfter breakfast, fly to Praslin Island. Raffles Praslin Resort & Spa (Elite) / Hotel L’Archipel (Preferred) – 5 nights (B)

Day 5: PraslinDiscover the legendary Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to a prehistoric rainforest of huge coco de mer trees. Then, relax on Anse Lazio. (B)

Day 6: PraslinEnjoy a day at leisure on Praslin. (B)

Day 7: PraslinBoard a ferry to La Digue Island to dine at a popular Creole restaurant and enjoy La Digue’s beautiful beaches. (B, L)

Day 8: PraslinToday is at leisure to enjoy your luxury resort. (B)

Day 9: Depart MahéFly to Mahé and connect to your onward flight. (B)

Seychelles: Jewel of the Indian Ocean

La Digue

Mahé Island

Praslin Island

La Digue Island


Spotlight Journeys – South Africa

Day 1: Cape Town – To Bushmans KloofUpon arrival in Cape Town, you will be escorted to the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains. Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat – 3 nights (D)

Days 2 & 3: Bushmans KloofExplore a host of enriching, relaxing and invigorating experiences offered by the resort, including educational talks at the Heritage Center and guided walks to some of the 130 ancient Bushman rock art sites that can be found in the reserve. If you’re feeling adventurous, you may also participate in an assortment of exhilarating outdoor activities such as nature drives, botanical walks, mountain biking, archery and fly-fishing. The intimate spa offers a range of holistic healing and wellness treat-ments deeply rooted in nature. (B, L, D)

Day 4: Depart Cape TownToday, return to Cape Town to board your onward flight. (B)

Day 1: To PretoriaYou are accompanied from Johannesburg to Pretoria to board your lavishly refurbished Edwardian-style train and check in to your luxurious cabin. Rovos Rail – 2 nights (D)

Day 2: To KimberleyAfter a leisurely evening on the train, arrive in Kimberley in the morning. Disembark and explore the city. Then, delve into the history of gold mining in the area with a visit to the Diamond Mine Museum and the world’s largest man-made excavation, the Big Hole. (B, L, D)

Day 3: Arrive Cape TownEnjoy a guided visit to the historic village of Matjiesfontein. This perfectly preserved Victorian village boasts an impressive museum of vintage automobiles, bicycles and locomo-tives. Back on board, savor lunch as you pass through the winelands on your way to Cape Town. On arrival, you are escorted to your hotel or the airport. (B, L)

Please note: This journey can also be taken in reverse.

Day 1: To KimberleyBegin your journey as you are accompanied from your hotel or the airport to Pretoria. The epitome of luxury rail travel since 1946, the Blue Train offers a completely immersive experience, including elegant suites, personal butlers and the finest cuisine. As you roll out of the station, you’ll pass through the grasslands of the Highveld. Early this evening, arrive in Kimberley, home to some of the richest gold mines in the world. Disembark and explore the Diamond Mine Museum and the world’s largest man-made excavation, the Big Hole. Blue Train – 1 night (L, D)

Day 2: Arrive Cape TownThis morning, enjoy breakfast as the train travels through the Cape Winelands. On arrival in Cape Town, you are escorted to your hotel or the airport. (B, L)

Please note: This journey can also be taken from Cape Town to Pretoria (visiting Matjiesfontein instead of Kimberley).

Ceder berg Mou nta ins The Blue Tr a inRovos R a il


Spotlight Journeys – Southern Africa & Indian OceanCox & Kings Spotlight Journeys are Single-Destination Short Itineraries, designed to combine or extend your customized Private Journey.

Day 1: Mahé – To North IslandUpon arrival in the Seychelles, you’ll be whisked across the sea by helicopter to your exclusive island resort on North Island. North Island – 3 nights (D)

Days 2 & 3: North IslandEnjoy two full days in your island paradise as you take advantage of all the activities available. Explore the island by mountain bike or by following some of the marked nature walks. Take to the water for snorkeling, fishing, boating or sea kayaking. If you like, do some scuba diving or even take an introductory course. Or simply relax and enjoy your spacious villa, delicious cuisine and incredible beach — and perhaps pamper yourself with a spa treatment. (B, L, D)

Day 4: Depart MahéAfter your final morning at leisure, bid farewell to your resort and return to Mahé by helicopter to connect to your onward flight. (B)

Day 1: MauritiusUpon arrival in Mauritius, you will be escorted to your luxury resort. Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita – 3 nights

Day 2: MauritiusThis morning, enjoy a tour of the island, including the charming colonial architecture in the capital of Port Louis. Admire the natural mountain scenery and pay a visit to one of the lush sugarcane fields. Afterward, return to your resort in the afternoon to take advantage of your choice of land- or water-based activities. (B)

Day 3: MauritiusEnjoy a morning at leisure at your resort. Perhaps play a round of golf at the adjacent course or partake in a luxurious spa treatment. This afternoon, take a private catamaran, including lunch and an opportunity to snorkel in the turquoise waters. (B, L)

Day 4: Depart MauritiusAfter breakfast at the resort, return to the airport to board your onward flight. (B)

Day 1: Vilanculos – To Benguerra IslandUpon arrival in the Vilanculos, continue by heli-copter to Benguerra Island. This unspoiled island within a national park offers deserted beaches of pure white sand, sparkling turquoise seas crisscrossed by local dhows plying their trade, swaying palms, sunny days and starry nights. Azura Benguerra – 3 nights (D)

Days 2 & 3: Benguerra IslandDive or snorkel along the reefs, and see turtles that nest on the island’s outer shores. You may visit the local community or climb the dunes, some of which are scattered with the remnants of ancient Arab pottery, for an amazing view of the archipelago. Visit the island’s lakes and spot a crocodile or two. A sunset dhow cruise is a beautiful ending to your day, with gorgeous views over the archipelago. (B, L, D)

Day 4: Depart VilanculosReturn to Vilanculos by helicopter to connect to your onward flight. (B)

Seychelles

North Isla nd

Moza mbique

Benguer r a Isla nd

M aur itius

A na hita Peninsula

Atlas Mountains, Morocco

north AfriCA

& ArAbiA

The desert lands of North Africa and Arabia have enticed travelers for millennia with the sounds of tinkling caravan bells, the heady scents of frankincense and myrrh, rich flavors of Arabic and Bedouin cuisine and the endless vistas of rolling dunes, shimmering oases, stark mountain ranges and the glittering waters of the sea. From the vibrant markets and medinas of Morocco and the desert fortresses of Oman to the sacred sites of Israel, the historic ruins in Jordan and the pyramids of Egypt, you’ll be immersed in some of the oldest civilizations on earth. Journey into the land of 1001 nights and prepare yourself to be changed forever.


Known to the Arabs as al-Maghreb al-Aqsa, meaning the “farthest land of the setting sun”, Morocco boasts stunning natural beauty and an extraordinarily rich cultural heritage. Discover the souqs and thousand-year-old labyrinth medinas of fabled Fez, the fantastic gardens of Marrakech, the rugged mountain landscapes of the Atlas range and the seaside village of Essaouira. Relish the flavors of one of the world’s great cuisines while spending your nights in some of Morocco’s traditional riads.


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centuries, Meknes boasts a fascinating medina (old city) and maze of streets filled with colorful stalls and architectural delights such as the intricately carved Bab el-Mansour. Continue to Moulay Idriss, Morocco’s holiest city, and then on to the Roman ruins at Volubilis to see the Triumphal Arch and exquisite mosaics. (B)

Day 3: FezFez el-Bali is the world’s largest and most beauti-ful living medieval city. Tour the 14th-century Medersa Bou Inania (theological college), which is

Day 1: Arrive Casablanca – To FezUpon arrival in Casablanca, you will be wel-comed by your Cox & Kings local representative. Embark upon a scenic drive of approximately three hours to the royal city of Fez and check in to your riad (traditional Moroccan house with a garden courtyard). Riad Fes (Elite) / Riad Myra (Preferred) – 3 nights

Day 2: FezDrive through the Moroccan countryside to Meknes. A cultural center for more than ten

Moroccan Odyssey

Volubilis

FezMeknes

Casablanca

Marrakech

Essaouira

Essaouira


Journey Highlights

Explore the ancient city of Meknes and the Roman ruins at Volubilis

Wander through the alleyways and lanes of Fez’s teeming medina

Search for authentic Moroccan treasures in Marrakech’s souqs

Experience the stunning scenery and Berber villages of the Atlas Mountains

Discover the hidden wonders of the seaside city of Essaouira


Immerse yourself in the delights of Moroccan cuisine with a private cooking class at the famed La Maison Arabe

Travel by private plane to cover the long overland distances between Moroccan destinations

Hover over the Marrakech countryside by hot air balloon

Extend Your Journey

Desert • Egypt • Spain • Portugal

famous for its Koranic scriptures in stucco, zellij tiles and carved wood. Explore the 13th-century tanneries and henna and spice souqs (markets) as you wind your way through the labyrinth of streets and alleys, discovering hidden squares like the Place an-Nejjarine. (B)

Day 4: To MarrakechTraverse the Middle Atlas range with its landscape of Berber villages and ancient cedar forests on a leisurely drive. Stop for a picnic lunch in the Tadla region at Beni Mellal, famous for its oranges, grapefruits, apricots and figs. Late this afternoon, arrive in Marrakech, the cultural capital of southern Morocco. Villa Des Orangers (Elite) / Riad Kniza (Preferred) – 3 nights (B, L)

Day 5: MarrakechToday, tour the Saadian Tombs, elegant El Badi Palace and the 12th-century Koutoubia mosque, which is famed throughout the Arab world. Meander through the medina, exploring an end-less procession of souqs, mosques and medersas. Just before sunset, visit the Djemaa el-Fna, the enormous square and atmospheric wonderland of torch-lit food stalls, snake charmers, storytell-ers and acrobats. (B)

Day 6: MarrakechVenture outside the city limits and head for the hills to experience the majestic High Atlas Mountains. Savor lunch at the famed Residence de la Roseraie with its beautiful gardens overflowing with roses of every color imaginable. (B, L)

Day 7: To EssaouiraDrive to the quaint fishing village of Essaouira, which stands on a peninsula swept by the trade winds. Everyone from the Phoenicians to the French has left their touches on this coastal town. And in 1949, Orson Welles chose Essaouira’s imposing battlements as the

setting for his movie, Othello. Heure Bleue Palais (Elite) / Sofitel Essaouira Mogador Golf & Spa (Preferred) – 2 nights (B)

Day 8: EssaouiraAs you explore the city’s narrow alleyways and streets, stumble upon art galleries and craft workshops tucked away behind fortified walls. The city boasts some excellent seafood restaurants, as well as acclaimed chefs offering unique takes on traditional Moroccan cuisine, such as tajines and pastillas. (B)

Day 9: Depart MarrakechBid farewell to Morocco today as you are escorted to the airport in Marrakech for your onward flight. (B)

Marrakech Souq

Tannery, Fez


Discover the wonders of Morocco on this adventurous journey from the sea to the mountains to the desert. Wander through the twisting alleyways of Fez’s medieval medina. Watch the fire-eaters and snake charmers of the fabled Djemaa el-Fna in Marrakech. Spend a night in the comforts of your desert camp near the largest sand dunes in Morocco. And experience the stunning scenery and the culture of the Berber people of the Atlas Mountains.

suGGEstEd ItInErAry only

12 dAys & 11 nIGHts rAbAt, mEKnEs, volubIlIs, fEZ, sAHArA dEsErt, sKourA, mArrAKEcH & AtlAs mountAIns

carved Bab el-Mansour. Continue to Moulay Idriss, Morocco’s holiest city, and then onto the Roman ruins at Volubilis to see the Triumphal Arch and exquisite mosaics. Late this afternoon, arrive in Fez. Palais Faraj (Elite) / Riad Myra (Preferred) – 2 nights (B, L)

Day 3: FezFez el-Bali is the world’s largest living medieval city. Tour the 14th-century Medersa Bou Inania (theological college), which is famous for its Koranic scriptures in stucco, zellij tiles and

Day 1: Arrive Casablanca – To RabatUpon arrival, you will be welcomed by your Cox & Kings local representative. Depart for the capital city of Rabat and enjoy an afternoon city tour. Villa Mandarin (Elite) / Hotel Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses (Preferred) – 1 night

Day 2: To FezA cultural center for more than ten centuries, Meknes boasts a fascinating medina (old city) and maze of streets filled with colorful stalls and architectural delights such as the intricately

Jewels of Morocco: From Cities to Desert to Atlas Mountains

Ouarzazate

FezCasablanca

Rabat

Desert

Skoura

Marrakech

Atlas Moutnains


Journey Highlights

Visit the sites of Rabat, Morocco’s capital

Tour the ancient city of Meknes and the Roman ruins at Volubilis and wander through the alleyways of Fez’s teeming medina

Explore the sand dunes of Erg Chebbi by 4x4 and step back in time visiting the ancient Kasbahs surrounding the oasis of Skoura

Search for Moroccan treasures in Marrakech’s souqs and experience a traditional cooking class

Explore the Berber countryside in the High Atlas Mountains


Travel by private plane to cover the long overland distances between Moroccan destinations

Experience dinner as guests in a historic Moroccan home

Hover over the Marrakech countryside by hot air balloon

Extend Your Journey

Moroccan Coast • Egypt • Spain Portugal

carved wood. Explore the 13th-century tanner-ies and henna and spice souqs (markets). (B)

Day 4: To the DesertDrive toward the Middle Atlas Mountains. Stop for a picnic at the nature reserve of Midelt before descending into the palm groves and fortified villages of the Ziz valley. Head into the desert, and watch the sunset over the dunes of Erg Chebbi. This evening, savor a candlelight dinner with entertainment by local Bedouin. Sahara Camp – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 5: To SkouraDepart for Rissani, a former trading caravan post. Visit My Ali Cherif Mausoleum and a surviving medieval ksar (castle). Continue through a succession of Berber villages and the impressive canyons of Todghra Gorges in the Atlas Mountains toward the oasis of Skoura. Dar Ahlam (Elite) / Ksar El Kabbaba (Preferred) – 2 nights (B, L, D)

Day 6: SkouraStep back in time and spend the day exploring the wonderful groves and mountains surround-ing Skoura. (B, L, D)

Day 7: To MarrakechEn route to Marrakech, visit the kasbahs of Taourirt and Ouarzazate, including the fortified village of Ait Benhaddou. After lunch, drive to the top of the Tizi n’Tichka Pass before descending to Marrakech. La Sultana (Elite) / Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial (Preferred) – 3 nights (B, L)

Day 8: MarrakechToday, tour the Saadian Tombs, elegant El Badi Palace and the 12th-century Koutoubia mosque. Just before sunset, visit the Djemaa el-Fna, the enormous square and atmospheric wonderland of torch-lit food stalls, snake charmers, storytell-ers and acrobats. (B)

Day 9: MarrakechDiscover the pleasures of learning about one of the great cuisines of the world at La Maison Arabe cooking workshop. This afternoon, walk through the medieval Menara Park and visit the glorious Majorelle Gardens. (B, L)

Day 10: To Atlas MountainsDrive across the southern plains of Marrakech toward the green valley of Asni with views of the peak of Toubkal. Kasbah Tamadot (Elite) / Kasbah du Toubkal (Preferred) – 2 nights (B)

Day 11: Atlas MountainsThe day is yours. Perhaps enjoy a hike to a picturesque Berber village, or travel by mule or mountain bike. (B)

Day 12: Depart MarrakechBid farewell to Morocco as you are accompa-nied to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Erg Chebbi

Riad, Fez

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience traditional

luxury in a Moroccan riad.

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Burj Khalifa, Dubai


Journey Highlights

Discover the wind-towered houses of Dubai’s old quarter along with the Old Fort and cross the Creek to visit the souks

Ascend the world’s tallest building for breathtaking views over the city

Marvel at Dubai’s manmade islands on a seaplane flight

Embark on a thrilling desert safari

Visit the Abu Dhabi falcon hospital and learn the role these treasured birds play in Bedouin culture


Quietly float above the desert on a hot air balloon flight

Travel to the East Coast of the UAE and charter a boat for a day of snorkeling or diving

Visit the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Center for Cultural Understanding, which was built to bridge the gap between the inhabitants of Dubai

Extend Your Journey

Oman • Jordan • Africa • Indian Ocean

Immerse yourself in an enthralling blend of the ancient and the modern in the United Arab Emirates. Embark on this private adventure that features in-depth explorations of the history and culture of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, a magnificent flight aboard a seaplane over the manmade islands of Dubai, as well as an unforgettable stay in the desert that can include a desert safari, a naturalist-guided hike and horseback riding.


7 dA y s & 6 n I G H t s d u b A I , A r A b I A n d E s E r t & A b u d H A b I

Day 1: Arrive DubaiUpon arrival, you are escorted to your hotel. One&Only Royal Mirage (Elite) / Taj Dubai (Preferred) – 2 nights

Day 2: DubaiVisit Jumeira Mosque, the wind-towered houses of Bastakiya, the Al Fahidi Fort and the Burj Khalifa. (B)

Day 3: To Arabian DesertSee Dubai’s manmade islands on a flightseeing excursion before heading into the desert. Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa (Elite) / Qasr al Sarab Desert Resort (Preferred) – 2 nights (B)

Day 4: Arabian DesertEmbark on a four-wheel-drive desert safari, join a naturalist guide to search for wildlife, or ride a magnificent Arabian steed across the dunes. (B)

Day 5: To Abu DhabiAfter a leisurely morning, drive to Abu Dhabi. Kempinski Emirates Palace (Elite) / The St. Regis Abu Dhabi (Preferred) – 2 nights (B)

Day 6: Abu DhabiVisit the falcon hospital, the Heritage Village, Al Husn Fort and the Grand Mosque. (B)

Day 7: Depart Abu DhabiTravel to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

UAE: Arabian Nights

Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Arabian Desert

Abu Dhabi

Dubai


Oman is one of the most beautiful countries of the Arabian Peninsula, offering a combination of breathtaking natural landscapes and fascinating cultural heritage. On this journey, visit the ancient Muttrah souq in the intriguing capital of Muscat and explore the historic inland walled town of Nizwa. Discover magnificent forts, colorful local markets, the rolling dunes of the Wahiba Sands and the stunning spectacle of Wadi Ghul, the Grand Canyon of Oman.


8 dA y s & 7 n I G H t s m u s c At, wA H I b A s A n d s & J A b A l A K H dA r

Omani culture at the Bair Al Zubair Museum. And finish your travels with a walking tour of the old city. This evening, indulge in a convivial dinner at the private home of an Omani family. (B, D)

Day 3: MuscatRise early to visit the bustling Seeb fish market and Barka souq. Today’s journey takes you from the country’s agricultural heartland through scenic valleys dotted with historic forts, includ-ing the strongholds of Bait Na’am and Nakhl. You may continue through the white valley of

Day 1: Arrive MuscatUpon arrival in Muscat, you will be escorted to your luxurious seaside resort. Al Bustan Palace & Resort – 3 nights

Day 2: MuscatDiscover Muscat’s enchanting blend of ancient and modern. Explore the grand Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. Wander the narrow, covered alleys of Muttrah’s souk where the exotic fragrances of perfumes and aromas of ground coffee and other spices fill the air. Delve into

Oman: Land of Arabia

Muscat

Wahiba Sands

Jabal Akhdar

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat


Journey Highlights

Visit Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque and explore the Muttrah souk

Dine with a local family in their private home

Travel to Nakhl to visit the imposing, 350-year-old fort

Overnight under the stars at a tented camp in the desert inhabited by Bedouins

Experience Nizwa’s weekly cattle market and the women’s market in Ibra

Stand at the edge of Wadi Ghul, Oman’s Grand Canyon


Explore Oman’s coast and mountains by helicopter

Active guests can consider extended hiking or biking activities with specialist guides

Nature lovers can witness annual sea turtle migration, nesting and hatching along Oman’s coast from July to October

Extend Your Journey

United Arab Emirates • Jordan

Wadi Abyad to the village of Wakan to learn about the old traditions in this harsh mountain environment. Alternatively, return to Muscat and relax in the hot springs of Thowarah. (B)

Day 4: To Wahiba SandsEmbark on a journey to the desert — once the hub for trade with Zanzibar, India and China — stopping at the women’s market at Ibra on the way. This afternoon, visit Al Mansfah village, a community of mansions once owned by prosperous merchants of the 19th century. Proceed to the beautiful Wadi Bani Khalid, a picturesque river valley, which stands in stark contrast to the surrounding desert. Late this afternoon, head out into the desert for a night under the stars at a deluxe tented camp. Desert Nights Tented Camp – 1 night (B, D)

Day 5: To Jabal AkhdarExperience the magnificent Wahiba Sands, a vast sea of undulating red and white sand dunes rising up 600 feet. Walk over the dunes or enjoy a short camel ride. Later, immerse yourself in the ancient world of the nomads as you meet one of the Bedouin families to learn more about their lives in the desert. Visit the Sinaw cattle market, and then continue to the rich plantations of Birkat al Mauz. Walk through a mountain village to see the intricate systems of irrigation and agriculture. Alila Jabal Akhdar – 2 nights (B)

Day 6: Jabal AkhdarBegin your sightseeing with a visit to Nizwa’s weekly cattle market. See the city’s tower fort before continuing to the charming old town of Al Hamra to walk among the old mud houses, one of which is thought to be 400 years old, and to Misfah, one of the most picturesque villages in Oman. Visit the interior of Jabrin Castle,

an excellent example of Omani residential architecture, and view the huge fort at Bahla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from the outside. Then, stand in awe at Wadi Ghul, the Grand Canyon of Oman before visiting some traditional villages. (B)

Day 7: To MuscatEn route to Muscat, pass through spectacular scenery and local villages. Al Bustan Palace & Resort – 1 night (B)

Day 8: Depart MuscatReturn to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Wahiba Desert

Bahla Fort


One of the most fascinating countries in the world, Israel’s history goes back thousands of years, with the rise and fall of numerous empires and cultures. On this journey, you’ll travel through the Holy Land and experience its wonders in comfort and style. From cosmopolitan Tel Aviv and ancient Jerusalem to the stark Judean Desert and the Dead Sea, explore Roman ruins, crusader strongholds, spectacular landscapes and sacred sanctuaries that have stood the test of time.


9 dA y s & 8 n I G H t s t E l Av I v, t I b E r I A s & J E r u s A l E m

Day 3: To TiberiasTravel to Caesarea, once the Roman capital of the Holy Land. View the remains of the Roman and Crusader eras and the harbor from which St. Paul was taken prisoner. Continue to Haifa and ascend to the summit of Mount Carmel for spectacular views. After a stop to see the Persian Gardens at the Bahai Shrine, immerse yourself in the medieval world in historic Acre, headquarters of the Knights of St. John. Scots Hotel Tiberias – 2 nights (B)

Day 1: Arrive Tel AvivUpon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel. Dan Hotel Tel Aviv (Elite) / Dan Panorama Hotel (Preferred) – 2 nights

Day 2: Tel AvivVisit Independence Hall, which highlights the role the city played in establishing the modern state of Israel. Drive through Tel Aviv, admiring the striking Bauhaus architecture on Rothschild Boulevard. In the afternoon, explore Jaffa, perhaps the world’s oldest city. (B)

Israel: The Ancient Land

T

Jerusalem

Sea of GalileeTiberias

Tel Aviv

Jerusalem


Journey Highlights

Wander the ancient streets of one of the world’s oldest cities

Ascend the Mount of Beatitudes, overlooking the Sea of Galilee

Walk along the Via Dolorosa in the Old City of Jerusalem and tour the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus

Ride a cable car up to the mountaintop fortress of Masada

Visit the cave where a Bedouin shepherd boy found the Dead Sea Scrolls

Take a dip in the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth


Tailor the journey towards any interest or faith

Visit ground-breaking archaeological sites not yet open to the public with researchers

Explore the Golan Height’s battlefields, Crusader Castles and villages in a 4x4 with a local resident

Extend Your Journey

Northern Israel Wineries • Jordan • Egypt

Day 4: TiberiasTrace the rise of early Christianity today beginning with a cruise on the Sea of Galilee. View the church at Tabgha, which was built to commemorate the feeding of the 5,000, and the Mount of Beatitudes, where Jesus delivered the famed Sermon on the Mount. In Capernaum, see the ancient synagogue where Jesus taught. This afternoon, continue to the Golan Heights and Tel Dan, the ancient Biblical city. (B)

Day 5: To JerusalemStart with a visit to the ruins of Sepphoris, once the center of Jewish spiritual life. Then, travel to Nazareth to visit the Basilica of the Annunciation, the biggest church in the Middle East. Stop at Beit Alpha to see the Byzantine-era synagogue. Afterward, drive along the rim of the Jordan Rift Valley to the holy city of Jerusalem. King David Hotel Jerusalem (Elite) / Inbal Jerusalem Hotel (Preferred) – 4 nights (B)

Day 6: JerusalemBegin at the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus was betrayed and arrested. Enter the city via the Zion Gate and proceed to the Jewish quarter. See the ancient Roman road at the heart of the city and the restored Sephardic synagogues. Continue to the Western Wall and observe worshippers in prayer. After viewing the Dome of the Rock, walk along the Way of the Cross through the markets of the Christian and Muslim quarters. The Via Dolorosa ends at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the site of the Crucifixion and the Tomb of Christ. (B)

Day 7: JerusalemVisit the Jewish memorial to the six million lives lost to the Holocaust, Yad Vashem. The Dead Sea Scrolls await you in the Israel Museum, where you can also examine a fascinating model

of ancient Jerusalem. This afternoon, explore the fabled city of Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity. (B)

Day 8: JerusalemStart the day with sweeping views of Jerusalem’s walled Old City from the Mount of Olives be-fore visiting Qumran where a Bedouin shepherd boy discovered the Dead Sea Scrolls. Then, ascend by cable car to the imposing mountain-top fortress of Masada, from which you can see the pale, blue waters of the Dead Sea. (B)

Day 9: Depart Tel AvivReturn to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Dead Sea

Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem


On this classic journey, explore the ruins of Jerash, the White City of Amman and the crusader castle of Aljun. Travel along the King’s Highway to discover one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: Petra, the rose-red city lost for more than a millennium. Marvel at the stunning Byzantine mosaics at Madaba, experience Bedouin culture in Wadi Rum, and luxuriate in the curative waters of the Dead Sea at your spa resort.


7 dA y s & 6 n I G H t s A m m A n , p E t r A , & d E A d s E A

a stroll through Jordan’s long and fascinating his-tory. Head outside the city to discover the city of Jerash, widely regarded as the best-preserved city of the Roman Decapolis. Continue to Aljun through the hills of northern Jordan to see its towering castle, which was built in the 12th century to protect the region from the Crusaders. (B)

Day 3: To PetraSet out on a classic drive along parts of the King’s Highway en route to the Lost City of

Day 1: Arrive AmmanUpon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel. Four Seasons Hotel Amman (Elite) / Amman Marriott Hotel (Preferred) – 2 nights

Day 2: AmmanWith your expert local guide, visit old Amman, including the ancient ruins of the Temple of Hercules and the massive Roman theater, a wonderful example of classic Roman architec-ture that dates back to the second century. Stop at the National Archaeological Museum to take

Hidden Treasures of Jordan

T

Petra

Dead SeaAmman

Petra by Night


Journey Highlights

Tour the White City of Amman with your local guide and roam through the exquisitely preserved Greco-Roman ruins of Jerash

View the Holy Land from the summit of Mt. Nebo facing Jerusalem and visit the magnificent 12th-century crusader castle of Kerak

Discover the wonders of the rose-red city of Petra

Explore the striking landscapes of Wadi Rum by camel

Embark on a visit to the biblical land of “Bethany beyond the Jordan” and take a dip in the Dead Sea


Descend through the Siq to Petra’s Treasury lit by thousands of candles at night

Experience a traditional cooking class with local women on an evening in Petra

Spend the night in the Desert of Wadi Rum in an exclusive tented camp

Extend Your Journey

Israel • Egypt • United Arab Emirates

Petra. Stop on the way to visit Mt. Nebo, which is believed to be the site of Moses’ Tomb. Continue to Madaba, home of some of the world’s most famous Byzantine mosaics. From here, travel to Kerak to discover the impos-ing crusader castle that sits on a craggy hill above the town. One of the largest crusader castles in the region, “Crac des Moabites,” was constructed beginning in the 12th century. Movenpick Resort Petra (Elite) / Petra Marriott Hotel (Preferred) – 2 nights (B)

Day 4: PetraSpend the day exploring the red sandstone city of Petra, built 2,000 years ago by nomadic Bedouins. Situated between the Red Sea and the Dead Sea, the desert city was an important crossroads between Arabia, Egypt and Syria-Phoenicia. Its inhabitants became rich by imposing duties on traveling caravans. Petra is half-built, half-carved into the rock, and is surrounded by mountains riddled with passages and gorges. One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Petra blends ancient Eastern traditions with the glory of Greek architecture. From the narrow, winding passageway of the Siq and the great Treasury to the hilltop Monastery, discoveries await you at every turn. (B)

Day 5: To the Dead SeaThis morning, travel to Wadi Rum and enjoy a 4x4 ride with a local Bedouin guide, as well as a camel ride through ancient valleys under tower-ing sandstone mountains. Afterward, continue to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. Situated more than 1,000 feet below sea level, the Dead Sea has attracted travelers in search of rejuvenation for hundreds of years. The sea’s high salt content makes swimmers giddily buoy-ant, and the placid, pale blue waters stretching

out to the horizon are blissfully calm. Kempinski Hotel Ishtar (Elite) / Jordan Valley Marriott Resort & Spa (Preferred) – 2 nights (B)

Day 6: Dead SeaThis morning, visit the River Jordan and the Baptism site. Afterward, return to the resort for a final afternoon and evening at leisure. Take a dip in the world’s saltiest waters, relax by the pools or visit the spa. (B)

Day 7: Depart AmmanBid farewell to Jordan today as you are escorted to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Wadi Rum

Madaba


Experience the majesty of the Great Pyramids at Giza before boarding your river cruiser for a journey along the Nile. From the Temple of Ramses II at Abu Simbel to Luxor’s Valley of the Kings, see the splendors of ancient Egypt in the fashion of the Pharaohs. Back in Cairo, browse the wares at one of the world’s oldest marketplaces. Savor the best of Egyptian hospitality from the moment you arrive in Cairo until you depart.


9 dA y s & 8 n I G H t s c A I r o , A b u s I m b E l & n I l E r I v E r c r u I s E

an entire complex built by Imhotep, which is most famous for the Step Pyramid, the earliest of all classic memorials. After lunch, move on to the Great Pyramids at Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Then, embark on a voyage to pharaonic times at the Solar Boat Museum. Visit the mysterious Sphinx before returning to your hotel. (B, L)

Day 3: CairoPay a morning visit to the famed Egyptian Museum, repository of many of the glories of

Day 1: Arrive CairoUpon arrival, you will be escorted to your luxury hotel overlooking the Nile River. Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at the First Residence (Elite) / Fairmont Nile City (Preferred) – 3 nights

Day 2: CairoJoin your Egyptologist to discover the pyramids of Egypt. Begin with the less-visited pyramids at Dashour, including both the unusual Bent Pyramid and the Red Pyramid, which was built by the father of Cheops. Continue to Saqqara,

Egypt: Past & Present

T

Cairo

Luxor

EdfuKom Ombo

Aswan

Abu Simbel

Esna

Pyramid and Sphinx, Giza


Journey Highlights

Discover the treasures of Tutankhamen and the Mummy Room and see the Great Pyramids of Giza

Tour Abu Simbel’s temples, dedicated to Ramses II and his wife Nefertari

Visit Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor and Karnak temples and stroll through history in the Valley of the Kings along the Nile

Shop for treasures at the Khan el-Khalili Souq


Enjoy the continuity of traveling throughout the country in the company of a dedicated Egyptologist guide

Avoid the crowds and visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities before it opens

See the Sphinx up-close-and-personal within arm’s reach of its own paws

Descend as few others have into the well-preserved tomb of Queen Nefertari

Extend Your Journey

Jordan • Israel • Sharm el-Sheikh Northern Sudan • United Arab Emirates

antiquity, including the spectacular treasures of King Tutankhamen. Then, descend into the past to experience the 11 royal mummies in the world-renowned Mummy Room. (B)

Day 4: To AswanEarly this morning, return to the airport for your flight to Abu Simbel and a tour of the spectacular rock-hewn Temple of Ramses II above the banks of Lake Nasser. Continue to Aswan, where you will be met and escorted to your Nile cruiser. Enjoy lunch on board before disembarking for a visit to the impressive High Dam and the graceful Temple of Philae. Back on board, immerse yourself in Nubian culture with a lively song-and-dance performance following dinner. Sanctuary Nile Adventurer (Elite) / M.S. Mayfair (Preferred) – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Day 5: To EdfuSail north to Kom Ombo to see the massive temple shared by the gods Sobek and Harocies. Re-board your ship in time for a relaxing lunch as you continue downriver to Edfu. Here, you will visit the famed shrine of the Falcon God Horus, one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Egypt. This evening, sail toward Luxor and enjoy dinner on board. (B, L, D)

Day 6: To LuxorPass through the Esna locks this morning before arriving in Luxor in time for lunch. This afternoon, disembark to explore the impressive Karnak and the Luxor Temples. (B, L, D)

Day 7: To CairoThis morning, visit the West Bank and explore the tombs in the stunning Valley of the Kings. Then it’s on to the striking Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, which is framed by towering cliffs.

Afterward, return by air to Cairo. Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza (Elite) / Fairmont Nile City (Preferred) – 2 nights (B, L)

Day 8: CairoMarvel at the highlights of Islamic and Coptic Cairo, and visit the Ben Ezra Synagogue, which according to legend, was built on the site where baby Moses was found in the reeds. Enjoy lunch before embarking on an exploration of the labyrinth of shops and alleyways in the ancient Khan el-Khalili souq, one of the world’s oldest marketplaces. (B, L)

Day 9: Depart CairoToday, you will be accompanied to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Karnak Temple Complex, Luxor

The Great Temple of Ramesses II, Abu Simbel


Day 1: Arrive KhartoumUpon arrival early this morning, you will be escorted to your hotel. After some time to freshen up, visit the small museum in the Khalifa’s house and see the tomb of Mahdi. After a stop to see the artifacts in the Archaeological Museum, head to the tomb of Sufi leader Hamed Al Nil to witness the dance of the whirling dervishes. Corinthia Hotel Khartoum – 1 night (B, L)

Day 2: To KarimaBegin your journey northward by crossing the

Nile on your way to the deserted town of Old Dongola, home to a Christian Coptic temple. The local Nubian population lives in small vil-lages among yellow sand dunes and palm trees. Nubian Rest House – 4 nights (B, L, D)

Day 3: KarimaDrive across the Nubian Desert towards the third cataract of the Nile before following the river to the village of Tombos. Visit a carved stele and the remains of a statue of King Taharqa. Head south toward the Kerma, home

Experience the culture of Sudan as you explore this little-known country that bridges the gap between African and Arabic culture. The Nile closely links Sudan to ancient Egypt, and you will find a number of pyramids standing largely untouched in the desert. Discover these temples and mortuaries, visit local villages to meet the Nubians whose families have been here for thousands of years, do some shopping in markets and cruise the Nile on this adventurous journey.


10 dA y s & 9 n I G H t s K H A r t o u m , K A r I m A & m E r o E

Lost Pyramids of Northern Sudan

Khartoum

Karima

Meroe

Pyramids of Napata


Journey Highlights

Witness whirling dervishes worship at sunset near a Sufi shrine in Khartoum

Interact with friendly locals and visit a beautifully painted Nubian home

Explore the ancient ruins, pyramids and temples all but lost in the vast desert

Stop at local markets along the way to shop for handmade treasures

Cruise the waters of the Nile by private boat

Meet nomadic people and learn about their lives as you cross the inhospitable desert


Experience the exclusivity of a private tented camp in the desert and enjoy access to more remote sites of Northern Sudan or continue to Egypt via Lake Nasser

Active guests can get in closer contact with local people and astonishing landscapes with some full-day walking journeys between sites

Extend Your Journey

Egypt • Ethiopia • Kenya

to a fascinating museum about this ancient town. (B, L, D)

Day 4: KarimaDelve into the stark landscapes of the Nubian Desert. At the foot of Jebel Barkal, visit a temple dedicated to the pharaohs of the New Reign and to their patron, Amon. Nearby, explore the pyramids of the royal necropolis of the ancient city of Napata, which was the Nubian capital from 800 to 400 B.C. Stop at the village of El Kurru to visit two tombs, which are decorated with images of the Pharaoh, of the gods and multicolored hieroglyphic inscriptions. (B, L, D)

Day 5: KarimaVisit the market in Karima, and then board a small motorboat for a cruise along the Nile. Enjoy a picnic on the shores of the lake created by the completion of the Merowee Dam before explor-ing the pyramids of Nuri. (B, L, D)

Day 6: To MeroeCross the Nile and enter the Bayuda Desert, an area characterized by sharp black basalt moun-tains. After a picnic, reach the town of Atbara at the confluence of the Nile and the Atbara rivers. Cross the Nile for the last time and visit the Railway Museum. Meroe Camp – 3 nights (B, L, D)

Day 7: MeroeDiscover the pyramids of the royal necropolis of Meroe, including the funerary chapel with the walls fully decorated with bas-reliefs that show scenes from the king’s life. In the afternoon, discover the ruins of the royal city of Meroe. (B, L, D)

Day 8: MeroeSpend the morning visiting the site of Naga, home to a temple dedicated to Apedemak. Continue to Mussawarat to see the great

Khartoum

Meroe Pyramids

1st-century temple. After lunch, head back to camp, stopping at the colorful market of Kabushia. (B, L, D)

Day 9: To KhartoumEn route to the capital, take an off-road detour to the Sabaloka Gorge and the rocky forma-tions of the sixth cataract of the Nile. Savor a picnic lunch and browse the handmade arts and crafts of the Omdurman market before arriving in Khartoum. Corinthia Hotel Khartoum – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 10: Depart KhartoumEarly this morning, you are escorted to the airport to board your onward flight. (B)


Experience the wonders of the ancient Persian Empire and contemporary Iran on this classic train journey through the heartland of one of the world’s oldest civilizations. From the capital city of Tehran, you’ll travel aboard your luxurious private train through ancient cities, cultural centers, desert cities, and mountain towns as you explore the artistic heritage of the country, shop for treasures in vibrant bazaars and enjoy exclusive cultural interactions with the gracious, welcoming people.

G r o u p J o u r n E y

14 dAy s & 1 3 n I G H t s t E H r A n , m A s H H A d , r A y E n , m A H A n , K E r m A n , y A Z d , I s fA H A n , p E r s E p o l I s , s H I r A Z , K A s H A n , s H u s H tA r , c H o G H A Z A n b I l , s u s A & p o l - E s E f I d

which boasts a collection detailing the rich history of the country. Late this afternoon, head to the railway station to board the Golden Eagle. Golden Eagle – 10 nights (B, L, D)

Day 4: MashhadExplore the city of Mashhad, which is home to the Imam Reza Holy Shrine, the largest mosque in the world, as well as the Nader Shah Museum. After lunch, visit the Tomb of Ferdowsi, the father of Persian literature. (B, L, D)

Day 1: Arrive TehranUpon arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel to check in and enjoy a welcome dinner. Espinas Hotel – 2 nights (D)

Day 2: TehranDiscover the breathtaking Crown Jewels Museum in the Central Bank of Iran, and explore the city’s Grand Bazaar. (B, L, D)

Day 3: TehranVisit the impressive National Museum of Iran,

Heart of Persia onboard the Golden Eagle

Tehran Pol-e Sefid

ShushtarSusa

Yazd

Mashhad

KermanRayen & Mahan

Isfahan

Kashan

PersepolisShiraz

Persepolis


Journey Highlights

Marvel at the crown jewels of the Persian Empire and explore the Grand Bazaar in Tehran

In Mashhad, visit the largest mosque in the world

Delve into the past at the grand Rayen Castle

Discover the Zoroastrian Fire Temple and Silent Towers in Yazd

See the grand palaces and exquisite mosques of Isfahan

Experience the atmospheric ruins at Persepolis

Immerse yourself in Shiraz, the cultural capital of Iran

Browse the magnificent Persian carpets in Kashan

Embark on a spectacular journey through the scenic Alborz Mountains


Indulge in the luxury of the Imperial Suite on board the Golden Eagle

Extend Your Journey

Turkey • United Arab Emirates • Silk Road

Day 5: Rayen & MahanDisembark in Rayen to see the grand Rayen castle, which is situated beneath snowcapped Mt. Hezar in the Kerman province. Continue by road to Mahan to visit the 19th-century Royal building, Prince Garden and tomb, as well as the mausoleum of Shah Nematollah Vali. (B, L, D)

Day 6: KermanTravel to the desert trading city of Kerman, which boasts a lively bazaar, a 19th-century teahouse, and a museum that occupies an historic bathhouse. (B, L, D)

Day 7: YazdYazd is one of the oldest cities in the world, dat-ing back over 3,000 years. Visit the Zoroastrian Fire Temple and Silent Towers, Amir Chakhmagh Square and the Friday Mosque, home to one of Iran’s finest mosaics. (B, L, D)

Day 8: IsfahanSpend a whole day in this enchanting city, visit-ing the Vank Church in the Armenian Quarter, as well as Ali Qapou Palace and the Shah and Sheikh Lutfullah Mosques. Enjoy some time at leisure to pick up a bargain at the bazaar of Qaisarieh. (B, L, D)

Day 9: Persepolis & ShirazArrive in Sadat Shaha to explore the nearby ruins of Persepolis, the 6th-century ceremonial capital of the Persian Empire. Continue by road to Iran’s cultural capital, Shiraz to visit the Quran Gate, the tomb of Hafez and the Vakil Citadel. (B, L, D)

Day 10: KashanDiscover the 16th-century Fin garden, the Sialk Hills archaeological site, and several typical 19th-century houses as well as the ancient bazaar with its selection of exquisite carpets. (B, L, D)

Day 11: Shushtar, Choghazanbil & SusaIn Shushtar, visit the 6th-century

hydraulic system that still provides water to the town. Move on to the Choghazanbil site and then explore the ancient city of Susa. (B, L, D)

Day 12: Pol-e SefidAfter breakfast, disembark for a spectacular drive through the Alborz Mountains. Enjoy the ever-changing, mountainous landscapes before making your way back to the Golden Eagle and dinner aboard the train. (B, L, D)

Day 13: TehranVisit Golestan Palace, the coronation spot of the last Shah. This evening, celebrate your journey during a farewell gala dinner at the hotel. Espinas Hotel – 1 night (B, L, D)

Day 14: Depart TehranBid farewell to Iran as you are escorted to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Sheikh Lutfullah Mosque, Isfahan

Golden Eagle


Cox & Kings Spotlight Journeys are Single-Destination Short Itineraries, designed to combine or extend your customized Private Journey.

Spotlight Journeys – North Africa & Arabia

Day 1: OualidiaTravel overland from either Casablanca or Marrakech, and end your journey in the peaceful village of Oualidia, which is situated on the golden shores of the Atlantic Ocean. La Sultana Oualidia – 3 nights

Days 2 & 3: OualidiaSpend two days relaxing on the edge of the lagoon, which is famous for its oyster farms and colorful flocks of pink flamingo. From the Moorish fort and the landscaped gardens to your grass-roofed cabanas, you’ll love the amenities of your resort. When it’s time for a dip, enjoy the private beach or dive into the turquoise waters of the swimming pool and saltwater Jacuzzis. Try your hand at Moroccan cuisine with a cooking class and relax during a soothing treatment in the spa. (B)

Day 4: Depart CasablancaDepart Oualidia and travel overland to Casablanca to board your onward flight. (B)

Day 1: AgadirDepart Marrakech and travel overland to the scenic southern coast of Morocco. Upon arrival in Agadir, settle into your resort. Sofitel Agadir Thalassa Sea & Spa – 3 nights

Day 2: AgadirThis morning, embark on a day trip to the beauti-ful village of Tafraout, one of the most dramatic journeys in Morocco. The picturesque towns in the heart of the Anti-Atlas Mountains are surrounded by pink granite rocks scattered amid the palm trees and forests of almond trees. (B)

Day 3: AgadirVisit the 11th-century city of Taroudant, which is one of the oldest fortified towns in Morocco. Spend some time exploring the first capital of the Almoravid dynasty before returning to Agadir. Enjoy your final afternoon at leisure, taking advantage of some of the many ameni-ties at your resort. (B)

Day 4: Depart AgadirHead to the airport to board your onward flight. (B)

Day 1: Sharm el-SheikhUpon arrival in Sharm el-Sheikh, you will be accompanied to your luxury resort overlook-ing the Red Sea. With a beachfront location in Shark Bay, the Four Seasons Resort is built in the style of a Mediterranean village. Four Seasons Resort Sharm el-Sheikh – 3 nights

Days 2 & 3: Sharm el-SheikhDiscover the underwater wonders of the Red Sea on a snorkel or scuba excursion in Ras Mohammed National Park. You may also visit ancient sites such as St. Catherine’s Monastery on Mount Sinai, or take a journey into the Sinai desert by camel, on horseback or by 4WD vehicle. Spend the remainder of your time enjoying the amenities at your resort, including several swimming pools, a spa, gym, tennis courts and five bars and restaurants. (B)

Day 4: Depart Sharm el-SheikhAfter breakfast, you will be escorted to the airport to board your onward flight. (B)

Morocco

Oua lidi a

Egy pti a n Coast

Sh a r m el-Sheik h

Morocco

Aga dir


Spotlight Journeys – North Africa & Arabia

Day 1: JerusalemUpon arrival by land from Jordan this morning, visit Qumran where a Bedouin shepherd boy discovered the Dead Sea Scrolls. Then, ascend by cable car to the mountaintop fortress of Masada. The King David Hotel Jerusalem – 3 nights

Day 2: JerusalemExplore the ancient city of Jerusalem, from the Zion Gate and the restored Sephardic synagogues to the Western Wall and the Dome of the Rock. Walk along Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the site of the Crucifixion and the Tomb of Christ. (B)

Day 3: JerusalemVisit the Jewish memorial to the six million lives lost to the Holocaust, Yad Vashem. The Dead Sea Scrolls await you in the Israel Museum. This afternoon, explore the fabled city of Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity. (B)

Day 4: Depart Tel AvivHead to the airport to board your onward flight. (B)

Day 1: PetraDepart Amman this morning and follow the King’s Highway to the Lost City of Petra, stopping to see the famed Byzantine mosaics at Madaba and the crusader castle at Kerak. Movenpick Resort Petra – 2 nights

Day 2: PetraSpend the day exploring the red sandstone city of Petra, built 2,000 years ago by nomadic Bedouins. From the narrow, winding passageway of the Siq and the great Treasury to the hilltop Monastery, discoveries await you at every turn. (B)

Day 3: To the Dead SeaContinue to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on earth. The sea’s high salt content makes swim-mers buoyant, and the placid, pale blue waters stretching out to the horizon are blissfully calm. Kempinski Hotel Ishtar – 1 night (B)

Day 4: Depart AmmanBid farewell to Jordan today as you are accompa-nied to the airport in Amman for your onward flight. (B)

Day 1: Musandam PeninsulaYou will be met and accompanied overland from Dubai to your luxury beachfront resort on the coast of Oman’s Musandam Peninsula. Six Senses Zighy Bay – 3 nights

Days 2 & 3: Musandam PeninsulaSpend two full days at leisure. Perhaps explore some of the traditional and modern attractions from both Oman and the UAE. Or choose to sit back and relax. In many ways, your resort resembles a traditional Omani village, with indi-vidual villas separated by shaded, sandy roads. Each pool villa combines traditional Omani architectural techniques with modern amenities, and features a sundeck with loungers and dining area, a private pool, indoor and outdoor show-ers and an oversized bathtub. The Six Senses spa offers a full range of treatments. (B)

Day 4: Depart DubaiAfter breakfast, you will be escorted back to Dubai airport to board your onward flight. (B)

Isr a el

Jerusa lem

Om a n

Musa nda m Peninsula

Jor da n

Petr a


Cox & Kings Partners with Tourism Cares to Aid Global Communities

As the world’s longest-running travel company, Cox & Kings believes we have a responsibility to the people, places, and cultures that we visit. We’ve been guiding adventurous travelers around the world for more than 250 years, and during that time, we’ve supported countless philanthropic efforts in the destinations where our clients travel.

The process of giving back involves us deeply in the communities we visit, turning travelers into true global citizens. That’s why we have teamed up with Tourism Cares, an organization that works to preserve and enrich the travel experience for future generations to the benefit of travelers, local communities and tourism professionals — who are not only the engine of travel but also its heart.

Tourism Cares has granted $2 million to worthy organizations in 42 states and 31 countries while also empowering the next generation of tourism professionals, providing a range of support for students in hospitality and tourism.

Cox & Kings is proud to give back with Tourism Cares, to the people and destinations which give so much to Cox & Kings and our clients. Our support is helping to preserve and enrich the travel experience both in the U.S. and around the world. Together, we bring the industry’s talent, resources and influence to help destinations in need.

For more information about Tourism Cares or to donate to the organization, please visit their website at www.tourismcares.org.

Kom Ombo Temple, Egypt


Africa is the festival continent. Throughout the whole continent, colorful and vibrant festivals range through musical, religious, cultural and harvest to name just a few. In this section, we have included just some of the more popular festivals and events. Please ask Cox & Kings how we can immerse you

in a festival during your visit to Africa, a selection of which are listed below:

Festivals in Africa

Festival Location Month Description

Epiphany (Timkat) Ethiopia January Timkat, or the Feast of the Epiphany, commemorates the baptism of Christ and is one of the most colorful Ethiopian festivals. There are three days of singing and chanting, traditional ceremonies, games and feasting.

Ethiopian Christmas (Ledet)

Ethiopia JanuaryThe Ethiopian Orthodox religion celebrates Christmas at the beginning of January, in accordance with the 13-month Julian calendar. It is a time when the cities along the historic northern route come alive with festivities.

Stellenbosch Wine Festival

Cape Winelands, South Africa

January / February This annual festival features over 500 wines and live cooking competitions. Historic tours, crafts and children’s entertainment are also available.

Spier Wine Harvest Festival


February

Each year Spier celebrates their grape harvest by opening their estate to guests for wine tasting, grape stomping, gourmet and specialty food stalls and a play venue for children. It offers fun for all ages and a traditional harvest blessing for the vineyard.

Cape Argus Cycle Tour Cape Town, South Africa

March The largest timed cycling event in the world; the ride is over 67 miles of stunning coastline and mountains.

Maitisong Festival Gaborone, Botswana March / AprilThis vibrant, annual music festival takes place at venues all over Gaborone. Performances are on outdoor stages comprising drama, music, dance that combines classical and modern elements.

Two Oceans Marathon Cape Town, South Africa

EasterThis 34.8-mile ultra marathon and 13.1-mile half marathon takes place in one of the most beautiful, seaside cities in the world, including challenging mountain climbs and the unique passage along two oceans, the Atlantic and the Indian.

Freedom Day Festival Franschhoek, South

AfricaApril

This celebration commemorates the first post-apartheid elections held that day in 1994 and includes a medieval dinner by chef Adrian Buchanan and a second night of more traditional South African foods, olives, wine and live music. Children’s entertainment is also on offer.

The Good Food & Wine Show

South Africa May – October This multi-city festival features some of the world’s top celebrity chefs cooking for an audience. Enjoy indulgent food and drink.

Safaricom Marathon Lewa Conservancy,

KenyaJune

Under the UK-based Tusk Trust, the Safaricom raises money and awareness for conservation and community development projects in Africa. The event is open to local and international participants and spectators.

Feria Oramena Fort Dauphin, Madagascar

June

Held each year in the southeast coastal town of Fort Dauphin (Toalagnaro) in celebration of the spiny lobster, the festival program features a carnival, exhibitions and live performances along with the tasting of spiny lobsters and fresh local seafood.

Grahamstown National Arts Festival

Grahamstown, South Africa

June / JulyFeaturing both African and International talent, this is the largest cultural and arts festival in Africa. From craft markets to comedy, poetry to jazz music, there are over 500 shows over 11 days offering something for all ages and interests.

Hermanus Wine & Food Fair

Hermanus, South Africa August Featuring 50 local wineries, olives, cheeses and other specialty foods, this festival is ideal for those who wish to purchase or ship the local wines they taste.

Tour de Wilderness South Africa August

This 5-day mountain bike tour is operated by the Wilderness Trust to benefit Children in the Wilderness, a program focused on sustainable conservation through leadership development. The ride covers 186 miles of single-track mountain biking terrain through South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana, traversing the Northern Tuli Game Reserve.


Festivals in Africa


Ethiopian New Year / Enkutatash

Ethiopia SeptemberCelebrating the end of the rainy season, this is an important holiday throughout Ethiopia. There are large celebrations, with feasting and songs, particularly in Addis Ababa and Gondar.

Simons Town Penguin Festival

Cape Town, South Africa

OctoberThis event promotes African penguin awareness as you witness these local favorites in their natural habitat. All proceeds benefit The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB).

Seychelles Creole Festival

Seychelles October This colorful week of fragrant flavors celebrating Creole Seychellois culture and identity is experienced through music, dance, crafts and cuisine.

Franschhoek Open Gardens Festival


October / November This 2-day event includes visits to 10 of Franschhoek’s most impressive gardens as they go into bloom for the summer.

Cape Winelands Film Festival


DecemberThis 10-day festival presents an incredible experience. Guests arrive in the evening with the option of a movie in the Spier winery’s indoor theater, a food sampling or wine tasting before the feature film begins.

1,000 Stars Festival Arba Minch, Ethiopia December

This event features a fleet of more than 1,000 performers, representing over 56 ethnic tribal groups from southern Ethiopia. This 3-day music festival is an informal affair, featuring songs and dances most of the world has never seen, in a cross-cultural spectacle that is as yet, far-removed from the mainstream.

Note: Festival dates may vary if they are tied to the lunar calendar.

Epiphany Celebration, Ethiopia


Ramadan is a very important yearly festival celebrated during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Followers of the Islamic faith fast for the entire month and there is no eating, drinking, or smoking from sunrise until sunset. Working hours are often reduced to allow for prayer and reflection. The fast is broken each night with the meal referred to as Iftar, taken with friends and family. Traditional music and entertainment is enjoyed throughout

the night, and many stay awake until dawn. The end of Ramadan and the end of fasting is marked with a festival called Eid-al-Fitr and is celebrated with large feasts. Because the Islamic calendar differs from the Western calendar, Ramadan and Eid-al-Fitr are fluctuating dates.

Festivals in North Africa & Arabia


Festival of Rabee’ Awal Jordan December / January

Rabee’ Awal refers to an entire month of religious festivities in Jordan. This is one of the most sacred months in the Islamic calendar. During this month, the Mawlid or the birth of Prophet Muhammad is celebrated. The dates change according to the lunar calendar. The entire nation seems overpowered with a feasting frenzy. This is perhaps the best time to taste the native delicacies of Jordan.

Dubai ShoppingFestival

Dubai, UAE January

This is perhaps one of the most popular events in the world, attracting over 3 million people. This month-long annual event is the time for shopping, entertainment and cultural extravaganza. It’s a great time for shoppers, as shopping malls have big sales and discounts.

Muscat Festival Muscat, Oman January / FebruaryMuscat Festival is considered to be one of the most significant of Oman’s festivals and events. Held every year in January / February and continuing for a month, the festival celebrates traditional arts, heritage and culture.

Abu Simbel Festival Abu Simbel, Egypt FebruaryThis Festival of Egypt is associated with the ancient temple of Egypt-Abu Simbel and highlights the ancient traditional rituals of Egypt. It is held each year on February 22nd.

Amman International Theater

FestivalJordan March / April

This is regarded as the biggest of its kind across Middle East and North Africa. The festival promotes native theater artists and their cultural heritage. The performances are rendered in English and Arabic. Many international dignitaries and some Hollywood stars attend. The festival is hosted for 8 days. Many days are reserved for shows by a single, participant country.

Rose Festival Morocco May

Dades Valley in Morocco hides a jewel in the form of Kelaa-des-Mgouna, the hub of rose production in Morocco. This is one of the most popular of the Morocco festivals and is an occasion for you to soak in the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. During the Festival, a vibrant and colorful souk (market) is in place at El Kelaa’s main thoroughfare.

The Israel Festival Israel May / June

This is the best-known and most prestigious of all Israeli festivals. Theater, music and dance programs are performed. The Israel Festival stages events at various historical sites, with the main venue being the Jerusalem Center for the Performing Arts augmented by a host of street performances of music and light entertainment throughout the city.

The Red Sea Jazz Festival

Eilat, Israel July

The annual festival, staged in Eilat, has grown from a small-scale event for jazz buffs to a major 4-day jazz festival drawing thousands to the 36-40 performances, including some 20-22 by overseas artists. The festival is a major force on the local music scene, a catalyst for composition of new pieces by Israeli jazz musicians.

Wafaa Al Nil Egypt AugustDedicated to the symbol of Egypt—the Nile River. This is among one of the ancient festivals of Egypt. Painting competitions, sessions of poetry, seminars and music concerts are the highlight of this month-long festival.


Festivals in North Africa & Arabia


Hakaya Festival Jordan September

Hosted in the capital city of Amman, this is one of Jordan’s most prestigious, annual cultural festivals. The festival is essentially an attempt to rejuvenate the traditional art of storytelling. There are storytelling seminars that are ideal for visitors to get a glimpse into the rural facets of Jordan society.

Imilchil Festival Morocco September

Scattered among the peaks of the High Atlas Mountains, Berber tribes maintain traditions begun hundreds of years ago. They gather at the end of summer, in the early days of September, having spent the spring and the heat of summer in the mountain peaks with their flocks. As well as being the place to choose a potential spouse, the Moussem of Imilchil operates as a fair or a big market, with artisans and farmers offering their produce to a wider market than is available at the weekly Souk.

Festival of CulinaryArts

Fez, Morocco OctoberThe gastronomic arts, know-how and rituals are celebrated in different areas of our medieval city, a living example of both Berber and Arab-Andalous civilizations. Moroccan cuisine is showcased by the traditional cooks of Fez.

National Day Festival

UAE December December 2nd is celebrated as the National Day all over the UAE. The UAE became independent on December 2, 1971. Various cultural events are organized all over the country.

Egyptian Christmas Events

Egypt December / January

For the Coptic Christians of Egypt, Christmas is celebrated on January 7th each year. The season marks a time of fasting and vegetarianism for the community, from November 25th to the night of January 6th. Churches and Christian homes are festooned with lights, Christmas trees and manger scenes, and on Christmas Eve, the 6th of January, celebrations in churches are held and the bells ring out. The Pope of the Orthodox Church begins prayers at the big Cathedral in Cairo at 11 p.m., and this service is broadcasted on Egyptian television.

Note: Festival dates may vary if they are tied to the lunar calendar.

Eilat, Israel


Weather Chart

Due to its sheer size, Africa has a wide range of climatic conditions and it is possible to travel at most times of year and find certain areas that are at their best. The guide below offers a general indication of the best times of year to travel to different parts of Africa and the Indian Ocean, plus some information about how wildlife viewing is affected by seasonal changes. Please take into account that this data is based on historic averages and, in a world of increasingly erratic climatic

conditions, the weather at any given time may vary significantly from the norm. Generally speaking, the Middle East has hot summers, mild winters and little rainfall, although there are variations to this pattern.This guide explains those variations and details the best time of year to travel to your chosen destination.

JordanThe country is predominantly desert with hot days, cold nights and cool winters. The northwest is hilly and gets rain from November to March. The Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea are hot in summer, very dry and warm in winter.

Amman Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 53 55 62 73 82 86 89 89 86 78 68 57Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 39 41 44 51 59 64 68 68 64 59 50 42

Dead Sea Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 71 77 84 93 98 102 100 96 89 80 71 68Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 55 60 68 75 80 82 84 80 75 64 55 51

KenyaThe “Long Rains” occur from late March to late May and the “Short Rains” occur from late October to the end of November. The annual wildebeest migration normally takes place in Kenya’s Masai Mara between July and October. The coast has a tropical climate, with more rain generally falling between the months of April and July. From May to September, the trade winds can bring seaweed and debris to the beach and the seas can be rough between May and July.

Nairobi Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 80 82 82 78 77 75 73 75 78 80 77 77Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 55 55 57 59 57 53 51 53 53 57 57 57

MadagascarMadagascar has a tropical climate, with large variations in rainfall across the island dictated by the central mountain and trade winds. The most popular time to visit is during the dry months between April and October. There is a rainy season from December to March, including the cyclone season in February and March.

Antananarivo Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 80 78 78 78 73 69 68 69 75 78 80 80Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 62 62 62 59 55 51 50 50 51 55 59 60

MalawiThe most common time to visit Malawi is April to September. April and May are mostly dry and warm with clear skies. The peak game viewing season is during the winter months from June to August when the days are warm and the nights are cool. As winter ends in September, the temperatures and humidity begin to rise until the rains return in December leading to the peak rainy season from January to March.

Antananarivo Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 80 80 80 80 77 73 73 77 80 86 84 82Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 62 62 60 57 51 46 44 46 53 59 62 64

BotswanaMay through August is the winter season, marked by cloudless days and mild temperatures. The weather in August and September is comparable to spring in the Northern Hemisphere. Occasional rain showers may be experienced toward the end of October as the heat builds, but game viewing is excellent due to the lack of thick vegetation and the water holes drying up. November and early December through March are considered summer months. These months border the rainy season, when you may encounter brief but heavy rain and thunderstorms. April is a delightful month to visit Botswana and is marked by moderate temperatures.

Maun Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Ave. Max. Temp (°F) 91 89 89 87 84 78 78 84 91 93 95 91Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 68 68 66 60 53 33 46. 51 60 68 69 68

EgyptTemperate climate for most of the year, getting hot in July and August. The Mediterranean coast experiences some rain in the winter but for the most part there is sunshine. A desert wind, called a Khamsin, blows during spring (March to May), making the atmosphere hot and sandy.

Cairo Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 66 68 73 82 89 93 95 93 91 86 77 68Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 50 50 53 59 64 69 73 73 69 66 59 51

Luxor Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 73 77 84 95 102 105 105 105 102 95 84 75Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 42 46 53 62 69 73 75 75 71 64 53 46

EthiopiaThe best time to visit Ethiopia is during the dry season, between October and May. From June to September, temperatures are higher and rainfall greater. Night time temperatures can fall to near or below freezing in the mountains, particularly during the dry season.

Addis Ababa Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 73 75 77 75 77 73 68 68 69 71 73 73Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 44 46 50 51 51 50 50 50 50 46 44 44

IranGenerally the best time to visit Iran is during the spring and autumn. There are ideal temperatures across most of Iran from March until May and then again from late September to early November. Meanwhile, winter is best avoided because temperatures can become very cold.

Tehran Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 41 46 57 68 79 90 95 93 86 72 59 46Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 27 30 37 48 57 66 72 70 63 52 41 32

IsraelIsrael has warm and mostly cloudless days year-round; spring and autumn offer the best time to visit with mild temperatures and low rainfall. The summer months can be uncomfortably hot in some areas and the winter months have the highest rainfall.

Tel Aviv Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 42 46 57 69 80 93 95 91 82 71 57 46Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 30 32 41 50 59 66 69 66 55 46 39 32


Weather Chart

MoroccoThere are five main climatic regions in Morocco: the Mediterranean coast has a climate comparable to southern Spain; the Atlantic coastline, including Rabat, is the coolest and wettest region; the Atlas foothills, including Marrakech, can get very hot in summer, cold in winter and is at its most pleasant in spring and autumn; and the High Atlas Mountains rise to over 13,000 feet and can be snow-covered well into summer. The Sahara Desert region in the south is very hot.

Essaouira Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 64 64 66 66 68 69 69 71 71 71 68 66Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 53 53 57 57 59 62 64 64 64 62 59 55

Fez Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 59 62 68 69 77 86 93 93 86 77 68 60Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 39 41 44 46 51 57 64 64 60 53 46 41

Marrakech Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 64 68 73 77 82 89 98 96 89 82 73 68Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 44 48 51 53 59 64 69 69 66 60 51 46

Erfoud Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 59 64 71 77 85 95 102 100 91 79 68 61Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 37 42 49 55 63 71 78 77 68 58 47 39

NamibiaThe most pleasant weather is between April and October, when temperatures are cooler and there is very little rainfall. The coastal region near Swakopmund is noticeably cooler than the desert interior throughout the year. Game viewing is good year-round, but is at its best during the drier winter months, when wildlife congregates at the water holes.

Windhoek Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 87 86 84 80 75 69 69 75 82 86 87 89Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 64 62 60 57 51 44 44 48 55 59 60 62

OmanVery hot and humid during summer – winter months are more bearable. The coast remains humid throughout the year and, although the interior is warmer, the heat is dry and less oppressive.

Muscat Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 77 78 84 93 102 104 100 96 95 93 86 80Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 62 64 68 75 84 86 86 82 80 75 69 64

Salalah Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 82 82 86 89 91 89 82 80 84 87 87 84Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 66 68 71 75 78 80 77 75 75 71 71 68

RwandaRwanda is a year-round destination, boasting a mild climate due to the country’s elevation, which varies between 5,000 to 8,000 feet. There are “rainier” seasons, between November and January, and again in April and May. However, the sky also tends to be clearer, making for better photographs. The rainy season is considered better for chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe. June-September is actually considered the best overall, “driest” time to visit.

Kigali Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 78 78 78 77 77 77 78 80 80 80 78 78Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 59 59 59 59 59 59 57 60.8 59 59 59 59

SeychellesLocated in the tropics, the islands have a fairly constant temperature year-round, with the highest rainfall occurring between November and February. June to October has the coolest temperatures and the lowest rainfall. Some beaches are affected by seaweed at certain times of the year.

Victoria Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 84 84 86 86 84 82 81 81 82 84 84 84Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 73 75 75 75 77 75 73 73 75 73 73 73

South Africa The Cape is warm and at its driest between November and March. Whale watching and great white shark viewing is possible from July through November. Game viewing is good throughout the year, although it is more popular during the dry winter season, between May and September, when animals are forced to gather near the water holes. Game tends to be more greatly dispersed during the wetter summer months. Temperatures can fall quite low at night during the winter.

Cape Town Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 77 78 75 71 68 66 64 64 66 69 73 75Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 62 62 60 57 57 53 53 53 55 57 59 62

Kruger Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 86 91 87 89 82 78 75 82 86 89 82 87Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 73 69 68 57 53 50 44 50 55 62 64 68

Sudan The Northern Sudan regions have a desert climate, with high thermal range between day and night. The best times to visit are the winter months, from September to April, with a dry and sunny climate. The heaviest rains are in July and August and are most problematic in the Nuba Mountains. Khartoum may be more humid than the other areas of Sudan. Fierce dust storms blow occasionally from July to August and November to January.

Khartoum Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 87 91 98 106 108 107 102 100 102 103 97 90Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 61 64 69 77 82 83 80 79 80 80 72 64

Tanzania & Zanzibar A visit to Tanzania is worthwhile at any time of year. There are two distinct rainy seasons: the “Long Rains” from March-May, and the “Short Rains” in November and December. The easiest time to see large numbers of game throughout Tanzania is during the dry season, between June and October, which is especially good in southern Tanzania. Heavy rains can occur in Zanzibar from March-May.

Serengeti Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 82 82 82 81 79 79 79 81 82 84 82 81Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 61 61 63 63 61 59 57 57 59 61 63 63

Zanzibar Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 90 90 90 86 86 84 84 84 86 88 88 90Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 72 72 72 73 72 70 68 66 64 66 68 72

Uganda Uganda can be visited any time of year and its raised topography makes it cooler than its equatorial setting. Although it’s regarded as a year-round activity, the best time to visit Uganda for gorilla trekking is during the country’s two dry seasons: January and February and from June to September.

Entebbe Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 66 63 62 69 69 63 69 65 61 67 64 65Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 59 59 60 62 64 57 59 60 57 58 56 60

Kabale Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 69 64 69 74 73 59 64 71 65 68 62 67Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 59 53 58 58 57 50 53 59 55 56 55 56

United Arab EmiratesThe best time to visit the United Arab Emirates is between October and November and also February to March, when temperatures are in the mid-twenties and the humidity is not so oppressive. Rainfall at this time is also sparse. July and August are the height of summer when temperatures and humidity are at their peak and so this time is best avoided for travel.

Dubai Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 75 77 82 89 98 102 105 105 102 95 86 78Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 59 60 64 69 77 80 86 86 82 75 68 60


ZambiaThe most popular time to visit Zambia is during the short dry period, between May and September, when the game congregates near the waterholes. The “Green Season” runs from December to April, during which time the majority of the camps and lodges close for the season. During this time, the rivers in the Luangwa Valley swell, dry plains become lakes, and vegetation grows lush and green. Animals give birth and food is plentiful. Many of the resident birds form spectacular breeding colonies and many migrant birds arrive from the north.

Livingstone Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 79 81 82 79 77 73 73 79 84 88 86 81Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 63 63 61 59 52 50 48 52 57 64 64 63

ZimbabweThe winter months between April and October are the best for safaris, although evening temperatures can sometimes drop close to freezing in cer tain areas. Summers can be extremely hot between November and March, with rainfall usually occurring at night. Some areas of Mana Pools are closed during the rainy season, and the best times to visit are between May and November. Victoria Falls is at its most dramatic between March and May.

Victoria Falls Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov DecAve. Max. Temp (°F) 86 84 86 84 80 77 77 82 89 91 89 86Ave. Min. Temp (°F) 64.4 64 62 57 50 42 42 46 55 62 64 64

Weather Chart

Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai


Distance Chart

From To Fly TIme

Africa

Cape TownKruger National Park 2h30m

Johannesburg 2hPort Elizabeth 1h10m

JohannesburgKruger National Park 1h30m

Madikwe Game Reserve 1h

Windhoek

Damaraland 1h50mEtosha National Park 1h35m

Sossusvlei 1h15mSerra Cafema 3h15m

Skeleton Coast 2h30m

SossusvleiSwakopmund 1hDamaraland 3h10m

SwakopmundDamaraland 1h

Etosha National Park 1h45mDamaraland Etosha National Park 55m

Maun Okavango Delta 30m - 55m

Kasane

Victoria Falls / Livingstone 25m

Okavango Delta 1h30mSavute / Linyanti 50m

Okavango Delta Savute / Linyanti 30m - 1h

LusakaKafue National Park 1h30m

South Luangwa 1h40mLower Zambezi 30m

LivingstoneKafue National Park 1h30m

Kasane 25mLusaka 1h25m

Victoria FallsKasane 25m

Hwange National Park 1hMana Pools 2h15m

Mana Pools Hwange National Park 1h45m

AntananarivoFort Dauphin 1h35m

Nosy Be 1h30mAntsiranana 1h40m

Fort Dauphin Ifotaka / Berenty 1h15mNosy Be Antsiranana 25m

MahéJohannesburg 4h15m

Nairobi 3h15mPraslin 15m

Nairobi

Amboseli National Park 45mLewa Downs 1hSwahili Coast 1h30mMasai Mara 1hSamburu 1h

From To Fly Time

Africa, Cont.

Masai MaraLake Naivasha 1h

Samburu 1h30m

ArushaKilimanjaro Airport 10m

Lake Manyara 25m

Ngorongoro Crater

Ndutu 25mSeronera 35m

Western Serengeti 50mNorthern Serengeti 45m

Bahir Dar Lalibela 40mGondar Lalibela 1h30mLalibela Axum 40m

Addis Ababa

Bahir Dar 1h50mAxum 1h15m

Arba Minch 1h30mHarar / Dire Dawa 50m

Entebbe Kasese 2h15mBwindi Entebbe 2h15m

From To Fly TimeNorth Africa & Arabia

Cairo

Alexandra 45mAbu Simbel 2h30m

Amman, Jordan 1h30mAswan 1h30m

Abu Dhabi, UAE 3h15mDubai, UAE 3h30m

Casablanca, Morocco 6hKhartoum, Sudan 2h30m

Luxor 1hMuscat, Oman 4h

Sharm el-Sheikh 1h

AswanLuxor 45m

Abu Simbel 45m

CasablancaFez 45m

Marrakech 45mAgadir 1h

Khartoum Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 2h

Amman

Tel Aviv, Israel 45mDubai, UAE 3h

Abu Dhabi, UAE 3hMuscat, Oman 3h

Tel Aviv Eilat 1hDubai Muscat, Oman 1h

Abu Dhabi Muscat, Oman 1h


Distance Chart

From To Drive Time

Africa

Cape TownFranschhoek 45m

Hermanus / Gansbaai 2hPort Elizabeth 8h

JohannesburgKruger National Park 4h15m

Madikwe Game Reserve 4h30m

WindhoekDamaraland 5h - 6hSossusvlei 5h - 6h

Sossusvlei Swakopmund 5h - 6hSwakopmund Damaraland 4h - 5h

Kasane Victoria Falls / Livingstone 2hLivingstone Kasane 2h

Victoria FallsKasane 2h

Hwange National Park 3h - 6hAntananarivo Perinet-Andasibe 3h30mFort Dauphin Ifotaka / Berenty 3h30m

Nosy Be Antsiranana 4h - 5h

Nairobi

Amboseli National Park 4hLewa Downs 5hMasai Mara 5hSamburu 6h

Masai Mara Lake Naivasha 3h

ArushaKilimanjaro Airport 1h

Lake Manyara 2h30mTarangire 4h

Tarangire Lake Manyara 1h30mLake Manyara Ngorongoro Crater 2h

Ngorongoro Crater

Ndutu 3hSeronera 4h

Western Serengeti 6hNorthern Serengeti 6h

Bahir Dar Gondar 3h

Gondar Simien Mountains 3hLalibela 5h

Addis AbabaAwassa 6h

Harar / Dire Dawa 6h

KigaliVolcanoes National Park 2h

Nyungwe 4h

Lake KivuVolcanoes National Park 1h30m

Nyungwe 5h

Kasese Kibale 1h

Kibale Queen Elizabeth NP (Southern) 4hQueen Elizabeth NP

(Southern) Bwindi 4h - 6h

From To Drive TimeNorth Africa & Arabia

Aswan Luxor 3h

CasablancaFez 3h

Marrakech 2h30mRabat 1h

FezDesert 7h30m

Marrakech 6h - 8hRabat 4h

Desert Ouarzazate / Skoura 6hOuarzazate / Skoura Marrakech 5h

MarrakechHigh Atlas Mountains 1h

Essaouira 3hAgadir 3h30m

KhartoumKarima 4h30mMeroe 3h

Karima Meroe 5h30m

Amman

Jerash 1hDead Sea 1h

Petra 3h45m

Wadi Rum 4h

King Hussein / Allenby Bridge Israel

border crossing1h

Jerusalem, Israel 3h - 4hTel Aviv, Israel 3h - 4h

PetraAqaba 2h

Dead Sea 3h30mWadi Rum 2h

Tel Aviv

Jerusalem 1hHaifa 1h15m

Tiberias 1h45mEilat 4h

JerusalemHaifa 1h45m

Tiberias 2hMasada 1h30m

Dubai

Abu Dhabi 1h30mSharjah 1hAl Ain 2h30m

Muscat, Oman 6h

Abu DhabiAl Ain 1h

Muscat, Oman 6h

MuscatWahiba Sands 4h

Nizwa 2h30m


Praslin Island, Seychelles

Travel Insurance

WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK

Allianz Global Travel Insurance for Cox & Kings travelers is all about peace of mind. When you purchase coverage, you can stop worrying about what would happen if you had to cancel your trip, if you got sick or hurt while traveling, or if your baggage is lost enroute to the destination you have been planning and dreaming about exploring.

WHY BUY TR AVEL INSUR ANCE?

Many of our travelers have said that they don’t need travel insurance because they’re going on the trip, no matter what. But life has a way of upsetting even the best-laid plans — and it’s always better to be prepared and have your investment protected.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

Our coverage starts the day after you purchase a policy and doesn’t stop until you get home from your trip. If you get sick or have an accident while traveling, Allianz Global Assistance will get you to the best available facility that provides high standards of Western health care. And throughout your trip, you

get 24/7/365 assistance from U.S.-based associates who speak more than 40 foreign languages and include ER nurses and physicians.

Here is a summary of Benefits & Coverage included with Allianz Global Assistance:

• Trip Cost Protection: We’ve got you covered for trip cancellation, trip interruption, travel delays and missed connections.

• Medical Protection: We’ll take care of you in a medical emergency abroad. Relax and leave the details to us, including organizing logistics for medical and dental coverage, as well as medical transportation if needed.

• Baggage Protection: Accidents happen, even on the best airlines. Travel insurance provides benefits for lost, damaged and stolen luggage — and can reimburse the purchase of essential items when baggage is delayed.

Allianz Global Assistance for Cox & Kings is also available with some special benefits. Please ask your Cox & Kings Destination Specialist for full details.

• Free coverage for kids (17 and under) when traveling with their parents or grandparents

• Pre-existing medical conditions (protection premium to be purchased within 14 days of initial trip payment)

• Coverage for trip interruption/cancellation due to unexpected work commitments

• Protection that lets you cancel anytime

So don’t let an unfortunate accident ruin your trip of a lifetime. Contact Cox & Kings to protect your trip, your financial investment and your piece of mind.


Booking ProcedurePlease read the conditions of travel as your booking is subject to the terms listed below. A contract is entered into once your travel agent or East India Travel Company, Inc. (DBA Cox & Kings) receives your deposit and we accept and confirm the booking. Please note that travel arrangements are not confirmed until stated so in writing by Cox & Kings. Payment of any monies constitutes acceptance and understanding of Cox & Kings’ Terms & Conditions as laid out below, as listed on our website and in our pre travel documentation.

PaymentFor most custom journeys, a per person deposit of 25% of the program price is required to secure the arrangements, and will be your only obligation until 90 days prior to your departure date. For trips with other deposit and cancelation requirements, your travel specialist will inform you at time of booking. The balance of the cost must be paid 90 days before you travel. Payment should be made to Cox & Kings in Los Angeles, California. If the final balance is not received on time, Cox & Kings reserves the right to treat the booking as cancelled by you and to levy cancellation charges. If you book 90 days or less prior to your departure, the full amount of your trip must be paid in order to confirm the booking.

For any air tickets handled by Cox & Kings, full payment is required at time of booking in order to secure the fare quoted.

1. Discovery Group JourneysA per person deposit of $250 or 15% of your total trip cost (whichever is the higher), must be paid at the time of booking. The balance of the cost must be paid prior to 75 days before you travel. If you book your travel within 75 days of departure, the full amount of your trip must be paid in order to confirm the booking.

2. European River Cruising For most trips, a per person deposit of $500 is required to secure the arrangements, and will be your only obligation until 100 days prior to your departure date. For trips with other deposit and cancelation requirements, your travel specialist will inform you at time of booking. The balance of the cost must be paid 100 days before you travel. Payment should be made to Cox & Kings, The Americas. If the final balance is not received on time, Cox & Kings reserves the right to treat the booking as cancelled by you and to levy cancellation charges. If you book your travel 100 days or prior to departure, the full amount of your trip must be paid in order to confirm the booking.

Alterations by YouIf you request any amendments to your travel arrangements once your booking has been confirmed, an amendment fee of $150 per alteration may be charged. If you request any changes in services or accommodation, once commencement of travel, Cox & Kings will do all possible to accommodate your request, however, should there be any costs incurred due to such amendments, you will be liable for any cancellation/retention charges that may be levied for the previously booked service and for any costs incurred to secure revised arrangements.

Cancellation by YouShould you wish to cancel your travel arrangements, you must notify Cox & Kings in writing. Please state the reason for cancellation as you may be covered by your insurance policy.

Please note that for most custom journeys, deposits are refundable minus a per person Administrative Fee of $400 if the cancellation is received more than 91 days prior to departure. You will be advised if your Terms & Conditions are different than listed below by your Travel Specialist at time of booking.

For notification received within 90 days of departure, the following cancellation charges are applicable for most custom journeys (some exceptions apply including Africa, please see separate cancellation terms below):

Days before Departure Cancellation Charge (some exceptions apply, you will be notified at time of booking)91 days or longer $400 per person Administrative Fee + Air Tickets 90 to 61 20% of total land program price + Air Tickets 60 to 31 50% of total land program price + Air Tickets 30 to Day of Departure 100% of total land program price + Air Tickets

Please note that any included meals, accommodation, guided sightseeing and/or any other pre-paid services that have not been consumed or utilized during your trip are non-refundable.

1. Air Travel Most airline tickets are non-refundable once confirmed, however, depending on airline and class of service, exceptions may apply, and you will be notified at time of reservation. Any air tickets issued at any time are subject to the terms of the airline.To protect your investment, we strongly recommend that you purchase full coverage travel insurance.

2. Custom Journeys to Africa Should you wish to cancel your travel arrangements, you must notify Cox & Kings in writing. Please state the reason for cancellation as you may be covered by your insurance policy.

The following cancellation charges are applicable:

Days before Departure Cancellation Charge61 days or longer 20% of total land program price + Air Tickets60 to 31 50% of total land program price + Air Tickets 30 to Day of Departure 100% of total land program price + Air Tickets


3. Discovery Group Journeys Should you wish to cancel your travel arrangements, you must notify Cox & Kings in writing. Please state the reason for cancellation as you may be covered by your insurance policy. The following cancellation charges are applicable:

Days before Departure Cancellation Charge62 days or longer Deposit paid non-refundable 61 to 34 40% of total land program price33 to 20 60% of total land program price19 to 13 75% of total land program price12 to 9 90% of total land program price8 to Day of Departure 100% of total land program price


4. European River Cruising Should you wish to cancel your travel arrangements, you must notify Cox & Kings in writing. Please state the reason for cancellation as you may be covered by your insurance policy.

A name change and/or any change in departure or vessel is considered a cancellation. The following cancellation charges are applicable:

Days before Departure Cancellation Charge100 days or longer Deposit paid 99 to 61 35% of total land program price60 to 31 50% of total land program price30 to Day of Departure 100% of total land program pricePlease note that any included meals, accommodation, guided sightseeing and/or any other pre-paid services that have not been consumed or utilized during your trip are non-refundable.

Cancellation by Cox & Kings

1. Alterations Made to Your Custom Journey Travel arrangements are planned and secured in advance and so changes in itinerary content may be unavoidable. These changes may be due to circumstances amounting to “force majeure” or reasons beyond Cox & Kings’ control. They could include but are not limited to; delay in departure due to flight disruption, closure of a hotel, strikes, riots, natural occurrences, decisions by State Governments or Tourist Organizations that cause forced alterations to a planned itinerary, its duration, time spent in a city or requiring the need to remove a city or part of from the itinerary caused by a local occurrence or

Terms & Conditions


situation. In such cases, Cox & Kings will offer comparable alternative arrangements. If any of the circumstances listed above occur during the course of your program,

we reserve the right to alter the scheduled itinerary accordingly and compensation cannot be paid. We will make every reasonable effort to provide the booked arrangements but minor changes may occur. If changes are significant, we shall where possible, inform you or your Travel Agent before your departure. Please note that Cox & Kings cannot be held responsible for any price increases or surcharges caused by governmental action, additional taxes imposed, significant fluctuations in exchange rates or increases in fuel surcharges, should Cox & Kings need to pass along any of these increases.

2. Alterations Made to Your Discovery Group Journey Travel arrangements are planned and secured in advance and so changes in itinerary content may be unavoidable. These changes may be due to circumstances amounting to “force majeure” or reasons beyond Cox & Kings’ control.

They could include but not limited to; delay in departure due to flight disruption, closure of a hotel, strikes, riots, natural occurrences, decisions by State Governments or Tourist Organizations that cause forced alterations to a planned itinerary, its duration, time spent in a city or requiring the need to remove a city or part of from the itinerary caused by a local occurrence or situation. In such cases, Cox & Kings will offer comparable alternative arrangements.

If any of the circumstances listed above occur during the course of the program, we reserve the right to alter the scheduled itinerary accordingly and compensation cannot be paid. We will make every reasonable effort to provide the booked arrangements but minor changes may occur. If changes are significant we shall where possible, inform you or your travel agent before your departure. Most changes are minor. Occasionally, we have to make a significant change. Significant changes are likely to include but not limited to the following changes when made before departure: A change of accommodation to that of a lower official classification or standard for the whole or a major part of your program, a change of duration (if over 12 hours).

If we have to make a significant change, you will be advised prior to departure if possible and the following options will be offered to you:

(i) Purchase an alternative journey from Cox & Kings*(ii) Accept the cancellation, in which case you will receive a full refund of all monies paid

* Depending on the alternative departure date or destination chosen, a price supplement or refund may apply.

A ‘minor change’ is any change that does not come within the definition of a significant change set out above. Minor changes include but are not limited to the following: Changes to any destination(s), place(s) of stay, port or place of call for your trip which is not considered major; changes in any scheduled date or times during your trip, provided that, where necessary and appropriate, hotel accommodation and reasonable sustenance for the period in question is provided to you at no additional charge; substitution of a named lecturer and / or leader for another knowledgeable expert in the same field.

If a minor change has to be made, and compensation is appropriate, you will be advised of compensation level at that time.

3. Discovery Group Journeys Minimum to Operate All Discovery Group Journeys require a minimum number of passengers to operate. Should there be an insufficient number of booked passengers on any given departure, we will inform you of the cancellation of program no later than 75 days before your departure date (prior to final payment being received). In this case, you will be offered one of the options set out below. Please note that no additional compensation will be due. Cox & Kings will not be liable for any additional costs incurred as a result of cancellation, including without limitation, airfares or other arrangements booked in conjunction with your Discovery Group Journey:

(i) Select an alternative Discovery Group Journey* (ii) Accept the cancellation and receive a refund of all monies paid

* Depending on the alternative departure date or destination chosen, a price supplement or refund may apply.

4. Cancellation and Changes for European River Cruises Each departure requires a minimum number of passengers to operate, and in the event your departure is cancelled an alternative departure will be offered. Depending on the alternative departure date or cruise offered, a price supplement or refund may apply. A five day period will be granted for you to accept or decline the alternative cruise,

otherwise it will be deemed as a cancellation and all monies paid for the cruise will be refunded. Cox & Kings cannot be liable for any additional costs incurred as a result of a third-party cruise company cancellation, including without limitation, airfares or other arrangements previously booked in conjunction with your Europe River Cruise. In the event your departure date is delayed for more than 7 days, you may cancel your trip and receive a full refund of all monies paid, or use it towards an alternative program.

Reasons why your departure may be affected listed below but not limited to: (a) High or low water levels in any river or canal(b) Lock closures, unscheduled vessel maintenance or other operational reasons(c) Road, river or weather conditions(d) National or local holidays affecting the closure of public buildings or attractions(e) Force Majeure Events(f) Emergency events, accidents, injuries or other incidents involving you or other passengers

Additional Europe River Cruising InformationChild Policy – Minimum age for River Cruising is 12 years of age. General Notice on River Cruising – Adequate steps are taken to minimize noise, vibration and odors onboard the cruise vessels. However, some noise, vibration and intermittent odors may be experienced and unavoidable, for which compensation cannot be granted.

Documentation Required For Travel: Passports, Visas and Your ResponsibilitiesAll travelers require a passport with at least six months validity beyond completion of travel. The client accepts full responsibility for obtaining all travel documentation, including but not limited to passport, entry visa and permits prior to commencement of travel, and is solely responsible for any consequences resulting from missing or defective documentation. Any information or advice given by Cox & Kings regarding visas, vaccinations, climate, what to pack, baggage, etc., is purely advisory and provided as a courtesy. Cox & Kings is not responsible for any errors or omissions as to the information provided by third parties. Visas may be required to travel to your chosen destination and U.S. citizens should consult with the appropriate Consulates and Embassies. It is the responsibility of the individual traveler to secure the proper documentation prior to commencement of travel.

Travel WarningsIt is the responsibility of The Traveler to become informed about the most current travel advisories and warnings by referring to the U.S. State Department’s travel website at www.travel.state.gov or by phone at 1-888-407-4747. In the event of an active State Department Travel Warning against travel to the specific destination location/s of the trip, should The Traveler still choose to travel, notwithstanding any travel advisory or warning, The Traveler assumes all risk of personal injury, death or property damage that may arise out of the events like those advised or warned against.

What Your Custom Land Program Price Includes:• Private arrival and departure airport transfers to and from your hotel• All planning, handling and operational charges • Accommodation as noted in itinerary, based on double occupancy• Privately guided sightseeing in air conditioned vehicle (exceptions may apply)• Services of Professional Guide(s) as mentioned in itinerary • All entrance fees mentioned in itinerary• Meals as mentioned in itinerary • Baggage handling, 2 pieces per person unless otherwise noted. (Please note that any

additional luggage may require modification in vehicle size at an additional cost)• Other inclusions as noted in your itinerary

What Your Custom Land Program Price Excludes:• International and internal regional airfare, unless otherwise stated• Meals other than those mentioned in itinerary• The cost of personal items such as laundry, drinks with meals or otherwise, additional

incidentals, etc.• Airport Security Charges if levied by any airport to cover the cost of security

arrangements and payable locally and Airport Departure Taxes (if applicable)• Optional and additional sightseeing not included in itinerary• Cost of obtaining passports or required visas where necessary• Any fees associated with using air miles for your air travel • Transport between your home and home airport/port/station• Gratuities unless stated in “What Your Land Price Includes”• Travel Insurance • Other inclusions if not noted under “Includes”


1. Discovery Group Journeys

What Your Land Program Price Includes:• Private arrival and departure airport transfers to and from your hotel• All planning, handling and operational charges • Accommodation as noted in itinerary, based on double occupancy• Sightseeing as noted in itinerary in air conditioned vehicle (exceptions may apply) • Services of Professional English-Speaking Guide(s) and/or Tour Escort as detailed in

your itinerary• All entrance fees mentioned in itinerary• Meals as mentioned in itinerary • Other inclusions as noted in your itinerary

What Your Land Program Price Excludes:• International and internal region airfare, unless otherwise stated• Meals other than those mentioned in itinerary• Baggage handling• The cost of personal items such as laundry, drinks with meals or otherwise,

additional incidentals, etc.• Airport Security Charges if levied by any airport to cover the cost of security

arrangements and payable locally and Airport Departure Taxes (if applicable)• Optional and additional sightseeing not included in itinerary• Cost of obtaining passports or required visas where necessary• Any fees associated with using air miles for your air travel • Transport between your home and home airport/port/station• Gratuities unless stated in “What Your Land Price Includes”• Travel Insurance • Other inclusions if not noted under “Includes”

2. Europe River Cruises

What Your Cruise Price Includes:• A Cox & Kings $75 per person ship board credit • Private Meet & Greet with the Captain including a tour of the ship and cocktail• Private arrival and departure airport transfers to and from the ship (exceptions apply) • Gratuities to all shipboard crew and local guides• Personal butler for every cabin• All meals onboard• Baggage Allowance: 1 piece per person (not exceeding 30x21x11 inches in size and

42 pounds maximum weight) (Any additional luggage may incur a surcharge)• All beverages including spirits, wine and beer, including mini-bar in cabin

(exceptions apply*)• Off-ship sightseeing choices during the cruise• Tailor-made GPS devices for each passenger (not available on the Scenic Tsar)• Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout ship and Internet access thru cabin Infotainment

system• Complimentary use of electric assist bicycles (not available on the Scenic Tsar)

What Your Cruise Price Excludes:• International and internal region airfare, unless otherwise stated• Port Taxes• Entrance fees, gratuities and local transportation while using Tailor-made GPS devices • *Beverages such as premium spirits, such as (including but not limited to) Malt

Whisky and French Champagne – On the Scenic Tsar, beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner only

• The cost of personal items such as additional incidentals, etc.• Airport Security Charges if levied by any airport to cover the cost of security

arrangements and payable locally and Airport Departure Taxes (if applicable)• Cost of obtaining passports or required visas where necessary• Any fees associated with using air miles for your air travel • Transport between your home and home airport/port/station• Travel Insurance • Other inclusions if not noted under “Includes”

Cox & Kings’ Limits of ResponsibilitiesExcept where otherwise stated in these Terms & Conditions, neither Cox & Kings nor any Third Party Supplier can accept liability or pay compensation where our performance of our or our supplier’s contractual obligations is affected by or you otherwise suffer any damage or loss as a result of force majeure. In these terms and conditions force majeure means any event which we / the supplier of the service(s) or the third party supplier could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include but not be limited to; actual or threatened war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, epidemics, fire, and all similar events outside the control of the party concerned.

Cox & Kings makes arrangements with airlines, hotels and other independent parties to provide the travel services you purchase. We do not own or operate any of the accommodation, transport or other facilities used in connection with our programs. We therefore cannot accept liability for negligence of the staff of these organizations. These parties are independent suppliers over whom we have no direct control. Cox & Kings is not liable in the event of any failure by any person or company to render any transportation, accommodation or other travel service to be provided on the journeys, or for expenses incurred due to delays caused by weather, strikes, war, civil disturbances, natural disasters, flight delays, government actions, mechanical failures or any acts of God. Cox & Kings cannot assume any responsibility for flight delays, cancellations or missed connections and is not liable for any expenses or consequences resulting therefrom, and such expenses are to be borne by the traveler. When you travel with an airline the Conditions of Carriage of that airline will apply. These conditions are the subject of International Agreements and may limit or exclude liability. Your Travel Agent or the airline can advise you of these conditions. The participant waives any claim against Cox & Kings for any damage to, or loss of, property, or injury to, or death of, due to any act, or negligence of any airlines, surface transportation companies, hotels or any person rendering any of the services or accommodations included.

Cox & Kings cannot be held responsible for any claim, losses, damages for delay of baggage or other properties, inconvenience, loss of enjoyment, upset and disappointment, distress or frustrations, whether physical or mental, resulting from the act or omission of any party providing services.

The participant assumes and understands that all travel has inherent risk that may result in injury or death from participation in activities, including but not limited to, driving, hiking, walking, touring, visiting archeological sites, walking on uneven surfaces, riding on rough roads, rafting, boating, canoeing riding in helicopters, on trains, boats, swimming, surfing, horseback or camel riding, and any other activities. Participant knows and is familiar with the activities in their itinerary and is able to confirm that they meet the physical requirements to participate.

All services are subject to the laws of the countries in which these services are rendered. Venue for all claims or disputes shall be exclusively in Los Angeles County, California, U.S.A., whose courts, using California Law, shall have exclusive jurisdiction. Damage claims against Cox & Kings shall be limited to the value of the particular item in dispute and not for any incidental, consequential, or special damages. Cox & Kings assumes no responsibility for representations made by others including, but not limited to, any employee of Cox & Kings or independent travel agent. Payment for reservations on any Cox & Kings travel arrangements shall constitute consent to all the provisions in the Booking Terms & Conditions published herein and is binding on all travel participants.

United States Tour Operators Association - $1 Million Travelers Assistance ProgramCox & Kings, The Americas, as an Active Member of USTOA, is required to post $1 Million with USTOA to be used to reimburse, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program, the advance payments of Cox & Kings, The Americas’ customers in the unlikely event of Cox & Kings, The Americas bankruptcy, insolvency or cessation of business. Further, you should understand that the $1 Million posted by Cox & Kings, The Americas may be sufficient to provide only a partial recovery of the advance payments received by Cox & Kings, The Americas. More details of the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program may be obtained by writing to USTOA at 345 Seventh Avenue, Suite 1801, New York, New York 10001, or by email to [email protected] or by visiting their website at www.USTOA.com.

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COX & KINGS, THE AMERICASCox & Kings Building, 8060 Melrose Avenue, 3rd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90046 USATel: 1.323.655.1758 • Fax: 1.323.655.1774 • Email: [email protected] Free: 1.800.999.1758 • coxandkingsusa.com • CST - 2105853-50

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